departments Founder and Editorial Director Verna V. Nickelberry
Editor-In-Chief India B. Oliver
Art Director
Rushun Wiseman
Contributing Editors Josie Hayslett Alexis Johnson
Contributing Writers Vanderbilt Brabson Pamela Steward Paola Tennon
Layout Designer Denardo Crawford
Marketing Consultant Joyce Parkinson jpconnection.com (901) 907-8557
Photographers Kendall Elam Marlon Hayes
Sales Director/ Memphis, TN Janet Chestnut salesmemphis@ ordinarypeoplemagazine.org
Sales Director/ Frisco, TX Will Odom tndimension.net (214) 514-2926
O.P. Magazine Mail
P. O. Box 323 Memphis, TN 38101 (901) 949-3409 http://ordinarypeoplemagazine.org
ORDINARY PEOPLE MAGAZINE is a quarterly publication and is distributed in Memphis, TN; Knoxville, TN; Frisco, TX; Atlanta, GA; and Orlando, FL. Spring 2010 46 || Fall 2010
contents Summer 2010 6
ON THE COVER/ LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
7
FROM WITHIN Editorial
10
IN THE SPOTLIGHT Embracing Diversity in the Church
12
Are you an Equal Opportunity Christian?
14
FOR YOUR HEALTH
20
MIRACLES & BLESSINGS
23
CONSIDER THIS This Old Clock
25
Gospel Music/Artists
27
WORDS OF INSPIRATION
12
10 20
23
All rights reserved.Reproduction in whole or in part without the founder/editor’s consent is strictly prohibited. The opinions expressed herein are exclusively those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the positions or views of the editor. The publication of any advertisement in the issue does not constitute an endorsement of the advertiser’s products or services by the publication. © 2009 Ordinary People Magazine
4 | Spring 2010
ordinarypeoplemagazine.org | 5
onthecover In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we dedicate our cover. Standing from left to right: Marilyn Ladner and Janet Chestnut; Sitting from left to right: Rolox Duncan and Dorothy Cantrell; all are breast cancer survivors.
Letters to the Editor I enjoyed reading your Summer 2010 issue on children. I especially like the article on Gilbert Barnes Carter, III and his role at Youth Villages. This issue was on time with the opening of the 2010 school season. Deborah Hill Memphis, TN
6 | Fall 2010
The “For Your Health� article on children and their physical and mental health was very informative. This is one of you favorite part of your magazine. Anonymous Forest Hill, IL
Your Summer 2010 cover was very nice! I also enjoyed reading every article in the issue. Barbara Bowens Memphis, TN
FromWithin . . . .
EDITORIAL As a young child, I spent most of my time with my head in a book. When my siblings would be outside playing, I could be found alone in a quite place in a world filled with dreams. My summers were spent at the local library, reading whatever I could find. By the time “Little House On the Prairie” became a television series, I had already read the entire collection of Laura Ingalls’ books. I have three sisters and four brothers and the eight of us are quite different. We are different sizes, heights, hair textures, and skin tones. Even with these differences, our parents love us the same (although I feel that they love me more!) My father often referred to me as his dark skin child, which made me feel special. Just as we are all different in our ethnicity, God loves us all the same. It is the diversity of this world that makes it a wonderful place.
