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scripture
scripture
Psalm 103 (NIV)
1 Praise the LORD, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. 2 Praise the LORD, my soul, and forget not all his benefits— 3 who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, 4 who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, 5 who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. 6 The LORD works righteousness and justice for all the oppressed. 7 He made known his ways to Moses, his deeds to the people of Israel: 8 The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. 9 He will not always accuse, nor will he harbor his anger forever; 10 he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. 11 For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; 12 as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. 2 June 2014 | Grace&Glory
13 As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him; 14 for he knows how we are formed, he remembers that we are dust. 15 The life of mortals is like grass, they flourish like a flower of the field; 16 the wind blows over it and it is gone, and its place remembers it no more. 17 But from everlasting to everlasting the LORD’s love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children’s children— 18 with those who keep his covenant and remember to obey his precepts. 19 The LORD has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all. 20 Praise the LORD, you his angels, you mighty ones who do his bidding, who obey his word. 21 Praise the LORD, all his heavenly hosts, you his servants who do his will. 22 Praise the LORD, all his works everywhere in his dominion. Praise the LORD, my soul.
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JUNE 2014
™
contents on the cover:
Bishop Walter S. Thomas, Sr. Presiding Prelate Kingdom Association of Covenant Pastors P. O. Box 26625 Baltimore, Maryland 21207 www.kingdomassociation.org
Special Feature 8-11 Q&A INTERVIEW Bishop Walter S. Thomas, Sr. Dr. Vanessa D. Booth
Dr. Lisa M. Weah
Pastor James Pastor Anthony Nelson G. Maclin
Rev. Dr. Ruby Pastor C. Guy KACP (Presiding Prelate) C. Gilliam Robinson Comments from KACP Members sharing their thoughts about the organization.
Dr. Ronald C. Williams
Feature Articles 13 MAYOR’S JOURNAL Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake Walking in the Light
29 PERSON OF INTEREST Dr. Carolyn D. Showell
15 GOVERNOR’S PAGE Governor Martin O’Malley
31 WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE Tiffany Bethea
Better Choices, Better Results
23 SINGLE LIFE
Dr. Monique Flemings
Single Fathers . . . Our Silent Heroes
39 NUTRITION & YOU
Herline A. Knights, RD, LD
Eating Out: Making the Best Low-Calorie Choices 4 June 2014 | Grace&Glory
37 BOOK SHELF
Elevation to Bishop
Daddy’s Girls
Heaven is Real (Todd Burp with Lynn Vincent)
43 TEEN CONNECT
Dr. Tim Tooten
A Summer Plan
Healthy Body
Brandie Manigault
35 EDUCATION DIGEST
www. about.com
How to Have the Best Summer Ever!
41 BODY BASICS www.womenshealth.com
15 Minute Arm Workout
Healthy Mind 27 TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH Carla J. Debnam, (Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center)
Entertainment 44 GOSPEL INDUSTRY NEWS Ericka Johnson
Good Times
Healthy Soul
In Every Issue Scripture Page ....................................... 2 Contributors............................................ 6
46 WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT Donna Williams-Ross, (In Trust Ministries)
From the Editor....................................... 7
The Love of a Father
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For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. Psalm 84:11
Contributors PUBLISHER/ Jackie Epps EDITOR-IN-CHIEF EDITORIAL
Dr. Kenneth O. Robinson Harold A. Carter, Jr. Cassandra Vaughn-Fox Herline A. Knights Pastors Gregory and Tonya Dennis Carla J. Debnam Donna Williams-Ross Governor Martin O’Malley Ericka Johnson Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake Rev. Tim Tooten Brandie Manigault
PHOTOGRAPHY Mark L. Dennis Alan L. Jones GRAPHIC ARTIST Claire Lesesne-Nalley www.JandCDesigns.com WEB ADMINISTRATOR Andre Felipe for Arts Period www.artsperiod.com PRINTING Roebuck & Son Printing www.hgroebuck.com Grace & Glory Magazine is published monthly by JE Media, LLC, a Baltimore based, independent publisher. Copyright 2014. All rights reserved. Reproduction without expressed permission is prohibited.
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Advisory Board
Chairman — Dr. A.C. D. Vaughn Sr. Pastor, Sharon Baptist Church, MD Vice-Chairman — Dr. Frank M. Reid III Sr. Pastor, Bethel A.M.E. Church, MD Dr. Jerome A. Barber Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Temple, Hampton , VA Dr. Michael A. Battle Sr., U.S. Ambassador President, ITC Seminary, Atlanta, GA Dr. Timothy Boddie Friendship Baptist Church, Atlanta, GA Bishop John R. Bryant Presiding Prelate of the 5th Episcopal District Dr. Harold A. Carter, Jr. Pastor, New Shiloh Baptist Church, MD Dr. Suzan Johnson Cook, U.S. Ambassador Dr. WIlliam H. Curtis Mt. Ararat Baptist Church, Pittsburgh, PA Bishop Ralph L. Dennis Sr. Pastor, Kingdom Worship Center, MD Wanda Q. Draper/Media Executive Michele J.K. Epps/Health Sciences Cassandra Vaughn Media Executive Dr. Donte’ L. Hickman, Sr. Pastor, Southern Baptist Church, MD Pastor Timothy V. Manigault Bishop Dennis V. Proctor Presiding Prelate of the Western Episcopal Region AME Zion Church Dr. Kenneth O. Robinson Pastor, Restoring Life International Church, MD Bishop Walter Scott Thomas, Sr. Pastor, New Psalmist Baptist Church, MD Dr. Timothy Tooten, Sr. Pastor, Harvest Christian Ministries, MD
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from the editor
OUR FATHER This is the month we celebrate our fathers. 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 dad, but to a child without a father these things or reasons mean nothing. But, for every situation, circumstance or reason, your father was not there, there is someone who is more than able to fill that void. That someone is God, Our Heavenly Father. Though we all may not fall into the category of growing up without a father, the truth be told there are a large number of dads who are present in the lives of their children. But what I would like to say 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 Father. Our Father which art in heaven. We all share the greatest Father of all, and He has never been an absentee dad. Let me remind you about Our Father. Our Father is omnipresent, He is with you at the same time He is with me, in fact He is everywhere at all times. Our Father is omniscient, He is the wisest of all, He knows everything about each one of us. Our Father is omnipotent, He is all-powerful, He has the ability to do absolutely anything He wants for us. Here are a few more things about Our Father. Our Father is a good provider, He supplies all of our needs according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19). Our Father is a protector; He is our shield and buckler (Psalm 91). Our Father is a comforter; He mends a broken heart (Matthew 5:4). Our Father is a healer; He will restore our bodies (Psalm 103:3). Our Father sounds like a pretty great dad to me. He is great and mighty. He is a friend that sticks closer than any brother. He loves each and every one of us unconditionally with the same amount of love. And let us not forget that Our Father loved us so much that He gave His only begotten son (Jesus) so that we would be able to live with Him eternally! (John 3:16) I could go on and on but I believe the best thing about Our Father is He is whatever you need Him to be whenever you need Him. This Father’s Day as we celebrate our earthly fathers, don’t leave out Our Father which art in Heaven. He is the Greatest!
Peace & Blessings . . .
