Osprey Observer 2016-05 Christian Voice Monthly

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Volume 20, Issue 5

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May 2016

St. Stephen Catholic Church Expansion On Boyette Campus With New Family Life Center

By Bonnie Mentel St. Stephen Catholic Church has expanded by building a new Family Life Center on its Boyette campus, where the grade school is located. There are future plans to move the entire parish to the same location.

“We’re excited about this new stage for us to move to the Boyette campus. We don’t expect that our church will be fully operational there until this time next year.

For now, the Family Life Center can serve the school and our needs. We’re looking forward, as we grow into it, to hosting events and concerts; many different things for our community,” said Gretchen Robens, communications coordinator at St. Stephen Catholic Church.

St. Stephen’s Church recently celebrated the grand opening of the new Family Life Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony last month. The Riverview Chamber of Commerce helped to launch the event.

“The size of the new Family Life Center matches our current worship center on Bell Shoals Road. We are getting excited about events there in the future, in addition to expanding the activities of the St. Stephen school,” Robens said.

The school is looking forward to having a new cafeteria for the students. In the past, they’ve had a staggered lunch period to accommodate all the students.

St. Stephen Catholic Church recently celebrated the expansion of its Boyette campus with a Family Life Center.

The new building has cafeteria space, a basketball and volleyball court, a large youth room, and eight other classrooms that will be used by the parish and school.

The basketball and volleyball courts will allow them to have home games at St. Stephen for the first time. There is also plenty of space for the church’s middle school program, EDGE, which brings in about 300 kids on Monday and Tuesday nights.

“The school has been on the Boyette campus for about 15 years. We knew that

we would eventually build a church there, but it’s a big process to build a $16 million dollar church. We upped the first stage of building, which is the Family Life Center, because we knew we needed that immediately,” Robens said.

Until the church can be united on one campus, it looks forward to having its current needs met through the Family Life Center at 10424 Saint Stephen Circle in Riverview. More information about St. Stephen Catholic Church and School can be found at www.ststephencatholic.org.

Classic Car Show, Craft Fair Coming To Bay Life Church

By Libby Hopkins loves Local Missionary Digging a carEveryone show. There Wells In Zambia is something about

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Blake Shelton Premiers Gospel Album Page 19

Columns: Pastor’s Corner:

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Faith & Footprints:

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Grace Notes:

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Local Events:

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sitting behind the wheel of an exotic sports car or a classic muscle car that makes your adrenaline race. Car shows are also a great way to bring the community together for a good cause. On Saturday, May 28, On Saturday, May 28, Bay Life Church in Brandon will host its Bay Life Church in annual car show and craft fair on the church grounds.

Brandon will host its attend car shows and carry the news annual car show and craft fair on the of Bay Life all around the state of church grounds from 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Florida.”

“The Bay Life car show originally The car show and craft fair will began as a community outreach to do feature more than 400 show cars, trucks something fun and involve our local car afi- and custom cars. The group Legacy will cionados,” said Bay Life Church’s provide live music in addition to the Bay Communications Director, Stephen Life DJ playing classic rock, county and Stough. “Steve Hardy, the long time Bay oldies.

Life maintenance supervisor, took the iniCrafts will be on display for sale from tiative to organize our first event.” Over the many local crafters and artisans. There will years, other Bay Life members got be a special opening celebration perinvolved and the event grew into a formed by the Color Guard and National fundraiser for the church’s missions.

Anthem to honor our country. The church’s “Robert De’Angelo, who has been our Mission Café will be providing the food at lead volunteer since the very beginning, is the car show and craft fair. All the prothe reason our car show and craft fair is ceeds raised at the car show and craft fair one of the largest in the state,” Stough will go to support the church’s missions. said. “Robert and his volunteer team

“Bay Life Church Missions and Student Ministries send several trips throughout the U.S. and internationally to support our mission partners,” Stough said.

“Every penny raised from food and beverage sales, raffles and donations goes to support Bay Life Global Missions.”

Stough hopes the car show and craft fair will be a fun filled day for everyone who attends. “It’s amazing, each year we see three or four generations enjoy the day where everyone in the family has something for them,” Stough said. “Our hope remains that our community grows stronger, that lifelong friendships are forged, and that our community sees that Bay Life is here to support them on their journey.”

To learn more about the Bay Life Church car show and craft fair or to be involved with the event, visit www.baylife.org. Bay Life Church is located at 1017 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon.

Page 2 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2016

New Products, Great Sales Usher In Dog Gone Holistic 8th Anniversary Celebration

By Michelle Colesanti

The event also provides the opportunity for customers to meet some of the faces behind the products and allows the owners to showcase the exciting new products that Dog Gone Holistic now carries.

Some of the participating vendors include Weruva (cat and dog foods), Red Barn (dog chews and treats), Nature’s Logic (dog food) and Nulo (cat and dog foods).

There are several new products being introduced like Cat’s Incredible cat litter from Lucy Pet Products. All Darrel Day (left) with his dog Basil and Robert of the Lucy profits go to the Lucy Pet Benscoter (right) with his dog Chaz purchased Foundation for the adoption and care Dog Gone Holistic in February 2015. of pets that would have otherwise Darrel Day and Robert Benscoter been euthanized. Also Fussie Cat dry cat have owned Dog Gone Holistic since foods to complement its line of canned February of 2015. In keeping with its cat foods that are already extremely popannual tradition, this year they will host ular at Dog Gone Holistic, and Benebone the 8th Anniversary Sale, which will take dog chews – long lasting dog chews with place on Saturday, May 7 from 10 a.m.-6 natural flavorings, which have been really p.m. popular with the dogs.

Everything in the store will be on sale Day and Benscoter hope the entire all day long. Customers will be able to community will come out and celebrate save 10 percent on all cat and dog foods the store’s anniversary with them. and 15 percent on everything else. While “We’re so happy to be able hold this supplies last, free goodie bags will be event for the eighth time. We think of this given out with a $35 or more purchase. as a customer appreciation day for all of Day said, “It’s hard to believe, but it’s our loyal customers. Thank you for trustbeen over a year since we became ing us as your partner in caring for your involved with Dog Gone Holistic. It’s been pets,” said Day. a dream-come-true for both of us. And, For more information on Dog Gone word of mouth recommendations are Holistic and its Anniversary event, visit bringing in new customers daily. It is so www.doggoneholistic.biz or call 651rewarding to us and our staff when a cus- 0842. tomer comes in and says that we’re makThe anniversary sale will take place ing a difference in their pet’s life and in inside the store, located at 5620 theirs too.”

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Interfaith Council Of Sun City Center Awards $12,000 Grant To United Methodist Church Of Sun City Center

By Kathy L. Collins

a serious problem for many of our children, youth and families."

In an effort to help alleviate this problem, the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center started the youth oriented programs. The children and youth programs meet twice a week on Wednesdays and Sundays. There is no charge and the programs are open to children from infant to young adult. The purpose of the programs is to teach children and youth that nutritious food, exercise and positive (From left) Dee Kelly, Senior Pastor Charlie Rentz, choices are key to a healthy life.

Kayliana, Youth Minister Jeff Collins and Linda The grant will be used to purMaslyk of the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center are proud of the $12,000 grant received chase food for 150 children and from the Interfaith Council of Sun City Center. youth for one year. The children The United Methodist Church of Sun and youth are given a hot dinner on City Center was recently awarded a Wednesday evenings and a hot breakfast $12,000 grant from the Interfaith Council on Sunday mornings. A typical dinner will of Sun City Center to help fund the consist of chili and all the usual toppings church's Kidz Klub and Under The Cross along with yellow rice, fruit and milk. A Youth Group with food for body and soul. typical breakfast may consist of eggs, The programs serve underprivileged chilturkey sausage, breakfast potatoes, fresh dren who live in Southern Hillsborough fruit and milk.

County.

In addition to the hot and nutritious The United Methodist Church of Sun meals, the children and youth will explore City Center began the program about five Christian-based educational programs, years ago after seeing a great need in stories, art, music, trips and guest speakthe community. Amanda Bridges with the ers. church said, "After visiting local schools The Interfaith Council of Sun City and understanding the demographics, we Center is an organization that provides saw the great need for the children in our grants to other organizations in Sun City neighboring communities to have a safe Center to fund programs, education and place to come for comfort, faith and food welfare for those in need. for body and soul."

The United Methodist Church of Sun According to Bridges, "A large perCity Center is located at 1210 Del Webb centage of students who live in Southern Blvd. W. in Sun City Center. For more Hillsborough County are deemed ecoinformation on the church's children and nomically disadvantaged. Hunger and youth programs, visit www.umcscc.org or poor nutrition are ever-present and pose call 634-2539.

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Page 4 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2016

God Still Has Plans For You Have you heard this verse before, “I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope.”? (Jeremiah 28:11) It has been an encouraging verse to many people, especially when they were going through a tough time or had to make a hard decision. It has been very meaningful to me, especially as I understood more of the context.

