Second's Gazette December 2013

Second’s Gazette Second Baptist Church, Inc. Evangelical Orthodox Communion Bishop Wm. LaRue Dillard, PhD

925 So. Shamrock Monrovia, CA 91016

Version 8—Issue 56 December, 2013

Merry Christmas from the Second’s Gazette Staff!

Call 626-358-2136 or 359-7188 Fax 626-357-2477 –Email: secondsnewsletter@gmail.com / sbcmon@aol.com / Visit us at: www.Secondbaptistmonrovia.org

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God Is First At Second Baptist Church

Mission Statement Second’s Gazette serves as a monthly newsletter to inform the congregants of valuable information happening on the campus of Second Baptist Church and in the community, as well as spotlight individuals and events that edify our parish church, but most importantly; glorifies the name of Jesus Christ.

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Nadine O. Harris, Founder/Chief Editor Tinisha McDonald, Administrative Mgr. Precious Flemings, Writing Editor Ferrari Y. Green, Production & Design Contributing Consultants: Jessie Anderson Peggy LaBon Twyla McDonald Danielle McKay Sherry Joiner Barbara Wilson Children’s Church Staff: Christa Moreland Jaylyn A. Harris MyReeanna Wade

he claim that Christianity makes for Christmas is that at a particular time and place God came to be with us himself. When Quirinius was governor of Syria, in a town called Bethlehem, a child was born who, beyond the power of anyone to account for, was the high and lofty One made low and helpless. The One who inhabits eternity comes to dwell in time. The One whom none can look upon and live is delivered in a stable under the soft, indifferent gaze of cattle. The Father of all mercies puts himself at our mercy.

Second’s Gazette is published and distributed monthly, every First Sunday, to provide the congregation with information about the Church, the Church Family, the Community, and the World.

Contact: Secondsnewsletter@gmail.com

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CONTENTS Page 2

Cover Story

Now!

T h e B i

Page 3

Bishop’s Epistle

Page 4, 5 Dates/Spotlight Page 6, 7 Church Ministry News Page 8, 9 Celebration Pictures/Ads Page 10, 11 Blast/Footprints/Music 101/ Bookshelf/DVD Review Page 12, 13 Kid’s Pages/Community News Page 14, 15 Health Corner/Sick and Shut-in In/Children’s Church

The

Magic

of

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on’t Wait! Purchase your space in the Second Baptist Church Journal and share a Prayer of Blessings and well wishes to congratulate Bishop Dillard on 40 years of service to SBC and the community. Individuals, families, churches, businesses and organizations are encouraged to join in the celebration.

Questions call 626-358-2136 Download your form at www.secondbaptistmonrovia.org

Don’t miss out!

Christmas is not in the presents, but in

His Presence.

Discover Jesus, Read the Bible!

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S E C O N D B A P T I ST C HUR C H

VICTORY SONG IN THE NIGHT of SUFFERING (Romans 8:38-39)

Saints of My Parish Flock,

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race to you! I love you! I was reminded the other night that the empty tomb of Jesus becomes the saints’ assurance that no suffering can have the final word, just as the Apostle Paul heard the Lord’s song in the night of his tormented soul, “Saul, Saul, why?” Later he sang a song for any night time trouble, “For me to live is Christ!” And God gave the world, through Paul, a final doxology to sing in the midnight hour of suffering: “For I am persuaded…”

At present, I sing the song in my night! For me, it spells out the cosmic dimensions of Christ’s victory over Satan, Pain, Death, all dimensions of time---Past, Present, and Future. It speaks of impossible circumstances and troublesome saints; our sin and failures, and our depleted dreams. But nothing in me can drown out the Lord’s song of victory.

With that greater song of hope, on this side of Calvary and the empty tomb, we can say to our timorous (fearful) souls the psalmist’s words with Immanuel’s joy, “Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him; the help of my countenance, and my God!” I hear the Lord’s song for my night by surrendering my suffering, and so now the song of Jesus is my song. “I will never leave you or forsake you! I am with you always!” During my pain, apprehension, hurt, and disappointments, He said, “Slip your hand into mine and notice, with assurance, that it is a nailed-pierced hand of suffering.” Jesus knows our need in the night; and then his voice blends with ours in a night song to our souls. It has become my victory song in my night of suffering.

We trust Him and walk by faith, and “whether present or absent, to be well pleasing to Him” (II Corinthians 5:8). Amen.

