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B r a n d o n • Va l r i c o • L i t h i a • S e f f n e r • R i v e r v i e w • P l a n t C i t y • A p o l l o B e a c h A Free Publication from Osprey Observer Inc.
Volume 23, Issue 3
Food & Wine Fest
11
Pastor Rummage
Prayer Breakfast
March 2019
FishHawk Fellowship Church’s Expansion Builds A Bridge Between Church And Community With more than 3,000 in attendance, FishHawk Fellowship Church (FFC) unveiled its brand-new multi-purpose building to the community with a ribbon cutting ceremony during its Saturday night and Sunday services on February 9 and 10. Since its inception in 1998, FFC has sought to be part of the fabric of FishHawk by engaging the family-oriented and sports-driven community with events like its Eggstravaganza and summer basketball camps. But even with adding additional services, FFC’s weekly attendance of more than 2,000 left little room for visitors and new members. “Since our Senior Pastor David Whitten shared his vision to reach the community seven days a week, our church comes together in a big way to raise $5.5 million to build this space completely debt-free,” said Pastor Daniel Butson. “It’s amazing what happens when people come together.” The newly constructed space will extend FFC’s reach into the community with larger church gatherings, multiple sports ministries, concerts, guest speaker events and more. The building seats 1,300 people and features a full-size gymnasium, a café, brand new area for babies and toddlers and a state of the art worship space for Saturday and Sunday services. The new space also affords the youth ministry and children's Awana ministry to
By Amanda Boston
bers to purchase chairs for each of their family members and one for a neighbor at $100 per chair. FFC raised the $130,000, which will pay for all the chairs in the new worship building. Pastor Butson explained, “It’s more than just the chair. We believe every chair represents someone who needs hope, love, and meaning in meet simultaneously on our commuWednesday nights. Awana nity,” He conwill continue to meet in the tinued, “We other facilities with the believe when youth ministry now taking people sit in up residence in the new these chairs building. that’s exactly Senior Pastor David what they’ll Whitten said, “Once we find. For so FFC had three grand opening celebrations made the decision to build during its worship services on Saturday night many years, this building debt-free, we we’ve seen and Sunday morning. witnessed God work in the marriages restored, people find forgivehearts of our people, where people have ness, hope, and life in Jesus.” given sacrificially to make it happen.” One of the first major events schedHe continued, “While some were uled to take place in the new building is a skeptical that this could really be done, so marriage conference on Friday, May 3 and many have seen their faith and trust in Saturday, May 4. Also this summer, FFC God really grow to see this vision become will kick off its sports ministry, which will a reality. This place was never really about include summer camps, kid’s basketball us. It was always about how we can reach leagues and group fitness classes this community.” throughout the week. To help with the cost, FFC also ran For more information, visit www.fishthe BYOC campaign ‘Buy Your Own hawkfc.org. The church is located at Chair,' which encouraged church mem15326 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia.
Feed The Bay Meets Needs With One Day Food Collection Event
Impact’s Got Talent
Columns: GraceNotes:
Page 5
Your Monthly Catch: Page 8 Faith & Footprints:
Page 13
Hooked On Books:
Page 21
Since its inception in 2006, Feed the Bay has collected nearly two million pounds of food for pantries of local food banks and community agencies. The multi-church effort provides a practical way for area churches to demonstrate God's love by serving as the Hands and Feet of Jesus. Feed the Bay will be held on Sunday, March 31 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. You can help fill the gap by replenishing pantries as a volunteer or shopper. Feed the Bay partners with Publix Super Markets who offer shoppers a convenient grocery list with the requested food items. After the shopper purchases the food, volunteers are onsite to collect the food and load it onto trailers. For the past nine years, Michelle (Flip) Filipowicz has looked forward to volunteering with Feed the Bay. She serves as a store coordinator at one of the Publix locations where she checks in the volunteers and acts as a liaison between church volunteers and store managers. “We start the day in prayer and with an empty truck, but as one body of
By Amanda Boston
droves, and we had a full truck. Even through the storms—the wind and the rain, God’s people showed up and gave from their hearts.“ Volunteers are not only needed to load trucks at the Publix Super Markets but are necessary to drive the trailers as well as Christians, not several area churches,” explained Flip. “At the end of the day, we thank the Lord for the food and the hands that helped to fill the truck.” Last year, Feed the Bay garnered 124,254 pounds of food from 15 Publix locations. The one-day community-wide effort included 31 church campuses and 12 community agencies, totaling 704 volunteers. Every year, Janine Skipper also volunteers as a store coordinator and truck driver at one of the Publix collection locations. She reminisced about last year’s turnout despite the stormy weather. "This past year we had a tornado touch down out in the Bay at the height of Feed the Bay,” said Skipper. “Even with the impending weather, the volunteers and parishioners came out in
unload and sort the food at the local agencies. For those who wish to volunteer, you must be at least 14 years old, but children are welcome to participate alongside a parent. To volunteer or see a list of participating Publix Super Markets, churches and agencies; visit www.feedthebay.org. If you are unable to participate during the event but still want to contribute, gift cards from any supermarket may be dropped off at the Bay Life Church office. For questions, contact Melanie Langston from Bay Life Church at mlangston@baylife.org.
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Page 3 • christianvoicemonthly.com • March 2019
First Baptist Brandon Christian Academy Presents 2nd Annual Spring-A-Palooza
Senior Pastor At Bell Shoals Baptist Church Bids Farewell To Florida
First Baptist tions come with a cost Brandon Christian as well. Academy (FBBCA) BubbaQue’s BBQ invites the communiis catering, which is ty to its second $12 at the door or $10 annual Spring-aif purchased by Palooza event for a Wednesday, March 27. family fun day, car Hamburgers, hot dogs, show, silent auction chips, drinks, and Kona and more. The Ice will be available. Saturday, March 30 All proceeds raised from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. from the event will be This year, the used for improving the car show, hosted by Ronnie Setser, will Kids with the mascot of Chick-fil-A at the first Spring-a-Palooza. have a monster truck Chick-fil-A will be sponsoring the for everyone to event again this year. enjoy. Guests can witness the monster truck perform a school and supporting the thrilling car crushing demonstration at 2 students’ education. p.m. Also, all are invited to show off their “For the Spring-a-Palooza, we utilize own vehicles. There is no entry fee, but those funds in a lot of different ways,” donations are accepted. Dash plaques said Kristal Medlin, Assistant Principal of and trophies will be awarded. FBBCA. “This year, we’re actually looking There will be a silent auction that fea- into possibly new athletic uniforms for tures baskets, memorabilia and other sports teams, supplementing some of the items donated by FBBCA’s classes and technology within our classrooms, taking businesses like Chick-fil-A. With the pura look at our preschool area; kind of chase of tickets, there will also be a draw- sprucing it up a little bit with new furniing for a 32-inch television and a retro ture, new kitchen sets, those kinds of Atari system located in the silent auction. things.” The auction will be open from 10 a.m.-2 For vendor and other information p.m. about the Spring-a-Palooza, visit Other attractions include an 18-foot www.fbbca.org or contact Kristal Medlin slide, a small slide, a 40-foot obstacle at kristal.medlin@fbcbrandon.com or course, inflatables such as a bounce 689-9435. For car show information, call house, a large jukebox, live music, multiRonnie or Kim Setser at 601-7227 or ple vendors, a cakewalk and glitter skin 879-1616, or email ssrods1@yahoo.com. decals. To access all inflatables, $5 armSpring-a-Palooza is located at 216 N bands must be purchased. Other attracParsons Ave. in Brandon.
