The Remnant Magazine
February 2016 | Volume 1, Issue 2
Exodus 3:2
“Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.� Romans 11:5 Page 1 of 52
Hebrews 12:29
If you want to hear a powerhouse vocalist with a melodic flow‌ Click the links to listen to clips of Dimensions of Love at Cdbaby and click here to listen to Sunny Days.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS DEPARTMENTS Artist Highlights (Featured throughout)
Health
Youth
Racquel Dozier
Someone You Know May Have Lupus……………………………………… 31
Despite the Odds………………..………….........9 Thomas Williams, PhD Parenting……………………………………………….13 Joseph Mitchell
“There is nothing more
constant than change”
History History Matters ………………………………. 35 Neil Woodard
Heraclitus 535BC
The Word of God
Outreach Hope Ministries ……….…....................41 Neil Woodard
The Change of God ………….......……….15 Neil Woodard
The Power of Prayer……….......………..49 Vivian Booker
Resources …………………………………….43
Family
Testimonials/Inspiration….47
Fatherhood…………………………………….25 Wayne Dawson Quilting: A Spiritual Practice ………………21 Maxine Fuller
Looking Ahead ……………………...49
Politics Bobby Junes/Part One ……………………29 Neil Woodard
“Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.” Romans 11:5 Page 3 of 52
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The Remnant Magazine Staff Volume One, Issue Two February 2016
Editor In Chief Neil Woodard
Layout / Design Director Mary Coleman
Media Marketing / Advertisement Bobby Junes Neil Woodard
Contributing Editors Racquel Dozier Maxine Full Joseph Mitchell Vivian Booker Dwayne Dawson Dr. Thomas Williams
Production Managers Mary Coleman Neil Woodard
Research Consultant Dr. Christine Valentine Dr. Thomas Williams
Youth Consultant Hollis Brown
“Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.� Romans 11:5 Page 5 of 52
Shop with Olive Brown at www.youravon.com/olive (804-481-1844)
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EDITOR’S
(NOTES)
Change! This publication of the Remnant Magazine will focus on God's change and how it impacts our transformation. Sometimes God heals us just before He blesses us, as though our suffering was all a preparation for us to move into another level of functioning. We suffer for a period of time, and in our suffering we can develop the attitude necessary for us to move into the place of blessing/responsibility/authority. With the right attitude suffering draws us closer to God. Therefore healing from God will bring joy, release, and a mindset that is generally a little higher than how we’ve been accustomed to thinking. With this kind of healing comes unexpected opportunity and blessing, generally in some form of movement. That movement can be relocation, travel, or being placed in another area of functioning at work, school or home. Either way this movement will be significant and will require a little faith on our part.
Acceptance is an attitude and ongoing acceptance (willingly) remaining in the circumstance that God places us in results in continued mental, spiritual emotional and physical health. The right attitude results in right living and there will be joy in that. Because of the joy and the placement that will be associated with the God given healing, a transformation will occur in our lives that will be visible to all who see us. Transformation is the purpose for our healing and the greater expression of the Change of God and that will include empowerment on levels that we had not expressed in the past. This healing is associated with a blessing that we will have been bold enough to accept. PEACE TO YOU!!!!
The outstanding quality of this healing is Joy!!! The change of God is a very real movement. Our circumstances change and we must change with them in order for us to get the full benefit of this healing. Acceptance is required. When God changes things we are put in circumstances where we must choose to believe and move according to this change or remain in our lower order thinking and miss out and missing out can be costly. Healing, safety, transformation and judgment characterize God's change in this life. Safety (placement) and healing keep us out of harms’ way and while the appearance of this unusual opportunity may seem a little awkward and perhaps dangerous, the truth is that our continual ongoing healing will be tied to our taking a Leap of Faith unacceptable by man’s reasoning. “Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.” Romans 11:5 Page 7 of 52
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BRUNSWICK STEW AND FISH FOR SALE! Saturday, March 19, 2016 9:30 am – until it’s gone!!! Also check out the Antique Cars & vendors on site!!
Pick up your order at 3101 Hull Street Road. Delivery is available in Richmond, VA (10-15 mile radius) for orders of $20.00 or more. Contact one of the following people to place your order prior to March 19th: Sis Coleman, 804921-6703; Bro Clarke, 804-874-0163; Sis Brown, 804-481-1844; Sis Mayo, 804-543-8710. Vending spaces are available at $15 per table (we provide the table) – contact us if interested. Proceeds to benefit the Church and its community work. Page 8 of 52
youth Despite the Odds by Elder Thomas Williams, PhD The history of educating blacks of African descent on America soil was met with resistance beyond belief. Slavery and the Making of American at website: http://www.pbs.org/wnet/slvery/experience/education/docs1.htm1 indicate that it was against the law to teach black people (slaves) how to read and/or write in South Carolina and Virginia in that it was a threat against the “peculiar institution.” Anyone caught teaching a black person how to read and/or write was fined in South Carolina but flogged in Virginia. In “I will be heard!” at website: http://rmc.library.cornell.edu/abolitionism/narratives.htm “most slave owners felt that slaves had no business learning how to read and fervently “believed that teaching such skills was [sic] useless, if not dangerous” (para.2). On the other hand, some slave masters taught their slaves how to read in order to [so-called] Christianize (control) them (para. 2). In A Tool: A resource for people with an interest in scripture, students-of-scripture, college students, believers, and clergy, Williams (2015, p.18) reports that “in the history of early America, it was against the law for anyone to teach a slave or freeman (black person) how to read and/or write.” For instance, “in most southern states, anyone caught teaching a slave to read would be fined, imprisoned, or whipped.” Slaves Are prohibited to Read and Write by Law the website http://www.historyisaweapon.com/defcon1/slaveprohibit.html declares that the General Assembly in the state of North Carolina passed a law at the Session of 1830 – 1831 made it illegal for anyone to teach a slave how to read or write. The General Assembly believed that “the teaching of slaves how to read and write, has a tendency to excite dissatisfaction in their minds, and to produce insurrection and rebellion, to the manifest injury of the citizens of this State” (para. 1). Stiff penalties followed—a white person “caught” was fined but a slave was whipped, if not killed. Southern lawmakers shuttered at the thought of educating blacks but that did not stop us. For instance, as indicated above, some white slave owners, although with ulterior motives, broke the law, and taught their slaves how to read but we still learned! Nothing stopped us. Free blacks, slaves who knew how read and write and slave-sympathizers broke the law by engaging in civil disobedience but kept teaching black people. “Free blacks and slaves continued to share what literacy they had” (para. 4) with other blacks who “wanted” to learn as recorded in Freeman’s Education in Virginia, 1861-1870 at website http://www.encyclopediavirgina.org/Freedman_s_Education_in_Virginia_1861-1871. In regards to high school graduation among blacks in general but black males in particular, I looked at the high school graduation rates of black males in the U.S. Unfortunately, time would not allow me to look at data for black females. Nonetheless, the high school graduation rates for black males vary state-by-state, from study-to-study, and from yearto-year. For instance, a Schott report in 2010 found that 47 percent of black males in the U.S. graduated from high school at the end of 2007-2008 (para. 1) as noted in “Yes We Can” Shows America’s Public Schools Fail Over Half the Nations’ Black Male Students at website http://www.schottfoundation.org/news/8-17-2010-report-yes-we-can-publicschools-b... The Schott report of 2010 also notes that of school districts in the U.S. with a black male student enrollment which exceeds 10,000 students the Newark Public School System in Newark, New Jersey had the highest percent (approximately 76 percent) of black males in the country to graduate from high school at the end of the 2007-08, followed by Fort Bend, TX (68 percent), Baltimore County, MD (67 percent), and Montgomery County, MD reporting a graduation rate of 65 percent (para.6).
(Continued on page11)
“Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.” Romans 11:5 Page 9 of 52
Featured Artist Highlight
“Uma”
Uma hails from the New York and New Jersey region and has been singing and composing gospel and children’s gospel at local churches for over 15 years. The name Uma means bright and luminous. This well describes the heart and intent of this artist who uses her wide vocal range of Alto to 2nd Soprano to spread the brightness and light of love and hope through her music. She does not follow the standard format of gospel genre. She expresses the music from her soul with earthy and jazz flavors that are mixed into her own unique style. Her lyrics are based on personal experiences that are truly heartfelt. Her fans speak of the soothing effects of her voice touching intimate parts of the soul. It’s time for the genre of gospel and inspirational music to be taken to another level. Uma is the one who breaks the barrier of the current market lyrics and sound by singing about the personal intimacy with God and less focus on external turmoil and trials. Uma believes her passion for singing about divine love is meant to be heard all over the world to uplift, encourage and empower towards living a full and happy life. Join her on her celebration of life and oneness with the Creator! Check out Uma’s latest CD “Lord We Need You Today” featuring Shimrock Page 10 of 52
Despite the Odds by Elder Thomas Williams, PhD In 2010, in The Commonwealth of West Virginia, more than 69 percent of black male high school students received a high school diploma as opposed to the national average of about 61 percent as reported in a Diplomas Count Report 2013 Report. One community study indicate that in 2012 approximately 80 percent of black males in the U.S. graduated from high school or obtained a general equivalency diploma, but 45 percent had completed some college course work and 16 percent had completed a college or university degree as noted in Black Male Graduation vs. Dropout rate at website http://www.beyondthebricksproject.com/blackmale-graduation-vs-dropout-rate. The Garden State (New Jersey) had an in-state high school graduation rate of 83 percent (2010-11), 86 percent (2011-12), and 88 percent (2012-13) according to the Latest high school graduation rates – state by state at website: http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/answersheet/wp/2015/02/12/latest-high-school-grad... In regards to graduation rates for black students in the Garden State, at the end of the 2011-12 school year, 74 percent of black students had graduated from high school according to State of high school graduation rates by race, ethnicity at website: http://www.governing.com/gov-data/educationdata/state-high-school-graduation-rates-by... On a personal note, I am a son of the Newark Public School System. When I was a child growing up in post-riot Newark, the city elected its first black mayor—the Honorable Mayor Kenneth A. Gibson (Blackpost.com at website: http://www.blackpast.org/aah/gibson-kenneth1931). When Gibson left office, the residents in Newark elected three additional black mayors: The Honorable Mayor Sharpe James (Sharpe James-Encyclopedia.com at website: http://www.encyclopedia.com/topic/Sharpe_James.aspx), The Honorable Mayor Corey A. Booker (Corey Booker – Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia at website: http://en.wikipedia.org/Cory_Booker), and the Honorable Mayor Ras J. Baraka(Ras J. Baraka – Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia at website: https://wikipedia.org/wiki/Ras_J._Baraka). Each city’ mayor graduated from high school and college but only James and Baraka graduated from the Newark Public
School system. Despite the odds, history documents that black people of African descent refuse to give up .
