United times
December 2014 Volume 1
General Board Bishop Eric D. Garnes Presiding Prelate
Bishop Glenn E. Livingston Assistant Presiding Prelate
Bishop Roberto J. Jemmott General Treasurer
Bishop James R. Chambers Secretary General
Bishop James E. Dukes National Director of Social Justice
National Directors Overseer Dan Johnson National Business Manager
Bishop J. Nathan Paige National Director of Music
Pastor Aurelia H. Jemmott National Director of Operations & Logistics Bishop Leon Wilson National Director of Faith-Based Initiatives
Elder Jacqueline Marshall National Director of Women’s Ministry
Bishop Orlando A. Wilson National Director of Center for Theological Studies
Bishop Rory Marshall National Director of Men’s Ministry
Elder Reginald King Adjutant General Sister Edna Capers National Director of Ushers
Pastor Martin J. DeSilva National Commander – Apostolic Knights of Pentecost
Overseer Frank Robinson National Youth Director National Director of Ecclesiastical and Corporate Relations
Chairmen Bishop George E. Gibson Chairman, House of Bishops
Pastor Terry Hill, II Chairman, Board of Pastors
Bishop Christopher T. Cox, II Chairman, Board of Holy Orders
Letter From The Editor Grace and Peace be unto you UNITED, I pray you had a blessed and wonderful Thanksgiving! As the days fly by and we delve busily into our frenzied and wonderful Holiday planning, let us continue to enjoy the Thanksgiving spirit and take a moment daily to tell the Lord thank you, just for who He is.
It is because of who He is that we find ourselves fast forwarding into this annual celebratory season. Last month Elder Carmen L. Ferguson spoke to us about the Advent season we are in which began Novmeber 23rd and represents the four week period before Christmas when the church celebrates the first coming of Christ and the anticipation of his second coming. There are not enough tongues to give God thanks for His beloved Son, the Reason for the season. As you celebrate, start planning for this year’s National Holy Convocation EARLY! Prepare yourself for a most anticipated and glorious moment The Encounter – July 14-18, 2015 in Atlanta, GA. Register early – #UCCCencounter15. Be blessed and enjoy as Pastor Adrian Wynn leads us to reflect this month about Who is the Enemy. Be encouraged UNITED, and above all, continue to stand. In His Service, Annette Parkins Editor www.unitedcovenantchurches.org
WHO IS THE ENEMY As a young man growing up there was a consistent conversation about cartoons that took place in my elementary classroom. Among all of the cartoons that were critically examined by a group of eight year olds, my favorite cartoon to discuss was Popeye the Sailor. I found myself completely enamored by the variety of situations that Popeye seemed to get into and out of rather cleverly. The plot of each story remained dependable. Popeye and Bluto always found away to get themselves into a scuffle over Olive Oyl. Bluto being more physically gifted always began the fight with the upper hand, until Popeye would find himself knocked into an area where there was an ample supply of Popeye’s secret weapon – Spinach. Not very long ago I had the privilege to catch an episode on television and an obvious yet profound revelation hit me. As many times as Popeye had fought and beaten Bluto he always found himself having to fight him again. Bluto in my estimation was the opponent of a lifetime. Similarly to this rivalry between Popeye and Bluto there is a consistent fight going on in most of our lives as well. This fight is not between two burly men fighting for the affection of someone, rather it is a three – way brawl between who I was, who I am, and who I will become. As long as we are breathing we will have some obstacle to overcome, some situation to resolve, or problem that is in need of a resolution. There is a small portion of problems in our lives that we can trace directly back to God. Contrary to popular belief, God will present us with problems periodically that comes in combination with His promises. These problems however, are given with the purpose of development, in the controlled environment of the master teacher. A larger portion of problems in our lives can be traced back to the hands of satan. Satan has many reasons for scheduling and delivering problems to our lives. Sometimes it is his intention to distract us, other times he desires to antagonize us, then other times he simply desires to slow our progression towards our destiny. Taking these things into consideration, I am lead to believe that it is feasible that a small amount of the issues in our lives stem from one of those two sources. If you are still on board you are probably wondering who then, is responsible for the remaining amount of problems that