Jackie Epps Editor-in-Chief
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Q&A
QA &
I n t e rv i e w With Bishop Walter S. Thomas, Sr. Presiding Prelate
Kingdom Association of Covenant Pastors
G&G: Bishop Thomas, welcome back to Grace & Glory. Thank you for this opportunity to talk with you once again about this year’s upcoming Kingdom Association of Covenant Pastors Conference. Would you say this is one of the most exciting events that take place at the Holy City of Zion? What makes this annual event so important? Bishop Thomas: The Kingdom Association of Covenant Pastors (KACP) is a gathering of pastors who are committed to the call of the Lord on their lives. We show our commitment through our call to preach, to lead, to care, to teach, to build and to better the body of Christ. Our desire is to lead people in faith development to the most excellent, impacting and effective ministry possible. Our purpose for coming together embraces the pursuit of pastoral excellence based on integrity and the establishment of a pastoral network based on - providing fellowship among pastors, providing an environment for mentoring, providing opportunity for the sharing of ministry gifts and providing support and necessary intervention for pastors. G&G: Bishop Thomas what is the theme for this year’s conference? Is there a criterion or goal in mind when selecting the theme for each year? Bishop Thomas: This year’s conference will be held at the church in Baltimore, MD. Our theme is “Getting to the Core”; taken from the scripture Psalm 11:3 . . . [if the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?]. Our goal is to define and refine values, ethics, systems and standards that are essential in the guiding of every church in its ministry mission.
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In earlier years the fellowship has sought to bring together and to provide the tools that every key church leader needs to serve with dignity and skill. The focus has been finetuned and has become more specific over the years, with the goal now being more directed towards equipping pastors through mentoring relationships that encourage the sharing of ministry gifts and strengths that are needed to be more effective in leading and developing congregations to serve in this present and ever evolving church age. G&G: Bishop Thomas, would you expound on the theme and what pastors and leaders will gain from this year’s conference? There are several leadership conferences held around the country each year, why should a pastor or leader attend this conference? Bishop Thomas: This conference is just one of many ongoing events that make the Holy City of Zion a dynamic church and ministry destination for those who are interested in engaging in a lifetime of discipleship. The annual KACP conference gives pastors from across the country the opportunity to share in the awesome experience and it is a blessing to the New Psalmist Church to host this event. To be more specific, this year’s conference will seek to provide each attendee with the skill set needed to #1-understand their financial year; #2-understand their programmatic year; #3-understand their preaching year. We believe that the main thing that will separate this conference will be the core values infused throughout each of these areas of focus. We seek to equip each attendee, believing all the while that “iron sharpens iron”. G&G: Bishop Thomas, who have you selected to join you this year as speakers, teachers, etc.? Why were these individuals selected? Bishop Thomas: I will open up by presenting on the
Q&A Q&A programmatic year. Joining me on this year’s agenda are Bishop Heber Brown, Pastor Anthony Maclin and Pastor Ruby C. Gilliam. This year’s worship structure will include opening with Bishops night on Tuesday. This is an opportunity for the entire KACP body to come together in the unity of blending all of our individual ministries together in a unique worship setting. Of course I pray that the impact of the message on that night will set the tone and tenor for the week. G&G: Bishop Thomas, so the conference is for pastors and church membership? What is the itinerary for this year’s schedule? Bishop Thomas: The annual conference is an opportunity for worship, learning and fellowship. While the conference teaching sessions are designed for pastors, the worship experiences on Tuesday night and Wednesday and Thursday afternoons are open to all. The conference worship schedule is as follows: -Tuesday, July 22nd, 7:00 pm - evening worship (Bishop Walter Scott Thomas, Sr.) -Wednesday, July 23rd, 12 noon afternoon worship (Pastor Anthony G. Maclin) - Thursday, July 24th, 12 noon - afternoon worship (Pastor Ruby C. Gilliam) *A detailed schedule which reflects additional sessions specifically designed for pastors is available on the website. G&G: Bishop Thomas you mentioned in a previous interview that one of the missions of the Kingdom Association of Covenant Pastors is to be a strengthening haven for pastors and their churches and that this is an awesome task. How would you gage the progress of KACP at this point? What have been some of the struggles you have encountered? Bishop Thomas: One of the ongoing challenges of the work of KACP is to remind pastors that they do not have to face the journey alone and that the strength of being connected and committed to Jesus Christ and to each other through this organization is designed to equip and provide support in every ministry endeavor. G&G: Bishop Thomas so many social issues affect our churches today, how does KACP incorporate training and assistance to help churches address the issues that face them today, i.e. the senseless murders of our youth, drugs, mental illness, and substance abuse. Bishop Thomas: The issues that we face in KACP are
indicative of the many challenges that are prevalent in this day and time. KACP seeks to provide ongoing and cutting edge solutions to meet the ever changing society through the continual learning of its individual pastors and by sharing best practices with others throughout the organization. G&G: Bishop Thomas, I am sure the KACP organization does not stop working after their annual conference each year. Once the conference is over what happens until the next conference in other words what’s ahead for KACP? Bishop Thomas: The work KACP does not rest with the annual conference, the conference represents one of two major events that we sponsor every year; the other being our pastors’ retreat that takes place in January of each year. It is designed to be a time where we step away for a few days to rest and to recharge...to plan out and refine our ministry calendars and to refocus on our goals and ministry assignments for the year. We also look forward to gathering at specific times during the year such as our annual luncheon for the membership and invited guests that take place as a part of the prestigious Hampton Minister’s Conference in June of each year. Our pastors remain busy throughout the year representing and making ministry contributions of time and expertise in many of the major ministry organizations throughout this nation and around the world. G&G: Bishop Thomas, does the KACP organization embrace youth pastors and youth leaders? What about female pastors are they instrumental to the organization? Bishop Thomas: The demographic of KACP is as diverse as the Kingdom of God itself. All pastors male and female are encouraged and welcomed to be a part. We share and expect that all members will agree with what we believe and embrace our statement of faith. We ask that you do come expecting to be embraced by the loving people of God and challenged to do your best at all times. We value the skills and expertise that every pastor from churches large and small, new and established brings to the table. G&G: Bishop Thomas, lastly as the overseer of the KACP and having multiple sons and daughters in ministry, what is the most important piece of advice you give to men and women who have embraced the call to the ministry? Bishop Thomas: A closing piece of advice to all is to stay true to the calling of God by “holding fast to the profession of our faith”; and to stay thirsty for the refreshing waters of life. In the words of the Psalmist: as the deer panteth for the waters; lord my soul longeth after thee].
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Kingdom Association of Covenant Pastors The Kingdom Association of Covenant Pastors (KACP) is a Fellowship of pastors who are committed to the call the Lord has placed upon their lives. We are committed to the call to preach, to lead, to care, to build, and to better the body of Christ. It is our desire to lead the people of faith through the most excellent, most impacting, and most effective pastoral ministry possible. In addition, we are pastors who understand that our vocation has its share of personal and professional challenges. The
pastorate alone and the work that is demanded of us can create unique pressures and problems to which only another pastor can relate. KACP is a fellowship that endeavors to encourage, assist, edify, and celebrate one another in kingdom work. To this end, we have all entered into a special covenant for the cause of becoming and being the pastors that God has called us to be. We are pastors in covenant for the purpose of kingdom building, kingdom work, and our own kingdom witness; thus, the Kingdom Association of Covenant Pastors.