Until He Comes, I Am Serving Christ Joyfully,

Bishop Dr. Wm. LaRue Dillard Parish UnderUnder-shepherd

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Willie Cross Shana Jackson Raevon Cross Brenda Walker

12/1 12/1 12/8 12/10

Jenniah P. Dixon

12/13

Jayden Dorby Carrie Walker June Johnson Marilyn Croft Eloise Davis Chuck Williams Lametra Spicer Jeffrey Parridge Jesus Christ Danyelle Rucker Lonnita Wilson

12/13 12/17 12/17 12/18 12/20 12/21 12/22 12/23 12/25 12/27 12/27

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Second Baptist Church Teams-up to Give Back to the Community of Monrovia

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n, Tuesday, November 26, 2013 the Pantry and Mission of Mercy Ministries partnered to host the Annual

Thanksgiving Dinner and Food Drive. Over 70 families were served a

warm meal and/or given a food box of holiday trimmings.

Special Thanks to all who supported the event by volunteering their time, talents and treasure.

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God Sent Down His Love

e've heard all the songs before, We've gotten all the gifts, We've shared the love of family, But there's something that the world missed, Long ago in a manger, The birth on this wise was, From the ancient of Days and beyond, God sent down His Love, From eternity's now God sent His Son, Supernaturally born through the Virgin Mary.

Imagine Love looking through God's eyes, The Lamb born perfect - His Baby, The Word of God among us, The God most of us won't seek, From birth to cross despised, Wonderful, Worthy, and Wise, Unknown to the Magi who came to worship, the gifts would signify, That this precious gift from God, This baby King was born to die, Gold to signify His royalty Frankincense says Emmanuel, Myrrh for His burial anointing, Before He would snatch the keys to hell, He wasn't born so we could purchase things, Decorate a tree, or be depressed, He was born to die for us, So we could live forever with Him and be blessed, So before you buy the one you love, a nice present or two, Remember God became flesh, Went to the cross and died for you, From a void in space to what we are today, He's loved us from the start.

Happy Birthday Christ Jesus, I'm so glad you live within my heart.

~Eric

First African American Female President and CEO of Sam’s Club

Rosalind Brewer

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he holidays are here and it's time to shop,

and most of us will probably be shopping at Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club. But did you know that Rosalind Brewer was the President and CEO of the East Coast Division of Wal-Mart, and is currently the President and CEO of Sam’s Club.

Mrs. Brewer is the first African American woman to serve as CEO in Wal-Mart history. Forbes listed her as number 44 in 2013, and number 50 in 2012, as one of the most powerful women in the business world.

As a wife and mother of two, she is truly a bold and powerful woman.

She graduated from Spellman College in Atlanta, Georgia with a BS in Chemistry and completed an advancement management program at Wharton School of Business.

As a scientist, she brings great value to her role as CEO of Sam’s Club because of her analytical skills. Mrs. Brewer travels to many Sam’s Club locations and talks to associates and members, gathering information about the business. She then analyzes the feedback to improve the quality of service that Sam’s Club strives to provide. When we are shopping this Holiday Season, let’s remember that a famous Black woman by the name of Rosalind Brewer is the CEO of one of our favorite stores, Sam’s Club. ~Barbara Wilson

Sherkia

Serenity

Erika

Kori

Amiyah

Twist and Turn Rose

Amiyah

Up to the your Heavenly Father Stomp and glide on your toes Keep dancing, keep praising, keep believing, Dance your way into the kingdom before our Lord’s feet Twist and Turn Rose Through your movements you speak Invoke laughter, invoke praise, Invoke the attention of the saint and the sinner just the same.

Serenity

Erika

Sherkia

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Harris Family Visits D.C.

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1411 W Street, S.E., Washington DC, DC 20020-4813

he Harris Family walked the halls of Cedar Hill, home of the famed abolitionist Frederick Douglass while visiting Washington D.C. to celebrate the 70th Birthday of the eldest Harris child, Barbara M. Harris. This scenic tour was one of the highlights of the trip and all 19 of us attended. What History! Born into slavery, Douglass escaped to spend his life fighting for justice and equality for all people. His tireless struggle, brilliant words, and inclusive vision of humanity continues to inspire and sustain people today. One of his favorite statements was, "I will unite with anyone to do right, and with no one to do wrong!" One of the first books noticed as we toured the home was “The Bible,” planted on the shelf at eye level. He taught slaves to read from the New Testament.