“For there is no respect of person with God.” Romans 2:11 All scriptures are from the Holy Bible the King James Version
As I meditated on Romans 2:11, I asked God what is it that HE wants me to get from this scripture. After weeks of reading and re-reading and cross-reference with other versions, the word diversity was dropped into my spirit; it was at that point I got it! As Oprah would say, an A-HA! moment. But for me it was a revelation of what God wants me to see and learn. So it is with great pleasure that this issue is about diversity. In the Spotlight, I give and overview of “Embracing Diversity in the Church.” Our guest writer is Cheryl Robinson, of Arlington, Texas, and she asks the question: “Are you and Equal Opportunity Christian?” In For Your Health, Paola Tennon gives us a look at “Cultural Diversity Disease and Diet” as the differences are influenced by our ethnicities. In Miracles & Blessings, Pamela Steward shares with us her poem on diversity entitled “Same Blood.” In Consider This, Vanderbilt Brabson takes us back to a period in his childhood with his article, “The Old Clock.” In our new section, Gospel Music/Artist, I had the opportunity to interview Praise and Worship leader, Krystal O’Neal, of Holy Nation Church of Memphis. As we all know, praise and worship sets the atmosphere for the spirit of God to enter into the church. Also, featured is one of Memphis’ Gospel Bridge Award Winner, Markevius Faulkner. In Inspirational Words, Rev. Kenneth Brown gives us his thoughts on diversity as it relates to humanity. This is our last issue for 2010, the staff of Ordinary People would like to thank our advertisers and readers for your support. Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas, and we wish you all a prosperous 2011! And as always, Love, Peace, and Increase…
Verna ordinarypeoplemagazine.org | 7| 7 ordinarypeoplemagazine.org
InTheSpotlight
Embracing Diversity in the Church By Verna V. Nickelberry
Spotlighting diversity in churches has been the most difficult spotlight to write. I am not sure what lesson I am to learn or if there is a lesson to learn. But God does have a sense of humor. I started my research with one idea but God led me in another direction. Let’s start with a definition of diversity according to Webster’s dictionary. Diversity means, “A difference; variety; unlikeness.” To go even deeper the meaning of different is, “Not the same; separate; other, marked by a difference; unlike; differing from the ordinary.” These meanings can or do apply to those who embrace diversity in the church, our focus for this issue. A church that has a diverse (multicultural) congregation is quite different from one that is of the same ethnicity. It would have to offer programs that would appeal to all members as well as have a minister/pastor who can capture the heart of a multiculture group. I have had the opportunity of visiting multicultural churches. These experiences were breath taking. To see so many different hues of skin colour praising God together brought tears to my eyes. At that moment, I understood diversity even more. Romans 14: 11, “For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.” God delights in diversity; it is His calling for the upbuilding of His church. It is our differences that make this universe,
10 | Fall 2010
and yet it is our differences that make us one in the body of Christ. Romans 12: 4-5 states, “For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.” Yet in all of our differences each of us has our place in the body of Christ and each of us brings something unique to the body as well. We are all special in the eyes of God. Ephesians 6:16, “From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.” Again, God delights in diversity! Be Blessed!
Are you an Equal Opportunity Christian? By Cheryl W. Robinson
The United States of America thrives on diversity, especially with the election of our first African- American president. Also, the word “diversity” is a hugely popular buzzword in the workplace. If none is found in this entity, usually the Equal Opportunity Commission (EOC) or other civil rights organizations are called to arms. Yet, when most of us prepare to worship on Sunday, we don’t really expect anything different aesthetically or demographically. Most of us rise at the same time, dress from the same closet, get into the same car, drive the same route, sit on the same side of the church, and for some, it is sacrilegious if we don’t sit in the same seat. We praise and worship God with people who looks just like us. Of course, I don’t mean exactly, but of the same nationality or race. Think about it, when you look across your sanctuary or down your pew, how much diversity do you see? Where is the diversity? Right. There isn’t much, if any. But the real question we should be asking ourselves is why. Are we not Equal Opportunity Christians? For sure there is something to be said for commonality and connecting with those who share common interests, traits, bloodlines, and history. Sometimes, it’s the glue that keeps us together. But shouldn’t it also be the glue that brings us together? Martin Luther King Jr. once said that 11 a.m. Sunday is the most segregated hour in America. Now, 42 years after King’s murder, it’s reported that only 7 percent of America’s churches are considered racially mixed. The same type of diversifying fervor we seek in the workplace, our communities and in the world, for that matter, hasn’t fully trickled down to a priority in our house of worship. Although we raise our voices and clap our hands to, “When we “All” get to heaven, what a day of rejoicing there will be…” What about our praising while we’re here on Earth? There are churches that promote inclusion of other nationalities or races. I am blessed to belong to one of those churches, which does not define itself by any particular denomination, but strictly as a Bible teaching church. On any given Sun-
