Christian Community Magazine April 2017
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Contents In the News……………...…. Pg. 6 Making an Impact ...……… Pg. 8 Living the Life….…….……...Pg. 9 Cover…………………………Pg. 11 Gospel Artist Spotlight with Bro. Steve …..………….Pg 14
Ministry Profile……………...Pg.17 Calendar of Events…………..Pg.18
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Vol.21 Issue 4 Gina Smith Editor & Publisher Advertising Sales Tony Smith Authors & Artists Magazine SPMG Media 385 S. Lemon Ave. #E236 Walnut, CA 91789 P - (909) 942-0388 spmgmedia@gmail.com www.spmgmedia.com Christian Community Magazine division of SPMG Media
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Students Stumped Over Whether Christian Photographers Have Right to Decline ‘Gay Weddings’ MADISON, Wisc. — Students who were recently interviewed at the University of Wisconsin (UW) in Madison appeared to be stumped when faced with the question as to whether or not Christian photographers have a right to decline to shoot events that conflict with their beliefs. The religious liberties organization Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) recently visited UW to ask students if they believe businesses should have the right to turn away an order if it conflicts with their beliefs. A representative from ADF began by asking students if they believed designer Sophie Theallet had a right to decline to dress Melania Trump. “Yeah, why not?” one student answered.
ADF then presented a hypothetical situation where a professional singer who holds to Muslim beliefs is asked to perform at a church. Could he turn down the event because he does not want to be associated with Christianity? “Yeah, you have the right to opt out of doing whatever you [don’t] want,” one student replied. “I would feel like if I was Muslim, it would be hard to work with someone [that wasn’t],” another stated. “Yeah, if that goes against your religious views, I feel like [you should] turn it down,” a third remarked.
“So, you have the right to opt out of business that you might not want to associate yourself with?” ADF asked.
ADF then asked if it would be right to enact a law forcing citizens to perform work that violates their beliefs, and all those in the video replied that they disagreed with such a requirement. Therefore, ADF presented another scenario.
“Yes,” the student replied.
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“You should be able to control your business in that regard, yeah,” another opined.
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In The News Wedding Bells for Tasha Cobbs!
Grammy winning gospel singer Tasha Cobbs and her husband Kenneth Leonard pulled off a surprise wedding to remember.
“I felt so many things at once when I saw Tasha coming down the aisle on our wedding day,’ said Kenneth Leonard, Tasha’s new husband. ‘I was stunned at how amazingly beautiful Tasha was.” Tasha shared that when she and Kenny first met, it was a sure feeling that there was something special between the two of them. “Kenny and I met 9 years ago at a worship conference. We instantly became the best of friends. A bit over two years ago, life brought us back together and we’ve been building our relationship ever since. Every day is a magnificent journey!” says Tasha.
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Making An Impact BEING BEAUTIFUL FOUNDATION Enriching The Lives of Foster Children
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hen Valerie Crabbe and Larry Harris got married, they already had six kids between them, making them parents with a capital “P.” But not long after they joined forces, they decided to expand their family. On Tuesday, May 23, 2017, The Being Beautiful Foundation will host it’s 2017 Pinnacle Awards Charity Gala. This annual event, held during national foster care and adoption month in May, which honors individuals who were raised in Foster Care and succeeded against the odds to become highly successful in life. The 2017 Pinnacle Awards will be honoring from Ted Talks & Nationally Recognized Public Speaker Melissa Roshan Potter, Philadelphia’s up and coming Media Mogul Kyree Terrell Founder of My New Phillly and Daffany McGaray Clark Professional Actress from the Television Show “The Fosters”. Their stories range from being raised in multiple foster homes, homelessness and victims of abuse to rising to the top of the game in their respective fields. Each honoree will be sharing their amazing life journey in this momentous occasion.
The event will be hosted by retired Action News Anchor Lisa Thomas-Laury. Event will begin with a VIP Dinner Gala and speeches by 2017 Pinnacle Awards Charity Gala honorees Ms. Daffany McGaray Clark, Mr. Kyree Terrell and Ms. MelissaRoshan Potter beginning at 6pm. Being Beautiful Foundations’ founder and CEO Valerie Crabbe has been featured on numerous television interviews including the Oxygen Network, NBC Today Show, Fox News New York, 6abc Action News, CBS Philly Game Changers, TD Jakes Show, KYW New Radio and her work was also featured in a national outreach campaign sponsored by TD Bank called #MakeTodayMatter which received over 5 million views. This is a charitable cause event. Being Beautiful Foundation is a Pennsylvania non-profit 501c3 organization. Charitable proceeds from this event will be used to support the foundation initiatives; Being Beautiful Foundation Residential Homes, Foster Care Awareness, Camp Butterfly and the Arts Scholarship programs for foster children. beingbeautifulfoundation.org Christian Community Magazine · 8
Living the Life Ways God Uses Tough Times to Shape Our Lives
Tribulation tests our identity as Chris-
Tribulation
tests our sense of purpose When
tians Tribulation tests our identity. In the parable of the sower (Matthew 13:1-23), Jesus described several situations. The seed that landed on rocky places did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. When the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. Jesus said that the one who received the seed that fell on rocky places is the man who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. Since he has no root, he lasts only a short time. When trouble or persecution come because of the word, he quickly falls away. The one who received the seed that fell among thorns is the man who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke it, making it unfruitful.
