The Faith Family of West Point Missionary Baptist Church | The Point

THE POINT OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2014 JOURNAL

IN THIS ISSUE

CONTENT Pastor Debra Wadlington-House It is with great pleasure that I spotlight for the 2014 final edition of The Point Journal, Pastor Debra Wadlington-House. Pastor Deb, as she is affectionately called, began her spiritual journey here at The faith family of West Point Missionary Baptist Church. Born December 22, 1961, she was baptized at age 11, in 1972.

The Road to 100

27 4

What Happiness? Try Wellness!

Sometimes I smile and reflect as I find myself humming certain songs that remind me of happy periods in my life.

“The Michael Brown Case: What We Know (And Don’t Know) For Sure” Saturday, August 9, 2014: This is the first time I hear the name of “Michael Brown,” and the location of a city in Missouri called “Ferguson.”

EDITOR IN CHIEF Rev. Dr. L. Bernard Jakes

MANAGING EDITOR Deacon Jeri Wright

COLUMNISTS Deacon Erica B. Davis, Sis. Candace Jackson, Esq., Lady Carole T. Jakes, Rev. Dr. L. Bernard Jakes, Sis. Natasha L. Robinson, Esq., Sis. Annie M. Russell, Deacon Jeri L. Wright

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Bro. Alvin Carter, Pastor Captain Yashika Tippett-Eggleston, Carl W. Kennedy, II, Pastor Kemarius E. Lee, Twinet Parmer, PhD.

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Bro. Quincy B. Banks | Graphix by Dzine

FOUNDER The Holy Spirit For more information contact: THE FAITH FAMILY OF WEST POINT MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH 3566-‐72 South Cottage Grove Avenue | Chicago, IL 60653 773-‐538-‐7590 | wpmbc.org

Contents may NOT be printed or duplicated without prior written permission from The Point Journal.

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THE POINT FROM THE SENIOR PASTOR/TEACHER

The Road to 100: The faith family of West Point Missionary Baptist Church Nears 100 Years of God’s Faithfulness to Church and Community REV. DR. L. BERNARD JAKES SENIOR PASTOR/TEACHER

In April 2014, The faith family of West Point Missionary Baptist Church celebrated her 97th birthday. Although the birthday celebration is held October 12, 2014, this local branch of Zion stands poised, if it is God’s will, to rapidly move toward celebrating one century of God’s faithfulness to God’s church, as well as the community in which she’s housed. The joy of the celebration is that it calls for church and community to both look back, while looking ahead.

God’s Church. It is common practice for parishioners to celebrate the history of the church, which includes revisiting those who have transitioned from earth to glory, for the purpose of subtlety taking credit for the longevity of the local church. I will offer more on this further down. While engaging in revisionist history the local church must acknowledge that its existence is only because of God’s grace and mercy upon the local church. When the celebration is devoid of honoring God’s grace and mercy on the local church, parishioners take credit for all that has been done within the 97 years, which covertly sends the message that the local church has not been the Church

The faith family of West Point could not celebrate 97 years without 97 years of, first, God’s grace and mercy to

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of Jesus Christ, but the church of the people. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance to begin the joy of the celebration by acknowledging that for 97 years, that is 34,405 days, God’s grace and mercy has been operating in the life of The faith family of West Point Missionary Baptist Church. Second, The faith family of West Point could not celebrate her 97th birthday without honoring both past and present parishioners. As stated in the previous paragraph, it is common practice for seasoned stakeholders of the local church to bask in what was done by former members, moreover those who are deceased, without honoring the work done by the parishioners of this present age. As a believer of the ancestors, as well as the proverbial idea that we stand upon the shoulders of those who paved the way, it goes without saying that the foundation of the local church was laid by the organizers, as well as every person who entered this local church and offered their unwavering service for the advancement of God’s Kingdom in the Bronzeville and Gap community during the growth and development of this local church. The joy of the celebration makes room for there to be acknowledgement of those saints who are looking over the banister of heaven and cheering us to continuing running this race.1 There is also the aspect of the celebration 1

that calls for us to honor and celebrate those who have continued the great legacy of those who are resting from their labor. 97 years could not have been obtained without God sending more parishioners to continue the work of God’s Kingdom in this Bronzeville and Gap community, and, for the sake of being accurate, expanding West Point’s 21st century territory whereby the ministry reaches beyond the immediate community and impacts lives throughout the State of Illinois and abroad through the visionary leadership of yours truly. God, coupled with the past and present parishioners, are why we are able to celebrate God’s faithfulness for 97 years of allowing The faith family of West Point to remain a staple in this community. The question that must now be asked is: Where do we go from here? As previously stated, if it is God’s will, this local branch of Zion will continue operating within God’s grace and mercy, which, subsequently, will result in a journey that travels from 97 years to 100 years. A century celebration that looms on the horizon requires participation before celebration. In short, 100 years requires a celebration worthy of proclaiming to the world that the Church of Jesus Christ, known as The faith family of West Point Missionary

Baptist Church, has waved the blood-stained banner of Jesus for a century, and unlike many things that have not survived to witness this longevity, the words of Jesus Christ reign true, …and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.2 For nearly 100 years, The faith family of West Point Missionary Baptist Church has numerous reasons to celebrate. As a point of personal privilege, I am celebrating that West Point has only had five pastors in nearly 100 years:

Rev. R.H. Harmon (1917-1921)

Rev. J.H. Brown (1922-1972)

Rev. C.J. Thompson, D.D. (1972-1997)

Rev. Corey Brooks (1997-2000)

Rev. L. Bernard Jakes, D.Min. (2001-present)

Hebrews 12:1 2 Matthew 16:18,

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This may not appear as a celebratory moment to some, but in the history of the Black church, it is not commonplace for a local church on the cusp of a century celebration to have only five persons to serve in pastoral leadership. This not only speaks to the faithfulness of the servant-leaders, but also to the commitment of the parishioners who understand the importance of sharing in the journey as pastor and people. Another point of celebration in nearly a century is the continued growth of the church. Unfortunately, many Black congregations that are 100 years and older are declining, or have declined significantly. Much of the decline has to do with the inability to change the practices of the local church in church changing

times. The message of Jesus Christ does not change, but the methodology, by which one comes to hear, see, and experience Jesus, as it relates to evangelism, must change. When the local church ceases to work tirelessly toward maintaining relevancy within the time in which she lives, the death of that local church is eminent. The faith family of West Point continues working toward ensuring she remains alive and well, and, because she understands that yesterday’s scores do not count in today’s game, she has worked on maintaining a 21st century identity, which results in parishioners being added to the church daily.

The “Road to 100” is going to be filled with new, exciting, innovative, and old school methods, whereby all of her parishioners, as well as the community stakeholders and ministry partners outside of West Point can participate in this celebration of God’s faithfulness to God’s church and community. What good is having a 100th year birthday party if you cannot invite as many of your cherished neighbors, friends, and family to celebrate? Get ready, West Point and the world…THE ROAD TO 100 HAS BEGUN! To God be the glory for the things God has, is, and will do. Shalom. WP

LADY CAROLE T. JAKES THE FIRST LADYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S VIEWPOINT

Sunday Schoolâ&#x20AC;Ś

WHO CARES? The fall season is my favorite time of the year. The hustle and bustle of students back at school is the sign of growth and education. There is so much energy in the air! All the Back to School sales are past us, and the holidays are ahead of us. Not only are the public and private schools back in session, but also The faith family of West Point Sunday School is ready for a great new season of learning. The Christian Education Department has spent the summer training and certifying current and future teachers to educate you and your children. Under the watchful eyes of our Senior Pastor/ Teacher, Dr. L. Bernard Jakes, as well as the staff pastor of Christian Eduction, Luthetis Carey, a comprehensive training has been given. Experienced CPS principal, Pastor TippettEggleston, and principal in residency, Paula Rice Irvin, taught intensive teacher training classes. The stakes have been raised and the goal is excellence in ministry.

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The West Point Sunday School Department is a vital part of the overall ministry of the church. The Bible lessons taught each Sunday is the core of our spiritual foundation. This is why we do what we do each Sunday morning at 9:15 a.m. The tough and painful question I now ask: Who cares? Who really cares that Sunday school is going on each Sunday morning? Who really cares that teachers prepare to enlighten and encourage their students for the Christian journey? Each of us should care, but what moves us to a desire to join a class, or even come and check it out one Sunday morning?

“Give Sunday School another Who cares? look!”

Pastor Jakes cares. The

Biblical teachings and the growth of the congregation in their Bible knowledge are critical. We cannot get where we want to go as a church if we are not open to Biblical teaching from someone other than our pastor. He is one man, but has trained many to assist him. If we will not come out to be instructed by staff ministers and lay teachers during the week, what will become of us? Will our questions be answered about Bible stories that are puzzling? Will we see the parallels in our lives if the stories are never presented?

The superintendents care. Lillian Howard is the Sunday School Superintendent, and she has two assistants: Marcus Johnson and I. The task before us is great: to increase enrollment, as well as incorporate the newly trained teachers as assistants, substitutes, while planning for new class offerings. This can’t happen without seeking God for answers. We are committed to making your Sunday school something you look forward to each week. We have been trained and equipped for the task ahead. Change is difficult, but necessary, so we must rise to the challenge. I have only one request for the congregation of The faith family of West Point Baptist Church: Give Sunday School another look! Many have not been in Sunday school since childhood. Many don’t know that Sunday School is for all ages. Whatever you think, give us an opportunity by coming to check us out. Bring your children downstairs for Biblical enrichment! You have our commitment to listen and adjust when necessary. As Pastor Jakes always offer: We can go higher, together, by faith. Again, I ask, Who cares about Sunday School? Answer: The entire faith family of West Point Baptist Church. Through Christ, all things are possible. WP

DEACON ERICA B. DAVIS

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND ADVOCACY MINISTRY, LEAD SERVANT

What the Tenured Member Can Learn from New Disciples Class “No one is ever too old to learn something new.” –Stephen Ramjewan Each Sunday morning, after the sermonic moment, those of us who are members of The faith family of West Point Missionary Baptist Church await, with anticipation, the growth of our family with those who choose to walk the aisle coming as a Candidate for Baptism, by Letter, by Christian Experience, or by Reinstatement. Once their decision is made and they walk the aisle, they are voted into the organization and welcomed into the faith family by a resounding “Welcome Home!” An important stipulation of the vote, however, is “completing the required number of New Disciples Classes.” Once completing the classes, they receive the Right Hand of Fellowship, and are given all rights and privileges of any other member.

9:15) and your abilities in order to build up the church (1 Corinthians 14:12; 1 Peter 4:10). During our lesson on stewardship, this concept is referred to as the Three T’s: Time, Talent, and Treasure! A “new members” class identifies the uniqueness of the church. It shows that membership is valued highly. It provides the first step in discipleship. It shows what is expected of every member. It answers questions and concerns in an open, honest, and healthy way. It provides leadership with a way to interact with new members in a relaxed environment. It gets people on the same page with vision, direction, structure, purpose, and strategy. It can prevent possible factions and problems. It provides an avenue where new members can get to know other new members of the church, as well as, leaders in the church. Obviously, the primary purposes of a membership class are church orientation and teaching doctrine. However, relational orientation to the church’s leaders and other new members should not be overlooked, and at West Point it is not!

