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2 May 2013 | Grace&Glory
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™
JUNE 2013
29 EDUCATION DIGEST Dr. Tim Tooten
contents on the cover:
Person of Interest
Carey Poindexter Pg. 44
“Let’s Move”
31 Book Shelf
Brandie Manigault
God and Boobs (Angie Schuller Wyatt)
33 Nutrition & You
Bishop-Elect Kevin A. Rogers
New Fellowship Christian Community Church 5200 Park Heights Avenue Baltimore, MD 21215 (410) 542-5664 www.newfellowshipchurch.org
Herline A. Knights
Menopause & Perimenopause
35 BODY BASICS
Pg. 8-11 Q&A Interview with Bishop-Elect Kevin A. Rogers
12 PASTOR BIO 13 CHURCH HISTORY
Special Feature
Charles ‘Chizelit’ Harris
Top 25 Fitness Tips For Busy Moms
37 Woman’s Perspective
Cassandra Vaughn-Fox
Celebrate Mother
39 Word of Encouragement
Donna Williams-Ross
Will You Stand on God’s Promises?
40 Gospel Industry News
Ericka Johnson
42 Fashion Focus
realsimple.com 5 Ways to Wear a Blazer
In Every Issue
Contributors................................................................... 6 From the Editor.............................................................. 7 Scripture Page............................................................. 19 Carter’s Commentary................................................... 46
Story of Hope
Vikita Poindexter Pg.45
features 25 TEEN CONNECT
15 Mayor’s Journal
Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake
17 Governor’s Page Governor Martin O’Malley
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Pastors Greg & Tonya Dennis
Your Future is Waiting
27 To Your Good Health
Carla J. Debnam, MS, LCPC
Love in Action www.gracenglorymagazine.org 5
from the editor are never too old to need her. On Mother’s Day, we will go all out to celebrate this woman God created; and she deserves it all and then some! Mother will always hold a place deep in our hearts.
For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. Psalm 84:11
Contributors
PUBLISHER/ EDITOR-IN-CHIEF EDITORIAL
Jackie Epps Dr. Kenneth O. Robinson Harold A. Carter, Jr. Cassandra Vaughn-Fox Herline A. Knights Pastors Gregory and Tonya Dennis Carla J. Debnam Donna Williams-Ross Governor Martin O’Malley Ericka Johnson Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake Rev. Tim Tooten Brandie Manigault
PHOTOGRAPHY GRAPHIC ARTIST
Mark L. Dennis Claire Lesesne www.JandCDesigns.com
WEB ADMINISTRATOR
Andre Felipe for Arts Period www.artsperiod.com
PRINTING Roebuck & Son Printing www.hgroebuck.com Grace & Glory Magazine is published monthly by JE Media, LLC, a Baltimore based, independent publisher. Copyright 2013. All rights reserved. Reproduction without expressed permission is prohibited.
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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, Sr. Pastor, New Shiloh Baptist Church, MD Dr. Suzan Johnson Cook, U.S. Ambassador Dr. WIlliam H. Curtis Mt. Ararat Baptist Church, Pittsburgh, PA Bishop Ralph L. Dennis Sr. Pastor, Kingdom Worship Center, MD Wanda Q. Draper/Media Executive Michele J.K. Epps/Health Sciences Cassandra Vaughn Dir., Balto City Office Of Communications & Cable Dr. Donte’ L. Hickman, Sr. Pastor, Southern Baptist Church, MD Pastor Timothy V. Manigault Bishop Dennis V. Proctor Presiding Prelate of the Western Episcopal Region AME Zion Church Dr. Kenneth O. Robinson Pastor, Restoring Life International Church, MD Bishop Walter Scott Thomas, Sr. Pastor, New Psalmist Baptist Church, MD Dr. Timothy Tooten, Sr. Pastor, Harvest Christian Ministries, MD
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his month’s issue is dedicated to the hardest working woman on the planet . . . our Moms! There is none like a Mother. For starters everyone would argue that they have the Best Mother (me included). We can all share in that fact, we do have the best. This woman that we call Mother is by far God’s greatest creation. The thing that sets her apart is her everlasting love for her children and her intent that they lead normal, well-adjusted lives. Her attributes are so much like the attributes of God; she can be all things at once which is totally awesome. Whatever her children need her to be at the time; she can be that at the drop of a hat. In fact this woman can wear multiple hats all at the same time. Although overworked and underpaid, Mother never complains. She will work her fingers to the bone for
her children. She will come to their rescue, no matter what the cause. These are, after all, her God-given ‘talents’ to take and use for the glory of God. HE expects Mother to raise and nurture her ‘charges’ to become the best they can be in this world, and equip them for what is needed to get to the other side! Not until we become adults, do we really begin to appreciate who Mother really is. She has nurtured us through our childhood, put up with our sassy ways and times of being lazy during our teenage years, and cried through our becoming an adult. But Mother was always there to encourage us when we made a mistake, although sometimes it may have been hard for her not to show disappointment. As we grow older and have our own children, we realize that Mother was a very strong person. We also realize just what it takes to fill her shoes. In our eyes our mothers will never grow old and we
I am so grateful to God for my mother. This year my mother celebrated her 80th Birthday. Just 18 days after her birthday my mother had a stroke. She spent three weeks in the hospital; it was one of the darkest times of my life. During this time my mind took me on many different journeys, all at the same time- hope and despair; belief and unbelief; faith and doubt; fear and tears. Through it all and in spite of it all, I put my trust in Jesus . . . and I put it all in God’s hands. God answered our many prayers and my mother is doing much better. I know that it is God’s Grace upon her life that is keeping her. To God be the Glory! I wish for all of you incredible women a wonderful and Happy Mother’s Day!
Jackie Epps Editor
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Q
Q&A
A & &
Interview With
Bishop-Elect Kevin A. Rogers New Fellowship Christian CommuNity Church Baltimore, MD
G&G: Dr. Rogers, I am very excited for this opportunity to talk with you. We are delighted to welcome you to the Grace & Glory Magazine Family. I like to break the ice by asking my favorite question. Most pastors have shared with me that ‘preaching the gospel’ was not necessarily what they had planned to do with their lives. Was it the same for you? If you were not a Pastor today what would you be doing instead? Dr. Rogers: No, by all means no. If I were not a Pastor today, I would be a career teacher, a professor in the schools and colleges. G&G: Dr. Rogers, in the effort to get to know you better, what three words would you use to best describe yourself and why? What is one thing that most people don’t know about you and would be surprised to know? Dr. Rogers: I Love Life! The reason being is that I am a sure survivor of having transitioned to heaven and back three times. People would be surprised to know, I am an over comer of (3) three major heart attacks, open heart surgery and lung reconstruction, and I’m still here, only by the “Grace of God” (Surprise). G&G: Dr. Rogers, what would you
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say is the biggest misconception about you? Dr. Rogers: I really don’t know if there is a misconception regarding me, the only words that best answer this question is I do love the Lord, life, family & people. I am a very loving, funny fellow, and down to earth man, but I don’t play games or run with a pack! I have definitely a “Balance in Life”. G&G: Dr. Rogers, tell us about your call to preach the Gospel, was it a difficult call to accept? Was there any one person who significantly influenced your decision about ministry? Dr. Rogers: I was called to preach while in College; it was difficult to yield, because my goals, aspirations and objectives were to further my education and become a successful instructor. Yes, there were close family and friends that encouraged me, most importantly, was my Godly mother, the late Mother Katie Rogers, who at that time said, and I quote, “Know for sure it is the Lord’s calling, because if God calls you, He will send you and after sending you, he will give you a message! Of course you must study the word to preach the word!” G&G: Dr. Rogers, many people struggle with knowing what their mission or purpose is for their life, at what point did you know what your mission or purpose was for your life? Dr. Rogers: Well, it is somewhat difficult to know actually the time of mission or purpose, other than the fact I was invited to get the Word of God out, preaching, teaching and administering. To best describe the question honestly, it was eight (8) years after serving as an Evangelist I became an Interim Pastor of a church, that’s when I knew I was purposed to lead, teach and direct people to the Christ we serve. G&G: Dr. Rogers, we would love to hear about your elevation as a Bishop in the Kingdom Fellowship Covenant Assembly. Please share with
Q&A us how this came about and what it means to become a Bishop of this assembly? Dr. Rogers: Of course, I am excited, overwhelmed, but most of all “humble” that God would invite me to become “His Prince” in His Church, for a time such as this! It all began four (4) years ago, many sons and daughters ministering were birthed within the New Fellowship Ministries, for which I’m grateful, and some did not. It was one of the sons, Rev. Dr. Timothy Tillman, suggesting to me, that he along with eight (8) other sons and daughters felt responsible for honoring me as their father in ministry and to re-establish a sacred covenant with us. So being the man of God I am, I invited the opportunity to hear and listen to their request. I was so impressed, inspired and intrigued with the idea that I also listened to the voice of God. I did not respond right away, I declined the opportunity, only because I felt some of the hearts of the Pastors were not sincere. It was not until a year ago I accepted the call and the challenge to the “Office” not the title three years later. Successfully, three of the sons and daughters decided to become a part of the Covenant; because of the stipulations, sincerity and severity of the “Office” and of my convictions of the mandate from God. In addition to our current three sons and daughters, two other Pastors have united in the Covenant with about six other Pastors and Ministries waiting until my Consecration. Becoming a Bishop of this assembly means to: Oversee, Guide, Fellowship, Learn, Build, Mentor and Share what Kingdom Expansions and Principles are all about! G&G: Dr. Rogers, what is the primary mission and vision of the Kingdom Fellowship Covenant Assembly, Inc.? What will be your duties as Bishop? Dr. Rogers: The primary mission of the Kingdom Fellowship Covenant Assembly is “Kingdom Churches United in Faith, Fellowship & Favor” Hebrews 10:23-25. The Vision is “Equipping the Body of Christ in Knowledge, Love and Every Good Work.” Our 1st Annual Conference will convene: Tuesday, July 23rd – Sunday, July 25th, 2013, Hosting & Headquarters- New Fellowship C.C. Church. My duties will be to lead and guide ministries, Pastors, Overseers, even consecrate men and women Bishops of the perspective and direct church ministries to have conferences to educate, promote and motivate “Kingdom Principles” for just getting started Pastors; preparing Men and Women for ministering. G&G: Dr. Rogers, as Bishop what do you think should be the church’s focus in ministry- the youth, outreach/ evangelism, building membership? Do you believe it has become more challenging to reach the unsaved? What