occur in my life? It has been my experience when I honestly examined myself that the answer was found within ME. Whether it be uninformed decision-making, unwise spending habits, a lack of discipline, or unrighteous habits and vices we usually play the primary role in a great deal of issues that we encounter. It sounds very religious to point the finger at satan and say that he is tormenting me and making my life unbearable, however in most cases it would be outright untrue. According to Scripture, satan does not possess any power because all power was given to Jesus at resurrection. So if satan does not have power what does he have? Influence and a bag of the same old tricks that he has used since Genesis in an attempt to trip mankind up. We must however, take into consideration that whatever he throws our way, he still has to do it in the controlled, supervised environment of our Father and within the parameters that the Father has predetermined. In other words, when it comes to messing up things in my life I am much more efficient at it than the devil could ever have the power to be. This is the season that we must begin to take responsibility for our own actions. The only way to defeat the enemy is to know exactly what it is that we’re fighting. I am convinced that we know how to fight and defeat all manners of demons and devils, however we struggle severely with overcoming predispositions and proclivities. For years the Christian community has taught biblical strategies for taking out demons, the time has come for us to put a greater focus on God’s plan of progress and avoid self destructive behavior at the influences of the enemy. It is certainly my intention to challenge conventional thinking with the question: If God has already told me when, where, how, and by who satan would be defeated why am I investing time fighting him. That time would be more wisely used in developing discipline within myself? Lastly, in order to defeat the enemy the most important thing to remember is this: Satan can't defeat you; he can only assist you in defeating yourself.
Pastor Adrian Wynn The City of Faith Church Humble, Texas www.thecityoffaithchurch.org
Increase Me is not just another self help book written by someone twenty years removed from struggle. This book takes a realistic and transparent look at life and how we live it. Increase me is just as much strategic as it is motivational. Each chapter builds on itself in an effort to build your arsenal and equip you for any challenges that may lay ahead. Most people in life have a pretty good idea of where they would like to see themselves. They are aptly able to tell you what type of home the desire, what brand of car they would like to drive, how they would like their marriage to play out, or even what they want their careers to look like at its end. A small percentage of people actually have a plan and tools as to how they plan on arriving at all of these amazing places. Increase Me will equip you with an easy to remember, easy to implement plan of action as well as provide you with a treasure chest of tools and wisdom to use along the way. Life is a journey and the Word of God is your roadmap. Increase Me will help you to avoid traffic along the way! Enjoy the ride!
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Haggai 1:13 I am with you; declare The Lord The Holy Spirit empowers us to carry out God’s commands. He gives us the courage, strength, and ability we need. As The Joshua 1-9 Outreach Mission Ministrie continues to work and support children in our community and nursing home, United in Panama wants to thank Family Life Worship Cathedral, Pastor Penia from Santo Domingo, and Tabernacle Of Praise for supporting the Joshua Ministrie. Pastor Daphne Turner.
Time for Resurgence NuVision Kingdom Life Center begins December 2014 with our winter revival, themed “Resurgence”. Pastor Jared Williams opens the three day revival on Thursday, December 4, 2014. On Friday, Pastor Carol Harris ministers the Word. On Sunday, the closing guest is Pastor Terry Hill. As one of the most hectic seasons of the year has begun, NVKLC pauses to be renewed, refreshed and rejuvenated. Not only is it a revival of the church body, it is personal revival as well. Personal revival by the people of God is important to the church body experiencing corporate revival. Also, on Sunday, we celebrate Pastor Gray’s birthday. Senior Pastor, Allan H. Gray, NVKLC, welcomes all to join the NVKLC family in rejoicing with the Lord. Please send inquiries and celebratory messages to info@nvklc.org.
Women of UNITED, we look forward to coming together for a special Christmas prayer led by our very own Pastor Leslie Christie! Saturday, December 6th at 7am (EST) (712) 432-0075 Access Code: 502676 Please send all prayer requests to womensministry@unitedcovenantchurches.com
Do you have “Points” on your License? Do you want to save money on your Car Insurance? Then you should attend the New York State 6 - Hour Defensive Driving Course!!! Saturday, December 6, 2014 9:30am – 4:00 pm Cost: $40.00 To reserve a space in this course, please contact Sister Janeen Sanders at (646) 244-2262 or contact the Church office at (718) 574-4100 *Deposit required. Seating limited to “first” 40 people
The youth department of faith Assemblies of God will be hosting an 8 week Regents prep intensive program to prepare our students to take and pass the January 2015 administration of Regents exams. The program begins on Saturday December 6th 2014 and we'll run thru January 24 2015. We are offering prep programs for algebra 1, algebra 2/ trigonometry, and living environment. Seating is limited, so registration is required. To register or for more information you may contact us via email at faithassemblies1014@gmail.com.
