Grace & Glory Magazine June 2024

Proverbs 3:1-12

Wisdom BestoWs Well-Being

1 My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart,

2 for they will prolong your life many years and bring you peace and prosperity.

3 Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.

4 Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.

5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;

6 in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

7 Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil.

8 This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones.

9 Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops;

10 then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.

11 My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline, and do not resent his rebuke,

12 because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.

Happy Father’s Day!

Pgs 8-11

Rev. Dr. Rahsaan Armand & Lady Anita Armand

St. Paul Baptist Church of Baltimore City

3101 The Alameda

Baltimore, MD 21218

410-366-0096

This month we welcome to Baltimore and Grace & Glory, Rev. Dr. Rahsaan Armand and Lady Anita Armand. Rev. Dr. Rahsaan Armand was recently installed as the new pastor of the St. Paul Baptist Church of Baltimore City. We talked exclusively with Rev. Armand about the transition, his assignment, and his vision for St. Paul Baptist Church of Baltimore City.

Healthy Soul

20 MONTHLY MANNA

Min. Carenda Deonne Beamon Rest. . .Recover. . .Reclaim

22 A WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE

Pastor Rhoda Turner

The Joy of Parenting

26 NEW DAY FRESH START

Brandie Manigault Daily Devotions

30 HEAVEN’S BREAD

Pastor Patricia Saulsbury Keep It 100

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

Brandie Manigault

Dr. Denyce Daniels

Rhoda Turner

Siobhan Saulsbury Ericka J.

GRAPHIC ARTIST

Claire Lesesne www.JandCDesigns.com

WEB ADMINISTRATOR

Andre Felipe for Arts Period www.artsperiod.com

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Contributors

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.

BRANDIE MANIGAULT

Brandie Manigault is the Co-founder of Healing Voice Ministries, Co-pastor of Ecos Church, and the author of New Day Fresh Start. Of all of the titles she has and hats she wears; her favorite is wife and mother. She is a firm believer that love wins and is passionate about the health of the soul.

MIN. CARENDA DEONNE

Min. Carenda is an Author, Speaker, Workshop Facilitator, Certified Life Coach, and TV Personality. Born and raised in Baltimore, MD, she received her BA degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology and her M.A. in Law Degree (Mediation and Dispute Resolution) from Regent University. Min. Carenda helps individuals and professionals rise above their circumstances by detoxing emotionally. Carenda believes Emotional Management Equals Life Management. Her new book, 12 Rounds...How to Detox Emotionally and Win, is scheduled to launch 2024.

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.

PASTOR RHODA TURNER

Rhoda possesses a spirit of humility. Her ministry style is graceful, her message is powerful and her presence is comforting. Being the 9th of 10 children, Rhoda has a deep passion for family and the wholistic development of children. She is considered by many as a mentor and mother figure. Rhoda and her husband Pastor Jason Turner, serve as senior pastors of Christian Faith Fellowship Church in Chandler, AZ.

ERICKA J.

Ericka J. is a Baltimore Native Radio and TV Personality Media Mogul. Ericka J. is a community activist who is very passionate about carrying on the legacy of her mother the late Rev. Sandi Johnson. Ericka J. is also a sought-after hair stylist and fashion icon.

Siobhan Saulsbury

Siobhan Saulsbury is a financial ally. She inspires believers to transform their financial legacy for the benefit of future generations. She teaches on God's guidelines to financial success and health in a relatable and tangible way. Her signature phrase is "Make Good Choices"!

Our Father

Well, it’s Dad’s turn to be celebrated! So we dedicate this month’s issue to our Fathers, Grandfathers, Godfathers, Uncles and Brothers. It is a hard act to follow after rolling out the red carpet for mom. Dare we say mother is more important than dad? Truth is we can’t have one without the other right? Yet, for some reason when it comes to Dad, sometimes he is not celebrated with the same exuberance we celebrate our mothers.

Father’s Day should be a time of celebration for this man that in his daughter’s eyes can do no wrong, and in his son’s eyes he is a hero. This father will be celebrated because he has provided for his children and loves them with all his heart. This father will be celebrated because he has tea with his daughter’s make-believe friends and never misses his son’s school games. This father is right there for his son’s first crush and his daughter’s first broken heart. This father will shed a tear as he gives his daughter’s hand away in holy matrimony and will boast with pride about his son graduating from college. We salute and honor this man!

