Dr. Mark T. Jones Apostle & Founder Manifestations Worldwide Inc
There is undoubtedly no greater catalyst for growth, change, and advancement, than pain. Pain has a way of provoking us to address issues that we formerly would not address. Pain in the development of muscle and strength is an absolute necessity. Pain sometimes provokes in us a level of adventure that we normally would not allow absent of it. There are some things that we know we need to change, that we fail to engage until we have had a good dosage of pain and suffering. I realize that pain is undesirable and that this is probably not the most exciting information for you to be reading right now, but I offer you this advice. Pain is inevitable, but growth is a choice to respond properly to the suffering that God allows. Grow in grace and in the knowledge of the Lord.
Very often, people of purpose and destiny fail to leave an ineradicable mark on either society or mankind, only to retreat to the heavens without maximizing their God-given and intended potential. Dr. Mark T. Jones, Sr. is not only maximizing what God has deposited in him, but he is also empowering the people of God to fulfill their purpose on the earth. In this season, he is a voice for the voiceless. His messages compel the attention of those who seek to discover their purpose in life and launch their destiny.
A MOTHER is a woman who has conceived, given birth to, or raised a child in the role of a parental figure. Because of the complexity and differences of a mother's social, cultural, and religious definitions and roles, it is challenging to define a mother to suit a universally accepted meaning. But; to the best of my abilities through my life experiences, I can say that my mother Lady Lisa Jones has been the most amazing provider, friend, and listener that I could possibly ask for. Yes, we disagree at times, but that’s life...build a bridge and get over it. My mother has done the best she can and I appreciate her for it all. No matter what I go through, I can always count on her to be there for me. Ever since I was a little girl she’s been a great role model. She was never strung out on drugs; prostituting or letting guys fondle me inappropriately! Instead, she has protected me from all the perverted things of this world. I appreciate my mother so much because she chose to keep me. When she was pregnant with me, she battled between keeping me or aborting me because the doctor told her and my father that I would have Down Syndrome. Through it all, my mother kept faith in God and had me. Now, at the age of 16, I will always be greatly appreciative of that very moment she believed in me. Growing from an embryo to a matured butterfly with wings I will always love my mommy! Do me a favor, if your mother is still alive and you aren’t close to her, please don’t let a moment slip away where you can’t show love and appreciation to the woman that brought you into this world. No matter how young or old you are, because of your mother giving birth to you, you are e alive today. If your mother is no longer with you, find a woman you look up to and show her that love. And, if you are close to your mother, keep treating her with the love and respect she deserves. HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY! Marlesia “Marley” Jones
Marlesia Jones Lady Lisa Jones
The Voice of Manifestation Newsletter’s purpose is to glorify the Lord in everything we do. We not only keep the church family informed of upcoming events at CFM and in the community, but we also spread the gospel of Christ. The month of May features “Mothers’ Day” celebration. Here at the Center, we have many mothers that we would like to spotlight because of their contributions to the life of the partners. Consequently, we chose Mother Graham to be on the front cover. This mother, like many others, has a great testimony you don't want to miss. We encourage you to read this powerful impartation; for your life will never be the same.
The team is comprised of the following: Sis. Kayla Vickers, Sis. Denise Griffin, Sis. Wilma Weems, Sis. Charlene Pickets and Sis. Yesmin Negron. We are blessed to be the VOM Newsletter team and very excited about what God is doing. We are continually growing spiritually, always seeking God in everything we do. We believe that God is using each one of us to impart into your life. Indeed, we are going across the country and around the world! Mark 16:15 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. VOM Newsletter
A MOTHER’S LOVE
Jennifer Cole
A Mothers' love is likened to a vine It's the miracle to our life line It bares the leaves of patience Unselfishness and goodness A Mothers' love is full of time As she prays with no words of hate combine To her heart she holds us dear With all her faith in God she fears She likens us to the Angels above As she cradles us in love. She watches us grow day by day Teaching us love and respect along the way. A Mothers' love cannot be defined For in each mother there is that vine In her kind and loving way Without stretched hands she always pray Oh Lord gives me strength To mother with love another day For a Mothers' love Is a fruit from God above. Written by Sister Jennifer Cole
Joette & Patrick St. Jean Have you ever needed your car fixed or your home air conditioning unit serviced? Have you ever needed to speak to a lawyer or see a doctor? Are you an accountant, computer technician, or landscaper? "It's in the House" ministry can connect you to someone who provides these services. What makes "It's in the House" ministry so amazing is that the providers of these services are a group of Christian people. These individuals are willing to serve with honesty and integrity. "It's in the House" is asking CFM family to be part of this great ministry. How? If you are an accountant, lawyer, technician, mechanic, or have a trade, please sign up at the welcome center or drop your business card in the glass jar. We look forward to hearing from you and can't wait to share your skills and services with others.