KACP Members Speak DR. VANESSA D. BOOTH Senior Pastor Lamb of Life Baptist Church, Baltimore, MD
“As a former member and Associate Minister of the New Psalmist Baptist Church, I’ve had the honor and privilege of sitting at the feet of Bishop Thomas for over 20 years. During my tenure at NPBC, I was trained and developed by the greatest pastor, preacher, and teacher; however, when I was elected as the Pastor of Lamb of Life Baptist Church, I became a member of KACP because I was in need of training and teaching at a greater level. KACP has provided me with training in leadership development, spiritual leadership, administrative protocol, and fellowship with other Pastors throughout the U.S. The knowledge and information I’ve gained through KACP and its pastors have been invaluable.”
REV. DR. RUBY C. GILLIAM Senior Pastor Divine Wisdom Christian Center B.C., Baltimore, MD
“Proverbs 19:2 tells us that, “It is dangerous to have zeal without knowledge.” Having access to information is pivotal for continuing spiritual growth and development for pastors. The association provides access to a reservoir of pastoral wisdom, knowledge and practical experience. The Kingdom Association of Covenant Pastors (KACP) strives to meet leaders at their point of need and experience, regardless of tenure in the role as a pastor. Bishop Walter Scott Thomas, Sr. and the executive team address social issues that impact church culture, but offer real practical solutions, information, guidance and resources for resolutions. I believe that the association is intentional and sincere in making an effort to help pastors develop into leaders of excellence. Divine Wisdom Christian Center Baptist Church has been richly blessed from all that I have received as a member.”
PASTOR C. GUY ROBINSON The Tabernacle of The Lord Church and Ministries, Baltimore, MD
“KACP holistically empowers pastors to better serve the Body of Christ. The exchange of information is profound. The fellowship among pastors is authentic and encouraging. And the inspiration is beyond description! Thank God for the vision revealed to Bishop Walter S. Thomas.”
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DR. RONALD C. WILLIAMS Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, Baltimore, MD
“I have been a member of KACP since its inception. As a son of New Psalmist and Bishop Thomas, I have 30 years of firsthand experience with the value of his leadership. The Kingdom Associate of Covenant Pastors is unique. It exists for the sole purpose of strengthening pastors. Through strengthening pastors, ministries are strengthened and the Kingdom is advanced. The devastating impact of clergy burnout is well documented. In fact, the New York Times and the Huffington Post have both published exposes on the subject in recent years. KACP has provided a much needed community of faith leaders committed to learning, fellowship, and spiritual growth. I thank God for Bishop Walter Thomas and the contribution of KACP.”
PASTOR ANTHONY G. MACLIN The Sanctuary at Kingdom Square, Capitol Heights, MD
“The growth and instructional opportunities that are available through KACP are a true blessing to any Pastor who wants to stay connected and informed. Bishop Thomas and the leadership team are a true fountain full of resources for any Pastor who desires to stay on the cutting edge of leadership strategies and growth ideas.”
PASTOR JAMES NELSON Destiny Christian Church, Baltimore, MD
“KACP has been a wonderful experience. It’s has been a great network of encouragement, support and strength. As a pastor, KACP has provided practical information and tools to aid in successful ministry. It is good to have a fellowship focused on the person and the pastor and not just performance.”
DR. LISA M. WEAH New Bethlehem Baptist Church, Baltimore, MD
“The Kingdom Association of Covenant Pastors (KACP) led by Bishop Walter S. Thomas is dedicated to strengthening, supporting, and equipping pastors for twenty-first century church leadership. I joined KACP for strategies, insights, and pastoral support, and am thankful for the excellent models of teaching, training, and tools it offers to both new and seasoned pastors.”
Kingdom Association of Covenant Pastors Conference 2013
Photo credits - Greg Stansbury
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mayor’s journal
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governor’s page
Better Choices, Better Results by Governor Martin O’Malley
Last year, the O’Malley Brown administration set as one of our 16 Strategic Goals, Full Employment for Maryland Veterans by 2015. While Maryland maintains a higher employment rate for veterans as compared to the national average, we can and we must do more in our mission to support the hiring and employment of veterans. Our military veterans bring extraordinary skill sets to the civilian workplace. They have advanced technical training, a robust work ethic, and an unmatched commitment to getting things done. Supporting veteran hiring is not only good for our veterans; it is good for our families, our communities and our businesses. That’s why, this June 1st, we kickedoff Operation Hire, a new charge to our state and local agencies, and the business community, to develop or expand existing veteran hiring initiatives. For 100 days, the Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs will track hiring efforts. In early fall, we’ll share our success
stories, and recognize those agencies that contribute the most to our effort. Our service men and women volunteer to put themselves through the most rigorous training on Earth. They work to become some of our toughest and hardest-working citizens, travelling the globe to keep our shores safe, secure and peaceful. Let’s make sure that when they come home, we give them the welcome they deserve, and the opportunities that they are ready for. Visit veterans.maryland.gov today to learn more and to register as a participant in Operation Hire. Commit to the challenge today. www.gracenglorymagazine.org 15
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to your good health
We are in a season of celebration. Graduations, proms, end-of-the-year recitals, closing ceremonies, weddings, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Memorial Day and the list continues all within the spring and summer months. These occasions are a time to reflect, remember and respond to the people, events and milestones in our lives. We often get bogged down with the cares of life and these celebratory times seem to come when we need them the most. Life has a strange way of encouraging us to do the things we already should be taking part in. These times are to be maximized for their significance becomes more important once we can no longer celebrate like we did in the past. Enjoying life now helps us to endure the difficult seasons of life. When we devalue the significance of major life events, we miss an opportunity to rejoice. There is a time to laugh so we need to take every chance we get to praise the Lord for His goodness and mercy toward us. We have to follow the traditions of the Israelites who always stopped to make an altar and worship God for their victories over the enemies. One significant event was their journey into the Promised Land. This was something an entire genera-
tion of people had been not only waiting for but preparing for. “And Joshua said to them: “Cross over before the ark of the Lord your God into the midst of the Jordan, and each one of you take up a stone on his shoulder, according to the number of the tribes of the children of Israel, 6 that this may be a sign among you when your children ask in time to come, saying, ‘What do these stones mean to you?’ 7 Then you shall answer them that the waters of the Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the Lord”, Joshua 4:5-7 (NKJ). The Israelites made a memorial to celebrate and commemorate the journey God had allowed them to take. We also need to be mindful of our accomplishments, victories and milestones so we can continue to celebrate. I am reminded of the song by the group Chic that gives us a perspective for our response to what’s happening in our midst. “Good times, these are the good times, our new state of mind, Carla J. these are the good times.” Debnam, MS, LCPC Founder, Do not take your good times Renaissance Christian for granted but cherish them. Counseling Center
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person of interest
DR. CAROLYN D. SHOWELL
