Urban Christian Magazine
The Year In Review Double Issue
The Highlights of 2012 Church Roundtable
Real Marriage
Are we afraid talk about Controversial Issues?
Pastor Killed in Church COGIC Re-Elects Bishop Blake
Health Benefits of Black Berries
COGIC Presiding Bishop Elected to 2nd Term The Angelic Voice -Gone Too Soon
Urban Christian Magazine
Executive Chairman’s Desk Happy New Year , to Everyone I pray you had a wonderful time of fellowship with Family and Friends . Well, 2012 has wrapped up and this our Double Issue, as we take a look back over the year and the many astonishing and never seen before events to transpire in our lifetime such as, A Pastor being beaten to death in his Church, to 12 people being killed at a movie premiere in Aurora, Colorado. The most unthinkable happen December 14, 2012 in a small suburb called Newtown, CT where 20 children were shot to death along with 6 adults, these things challenge our faith and make us take life a little more serious and challenge us to move out of our comfort zone as Christians and realize that we should value and appreciate humanitarian living more than anything. Through it all God brings peace in the midst of disaster and allows us to heal as time goes on. So, In Everything give Thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Be Blessed to All!
R.D. Thompson Sr.
TABLE OF CONTENTS Today’s Church ....................................................................................................Pg.1 Prayin Times..........................................................................................................Pg.2 Healthy Christian Living.......................................................................................Pg.3 Cross Roads ..........................................................................................................Pg.4 Gospel Studio Sounds...........................................................................................Pg.5 Sensational Sisters ................................................................................................Pg.6 City Lights.............................................................................................................Pg.7 Forums & News.....................................................................................................Pg.8 Soul Kitchen .........................................................................................................Pg.9 Brother II Brother................................................................................................Pg.10 Style World..........................................................................................................Pg.11 Family Living......................................................................................................Pg.12 Just The 2 of Us..................................................................................................Pg.13 In Case You Miss It!...........................................................................................Pg.14 INSYNC..............................................................................................................Pg.15 Women’s Inner Circle........................................................................................Pg.16 The Year In Review 2012 .............................................................................Pg.17-20
Today’s Church Why Opinions nor Perceptions Have no Power over Your Future
Opinion - A view, or appraisal formed in the mind of about a particular matter. Perception - A result of perceiving; oberservation. In today’s world, people have so many opinions and perceptions about this or that regardless of what it is. Therefore it has caused people to be paranoid, insecure, stressed out, simply because someone has an opinion about you, even Christians today allow people’s opinions to stunt our Spiritual growth when it’s simply their view of a situation one’s view of a particular matter doesn’t give them the power over your future. As Individuals and Godly believers we must realize that God gives us the power to chose and make decisions but, we must take ownership of the decisions also, understand that every decision will not always turn out in our favor just accept the outcome with the right attitude. Many times getting others opinion’s about your decisions and life will hinder your growth and delay your blessings. Learn to be selective on whom you share your decisions and life with, many times we are looking for validation from others, when validation comes from taking the necessary steps toward progress. As believers we must stop trying to get our Bishop, Pastor, etc., opinion for spiritual approval when approval comes from us obeying God’s word and if we do that then the results show forth in our lives. Remember you have the keys to your spiritual Car and how you drive will determine whether you are going forward or reverse but, most all just make sure you do not give your keys to others because you become a passenger. Drive into Your Destiny in 2013!