Membership means calling a specific church your “home” and taking responsibility to ensure its health and growth. It begins with the realization that Jesus did not die for you only, but for the entire church (Acts 20:28), and it includes joyful obedience to Jesus’ commands to selflessly give of your resources (2 Corinthians 8:1 –

THE POINT OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2014 JOURNAL Have you ever wondered what these New Disciples classes entail? Have you ever thought about what is taught in these classes that are a prerequisite to officially becoming a member of The faith family of West Point Missionary Baptist Church? The classes are foundational and help new members acclimate themselves to their new church home, but there is much that can be learned by tenured members, as well. The classes are designed to offer information beneficial for the New Convert, as well as, the “church baby,” one who has been, as they say, “born and raised” in the church, particularly a Baptist church. Subject matter includes: What Baptists Believe, The Organization of the Church, Where You Fit In – Church Mission, Church Etiquette, Church Covenant, Stewardship, Learning to Pray, and Love and Forgiveness. New Disciples also complete a Spiritual Gifts Assessment, spend time with their new pastor, and participate in a tour of Historic West Point. Even if you have been a member for many years, here is a glimpse of what you can learn in New Disciples Class:

WHAT BAPTISTS BELIEVE There are more than 60 denominations under Protestantism. Protestants believe we can pray directly to God the Father, and God can speak directly to us, which differs from

Catholicism where a priest speaks to God on behalf of the people. As a member of West Point, you are a member of a Baptist Church. Do you know what Baptists believe and why? Every First Sunday of the month during worship, we recite the Apostles’ Creed, which states: I believe in God, the Father Almighty, the Maker of heaven and earth, and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord: Who was conceived of the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried. The third day He arose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty, whence He shall come to judge the quick (living) and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy universal church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Amen. There is purpose to this recitation. It is a declaration! You won’t find this creed in the bible, but it is a summary of Christian doctrine. It is, in essence, what we believe. More specifically, members of a Baptist church believe in the Trinity – three persons, yet one God. We believe in the deity and humanity of Jesus the Christ. He was fully human and fully divine. We are sinners saved by grace through faith! Baptists believe that the Second Coming of Jesus the Christ is imminent. The exact time, no one knows; not the angels in heaven – not even Jesus the Christ

Himself (Mark 13:32)! All of these are terms and information that you have likely heard before, but in New Disciples Class, we have the opportunity to explore and discuss what each key topic means and how it relates to our lives as Christians and as members of a Baptist Church. We strive to be a Learning Church and New Disciples class helps to strengthen our understanding of what we believe and why we believe it.

THE ORGANIZATION OF THE CHURCH During New Disciples class, we learn that there are three major present forms of church organization: Episcopal, Presbyterian, and Congregational. The Congregational form of church government rests the authority of the local church in each local church as an autonomous unit, with no person or organization above the local church except Jesus Christ, the Head of the Church. The Congregational form of government emphasizes the democratic (rule by the people) structure of the church. At West Point, there are two offices of the church exercising the general oversight of the church: Pastor and Deacon. 1 Timothy 3:1-13 and Titus 1:5-9 biblically describe the qualifications of serving in such offices. Pastor, Shepherd, and Overseer are synonymous and the qualifications

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and duties are described in 1 Timothy 3:1-7. This passage explores one’s qualifications in their personal, family, and social lives. The duties of the pastor include shepherding, teaching, guiding (spiritually), protecting, being an example, and praying. Deacons, who serve at the discretion of the pastor to hold up

discuss baptism and compare immersion and effusion (sprinkling). Related to the Lord’s Supper, or Holy Communion, as many of us call it, we discuss terms like transubstantiation and consubstantiation. But most importantly, we come to understand that Jesus did not institute the Lord’s Supper until the

congregation; as a result we ask that members follow some simple guidance. We review this guidance with our new members. Some observations appear to be obvious, but in class we review them because we want to ensure that everyone understands what is expected and what is needed in order for everyone, member and

“This was out of respect for the sacred word.” the arms of the pastor, are appointed by the pastor and approved by the local church to assist the pastor in the work of ministry as a servant. The word “deacon” comes from the Greek word diakonos meaning “service” or “to serve.” In Acts 6, seven godly, spirit-filled men were selected to carry out the daily serving of food for the Greek speaking Jews. Though the Bible explicitly states men, largely due to the times in which the Bible was written when women were considered property, the service of a deacon is not bound by gender. The class offers discussion on the ordinances: Baptism and The Lord’s Supper. We dialogue about the symbolism of each and if either are a necessity to salvation. We

last night of His life, in the Upper Room (Matthew 26:26-29), with its purpose to fellowship with Christ. It is symbolic of Christ’s crucifixion, death, and ultimate sacrifice of His life. Thus, prior to partaking in the Lord’s Supper, it is necessary to conduct selfexamination and reflect on the ultimate sacrifice that was made for us. Whether you partake in Communion on the First Sunday of the month or daily, “as long as you do it, do so in remembrance of Me [Jesus the Christ].”

CHURCH ETIQUETTE It’s amazing how some of the simplest observations can affect the flow of a worship service. Here at West Point, we want the service to be enjoyable to the whole

visitor alike, to have a meaningful worship experience without distraction. We also discuss why some behaviors are prohibited and others are strongly recommended. A few expectations include: no eating or drinking in the worship center for any reason, no exiting or entering the sanctuary from the center aisle once worship has started or during the preaching of the Gospel, loud talking or yelling out information during service is frowned upon, and we encourage everyone to refrain from talking during the Invitation to Christ. It is the most important time of the worship service! Someone may be making a decision that is literally life or death. We also encourage all members to bring a bible to worship and bible study for scripture reading and note taking.

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The word of God is precious to the West Point family and standing while reading the Scripture is humbly requested. Do you know why? It is biblically based and can be found in Nehemiah 8:5 And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people; (for he was above all the people;) and when he opened it, all the people stood up: All the people stood up. This was out of respect for the sacred word. In imitation of this, when the Scripture is read, everyone is requested to stand. We believe in the literal spiritual manifestation of the Holy Spirit in our praise and worship and we want everyone to be comfortable and free to worship the Lord in spirit and in truth. We believe that observance of these simple rules can and will make a great service spectacular.

CHURCH COVENANT What is the Church Covenant? A covenant is merely an agreement. The Church Covenant was adopted and published in the 1800s as a guide or set of principles that spell out duties and responsibilities. Though, we do not recite these principles publicly during worship, many grew up in a church where the Church Covenant was recited each First Sunday. It was usually printed on a very large, almost wall-sized, poster affixed to

the wall in worship centers. The Church Covenant is a public declaration of some very powerful beliefs about our commitment to our relationship with God and the people of God. This covenant only becomes truth when we allow it to live through us. It becomes a living covenant when it defines our intention, warrants our continuous attention, and determines our actions. In New Disciples Class, we explore a deeper meaning of the Church Covenant and focus on its three major areas; our commitment to our church, our commitment to fellow members, and our commitment in our personal Christian lives.

SPIRITUAL GIFTS ASSESSMENT Church members are equipped by the elders in their church (Eph. 4:11-12), to use the spiritual gifts that God has given them for the common good (1 Cor. 12:7). West Point has well over 15 ministries, and each ministry is an essential part of the Body of Christ. In order for the body to properly function, every part of the body needs to work effectively and efficiently. This is where you come in! During the class, a Spiritual Gifts Assessment is administered. This assessment is vital because we must find our spiritual gifts and then utilize them in this ministry to be productive and fruitful; thereby, strengthening God's Kingdom and

exalting our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Do you know your spiritual gift(s)? If not, perhaps, attending one of the New Disciples classes can benefit you. We all, new and tenured members alike, should know our gifts. God gave them to us to fulfill God’s purpose. This assessment assists new members in identifying ministries of interest. Did you know that the goal is to ensure every member is involved in at least one ministry? Consider getting involved once you determine your spiritual gift(s).

STEWARDSHIP As you read earlier, God desires obedience, and not just obedience joyful obedience. We are stewards, managers, over what God has blessed us to oversee. Often, we have read or heard in Psalm 50:10 …and the cattle on a thousand hills [belongs to God]. We are heirs, thus, we have access to all that God possesses. Everything we have belongs to God! We can show our appreciation to God by graciously giving what God has given to us. We do not have to concern ourselves with over-giving because we cannot give more than God will give back to us (Luke 6:38). You can’t beat God giving no matter how you try! Expressing your commitment and obedience to God is through tithing. Tithing is making a voluntary, systematic contribution to your church. A tithe is a tenth.

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When we think of tithing, we usually think solely about money, our TREASURE, and that is a major component. It is necessary to contribute financially to your church. However, it is equally as important to offer unto God your TIME and your TALENT. 1 Peter 4:10-11 (NIV) says: Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms…so that in all things God may be praise through Jesus Christ. What does this mean? If you have a gift, talent, or skill that can be used to serve or help others, use it. There are 24 hours in a day. A tenth (10%) of 24 hours equals, yes, 2.4 hours. This means we should dedicate 2.4 hours daily to

the work of ministry. Simply stated: we should show people the face of Jesus at least 2.4 hours a day! If you have not yet mastered tithing, know that you can begin today. Trust God! Try God! God will open up a window and pour you out a blessing that you do not have room enough to receive (Malachi 3:10). It is a promise. God is a promise keeper! There is so much that this class offers, and each cohort makes it a unique experience. As a tenured member, engage our new members. Feel free to approach and ask one of our new members who you watched receive the Right Hand of Fellowship if they were enlightened or learned anything

new, even if they have been in church for years. They made a commitment to complete the classes, and most will tell you that it was worth it. An orientation class for new members is a must for a vibrant and growing church. Rick Warren says, “The manner in which people join your church will determine their effectiveness as members for years to come….” The significance of connecting with others in the class and members of the church can pay dividends for a long time to come. Whether you have been a member for five years or 50 years, there is something, perhaps lots, that we can all learn from New Disciples class. WP

PASTOR CAPTAIN YASHIKA TIPPETT-EGGLESTON POINT OF EXECUTIVE VIEW

AN EXECUTIVE VIEW: What I've learned in 2014... Where Ministries Are Headed in 2015

The word “ministry” is a simple word; yet, the act of ministry is not always as simple. I have learned that perhaps many do not realize the extent or intent of ministry. Although the word seems simple enough or should appear self-evident, I have learned that many do not fully understand what ministry is; moreover, what church ministry is and the impact thereof. Since taking ownership of and accountability for providing support, guidance, and direction to the lead servants as part of my responsibilities as the Executive Pastor of The faith family of West Point Missionary Baptist Church, I have fully committed myself to supporting those who were elected as lead servants of our various ministries. Through this commitment many lessons have been learned, however, for the sake of this article, I will share just a few of those lessons.

As the person charged with building our ministries, I needed a foundation from which to establish a platform to lead. After much prayer, discussion with Pastor Jakes, and observation, the following scripture was given to me as the basis for moving our ministries from good to great. Ephesians 4:11-13 (NKJV) says, And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12 for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13 till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ. It became evident, if this transformation of equipping saints for the work of ministry were to occur; a paradigm shift would be needed.

As a child, I often heard “the harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.” This is not just a quote, but a scripture found in Matthew 9:37. Moreover, it has become the lens through which I have viewed the current status of the commitment of our ministries.

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“So what does this have to do with what I’ve learned about the harvest being plentiful and the laborers being few?” It would first be important for me to understand how our various ministries run, how the lead servants of those ministries lead, and whether the lead servants and ministry partners even understand their purpose and responsibility to the overall mission of The faith family of West Point Missionary Baptist Church. As a body of practicing Christians our goal at West Point is to serve God by serving humanity. If ministries were formed for any other reason, then they would not be aligned with our mission. In order to obtain this knowledge, I needed the lead servants of each ministry to complete an assessment of their ministries. Before making any drastic changes or requesting too much of people, I simply wanted to know if ministries understood why they existed and what responsibilities they have to our local church. In addition to requesting an assessment, I also wanted to provide a clear definition of ministry. "Ministry" is from the Greek word diakoneo, whch means to serve, or douleuo, which means to serve as a slave. In the New Testament,

ministry is seen as service to God and to other people in Jesus’ name. Jesus provided the pattern for Christian ministry—He came, not to receive service, but to give it (see Matthew 20:28; Mark 10:45; John 13:1-17). The Christian should minister by meeting people's needs with love and humility on Christ's behalf (see Matthew 20:26; Mark 10:43; John 2:5,9; Acts 6:3; Romans 1:1 Galatians 1:10; ; Colossians 4:12). Christians are to minister to others out of their devotion to Christ and their love for others, whether the other people are believers or unbelievers. Ministry to others should be impartial and unconditional, always seeking to help others as Jesus would. http:// www.gotquestions.org/what-isministry.html I believe the purpose of ministry is to serve, and when we serve the people of God we: (1) bring people to a saving faith in Christ, and then assist them to grow in Christlikeness; and (2) bring every believer into a vital, authentic relationship with God, through the grace of Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit, such that every believer glorifies God in thought, word, and

deed, both in the church and in the world with the ultimate goal of presenting every one complete in Christ (Col. 1:28). One of the ways we meet these obligations is through service. (https://bible.org/whatchurch-ministry) So what does this have to do with what I’ve learned about the harvest being plentiful and the laborers being few? One person put it like this, imagine someone planting a garden without paths, just scattering seeds over every inch and everything grew, every plant bore fruit. You couldn’t reach the fruits and vegetables in the center of the garden without stepping on and crushing others to get to them. There would be more than you could imagine harvesting. Moreover, everything doesn’t come up at once. There’s always something coming up, some ready to pick, some just setting, always something to harvest. This is the image Jesus is trying to express when he says the harvest is plentiful.