FIRST WOMAN TO SERVE AS VICE PRESIDING BISHOP OF GLOBAL UNITED FELLOWSHIP On July 18, 2014, Dr. Carolyn D. Showell, daughter of the Late Bishop Winfield Amos Showell, will be consecrated to the office of bishop and appointed to be one of four vice presiding bishops of the Global United Fellowship to help lead New Global Ministry. She will be responsible for organizational and operational structure, program formation, and leadership development. Dr. Showell will be the first woman to serve as a vice presiding bishop in the recently formed international ministry. The Fellowship will hold the consecration service on July 18, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. at the Benton Convention Center in Winston-Salem, NC. The consecration service will be followed by an affirmation service on July 27, 2014 at 5:00 p.m. at the First Apostolic Faith Church in Baltimore, MD. Leaders and church members from around the world will come to Baltimore to worship God and celebrate this episcopal elevation. There will also be an Episcopal Banquet, Monday, July 28, 7pm at the Grand Lodge in Cockeysville, MD. For ticket information call 443-769-2196. During the affirmation service, family and friends will remember and honor Dr. Showell’s father, the late Bishop Winfield Amos Showell, and her mother, the late Genevieve Frances Showell. Dr. Showell continues to follow the example of her parents, a bishop and first lady who taught, empowered, and nurtured members of the Body of Christ and many residents and local officials of Baltimore for more than 50 years. Dr. Showell is a member of the advisory board of the Joint College of African-American Pentecostal Bishops, the chancellor of the School of Transformational Leadership for the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc., and the president of the Women’s Institute of Lifelong Learning (WILL). She is a graduate of Goucher College, Union Theological Seminary (New York), the Harvard University Leadership Institute, and the Columbia University Executive Management Program. Dr. Showell is a candidate in the doctoral program in Jewish and Rabbinic studies at the Baltimore Hebrew Institute at Towson University. Global United Fellowship is an interdenominational fellowship of spiritual leaders and more than 400 churches. The Fellowship was established in 2013 under the capable leadership of Bishop Neil C. Ellis, Presiding Bishop of the Fellowship and Senior Pastor of Mt. Tabor Church in Nassau, Bahamas. The purpose of the Fellowship is to unite churches, equip leaders, enhance marriages, resurrect the discipline of prayer, and build covenant relationships within the Body of Christ. For more information about the Global United Fellowship, visit www.globalunitedfellowship.org. For more information about the consecration and affirmation services, visit www.facebook.com/bishopcarolynshowell. www.gracenglorymagazine.org www.gracenglorymagazine.org 29 29
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woman’s perspective
I am a daddy’s girl! I am an adult daddy’s girl; always have been, always will be. Just like the image of the little girl who runs to the door at the sound of her father returning home after work, I still greet my father in the same manner now. It is said that the first relationships we have, being those with our immediate family, helps us navigate relationships for the rest of our lives. Particularly as girls, our relationships, or lack thereof, with daddy at home really set the stage for our relationships going forward. My heart often breaks though for all of the lovely women who have grown up without strong daddy relationships and don’t necessarily relate to being a “daddy’s girl”. But I’m here to encourage you that you can still belong to the club. For all of the ladies who have grown up and not necessarily received what was needed from an earthly father, there is a heavenly father who loves you and is prepared to give you everything your earthly father was unable to. There are so many things that girls get from daddy that are necessary to take into adulthood as a whole, self-assured woman. We learn healthy male love from daddy. His attention lets us know what it is to be valued for who we are and not our bodies, our looks or just superficiality. We learn what protection looks like. In dad’s loving arms we feel safe and develop a healthy level of trust. We strengthen our esteem through dad’s affirmation. Something about daddy telling us that we are beautiful and special makes us feel just so and teaches us how to be revered and respected by men. Whether we realize it or not, we are being shaped for our future relationships with men and making unconscious decisions about how we deserve to be treated. So what happens when daddy isn’t there? Where do we learn these things without him? And when the little girl grows into a woman, how is she able to be whole? I have good news for you. You have a daddy, a heavenly daddy that is all sufficient! Isn’t that encouraging? It’s exciting to know that you too can be a daddy’s girl. All of the love, protection, security, wisdom, and guidance that your earthly daddy may not have provided can still be yours. I have found in my life that where I have had voids and empty places, the “I Am” God that we serve steps in to be whatever I need Him to be at that time. And guess what?
Even with a remarkable daddy, I still struggled with self-esteem as a young person; it was a bloodline struggle. I had to find out for myself that I was truly fearfully and wonderfully made and that in my emptiest, loneliest moments, God showed me just how much He loved me and cared for me. There have been many times in worship where I have felt the daddy love just engulf me wherever I am. That same love is available to you my sister. We are all DADDY’s GIRLS! We have the best daddy in our heavenly father. He protects us like no other. His word tells us that weapons may form but they certainly won’t prosper. All we have to do is trust in Him and keep our minds stayed on Him. He provides for us. Have you gotten to know Him as Jehovah-Jireh? I certainly have! And as an entrepreneur I am fully confident in Him in this area. I have never gone without and He consistently provides. He loves us. This goes without saying. “He commended His love towards us in that while we were yet in our sins, Christ died for us.” What kind of love is that? It is the most amazing, sacrificial love. It also lets us know how very special we are to our daddy. I encourage you in your most vulnerable of moments to steal away to your quiet place and climb into your heavenly daddy’s lap. He has told us in His word that we can come boldly to His throne to obtain His grace and mercy. It is available to us. If you’ve never been able to say it, I encourage you to begin to confess that you too are a daddy’s girl. Remind yourself that you have a heavenly daddy that is touched with your human afflictions and who is able to cover you and be all that you need and more. Allow him to hug the girl inside that misses and longs for her daddy and He will begin to minister to her and pour into her everything she needs to be whole. For those to whom this applies, welcome to the DADDY’S GIRL club!
Tiffany Bethea Author| Speaker| Mompreneur Founder & CEO/ The L.I.V.E. Circle www.tiffanybethea www.gracenglorymagazine.org www.gracenglorymagazine.org 31 31
32 June 2014 | Grace&Glory
SINGLE FATHERS…Our Silent Heroes While you may not hear his name called very often, he is an integral part of the day to day routine and life of his seed. A forgotten warrior, a silent hero a last minute mentioned name. Through his silence, we have no idea of the level of frustration he faces each day, parenting alone, parenting when he may not have been parented himself. He is a stable force of strength and yet we have no idea of the insecurities that he may be struggling with on the inside. Am I smart enough to raise these children? Will I know the answers to the hard questions? Did I braid my daughter’s hair as good as her mother or will the other children recognize my imperfection and tease my child? Did I pack the right lunch and juice box? Have I past on my worse qualities to my seed? And the questions go on and on and yet we never even notice that there is a real person inside of the man, the single father that we see each day. Every Father is not a “dead beat dad”. There are single, unmarried fathers that are a part of their children’s lives on many levels. There are some single fathers that are the primary care taker and shoulder the full role of single parent and then we have many single fathers that are co-parenting. When we hear the term “single parent” we automatically think of a female person holding this role, but there are men that are filling these shoes as well, and each day we forget these silent heroes. A Pew Research study published this statistic that in 2011, 8 percent of households with minor children are now headed by a single father, up from one percent in 1960. This is a nine-fold increase. The rise in single mothers has increased to 8.6 million in 2011. Some factors that contribute to the increase in these numbers may be a rising divorce rate along with an increasing frequency of parents never marrying at all. Single fathers are co-parenting and providing that male role that is needed in the development of the child and often missing in the home. Many of these single fathers are making great deposits of wisdom, wiping noses, disciplining and more as they parent their seed and cultivate, the creativity of the child they have created. With so much criticism from society and sometime the church, these warriors each day face struggles we will never understand and yet they keep on going, and no one even notices. Join me during this month of June to recognize, celebrate, encourage and salute our single, unmarried Fathers that make an imprint on the lives of their children. Another forgotten hero from the Bible is the prophet Hosea. Hosea was commanded by God to marry a harlot and in that marriage they conceived several children. Hosea was commanded to demonstrate the love of God for His people by staying with a woman who had turn her back on him, disgraced him and engaged in intimate relationships with others. What a vivid picture God created in this demonstration through his prophet Hosea. We hear very little about Hosea, but this man was a hero in that his life was made a public display of humility so that God’s point could be made with his people. What a sacrifice, what a hero, what a warrior. Single fathers can draw a few points of encouragement from the prophet Hosea. Hosea stood strong in a situation that was embarrassing. No one wants to be embarrassed, especially a man. But sometimes single fathers have to endure public judgment, critical court systems and unfair family members in a situation that they have no control over. Just as Hosea stood, single Father’s continue to stand in the face of embarrassment.