Prayin Timez Prayer requires attention to Detail Well over the nation many Churches congregations are on the 31 days of Fasting and Prayer. That is outstanding for us to focus on 31 days of prayer but, prayer requires us to pay attention to detail. Prayer without purpose or a plan then we are praying a mist, the scriptures state - Pray in the spirit and pray with an understanding, prayer is the key to our spiritual car but, many times we burn spiritual gas sending up prayers without details or plan is a vain repetition which of no effect because praying for hours at a time doesn’t change circumstances without action the word of God states “Faith without Works is dead being alone.” Change only happens when action takes places like the parable with the servants who were given talents the the Two prayed an then went out use what the master had provided them by going out acquiring more resources on top of what had been given to them, many times we go to church expecting the same shout, and the organ playing Saints dancing and we feel that is what God wants to a point yes but, were the change needs to happen is when we leave and that is to go out acquire resources that will improve your character, life, financial resources, God doesn’t expect for us to go on endless journey’s at the end be divorce several times, frustrate with the many challenges that have affected our lives, if we go out acquire the spiritual characteristics that help us to advance in our life then our prayers become essential effective, powerful and direct because we are paying attention to detail which ensures that God knows exactly what our aim and desire is to grant the answer we desire. Pray with Details in Mind
Healthy Christian Living Blackberries The Power Fruit Health Benefits of Blackberries
The high tannin content, and the resultant antiseptic and astringent properties, of blackberries makes them good for tightening tissues as well as treating minor bleeding. Consumption of blackberry has been found to be beneficial for those suffering from diarrhea and intestinal inflammation. Mild infections, like sore throats and mouth irritations, can be treated with the help of blackberries. Blackberries have been used to alleviate hemorrhoids also, another property that arises from their high tannin content. Blackberries have been found to have anti-bacterial properties and can even help cleanse blood. Regular consumption of blackberries has been seen to delay the process of ageing. Blackberries are known to contain salicylate, an analgesic or pain reliever, which might help lower the risk of heart diseases. A dilute tea made out of the leaves, roots, or stem bark of blackberries can be used to treat dysentery. Regular consumption of blackberries can help strengthen the blood vessels in your body. Blackberries serve as a great source of ellagic acid, which is known to have antiviral properties. The high fiber content in blackberries helps maintain digestive health, control blood sugar, lose weight and lower cholesterol levels. The flavonoids present in blackberries promote vision health, by preventing macular degeneration.
What was the First Covenant God Created? Do you know Christians mention Jesus at the very forefront of their conversation because he died for the Sins of the whole world. Most people are not aware of that before Salvation, and accepting Christ as your personal savior, the very First covenant God created was marriage and second family. Just the other day I was having a conversation on Facebook with a few fellow Christians and it amazes me how people always mention the Apostle Paul when it comes to ministry work, when the truth of the matter is there would have been no Christ dying on the cross without people being on the earth. In today’s world, Christians want to be more concern with whom is a Bishop, Pastor, Prophet, etc., yet we try to avoid the 1st covenant, which is where humanity began in the Garden after the fall of Man. There was statement made that you can reproduce without being married which is true but if you are a Christian then you understand that is fornication, because you are not married. As Christians we must stop trying to avoid having martial relationships, that is how God designed us to have the family covenant relationships and the Church cannot move forward without the 1st covenant relationship. God even mentions marriage when comes back for the rapture of the Church, so for all those Apostles, Bishops, Prophets, etc., our jobs as ministers would be illrelevant without people and God’s first covenant was Marriage which brought about Family. The apostle Paul would’ve had no role in ministry without parents and any minister who has grace this earth became what God ordained for them to be without coming through the 1st covenant marriage and family although we have encountered a society, and the Church world who has ignored the mere existence of humanity is because God began with the family. No altar call, choir singing, or even speaking in tongues, will ever be as powerful or more significant than the first covenant of our existence marriage then family. Meet You again at the Cross Roads!
Gospel Studio Sounds
Sunday’s Best Runner Up Anointed CD Andrea Helms may not have won Sunday’s Best a Couple of Years ago, but whether you like it or not she has a phenomenal voice and along with the anointing of God she makes singing look easy when it really isn’t. Mrs. Helms new CD “Moving Forward” is a outstanding CD that is anointed and spirit driven that is sure to keep you listening to this one over and over again. This First Lady is definitely called to the ministry of song and when have bright long future in Gospel Music. Do Your Thing First Lady Andrea Helms!
Watch streaming online @ www.pottershouse.com
Mrs. Salena Metcalf loves a good challenge and she believes that she can do anything that she sets her mind to do. Well, that seems to be the case even now, Mrs. Metcalf will be opening her own boutique this month called Affordably Cute, so for all those who thought she could not pull it off or felt she was not up to the challenge, well think again. Mrs. Salena Metcalf is one sensational sister!