Dr. Stephen N. nationwide. He is a Rummage, senior frequent guest speakpastor of Bell Shoals er for churches and Baptist Church for the conferences across past nine-and-a-half the United States. years, has Executive Pastor announced he is Gary Payne, who has leaving the West served at Bell Shoals Central Florida for 25 years, will lead church to be pastor at Bell Shoals’ staff durQuail Springs Baptist ing this transition. Church in Oklahoma “I will miss Dr. City, Oklahoma. Rummage’s preach“When we Dr. Rummage, the senior pastor at Bell ing, leadership and Shoals Baptist has also held key entered ministry friendship,” said Rev. leadership positions with the Southern together 27 years Baptist Convention and Florida Baptist Payne. “I also am ago, Michele and I looking forward to State Convention. promised the Lord to seeing who God follow wherever He led brings to Bell Shoals.” and to serve wherever Dr. Rummage has He called us,” Dr. authored or contributed Rummage said in a to more than 10 books. statement. “We have He also served as presisought to be faithful to dent of the Florida that commitment, and Baptist State Convention God has brought joy and from 2016-2018. In that blessing to our lives as a role, he emphasized the result.” need for pastoral leadership in church“We know that God has great plans wide evangelism for the 3,100 SBC for Bell Shoals’ future,” Dr. Rummage churches in the state of Florida. added. “And we will be praying for God Dr. Rummage and Michele have a to make clear the man He wants to lead son, Joshua, who is studying in the this great church going forward.” Doctor of Pharmacy program at the Under Dr. Rummage’s leadership, University of South Florida. Joshua and Bell Shoals Baptist Church added four his wife, Morgan, will remain in the campuses and baptized more than Tampa Bay area, where Morgan serves 2,200 people. in the student ministry at Bell Shoals Dr. Rummage started the radio min- Baptist Church. istry Moving Forward while at Bell For more, visit www.bellshoals.com Shoals. It airs on more than 120 stations or call 689-4229.
By Taylor Wells
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Page 4 • christianvoicemonthly.com • March 2019
Roving With Christ At Grace Christian School Having completed 2,477 projects since 1976, Roving Volunteers in Christ's Service (RVICS) has been providing much help to numerous Christian organizations in need. RVICS is a 501(c)(3), nonprofit, nondenominational Christian ministry for retired married couples of many Christian denominations. Through teams of up to six couples, RVICS offers free services to Christian organizations, such as schools, camps, colleges and universities, churches and more. Last January, Robert and Laurie Norfolk gave their services to Grace Christian School (GCS) from January 7 to January 29. While there, they helped with fences, plumbing problems, painting, pressure washing, new construction, small cement pours and a variety of other projects. “My wife and I are in our eleventh year and have many memories of all the places we have served,” said Robert. “I’m an electrician, but there are [other] projects that I do: carpenter work, or plumbing, or trim trees, or power wash concrete or paint. Whatever is needed.” Robert said that women did a lot of cleaning, painting, organizing, sewing and library sorting. Men at GCS began by installing eight feet high plastic fencing that stretches to 400 feet long. It will be extended by another team in the future. “The students and staff are very friendly and always are thanking us for
By Taylor Wells
being at their school,” Robert said. He explained their plans after their work in GCS. “We will be at the Evangelical Bible Mission in Summerfield, Florida for February, then on to Dothan Community Church in Dothan, Alabama for March. Then it’s time for home in Ohio.” Married couples seeking retirement plans may want to look into RVICS. Through RVICS, you can experience new places, attractions and people; feel spiritual fellowship through Christ; learn new skills as couples work together; have fun through games, bonfires, birthday parties and other things that keep life energized. Couples at RVICS need to be retired or semi-retired; self-supporting; able to travel for three months or longer; have an RV for traveling and extended stays; provide their own hand tools, safety equipment and portable sewing machines; willing to accept direction from RVICS team leaders; and have the skills and talents to help with no charge. RVICS accepts donations, contributions, memorials and honorariums, which are all tax deductible. Donations can be given on its website. For more information, visit https://rvics.org. You may also email rvics@rvics.com or call 1-800-727-8914. RVICS' international headquarters is located at 1800 SE 4th St. in Smithville, Texas.
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Page 5 • christianvoicemonthly.com • March 2019
Grace Notes
W W W
.
O S P R E Y O B S E R V E R
.