single life
Hosea life mirrored his prophetic message. Hosea’s lifestyle backed up what he was preaching. Single fathers know that their life is being watched by their children. It is their lifestyle that they will emulate, and remember. Let your words and action line up each day and play out a melody that your children can easily pattern their lives after. Hosea was instructed to buy his wife back. Single fathers, there are sacrifices that will take you beyond what you desire to do or even what you understand. It is in these times that you must rely and trust in God as he leads and directs you. There is great sacrifice in parenting and obeying the voice of God when it seems ridiculous. There are many times you will have to show unconditional love to your children and to the mother of your children. In the face of all you have endured from that mother you are still to honor and love her as the mother of your children. Single Fathers, we close with a special prayer that God will continue to strengthen and provide you wisdom in your daily walk. We pray that you will be encouraged each day and know how much you are appreciated, valued, loved and honored not just during June but every day! We thank God for your desire to mold, shape, love and cultivate your seed and for your ability to stand silently, alone and sometimes frustrated… unrecognized, looked over and seldom mentioned… You are OUR HEROES...YOU ARE GOD’S HEROES. HAPPY FATHER’S DAY!!!
Dr. Monique Flemings Monique Flemings Ministries, Chicago, Illinois www.moniqueflemingsministries.com www.gracenglorymagazine.org 33 33 www.gracenglorymagazine.org
34 June 2014 | Grace&Glory
education digest
A Summer Plan Just the other day I had a conversation with my brother and sisters. We shared memories of our summers growing up in North Florida. We were excited to get through the last days of classes. I remember back then that most of the conversations you’d hear around campus in late May and June were not about where our families would vacation over the next few months. Instead, they were focused primarily on where we would work for the summer. There were not many jobs in our small town and the ones you found did not pay much. At best you’d make anywhere from two to eight dollars for a full 12-hour day. My hometown of Live Oak is a rural community and to this day still has plenty of farms. One of the top occupations for young African-American males and females was harvesting tobacco. The hours were long and the temperatures always hovered around 100 degrees. Here’s how you’d land a job. Most times we overheard friends talking about forming a crew to work in the tobacco fields for the summer and that they had space for another person or two. If we were smart, we’d sign up to start work the Monday after the last day of school. There were other times my brother and I were in no rush to commit to a job in the hot fields of Florida. This is where my father, James Tooten, would intervene.
He was well aware of when school ended and what jobs were available. He would ask if we had lined up jobs for the summer. Our response would come slow and the answer was usually “not yet.” We told him we were still making connections. This was not the answer our father wanted to hear. My father believed in the value of work. He’d worked all of his life. He and his brother quit school as young boys during the years of the Great Depression in order to support their mother and two sisters. His father, our grandfather, had died when my father was just six years old. As they became young men, both brothers left home for the United States army. They served in World War II in North Africa and Italy in order to protect our country and to support their family back home. After the war, dad returned home and held down jobs on the railroad and a few other places where African-Americans could find work in the 1940’s. By the time we were teenagers, dad’s health had already started to fail. However, this did not stop him from looking for ways to support his family. He planted a garden every year and sold much of his crop to support his family. He also had cattle and would sell milk products to earn money as well. As one might expect, when a man with this kind of work resume’ ask you if you have a job for the summer, your response should not be “I’m still looking”. At this point our father would job hunt on our behalf. We didn’t realize it, but he would ask around town about summer jobs. Again, there was no need to have us turn in applications. He would just pass along to local farmers and those working on their behalf something like this. “I have two sons who will work.” Our father would then come home all excited that he’d found jobs for the both of us. He would give us the employers name and say that person would stop by to pick us up at the house first thing Monday morning. This only happened once that I recall. In the years to come we made sure we had a work plan for the summer. During the month of June I honor my father who helped us to never forget the value of work and the need to plan ahead. Happy Father’s Day. Dr. Tim Tooten, Sr. is an Emmy-Award winning television journalist with WBALTV (NBC) in Baltimore where he covers the Education beat. He’s also the pastor and founder of Harvest Christian ministries in Baltimore County, Maryland. Dr. Tim Tooten, Sr. www.gracenglorymagazine.org 35 35 www.gracenglorymagazine.org
36 June 2014 | Grace&Glory
bookshelf
Book Shelf Heaven is For Real By Todd Burpo with Lynn Vincent With the release of the movie Heaven is For Real I decided I wanted to read the book before I saw the movie. Based on a true story, Heaven is For Real is based on a families account of a little 4 year old boy, Colton, who goes to heaven and experiences what we could only imagine. The people he meets, talks to and encounters will leave you in awe as you read. One of the main reasons that I enjoyed this book is that it felt as though I was sitting in a room while Colton’s dad told all about what his family had been through, and the amazing encounter that Colton shared days, weeks, and months after he went to heaven during an emergency surgery. He expressed his raw emotions that ranged from happiness, to anger, to hopelessness, to joy. He takes us on his journey as a father who is supposed to protect his son from tragedy but is unable to when sickness arrives. He allows us access to his personal relationship with God by sharing his rage and anger at a God who would allow such hard times to afflict his family. As a husband we see the battle between vulnerability and strength as he deals with his wife. But his narrative is balanced so well with the childlike testimony of Colton. Colton’s account of what happens, expressed in his 4 year old way brings such life to the story, and you can picture the dialogue between father and son. The book impressed me because he
by Brandie Manigault
didn’t try and use big words to tell his story. He used his everyday language, no fluff, no extra descriptive words. It was just his story in the purest way possible. I found myself on the edge of my seat reading waiting to see what was going
to happen next with the young boy and how it would impact everyone around him. I held my breath at moments that the parents probably held their breaths, and sighed with relief during the same times. The simplicity that the story is told in makes it such an easy read and an enjoyable one. I definitely recommend Heaven is For Real. It will boost your faith and make you believe. -Brandie
About the Authors Todd Burpo Todd Burpo is the pastor of Crossroads Wesleyan Church in Imperial, Nebraska (Population: 1,762) where his sermons are broadcast locally every Sunday via the local radio station. He volunteers at Chase County Public Schools as wrestling coach for Junior high school students, as well as serving as a member of the school board. In emergencies Todd can be found working shoulder-to-shoulder with the Imperial Volunteer Fire Department as a fire fighter. He is also the chaplain for the Nebraska State Volunteer Firefighter’s Association. To support his family, Todd also operates a company called Overhead Door Specialists. Todd graduated from Oklahoma Wesleyan University in 1991 summa cum laude with a BA in Theology. He was ordained in 1994.