Charlene Pickens
Hawaiian Style Shrimp Creole This is a delicious recipe from a little free recipe book that I picked up while shopping at everyone’s favorite store. Yes, Wal Mart. I found this book about 2 years ago and I still follow this same recipe with good results. Well, Spring is here and the kids are out for spring Break. And, the summertime is almost here. Now is the time to bring out some quick and delicious recipes. This one is not too complicated, but quick and simple. This recipe can be eaten any time; during a nice romantic dinner, dinner with the family or at a party. Whatever and whenever you like, this is sure to please everyone’s taste buds. Don’t eat too much, but have fun and enjoy. It’s time for vacation, Hawaiian style!!!!
Ingredients: 2 tbsp margarine, ½ cup chopped onion, ½ cup red and green peppers, ½ cup chopped celery, 1 lb. raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, 14oz. can diced tomatoes, 4 tsp. cornstarch ½ cup water, ½ tsp. salt, 2 cups cooked rice, ½ tsp ground red pepper
Instructions: Heat the margarine in a medium skillet over medium heat; add onion, celery, and bell peppers. Cook until tender while stirring about 5 minutes. Stir in tomatoes, water, salt, and ground red pepper; bringing to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer 30 minutes. Stir in shrimp, increase heat to medium and bring to a boil. Cook about two minutes. Mix cornstarch with 2tbsp of water then stir mixture into pot let cook for 2 minutes. Serve over cooked rice.
PARTNERS: If you’ve noticed a partner that’s been missing, please email Pastor Antonio Miranda his/her information. Pastor Miranda will contact this partner. antonio.emerge@gmail.com
A Virtuous Woman “Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies.”Proverbs 31:10 Wendolyn & Wilma Weems
She loves unconditional and shows it through every gesture & word she speaks to anyone. Her love goes beyond our family. She developed a group that mentors & nurtures women with low self-esteem and those who have been abused in the past. The mission of S.H.A.R.P (Sisters Helping Another Reach Potential) is to help these women reach their highest potential in order to achieve their life-long goals. Through everything my mother does, she never expects anything in return. It’s been countless times that she stood with open arms and forgiveness when let down by family and friends. My love and appreciation for her is so strong that I strive
daily to be just like her as she strives to be just like Christ. I describe her as a virtuous woman because her life (personal and business) exhibits: the hospitality of Lydia, a successful business woman and homemaker (Acts 16:14); the closeness in marriage of Ruth (Ruth), boldness of Esther, a praying woman like Hannah (1st Samuel 1:12), and the submission to God’s will like Mary. “Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised” – Proverbs 31:31 by: Wendolyn Weems
getting enough of it, God began to change my desires after I got saved. Gail Boles It wasn’t an easy process! I’ve been through times of serious rejection, ridicule, and attack. I’ve been falsely accused (at times by people I’ve Been Stretched who I deemed close friends), and discouraged by well meaning au“Many are the plans in a man’s thority figures whose approval I heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose greatly craved. I have stood on the that prevails.” Prov 19:21 mountain top and have walked All of my life, I didn’t want to through the dark, lonesome valley. displease anyone. Like most everyAs I reflect back over the one, I wanted to be liked, respected, last 9 years of my life, I can honcared about, etc. But in my own estly say that I’ve been changed for mind, I could never “be” enough. His glory. I no longer crave the Thus, I became dependent upon approval of others and am no longer people’s approval. As long as I was crippled by rejection! For, as the being commended for an accomold song says, “I know whom I have plishment, I felt great. However, if I believed and am persuaded that He wasn’t receiving words of affirmais able to keep that which I’ve comtion, I struggled with an inferiority mitted unto Him against that day”. complex. However, had I not gone through After many years of need- the valley experiences, I most likely ing people’s approval and never would still be more concerned about
pleasing people than pleasing God. I’ve been stretched so much that I don’t even recognize the old person anymore. It’s the “new wine” that flows through my veins! It’s a new “wineskin” that holds the anointing! Man looks at the outward appearance – BUT GOD looks at the heart! Where are you today? Are you living your life in bondage to fear, rejection, or people’s approval?. My sister, let me shout encouragement to you: YOU DON’T HAVE TO LIVE UNDER THE CLOUD OF CONDEMNATION! YOU ARE A CHILD OF THE KING OF KINGS AND THE LORD OF LORDS! It’s not your plan or someone else’s plan that really matters. It is God’s plan; and He is able to use you if you are willing to be used! Be Empowered to Flourish!