should the church be saying and doing? Dr. Rogers: The church’s focus in ministering, beside all others, is to be loving, caring and sharing of Fellowship Believers, building the saved and unsaved lives in the abundance of Christ. We are to “Preach/ Reach/Each” in the areas of Youth Dr. Kevin A. & Lady Dorothea E. Rogers Outreach, having principles set to help meet the needs without compromising; Evangelism, in which we are trained consistently to go into the hedges and highways and compel the world and our local communities about the loving-saving-cleaning power of God. (In which NFCCC does) Building membership, to the degree, not trying to compete or brag about numbers, but to build membership to be true disciples to help disciple others to become “Kingdom Investors”. I will say yes in one way and no in the other; the challenge to reach the unsaved is getting members to commit themselves to time, prayer and exposure. No, on this premise, that we have the availabilities such as vacant lots, parking lots, street corners, in front of our church buildings, tents and the list goes on; only when people are not consumed with the building structure. The church including NFCCC is challenged every week to evangelize, talk to someone about Jesus, bring them to the Lord’s House, and give them the love of Christ as He continually gives it to us. The church should do what Christ gave to his disciples/Christians, “The Great Commission” Matthews 28:16-20 (in particular verses 19 & 20) and more important, we should be authentic (real) in conversation; in other words “Get the Word Out”! www.gracenglorymagazine.org 99 www.gracenglorymagazine.org
Q&A
Q&A G&G: Dr. Rogers, how will this elevation as Bishop affect the New Fellowship Christian Community Church? Will there be any major changes as it relates to your role as pastor of the church? Dr. Rogers: This elevation in reality has already affected the NFCCC to the extent; we all have seen and felt the impact of a more “Divine” presence of God, a change in Kingdom Behavior and the repositioning of ourselves within ourselves, due to the acceptance of what God has in me, as their Spiritual Leader and Pastor. And because I, Dr. Rogers have allowed and invited the leaders of our ministry to be important benefactors, such as attending all instructional teachings from our Chief Consecrator, His Most, †The Right Reverend D. Myles Golphin of “Living In Favor Global Network” of Raleigh, N.C. Yes, most definitely! Changes have already been implemented and definitely more to come, when the Lord of Glory through the succession of consecration has been bestowed upon me. As I am elevated, so goes our Leaders and entire church family. “What an incredible journey this has been and continues to be!” G&G: Dr. Rogers, what does this elevation mean to you personally and to your family? What will be the most significant change in your life? Dr. Rogers: This elevation to me personally means: 1. Humbleness, not that I have not been, but a much deeper, closer and intimate walk and relationship with God. 2. Forth righteousness, not wavering in doing one thing or saying another. 3. Shepherding, I’ve always learned from people, especially the members, they have taught me to shepherd them, but as my “Office” increases, so does my shepherding increase. I am more ready now to shepherd the people of God than I have ever been in my forty-one years of ministry and thirty-three years of Pastoring. 4. Availability, more giving of myself, more sacrifices, more, more, more! Now concerning family, we’re all connected! My partner in Marriage and Ministry, Lady Dorothea Rogers, embraced my acceptance to this “Office” before I did. Lady Rogers has continued to be the drive behind and beside me, way before I accepted this elevation. She has worked but most of prayed me through as well as maintained a loving and 10 10 MayMay 2013 2013 | Grace&Glory | Grace&Glory
balanced marriage. By the way May 1st we will celebrate 15 years. Ours sons Keith, Kedric and daughter Keziah have been a source of strength and encouragement. They will do several things, keep you on your knees praying, your heart loving, no matter what and keep you laughing. “We are family!” “We are balanced!” “We are loving!” The most significant change, I do know will occur is more traveling. G&G: Dr. Rogers, shifting gears a little I understand the New Fellowship Christian Community Church is celebrating its 33rd church anniversary. Tell us about the vision that led to the creation of the New Fellowship Christian Community Church. What was the most challenging area in building this ministry? Dr. Rogers: Yes, we are celebrating thirty-three years of Christian Ministry both Pastor and Church together, Hallelujah! It was out of our conviction, because of the souls being converted and transformed. The former church, where I served as interim Pastor, well let’s say some did not want leadership. But those that did joined the vision for the purpose of “Kingdom Greatness”! The most challenging area in all honesty, was not the lost souls coming to Christ, but the so-called, already, suppose to be Christians. But God, in His way, I just kept on Teaching, Preaching, Loving, Giving, Sharing, Caring, Crying, Invoking God, Training, Planting and Cultivating. Sometimes going through my own personal handicaps, I just kept doing what God told me to do, even when it did not make sense to me! G&G: Dr. Rogers, what would you attribute to the longevity of this ministry? After 33 years of building this ministry what would you say you know for sure? Dr. Rogers: Nobody “But God”, His Son, Jesus the Christ”, and the Power of His Anointing! Then I say along with the members- proclaiming, persevering and having patience. I will say beyond any doubt, criticism, pretentiousness, false accusations, misunderstandings, people coming and people leaving, that “If It Had Not Been For The Lord, Who Was On Our Side!” Thanks be to God, who giveth us the “Victory”.
G&G: Dr. Rogers, what encourages you most as the pastor of this growing church? How would you sum up the spiritual health of the congregation in qualitative areas (in terms of prayer, evangelism, love for one another, etc.)? Dr. Rogers: I’m definitely encouraged by first, my wife, Dorothea, my children, my family, my close friend and best buddy, and oops, let me not forget the “Mother of The Law” my sweet mother of my wife “Vivian”. My loving kind staff, Administrator Rene’ Mitz, the list goes on- definitely Chairman Deacon Willard Perkins, Deaconess Sarah Perkins, Chairlady. Our Youth Pastor Sharmaine McAdoo and all the Elders, Ministers and Exhorters, Diaconates, Our Finance Ministry Chairlady Tracey Gamble, Wesley Henry, Terry Norton, Rashard Franze and Gloria May – What a team. Then I cannot close this encouragement statement w/o recognizing a few of our foundering members, Elder Ronald Billy, Deaconess Gloria Murray, Mother Josie Moulton, Exhorter Don Rogers, Sister Margaret McNeil, Deaconess Minnie Wallace, Rashedda Rogers-Carroll, Candice Franze, and last but not least “the entire NFCCC members”. The Spiritual health of NFCCC is “spiritually fit”; in terms of qualitative areas of prayer: we just completed the entire month of April – every Wednesday as consecrational month. Our Evangelism is very strong, we have prison ministry Elders on a monthly basis, we engage every July in our open air Evangelistic services, with street witnessing in the community before services. Our once a month Nursing Home is visited by our Mothers & Missionaries, Exhorters, and Deacons Ministries to bring comfort & encouragement to those confined. As of October, 2012 we are contributors to Lott P. Carey Foreign Missions serving Haiti. All of these evangelistic outreaches have been consistent for more than 20 years. I am a man who loves unconditionally, I think someone who knows what type of people we are at NFCCC, should really ask the members about our “Love Life” and especially our love one for another. “We Privately Practice What We Publicly Proclaim.” We teach love, talk love, walk Love, and we express God’s Agape Love!!! G&G: Dr. Rogers, your congregation has you, their pastor, to turn to when they need someone to talk to or seek spiritual guidance. Who do you turn to for spiritual guidance, encouragement, etc.? Dr. Rogers: Yes, I am there for the people of God, when they call upon my spiritual guidance, have always and will continue even through this elevation. We have in
place, trusted and loyal assistances to help facilitate the needs of the people in my absence. Well, I turn first to God, and then He directs me to only a few trusted and loyal persons that see my good and my sometimes not so good side. G&G: Dr. Rogers, what is in the future for the New Fellowship Christian Community Church? Does the church have any plans to expand? Dr. Rogers: The future promises NFCCC- Increase, The Anointing, The Spirit, and more of Him. Realistically: We are anticipating the “Greater”, architect Plans are one step from completion. The NFCCC is already in our “Building expansion”; we broke ground Sunday, September 9, 2012. We started tearing down the old outreach/Tavern building April 1, 2013. We just signed a contract for our new “Fellowship Soul Food Cuisine” next door to our existing property; our grand opening will be Tuesday, June 11, 2013. Then after we sow more seeds there will be an expansion for our “Fellowship & Community Hall” and then the expansion of our immediate Sanctuary. G&G: Dr. Rogers, lastly, would you share with us what you believe is on the heart of the Father for His people. Dr. Rogers: I believe in my spirit and affirmation of my faith, God our Father promises to give to all who would walk in His way; fulfill every desire to present us to the world, that everything we are, everything we have and everything we desire to obtain or be, “It all comes from God”! It is as Christ said in the scriptures, “It is my Father’s good pleasure to give us the Kingdom”; II Chronicles 7:14 “If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” We Can Have It All – If We Are Willing To Give It Away. This has been our focus since 2011; the Season of Kingdom- Promise, Perseverance, Provision. “If you are willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land” (Isaiah 1:19). www.gracenglorymagazine.org 11 www.gracenglorymagazine.org 11
bio
church history
Bishop Elect
Kevin A. Rogers, D.D. New Fellowship Christian fellowship church Baltimore, MD
Rev. Rogers is a native Baltimorean, whose educational background edifies instruction from Towson State University and The Peabody Conservatory of Music.