Recommended Reading: Even the rat was white: A historical view of psychology by the late Dr. Robert V. Guthrie (2nd edition) Dr. Thomas Williams is a licensed and ordained minister trained in Bible Technicality, with academic degrees in the classic social sciences.
“My scars remind me that I did indeed survive my deepest wounds. That in itself is an accomplishment. And they bring to mind something else, too. They remind me that the damage life has inflicted on me has, in many places, left me stronger and more resilient. What hurt me in the past has actually made me better equipped to face the present.” Steve Goodier
“Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.” Romans 11:5 Page 11 of 52
Featured Artist Highlight
“James Fleet�
James Fleet (Alto Sax/Flute) inherited a rich musical legacy from his father, guitarist Biddy Fleet, who was a mentor to sax legends Charlie Parker, and Frank Wess, as well as pianist Billy Taylor. As a youngster growing up in the South Bronx, James studied guitar with his dad, and piano at his local elementary school with Ed Bonnemere. During these formative years James developed a unique talent as a visual artist as well. These gifts would be developed and nurtured throughout his life. Upon entering junior high in 1967 James began studying the alto saxophone under the guidance of Richard Brezowsky. His love affair as both a musician, and artist, continued as he attended the High School of Music and Art in Manhattan. As a young adult James played sax and flute with several jazz and r&b bands, including Eternity, the group which he co-lead in the mid-1970s. James was also a band member as part of The Joan Miller Dance Company, based at Lehman College. In 1982 he attended the Jazz Workshop in Harlem, under the guidance of John Stubblefield, the noted jazz reedman. In addition to his jazz background James has performed, and/or recorded with hit r&b producers Teddy Riley, guitarist/producer Royal Bayyan, and Randy Muller. Currently, James leads his own self-titled group: The James Fleet Band.
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Parenting by Joseph Mitchell What is happening to our Kids or How Can We Help Our Adult Kids? Train up a child in the way they should go…Proverbs22:6. That is a good scripture that I have used when talking to other people and myself when we talk about our kids and how they have drifted away. I am also reminded of the prodigal son who wanted to see the world and not be at home, Luke: 15: 11-32. When we first see our child after they are born, we have all kinds of dreams and plans for them. Little do we know that they already have plans for themselves that we know nothing of or can fathom. We never entertain the idea that “our child” will be bad or get in trouble. The first time that we correct our children is based on what we deem right or wrong, and then we try to instill the proper motivation for them to understand. Sometimes it is thru spanking or talking but we do something and watch to see if they learn their “lesson”. We start to shape them to function in society and be able to get along with people. As they get older we teach them to respect people in authority so they don’t get into trouble. We do and try to improve from our past mistakes and pass that wisdom on to them. The biggest factor that influences them is their peers, friends and the people we don’t know that have given them another view of life. The foundation that we have given them goes out the window and they start making their own path. They will continue to listen but they are looking for a way out to see for themselves. No matter what we teach or say to them they are just waiting for when they can see for themselves. They have discovered in their minds that they know more that we, “the parent”.
How have things have evolved to the point where we forget about God’s way until something goes wrong? Then we blame each other, not realizing what part we played in it. The child has been watching and deciding what they were going to do from the beginning and threw out what he was taught. The friends help them decide by getting high or drinking or even having sex. The parent is too busy to notice, but they do care and love them. When a child is in school and has no income or does not want to learn how to function as an adult that is the making for a problem down the road. I think back when I had a part time job: it taught me how to manage money, how to work toward a goal and reinforce what was important and what was not. I did not have time to “listen” to my friends who had a lot of “free” time to get in trouble. As we look at our kids, young and old, think back on how we were raised and how we did, is it any different now? We are more concerned with man’s ways than God’s way when we raise our kids. God is able to keep us if we stand with him. Ecclesiastes 1:9
“Your children are the greatest gift God will give to you, and their souls the heaviest responsibility He will place in your hands. Take time with them, teach them to have faith in God. Be a person in whom they can have faith. When you are old, nothing else you've done will have mattered as much.” Lisa Wingate
I call this, the turning point; they have a choice whether good or bad, to remember their training and continue or be like the prodigal son. I would like to fast forward to this day and age where a lot of children are being raised by single parents, who work and cater to their kids by buying things to make up for not spending time with them. What about the parents who want to be in their child’s lives but are unable due to difference between the other parent and going to court, child support, visitation, etc .. “Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.” Romans 11:5 Page 13 of 52
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The Word of God The Change of God by Neil Woodard We’ve all heard clichés such as; the more things change, the more they remain the same, or there is nothing constant but change. God declares in the Old Testament; I am the LORD, I change not…so, what is it about change that has us all twisted and scared, almost quivering at times? Most of us are so comfortable in our circumstances that we don’t want to think about our responsibility to change and what that might really mean. This is true whether we are faring sumptuously or living under oppressive circumstances. Birth, living and dying are all acts of change and we can’t escape any of these. Absolutely everything that we do reflects change…even when we decide not to change, we change because we deteriorate on some level be it emotional, educational, physical, social, mental or spiritual. When we decide to change in many cases (not all) we grow, develop and face our challenges and fears. For the most part, change is healthy. So what exactly then is The Change of God!? That’s a loaded question to which I will provide a loaded answer. The following describe the levels and types of change that God is bringing about in our lifetime, for such a time as this: 1. Repentance 2. Light/Brilliance 3. Judgment 4. Revelation Many years ago while living in Richmond, Virginia suffering from the isolation of separation from my wife, I was living alone in an apartment with no furniture except for one chair, a keyboard, a desk, a small TV and a laptop. The air mattress that I slept on had been punctured so I had been sleeping on the floor for about four months and the income that I had was used to pay the rent. One day a good friend who I call my sister in the Lord called me. Now you have to understand, Christine is ALWAYS upbeat and bubbly no matter how one may cry the blues to her. So when she called our conversation went sort of like this: (cell phone rings) Neil: (a little down) Uh…hello? Christine: (Bubbly and loud) Hi Neil! Neil: (groaning) Hey Chris, what’s up? Christine: Let’s pray a prayer of Repentance. Neil: (in a fog like state) Duh…what? Christine: Yeah, C’mon, let’s pray a prayer of repentance Neil: Duh…ok… So for the next 15 minutes we prayed and repented. I was wondering what this was about but I figured maybe I needed to repent for something so I complied. After prayer we hung up. So I went back to my laptop and began working on some project. About 30 minutes later a friend of mine from college paid me a visit. We had both played on the basketball team at Saint Paul’s College a long time ago. This was his first visit to my apartment and when he entered we talked and he looked around and suddenly said; “Woodard…you aint got no bed?” I said; Nah man I been sleeping on the floor, you know…stretching my back. He shook his head and told me not to worry, he had my back. The next morning (it was a Saturday morning) around 8am he brought me a mattress from his house. No one had used it recently and it was clean. (Continued on page 17) “Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.” Romans 11:5 Page 15 of 52
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The Change of God by Neil Woodard (Continued from page 15) So what happened? After having gone through a rough patch, God responded to my repentance and I got a bed immediately. What I just described is one form of The Change of God. The Greek translation for the word repent means change. As I changed (repented), God Changed and provided a bed (and that was good because that floor was hard). When God says I am the LORD I change not, He was referring to His mercy according to the context of that particular passage (Malachi 3:6). Understand this, The Change of God is a very real movement that will result in chastening and uncomfortable circumstances designed to bring us to repentance. Repentance is just the beginning for the Church. There is more required than repentance. Let’s go to the scriptures. In 1 Peter 3:21 it is written that even now baptism does save us. When Peter the apostle was asked by his countrymen what they should do concerning their sin, he replied; “repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins (Acts 2:37-38). He didn’t say that baptism was just a public show of confession as some doctrines teach. Evidently being born of the water cleanses us from sin and saves us from the wrath of God. The Change of God will be reflected in repentance and the water baptism into the name of Jesus Christ. When Peter visited the house of Cornelius (Acts 10th chapter) and preached the Gospel, all of those listening began speaking in tongues. Immediately after the anointing of speaking in tongues they were baptized in the name of Jesus. I suppose their prophesying in tongues was their confession. Many years ago I baptized three young people in their late teens and early twenties. To my amazement they each came out of the water glowing, each one had a distinct glow on their faces. The eldest one had the brightest hue and he was dark skinned. His friend also had light emanating from his face but not as brilliant as the eldest. The young woman also had a faint glow about her when she came out of the water. I had never seen anything like it before. Change is transformation. On this earth The Change of God is that move of God (really the spirit of God) which will transform us to reflect light, love, revelation and the power of God. The Change of God is the move of God reflecting the original move of the Church from the day of Pentecost. On that day believers spoke with tongues and fire (light) danced over their heads, when they ministered to people, they baptized them and there was no sinner’s prayer. Confession is an integral part of salvation because it is part of our repentance. Confession is the first part, it is the statement of faith and God does work in our lives as a result but no one likes a half baked cake. When baking a cake, it won’t be complete unless all of the ingredients are included. Jesus spoke of being born by water and by spirit. Our body of sin dies and we are saved in the water, this is the premise of Romans 6:1-4. So we see that The Change of God is light, repentance and the new birth (by water and by spirit). As we change God changes for our good. The Change of God is also related to serious chastening in order for us to repent. 1 Peter 4:17-19 maintains that judgment will begin in the house of God and if it begins in the Church where God’s people are, then how will the unrighteous fare? There are unrighteous people inside and outside of the Church. Let us also remember this true historical fact, God’s people will suffer persecution, some will die, others will be imprisoned, still others will be rejected by family members and society. So why believe? We believe because we love, need God’s love and search it out as reflected in our hunger and thirst for righteousness. The truth is that salvation is not for everyone, but the difficulties that we face, we face them with God being aware of His presence in our circumstances we know that we’re not alone and we experience the peace of God. That makes all of the difference in the