C O M
FOLLOW US:
Blabber Control Issues
918 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Brandon, FL 33511 657-2418 (fax) 657-4469
By Debora Coty
Papa God has a wonderful sense of humor and He loves it when we laugh. Especially moms. Because everyone knows when Mama ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy, and when Mama laughs, the whole house rocks. I believe laughter is the best salve for the skinned knees of the spirit. And heaven only knows how many times we’ll skin who knows what before this mom gig is over. One of the ironies of motherhood is that you do so, so much, but you always think you should be doing more. In the throes of exhaustion, your will can sometimes write a check that your body cannot cash. To avoid mommy crash-and-burn, you need a break … a diversion … a pause that refreshes. So for your tension-releasing pleasure, I’d like to now share with you my mom-chuckle moment from the memorable day my daughter had blabber control issues. When my kiddos were young, we attended a small church that didn’t have children’s church, so after the age of five, kids went into big church with their parents. One day I noticed six-year-old Cricket doodling on her bulletin, daydreaming and singing to herself during the sermon. So the next Sunday morning in the car on the way to church, I gave her the, “You’re a big girl now and therefore must learn to listen to the preacher” lecture. We arrived to find
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a very stern, ultra-regal, black-robed visiting minister filling in for our own laid-back, easygoing pastor. My wide-eyed daughter was plastered against the back of her chair as the heavy-winded minister bellowed the Scripture reading. Then during the offertory, he lifted his hands toward heaven and prayed in a deep, pious tone, “Lord, without you, we are but dust …” My precious lil’ dumplin’ – who was listening! – piped up in her little-girl voice loud enough to bring the service to a halt: “Mommy, what is butt dust?” Quote of the day: “Parenting is a delicate balance of convincing your child they can do anything in life while simultaneously screaming, ‘Don’t do that!’ every three minutes.” ~Adapted from my newest book, Too Blessed to be Stressed for Moms
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Page 6 • christianvoicemonthly.com • March 2019
St. Stephen Brings Faiths Together With 3rd Annual Interfaith Day
By Julianne Gonzalez
St. Stephen Catholic School Principal, Linda Umoh, hosted the third annual Interfaith Day on Friday, February 8. More than ever, Umoh sees a need to eradicate fear and ignorance among Americans, and she believes that Interfaith Day is a strong step in that direction. St. Stephen’s reached out to area schools of Christian, Islamic and Jewish faiths. The Community Day School of Sarasota (Jewish), The Universal Academy of Florida (Islamic) and The American Youth Academy (Islamic) have collaborated in this venture since the inaugural year and returned this year. A letter was sent home to parents explaining the purpose of Interfaith Day. Umoh’s letter opened with, “Xenophobia is the fear of the unfamiliar. It is that fear that leads to most prejudices that people have toward one another. The only way to fight prejudice and discrimination is through education to dispel untruths and release ourselves from fear.” The Taoist Tai Chi Society from Brandon began the day with a historical overview of Tai Chi and led a sample class of movements for all students. Following Tai Chi, students
Friday Prayer Service and all students departed with a commemorative pen with our Interfaith Day logo. Interfaith Day 2019 was a resounding success. A father who chaperoned his child from the Universal Academy of Florida said, “Thank you for doing this. Our children need this. Our country needs this.” The school administrators and staff thanked Umoh numerous times for providing the opportunity for their students. A few eighth graders from St. Stephen said, “You should do this every year” and “can we do this again next week?” If you are a school administrator or teacher and are interested in Interfaith Day 2020 for A total of 118 eighth grade students from different faiths participated in the third annual Interfaith Day. your 8th-grade class, from each school educated their the religious leaders answered. please reach out to St. Stephen's peers about their respective faiths. At the end of the session, stuCatholic School, located at 10424 Father Dermot Dunne of St. dents recognized that although the Saint Stephen Cir. in Riverview. For Stephen, Rabbi Michael Werbow and religions are distinct from one anothmore information, visit Imam Mamdouh Elsayed from the er, they do share some similarities www.sscsfl.org. Universal Academy of Florida such as the practice of fasting, answered questions from the students. Questions such as, “What does Easter celebrate?”; “Why do people call a Catholic priest, Father?”; “Why do Jewish men wear a Yakama?”; “At what age do Muslim girls wear the hijab?”; “What music is permissible for Muslims to listen to?” were among the many questions that
monotheistic belief, reading scripture, daily prayer and the connection of the faiths through the prophet Abraham. The students finished the day with some athletic games. The boys played soccer while the girls enjoyed volleyball. Our Muslim guests, had time and space dedicated for their
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Your Monthly Catch Local Happenings In Our Community information, contact Hagan at marne411@yahoo.com.
Breakfast For Dinner
The Holy Innocents’ Chapter of Brotherhood of St. Andrew is hosting a Shrove Tuesday Pancake Dinner. Join in for a fun evening of fellowship and pancakes on Tuesday, March 5. Dinner, which includes pancakes Knights of Columbus – Members of Knights of (all you care to eat), sausage and a Columbus Resurrection Council 15675 receive Double beverage, will be served from 5-8 STAR Award. p.m. The cost is $5 per person with Knights Of Columbus Resurrection a max of $15 per family. The event will be Council 15675 Receives Award held at Holy Innocents Episcopal Church, Knights of Columbus Resurrection 604 N. Valrico Rd. in Valrico. Please conCouncil 15675 was recently awarded the tact the church during normal business Double STAR Award by the Supreme hours at 689-3130 for more information. Council in New Haven, Connecticut. This award was for active support to the comPublic Invited To Attend Free munity, family, youth and Financial Seminars church. Additionally, the council doubled A group of financial seminars are its membership quota of six and has being presented this spring at First grown from 34 members six years ago to Baptist Church of Brandon. over 85. All seminars will be held on Outgoing Grand Knight Dave Wednesdays at 7 p.m. in the dining hall Farrugia said at a recent ceremony, “This (building A on the SE corner of N. Moon award belongs to each member of the Ave. & W. Sadie St.). council who worked so hard to support Tom Loudermilk of Loudermilk our council.” Financial Group will talk about financial The council meets at Resurrection services including life insurance, annuities Catholic church the second Monday of and investments on March 6. each month at 7 p.m. at the white house. Toni Stanaland, an independent insurance agent, Linda Walker, of Poppell St. Anne’s Fourth Annual Golf Insurance, Inc., and Mark McDade, of Tournament Accurate Insurance Solutions, will talk A ‘Best Ball Golf Tournament’ will be about health care services on March 13. held on Saturday, April 6, at Sandpiper Jon Poppell of Poppell Insurance, Golf Club, 1702 S. Pebble Beach Blvd. in Inc., will be talking about personal insurSun City Center. Registration opens at 7 ance on March 27. This includes homea.m. with an 8 a.m. ‘Shotgun’ start. owner's insurance, automobile insurance The entrance fee is $75 per player, or and umbrella policies. Renters insurance $300 for each foursome. This fee and motorcycle insurance will also be disincludes prizes for Hole-in-One, Greatest cussed. Putt, Longest Drive, Most Accurate Drive, Finally, Chuck Jennings, of Acentria Closest to the Pin (all Par 3s) and a ‘FUN’ Insurance, will discuss commercial (busiawards luncheon with great food and ness) insurance on April 3. prizes following the tournament. The The seminars are free and open to luncheon will be hosted at the the public. If you plan to attend, please Southshore Falls Ballroom located in the call the church office at 689-1204. Free Southshore Falls community in Apollo childcare is available if needed. Beach. The seminars are sponsored by the There will be a Hole-in-One contest First Baptist Brandon Foundation, Inc., a with a Grand Prize of $10,000. 501(c)(3) public charity established in Tournament registration forms are avail1993, which shares a common memberable in the St. Anne Parish Office Monday ship with the First Baptist Church of through Friday 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. and Brandon. The church is located at 216 N. Sunday from 9 a.m.-12 Noon. For more Parsons Ave. in Brandon.