God sent this wonderful promise through Jeremiah to the surviving Jewish captives who were taken alive back to Babylon after Jerusalem had been destroyed. Thousands of their countrymen died and their glorious temple was destroyed as part of God’s judgement against His people for their disobedience and sin. The consequence of their disobedience was tempered with the promise of future restoration and blessing.

While repentance, confession, and faith in Jesus’ atonement gives every sinner or offender Biblical grounds for a clear conscience before God; freedom and relief from the consequences of one’s sins may not be realized as quickly.

Forgiveness doesn’t mean that our actions will not reap negative consequences. A right standing with God does not automatically equate to a right standing with people either.

These Children of God were spared,

but exiled to a “land of consequence” where they experienced God’s mercy, grace, and prosperity. Likewise, we may feel like exiles from our previous relationships and “land,” but God is still at work to accomplish His plans and purposes for us and through us. There is always a crop to be reaped when we plant seeds of any type.

The key to prospering in a “land of consequence” is to plant new seeds, good seeds, and faithful seeds now. God’s mercy and grace is great to the one who repents and cries out to God, and they must cultivate faithfulness by planting new seeds. One positive seed to plant would be this positive confession, “Father, thank you for the plans you have for me, plans for welfare and not for calamity, to give me a hope and a future.” It’s not about your past, but about God’s promise.

Dr. Daniel R. Stahl has ministered in the eastern Hillsborough County area for over 30 years. He previously served on staff at Bell Shoals Baptist Church, Calvary Church (now The Crossing Church), Bay Life Church, and currently his third church plant, The Palms Church, which meets at 207 New Hope Rd. in Brandon on Sundays at 9 & 10:30 a.m. He graduated from Western KY University (BA), Southwestern Baptist Seminary (MDIV), and Fuller Theological Seminary (DMin). Visit www.ThePalmsChurch.com.

Jordan And Derrick Williams Poised To Be Next Dad/Daughter Christian Pop Duo

Staff Report

Local resident, 11eight years and has year-old singer/pianist, performed at The Jordan Denise Florida Academy of Williams, will release Performing Arts in sevthe first two songs via eral musicals such as digital download from The Wizard of Oz, her upcoming CD in Aladdin, and more. She May. The first song is a has performed the lead Christian crossover role of Cinderella and duet titled A Good Day recently Mrs. Potts in with her well known Beauty and the Beast. dad, Gospel/jazz vocalShe has studied dance ist/pianist Derrick since the age of three Eleven-year-old Jordan Williams Williams. The song will recently acquired a pink guitar and is at Victoria's School of be released in honor of Dance in Riverview and diligently learning to play to add the famous dad/daugh- another element to her live perform- The Brandon School of ance besides the piano. ter duo: Natalie and Dance and Art in Nat King Cole. Her second single That’s Seffner. Jordan also sings background Me is a Christian Pop track that talks vocals as one of six professional vocalists about the precious life, innocence, and on the Gospel Voice TV Show produced light of a ‘tween girl and the love of

by The Christian Television Network and Jesus. She is expected to complete her hosted by her dad. The show airs nationfull CD in December 2016, which will ally across CTN’s network and internainclude the release of a few Christmas tionally via satellite and airs every covers like Mary Did You know, as well Saturday at 12:30 a.m. as some piano vocal and instrumental Jordan loves to write songs and pertracks as well. form music. She has made several Jordan began following in the footappearances at her dad’s gigs, local steps of her dad at the age of two when churches and other community events. she began singing with perfect pitch.

“I want to be a performer. I listen to Touring nationally with her dad, who sings music and sing every day. Every single the lead role of the “Rabbi” in the musical sound I hear sounds like music to me,” The Rock and The Rabbi and playing on said Jordan. “I can’t get the tunes out of the set of her dad’s music show produced my head. Like when it rains the raindrops

by The Christian Television Network stusound like drums to me.” dios were experiences under Jordan’s Jordan is available for bookings. For belt by the end of her preschool years. upcoming performances, bookings at Jordan began studying piano at the churches, and information, contact derage of four and currently studies under lierecords@verizon.net or call 1-866-337Grammy Award winning Latin Jazz 5439 or 244-0642 or visit www.jordanPianist Lannie Batistini. denisewilliams.com or She has been involved in theatre for www.thegospelvoicetvshow.com.

Page 5 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2016

Local Christian Radio Station Offers Free Air-Time For Community Events

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O S P R E Y O B S E R V E R

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C O M

FOLLOW US

By Amy Schechter encourage people in the community and evangelize the Gospel.”

Brother Bill is committed to programming that encourages all of God’s people. Currently, the station offers weekday programming designed for children, teens, and adults which encourages worship, instructs in God’s word, and provides a forum for discussion. Brother Bill is currently building new programs for weekends with a special focus on veterans. He hopes all his neighbors in need will hear their message and find a place they can go to for Station Manager Brother Bill Thompson of support.

102.1 WKOT non-commercial radio station.

102.1 WKOT is a non-commercial Romans 10:14 says, “How, then, can station, meaning they do not charge for they call on the one they have not air time. If there is a program out there believed in? And how can they believe in that can help the community they want to the one of whom they have not heard? help showcase it. Brother Bill invites other And how can they hear without someone local organizations to reach out to them preaching to them?” Christians are called for free advertising for community events to witness to their brothers and sisters, and meetings. He relayed the story of but New Beginnings Baptist Church is how their station even helped a woman doing so in such a way that is unique and who was suddenly stricken with illness accessible to the entire community. They find a place to live. He reiterates, “If it want the community to tune in to 102.1 benefits the community, anything that WKOT and find something for your soul helps someone, we want to hear from while surfing the airwaves. them.”

Pastor Bill Cable and Brother Bill The station is entirely funded by Thompson came up with the idea over donations through New Beginnings two years ago. Brother Bill, the station Baptist Church and through grants. For manager, has over 30 years of experimore information or to make a donation, ence in radio, and with his expertise and Brother Bill can be reached directly on his guidance, the radio station grew from a cell at 343-1491. Listeners are also streaming Internet station to an FM encouraged to call the station at 634broadcast. Now, with a transmitter and 4555. Websites are currently under contower, they reach audiences from struction, but keep checking nbb.church Wimauma to Plant City. Brother Bill and their Facebook page for more inforexplains WKOT is a natural extension of mation: www.facebook.com/newbeginNew Beginnings’ mission: “We want to ningbaptist.fl.

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Page 6 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2016

Be A Hero For Life Walk/Run To Benefit LifeCare Network

Staff Report

The registration fee for the 5K includes a Dri-Fit shirt, finisher medal and chip to chip timing. The Kids Fun Run includes a super hero cape and a medal. All participants are encouraged to help LifeCare reach its fundraising goal by getting friends and family to sponsor them. Participants can create a FundEasy page which is an easy online way to fundraise. Printed sponsorship forms are also available.

LifeCare Network’s mission is to lead those it Brayan and Shelby came serves to the unconditional to Choices Women's Center and committed love of Christ as it protects their hearts to Christ durthe sanctity of human life, ing pre-marital classes, married in August 2015 and soon promotes biblical sexuality, after celebrated the birth of baby Isabella. and proclaims God’s plan LifeCare Network invites the commu- for marriage and the family. It is a nity to join in for its community Annual 501(C)(3) non-profit outreach ministry Walk/Run For Their Life on Saturday, serving the greater Brandon community May 7. This year the theme of the event since 1987 and SouthShore since 2012. is “Be a Hero for Life!” Participants can Through compassionate care, education, feel free to come dressed as their favorite counseling, practical assistance, and super hero. This year in addition to the community networking, support is providwalk will be its second annual 5K race. ed to teens, women, couples and families This year a Kids Super Fun Run has who are facing the challenge of an been added. unplanned pregnancy as well as hope The location will be at Westfield and healing to those suffering from the Brandon at 500 S. Gornto Lake Rd. in heartbreak of a past abortion.

Brandon. The event starts in the field The community’s support will help near the Sears parking lot.

LifeCare & Choices Women’s Centers Family Fun Begins at 7 a.m., the 5K continue assisting many teens, women at 7:30 a.m. and a Rally at 8:30 a.m. At 9 and couples who are facing the chala.m. the Kids Fun Run will begin and at lenges of unplanned pregnancies in the 9:15 a.m. the 1 Mile begins (an easy community. Visit www.LifeCareNetwork. route for those with strollers to wheelnet for more information or to register for chairs). People of all ages can participate. the walk, 5K or Kids Fun Run. Raise There will be activities for the whole $100 and receive a free T- shirt, raise family including bounce houses, face over $250 and you will be entered into a painting, balloons and a live band. drawing for an Apple Watch.

Resurrection Knights Of Columbus Spaghetti Dinner Benefits Run For Life

Staff Report

them by either sponsoring the runners or by having some kind of Pro Life event the council can support.” All the money raised goes to a local Pregnancy Center or life-giving organization.