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day, I can peruse a sea of pews and find an ocean of African Americans. I can also see a vision of other ethnicities. This is refreshing. However, there was a time when I found it somewhat odd or strange having grown up in a traditional African American Baptist church. It wasn’t that I felt that Christians had to be the same color, but I wondered how other could relate to [our] songs and [our] style of worship. I’m sure you have pondered the same question. The good news is that “Our” Savior never entertained such shallow thoughts. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways, my ways, saith the Lord.”Isaiah 55:8. The Apostle Paul wrote, “For there is no partiality with God.” Romans 2:11 So let me offer you a new way of thinking about your worship service, or your approach to ministry in your community, church or workplace. In your quest to save souls are you color blind, or do you really see in living color? Bottom line; ask yourself if you are an Equal Opportunity Christian. Without question, you already know we serve an Equal Opportunity Christ. Always Encouraging, Cheryl Cheryl W. Robinson is a poet, essayist and free-
lance writer hailing from Buffalo, New York. She is a
graduate of Medaille College where she earned a B.S. in Media Communications. She currently lives in Ar-
lington, Texas where her gifts have made room for her and afforded the opportunity to interview celebrities in the secular and gospel world. Cheryl’s passionate
and keeping it real writing style candor has appeared
in several publications including Rolling Out, 411 Sports Magazine,
Chicken Bones for the Soul, Epitome Magazine and other literary venues. Cheryl is always encouraging at www.alwaysencouraging.com
For Your Health
Cultural Diversity Disease and Diet “There is no respect of person with God� Romans 2:11 (KJV) by Paola Tennon RN, BSN, MBA/HCA, CCM We live in a world diverse in race, creed, culture and
Some of the most common classifications of chronic
religious practices. Although these differences exist,
disease include pulmonary conditions, heart disease,
we are also significantly influenced by our ethnicity,
hypertension, strokes,
belief or value systems, cultural practices or customs,
cancer, diabetes,
community, and economics. Family traditions and practices are passed from one generation to another as a part of our cultural heritage. These qualities are what make us unique and shape our communities; however, they also impact us in other ways. While cultural diversity is good and strengthens us as a people, it is important to realize that our cultural practices can also influence our health. There are commonalities related to illness that are cross-cultural and fall under the category of chronic diseases. These diseases or conditions are typically long-term and may persist for years or may be without cure. They require medical management and in many cases may lead to impairments or disabilities. Therefore, it is important for us to become more knowledgeable on how these diseases may be influenced by our cultural practices.
14 | Fall 2010
arthritis, and mental disorders. These diseases not only
of all nationalities. Risk factors include genetics, obesity,
help to contribute to the continuous rise in healthcare
alcohol or substance abuse, economics, social or cultural
costs but, in many cases, they may go undiagnosed for
beliefs or practices, language barriers and interpretation,
years or until emergency management is required.
and access to healthcare. Another risk factor not often acknowledged is care giving. Due to increased stress
In 2008, data from the Center for Disease Control and
associated with caring for a family member or loved one;
Prevention was published in the Almanac of Chronic
the caregiver may become prone to a weakened immune
Disease. The following data is an example of only a few
system and also increased risk for chronic disease.
of their findings: Diabetes affected an estimated 18 million people 20 years and older and approximately one-third or
Prevention is the best strategy for maintaining optimal
6 million people are undiagnosed. Data on management of
health; however, managing chronic disease is vital to
hypertension indicated that only 31% of the population nationally is controlled, 34% is uncontrolled and 24% are unaware that they have hypertension or are at risk. In addition, data from
cultivating wellness. Diet
The reduction of risk factors, promotion of wellness, and prevention are the keys to improving health.