culminates around the achievements of the late Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and what people of courage are involved within community mobilization, youth and family initiatives. This great award was nominated through the efforts of the Northwest Baltimore Corporation (NWBC).
Ascertained as an accomplished Gospel Organist and Pianist, he has served as Minister of Music for several churches and Gospel Choirs in and around the city of Baltimore and abroad.
June 2001, Dr. Rogers along with the Fellowship Church, was nominated and chosen Outstanding Individual & Community Outreach Church, presented by the board officers at Baltimore’s 1st Annual Gospel Music Awards Ceremony.
In April 1972 Rev. Rogers, by the blessing of God, was called to preach and extend the Gospel of Jesus Christ to mankind. Rev. Rogers has preached throughout many churches of the city and major states.
Due to the extensive request of outreach services within the community, The Fellowship Outreach Corporation, Inc. (FOC) was birthed and is a 501(c) 3, non-profit organization, which provides services to meet the needs of individuals and to enhance the quality of life.
On May 21, 1980, Rev. Rogers received the appointment from God to organize and pastor the New Fellowship Christian Community Church, currently located at 52005202 Park Heights Avenue and Belvedere. The church is affectionately known by many as “Fellowship Church.” Under the accomplished leadership of Rev. Rogers, many ministries evolved and serve as outreach to the members and local community. Some of the ministries developed consist of the following: Literacy & Tutorial, Media Ministry, Transportation, Chosen Vessels (Women’s Ministry), Men Under Divine Direction (Men’s Ministry), Nursing Home (Missionaries Ministry), Substance Abuse (12 Step Healing and Prevention), Heart of Christ (Food & Clothing Pantry), Youth & Young Adults, Senior Saints Ministry, Newsletter, Christian Education, Culinary, Cultural Arts, Liturgical Dance, Praise & Worship Ministries. In January 1989, Rev. Rogers was bestowed and became the proud recipient of an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity Degree from the Wilbur H. Waters School of Religion of Baltimore, Maryland. Dr. Rogers has received many outstanding citations & awards from Congressional, Gubernatorial, Mayoral, Civic and Community Organizations for his achievements and outstanding community involvement. In February 2000, Dr. Rogers was the proud recipient of the “Champion of Courage Award”, presented by FOX 45-TV. This award
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Dr. Rogers is the past President of the United Council of Christian Community Churches of Maryland & Vicinity. He formerly served on the Board of Elders for the Holy Ecumenical Union; a member of the Interdenominational Ministers Alliance; Board of Directors for the Northwest Baltimore Corporation; The Park Heights Networking Community Council; and the Board of Directors of Maryland’s One Church-One Addict (MOCOA). Dr. Rogers’ ministry afforded him the invitation and opportunity to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ as he was one of thirteen (13) Pastors/Ministers to travel to Kenya East Africa, July 2002, serving three churches in Mombasa, Nairobi and Nyeri. Superior and foremost, Dr. Rogers is an anointed Teacher/ Preacher who designates his credits to GOD. He is one who is called and chosen, anointed and appointed to deliver the inspired Gospel of good news. Dr. Rogers is married to the former Dorothea E. Jennings and they are the parents of Kedric, Keith and Keziah. Dr. Rogers, along with the members and partners of The Fellowship Church, is a ministry “Committed To WORSHIP, WORK & WITNESS” in service for God and the good of humankind.
5200-5202 Park Heights Ave., Baltimore, MD
On Wednesday, May 21, 1980 at 7:30 p.m. a meeting was called by Rev. Kevin A. Rogers at 6212 Norvo Road, the home of Trustee & Mrs. Lenora Harvey. Rev. Rogers addressed the group and informed them that he was inspired by God to organize a new Church; a church as a refuge for those who were willing to go forth for the Lord and to help those who are in need of Christ as their Lord and Savior. Rev. Rogers stated to the people, “I don’t know when or where a place of worship will become available but by ‘God’s Grace’, we will make it.” At that time he requested a rise of all that were willing to join along with him. The seventy–five members that were present stood in faith, knowing God would lead his dear children along. The name “New Fellowship Christian Community Church” was presented by Rev. Rogers for consideration of the members and was approved. Rev. Rogers proceeded to appoint officers of the newly organized church. The Deacons, Trustees, Secretary, Treasurer, and Superintendent of Sunday School were appointed and the Mother’s Board was prayerfully selected. The 1st Official Board meeting was held Tuesday, May 27, 1980 in the home of Rev. Rogers to prepare for the new church and a place of worship. A second church meeting was held Wednesday, May 28, 1980, to further organize Choirs, Ushers and Missionaries. In addition to these organizations, our members were informed that “New Fellowship” would march and operate as a Church, Sunday, June 1, 1980, 10:45a.m., at the Masonic Temple, 2105 McCulloh Street, Baltimore, MD. The Lord blessed us with 105 worshipers that faithfully marched. We worshipped at the Masonic Temple with devoted prayer and praises waiting on God for greater things to come. Our second march, Sunday, July 20, 1980, and place of worship brought us to the Wayland Baptist Church, Memorial Chapel, 3200 Garrison Blvd.,
where we remained preaching, teaching, singing, shouting, and most of all-believing in God for even greater blessings. Surely, we waited patiently on the Lord and He inclined unto our cry. Our third and present location 5202 Park Heights Avenue at Belvedere is where God allowed us to march, Sunday, December 5, 1982. It is with great joy and thanksgiving, that the Pastor, Officers and Members of New Fellowship can say “The Lord Has Brought Us.” Through the preaching of the Word by our Pastor and the praying of our members, New Fellowship has a membership of more than 300 active laborers working in the spiritual vineyard of Christ. Through the divine leading of the Holy Spirit, New Fellowship has evolved into a Church on the mission to prepare people for the promise. Our Church is committed to Worship, Work and Witness. God has blessed us to establish a Fellowship Outreach Ministry 501 (c) 3 Corporation which has a mission of providing programs and services to meet the needs of individuals. The Fellowship Outreach Ministry has set out to enhance the quality of life for souls challenged with substance abuse and those in need of human development/health education, technology education, and school tutoring/GED preparation. “Fellowship” – affectionately sometimes called by the Pastor, is a way of life- life abundantly and eternal in Christ Jesus. It is an ongoing love- where saints care and share, give and live, jump and stomp in sacred syncopation with the Savior through the power of His Holy Spirit. When you visit “New Fellowship” and when you are in the vicinity, won’t you come and enjoy this fellowship experience with us. The Spirit–filled, fast moving, hard driving services of Gospel sermons and songs will set holy fire to your hearts. “I thank God upon remembrance of you…For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now.” Phillipians1:3, 5 www.gracenglorymagazine.org 13 www.gracenglorymagazine.org 13
mayor’s journal
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governor’s page
Wrapping Up Maryland’s 2013 Legislative Session by Governor Martin O’Malley
On April 8, 2013, we wrapped up what has been called one of the most productive legislative sessions in generations. Through innovation, collaboration, and relentless interaction, we came together with the Maryland General Assembly to make better choices on behalf of our families. We made tough, fiscally responsible choices – cutting more state spending than any administration in modern Maryland history, while at the same time investing in our core priorities of job creation, education and infrastructure. This year’s budget alone will support more than 43,000 jobs. We also passed EARN to connect Marylanders with the skills they need to compete in the 21st century new economy and we removed barriers to employment for our Veterans and their spouses. We took action to address Maryland’s transportation challenges – a plan that will put 57,000 moms and dads back to work rebuilding our roads, bridges and transit systems. Recognizing that our greatest assets are the talents, skills, creativity and ingenuity of our people, we continued record investments in our number one in the nation schools and invested to keep college affordable. Together, 16 May 2013 | Grace&Glory
First Lady Michelle Obama takes part in the bill signing for the Veterans Full Employment Act of 2013.