As a child growing up, I couldn’t really understand why my mother did what she did. However, as an adult, I’ve grown to understand why and appreciate her even more for being in my life. Looking back; I know it wasn’t always easy, especially when my sisters and I reached our teen years. But, through all the sorrows, she’s never stopped giving and caring. Wilma Weems is a God-fearing woman who relies heavily on the word of the Lord and until this day, it still amazes me how humble she stays even through the worse times.
Mother May Frances Graham was born in Quincy Florida. Growing up, she was perceived as a “Holy Roller” and labeled a misfit during most of her life. Within her journey, something was always missing. Nevertheless, she yearned to discover what “it” was. She was raised with her Pentecostal grandmother calling on the name of Jesus, where she first met the Lord. Her blind cousin was the preacher, in the country where she went to church. Her father and stepmother first introduced her to the Baptist church. She later joined the choir with her daughter, Leola. While comparing songs, they would learn their meanings, often noting that there was more to a song than just the words. God blessed her with Leola to keep her strengthened. Discontented with the Baptist church, Mother Graham asked the Lord to lead her to the place she was destined and formed for before the foundations of the earth. Prayer worked and CFM proved to be the place for her! “Take your eyes off of the people”, is what she remembered the Lord telling her. Consequently, Pastor Jones was an answer to her prayers every single service. She laughed as she stated that she made copies of her first time visitor’s tape and distributed it to all of her family & friends. She compared herself to the “woman at the well”, and agrees that CFM is definitely not church as usual. Yet, she knew from the beginning that she found her purpose at CFM. Now, it has been seven years and she still feels like every encounter at CFM is like the first time. “Everyone cannot sit under this word”, she stated, “unless the Holy Spirit draws you!”
Diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis a few years ago, Mother Graham remembers the extremities of her pain and swelling. It also included a misdiagnosis of medication that should have killed her. When Pastor prayed, she heard something popped; then she heard God say “You are in my will”. God was not finished with her. When asked what her favorite teaching series was, Seeing Men as Trees, was her first response. At that time, a lot was going on within her life. Assuredly, the preaching was right on time! As she contemplated her life, she emphasized “If I had known my purpose, things would have been significantly different!” Her advice to women today is to seek the Lord and become a student of His word. Discover why God created you. Many women today are still looking for love in all the wrong places. Women tend to “look for a man”. Mother Graham admonishes these women to focus and set all their attention on the Lord. Allow the light of Christ Jesus to shine through you so that you can be instrumental to the next generation. “Married at a young age, I had nothing within me to spiritually train a child!” Thus, it’s important to allow God to direct you; get connected to the one who created you. “Women, let the husband find you and you seek God!” This season finds Mother Graham focused on living according to the pattern set forth in the Word to show the younger women the path. She is being that example; flourishing and attempting to display God’s path so that others will know that God is true. “Because what I’ve learned, I can certainly share with upcoming generations. He delivered me through the process for me to achieve the purpose and destiny for my life!” Her closing comments center around Psalm 91. We must ensure we are continually abiding under the shadow of His wings. For when we hide in Him, the enemy’s darts and arrows can’t touch you. The future for this remarkable woman of God looks promising! She desires to continue nurturing and developing young people who reach out to her. She has a lot of spiritual daughters at CFM and has a strong desire to minister to them. “You are never too old to learn and we must never stop being touchable and moldable!” Mother Graham, we love you and your tenacious spirit!
Mother May Frances Graham
Reflections on “Manhood” Men today are under so much pressure to measure up and conform to society’s idea of manhood. We hear expressions like, “man up”, “take it on the chin”, or “real men don’t cry”. Where can a “real man” let his “hair hang down” and be transparent? I’ve found that a men’s groups at church is a wonderful place to “chop it up.” A men’s group at a local, biblically sound place of worship is instrumental for the male psyche; because in every other area of life, the temptation to be fake is so great that it’s ridiculous. When I attended a men’s meeting at the Center for Manifestation, I found real brothers dealing with real issues who were-
n’t afraid to say or show that they had weaknesses. I identified with them and didn’t feel as though I was under a microscope. It was a great place to recharge. So many men try to recharge by going home to watch a good family sitcom. But, in these shows, it seems as if the media favors making fathers/husbands look stupid; while the wife, the kids, and even the dog appear smarter and more refined. These damaging images are played over and over nightly, weekly, or in marathons! Regardless of all the inward and outward pressure of being a man, I want to let my brothers know that being a real man is possible. When I refer to a “real man”, I don’t mean the Tarzan (TV’s vine swinging brute), nor the smooth talking player (who dates a dozen women at the same time). No!