The Mighty Miracles Of Jesus
Jesus Heals Crippled Man On The Sabbath Day
By Kelly Wise Valdes
in the pool because he had no one to help him. When Jesus saw the sick man who had been lying there for some time, He said to him, “Do you want to be healed?” The sick man answered him, “Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool when the water is troubled.” Jesus told him, “Rise, take up your pallet, and walk.” Immediately, the man was healed, and he took up his pallet and Jesus heals a crippled man by the pool of Bethesda. walked. told people that man the When During His ministry, Jesus perthe Sabbath, the on him healed Jesus formed more than 40 miracles of rest, many day Jewish traditional including healing the sick, changso upset, and became people Jewish ing elements of nature and even Jesus. kill to sought they raising people from the dead. A Jesus didn't heal people on the miracle is considered an event that to stir up trouble. Rather, He Sabbath occurs outside the bounds of natuthe will of God. We should doing was ral law. Each month, we will take a for opportunities to do look always closer look at one of His miracles This miracle demonothers. for good to understand the depth of His mercy toward us and Lord’s the strates love for us. Understanding the miris not restricted need in those helping acles of Jesus can change your constraint. time a to life, and it all begins with believing This miracle also teaches us to through faith. in our faith. The disabled man endure The third documented miracle of suffering for 38 years, and been had Jesus was recorded in John 5:1–9, positioned himself by the he day each and it took place in Jerusalem by the a miracle yet was confor hoping pool pool of Bethesda. The word Bethesda He had no readisappointed. tinually means "house of mercy." Jesus day would be this that believe to son encountered a man near the pool of us through shows Jesus different. any Bethesda who had a crippling infirmity continued with that miracle this for 38 years. patience and faith, miracles can hapMany sick people visited the pool pen we when least expect it. believing an angel would come each Keep coming to the pool of hope day and agitate the water and the first continue on your faith-journey you as person to enter the pool would be how God's blessings will oversee and healed. life—it may be when you your in flow In this man's case, he was cripit. expect least pled and unable to be the first person
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New Grace Christian High School Building Will Honor Its Founder Situated on 26 acres of land off North Valrico Road, Grace Christian School was founded in 1975 by the late Dr. Robert R. Gustafson. Adjacent to the school resides Grace Community Dr. Gustafson (left) and his father are pictured in front Church of a cow pasture which would eventually become the which was home of Grace Community Church and its school. also foundschool classed by Dr. Gustafson only five years rooms, adminisprior. trative offices, a Since opening its doors, the gymnasium with school has sustained a solid reputatwo full courts tion for its academic excellence and and two theaterits emphasis on moral living and civic style auditoriums duty. With a population of more than to accommodate 400 students, the original school larger collegebuilding can no longer accommodate level classes and fine arts program. its numerous sports, activities and Dr. Gustafson served as the pashigh school classes. To better serve tor for the church and as the administhe students and offer additional protrator for the school for more than 40 grams, the school will begin conyears. Today his legacy lives on struction on a new building in June. through the many lives he touched Paying homage to the school’s on campus, in church gatherings and founder, the 42,000 square foot facilithroughout the community. ty will bear Dr. Gustafson’s name. “Wherever he (Dr. Gustafson) With a price tag of seven million dolwent, he shared the gospel,” said lars, the building will house 16 high
By Amanda Boston
Before founding Grace Christian School, Dr. Gustafson was the first freshman in history to become First Team ‘All American’ in baseball and was later drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals.
Rebecca McKeen, daughter of Dr. Gustafson. “Many people in the community remember him sharing his
gospel tract and his love of baseball.” McKeen, also the Director of Institutional Advancement at Grace Christian, described her father’s passion for baseball and how he transitioned from a baseball player to a pastor. “My dad played baseball for the St. Louis Cardinals back in the sixties," explained McKeen. “He knew from the time he was a little boy that he would be a pastor. Even though he was doing the baseball thing, at one point while in the hospital after taking a pitch to the eye, he felt that the Lord was telling him it was time.” To learn more about Grace Christian’s expansion or to donate to the building fund, visit www.gracechristianschool.com/Memori al/Support-19. For further details about the school or find out more about registration for the 2019-2020 school year, visit www.gracechristianschool.com. Grace Christian School is located at 1425 N. Valrico Rd. in Valrico.
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Live Like You Mean It
Fine Motor Skills In Young Children On The Decline, Activities Encourage Developement
Enough With The Hypocrisy Already!
By Sherri A. Smith
Teachers at writing, and dressing Foundation Christian are dependent on Academy have seen an hand strength. unfortunate decline in fine There are many motor skills in children fun ways parents and entering preschool and teachers of young chilkindergarten over the past dren can assist in the decade with an even development of fine greater plummet in the motor skills for chilpast five years. Fine dren in their care. motor skills involve the Providing opportunities use of the smaller musfor children to use the cles in the hand. muscles in their finFor early childhood gers, hands, educators, this decline is and wrists will improve Time spent playing with play dough, fine motor coordinaconcerning. Fine motor Legos, puzzles, blocks or lacing skills are essential for a tion and strengthen cards helps to develop hand strength. child's physical, cognitive those muscles. and social development. Weak fine Activities that focus on developing the motor function affects the quality and smaller hand muscles include finger speed in which a child can perform tasks painting, popping bubble wrap, pasting, that require the development of those and cutting yarn are excellent options. smaller hand muscles such as writing, Everyday chores can also provide fine cutting, dressing, eating and other everymotor development opportunities. Sorting day tasks. the silverware, setting the table and eatThe increase in popularity of handing with utensils are helpful. Additionally, held electronics for young children has pouring a cup of juice, self-dressing (buthad a significant impact on fine motor toning, zipping, snapping, buckling), development in young children—often brushing teeth, wiping the counter, dustwith long term effects. Parents are provid- ing the furniture, folding washcloths, ing fewer opportunities for children to snapping on and off container lids will hone in on their fine motor skills with help alleviate fine motor weakness. fewer hands-on tasks. Sherri A. Smith is the primary princiAs a result, teachers of young chilpal at Foundation Christian Academy, dren are noting that they have less located at 3955 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in endurance and weak pencil grip. With Valrico. The private Christian school this weakened hand and lower arm musserves Pre-K through high school with cle strength, students struggle with both about 400 students. Please visit basic academic and life skills. Skills that www.foundationchristianacademy.org or require fine motor skills, such as cutting, call 654-2969.