Sitting on the front porch allowed us to see his past, as he did, in the State of Maryland, where he was born into slavery. Looking in the other direction, he could see Washington, D.C., the future, where he spent countless hours in his later years with President Abraham Lincoln making decisions to defend why Blacks should be free. Next time you are in D.C., stop in for awhile, it’s a free tour and well worth it to travel back in time with Frederick Douglass. Sunday morning we all traveled to the New Samaritan Baptist Church for Services with Bishop Michael V. Kelsey, Sr. in Washington, D.C. In 1962, his home in Anacostia (Washington, DC) became part of the National Park System, and in 1988 was designated the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site.

All 19 of us gathered for the tour, the youngest Jenniah 10 months, and the oldest Ms. Ophelia Harris 92 years old. Other family members in attendance L to R John Sr., Cameron, Roy, Louis, Yulonn, Barbara, John, Jr, and Apryl. 2nd row L to R Jenniah, Jonette (JP), Sherman, Shae, Marva, Christopher, and Nadine. Front Row Tanya, Ophelia, John III, and Jaylyn.

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Two of Frederick Douglass' sons fought in the 54th Massachusetts (made famous in the movie "Glory"). Both Charles and Frederick Douglass Jr. survived the Civil War, and lived to see their father hang a picture of the 54th storming Fort Wagner in his front hallway at his Cedar Hill home in Washington, DC.

Frederick Douglass

Theme:

Godly women United, Ready, Willing a able to do the work of the Lord.

Ephesians 2:-10; I Corinthians 15:58

PRESIDENT (Middle) Valeria L 1ST. VICE PRESIDENT Tina Ca 2ND VICE PRESIDENT Evelyn J

Saturday

and

L. Burwell arter (Right) Jenkins (Left)

Sunday

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BLAST FROM THE PAST

By Twyla McDonald

Infectious Hope

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s the last month of the year has arrived and the season of thanks, love, hope, and kindness is upon us, we tend to be a bit more nostalgic and reflective of events that have happened in the year, as well as throughout the years of our life. In doing so, we must remember those who came before us who paved the way for the luxuries that we unknowingly indulge in.

Unfortunately, many people will experience this holiday season from the confines of a hospital, but there was a time when African Americans weren’t allowed to enter a hospital during the holiday season, or any other time of the year. The Georgia Infirmary was the first hospital built for African Americans in the United States.

The Georgia Infirmary was created to assist slaves who were often mistreated and had poor living conditions that ultimately lead to premature bad health. This was a place to go when they were abandoned by their owners because they were no longer able to work.

Chartered on December 24, 1832 for the relief and protection of aged and afflicted Africans. It was established by the Georgia General Assembly and funded by a $10,000 grant from the estate of Thomas F. Williams, a local merchant and minister (Blackpast.org, 2011).

The Georgia Infirmary has withstood many social, political, and monetary issues to become the first hospital to train Black nurses. Now known as the Adult Day Center-Georgia Infirmary, and is part of the St, Joseph Chandler Healthcare Network in Savannah, Georgia. The hospital main focus is on helping stroke patients with care and rehabilitation.

As Spirit filled believers, we know that our healing comes from our Heavenly Father; but we should also be wise enough to know that God has placed doctors, nurses, and specialists here to assist in the healing process. Through the sacrifices of our ancestors and advancements of our nation, we have a little extra to be thankful for this Holiday Season!

FOOTPRINTS

By Peggy Labon

What a glorious season it is!

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hank you Jesus Christ; you came into this world and gave people the opportunity for salvation. Since I’ve been reading the Old Testament, visualizing what sacrificing of animals must have been like, I am very grateful that the Lord have come! This is the highest form of gratitude. But what about the daily appreciation for what the Lord does, how He intervenes in our lives and keeps us from harm that we don’t even see coming? (Some harms we bring upon ourselves).

Some things I thank the Lord regularly for are my children, my family & friends, my Bishop and church family, my work and my desire to help people, do service for Him. I am grateful I can forgive. I know I can forgive because I know He forgives me (I ask to be forgiven daily).

In this season of celebrating the Lord’s birth seems to bring out the best in people; even if they are not Christians, they seem to celebrate the love of mankind the season brings. Please don’t let non-Christians celebrate with more love, joy and giving than Christians. We should always be mindful of who we are and who we represent when we say we are CHRISTIANS!!!

