Vol. 25| Iss. 6| June 2021
MERCYME COMING TO TAMPA’S AMALIE ARENA FOR INHALE (EXHALE) TOUR 17
By Kelly Wise Valdes
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Columns: Grace Notes: Hooked On Books: Faith & Footprints: News From The Wire:
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platinum and double platinum in the digital domain. The song has now gone has gone four-times platinum. The band has sold out venues throughout the U.S. and Canada, including Radio City Music Hall and Red Rocks Amphitheatre, and they have appeared on the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Good Morning The GRAMMY-nominated band MercyMe, who is most known for their song “I Can Only Imagine,” is coming America, GMA3, The Today on tour at Tampa’s AMALIE Arena this October. Show, CBS This Morning, FOX News Channel’s FOX The GRAMMY-nominatnation. A popular major motion & Friends and in the pages of ed, multiple American Music picture was based on the life Entertainment Weekly, The Award, Billboard Music Award of front man Bart Millard, who New York Times, USA Today and Dove Award-winning band wrote the megahit song “I Can and more. MercyMe has announced their Only Imagine” after the loss of Their 10th album, inhale(exFall 2021 inhale (exhale) tour. his father, and this movie also hale), is available now. The band is excited to hit 30 helped bring the band into the For ticket information on all cities across the U.S., includmainstream spotlight. MercyMe tour dates, please ing Tampa’s AMALIE Arena on Since their debut in 2001, visit www.mercyme.org or folThursday, October 21 at 7 p.m. the band has sold more than low them on their social media MercyMe released their 10th nine million units in CD, single sites through Facebook, Twitstudio project, inhale (exhale), and DVD sales; earned more ter, Instagram and YouTube. in April and the current sinthan 48 No. 1 multi-format Tickets for this event are on gle, “”“Say I Won’t,” has risen radio singles; and had four sale at www.ticketmaster.com. quickly across national radio consecutive mainstream radio Advanced parking passes are charts. MercyMe was named hits. MercyMe made history in available at www.parkwhiz. Billboard’s Top Christian Art2014 as “I Can Only Imagine” com. Visit www.amaliearena. ist of the 2010 decade, and in surpassed two million digital com or call 301-2500 for more 2020 they received their eighth downloads, making it the first information. American Music Award nomisong in Christian music to go
SUMMER JAM LITERACY FUN CAMP OFFERS 7-WEEKS OF FUN CAMPS
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Summer camp is always a fun time In addition to reading and writing, for students to unwind from the the camp also focuses on science, school year and have fun with their technology and mathematics. Due to friends while participating in a vaCOVID-19 safety protocols, the entire riety of camp activities. However, camp program is limited to 40 campthere is a phenomenon sometimes ers. All campers are able to particireferred to as a summer setback or pate in every activity the camp offers. the summer slide that students ex“My favorite part of Summer Jam is perience when they return to school seeing the excitement on campers in the fall. In order to minimize this when they learn and master new in Riverview hosts a seven-week summer literacy camp program. setback, Mt. Zion AME Church in Mt. Zion AME Church things,” said Sims. “The parents alPictured here are award winners from last year’s camp. Riverview is pleased to announce its ways want to know what we do all day annual Unstoppable Summer Jam because the campers are really tired Literacy Fun Camp. from a full day of activities when they get This is the seventh year that Mt. Zion AME home.” Church has offered this exceptional program The cost for Unstoppable Summer Jam Litthat is designed to keep students on track eracy Fun Camp is $65 per week and takes educationally while having summer fun. This place Monday to Friday from Monday, June 7 unique camp offers seven fun-filled weeks to Friday, July 23. The camp is held at Mt. Zion to students at a reasonable price. For stu- ers to have fun while learning,” said Rever- AME Church, located at 5920 Robert Tolle Dr. dents ages 6-14, this summer program blends end Karen Sims, lead pastor at Mt. Zion AME in Riverview (on the corner of Bloomingdale reading and writing along with dance class- Church. “Our teachers work to ensure that Ave. and Hwy. U.S. 301) The church’s swimes, swimming classes, Spanish classes, fitness campers do not have a summer learning lag ming takes place at the Brandon Sports and and are ready to go back to school in the fall, Aquatics Center. For more information, visit and field trips. “This is a literacy camp designed for camp- confident in their abilities.” www.MtZionRiverview.com or call 337-7457.
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June 2021
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Volume 25 | Issue 06
BENEFIT CONCERT AT UNITED METHODIST CHURCH TO FEATURE BLUEGRASS BAND By Kelly Wise Valdes
The Unitlocal Kiwanis ed Methodmembers. If ist Church still available, of Sun City tickets will Center, lobe $15 at the cated at door on the 1210 Del night of the Webb Blvd. concert. CDC W., welguidelines are comes HWY still in effect 41 SOUTH at the church, to its camso please bring pus for a 7 your mask. p.m. concert The United Methodist Church of Sun City Center, located In addition, on Friday, at 1210 Del Webb Blvd. W., welcomes HWY 41 SOUTH to the church will its campus for a 7 p.m. concert on Friday, June 4. June 4. welcome the HWY 41 SOUTH is a Florida bluegrass handbell ensemble, Suncoast Bronze band featuring Mark Horn, Donnie Har- Ringers to its campus for a 3 p.m. concert vey, David Beaumont, Clint Dockery and Sunday, June 20. Tammy White. Horn has played with sevThe Suncoast Bronze Ringers is an aderal regional bluegrass bands and won vanced community handbell ensemble the 2010 Florida Old Time Music Cham- founded in 2012 to provide a challenging pionship mandolin competition. Donnie opportunity for handbell ringers, and a Harvey began playing the banjo at age beautiful, musical experience for com9 and played with the late, great Larry munity audiences. The group’s concerts Rice as a teen. David Beaumont plays the weave varying styles and genres of music guitar, bass, mandolin and banjo, and he together in an experience that is sure to has been a well-known musician in blue- appeal to every type of music lover. Segrass circles for many years. Clint Dock- lections for this concert will include Coery plays the fiddle, mandolin and guitar, hen’s, “Hallelujah”, “Nocturne in C minor”, and he can sing any part. Tammy White “Psalm of Peace”, “Boogie Woogie Bugle is the band’s outstanding bass player, and Boy” and a “Beach Boys Medley” among just happens to be Dockery’s big sister. others. They’ve been playing bluegrass music A donation of just $10 is requested at together since they were knee-high to a the door on the day of the concert. grasshopper. For additional information about this This concert is a benefit concert being and other concerts and recitals at the hosted by the Kiwanis Club of South- United Methodist Church of Sun City Shore to raise scholarship money for lo- Center, please contact Kevin Goodenow, cal, deserving, college-bound high school concert series coordinator, at 362-0956. seniors. Tickets are on sale for $10 at To learn more about the United Methodthe United Methodist Church of Sun City ist Church of Sun City Center, please visCenter office Mondays through Thursday it the church’s website at www.sccumc. from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m., as well as through com.
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Grace Notes Moses Mantra By Debora Coty
After 430 long years of captivity, God chose Moses, a fumble-tongued, murderer turned nomad, to lead the Israelites from bondage. What was Moses’ reaction? “Who am I to go?” (Exodus 3:11 CEV). “Please send someone else” (Exodus 4:13 CEV). Or in modern vernacular: “Say WHAT? No way! You’ve gotta find somebody else, Lord; I’m the wrong person for this job!” There it is—the Moses Mantra: I am SO not qualified! I, too, claimed the Moses Mantra when Papa God first called me to write fifteen years and 30+ books ago. “Me – write books? Nuh-uh. W-a-y out of my comfort zone; I haven’t written anything deeper than a Christmas newsletter for thirty years. I’m the wrong person for that job, Lord. Find somebody better.” But now, with over 1.4 million copies of my Too Blessed to be Stressed series sold in multiple languages worldwide, I understand that we don’t have to feel equipped to begin a God-assignment; He will equip us.