“We need to get the message out that life is so important. We need to help get the message out to have the mothers save their babies and the elderly be protected at their later stages of life. Life needs to Resurrection Catholic Church Knights of Columbus be protected and our Council is holding a Spaghetti Dinner on Saturday, May 14 Catholic faith centers on life to support The Run For Life. and how precious it is,” said The Run For Life is the biggest annu- Nason. al Pro Life event for the Florida Knights of The Knights of Columbus Council at Columbus. It began 26 years ago when Resurrection Catholic Church in Carol Wolf asked the Knights of Riverview is sponsoring a Spaghetti Columbus to help her raise money for St. Dinner on Saturday, May 14 to support Gerard house, a home for unwed moththis worthy cause. It will be held in the ers in Saint Augustine, which helps girls Resurrection Social Hall, located at 6819 complete their high school diploma Krycul Ave. in Riverview. All proceeds will requirements while taking care of their be forwarded to the Knights Women's newborns.

Center in Tampa.

The council at Homestead came up Tickets for this all-you-can-eat dinner with the idea of the run and sponsorships. are $5 in advance and $7 at the door.

Since then, every year between six and Children ages 7 to 12 pay $3, and those 10 people have been running the 364 under 7 are free. Seating will be available miles from Homestead to St. Augustine from 5:45-7 p.m. There is a $25 maxiover a nine day period. In recent years, mum per family and take-out will be availrunners from the west coast and the pan- able. Rose Llauget, Director of handle have been added and all meet in Pregnancy and Adoption Services at the St. Augustine on the Sunday after Ash Knights Women's Center, will be the honWednesday to help raise funds for ored guest.

Pregnancy Centers throughout the state.

For more information, call Nason at According to Fran Nason, “When the run- 641-9109, Dave at 677-6060, or Jay at ners go through an area, you can support 478-5771.

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Your Monthly Catch Local Happenings In Our Community Food Pantry Collection At Saint Anne Catholic Church

for 10 percent off the bill.

Uncle Mikes Smokehouse Grill is family-friendly and Christian cultured and is located at the corner of State Road 60 and County Road 39 at 106 S.R. 60 E. in Plant City. Call 737-4444 or visit www.uncle mikesgrill.com.

Saint Anne Food Pantry will be holding a food drive at the Publix Super Market located on Big Bend Road at Summerfield Crossings on Saturday, May 14. Volunteers Inspirational will be in attenCountry Music dance to collect At The Farm donations and Inspirational non-perishable Country Music foods. at The Farm on The Saint Friday, May 27 Anne Food Pantry, an Saint Anne Food Pantry is hosting a food drive at will feature The the Publix Super Market on Big Bend Road Jaye Harold Outreach Saturday, May 14.

Band and Ministry of Saint Dwayne Williams. Enjoy hamburgers, Anne Catholic Church located in Ruskin, hotdogs and beverages at 6:30 p.m., distributes both perishable and non-peropen mic at 7 p.m. and concert at 8 p.m. ishable foods to more than 350 families There is no admission cost, but a donaeach week in the South Shore area. tion box is available and appreciated.

Additionally, the ministry serves the There are 350 seats but everyone is homeless in the area twice each week.

For these recipients, non-food items such encouraged to come early or bring a chair. Call 967-3046 or visit as razors, shaving cream, deodorant, toilet paper and other basic-need type items www.TheFarmUSA.com. The Farm is are provided, in addition to more ready-to- located at 7820 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. eat food items. The collection site will also First Baptist Church of Bloomingdale gratefully accept toiletries and paper goods. More than 60 registered homeless To Host Gulf State Quartet Concert regularly visit the pantry. Visit The Gulf State Quartet, one of cenwww.SaintAnneRuskin.org. tral Florida’s favorite gospel groups, will be in concert at First Baptist Church of Fashion Show And Luncheon Bloomingdale, located at 3303 E. Presented By BCWC Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico on Saturday, May 7 at 6 p.m.

The Christian Women’s Connection Gulf State is a gospel music ministry (BCWC), together with The Dress Barn, from Hardee County. They travel extenwill be presenting a fashion show “This is how we do it...” on Monday, May 9 at Bell sively throughout the southeastern United States proclaiming God’s Good News Shoals Baptist Church in the Special through music. For more Event Center at 2102 Bell information, call Darleen Shoals Rd. in Brandon from 11 Guagliardo at 689-3847 a.m.-1 p.m. The luncheon, or email darleeng096@ fashion show and entertainyahoo.com. ment is a nondenominational event and no membership is Book Signing and required. The cost is $15. First Launch Event For time guests pay $10. Please Author Linda Faith make a reservation

by Monday, May 2 at 740There will be a book 0098. signing and launch event on Saturday, May 14 at 5 Free Lunch On Sunday p.m. You, Church and Offered To Pastors Author Linda Faith is host- God: A Fruitful Life is the ing a book signing for her latest book to be pubEvery Sunday morning new book on Saturday, lished by author and beginning at 11 a.m., Uncle May 14.

Pastor Linda Faith.

Mikes Smokehouse Grill in Faith captures the essence of having Plant City offers free lunch for pastors a full measure of God in your personal life after service (up to $11.99 value). Invite and your church life. She shows you how the congregation for lunch and family possessing God’s fullness produces a activities. Present the church’s pamphlet

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The signing event will take place at Revival Worship Church at 6528 US Hwy. 301 S, #104 in Riverview. There will be giveaway prizes to five randomly selected attendees. Call 260-2307.

New Life Tabernacle Seeks Support For New Community Playground

New Life Tabernacle has begun an endeavor to establish a playground for the community, which will be located on the New Life campus, located at 6912 Williams Rd. in Seffner. An acre of the property will be donated to house a children’s playground, outdoor basketball court, and eventually a picnic area specifically for the community.

The first phase is the children’s playground. There is a large fundraising goal for this endeavor as the expected cost of the entire project is $46,131.36, which includes the equipment, safety surfacing, permits, building code drawings, and installation. New Life is seeking the assistance of the community in the form of monetary or equipment donations. Contact Anne Pierre at apierre@yournlt.com or 740-1868.

Celebrate With Your Special Ladies At Royal Tea Party

On Saturday, May 7 from 1-3:30 p.m., bring your mother, daughter, grandmother, aunt, niece, friend or babysitter to celebrate with the special women in your life. Come in your finest tea party attire for a day to play dress-up. Tickets are required and cost $25 for adults, $10 for teens and students, princesses 12 and under cost $5. You can sponsor a table for $200 (10 guests per table). Additional sponsor/vendor opportunities are available. Purchase tickets at bit.ly/1P0v1K2.

The proceeds benefit The Miss Florida Teen Achieve Scholarship Program and Children’s Safety Educational Programs through The Miss

Buckle-Up Princess Foundation. It will take place at Christ Community Church of Brandon located at 1310 John Moore Rd. Contact hostess Ani Hudgens at MissBuckleUpPrincessFoundation@ya hoo.com or 446-2400 for additional information regarding tickets, sponsorship and vendor opportunities.

Flow – Open Worship Experience

Flow is an open worship experience.

It's a free concert featuring local bands and will take place on Saturday, May 21 from 6-8 p.m. at Quest, located at 501 S. Kingsway Rd. in Seffner. Enjoy this time, place and opportunity to encounter God through music, dancing, or any other way that resonates with you. No preaching or asking for money. For more information, visit facebook.com/flowforreal or call 4449121.

National Day Of Prayer Tampa Events

This year you can participate in the 65th National Day of Prayer on Thursday, May 5. This year's theme is Wake Up America.

People will gather throughout the nation to raise their hearts and voices in a time of worship, repentance and petition. The Tampa National Day of Prayer Task Force will be sponsoring three different events: Steinbrenner Stadium, Thursday, May 5 at 7 p.m. – “Worship and Prayer Rally for America.” Join the citywide worship team and community leaders to pray for our nation. Gates open 6 p.m.; starts at 7 p.m. Free admission and parking.

Steps of City hall Bible-read-a-thon Sign up for nonstop 24/7 Bible-read-athon on the steps of city hall. Kick-off is Sunday, May 1 at 6 p.m. through Thursday, May 5 at 11 a.m.

Lykes Gaslight Park Prayer Rally Walk across the street from the Bibleread-a-thon and join in at Lykes Gaslight Park, 411 N. Franklin St., on Thursday, May 5 from 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

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Page 8 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2016

IMPACT’S Got Talent To Host Upcoming Fundraising Talent Show

By Bonnie Mentel

Popular Christian Author, Columnist Publishes Latest Book

By Andria Barrios

Last year’s 1st Place Vocal High School Winners at IMPACT’s Got Talent 4 Heart Harmony Kelly Coultas, Kassidy Gavagan, Shelby O’Brien and Taylyn Olney.

IMPACT is a non-profit organization that promotes healthy living and relationships through their Teen IMPACT program. The program encourages students to commit to being drug-free, alcohol-free, and tobacco-free, while practicing abstinence.