I know for some, Father’s Day can be painful, a sad reminder of growing up without a father present in the home or being active in their lives. The pain of growing up fatherless can sometimes leave a scar that is hard to remove. There may even be some situations or circumstances that warrant the absence of a dad, but to a child without a father these things or reasons mean nothing. Though we all may not fall into the category of growing up without a father, there are many dads who are present in the lives of their children. For every situation or circumstance your father was not there, God Our Heavenly Father is more than able to fill that void. To those who grew up with a father present and to those who did not, there is one thing we all have in common, we all can claim the same Heavenly Father and He has never been an absentee dad.

Our Father is omnipresent, He is with you at the same time He is with me. Our Father is omniscient, He is the wisest of all, and He

Jackie

EPPS

knows everything about each one of us. Our Father is omnipotent, He is all-powerful and almighty, He can do whatever He wants to do when He wants to. Our Father is a good provider, He supplies all of our needs (Philippians 4:19). Our Father is a protector (Psalm 91). Our Father is a comforter (Matthew 5:4). Our Father is a healer (Psalm 103:3). Our Father sounds like a pretty great dad to me. He loves each and every one of us unconditionally with the same amount of love. He is whatever you need Him to be whenever you need Him.

I could go on and on about Our Father, but the best thing about Our Father is He loved us so much that He sacrificed His only begotten son (Jesus) so that we would be able to live with Him eternally! (John 3:16) This Father’s Day as we celebrate our earthly fathers, don’t leave out our Heavenly Father. He is the Greatest Father of all time!

Q&A Interview - Pastor Rahsaan Armand

G&G: Pastor Armand, welcome to Grace & Glory Magazine, it is my pleasure to introduce you to our Grace & Glory family. We are so excited to celebrate you as the newly installed Pastor of the St. Paul Baptist Church. I pray your installation celebrations were a blessing to you and your family. How does it feel to now be the ninth Pastor of the St. Paul Baptist Church in Baltimore City?

Pastor Armand: The installation celebration was phenomenal. St. Paul really went the extra mile to earmark this historic venture. As I settle into my duties as pastor, I must admit to a certain “intimidation factor” that is present for two reasons: first, any task one does for God falls into that category and secondly, because of the shoulders of legacy on which I stand — Dr. Crawley, Dr. Alexander, and others.

G&G: Pastor Armand, let’s start at the beginning. Would you walk us through the journey that led you to the St. Paul Baptist Church?

Pastor Armand: Absolutely. After seminary in 2001, I moved from Chicago to Philadelphia to become a Youth Pastor and Assistant to the late Pastor Charles Walker. I served 19th Street Baptist Church for 5 years and was also the associate editor of the foreign mission herald, NBC, Inc. In 2016, I was called to Pastor Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Clarksburg, West Virginia. There I pastored for 17 years. In October of 2023, St. Paul Baptist Church extended the invite to become their ninth pastor. I accepted.

Pastor Armand: Great question. I wasn’t raised as a “church boy” so quite naturally, my realization of such things was a bit delayed. I was 16 when I suspected that “something different” was happening in my life. I was always an orator, but I didn’t know “the voice of the LORD.” I asked God to teach me. I asked my pastor to coach me. After a while, I said “yes” to God’s call.

G&G: Pastor Armand, most pastors have shared with me that ‘preaching the gospel’ was not what they had planned to do with their lives. Was it the same for you, did you have other dreams or plans for your life?

Pastor Armand: Originally, I wanted to fly fighter jets for the Navy. (The movie Top Gun really took my breath away.) Having been accepted to the naval academy in Annapolis, MD, I was certain I was headed to the Big Blue Yonder. After retirement, I wanted to cap my career off by entering the space program to become an astronaut. I guess God had other plans. (LOL)

G&G: Pastor Armand, looking back over your life from where you were when you started this journey, are you at all surprised at where you are today?

Pastor Armand: Indeed I am. I couldn’t foresee the magnitude of God’s Grace. Before her murder in Chicago (2007) my mother told me that just before I was born, she asked God for 3 things concerning my life: First, that I looked like her. Secondly, that I’d always have a compassionate heart. Lastly, that He’d make me a preacher.