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What is “the harvest?” The harvest is the harvest of human souls, but he says the laborers are few. Why, if the need is so great, are the laborers so few? Oftentimes what I see at West Point is the same

community, we are often leading the charge of serving humanity and thus have many opportunities to serve and labor. This first year has been a

ministry partners. All ministries and ministry partners must understand the purpose of their ministries and commit to fulfilling their obligations in support of the mission of our church.

“Who will I send, and who will go for us?” people doing all the work or the same ministries’ leaders and partners taking on the preponderance of the work of ministry. One reason is many of us are caught up and consumed with living our own lives that we may feel we are not able to labor in God’s fields. Or is it because we are reluctant? In a vision, Isaiah saw God sitting on His throne, and he heard God say, “Who will I send, and who will go for us?” And Isaiah stepped forward and said, “Here am I, send me.” Many have no desire for such a vision and do not want to go, nor do they want to be called. However, God brings many opportunities for you to labor in God’s fields. At West Point, very active in our local community, and very in-tuned with social issues that afflict our

challenging one. In order for us to continue in the work of equipping the saints for the work of ministry and edifying the body of Christ until we come to the unity of the faith and the knowledge of Jesus, a stronger commitment by an abundance of people will be necessary. Look inside yourself, you have what it takes. In 2015, ministries of WPMBC are headed for greatness. Remember, we are moving from good to great. Not in greatness so that we can be glorified, but that God is glorified and the people of God are served. We must identify individuals who are committed to the work of ministry and to our local church. We must continue training and aiding the lead servants with tools to operate as good leaders so they are impactful leading their

In closing, God has not just called apostles, prophets and teachers. God seeks laborers, common everyday folks doing common everyday work, in a common everyday world, to reach common everyday souls for the kingdom. God is seeking people just like you who will wholeheartedly commit themselves. If you know it in the depth of your soul, you’ve heard Him call you. The only question is whether you will let yourself be chosen. THE HARVEST IS PLENTIFUL, BUT THE LABORERS ARE FEW. WP http://www.sermoncentral.com/ sermons/harvest-and-laborersrosemary-dawson-sermon-on-faith-

PASTOR KEMARIUS E. LEE YOUTH PASTOR

YOUTH MINISTRY: Where We’ve Been/ Where We’re Going

I don’t really remember the exact year, nor do I remember how I got the invitation, and quite honestly, I barely remember the other two kids who were with me. I didn’t want to be there, because it was the weekend for crying out loud so much so that I vaguely remember dozing off on the car ride over to this place. All I remember distinctly was the EXPERIENCE! It was a Friday evening, and my overzealous Godmother was dragging me to a youth service her friend, a youth pastor, was in charge of. At that time, I couldn’t recall the name of the church and I could’ve cared less as to who was the senior pastor. I walked in the church and the main level was darkened except for a few hallway lights and exit signs that glimmered in the distance. There was a slight bass thumping sound emitting from what seemed like a basement. As my

godmother led me and the two other kids down into the long basement hallway, it definitely became apparent where the bass sounds were coming from. I walked into the lower level sanctuary and what I found was like something out of a movie. There was a capacity crowd of young people waving their hands and bobbing their heads to a beat as one young man stood on stage freestyle rapping about Jesus the Christ. The young people were all engaged and the youth pastor had the full control of the audience. I looked over and even noticed my longtime childhood friend, Rhonda Brown. She and I grew up in the same church and her family had just moved their membership. THEN IT HIT ME! I’m at West Point Baptist Church, and this is their annual “P.H.A.T.T. FRIDAY” Youth Service, and the man leading this experience is Pastor Kenyatta Barry.

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It was one of the single most eye-opening experiences I’ve witnessed on my Christian journey as it pertains to youth ministry. That night, I praised and worshipped like never before. It was so real, yet, so raw. The atmosphere was ripe with righteous praise, but at the same

claiming purity and self-esteem. Everything about the physical atmosphere around us said, “NO,” and that we were out of order, but our for real praise and worship to a merciful and gracious savior said, “YES!” It was the perfect end to a Friday night I almost missed. And

When I got the call in early January, everything in me responded, “Yes!” A certain adrenaline passed through me as I accepted another charge call from God once again. Come to think of it, I honestly really didn’t know how to say no even if I wanted to.

time it felt so unconventional, like for opening our mouths and praising God that way, we should have been scolded by the elders. We shouldn’t have been rapping, we shouldn’t have been free styling. The young men were not supposed to be in there with hats turned backwards while at the same time shouting the “G-Phi-G” (Glorify God) chants. The young ladies were not supposed to be in there with long pants, jersey dresses, and big bamboo earrings

just by chance, it was also my first and last time attending “P.H.A.T.T. FRIDAYS.”

Something else I realized later on was the Lord had been preparing me for this job from that day, down in the “P.H.A.T.T. FRIDAY” basement, to this one, and the kind of preparation I have had!

Fast forward 12-13 years later, however, and note how interesting it is that the same young 11- or 12year-old boy who had no desire WHATSOEVER to be in that service that Friday night has now been tapped to serve as that ministry’s first youth pastor since Pastor Barry.

There are just some things you know about God, and for me, one of those things was that God had made me who I am for such a time as this. There have been great strides and big shoes left for me to fill and I knew, and am still confident, that I

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will more than fill them. As a matter of fact, in a display of sheer faith in Christ and confidence in myself, I plan to burst those shoes at the seams, but it won’t be the same way my predecessors have done so eloquently. I knew saying yes to this job would be the greatest test of my ministry and with it would bring about great challenges. Along this nine-month journey, I’ve made several mistakes and have thanked God for his grace and mercy for every one of them in that they have made me stronger and increased my capacity for leadership.

parents of their own, and entrusting their babies to me to impart on them what thus sayeth the Lord as it pertains to their young precious lives. The difference I’m seeing in my young people today versus serving alongside some of their

attention as a child. 13 years ago, it wasn’t as normal as it is today to hear about the varieties of gun violence that plague our communities. “Put the guns down” was an occasional cliché that was often shoved in our ears versus

parents back then, is that the society and environment around us has changed so drastically.

having it become a staple in the radio listening experience and it being repeated over the airwaves by our favorite radio DJ as he or she signs off for the evening. We have been forced to deal with certain ethnic frailties that have been met

For the past 10 years, since I’ve been a member at West Point, the youth ministry has always been a very integral part of the church. Our senior pastor/teacher, Dr. L. Bernard Jakes, has always put the young people on the forefront of his agenda. He has always made sure to hand pick persons who have a heart for youth ministry and for serving young people. It is evident by way of how the hand of God has moved so graciously over the lives of the young people who have passed through the doors of the lower sanctuary. Even during my short-lived tenure as youth pastor of The faith family of West Point, I am able to draw a direct line from the “P.H.A.T.T. FRIDAY” era to present day. What is extremely interesting for me is to see some of the same young people who served in the ministry back then, now becoming

The demands for the attention of our young people today are in direct contrast to what held my

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being repeated over the airwaves by our favorite radio DJ as he or she signs off for the evening. We have been forced to deal with certain ethnic frailties that have been met with very little concern, let alone cures. Dealing with all of this has forced us to up the ante of our spiritual defenses. As far as the young generation today, when faced with what society throws our way, we look like beginning swimmers, in 12 feet

of a youth choir (Shout-out to Donna & The Kings Kids!), and the commandment of service as a renewed commitment. As West Point’s youth pastor, I’m here to heed the call and step up to the challenge. I take this position very seriously and respect it highly. I have an intense passion for youth and young adults, the nurturing of them, their growth and development and education. The ability to mold a child's mind and understanding is a

Movement to be: The West Point Young People’s Movement seeks to engage young people to come to our church and find a place where they can be loved and accepted for who they are, while ultimately creating and developing their relationship with Christ and His Word. This vision will be carried out when we stick to the mission of “Equipping Young People to Know, Grow, and Show God’s Word.”

“Dealing with all of this has forced us to up the ante of our spiritual defenses.” deep water, attempting to stay afloat. We need refresher courses. We need to be brought back to basics. The state of our current young people needs to be brought back to life! We need to be revived again! The man and the message will always remain the same, but the way we communicate it needs to change!

phenomenal responsibility. Moreover, and specifically, the charge of introducing and developing a child's relationship with Christ is one that I have dedicated my life's ministry to. We have witnessed good, better, and best! Now, I’m just crazy enough to believe God has us set up right now for GREATER!

With much prayer, and faith, and collaboration, I’m more than positive we will be successful while remaining humble for the times that come to teach us lessons. A line from my favorite Dr. Seuss book, Oh, The Places You’ll Go, says “And will you succeed? Yes! You will, indeed!” (98 and 3/4 percent guaranteed.)

There is a revamped collaboration between our youth ministry and our Sunday School Christian Education, the reinstating

Drawing on the great work and history of our almost 100-yearold ministry, specifically the youth ministry, I have adopted the vision of the West Point Young People

GOD BLESS YOU WEST POINT! Thank you for being my partner on this journey! NOW, LET’S RIDE! WP

PASTOR DEBRA WADLINGTON HOUSE POINT OF VIEW

I read an awesome statement by author Steve Hayner, in his work Playing to an Audience of One, which stays in my heart and reminds me of the benefit of serving. “Jesus gives an unmodified call to us to be servants —serving God and serving one another. Along the way, God may also call us into specific roles of leadership… Our ambition is not leadership, but servanthood. Our task is not to grow leaders, but to make disciples who will follow Jesus. Our goal is not to get out there and get things done, but to listen and obey. Our call is not to exercise power, but to be faithful to our Lord and the way of the servant. “How God chooses to use His servants is His concern. We may be called to lead or to follow, to exert authority or to submit, to turn our God-given gifts in one direction or another. But that is God’s business. Our identity, our meaning in life, our sense of significance, and our self-worth are not to be based on the roles we fill, the power we wield, or the numbers we lead. We play to an audience of one, who loves us, affirms us, and uses us. Whether we are called to perform the handstand or simply watch and clap from the sidelines, we should long to hear from our God the words, ‘Well done, you good and faithful servant!’” You probably plan to receive Social Security benefits someday. Maybe you already do. Either way, you’ll want your Social Security account to: •

Keep track of your earnings and verify them every year;

•

Get an estimate of your future benefits if you are still working;

•

Get a letter with proof of your benefits if you currently receive them; and

•

Much more!

THE BENEFIT OF SERVING: A Walk Through Galatians

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Just like your government secured Social Security benefits you will receive after working hard on a job, I have good news for you about your time spent serving God. Because we work to be a church without walls, extending God’s

truly right with God they must become Jews by circumcision and keeping the feast days. Paul comes unglued at this threat to the young Christian church in Galatia. He realized, this could

narrow road to serve others as Jesus served. Learning to live as a servant naturally begins by following the Lord Jesus. As believers who are to follow in the steps of our Savior, it is important that we focus on Him, because He was and is the epitome

“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” grace to the world, outside of the local church, through various ministries of help and serving, God has secured benefits for you! The Benefit Letter (Galatians 5) Walking through Galatians gives us multiple ways to benefit from serving. Usually Paul’s letters started off somewhat gently with greetings and compliments to those receiving the letter. Not Galatians. Paul launches right to the point and doesn’t let up all the way to the end. Paul was defending himself and his authority, and therefore all the work he had done in Galatia, against the Judaizers who were now telling the people that Paul was leaving out certain matters of law in his gospel, and that in order to be

destroy everything he had worked for in establishing the church among the Gentiles. It had to be stopped. But for his chains, he probably would have travelled to Galatia and met the challenge personally, but God, in God’s wisdom, saw that we still get the benefit of serving from Paul’s letter. We have been called out of slavery to sin into the freedom of grace. The opportunities offered by slavery to sin were self-serving. The opportunities offered by freedom are other-serving. However, many feel this new freedom is a change from legalism to license, when in fact it is a change from license to love. The truly free person in Christ is bound by the rules of that

of humility, maturity, and leadership. That which most uniquely characterized Him, was servanthood. Even now, though seated at the right hand of the Father as the glorified Lord, He continues to minister to us as our Advocate and Intercessor and Head of the body of Christ. This is tremendously significant especially in light of who He was and is. The Benefit Package The benefits of serving are best outlined in Galatians 5:13 (NIV). You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.