since 2007, according to the College Board, we’ve held down the cost of college tuition more than any other state in the nation. Together, we took action on a comprehensive plan to reduce gun violence focused on improving safety in our schools, making meaningful mental health reforms and enacting common sense gun safety measures. We also repealed Maryland’s death penalty and replaced it with life without parole. Today, because of better choices, we are on the verge of nearly eliminating the inherited
structural deficit. We’ve now recovered nearly 95% of the jobs we lost during the national recession and we’re ranked #1 in the nation for entrepreneurship and innovation. In Maryland, we believe in growing jobs and growing opportunity. We believe in children growing healthy, growing educated, and growing strong. We believe in grandparents growing old with dignity and with love. And we believe in growing prosperity for every generation. The legislative session may be over, but our commitment to making progress on behalf of our families continues. www.gracenglorymagazine.org 17
scripture
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teen connect Pastors Gregory & Tonya Dennis Kingdom Worship Center 6419 York Road, Towson, MD 21212
410-377-3500
It is important that you think about your future and how the decisions you make now impact your future and your ability to reach your goals. It is ok to make plans while you are young. If we could go back in time, we would do a few things differently. We’re not saying we have a lot of regrets but when you are younger you tend to have myopic vision. You are unable to see past where you are currently. Well, we want to encourage you to see yourself in the future. First, think about what God has said about you. Find your purpose. If you are having trouble figuring it out . . . think about the things you enjoy doing the most. You were born with certain gifts, talents and natural abilities. You know which subjects you excel in and the ones you can’t stand. Gravitate toward something that you know fits you! Second, plan to further your education. It is easier to
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get a degree when you’re young than when you have a home, family and all the adult responsibilities. You will experience a love of learning that you will never outgrow. Plus college does not necessarily mean four years; you can enroll into a community college. Next, place a value on money. It does not buy happiness, but it can certainly make you comfortable. Just understand what its worth and do not waste it. Money is what you “earn” in exchange for your time in some productive pursuit. Make decisions wisely now so that when you get older you will not have to “pay” for it later. Lastly, remember to “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you”. Treat others the way you want to be treated. No one looks good when trying to make others look bad. Always be honest, seek the company of people who are positive and supportive of your efforts. This will definitely help you in the long run. www.gracenglorymagazine.org 25 www.gracenglorymagazine.org 25
to your good health
Carla J. Debnam, MS, LCPC Executive Director, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
There are many things we take for granted in life like the sunrise and the stars in the sky. We assume that some things will happen over and over again because of our past experiences and our belief in the consistency of nature. We even get comfortable in our relationships and neglect showing our loved ones the affection and care they deserve. We take our freedom, our employment and sadly enough our relationship with God in stride as well. Each of these assumptions can give us a false sense of security and lead us to become insensitive to the needs of others. Our culture has shifted to a place where the lives, feelings and needs are often overlooked, deemed insignificant or not worthy of our time and attention. It has become so flagrant in society that now the church has become insensitive to the hurting among us. In Matthew 25, Jesus gives the report distinguishing the sheep from the goats, the righteous from the unrighteous, and the obedient from the disobedient. This distinction was given based on the following: “I was hungry and you fed me, I was thirsty and you gave me a drink, I was homeless and you gave me a room, I was shivering and you gave me clothes, I was sick and you stopped to visit, I was in prison and you came to me…Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or 26 May 2013 | Grace&Glory
ignored, that was me—you did it to me” (MSG). Persons who followed this path were in the will of God and those who did the opposite were not. It is time for us to put action to our words and begin loving people in an active and meaningful way. We can no longer give lip service to what we should be participating in as Christians and ultimately as human beings created in God’s image. Our agape love should move us to be there for the ‘least of these’. In these first few days of spring we have witnessed so much pain and suffering. The bombing in Boston, the factory explosion in Texas, hit and run accidents, suicides and senseless violence just to name a few. We live in a world where the comfort and compassion of our Lord is needed yet we sometimes hold back and fail to step up and step in to make a difference. The challenge for us is to become the Body of Christ by putting our faith into action, our love into service and ourselves into the work of the ministry. People need the Lord and we are His eyes, ears, heart and hands. Let’s get to work and put our love into action. People need healing, wholeness and help. It’s time to think about others and be selfless in serving those searching for solutions. We were once in need of help. Now it’s our turn. www.gracenglorymagazine.org 27 www.gracenglorymagazine.org 27
education digest
Let’s Move!
Michelle Obama launched a fitness initiative called “Let’s Move.”
May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month. It’s a great time to spread the word about the benefits of becoming active. The word must be shared in our homes, places of worship and schools. This month is in place to remind each of us of the importance of getting regular physical activity. Everyone can benefit, children, adolescents, and adults. Since the first of the year, I’ve committed to increase my daily exercises. I have to admit the hardest part was getting started. Since then, it’s become a habit. I began this new journey four months ago and I feel great. I recall the time when regular and daily exercises were mandatory. It was during my elementary, middle and high school years. I have many fond memories of one of our popular physical education teachers. We just called him Coach Adams. He was serious about fitness and he made sure everyone else adopted his “get fit” attitude. Coach Adams didn’t just talk fitness, but he modeled it. He also looked the part. He had broad shoulders and bulging muscles. It was evident that he spent hours lifting weights as part of a more intense and effective exercise program. During those early years, physical education was a graduation requirement. Each of us had to demonstrate you could complete a rigorous calisthenics program before being promoted to the next grade. Calisthenics are a series of exercises done in a rhythmic, systematic way using the body weight for resistance. Typical calisthenics exercises include pushups, jumping jacks, squats and crunches and focus on building strength, endurance and flexibility. 28 May 2013 | Grace&Glory
Dr. Tim Tooten is an Emmy Award winning journalist and the Senior Education Reporter for WBAL-TV (NBC). He’s also the pastor and founder of Harvest Christian Ministries in Baltimore County, Maryland
Dr. Tim Tooten, Sr.
A few years ago first lady Michelle Obama launched a fitness initiative called Let’s Move. At the root of her cause was to try and solve the problem of childhood obesity within a generation, so that children born today will grow up healthier and able to pursue their dreams. Let’s Move is about putting children on the path to a healthy future during their earliest months and years. It also focuses a few more important benefits. • Giving parents helpful information and fostering environments that support healthy choices. • Providing healthier foods in our schools. • Ensuring that every family has access to healthy, affordable food. • And, helping kids become more physically active. The first lady agrees with health experts who say that everyone has a role to play in reducing childhood obesity, including parents, elected officials from all levels of government, schools, health care professionals, faith-based and community-based organizations, and private sector companies. I’ve written in past education digest columns about the importance of modeling positive behaviors for our children. I’m suggesting the same for our physical health. If our children see us making important life choices, it’s likely they’ll do the same. I challenge you to “move” and make a healthy change. An exercise program can start out with a light walk through your neighborhood. The weather is changing and presents the perfect opportunity to get started. Even though the walk is a start, we should also make a commitment to prepare healthier foods at home. There is an old saying that states, “You are what you eat.” The notion is that to be fit and healthy you need to eat good foods. It turns out that May is also stroke awareness month. One can help prevent the other. A healthy heart, mind, body and spirit are essential to living our life purpose.
1
President’s Council on Fitness, Sports & Nutrition, 2013.