When I say a real man, I take my definition from the word of God. A real man is fair and honest in his dealings. He is committed to seeking the truth and places a high value on it according to John 8:32, 1 Corinthians 13:6, 1 Timothy 3:15, 2 Timothy 2:15, and 1 Peter 1:22. The previous verses describe real men as learners; quite the opposite of how men are usually portrayed on television. A real man is also careful in his speech, has a consistent lifestyle, keeps his word, and places his confidence in God. Men, we have value. Never let anyone tell you different. In closing, I am reminded of the words of Jesus which states, “In the world, you will have persecution, but take courage, I have overcome the world.”- John 16:33. By: Bro. Eric Durham
LET’S TALK ABOUT IT... She watches over the ways of her household, and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children rise up and call her blessed. (Proverbs 31:27-28)
to it at all. May 8th is Mothers' Day and it is just one special day set aside for them. I think that most would agree however, that every day should be a celebration for our Mothers. They are a very important part of God's plan and were designed to fill the role of the nurturer in the family.
May is the month designated to honor all the mothers in our lives. The main intent is to show them how much we care and adSurprise that special mom in mire them. I feel that the real inyour life on this day, by doing tent is for us to just love on them, something significant. Start with celebrate them and bless them. something small like washing the An interesting historical dishes, ordering or making dinner fact is that Mother's Day actually and making her day less stressful. started as a day of thanks to mom Treat her to a day at the movies or without any commercialism (i.e. spa. Do whatever you can do to flowers, candy, gifts etc.) attached make the day extra special.
It is the little things that often mean so much generally because moms don't normally expect much compared to what they give so freely. A good rule of thumb is to make it a habit to do these things for that special mom in your life throughout the year. Always make her feel like the precious gem that she is!
Sis. Denise Griffin
Prophetess Michelle’s fervent pursuit, passion, and reverence for the things of God have enabled her to flow in excellence as an anointed servant, teacher, facilitator, speaker and preacher, prayer warrior, and mentor. Since 1997, the Lord has catapulted her to proclaim the Gospel to the ends of the Prophetess Michelle Guess earth;. While ministering in Africa, India, Europe, Belize, New Mexico Founder Reviving the Stones Prophetic Ministries and throughout the United States, she has touched many lives in speaking life to dead situations and witnessing their transformations. Licensed as a minister in July, 2003 and consecrated into the office of a Prophet in May, 2005 by Apostle Jones, she currently leads the Altar Ministry and Special Events Ministry. Prophetess Michelle also is founder/director of Upon this Rock – School of the Prophets where prophets are cultivated and mentored into their prophetic destiny. Having escaped a traumatic past of molestation, domestic violence, criminal activity, and a myriad of trials and tribulations; the Lord uses these sufferings for testimonials to women. Her desire is to provide shelter for abused and battered women as well as a career development center which will empower them to transition resourcefully from oppression to independence. Prophetess Michelle also currently serves as volunteer Chaplin with State of Florida Justice Center where she counsels abused and battered women. She is a Certified Guardian Ad Litem Advocate for abused and neglected children. Moreover, she is the mother of Jazmine N. Guess and Regina Camarda with two grandchildren, Jayden and Jaya.
The Lord has empowered the ministry to cultivate and mentor prophets into their destiny and to train them of their purpose to under gird Apostolic vision according to the Word of God. Revive! The breath of God breathes upon you. “You shall not die, but Live.”
ion t a r e n e g t nex e h t e r a e W
Next generation kids news! HERE is what’s happening……. Back to Basics…..Our Monthly Series:
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ALL OF OUR KIDS BORN IN MAY!11
God Made Us Like Himself — Genesis 1:26-2:24 Week 1—God wanted to make someone just like Himself. God said, “Let Us make man in Our image.”
First, God of made a special place for people to live. God made the earth.