Hey, if the Almighty calls you to build a shed, He’ll supply the nails. The Bible is full of people who, by outward appearances, weren’t qualified for the work to which Yahweh called them: • Saul, a donkey herder, was chosen by God to be the first king of Israel. • David, a musical shepherd, was called to be the next warrior king. • Paul, a dreaded vigilante against Christians, was appointed to become the greatest Christian evangelist of all time. • Rahab, the Gentile prostitute, was handpicked by Jehovah to become an ancestor of Jesus, a Jew. • Mary was just a teenager when she was entrusted to be the nurturer of God’s own Son. I suspect each of them hollered the Moses Mantra at the top of their lungs. Yet the Almigihty provided them with specific skill sets for the work He had designated for them. Just like He does for you and me today. Our calling might be a surprise to us but not to Him. We’ve already been chosen.
Debora M. Coty is an inspirational speaker and award-winning author of over 40 books, including the bestselling Too Blessed to be Stressed series. Visit with Debora anytime at www.DeboraCoty.com. Residential • Commercial Exterior Repaint Specialists License #L20000250797
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June 2021
DAVID WEEKLEY AND BRIDGEPOINT CHURCH ARE BUILDING BEDS ONE NAIL AT A TIME By Kelly Wise Valdes
Many of us congregate will crawl into and finish our soft beds assembling tonight after the kits a long day— and paintand not think ing the twice about it. bed slats However, for with Bible many children verses. It in the Tampa David Weekley Homes has partnered with BridgePoint Church for is comfortBay area, hav- the fourth year to build beds for children in Tampa Bay that do not ing to know have beds to sleep in. ing their own that a child bed would be a dream come true. For will sleep on a mattress placed on a Bible the fourth year, BridgePoint Church has verse.” partnered with David Weekley Homes to In addition to the bed frames, a grant make this a reality for hundreds of chil- request was approved by the David dren without beds. Weekley Family Foundation to provide To date, BridgePoint Church has built mattresses for all 200 beds. A check 3,120 beds and David will be presented to the Weekley Homes has built church in the amount of and donated the wood for $14,600. Many others in 600 of those beds. This the community donated year’s goal will add 200 adtwin-size bed-in-a-bag ditional beds, making a tosets and toiletry items at tal of 800 beds, so children the David Weekley Homes will not have to sleep on communities throughout the floor. Vincent Cotignothe area in May. la, a project manager with “I love seeing how David Weekley Homes, had the David Weekley team volunteered with the Building Beds pro- members and family members, real esgram as a member of his church and sug- tate agent partners, vendors and trade gested the organization for one of David partners all come together to make a difWeekley Homes’ CARE initiatives. ference in our community,” said Primiano. Trish Primiano, CARE representative “At David Weekley Homes, we are dedifor David Weekley Homes, is the point cated to fulfilling ‘Our Purpose of Buildperson for this initiative. “BridgePoint ing Dreams, Enhancing Lives.’ Not only do Church works with case workers from we want to build homes that delight our community agencies and Pinellas Coun- customers, we are also passionate about ty Schools to identify families in need of making a difference in the communities in beds for their children,” said Primiano. which we work and live.” “The case workers contact the church to For more than 20 years, company earnreceive an application they complete on ings and the David Weekley Family Founbehalf of their families. Many of the fam- dation have donated more than $200 ilies served are transitioning from home- million to worthy causes in the U.S. and lessness to more permanent housing.” abroad, and it volunteers thousands of Amazingly, this group effort builds the hours each year working with various beds over a two-day period. “On day one, organizations. Build (beds) month is one at least 20 of our builders will prep the of three company-wide initiatives for Dabeds by cutting and assimilating into kits vid Weekley Homes; the other two are the lumber for the goal of 200 beds,” said the School Supplies Drive and the Giving Primiano. “Travis Gentile, lead builder, is Thanks, Giving Back Thanksgiving Drive. spearheading this effort. On day two, the For more information, visit https:// whole David Weekley Homes team from www.davidweekleyhomes.com/promo/ across the Tampa/Sarasota division will build-month-in-tampa.
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Volume 25 | Issue 06
SCOUT AND CANCER SURVIVOR COMPLETES EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT
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Life Scout Sean Covais completed his Eagle Scout project at Rotary’s Camp Florida in Riverview.
Marie Gilmore
For some Life Scouts, deciding on a service project to complete to earn the Eagle Scout rank is the most challenging part of the assignment. For Scout Sean Covais, a member of Scout Troop 212 in Lutz, it was the easiest part of the project. Sean, who attended Rotary’s Camp Florida, a camp for kids with special needs, knew he wanted to give back to the place that has welcomed him every summer for more than a decade. Sean has plenty of challenges in his young life. He was diagnosed with cancer at just 2 years old—but is now in remission—is on the autism spectrum and has ADHD. He has persevered through all of his challenges. “It’s amazing to see his growth and come up with his own ideas and lead others,” said his mom, Holly Covais. Camp Director Liz Fields said the organization had one need (outdoor picnic tables) and two wants (raised gardens and directional signs). “Sean went above and beyond what we expected him to do,” said Fields. “We’re also naming one of the herb gardens ‘Connor’s Corner’ after a young man that just lost his battle with cancer.” Holly said the project couldn’t have been completed without the help from members of the community. “We are grateful for the companies that have donated to help make the project possible,” said Holly. In addition to raising $1,500 in monetary donations, The Home Depot donated all the lumber, Lowe’s donated all
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Jennifer Hurst the paint and supplies and TMI Nursery donated the soil for the gardens. Sean said there were many lessons learned during the experience. “I learned that I can command a large group and I’m a better leader that I thought I was,” he said. In all, the experience was a positive one. To earn the Eagle Scout rank, the highest advancement rank in Scouting, a Boy Scout must fulfill requirements in the areas of leadership, service and outdoor skills. He (or she) advances through the ranks—Scout, Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life and Eagle—along the journey, earning a minimum of 21 merit badges, serving six months in a troop position of responsibility, taking part in a Scoutmaster conference and proposing, planning and carrying out leadership to others in a service project helpful to the community. For more information about the Scouting program, visit www.scouting.org.
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AWAKEN THE DAWN LEAVES TAMPA ENCOURAGED AND HOPEFUL By Hayley Fedor
amazing sight.” Birthed out said Negrillo. of a love for Through the God and fuevent, reconcileled by a love iation between for Tampa, local Christian Awaken the leaderships Dawn brought transpired, renewed spirit which in turn to the city all fostered an in one weekoverwhelming end. Set at the Hillsborough The Awaken the Dawn in Tampa event spanned out over sense of unity three days and ran nonstop day and night, offering woramongst believCounty Fairship, baptisms, prayer and more. ers in the comgrounds, the Awaken the Dawn event launched on munity. Beyond simply gathering in one place, May 6 at 7 p.m. and continued until May 8 at 11 p.m., with around 1,000 people the movement also encouraged a spirit of local evangelism as groups traveled to participating at the start of the event. “The heart behind it is really estab- nearby areas and ministered to individulishing the presence of God in a region, als, oftentimes bringing them back to the in a place or city and just allowing God event. Worship played an important role at to take over,” said Bruno Negrillo, worship pastor at The Crossing Church and Awaken the Dawn in Tampa as well. Even the primary coordinator for Awaken the after the 11 p.m. noise ordinance, worship still persisted throughout the night in quiDawn in Tampa. Awaken the Dawn is a nonprofit orga- eter acoustic sets. One special testimony from the event nization that travels across the country acting on the premise that wherever the belongs to a woman with chronic pain Lord’s presence is brought and where from multiple sclerosis who showed up to believers come together to worship and Awaken the Dawn out of desperation and pray, there His presence will dwell and left set free after encountering the spirit begin to change the atmosphere of the and dancing for hours pain-free. “A lot of people were inspired and region. For 50 continuous hours, the people of something was awakened inside of them Tampa, including local pastors and church and all of these other leaders who took leaders gathered, together to pray, offer part in this; they’re wanting to keep it baptisms, worship and intercede on be- going, keep the momentum going,” said Negrillo. half of the Lord. For more and to find out how to get in“To see 21 pastors come together to pray for our region on that stage that volved, visit awakenthedawn.com or visit first night on Thursday … it was just an its Facebook page.