G&G: Pastor Armand, I understand you accepted the call to preach at an early age, at what point in your ministry journey did you realize that God had called you to an assignment of such magnitude?

Continued on page 10

Rev. Rahsaan Armand & Lady Anita Armand, with daughters Ava Christene,10; A’na Claire, 8; Aja Camelle, 5

G&G: Pastor Armand, being the new pastor and following behind an extensive list of pastors before you, what is your vision for the St. Paul Baptist Church? Do you think there will be any opposition for your vision for the church?

Pastor Armand: In the church world, there is always opposition to the pastor’s vision. (I discuss this extensively in my first book, Str8 Talk For Crooked Church, Moving the Local Church from Democracy to Theocracy.) The vision is still forming. Of course, we want to stay with the overall church theme: “Togetherness For a Christ-Centered Church.” My strategy has been to invite the heads of every ministry into individual meetings to discuss 3 questions: What have we done, where are we now, and where do we want to go. So often, pastors come in making abrupt changes without first learning the lay of the land. (God knows, I made that mistake at my first church.) Based on the completed intel, I’ll pray and write the vision and mission statements.

G&G: Pastor Armand, have there been any challenging areas in connecting with this well-established ministry? Pastor Armand: None as of yet. Although, one of my concerns is running into the “we’ve always done it that way” mentality. Things may not have to change drastically, but as my late mentor Dr. Mack King Carter said: “Nothing stays the same!”

Pastor Armand: St. Paul is a church with a rich and well-established ministry in the community of the Alameda. Having had a former president of the Hampton Minister’s Conference (Reverend Dr. George Crawley Jr.) as one of their pastors, they enjoy a national reputation. For me, what makes them stand out is their “Go Get It” attitude. If it needs to be down, St. Paul will find a way.

G&G: Pastor Armand, St. Paul Baptist Church sits in a predominately Black community, and historically the Black church has always had strong community ties; the church was the foundation of the Black community. Do you believe the church still has a strong voice in the community?

Pastor Armand: Absolutely. Even before the American Civil Rights struggles, the Black community was the hub for the Black church. Some of that has eroded, but my hopes and prayers are to re-establish the strength of that voice.

G&G: Pastor Armand, what is the church’s relationship to its surrounding community and are there unmet needs in the community that the church is addressing?

G&G: Pastor Armand, how would you best describe the ministry of St. Paul Baptist Church? What do you believe sets this church apart?

Pastor Armand: Great question. As you may know or may have heard, St. Paul has been “on the battlefield for the Lord” for a long time — in fact, for 113th years. In that time, we’ve addressed several needs of the community ranging from food services to HIV/AID testing/counseling. My passion is to intensify ministry to those struggling in the areas of mental health. I also want to, as my pet project, bring some solution to children who combat school and societal bullying. Continued from page 9

G&G: Pastor Armand, what would you say to that person who is looking for a church home that would motivate them to come and worship at St. Paul Baptist Church? Particularly that hard- to-reach group, the youth and young adults?

Pastor Armand: Yes. I’d encourage it because as soon as new members orientation is completed, we find a place for them to work. I have a saying, “All hands on deck.” Momma used to say, “An idle mind is the devil’s workshop.” I think this is especially true for youth and young adults! Here at St. Paul, we welcome fresh ideas, and we’ll keep ya busy!

G&G: Pastor Armand, considering the legacy of the St. Paul Baptist Church, what are your hopes and plans for the future of the church?

Pastor Armand: I’m not so much interested in numbers i.e., the congregation swelling. My primary interest is in St. Paul growing — becoming solid disciples for our Lord Jesus Christ. With the new technology system operational, there is so much we can do. The sky is literally no limit!

G&G: Pastor Armand, shifting gears, a few final questions, how would you describe yourself in three words? And what is one thing most people would be surprised to know about you?

Pastor Armand: Passionate, competitive, and prankster. It’s the last description that I’d think people would be most surprised. I like it that way. Never let ‘em see you coming (LOL!)

G&G: Pastor Armand, what keeps you motivated to keep moving forward?