Then, God made Adam. He breathed His life into Adam
Adam was the very first man
Week 2—God knew that Adam needed a friend and helper
God showed Adam everything He had made
God put Adam to sleep. The He made the very first woman from Adam’s rib. Her name was Eve
We would like to extend a Special Thank You for all the gifts and donations made to our class!
Week 3—God made you just like Himself
You are a spirit, you have a soul and you live in a body
God knew all about you, even before you were born
Week 4—Discussion Time and Lesson Wrap Up
Reading to your child…. Why should you read to your child? Children who read, succeed. The most significant part of a child’s mental growth between the ages of three and seven is the ability to imagine. This is our first step towards teaching our children about our Lord. You should count it a privilege and an honor to sow such a seed.
Children Story Time: AMANDA’S BABY BROTHER One day, Amanda’s Grandfather came to visit. He put Amanda’s baby brother, Michael, on his lap. Amanda sat beside Grandfather. Then Grandfather said, “Michael has eyes just like your daddy’s eyes and hair just like your mommy’s hair. But there is something special about Michael that we cannot see. His little spirit is just like God, too.” The Bible says that God made you just like Himself. You are a spirit, you have a soul and you live in a body. God knew all about you, even before you were born!
TRIBUTE TO BIBLICAL MOTHERS
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ACROS
2. Lost her husband and sons. Mentored and encouraged her daughter-in-law, Ruth; who later became an ancestor of Jesus. (Ruth 1-2)
DOWN
1. She and David bore Solomon. (2 Sam. 12:24) 3. "Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word." (luke 1:38)
4. Guarded the bodies of her dead sons until she got the king's attention and arranged a proper burial for them. (2 Sam. 21:8-11) a convicting, refreshing and empowering word for the Body.
6. After vowing to the Lord, she gave her son, Samuel back to Him. (1 Samuel 1;24)
5. Initially barren in old age, she was the mother of John the Baptist, forerunner to Jesus. (Luke 1:5-25, 57-80)
8. Bore six sons and a daughter to Jacob (Genesis 29:31-33, 30:1-21)
7. Was the mother of Joseph (Genesis 30:22-24)
11. Initially a prostitute, she ended up giving birth to Boaz, the father of Obed, the father of Jesse, the father of David (Matthew 1:5)
9. The mother of Timothy (2nd Timothy 1:3-5) 10. Bore a son from Abraham, named Ismael (Genesis 16:1-15) 12. Bore Abraham's son of promise, Isaac (Genesis 18:11-15, 21:1-3)
Food for Thought
by W. J. Weems Deep is calling unto deep. Run, run with passion! Run with fervency! Run as an Olympiad, helping to light the torch for those along the way. Become ignited with the fire of the Lord’s passion, for as you run, it will be as sparks falling from your feet — spreading fire to the embers that are beginning to die out. Fan the flames; walk through the earth fanning the flames! For the time of the Lord’s return is soon! Lift up your head and receive His mantel, receive His fire, receive His Spirit again. Run to the hills, run to the housetops! God’s glory is housed in you! Run, so that His glory may be emptied out over this earth and reign. Consequently, as you run and empty yourself, His glory will never deplete itself. Like the widow woman with oil, you will always be filled as you run. Be courageous, because fear is a thing of the past. Run! Nothing shall harm you. Nothing shall hinder you this time. The Lord is freeing you as you receive His fullness once more. No hindering mindsets will clutter your atmosphere; receive the Lord in the fullness of measure He has given you. Be not moved; run! As your feet run, you will be lifted high in the heavens; where you are already seated with God’s darling son, Jesus. Catch the wave of His glory now and run! Time is of the essence! Time will be no more as we know it. Yell from the housetops - my Redeemer still lives, He is alive! Do you not see this? Do you not consider? Do you not believe? Do you not know? Jesus is on the way for His bride, the Church! Be ready for His return! RUN!
Our Vision Proverbs 29: 18 “Where there is no vision the people perish. Our vision is to teach the end-time church of the essence of kingdom life, and to communicate deep, spiritual truth in a simplified manner. The Center for Manifestation was released from the heart of God to be a refreshing force to the body of Christ. While the central theme and essence of this ministry is to prepare the way for the second coming of the Lord Jesus Christ, in part this purpose is accomplished by retraining the saints as to what their God-given roles and responsibilities in the church are. It is also the vision of this ministry to bring healing and deliverance to those who have been hindered from moving into position for the latter rains. This is the season for the manifestation of the sons of God!
3102 E. Lake Ave, Tampa, FL 33610, Ph: 813-241-6919, Fax: 813-217-5460