By Derek Maul Don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. – James 1:22 My men’s Bible study is talking about James 1. Verse 22 is on my mind because it comments so powerfully on life. “You can say anything you like, but after a while your words mean nothing if you don’t follow through” (author paraphrase). Jesus said this time and again: “If you love me, keep my commands” (John 14:15). “Only those who do the will of my Father will enter the kingdom” (Matthew 7:21). “Peter said, ‘Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you.’ Jesus said, ‘Then feed my sheep’” (John 21:17). Paul had the same idea: “For when we place our faith in Christ Jesus... what is important is faith expressing itself in love” (Galatians 5:6). You can pay lip service to religion all you want, but what Jesus calls for is love that makes a difference. It’s easy to say we are people of faith, but what if we remain mean-spirited, dismissive of other people’s ideas, and rude to everyone from the cashier at the store to other drivers on the highway? How about telling your spouse,“You know I love you…” when
your actions show something else? If you are unwilling to back up your words with consistent change, then does “I love you” or “I’m a Christian” mean anything at all? Jesus stands with arms open wide, offering grace and mercy to absolutely anyone who wants to come home; but at the same time he is very clear regarding what he expects. “If you love me then let your light shine!” If we love Jesus it’s going to transform the way that we treat others. Not, “You have to follow these religious rules to be saved” but that Jesus points out the obvious: “If you really have been reconciled to God then it’s absolutely going to show.” “Seriously, people,” Jesus will say, “I’m telling the truth, I have no idea even who you are…” (Mathew 25:1113). Just read the Book of James. I dare you – 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
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FREE Financial Planning Seminars:
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Chene Chapelle, which translates to mean Chapel Oak is located in AllouvilleBellefosse in northern France. Like something straight from a Disney movie, the Chene Chapelle takes up its residence in an ancient oak tree trunk, containing two tiny chapels, and is reached by a spiral staircase surrounding the trunk. This oak is the oldest known tree in France and is still standing tall after more than 800 years. Although trees have been used as a place of worship in many places, this tree’s chapels came about in an unusual way. According to local legend, the tree is as old as the kingdom of France itself, and William the Conqueror prayed under its branches before he left for England. In the 17th century, lightning struck the tree, burning the inside. This left a hollow but still-living tree. Taking this as a sign from God, a local priest had the shell of the tree converted into a chapel and began building a shrine to the Virgin Mary
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directly into the hollow of the tree. Later another small chapel and a staircase climbing the outside of the tree were added. During the French revolution, an angry crowd came to burn the tree, as it was a symbol of the old and unwanted church during a tumultuous time in history. However, someone from the chapel’s congregation saved the tree by renaming it a ‘Temple of Reason,’ which somehow spared the tree. Today the oak is beginning to show signs of age. Portions of the 33-foot trunk have died, and part of the tree has been covered with wooden shingles where the bark has fallen away. Although Chene Chappelle’s host tree has begun to deteriorate, its congregation still gathers twice a year for Mass, and the tree is still the destination of an annual pilgrimage on August 15, the Feast of the Assumption of the Virgin. For more information, visit www.historyandotherthingsweb.wordpress.com/2018/07/03/chenechapelle.
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Start Fresh Counseling Center Offers Superior Services To Community The mission at Start Fresh Counseling Center in Brandon is to create a safe, compassionate and caring environment. The center supports improved mental health for families, couples, children and individuals of all backgrounds through professional counseling, psychotherapy services, life coaching and Christian counseling guided by the teachings of Jesus Christ. “We act as a guide in helping the clients to make empowered decisions about their individual and professional lives,” said Start Fresh Counseling Center CEO and Mental Health Counselor Casandra Merritt. “We work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues, providing services that span from therapy for depression and grief counseling to parenting support, couples counseling and beyond. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, we offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of our clients individual needs to help attain the personal growth they’re striving to achieve.” Start Fresh Counseling has been a part of the community since 2014. “It started in the summer of 2014 with a passion for families,” Merritt said. “I want families to know ‘the place where new beginnings begin’ was not another trade-
By Libby Hopkins mark but a safe, compassionate and caring environment. I wanted families to experience their new beginning. We have a wonderful staff of licensed thera-
pists and office staff.” Merritt and her staff love being part of the community and helping those in need. “I think it very instrumental; having a counselor locally allows families to feel that their support system is just a call or a drive close by. It brings security,” Merritt said. “Helping people with their new beginning, showing people how to live life in the midst of situations, learning that situations may not change but they can, is what we strive for at our center.” Merritt and her staff feel that when clients come to the counseling center, they are one step closer to a new life where the client feels empowered and on a positive path to growth and well being. “As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating,” Merritt said. If you would like to learn more about the various counseling services offered at Start Fresh Counseling Center, visit www.startfreshcounselingcenter.com or contact Merritt at 489-4547. Start Fresh Counseling Center is located at 1463 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.
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Meet The Reiths, The Realtor Team That Works
Technology Win Offers Full Service IT Department To Schools, Non-Profits
With its beautiful financing options, weather, scenic major price drops and nature preserves, promotions on specific and access to endhomes.” Why go from less attractions, it is builder to builder on no wonder the your own when Team Greater Riverview Reith can take you on community is growa tour of the builder ing and thriving. With communities that that comes the need specifically match your for real estate agents needs and wants in a who are familiar with new construction the location and are home, all at no cost to Bryan and Marijean Reith ready to meet the you? In addition to needs of clients. Look no further than their new construction specialty, they are Bryan and Marijean Reith, “Team Reith also poised to help resale home buyers with RE/MAX” who have been partners in navigate their search in an ever-changing both life and business for over twenty five environment with hard work and dedicayears. Their extensive knowledge from tion to finding the home that fits their speyears of expertise as well as their active cific needs and budget. role within the community makes Team Bryan and Marijean remain heavily Reith the best choice for buying and sellinvested in the community. They served ing your home. as the 2017 Honorary Deputy Mayors Why wouldn’t you want two knowland currently serve as Ambassadors for edgeable realtors for the price of one? the Greater Riverview Chamber of From living in the Riverview and Commerce with Marijean also serving on SouthShore area, they have amassed an the Board of Directors. ‘Coach Bryan’ has impressive knowledge of the market, and been coaching Riverview children in a are ready to help you buy or sell your variety of sports through N-Zone Sports home. They specialize in new construcfor several years. Their passion is evident tion and are passionate about educating in their service for the Greater Riverview and guiding new build clients through the community, and with their help, you will buying process: “New constructions buyfind your home here too. ers should always have an agent repreFor more information or to schedule senting their interests with the builder. Not a free consultation, Team Reith can be doing so can be a costly mistake. Team reached at 426-2757 or by contacting Reith keeps up on current information teamreith@teamreithrealty.com. Their from builders and communities in the office is located at RE/MAX Realty South Shore area including information Unlimited 12965 US Hwy. 301 S. in such as closing cost incentives, special Riverview.