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June 2021
MARY & MARTHA HOUSE HAS BEEN POSITIVELY IMPACTING THE COMMUNITY FOR 39 YEARS
By Libby Hopkins
Founded in 1982, Mary & Martha Herring said. “The pandemic really hurt House has been helping women and fam- us last year. However, God provided for ilies escape domestic violence and home- us through the pandemic. We were one lessness for 39 years. of the few agencies that didn’t have to Mary & Martha House provides indi- lay anyone off or close our doors. We vidualized case management for each were able to maintain the care of our woman to women and identify perchildren.” sonal barriers The next and overcome Passport them. Mary to Free& Martha dom event House is not a will be held one-size-fitson Friday, all or group June 11 at program. The Regent. Each client The event Founded in 1982, Mary & Martha House has been helping receives indistarts at 6 women and families escape domestic violence and homelessvidual counp.m. “We ness for 39 years. The program provides individualized case seling services are very to help her management for each woman to identify personal barriers and careful in overcome them. Mary & Martha House is not a one-size-fits-all conquer her the names or group program. Each client receives individual counseling unique strugwe choose services to help her conquer her unique struggles. gles. “It was for our started many years ago by events,” Herring said. “It’s three women, two of which more than just a fundraising who were nuns,” said Mary event. It’s an opportunity for & Martha House’s executive women to shine. They can director, Laurie Herring. “It show their accomplishments just kind of evolved over the of the things they have done years, but what is very important about if they choose to. Passport to Freedom our agency is that we are not just a shel- is basically a name for the freedom they ter for women. We are a full-on program have now. They are safe from domestic where women can take the very next violence and put it behind them. We are step in putting their lives back together making this more of a celebration of the again. Our main goal is to help with get- accomplishments of our women and chilting through every barrier that brought dren.” them to our program.” If you would like to learn more about Like many nonprofits in the area, the Mary & Martha House or if you’d like to COVID-19 pandemic greatly affected attend its Passport to Freedom event, Mary & Martha House, forcing it to can- you can visit its website at www.macel its Passport to Freedom event. “This rymarthahouse.org or contact Herring at is our largest fundraiser of the year,” 645-7874.
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Volume 25 | Issue 06
Page 7
Fatherhood – The Good, The Bad, The Best
By Kelly Wise Valdes
The month of June marks the end of the school year, the beginning of summer and also a very special day to celebrate our dads—Father’s Day. This year, Father’s Day is celebrated on Sunday, June 20. Although this day is celebratory and joyous for many families, it can be a difficult day for those who may no longer have their father with them. According to the Census Bureau, there are more than 19 million children that live without a father in their home. In addition, many people may have had fathers that did not nurture, love and cherish them the way God has commanded. If this is something you’re going through, you are not alone. Countless people have had strained, troubled and broken relationships with their fathers. You may choose to recognize this day by honoring other father figures that stepped in to fill the gap—whether it be a grandfather, neighbor, mentor, teacher or uncle. Also, the most loving father—God—is always omnipresent and loves us unconditionally. In 2 Corinthians 6:18, we learn, “‘And I will be a father to you, and you shall be sons and daughters to me,’ says the Lord Almighty.” Have a blessed Father’s Day, and enjoy the unending love of our Father God.
Hugs for Dad: Stories, Sayings, and Scriptures to Encourage and Inspire By John William Smith
The Heart of a Dad: A Faith Based The Dad Book Approach to Parenting By Jay Payleitner By George Gibbs II
Each part of this book is chosen to inspire and encourage Dad in his life. Fascinating stories by the beloved author, personalized scriptures, uplifting quotes by various well-known people and powerful messages by an ‘anonymous disciple’ come together to form enduring hugs that will warm Dad’s heart.
This book is an unfinished story of the journey of a dad who attempted to practice parenting through the grid of biblical Christianity. It is a story about a young man who came out of a fractured and semi-dysfunctional upbringing and discovered a path to functional parenting. The author challenges dads to maintain strong, vibrant relationships with their children.
30 Ways a Father Can Bless His Children By John Trent
From a veteran ‘Dadmeister’ of five grown kids comes a handy, humorous volume of bite-sized readings to help you rise above the fray. Get man-to-man advice on how to engage your kids, pickme-up reminders that God is parenting in the trenches with you, tips for teaching children by showing instead of telling and other practical helps for dads.
Based on the book The Blessing, this Bible-based, practical book encourages fathers to be a blessing to their children in meaningful, easy and affordable ways. Here, Dr. John Trent dives into the practical and biblically-based attitudes and actions necessary for positive relationships within a family.
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BAPTIST Bay Life Church 1017 Kingsway Ave., Brandon (813) 661-3696 Bell Shoals Baptist - Brandon 2102 Bell Shoals Rd., Brandon (813) 689-4229 Congregación Hispana 2102 Bell Shoals Rd., Brandon (813) 689-4229 ext. 242 Bell Shoals Baptist - Apollo Beach 408 Apollo Beach Blvd., Apollo Beach (813) 641-2222 Bell Shoals Baptist - Palm River 5415 Palm River Rd.,Tampa (813) 621-2058 Bell Shoals Baptist - Riverview 9990 South Hwy 301, Suite 10024, Riverview (813) 689-4229 First Baptist Church of Brandon 216 N. Parsons Ave., Brandon (813) 689-1204 First Baptist Church of Bloomingdale 3303 Bloomingdale Ave.,Valrico (813) 689-3847 First Baptist Church of Gibsonton 9912 Indiana St., Gibsonton (813) 677-1301 First Baptist Church of Ruskin 820 College Ave. W., Ruskin (813) 645-6439 FishHawk Fellowship 15326 Fishhawk Blvd., Lithia, (813) 655-7431 Grace Baptist Church 2909 John Moore Rd., Brandon (813) 689-7190 Journey Church 415 W. Lumsden Rd., Brandon (813) 699-8262 Shiloh Baptist Church 1104 Cason St., Plant City (813) 752-8345 CATHOLIC Nativity Catholic Church 705 E Brandon Blvd., Brandon (813) 681-4608 St. Anne Catholic Church 106 11th Ave. NE, Ruskin (813) 645-1714 St. Matthews Anglican Church 10701 Bloomingdale Avenue, Riverview 813-663-0334
June 2021
Grace Community Church 1425 N Valrico Rd., Valrico (813) 689-9781 Harvest Bible Chapel Bloomingdale High School 813-699-0517 Love First Christian Center 12847 Balm Riverview Rd., Riverview 813-671-2009 River of Life Christian Center 6605 Krycul Ave, Riverview 813-677-4453 New Life Christian Church 401 S. Saint Cloud Ave, Valrico 813-548-2733 South Bay Church 13498 US 301 S., Riverview 813-677-0721 The Chapel at FishHawk 6026 Churchside Dr., Lithia 813-661-7105 The Crossing Church - Main Campus 10130 Tuscany Ridge Dr., Tampa, (813) 626-0783 The Crossing Church - SouthShore 2409 East College Ave., Ruskin (813) 626-0580 The Palms Church 207 New Hope Rd., Brandon (813) 841-9598 True Sanctuary 6528 US Hwy 301 S., Suite 114, Riverview (813) 319-5862 PENTECOSTAL Destiny Church 2322 11th Ave. SE, Ruskin (813) 645-3337 HighPoint Church of Brandon 2207 Lithia-Pinecrest Rd., Valrico/Brandon (813) 685-4827 PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church of Brandon -PCUSA 121 Carver Ave., Brandon (813) 689-4597 Redeemer Church-PCA 12404 Boyette Rd., Riverview (813) 741-1776 Westminster Presbyterian Church PCA 402 E. Lumsden Rd., Brandon (813) 689-6541