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bookshelf
Book Shelf God and Boobs by Angie Schuller Wyatt Let me begin by saying 2 things… 1. This book is not for everyone. Although there are things in the book that men can glean from but the overwhelming majority of this book is designed for a woman, and 2. Women, if you are not ready for your world to be rocked, your theology to be challenged, and your relationship with Jesus to shift, this is not the book for you either. With that being said… may I present to you ‘women’, God and Boobs by Angie Schuller Wyatt. I have to say how impressed and excited I was reading this book, because Wyatt completely shatters every “religious” stigma attached to a woman’s femininity and skillfully rebuilds the definition of a woman, her relationship with herself and her relationship with Jesus. One of my favorite lines says, “I’m God, and guess what? I like you”. It is simple statements like these throughout the book that make you ask yourself “is it really that easy”? Wyatt writes in, what I call, plain English. It’s understandable. Her sentence structure is not long and drawn out or full of big words you have to look up in order to make sense of what she’s saying. The tone is very conversational; almost as if she is sitting across from you sharing her stories, secrets, jokes, heartaches, etc. Reading this book is like having a heart to heart conversation with your closest girlfriend. In God and Boobs Wyatt addresses everything from girl-crushes to the difference between religion and relationship to a woman’s view of the “man” Jesus. She teaches the reader one line that will help you practice hearing the voice of God. I’m not telling you the line. You have to read it and find it for yourself. When you find it, you will probably say to yourself “is it really that easy”! She touches on the power of forgiveness. She rips a hole in the idea that beauty can be bought, exposes the truth about the taboo topic of sex, and brings clarity to the idea of life being a journey. The most impacting chapter for me (and truth 30 May 2013 | Grace&Glory
by Brandie Manigault
be told the chapter that almost made me stop reading the book altogether) is entitled “Happiness”. Have you ever heard someone say “you’re responsible for what you know?” Well in the “Happiness” chapter Wyatt exposed areas of my own personal life that I wasn’t sure I was ready to deal with and even if I was what did that look like. I wasn’t sure I was ready to “know”. When I read the line that said, “my fear of failure was keeping me from pursuing my dream” was the moment I took a break to decide if I wanted to know and as a result of knowing become responsible for the knowledge that she was about to drop on me. I’m so glad that I kept going. There are few books that have captured my attention like God and Boobs, from title to content. I appreciated the author’s transparency and candidness in regards to her own personal experiences. I have heard people say “I’m an open book” before, but as I read God and Boobs
I really felt as though Angie Schuller Wyatt was just that- an open book. She made herself open, transparent, and even vulnerable for the sake of the reader. So go out and get a copy. Actually, go out and get two copies of God and Boobs. You read one copy and give the other one away. I didn’t wait ‘til I was finished the book to tell my friends to read it. I was so impressed with the intro that I immediately let them know that this book was for them. When you believe in something you share it. So I’m sharing God and Boobs with you. *Note… there are two versions of the cover; the original cover and the “churchfriendly” cover. You can probably guess which one is which! After you read it let me know what you think. Email me, leave me a message on Grace & Glory’s Facebook page or my Facebook page (Facebook/bmanigault) or hit me up on twitter @iambandaid. I want to know your reaction to my book recommendation this month. -Brandie
About the Author
Angie Schuller Wyatt Angie Schuller Wyatt has more than seventeen years of experience helping young women recover their emotional and spiritual strength. She holds an MA in Marriage and the Family Therapy, a BA in Church Ministries and is a certified Spiritual Director. In her professional roles, Wyatt has made more than two hundred domestic and international television appearances. She is a thirdgeneration pastor and the granddaughter of famed televangelist, Dr. Robert H. Schuller. Wyatt presently works outside the church as a writer, speaker and spiritual director. However, she loves church ministry and recently served as Associate Pastor at Gateway Church in Southlake, TX. In that role she managed altar ministry and counseling intake, and developed small groups designed to facilitate inner healing. Wyatt began her career as the Spiritual Life Director at Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, OK, where she was responsible for missions, community outreach, music ministry, and a chaplaincy program. Empowering college-age women remains her passion. www.gracenglorymagazine.org 31
nutrition & you
By Herline A. Knights, RD, LD
M
enopause is the cessation of menstruation. A woman is considered officially menopausal, if she has not menstruated in the past 12 months. Perimenopause is the period leading up to menopause. Many women think that they are in menopause and then unexpectedly begin to menstruate again. Perimenopause usually begins in women who are in their mid 40s to early 50s, but some women begin it much sooner, some as young as in their mid 30s. Nutritional changes during perimenopause Estrogen levels decrease significantly during perimenopause. This raises the risks for cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and some cancers. Emotional and mental changes may occur as well. Women frequently complain of the following: • Not having the ability to concentrate • Suffering from frequent headaches • Having insomnia • Feeling mentally “foggy” • Having fatigue • Feeling emotionally sensitive The reduction of progesterone leads to weight gain, particularly in the abdominal area. The following tips can help improve your diet during menopause and perimenopause.
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Whole-grain products Use whole-grain products, whenever possible. This is important to: • Increase vitamin and mineral intake • Control weight gain • Prevent diabetes • Prevent heart disease • Promote regularity
In addition, whole grains contain the phytoestrogen lignan, which may: • Reduce the severity and frequency of hot flashes • Help to reduce breast cancer risk • Help in the maintenance of bone density Omega-3 fatty acids Get plenty of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids protect against inflammation, heart disease, bone loss, and mood disorders. Omega-3fatty acids are found in: • Walnut oil • Olive oil • Canola oil • Soybeans • Peanut oil • Wheat germ • Butternuts (similar to walnuts) • Walnuts • Anchovies • Mackerel • Herring • Salmon • Lake trout • Bluefish • Sardines • Mullet • Tuna You also can use high-quality supplements. Probiotics and prebiotics Probiotics and prebiotics are especially important for women in menopause and perimenopause. These healthy bacteria, most commonly found in yogurt, can: • Help the gut synthesize B vitamins • Help lower cholesterol levels • Enhance calcium absorption • Promote regularity • Aid in the building of a healthy immune system • Possibly decrease the risk for cancer • Protect against yeast and urinary tract infections
Vitamin D and calcium Make sure to get enough calcium and vitamin D to prevent bone loss, maintain cardiac health, and discourage insomnia. In addition, vitamin D is important for mood stabilization and may especially help women who are going through perimenopause. Vitamin D is found in: • Fortified milk and milk products • Fortified cereals • Veal • Beef • Egg yolks • Liver • Fatty fish Calcium is found in: • Milk and milk products • Tofu (some brands) • Corn tortillas • Almonds • Sesame seeds Some breads and orange juices also are fortified with calcium. Regular, healthy meals Eat regularly, and make sure that every meal contains some protein, carbohydrate, and healthy fat. This will help to prevent blood sugar spikes and dips, and will lead to: • Less fatigue • A better mood • Lessened risk of overeating at the next meal
intake and you will: • Sleep better at night • Experience less frequent mood swings • Possibly reduce the number and severity of hot flashes Magnesium Include magnesium in your diet. Magnesium undoubtedly helps in the retention of bone mass. However, some studies have shown that it also may prevent hot flashes, mood problems, and insomnia. Magnesium is found in: • Nuts • Legumes • Tofu • Whole grains • Dark-green vegetables • Seafood • Chocolate Vitamin E Include vitamin E in your diet. Vitamin E might help to reduce the severity and length of hot flashes. Vitamin E is found in: • Vegetable oils, such as margarine and salad dressings • Wheat germ • Leafy-green vegetables • Whole grains • Liver • Egg yolks • Nuts • Seeds
Caffeine Cut back on your caffeine www.gracenglorymagazine.org 33 www.gracenglorymagazine.org 33
body basics
Top 25 Fitness Tips For Busy Moms By Kim Summers, M.S. (ACE-certified Personal Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor)
Here are 25 tips that keep me in shape, healthy and a happy mommy in this sometimes overwhelming, but amazing life!
1. Put Yourself on the Calendar
Every weekend sit down and set times to workout throughout the week. Pre-planning gives you time to make adjustments and make it work!
13. Get Your Z’s
2. PLAY with Your Kids
14. Use Weights
The towels can sit in the basket a little longer, get up and be the tagger!
3. Workout at the Park
Setting a bed time for yourself can be the difference in being a happy and healthy, energized mommy. Lifting dumbbells is not going to make you look like Heman. Resistance training is key to being toned, reducing body fat and increasing bone mineral density.
The park is an outdoor gym waiting to be used! There is nothing like getting in some step-ups, triceps dips and pushups at the picnic table.
15. Find a Gym with Childcare
4. Keep a Resistance Band in the Car
16. Find What Motivates You
A resistance band is the perfect addition to the half of your house you take in the car. You’ve got 15 minutes until practice is over - why not!
5. Pre-Plan Your Workouts
Know what you want to achieve each week, making sure you have a balanced workout.
6. Use a Fitness DVD
Especially with little ones, there are days when you just don’t make it out the door. Have a couple workouts that you like and can pop in during nap time.
7. Pack Your Lunch Too
Pack your own healthy lunch so you can avoid the fast-food run during your lunch break.
8. Create a 30-Minute, At-Home Workout
The unpredictability of the day sometimes presents little windows of opportunity that we didn’t expect. When it does, be prepared with a workout that is ready to go.
9. Play Date for Kids = Fitness Date for Moms
While it may not run as smooth as a group fitness class in a gym, it gives you the opportunity to work out with friends. Milestones and gossip can all be discussed during sets of squats and lunges!
10. Embrace the Plank
One of the best exercises to work your back and abs and all you need is yourself. Learn how to perform the Front Plank in the ACE Exercise Library.
11. Don’t Indulge in your Children’s Snacks
Leave the cookies and macaroni and cheese for the kids. A few handfuls here and a few bites there leads to unwanted pounds here!
12. Develop a Support System
Surrounding yourself with people who encourage and
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support your fitness goals is crucial to your adherence.
If finding a sitter is what keeps you from working out, sign up at a gym that offers it. Maybe it’s your 20-year reunion or the competitor within, know yourself to move yourself.
