Faith & Family December 2011 by SB Faith & Family

Faith & Family

contents 12

december 2011

features

columns:

A Christmas with Angels

Shepherd’s Staff The Greatest Gift of All

A Journey with Ms. Shirley

Christmas Gift Guide

Marriage Matters What will your Legacy be?

Circle T Ranch - Home of the Champions

Thoughts in Christ: A Saint of the People

Faith under Fire The Good Part

Next Month:

New Year’s Resolutions

Little Bits Word of the Father

Chic Chat the Believer’s Christmas Gift Impact Corner Victories of the Soul & Spirit

19 20

Beautiful Feet A Different Direction

in every issue: 21

Event Calendar

Quips & Quotes

Ad Directory

D e c e m b e r 2 011

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Shepherd’s Staff

The Greatest Gift of All A

s I write this column, I find myself just not quite ready for the Christmas season. As you read this column, we will be counting down to Christmas. Displays, ads, calendars, and our children and grandchildren are our countdown clocks. Decorations have been placed in the store aisles since October 31. Black Friday prices are being placed on products (two weeks before Thanksgiving), inviting us to begin our Christmas buying. Without a doubt, we are now in the gift-buying season.

bought eternal life to give to us. It cost Jesus time and his life, not just His birth at Bethlehem but also His death at Calvary and resurrection three days later. He offers eternal life to anyone who will believe in Him (John 1:12; Romans 10:13).

Yet, the more I think about Christmas, the more I find myself thinking about Good Friday and Resurrection Sunday. In the hustle and bustle of this time of year, it is easy to forget about the greatest gift of all – eternal life through Jesus Christ. Christmas music fills our ears, Christmas sales float before our eyes, and the stresses of this season put pressure on our checkbooks and our minds. Still, I think of the greatest gift available. The apostle Paul wrote, “But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons” (Galatians 4:4-5 NKJV). He also wrote, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6:23 NKJV). During your gift buying and gift wrapping, keep in mind what the Lord Himself has done to give you the greatest gift available – eternal life in Jesus. God Himself paid the price for this gift, not in the manger in Bethlehem, but on the tree at Calvary and the empty tomb. This is why my mind goes to Good Friday and Resurrection Sunday during the Christmas season. God’s gift to us involves Jesus’ whole life, not just His birth. We buy a gift to give to another. The gift costs the recipient nothing, but it costs us time and money. God 6

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If you know Christ personally, take time this Christmas season to tell someone else about the greatest gift available – eternal life in Jesus. As you gather around the Christmas tree, tell the story of another tree – Calvary’s cross – and the gift purchased there. Invite others to receive this gift from God. In doing so, this Christmas might be the best Christmas ever.

In Christ Alone, Calvin Hubbard Pastor, Barksdale Baptist Church

M a r r i a g e

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What Will Your Legacy Be?

nfortunately we very rarely consider the legacy that we are leaving until we realize the end is coming soon. As a matter of fact, you are leaving a legacy whether you have thought, prepared or planned for it. Your children are being given a legacy that you have been living. As they grow into adulthood, they will continue to carry on the actions, decisions, words and choices that you have made over the years. We need to live with the end in mind. That may mean we need to change some things in our life to insure that our children benefit from our lives. Let us give you two ways to leave the greatest legacy to your children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. #1 Way to have a Great Legacy for your children. Love your Wife!

Ephesians 5:25 (The Message) “Husbands, go all out in your love for your wives, exactly as Christ did for the church, a love marked by giving, not getting.” Men, your children watch and are learning and forming their concept of marriage from YOU! You are creating a Pattern, a Blueprint for Marriage with your children. James Dobson says that the greatest way you can give security to your children is for them to KNOW their Dad loves their Mom. Do your children see through your words and actions that you love your wife? Do you place her needs before your own? Do you protect, are considerate, protective and affectionate with your wife? These are some things to think about as your realize that what you do will be repeated by your children. We live in a world today where ugly, harsh words are thrown around with no thought to the out come of those words. We all need to stop and think before we speak and make sure our words give life and affirmations to each other.

volved in drugs, alcohol, and violence. Adolescents raised in a two parent home with a poor father relationship- 68% more likely to be involved in drugs, alcohol and violence. Good Dads in two parent homes that have a close relationship with his kids- 96% LESS LIKELY to be involved in drugs, alcohol and violence. Bottom line, children need their Dads and they need a healthy, good relationship with their Dads. It is obviously a key to the choices they will make in life. It does not matter how old your child is, they still need your words , encouragement and belief. We tell our children often three things they need to hear frequently: I Love you, I’m proud of you and You are good!!! Take the time to invest some strong quality moments with your children. Build into their lives and teach them. Remember that the greatest teacher in your life is your actions, not your words. Most of us will not know the legacy that we will leave until we are gone. We have been encouraged to ask our children these three questions so that we know what we have done well and what we have the opportunity to change. We challenge you to ask your children these three questions: What are your favorite memories with me? What did you learn from me? What do you wish I had done differently? You’re leaving a legacy…. is it what you want to leave? Steve and Debbie Wilson Booking information - go to www.marriagemattersnow.com

#2 Way to have a Great Legacy, Affirm your Children! Colossians 3:21 (The Message) “Parents, don’t come down too hard on your children or you will crush their spirits.” Our children need to hear positive words from us as parents. So many times we spend all our time criticizing our children instead of building them up. What you say and believe about your children is what they will believe about themselves. It is a great responsibility to raise a child with confidence and a strong self worth. If we do that, they will most likely realize more quickly how much God values them. Let us give you some strong statistics: Single Parent Home, 30% of children are more likely to be inD e c e m b e r 2 011

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Circle T Ranch

The Home of Champions

he historic, quiet, little town of Keatchie, LA, is home to Circle T Ranch and Rodeo, a place of champions. At the heart of this nationally recognized ranch is Howard Talley. It is doubtful that anyone from south Shreveport to Mansfield does not know who he is. To many of us, he is somewhat of a living legend, a ‘Superman’ type figure that demands your respect. He once told me, ‘Son, we know God takes care of idiots and old folks so you are covered for life.’ Needless to say, Mr. Talley may not always be the warm fuzzy type, but his heart is as big as his prized bull, Asteroid (1500 lbs of raw muscle and unmatched athleticism). Together, they make a real good team.