Family Life Worship Cathedral and the Toys for Tots Foundation cordially invites you to a "Christmas in Candyland" on Friday, December 19 at 7:00pm. There will be games, story reading and free toys giveaways for kids up to age 12. For additional information, please call (516) 505-5702.
The Covenant Couples of The Greater Saint Mary Church of Christ invite’s you to our UGLIEST SWEATER CHRISTMAS PARTY! Join us on Friday, December 12th at 7:30pm in the Skylight Room at The Greater Saint Mary Church of Christ located at 493-5 Monroe Street between Lewis and Marcus Garvey Boulevard. It will be a night filled with Food, Games, lots of Fun and Fellowship. There will be prizes given for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place UGLIEST SWEATER. Reservations are $25 per couple Please contact Sister Janeen Sanders at (646) 244-2262, Dr. Shermaine Sanders (347) 983-6010 or the Church office at (718) 574-4100 for further details
Do you have your copy? Have you download it!!!!! Have you Spread the Word?.....#Champions Debut Single from UNITED’s own, April Hall!
Through the vision of Pastor Angela Walker, Divine Revelation was formed in February of 2006 with rehearsals starting out at New Beginnings MB Church, on the south side of Chicago. Starting as a youthful aggregation of 7 singers, Divine Revelation was known for their small size, but powerful and anointed sound. Having grown in number, Divine Revelation still remains an energetic, youthful and spirit-filled group.
Following the motto of Pastor Angela Walker, the ministry strives to not just be another local choir, but a choir that is actively involved in the community. Divine Revelation has participated in a number of community events including: the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office Annual Victim Memorial Service, Stop the Violence rallies, Child abuse prevention efforts, Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Celebrations, the Greater Chicago Food Depository’s Annual Hunger Walk, and more. In May of 2014, Angela Walker and Divine Revelation were named champions of the Urban Broadcast Media’s Voices of Praise Battle Competition; and were able to record their first album. On November 21, 2014 The Voices presented their first CD Release entitled ‘Door to the Next Level.” This refreshing project brings a mix of original music as well as a new flare to some old time gospel favorites. Pastor Angela Walker and Divine Revelation can be heard each Sunday at God’s House of Divine Revelation Church lifting up the name of Jesus!
Pumps, Purses and Power at The E As women in the body of Christ, we often wear many hats. Many of us are wives, mothers, daughters, sisters, cousins, aunts and the list goes on. It's difficult to find time for ourselves, but it's a necessity. How can we care for others if we don't first take care of ourselves? The Daughters of Destiny Women's Ministry at Ecclesia Family Worship Center and The Women’s Ministries of UCCC in the DEPAMD Region paused November 21 - 23, 2014 to do just that. With Pumps, Purses & Power in mind, the women gathered and attended their Annual women's retreat in Ocean City, MD. The weekend began with Friday night service. UCCC's very own National First Lady Delicia Garnes was the guest speaker. She delivered an encouraging message about the dangers of being average, the perils that come with becoming an imitation and carrying a bag heavier than your assignment.
Saturday morning began with 6am prayer outside on the balcony. The ladies had a magnificent view of God's glorious creation as the sun rose over the ocean. Saturday afternoon was jam packed with information sessions on topics such as business and finance, health and wellness, beauty and holistic care. Pastor Harris, Lady Hamilton & Lady Grey tag teamed a workshop entitled “In His Image”. There was even a chat and chew with the mothers of the church. Regional First Lady Tricia Gibson ended the sessions with makeup tips and makeovers to help the ladies look as good on the outside as they feel on the inside. Her testimony of faith and recovery inspired everyone to stand no matter the weight. Pancakes with Pastor C was a huge hit, as the young ladies ages 13-18 shared their hearts and aspirations with her as they received impartation for prosperous futures!!