St. Stephen Catholic Church 10118 Saint Stephen Circle, Riverview (813) 689-4900 CHURCH OF GOD Boyette Springs Church of God 12114 Boyette Rd., Riverview (813) 671-0086 Plant City Church of God 2103 Mud Lake Rd., Plant City (813) 752-4591 EPISCOPAL Holy Innocents' Episcopal Church 604 N. Valrico Rd., Valrico (813) 689-3130 LUTHERAN Apostles Lutheran Church 200 Kingsway Rd, Brandon (813) 689-2571 Immanuel Lutheran Church 2913 John Moore Rd., Brandon (813) 689-1787 Living Savior Lutheran Church 2650 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico (813) 681-2375 METHODIST First United Methodist Church of Seffner 1310 South Kingsway Rd., Seffner (813) 689-3513 Grace Community United Methodist Church 5708 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Lithia (813) 661-8858 • info@mygraceumc.com Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church 5920 Robert Tolle Drive, Riverview (813) 337-7457 New Hope United Methodist Church 120 N. Knights Ave., Brandon (813) 689-4161 Riverview First United Methodist Church 8002 US Hwy 301., Riverview www.riverviewflumc.org Ruskin United Methodist Church 105 4th Ave. NW, Ruskin (813) 645-1241 South Shore United Methodist Church 11525 Big Bend Rd., Riverview (813) 649-9462 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Calvary Chapel Brandon 1331 Kingsway Rd., Brandon (813) 681-5318 Centerpoint Church 1801 S. Miller Rd., Valrico (813) 689-1906
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ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Volume 25 | Issue 06
Page 9
Pastor’s Corner Jomo Cousins, PhD
Advice By Pastor Jomo Cousins, PhD
Proverbs 15:22 (AMP): “22 Without consultation and wise advice, plans are frustrated, but with many counselors they are established and succeed.” If you are the smartest person in your circle, get a new circle. True wisdom is understanding our strengths and weaknesses. It is also having people in our sphere who can question us and confront us with truth to help shore up our deficits. We all need to create a great team to help us through life. We do not have to know everything—just know who to reach out to when a need arises. Oftentimes, those who refuse counsel limit their potential growth because of pride. Those who cannot listen cannot learn. Those who cannot learn cannot lead, and those who cannot lead cannot grow.
It is never a good idea to keep a bunch of ‘yes people’ around. We should be surrounded by people we respect and honor. Remember, whom we do not honor, we do not respect, and whom we do not respect, we cannot hear. Accepting and receiving counsel are not signs of weakness, but signs of strength. All throughout the Bible are examples of kings and leaders who kept people around them to give them wise counsel. Remember this acronym: T.E.A.M.— Together, Everyone Accomplishes More. Prayer: Father God, I thank You for the wisdom to seek and receive wise counsel. Give me ears to hear and a heart to receive. In Jesus’ name, amen. Except from: 60 Prayers in 60 Seconds, Page 8.
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Page 10
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KCC SOUTHEAST CAMPUS RECEIVES A NEW PLAYGROUND AREA By Kelly Wise Valdes
and how Calvary Church could help. “The partnership with Calvary Church Riverview will be hugely beneficial for all KCC students,” Tackett said. “In the wake of COVID-19, our funds are tight and as equipment deteriorates, along with limited resources, this gives an opportunity to ensure children get to continue with some element of socializing,” she added. KCC is an authorized International Baccalaureate school in which its Pastor David Jasper purchasing Thanksgiving Day dinner items funds are pushed to globfrom Winn-Dixie for the families at Kid’s Community College al understanding and supSoutheast Campus. porting its teachers through continued professional deJoin Calvary Church of Riverview and the community on Saturday, June 26 velopment and more. Tackett expressed from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. during the church’s her and KCC’s gratitude in regards to the project to restore the playground area support of Calvary Church. With that in mind, Calvary Church of at Kid’s Community College (KCC) SouthRiverview has also partnered with the east Campus in Riverview. For several years, Calvary Church of Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce Riverview has assisted with numerous to assist with getting materials donated activities for KCC. For instance, Calvary for this project and so forth. Volunteers Church’s pastor, David Jasper, mentioned will be placing down mulch along with that with the pandemic of COVID-19, helping in various aspects of the playhis church partnered with the student ground area. The provision for lunch for counselor at KCC to provide up to eight the volunteers is being worked out. “As a community-wide effort, I pray families with free Thanksgiving Day dinner boxes. Each box consisted of a tur- that this will set the precedent for other key, stuffing, potatoes and more. This all partnerships to develop,” Jasper said. For more, visit https://mykidscc.org. It correlates to Calvary Church’s mission to is located at 11519 McMullen Rd. in Riverserve the community. Jasper sat down with Brandy Tackett, view. If you have questions or are interdirector of KCC Southeast Campus, to ested in volunteering, contact Jasper at learn more about what the school needed riverviewcalvary@gmail.com.
WWW.WOMENSCAREFL.COM
June 2021
Volume 25 | Issue 06
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
T&J PAINTING
JOINS THE RIVERVIEW COMMUNITY
By Libby Hopkins
Tony and Jensaid. “T&J nifer Friedrichsen Painting are fairly new prides itself to the Riverview on being famcommunity. They ily-owned, are originally professionfrom Missouri alism at its and they are the finest, with owners of T&J family valPainting. “We met ues and a in college at the high-quality University of Miswork ethsouri and we got ic being the married and had motivation two kids,” Tony behind all we T&J Painting is Riverview’s latest commercial and said. “I got my do.” degree in com- residential painting specialist. If you’d like to learn more T&J Paintabout T&J Painting and the services it offers, visit www. munications and ing is also a tandjpaintingfl.com or call it at 723-9124. started working member of in sales. I got a master’s in business ad- the Riverview Chamber of Commerce. ministration and then, when the econ- “When my wife was looking for a chamomy tanked in 2008, I started doing ber to be a part of, she went to look some construction work and painting as into joining the Riverview Chamber and well. Since I was getting a lot of work ended up staying for a meeting,” Tony as a painter, we decided to start our said. “They made her feel very welcome own painting business.” From there, T&J and she called me and said, ‘I found the Painting was born. chamber I want us to join.’ The chamber T&J Painting is Riverview’s latest has been wonderful in helping us get our commercial and residential painting name out in the Riverview community.” specialist. “We have enjoyed working Keeping things local is very importwith a wide variety of unique clientele, ant to Tony and Jennifer. “We are still from the residential homeowner to mul- very new to the Riverview area and we tifamily apartments, as well as condo- will be here a year in November,” Tony minium housing and local restaurants said. “We want the Riverview commuto large commercial building and ware- nity to know we are here to help them house remodels,” Tony said. “We are with making their homes or commercial full-service paint professionals offering properties look great and to add more quality painting along with deck and value to them.” fence staining, wood rot replacement If you’d like to learn more about T&J and extensive repair services.” Painting and the services it offers, you T&J Painting is a licensed and insured can visit them on the web at www.tandlocal business. “We are true experts jpaintingfl.com or call Tony and Jennifer with over a decade of experience,” Tony at 723-9124.