In order to meet its goal of educating teenagers, IMPACT has programs in the Hillsborough County schools. Its Classroom Education program sends trained speakers into schools to educate teens on the importance of sexual risk avoidance, while also teaching them refusal skills, and encouraging students to set boundaries in their dating relationships. Lecturers discuss the benefits of abstinence.

“These teens kind of agree to give up their summer. They go from 9 to 3, it’s kind of like a full time job. They do this Monday through Thursday, all summer long,” said Jennifer Crumm, parent and talent show coordinator.

IMPACT is hosting its second annual talent show, IMPACT’s Got Talent, on Friday, May 6 at 6:30 p.m. at Bloomingdale High School, located at 1700 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico.

The fundraiser began as a way to earn gas money. The organization has discovered that the most expensive part of the program is purchasing gas for the vans. Although several vans were donated, the program still needs to meet the expense of purchasing gasoline.

“We were just trying to find a fun way to help raise some gas for the summer

program. We thought this was a great idea. Last year, it was so much fun. We had 20 acts and they were able to raise enough money to get them through the summer program; around $3,000,” Crum said.

This year, IMPACT held auditions for over 30 acts. Twenty-four made the cut to perform at the talent show.

The event is charging $5 for students and $10 for adults. They hope that many students and families from local schools will attend and support the students in the show.

“We do a silent auction. We go around and get donations from local businesses so we can have silent auction baskets. We have a 50/50 raffle. Last year, we had a grand prize of $100; this year we’ve bumped it up to $250,” Crum said.

The panel of judges include Abby from the Big, Big, House Morning Show on Spirit FM; Cristalyn Stokes, director of Entertainment Revue; Bruce Wawrzyniak from Now Hear This; and Doug Westlake from LLT Academy.

“We have everything. We have singers, dancers, a step team, a monologue, a self-taught piano player who doesn’t even know how to read music, violinist, musical theater – all kinds of different things. Our youngest contestant is a little first grader who is going to come in and sing. Our oldest is 18,” she said.

Visit the Impact’s Got Talent 2016 Facebook Event page or www.whatisimpact.com.

The cover of Derek Maul’s latest book, Pilgrim in Progress: Notes from the Journey, was taken by Maul himself at the top of Mt. Sinai.

Former local resident and acclaimed author, Derek Maul, recently published his latest book entitled Pilgrim in Progress: Notes from the Journey.

His rising career in faithbased journalism has made a profound impact on the Christian world.

“My newest book was inspired by my commitment to make each day an irreplaceable experience of learning, grace, love and wonder,” Maul explained. He then tells how, recently in 2011, he began blogging frequently, and soon grew his blog up to 6,000 regular readers. He then placed his best posts into 10 categories which make up the book.

“I feel like a pilgrim, and I’m confident that I’m making progress,” he continues, in explanation of his book’s title.

Released in December of 2015, Pilgrim in Progress is available on Amazon as well as CreateSpace for $13.50 and Kindle for $6.

“I took the cover photograph at the top of Mt. Sinai just a couple of years ago. The story of how I got to the sum-

mit is the introduction to the book,” he explained.

Maul and his wife lived in Florida for a total of 31 years, spending 14 years in Pensacola and 17 in Brandon, where his wife served as senior pastor at First Presbyterian Church of Brandon and he taught exceptional education. He began his freelance writing career over 10 years ago, and has since written for publications such as The Tampa Tribune, Newsweek, USA Today, Guideposts, Presbyterians Today and even our own Christian Voice.

In 2013, they moved to North Carolina where his wife was called to serve as senior pastor at Wake Forest Presbyterian Church. Maul enjoys spending time with his two grown children and two grandchildren, along with his faithful canine companion, Scout.

He first began writing books in 2006 and has since published six books. “I’m excited about the format of Pilgrim in Progress,” he finishes. “I believe it makes my writing, and my message, more immediate and accessible.”

His next endeavor is another book entitled In God’s Image: What the New Testament Teaches About Being a Man. Visit Derek Maul’s website at www.derekmaul.com and follow his blog at www.derekmaul. wordpress.com. Purchase his books on Amazon at www.amazon.com/DerekMaul/e/B001JS9WC4.

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Page 9 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2016

Bell Shoals Baptist Church Redesigns Food Pantry Bell Shoals Baptist Church has a small house on its Brandon campus that was previously used as The Blessing Barn, a ministry that assisted families in need with food, small household repairs, and school supplies.

The mission of The Blessing Barn has been revamped and the program is now called the Real Hope Ministry.

Henry Ward, Pastor of Care, came on staff at Bell Shoals Baptist Church last July. He was asked by Executive Pastor Gary Payne to find a vision for The Blessing Barn.

“What we’re doing is we’re starting out with a food pantry and other supplies, as in personal hygiene items. That’s where we’re starting and we’re going to let God develop it. If we have a family that needs clothes, we’ll give them a voucher and they’ll take that voucher to Lighthouse Ministries at the corner of Bryan and Brandon. They have a tremendous selection of items, more than we could ever have. The Lighthouse ministry will determine if the people qualify for the voucher,” Ward said.

Lighthouse Ministries, Inc., located in Lakeland, is a non-profit organization that has been serving the poor and homeless of West Central Florida since 1977.

Lighthouse Ministries provides the food to Bell Shoals Baptist Church free of charge. They send about 100 boxes of food per shipment, as needed.

Ward explained how the partnership between Bell Shoals Baptist Church and Lighthouse Ministries was created. “I met

By Bonnie Mentel

with the director and told him what we were doing. He said that they had been praying for a church in the Brandon area that they could partner with for that ministry. It was the right place at the right time with God’s direction,” he said.

The Real Hope Ministry is located at 1917 Bell Shoals Rd. in Valrico. The ministry opened in February and it’s open to the public on Wednesdays from 12-2 p.m. The first week, eight families came to receive food and one person made a profession of faith. The next week they had nine families come, with one woman rededicating her life to the Lord.

“We have been averaging about 50 people per week. One week we had about 65. It’s gone a little bit faster than we thought it would,” Ward said.

The program has about 36 volunteers, who are called Encouragers. When visitors arrive on site, one of the Encouragers goes out to the yard and greets them. Then they bring the person/family in to watch a 3-minute video from Senior Pastor Stephen Rummage highlighting the ministry and the plan of salvation. After the video, the Encourager helps the person fill out an application while asking them about their spiritual life. If a decision for Christ is made, materials on how to grow as a Christian will be given to them on their next visit. The ministry is also in the process of completing a Spanish video.

For questions about the Real Hope Ministry, contact Shawn Moser at 6894229 ext. 231.

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Page 10 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2016

Get To Know Your Saints

By Kelly Wise Valdes

This month we are learning some interesting history about St. Simeon Stylites. Simeon was born in the Turkish town of Kozan, the son of a poor shepherd and he worked as a shepherd as a child. After the separation of the Roman Empire in 395, Christianity grew quickly there.

He enthusiastically wanted to become a monk at age 13, he was turned away from monasteries because his severe self-imposed atonements. He finally entered a monastery before the age of 16, but was soon judged to be unsuited and was requested to leave the monastery.

He became so distraught that he began to live alone in a hut for a year and a half, where he did not eat or drink during the entire Lent season. When he emerged from the hut, his achievement was considered a miracle.

Simeon then decided to “imprison” himself on top of a mountain on a space that measured less than 65 ft. in space.

People began to flock to Simeon, asking his counsel or his prayers. In order to get away from the disruptive crowd, Simeon discovered a pillar that had survived among ruins in Taladah, Syria.

He began to stand upright continually as long as he could stand. He would occasionally preach to those that had gathered at the foot of his column.

Sometimes boys from the local village would climb up the pillar to bring him bread and goats' milk.

When the monastic Elders heard of Simeon’s standing, they commanded that he come down from the pillar. They decided that if he disobeyed they would forcibly drag him to the ground, but if he was willing to submit, they would leave him on his pillar. Simeon displayed complete obedience and the monks told him to stay where he was.

At first the pillar was little more than 9 ft. high, but he kept moving to other pillars, the last in the series being more than 50 ft. tall. A double wall was raised around him to keep the crowd of people from coming too close and disturbing his prayerful concentration.

Simeon spent 47 years on the pillar and died in September 459. A disciple found his body stooped over in prayer and he was buried not far from the pillar.

To date, he is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records’ pole-sitter category and also has the record for “longest-held record of any kind by anybody” (at over 1500 years, that will be hard to beat). He considered the patron saint of people who have left the church.

Stay tuned next month while we explore the life of St. Jane Frances de Chantal.

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Page 11 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2016

Themed Weeks At BSAC Promise Creativity And Fun

What should we do with the kids this summer? At Brandon Sports & Aquatic Center (BSAC) your child gets the state-park oldfashioned camp experience you had as a child, with some modern technology, like Wii Challenge Competitions, thrown in.

The Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center has the most comprehensive summer camp in the greater Brandon area for ages 3 to 14. In addition, each child has the opportunity to experience all of the sports that you have come to expect at BSAC; swimming, tennis, diving and more. Each child has option to attend BSAC's Summer Camp per day or week.