Mr. Talley, and his wife, Shirley, own Circle T. The ranch is a top stock provider for the PBR (Professional Bull Riders Association) Built Ford Tough Series. Their ranch is home to over 100 rodeo bulls, including names like Rainbow, Out of the Blue, Blindside and others. But, after 11 years of raising rodeo stock, Mr. Talley knows that Asteroid is ‘a once in a lifetime blessing from God.’ This year he placed second in the overall standings after the PBR Finals in Las Vegas. Circle T Ranch was also recognized as the second top stock provider in the Built Ford Tough Series. Second is not bad, but neither ‘Mr. T’ nor Asteroid are satisfied with the results. Both are focused on taking their respective number one spots next year. It is this pursuit of excellence, and the ability to take prayerfully calculated risk, that has made Mr. Talley successful in many endeavors. In his words, ‘You have to be able to take a chance to be successful. 8

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Pray about it and move forward. But if you cannot do it right, then don’t do it all.’ While Mr. Talley does not care too much for small talk or pretentious people (religious or non-religious), if you earn his trust he will gladly share with you the secret of his success. In his words, ‘If you work hard and put things in the hands of the Lord, then He will watch over you. When you are blessed, you need to bless others. All this stuff doesn’t really mean anything in the end. It is about doing good with what you have been given.’ Thankfully, many of us have had the privilege of seeing Mr. Talley’s heart, mind and hands at work. He has helped organize special events like a rodeo day for the Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home in Monroe, sponsored local ministry efforts through churches and non-profit agencies, and even provided water for victims of Hurricane Katrina. What makes his ministry resume even more impressive is he does not care who does or does not know about it – ‘it is between him and God.’ As Christians, we recognize when our Lord sends us a special blessing. Asteroid is a ‘once in a lifetime’ bull who is set to do great things this next year for himself and the people that work with him. Mr. Talley is a ‘once in a lifetime blessing’ as well, and there is no doubt he will continue, in his own way, to quietly do great things for the Kingdom of God in the days ahead. Therefore, hats off to Circle T Ranch, a place of true champions both in the arena and life. Thanks and God bless, Mr. T. – Jason Foster

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T h o u g h t s

J OU R NA L

It was WEIRD. My brother and I don’t hug. But we were having so much fun dressing

up, playing puppet theater, looking at storybooks, digging

fossils, exploring caves ,

and stuff, we forgot we don’t hug and we did. MCM is our destination imagination.

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mschildrensmuseum.com This project is partially funded through a grant from Jackson Convention & Visitors Bureau.

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A Saint of the People

ADV E NTUR E

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“O who loves, Nicholas the saintly?” we sing from a popular hymn to that glorious saint. The answer obviously is the entire Christian world down through the centuries, with various interpretations and understandings related to the era and ethos. He endears himself even for what he was not. Following the age of the apostles, then that of the martyrs before the glorious edict of St. Emperor Constantine the Great making Christianity lawful, while those before his time taught by example how to endure through persecution, St. Nicholas gave posterity to what can be achieved in relative political freedom. The Church makes it clear that there is no Orthodoxy without a rule and witness to the true faith. St. Nicholas was an icon of humility, the entry to spiritual progress, and the teacher of fasting, the companion of prayer without which certain demons cannot be expelled. [Matthew 17:21] He was not like St. Athanasius or the Cappadocians, known for their theological gifts, nor like St. John Chrysostom for his oratorical skills. “Teacher of abstinence,” but not among the great ascetics such as St. Anthony. He was a priest and a bishop. In every sense a true shepherd who cared more for his flock than for himself. This is what the churches of Jesus Christ through the years, east and west, of various communions, revered in the fourth-century champion of the people. When we look to our clergy for guidance, leadership and witness to Christ, he is what we have in mind. St. Nicholas gave up his soul for his people, just as the apostles and martyrs surrendered their lives as witnesses for the Lord. To “give up his soul” means that he had none of the ego drives that motivate so many people to provide first for themselves and after that perhaps for others. Even if we allow for some exaggeration when the tales relating his mighty deeds had been proclaimed, through the events we discern his challenges to find a way to provide dowries for unmarried maidens without offending the sensitivity of the father, or having the audacity to defy the courts that would accuse a poor man for a murder committed by a person of means. Before he was a bishop, even a Christian, he was a child of God blessed among those in the beatitude as peacemakers, therefore children of God. [Matthew 5:9] Thank the Creator of our world for having endowed some, many, most and maybe all with the heart, soul and mind of children who act without hesitation to conquer all instincts of self-preservation when an opportunity arises to react on behalf of another creature, human or animal, in need of help, rescue or comfort. - Fr. Vladimir Berzonsky

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MCM6404-47 Shrvprt Bossier Chrstn Fam Dec2011 - Siblings.indd 1