Lynn Vincent Born in Springfield, Massachusetts, Lynn has lived in San Diego for more than 25 years. She is an unabashed evangelical, a registered Republican with Libertarian leanings, and (after a brief fascination with the Oakland Raiders) a huge San Diego Chargers fan. Lynn holds a liberal arts degree from Excelsior College, and teaches writing at colleges and conferences kind enough to extend an invitation. Of all her works, Lynn’s favorites are her two sons, who, her research shows, are the two handsomest, most brilliant young men in the universe. www.gracenglorymagazine.org 37
38 June 2014 | Grace&Glory
nutrition
EATING OUT:
With hectic schedules, Making the Best of Low-Calorie Choices people are eating out more frequently. It is fine to indulge once in a while when dining out, but if you are eating out more than once a week the calories can add up quickly. It is easy to eat a whole day’s worth of with a friend, which helps satisfy your craving calories in just one meal out. The good news without adding too many calories is that you have plenty of low-calorie and even • Hold the mayo—1 tablespoon (Tbsp) of healthy options, which allow you to indulge mayonnaise adds 100 calories, and 11 grams of fat responsibly. (many sandwiches will contain more than 2 Tbsp Pizza restaurant tips of mayonnaise) • Choose lower-calorie pizza toppings, such as • Opt for grilled chicken (instead of fried) on vegetables, pineapple, chicken, Canadian bacon, sandwiches, wraps, and salads or ham • Steer yourself toward a low-calorie, healthy side, • Pick a red tomato-based pizza sauce, instead of such as: one with a cream or ranch sauce • Baked potato • Order your pizza “easy on the cheese”—this can • Fruit (apple slices) cut your calories by up to 100 calories/slice • Fruit and yogurt parfait • Ask for thin crust—the less crust, the fewer • Side salad with low-fat dressing calories • Order diet soda or water, because calories from • Switch out your large slices for medium ones, soda can add up quickly—a 32 fluid ounce regular which saves you 50-100 calories/slice soda contains about 375 calories • Add a salad with plenty of vegetables and a lite • Do not supersize your burger; instead choose a or fat-free dressing as a low-calorie side single-patty burger or cheeseburger, instead of the large-double or triple-patty burgers Pizza Hut® (Slices from medium 12″ pizza) McDonald’s® • Two slices All Natural Pepperoni and • Hamburger, side salad, Newman’s Own® Mushroom=420 calories Balsamic Vinaigrette, Apple Dippers (without • Two slices Ham and Pineapple Hand-Tossed caramel), Fruit ‘n Yogurt Parfait (without Style Crust=400 calories granola)=475 calories • Two slices Veggie Lovers® Thin Crust • Premium Southwest Salad with Grilled Chicken, Pizza=360 calories Newman’s Own® Creamy Southwest Dressing, Apple Dippers=455 calories Mexican restaurant tips • Grilled Snack Wrap (Chipotle BBQ, Honey • Go easy on the cheese, sour cream, and fried Mustard, Ranch), side salad, Newman’s tortilla chips • Add plenty of salsa, which is low in calories and Own® Balsamic Vinaigrette, Fruit and Yogurt Parfait=480-490 calories counts as a vegetable serving • Use only a small portion of guacamole, which is made from avocado (contains a high concentration Sub or deli sandwich restaurant • Choose whole-grain or whole-wheat breads or of healthy fat, but also plenty of calories) buns, when offered—whole grains are packed with Taco Bell® nutrients and are a good source of fiber • Two Spicy Chicken Soft Tacos, Mexican • Choose lower-calorie meats, such as: rice=450 calories • Turkey • Chicken • Fresco Steak Burrito Supreme®, Mexican • Lean ham • Lean roast beef rice=440 calories • Hold the oil and mayonnaise, but use vinegar, • Fresco Bean Burrito, Fresco Crunchy Taco=480 mustard, or other low-fat dressings to add flavor calories • Add extra vegetables for toppings • Go light on the cheese; ask for just one slice Fast-food burger-joint restaurant • Choose a side salad or fruit as a side, when Panera Bread® available, which are lower in calories and rich in • Half Turkey Artichoke on Focaccia (hot panini) antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber and Low-Fat Vegetarian Garden Vegetable • Split a small order of fries as a side if eating Soup=460 calories
• Half Asiago Roast Beef on Asiago Cheese Demi (Signature sandwich) and Half Classic Café Salad with fat-free raspberry dressing=465 calories Subway® • Foot-long Veggie Delight®=450 calories • 6 in. Subway Club®, Baked Lays®, apple slices=485 calories Casual dining restaurants • Know your portions; weighing and measuring your food once in a while at home helps you get a good idea of appropriate portions, which will help you control portions when eating out • Take half “to go”; ask the server to wrap up half your entrée before it reaches your table • Avoid any dishes that mention the words fried, batter dipped, creamy, cream sauce, scalloped, au gratin, butter sauce, cheesy, or Alfredo—these words generally indicate the meal is higher in fat and calories • Order a side salad and/or vegetables as a side, when available • Request high-fat sauces and salad dressing on the side, and use as little as possible • Split one dessert between the table—just take a bite or two and pass it on Ruby Tuesdays • Petite sirloin, white-cheddar mashed potatoes, premium baby green beans=421 calories • Smart Eating Creole Catch, fresh steamed broccoli, sautéed baby portabello mushrooms=484 calories Olive Garden® • Grilled Chicken Spiedini=460 calories • Linguine alla Marinara=310 calories lunch, 430 calories dinner Denny’s® • Fit-Fare™ Chicken Sandwich with fruit=490 calories • Fit-Fare™ Boca Burger=410 calories Note: Restaurants frequently update their nutrition information. Check individual restaurant Web sites for the most up-to-date information, because frequent changes do occur in restaurant menus.
By Herline A. Knights, RD, LD www.gracenglorymagazine.org www.gracenglorymagazine.org 3939
You are invited to attend a
Open House
Thursday, June 19, 2014, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM Coppin State University, Talon Center, 2nd Floor Atrium 2500 West North Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21216 Come to the open house anytime between 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM. No formal presentation will be given. At the open house you can: • Learn about the project • Share ideas • Ask questions • Meet the project team We welcome your input and encourage you to identify and discuss project-related issues throughout the planning process. The Baltimore and Potomac (B&P) Tunnel is located between the West Baltimore MARC Station and Penn Station, and is used by Amtrak, MARC, and Norfolk Southern trains. The project will address existing and future deciencies associated with the tunnel. The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is leading the B&P Tunnel Project in close coordination with Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) and other stakeholders. FRA will evaluate various alternatives such as tunnel rehabilitation and a new tunnel alignment.
40 June 2014 | Grace&Glory
Can’t attend? Meeting materials also will be posted on our website: www.bptunnel.com. The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. If you require translation services, please contact info@bptunnel.com, at least one week in advance of the meeting. Si necesita traducción por favor póngase en contacto: info@bptunnel.com.
body basics
The (15 Minute) Bye-Bye Arm Jiggle Workout www.womenshealth.com Strapless dresses expose your upper back, shoulders, upper chest, and arms. This workout will shape all those places. Do these arm exercises one after another with no rest in between. Repeat the circuit, resting a minute between circuits. Standing V Raise Hold a dumbbell in each hand and stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, arms at your sides, palms in. With arms straight but not locked, raise the weights diagonally in front of you, so that your arms form a V shape, until your arms are parallel to the floor. Hold for one second, then return to the starting position. Do 12 to 15 reps. Shoulder Press Holding a pair of dumbbells just above your shoulders, palms facing each other, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent. Press the weights until your arms are straight overhead. Hold for one second, then take three seconds to lower the dumbbells back to your shoulders. Do six to eight reps. Rotating Triceps Kickback Stand with your knees bent and lean forward slightly, with a dumbbell in each hand. Bend your right elbow to bring the dumbbell to your side, making your upper arm parallel with the floor. Press the dumbbell back, and as you straighten your arm, rotate it so that your palm faces the ceiling. Rotate it back so that your palm faces in, and return your arm to the bent position. Do 12 to 15 reps with each arm.