Pastor Armand: Mostly my family. My Wife and children encourage me in my darkest times and have fun with me in my light-hearted times. My drive to compete is another motivating factor. And, I don’t mean competing with other individuals or churches — most times it’s me against ME.

G&G: Pastor Armand, is there anyone who has had a tremendous impact in your life and your ministry journey?

Pastor Armand: Yes, my pastor Dr. Christopher A. Hill Jr was a tremendous impact on my ministry. He’s actually a son of Baltimore. My dad was probably the most impactful in my life, as he started early teaching me “every problem has a solution.” Both were hard teachers, but without them, I wouldn’t be the man I am today, nor would I be able to stand in the face of any obstacle (man or situation) and expect God’s victory.

G&G: Pastor Armand, lastly, what words of wisdom would you share with that pastor who has just started their journey in ministry?

Pastor Armand: Wow! Words of wisdom……I guess I’d have to quote the Book of Wisdom: “To know wisdom and instruction, to understand words of insight, to receive instruction in wise dealing, in righteousness, justice, and equity; to give prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the youth — Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance, to understand a proverb and a saying, the words of the wise and their riddles. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.” Proverbs 1:2-7 ESV

Pastor Armand: Thank you for this time.

Men make up 61% of the national transplant waiting list*

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DEBNAM Dr. Carla

Men’s Mental Health

Men are known for skipping out on medical tests like prostate exams, colonoscopies, blood sugar screenings and keeping record of their blood pressure. These exams are just a few of the lifesaving tests that can help men manage their health and live longer, healthier lives. Not only do men sometimes neglect their physical health but they also neglect their mental health. As a result, men often suffer and succumb to addictions, unhealthy lifestyles and other choices that shorten and limit the fullness of their lives.

According to menshealthnetwork.org “most men don’t realize that some of the physical symptoms we may experience— things like chronic pain and digestive problems —could actually be caused by a mental health issue such as depression, anxiety, or stress”. Events such as loss of employment, death of loved ones, community violence and health challenges all impact men’s mental health. The question of do men suffer is not the point, it is do men

seek help when they have a mental health challenge. Men can help one another in this area by talking more openly about their struggles and how they are working to overcome them. Being open about your journey can help someone else improve their life through better choices.

We are in a unique time where public figures from musicians to singers to athletes and senators, are sharing their struggles, diagnosis and how they are healing. This transparency has opened the mental health conversation beyond the four walls of a man’s home or mind. Changing the conversation to solution-oriented language can help empower men to seek the help they need. We know that often they have conversations with their barbers, golf buddies or sports teammates. These may be the best options for those delicate and difficult conversations to be started. When it comes to men’s mental health having a conversation can be the start of a breakthrough and signal

a new beginning that person never imagined.

The church can also play a role by hosting men’s focused events that have real talk about the emotional and mental stress that men face. Having a safe space to discuss life’s issues and work through the anger and hurt behind the pain they face can be therapeutic. Men’s focused worship experiences, singing aggregations and mentoring of youth can also be outlets for men to begin the crucial conversation of what they are facing. Healing is available and men are more open now than ever to work on their mental health. Let’s support them and one another on the journey to being healed and made whole. For next steps check out the organizations below that focus on men’s mental health.

https://menshealthnetwork. org/wp-content/library/ ownersmanual.pdf https://brotherbewell.com https://therapyforblackmen. org

John H. Saulsbury, Jr. is the Lead Pastor at Overcomers in Christ Ministries in Columbia, SC. Initially answering the call to ministry in 1985, Pastor John has been preaching and teaching the Gospel in homes, churches, and Bible studies from Kentucky to Kuwait. In 2017, he and Patricia, his wife of over 40 years, founded their ministry on prayer and discipleship, sharing the fundamentals of living as “practicing” Believers.

H. Saulsbury, Jr. Pastor John

The Secret to Living is Fruit Bearing

John 15:1-2 NKJV says, “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away: and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit.”

In Jesus’ teachings, He would often use agriculture terminology with His audience to help them relate to His message. He would explain objects in the natural to explain spiritual truths. Here Jesus explained the spiritual union between Himself and His church.