Technology Win not have a dedicated husband and wife tech support staff learn team Henry and how to improve their Julie Burroughs technology skills and have made it their keep things running on mission to help their own. They offer churches, schools, workshops as well. “We nonprofits and busidon’t want to fish for nesses with budgetyou, we want to teach ing, implementation you how to fish with and troubleshooting your technology,” said of technology. The Burroughs. Burroughs started Services include: Photos courtesy of Henry Burroughs Henry and Julie Burroughs founded consultation with leadtheir company in Technology Win in 2015. 2015, and they ership teams regarding serve the greater Tampa Bay and surtechnology planning and budgeting, as rounding areas from their office in well as device and app/program selecBrookwood Office Park at 3439 Brook tion, management and distribution; Crossing Dr. in Brandon. training and mentoring with IT staff to “Our vision is to encourage a posigrow skills as needed, troubleshooting tive, tech-integrated and innovative culissues that arise; professional developture that is reflective of life in our digital ment for teachers on the use and inteand connected society,” said gration of new devices or tools being Burroughs. implemented; presentations for the Henry Burroughs spent just over 12 school community on new technology, years as a Director of Technology at innovation and digital citizenship; and two different private schools, overseemobile maker-space where they will ing technology and instructing teachers bring a 3D printer to the classroom. how to implement it into the classroom, Henry Burroughs also presents at among other things. He has a Bachelor numerous education tech conferences of Science degree in Computer Science every year, talking about everything with a minor in Mathematics from from 3D printing to how to set up Wifi. Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, “It’s all about bettering education so Florida and Julie Burroughs has a that we can better the future of our Bachelor of Arts degree in International community through our kids and paying Business with a minor in Mathematics it forward,” said Julie Burroughs. from Eckerd College as well. For more information Technology Technology Win focuses on helping Wins, please visit its website at small schools and businesses that do www.TechnologyWin.com.
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Disney On Ice Presents Dare To Dream At Amalie Arena
Staff Report
Disney’s Moana find the strength to voyages onto the ice shape our own for the first time as destiny at Disney Disney On Ice presOn Ice presents ents Dare To Dream, Dare To Dream! produced by Feld Fans are Entertainment Inc. It encouraged to brings courage and arrive early to celadventure to homeebrate family and towns across North tradition with America. Hosts Miguel from Mickey Mouse and Disney/Pixar’s Minnie Mouse bring Coco in a special audiences on an sing-along guest expedition across appearance. raging seas and Discover your snow-covered mouninner hero when tains in this actionDisney On Ice packed extravaganza presents Dare To when beloved charDream at Amalie acters from Disney’s Arena. Beauty and the Tickets for Beast, Frozen, Disney On Ice Tangled and presents Dare to Cinderella visit Dream are availTampa from March able at www.dis21-24 at Amalie neyonice.com, Arena. Tickets are 800-745-3000 or currently on sale to at the Amalie the public. Believe in Arena Box Office, what is possible as Disney On Ice presents Dare To Dream at located at 401 Amalie Arena from Tuesday to Sunday, five Disney heroines Channelside Dr. in March 21-24. Tickets are currently on sale. Tampa. Show spark the courage inside us all in Disney On Ice presents times are Thursday and Friday, March Dare To Dream! In her Disney On Ice 21 and 22 at 7 p.m.; Saturday, March debut, see how far Moana will go in an 23 at 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and epic adventure with demigod Maui to Sunday, March 24 at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. save her island and discover her true To sign up to be a Feld Preferred identity. Join Belle as she fearlessly member and to receive presale alerts, befriends the enchanted castle staff and please visit reveals the Beast’s gentleness. www.feldentertainment.com/preferredExperience Anna’s devotion to her siscustomer-page. ter, Elsa, on her life-changing journey to To discover more about Disney On stop an eternal winter. Explore with Ice, go to DisneyOnIce.com. Stay curRapunzel, Flynn Ryder, Cinderella and rent on the latest developments through friends from around the Disney social media: Facebook: www.faceKingdom as they find the heart and book.com/DisneyOnIce Twitter: determination to overcome obstacles @DisneyOnIce #DisneyOnIce and make their dreams come true. #100YearsofMagic YouTube: Journey with Mickey and Minnie to www.youtube.com/DisneyOnIce uncover why no goal is too big when we Instagram: @DisneyOnIce.
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Hot Off The Christian News Wire
500 Inmates Are Saved After Texas Megachurch Opens Campus In Maximum Security Prison
Gateway Church, a megachurch in Dallas, Texas, announced it has opened up a new campus by a prison just outside of Dallas. Lead Pastor Robert Morris for Gateway planted a new campus neighboring the Coffield Unit maximum-security prison in Anderson County. More than 650 inmates attended the first Coffield Gateway service in November, and since then more than 500 men have dedicated their lives to Jesus.
“At Gateway Church, we’re all about people because God is all about people," said Pastor Morris. "Many of the men and women inside prison have been forgotten by society, but we want them to know we love them, and God loves them, and they are our brothers and sisters in Christ." The Coffield campus gives inmates the opportunity to serve. Inmates are tasked with greeting service attendees, being ushers, operating audio and visual equipment, forming a worship team and staffing the service. For more information, visit http://gatewaypeople.com/campus/dallas.
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and Instagram in combination with printed Easter postcards. The new Outreach Everywhere service allows churches to reach the same people with direct mail and social media invi-
John and Ann Betar of Fairfield, Conn., said "I do" on Nov. 25, 1932, and have been happily married for 80 years. The couple was selected for the 2013 award by Worldwide Marriage Encounter, a Christian marriage enrichment group based in San Bernardino, Calif., that organizes a search each year to promote the virtues of lasting marriages and inspire young couples.
tations. With the average person spending more than 130 minutes a day on social media sites, the new service helps churches promote events such as Easter services to social media users in the neighborhoods around their church. Those same neighbors are mailed a printed invitation for the same event—reinforcing the message and increasing the number of visitors. During the initial launch, churches can get $300 in social media ads for free when they purchase 5,000 or more postcards to be mailed. Outreach, Inc. makes it easy and affordable for any size church to more effectively reach people in their communities. For more information, visit www.Outreach.com/everywhere or call 1-800-991-6011.