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Page 11
CERTIFIED ROOFERS & GENERAL CONTRACTORS, INC. CELEBRATES ITS 40-YEAR ANNIVERSARY By Tatiana Ortiz
Alex Sanchez, owner of Certified Roofers, and his three sons.
A commitment to trustworthiness, stellar craftsmanship and honesty perfectly describes Certified Roofers & General Contractors, Inc., located in Valrico. As a third-generation family business of roofers, the business celebrates 40 years of service this year. A tradition of caring for neighbors and remaining hardworking is at the heart of Certified Roofers. Kathleen Carpenter, marketing manager at Certified Roofers & General Contractors, Inc., stated what makes the business set apart. “We are local to the community, family-owned and know the area well since the Sanchez’s started their roots here,” Carpenter said. Certified Roofers & General Contractors, Inc. is a GAF Master Elite-certified company that became established in 1981. Prior to that, the patriarch of the family, Onidio Sanchez, started his 40-year journey utilizing his skills in building homes
and remodeling them in 1965. His career was much spent as a general contractor in the Tampa Bay area. He passed away in 2006. His son, Onidio Sanchez Jr., also had talents similar to himself, but focused on roofing. Sanchez Jr. founded Certified Roofers & General Contractors, Inc. He passed away in 2015. Before he passed away, Sanchez Jr. and his son, Alex Sanchez, w o r k e d hand-inhand for more than a decade. Alex brought a new perspective to the business. This business model still sticks to his father’s dream too. Workers serve FishHawk, Brandon, Riverview, Valrico, Tampa as well as the surrounding communities. Services include roof repairs, roof replacements, storm damage repairs and more. Those interested can receive a free estimate. All are trained and educated. “All in all, we like to thank the community for allowing us to be involved in it for the past 40 years,” Carpenter said. “We also look forward to serving them now and in the future,” she added. For more information, visit https://certifiedroofers.com. It is located inside the River Hills Plaza at 4331 Lynx Paw Trl. in Valrico and is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Call 643-8333.
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Page 12
MICHAEL OWEN ANNOUNCES RUN FOR COUNTY COMMISSIONER IN 2022 By Hayley Fedor
After running Chamber of in the Florida Commerce. House District 59 “My faith election last year, is very imMichael Owen portant to is back and has me. Christ is decided to run the center for Hillsborough point of my County Commislife and He’s sioner District 4, my ‘why.’ which he officialI think it’s ly announced on very importMarch 1. ant for peoWhile elecple in public tions for county Family man Michael Owen with his mom, Gail, and dad, office that Todd, campaigning for District 4 County commissioner we have Commissioner. will not begin unmore Christil August of 2022, Owen’s campaigning tians and people of faith in public office and fundraising efforts are in full swing as and that we don’t shy away from that,” he looks to gain community support. said Owen. Raised in Brandon, Owen has a deep Owen’s beliefs and leadership style are appreciation and love for the community. strongly rooted in the idea of limiting the He is a small business owner and attor- role of government in people’s lives and ney that specializes in property law, state emphasizing home rule. This means that planning and small business law, which the government closest to the people is gives him the experience needed for hold- the best government to be making deciing the position of county commissioner. sions for them without impeding on citi“I feel led to do it right now. I feel that zens’ freedoms and rights under the Conit’s very important that East Hillsborough stitution. gets representation of somebody that’s “I’m someone that believes that when ready day one to make an impact on the it comes to raising your kids, the parents community,” said Owen. are the experts; when it comes to running Much of his decisiveness to run in the your small business, the business owners next election comes as a result of Stacy are the experts,” said Owen. White, the current District 4 seat holder, Along with support from the communiending his term, leaving one of the only ty, Owen has also been endorsed by ReRepublican seats left in the county com- publican State Senators Danny Burgess mission vacant. and Jim Boyd. Deeply involved in the community, Owen To find out more about Michael Owen regularly attends Arise Church and serves and his campaign for District 4 County on the board of many foundations in the Commissioner, visit his Facebook page area, like Center Place Fine Arts & Civ- @MichaelOwenFL or visit www.votemiic Association and the Greater Brandon chaelowen.com.
June 2021
NEW HORIZONS GROUP HOMES FULFILLS ITS MISSION IN BRANDON By Samantha Trezevant help adult with developmental disabilities, the homes enable the residents to achieve their highest potential for independence through faith, family, choices, dignity and respect. The homes’ values are shown through quotes from people involved. Natalie Gargano, a resident, stated, “I like living at New Horizons Group Homes because I get Some residents of New Horizons Group Homes in the Special to go out to church with my Ministry Department at First Baptist Church Brandon. mom, go bowling with my t started as a group of parfriends and have a free life. ents, teachers and friends I also like to walk in the yard, longing to build group homes go to the MAC and volunteer for adults with special needs; at ECHO. I also like the staff 22 years later and it has in my home.” fulfilled its mission. New A parent of a member Horizons Group Homes is a of the group homes, Brennonprofit agency with the mission of pro- da Watkins, said, “As a mother, I feel so viding a Christian, family-orientated liv- blessed that our daughter, Kimberly, who ing environment supporting adults with has lived at New Horizons since it opened developmental disabilities. 22 years ago, feels that she is loved, treatFor more than 22 years, members from ed with respect, is comfortable, is part of First Baptist Church Brandon have cre- the New Horizons family and is encourated three group homes in which their aged to be all that God created her to be.” members thrive. The first, the Mary Lou This nurturing and uplifting atmosphere Creamer Home, opened on June 1, 1999 can be supported by the community. As and started off by housing six ladies. Next the members actively support themselves came the Alice Storms Home, where, in through working and volunteering, the October of 2002, six men moved in. Fi- homes could use support in order to connally, in December of 2017, the Peter and tinue to flourish. The group is hosting a Brenda Watkins Home opened for six barbecue and silent auction, as well as more men. constantly accepting donations. You can These group homes uphold the same learn more about these needs on its webvalues no matter how wide they grow. site at https://www.newhorizonshomes. Furthermore, along with its mission to org/.
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Volume 25 | Issue 06
LOCAL MINISTRY SETS GOAL TO GIVE THE COMMUNITY 1,000 GIFTS EACH MONTH Undershepherds Undershepherds collaborates with leaders to distribute an average of 500 deposits of love through giving every month to targeted communities. Their goal is to distribute 1,000 gifts each month by the end of the year.
Undershepherds Undershepherds is a ministry of servant leaders serving others. The group does this so individuals may be complete and thoroughly equipped for every good work. “In 2007, both my husband, W.F. Floyd, and I were ordained as pastors after serving in ministry for more than 30 years,” said Pauletta Floyd of Undershepherds Undershepherds. “We have been called as a team, working together in every area of ministry.” Undershepherds Undershepherds collaborates with leaders to distribute an average of 500 deposits of love through giving every month to targeted communities. The goal is to distribute 1,000 gifts each month by the end of the year. “After two years, God began opening doors to what He had proposed and planned for us,” Pauletta said. “We began working with pastors of small ministries that were burdened and burned out for lack of resources, manpower and knowledge in various areas of ministry. Sometimes we were assisting two or three ministries simultaneously.” As more ministries began calling on the couple for help, they would inquire the name of their ministry, but the couple didn’t have a name for their ministry. “We began seeking God on what the
By Libby Hopkins
name would be and one day, out of nowhere, it came to us: Undershepherds Undershepherds,” Pauletta said. “Why? Because both my husband and I are pastors, undershepherds, who serve pastors, undershepherds. We are called to be servant leaders serving others.” Undershepherds Undershepherds provides help to individuals and families in our community. “Most are in need of assistance between paychecks for daily life essentials,” Pauletta said. “One family was in need of furniture; God came through, because our ministry was able to furnish their entire home. During this past Christmas, we provided toys and gifts to families as well as schools. Throughout the year, our ministry has supported other ministries by purchasing items for food baskets, [like] turkeys, and for feeding the homeless.” The couple has received many cards, letters, phone calls and testimonials from people they have helped in the community. “Undershepherds Undershepherds does all of this at no cost to anyone; God provides every time,” Pauletta said. “I have many favorite things I love about our ministry, but if I could name just one, it would be seeing the hand of God move on our behalf in what seems to be impossible.” If you would like to learn more about Undershepherds Undershepherds, visit www. facebook.com/wfpfFloyd or contact the couple at 310-482-1850.