A Full Day Program is available from 7 a.m.-6:30 p.m. for $145/week per child.

Half day programs, 7 a.m.-1 p.m. or 1-6:30 p.m. are available from $85/week per child. There is a $35 daily charge per child for a one day drop-in fee. Advance notice required and also a $35 registration fee per child. Camp weeks run from Monday, June 8 through Friday, August 21.

Visit bit.ly/1W6OcHz for more information on the weekly themes. Contact Youth Development Director Christie

Let Your Imagination Take Flight At Camp Primrose

Kids ‘R’ Kids Summer Games is an olympic themed camp this year.

Lemar at clemar@mybsac.org or call member services at 689-0908 for more information on camps.

Kids ‘R’ Kids Offers Global View of Rio 2016 Olympic Games

Enroll your kids for Summer Games 2016 Camp at Kids R Kids. The all new Kids ‘R’ Kids Summer Games prove the ideal destination for 5 to 12 year old boys and girls.

By providing a global view of Rio 2016 Olympic Games, campers will experience an interactive peek inside participating countries’ cultures, customs, cuisine and more. Add to that a unique twist on the games themselves, and campers will experience 10 weeks designed to instill confidence, encourage

teamwork and foster fun. After 30 years of providing unforgettable summer camp experiences for children, Kids ‘R’ Kids has found that whenever you combine physical activity, interactive learning and good old-fashioned fun – everybody wins.

The cost is $155 per week (new families only) and includes field trips, meals and transportation.

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Valrico is located at 4321 Lynx Paw Tr. in Valrico. For more information on this location, call 657-6200. Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Circa/FishHawk is located at 5815 Kids Crossing Dr. in Lithia. For more information, call 526-7000.

This summer, imagination takes flight at Summer Adventure Club at Primrose.

Among exciting classroom activities, camp “Explorers” will be going on two field trips every week to enjoy what the local community has to offer.

These trips include a voyage aboard Captain Memo’s pirate ship, “cooking” at the California Pizza Kitchen, hiking at Lettuce Lake Park, an afternoon of Improv at the Florida Studio Theater, trips to MOSI and the Ringling Museum in Sarasota, and

more.

Even with all the fun, Primrose has many learning opportunities planned through its creative, hands-on curriculum, emphasizing literacy, science, and mathematics, while keeping young minds sharp this summer. Its experienced teachers are trained in education and safety.

Summer Adventure Club is now accepting registrations for children aged 5 to 10. Visit the school at 1280 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico or call 4385980 for more information.

Continued on Next Page

NOW REGISTERING FOR

SUMMER CAMP

Page 12 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2016

a.m. and 4-6 p.m. at no additional cost.

For more detailed information or to register online, visit www.tampaymca.org.

Patel Conservatory Offers Dance, Theater And Music Camps, Classes

The Straz Center’s Patel Conservatory, located in downtown Tampa, offers nationally recognized intensives, camps and classes in the areas of dance, theater and music. Whether your child is skilled in the arts or wants to participate for the very first time, it offers a fun-filled summer for students of all ages and skill levels at our state-of-the-art facility.

For more information, visit patelconservatory.org or call 222-1002.

Your Child’s Best Summer Ever At YMCA Camps

At the YMCA, you kids will feel welcome and supported in their developmental journeys. This summer you are invited to enroll your kids in YMCA Summer Camps. The days will be full of educational adventures and exciting exploration.

They will meet new lifelong friends along the way.

Summer camps run from Monday, June 13 through Friday, August 5.

Camps start at $135 per week. Camp hours are from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. with extended care from 7-9

Results Driven Programs Will Help Your Child With Reading, Handwriting And Social Skills

All About Speech & Language (AASL) is a premier therapy company offering a unique approach to therapy that is reflective of the needs of its clients and families. It offers highly skilled speech/language and occupational therapy services with unwavering commitment and dedication to providing quality, evidenced-based, results driven treatment.

This summer it is excited to offer intensive individualized reading programs, handwriting assistance, and social skills programs (Socialights). Each program offers highly focused therapy assistance, with ratios as small as 1:1. It will provide your child evidenced-based, results driven programs to help facilitate growth in the areas of reading, handwriting, and social skills over the summer.

The business will continue to provide regular speech and occupational therapy as well.

AASL is located at Winthrop Town Center, located at 6152 Delancey Station St., Ste. 205 in Riverview.

For more information, visit www.aaspeech.com, visit on facebook.com/AASLTherapy or call 220-0971 or email info@aaspeech.com.

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All About Speech & Language provides intensive individualized reading programs, handwriting assistance and social skills programs.

Music And Acting Fun At The Florida Academy of Performing Arts

Summer Camp at the Florida Academy of Performing Arts will allow your child’s creativity to surface. They can choose from Music, Acting, Singing, Guitar and Drums. There will be field trips and more fun.

Acting in musicals will also be offered: Knight at Dawn Kids, Fiddler on the Roof, High School Musical and HONK! Camp is for ages 5 and up and is available both for the full day or half day. There is free early drop-off and after camp pick-up. The Florida Academy of Performing Arts is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. For more information, call 490-2787 or visit faopa.org.

Create Great Memories At Art Monkey’s Summer Art Camp

Art Monkey is now enrolling for summer art camp. Your kids can enjoy creating on a pottery wheel, canvas painting, sculptures, mosaics, glass fusing and more. Camp classes are small so that each artist can receive individual attention. The camp counselors are experienced and great with kids.

There are three age groups for camp: ages 4-6, 7-14 and an evening Teen Camp (only one) for ages 14-16.

Art Monkey is located in FishHawk Ranch’s Park Square at 16114 Churchview Dr. in Lithia.

For more information or to register online, visit www.artandicecream.com or call 315-9803.

Page 13 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2016

The Peacock’s Plume Offers Christian Curriculum Summer Camps

The Peacock’s Plume offers a rigorous Christian curriculum for children, 6 weeks to 5-years-old. It has a language program incorporating sign-language, Mandarin Chinese and Spanish. There is a Voluntary PreKindergarten class for fall and summer. It has a double entry secure facility, camera system, and new playground.

The entire staff is trained in preschool education, CPR and first-aid certified.

For more information, visit www.thepeacocksplume.com or call 684-0700.

2016 Ostingers Baseball Academy Summer Camps

Ostingers Baseball Camp will take place during the weeks of June 20-24, July 11-15, and July 25-29 from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the FishHawk Sports Complex.

Ostingers staff is made up of all former professional players who instruct.

They want to teach the game from the ground up. The camp is not a full day camp with video games, indoor activites, etc.

The instructors include Jim Osting, a

baseball Instructor with 10 years of professional baseball playing experience; two years of Major League Experience (Padres and Brewers); Patrick Ryan– baseball instructor with eight years professional pitching experience; Kris Wilken– Head Baseball Coach at Bloomingdale High School and college and high school players trained by Ostingers Academy to assist your child throughout their camp experience.

Additional help is provided from Ostinger players current and past to make the campers’ experience one of a kind.

With the instructors and the staff, the ratio per camper is around 6:1. This ratio allows for added reps for each player and helps to break up the groups in age appropriate format.

The cost is $175 (multi week/ multi camper discount). For more information, visit ostingbaseball.com or call 737-3000.

MAC Summer Weekly Sports Camps

The MAC is offering five camps during the summer at 216 N. Parsons Ave. in Brandon. Most of the camps will

Continued on Next Page

Our instructors have 30 years combined professional playing and coaching experience.

Session 1 June 20-24 (M-F)

Session 2 July 11-15 (M-F)

Session 3 July 25-29 (M-F)

Location: FishHawk Sports Complex Space is Limited Age Group: 7 - 15 yrs Register Early Time: 8:30 am to 12:30 pm to hold your spot!

Cost: $175/camper **(Second Child $125) **Multi week discounts

Daily Instruction • Games • Pitching/Catching Fundamentals Addressed • Drills For More Information:

Call 813.737.3000 or visit our website at www.OstingBaseball.com

Christian Preschool 6 weeks - 5 years Secure Entry & Internet Viewing Mandarin Chinese and Spanish Language Programs FREE Summer VPK

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Page 14 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2016

run from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. with the exception of Tennis Camp which will run from 9 a.m.-12 Noon.

Harlem Legends Basketball will be offered from Monday through Friday, June 20-24. The cost is $135. Basketball Camp will take place from Monday through Friday, July 11-15. The cost is $90. Soccer Camp will take place Monday-Friday, July 25-29. The cost is $90, and Tennis Camp will take place Monday through Friday, August 1-5 for $50.

All camps are for ages 7-14 except Volleyball Camp will be for ages 8-14.

Sign up at least one week prior to each camp. The cost includes a T-shirt.

Registration forms and payment can be mailed to The MAC at FBC Brandon at 216 N. Parsons Avenue, Brandon, FL 33510; or dropped off at the MAC front desk. For more information, call 3153280 or visit www.fbcbrandon.org/summercamps.