Pike Walk Pushup Combo Stand with your feet together, arms at your sides. Bend over (it’s OK for your knees to be slightly bent) and place your hands or fingertips on the floor in front of you. Walk your hands forward until you are in a pushup position and do one pushup. Keeping your hands in place, walk your feet forward until they’re as close to your hands as possible. That’s one rep. Continue moving forward until you’ve done five or six pushups. Airplane Extension Lie face down and extend your arms out at shoulder level with your palms facing the floor. Pull your shoulder blades together and lift your arms, legs, and chest off the floor. Holding that position, bring your arms forward, reaching past your head. Hold for one count, then move them back. Lower yourself to the floor. That’s one rep. Do 10 to 15. Crescent Lunge and Row Grab a dumbbell in your right hand and stand with your feet together, arms at your sides. Lunge forward with your left leg until your left knee is bent 90 degrees. Lower your torso as close as possible to your left knee as you raise your left arm out to the side to shoulder height, palm down. Allow the dumbbell in your right hand to hang naturally. Row the dumbbell straight up until your right elbow passes your torso. That’s one rep. Do 12 to 15, then repeat on the opposite side. Tip: Start with an eight-pound dumbbell. Don’t increase the weight until you’ve mastered perfect form. T Pushup Get into a pushup position with your hands on the floor directly below your shoulders. Lower yourself to the floor. As you push yourself up, rotate the right side of your body upward, lift your right arm, and roll onto the outside of your left foot. Straighten your right arm so your fingertips point toward the ceiling. Hold for one second before returning to the pushup position. Repeat, this time rotating left and reaching up with your left arm. That’s one rep. Do five. www.gracenglorymagazine.org 41
42 June 2014 | Grace&Glory
teen connect
HOW DO I HAVE THE BEST SUMMER POSSIBLE? Summer vacation is a very happy time in a teenager’s life. No longer must they worry about school. The world is theirs, and they can do (almost) anything! Time for FUN!!! • Before summer begins, remind your children about safety in talking to strangers and adults that are not well known to them. “Stranger Danger” should be discussed throughout childhood AND adolescence. The facts: one in five girls will be molested before their 18th birthday, one in six boys. 90% of all sexual assaults are perpetrated by someone the victim knows. Discuss safety issues with your adolescent throughout the year so they know how to protect themselves in any situation! • KNOW THE WHO, WHAT AND WHERE your adolescent has been on the internet! There are many programs you can buy that track virtually everything your adolescent does online. Especially if they are at home alone for some periods during the day, it is better to be safe than sorry. You are not intruding on their privacy... you are keeping them safe. Keep in mind that one in five adolescents have been sexually propositioned on the internet. Discuss internet limits and boundaries with your teen before summer begins, so you both start off on the same page. • Often, adolescents will eat when they are bored, especially in the summertime. Keep healthy food choices at home, so your adolescent is less inclined to graze on junk food. • Discuss ground rules at the beginning of the summer regarding what is appropriate for activities and what is expected of your adolescent. If they know ahead of time what the limits, boundaries and expectations are, there is typically less opportunity for problems as the summer goes on. It may be beneficial to have family meetings throughout the summer to stay in touch and discuss any
issues that come up. Family meetings are not a time for discipline or punishment. They should be viewed as an open forum for everyone to discuss and be heard. Often during the summer, they can be a great way to connect with the family and “check in.” Many families often do activities as a family after meetings to spend family time and keep in contact. • Know who your adolescent’s friends are! If you do not like someone whom they are hanging out with, get to know them. If you still don’t approve, tell your adolescent and be up front about your concerns. As a parent, you CAN forbid your adolescent from hanging out with someone you don’t approve of. Yes, it may cause an argument and be uncomfortable, but trust your gut instinct.....it could stave off many problems in the future. • If you have a concern that your adolescent may be using alcohol, drugs or cigarettes, ask them. Be up front and let them know your concerns. If they are not open and honest with you, they will know that you are “on” to them and most often sooner rather than later, you will find out the answer. Again, discuss rules and boundaries with your adolescent before summer starts. Let them know what the consequences will be for serious problems. • Be very specific about what kind, style and type of clothing you approve of for your adolescent. As a parent, you DO have the right to throw something away that you disapprove of, even if you didn’t buy it! • Have a rule that your adolescent checks in with you whenever the change locations when they are out with their friends. This way, you will know where they are at, who they are with and have more peace of mind. www.gracenglorymagazine.org www.gracenglorymagazine.org 43 43
gospel industry news Anita Wilson Motown Gospel recording artist, Anita Wilson will be releasing her sophomore project, titled Vintage Worship. She’s an incredible artist doing a great job in her solo career, and still finds time in her schedule to still do engagements with her Donald Lawrence & Company family. I absolutely love her debut album! Still playing it consistently! I’ve had an opportunity to hear a few songs and I like! We shall see!!! Check it out! June 24th “Vintage Worship”.
GOSPEL
Michael Winans, Jr.
McDonalds Inspiration Celebration Gospel Tour A 12 city summer concert series that focuses on giving back and raising funds for the Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC). The last 40 years the organization has provided resources and support to families of sick children all over the world. Last year’s total was about $83,000. This year’s headliner is Erica Campbell, who will also be cohosting alongside comedian Jonathan Slocumb. Other featured artists include Kurt Carr & the Kurt Carr Singers, Anthony Brown & Group Therapy (Baltimore’s Own!!), Hip Hop Artist Uncle Reece, and Organist Moses Tyson Jr. It’s coming to a city near you for more info and FREE tickets log onto http://www. mcdonalds.com/
Wess Morgan Last month (May 20) the Soulful Sangin Wess Morgan released his new project “Livin” on his own label, Bowtie World Music, distributed through Central South Distribution. His single “You Paid It’ and “Lord You’ve Been So Good To Me” really captured his signature soulful churchy sound. Morgan doesn’t just have musical talents; he has branched out and is featured in Tyler Perry’s Production, “Laugh To Keep From Crying” and his latest “Madea’s Neighbors From Hell” stage play/DVD. 44 June 2014 | Grace&Glory
Michael Winans, a member of the famous gospel family, pled guilty to a wire fraud charge and was sentenced to a 13.9 month court mandated sentence. Reports say he allegedly cheated people out of over $8 million dollars by getting them to invest in Saudi Arabian Oil bonds that were fake. Winan’s attorney says, “Winans plans to pay all the victims their money back.” Gospel Icon, Ce Ce Winans (Michael’s Aunt) took to twitter and tweeted this, “Please help my nephew Michael Winans, Jr. to stay free from prison. Praying for God’s mercy, believing for a miracle.” Also attached to the tweet was a link to an online petition, written by Michael to Judge Sean Cox. When families face circumstances such as this it can be extremely challenging and stressful on ANY family. Let’s keep the Winans Family in prayer.