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The Good Part

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I was close to calling my editor and telling her there would be no December Faith Under Fire when the Lord in His mercy dropped an idea into my overworked brain. I’ve been pretty stressed and just couldn’t settle on anything that didn’t require a lot of time and research. So, if the weeks from Christmas to New Year’s loom like an insidious, out-of-control megalopolis that threatens to consume your personal space and sanity, this column is for you! Consider the story of the sisters, Martha and Mary, from Luke 10:38-42. Their brother, Lazarus, was at least moderately well off, and an influential man. He had his own family tomb, and when he died, Jewish leaders from Jerusalem made the six-mile journey to grieve with the family. The siblings often hosted Jesus and His disciples, and Martha probably had some kitchen help because of their social status. But Martha wasn’t satisfied unless she went “all out,” all the time. Hurried and unhappy, she grumbled and fumed about Mary’s inactivity while Jesus was in her home. Think of that! SHE HAD JESUS IN HER HOME, but she missed the blessing of His presence and teaching because she was so busy “doing” for Him. Doing for the One who had fed the 5,000 and turned water into wine. Doing for the only One who could bring peace to her restless heart and soul. I’m sure He would have done for her if she had asked.

Even if you’re reading this column well into the “season,” a few revisions and commitments can transform you from a Martha to a Mary. Go to a church service by yourself and contemplate the wonder of the Virgin Birth. Think about what it cost Mary, Joseph and Jesus. Visit Christmas in Roseland with a child, or someone with the heart of a child. Read Luke 1:1-2:40, Matt. 1:1-2:23, John 1, and The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Tone down the decorations. Limit Christmas presents, and give a generous donation to a worthy cause. Substitute a few simple, but delicious recipes for that extravagant spread you usually drive yourself batty over. Sit and talk with your family members and friends. No TV. No Wii. No Xbox. Just people, sharing their favorite things and fondest memories. Repeat to yourself until it sinks in: I DO NOT need to make 50 different dishes. I DO NOT need to festoon every nook and cranny of the house, inside and out, with decorations and lights. I DO NOT have to make every party I’m invited to. I DO NOT need to please anyone but my Lord. Stop. Choose the Good Part. Sit at His feet. Listen. You will hear His words of comfort and counsel. You will gain the strength you need for the New Year. Christ’s Blessings, dear readers - from me and my daughter-in-law, Jessica, who is quite the cook! We pray that these simple recipes will reduce your holiday stress and warm the tummies you need to fill. Dianne B. Howell

It’s “Chili” Outside By Jessica Howell

Dianne Howell’s “Warm Your Heart” Pumpkin Bread

Ingredients: • 1/4 teaspoon salt • 1/2 pound chili-style ground sirloin or regular ground sirloin • 1 cup chopped onion • 1 cup chopped green onions • 1/3 cup chopped green bell pepper • 1/2 pound Cajun smoked sausage or other spicy link sausage • 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic • 1 (12-ounce) bottle of beer* *Sam Adams beer with an orange or citrus flavor in the brew is suggested. The alcohol burns off during cooking! • 2 tsp chili powder • 1/4 tsp ground cumin • 1/4 tsp ground coriander • 1 (28-ounce) can whole tomatoes, undrained and chopped • 1 (15-ounce) can dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained • 1 (15-ounce) can yellow hominy, rinsed and drained • 1 (15-ounce) can garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained • 1 (7-ounce) can salsa verde, such as Herdez Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Coat pan with cooking spray. Add salt and beef to pan; cook 5 minutes or until browned, stirring gently as the more you stir, the more the chili style meat will break up. Add onion, green onions, bell pepper, and sausage to pan. Sauté 5 minutes, or until sausage is lightly browned. Add garlic; sauté 1 minute. Add beer, scraping pan to loosen browned bits. Stir in chili powder and remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 1-3 hours, stirring occasionally. (If doubling this recipe, be careful how much salsa verde you use. It will change the chili’s flavor.)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray baking pans with cooking spray. Ingredients: • • • • • • • • • • •

3 cups sugar 1-1/2 cups oil 6 eggs, beaten 29-ounce can solid pack pumpkin or 24-ounce jar applesauce 4-1/2 cups flour 3 tsp soda 3 tsp salt 1-1/2 tsp baking powder 1-1/2 tsp each of nutmeg, allspice & cinnamon 3/4 tsp cloves 1 cup water

With electric mixer, cream sugar & oil together well. Add beaten eggs & pumpkin or applesauce. Sift dry ingredients together & add to wet mixture alternatively with water. Blend well. If using applesauce, add ½ cup pecans if desired. Fill pans about 2/3 full. Makes three, 9x5 loaf pans (bake 45 min. to 1 hour, or until cake tester comes out clean). Or, bake 2 large muffin trays for 19-20 minutes. Or, use tiny muffin pans and bake about 16 minutes. Makes wonderful gifts. Keeps in tin or refrigerator, and freezes well. Yummy warm from the oven or reheated in the microwave, with or without butter, cream cheese or whipped cream!

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A Christmas with Angels

or many of us, Holy Angels Residential Facility (Holy Angels) is a beautiful place we pass by while traveling on Ellerbe Road. We know a little bit about it from friends or maybe even a relative, but we are not really sure what goes on there from day to day. Recently, and for the first time, I made my way through the front gate onto the property. There I discovered how remarkable it truly is. Moreover, I understood immediately why Hilary Elberson, the Development Manager, knew the first time she toured the grounds and met the residents this was where she wanted to work and serve. Lets take a few minutes to learn more about the ministry and meet some of the ‘Angels’ that live and work there.