The weekend culminated with Lady Althea Hanna, who preached “Strut Your Stuff” and had us all stepping into our destiny. We saw the power of being women UNITED in O.C.!! Join the ladies of our region next year. Save the date for 2015's retreat, November 22 - 24.
The United Covenant Churches of Christ The Uc3 National Youth Congress
@ericdgarnes @UnitedCovenant @Uc3youth
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Prepare yourself for the most anticipated event of 2015 – United Covenant Churches of Christ National Holy Convocation: The Encounter. Early registration ends on December 31st. To register, follow these 3 simple steps: Step 1: Click on the following link https://uccc.wufoo.com/forms/holy-convocation-2015/ Step 2: Register using a major credit card, debit card or PayPal account Step 3: Once you have registered "Share" this message with all of your social media contacts with the caption "I'm ready for my #UCCCencounter15
ARE YOU FLUENT SPANISH? DO YOU POSSES THE ABILITY TO READ & WRITE IN SPANISH? DO YOU ENJOY SPENDING TIME ON SOCIAL MEDIA? If that is the case, we have a need for spanish-speaking individuals who can help us translate our posts from English to Spanish! To sign up, please email us at ucccsocialmedia@gmail.com
Join Bishop Eric D. Garnes for a "Once in a Lifetime Experience". Come on a tour of Greece and Turkey that will greatly enrich your spiritual life and relationship following in the footsteps of Paul in the old Roman Empire. We will begin our journey in the beautiful city of Athens. Then an Aegean cruise followed by northern Greece, Thessaloniki, Philippi and Meterora. The Bible will come alive for you. You will return filled with enthusiasm, gratitude and a renewed faith. "To walk in the footsteps of Paul cannot be described. It can only be experienced." Enjoy seeing all the major Christian sites and historical places. Deposit - $350 (payable on booking) Second Payment due – May 22nd, 2015 – 50% of balance Full Balance Due – Aug 7th, 2015 For more information, please contact: Brother Alejandro Campbell United Covenant Churches of Christ 1274 Utica Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11203 (347) 403-3524 lexfermina@aol.com
UNITED in The Dominican Republic During our time in the Dominican Republic we encountered a powerful move of God, day in and day out. Beginning on Tuesday evening, we were with Pastor Marin Garcia, Senior Pastor of Centro De Restauracion Vida Eterna (Center of Restauration, Eternal Life) where Bishop Garnes had the privilege of ministering to an expanding church of over 500 members, who caters to the immediate needs of its surrounding areas. We were able to connect with the local youth pastor who shared his testimony, revealing how God had open doors for the church to be recognized in the community as a people who minister to the streets and do not hide behind closed doors. On Wednesday, Bishop Garnes ministered to a group of leaders and workers who had labored for weeks towards putting the all the vital pieces into place for Thursday evenings International Convocation and official launching of the United Covenant Churches of Christ in Dominican Republic. Much to our surprise, when we walked into the location that was rented for the evening, we found a crowd of 2,000 plus folks, that had traveled from Venezuela, Chile, Panama, France, and the various provinces of the Dominican Republic. Various cultures and nations were represented at our UCCC Launching in DR. Three preachers, representing 3 different countries ministered a word that evening and we saw a move of God that completely took over that place. On Friday evening, we culminated our trip to DR by meeting with various pastors and leaders that were so impacted by Thursday nights launching service, they said they were interested in knowing more about UCCC. We spoke about the 4 pillars of United and the importance of those pillars in building successful churches and ministries. Pastors/Leaders signed up that evening to keep in contact and connect with United as we move forward. To God be the glory!