She is a Dynamic Woman no matter what hat she is wearing, whether its First Lady, Wife, Business Woman etc., Lady Patricia Houston seems to master the task with ease. Lady Patricia Houston is highly respected woman in all arenas of Life from Church, to the Business world, she is exceptional at ensuring that everything she touches becomes a Platinum experience. We salute you Lady Patricia Houston for being sensational lady.
City Lights
W.G. Williams Community Foundation Annual MLK Corporate Breakfast The W. G. Williams Community Foundation will be hosting its Annual MLK Corporate Breakfast on January 18,2013 at 7:45 Am at Marriott Corporate Hills on Webb Rd. This Grand Event is the foundation biggest fund raising event in its calendar year. This program looks to be the best yet all the community officials from around the city will be at this event from the Mayor and Assistant Mayor and many more Tickets are $25. Special Guest Speaker is Pastor Junis Dotson of St. Mark United Methodist Church right here in the great city of Wichita.
Presidential Inauguration caps off the MLK Celebration President Barrack Obama will be officially taking office for the 2nd time on the day that is designated to celebrate MLK. Many organizations around the city will watching the Inauguration Live via Internet / Streaming or their local Cable Channel, one the top organizations that will be hosting the Inauguration as a part of the festivities will be the Greater Wichita Ministerial Leagues. There program will open its doors at 11 at the Wichita State Metroplex so, be sure to get there early to get a good seat .
News & Forums
Gospel Heritage 2013 comes to Atlanta The Gospel Heritage Worship Conference makes its way to the City of Atlanta with Bishop Paul S. Morton and Changing Generation Church deem themselves as the host of this great event. Gospel Heritage Worship Conference is schedule for February 14-16, 2013 so, mark your calendar, this is going to be a great event special guest Bishop Hezekiah Walker, Dr. John Guns, and many more outstanding
Worship with West Angeles Cathedral online www.westa.tv
Applesauce Pancakes Ingredients 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/8 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons toasted wheat germ Soul Kitchen this year is focusing on Healthy nutritional recipes that will be filling but reduce calories and boost your diet.
1 cup nonfat buttermilk 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce 2 teaspoons vegetable oil 1 large egg, lightly beaten Cooking spray Sugar-free maple syrup (optional) Fresh fruit slices (optional)
How to be True to Yourself and face Your Future As Men we can be our own worse enemy well, you wonder why? We say that because time teaches all of us a lesson the we seen time and years ago. There are 3 things that keep us from being True to ourselves as Men and they are : Egotism Crowd pleasing Deception of reality and time Egotism - An exaggerated sense of self importance Many times as men Egotism is our worse enemy well, instead of realizing that our decisions in life should be based on understanding and not on who we are or that we think we are the greatest thing since sliced bread. Learn that crowd pleasing choices hold us hostage as men because, as long as the crowd is around we stand tall ( Big Man on Campus) but, when we are alone many times we have regrets and blame simply because, instead of sticking with our true heart decision we waver and change based on the people we are in fellowship with and end falling down only having to pick ourselves up an start all over again. Deception - The fact or condition of being deceived As Men we allow ourselves to be deceived about time and reality therefore we make decisions feeling we have all the time in the world never committing to anything that doesn’t benefit us up front but, the reality is that there is no rewind in life so, the key to facing Your Future is realize the decisions I make today help to empower my future I don’t have to have anyone’s approval as long as I understand my choice and my decision that they are carefully planned to insure I reach my destiny as Man and child of God.