17. Maximize the Housework
Scrubbing is no easy job, put some muscle into it and keep it continuous for a squeaky clean workout.
18. Challenge the Kids
What kid doesn’t want to do something “better” than mom? Set up an obstacle course in the yard or put on your helmet and “tour de France” the neighborhood.
19. Do What You Like
Incorporate activities that you enjoy! If you enjoy it, you will find a way to keep doing it.
20. De-Stress
Don’t laugh, it is possible! Exercise is an excellent stress reliever. Looking for something more - try some Yoga or Tai Chi.
21. Use Your Baby
Incorporating your baby into your workout provides some extra resistance for you and fun for them!
22. Set an Example
Monkey see, monkey do. Don’t be surprised when your kid(s) join in your living room kickboxing workout and have a blast.
23. Invest in Your Shoes
Whether you are jogging, walking or taking a class, wearing the proper supportive shoes for the activity will help prevent unnecessary injuries.
24. Set Goals
Whether you want to get in 3 workouts this week or complete a 5k, setting goals will keep you on track. Hang your chart next to the potty chart, and you both get prizes!
25. Love Yourself
You have the most important job in the world and you are awesome! Believe it and feel it!
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womans perspective
A MOTHER is simply a person who cares
I have always wondered if the floor boards of a single mother are more worn than those of a two parent home. May is the month that we celebrate Mothers for their undying love, sacrifice, struggle and faith. What I have realized as I have become an adult is that we celebrate them for a natural gift that God has given them. As much as I enjoy the cards, the dinner, and everything, I honestly don’t need any of those things because a mother’s love is unconditional, debt free and overflowing. A mother is not necessarily biological. A mother is simply a person that cares, protects, and nurtures someone. So this month I salute not only my mom, aunts, and all the strong women that
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help raise me but those dads who had to step in and raise that daughter, son, and neighborhood child because their influence and guidance help produce, shape and mold lives. Until next time stay blessed and never doubt God!
CaSandra Vaughn
Director, Baltimore City Office of Cable and Communications
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Donna Williams-Ross In Trust Ministries dwilliamsross@aol.com
GOD spoke to Moses: “Send men to scout out the country of Canaan that I am giving to the People of Israel. Send one man from each ancestral tribe, each one a tried-and-true leader in the tribe.” So Moses sent them off from the Wilderness of Paran at the command of GOD. All of them were leaders in Israel, one from each tribe. We went to the land to which you sent us and, oh! It does flow with milk and honey! Just look at this fruit! The only thing is that the people who live there are fierce, their cities are huge and well fortified. Worse yet, we saw descendants of the giant Anak. Amalekites are spread out in the Negev; Hittites, Jebusites, and Amorites hold the hill country; and the Canaanites are established on the Mediterranean Sea and along the Jordan.” Caleb interrupted, called for silence before Moses and said, “Let’s go up and take the land—now. We can do it.” But the others said, “We can’t attack those people; they’re way stronger than we are.” They spread scary rumors among the People of Israel. They said, “We scouted out the land from one end to the other—it’s a land that swallows people whole. Everybody we saw was huge. Why, we even saw the Nephilim giants (the Anak giants come from the Nephilim). Alongside them we felt like grasshoppers. And they looked down on us as if we were grasshoppers.” [Read Numbers 13: 1-33 The Message Bible] 38 May 2013 | Grace&Glory
In
word of encouragement
Numbers Chapter 13, God told Moses to send out a leader from each of the twelve tribes of Israel to spy out the land that He had promised their forefathers. They went and spied out the land and saw that it was indeed as God said it was -- “We went to the land to which you sent us and, oh! It does flow with milk and honey! Just look at this fruit!” However ten of the spies came back with a bad report -- “the only thing”. The “only thing” being there were giants in the land. It was not only that the descendents of Anak or the Amalekites were giants; it was also the fact that the Israelites had a wrong perception of themselves and of God. There are several meanings of perception, one of which is “a mental image” and another “consciousness” [the quality or state of being aware especially of something within oneself]. They perceived the giants as threats and felt within themselves that they were like grasshoppers and that the giants perceived them as grasshoppers. After the death of Moses, Joshua is being prepared by God to take the Israelites into the promise land. Joshua secretly sends out two spies to once again spy out the land. They went to the home of Rahab, the harlot, who hid them in the roof of her house. In Joshua 2:8-11, Rehab spoke to the spies before they went to sleep that night. Her words to them were, “I know that GOD has given you the land. We’re all afraid. Everyone in the country feels hopeless. We heard how GOD dried up the waters of the Red Sea before you when you left Egypt and what he did to the two Amorite kings east of the Jordan, Sihon and Og, whom you put under a holy curse and destroyed. We heard it and our hearts sank. We all had the wind knocked out of us. And all because of you, you and GOD, your God, God of the heavens above and God of the earth below.” So here it is, while, the ten spies perceived themselves as grasshoppers, the people living in the promise land were even more afraid of the children of Israel. In other words, their perception of themselves stopped them from entering in the promise land. What has God promised to you, that you are allowing your perception to interfere with the promise? God may have told you that you are going to start your own ministry, and/or business. He may have told you that your marriage will be restored; your relationship with your children is reconcilable. God may have even told you that you will smile again, sing, dance, run and even laugh again. Don’t allow what has happened in the past to cause you to miss out on what God is trying to do in your life right now. God wants to use you mightily to show forth His glory and love for all mankind in the earth. While your adversary, the devil is showing you mental pictures of failure and defeat, know that you will receive all that God has promised to you. You will have that ministry, business, relationships, etc. Yes, you will smile again, you will love again, you are all healed -- if you would only believe and stand on God’s promises. I encourage you today to not allow your perception to cause you to shy away from the promises God has made to you. He has already blessed you in the spiritual realm so that you can be a blessing and make an impact for Him in the natural realm. Prayer: Father, in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, I take hold of the promises that You have given to me and choose this day to stand until I see the manifestations of them, amen. www.gracenglorymagazine.org 39 www.gracenglorymagazine.org 39
gospel industry news
gospel news gospel industry news industry
• G O S P E L I N D U S T RY N E W S • with Miss Ericka J. Warryn Campbell
The Grammy Award winning super producer Warryn Campbell announced last month he’s partnered with top independent music brand Entertainment One Music Brand (eOne Music) owned by James Robinson. My Block and eOne have fused a strategic partnership to bring the latest new talent as well as the seasoned superstars to the next level with much new music on deck for 2013 in addition to other endeavors. In this deal the partnership will utilize every facet of the industry including production, distribution, sales, marketing, communications and more. On Warryn’s agenda already is the release of his wife’s, Erica Campbell (Mary Mary) debut solo single coming out in June; and a single from his group The Soul Seekers is due out in the Fall of 2013. He’s already producing the hit TV reality series Mary Mary airing on Wetv. Congrats looking for big things to come from this merger!
Eric Waddell & the Abundant Life Singers
The “Baltimore Choir Storm” Eric Waddell & the Abundant Life Singers are all geared up to celebrate the release of their debut album, “Put a Praise on It” with a weekend full of Stellar Red Carpet Events. Friday, May 3rd, 7pm-11pm will be Eric Waddell’s 40th Birthday Celebration and CD listening Party at Diamondz Event Center located 9980 Liberty Road, special guests are Elder Kervey Brown and singer Tiffany Moseley, the event is semi-formal for tickets and info go to abundantlifesingers@yahoo.com. On Saturday May 4th, the official CD release concert at The Palladium located 2900 Liberty Heights Avenue will feature a few songs by Eric Waddell & The Abundant Life Singers as well as special guest performances by Anthony Brown & Group Therapy, Randy “Fruity” Roberts, April Hall, Project Praise, Isaiah Thomas, The Voices of Carter Memorial, and Danton Whitley & Mosaic Sound. This event is going to be absolutely great and it’s a FREE CONCERT. CD’s will be available for purchase that night, so plan to get there early doors open at 4:00pm, concert starts at 5:00 pm. I am excited and extremely proud of my Cousin Eric and all that God is doing for and through him and his choir!!!!
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Pentecost Sunday Pastor James Nelson, Jr. along with several of Baltimore’s pastors including Pastor Carl Pierce, Pastor Shawn Bell, Pastor Leroy Dyett, Overseer James Smith, Pastor Bryant Martin, Pastor Lisa Weah, Pastor Dwayne Johnson, Pastor Jason Nelson, Pastor Guy Robinson, and Pastor Charles Hall have come together to combine their efforts to have a City-Wide Pentecost Service, “Pentecost: The Encounter”. This service is in celebration of Pentecost Sunday and the spirit of “Oneness”, the service will feature a City-Wide Pentecost Choir that will consist of the musical aggregations of the churches involved and the city at large. It will feature good ole hand clappin’, foot stompin’ Pentecost music lead and directed by some of Baltimore’s artists, singers, and songwriters. The musical directors will be Morgan Turner (Beth-El Temple COC) and Min. Ron Summers (Carter Memorial); this will be a night to remember. The Pentecost Speaker for that night will be Pastor Cordelia Wallace of New York, I have heard her several times and she’s a force to be reckoned with!!! The service will be held at the Carter Memorial COGIC, 745 W. Fayette Street, doors open 5pm and service will begin promptly at 6pm.