For those of you that serve in the office of the Overseer, for those leaders that serve in ANY ministry capacity and especially for those Bishops who are looking for a manual for their designates or current Overseers...THIS BOOK IS FOR YOU! From the historical genesis of the lower house of the prelature to the character, credentials and functionality of the Overseer, this manual will serve as a guide to being successful in the office and will prove itself as a great benefit to the officer! Visit our FB Page "The Renaissance Writings“, then "click" the donate button. https://www.facebook.com/TheRenaissanceWritings/app_117708921611213 Purchase with your paypal account therenaissancewritings@therenaissancehouston.org Or request the book by email therenaissancewritings@therenaissancehouston.org and an invoice will be emailed to you. Cost: $25 which includes priority shipping
Need a good ministry resource? Perfect for new, aspiring and ordained ministers and evangelists! Get it now during the holidays at our lowest price ever! Visit www.DeboraHooper.com and call our office at (646) 702-8872 to discuss bulk rates! Remember, "you can't do what you don't know"! -Debora Hooper Click here to learn more about this ministry handbook: http://youtu.be/rQCKybvzXgQ
Click here to order on Amazon: https://ww.amazon.com/author/ deborahooper
Us Girls Can presents its Holiday Sale! Now you can get deep discount prices on any of our Us Girls Can merchandise for women, girls and babies. Visit us at www.ShopUsGirlsCan.com to take advantage now. Also, I want to personally thank First Lady Dr. Delicia Garnes and Lil Bryanna for participating in our photo shoot. You both did an amazing job! To see more of our photo shoot, visit www.ShopUsGirlsCan.com and to join our organization and receive our newsletters, visit www.UsGirlsCan.com
Thank you and I'm wishing you Happy Holidays! Dr. Debora C. Hooper Founder, Us Girls Can
The Divine Mandate Ministry of Zion Progressive Cathedral International, Inc. located at 1169 Connecticut Street in Gary, Indiana, provides free hot meals and free clothing every fourth Saturday of each month from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. Our next giveaway is on December 27, 2014. For more information, please contact the administrative office at 219-882-ZION (9466) during the office hours 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Tuesdays through Fridays. Thank you for your time and blessings and peace be unto you!
We are seeking volunteers to join us in the fight against suicide - it is everyone's problem. Anyone interested please contact us at: impactoutreachministry@gmail.com. The position is a volunteer position. Training will be provided and Counselors will be able to volunteer from the comfort of their own home.
Don't miss this opportunity, purchase your tickets TODAY! Call the administrative office at (718) 771-9193 to purchase your tickets today!
The Spiritual Ironman is the 2nd release from Bishop Roberto Jemmott. In this 40 day journal, he gives insight into disciplining your emotions and shares strong biblical principles on developing your spiritual growth. This is a must read for men and women alike. Add this book to your daily reading collection and challenge your inner man to go to the next level in life! Time to man up!
Now Available on Amazon and iBookstore – Download Today!
Let’s Connect! Ask questions, make comments and join the conversation on Bishop Roberto Jemmott’s new blog! Click HERE http://sim.brjministries.org/?p=217 and "follow" (google+ users) or “sign up” to receive up to date email notices on the topic of the day and let’s get the answers from God’s Word, the Bible together. http://bishoprobertojemmott.blogspot.com/2014/09/train-them.html?m=1
As a former professional basketball player, Dr. Gibson combines his sports acumen with his intellectual prowess to create an inspirational manual for going higher in the “Game of Life” www.georgegibson.org Also available at Amazon & Barnes and Nobles An excerpt from 90’ By 45’: “The 90’ by 45’ basketball court is about timelines. You have to learn to be in certain places on the floor in a sufficient amount of time. Your position sets the condition of your opportunity. What advancements are you making in the allotted time that you have been given?”
Be a part of what God is doing at Christian Love Worship Cathedral! MEN 4 Change Join Bishop George E. Gibson II EVERY THURSDAY @ 6 pm EST as the men gather for a series of informal conversations around real issues that men face such as raising their children, assuming their positions of leadership in our communities and with our children. You will not want to miss out on this time of Enlightenment, Edification and Restoration! 1230 N. French Street, Wilmington, DE 19801
Got Prayer? Please join Bishop George E. Gibson II every Saturday @ 7 PM for 7 minutes of prayer as he bombards Heaven for 7 power-packed minutes of effectual and fervent prayer while lifting up our leaders, churches, families, nation and communities. The conference number is (218) 862-4152 and pass code is 533257. Please remember to mute your phone(s). Join Prophetess Lady Tricia Gibson the 1st Monday of every month @ 6 PM EST for “Hour of Power Prayer� @ 1230 N. French Street, Wilmington, DE 19805 Please reach out to us at clwcde@aol.com. We would love to hear from you!