Jesus began His teaching by letting us know, I am the True Vine. Jesus is the life-giving source of nourishment for all Believers who remain connected to Him. For every born-again Believer who is connected and in union with God, will never be barren or unfruitful.

The fruitful life is one grafted into and lived out of our union with Christ. The kingdom of God is set up so that every kingdom citizen is to be fruitful, always bearing fruit and living an abundant life.

As the Father supplies what the Vine needs, the Vine supplies what the branches need. We are the “branches” connected to the Vine, Jesus Christ.

John 15:5, Jesus said, “Without me ye can do nothing.” You and I cannot bear fruit without being supplied what we need though Jesus.

Our purpose as a “Branch” is to bear fruit. The branch has no ability in and of itself to produce any fruit whatsoever. John 15:4 says, “As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine, no more can ye, except ye abide in me.” I remember our Overseer declaring this: “I was born-again to be a Fruit-Bearer in the Kingdom. Fruit-Bearing is my life!” THE SECRECT TO LIVING IS FRUIT-BEARING.

Carenda

Deonne Min.

Rest…Recover…Reclaim!

This is a critical season in your life. You may ask why I describe it as critical. Have you ever experienced or witnessed someone who was hospitalized, and you were told that they were in critical condition? Initially, it can make your heart skip a beat because you know that’s a time where not only are they under intense doctors’ care, but as much as you would like to fix it you know that only God can turn the situation around.

Critical condition is not necessarily a bad thing. If you think about it, not only are you totally dependent upon the Lord, but you also give way for His power to be made perfect in your weakness. It is a time of complete stillness and trust. It is also a time when you are truly grateful for the many things that we can easily take for granted. Are you in critical condition? Are you at a crossroads in your life right now? Are you in a place where the only visitor allowed in your room is the Holy Spirit, and the host of God’s Angels?

I bring good news. The Lord has not forgotten His promises and covenant that He has for you. What has boggled the minds of doctors, family and friends has not confused God. He knows exactly the remedy for your condition. Maybe the Lord needed you to rest for a moment. Maybe He has been trying to speak with you to make things clear concerning your calling and destiny. Maybe the Lord does not want you trusting in titles or possessions, maybe His desire is that you see Him as your source and only source. I think it is a great thing that He is monitoring your heart. Remember

what the bible says in Proverbs 4:23, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” Can you trust that what looks critical in the eyes of man is elevation in the eyes of God?

In this season of your life, you may feel weak, but you are not. In this season of your life, you may feel insignificant, but angels are all around you. In this season of your life, you may feel alone, but the Lord’s presence continues to be your help, strength, and comfort. This is not the time to be dismayed. Even if the pain is so great that you cannot muster the strength to pray, remember the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. (Romans 8:26-27).

Even in critical condition, you are completely covered! The blood of Jesus covers you. The grace of God covers you. The word covers you. I do believe, by faith, that your latter days shall be better than your former days, and just when others are ready to pull the plug, uncommon miracles will be your testimony. If you feel in any way that you are in critical condition, be encouraged. This is a turning point in your life. You will recover all! Man may give up on you, but God has you exactly where He needs you to be. Remember, this is your time to rest, recover and reclaim!

Live life on the promise of IMPACT!

Min Carenda Deonne www.stress-easy.com

The Joy of Parenting

Rhoda

TURNER

I think it’s very interesting how Mother’s Day is in May. The next month is National Children’s Month. I figured that we celebrate our children all year long, especially if your child is a part of any team or organization where banquets are held and awards are passed out. However National Children’s Day gives us the honor to celebrate them without being prompted by others. I relish in every opportunity that I’m given to celebrate the gifts that God has given me. I’ve been blessed to have 4 beautiful, talented, amazing, young girls. I’m Psalms 123:7, “Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: And the fruit of the womb is his reward. As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; So are children of the youth.” Psalm 127 : 3 - 4 KJV.

I’m so grateful for my gifts that God has trusted me with. Each one is different in every way but yet still the same. I never would’ve imagined that I would have 4 children and all girls at that. But in parenting them God has shown me how to deal with them as individuals. What worked for one isn’t going to work for the others. My first child was the parenting blueprint for her, and each one has a separate blueprint.