Style World The Evolution of the Suit Traditional, Contemporary, Slim Fit A Suit can be a master piece of clothing expression if worn right. In 2013, the Suit has become a figment of the Fashion world, the retro tight suit from the 1960’s has made a comeback with new name called Modern/ Slim and Extreme Fit suit. Well, again in the 21st Century America is the 3rd most overweight country in the world and the reality is that most Men are not slim so to take men’s suit clothing from one style to an unrealistic fit. Men’s Suits are style of a vast culture which means there should be a variety of styles to fit men of all body types, regardless of what the fashion industry says suits should be designed to fit all body types and to insure that they are able to acquire a suit that they will be happy wearing for a long time. Below the are 3 suit styles that should make up the men’s clothing industry
Slim Fit
Contemporary
Traditional
Family Living Goal setting helps Children to prepare for their Future Preparing for Lifestyle changes as your children become older requires sitting down and creating a plan and strategy that will help you as Parents and also your children . Often, times as parents we become caught up in buying groceries, paying bills , providing daily living necessities, that we forget how to transition from Parent to Child, to Parent with Young adult. It is very important that Parents we help our children to transition from childhood to young adulthood which requires Goal Setting. Goal setting for children will help them to see their future and how they can meet expectations and responsibilities, without parents teaching and helping their children to set goals, they can’t see their future and often go through their teenage years without focus or plans after graduating from High school. Goal setting helps you as parents to see even how you are doing in your own personal life, and helps to improve your spiritual life also, your personal development because, you can see where you have made improvements and what areas you are growing in and what areas you need to make improvements in. Each year, families should sit down and set goals on paper and hold each other accountable to those goals, this builds repore, fellowship and connection among one another we understand that each individual has their own mind but, if not given directives human beings have a tendency to do those things that are easy and benefit them more than anyone else which leads to manipulation, but goal setting holds each of us individually accountable to what we said want to do and accomplish without a guide people tend to fly by the seat of their pants and it doesn’t matter to them whether they achieve it or not. Set Your Goals for the future Now!
Just The 2 of Us
Quality Time, Purpose, Passion Marriage begins with the Wedding Day, two individuals coming together as One yet, as time goes on there is children, and the challenges of raising and providing for a Family in the midst of that remains Husband and Wife. This is where Q.P.P., comes into play and that is Quality time, Purpose, and Passion, because so much of our time is taken up by Work, and other daily activities, which can lead to lack of connection, with constant change don’t lose your Purpose, many times marriages crack up because they forget their purpose, that is what put them together and why they married each other. The third thing married couples must not lose Passion, no we are not talking about sex, passion is that desire, and appetite to be around each other, thinking about your mate, giving gifts just because, saying I Love you, are some of the many things that keep the passion in your marriage and makes your relationship stable. Marriage is a relationship that must continued to be watered with positive seeds of growth so, that even when the tough times, and seasons come in your relationship, you can keep the spark and commitment to each other and grow even closer as time goes along, some will say that is easier said than done well, anything is possible if you believe in it and if you believe in your relationship then you will make sure that keep Quality time, Purpose, and Passion, in your marriage it is the fuel that keeps the engine running. Keep the fuel in your relationship!
In Case You Miss It
The Sheard’s Reality Show Bishop J Drew Sheard, his lovely wife Karen and their children J Drew II, Kierra team up for a reality show on the BET Network, schedule to air this year in the upcoming months. Check your local listings for times in your city and area. I’m sure the whole COGIC world will be watching nation wide to make sure that it will be a wholesome show.
MARY, MARY 2nd Season underway The Gospel singing duo Mary, Mary is back on the TV air waves with a 2nd season of their reality show entitled what else Mary, Mary, it is on the WE Network on cable or satellite TV networks. After watching a trailer of this show I am not so sure that what there aim is in having reality show. We understand that as Christians we are normal human beings and have challenges just like anybody else but I am not so sure that we need to have a reality show for people to understand that. But watch the show and decide for yourself.
INSYNC 10 Reason Technology helps Church Growth In 2013 Technology is our way of communication whether by Cell Phones, Tablet, Laptops. We communicate at speed of light, technology allows us to plan better, keep up with agendas etc., so technology is an advantage when used right. Churches must realize how to effective Technology can be and what it provides to your church . Here are 10 reason Technology helps Churches : 1. Active current Website reaches beyond your Congregation 2. Financial Contributions will grow with online contribution services. 3. Announcements will never be forgotten with Web announcement calendar. 4 . Keep information current and up to date 5. Connect with Staff for meetings 6. Stream your Church services live online 7. Connect with other Churches 8. Promote Church events and advertise cheaper than printing 9. Create an online Store to sell and distribute your Church’s media ministry 10. Connect with your Pastor by sending in your prayer request.