(Continued on page 19)
“Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.” Romans 11:5 Page 17 of 52
Featured Artist Highlight
“John Cooksey”
John Cooksey, drummer, writer and producer has performed with Ashford and Simpson, Roy Ayers, Noel Pointer, Phyllis Hyman, Micheal Urbaniak, Carlos Garnett, the late Kenny Kirkland, The Persuaders, Talking Heads with David Bryne and Brian Eno, Kim Clarke & Rob Shecps with the (Magnets), Patience Higgins, Marcus Persiani, Paul Ramsey, Joey Morant, Blues singers Ray Shinnery and Slam Allen (who he recorded with also) and a host of others just to name a few. John has also recorded with Producer Patric Adams for Atlantic records, Sal-Soul records, RCA records, Arista records, and a host of other recording studios and labels. He is currently working around town with many of the NY scene musicians. John has recorded with talking heads producers Brian Eno & David Bryne (The Bush of Ghost album) Eddie Kendricks, Melba Moore, Herbie Mann, Ace Spectrum, The Main Ingredient, Carlos Garnett and many more just to name a few. John has also subbed for Steve Gadd with stuff at the legendary club Mickeals in Manhattan before it’s closing. John has also toured with the Harlem Jazz and Blues band with Trumpeter Joey Morant in Tokyo in 2010 and Russia in 2013-2014. He can be seen playing with Jazz organist Nathan Lucas in clubs like the Lenox Lounge the Red Rooster and BTH Restaurant. He is also working with his own quartet known as the John Cooksey "Spontaneous Combustion quartet" on Monday's at Paris blues in Harlem. He has worked with other NY musicians like Jim Farley and Gerald Hayes, Danny Mixson, vocalist Vinnie Knight and has subbed for Tyrone Govan at the legendary Cotton Club in Harlem. John is currently working with Tyrone Govan and his top secret group (Der-Secret) at Paris Blues on Thursday's. He is currently working on his first studio project in years and hopefully he will have it finished by summer’s end. john cooksey jpc1250@aol.com
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The Change of God by Neil Woodard (Continued from page 17) world. While others succumb to stress and stress related illness, the peace of God prevents that for those who really believe because of the intimate relationship achieved between God and the believer. An aspect of God that no one wants to deal with is judgment. God’s mercy is greater than judgment but judgment/condemnation must occur, why? We as people in general tend to highlight evil and call it good and take decent things and label them as bad or unnecessary. This is true in the churches and in the world. Here is what God says and this is the reason for Change. Ye have wearied the LORD with your words. Yet ye say; wherein have we wearied him? When ye say everyone that does evil is good in the sight of the LORD and he delights in them or where is the God of judgment? (Malachi 2:17) The Change of God as it pertains to revelation begins with the revelation of God Himself whether it is reflected in His light beaming through believers or cloven tongues (Acts 2:3), or a prophetic word and expressions of power and authority, or the increase of miracle and healing works. The revelation speaks to His Holiness because this society does not honor true Holiness and that will include both the wrath and the mercy of God. God loves mercy more than He does wrath and destruction and despite His displeasure with the world, His mercy will be expressed fully. Here’s the deal; God’s mercy will be expressed to the population who professes/confesses Him and believes on Him through the show of obedience. Confession, repentance and baptism in Jesus Christ all lead to salvation. To be baptized without repentance/confession is useless, it is just a show and that is also unacceptable. Baptism is necessary and must be accompanied with repentance/confession. The literal translation of the term ‘born again’ is born from above. We are saved by faith, the faith of God more than our faith. To be born of water and spirit is to truly be born of God and that is being born from above. The new birth is the true Change of God, and that means going right back to the old landmark, the way it was done on the day of Pentecost by water and by spirit.
Let’s pray a prayer of repentance, watch God move and make history. The Remnant is calling for a collective prayer of Repentance. God moves when we come together and Pray. Date: Time: Phone:
March 19, 2016 6 pm Eastern Standard Time (USA) 712 770-4010 Access 959 290#
History is being made every day and this is our time to make history. God will move when we REPENT and blessings will occur and our needs will be met.
“Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.” Romans 11:5 Page 19 of 52
Featured Artist Highlight
“Laurie West� Stage name: Aunel
Laurie West, one of the most incredible R&B vocalists on the east coast will never forget the love of her life‌children. Laurie is a family oriented person first and then a vocalist supreme second. Laurie began as a studio artist singing for an independent label which produced commercial jingles as well as some original music which was ultimately aired over the radio waves. People began to take notice of her when began to perform live. Even her live performances and her outstanding vocal talents are the result of her family history. She is a story teller because her mother was a story teller. To this day she can tell the stories that she created for her nieces and nephews. On the stage her dominant presence is in part a result of her acting out the story of the song. Laurie sings as though she has actually lived through the story of the songs and for the most part, she has. Lori is an R & B vocalist with experience in the fusion of Gospel and Blues and has been making a statement and musically telling our stories for over 20 years. By the way her stage name Aunel is derived from her relationship with her nieces and nephews Aunel stands for Auntie Laurie.
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Family QUILTING: A SPIRITUAL PRACTICE by Maxine Fuller It has been almost four years since my sister Margaret taught me how to quilt. She was visiting me for the Christmas holiday and showed me a few basic quilting techniques, which I used to make my first king-size patchwork quilt by hand. The only tools I used to make that first quilt and still use are needles, thread, scissors, measuring tape, thimbles and a seam ripper. I quilt by hand because without a machine to deal with I am calm and much more relaxed. Sewing by hand allows me to be mindful of each stitch I make and to connect with every piece of fabric, in other words I am able to be present in the moment. It is this focused attention and intention that makes quilting a spiritual practice. For me, quilting is similar to other things people do to feel connected and present in their bodies/lives, such as running, dancing, praying, singing, etc. The other reason I decided to hand-make my quilts is that my Grandma Esther Mae quilted by hand and by doing so I feel connected with her spirit. She made what is now considered “crazy quilts.” She didn’t use any particular pattern or fabrics for her quilts. My grandma used whatever fabric that was available to her including old cloths. Like many women of her generation, Grandma Esther Mae made quilts to keep her family warm. I am fortunate enough to have a couple of her quilts and not only am I warm when I sleep under them, but I feel the love and thoughtfulness she put into every stitch. My intent is that people feel the same way when sleeping under one of my creations.
making a quilting calms and focuses my mind; it allows me to be still and quiets the noise in my head. If I am worried about something, once I start quilting whatever I was concerned about seems to go away. One of the definitions of meditation is being present to whatever you are doing in the moment. By being present you have the opportunity to enjoy what you are doing, as well as connect with the spirit and peace of God within. I believe that is where all the real answers are anyway. In addition to the spiritual aspects of quilting, I have discovered that there are some similarities between sewing and relationships. For instance, a quilt is made up of many pieces of fabric that must be sewed together before the quilt can exist. There are many pieces or domains of life that must work together to live happily and fulfilled. Some of life’s key domains are relationships with family and friends, spirituality and religion, money and finances, work and career, education and learning, and health and nutrition. As with the pieces of a quilt, we must pay attention to and work to improve or strengthen all of life’s domains. When any one domain is not in order or cared for our lives feel out of balance. This imbalance shows up as disease and illness, alienation and loneliness, debt, depression and many other issues that get in the way of living a happy life. God intends for us to live in abundance and joy, but we must do our part by being attentive to the pieces/domains of our lives that must be in balance for those things to happen. A quilt must be strong and durable to stand up under daily use. The closer the stitches are sewed together and the tighter the stitches are, the stronger the quilt. I learned from the first quilt I made that if I don’t do this the seams will loosen and the quilt will fall apart. The closeness and tightness of the stitches are an analogy for life too. The closer we are emotionally and spiritually with our family and friends, the better those relationships tend to be and the stronger our connections are with them. Someone told me once that “To have good friends, you must be a good friend.” Continued on page 23
In the last four years I have made 23 quilts, all by hand, with the majority of them being king or queen size. I’ve made so many because quilting is a form of meditation and a spiritual practice for me. I have a habit of living in my head and over thinking things. The process of “Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.” Romans 11:5
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Quilts by Maxine Fuller Contact Maxine at maxinefuller1@gmail.com or at 404- 822-6508 Item #2c
Item #2b
Item #1e
Item #1
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QUILTING: A SPIRITUAL PRACTICE by Maxine Fuller (continued from page 21) So, to have strong meaningful relationships we must communicate honestly and regularly with the people we care about and behave in ways that allow for love and closeness. Which means thinking of someone other than yourself and giving without the expectation of getting anything in return, being vulnerable and letting people know that you love and need them, and accepting people as they are, without judgment and criticism. Of course I sometimes make mistakes when I am quilting. I sew the wrong pieces together or cut the fabric the wrong length or shape, which used to make me angry. However, I soon accepted the fact that I was going to make mistakes. Accepting that mistakes are just a part of sewing helps me to relax and be more creative. The key was realizing I can correct many of my mistakes by using the seam ripper to take apart the pieces and redo them. In fact, the seam ripper has become my favorite tool, because of the role it plays in correcting my mistakes. As human beings we all make mistakes from time to time. Instead of beating ourselves up or feeling guilty about them, we have the option of accepting that mistakes are just a part of life. Once we surrender to this fact, we can relax and not worry so much about making mistakes. This allows us to take more risks, and be more creative in how we live our lives. And yes, life has its seam rippers. I call them mercy, forgiveness, grace, humbleness, compassion, empathy, and love. When used correctly, these attributes allow us to correct our own mistakes and to be more accepting of the mistakes others make. Besides, life is a lot easier when we live in the truth that everything can be fixed.