What is Holy Angels? Holy Angels is an independent, licensed residential training facility serving approximately 184 individuals with intellectual disabilities whose ages range from newborn to aging adults. For families, Holy Angels provides a level of care for their loved ones that they cannot achieve on their own. For the resident, Holy Angels is home: A place to belong, to be loved, to be happy.

When was Holy Angels established? Holy Angels was first established in 1965 by the Congregation of the Sisters of Our Lady of Sorrows and the Catholic Diocese of Alexandria/ Shreveport. For over 40 years, Holy Angels has opened its doors to provide compassionate care for children and adults with physical and developmental disabilities.

Residents, ranging in age from infants to older adults, live in a caring, home-like environment that includes a nursery, dormitories, and community homes located on and near the 64 acre campus in northern Louisiana on land donated by the Pollard, Gilster and O’Brien families. Our nursery cares for the most vulnerable-infants who have severe disabilities and complex medical conditions. Through a partnership with Caddo Parish Schools, children and youth attend school either onsite at Holy Angels or at a local public school. Holy Angels offers amenities that include a wellness center, outdoor and indoor swimming pools, a chapel, computer lab, gymnasiums, snow cone shop, and holiday dances.

Residents and community participants benefit from the AngelWorks Day Program. Prevocational training prepares participants for meaningful jobs in the AngelWorks Enterprises: Visual Arts, Jewelry Design, Culinary Arts, Business Services, and Horticulture. What is the mission of Community businesses contract with Holy Angels? AngelWorks for productive, incomegenerating services such as shredding HARF’s mission is to provide a resiand collating. Revenue is also generatdential and training campus for indied through sales of our famous cookSister Concetta and Sister Seraphine viduals with intellectual & developmenies, jewelry, and visual arts. Our latest tal disabilities. Personalized life-skills & vocational education are provided in a home-like environment, meld- product, nutrient rich compost initiates our horticulture program. ing many disciplines into a complete “life” experience, and resulting in With additional funding, AngelWorks will expand its rewarding and “peace-of-mind” for the families of those we serve. Love and compas- revenue-earning programs. sion within the Holy Angels’ family is the heart of our existence.

What services are offered by Holy Angels? Holy Angels provides vocational, educational, recreational, spiritual, and medical care for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities through residential and day program services.

Faith & Family

As you can see, Holy Angels is a very diverse and multileveled organization that is holistic in its ministry. CEO Laurie Boswell told me that she received an award in November from the The North Louisiana Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals Association - Outstanding Fundraising Executive for 2011. In her acceptance speech, that her son Matthew Bibby helped pen, she quoted

workers) working together as one under the guidance and direction of dedicated nuns, competent professionals and tireless volunteers. And, personally, I do not know of any place else I would rather spend some of my time or money this Christmas than with the Angels. Thank you Bishop Greco and The Sisters of Our Lady of Sorrows for your God-given vision of what could be. May your memory be eternal!

Holy Angels Awarded State License for “AngelWorks” Holy Angels announced this week that the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals (DHH) has awarded the organization a license for its newest initiative, AngelWorks Day Program, following an intensive, two day survey by state officials. Approval from DHH marks the final step in an effort several years in the making. “AngelWorks formalizes programs initiated by the Sister, over forty years ago. The AngelWorks Day Program Licensure is the fruit of three years’ work and preparation. It took an incredible team to finalize this complex project,” said Bowell. “We are thrilled to see the vision of AngelWorks made reality.”

Julie G., Liane B, and Nadine N. residents of Holy Angels.

C.S. Lewis as follows, ‘You don’t have a soul. You are soul. You have a body.’ She continued, ‘Beyond our facilities, our medical care, Holy Angels’ training is based on the idea that the greatest and most meaningful therapy is for the soul. It began as a calling of the soul and has maintained itself as a sanctuary of the infinitely innocent souls of our Angels.’ There is no doubt that Holy Angels is an institution that is composed of many beautiful souls (184 Holy Angels and 320 miracle-

The program will be this facility’s first initiative that invites a select number of participants onto the campus in order to gain training and work experience. Ultimately, the team sees AngelWorks as a program preparing many of its participants to take part in their community and gain employment outside of Holy Angels. Holy Angels’ goal is to offer participants meaningful, fulfilling work, and a chance for true community integration. While Holy Angels currently operates several vocational opportunities for its residents, AngelWorks will overhaul and expand those programs already in place. Boswell mentioned, as examples, the facility’s shredding and cookie baking workshops. The former has seen a second shredding center so as to meet the demands of additional contracts from local businesses. The latter will become AngelWorks Culinary Arts Program, a full fledged bakery equipped with commercial convection ovens with an expanded product line in mind. Also to be initiated under AngelWorks is an entirely new horticulture sector, which is set to include a vermicomposting project and day lily farm. “This team is quick to add that this program focused on more than simply presenting job opportunities-AngelWorks gives participants a chance not only to succeed, but to express their personal creativity in the process.” Boswell added that the sale of participants’ visual art, sewing and handmade jewelry at the campus gift shop are three of the program’s main operations.

Billy G and Curtis O. bake cookies for AngelWorks.

“We believe in the creative genius of our residents. Sharing that genius is our greatest opportunity for translation our mission to the community.”