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June 2021
SUMMER FUN AND FAITH WITH LOCAL VACATION BIBLE SCHOOLS Compiled By Kate Quesada
This summer is a great opportunity to get your child involved in free or lost cost fun at church with Vacation Bible School (VBS). Many local churches are participating with themes ranging from sports to the Rocky Railway. New Hope United Methodist - Press Play: Get In The Mix Get your child in the mix at New Hope United Methodist Church. The free VBS will take place from Monday to Thursday, June 2124 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. with dinner available starting at 5:30 p.m. VBS is open to children who have completed schooling from 3-year-old preschool to sixth grade. The church is located at 213 N. Knights Ave. in Brandon. Visit www.findnewhope. com/vbs for more information. FishHawk Fellowship Church – Extreme Sports FishHawk Fellowship Church in Lithia is offering an extreme sports VBS from Monday to Thursday, August 2-5. There will be four days of sports for kids who completed kindergarten through fifth grade to try out. The VBS will run from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. and the cost is $30 per child. Register at www.fishhawkfc.org. Each registrant will receive two T-shirts and a drawstring bag. The church is located at 15326 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia.
Bay Life Church – Kidapalooza What has more energy than a 3-year-old on a pound of Skittles and more crazy than a swimming pool full of Hawaiian punch? It’s Kidapalooza 2021, Bay Life Church’s slime-filled, super funny, high-energy, free VBS. Kidapalooza is for kids who are entering kindergarten through fifth grade. Kidapalooza Jr., for kids entering kindergarten through first grade, will take place from Wednesday to Friday, June 2-4 from 10-11:30 a.m., and Kidapalooza, for those entering second to fifth grade, will take place from Monday to Friday, June 7-11, 6:30-8:30 p.m. nightly. To learn more, visit www.baylife.org/kidapalooza/. Bay Life Church is located at 1017 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon. St. Stephen Catholic Church St. Stephen Catholic Church is training kids to be champions for Christ at its 2021 Vacation Bible School. The VBS, which is $50 for each child with a $25 sibling discount, will take place from Monday to Friday, July 12-16 from 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. The church is located at 10428 Saint Stephen Cir. in Riverview and can be reached at 671-4434. To learn more, visit www.ststephencatholic.org/vacation-bible-school. Redeemer Church - Camp Whippersnapper Children ages 4-12 (through completed fifth grade) are invited to join the Redeemer Church for a camping adventure
that will show how God’s love changes everything. The camping-themed VBS is free and will take place Monday to Thursday, June 7-10 from 9 a.m.-12 Noon. Redeemer Church is located 12404 Boyette Rd. in Riverview. To register, visit www.redeemerriverview. org/vbs.html. Bell Shoals Church – Rocky Railway Bell Shoals Church, with its two local campuses, is inviting children to climb aboard for mountains of fun at Rocky Railway. On this faith-filled adventure, kids will discover that trusting Jesus pulls them through life’s ups and downs. The VBS will take place at the church’s Brandon and Riverview locations from Monday to Friday, June 7-11 from 9 a.m.-12 Noon, and it is free. The Brandon campus is located at 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. and the Riverview campus is at 9990 S. Hwy. 301. To learn more, call 689-4229 ext. 712 or visit www.bellshoals.com/vbs/. Beulah Baptist Church Beulah Baptist Church in Lithia will host a VBS in June, with information to
come. The church is located at 5300 Beulah Church Rd. in Lithia and can be reached at 863-425-1876. For more, visit www. beulahbc.info/vacation-bible-school.html. Kings Avenue Baptist Church Kings Avenue Baptist Church in Brandon is offering a free VBS from Sunday to Friday, July 18-23 from 6:30-8:45 p.m. Registration is available at https:// kabc.churchcenter.com/home. Holy Innocents’ VBS: Knights Of North Castle Calling all Knights! Are you prepared to set out on an adventure? We are in search of the King’s Armor and need your help! June 14, 2021 — June 18, from 9 a.m.-noon. The church is located at 604 N. Valrico Rd., Valrico, FL 33594. hiepiscopal.org. South Shore United Methodist – Knights of the North Castle South Shore United Methodist Church, located at 11525 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview, will offer Knights of the North Castle VBS from Monday to Friday, July 19-23. To learn more about the VBS, email the church’s children’s director, Jeanie Cofer, at jeanie@southshoreumc, call 677-9482 or visit www.southshoreumc. com/vbs.
Volume 25 | Issue 06
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
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ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Volume 25 | Issue 06
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FAITH & FOOTPRINTS Cathedral Of Maringá
Cathedral of Maringá is located in the town of Maringá - Floriano, Brazil and is one of the most important religious centers, the tallest church in South America and the 16th tallest church in the world. The peak of this amazing structure is more than 37 stories high and the building has a unique, modern design. The cathedral is one of the largest churches in Brazil with the capacity of nearly 4,700 people. The structure was completed in 1972 and the design was inspired by the Russian satellite Sputnik, particularly its conical shape. As it is a Roman Catholic Church, the foundation stone was brought from St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, which had been blessed by Pope Pius XII. This original stone was marked in the beginning of construction in August 1958. Cathedral of Maringá was completed in 1972, 14 years later. Cathedral of Maringá is the landmark of the city and is also built in the center of the city. The interior of the church is ornate, including a large wooden crucifix that stands two stories tall and was carved by the famous Brazilian sculptor Conrado Mose.
By Kelly Wise Valdes
The large building was designed to be the town’s landmark and can be seen from any reference point in the city with its penetration into the skyline. It’s so expansive, it extends several city blocks. The cathedral comprises 16 pyramid-shaped chapels, with the four largest ones forming the entrances. The inner and outer cones of Cathedral of Maringá are connected by 598 steps that take visitors up 18 floors. On the 14th floor of the cathedral is an observatory which provides visitors an expansive view of the city. While going up the stairs, you can see the inscriptions given by various priests and prominent people of Maringá that have been laid to rest at the church. Cathedral of Maringá also has a museum with pictures and history of the church. The story of the city of Maringá and the creation of Cathedral of Maringá has been documented by Father Orivaldo Robles in the book A Igreja Que Brotou da Mata, which translates to ‘The Church That Grew From the Forest.’ Tourists from all parts of the world make yearly pilgrimages to the cathedral, as it’s the most visited structure in the city. For more information, visit www.freshtraveldestinations.com.
Live Like You Mean It ...
Live Without Reservation (Like My Grandchildren!)
By Derek Maul
“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him. For he laid the earth’s foundation on the seas and built it on the ocean depths,” - Psalm 24:1-2.