They have changed me for the better. They helped my prayer life. They made me smarter and wiser.

Parenting is hard but it gets better with each child. I love them eminently and I work and grind daily because of them. I want to be better because of them. I want them to surpass me in my life. I laid the foundation, and my desire is for them to build from that. I love parenting them and I celebrate them for what they’ve done for me.

When a woman is giving birth, she has sorrow because her hour has come, but when she has delivered the baby, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a human being has been born into the world.

I remember just like it was yesterday the moments that I carried each and every one of them. The delivery surpassed the joy that was felt when I saw those faces. Time stood still.

Take a moment and celebrate the children that God has given you.

Pastor Rhoda Turner Christian Faith Fellowship Church Chandler, AZ www.cffaz.org

MEN'S HEALTH MONTH

June is Men’s Health Month. This month-long celebration is a national initiative to raise awareness about health care for men and focus on encouraging boys, men, and their families to practice and implement healthy living decisions. In June, health-related programs are designed to encourage men of all ages to control their health by taking care of their bodies, eating right, exercising, and working to prevent disease.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, men in the United States, on average, die five years earlier than women and die at higher rates.

Promoting health-related programs for men is essential. Men are less likely to seek medical attention even in the presence of symptoms. A study by the Cleveland Clinic shows that 40 percent of men go to the doctor only when they have a severe health issue and delay going to the doctor for routine checkups.

The three leading causes of death in men include heart disease, lung and prostate cancer, and unintentional injuries. Men are urged to implement steps to modify risk factors to reduce the development or progression of these and other disorders.

Smoking is a significant risk factor in developing hypertension, heart diseases, lung disorders, and various cancers. The chemicals in tobacco alter cellular functions leading to irreversible damage to the tissues. Smoking causes the blood to thicken and the blood vessels to become stiff. Blood no longer flows freely, requiring the heart to pump harder and faster to circulate blood adequately. Cigarette smoking is known to damage bronchial and lung cells, causing lung cancer and chronic lung disease. It is associated with the development of throat, esophageal and pancreatic cancers.

The production of testosterone decreases as men approach

the age of 40 and 50. This causes men to lose muscle mass and become more prone to weight gain. The risk for heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes increases. Men are encouraged to increase the intake of fruits and vegetables, decrease eating fast and processed foods and implement a consistent exercise program to control obesity.

Many men are hesitant to seek mental health services. Men suffer from depression and anxiety. They struggle with feelings of inadequacy, failure, acute and chronic depression, and the stigma surrounding these issues. These problems are often undiagnosed. Health care providers, clergy, and men's fellowship groups on all levels must provide a safe space for men to share their feelings and destigmatize the discussion of mental health issues in men.

Young and older men and their families are encouraged to set and implement goals to improve their health. Think about ways to improve your health status. Do you want to lose weight or stop smoking? Do you desire to sleep better, gain muscle, or eat a healthier diet? Begin by working with your family to set small and achievable goals. Establish goals to know your preventable risks for disease. Take steps to create healthier habits, including scheduling routine tests for the early detection of disease. Document your family history with your physician.

Join in the national recognition of Men’s Health Month by wearing blue on Friday, June 14th. Show your family you care about your future by taking charge of your health.

Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels Assistant Professor at Coppin State University

DWatties-Daniels@coppin.edu

healthytips025@gmail.com

Brandie

Manigault

DAILY DEVOTIONS

(Excerpts

from NEW DAY FRESH START- by Brandie Manigault)

DAY 1

Do you know that the Lord trusts you so much that He has given you access to information that He has not given to others? A better question would be do you know why you have been given this privilege, why the lord would trust you with such precious and top-secret information? It is because you are ready. You have a heart that is open and is turned to Him. You have proven to Him that you can handle what is revealed to you. Not everyone can be trusted with God’s secrets, but you can.

Challenge: Today challenge yourself to keep your eyes and ears open. Be ready at all times for the new information that the Father is ready to tell you.

Matthew 13:10-11 (MSG), The disciples came up and asked, “Why do you tell stories?” He replied, “You’ve been given insight into God’s kingdom. You know how it works. Not everybody has this gift, this insight; it hasn’t been given to them. Whenever someone has a ready heart for this, the insights and understandings flow freely.