Maxine Fuller is a writer, artist, educator and consultant who lives in Atlanta, Georgia. Her quilts are called Soul Expressions and can be purchased by contacting Maxine at maxinefuller1@gmail.com or at 404- 822-6508.
The Remnant Church is calling for a Collective prayer of Repentance. God who answers prayer Changes things (read pages 15, 17 and 19 in this magazine)
Let’s pray a prayer of repentance together and watch God move and make history. Date: Time: Phone:
March 19, 2016 6 pm Eastern Standard Time (USA) 712 770-4010 Access 959 290#
History is being made every day and this is our time to make history. God will move when we REPENT and blessings will occur and our needs will be met. Joel 2:12-14 …turn ye even to me even with all of your heart…and rend your heart and not your garment…who knoweth if he will return and repent and leave a blessing behind him…
I am so grateful that I learned to quilt and made it a part of my spiritual practice. Quilting, like any other form of meditation allows me to be still and experience the spirit of God within. We all have access to the same spirit. However, it is only in silence that we are able to hear the quiet voice within assuring us that regardless of what is going on in the world, He is always with us, He always has been, and He always will be.
“Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.” Romans 11:5 Page 23 of 52
Featured Artist Highlight
“Trish”
Patricia was born in Harlem, NY and raised in the beautiful Berkshires of Western Massachusetts. She was always a little off kilter and eclectic; some would even argue a bit eccentric. Always dancing to a different beat of the drum and expressing herself creatively through art, music, dance and writing. At times she morphed into a mad scientist, creating potions, or an engineer, designing the first time machine to nowhere. She was an explorer and a treasure hunter, a clothing designer and impressionist all by the age of eight. When asked how she perceives herself today, "I still consider myself a work in progress. I am a product of my dreams; an artist, a writer, a poet, a vocalist, a healer. I am art, I will always create, and I will never stop dreaming. "I am a fledgling artist & vocalist, honing my crafts, learning, teaching and giving my whole self to the world. I believe that love conquers all and that life is art…..Vida Como Arte!"
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Fathering: Fair But Firm by Wayne Dawson (Continued from page 21) Culture and roles My father never missed a dinner date with us. Dinner was at between 5 pm and 6 pm every day. Mom, the ultimate house-wife, would cook a hearty meal, and along with the helper, dinner was served. Sunday dinner was the best. Church was a 7:30 am service, we would get home famished but since mom woke at 5 am and had already cooked breakfast and precooked dinner, it was early feasting. Daddy sat at the head of the table; he was served first and then us, my sisters and I. Mom was the last to sit, but together we always said the “Grace” before our first bite. Dinner time was when we received our verbal life lessons. Usually, daddy was the teacher; mom, if she was in opposition, would avoid contradicting at the table – sometimes they would argue later, but we were kids and remained neutral. “What did your father say?” was mom’s usual answer to our “ask” for permission to do something or go somewhere. Make no mistake, in our home, mother taught about the inside world, while father prepared us for the outside – occasionally their roles switched. Values: What are they worth? What I learned from my parents was a value system: familial values; relational value; personal values. When I became an adult and started my own family, I kept those values. Sure, I moved some things around in my own family but fundamentally, I lead my family. I was the appointed head of the household. Now, it was not a chauvinistic strategy on my part, it was similar to our parents’ agreement. I was freely given this assignment and contracted to take it on. I was the spiritual leader of the family. Most of my friends and extended family members, have remarked on how I father my four children. For me, it is simple. First, I teach love and honor. I commit daily to sending a message of love to my children, often, not simultaneously, but I demonstrate my unyielding, unconditional love. Whenever, I am with my now young adult girls and teen boys, I openly hug and kiss them. They learn that they are unique individuals; they are not alone, they belong to a group; we are never alone – there is always access to God. This I teach. As a trained Social Worker, educator and entrepreneur, I see a world of “struggle,” poverty, inequity and deprivation being portrayed daily by the media and society. This is not reality, at least not mine. I know that in life you get exactly what you focus on … what you believe. If you believe there is never enough and that scarcity rules, you too will attract that into your life. You will meet the people, circumstances and be among things and places of scarcity. Ever bought a red car and noticed how many other red cars seem to appear on the road? I teach my children not to believe and live in a world of “wants,” to live knowing there is only abundance. Fortunately, my children grew up without the fad-addiction syndrome. Advertisers, marketers and celebrities did not define their tastes and habits, at least, most of the times. Continued on page 26 “Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.” Romans 11:5 Page 25 of 52
Fathering: Fair But Firm by Wayne Dawson (Continued from page 25) Teaching the values of prayer has been ongoing. My children never really saw God as the “Boogie- man.” God, I taught was omnipresent, was always available (reinforcing the Principle of Abundance), and since we were made in God’s likeness, perhaps if we looked within, God would be present there too. They grew up believing and understanding the importance and power of self-love and self-respect. Prayer need not be long, eloquent or aloud; God hears us all at every level. I believe some of our best prayers are done silently and simply. Praying, I taught the kids, was a mere conversation with the God residing within as taught by the Christ (Matthew 6:5). The Frailties of Discipline Is prayer enough? What about magical thinking? For many, there is a belief that all we need to do is pray, have faith and sit around and wait. And, if our prayers aren’t answered in this life time, perhaps it was never meant to be. I do not understand prayers to work like this. I teach my kids that when they pray, they also pray for the wisdom, strength and experience to prepare them to identify their blessing and to be able to receive it. Prayer without purposeful action (on our part) is akin to standing in an elevator and not selecting the floor. We may eventually move, land on a floor, but we cannot truly believe or claim this is our intended destiny. When we will a thing through our faith, it is not enough to expect the desired results unless we take disciplined action. My children understand that to meet their goals and realize their dreams, they must act with the discipline required to move in the direction of said goals. It is the enforcement of self-discipline that is most challenging and creates missed opportunities, broken dreams and unfulfilled prayers! My father grew up in an era when physical disciplining was not unusual and cruel punishment. Therefore, I received by fair share of spankings. The truth of the matter is, I didn’t grow up feeling abused. In fact today, although I chose not to spank my own children, I have chastised them with wrath that I am sure, was more horrifying than full-fledged whippings. I regret those incidents since children will live what they learn. Fear is never an appropriate motivator. Luckily, for me, my show of love and faith was more prominent and consistent. We forgave – forgetting is more difficult. Know Thyself Father Fatherhood is not an exact science, neither is there a perfect art to it. Fatherhood is a way of being, modeled for us with faith in God, by our Spiritual Father. Fatherhood, is being friendly to your child(ren) not about being best friends. It is recognizing and accepting that father is a verb, not a noun. It is a sense of being, being accountable, being there, being truthful, being fair but firm. The only way we become good, better, even great fathers is by making the decision to be so, knowing that we already are and taking necessary action to bring it into being, “I Am!” – claim it, it is your birthright. And so it is. Amen Continue on page 27
Let’s pray a prayer of repentance, watch God move and make history. Date: Time: Phone:
March 19, 2016 6 pm EST (USA) 712 770-4010 Access 959 290#
History is being made every day and this is our time to make history together as we pray collectively. God will move when we REPENT and blessings will occur and our needs will BE MET! Be met. Page 26 of 52
Fathering: Fair But Firm by Wayne Dawson (Continued from page 26) Wayne Dawson’s Bio: Wayne is a transplant from Kingston, Jamaica via New York, where he lived and raised his family in the early years before moving to Florida, remarrying to his present life-partner, Dr. Audrey Dawson. While still in Jamaica, he started out his career in Hospitality in the ‘80’s and was responsible for expanding the “All-Inclusive” vacation concept throughout the Caribbean under his first company, PALS International. After his migration to the United States, Wayne has led one of the nation’s oldest non-for-profits as its Campus Director in Harlem, New York City. He has had over 14 years of experience in youth development for the Boys and Girls Clubs of America. He is a former professor at City University of New York, teaching in the areas of Psychology, Education and Social Work. Currently, he is a Training Manager for a Fortune 200 company in Florida. Wayne is the biological father of four amazing children, Dia, Kai, Taj and Jared, and through his second marriage, three others and a grandson, Tania, Tyree, Tania and Deanie respectively. Wayne often speaks to groups on Values, Identity and Purpose, and has been a contributor to several newsletters and articles.
“Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.” Romans 11:5 Page 27 of 52
Artwork for sale! Contact Linda Flemming at 646-357-6698 For this and other hand painted works of art please contact Ms Flemming. Additional works are available and will be on display in the Remnant Newsletter. Pricing will be discussed privately.
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Politics Bobby Junes/Part One by Neil Woodard Bobby Junes active in community work as shown here, helping Hope Ministries as they serve the Monroe Park Community.
Bobby Junes
Bobby Junes, a son of Richmond, Virginia, altruist, strategist, political adviser, advocate and one who knows Richmond's political and socioeconomic structure is running for Mayor of Richmond this year. An in depth interview revealed his heart for people and knowledge of the Richmond, Virginia power structure and he came up with some unconventional ideas on how to develop and empower the population of Richmond and thus make Richmond a greater flourishing city.