Monday afternoon I was sitting in the grocery store parking lot, trying to dry out from my mad dash to the car through the rain, when I noticed how cool the world looks from the vantage point of peering through a wet windshield. So I grabbed an image on my iPhone. “That’s what I call really ‘saturated’ color,” I thought, or at least, “a real watercolor!” It reminded me of the wonderful
birthday presents I received from our two school-aged grandchildren in Miami. With the children, it’s all about color— the more saturated the better. Beks (7) painted a beach scene soaked in blues, yellows and golds. David (9) produced a bold landscape. “At the beach, you can see the curve of the earth on the horizon,” Beks said, proud of her understanding. Looking at the world through the wet front window of my car reinforced the truth that perspective is everything. Not just ‘what’ we see, but ‘how’ we see. I looked up the definition of ‘art’: “Creative skill and imagination, typically in a
Expiration 07/01/2021
visual form, producing works appreciated for their beauty or emotional power.” I especially appreciate the idea of “emotional power.” Here in my library, the raw emotional impact of my grandchildren’s art reminds me of several things: My grandchildren love me enough to put time, effort and creative imagination into their gifts. Children see the world in vibrant color. Children experience each moment with eyes wide open. Children see more color because in their world there is more color. We must teach them not just to see
Expiration 07/01/2021
but to look. We have no time to waste on anything other than everything. When you expect to see and experience wonder, then that is what tends to happen. Enjoy today’s splash of color. Peace and love – DEREK Derek Maul has written for many news outlets, including the Tampa Tribune, The United Methodist News Service, All Pro Dad, FOCUS Magazine, Newsweek, USA Today, The Christian Science Monitor, Presbyterians Today, Guideposts, Chicken Soup for the Soul and many other publications. Read Derek Maul’s daily blog posts at www.derekmaul.wordpress.com
Expiration 07/01/2021
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Page 18
June 2021
A KID’S PLACE TEACHES KIDS HOW TO CULTIVATE PRODUCE
DREW’S RV TECHS, EXPERIENCE YOU CAN TRUST
By Samantha Trezevant
By Amy Schechter
The children from A Kid’s Place learning all about how to plant fruits and veggies.
Childhood is an era of growth and learning in every child. A Kid’s Place ensures that every child it cares for experiences the best learning experience possible. Since 2009, A Kid’s Place has been serving Tampa’s community by touching the lives of over 1,520 children and 665 families through providing a safe haven for foster children as well as an amazing educational program. The newest addition to the organization is a garden. This garden is rooted in the belief that it is important for every child to learn about the growth of produce. The mission of the garden program is to connect children with nature and promote an understanding of vegetable planting and their role in healthy eating habits. This aids A Kid’s Place’s overall mission of providing a safe, loving and nurturing home for foster children. It was a special experience for the children; “The kids have been so excited to check the progress of the garden and help take care of it,” according Laura Herres, kitchen coordinator. Jeff Krenz, property manager, even said that “There are little tiny blossoms and teeny-tiny tomatoes and peppers already.” ACF Tampa Bay Culinary Association is who made this experience possible, particularly Vanessa and Rene Marquis.
Their team graciously provided the supplies and knowledge on how to plant and grow their own fruits and vegetables. The process allowed the children to explore their inner creative side by personalizing the buckets that their produce was planted in. The children enjoyed getting their hands dirty, and even playing foodthemed games. The kids loved this as it actually gave them a chance to play with their food. Soon, they will harvest their own fruits and veggies on harvest day. You can help support A Kid’s Place by donating to it, hosting a fundraiser, volunteering, hosting a drive and even shopping. To learn more, visit https:// akidsplacetb.org/ways-to-help/, or visit its Facebook and Twitter pages @AKidsPlaceTB.
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Saint Anne Catholic Church ~Masses~ Vigil Saturday 4:30 p.m. Sunday 8 a.m., 10 a.m., & 5 p.m. (12 p.m. Spanish) Monday-Friday 8 a.m. Wednesday & Jueves 7 p.m.
Recorded Masses can be viewed on the St. Anne website (SaintAnneRuskin.org) and Facebook page. Reconciliation Tue. at 8:30am, Thurs. at 6pm, Sat. at 3:15pm and By Appointment.
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ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Volume 25 | Issue 06
Page 19
YOUR MONTHLY CATCH: RAFFLES, FAMILY FUN EVENTS & MORE
By Libby Hopkins
Bell Shoals Church Hosts Family-Friendly Kickball Events Bell Shoals Church is excited to host family-friendly kickball tournaments this summer. The fun happens on Friday evenings at 6:30 p.m. on June 11, June 25, July 9 and July 23. Sign up your family to participate; registration is free. Please provide the names and ages of participants. Meet at the ball fields on the southwest side of the Brandon campus located at 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. For more information, contact Carolyn Jones at 689-4229, Ext. 593 or sign up at www.bellshoals. com/events/. Christian Business Connections Offers Network Opportunities Christian B u s i n e s s Connections (CBC) offers a unique networking opportunity for your business in the Brandon area. CBC opens and closes each meeting in prayer and shares a time of devotion each week. It exists to promote fellowship and prosperity for its members, fulfilling financial and spiritual goals. For more information on meeting times and locations, visit www.chritianbusinessconnections.com. Father Figures Mentorship Hosts Fundraiser Father Figures Mentorship & Tran-
man trafficking. FishHawk Fellowship Church is located at 15326 FishHawk Blvd in Lithia. For more information, email amccay@fishhawkfc. org.
sitional Services, Inc. is hosting its first annual Topgolf fundraiser on Sunday, June 27 from 11 a.m.2 p.m. Half of each ticket sale goes directly towards providing life-changing opportunities and personal mentorship. Father Figures is a nonprofit organization that encourages, inspires and redirects men, women and young adults by offering valuable skills training needed to overcome obstacles and prepare for long-term success. The Topgolf event includes food and three hours of gameplay and a short presentation about the Father Figures program. Sponsors are also needed for this event. If you would like to promote your business as a sponsor for this fundraiser and have your company logo displayed on one of the flat-screen TVs during the event, please contact 308-9419. Topgolf is located at 10690 Palm River Rd. in Tampa. Tickets can be purchased at www.eventbrite.com/e/father-fig u r e s - m e n t o r s h i p - f u n d ra i s e r - t i c k ets-154649026401.
New Hope United Methodist Church Hosts Recovery Ministries This past year has been difficult for many people. If you need assistance in recovery, New Hope United Methodist Church has many options, including Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. The Celebrate Recovery ministry, a Christ-centered 12-step recovery program, resumes on Tuesday, June 8. Meetings happen throughout the week at both the Brandon and Dover campus locations. Contact Chris Temple at 689-4161 with questions. New Hope is located at 213 N. Knights Ave. in Brandon.
Forgotten Angels Raffling Off Motorcycle Forgotten Angels is a nonprofit for kids who have aged out of foster care that teaches them the life skills they were never given. These young adults are given the opportunity to build their own tiny home, open a bank account, build credit, get a job and have the care, love and guidance they never had from their legal foster caregivers. Forgotten Angels is raffling off a 2020 Road King® Special with the Screamin’ Eagle Stage IV 131CI engine upgrade and Legends suspension front and rear. All the money donated to this raffle will benefit these young adults, help build more tiny homes and expand the circle of compassion. To purchase a raffle ticket, visit www. forgottenangelsflorida.org.