*******Merry Christmas*******

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ey SBC, today I am doing something a little different, because this is the time of year when we recognize Jesus birth and celebrate with our love ones. So instead of giving you just one artist, I am going to share with you my Christmas play list with several artists. I pray that you will enjoy the music the way I have.

Take 6 “We Wish You A Merry Christmas”

Gracious Spirit, use my words to help and heal. Use my actions, bold and meek, to speak for You. May You be pleased to reveal Your life to others through mine.

Pastor Norman Hutchins “Norman Hutchins & JDI Christmas”

Donald Lawrence with the Tri City Singers “Hello Christmas” Kirk Franklin & the Family “Christmas” I hope these songs will make your Christmas Season a blessed and special one, and continue to pray for ALL these gospel artists who give us His message through song.

Okay for now I am out!

Blurb.com

~Danielle~

THE BOOKSHELF Ferrari Green

The word “Bible” means “book.” The Bible is the “Book” of all books. It is a letter, a book written by God to human beings.

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he Internet is a wonderful source to make your dreams become a reality. Many of us have a couple of grandma’s, or favorite aunts’ who have recipes that we want to emulate. Or, are you a mad scientist in the kitchen who wants to share your love for cooking with the world? . The website, www.blurb.com allows you to create your masterpiece by offering customizable templates for you

to create a masterpiece, a cook book, or any book you desire. It’s easy and very simple, all you have to do is sign up with Blurb.com. It’s FREE! No credit card needed. Second, start making your book; add your images and text. Lastly, order your book! It takes 7-10 days for shipping, and book orders start at $12.99.

Publish your own book of recipes! Happy Holidays!

A Christmas Gift of Mahalia Jackson

English: Happy Birthday Jesus!

Spanish: ¡Feliz cumpleaños, Jesús!

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uring her time, Mahalia Jackson was the greatest gospel singer in the world. Shortly before her death, she embarked on a triumphant European tour. This DVD is a recording of that tour. As she toured in Stockholm, London, Berlin, and other cities, Mahalia inspired audiences with the power and magic of her music. Everywhere she went, she left behind friends, as well as fans. This historic film is a portrait of a gifted artist, but it is also a profile of a warm, sincere woman whom the world will never forget. This is a wonderful gift to give someone for Christmas. The DVD can be purchased from Kultur International Films for $12.99. Other DVD’s of Mahalia are also available.

Merry Christmas Everyone! ~Precious~

Parish Members

12 Gloria Blount

Mother Deloris Bridges Mother Maylene Buckley Mother Fannie Greene Bernice Holefield

YOUR HEALTH

Grace Jordan Earl Manning

December is a month to look at the milestone accomplished over the past year! How is your health assessment? Are you a step closer to a healthier you? Preventing health problems does matter! It is never too early or too late to begin living in a way that will better your health today and in the years to come, if God says the same.

Ursula Martin

Here are some reminders: * Eat a healthy diet * Be smoke free * Manage stress * Know your risk/family history

Brenda Warmsley

* Exercise * Maintain a healthy weight * Regular check-ups/screenings

If you did not change some of those bad health habits, it doesn't mean you should stop trying! Your bad habits took time to develop and so will your healthy habits. Look for ways to improve your health, because the healthy things you do (or don't do) can often have an impact on your health for years to come!

Lolita McLendon Frankie Platt Mother Eldora Polk Matter Simpson Chester Walls Gregory White

Non-Parish Members Erica Batie Barbara Brown Elisa Brown Naha’s Brown Jospeh Brown Jr. Cameron Carter

Live Healthy, Jessie M. Anderson, RN As we enter into this holiday season, this is the time when some of us forget about our diets. But as we approach this Holiday Season, let’s continue to be “Health Wise” and make wise choices when it comes to celebrating, eating, drinking, and being merry. Don’t let the work we have done all year long go to waste. Listed below are some statistics on life expectancy among ethnicity, sex, and gender in the United States. Let’s think positive and make healthy choices as we celebrate this season of the Savior’s Birth.