Professional History Mr. Junes has worked in the social service and missionary field for the larger portion of his life. He also has experience as an appraiser and developer. Within the past 40 years his more significant work with local community outreach projects includes: Ten years of service as Commissioner of the Henrico County Recreation and Parks Department
Ten years of service as the Missions Director of the United Methodist Church
Six years as a board member of the nonprofit organization in Richmond known as CARITAS which stands for Congregations Around Richmond Involved To Assure Shelter. This organization provides food, housing and counseling services to homeless individuals and single parent families.
Two years as a project director for Habitat for Humanity. Within this time and under his direction the agency placed 50 disenfranchised and homeless families into permanent housing. Through Mr. Junes advocacy the organization secured enough donations to create a sub division as opposed to managing homes throughout other counties. He was able to develop two more 25 lot communities throughout 2005-2006. This achievement was a first for any Richmond organization. Most families tend to maintain employment but were without housing. The formula for success was the provision of housing and employment together. Housing motivates long term employment. Continue on page 30 “Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.” Romans 11:5 Page 29 of 52
Bobby Junes/Part One by Neil Woodard (Continued from page 29)
Has obtained a total of three master degrees – two of which have been over the past eleven year time period, worked as an appraiser and developer, advocated for community groups and provided volunteer services in serving the homeless and underserved populations in the Richmond, Virginia area.
Assessment of Richmond Citizen's Needs Change seems to occur at the most inopportune times. Bobby maintains that when certain service providers understand how to effectively serve and provide for the underserved and disenfranchised, policy changes occur bringing effective service to a halt. He noted that the political landscape of Richmond is always in a state of change. A big issue today is that citizens are being confronted with a host of new issues in addition to meeting their own lifestyle requirements. Solutions are ultimately produced in the passage of time, however policy changes are again introduced and solutions are removed. Bobby Junes states that more flexibility is needed in order for these solutions to remain. Bobby Junes has shared some insight and possible answers that would help support the citizen of Richmond as well as produce economic growth for the city. First of all Mr. Junes sees the current system as having been mismanaged, over burdened and dysfunctional and opportunities must be created to repair this system of functioning. In order to lay a new foundation base a process of re-connecting between local citizens and city government operations must be established in these three areas: Educational (to be addressed in part two, next month)
Employment including more jobs, higher pay and ongoing job training (these issues will be dealt with in depth later in this article)
Change of socioeconomic home models. Today's home model must recognize and address single parent settings as much as it does dual parent setting. The dual parent model is considered much more in government policies than the single parent model. Thus more monies are appropriated in neighborhoods where dual parent settings flourish. The single parent neighborhoods (mostly minority neighborhoods) receive less services. Bobby Junes was raised in a single parent setting.
Issues that Bobby Junes will address through initiating special projects Three of the several issues that Bobby Junes will address in part one of this interview are: Unemployment
Housing
Crime
Other issues such as education and city government will be addressed in part two of the interview in the next publication of The Remnant Magazine. (Continued on page 39)
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Health Someone You Know May Have Lupus By Racquel H. Dozier, Founder of Lupus In Color Lupus affects everyone-not just the person with the disease, but friends and family as well. If you know or care about someone living with lupus, you can make an enormous contribution to her wellbeing with your support, understanding, and positive attitude. It's also important that you understand how the changes in her life may affect yours. What is Lupus? Lupus is a disease that “attacks” your immune system. Your immune system is your body’s natural defense against disease. When you have lupus, your immune system has stopped working properly, and antibodies that normally protect you against infection are misdirected and react against substances in your cells or tissues. This may cause inflammation, injury and pain much like a splinter in your toe causes it to become swollen, tender and red. In lupus, the inflammation occurs inside your body to vital organs and systems such as your skin, joints, kidneys, brain, heart, lungs and blood. The targets vary from patient to patient, but most people with the disease have symptoms in only a few parts of the body. For most people, lupus is a disease affecting only a few organs. For others, it may cause serious and even lifethreatening problems. Although epidemiological data on lupus is limited, studies suggest that more than 16,000 Americans develop lupus each year. The Lupus Foundation of America (LFA) estimates between 1.5 – 2 million Americans have a form of lupus, but the actual number may be higher. More than 90 percent of people with lupus are women. Symptoms and diagnosis occur most often when women are in their child-bearing years, between the ages of 15 and 45. In the United States, lupus is more common in African Americans, Latinos, Asians, and Native Americans than in Caucasians. There are four types of lupus: discoid, systemic, drug-induced and neonatal lupus. Lupus is NOT infectious, rare or cancerous. Researchers do not know what causes lupus. While scientists believe there is a genetic predisposition to the disease, it is known that environmental factors also play a role in triggering the disease. Some of the factors that may trigger lupus include infections, antibiotics, ultraviolet light, extreme stress, certain drugs, and hormones. Hormonal factors may explain why lupus occurs more frequently in females than in males. The range of problems is very broad and different things are seen in individual patients. Some specific symptoms one should look for include: Unexplained fever, weight loss, fatigue Arthritis with swollen joints, stiffness, and pain in the joints Rashes which may be worse with sun exposure of less than one hour Recurrent oral or nasal ulcers Bleeding from the gums, a prolonged menstrual period, or a red rash on the legs that looks like many little pinpricks Swollen legs, difficulty urinating, or foamy urine Chest pain, especially worse when taking a deep breath Continue on page 33 “Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.” Romans 11:5 Page 31 of 52
Featured Artist Highlight
“Eric Plaza”
Erik Plaza pictured here with his daughters, began playing trumpet at the young age of 11. As his love for music continued to grow, his talent flourished and he went on to attend Erasmus Hall High School in Brooklyn New York. Because of his natural acumen and his commanding sound and leadership he was soon to be elevated to lead trumpet for the Jazz Ensembles and Concert bands. Erik’s appreciation for charity landed him lead trumpet of the Roosa School of Music big band. One of their performances included the Brooklyn Academy of Music where they opened for Wynton Marsalis and the Prospect Park picnic house for political fundraisers. Erik currently worships at Christ Fellowship Worship Center in Brooklyn New York. The picture on the top left displays Erick and his daughter performing at a local New York City Church. The photo on the top right displays his lovely daughters and the top middle displays Erik with his trumpet. His sound is out of this world.
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Someone You Know May Have Lupus by Racquel H. Dozier (Continue from page 25)
Color changes in your hands with exposure to cold Muscle weakness Blood clots, including stroke and heart attacks in those under the age of 45 Recurrent pregnancy loss Seizures, hallucinations, difficulty with memory, and other neurological problems
How is lupus diagnosed? No single lab test can determine if you have lupus. Many symptoms of lupus are very similar to those of other diseases, and tend to come and go. Your primary care doctor or rheumatologist will use your medical history, a physical exam, and many routine as well as special tests to determine if you have lupus. Four or more of the following “Eleven Criteria of Lupus” established by the American College of Rheumatology are usually present before a diagnosis of lupus is made. The “Eleven Criteria of Lupus” 1. Malar rash – butterfly-shaped rash across cheeks and nose 2. Discoid (skin) rash – raised red patches 3. Photosensitivity – skin rash as a result of unusual reaction to sunlight or sometimes a flare of other lupus symptoms after sun exposure 4. Mouth or nose ulcers – usually painless 5. Nonerosive Arthritis – (bones around joints do not get destroyed) in 2 or more joints with tenderness, swelling or effusion 6. Cardio-pulmonary involvement - inflammation of the lining around the heart (pericarditis) and/or lungs (pleuritis) 7. Neurologic disorder - seizures and/or psychosis 8. Renal (kidney) disorder - excessive protein in the urine, or cellular casts in the urine 9. Hematologic (blood) disorder - hemolytic anemia, low white blood cell count, or low platelet count 10. Immunologic disorder - antibodies to double stranded DNA, antibodies to Sm, or antibodies to cardiolipin 11. Antinuclear antibodies (ANA) – positive test in absence of drugs known to induce it. There is no cure for lupus, but researchers are making promising new findings each year, and there is growing hope that much more targeted and less toxic treatments will be developed soon. Improved methods for detecting, diagnosing, treating and monitoring lupus have enabled patients and doctors to more effectively manage and live with this chronic disease. Just 25 years ago, only 40 percent of people with lupus were expected to live more than 3 years following the diagnosis. Now, after decades of little action, things are happening. The community is seeing unprecedented interest from biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies that translates into dozens of companies interested in lupus and even more trials for lupus patients. As few as seven or eight years ago, there were just two to three trials in progress. Today there are 12 to 15.
(Continued on page 34)
“Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.” Romans 11:5 Page 33 of 52
Someone You Know May Have Lupus by Racquel H. Dozier (Continued from page 27) Lupus In Color was created in 2004 by Racquel Dozier to cater to the needs of men, women & children of all colors of the rainbow suffering or directly affected with Lupus. Based out of Henrico, Virginia, Lupus In Color is assisting lupus warriors throughout the Richmond, Virginia area and beyond. The main goal of Lupus In Color is to give positive hope to lupus warriors through love and encouragement, positive support and interactions and exemplary empowered awareness. Lupus In Color’s main purpose is to GENERATE LUPUS AWARENESS AND PROVIDE ENCOURAGING SUPPORT FOR A DISEASE THAT OFTEN GOES UNRECOGNIZED IN THE PUBLIC EYE. The Lupus In Color mission is to spread lupus awareness and assist lupus warriors with positive encouragement in day to day living. If there is someone you know that has lupus or you believe you may have lupus and need a group of supportive lupus warriors, please feel free to contact us today at lupusincolor@gmail.com. Lupus In Color main website: http://www.lupusincolor.com Find us on Social Media on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Periscope@LupusInColor
DISCLAIMER - The research/information provided in this magazine is not meant to be used as a substitute for Professional Medical advice. It is recommended before attempting to change anything in your medical or health regimen that you first check with your personal physician to see if it is appropriate for you.