2019 Worldwide Marriage Encounter's Longest Married Couple Project Accepting Nominations
The ninth annual Worldwide Marriage Encounter (WWME) Longest Married Couple Project (LMC) will be accepting nomination through Wednesday, May 15. The awards to the national and state winners will be
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presented in June, which is also known as National Marriage Month. Over the past eight years of the highly successful program, thousands of nominations have been received rec-
ognizing couples with long marriages. The first national winners for the project, which started in 2011, were Marshall and Winnie Kuykendall from Lordsburg, New Mexico, who were honored for 82 years of marriage. The state winners, who are generally married 50, 60 or 70 plus years, will also be recognized for their longest marriages. An alumni group has been established for previous national and state winners. Previous state winners can vie for the national title, but they also are considered members of the alumni of longest married couples in their individual states. Nominations, which are open to all husband and wife couples regardless of religious affiliation, may be submitted by email, regular mail or by calling a special phone number. A nomination requires the name of the couple, their wedding date, and where they currently reside plus a contact phone or email address of the individual nominating the couple. Nomination can be sent via email to bkberland@gmail.com, regular mail to Bryan and Karen Berland 530 S. Academy Guthrie, OK 73044 or call 405-850-4274. Nominations can also be submitted at wwme.org.
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Page 18 • christianvoicemonthly.com • March 2019
Spurlino Y Opening Meets Quick Success
By Michelle Caceres
construction companies and business leaders. Located at 9650 Old Big Bend Rd. in Riverview, the 33 acre Spurlino Family YMCA complex is more than a gym. In addition to group exercise programs and equipment, it features a pavilion perfect for picnics with friends and family, outdoor soccer fields, Airmasium (outdoor basketball), a one-mile outdoor walking track, a two-story kids’ play area, wellness programs Members of the community and civic and a lap swim leaders attended the ribbon-cutting pool connected ceremony at The Spurlino Family YMCA. to a zero-depth As the ribbon-cutting ceremony was entry family pool drawing to a conclusion outside of the with fun play feaSpurlino Family YMCA’s newest facility tures and a in Riverview, dozens of local residents waterslide. were already inside signing up to take Riverview advantage of its health and wellness resident Ella programs. Fernandez was Apollo Beach resident Katrina attending as one Summers was signing up for the family Spurlino YMCA associate Barbara Sharp assists of the facility’s membership. The mother of two with a Apollo Beach resident newest employthird child on the way said she has been Katrina Summers and her children Chloe and Reilly. ees. looking forward to the opening for The 17months. year-old has “My husband works out and now wanted to work at the YMCA since she my children can safely play in the superfirst heard that it was coming to vised kids play area while I work out too,” Riverview. She applied and was hired as she said. She also plans on scheduling a lifeguard. family time at the facility pool. “I look forward to being a welcoming New members were not the only ribface and making people feel safe and bon cutting attendees. Center executive comfortable,” said the teen. director Jeremy Hester welcomed memFacility hours are Monday to Friday 5 bers of the community and thanked a.m.–10 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday everyone who had a hand in the execu7 a.m.–6 p.m. Membership fees start at tion of the project, including but not limited $37 per month. to the Spurlino family, Hillsborough For more information, call 436-5890 County commissioners, YMCA goveror visit www.tampaymca.org. nance board members, architects and
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Impact’s Got Talent, Annual Golf Tournament & Power Of Prayer Breakfast
Calling All Performers For Impact’s Got Talent Show
Mark your calendar for Friday, April 12 for the fifth annual Impact’s Got Talent fundraising event based off the hit television show America’s Got Talent. The family-friendly event kicks off at 6:30 p.m. at Bloomingdale High School, located at 1700 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. The grand prize is $250. Admission is $10 per person and available on Eventbrite.com. The evening will also feature a 50-50 raffle and silent auction. All ticket sales benefit the Impact program, which promotes healthy lifestyles and relationships to teens, parents, teachers and other youth leaders through classroom education and its teen summer staff program. Auditions will be held on Sunday, March 3 from 1–5 p.m. at The Venue,
located at 11268 Boyette Rd. in Riverview. Participation is for those in grades K-12 with all acts 3 minutes or under. Performances include but are not limited to: vocalists, actors, dancers (solo, duets and groups) and musicians. To sign up for an audition time, please contact Jennifer Crum at 863-6613236 or crummiej@tampabay.rr.com. Contestants selected for the event will be asked to pay a registration fee of $15 per person (solos & duets), and $10 per person for groups of three or more to help offset the cost of trophies and prizes. To be an event sponsor, contact Angie Kagey at 264-9368 or akagey@whatisimpact.com. For more information, visit Impact’s Got Talent 2019 Facebook Event page or www.whatisimpact.com.
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Women’s Resource Center Presents Third Annual Golf Tournament
On Friday, March 29, the Women’s Resource Center (WRC) of Tampa will host its annual Be The Hope Golf Classic at River Hills Country Club. The golf fundraising event begins with check-in at 7:30 a.m. with a shotgun start at 8:30 a.m. The cost is $125 per player with breakfast and lunch provided. Proceeds from the event benefit the WRC of Tampa and sponsorship is also available. The WRC helps women and children find physical, mental and spiritual restoration through individualized case management and care including employment, budgeting, emergency food, shelter, counseling and prayer. To register or sponsor the event, call 309-3357 or email info@wrctampa.org. For more information, visit www.wrctampa.org. The River Hills Country Club is located at 2943 New River Hills Parkway in Valrico.
Power Of Prayer Prayer Breakfast A Prayer Breakfast will be held on Saturday,
March 9 and is a call for Christian men and women to come together for a Day of Prayer. Together we will intercede on behalf of our nation, state, city and neighborhoods, as well as pray for the sick, and our families. The theme for this year's breakfast is ‘It's Praying Time.’ This event will take place at the Gwendolyn Miller Community Center, 6410 N 32nd St. in Tampa. The Prayer Breakfast will start at 9 a.m. The Event Speaker is Pastor Tameka Daniels. A donation of $20 via Paypal.me/bowministry or Cash App $ToniaWalkerSingleton is requested. Call 380-9583 for more information.