can influence development or worsening of these conditions or it can promote a wellness cascade that may lead to elimination or prevention of certain diseases (Nutrition Almanac
several sources indicate that chronic diseases have an increased prevalence among
5th edition, pg 63). In 1999, data reflecting the fifteen
certain ethnic groups.
leading causes of death in the United States indicated
{
that 6 of the causes were associated with diet and 7 with
According to the Center for Disease Control and
excessive use of alcohol. Chronic diseases affected by diet include heart disease, cancer, strokes, diabetes, kidney
Prevention is the best strategy for maintaining optimal health; however, managing chronic disease is vital to cultivating wellness.
disease and hypertension. Of these, overconsumption of alcohol attributed to increased blood pressure and increased the risk for heart disease and stroke. Excessive use of alcohol can raise HDL (bad cholesterol) levels and triglycerides while decreasing the production of LDL (good cholesterol). The reduction of risk factors, promotion of wellness, and prevention are the keys to improving health. You can
Prevention, diseases classified as chronic account for 70
begin by answering the following questions related to risk
percent of all deaths in the United States annually. This
factors for chronic disease:
means that chronic disease is responsible for 7 out of 10
o
Do you have personal or family history of heart
deaths each year and is among 4 of the top 5 causes of
disease?
death. Furthermore, 1 in every 10 Americans has physical
o
Are you a male older than forty-five years or a
limitations or disabilities secondary to chronic disease
post menopausal female?
and this account for an estimated 25 million Americans
o
Do you smoke cigarettes? ordinarypeoplemagazine.org | 15
o
Do you have a sedentary lifestyle?
as to how these foods or practices can be incorporated
o
Has your doctor told you that you have?
into your plan along with alternatives on food preparation
o
High blood pressure?
if necessary. This will help in maintaining a plan for
o
Abnormal blood lipids (high LDL cholesterol, low
wellness and allow you to enjoy the cultural dishes and
HDL cholesterol, high triglycerides?)
practices that are so important to you and your family.
o
Diabetes?
Once we understand how cultural diversity, disease, and diet can influence our outcomes, the goal towards
Source: U. S. Department of Agriculture and U.S.
wellness is established.
Department of Health and Human Services, Nutrition and Your Health: Dietary Guidelines for Americans (2000). The path towards wellness and disease prevention begins with changes in behavioral patterns and life style modification. Reduction in risk factors can occur over time in conjunction with medical management in many cases. You may not be able to control your gender or ethnicity, but you can take control of some things. Start with an attitude centered on wellness. Next set goals, increase physical activity, decrease consumption of alcohol, make healthy food choices, and develop stress reducing strategies. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider, dietitian or nutritionist prior to beginning changes. Chronic disease occurs over time, thus, the results related to risk reduction and disease management may not be seen during the initial phase. Consult your healthcare professional regarding cultural foods and religious practices, such as fasting that may affect the management of your disease. Inquire
16 | Fall 2010
References Duyff, R. L. (2002). Your Healthy Weight. AmericanDietetic Association Complete Food and Nutrition Guide (2nd ed.). pp. 23-24. Funnell, M. (Holiday 2009/Winter 2010). Diabetes and You, pp. 29. http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/databriefs/dbol.pdf http://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/index.htm http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/death.htm
Resource References: http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/databriefs/dbol.pdf http://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/index.htm http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/death.htm www.chronicdiseaseimpact.com www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/overview.htm http://www.healthfinder.gov/news/ http://www.healthypeople.gov/BeHealthy/ http://www.healthypeople.gov/healthfinders/ http://www.gov/healthycommunitiesprogram/ http://www.cdc.gov/steps
Word Search‌ E M R E V O C M S S L W I E B U A G F R P O R R D G N B R E O R O O A I A M O T E D F Z S C S K N T P S I S K R L N T E T N E L LA F E O L E L R O T I D E S C B Y R A N I D R O H D S P O T L I G H T
Magazine Front Back Letters Miracles Consider Cover Editor Fall
For Letter People Ordinary Words Spotlight
ordinarypeoplemagazine.org | 17
Miracles & Blessings By Pamela Stewart
A
good parent discipline approach should be different
for each child. My mother disciplined my sister and brothers differently from the way she disciplined me. My personality influenced my infractions which merited a different approach for my punishment. Sometimes I got mercy, sometimes a talk, sometimes a spanking, but I always got what my Mom believed was justice. God is the same. He loves us all. He has made us unique in personalities, skin tones, the build of our bodies, and our DNA, but we all have a spirit that belongs to Him...in fact that’s what makes us all in His image. When he looks at His creation He sees Himself. He loves the creature, but He is not pleased with some of our behaviors.