Let’s pray a prayer of repentance, watch God move and make history. Date: Time: Phone:
March 19, 2016 6 pm Eastern Standard Time (USA) 712 770-4010 Access 959 290#
History is being made every day and this is our time to make history. God will move when we REPENT collectively and blessings will occur and our needs will be met. Joel 2:12-14 …turn ye even to me even with all of your heart…and rend your heart and not your garment…who knoweth if he will return and repent and leave a blessing behind him…
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History History Matters by Neil Woodard Blacks in America For those of us who are old enough; have you noticed that the identity of Blacks in America change almost every generation? When I was young we were called Negro, as I became a little older we were called colored. After that James Brown came out with the song ‘Say it loud, I’m Black and I’m proud’ (I really enjoyed that), so by the time I attended college we were considered the black race. Now in the present tense we are called African American. Enough is enough. Many of the black people living in America are not even of African descent. I am not talking about a percentage of biracial or Indian ancestry. I am referring to the generations of blacks living in America going back to the Atlantic Slave Trade. The fact that our people are continuously categorized from one generation to the next is problematic because this is done intentionally. Italians are always Italians, Germans are always German and the Irish are always Irish. As a people we don’t really know who we are; how can we if we’re always being redefined? Let’s take a look at our roots from way before the Trans Atlantic Slave Trade and discover ourselves. First consideration comes from the book of Psalms 83:3-4. The enemies of Israel had planned to cut them off from being a nation using crafty schemes. Perhaps the most significant scriptures regarding Israel’s loss of identity are found in Isaiah 1:2-3 and Hosea 4:6. God speaks through Isaiah and says of Israel; The ox knoweth his owner and the ass his master’s crib but Israel doth not know, my people doth not consider. Israel’s identity was once enmeshed with the creator Himself. Once they forgot God, they forgot their purpose on the earth and who they really are. In Hosea the scripture states that; ‘My people are destroyed for a lack of knowledge’. The Hebrew word ‘yada’ is translated know. It refers to intimate knowledge as in the term Adam knew Eve his wife and she conceived…
Who are we? The Black man in America and in other parts of the world is descended from the Hebrew culture. This is a general statement and while it may not apply to all Blacks living in America and worldwide, it applies to enough of us. Biblical history provides indications of Hebrew skin color. Moses was mistaken for an Egyptian when he rescued women at a well (Ex 2:17-19). The Israelites were of the same skin tone as the Egyptians. How else was Moses able to grow up in Pharaoh’s house as one of Pharaoh’s children? The apostle Paul was mistaken for an Egyptian (Acts 21:33-38). There are other indications including the one where Joseph was told to go into Egypt to hide from Herod who was seeking to kill Jesus. Joseph, Mary and Jesus were able to blend into the Egyptian culture by skin tone alone. In Italy the Madonna statue, a symbol for the virgin Mary until recently was black…along with the child representing baby Jesus. So who are we? Well there are many people of color who have descended from the original Hebrew nation (Jewish people). How can we know for sure that these claims are correct? Deuteronomy chapter 28 describes all of the blessings and cursing that befall the Jews based upon their belief and unbelief. In examining the period of time long before the Atlantic Slave Trade we have to consider that God used slavery quite often to punish the Jews when they began to worship other gods. We know that the Hebrew people were enslaved when Moses came and brought them out of bondage. We see the punishment again in 2 Kings 17:6 and again in 1Chronicles 9:1, Joel 3:6 and again in Ezekiel 9th chapter. Slavery is the ultimate punishment because of the perpetual abuse associated with it. These scriptures reveal some of the cultures that had enslaved them. The Assyrians, the Babylonians, the Persians, the Egyptians, the Romans and the Greeks have all had Israel as a slave nation. All of these things and more were prophesied of in Deuteronomy 28th chapter. Continue on page 37 “Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.” Romans 11:5 Page 35 of 52
“A Taste of Jazz” by Neil Woodard
“A Taste of Jazz” is a work of art that includes a mixture of inspirational jazz, blues, and gospel sounds. DOWNLOAD the entire CD or purchase individual tracks!! Click here (CDBaby.com) to get yours today!!!
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History Matters by Neil Woodard (Continued from page 35) In Deuteronomy chapter 28, God talks about scattering the Jews around the world when they forsake Him. Verse 64 reads; ‘And the LORD shall scatter thee among all people, from the one end of earth to the other and there thou shalt serve other gods which neither thou nor thy fathers have known, even wood and stone. It doesn’t stop there; other verses foretell slavery, being separated from their children, other men having their wives, being bound with a yoke of iron, serving their enemies and much more (see verses 30-33, 48, 51, 56-57). All of these things and more have happened to men and women of color…Israel leading up to and characteristic of the Atlantic Slave Trade. During the Atlantic Slave Trade these slaves were scattered and sold all over the world. Today’s Jews in Israel cannot claim any of these curses. The Jews in Jerusalem are considered Ashkenazi Jews of Europe and seem to have come into prominence just after the 11th century. Today’s Jews control Hollywood, the media and the banks nor have they been scattered all over the world as slaves and do not believe in Jesus as the Messiah, furthermore many seem to be secular in nature. Dr, Rudolph Windsor in his book ‘From Babylon to Timbuktu’ maintains that from 65 BC Roman armies under general Pompey captured Jerusalem. In AD 70 the (Jewish)temple was torn down and a great slaughter occurred. An estimated one million Jews fled to Africa fleeing the Roman persecution during the period lasting from Pompey to Julius Caesar. The slave market was full with black Jewish slaves. Further, Romans were in constant pursuit of the Jewish populace killing many Jews. Jews would flee to Northwest Africa and reside in places such as Morocco and Tunisia while others migrated further south beyond the Sahara desert. In time Jews also migrated to Western Africa during the Bornu Empire. What about the African people? African people (descendants of Ham, one of Noah’s sons) are the Egyptians, the Ethiopians, the Libyans and the Canaanites. During the slave trade it was the Africans who identified and sold the brown skinned Jews (who were scattered all throughout Africa) to slave traders. There were distinguishing features between Africans and Jews even though both were brown skinned. Today there are still distinguishing features between American blacks and native born Africans. Africans distinguished the differences between the Jews who were brown skinned and the Africans and go in and conquer them and sell them as slaves. Most Blacks in slavery were not African but of Jewish descent. How do we live today? For every man who lives, God requires repentance. Yes as a people we have forsaken the Lord. However Jesus came and died for all not just for one ethnic group. Collective repentance no matter who you are will reach God. Since the sacrifice of Jesus Christ we are all responsible to repent, be baptized in Jesus name and go forward. Yet here is a message to all Jews, and I am referring to oppressed ethnic groups such as the American Indian, Hispanics, and Black people to name a few. Significant change won’t come as a result of protesting. Change and the death of oppression will come as a result of collective repentance. The scriptures are full of examples of God changing things as a result of our repentance. Oppression believe it or not is a tool that God uses to bring people to repentance. Look at the scriptures, God places people over regions to rule for good or evil based upon the people themselves. Repentance is for everyone and for the oppressed, a time for collective repentance must occur. Try God and make a new page in history. Believe that God is in more control than we give Him credit. We have to change if oppressive leaders and policies are going to cease. Continue on page 40
“Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.” Romans 11:5 Page 37 of 52
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Bobby Junes/Part One by Neil Woodard (continued from page 30) Unemployment Bobby stands on what he terms a two prong receipt. 1. What are the local city wide employers looking for? What type of training, computer skills, education and experience are local employers looking for? 2. The city must begin an initiative for citizens to prepare to meet those requirements either through a city department or other entity. An example would be the development of an ongoing process where the city agency would meet with potential employers once a month in order to assess their needs. We the city can develop training sessions to meet the needs of these organizations. City workers can provide trainings and assessments. Citizens can take the course and then be referred to the employer. Who pays for this? City organizations such as social services and other city organizations can manage this. There would have to be an interactive functioning where the employer and the trainee would provide feedback to city government in order to access the program and make appropriate adjustments. Active engagement will be beneficial for both parties.
Housing Richmond city must become more engaged with the Virginia Housing Development Authority. Why? The VHDA will have vacancies that can be fulfilled by employed homeless families and individuals. Assessments will determine whether this population of people can remain or not by job longevity, unemployment eligibility, veteran benefits etc.
Crime Richmond has become a safer place to live. Bobby feels that the public safety servants are doing an effective if not excellent job as the crime rate in Richmond has dropped in the last ten years, particularly violent crimes. In order to continue this trend training on public safety and crime prevention should be mandated in the school system and in the public and private sector. Training will include but not be limited to security measures both technological and personal. The interview with Bobby Junes will conclude in the next issue of The Remnant Magazine and issues such as education and institutionalized racism such as the disproportionate number of minorities facing jail time or are not receiving health and/or housing services will be addressed and how he intends to bring about a positive change to a system that is need of a major overhaul. Bobby's political and personal philosophies are not that far removed from one another, in fact they seem to be in harmony with one another. Bobby June's political philosophy consists of teamwork in the forms of a value chain and a value center. The value chain is internal and in- house wherein a city organization creates activities within the organization for growth and development. The value center is external where organizations create activities to collaborate with other organizations and citizens for the betterment of these organizations and the citizens. Bobby's personal philosophy is that life is not about what we can do for ourselves but what we can do for others and in giving, collaboration will effectively occur. Next month’s issue of The Remnant Magazine will conclude the interview with Bobby Junes, Mayoral candidate for the City of Richmond, Virginia.
“Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.� Romans 11:5 Page 39 of 52
History Matters by Neil Woodard (Continued from page 37) Consider the following and see how God operates:
Daniel 2:21 And he changes the times and the seasons: he removeth kings and setteth up kings… And The Lord said unto Samuel; Hearken to the voice of the people in all they say unto thee: for they have not rejected thee, but they have rejected me, that I should not reign over them (the nation of Israel refused to have God’s Judges rule and wanted a king, God complied and gave them a wicked king, Saul)(1 Samuel 8:7) For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south. But God is the judge, he puts down one and sets up another( Psalms 75:6-7) And the devil said to him; All this power will I give to thee and the glory of them for that is delivered unto me and to whomever I give it.(Luke 4:6) And Elijah…said unto Ahab; As the Lord liveth before whom I stand, there shall not be dew nor rain these years but according to my word. (1 Kings 17:1) John answered and said; A man can receive nothing except it be given him from heaven. (John 3:27) With the merciful thou wilt show thyself merciful; with an upright man thou wilt show thyself upright. With the pure thou wilt show thyself pure and with the froward thou wilt show thyself froward. (Psalms18:25)
So I issue out a challenge to everyone who either has been or is oppressed or knows of any who are oppressed. We can make our own history and we can turn the page. I am calling for collective prayer for all who read this and trust that God will change when we change. I am calling for collective prayer on Saturday, March 19, 2016 at 6pm USA Eastern Standard Time. The theme is Repentance and all are invited. In order to contact me or The Remnant Magazine staff, write to Remnantmagazine@yahoo.com and let us know that you will participate in a collective prayer of repentance. God will move. Just prior to prayer there will be brief discussion. The phone number is 712 770-4010/Access code 959 290#. This is the history department of The Remnant Magazine and we are ready to make history.
Let’s pray a prayer of repentance, watch God move and make history. Date: Time: Phone:
March 19, 2016 6 pm Eastern Standard Time (USA) 712 770-4010 Access 959 290#
History is being made every day and this is our time to make history. God will move when we REPENT collectively and blessings will occur and our needs will be met. We are calling for collective prayer and God will respond right away. Joel 2:12-14 …turn ye even to me even with all of your heart…and rend your heart and not your garment…who knoweth if he will return and repent and leave a blessing behind him…
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Outreach Hope Ministries by Neil Woodard
Valerie Burton
Hope Ministries coordinated by Valerie Burton is an organization dedicated to serving homeless and low income individuals and families in the Richmond, Virginia area. Services include provision and distribution of food and clothing, prayer with the disenfranchised and sharing the good news of the Gospel of Jesus. Prayer and working with and for this population characterize not only the ministry but the fiber of Ms Burton's character who selflessly prepares food, feeds the hungry, distributes clothing and often prays with and shares the Word of the Lord with those who are for the most part homeless. She has been involved in providing these services on a volunteer basis for the past 15 years. Valerie Burton in addition to leading and facilitating Hope Ministries is a powerful woman of God who, as she puts it; was always interested in the order of life and how one fits into that order. According to Val, it was God who worked with her as she developed into a woman of God's order. Presently she exudes confidence, not a holier than thou pride which divides people, but a confident humility which promotes unity, love and healing. Yet as one listens to Val tell her life story, she was not always this confident. Confidence is the result of her love relationship with the Lord and that is plain to see as she worships Jesus with all of her heart and soul in church services. Monroe Park Richmond, Virginia Hope Ministries is an outreach organization which sets up service delivery in Monroe Park, a site where predominantly homeless and disenfranchised people gather on weekends and receive services from similar organizations to receive food and clothing. The food is free and the clothing is free. Valerie Burton spends her own money and takes time to cook and prepare the food distributed on a weekly basis. Financial help comes in the form of donations from co-workers, friends and family. She also receives hands on support from VCU students and community members. Donations and hands on support are the story of this ministry’s survival. Community members as well as her own family members volunteer their time and money as they also regularly cook and prepare food and distribute clothing. Motivation I often wondered as a child what motivates people to engage in this type of work. Val maintains that her relationship with God and her family, specifically her mother have been the significant motivating factors for her. Her mother lived out the words of Proverbs chapter 30, which describe the virtuous woman and Valerie has followed her mother's teaching and lifestyle. As a result, Valerie’s children have also followed suit. Her goals for the next five years include the establishment of home and training program for the underserved and homeless within the Richmond area. Ms Burton stated that the times we live in now require change. Change for this ministry will consist of a name change and an expansion of services. Continue on page 42 “Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.” Romans 11:5 Page 41 of 52
Hope Ministries by Neil Woodard (continued from page 41) The last question asked of Ms Burton was how often does she hear from God? She spoke of a major incident which rocked her family about four years ago. While she could not understand why devastation hit, she did pray and as she put it, the Lord came to her and gave her direction. Part of her obedience to God's directive led her to Monroe Park. God told her that He would provide for her if she would remain obedient and from that day to this, provision has been ongoing. Val stated that God's purpose and plan is worked out in our journey here on earth and there will be times that we will not understand but we have to continue on. God's purpose and plan for us is sure, we must determine whether or not we will follow despite the uncertainties.
Contact George Harris for all of your catering needs: George Harris P. O. Box 344 Rockville, VA 23146 Phone: 804-749-3323
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Resources Center for Parent Information and Resources http://www.parentcenterhub.org/repository/foradults/ Council for Professional Recognition The Council for Professional Recognition promotes improved performance and recognition of professionals in the early childhood education of children aged birth to 5 years old
http://www.cdacouncil.org/ Partners | National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics http://www.nafcclinics.org/partners SCORE "Counselors to America's Small Business." It is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides free business mentoring services to entrepreneurs in the United States.
https://www.score.org/
Helpful Resources in Richmond, Virginia (please contact agency to ensure details have not changed) (Virginia Residents Dial 211 for assistance in locating food pantries/meals or other resources) The Daily Planet 511 W Grace Street Mon-Fri 9am to 5pm (804) 648-4177 (dental, mental health, laundry, shower, substance abuse Richmond Behavioral Health Authority (804) 819-4100 24 hour crises intervention For homeless/mental health treatment YWCA Hotline (804) 643-0888 Shelter for women and children undergoing domestic violence counseling, support, legal assistance Richmond City Police Project HOPE (804) 646-2064 Non emergency needs for homeless Service assistance The Healing Place (804) 230-1217 Overnight Men’s Emergency Shelter and social detox program
HOMEWARD PO Box 5347 Richmond, Va. 23220 (804) 343-2045 Ex-offender Assistance Resources on Federal Bonding, Virginia Civil Rights Restoration, and Public Assistance available to ex-offenders.
Homeless Point of Entry 517 Grace Street (804) 783-0678
Henrico Dept of Social Services 8600 Dixon Powers Drive (804) 501-4001 (Parham Rd) Gov Center Nine Mile Rd (804) 652-3123 Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm Chesterfield Dept of Social Services 12304 Washington Highway (804) 748-1100 Monday-Friday 8:30am-4:30pm Hanover County Department of Social Services 12304 Washington Highway (804) 752-4100 Monday-Friday 8:30am-4:30pm Richmond City Dept of Social Services 900 East Marshall St (804) 646-7217 4100 Hull St (804) 819-3200 th 705 North 25 St (804) 780-8031 Intake, Referral, Food Stamps Vouchers, TANIF, Relief services Virginia Workforce Connection "Your doorway to employment and labor market information in Virginia" The Richmond Entrepreneur’s Assistance Program (REAP) Provides comprehensive job training and meaningful employment for new and diverse entrepreneurs.
“Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.” Romans 11:5 Page 43 of 52
PLACES TO FIND MEALS IN THE RICHMOND, VIRGINIA AREA Location Broomfield Christian Methodist Church 609 Jefferson Davis Highway (804) 232-5600 Food Not Bombs Monroe Park, Main & Belvidere (804) 303-5449 Greater Mount Moriah st 913 N 1 Street Richmond, Va. 23219 (804) 644-9208 Trinity Baptist Church 2811 Fendall Ave (804) 321-2427 nd 2 Presbyterian Church TH 5 N 5 Street (804) 649-9148 Shepherd’s Way Relief Center 400 E Main St (804) 212-1164 St Peter’s Catholic Church 800 East Grace Street (804) 643-4315 rd 3 Street Bethel AME rd 614 N 3 Street (804) 643-8157 nd 2 Baptist Church 1400 Idlewood Ave (804) 353-7682 St Paul’s Episcopal Church 815 East Grace Street (804) 603-3589 Sharon Baptist Church 22 East Leigh Street (804) 643-3825 First Baptist Church 2709 Monument Ave (804) 358-5458 Centenary United Methodist 411 East Grace Street (804) 648-8319 Grace and Holy Trinity 8 North Laurel Street (804) 359-5628 Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Church 14 West Duval Street (804) 648-7511 Resurrection Lutheran Church 2500 Seminary Ave (Ed. Bldg.) (804) 321-7291
Breakfast
Lunch Mon-Fri Noon – 12:30
Dinner
Sunday 4pm Mon-Fri 12-12:30pm
Mon & Wed 11:30am - 2:30pm (Sept – June only) Monday 10:30am-12:30pm Saturday 3-4:00pm Tuesday 10:30am-12:30pm Wednesday 11:30am-1:00pm Saturday 10:30am-12pm Thursday 10:30am-12:30pm Thursday 11:00am-1pm (Sept-June only) Shower Food Pantry Mon, Wed, Sat 10am – 12pm Friday 10:30am - 2:30pm
Thursday 6pm – 8pm
Friday 1:00-1:45pm (closed in August) Friday 11:00am-12:30pm rd
3 Saturday of the Month 11 am – 1pm (closed in August)
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The following resources are National Resources Helpful Links for Teens and Young Adults If you need help, talk to your parents or a trusted adult about your problem. If you have no one to talk to, contact the hotlines and organizations listed below. In the case of an emergency please contact your local law enforcement office by dialing “911” for emergencies only and give the location, including your county and city, and give the address where help is needed.