FishHawk Fellowship Church Hosts Father’s Day Fight For Justice Pro Wrestling Event FishHawk Fellowship Church is hosting its Father’s Day Pro Wrestling Night event on Friday, June 18 from 7-9 p.m. All proceeds from the event will go towards Hope For Justice’s fight to end hu-
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Page 20
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
June 2021
HOT OFF THE CHRISTIAN NEWS WIRE
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Mel Gibson And Mark Wahlberg Team Up On Faith-Based Film
Crowder Announces 2021 Tour Dates
GRAMMY Award-nominated David Crowder has announced his 2021 Milk & Honey Tour, encompassing more than 30 new shows, including performances in Florida at Ruth Eckard Hall in Clearwater and House of Blues in Lake Buena Vista. The tour will follow Crowder’s Milk & Honey album due out on Friday, June 11 via Capitol Christian Music Group/sixstepsrecords. “We’re finally getting out of the basement!” said Crowder. “We can’t wait to see you fantastic folks in person for the Milk & Honey Tour this fall! It’s going to be a family reunion like no other, see you there.” Crowder is a three-time GRAMMY nominee who is armed with multiple Dove Awards, RIAA Platinum and Gold Certifications, more than 1 billion global streams and more than 2.5 million followers on social media. To purchase tickets and find more information, visit www.crowdermusic.com or follow Crowder on Facebook @ crowdermusicofficial.
Actors Mark Wahlberg and famed Hollywood director Mel Gibson are collaborating on a faith-based film entitled Stu. Wahlberg wanted to make a movie to honor the life and faith of boxer-turned-minister Father Stuart Long. Both Wahlberg and Gibson are professed Catholics whose lives were inspired by the priest. Before Long became a priest, he was a self-described ‘anti-Christian’ and was passionate about boxing—not about faith. However, Long’s plans to become a prizefighting boxer were derailed after undergoing reconstructive jaw surgery. With his days of boxing behind him, Long turned to Hollywood to become an actor. However, his life changed forever after what should have been a fatal motorcycle accident. God had a different plan for Long. Influenced by the church and its ministries, Long gave his life to God and immediately began to work with his church to evangelize and help the poor. He went on to earn a master’s degree in philosophy and then was ordained a priest by Bishop Thomas in 2007. Unfortunately, he was diagnosed with a rare degenerative muscle disease during his priesthood and died in 2014 at the young age of 50. For more information about the film, visit www.angelusnews.com.
Unite For Hillfest Worship Event
One day with one location—Hillfest is sponsoring an event like no other. On Saturday, July 17 in New Ipswich, New Hampshire, Hillfest will feature Jeremy Camp, Sidewalk Prophets, Austin French, Cain and more. Join other concertgoers in southern New Hampshire for a day of worship and enjoying time with friends and family. There will be food, local organization and shop vendors, fireworks and worship being led by gifted artists. Stay up to date by following and liking Hillfest Events on Facebook and at @hillfestevents on Instagram. For more information, email info@hillfestevents.com or visit www.hillfestevents.com/faqs for more details.
“In a day where chaos and uncertainty are abundant, I wanted to write a song that brings people back to the foundation of who God is,” explained Alveda King. “I long for people to know God and to experience the incredible greatness of living a life built upon His foundation.” A chance encounter led to Gifford joining King in the studio, and before long, “Your Way Yahweh” was born. “What a joy to be invited to join Alveda on such a worshipful and hopeful song,” said Gifford. “She is a treasure and a beautiful sister in Christ.” King is the daughter of the late slain civil rights activist Rev. A.D. King and the niece of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. She currently serves as a Fox News Channel contributor and the host of Alveda King’s House on Fox
Alveda King And Kathie Lee Gifford Unite For Inspirational New Single
Dr. Alveda C. King and Kathie Lee Gifford have teamed up for the inspirational new single, “Your Way Yahweh,” available from Radiate Music. The inspirational song was written by King.
Nation, and she’s the 2021 recipient of the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award. “Your Way Yahweh” is available at https://ffm.to/ywyahweh.
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Volume 25 | Issue 06
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
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ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
DID YOU KNOW? PATRON SAINT FOR 50 STATES
CALIFORNIA - JUNÍPERO SERRA
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Catholic believers pray for the intercession of the saints in heaven so that they may pray for us on our behalf. Saints are able to intercede on our behalf and offer up to God the prayers of those on Earth. Patron saints are recognized as the heavenly advocates and special intercessors for many things, even states. If you want to ask for the special intercession on behalf of your state, do you know who to pray to? Saint Junípero Serra was canonized by Pope Francis in Washington D.C. in September 2015—the first canonization to take place on American soil. Serra is considered a patron saint of California, where he played an instrumental role in building the Church on the west coast of America. Serra was born into a small farming family in Spain in 1713. At the age of 15, he studied philosophy at a Franciscan monastery. Serra obtained his doctorate in theology and by 1749 he was called to become an Indian missionary in America. Serra sailed for America and landed in Veracruz, Mexico on December 7, 1749. Although horses were supplied for the
friars, Serra elected to walk the 250 miles between Veracruz and Mexico City. During his time serving with the Pame Indians between 1750 and 1758, Serra not only oversaw construction of a church, which is still in use, but developed his mission in both religious and economic directions. Economically, his mission prospered through the introduction of domestic animals, agriculture and the development of commerce. He also defended Indian rights against non-native settlers in the area. During building operations on his church, he worked as an ordinary day laborer. In 1768, Serra joined an expedition to Upper California. On March 28, 1769, Serra left the mission at Loreto on muleback, arriving in San Diego on July 1. Serra kept a diary of his journey, during which he suffered greatly from an ailment in his legs and feet and had to be carried on a stretcher. Serra devoted the next 15 years of his life to evangelical work in Upper California. During that period, he founded nine missions. By the end of 1784, Indian baptisms at the first nine missions reached more than 6,700. Serra died at Mission San Carlos Borromeo, which he established, in August 28, 1784 at the age of 70 and is buried in the floor of the sanctuary there. He is the subject of several dozen biographies in various languages, and his life is studied in California schools to this day.
June 2021
THE TRUTH ABOUT GRACE
By Bob Zoellner
One of the biggest challenges we all face is honesty. Brutal honesty. About ourselves and others. That’s because a lot of times the truth about a situation is not very pleasant, and we tend to downplay things to make ourselves look and feel better about it. That’s a recipe for disaster. The quickest way to experience deteriorating mental health is to quit living in reality. For some people, there are physical and organic reasons this happens, but for the majority of us, we have learned to avoid or ignore the unpleasant aspects of life, to our peril. For us to be mentally and spiritually healthy, we must start with being honest about who we are and the circumstances of our lives, then we can deal with what is truly going on. Otherwise, because of our sin nature, we will devolve into chaos. John 1:14 states that “The Word (Jesus) became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” Grace AND truth, and we must also live in both realms to be completely free to live as God intended. Truth tells us that we are sinners. Grace tells us that, not in spite of, but because of that, we are offered salvation.
Truth tells us that sin deserves punishment. Grace tells us Christ took our place and paid the debt we owed. Truth tells us that we will never measure up to God’s standard. Grace tells us to stop trying, because Jesus is God’s standard, and he is our friend, our advocate, our substitute, our Savior. The ultimate despair, the end of the line for poor mental and spiritual health, is the desire to end one’s life. It’s become cliche that “suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem.” So, let’s flip it around and acknowledge that “suicide is a temporary solution to a permanent problem.” What does that mean, exactly? Sin has brought us eternal separation from God, but reconciliation comes through Christ. Suicide may stop the temporary pain one is experiencing on this earth, but the permanency of the sin problem—eternal separation from God—has never been dealt with. The Lord is calling us to address the truth about ourselves, that we are hopelessly lost without him. Grace comes in to reconcile us to God, and the continuing work of grace can do it’s work if we let it. But we must start with the honest assessment of who and what we are. That is the truth about grace.
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Volume 25 | Issue 06
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Page 23
Celebrating 40 Years Serving our Community Thinking it’s time for a new roof? Do you think your roof may have wind damage? DO NOT REPLACE YOUR ROOF WITHOUT LETTING US TAKE A LOOK!
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ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
June 2021