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A Journey with Ms. Shirley All of us are on a journey. In the providence of God, our paths often cross with certain people we know are from Him. We recognize instantly in them the presence of our Savior. They gently encourage us, comfort us, console us and ultimately give us hope. In this article you will get to meet such a person as this that the Lord brought into the Litton’s life for ‘such a time as this.’ In April of 2010, Dr. Corky Davis, told Wyville Litton that it was time for her beloved husband Jack to enter into hospice care. Mrs. Litton trusted Dr. Davis and in her words, considered him to be ‘a life saver.’ Scared and uncertain, Wyville called Lynn McFadden at Odyssey Hospice to ask further questions and to get things in order. Jaclyn, Wyville’s daughter, was responsible for selecting a Certified Nursing Assistant to help take care of her father. Jaclyn went through the list but, for some reason, kept coming back to one lady’s name in the registry: Shirley Terrell. Hoping and believing this was the person the Lord wanted her to select, she told her mother this was the assistant they needed to hire. Ms. Shirley showed up bright and early the next morning. In Wyville’s words, ‘When she came in my door a sense of peace entered with her and the fear I had left.’ She told Shirley that she needed someone who really cared about Jack and was willing to truly take care of his needs. Also, she needed someone she could completely trust. Ms. Shirley extended her hands palms up and said, ‘Better than All State.’ She continued, ‘You can trust me. I am a Christian and I am going to take care of this family. I will be with you every day but Sunday. That is the Lord’s day.’ A day she usually spends under the pastoral care of either Pastor Litton Cleveland or Bishop Larry Brandon. Quickly, the Litton’s learned Shirley was not just a sitter, but a saintly caregiver.

Shirley Terrell & Wyville Litton remembering Jack. Shirley’s heart and desire to take care of people developed at a young age. When asked why she chose this profession, Shirley responded, ‘It chose me. I always enjoyed taking care of people. When I was a child there was no home health. Everyone in the neighborhood had to take care of each other. My mother and grandmother were always taking care of someone in need and I enjoyed helping them.’ For the last 30 years she has devoted herself to her vocation. Her desire is to ‘take every assignment with the intention of representing the Lord. My heart is for them to either recognize Christ in me during their time of suffering or if they do not know Him, to come to know Him through my ministry.’ But Shirley is quick to admit, ‘I go into homes, hospitals, nursing homes and other places trying to be a blessing, but I am the one that always ends up being blessed.’ During the seven weeks they spent together, Shirley became very close friends with Wyville and Jack. As Mr. Jack approached eternity, Shirley continued to do more and more for him while helping him maintain a sense of dignity and integrity. With a smile, Wyville explained, ‘He really took to Shirley. She tried to keep him moving. They would go outside and look at his flowers, walk around the yard and more. Shirley was always concerned about his quality of life and she treated him with love and respect.’ On June 10, 2011, after seven weeks in hospice, Mr. Jack Litton fell asleep in the Lord. But before he passed away, he looked at his wife Wyville and said, ‘You keep Shirley.’ And she did. Since that time, Shirley and Wyville’s bond with each other has grown even deeper. Shirley is just an extended family member to the Litton’s. They see each other every week. But what makes their friendship so special is they know the Lord, in His divine providence, brought them together on the journey of life and will continue to be with them for ‘such a friendship as this.’

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Crisis Pregnancy Center Banquet 2011 October 13, 2011 was a night to remember for the Ark-La-Tex Crisis Pregnancy Center (CPC) as they celebrated the year’s pro-life accomplishments with close to 700 attending supporters at their annual banquet, “Imagine Life”. The co-founder of “40-Days for Life”, (www.40daysforlife.com) Shawn Carney, was this year’s keynote speaker. Shawn shared how through prayer, the Lord is reversing the culture of death in America as lives are being saved, changed and healed through the efforts of the local pro-life community. Shawn reminded the audience that unity within the body of Christ is a key to winning the battle for life.

New executive director Vickie Brumley and Shawn Carney

CPC supporters also heard how the Lord is expanding the work of the ministry with the opening of the new 7000 square foot Ark-La-Tex Learning Center! And the new Executive Director, Vickie Brumley, was introduced and shared the story of her own crisis pregnancy and how the Lord is now using it for good! CPC supporters were faithful and $112,000 was raised banquet night to further local pro-life works. If you’d like to learn more about the mission of the Ark-La-Tex Crisis Pregnancy Center, please go online to www.altcpcsupporter.com (Log In: babies; Password: babies) Your support helps to save lives, heal women from past abortions, educate families, and promote a healthy «abstinence until marriage» message in our community. Or feel free to call the Center at 318-861-4600 and schedule a tour to see the ministry first hand.

Michael Henix and Trudie Abner-Henix

Durr’s Pyromania Fireworks Two Locations to Serve All Your Firework needs: Open Dec. 26th - Jan 1st 2225 Airline Drive, Bossier City (Next to Central Baptist and behind Captain D’s) and

Open Dec 15th - Jan 1st 3268 Stagecoach Road, Keithville (At Z&K Portable Buildings)

10 % off with this ad! D e c e m b e r 2 011

Christmas Local Gift Guide needle books, and more! All are made with love in a smoke-free, pet-free environment. Check out SarahSweet today! Shop at www.etsy.com/shop/ sarahbethhunt and use coupon code “GIMME10” to save 10% on your entire order

Rooster’s Hot Sauce Rooster’s Hot Sauce is a homemade salsa that Rodney “Rooster” Milliken has been making for about 10 years. The original recipe made about 3 quarts. He modified the recipe to help make what he calls a “batch” which will equal 21 quarts or 42 pints. He has a lot of repeat customers throughout the year, but Christmas is the biggest time of the year for him. People will buy it a case (12) at a time for Christmas gifts. He also has the ½ pint size that can be used in gift baskets. It goes great on just about anything. People have said they use it on eggs, peas, crackers, chips, tacos, burritos, tamales, and one lady accidently used it as spaghetti sauce and said it was pretty good too! It is classified in the diet world as a free food. It just depends on what you eat it on. The salsa comes in medium and hot flavors. As his motto says, “So good, you’ll crow for more”!