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The Bible promises that anyone is able to know God's will, be forgiven of sin, resist temptation, endure hardship, serve obediently, and receive eternal life. God provides the power we need through Jesus' blood, the Scriptures, prayer,

His first. God didn't offer up His only begotten Son to die for you and me, so that we could live our lives in a void by ourselves, but God saved us to bring us into a family relationship – not to be the only child in His family either. As

hope, love, and other Christians. No one needs to be lost. Anyone can overcome their past, achieve victory over sin, and become what God requires him/her to be.

believers in Jesus Christ, we are part of a unique family—the family of God that has both human and divine dimensions. Our salvation, which was an act of total unselfishness, is intended to spill over into our human relationships in unselfish ways. It is upon this foundation on which our service to one another is built.

There are 3 types of Service Benefits in these passages: 1) The Foundation Of Service – Salvation (v.13a) You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. There is no real or lasting freedom apart from Christ. Until a person accepts God's gift of Salvation, they remain in the slave market of sin. True freedom can only come through Christ. John 8:36, "So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” Nor can you truly serve God, unless you are

2) The Freedom Of Service – Selflessness (v.13b) But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. Galatians 5:19-21 (NIV) The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery;20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord,

jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. God doesn’t save us just to be saving us. You wouldn't know this by the way many Christians live. God has a purpose and that purpose was to free us from the bonds of sin so we can fellowship with Him and live a life that is pleasing to God. Now let's take a closer look at the freedom we have in Christ. Salvation does not make one free to sin, it makes us free to serve. Romans 7:6 But now we have been delivered from the law, having died to what we were held by, so that we should serve in the newness of the Spirit and not in the oldness of the letter. 3) The Motive Of Service - Love (v.13c) but through love serve one another. The Bible promises that anyone is able to know God's will, be forgiven of sin, resist temptation, endure hardship, serve obediently, and receive eternal life. God provides the power we need through Jesus' blood, the Scriptures, prayer, hope, love, and other Christians. No one needs to be lost. Anyone can overcome their past, achieve victory over sin, and become what God requires him/her to be.

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God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, 7 but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. 8 And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death - even death on a cross! 9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. I’ve been focusing on some ways we can improve our service. I want to suggest that it is possible to get so caught up in what we call our spiritual gifts we might not survive servanthood. The key is not so much to identify what we have, but to use what we’ve been given. 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV) Each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. Benefit Awards We have been called to serve and can now turn and make use of the Law. For the Law can help us to know the mind of God. Paul quotes us an example to prove it. He points out that Jesus wants us to fulfill the Law in a positive way, and that can

be expressed in terms of loving our neighbors as ourselves. Therefore we must demonstrate this in the first place by being servants to each other through love. This seems to suggest that there was some friction in the church through feelings of superiority that needed to be put right. People who are willing to serve God must always fight the temptation to do things for God at the expense of relationship with God. Jesus served out of deep connection with His Father. He relied on His Father’s love, affirmation, and direction. Philippians 2:4-11 (NIV) Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. 5 Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in very nature

Mark 10:42-45 (NIV) Jesus called them together and said, "You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. 43 Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." If you read Paul’s letter and follow his instructions, you, too, will receive your serving benefits someday. Maybe you already do. Either way, Galatians gives you your benefit letter with proof of your benefits package, awards, and much more! WP

BROTHER ALVIN CARTER FOOD FOR THOUGHT

WHAT ARE SPIRITUAL GIFTS? Spiritual Gifts are special abilities the Holy Spirit gives to Christians. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit with all. 1 Corinthians 12:7 (KJV) Spiritual gifts allow us to help other people become stronger Christians. God gives the increase. To one there is given through the spirit the message of wisdom, to another the message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, to another faith by the same spirit, to someone else the power to heal the sick. He gives power for doing miracles to some and to others power to prophesy and preach. He gives someone else the power to know whether evil spirits are speaking through those who claim to be giving God’s message, whether it is really God who is speaking. It is the same and only Holy Spirit who gives these gifts and powers, deciding which each one of us should have.

the foot says, “I am not a part of the body because I am not a hand,” that does not make it any less a part of the body. And if the ear was to say, “Because I am not an eye I don’t belong to the body,” that would not keep it from being a part of the body. But that is not the way God has made us. God has made many parts for our bodies and has put each part where He wants it. What a strange thing the body would be if it only had one part. So God has made many parts, but still there is only one body. The eye can never say to the hand “I don’t need you.” The head can’t say to the feet “I don’t need you.” God has put the body together in a way that extra honor and care are given to those parts that might otherwise seem less important, so that there should be no division in the body, but that it’s parts should have equal concern for each other. If one part suffers, every part suffers with it. If one part is honored all rejoices. You are the body of Christ and each one of you is a part of it. WP

There are many different kinds of Spiritual gifts. Our bodies have many parts, but many parts make up only one body when they are all put together. So it is with the body of Christ. The body has many parts, not just one part. If

BROTHER ALFRED YOUNG, III GOSPEL POINT OF REVIEW

THE REASON WHY WE

SING

In August of 1932, a man by the name of Thomas Dorsey tragically lost his wife and baby during childbirth. In his agony, he took a pen and wrote one of the most well known standards in Gospel music to date. His heart was broken, but he knew that the ONLY thing that would get him through this hurt was his faith in GOD. “Take My Hand, Precious Lord” was birthed through his pain, but his pain now is a song of comfort and has been for years. If we go back further, we can talk about John Newton who in 1748 was aboard a ship that was battered by a violent storm. As the storm raged, the young man called out to GOD for mercy and grace to make it through. As a result of this, the young man converted to Christianity and wrote “Amazing Grace,” one of the pillar hymns of the Christian church.

the greatness of the Lord. When I reflect on GOD’S loving mercy, I can sing about how grateful I am for the things that GOD has done. We sing to express the most organic part of our hearts to the world. We share the experience of life in the arms of GOD. When we’re in love, we sing to express the love deep inside our hearts and the joy that it brings. And on the flipside, we sing when our hearts have been broken. Looking back at the history of Black people in America, the slaves that were brought over to build this nation used songs as a way to send and receive messages to each other. They also sang to motivate each other and keep others from despair. As the years went on, Black people expressed the hurt and the state of depression that covered the country by creating a new genre of music called the Blues. As freedom came closer to Black people, they would sing songs of hope and faith in GOD that HE would deliver them and bring justice to all. When our country went to war, we sang songs of peace and love to soothe the hearts of all nations involved.

Both songs came from tragedy, but blossomed into messages of comfort for generations. We sing these songs today because they came from the heart. We relate to them because we all have been, on some level, in those situations. We’ve experienced loss, and we’ve needed the grace and mercy of GOD to get us through some storms in our lives.

Whether happiness, sadness, anger, hurt, or joy, there is a song to express it all. The colors of music paint the picture of our lives and leave a picture that will make leaving behind a vivid legacy a simple task. WP

On a personal level, sacred music has served as a reminder of all GOD is and all the things that GOD has done. When I’m feeling low, I can always sing about the friend I have in Jesus. When I’m happy, I can sing about

SIS. ANNIE RUSSELL FAITH FAMILY SPOTLIGHT

It is with great pleasure that I spotlight for the 2014 final edition of The Point Journal, Pastor Debra Wadlington-House. Pastor Deb, as she is affectionately called, began her spiritual journey here at The faith family of West Point Missionary Baptist Church. Born December 22, 1961, she was baptized at age 11, in 1972. Her father, Norman Wadlington, and mother, Earline, met at West Point and she and her brother spent most of their youth and young adult years serving with the

center that serves women and their children who have been or are in an abusive relationship. Her passion for victory for abusive women focuses on shattering the silence of domestic violence. To learn more about the services Pastor Deb offers, visit her website, www.asisterstouchministries.org. Each Wednesday, Pastor Deb teaches noon day bible class from 12-1:30 p.m. After several months, her class requested that the lessons be extended for another half hour. Her focus is on

Pastor Debra Wadlington-House faith family. As a “church baby,” she participated in all youth activities including Sunday school and youth choir. In 1999, Pastor Deb answered her Call to the ministry. She left West Point, in 2000, to pursue her calling; joined other ministries and eventually received her B.A. from Moody Bible Institute, in 2006. In 2013, after visiting for several months, she reunited with the faith family. She says that coming home was the best decision she could have made after totally surrendering her life to Christ. Pastor Deb is an Associate Pastor, Pastor of Pastoral Care for Women. A passion to help others achieve their goals led her to found “A Sister’s Touch Ministries.” Her focus is to provide leadership, vision, mobilization, and training to families, specializing in women’s ministries and fellowship. Pastor Deb also started “A Sister’s House,” a women’s

teaching the Word through practical applications and biblical references. Pastor Deb also teaches a teleconference for women only bible class every first Monday. A family person, Pastor Deb is the mother of three, grandmother of five, and is a loving and devoted daughter. After the death of her dad, she moved back home to provide daily care to her mother. Pastor Deb’s favorite scripture is John 8:36 and her favorite song is “In the Morning” by Queen Albertina Walker. In addition to praise dancing, she spends time studying Anthropology—Science of Humanity. She says she loves to research people and to see how humans are wired. Women looking for a caring, passionate, compassionate person on fire for God, can find an advocate in Pastor Deb through her various ministries. Contact her through Facebook, her website, and follow her on Twitter. Welcome home Pastor Debra Wadlington House! WP

DR. KRISTINA A. PETERSON A MENTAL WELLNESS POINT OF VIEW

SUICIDE: Trying

to Understand Why On August 11, 2014, many of us were stunned when we heard of the death of movie star and comedian, Robin Williams. Even more shocking was the news that he had been found in his room and that he had taken his own life. Comments made on television and social media sites said things like, “I don’t understand it. He was one of the funniest people in the world,” and “How could someone who was loved and admired by so many people feel like he wanted to kill himself?”

and lots of people loved him. In the days and weeks before he died, he hadn’t exhibited many of the symptoms that make people aware of suicide ideology. He didn’t give away any of his things. He didn’t offer any poignant goodbyes. He had not talked about killing himself with anyone who loved him. The only real signs that he showed were depression and increased use of alcohol. He was the baby brother of one of my son’s best friends.

The truth is, suicide is very complicated and the things that lead a person to take their own life are often a combination of circumstances and emotions that are unique to the individual. It’s no secret that Robin Williams had been diagnosed with clinical depression years ago and that he had struggled with addiction and had spent time in more than one treatment program. It was also reported, he had recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Many of us, in an attempt to understand why he did what he did, will attribute it to the fact that he was “depressed.” Later in this article, I will talk more in depth about how that contributes to suicide, but for the time being, let me introduce you to some other people.

Meghan Lewis was 24 years old and died on August 11, 2012, exactly two years to the day before Robin Williams. Her father found her, hanging in a position very similar to the way it has been reported that Williams was found. The week after Williams’ death, I had a chance to talk to her dad who is a close friend of my family. He said he still wonders if there was something he missed about her behavior leading up to that day. He said he asks himself every day if there was something he could’ve done to prevent her from taking her own life. One of the things my experience with those who are suicidal has taught me is, if we are going to prevent it, we really have to be more aware of and connect with people IN their suffering instead of waiting until they are even considering suicide as the way out. If we can offer compassion and understanding during the dark times, then perhaps we can be instrumental in leading our loved ones to get the professional help they really need.