Summer Programs At The Tutoring Club

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Individualized programs for students Kindergarten through twelfth grade are available in reading, math, writing, advanced math & sciences, Spanish, SAT/ACT Prep, Common Core prep, study skills and college planning. The tutors work to reduce stress and build confidence by creating an individualized program for each student starting at a level that he or she can handle and then progressing through the grade levels as rapidly as the student’s learning pace allows. Results are guaranteed. Tutoring Club is located at 4333 Lynx Paw Trail in Valrico (in the River Hills plaza). For more information, call 681-9900 or visit www.TutoringClub.com.

MOSI Summer Science Camps Gather STEAM

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Page 15 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2016

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Washington National Cathedral.

Washington National Cathedral is most certainly a must-see when visiting the nation’s capital. It is the sixth largest cathedral in the world as well as the second largest in the United States.

This cathedral broke ground in 1907, using the same mallet that George Washington used to set the capitol cornerstone. The construction briefly halted during both world wars and because of financial difficulty during the Great Depression. The cathedral was officially completed with the placement of the final stone September 29, 1990, which was exactly 83 years to the day after it was begun.

With its gothic design, the Washington National Cathedral has congregational seating, large arches, crosses and vaults that were built stone by stone.

Many visitors come for the cathedral's Gargoyle Tour that takes place between April and October. There are many of these stone statues outside of the cathe-

dral including a Darth Vader gargoyle located at the northwest tower.

Outside there is an Englishstyle Bishop's Garden with boxwoods, ivy, tea roses, yew trees and an assortment of sculptures and stonework from European ruins. The intricate glass-stained windows light up the inside of this architectural masterpiece.

The cathedral's Flower Mart is held annually on the first Friday and Saturday in May and is one of Washington's renowned festivals. Each year, one Washington embassy is honored and festivalgoers are treated to the culture, traditions, food and art of the selected country. This is one of only two times during the year that visitors can climb the 333 steps to the cathedral's tower.

The cathedral is Episcopalian, but it’s often used for interfaith services. State funerals for presidents Eisenhower, Reagan and Ford were held here. The tomb of Woodrow Wilson, the only president buried in Washington is on the south of the structure.

The view of the city from the Pilgrim Observation Gallery is extraordinary.

Visitors are invited to a traditional English afternoon tea in the gallery most Tuesdays and Wednesdays following a one-hour cathedral tour. Tours are offered daily and are $15 per adult and children younger than 12 are $6. For more information, visit www.cathedral.org.

Page 16 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2016

Local Missionary Building Wells In Zambia

By Bonnie Mentel

Local resident water or any help. If Howard Fox first heard they do, they come to about Overland the water projects Missions when the team,” Fox said.

CEO and Founder, Once an area is Philip Smethurst, spoke located, the team travat his church. els about 5-10 hours to “I was at my get to the village. The church, the River team prefers to find an Church of Tampa Bay, area where five or six when Phil came and wells can be drilled. spoke at a college servEach well costs $6,800, ice about Overland; including installation, how they go out and which is funded by preach the gospel to donors. The water the unreached gospel teams also fix hand groups,” said Fox. pumps that are in need After finishing his Local missionary Howard Fox works of repair. to repair a well in Zambia. degree in Mechanical Drilling a well can Engineering at USF, as well as Bible take between eight hours to a couple of School at his church, Fox traveled to days. There are times during drilling Zambia on a short-term mission trip. He when the surface begins to cave-in. This plans to travel back there soon. halts the excavation process and requires The mission’s main base is located in a section of temporary steel casing to be Zambia. Along with preaching Jesus to installed at the top of the well. Fox had the unreached people, they also provide experience installing a drill last year when safe drinking water by drilling wells there. he visited Zambia for four months. This The organization provides humanitar- year, the Zambia team plans to drill six ian aid within Zambia, Tanzania, new wells and fix 20 hand pumps. The Mozambique, Angola, the Democratic wells are drilled through an aquifer.

Republic of Congo, Cambodia, Brazil, Fox plans to go back to Zambia as and Argentina. soon as he gets fully funded. His current “We’re going into different villages budget is $4,500 per month. This will that we’ve already started relationships include buying a truck for his drilling work. with, through either outreaches, like twoHe will also need money for food, plane week mission trips, Bible Studies, or tickets, gas and vehicle repairs. through missionaries that have gone conFor more info about Overland sistently and made relationships with vilMissions, visit www.overlandmissions. lage leaders or headmasters of different com. To support Fox, visit www.howardschools. After we’ve established relationfox.me, find him on Instagram ships with them, we ask if they need any @Howardfox3 or call him at 454-7836.

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Page 17 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2016

Grace Notes Fifty Shades Of Play

By Debora Coty

Wanna play?

Grown-ups don't get that question nearly enough. Especially from other grown-ups. And MOST especially not from their spouses.

This revelation dawned on me during a God-smack moment the other day when Chuck entered my writing cave and performed his customary earlymorning greeting. He pressed his balled up fist to his forehead and genuflected.

No kidding. He bowed.

Lest you think we have some sort of kinky bondage thing going, let me explain.

Since my 50-something hair has morphed into hay, I've had to install a pink roller in the front of my head over breakfast to make my bangs look more like real hair and less like a baby porcupine having a frizzy quill day.

At first, Chuck, stared with alarm at this hideous pink appendage assaulting his senses every morning. But then, as he has for the 37+ years of our marriage, he began to look for the playful side of an unpleasant situation. He developed this ridiculous salute where he creates his own forehead roller with his fist in homage to his queen and genuflects with the proper gestation

due her royal honey.

Or maybe that's gesticulation and highness.

Whatever. It makes us both smile.

It's become our secret handshake of sorts. Like we're the only two members of an exclusive club. Anyone else observing would roll their eyes and shake their heads.

Nobody gets us but us. Isn't that the way it should be with two people who choose to grow old and weird together?

Despite what we think we know, seriousness is taken far too seriously. Especially in marriage.

There's enough gravity and solemnity in every other aspect of our life. Why not throw a little playfulness glue into the relationship we hope outlasts every other?

“Let marriage be held in honor among all,” (Hebrews 13:4, NASB).

Debora M. Coty is an inspirational speaker and award-winning author of over 100 articles and 13 books, including Fear, Faith, and a Fistful of Chocolate, More Beauty, Less Beast, and Too Blessed to Be Stressed.

Debora also teaches writing workshops. Visit www.DeboraCoty.com

Grace Christian School Launching New Programs To Serve More Students

By Andria Barrios

part of the school’s goal to turn away as few students as possible, and provide as many as possible with wellrounded, Christian educations.

“I had a strong burden to start a program for kids with special needs for two years and ignored it,” Rebecca said. “Finally, the Lord sent a boy who desperately wanted to be at our school, but we couldn't accommodate him. It was New and exciting programs and outreaches have taken so sad and that moment I place at Grace Christian School within the past year, including hockey which is offered as a competitive sport felt we needed to start this for grades three to eight. program.”

Hockey is another excitNew and exciting programs and outing program now being offered as a comreaches have taken place at Grace petitive sport on campus. Experienced Christian School within the past year, Coach Michael Capiello conducts pracincluding an on-campus dual enrollment tices for students in grades three to eight program, a customized education proin the school gym’s synthetic hockey rink, gram for special needs students, the as well as at the Ice forum in Brandon. added sports competition of ice hockey “We will play as a club for about and even some renovations. President three years and then hope to compete in and Vice President Barry and Rebecca the high school hockey league,” said McKeen couldn’t be more enthused Barry. The growing popularity of the sport about the progress. in the area will no doubt ensure its suc“Our Student Outreach And Resources program, also called SOAR, is cess at Grace.

“We have tried to observe what proa pull out program for students who have grams and sports are mostly absent in an IEP or 504 plan for special needs Christian Schools,” he concluded. accommodations,” explained Barry. Each Because of these new undertakings, the school day, qualified children participate school anticipates the greatest enrollment in regular class sessions and later spend numbers in history next year in its 41st set aside time to work on individual annual year. It is located at 1425 N. needs.