Scentsy Scentsy is a great gift for everyone this year. Scentsy is a wickless candle that is safe for everyone. No more worrying about children or pets knocking over your candles. Scentsy is a beautiful warmer lit by a light bulb to burn scented wax. Why you would love Scentsy: Scentsy Candles are Lead free, Wick free and Flameless Candles More than 80 Delicious Scents to choose from Unique Scentsy Warmers for every Decor 60 - 80 Hour Burn time Makes a Great Nightlight Scentsy also has other products such as room sprays, car air fresheners, travel tins, Scentsy buddies, and perfume! There are so many great products that Scentsy has to offer. You can go online to my website or email me for more information. Jessica Clevenger Jessicac89@hotmail.com www.jclevenger.scentsy.us 318-780-6402

Christian Produce Company SarahSweet Shop Looking for something sweet and special to give this Christmas? Visit the SarahSweet shop at Etsy.com to find fun handmade gifts for all occasions. SarahSweet creations are made with love by Sarah Hunt, a pastor’s assistant in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She has always enjoyed all sorts of crafts, and decided just a few short years ago to try her hand at sewing. From there, SarahSweet was born. Her sweet handmade “treats” were an instant success with friends and family, and the only natural next step was to create an Etsy shop to share her treats with the world. Visit SarahSweet to find all sorts of items – from plush toys like guitars and bunny rabbits to Christmas ornaments, refrigerator magnets, keychains,

Faith & Family

Small, medium, large, and extra large fresh fruit baskets made daily. Gift baskets delivery available anytime. Fresh vegetables, delivery upon request. Eat Healthy! 100% guaranteed. You make the call, we make the haul! 318-780-1788. We can also make candy gift baskets and fragrance gift baskets upon request. 3838 Linwood Ave. S’port La 71103 Member of the BBB.

Carrie Linn Photography

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Looking for a gift for the family member who has EVERYTHING? Then a CLP gift card is your perfect solution! Fun photo sessions and beautiful prints are timeless gifts that capture and preserve your familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most sacred moments. With all kinds of portrait sessions available, your gift can be redeemed any time you like within the year, and the session is always tailored to your familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personality. Carrie Linn Photography is a unique, photojournalistic-styled photography business with a special heart for missions and the story behind the picture. Clients can choose a fun theme or a location for their shoot, or stick to a more classic portrait session. Carrie takes great delight in meeting new clients, hearing their stories, and capturing their joyful life moments. To learn more, you can contact her by email at carrielinnphotography@ gmail.com, or by phone at (409) 893-0452. You can also check out her website and blog at www.carrielinnphotography.com, and follow her on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Carrie-Linn-Photography/212872810844.

Word of the Father Now in flesh appearing O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, Christ The Lord. -John Wade

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Open one present at a time and make Christmas last as long as possible. You will enjoy it more and so will everyone else! Sometimes when we tear into Remember the ‘Truth’ verses the the gifts and spend 15 minutes on what ‘Tradition’ of this Christmas Season and share the ‘Truth’ with your family by read- people took their time and thought to buy just doesn’t do the gift or the giver justice. ing the GREATTHE BELIEVER’s Christmas List

EST STORY EVER TOLD in Luke Chapter 2!

Spend time on the little things that get lost during the ‘hustle and bustle’ of the season like cold nights cuddled up with your family by a fire; or sharing a meal around the table and talking about each other’s day, sharing what the Lord has done for you lately. Laugh about the funny stuff and forget the not so good stuff…life is WAY too short!

Faith & Family

Don’t forget to give of yourself this Christmas Season. Do something for someone else. You will be amazed at how that makes you feel! God made us with an ability for doing for others and when we do His will; He gives us a feeling of satisfaction in our soul! It was what we were made for! Build within your family a love for the Lord and a desire to come to church and worship Him. Teach your kids and loved ones to desire the Lord! We can do this by making church something very important in our family structure.

Forget about the things in this life that we can’t do anything about and instead spend time on what can bring us joy from within. Hug that person that makes you miserable and share the love of Christ with the person that makes you angry. Make right the wrong that is done to you by loving that person! Life changes so quickly and you never know when that time is gone and you can’t correct the things that rob you of joy! Above all else….”LOVE the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.” ~ Deuteronomy 6:8….that LOVE is the ONLY thing that will last in this life and will carry not only you but your family into eternity! Build your personal relationship with Christ! -JoAnne Timothy www.heartsfireministry.com

Im p a c t

There are victories of the soul and spirit. Sometimes even if you lose, you win.” I’m a sportsman, or woman if you will. I love sports. I love what they stand for. I love the competition, being a part of a team and winning. Yet, as I write this article and just happen to have Sportscenter playing on the T.V., I can not help but be saddened at the headlines that our sport’s society relishes in today. Many of the 2.3 billion children playing youth sports today are seeking to follow athletes and their negative behavior which continuously override the “feel” good stories about what being a part of something greater than ourselves can teach youth through sports. Sure, there are the obvious characteristics that kids gain by participating in sports such as hard work, love of physical activity, making new friends, selfcontrol and overcoming various obstacles. What about those qualities that we seldom see in the media that are shaping the manners and behaviors of youth through sports? I can’t help, as I’m sure many of you can relate, but look back over my own life as a youth athlete. It is there that I learned morality and what “doing the right thing looks like.” I have learned respect for myself, my teammates, authority figures and even my opponents. I have learned the conformance to the spirit and rules of a game that now replicate so much of life. I have learned character, which is a direct visual of my disposition, my habits, my desires, my values, my willingness to serve, my respectful words to my elders and the manners or “etiquette” in which I live my live today as a human being and as a role model. Yet, as I write this, I also feel the impact that we, as parents and role models have on the etiquette kids will gain through their youth sport’s experi-

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ence and carry through life; therefore it is our responsibility to:

• Talk to kids about the consequences that unsportsmanlike behavior can have on a team, but also on life.