Thomas “TC” Clay Thomas Clay has a new single that is absolutely phenomenal!!! The single is called “Blind Man”, it captures his walk of faith and how we literally have blind faith and how as believers we lean on the absolute faith in God for every aspect of our lives. “When you follow God when your faith is the weakest it makes the reward much greater”. It’s available on iTunes, Amazon, and CD Baby, go grab it. It will bless you.
Israel TOP 5 Albums #1 Best Days- Tamela Mann #2 United Tenors: Hammond, Hollister, Robeson, Wilson #3 WOW 2013 #4 Lyrical Theology, Pt. 1 Theology- Shai Lynne #5 Grace - Tasha Cobbs
Top 5 Gospel Songs #1 It’s Not Over (When God Is in It) - Israel & New Breed feat. James Fortune & Jason Nelson #2 Take Me to the King- Tamela Mann #3 Hold On- James Fortune & FIYA feat Monica & Fred Hammond #4 Testimony- Anthony Brown & Group Therapy #5 Your Best Days- Bishop Paul Morton
Happy Mother’s Day to all women, the women who are moms biologically and those by duty and responsibility. Every sacrifice and labor of love is worth it no matter how hard it gets. Mothers are so vital and cherished. I personally want to celebrate my mom, Rev. Sandy Johnson who is absolutely incredible, words cannot express what this woman has been and is to me, I thank God for blessing me with her, she is what has always pushed me to become EVERYTHING I am and destined to be, she’s my best friend! To My Granny, Mother Vena Jackson, that’s my rock she holds me down. Her strength, love, and wisdom have surrounded me always! My son Taj has made me proud to be a mommy and has forever changed my life! Til next month! “Don’t always wait for the storm to pass; learn to dance in the rain.” www.facebook.com/ErickaJohnson, www.instagram.com/MissErickaJ www.twitter.com/MissErickaJ, missericka75@yahoo.com
Ericka J.
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5
fashion focus
WaysBLAZER TO WEAR A
All buttoned up
by Kathryn Eisman (sheknows.com)
A good blazer is the grown-up equivalent of the security blanket you had as a little girl. The moment you put one on you feel protected, polished and pulled together. The best thing about blazers is that they work in almost any environment and have the ability to instantly change the tone of your outfit to perfectly suit the situation. Heading to a job interview? A blazer will immediately make you feel more in control, with its strong, sharp shoulders. Stepping out for a hot date? That same blazer can add a tough, nottrying-too-hard edge to your pretty floral dress. My wardrobe is filled with blazers, many from my days working as a reporter at NBC in New York, where they were my best friend behind the
anchor’s desk. These days I wear them with jeans and even cocktail gowns, and I feel just as comfortable in them on weekends as I do on the red carpet. The secret when it comes to blazers is knowing how to get the most use out of what you have. So let’s take a look at one blazer worn five different ways for five very different (but equally amazing) looks.
The Blazer
Our blazer pick: the ZARA blazer with shoulder detailing. Its classic color and clean lines are balanced with just enough added style to jazz up any wardrobe. (Zara, $100)
1. Art opening: Over a sparkly or slinky dress Want to make an impression at a cocktail party but don’t want to look like a disco ball (or be self-conscious about consuming even a single canape)? Simply add a sleek blazer to any sparkly or skintight dress to instantly tone down the flashy factor while camouflaging any lumps
or bumps caused by that second glass of bubbly. Pair it with a killer pair of spiked stilettos and a sleek clutch and you’ve got a glamorous but sophisticated look worth toasting. Styling tip: Make sure either your shoes or clutch has a touch of black to unite the look and balance the weight proportions. (Get the look- Forever 21 sequined metallic mini dress, $28; Victoria’s Secret Collection cap-toe pump, $98; ASOS metal bar detail envelope clutch, $32)
2. Sunday fun: With blue jeans
It’s the ultimate in preppy chic: Add a well-cut blazer to your favorite denim jeans for a look that’s relaxed, refined and suitable for anything from brunch with the girls to drinks with the boy. Team your black blazer with a crisp white tee and a chunky buckled belt, then add a long statement necklace, sunglasses and an oversized scarf for extra warmth. Styling tip: Wear your blazer unbuttoned with sleeves pushed up for a more relaxed feel. (Get the look- GAP favorite short-sleeve white V-Neck tee, $10; GAP 1969 real straight jeans, $70; GAP vintage leather belt, $30; Express floral and snake print infinity scarf, $35; Forever 21 owl stone necklace, $7)
3. Friday night: As a top with evening shorts
Nothing adds class to a pair of short evening shorts faster than a black blazer. The masculine tailoring of a jacket and delicate flirty shorts create an alluring combination, while the modest silhouette of a blazer offers enough coverage and mystery to ensure even the shortest shorts stay on the right side of risqué. Instead of layering it over a blouse, wear the blazer as a top. Try cinching it in at the waist with a medium-width belt and add a black tank top underneath if you need extra coverage. Team it with a cross-body bag (so your hands are free to hold his!) and a feminine pair of heels.
Styling tip: Roll sleeves a few inches below your elbow for a universally flattering look. And don’t be afraid of wearing opaque stockings for a little extra warmth (and coverage) on cooler nights. (Get the look- So Low linen shorts, $62; BCBG Max Azria metallic waist belt, $48; Choies orange double arrow postman shoulder bag, $65; Charlotte Russe strappy platform pump, $36)
4. Office chic: Teamed with a maxi skirt
For that special Kate Bosworth boho breed of chic, wear your favorite black blazer over a maxi skirt for a look that’s classic and modern with just enough of a hint of hippie chic. The long flowing lines on the skirt perfectly play up the crisp cropped tailoring of the blazer. Style it with a simple fitted tank, chunky heels and a cuff. Styling tip: Define your waist with a vintage inspired belt, drawing the eye to the narrowest part of your body. (Get the look- BCBG Max Azria toggle-waist belt, $58; Victoria’s Secret knife-pleat maxi dress, $128; Forever 21 pinched cuff, $7)
5. Anywhere chic: With black skinny pants
This look will see you through almost any occasion with class. Wear your black blazer with a pair of narrow black pants (from black denim to leather to cotton), and add a loose printed top. Finish the look off with a pair of black strappy heels — or even pick up a vibrant hue from the top — and you’ve nailed relaxed chic. Styling tip: Wear the blazer unbuttoned and feel free to wear it with flats (sandals in summer, ballet flats in winter) for daytime comfort. (Get the look- Eleven Paris tooth print tee in linen, $132; River Island eclectic wow bungee and crystal bracelet pack, $32; ASOS Hollywood heeled sandals, $74; Aqua Denim basic skinny, $68; ZARA ballerina with ankle strap, $90)
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person of interest
14 year old, Carey Poindexter has a motto: “Just because you have asthma, you just can’t let it get you down.” Carey has had severe chronic asthma since birth. He has been hospitalized 26 times, not including emergency room and doctor visits. He’s been in intensive care four times and on a respirator once. He has had four surgeries his most recent on August 2, 2011. He takes seven medications daily to manage his asthma and other medical challenges. He calls them challenges because challenges you can overcome. Not once has Carey ever questioned or asked “why me?” His philosophy is that “we all suffer from something, mine just happened to be lung disease.” He thanks God daily for the opportunity to breathe another day. He also believes that his medical challenges are not about him. It is about educating people about lung disease and most importantly you have to trust God that no matter what, He will bring you through it. He knows that God does not give you more than you can handle. When he is struggling to breathe Carey tells himself, I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Doctors said Carey would not live to see his 10th birthday — on Nov. 20, 2013 Carey will celebrate his 15th birthday. Carey says he knows that God has blessed him to surpass the doctor’s expectations and he gives all honor and praise to Him. He also knows that without the help of his team of physicians to ensure that he has the best medications and treatments that is needed, he probably wouldn’t be alive today. Following in his mother’s footsteps, Carey is now taking on a role as Junior Ambassador for the American Lung Association. And he’s wasting no time. Carey believes it is important that we “Fight for Air”. He has taken his challenges and uses his testimony to help others suffering from lung disease. As the Junior Ambassador of the American Lung Association his goal is to educate, bring awareness and fundraising on behalf of those suffering from lung disease. Carey has been blessed and believes it is his responsibility to give back to those who have not been as fortunate or who lost their battle to lung disease. Carey enjoys public speaking in an effort to educate people about lung disease... Knowledge is power. We all know someone who suffers from lung disease. Whether it is asthma, lung cancer, COPD, bronchitis, pneumonia and the list goes on. Carey’s campaign to ‘Fight for Air’ not only has a direct impact on him but for all suffering from lung disease. He lost his grandmother to lung cancer and recently a very close friend. Carey doesn’t want to see another child die from the effects of lung disease either. “Too many kids are dying from a lack of knowledge and resources”, Carey states, “If I can help just one person to minimize their hospitalizations, get the medications or develop an
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story of hope
asthma action plan, then my mission is being fulfilled.” Although breathing can be difficult for Carey, he maintains a very optimistic attitude. He has his daily routines of checking the air quality to make sure it is acceptable for him to breathe outdoors. Carey lives a normal life as he manages his medical challenges. He enjoys martial arts, video games and playing in Yu Gi Oh Tournaments. His plans for the future is to become and architect and own several restaurants to accommodate people with food allergies. He also wants to continue to educate people about lung diseases as he continues his mission to ‘Fight for Air’. May is Asthma Awareness Month. His calendar is already getting full. Carey is looking forward to speaking to the several City Councils, Elected Officials, Schools, Rotary Groups and Churches. He has several events planned to continue to raise funds on behalf of the American Lung Association which include his 4th Annual Artists for Air Benefit Concert. This is an annual event that Carey puts together to raise money for the American Lung Association. His last event he donated $5,000.00 to the American Lung Association and was named Top Fundraiser 2 years in a row. Carey’s goal is for no child to have to ‘Fight for Air’. Carey states, “Thank you for taking the time to support my cause. I am so happy to know that people like you, care enough to help kids like me. Breathing for me is an everyday struggle; it is amazing to see how the healthy takes what seems like a simple thing for granted. Your support helps me to fight my struggle, and educate others about the cause. Please visit my site to learn more about me or to make a donation. Thank you for allowing me to breathe another year.”