Valrico Rd. Visit www.gracechristian“The program launched in August and has given us an incredibly successful school.co or www.facebook.com/ GraceChristianSchoolValricoFlorida/. year,” he continued. The outreach was

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Area Church Directory

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South Brandon Baptist Church 4929 Bell Shoals Rd, Valrico (813) 661-2273

River of Life Christian Center 6605 Krycul Ave, Riverview 813-677-4453 Keysville Assembly of God 10308 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Lithia 813-737-4803

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Bell Shoals Baptist Church 2102 Bell Shoals Rd, Brandon (813) 689-4229 Bell Shoals - Apollo Beach Campus 6414 Golf and Sea Blvd, Apollo Beach (813) 641-2222 First Baptist Church of Bloomingdale 3303 E. Bloomingdale Ave, Valrico (813) 689-3847 First Baptist Church of Brandon 216 N Parsons Ave, Brandon (813) 689-1204 FishHawk Fellowship 15326 Fishhawk Blvd, Lithia, (813) 655-7431 Journey Church 1310 John Moore Road, Brandon (813) 699-8262 Liberty Southern Baptist Church 2505 W. Granfield Ave. Plant City 813-752-1450 New Beginning Baptist Church 15926 Carlton Lake Road, Wimauma (813)634-4555

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Nativity Catholic Church 705 E Brandon Blvd, Brandon (813) 681-4608 St. Anne Catholic Church 106 11th Ave. N.E Ruskin (813) 645-1714 St. Stephen's Catholic Church 5049 Bell Shoals Rd, Valrico (813) 689-4900

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South Bay Church 13498 US Highway 301 S, Riverview (813) 677-0721 The Crossing Church - Main Campus 10130 Tuscany Ridge Drive, Tampa, (813) 626-0783 The Crossing Church - SouthShore 3058 East College Ave, Ruskin (813) 626-0580 The Palms Church 207 New Hope Road, Brandon (813) 841-9598 Shiloh Restoration Tabernacle (Main Campus) 1044 East Brandon Blvd., Brandon (813) 657-9400 True Sanctuary 6528 US Hwy 301 S, Suite 114, Riverview (813) 319-5862 Yeshua Ner Tamid 1314 E. Lumsden Rd., Brandon (813) 438-8380 First Presbyterian Church of Brandon 121 Carver Avenue, Brandon 689-4597 Presbyterian Church of Bloomingdale–USA 710 E. Bloomingdale Avenue, Brandon 813-654-3699 Redeemer Church-PCA 12404 Boyette Rd., Riverview (813) 741-1776 Westminster Presbyterian Church PCA 402 E. Lumsden Road, Brandon (813) 689-6541

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Centerpoint Church 1801 S Miller Rd, Valrico (813) 689-1906 Destiny Church CHURCH OF GOD 2322 11th Ave Se, Ruskin Boyette Springs Church of God (813) 645-3337 12114 Boyette Rd, Riverview Grace Bible Ministries (813) 671-0086 136 N. Moon Ave., Brandon EPISCOPAL 813-957-0913 Holy Innocents' Episcopal Church Horizon Christian Church 604 N. Valrico Rd, Valrico 1720 S. St. Cloud Avenue, Valrico (813) 689-3130 (813) 689-1457 LUTHERAN Iglesia Puerta Del Cielo Immanuel Lutheran Church 6528 US HWY 301, Riverview 2913 John Moore Rd, Brandon (813) 523-0610 (813) 689-1787 Life Church at FishHawk Living Savior Lutheran Church 6420 Lithia Pinecrest Rd, Lithia 2650 Lithia Pinecrest Rd, Valrico (813) 681-6503 (813) 681-2375 New Jerusalem/Nueva Jerusalem METHODIST First United Methodist Church of Seffner 3101 Kingsway Rd., Seffner (813) 684-2754 1310 South Kingsway Rd., Seffner Revival Outreach Center (813) 689-3513 Grace Community United Methodist Church 225 N.Dover Rd, Dover (813) 681-2250 5708 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Lithia (813) 661-8858

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Riverview First United Methodist Church 8002 US Hwy 301 South, Riverview www.riverviewflumc.org Ruskin United Methodist Church 105 4th Ave. NW Ruskin (813) 645-1241 South Shore United Methodist Church 11525 Big Bend Road, Riverview (813) 649-9462

Page 19 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2016

Hot Off The Christian News Wire

By Kelly Wise Valdes Free Joyce Meyer Conference Tour Comes To Tampa

Thousands of men and women will gather at the Joyce Meyer Conference coming to the Amalie Arena from Thursday, September 8 – Saturday, September 10.

Conferencegoers will come together to hear author and speaker Joyce Meyer share a unique message each session. Attendees will also enjoy powerful live worship with Kari Jobe each meeting. Each session is unique and will include a powerful message from Joyce as well as worship with Matt Redman and Christy Nockels. There is no charge for each of the four sessions.

The schedule below is subject to change: Thursday, September 8 at 7 p.m.; Friday, September 9 at 10 a.m.; Friday, September 9 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, September 10 at 10 a.m.

Amalie Arena is located at 401 Channelside Dr. in Tampa. Admission

is free. No registration is required.

Seating is available on a first come, first served basis. Doors will open two hours prior to each session. For more information, call 866-733-5692 or visit www.joycemeyer.org/conference.

Blake Shelton Focuses On Gospel Songs In New Album

Country singer and The Voice judge Blake Shelton is taking a break from mainstream country music and focusing instead on Gospel songs on his new

album titled If I’m Honest. According to Christian Today, one of the songs on the album is titled Savior’s Shadow and it is a very personal song of faith for Shelton.

"Though the devil tried to break me, my sweet Jesus won't forsake me, when I'm in my Savior’s shadow where I'm supposed to be," say some of the song’s lyrics.

Shelton told his Twitter followers that the idea for the song came to him in a dream. "I dreamed the song

last summer," he wrote. "I woke up and wrote down everything I could remember." To download a copy of the song, visit www.itunes.com.

Christianity Today Celebrates 60th Anniversary

This year marks the 60th anniversary of Christianity Today, the global media ministry founded by Billy Graham in 1956. To honor the occasion, Christianity Today has released a digital booklet tying Graham's original vision to the work of the ministry today.

Since its inception, Christianity Today has shaped the minds and hearts of millions of pastors, church leaders and Christians around the world. Today the ministry reaches over four million subscribers monthly through a variety of media, including the original flagship magazine.

The new digital booklet, A Vision for Christianity Today, walks readers through the ministry's rich history and shares plans for the ministry's future.

See the digital booklet at www.christianitytoday.org/go/vision.

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Page 20 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2016

Hooked On Christian Books

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Mother’s Day Reading

May is the month we recognize Mother’s Day. Many of us have been fortunate enough to have been raised by a Christian mother- the encourager of your dreams, the example of a Godly woman, your biggest fan. And if you are blessed enough to be a mother, remember to nurture the souls of the children you have been given to raise. Sometimes in the midst of our busy lives, moms need “a little God-time” to get through the day. Be encouraged as you reflect on the blessing of motherhood and know that every sacrifice you make does not go unnoticed. May joy and peace be yours as you love your children as your Heavenly Father loves you.

God's Wisdom for Mothers

By Jack Countryman Equipping mothers of all ages to tackle everyday challenges, this uplifting book will help moms to become all they want to be in the eyes of God. Offering guidance through Scripture, it's arranged topically to cover 62 subjects pertaining to motherhood. Topics include God’s Wisdom with Children, God Walks with Mothers Through Heartache, Adversity, and more.

Out of the Spin Cycle: Devotions to Lighten Your Mother Load

By Jen Hatmaker This fun and faith-filled book is for busy moms whose to-do list keeps them on auto-pilot most of the time.

This book speaks to the woman inside the mom addressing issues such as worry, money, marriage and priorities. Take a few moments and lighten your mother load with this inspirational book.

Day-Votions for Mothers

By Rebecca Barlow Jordan This inspiring book gives moms 40 days of devotionals to offer wisdom and refreshing for your heart and mind. Each reading highlights a unique aspect of motherhood with a Scripture verse, reflection question and prayer. Discover the strength and wisdom you need to help guide your path as a mom.

Hope for the Weary Mom

By Stacey Thacker, Brooke McGlothlin Do you ever feel like you're fresh out of amazing? Daily pouring yourself out for your family, you're tired, overwhelmed, and have nothing left to give. This book will lead you to the God who meets you in your mess and show you that you don't walk through life alone.

Page 21 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2016

Family Promise Partners With Local Churches, Provide Housing For Homeless

By Bonnie Mentel

Family Promise is necessary tools that a an organization that family needs to move provides temporary on, getting back to that shelter for homeless place of self-sufficienfamilies in the Brandon cy,” Reddick said. area. Along with housOne way they do ing, the families are this is through a connected to counselFinancial Literacy ing and resources in Program that covers the community. banking, insurance, “Family Promise of budget, taxes, and Greater Brandon is a other topics that are part of a bigger picimportant for families to ture. Nationally, we achieve self-sufficiency. have 200 affiliates in 44 Edwina Reddick is the new execu“Since opening our tive director at Family Promise of states and over 170,000 doors May 4, 2014, we Greater Brandon. volunteers. There are have graduated 19 famover 6,000 congregations nationwide. We ilies. Upon leaving the program, one adult are a community-based program providmember in the family was gainfully ing a one-way solution, not a revolving employed. Each family went into afforddoor, to children and their families who able housing. Some have had chalare experiencing homelessness. This lenges, but because of the education, the provides an opportunity for congregations information and the resources provided to put their faith in action,” said new

by Family Promise, they were able to Executive Director, Edwina Reddick. navigate the system and remained In order to assist with housing, the housed, which is our mission,” Reddick organization works with partner churches. said.