20 | Fall 2010
He can bestow mercy and grace on whomever He desires but it is not a stamp of approval for bad behavior. It is a Father’s love and understanding
Same Blood
of His children. He has gifted us mercy, blessings and maybe even a miracle or two but it doesn’t give any one of us license to live an ungodly life. He is a just God and, when it comes to sin, He will be impartial in His justice.
His skin is of a reddish hue. Your eyes slant; my nose broad And she has eyes of the bluest blue.
God loves diversity. He created it. But according to Romans 2:10-12, He rebukes sin with an impartial justice. Romans 2:11 For God shows no partiality [undue favor or unfairness; with Him one man is not different from another]. (Amp.) There’s only One God, One Name, One Final Judge. He is our Father, Same Blood; we are
From the same source we originate. God, our Father, Eve, our Mother, Same Blood. Therefore, Brothers .
Brothers. Let’s accept the differences of those around us and let the Father handle the punishment for bad behavior.
Some curls loose; some really tight. Hair that’s silky straight None wrong, all right. God our Father, Creator of Diversity Made you like you and me like me. So very different…but, Same Love, Same Father,
Blessings and Miracles to You, Pam
Same Blood. Therefore, Brothers. ordinarypeoplemagazine.org | 21
22 20102010 26 | Fall Summer
ConsiderThis...
This Old Clock By Vanderbilt Brabson III
As a boy growing up, I remember accompanying my father on several occasions as he made house and business calls. My father refinished and antiqued furniture for a living. I was always amazed at the expense involved in having furniture repaired, refinished, or antiqued. “A lot of money could be made in this field,” I thought to myself as a young boy. Obviously others thought so too because many of my father’s friends and family tried to persuade him to go into business for himself, but my father was content to work for his employer. My father’s uncle lived directly across the street from us. On one particular evening while I was visiting with him, he asked me to carry his old wooden clock to my father for repair. He said to me, “Tell your daddy I will be glad to pay him for fixing it for me.” Time and a few other things had really taken their toll on that old clock. The wood on it was chipped off in several places. It was badly scarred and the glass facing was completely shattered. In fact, the expense involved in restoring that old clock would have easily exceeded its value. Nevertheless, my father still took his uncle’s old clock to his shop. Over the next couple of weeks my father transformed that old rugged, chipped and scarred, worthless clock into a beautiful, stunning antique
with an incredible wood finish, complete with a new glass facing. Of course the difference in what the old clock had been and what it had become lay in the skill of my father’s hands. Having seen my father charge individuals and businesses for his work, I knew my great uncle would be incapable of paying the fortune it would cost for this very fine work. However, when my father handed me the clock to return to his uncle’s house, he gave me specific instructions. “If he asks you how much he owes me, tell him I said he owes me nothing. Just tell him to consider it a gift.” I proudly strutted that magnificent looking clock back across the street to my great uncle’s house. He and his family marveled at the sight of their clock. They could not believe it was the same timepiece. Its transformation exceeded all their expectations.