DAY 2

People are watching us. Our coworkers, our employees, our students, our family members, they are all watching the things we say, how we carry ourselves, and how we treat others. They have taken notes of our consistent behavior of love and loyalty. They notice our smile every day and our pleasant demeanor. They take inventory of our encouraging words, and because they are aware of these things they also notice when things seem off or uncharacteristic of our normal behavior.

Challenge: Today challenge yourself to be mindful of your consistent behavior asking yourself, “Is this what I want people to remember me by?” And if not, then make any necessary adjustments.

Matthew 13:27,

The owner’s servants came to him and said, ‘Sir, didn’t you sow good seed in your field? Where then did the weeds come from?’

DAY 3

We may never know the long-term impact that our smile, encouraging words, hugs or pat on the back may have on someone. The truth is that we do these things as a natural part of who we are. At times it’s so natural that we don’t really even consider the other person at all. But to the person on the reaching side of your kindness it may make all the difference in the world; it could change the tone of their whole day.

Challenge: Today challenge yourself to intentionally sow kindness into someone’s life knowing that your seed will result in an incredible harvest.

Matthew 13:31-32, He told them another parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a

mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. Though it is the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds come and perch in its branches.”

DAY 4

What do you place value on and how much is it worth to you? You will know what you place high value on when you can live without everything else and have only that. If your prized possession is your family, will you give up your career for it? Will you forgo traveling and extra spending to save for a home? Is life experience more valuable to you than the college experience? The value of something or someone will become very clear to you when you are forced to choose between it and something else that you want.

Challenge: Today challenge yourself to think about what you can and cannot live without and decide if it is worth it.

Matthew 13:45-46 (MSG),

Or, God’s kingdom is like a jewel merchant on the hunt for exquisite pearls. Finding one that is flawless, he immediately sells everything and buys it.

DAY 5

There will be times when we desperately want to be by ourselves. We have given and given of our time and energy to others, and now all we desire is a moment for ourselves to process all that has happened, but because of the compassion that we have for others in need, we choose to sacrifice what we rightfully deserve in order to help them. It’s in these moments that we realize that others need us more than we need us. We are stronger than we think. We are built to last longer than we imagined. It’s in those moments that we see what we are made of. Do we retreat or do we catch a second wind and look at the greater good we could be doing? The more we help others the greater our compassion grows when we see a need. The greater our compassion grows, the more we help. It’s a cycle that fuels itself and fuels us to keep going even when we want a break.

Challenge: Today challenge yourself to push beyond what you think are your natural limitations in order to help someone in need and stretch your compassion to the next level.

Matthew 14:13-14,

When Jesus heard what had happened, he withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place. Hearing of this, the crowds followed him on foot from the towns. When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick.

iambandaid Brandie Manigault

Keep It

“Suppose one of you had a hundred sheep and lost one. Wouldn’t you leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the one you lost until you found it? When found, you can be sure you’d put it across your shoulders, rejoicing...” (Luke 15:4-7)

One of the things that all churches, whether it was a mega church with thousands of people or a small ministry with only a handful of members, experienced after the pandemic was a loss in the number of attendees. Some people had legitimate reasons for not returning such as illness. Others had become so comfortable in worshipping from home that they preferred it over in person. No matter the reason or excuse, we all found our churches much less full than they were pre-pandemic.

Well, Overcomers In Christ had the same experience as everyone else. Some people simply did not return. We diligently sought the Lord for guidance on how to get the people out of their houses and back into God’s house. There was one in particular that God placed on my heart that I was to go after. So, I reached out on several occasions and each time, I was so warmly received that I was left feeling hopeful about seeing them once again in the house. However, after three or four disappointments, I made the decision to leave them alone. Notice that I said, “I made the decision...” I did not say, “God led me...”

A few days after I had purposed in my heart not to chase after people, I received a call from our Overseer. After I shared that particular incident with her, she was quiet for a moment, then she said, “Pat, I think you should go after her. Don’t give up on her. Give her another chance.” With humility and gratitude, I said, “Yes ma’am.” And I did just what my Holy Woman of God instructed me to do!