• Create an environment where it is okay for your child to fail. In that environment they will be more likely to act out with proper “sportiquette.”

• Teach them you win some, you lose some and regardless, life goes on and there are lessons to be learned in the victories and the defeats.

• In order for children to compete like sportsmen or women, positive behavior on the sidelines from parents and/or coaches is imperative as kids are perceptive when it comes to observing the behavior of adults. They are going to model the attitude set before them—set a good one!

• Teach your children to aspire for the nobler things about sports, which will help them both play and live life with fairness, positive words and enjoyment for sport’s sake.

I have to share with you that while I have had the privilege in my coaching career to coach some awesome young athletes, win some championships, lose some tough battles, nothing compares to the visual I witnessed last year while coaching a high school boy’s soccer game that showed me what great sportsmanship looks like and what it can do to forever change a life. My high school boys were winning the game and playing well when all of the sudden one of my boys let another player beat him with no effort to win the ball. I began to yell at this particular player about his lack of effort at which time, another one of boys let the same player go through and I began to realize that my boys had together collaborated to let a special needs player (who had been subbed into the game) take the ball from one end of the

field to the other to score a goal. When the young man scored, I was standing on the sideline wiping tears at the picture of sportsmanship that a group of young men displayed on their own. As my boys were coming off the field at the conclusion of the game, a man from the other team approached our bench with huge tears streaming down his eyes and said, “Thank you coach! You guys made Matt’s entire world by letting him score a goal, as many teams would not have given up the shutout for that purpose.” My response as we both stood there wiping tears was, “Sir, don’t thank me, thank those parents sitting in the bleachers who have set a positive example through sports for their children to replicate.” What an awesome example of Philippians 2:3 “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” Too often we live with the myth that what we do in the life of a child, doesn’t matter. It does! Until next time, keep impacting! Shelley McMillian CEO, Rock Solid Director of Soccer, Calvary

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A Different Direction While consumers begin shopping for the holidays, A Different Direction is partnering with International Health Care Foundation (IHCF) .African Christian Hospitals to give customers the opportunity to serve both their loved ones and those in need. With every purchase from its website, A Different Direction will donate a portion of its profits to this organization that facilitates seven medical mission points throughout Nigeria, Ghana and Tanzania. “In this time of year, we wanted to provide a way to really show the meaning of Christmas – thankfulness for the gift of Jesus – by passing it forward to others,” said Debby Burrows, co-owner of A Different Direction. “IHCF African Christian Hospitals will allow our business and customers to go beyond the commercialism of the holidays.” The proceeds will help the fund that supplies proper vitamins to children and adults, along with prenatal vitamins to pregnant women. The World Health Organization reported in 2005, 32 percent of children in developing countries suffered stunted growth caused by malnutrition and illness. The vitamins from IHCF African Christian Hospitals help combat these types of problems.

tian Hospitals has also started a scholarship fund to help young African Christians work their way through medical education programs. So far, the organization has sponsored over 100 students who are now doctors, nurses, pharmacists and lab technicians in Africa. Any purchase from www.ADifferentDirection.com starting Nov. 14, through March 2012, will automatically donate a portion to IHCF African Christian Hospitals. Customers will also have an option during checkout to donate an additional amount. “IHCF African Christian Hospitals has been around for quite a while, which indicates stability,” Burrows said. “Collaboration with them enables the donations to aid a wide area of those least fortunate in the world, plus the emphasis is healing to facilitate sharing Christ.” In April, the non-profit and owners will determine whether to continue the project. A Different Direction is a familyowned and family-run business that sells Christian apparel, t-shirts, jewelry, books, music and other Christian gifts. It was established in 1994 and continues to spread the message of Christ through its production. The owners, Ed and Debby Burrows, are graduates of Oklahoma Christian and spent their prior years in full time ministry.

“So many illnesses can be prevented by good nutrition and the proper vitamins,” said Tom Carr, Executive Director of IHCF African Christian Hospitals. “Additionally, some vitamins are the cure for specific illnesses relating to deficiencies, and the prenatal vitamins help assure the delivery of a healthy infant from a mother that could likely be undernourished herself.” In addition to running five clinics and two hospitals, IHCF African Chris-

School’s out, Sci-Port’s IN!

Sci-Port’s

K - 5th Grades

Call (318) 424-8660 to register.

www.sciport.org

December Events

December 8- Jan 7

December 19-23

Frankly Christian, Art Show.

Holiday Day Camps, Sci-Port.

Bring the family for a treat this holiday season! This show presents many of Jerry Wray’s paintings that focus on Christian spiritual symbols. Most of these pieces have never been shown before: Don’t miss a rare opportunity to enjoy the colorful explorations of our very own Pioneer Artist of the South! Free and open to the public. Buffet by John Cariere. Valet parking available. Starts December 8, 5-8pm. The Norsworthy Gallery, 214 Texas St.