I was in my first year of medical school, I was about one minute late to histology class two or three times in a row. Our professor approached me in the laboratory and notified me that my tardiness reflected on my "sense of purpose." I was never late again, because I realized how it would reflect on my character. As it says in James, "Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him"(James 1:2).
The seed that fell on good soil produced a good crop. By implication, that seed that fell on good soil stayed connected to the source of its life and was not destroyed by trouble, persecution, the worries of this life, or the deceitfulness of wealth. When we deal with tribulation as we should, it authenticates our true identity as believers.
We are tested to teach us to rely on God "We do not want you to be uninformed, broth-
Tribulation
tests our faith "These [trials] have
come so that your faith of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed" (1 Peter 1:7).
Tribulation
tests our obedience "The reason I
wrote you was to see if you would stand the test and be obedient in everything" (2 Corinthians 2:9).
ers, about the hardships we suffered in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life. Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many" (2 Corinthians 1:8-11). Christian Community Magazine 9
World Changers Church International First Lady Taffi Dollar Takes on Gender Roles In her New Book
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affi Dollar, first lady of World Changers Church International, is addressing the shifting roles of men and women in the 21st century in her new book, Gender Roles: A Grace-Based Perspective. The College Park, Georgia-based leader believes the two sexes can navigate the transition by accepting that role reversals are a natural part of societal change and nothing to be feared. “We can clearly see that the roles of American men and women have changed over time,” writes the leader of the Radical Women’s Ministry at her home church in her new book. “Women are now doing many of the
jobs and holding positions in society that men used to dominate, while men are in roles that were once only designated to women.” And that’s okay, she says.
Gender Roles expounds on God's original intent for mankind, the definition and purpose of biblical equality, why this message is necessary for people today, and how it can change lives.
These days, she points out, “A woman may work
outside of the home, while her husband is at home caring for the children. Additionally, many women are earning much higher salaries than their husband and are considered the breadwinner of the family.” She continues, “Many women are running their
own businesses and are in leadership roles in their communities. Does it mean these women are outside of God’s will for their lives? No. There is nothing wrong with married couples working together as partners to accomplish a mutual goal.”
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Gender Roles: A Grace-Based Perspective is available everywhere books are sold online.
affi's commitment to helping others is evident through her lifestyle of service. She founded the non profit organization, Radical Women's Ministry, to promote unity and sisterhood. She frequently hosts prayer and Bible study meetings, retreats, workshops, and other events that empower women. She is also Founder of Prestige Ministry, an outreach ministry which was created to reach out to women involved in the adult entertainment and sex trade industries. With a Bachelor's Degree in Mental Health and Human Services, Taffi has a heart for restoring family relationships, and providing inspiration. Above all of her accomplishments, she considers supporting her husband in ministry, and raising God fearing children, her primary purpose and greatest accomplishments. As a mother of five, she firmly believes the best way to raise children is to be an active role model who demonstrates the love of God. God has gifted women to be caring, concerned and compassionate toward others .
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING “I have read this book and I encourage everyone to read this book. You will gain a clear understanding of God's design for our lives. “ - Amazon Purchaser
“Gender Roles a MUST READ. “ - Amazon Purchaser Christian Community Magazine 12
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Your monthly round up of Gospel Artists to Watch! Bro. Steve is a television producer, radio host in Hollywood, CA , bringing 33 years plus experience . You've seen his work on FOX, Disney, ABC, CBS, NBC and more . He has produced over 3,732 radio, TV, multi-media productions and more. Learn more at www.BroSteve.com
Antoinette Harris & Friends “Live from Cleveland” PURCHASE HERE https://www.cdbaby.com/cd/antoinetteharris If you are ready to go back to church, here is the music you will love. Perfect for every Sunday morning service and during the week as well. I’m so proud of my Big Sister Antoinette… Enjoy
David Frazier “Let Me Go “ featuring John Murray PURCHASE HERE www.DavidFrazier.net If you are looking for a combination of smooth Gospel Music with a great summer time feel, this is the song for you featuring John Murray.
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Catrina Reese “The Take Over” PURCHASE HERE: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/takeoversingle/id1049396424 I like this song, similar to a Caribbean sound for Gospel, business woman and artist all wrapped up into one.
Yolanda Harris-Dancy “His Name is Jesus” PURCHASES HERE https://www.cdbaby.com/cd/ yolandaharrisdancy1 Speaking about one of the BEST remake songs of this year, its Yolanda’s version of His Name is Jesus, she took this classic and added a jazz twist to it..
Westcoast Fletch Brinson “I’ve Got to Make It” PURCHASE HERE: https://www.reverbnation.com/ fletchmanbrinson
The smooth move guitar groove of Fletch Brinson, you will love the sound. His singing and his music will bless you.