Marc Anderson was 22 years old when he killed himself. He had been a popular kid in his hometown high school, played sports, engaged in many activities, and had tons of friends. Like Robin Williams, he was a funny guy

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A novelist named William Styron wrote one of the best books I have found describing what it feels like to live with severe depression. The book is called, Darkness Visible: A Memoir of Madness and although it isn’t a long book, I believe his writing opens a window that gives an in-depth and intimate view of the mind and thoughts of a person suffering from this illness. In fact, in the book, he says, “The prevention of many suicides will continue to be hindered until there is a general awareness of the nature of this pain.” Many who attempt suicide (and even those who succeed) don’t necessarily want to die. Rather, they see suicide as the only viable option to escape the unbearable psychological pain of the dark hole in which they dwell. Here is an

excerpt from William Styron’s book that tells us what it’s like: “In depression this faith in deliverance, in ultimate restoration, is absent. The pain is unrelenting, and what makes the condition intolerable is the foreknowledge that no remedy will come - not in a day, an hour, a month, or a minute. If there is mild relief, one knows that it is only temporary; more pain will follow. It is hopelessness even more than pain that crushes the soul. So the decision-making of daily life involves not, as in normal affairs, shifting from one annoying situation to another less annoying - or from discomfort to relative

comfort, or from boredom to activity - but moving from pain to pain. One does not abandon, even briefly, one’s bed of nails, but is attached to it wherever one goes. And this results in a striking experience - one which I have called, borrowing military terminology, the situation of the walking wounded. For in virtually any other serious sickness, a patient who felt similar devastation would by lying flat in bed, possibly sedated and hooked up to the tubes and wires of life-support systems, but at the very least in a posture of repose and in an isolated setting. His invalidism would be necessary, unquestioned, and honorably attained.

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However, the sufferer from depression has no such option and therefore finds himself, like a walking casualty of war, thrust into the most intolerable social and family situations. There he must, despite the anguish devouring his brain, present a face approximating the one that is associated with ordinary events and companionship. He must try to utter small talk, and be responsive to questions, and knowingly nod and frown and, God help him, even smile. But it is a fierce trial attempting to speak a few simple words.” One story I read in researching this article talked about Robin Williams’s suicide as “spontaneous” or unplanned. Those who are developing a PLAN to kill themselves generally exhibit the signs and symptoms we are accustomed to looking for in suicide prevention. Marc didn’t talk about suicide before he did it. Meghan’s only goodbye was a text to her sister in the middle of the night, only moments before she hung herself. And aside from his public struggle with depression and addiction, even close family and friends of Robin Williams did not see the typical warning signs of his eventual actions.

of suicide and prevention, but still, in 2011 (the most current data), more than 39,000 people in our country were reported to have taken their own lives. If you or someone you know has questions or has thoughts of suicide, there are several good resources including: National Suicide Prevention LIFELINE, www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org 1-800-273-TALK (8255) American Foundation for Suicide Prevention www.afsp.org Warning signs and risk factors (according to AFSP):

WARNING SIGNS People who kill themselves exhibit one or more warning signs, either through what they say or what they do. The more warnings, the greater the risk.

Behavior A person’s suicide risk is greater if a behavior is new or has increased, especially if it’s related to a painful event, loss, or change. Increased use of alcohol or drugs. • Looking for a way to kill themselves, such as searching online or buying a gun. • Acting recklessly. • Withdrawing from activities. • Sleeping too much or too little. • Visiting or calling people to say goodbye. • Giving away prized possession. • Suffering from Panic attacks.

RISK FACTORS

Talk • If a person talks about: • Killing themselves. • Having no reason to live. • Being a burden to others. • Seeking revenge. • Feeling trapped. • Unbearable pain.

Research, in the last 25 years or so, has helped to increase awareness

Risk factors are characteristics or conditions that increase the chance that a person may try to take their life. The more risk factors, the higher the risk.

Environmental Factors • Contagion would include exposure to another person’s suicide, or to graphic or sensationalized accounts of suicide.

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• Access to Lethal Means including firearms and drugs. • Prolonged Stress Factors that may include harassment, bullying, relationship problems, and unemployment. • Stressful Life Events that may include a death, divorce, or job loss.

Medical Factors • Mental Health Problems. • Alcohol and Drug Abuse.

Historical Factors • Previous Suicide Attempts.

IF YOU SUSPECT SOMEONE IS AT RISK FOR SUICIDE • Take it seriously. • Do not leave them alone. • Have them call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273TALK (8255). • Help them remove lethal means like firearms and drugs. • Call or escort them to an emergency room, counseling service, or psychiatrist. • In an emergency, call 911.

• Family History of Suicide Attempts.

As Christian brothers and sisters, I believe we are called to take care of one another. We are supposed to be there for each other, offering love and judgment free compassion. We can observe and pay attention to the most subtle of clues – the deep sadness behind the mask of the smile. The “I’m fine” that is really a desperate cry for help. And, I believe that if we can connect and reach even one person and offer the tiniest ray of hope, we may be giving them the one sign that tells them that life is worth living. WP

TWINET PARMER, PHD

POINT OF HOLISTIC WELLNESS

Sometimes I smile and reflect as I find myself humming certain songs that remind me of happy periods in my life. One such song is “If You’re Happy and You Know It.” I imagine that this song makes me happy, because I remember how my mother would manipulate my hands as we sang and clapped. And there is that 1973 hit by Al Green titled Love and Happiness. In his lyrics, he sang about how it will make you do right and wrong and how “happiness is when you really feel good about somebody” Some of us remember 1973, and how we experienced what Al Green makes reference to in his lyrics. I am smiling as I reflect. And today, there is the “Happy Song” where Pharrell Williams lifts our spirits and makes us want to move and sing to “Come along with me if you feel like happiness is the truth… Because I’m happy!” (From Despicable Me 2, 2010)

What Happiness? Try Wellness! Often there are studies that ask where do the happiest people live? I recently learned of a particular study (The World Happiness Report, 2013) that reported countries where people who are happiest are in northern Europe and are ranked accordingly: Denmark, Norway, Switzerland, Netherlands, and Sweden. Interestingly, the United States ranked number 17 in this study. Upon hearing the results of that study, I began to ponder such questions as “What makes people happy?” and “Where can we find happiness in our lives?” and even “What are the consequences of happiness?”

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What made the above stated countries the happiest places to live? The study attempted to measure global happiness using the following: “real GDP per capita [having to do with production of goods and services], healthy life expectancy, having someone to count on, perceived freedom to make life choices, freedom from corruption, and generosity” (Sustainable Development Solutions Network, September 18, 2014). In noting the measures used in this study, they are closely related to the human condition and well-being. The results substantiate the notion that mental health may be a major contributor to happiness. In addition, the benefits of

happiness are that “Happy people live longer, are more productive, earn more, and are also better citizens. Well-being should be developed both for its own sake and for its side-effects” (Sustainable Development Solutions Network). Have you considered what makes you happy? We get so caught up in the day-to-day activities such that we do not pause to think about our lives. Simply put we get stuck in our rut and the same ho-hum. Want to get out of the ho-hum? Make the following bucket or wish list: Get a sheet of paper and write activities that would make you holistically (in mind, body, spirit, emotion) happy and well? Consider: • Mind - Think and let your mind work, imagine, expand, and reach beyond your present circumstances. • Spirit - Make connections and interactions that stir the soul as experienced in church, by practicing faith, giving, serving self and others. And do ASAP (Always say a prayer).

•

Emotions - Engage in mental activities that make you feel good such as love, joy, laughing, finding peace in your circumstances, and a special space for yourself.

•

Body - Get up and get physical such that you do, take action, move, and as the “old folks” would say “shake a leg.” Write events in each area that would make your life more meaningful and that you wish to achieve. In spite of your circumstances, find ways to be resourceful in making some of these activities possible.

•

Remember, Wellness and Happiness are in Your Hands! As someone once said, “We cannot direct the wind, but we can direct our sails!” Stop! Smile! Recall happy times and grab those sails for now and the future. Reference Sustainable Development Solutions Network, a Global Initiative for the United Nations. (September 18, 2014). Press release on World Happiness Report 2013. Retrieved from http://unsdsn.org/resources/ publications/world-happinessreport-2013/ WP

DECON JERI L. WRIGHT AND THE POINT IS....

Praise in the Midst of Pain:

in our lives. How many of us, on the other hand, instinctively praise God when our world has been unexpectedly turned upside down, out of the blue? How many of us praise God in the midst of being falsely accused? Who even thinks about praising God when the diagnosis, and/or prognosis, is not favorable? How many of us can honestly testify that during the midst of the most painful moments of their lives, praising God was the very thing we did? For as long as I can remember, praising God in the midst of my pain has been my life! I give honor to the presence of the spirit of my grandparents, particularly the spirit of my grandmother, Mary Elizabeth Henderson Wright, who hovers over me, many days allowing me to even smell her sweet fragrance, upon which whose lives and legacies I stand. Being blessed to have witnessed my grandparents praise their way through the pains of life, i.e., being diagnosed with diabetes and Grandpop giving himself an insulin shot daily, having pacemakers, being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and the list goes on and on, praising in the midst of pain was what I saw as far back as I can remember.

Never Confuse the Shout! Many things came to mind when I saw this topic in print, as my assignment for this fourth quarter edition of The Point Journal. My initial knee-jerk reaction to reading these words as the title of my article was, “Yes, LORD!!!” The prevalent thoughts most highlighted in my psyche are: while most people find it easy to praise when all is going well, I find myself in a completely different space. For me, it is a natural response to praise God in the very midst of my pain!

Never in my lifetime, could I have ever imagined I would be falsely accused of anything and find myself in the midst of a battle for my life! Having never imagined any such injustice, you know being unjustly convicted was not even any part of the worst nightmare. Finding myself in unchartered territory, I continued to do what I had done every other time life proved to full of joy and pain, and I was once again faced with the painful side of life – I continued to praise God!

We are quick to praise God for all God’s miraculous works and wonders. We can praise the Lord when we are being promoted, when we are closing on a newly acquired property, when we get a new car, when we are healed from an illness/sickness/disease, when we are victorious in a battle, and when everything is going well

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When faced with life’s horrors, most people are able to choose with whom they disclose their life’s circumstances. Most people have the opportunity to decide with whom they want to share their private pains, misfortunes, valleys, and nightmares. Very few of the readers can imagine having life turned upside, or experiencing a living nightmare, in clear view of all who watch television, wish to read the daily news online or hardcopy newspaper, listen to gossip, or receive emails, text messages, etc., from others spreading the awful news you have drastically found yourself in the middle of. Even fewer can imagine any of this happening without your knowledge of it taking place, until you got a call from one of your closest friends who happens to be your pastor. Finding yourself in one of the most horrific places never imagined is an indescribable pain! It’s as if you are in the deepest valley in the world, so deep you cannot see anything above, around, or beneath you, but darkness. It’s as if you are in a tunnel so deep and so dark you cannot see anything at all. You cannot see the tunnel, let alone any sign of light. For you, there is no end, or so it seems. Yet, you know you are still waking up every day, and you are still living through this strange, horrific place. Somehow, even though this place, space, and time still horrify you, you are waking up every day. Every day you

awaken, although it seems to you nothing has changed - this day is just as horrible as the day before you are grateful for another day. Imagine if you will, living in hell and being grateful for each new day you awaken. In the words of Marvin Gaye, “It makes me wanna holler, throw up both my hands!” The difference in my situation, however, it makes me want to holler and throw up both my hands in praise and thanksgiving to God for giving me another day, no matter how bad my situation may seem! Every time I think about God allowing me one more day in the land of the living, I give God praise! When everything looks bleak and there’s no change in sight, the fact that God allows me to awaken to a new day, a new opportunity to see what miracles God might perform, I can’t help but shout in praise to God! Many times in life, especially as a PK (preacher’s/pastor’s kid), throughout my lifetime, when the church folks see me crying and/or shouting in church they think it’s because I am upset or devastated about an unpleasant circumstance I am experiencing. I can remember when I was a preteen and the Spirit of God would fall on me in church, many of the folks would ask questions like, “What’s the matter?” “Is everything alright?” “Are you okay?” Very few would move outside of their “church folk messy

spirits” and recognize: 1) not only were we in a house of worship; but also 2) we were in the midst of worship. Unfortunately, the same holds true today. Oftentimes, many church folks will see others cry or shout, and instantly think, due to what they may or may not know another is experiencing, the crying or shouting is because of the pain of some life challenge the person may be living through. Very few consider their surroundings and the purpose for being where they are. It is my prayer those readers who have not yet discovered the beauty of praising God in the midst of pain, do not have to live through hell before they come to know how to do so. When in the midst of pain, praise gives each day meaning and purpose. Praising God shifts your focus from your pain to the One who heals you of all infirmities. Praising God in the midst of life’s most unfortunate circumstances can be the very thing that keeps you from losing your mind. In fact, I find myself praising God because God has kept me in my right mind. I’m hollering and throwing up both my hands because I still have a mind, and because my mind is stayed on Jesus, yet, even in the midst of pain! Please!!! Never confuse the shout! WP

CARL W. KENNEY, II GUEST COLUMNIST

The Adrian Peterson child abuse case exposed things that should be kept private My client, on behalf of herself and their son, wishes to express her extreme outrage at the invasion of their privacy that has occurred through the publication of highly confidential and private data obtained regarding them by the press without their permission or consent,” the statement issued by attorney Kelly C. Dohn stated. “My client is hurt and outraged that the press would publish throughout the world pictures of their minor son and publish statements allegedly made as part of the private and confidential criminal investigative file.”

outlets decided to release the photos of the alleged injuries, and the Minnesota Vikings responded, albeit late, by deactivating Peterson while the matter is resolved. The public outcry, and the response from the NFL and Minnesota Vikings, follows the repercussion of arguably the greatest sports bungle of all-time – the handling of Ray Rice. The NFL’s leniency with Rice was followed by the release of a video that forced the league to alter its position. The long list of player misconduct has the NFL grappling to repair its reputation as a league sculpted with abusers.