The open enrollment period to get health insurance under the Affordable Care Act for the second time will begin on NOVEMBER 15TH! Get insured TODAY!
From SlaveBox To Xbox The cutting edge Internet radio show hosted by Dr. James Dukes explores and discusses the topics that are relevant to the beloved community. You don't have to just sit by and listen, you can join in on the discussion and the solution. We are not telling you what to think about... But please think about something!
What are some of your favorite things to do during the holidays?
Holiday Dinner
Donate Toys or Volunteer Locally You can contribute to your local Toys for Tots campaign in several ways. You can donate a toy at one of the area toy drop locations or host
your own Toys for Tots event at your home, office or other venue and collect toys for Toys for Tots, or volunteer at the local warehouse – the choice is yours! Go online to select your state and county from the drop down menu, and you will be redirected to the Toys for Tots website for your local community. Once there, follow the prompts for your desired action, or select the “Contact Us” option from the menu bar. You should be provided with contact information for the local campaign Coordinator. To find a Local Toy Drop Off Location or Volunteer Opportunity: http://www.toysfortots.org/donate/toys.aspx
Get creative this holiday season, or try something new. Do an online search for “Christmas Dinner Recipes” for great ideas!
Secret Santa One of the more popular holiday games, Secret Santa (also known as Kris Kringle in some circles) is a fun and easy way for a group of friends, family members or co-workers to exchange gifts. Organizing and managing a Secret Santa gift exchange is now easier and much more fun with numerous event management apps to choose from. Yes, there is an app for that!
Got Ministry? Don't struggle alone! After 26 years in ministry, Dr. Hooper now shares her ministry experience and wisdom with other women preachers. Join her on Monday, January 5th at 9 PM EST on a one hour FREE conference call designed to empower you for your ministry calling. You are guaranteed to be blessed! For ministry updates and more, subscribe to us at www.UsGirlsCan.com and follow us on Facebook.
"Turn Up" with prayer...GENERATION "Covered"! The purpose of the youth prayer call is to keep our children covered by the word and build a strong prayer life for our children.
NVKLC and Uc3 provides a vehicle that will get your child's day started and encouraged to go throughout the week.
Stretch your prayer life in this powerful season of prayer! His Kingdom come, His will be done! CALLING ALL INTERCESSORS: Draw nigh to God in this key season. There are morning and afternoon prayer lines within your UNITED family to join and watch the Hand of God move supernaturally in your life, your family, your church and your community! Bishop Jamie Johnson – James Temple Miracle Center Fort Valley, GA Every Wednesday night at 9:05pm EST (641) 715-3200 access code: 1004868# Bishop Roberto Jemmott – Nazareth Christian Fellowship Brooklyn, NY Tuesdays 6am EST (712) 775-7100 access code: 456009# Overseer Carlos Haynes – Faith Assemblies of God Brooklyn, NY Sunday-Saturday 5am-6am EST (760) 984-1000 access code: 919671# Pastor Frederick E. Wilson, Jr. – The Temple of Glory International Chicago, IL Sunday-Saturday 6am CST (605) 477-3000 access code: 552942#
Overseer Dan Johnson – The Empowerment Worship Center Chicago, IL Monday-Friday 5am-6am CST (712) 432-0075 access code: 502676# Bishop Allen Williams – Rhema Word Worship Center Elkridge, MD Tuesday-Friday 5am-6am; 1pm-2pm; 9pm-10pm EST (661) 673-8600 access code: 834439# Bishop George E. Gibson, II - Christian Love Worship Cathedral Philadelphia, PA Saturdays 7pm (seven minutes) EST (218) 862-4152 access code: 533257# *please remember to mute your phones*
Join us for Worship!
Best of all, Christmas means a spirit of love – A time when the love of God and the love of our fellow men should prevail over all hatred and bitterness; a time when our thoughts and deeds, and the spirit of our lives manifest the presence of God. ~George F. McDougall
Have any questions, comments, ideas or would like to make a submission for future publication? Please contact: Annette Parkins an.parkins@gmail.com (877) 97-UNITY www.unitedcovenantchurches.org