A Christian’s salvation does not rest in his or her good works but in the finished work of Jesus Christ at Calvary.
After several minutes of this my great uncle pulled me aside and asked, “Son, how much do I owe your daddy?” “Nothing, sir,” I replied as instructed. “My daddy said consider it a gift.” “Oh, no, I have to pay him for this,” he insisted. “But, sir, he said you don’t owe him anything!” He reached down, took my hand, shoved some money into my palm, and said, “Now you tell your daddy I appreciate ordinarypeoplemagazine.org | 23
what he did. Take this money to him because it just wouldn’t be right if I didn’t pay him.” “Yes, sir,” I said, knowing he wasn’t giving me a choice. As I walked across the street toward my home, I opened up my hand and there lay in my palm one dollar and a quarter. I handed the money to my father and told him what his uncle had said. He looked at the $1.25 and simply smiled but said nothing. In time I came to realize my father had understood from the beginning that his uncle, no matter how wellintentioned, could neither appreciate nor afford the work my father had done on that old rugged, chipped and scarred, worthless clock.
boast about, except in the God of our salvation. When Jesus was asked what is the work God requires of us as individuals in order to experience everlasting life, Jesus replied, “This is the work of God, that ye believe on Him whom He hath sent (John 6:29).” Jesus wanted them to understand God’s salvation does not come by what a person does, but in whom a person believes. What about you? Have you been attempting to work yourself into a right relationship with God? Friend, if that is what you have been doing, you will never get there. The only way to heaven is by way of Jesus Christ (John 14:6), or by being as righteous as Jesus, and let me assure you no one can measure up to that holy and righteous standard (Romans 3:23).
The only way to heaven is by way of Jesus Christ (John 14:6), or by being as righteous as Jesus, and let me assure you no one can measure up to that holy and righteous standard (Romans 3:23).
Like my great uncle, some individuals find it difficult, if not impossible, to accept God’s free gift of grace. God’s offer of salvation to us is free, but it was not free for Him. It cost God the life of His Son. The grace God extends to us through His Son Jesus Christ is absolutely priceless, yet in ignorance many individuals attempt to pay for it through works and religions. There are only two kinds of religion – doing and done. A Christian’s salvation does not rest in his or her good works but in the finished work of Jesus Christ at Calvary. Paul wrote to the believers in Ephesus, For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: It is the gift of God; not of works, lest any man should boast (Ephesians 2:8-9). When we perform righteous acts and deeds in an effort to merit or pay for God’s gracious gift of salvation, we insult God because our actions can be likened to an individual attempting to pay for something utterly priceless with something utterly worthless as a filthy rag (Isaiah 64:6). Paul wanted the believers in Ephesus to understand that as Christians we do not perform good works to get saved. We perform righteous works because we are already saved (Ephesians 2:9-10). There will be absolutely no boasting in heaven because none of the redeemed will have anything to
24 | Fall 2010
If you are a believer who struggles with resting in the finished work of Jesus Christ, please pray the following: Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the continual grace and mercy You have shown me as a believer. I know I cannot merit Your favor but somehow I find myself trying to earn from You what cannot be purchased. From this day forward help me to rest in the finished work of Jesus Christ at Calvary and to understand my works of righteousness are the direct results of Your unmerited favor in my life as a believer. I ask these things in Jesus’ name. Amen. “We believe, that the work of regeneration, conversion, sanctification and faith, is not an act of man’s free will and power, but of the mighty, efficacious and irresistible grace of God.” Charles Spurgeon. Charles Spurgeon was a British Reformed Baptist pastor who still remains highly influential among Reformed Christians of different denominations.