The pictures of her 4-year-old son stirred the rage of a mother. His small body tarnished by a beating should have remained private. Those pictures became public because of the man accused of child abuse.

The outcry of the 4-year-old allegedly abused by Peterson reminds us of the ethics that shape the way we report on these types of cases. Our thirst for more information, and pictures to verify our suppositions, should always be met with hesitancy when the information becomes a violation of privacy. A mother’s plea for silence should never be minimized by the public thirst for more.

Adrian Peterson, the superhero like running back of the NFL Minnesota Vikings, has been charged with causing injury to a child under the age of 14. Peterson is accused of hitting his son with a wooden spoon. Numerous media

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A mother has the right to request that pictures of her battered child not be made public. Raising a child is complicated enough. Doing so when the identity and nature of injuries are made public muddles

There are times when ethics forces us to use caution. The common sense call demands that someone in the newsroom yell, “that’s no one’s damn business!” Be it the video of Janay Rice being

“Be it the video of Janay Rice being slugged in an elevator, or the pictures of a 4-year-olds bruised body, some things should be left for those impacted most to ponder.” the work of parenting even more. A child shouldn’t have to witness his pictures circulating through social media. Parents shouldn’t have to protect a child from viewing their picture on the news. The nature of abuse should be hidden from public view. These are private matters that require discretion on the part of those challenged to report the news.

to face the pictures of a minor thrust on the scene of public exhibition. It’s none of your business. It magnifies the abuse of those abused. It places a private conversation within the context of public debate. It makes a private matter about more than the consequences of those involved. It feeds our urge to conjure societal evils. So, as much as we relish connecting the collective dots – the story is not limited to the NFL. This is a story about the alleged abuse of a 4-year-old who has a mother seeking to protect her child from further abuse. So, back off. Let mama do what mothers do best.

slugged in an elevator, or the pictures of a 4-year-olds bruised body, some things should be left for those impacted most to ponder. Both cases present implications beyond the individuals involved, yet both present the victims in ways that make it more difficult for them to overcome. No woman should be forced to encounter the public clamor related to those images. No mother and child should be forced

Carl W. Kenney II is an award winning columnist and novelist. He is committed to engaging readers into a meaningful discussion related to matters that impact faith and society. He grapples with pondering the impact faith has on public space while seeking to understand how public space both hinders and enhances the walk of faith. Reprinted with permission of the author. WP

DEACON ERICA B. DAVIS ADVOCATES VIEW POINT

Advocates for the Aging:

A Conversation with Judge Patricia Banks Each year, millions of vulnerable seniors are victims of elder abuse, a pervasive and growing public health issue. Elder abuse takes many forms and occurs across every social, economic and culture strata.

too prevalent. This often unreported crime is devastating to both victims and family members. Many older adults who live at home are at risk of abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation by family members and others close to them. It is estimated that over 76,000 persons over the age of 60, in Illinois, are elder abuse victims; yet, approximately 10,000 elderly victims are reported to the Elder Abuse and Neglect Program annually.2 Victims of abuse are often isolated, and they may be afraid or unable to seek help for themselves. In many cases, the only person outside the family who sees the victim is a health care professional, home care provider, financial institution, or other helping professional. Therefore, it is critical that individuals know how to report cases of abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation for investigation and services.

In Illinois, elder abuse reports alleged financial exploitation, physical abuse, active or passive neglect, and emotional abuse. More often than not, these abuses are targeted at seniors who are no longer able to care for themselves and are unaware that a crime has been committed, such as individuals who suffer from dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. And in most cases, victims are subjected to more than one type of mistreatment.1 As

the elderly population grows in Illinois and across our nation, protecting older citizens continues to be one of the most important responsibilities. Far too often, scam artists perceive senior citizens as vulnerable and relatively wealthy due to their ability to access retirement accounts and pensions. As a result, seniors are frequent targets of a wide range of consumer fraud scams. Sadly, financial exploitation is not the only threat to seniors’ safety. Physical and sexual abuse of elderly citizens is far

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Types of abuse •

•

Physical abuse means inflicting physical pain or injury upon an older adult.

to the risk of physical, mental, or emotional harm — except when the older adult has expressed capacity to understand the consequences and intent to forego such care.

Confinement means restraining or isolating an older adult, other than for medical reasons.

•

Sexual abuse means touching, fondling, intercourse, or any other sexual activity with an older adult, when the older adult is unable to understand, unwilling to consent, threatened or physically forced. Emotional abuse means verbal assaults, threats of abuse, harassment or intimidation.

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Passive neglect means the caregiver’s failure to provide an older adult with life’s necessities, including, but not limited to, food, clothing, shelter, or medical care.

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Willful deprivation means willfully denying an older adult medication, medical care, shelter, food, a therapeutic device, or other physical assistance, and thereby exposing that person

Financial exploitation means the misuse or withholding of an older adult’s resources by another, to the disadvantage of the elderly person, or the profit or advantage of someone else.

To address these issues, The Elder Law and Miscellaneous Remedies Division (ELMR) was established by Chief Judge Timothy C. Evans. The ELMR Division was established by the Circuit of Cook County to support older adults involved in legal proceedings. Under the leadership of Honorable Patricia Banks, Presiding Judge of the ELMR Division, this division was established to hear matters that involve the following in which a litigant is age 60 or older: the Adult Protective Services Act; the Illinois Power of Attorney Act; Domestic Violence offenses; and certain criminal offenses in which the victim is 60 or older. It includes three (3) initiatives: Elder Protection Courts; the Cook County Elder Justice Center (CCEJC); and Community Outreach Programs designed to prevent and detect elder abuse.

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The ELMR Division operates in the Richard J. Daley Center, 50 West Washington Street, for civil matters; George N. Leighton Criminal Court Building, 2600 South California Avenue, for criminal abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation; and Domestic Violence Court, 555 West Harrison Street, for Domestic Violence matters. In conjunction with the ELMR Division, there is an Elder Justice Center that offers: •

Information and support to help elderly persons avoid abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation

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Referrals to appropriate legal assistance and social service agencies

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Community outreach to detect and prevent elder abuse

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Case management and coordination

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Victim advocacy for Domestic Violence and criminal matters

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Counseling and a neutral environment to discuss problems and allocations of abuse

Judge Banks, member of the Circuit Court’s Executive Committee, member of the American Bar Association Commission on Law and Aging, 1

“Elder abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation is a crime of the 21st century, yet it is under the radar.” recipient of the 2014 CDEL Impact Award for the Center for Disability and Elder Law, among many other appointments and awards, graciously shared her office with me for more than an hour discussing her passion for Elder Law and her mission to ensure there is access to services that increase the quality of life for seniors, particularly those who merely need support and protection from those who prey and take advantage of their vulnerabilities. Judge Banks reinforced that “elder abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation is a crime of the 21st century, yet it is under the radar.” Through the efforts of the Cook County Elder Justice Center (CCEJC), the goal is to “instill in all elderly litigants a sense of dignity, value, respect and self-determination through personalized attention and community support.”

www.CityofChicago.org/city/en/dept/fss. What You Need to Know About Elder Abuse.

2 www.illinois.gov/aging.

ELMR judges and court staff are trained to be sensitive to the vulnerability of elder litigants. They are trained to identify and respond to underlying issues and root causes of presenting issues. For this reason, all seniors should take advantage of the services that are available to them. If you have concerns, or are in need of support, feel free to contact the CCEJC at (312) 603-9233. To report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation, please call the Illinois Department on Aging’s 24-Hour Elder Abuse Hotline at (866) 800-1409. Callers should be prepared to report the alleged victim’s name and address, what happened, where and when it happened, and who the suspected abuser might be. While reporting is voluntary for most individuals, certain professionals are mandated to report their concerns of elder abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation. WP

SIS. CANDACE R. JACKSON, ESQ. A POINT OF LEGAL BLACKNESS

Ferguson and the Feds:

How the Federal Government Is a Part of the Problem and the Solution After a Ferguson, Missouri, police officer shot unarmed Black teenager Michael Brown six times and killed him on August 9, 2014, citizens of the majority Black St. Louis suburb held protests, peaceful marches, and vigils. There were also reports of looting, gunfire, and arson.

security, declared a state of emergency, imposed a curfew, and called in the Missouri National Guard. Media from around the world, national civil rights leaders, and sympathetic protestors descended on Ferguson. Within days, there was a federal government response to the Saturday shooting and its aftermath. On Tuesday, President Obama issued a statement during his summer vacation. On Wednesday, the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice and the FBI, also a Justice Department agency, announced that U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder commanded the two offices to conduct an independent investigation of the shooting to determine if any federal civil rights laws were violated. This way, local authorities trying to determine if Missouri state laws were broken would not be the only authorities digging into what happened. Teams of FBI agents began interviewing witnesses and collecting information just days after the shooting.

Within two days, nearly 300 police officers flooded the streets of Ferguson. Police arrested dozens of people, including bystanders just trying to document what was happening. Police took the streets in armored trucks and used tear gas and rubber bullets to break up crowds. Police even arrested, and sprayed with tear gas, journalists and an elected official. For several days, clashes between police â&#x20AC;&#x201C; clad in all kinds of protective gear, dressed in camouflage and gas masks, backed by SWAT units, and with shotguns, M-4 rifles, and smoke bombs in tow â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and protestors continued. The Missouri governor put the Missouri Highway Patrol in charge of

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On Thursday, President Obama spoke about Ferguson at a press conference. He talked about the need to address “the gulf” between minorities and law enforcement. Also on Thursday, Attorney General Holder offered local and state police in Ferguson technical assistance with crowd control, which Justice Department officials began providing shortly thereafter. The next week, Attorney General Holder announced that a top medical examiner from the U.S. military would conduct an autopsy of Brown, independent of the autopsies ordered by the police and by Brown’s family. Holder also said that the “the selective release of sensitive information that we have seen in this case so far is troubling to me”; that the Justice Department’s independent investigation is a “critical step in restoring trust between law enforcement and the community”; and that the violence must end. Later that week, President Obama and Attorney General Holder announced that Holder would travel to Ferguson to meet with Brown’s family, community leaders, federal investigators, and federal prosecutors. The day Holder arrived in Ferguson, he published an op-ed in the St. Louis PostDispatch, eleven days after Brown’s

death. In the piece, he acknowledged, “at the core of [the] demonstrations is a demand for answers about the circumstances of this young man’s death and a broader concern about the state of our criminal justice system.” He pledged that the Justice Department “will continue to stand with [the] community.” While in Ferguson, Holder told community members: “I am the Attorney General of the United States, but I am also a Black man.” By the beginning of September, the Justice Department began an investigation into recent Ferguson police practices, looking for any patterns of racial bias, excessive use of force, and other problems. If Ferguson police officials have a pattern and practice of violating of the U.S. Constitution or other federal law, this would create an entirely new lawsuit against the Ferguson police department. There have been 20 investigations like this by the Justice Department in the last five years, including of the New Orleans police department. This is more than double the number of such investigations under President George W. Bush. So, undoubtedly, as Attorney General Holder stated in his op-ed, the Justice Department has committed its “full resources” to the investigation of Brown’s shooting.