Abstinence National Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy 1-877-4-ME-2-ASK (1-877-463-2275) Provides information to teens about abstinence, sex, love, and healthy relationships. www.pposbc.org Gravity Teen 1-800-230-PLAN (1-800-230-7526) A phone hotline and online hotline offers anonymous answers to questions about abstinence, sexual behaviors, relationships and communicating with your parents. www.gravityteen.org
Abuse, Bullying, Violence and Discrimination Discrimination and Anti-Hate Line 1-800-649-0404 National Coalition Against Domestic Violence Hotline (24 hours) 1-800-799-SAFE (1-800-799-7233) www.ncadv.org National Child Abuse Hotline 1-800-422-4453 www.childhelp.org A trained counselor will tell you how to get help if you have been sexually and physically abused. The call is free and answered 24 hours a day. National Campaign Against Youth Violence 1-800-99-YOUTH www.violencepreventionweek.org This group encourages teens to use outlets other than violence to express themselves. The site offers tips for preventing violence and information to start anti-violence projects in your community. National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect Information 1-800-394-3366 http://nccanch.acf.hhs.gov National Resource Center on Domestic Violence 1-888-Rx-Abuse http://endabuse.org National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC) 1-877-739-3895 www.nsvrc.org www.teenpcar.com This organization provides information, support, and help for teen victims of sexual violence. Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN) 1-800-656-HOPE www.rainn.org If you have been sexually assaulted, have a friend who has been sexually assaulted, or want to know how to reduce your risk of sexual assault, RAINN is where you want to turn.
Crisis Contact Crisis 601-713-HELP (601-713-4357) 601-366-9298 (en español)
“Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.” Romans 11:5 Page 45 of 52
A helpline for adolescents in crisis. Covenant House Crisis Hotline 1-800-999-9999 www.covenanthouse.org A national crisis hotline for youth. The call is free. They answer 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and can provide referrals and offer crisis counseling on many topics. Girls and Boys Town National Hotline 1-800-448-3000 www.girlsandboystown.org A crisis hotline for parents and teens. The free and confidential call is answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. They offer problem solving on any issue and encourage teens to talk to their parents or caretakers about issues that may require professional assistance.
Dating and Relationships Love Is Respect
www.loveisrespect.org 1-866-331-9474 Provides information and resources on healthy teen relationships. TeensHealth.com www.teenshealth.com A helpful website designed by professionals for developing pre-teens, adolescents and young adults.
Disabilities and Discrimination Discrimination and Anti-Hate Line 1-800-649-0404 Provides assistance with discrimination and hate problems. Disabilities and Discrimination Hotline 1- 800-426-HAND Provides information about discrimination to individuals with special health care needs . Minority Health Resource Center 800-444-6472 www.omhrc.gov An informative public health site which focuses on issues affecting American Indians and Alaska Natives, Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders, Black/African Americans, and Hispanics/Latinos. Education and School National Dropout Prevention Center 1-800-656-2599 www.dropoutprevention.org Provides information on the importance of staying in school.
Grief Support and Education Teen Support Place www.teensupportplace.org www.griefsupportservices.org An online grief support group for adolescents and teens. Shining Light www.myshininglight.com 954-827-0295 Provides grief support to teen and their families. Health and Hygiene American Medical Association http://www.ama-assn.org Provides medical information on adolescence.
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Testimonials / Prayer Requests
Thanking God for the healing He is providing for Dawn! She recently received an encouraging report regarding the results of her cancer treatments and we ask that you remain prayerful with us for her complete healing.
Fabrics of Our Lives When the fabric of a quilter's masterpiece becomes frayed and worn, the quilter takes on the task of restoration. The quilter, like a potter, knows how to make the masterpiece whole again. We are the masterpiece of our Maker and He, the Potter, knows how to make us whole again. He knows the fabrics of our lives. Trust in the Lord to mend the fabrics of your life... Mary Coleman
The Story Behind the Quilt: The quilt was handmade by the late Bessye Coleman Rainey. She collected fabric pieces from relatives and created this work of art as one of her last projects before her death. I am privileged to have the memory of this project and the poem I wrote to accompany the picture.
“Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.� Romans 11:5 Page 47 of 52
A Message from Uma Glow
www.umaglow.com
Hello Remnant Newsletter friends! I’d like to introduce myself. I am the owner and CEO of Uma Glow, LLC which is a division of UMA Enterprises, LLC. My slogan is “Let Me Help You LOVE You” by taking care of yourself from the outside in. It is a commandment to honor the vessel that God has given so you can be the best for your family, friends and anyone else that needs you. We are all exposed to chemicals every day through our environment, but we have a choice in what we put into and on our bodies. I encourage everyone to choose a healthy diet with less processed foods. Think about what you last ate. How close was that meal to its natural state? The further away you get from the natural (loaded with ingredients that you can barely pronounce), the closer you get to living less of a quality of life in the future. The same goes for the products you use every day that are applied to your skin and hair. But the good news is you can make the choice to love yourself as God would have you to do! Let’s start with the wonderful products that my business produces. My products are manufactured with certified organic ingredients, fair trade ingredients and essential oils. We do not use any chemicals, fillers or toxic materials. I’ve researched each ingredient used in my products which can be reviewed at your leisure on my website www.umaglow.com. So let me help you love you by using my wonderful products made with love!
Lori-Ann Woodard Uma Glow “Love You” Body Butters and Uma Glow Body Creams Uma Hair Glow Cream for all hair types Uma Glow Facial Creams: “Face The Day” day cream and “Sweet Slumber” night cream
LIKE ME ON THE UMA GLOW COMMUNITY FACEBOOK PAGE!!! The mission of UMA Enterprises is to spread heartfelt love, care and encouragement that will improve the lives of people around the globe through many avenues. We touch lives by what is felt (Uma Glow skin care products); by what is heard (Uma Sound); by what is taught (Health & Awareness division); and by what is given (Nonprofit Division tbd). When love is birthed, it self-perpetuates and makes the world a better place. This is the core mission of UMA Enterprises.
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The Power of Prayer by Vivian Booker When God created man, He created a man of flesh who had a spirit in him. He created him to be in complete communion with Him. I remember singing a song in church when I was a child. "I come to the garden alone….. He walks with me and He talks with me....” As an adult I now realize that is the true basis of prayer. He is with us constantly, just waiting for us to walk and talk with Him. That is what Prayer is all about communicating with God. Prayer is essential in the life of the believer. Webster's dictionary defines prayer as (1) an address "petition" to God in word or thought; (2) an earnest request or wish. Prayer is more than asking, prayer is also listening. It is a two-way relationship. It is intimacy with our Father, God in everything. Jesus taught wonderful principles on how to reach his Father. Jesus says "come to me” (Matt.11:28-30). Jesus says "listen"(Luke 10:38-42). Prayer is not a monologue. It is a dialogue. We must come as little children. They trust their parents to protect and provide for them. This is what our heavenly Father wants from us, complete confidence in Him alone like a child (Matt.18:3, Luke 18:15-17 and Mark10: 15). God gets excited when we pray (Matt.7:7-11, John 16:24 and Luke 18:7-8). Jesus told us to have faith in God (Mark 11:22), ask and keep asking (Luke 11:9-10). Ask in Jesus name. Man gives us worldly status but only through the name of Jesus can we get access to the Father (John 14: 13-14). Abide (remain) in Jesus (John 15:7) to bear fruit (John 15: 2, 8 and 16). Christ prayed for fruit, He bore fruit and He thanked God for His fruit while He was on earth. God hears our weakest cry to Him. He is always there. This is my personal testimony when I was at my weakest He heard me. For those who read this article. God is not a liar. God hears our smallest cry. He is waiting for us to open our mouth and voice what we need. He already knows but He wants to see if we have the faith to believe. He stands on His promises to you and me. I am going to share something personal with you. Two years ago I was so sick I thought I was going to die. I was rushed to the hospital with an oxygen level of 60. I could tell the staff felt I was in trouble and promptly admitted me to ICU where I stayed for eleven days. I could not feed, bathe, or lift my head off the pillow. In the midst of all of this, I had this thought, if my father was living, he would pray for me and I would be healed. A voice from within said to me; girl you must pray for yourself. Prayer was not something new to me. I never had to depend on my prayer alone to get an answer from God. Today, I am alive I trusted in my prayers to my Heavenly Father (HALLELUJAH) God heard my prayers and He will hear yours too. Everyday God thinks of you, Psalm 68:19.
“Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.” Romans 11:5 Page 49 of 52
A Call for Prayer Let’s pray a prayer of repentance, watch God move and make history.
Date: March 19, 2016 Time: 6 pm Eastern Standard Time (USA) Phone: 712 770-4010 Access 959 290# History is being made every day and this is our time to make history. God will move when we REPENT collectively and blessings will occur and our needs will be met. Joel 2:12-14 …turn ye even to me even with all of your heart…and rend your heart and not your garment…who knoweth if he will return and repent and leave a blessing behind him…
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Looking ahead
N
ext month’s publication will focus heavily on health and the
continued theme of The Change of God. Mental health, spiritual and emotional health, physical health and our decision making concerning our finances will also determine our quality of living and thus, our health. New features will be added to the magazine and the topics covered will be profound and provide food for thought. In looking forward we have to consider that all things are in relationship to all things, in other words what goes on in Harlem will surely impact someone somewhere in China or Russia. The impact of what we do or refuse to do may not slap others right away, but there is surely an impact, whether sudden or subtle, there is an impact. So, in looking forward to our next publication let us remember that God is in charge of all things and has left us a set of responsibilities which when achieved will yield intended results. Change is ever constant and we need to be able to adjust to change for the better or the worse. Our health and sometimes our lives may depend on it. See you next month.
Neil Woodard, Editor In Chief The Remnant Magazine
“Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.� Romans 11:5 Page 51 of 52
The Remnant Contact us: Send your comments and/or inquiries to: remnantmagazine@yahoo.com.
Advertisement with us! Send your ad to remnantmagazine@yahoo.com or P. O. Box 952 Richmond, Virginia 23218 Space is limited so act fast!
See archived magazines and newsletters at www.remnantacts238.org
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