Gospel Music/Artists
Krystal O’Neal In this issue of Gospel Music/Artist, we have taken the time to interview two wonderful people in the gospel music industries, Krystal O’Neal and Markevius Faulker. As a person who enjoys Praise and Worship, I am proud to introduce Praise and Worship Leader, Krystal O’Neal, of Holy Nation Church of Memphis. It was indeed a pleasure to interview her. This is what she had to say to the questions asked. OPM: How do you prepare to minister during Praise and Worship? KO: I pray. I let God tell me what He wants me to sing. It’s very important to prepare through prayer, practice and praise. I want God to be able to call upon me to minister a song and I know it without hesitation. I’m in no way there yet, but with the help of God, I’m on my way. I also love to watch praise and worship videos on youtube. They are so inspiring! They encourage me to “practice” being in the forefront. If I had my way, I’d sing background all of the time because that’s where I’m comfortable. But that’s just like God, He puts you where He has wants you to be, not where you want to be. It’s been a joy pleasing Him. OPM: As a Praise and Worship leader are you ever not in the moment? KO: Being a leader doesn’t make you any less, human. Yes, there are times when I don’t “feel” like I’m there. But it’s in those times that the Holy Spirit ministers to me and reminds me why we were created......to worship God. OPM: When I’m watching you during Praise and Worship, you are always smiling, what are you thinking? KO: Several things are running through my mind. I’m excited and thankful that He has given me this opportunity. Sometimes I am thinking, “Is this me leading the people of God?
What? Am I dreaming?” I also am looking at people who are smiling back at me. Other times I am tickled when I see God moving. It’s like watching someone open a gift and you know what it is and are more excited than they are because you know that they are going to love it!! Praise is infectious you can’t help but smile. OPM: What is your favorite Praise and Worship song? KO: Oh goodness, I don’t have just one favorite song. If I had to name a few....”Because of Who You Are (Martha Munizzi), “Lord, You Are Good” (Isreal), or “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God” (hymn). OPM: Is there a Praise and Worship leader who inspires you? KO: Yes, there are two: Judith McAlister and Donte’ Everhart. Judith McAlister because her experiences are always very precise, direct and exact. I love how her expression, voice and songs command you to participate in the worship experience. Whenever I see her minister, she always makes me want to give more praise, more worship. She inspires me to push myself to do more. Her military delivery drives me to the next key change, the next phrase, the next praise reflects a lot of discipline and consistency. Donte’ Everhart is an awesome worshiper. I am inspired by his sheer sincerity of his love for God. I know Donte’ and to see where God is taking him is truly amazing. His music is non-traditional, unique and take you on an ride with the Holy Spirit. His praise is fun and enjoyable. He shows me that God is fun and loving.
ordinarypeoplemagazine.org | 25
{
Markevius Faulkner Memphis Gospel Bridge Award Winner, Markevius Faulkner, a native of Memphis, TN , is an Urban Christian Gospel Artist. Markevius was born in 1987 in Memphis, Tennessee to parents Marvetta and Darrell Faulkner. Markevius recognized his love for God at the age of seven.
As a child he attended Temple of Love Christian Methodist Episcopal Church under the leadership of Bishop Edward Brown. Years later he became a member of The New Olivet Baptist Church under the leadership of Dr. Kenneth T. Whalum Jr, in Memphis, TN. In his early teen years he was very active in piano recitals, school choirs and state choirs such as West Tennessee All-State Choir. While attending Melrose High School he discovered his leadership through music as a member of the school band and the Voices of Melrose, under the direction of James O. Pope Jr. He gained his musicianship and passion for ministry through New Covenant Music Ministry. Markevius has had the opportunity to share his musical gifts with national recording artist such as, LeJeune Thompson, Rance Allen, George Huff, Jason Champion, Twinkie Clark, Lisa McClendon, Ted & Sheri, Vickie Winans, Shea Norman, Kierra Sheard, Yanna’ Crawley, Jessica Reedy Jonathan Nelson, Earnest Pugh and many others.