However the more surprising, more troubling story is how the police came to be armed against the Black citizens of Ferguson in the first place. The answer: the same federal government that is so aggressively investigating what happened there. The Justice Department is one of three federal agencies that has supplied local police forces with the military weapons we witnessed being used against every day people in Ferguson. The federal programs to outfit local police departments with military equipment and grants to buy such equipment began during the failed “war on drugs” and has continued as part of the war on terror, with little opposition and too little oversight. Senators finally called a hearing about this situation in midSeptember. It turns out billions of federal dollars have gone to local police forces in the form of equipment and grants. The hearing revealed that there has been virtually no evaluation of whether this type of assistance or equipment was or is needed, and local police forces are turning into the type of paramilitary forces the nation got a startling glimpse of in Ferguson. There are three such programs in existence. One is a Defense

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Department program that gives away surplus military equipment to local police departments at no cost, or very little cost. The other two are Department of Justice and Department of Homeland Security programs that give away money to state and local law enforcement agencies. Officials who run the programs admitted to senators at the hearing that they had no way to track the equipment or money the federal government supplied to local police departments, and no way to ensure that local police officers knew how to use the equipment. Some particularly bad examples that emerged at the hearing include a one-police officer force in Michigan that received 13 military assault rifles. Even before the hearing, news reports highlighted another example: the police in Keene, New Hampshire, had an armored vehicle to protect against threat of terrorism at the annual pumpkin festival. As journalist Ruth Marcus commented on PBS Newshour the first week of the protests in Ferguson, “If one good thing comes out of this week,” she said, “it would be dialing back this militarization of police forces that would do better dealing with broken windows.” Officials that run these programs defend the programs as helping

local authorities to deal with natural disasters or to defend against drug dealers and hostage-takers that would otherwise outgun local police. To this, however, one senator asked: what would a local police department need with the 12,000 bayonets the Defense Department has given out? The federal official testifying said she could think of no reason. There seemed to be enough lawmakers and witnesses at the hearing that agreed the government needs restrictions on programs like

these, as well as oversight, training, and accountability. There could be legislation addressing these issues in the next couple of years. Hopefully, peace in Ferguson will not cause the spotlight to dim on the issue of police militarization. Until the issue is addressed, we see once again that the same hand that giveth (federal investigations, civil rights prosecutions, “full support” of our community) can be the same hand that taketh away (the right to peaceably assemble and be governed as citizens and not occupied enemies). WP

NATASHA L. ROBINSON, ESQ. A LEGAL POINT OF VIEW

“The Michael Brown Case: What We Know (And Don’t Know) For Sure”

attributes is my ability to think critically and analyze thoroughly. At times, it can be my worst enemy and I can overthink something if given enough time and space. This is the battle I was fighting as the days of information about this killing came in piecemeal, one video followed by witness statements, followed by press conferences, followed by pictures and autopsy reports. I felt the pain and listened to the propaganda; I observed the protests and political posturing. My heart and my mind engaged in a tug of war. I empathized with the family and community of Michael Brown, but I could not turn my lawyer mind off. There were too many unanswered questions, and the more I thought I had an answer, the more the questions came. Some questions were:

Saturday, August 9, 2014: This is the first time I hear the name of “Michael Brown,” and the location of a city in Missouri called “Ferguson.” I blink in amazement as I watch the news stories that report a White male police officer shot an unarmed Black young man. “Seriously?” I scream in shock as the earliest details of what was reported as an execution began to roll out to the public. I wait to hear more, because I am listening with the eyes of a citizen, but processing with the mind of an attorney. It is common knowledge that for most people, their best attribute can oftentimes be their worst trait. I can understand that belief completely, because one of my best

•

Did Officer Darren Wilson have probable cause to stop and question Michael Brown?

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What actually transpired in the exchange between Michael Brown and Officer Wilson?

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What did Officer Wilson believe Michael Brown to be doing to shoot at him six times?

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When looking at the autopsy diagram of Michael Brown, why are all of the entry and exit wounds only on his right side?

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Why did the Obama administration conduct an autopsy only to refuse to share the findings with the family and the public?

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Which witnesses are to be believed?

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Why has it taken so long for local authorities to charge Officer Wilson with the murder of Michael Brown?

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I’m sure these questions are not questions that only I have asked. These questions are not solely questions of inquiry reserved for legal professionals, but they lay the foundation for the ultimate question asked by us all.

Did Officer Wilson murder Michael Brown? Of course he did, you say. Yes, Officer Wilson shot Michael Brown repeatedly until he died. However, I did not ask if Officer Wilson killed Michael Brown. I asked if Officer Wilson MURDERED Michael Brown. You might ask why I make that distinction. My response is because the law makes that distinction.

into a murder. The mental state in this statute on murder is “knowingly.”

uncomfortably say that we don’t know if Officer Wilson murdered Michael Brown

This is how the Missouri Statutes defines knowingly: A person "acts knowingly," or with knowledge, (1) with respect to his conduct or to attendant circumstances when he is aware of the nature of his conduct or that those circumstances exist; or (2) with respect to a result of his conduct when he is aware that his

This feeling of discomfort, anchored by frustration and helplessness is understandable and justified. Why? The reasons are painful and profound. The Huffington Post provides a small list from the litany of those African Americans who have been the victims of violent police misconduct as recently as August of this year:

“A person commits the crime of murder in the first degree if he knowingly causes the death of another person after deliberation upon the matter.”

According to Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 565 entitled “Offenses Against the Person,” Section 565.020, the offense of murder is as follows: “A person commits the crime of murder in the first degree if he knowingly causes the death of another person after deliberation upon the matter.” The two important words in this sentence are “knowingly” and “deliberation.” The mental state is what turns the killing of someone

conduct is practically certain to cause that result. Deliberation is defined by Missouri law as “cool reflection for any length of time no matter how brief.” Arguably then, Officer Wilson would be guilty of the murder of Michael Brown in the first degree if he is aware that his conduct or circumstances surrounding his conduct would result in the death of Michael Brown after coolly reflecting on the situation for either a brief or delayed amount of time. When we apply what we know about this case, or rather what has been reported to us by the media, we can safely and somewhat

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Eric Garner, the chokehold victim who died while New York City police attempted to arrest him for allegedly selling untaxed cigarettes;

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John Crawford, a 22-yearold gunned down by police in an Ohio Walmart while holding a BB gun he'd picked up off the shelf;

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Ezell Ford, a 25-year-old allegedly shot in the back by Los Angeles police during an "investigative stop";

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•

Dante Parker, a 36-year-old who died in police custody in San Bernardino, California after being tased while resisting arrest.

Michael Brown is the latest name on a list that is growing by the day. Legally, we have no answers to key questions that remain unanswered in his case. There are three facts we know for sure: (1) Michael Brown is dead; (2) Officer Wilson killed him; and (3) the law will be the determining factor in either rendering Michael Brown justice through Officer Wilson’s indictment of the killing or legally reaffirming what Officer Wilson believed he was authorized to do as a police officer. Regardless of what we believe about Officer Wilson’s actions, the fact remains that the number of deaths of African Americans at the hands of police officers are astronomically high and inexplicably common. Consider the following: •

According to the FBI’s most recent accounts of “justifiable homicide,” in the seven years between 2005 and 2012, a White officer used deadly force against a Black person almost two times every week. Of those Black persons killed, nearly one in every

five were under 21 years of age. For comparison, only 8.7 percent of White people killed by police officers were younger than 21. •

•

According to Lulu Chang of Bustle.com, at the time of Brown’s death, he was at least the fifth unarmed Black man to be killed by police in August. According to USA Today, “while the racial analysis is striking, the database it's based on has been long considered flawed and largely incomplete. The killings are self-reported by law enforcement and not all police departments participate so the database undercounts the actual number of deaths. Plus, the numbers are not audited after they are submitted to the FBI and the statistics on "justifiable" homicides have conflicted with independent measures of fatalities at the hands of police.” Furthermore, out of approximately 17,000 law enforcement agencies in the United States, a staggering 750 agencies contribute to the FBI database.

Each study varies in its findings and leaves more questions than

answers. In essence, what this means is that the likelihood of there being more “Michael Browns” is a reality rather than a distant possibility. Shootings of African Americans by police officers are no longer an anomaly. Statistically, it happens at least twice a week. And that’s just the shootings we know about… So what do we do while we wait for justice to prevail? How do we deal with the knowing of the unknown? I have no certain answers, but I do have a few suggestions. Suggestion #1: We must never forget! If we are to make the observation about the killings of our people in the African American community by police and laypersons alike, we should also acknowledge the manner in which we protest so loudly and convincingly in the beginning, only to fade over time. In recent years, we start off so strong, and then our commitment and intensity wane. The deaths that outrage us are reduced to catchy hashtags and memorable soundbytes instead of long lasting reform and a galvanizing movement. Don’t believe me? Think about the last time you have heard any news story about Trayvon Martin. Think about the last time you have heard or read about any legislative reform, either in the state of Florida, or any other state, designed to amend or completely eradicate

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“Stand Your Ground” law. That’s because we have a history of letting the media determine our agenda, our priorities, our response to the injustices that plague our nation. We

should never become commonplace in our society. Selective charging of crimes committed by public officials and private citizens should never be discretionary or disparate.

includes monitoring the number of reports made to Chicago’s Independent Police Review Authority, the independent agency separate from the Chicago Police

“Most of the stories we hear about the unethical and illegal misconduct of police officers are oftentimes not the first time an allegation has been made about that particular police officer.” cannot forget about these injustices and have to develop within us the spirit of endurance, of understanding that impactful change is the result of impactful and intentional action, in word and in deed. The power of our votes and our voices should never be underestimated or underutilized. Let’s use our voices and our votes to speak with our legislators, those who promised during election time to work on our behalf. Hold them to their promises! Police brutality

Hold our leaders accountable and never forget, together we can make a difference.

Department that investigates and reviews all allegations of police misconduct.

Suggestion #2: We resist the urge to react! Anyone who has engaged in tactical combat will tell you that in most cases, the best defense is a good offense. Reacting to situations such as police brutality is not as impactful in the long run as being proactive. What does proactivity look like as it relates to the criminal justice system? It

Most of the stories we hear about the unethical and illegal misconduct of police officers are oftentimes not the first time an allegation has been made about that particular police officer. Monitoring the number of allegations and incidents of police officers will yield a possible pattern that can be halted in its tracks. As more

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evidence is provided, the likelihood increases that the police officer will be relieved of his or her duties before someone gets seriously hurt or killed. Proactivity looks like the re-initiation and strengthening of our neighborhood watches. When we see our neighbor as we see ourselves, then we will engage in an outcry of the mistreatment of any individual, regardless of whether we know them and whether their mistreatment is deemed newsworthy. Every life has value and it is incumbent upon us to realize being proactive means that if we are to hold others accountable to valuing the lives of our people, we have to have that same regard for our own. Suggestion #3: We must acknowledge what we know and seek the answers to what we do not. Days ago, Officer Wilson testified in front of the grand jury in Missouri as to his version of events. The grand jury is entrusted with the responsibility of sorting through testimony to determine if enough evidence exists to charge Wilson with murder or any lessor criminal charges. It is important to note that even if Wilson is charged with murder, all of the evidence pertinent to the case is subject to the doctrines of relevance and admissibility. As laypersons, we may believe a piece of evidence is extremely important. However, the rules of evidence define relevancy and admissibility differently. Additionally, if certain facts are important, but rules of

evidence would have to be violated in order to admit that evidence, then itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very likely a judge would prevent that evidence from being admitted, either because it may prejudice the defendant or it may not be in compliance with the rules of evidence. As stated earlier, what we know about the Michael Brown case is that Officer Wilson killed him, but we do not know all of the evidence, how it was collected, and what evidence would lead to the finding of Wilsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s guilt or innocence. All we can do is wait and pray the truth will come to the light. Unfortunately, as inconsistencies between witnessesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; accounts of what happened arise, it appears we may never really know what happened between Michael Brown and Officer Wilson. Nevertheless, as the legal system begins to sift through all of the evidence, we wait with expectation and do what is necessary to ensure the instances of those killed by police comes to a halt. August 9th and the weeks that followed should not be the only definitive moment where our rage magnifies and then as time passes, what was an intense flame dims to an extinguishable flicker of light. It is incumbent to not only effect change, but to become the change we seek. WP

SIS. CANDACE R. JACKSON, ESQ. POINTING TO RELAXATION

Free Fall Fun: Open House Chicago and the Chicago Cultural Center

Sites have changed each year since the Chicago Architecture Foundation began sponsoring the festival in 2011. Some buildings remain on the list each year; others drop off and new ones are added.