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Faithworks Ministries Bishop Harold Jackson and Dr. Mary Jackson 2076 N. Lincoln Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91103 Phone: 310-520-5554 Website: www.thinkbigincorporated.com Sunday Service: 11:00am Bible Empowerment: Every Wednesday at 7:30pm Join them every Sunday night at 9:00pm on KJLH Radio
About Faithworks Ministries
B
ishop Harold Jackson is Founder of Faithworks Ministry, which is a multi-culture, multi-racial church located in Pasadena California and was formed in 2007. Bishop received his Doctorate from Union University of California under the leadership of Bishop Donnie Williams. He is dedicated to the financial growth of fellow worshipers and is challenged to transform the believer through Biblical principles into Kingdom Millionaires for kingdom stewardship. He presents the word of God with humor and relates the promises of God with Passion. The word he delivers will inspire, strengthen and provoke change in your life.
The THINK BIG INC. Show airs every Sunday evening at 9p-10p (PST) on KHLH 102.3FM. We invite you to call in at (310) 5205554 and let us know you're listening and your thoughts on the latest topics or to receive a blessing in your life. Hosts Bishop Harold Jackson, First Lady, Dr. Mary Jackson and Co-host Pastor Donnie Johnson are ready to hear from you!
MINISTRIES! Be featured to more than 500,000 subscribers. Contact us today! spmgmedia@gmail.com
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Rhythm Of Gospel Awards June 21st - 25th, 2017: The 2017 Rhythm Of Gospel Awards will be held in Jacksonville, Florida. Host hotel: Downtown Omni. The event recognizes churches, pastors, choirs and independent gospel artists nationwide for their outstanding contributions to Gospel. For the 2017 nominees, showcase opportunities, registration and more information, visitwww.therhythmofgospelawards.com or call Mark Rogers at 210-745-5858 ext. 109
Full Gospel Conference 2017 June 27th - 30th, 2017: Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship International presents The Full Gospel Conference 2017 at the Orlando County Convention Center, 9800 Universal Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32819. The 2017 focus is on "Momentum." For host hotels, itinerary and registration information, www.fullgospelbaptist.org.
The Bloody Win Tour featuring Tye Tribbett, J.J. Hairston, Tasha Cobbs and Jekalyn Carris now unfolding in various cities. The current dates are: FL; 4/21/17 - Charlotte, NC; 4/22/17 - Atlanta, GA; 4/23/17 - Columbia, SC; 4/29/17 - Virginia Beach, VA; 4/30/17 - Richmond, VA; 5/1/17 - Baltimore, MD; 5/5/17 - Saginaw, MI; 5/6/17 - Gary, IN; 5/7/17 - Indianapolis, IN; 5/8/17 Nashville, TN; 5/14/17 - Evans, GA; 5/15/17 - Birmingham, AL; 5/19/17 - Baton Rouge, LA; 5/20/17 - Shreveport, LA; 5/22/17 - Austin, TX; 5/27/17 - Trenton, NJ; 5/28/17 - Jamaica, NY. For the latest updates, visitwww.bloodywintour.com or call Lox Entertainment at 973-351-1569.
MegaFest 2017 June 28th - July 1st, 2017: MegaFest 2017 powered by Pepsico will be held in Dallas, Texas. The ManPower event features Bishop T.D. Jakes, John Gray, Dr. Shane Perry, Pastor Bill Winston, Joseph Prince, Tye Tribbett and others. For more information, visit www.mega-fest.org
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Quartet Division Showcase June 15th, 2017: The Quartet Division of The North Carolina Gospel Announcers Guild - GMWA presents their Quartet Division Showcase featuring special guest artists and judges including Harvey Watkins, Jr., Doc McKenzie & The Hi-Lites, Keith Wonderboy Johnson, Rev. Arvetra Jones, Evelyn Turrentine-Agee, Darrell McFadden & The Disciples and Teddy Cross. The event will be held at the Millennium Hotel, 2800 Campus Walk Avenue, Durham, NC 27705. 6:30 pm. For more, visit www.ncgag.com.
Tampa Bay Gospel Awards September 29th - 30th, 2017: The Third Annual Tampa Bay Gospel Awards will be held in Tampa, Florida. The event honors independent gospel groups, artists and others from across the state of Florida. For the 2017 nominees, hosts and more details, visit www.tampabaygospelawards.com or call Jorad Holmes, CEO & Founder, at 941-526-0577
Voices Of Gospel Music Awards September 8th - 9th, 2017: The 2nd Annual Voices Of Gospel Music Awards will be held in Mobile, Alabama. The event recognizes, appreciates and honors independent and mainstream gospel artists. For the 2017 nominees, voting procedures and more details, visit www.vogma.org or call 251268-9585. Rev. Gary Johnson is CEO & Founder
A Gospel Music Celebration: Marva Smith and Friends Sunday, April 30 at 3 PM - 5 PM
The Museum of African American Art | Los Angeles 4005 Crenshaw Blvd, Los Angeles, California 90008 A Gospel Music Celebration. A benefit to support the Museum of African American Art . Marva Smith and Friends with special guest performance by WEtv's L.A. Hair Star & Recording Artist, James Wright" In partnership with Marva’s Annual Birthday Party with a Purpose Hosted by Ted Lange
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