Clara Claskey Larry Terome Collins Salome H. Collins Craig Crosskey Willetta Dantzler David Davidson Sgt. Shannin Davis Nettie George Jimmy Gibson Tammy Green Terry Harrison Archie Hart Calvin Hart Willie Hawkins Ruth Howard Alba Huezo Cynthia Jackson Doretha Jones Jimmy Joyce Kenneth Knowles James Knowles Arthurine Mathis Lewis Sherry Martin Liz Mason Hazel McDonald Jonathan McKinnon Thomas McKinnon Margret Miller Patrick L.Miller Geneva Ordonio Thomas Robinson Demmie Raysor (Donor Needed) Tina Robertson Derrick Sawyer John & Mary Scott General Smith Francisco Soto Precious Thompkin Willie Waters Patricia Ann Wilkerson

Prayer List: If you or someone you know is ill, the name(s) may be added by contacting Deacon Ellis Johnson: (909) 944-1635, Elder Robert Craig: (909)463-1314, or the Church Office (626) 358-2136; Fax (626) 303-2477

Second’s Gazette

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Welcomes donations of any size.

Please make checks payable to

Second Baptist Church

LA Harbor Holiday Afloat Parade Decorated boats parade through the Port of LA Main Channel.

When: Saturday, December 7, 2013, 6-9:00 pm

SUPPORTERS Second Baptist Church Nadine O. Harris Tinisha McDonald Twyla McDonald Eleanor Harrison Mother Berdie Pulliam Mother Deloris K. Bridges Barbara Wilson Ferrari Green Dr. Precious Flemings Lady Betty G. Dillard Mother Mae Lean Buckley Melva Hill Emelbra LeBlanc Redd Barbara Jean Grant Shirley Towler –Hayes Mother Hortense Anderson Elder Robert Craig Cameron & J.P. Dixon Dr. J.P. & Apryl Harris Geneva Ward-Douglas

There is room for you too, Donate!

Viewing Locations: Banning Landing Community Center, 100 E. Water Street, Wilmington The Port of LA Cruise Ship Promenade, 600 N. Harbor Blvd., San Pedro Ports O' Call Village, 1100 Nagoya Way, San Pedro

Take the kiddies to see all the beautiful lights in Hastings Ranch, Sierra Madre or Christmas Tree Lane in Altadena, CA. The Pasadena neighborhood, Hastings Ranch, will have your children in pure bliss with each block having its own Christmas theme. The best part is you don’t have to leave the comfort of your car.

Then swing by the oldest large Christmas light display in the county, Altadena’s Christmas Tree Lane. Make sure to go by the Balian House, a 4– acre property and mansion with over 10,000 holiday lights and Christmas decorations.

BIBLIOGRAPHY Bio True Story, Frederick Douglas Story Retrieved from http://www.biography.com/people/frederick-douglass-9278324 Blackpast.org. 2011. The Georgia Infirmary. Retrieved November 16th, 2013 from http://www.blackpast.org/aah/georgia-infirmary-1832 Ecology 2013. Retrieved from The world wide web November 25, 2013. http://www.ecology.com/2013/04/01/us-life-expectancy-mortality-rates/ Forbes 2013. http://www.forbes.com/profile/rosalind-brewer/Retrieved November 25, 2013

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Regan Cross

PARENTS check out this site:

(Free games & worksheets for Pre-K – Middle School Students) SUBJECTS:

Algebra, Math, Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, Chemistry

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At Children’s Church the children are preparing to decorate the outside bulletin Board.

Children’s Christmas party— December 14th, 1-4pm

$ 20.50

Children Praying

Ministry Leadership Diakona Larry Willis, Director Diakona Ron Husband, Trinity Co-Director; Dr. John P. Harris, Jr., Trinity Co-Director Children's Music Ministry, Kathleen Dantzler; Includes Singing, Bells, and Drums

Operations Staff: Ettie Pulliam, Renee Willis, Evelyn Jenkins-Coleman, A Dedicated Kitchen Staff, Parents & Volunteers

SECOND BAPTIST CHURCH, INC. Bishop Wm. La Rue Dillard, Ph.D Parish-Shepherd 925 South Shamrock Monrovia, C A

er

m

m u S

Worship Services Sunday Morning Services 7:45 AM & 10:45 AM Sunday School9:45 AM Ordinance of the Lord’s Supper Celebration 4:45 PM Every First Sunday of the month, the Lord’s Communion Supper is served after the 7:45 am and 10:45 am worship services, if you are unable to attend the 4:45 pm service.

*********************** Wednesday Services Bible Study, Prayer, Praise, and Testimonials at 10:45 AM & 6:45 PM Choir Rehearsals Every Tuesday and Thursday Evenings at 7:30 pm

Jesus, help us keep Christmas in our hearts all year long. www.secondsnewsletter@gmail.com