This quarter, I would like to highlight one of my favorite new fall traditions which takes place across the city one weekend every October for FREE, Open House Chicago. I would also like to highlight one my favorite FREE buildings in Chicago with FREE events all of the time: the Chicago Cultural Center.

I recommend planning your adventure before you begin because sometimes there are lines to get inside some of the more popular buildings, a few sites require advance registration, and more importantly, it is impossible to conquer it all in two days. Sites are generally open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., but individual hours can vary. Find out everything you need to know here: www.openhousechicago.org.

Don’t Miss “Open House Chicago” on October 18-19, 2014

The Chicago Cultural Center Is a Gem Every Day of the Year

Have you ever wondered what the Nation of Islam’s headquarters on Stony Island Avenue looked like inside? Ever wanted to worm your way inside the members-only area at the House of Blues or the original Sears Tower? Look out from the top of the Kemper building downtown, whose observation deck has been closed for decades now? See what developers are doing with the land where the old U.S. Steel plant was?

When I am caught in a downpour in the Loop with out of town guests, or I am searching for some unexpected discovery or diversion during a break from work, or someone asks me what to do with the few extra minutes or hours they have to spare while they are waiting for some other activity downtown to begin, the Chicago Cultural Center is my answer. It is located at 78 E. Washington Street, between Michigan and Wabash Avenues, downtown.

Open House Chicago is your free ticket in. For two days, you can get behind-the-scenes access to 150 buildings across Chicago. There are historic homes, private clubs, churches and synagogues, hotels, theaters, schools, architecture and design firms, and more open all weekend long in the following 18 Chicago neighborhoods: Downtown, Bridgeport/Back of the Yards, Bronzeville, Edgewater, Garfield Park/North Lawndale, Gold Coast, Goose Island, Hyde Park, Lincoln Park, Lincoln Square/Ravenswood, Near West Side/West Town, Pilsen, Prairie Avenue, Pullman, Rogers Park, South Shore, Ukrainian Village, and Uptown.

Here, you can take in art exhibits, watch performances, view a beautiful Tiffany ceiling, gaze upon Millennium Park, enjoy programs just for seniors, pick up all of the city maps and tourist information you ever wanted, and more . . . all in one building, at no cost. You used to be able to browse a library of Chicago authors and window shop for unique Chicago gifts there too. Now you can even interview a loved one and have the interview stored WP in the Library of Congress. The center has a coffee and snack shop too but that is about the only thing there that costs money!

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Free tours of the “Loop.” Anyone can enjoy free walking tours of downtown on Fridays, Saturdays, or Sundays from the Chicago Greeter “Insta-Greeter” service at the Chicago Cultural Center. Just stop by the Visitor Information Center from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on those days. The Visitor Information Center also contains countless free maps, brochures, and flyers about sightseeing and things to do in Chicago and in Illinois. The staff there can also answer any of your tourism questions, even if you live here.

Below is just a taste of what the Chicago Cultural Center has to offer: Art. The center always has several art exhibits up at time. This past August and September, for example, the center featured the work of Hebru Brantley, an African American artist who has gained international acclaim and whose work has been bought by the likes of superstars Will Smith and Jay-Z. Music, Theater, Dance, Film, Lectures. There is a live, free performance nearly every day of the week by local, national, and international artists. You will find a range of people enjoying the performances too – tourists, students, retired folks, downtown workers on their lunch break, and our homeless brothers and sisters who enjoy sitting inside the warm, peaceful building. The schedule is new every month and there is too much to list here, so I recommend stopping by the center for a schedule or logging on to chicagoculturalcenter.org .

Telling OUR stories. If you have ever wanted to interview a parent, child, sibling, close friend, teacher, or neighbor because you thought they had something interesting to share, now is your time and the Chicago Cultural Center is your place. StoryCorps is a national oral history non-profit organization. It is partnering with the City of Chicago and Chicago Public Media to record, preserve, and share the stories of Chicagoans from all walks of life and all neighborhoods. You can hear interviews that have been recorded by everyday citizens from around the country every Friday morning on NPR’s Morning Edition (WBEZ 91.5 FM) and local, Chicago interviews on WBEZ 91.5 FM as well. To record your interview, all you have to do is reserve the StoryCorps “booth” at the Chicago Cultural Center (go online at chicago.storycorps.org to make your reservation). Next, prepare for your interview and bring the person you want to interview to the recording booth. When you are done, you will be able to take home a broadcast-quality CD of your interview and, if you give permission, StoryCorps will archive a copy of your interview at the Library of Congress too. The booth is open on Thursdays from 12:30-7 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. It will remain open until 2016.

Architecture. The building itself is gorgeous, which is why couples choose to celebrate weddings there! It has mosaics, marble . . . the works. It was originally the city’s first public library when it was built in 1897, and it is still home to the world’s largest (Louis Comfort) Tiffany stained-glass dome ceiling, which anyone can walk up the stairs or ride the elevator to see. Free 45-minute building tours take place Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, at 1:15 p.m. Just for seniors. Did you know there was a senior center at the Chicago Cultural Center too? It is called Renaissance Court. Find it on first floor, open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. According to the City of Chicago, “Renaissance Court is an award-winning senior center which presents a variety of enriching and enjoyable cultural, educational, health, and fitness programs for adults age 55 and older. It offers an opportunity to renew past interests, learn new skills, and make new friends. The focus of the programming is on the arts: the visual and performing arts, literature, music, and more make up the core of the many high quality classes and events.”

The Chicago Cultural Center is a wheelchair accessible building. Hours are Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.–7 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m.–6 p.m., and Sunday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. The center is closed on holidays. Now grab a friend or loved one and discover the Chicago Cultural Center – again or for the first time – this fall! WP

REV. DR. L. BERNARD JAKES

THE FINAL POINT... WE HAVE THIS RESPONSIBILITY

Who’s Oppressing African Americans Again? Summer has come and gone, but not without its share of situations and circumstances that have tested the fortitude of African Americans in this country. The most noted was the shooting of an unarmed teenager in Ferguson, Missouri. The civil unrest following the shooting of this unarmed teenager by a Ferguson police officer will be inserted into the historical archives of America, because, as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. prophetically offered, A riot is the language of the unheard. After the protest found a place of calm, after the funeral of the unarmed teenager, coupled with the deceased teenager’s mother asking for a day of peace and rest, many organizations stressed the importance of the residents of Ferguson to turn their street battles into ballots. While speaking with Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr., he offered his dismay with the responses from many of the residents that they would not register and they would not vote. The second most noted situation and circumstance that has tested the fortitude of African Americans is in the continued gun violence in Chicago. Although gun violence is high in every urban city, particularly in majority African American communities, Chicago continues to serve as the poster child for gun violence due to the high number of shootings and fatalities. During the civil unrest in Ferguson, a 9-year-old boy was shot multiple times by a gang member who, as we learned a few days before this column, began the day by getting

with his fellow gang members and deciding to go shoot rival gang members. The boy was shot because, as the Chicago Tribune reports, the alleged shooter believed the 9-year-old boy was signaling the rival gang of their intentions. This 9-year-old boy has been the youngest fatality due to gang violence. While protesting was taking place in Ferguson, a few members of clergy, along with some residents of the community, had a press conference and denounced the violence that had befallen to this young boy, while offering a reward for the shooter. Outside of the press conference, no meaningful movement has occurred by the “outraged” African American residents in the areas noted for exponential growth in violence committed with a gun. The writer is well aware of the systems of oppression that have been created to maintain the status quo of the rich remaining rich, while building their wealth off the backs of the poor. The wealth building systems include, but are not limited to: the school to prison pipeline; the influx of illegal guns into Black and Brown communities; the lack of resources to schools in Black and Brown communities; jails being first class hotels, while Black and Brown communities have second class schools… these, along with other systems, contribute to the longlasting sustainability of those who have power through financial oppression. It has less to do with racism and more to do with classism. Where African Americans lose

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out is due to the fact that African Americans are the easiest targets, because African Americans allow themselves to be the pawn in a game where African Americans should be king. The operative word is: ALLOW! When you have African Americans refusing to register to vote, or, if registered, refusing to vote, it allows those in power to levy upon African Americans what they feel is good for African Americans. To hear that some young and older people in Ferguson

unarmed Black men…nothing new. Pipeline to prison…nothing new. Lack of educational resources… nothing new. First class jails— second class schools…nothing new. Black clergy selling out the community…nothing new. There is nothing new with how African Americans are being oppressed. What is new is how there is not a national movement that conjoins African Americans in Los Angeles, Chicago, Brooklyn, Flint, West Helena, etc., whereby African Americans are speaking the same language, fighting the same fight,

“We are hungry.” refuse to register, yet they continue to call for fairness, is senseless at best. To engage those in the community where the writer serves as pastor, and teach them the importance of casting their votes, yet their response is, It doesn’t matter because nothing is going to change, articulates satisfaction with being a 21st century slave to a 16th century system. The time has changed, but the system of oppression levied upon African Americans has not. What this suggest is that for six centuries, African Americans have not engaged and changed the process, whereby oppressors would have to create a more innovative way to oppress African Americans. Killing

and producing liberating results. The new fight is not only to march in protest; it’s to march to the ballot boxes. Liberation for African Americans is as close as a voting ballot. I am sorry to say this, but Ferguson will not change if her residents of color do not cast their votes, and why should it!? The writer has two teenage children, and one day they came and said, “We are hungry.” The writer looked at them and replied, “Go in the kitchen and get something to eat.” The two teenage children refused because they wanted their mother or me to do it. Some time passed, and finally the writer heard pots clinging. The two

teenagers went and made dinner. They became so hungry that they decided to do something about it. African Americans must be like the writer’s teenagers. When African Americans are truly tired, they will not wait for someone to do for them what they can do for themselves. As it relates to Ferguson, when the residents want more African American law enforcement officers, City Council men and women, and a grand jury that represents the citizenry of Ferguson, they will register and subsequently vote. When African Americans in Chicago turn out in mass numbers, as they did in 2008 and 2012, and as they voted for their native son, President Barack Hussein Obama, a political shift will occur in the city. The mayor appoints the chief of police, CPS superintendent, and other officers that serve the areas African Americans feel they are underrepresented. The power is in African Americans galvanizing and mobilizing their vote. This begins when a young African American person graduates from high school. Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr. says they should have a diploma in one hand, and a voter’s registration card in the other. With the information provided, the writer will ask again: Who’s oppressing African Americans again? WP

Senior Corner

Keeping Our Seniors Informed •

Peoples Energy is performing safety inspections on all Peoples Gas meters and service pipes in your home. Be sure to schedule yours as soon as you are notified.

•

If your prescription service has a mail order program, consider using it as you may be able to save on costs and refills are automatic.

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Check with your local police station to discard unused prescription drugs. Do not dispose of them in your trash or your septic system.

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Check for any recall notices on your vehicles. Go to www.recall.carfax.com to check for free recalls.

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If you live alone, get a home monitoring and medical alert device to wear around your neck or wrist in case of emergency.

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CEDA began taking applications for ComEd and Peoples Energy bills in October and November.

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