Parents, Sci-Port Holiday Day Camps can give you just the break you need to finish your cooking, shopping and prepping so that you can relax and enjoy the season with your family! Kids, tired of just sitting around the house while your parents get ready for the holidays? Tell them about Sci-Port Holiday Day Camps. They’re educational... and fun!   Sci-Port’s Holiday Day Camps are themed and designed to accommodate specific grade groups, as follows: K - 1st, 2nd - 3rd and 4th - 5th grades. Each camper must be currently enrolled in the corresponding grade groups listed above for the 2011-12 school year. Themes vary day to day from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. daily.  Each day camp includes a mid-morning and afternoon snack, all materials and supplies needed for the session, a 30-minute supervised lunch provided by Counter Culture @ Sci-Port and an IMAX film admission.  Each Day Camp Costs: Members $40; Non-Members $45

December 9,10,16 & 17

Christmas at the Cross, The Living Nativity Drive Through. Admission is Free. Central Assembly of God (Next to LA Downs Racetrack). For more information contact 949-0010

December 10 Holiday on Broadway, Strand Theatre.

December 3 Casting Crowns CenturyLink Center 7 p.m.

8:00-10:00pm. For all ages. An unforgettable evening of music guaranteed to put you in a festive mood - this show includes music from around the world in a celebration of Christmas, Hannukah and Kwanzaa. Featured selections include hits from Broadway and film as well as our hilarious fractured carols. Songs include We Need a Little Christmas, Feliz Navidad, White Christmas, Wassail, Jingle Bell Rock, S’vivon, Channukah, You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch!, The Twelve Days of Christmas, and many more. The perfect evening to get you into the spirit of Christmas!

GET LISTED!

To submit calendar listings, send information to SBFaithandFamily@gmail.com. Include the name of the event, date and time, venue address, short description, appropriate age range, fee, phone number and Web site address. Submissions are listed on a space-available basis. We’d love to include high-resolutions photos, as well. Deadline for the January Calendar is December 15.

December 16

An Evening with Dennis Swanberg Featuring SANCTUS REAL, THE AFTERS, And Introducing LINDSAY McCAUL Buy Tickets at www.genexconcerts.com or call 724744-3524

December 3

Christmas Tour R.W. Norton Art Gallery, for all ages, admission is free. From 2:00pm-3:00pm. The Christmas Tour explores works with a Christmas or winter theme, accompanied by inspirational stories of the season.

December 4 Sugar Plum Fairy Luncheon. Join Shreveport Metropolitan Ballet for the traditional Sugar Plum Fairy Luncheon prior to the Sunday, December 4th matinee performance of “The Nutcracker.” This delightful event will be held at the R.S. Barnwell Garden and Art Center, located conveniently across the street from Riverview Theater. Tickets are $10 for children 12 and under and $15 for adults.  Visit www.shreveportmetroballet.org for reservations, or call SMB at 318-221-8500.

Marshall Convention Center - 7PM Marshall Christian Academy presents An Evening with Dennis Swanberg. Side-spliiting Comedy, Soulbuilding Message. Dr. Dennis Swanberg, affectionately known as “The Swan” is a seasoned and solid communicator whose sly wit delivers lifeenriching truths to the heart on wings of laughter. The Swan has been called “America’s Minister of Encouragement” because of his constant work at lifting hearts and leading people to a richer life through his “one of a kind” humor. Tickets: Limited Select Seating $25 ~ General Admission $15/$20 at the door Call 903-935-1060 marshallca.com or email office@marshallca.com. This is a fundraising event for Marshall Christian Academy Athletic Programs. Thank you for your support!

D e c e m b e r 2 011

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Cut out the scritures and quotes and place them around your home for daily encouragement. “Christmas is not a time or a season but a state of mind. To cherish peace and good will, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas.”

“The way you spend Christmas is far more important than how much.” – Henry David Thoreau

– Rev. Billy Graham “God became what we are in order to make us what He is Himself.” - St. Irenaeus of Lyons

Ratclif Animal Hospital. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 2 OCA Bossier City Mission. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page5 Tango Transport. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page5 Life Way. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 5 Weight No More. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 9 Mississippi Children’s Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 10

Durr’s Pyromania Fireworks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 15

“The Lord, before His Incarnation, let mankind experience all the bitterness of sin, all their powerlessness to eradicate it; and when all longed for a Deliverer, then He appeared, the most wise, all-powerful Physician and Helper. When men hungered and thirsted after righteousness, as it grew weaker, then the everlasting righteousness came.” - St. John Kronstadt

“Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus, that a census be taken of all the inhabited earth. 2 This was the first census taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3 And everyone was on his way to register for the census, each to his own city. 4 Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David, 5 in order to register along with Mary, who was engaged to him, and was with child. 6 While they were there, the days were completed for her to give birth. 7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son ; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. 8 In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid ; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people .” Luke 2:1-10

Ashley Ridge Imaging. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 2

Barksdale Baptist Church. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 14

– Calvin Coolidge “The very purpose of Christ’s coming into the world was that He might offer up His life as a sacrifice for the sins of men. He came to die. This is the heart of Christmas.”

a d v e r t i s e r s

Miracle 89.1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 15, 17 Purity Ball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 17 Cosse & Silmon Orthodontics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 18 Time-It Lube. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 19 Abbot Promotional Products. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 19 Prayer Cloth Ministries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 20 Sci-Port. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 20 Astec Roofing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 23 Cochran Construction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 23 Litton Mortgage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 23 Barksdale Credit Union. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 24

Helping Hands Food Bank of Northwest Louisiana 675-2400 www.foodbanknla.org Operation Santa Claus www.osccaddobossier.com Salvation Army 424-3200 www.uss.salvationarmy.org Shreveport/Bossier Rescue Mission 227-2868 www.sbrescuemission.com

Merry Christmas from 22

Faith & Family

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Faith & Family