BET Awards 2014
The Annual BET Awards will air LIVE on June 24 at 8pm from the Nokia Theater in Los Angeles. The nominees in the “Best Gospel Artist” category are as follows:
Hezekiah Walker Tye Tribett Donnie McClurkin Tamela Mann Erica Campbell Awesome selection, I’m excited to see who’s going to take home the award this year! May the best man or woman win! They are ALL winners, congrats to you on your nominations! On another BET note, we recently learned that the BET Celebration of Gospel had been cancelled due to lack of advertisers and could no longer justify production costs. That information went viral very quickly and had many people upset. Quite a few Gospel Artists vented their disappointment and opinion on the matter. However, the show will go on, and sources have said the show WILL NOT be cancelled, and will be airing in the fall of 2015. However, it will switch places with “Black Girls Rock”, and “Black Girls Rock” will air March 2015.
gospel industry news
NEWS
with Miss Ericka Follow me on twitter, www.twitter.com @MissEricka J, facebook www.facebook. com/ErickaJohnson,or via email missericka75@yahoo.com
Lawrence Flowers & Intercession This incredibly talented group of young people “Intercession” lead by the “vocal wonder boy” Lawrence Flowers will be releasing their single digitally, “I Still Believe” on June 3rd. I’ve followed their career since their first album, I’ve had an opportunity to witness their ministry live and I must admit, they don’t EVER disappoint. Their last single release “More” has resonated in my spirit since I heard it. Lawrence had this to say about the single when asked what was the story behind the writing of the single was it more testimonial or just writing relatable lyrics. “This was definitely testimonial; the song was based on experience. I lost some loved ones, my mom was recently diagnosed with MS, and I personally experienced some things, my health, my own issues, and just being in a place of unfulfillment. I still had to encourage myself and say ‘I Still Believe’. One of the verses says, ‘If you never heal my body, you give me strength to keep living’. Keep the faith no matter what!” That line ALONE just blessed me! So I’m in FULL anticipation of the single and the upcoming project “Shadow Worshipper” due to be released in September. All the songs were written and produced by Lawrence Flowers. Sneak peak features on the album include BET’s Sunday’s Best finalist Maurice Griffin, and American Idol Finalist Paris Bennett! For more info on this amazing group: www.facebook.
Brandon Booth & Project Praise The Project Praise Crew is gearing up to record their 2nd Project! This group of young people “BRINGS IT!” They are the total package they incorporate drama, dancing, the whole production! I absolutely love them! They are no strangers to the industry or this area; they are based right out of B’ More and have definitely been making some noise. They have been nominated for several awards including DMV Christian Music Awards nominee and winner, the Deidre “Dee Dee” Showell Awards nominee, and most recent six time Gospel Rhythm Awards. On June 7th ALL ROADS LEAD to Mt. Moriah Baptist Church, 2201 Garrison Boulevard, to the “Jesus Paid It All” Live Recording. For more info and tickets http://www.projectpraise.net/
Bishop Richard Pender Sr. Shout Out to my Bishop Richard Pender celebrating his birthday this month! His church and task force has put together an awesome celebration for him on June 8th, 2014, 6pm featuring Bishop Andrew J Ford and The Ford Memorial Church, and their incredible award winning choir The Anointed Voices of Philadelphia, PA. It’s Pentecost Sunday come celebrate with us!!!
Top 5 Songs #1 E very Praise - Hezekiah Walker #2 B eautiful Day - Jamie Grace #3 B eautiful - Mali Music #4 I Can Only Imagine - Tamela Mann #5 H elp - Erica Campbell
Top 5 Albums #1 Help - Erica Campbell #2 WOW Gospel 2014 Various Artists #3 Grace - Tasha Cobbs #4 Fallen King - Thi’sl #5 Best Days - Tamela Mann Happy Father’s Day to all the incredible men that stand in the gap, and undergird the women, and even the single parent fathers, kudos to you and you ALL you do. Please know your deeds don’t go unnoticed or taken for granted you have every reason to celebrate your fatherhood!!! In memory of my dad who was an incredible man of honor, dignity, strength, and wisdom, I love and Miss u SO much Rev. Bruce C. Johnson but I do realize that God assigned you to us for a season and various reasons, your loving kindness, and fathering I shall NEVER forget! You were the best! To my Godfather, Deacon Richard Gale, thanks for ALWAYS being there, you are simply amazing, my parents chose the best of the best, and I love you SO much! Til next month!!! www.gracenglorymagazine.org 45 www.gracenglorymagazine.org 45
word of encouragement
Never growing up with a father in my home, it was interesting the time I took to make up this prince of a father. I dare say that with my Father not being in the home I was reared by the best single parent in the world. She has gone on to be with God the Father, but I will always cherish the role she played as father and mother to me. In fact, I would call her on Father’s Day and shout out “Happy Father’s Day”, which she proudly said “thank you”. As long as she was there, I never really felt the need for a father. That was until I realized how truly important a father is in the life of his children. There are several roles that a father must play in the life of his child. There is no “mother” who could be a father and no “father” who could play the role of a mother. God made sure He distinctively made the roles clear. A father has a different role from a mother. One of his roles is to not irritate and provoke his children to anger – not to exasperate them to resentment. Well, resentful I was when I searched myself and realized that I longed for someone to validate me. To tell me that I was his “best” child and all the trimmings that come along with what God said in Psalm 139:14. It never came and the resentment built. Ephesians 6:4 starts off by telling fathers what not to do. Do not irritate and/or provoke your child(ren) to anger. Notice that before the Apostle Paul talked about what to do, he spoke about what not to do. Children do get irritated and provoked when parents do things that were specifically called upon not to do. Does that mean that you do not discipline or correct your child(ren)? God forbid. Fathers, just ask God for His wisdom. He gives it freely. A Father is to rear [tenderly] in the training and discipline, counsel and admonition of the Lord. The meaning of “training” according to the Merriam-Webster dictionary is “a process by which someone is taught the skills that are needed for an art, profession, or job”. Let us them look to fathers to train up a child in the way that he/she should go and when they are old they will return to it. [Proverbs 22:6] Regardless of what the world says, we can stand on the promises of God that our children will turn again to God. Another role of a Father is to “discipline”. Discipline is “training that corrects, molds, or perfects the mental faculties or moral character”. Different from training, discipline is when a
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father/mother can correct, mold or be available to let their children see moral behavior and thereby imitate it. Fathers, do you discipline your children by letting them see you walking in an upright and godly manner? Children don’t do what you say, they do what they see. Be careful with your moral conduct. Counsel – “a policy or plan of action or behavior”. The saying goes “if you fail to plan, then you plan to fail”. Fathers, do you have a policy or plan of action in the kind of behavior you exhibit in front of your children? Again, they become what they see. Your counsel should be godly even if you didn’t grow up in a godly home, begin to sow into the lives of your children what you desire to see come out of them. In other words, work hard at making them godly and upright citizens to the best of your ability. Admonition -- gentle or friendly reproof, counsel or warning against fault or oversight. Admonish them with gentle or friendly reproof, counsel or warning. Understanding that however you come at them they will sooner or later come back with you in that same manner, because it will seem like normal behavior to them. God, the greatest Father that we can take examples and learn from has certainly showed fathers the role they should take. His unfailing love, His tender mercies, His unconditional love are all lessons, fathers can gleam from. Fathers: I encourage you today and every day to purpose in your hearts to work towards being the kind of father your child(ren) would be proud of; a father who seeks to understand, appreciate and spend time in the presence of the Lord and pray so that his children can see that he is the father that God has called and ordained him to be. Prayer: Father, in the name of Jesus, I may not have always been the father I should be, but I purpose with Your help to (1) be the father that You have ordained for me to be and (2) to walk in a manner that glorifies You, amen. On behalf of In Trust Ministries I say, “Happy Father’s Day to every man that has purposed in his heart to be the best father, stepfather, grandfather and godfather that God has ordained him to be.” Donna Jennifer [Royalty] Ross In Trust Ministries dwilliamsross@aol.com
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48 June 2014 | Grace&Glory