Carey Poindexter
Junior Ambassador for the American Lung Association Fighting For Air www.careypoindexter.org Carey’s amazing medical miracles have been featured on NBC. www. medicinova.com
He takes 7 medications daily to assist with managing his asthma and other medical challenges. Carey is not only a chronic severe asthmatic, but he has severe food allergies which causes anaphylactic reactions. That means his entire respiratory system shuts down within a matter of minutes. He also suffers from chronic rhinitis and eczema as well. Doctors told me Carey would not live to be 10 years old. A statement I refused to accept or receive. I advised his team of physician’s that we would not have that conversation ever again. Carey is 14 and will celebrating his 15th birthday this year.
By Vikita Poindexter
I am the proud mother of Carey Poindexter. Carey was born with several medical challenges. We call them challenges because with God, challenges you can overcome. Every child is a blessing, but let me tell you a little about my hero. Carey’s motto is, “Just because you have asthma, you just can’t let it get you down.” Carey’s fight for survival began in the womb. He literally would push himself back out of the birth canal as he knew he could not breathe and was choking. He has been a fighter ever since. Carey was born on November 20, 1998 weighing in at 6lbs and 11 oz and 21 inches long. It is by the grace of God that he made it into this world. His umbilical cord was wrapped around his neck three times causing him to choke as he positioned himself to make his grand entrance. Carey has been hospitalized 26 times, in intensive care 4 times and on a respirator once. This is not including trips to the emergency room or doctor visits, and 5 surgeries due to his medical conditions.
Being the mother of a severe asthmatic, there are so many factors that we have to take into consideration just for Carey to have a somewhat normal childhood. We take breathing for granting. For Carey, it can be a monumental task. It is difficult as a mother to watch your child struggle to breathe. In order to help my son stay alive and have a normal childhood, I had to educate myself on his medical challenges. I began to research, study and learn as much as I could about asthma, lung disease and food allergies. I had to make adjustments to our home so that Carey would not get ill. I had the carpets removed, tile placed, flowers removed from the yard, no perfumes allowed etc. It is just our way of life. My Faith and relationship with Christ changed drastically. There were days when all I could do was to cry out to God. But I knew He would never leave me nor forsake. He had already brought me through so much. I knew that this too shall pass.
I had to change my career path in order to be available to take care of and educate my son. Carey is home schooled as a result of his medical conditions. Therefore it was imperative that I left my job in the corporate sector, and start my business so I had the flexibility to be home with Carey. That took a giant leap of faith. But God has never failed me. My business is thriving and growing and I have an excellent clientele who understands the complexities of my life. I have raised my children to know that they are not victims but victors through Christ. I live my life knowing that God does not give you more than you can handle. I know that God is with me through any obstacle, challenge and adversity. It is not the opposition that I am dealing with that I focus on. It is how I walk through that adversity that is imperative. I believe that it is important to walk through any challenge with Grace and Humility. I keep my eyes on Christ, my nose in His Word, and never do I allow any negativity come from my lips. I want you to know that nothing is too hard for God. If He has done it for me, He will do it for you. So whatever challenge you are facing right now, know that with God you can do everything. You can overcome anything. Make sure that you do not focus on the negativity. Keep your mind renewed by reading the Word of God. It is good to have a couple of people who you can call to pray and encourage you. But most importantly, learn to encourage yourself. To learn more about Carey, visit www.careypoindexter.org www.gracenglorymagazine.org 45 www.gracenglorymagazine.org 45
carter’s commentary Dr. Harold A. Carter, Jr., Pastor New Shiloh Baptist Church Baltimore, MD
I was reading a short statement about the death of Nigerian author (1930-2013), Chinua Achebe, who has been referred to as the father of modern African literature, although his most known work was his first novel, 1958’s Things Fall Apart, which was translated into over 50 languages and has sold 10 million copies. He was, not only a novelist but an essayist, poet, and writer of children’s books. The Haitian-American writer, Edwidge Danticat, whose statement I was reading, shared an anecdote about her first meeting with the late Mr. Achebe, as he was being honored for his work in 2008 at Town Hall, in New York City. She wrote that Achebe came to the stage, and the first word he said was “Wow.” She went on to indicate that he ended his speech with a story about how elders are honored by the Ibo people in his native village. “Every elder,” he said, “is always hailed by his or her praise name.” She concluded her statement, writing, “I don’t know what Achebe’s praise name was, but apparently, the name by which he was known means “may God fight on my behalf.” I do not think that there’s anything new about names having meaning in the sense of a parent, or parents, giving names to their offspring having selected a name that connotes, for them, some significance and meaning. Families and cultures have done such pretty much since God created the first man, and named him, Adam, which means, earthy. We know that names have meanings. However, when I read Danticat’s quote of Mr. Achebe, who referenced a praise name, that caught my attention. In actuality, a praise name is a name given in several African cultures, long after one has received one’s birth name. It is a unique honor often bestowed upon one who is honored (hence, Achebe’s reference to elders). Not everyone receives a praise name. In fact, such a name has, generally, been given to chiefs. I will continue with the aspect of African chiefs praise names, but generally it is understood that praise names come about in many ways. What is of importance is that they show the genealogy, relation and importance of family members. They help families remember their deceased loved ones. And, often, praise names function as surnames. The praise name is used to call out when a person arrives at someone’s home before entering. This is done to respect or praise the people 46 April Grace&Glory 46 May 2013 2013 || Grace&Glory
carrying that name (source: www.mwelase-clan.com) Prof. Obododimma Oha cites: “Praise names are very important means through which individuals in (certain African) societies generally articulate and express their ideologies boast about their abilities and accomplishments… with particular reference to chieftancy. The African poet, Niyi Osundre, wrote that names serve as the door to the house of experience, a guide to hidden meaning in the shadowy nooks of time and place. Names tell stories, liberate or imprison; they may also serve as self-fulfilling prophecies. Praise names, by extension, are texts of visions of ideologies. Prof. Oha continues that the lion (think The Lion King) is often represented as the king of animals. The rulership of the lion is not one based on consent but might. Therefore, a praise name Aqu-na-eche-mba has been given to community/tribal leaders, for it means, the-lion-thatguards-the-society. Other examples are: Ochili, which means, one who gathers (people) and trains (them) and Okaa-Omee, which means, onewho-does-what-he proclaims, and Omeifeukwu I of Oraokwa, which means One-who-does-great-things, to mention just a few. It would seem, then, that a praise name, as opposed to say, a nickname or alias, is a call to something honorable or noble, as deemed by one’s respective family and/or community. It seems to be something earned but, still, not quite achieved. I suppose it’s obvious that the reason this subject caught my attention was the usage of the word praise. Again, we know generally that names are important and can be significant. We know the place and meaning of sir (last) names, given (first) names, nicknames, maiden names, hyphenated names, and so on. And, as Christians, we know that we give praise to the name of God. And, humanly speaking, we praise each other, in the sense of encouragement and compliments. But, for me, this African idea of a praise name is new. To be sure, I’m not altogether satisfied that my understanding is even as it should be for the purpose of this commentary. What I do know, however, is that our African ancestors have known the power of psychology inherent in the gift of nomenclature that empowers an individual, as well as captures said individual’s leadership, vision, ideals, persona, etc. Furthermore, given the praise factor, such said individuals have done and are doing that which deserves commendation. What a wonderful tradition, then. And what a profound gesture such that the community might rightfully give honor to whom honor is due (Rom. 13:7) based on what they believe the individual’s impact has been, is, and will be. And, what better way to bestow such an honor than with a name of praise? www.gracenglorymagazine.org 47
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