I acknowledged my error and arrogance, asked God for forgiveness, and then willingly obeyed my Overseer. You see, in her wise words, I heard the message that Jesus taught in Luke 15 about the one hundred sheep. Ninety-nine of them stayed with the shepherd. They never left the arc of safety. However, one did. It was lost and Jesus, the Good Shepherd, the Chief Shepherd, and the Great Shepherd, was determined to keep it one hundred. He was not willing to lose even one of His sheep. He was so determined that He left the ninety-nine to seek, find, and recover the one that had gotten off-track, out of place, and just plain lost. In other words, Jesus was going to keep it !

Today, that one I went after has not only returned to the house of God but, each week you can find her truly present as she is in place and functioning, doing her part as a true partner of OIC. With divine guidance, and godly advice, we will always strive to keep it .

Father God, we thank You today for Your love for us. We thank You for sending Your only begotten Son to reunite us with You when we were separated from You. Just as You were not willing to lose any of us, we are determined to not lose any that You have assigned to us. We thank You for the love, boldness, strength, and wisdom to go after and recover the lost, in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen and amen.

Keep It

Ericka J.

Gospel & Entertainment

Detrick Haddon

“One Night In California” in his authentic versatile D’ Haddy way! The album is out now, and he’s doing an exclusive listening party on June 5th, at 9pm for us East Coast Folk and 6pm for the West Coast Folk, but you have to download the App STATIONHEAD to be a part, it’s island church, it’s gospel, it’s inspirational, it’s contemporary, it’s Afro Beats, it’s churchy, you name it “IT’S IN THERE! !

Jason Nelson

On Friday June 7th, ALL ROADS LEAD TO THE TAB! You don’t wanna miss the Album Release Concert for Jason Nelson’s new project “You Belong”. He recorded it in North Carolina but he’s bringing the party back home to us in Baltimore! The Tab is located 8334 Liberty Rd, doors open at 6:30p and the concert starts at 7pm, you don’t need a ticket, just jump on board! There will also be Special Surprise Guests, I’m excited to hear what’s about to be released into the earth! You can also pre-order the album RIGHT NOW!

VaShawn Mitchell

VaShawn Mitchell blessing us with #1 hits is definitely what VaShawn Mitchell does, “See The Goodness” is a great song and is celebrating 2 weeks at #1! Congrats on ANOTHER #1!

Tina Campbell

After 7 years Tina Campbell is back, releasing a solo project! The single “Pray For Me” is available NOW, she performed the single live on the Tamron Hall Show, I really enjoyed it and I believe you will too! The full album is slated to be released in September! Check out the performance, grab the single, and stay tuned for the full project.

Trina Hairston

Whew! Listen to me! A sound has been released in the earth, most people for years watched Trina hold it down in background vocals and sing lead occasionally

with Youthful Praise, alongside her husband JJ Hairston. As Co-Pastor she has certainly stepped out even further, not only as a “Preaching Powerhouse” but this record “Sanctified” Live from Ancient Oil is a great project! She is SANGIN’ SANGIN’! Go to YouTube Tube and check it out you’ll be downloading the entire album! It’s good ole churchy vibe, you “feel” every song!

“Til next month, Be blessed, love real big, in real life!” Follow me: Facebook, Instagram & Twitter @misserickaj Email iammisserickaj@gmail.com

Detrick Haddon

Jason Nelson

VaShawn Mitchell

Tina Campbell

Trina Hairston

Saulsbury Siobhan

Tip 1

“Sleeping on it” is beneficial when it comes to making tough decisions. Specifically, when it comes to purchases, waiting can calm the sense of urgency and give you time to decide if it’s what you really want. Don’t let emotion drive your buying. Take time to be sure you’ll still feel good about your choice down the road.

Tip 2

It’s extremely important for us to build a healthy relationship with money. Money is such an integral part of life; we may as well become adept at handling it. Success starts in the mind. Start saying positive things about yourself and money aloud daily, and guess what... you’ll begin to believe it, then action will follow!

Tip 3

Sometimes we underestimate how important the thoughts we dwell on truly are. Interestingly, both the Bible and modern science tell us that our lives move in the direction of our most dominant thoughts. If you’re attempting to make changes in your life, begin with the thoughts you dwell on. Your legacy won’t change if your mind never does.