Enjoy Designer Fashions At Brandon Christian Women’s Connection Next Luncheon
The Brandon Christian Women's Connection March Luncheon will feature 'Designer Fashions by Debbie' on Monday March 11 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. This is a fashion show for all ladies. No membership is required, but a reservation is requested by Friday March 1. The luncheon will take place at Bell Shoals Baptist Church in The Special Event Center, 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon. The cost is $15 and first time guests pay $10. Please make a reservation with Lillie at 940-0098.
Page 20 • christianvoicemonthly.com • March 2019
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 11525 Ramble Creek Dr., Riverview (813) 689-4229, ext. 232 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 Temple 2909 John Moore Rd., Brandon (813) 689-7190 Journey Church 1310 John Moore 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
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 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 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 Destiny Church 2322 11th Ave. SE, Ruskin (813) 645-3337 Centerpoint Church 1801 S. Miller Rd., Valrico (813) 689-1906 Grace Community Church 1425 N Valrico Rd., Valrico (813) 689-9781 Harvest Bible Chapel Bloomingdale High School 813-699-0517
Life Church 6420 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Lithia (813) 681-6503 Love First Christian Center 12847 Balm Riverview Rd., Riverview 813-671-2009 River of Life Christian Center 6605 Krycul Ave, Riverview 813-677-4453 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 3058 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 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
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Page 21 • christianvoicemonthly.com • March 2019
Make This Lenten Season Meaningful
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Lenten season. Lent is a 40 day period of preparation for Easter when Christians connect on a deeper spiritual level through the practices of ‘giving up’ something. Many Christians will sacrifice things like eating chocolate, drinking coffee, watching television and even smoking. Lent is the perfect time to examine your spiritual life and to grow in it. Challenge yourself this year and go beyond the usual practice of ‘giving up’ something. If you are looking for something different to practice during the 40 days of Lent, consider practicing 40 acts of kindness, 40 days of letter writing, or 40 phone calls to friends and family. You may also want to consider another alternative in giving during Lent. What do you typically spend your money on? Clothes, eating out, travel? Pick one of your spending habits and ‘fast’ from it during Lent and then donate the money you would usually spend to a local charity. Not sure where to start? Check out these some of these books for more ideas on how you can make the most of this Lent season.
40 Days, 40 Ways: A New Look At Lent By: Marcellino D'Ambrosio Ph.D.
If you're looking for a new Lenten experience, this book provides 40 fresh ideas. Some will challenge you to deepen your prayer life; others will open your mind to new ways to serve others. Each includes a reflection to help you understand more about Lent and why it matters. You'll discover positive, proactive ways to take action instead of the same old routine of giving something up. The result will be spiritual transformation and a closer walk with Christ—not only during Lent but also throughout the year.
The Art Of Lent: A Painting A Day From Ash Wednesday To Easter By: Sister Wendy Beckett
This delightful book describes and interprets a series of paintings for each day of Lent. Artists often address subjects that our culture seeks to avoid and Sister Wendy's brilliant and perceptive reflections will help you to read these paintings with a more discerning eye and encounter deeper levels of spiritual meaning than what may first appear.
Bring Lent To Life: Activities & Reflections For Your Family By: By Kathleen M. Basi
Don't just give something up for Lent. Gather your family, and with Kate Basi's fresh ideas, you will Bring Lent to Life. Fasting is not just giving up candy, almsgiving is more than giving away your unused allowance, and prayer becomes active. Embark on the adventure of practicing the three tenets of Lent in new ways.
Give Up Worry For Lent!: 40 Days To Finding Peace In Christ By: Gary Zimak
Catholic author and self-described “recovering worrier” Gary Zimak combines practical spirituality, daily scripture readings and simple action steps to help you kick the worry habit as part of your Lenten renewal. Learn to let go of the anxiety-producing areas of life in order to find the lasting peace that comes from trusting God. Find practical, scripture-centered advice on how to relinquish the need to control the uncontrollable—not just for Lent but for good— and how to find peace in Christ.
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Page 22 • christianvoicemonthly.com • March 2019
Sports
Connection
657-2418 www.christianvoicemonthly.com
By Nick Nahas
St. Stephen Girl’s Basketball Team Finishes Season With Championship Win
By Nick Nahas
The St. Stephen girl’s basketball team won its first championship in school history, beating Villa Madonna 2919 in the championship game at Academy of the Holy Names. Seventh-grader Tabitha Vega led the team in scoring with 12 points in the championship. The team finished the season undefeated at 11-0 while playing in the HCYSL (Hillsborough Catholic Youth Sports League). The team won the first girl’s basketball championship “It meant a lot for us to in school history. win because most of us have been here for four years and we started playing basketball in fifth grade with no experience at all, and for us to grow and succeed as a family was a great experience,” said point guard Avery Magann. The girls on the team include Noelle Herrera, Chloe Hilsman, Ashley Lehnert, Avery Magann, Alyssa Sava, Lillian Vanderpol, Tabitha Vega and Hannah Grace Wiles. They are led by head coach George Green. According to Green, all five of the eighth graders played together all four years. “Our core St. Stephen girls celebrate after their victory. group of girls getting to be together
Se Habla Español
the people on the basketball team, because we are like a family and we are really close,” she said. Green says that all of the eighth graders are talented enough to play at the high school level, but it is likely that only about one or two of them will try out for basketball because most of the girls do not play basketball as their main sport. He said that most of the girls will either attend The team celebrates with Coach Green after winning Riverview or Newsome. the championship. Green also credits some of for that long, we had such good the school’s success in basketball to chemistry on and off the floor, and the new facility (The Family Life with Coach Green to guide us and Center) with a basketball court and show us different plays that would six hoops that draws a lot of interest work to the best of from students. St. Stephen hosts our talents really helped us to do camps in the summer as well. well later in our season and helped “In my 18 years of coaching, this us continue to grow,” said eighthwas definitely the most satisfying and grader and four-year starter Hannah the most happy I’ve been,” said Grace Wiles. Green, who is also the school’s athEighth-grader Noelle Herrera, letic director. “They’re just such great who will most likely attend Tampa leaders not only on the court, but in Catholic next year, wants to try out for the classroom as well. They are just a the basketball team and try out other great group of young ladies and they sports to see which one is her are great representatives of St. favorite. “I want to stay friends with Stephen.”
Page 23 • christianvoicemonthly.com • March 2019
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