26 | Fall 2010
He won Memphis’s Gospel Bridge Award Male Vocalist of The Year 2009. Most recently known for his hit single Jehovah God (One By One). The New HIT SINGLE is being played in constant rotation. Stations are WHAL 95.7 Hallelujah FM/ (clear channel) and is now spreading across the country. It’s rapidly moving up the charts on Radiowave Christian/Religious airplays. GOD IS TRULY AMAZING. This song can be purchased from Itunes.com, Amazon and Rhasody.com also my website www.markeviusfaulkner.com. Markevius’ songwriting, voice, and arrangement abilities are very impressive, but there is one adjective that truly describes this artist: passionate. After being exposed to his music ministry, one will experience a great deposit of sincerity, power, and anointing. Distinctive and quality -infused, Markevius Faulkner brings a fresh sound and style to the industry that is unforgettable. Markevius’ music ministry objective is to execute many goals as a teacher, songwriter, musician, singer and producer in every aspect of excellence. www.markeviusfaulkner.com
Words of Inspiration By Minister Kenneth Brown MDiv.
“For there is no respect of persons with God” Romans 2:11 In a world that has many ways and practices of acknowledging the attributes of God’s presence, avails even more reasons for people to understand multi-cultural diversity about religions than ever before. Humanity seeks to have an ongoing encounter with God through our numerous practices of religious faiths. Within these religious faiths, we establish the framework Lastly, the more people embrace diversity with each other, canopies by which we somehow get glimpses of what atthe more they will embrace the diversity of God in all peotributes are distinctively different about our knowledge of ple. God cannot be contained within the mainframes of variGod through our encounters with each other. If then, God ous religious practices of faith. God dwells in the poor as has no favor or partiality of personhood; it may be well well as the rich, the pious as well as the infidel and inhabits for us to resolve God’s in the heart of the human“The more people embrace interactions with humanity ity, which we remember according to our cultural in every breath we take diversity with each other, the understanding, rather than as living beings. We are more they will embrace the a universal ubiquitous created to do a better diversity of God in all people. ” good. The diversities in mainline belief. each other reminds us of The acknowledgement of our original purpose for God throughout the world is to affirm the kaleidoscope of living out the fullness of understanding our differences as a people encountering God by whatever means God deems corroboration of the wholeness of God within all humanity. necessary. What we sometimes fail to comprehend are the If we suffer from blindness of heart for each other by race, intermediate agents by whom God causes us to identify creed, sexual, political, religious, intellect or geographic with the working attributes of God through and within preferences then we suffer the blindness of the greatness of the diversity of who we are uniquely mirroring. In every the Divine diversity in our humanity. culture throughout the world, healings, caring for the soul, prayers for the betterment of the human heart takes place. Minister Kenneth Brown is an In many ways, these attributes of intercession on the behalf associate minister at Mississippi of others helps us to realize our connectedness to God has Boulevard Christian Church everything to do with how we are enjoined to each other’s (Disciples of Christ). He has a needs that we cannot resolve without the help of God in Master of Divinity from Memeach other. For this reason, there is no partiality with God phis Theological Seminary. He neither is there partiality with each other by whatever and wife, Crystal, have a blendmeans, God honors in our humanity. It then becomes an ed family of six. Kenneth loves ineradicable characteristic of God through humanity to parGod and has a passion to teach. take in our quest for nurturing an embracement of diversity with all people. ordinarypeoplemagazine.org | 27
The “Each One Reach One” church growth challenge is an initiative that challenge members of Holy Nation Church to....
• Be a witness and win souls for Christ • Compel individuals without a church home to visit Holy Nation • Challenge individuals to become members of Holy Nation • Spread the vision of Holy Nation in the Memphis and surrounding community We are extending ourselves to the Memphis, West Memphis and surrounding communities to come and grow with us as we impact the world for Christ!
3333 Old Brownsville Road Memphis, TN 38134 For More Information Call: (901)491-6403
Andrew and Shirley Perpener, Pastor