Women’s Inner Circle 3 Steps to Creating a New You Well, 2013 is here and all of 2012 woes are over time to start fresh and create new goals and visions. This begins with creating a new You which requires focus and good principals, here are 3 steps to Creating a New You
1. Commit at least 3 days for Personal Exercise 2. Eat Healthier for more energy and strength to meet the intensity of your busy schedule and lifestyle. 3. Focus on the things that inspire you the most and create your vision with that in mind. Learning how to create an atmosphere where you add new growth and focus while in the process keep yourself together simply means that you should make sure that whatever you create empowers , inspires and develops you as a Woman and person so, never give yourself to any agenda or situation that doesn’t allow you to have new growth and continuous development because, it will stop you from creating or re-creating yourself as strong and focus woman who can always reinvent herself no matter where she is in life.
Women’s health nation coming Next Month
Coming to the City Our New Editorial Section for Advertisements and Announcements for Organizations, Churches, Business, and much more. If you would like to advertise your Organization, Business, or Church Events in this section please notify us at least 3 weeks prior to actual date of the Event and we will put it in this section for Free!
KAAHMI Host 4th Annual Black Marriage Celebration Kansas African-American Healthy Marriage Initiative will be hosting it’s 4th Annual Black Marriage Celebration in the Month of March Dates are March 15th - 17th , 2013 a 3 day event which begins on Friday and commence on Sunday ticket are $50 per couple, if your are a married couple come out and celebrate your marriage with other married couples.
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The Year In Review Barack Obama -President of United States Again Love Him or Hate Him President Barack Obama is Charismatic and dynamic. The voters of our nation have spoken again by reelection of President Barack Obama now for the next four year again we must support his vision and goals to strengthen and economically empower the future of our country. We salute you President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Congratulations on another 4 years
Bishop Charles E. Blake One of the most Prolific Leaders of the 21st century, Bishop Charles E. Blake continues his masterful leadership of the Churches of God In Christ Inc. Bishop Charles E. Blake was re-elected Presiding Bishop at the Annual Holy convocation in St. Louis. Under his leadership COGIC move the holy convocation from Memphis, TN to St. Louis and has continued momentous and strategic moves to enhance the diversity and growth of the Churches of God In Christ. His leadership has ensure that all of COGIC can be a part of this great organization by creating online registration for all it’s delegates and if you aren’t able to attend in person, Bishop Blake has put together a Web team so, that you can watch the holy convocation online via streaming from your computer, tablet, or even your cell phone. Bishop Charles Blake we salute you for your leadership.
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Whitney Houston - Iconic Voice August 9,1963 - February 11,2012 On February 11, 2012 the week of the Grammy’s the nation was rock with the news of Whitney Houston’s death, many thought it was a prank and refuse to believe but, the news hit the national air waves we took a deep breathe and cried. Whitney Houston was one the most inspirational and Iconic voice we have heard on this side of life and whether you are Christian or not you have to love Whitney Houston and the special gift of song she bought to us whether in the movie Body Guard, or The Preacher’s Wife, what she meant to the African-American culture is beyond words. We miss You Whitney Houston!
Crystal Rucker - Gospel Singer Powerful, Anointed is what comes to mind when you think of Crystal Rucker. Inspite of all her challenges from health issues and much more she has overcome all to reach the top of her game and recording her first official CD and now the award are following her. We know we have the Clark Sisters, Mary Mary, etc., but Crystal Rucker is that one true voice of Gospel music that is raw untap powerful and anointed many call her the female James Moore of Gospel . If you want to her true gospel music at it’s true point call Ms. Crystal Rucker.
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DC Memorial Workshop Choir Focus, mission minded, DC Memorial Workshop Choir is continuing the legacy of Dirk CHANEY each and every year with the end of the year workshop. Well, under the leadership of ALETRA CHANEY Executor/ President they achieved a monumental goal that is a Live recording showing that all things are possible to them that believe. DC memorial workshop choir is carving out it’s niche in the Wichita community so, be on the lookout for more incredible things from this outstanding choir.
David & Tamela Mann They are one the most formidable couples in the entertainment industry, yet are a powerful god fearing team Husband and Wife who give new meaning to the word “Ministry” whether on the set of “Meet The Browns” or Tamela singing on the Bobby Jones show. This couple represents a true standard of Godly living, and that you can achieve your goals and yet keep Christ at the forefront of your life. David and Tamela Mann are dynamic team of vision and purpose.
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