Bay Life Church, First United Methodist of Reddick said that every family has a Brandon, First United Methodist Church story. She likes to help replace the mindof Seffner, Grace Community United set of what a homeless person is. She Methodist at FishHawk, Nativity Catholic said that homeless families are the Church, and Journey Church are some of fastest growing segment of the homeless the partner churches that help provide population right now and that the majority temporary housing. of families that they work with have run After a temporary stay, it is the famiinto a bad time, usually as the result of a lies’ responsibility to find their own housjob loss or medical issue. ing and they are encouraged to find that To learn more about Family Promise, housing as soon as possible. visit www.familypromisebrandon.org.

“To sum it up, we are a communityThey are located at 121 Carver Ave. in based program who provides all of the Brandon. Call 681-6170.

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Page 22 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2016

Local Vacation Bible School Events Will Fill Children Physically, Spiritually

By Bonnie Mentel

Summer is a good time for your kids to make new friends, and try new activities while learning about God's love for them. Many area churches will be reaching out to the community by hosting Vacation Bible Schools this June and July. This will be a great opportunity for them to learn about Jesus. If we missed one, contact bonnie@ospreyobserver.com to be included in our listing on our website.

ketball, cheerleading, and a special program for 4-5 year olds. It runs Monday through Friday, June 13-17 from 5:45– 8:15 p.m. Cost is $30 per child. It is open to children ages 4-years-old through fifth grade. Register online at www.mygraceumc.com.

Grace Community UMC is located at

Sunday at 10:30 a.m., lunch to follow. Visit www.fumcseffner.org.

Journey Church

Journey Church presents a “TreeHouse” VBS from July 18-22, 5:45-9 p.m. with a free dinner served every night.

Bell Shoals Baptist Church

Bell Shoals Baptist Church will have a weeklong Vacation Bible School July 18-22 from 8:45 a.m.-12 Noon each day.

This is free and open to all children who will be 4-yearsold by September 1 through kids who have completed the sixth grade.

Bells Shoals Baptist Church is located at 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon.

The theme this year is “Submerged,” so batten down the hatches and prepare to dive deep into the Bible. To learn more and to register, go to www.bellshoals.com/vbs.

Grace Community United Methodist Church

Grace Community United Methodist Church is hosting a VBS Sports Camp that includes flag football, soccer, bas-

5708 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia.

First United Methodist of Seffner

First United Methodist of Seffner’s VBS is July 21-23, with a closing ceremony on July 24. The church is located at 1310 S. Kingsway Rd. in Seffner. The theme is “Deep Sea Discovery.” For ages Pre-K through fifth grade (4 to 12year-olds). It runs Thursday 6:30-8:15 p.m., Friday and Saturday 9:30 a.m.2:30 p.m. with a performance on

Theme verse: The Lord your God has kept all of the good promises He gave you. Every one of them has come true. Not one has failed to come true.

And you know that with all your heart and soul. Joshua 23:14.

Pre-registration is required. Visit Journey7.com to pre-register today.

Shirts will be available for purchase on the website as well. Journey Church is located at 1310 John Moore Rd. in Brandon. Call 699-8262.

Learn more about how to advertise your school in the Christian Voice education directory!

Contact Trisha Becker at tbecker@ospreyobserver.com St. Stephen Catholic School • Providing Quality Education

Birth-Grade 8

before & after-school programs available Registration NOW OPEN!

689-9435

216 N. Parsons Ave. Brandon, FL AdvancEd and ACSI accredited

WWW.FBCBRANDON.ORG

Redeemer Church is hosting VBS G-Force: God’s Heroic Love in Action.

Join them for story time, crafts, snacks, and games as they look at the heroic love of God. It is for ages 4-12 (through fifth grade.)

Register online at www.redeemerriverview.org. Contact the church with questions at 741-1776 or Pastor Steven Hansen at 784-0367.

Redeemer Church is located at 12404 Boyette Rd. in Riverview.

St. Stephen Catholic Church

CHRISTIAN EDUCATION DIRECTORY

Now serving children

Redeemer Church

Inspire. Teach. Minister.

K5-12th Grade Faith Christian Academy of Plant City Now Enrolling/Accepting McKay, PLSA and Step Up For Students 905 W. Terrace Dr. | Plant City, FL 33563

813.473.2090 www.fcapc.com

• Early Childhood Programs (3 & 4 yr. olds) • Elementary Education (Kindergarten thru 5th) • Middle School Education (6 thru 8th grade)

10424 Saint Stephen Circle Riverview (Off Boyette Road)

(813) 741-9203

www.ststephencatholicschool.org

St. Stephen Catholic Church’s “CaveQuest” Totally Catholic VBS will take place June 2024 from 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Monday through Friday, with a closing celebration evening mass on June 25. The cost is $55 per participant, however a volunteer's first child goes for free and each consecutive volunteer’s child is $15 each.

To register contact, Mariaelene Moore at stsvbsdirector@yahoo.com or call the Faith Formation Office at 6714434.

St. Stephen Catholic Church is located at 5049 Bell Shoals Rd. in Valrico.

Grades PK-12

Over 4in0 yrs Christiann Educatio

Offering Fall VPK

Grades K-12

CENTRAL BAPTIST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL “Distinctly Christian, Academically Excellent” 402 E. Windhorst, Brandon, 33510

813-689-6133

www.centralbaptistlife.com Accepting Step Up Scholarships

Christian School & Child Development Center Toddlers thru Preschool & K-8th Grade

Accepting Scholarships & School Readiness 1511 U.S. 301 S. Tampa, Fl 33619 (813) 626-4600

“A Private Academy with a Catholic Tradition”

Now Enrolling

KK-9 – 8thth Grade Grade Accepting Scholarships Scholarships Accepted 20 students per class 2576 East Hwy 60, Valrico, FL 33594 813-662-9911 www.CuttingEdgeLearningAcademy.org

Valrico Campus

950 S. Mulrennan Rd. Valrico

(813)654-9500

Winthrop Campus

BAPTIST ACADEMY

Celebrating 50 Years of Kingdom Education 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. Brandon

689-9183

www.bsbacademy.com

11297 Winthrop Main St. Riverview

(813)654-9400

Providing quality childcare for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years.

Faith-based curriculum and credentialed staff.

Now Open at Winthrop Center

Christian Academy Ages 1-11 Bible-Based Teaching olling Individualized Educational Program Enr w!

No After School Care Summer Programs To Schedule a Tour, Call Adunola Steen at 813-319-5862 Located on 301 S. in Riverview

www.tsop-academy.org

Accepting Students with IEPs

Half-day Preschool, VPK, & Mother’s Day Out program 402 E. Lumsden Road Brandon, FL 33511 813-684-3118 academy@wpcbrandon.org

Now Enrolling Two Locations

K-8th Grades 1204 S. Lenna Ave, Seffner 13498 US Hwy 301 South, Riverview

813.661.4200

WWW.LIVINGSTONESHOOLS.ORG

Page 23 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2016

Live Like You Mean It “Read This-Change Your Life”

By Derek Maul This week I asked my men’s group to rate how “positive” they feel, along with a brief explanation. It’s interesting to see how different individuals arrive at their answers, and the wide variety of criterion employed.

My response was tied to this explanation: “Today was one more in a series of spectacularly beautiful spring days. Sunshine and highs in the mid-60’s, new life bursting out everywhere.”

In other words, “I can’t help myself!”

I’m not sure “I can’t help myself” is a good answer. Paul wrote that, “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation” (Philippians 4:10-12).

Paul suggests we actually can help ourselves; he’s saying contentment is something we can learn.

That same evening I listened to a TED-Radio segment. The speaker was talking about research that has demonstrated, trial after trial, how to effect positive change when it comes to personal contentment and happiness.

If you hear what I’m saying with an open spirit, this has the potential to radically change your life. Here it is: People experience contentment and measurable happiness when they set their own desires aside, and focus

FR E E

their attention and their resources on improving the wellbeing of others.

Generosity leads directly to a more positive life.

No surprise, my writing mentor Paul had something to say about that, too: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus” (Philippians 2:3-5).

Don’t be selfish. Value others above yourselves. Focus on the needs, concerns, and happiness of your spouse, your community, coworkers, your friends, strangers. Follow Jesus.

Be that guy; be that woman; practice the Gospel of Love. Then answer the question about how positive you feel.

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

!

Presenting: “TreeHouse”

VBS

July 18-22, 2016 | 5:45pm-9:00pm Dinner served every night!

Pre-Registration is REQUIRED!

Visit Journey7.com to Pre-Register TODAY! Shirts will be available for purchase on the website as well.

1310 John Moore Rd, Brandon | 813.699.8262

Dr. Daniel and Mary Stahl Lead Pastors

207 New Hope Road , Brandon • (1-mile North of HWY 60 off N. Parsons Ave.)

Sunday at 9:00 & 10:30 AM •Contemporary Music • Casual Dress • Children’s Church (10:30 Service Only) Clean Safe Nursery • Relevant Biblical Teaching • Friendly Atmosphere AD SPONSORED BY SHH & SONS, INC

Page 24 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2016