Unity in the Community with Council Member King – Written by Corinne Scott
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ew York City Council Member Andy King represents the 12th District of The Bronx, which includes Baychester, Eastchester, Co-op City, Edenwald, Wakefield, and Williamsbridge. As a Bronx native and strong believer of Christ, Council Member King works tirelessly to make his home a better place. Since coming into office in 2012, Council Member King has accomplished many things such as criminal justice reform, more resources for education, and improving the quality of life in the 12th District. After countless hours of negotiations and reviewing paperwork, the New York City Council was able to pass the 2021 budget. Many businesses, schools, organizations, and social services received funding including: The Riverbay Fund, Gun Hill Basketball Association, Lehman College Center for the Performing Arts, R.A.I.N., Retirees of Dreiser Loop, and the New York Junior Tennis League, just to name a few. Following his motto "People Pay Attention to People Who Participate,” Council Member King is recognized for his activeness and continued participation in the 12th District and beyond. Although
COVID-19 brought many things to a halt this year, Council Member King has still been able to do many things around the neighborhood. Virtually, Council Member King celebrated graduations and Black Music History Month. Council Member Andy King was also able to go to different parts of the 12th District and distribute masks and food to those in need. Council Member Andy King started Community Engagement and Service Day in 2014. On this day, a great number of services are provided, including health care, immigration, legal, and social services. Partnering with Fun in the Son in 2016, Council Member King aims to bring his community together in a fun, positive way. Due to COVID-19 limitations, Community Engagement Day will be a Silent Unity March and Food Distribution on August 1st 2020, followed by the Fun in the Son virtual concert. Please remember, Our Perseverance In The Future Lies In The Resiliency Of Our Past. May God continue to watch over us all. - Council Member Andy King
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CARLENE
Davis I
nternationally acclaimed Gospel recording artiste Carlene Davis is one of the most dynamic and consistent recording artiste and music ministers coming out of Jamaica. As this Caribbean Hall of Fame awardee testifies in song, the powerful message of God’s love flows through her, bringing hope and healing to the heart of the listener. God has truly anointed and appointed her to affect this generation and she has remained relevant to the mission of bringing hope to a hurting world through the ministry of music, thus fulfilling The Great Commission. Born in Clarendon, raised both by her parents and grandparents who laid the foundation and the importance of having Christ in her life. Her parents migrated to UK while she was just a toddler but she was reunited with them at age 14 along with her 4 siblings. While completing high school and college in Reading, Berkshire, England, she began honing her craft on stage, later on moving to Canada and then to Jamaica during which time she pursued her dream and took on a full time career in music to become known as the song bird of the Caribbean, singing the ‘songs of love and freedom’. Here are just a few of the notable hits from one of the most distinctive female vocalist in the Jamaican music industry.
Having recorded over 15 albums, with songs such as ‘Winnie Mandela,’ ‘It Must Be Love,’ ‘Going Down To Paradise,’ ‘Santa Claus Do You Ever Come To The Ghetto,’ 'Stealing Love On The Side', ‘Dial My Number,’ and ‘Like Old Friends Do. In addition to her string of hits that brought her national and international recognition, touring extensively in Japan, North & South America, Europe Canada and the Caribbean, was signed to Gee Street, Island Records. Polygram Records of the Cutting Edge Records of Japan and VP Records, USA. A major turning point in her life came after being diagnosed with breast cancer in 1996. “This experience led me to a transformed life in Christ as I recommitted my life to Him; the place I found peace,” says Carlene. In this renewed calling and healing, today she stands as a living testimony of the mighty healing power of God. Now an ordained minister with a Ph.D in pastoral counseling from Trinity Theological Seminary of South Florida, a graduate of the Ron Kenoly Praise Academy and also been awarded the Order of Distinction from the Government of Jamaica for her contribution to music and community development. Carlene's work and ministry has brought her before heads of government as far as the royal family of Japan, Nelson and cont. on page 21 PAGE 7
Message from the desk of the First Lady,
Ingrid Rev.
Peart
Hello Everyone… Thanking God for another year! Welcome to Fun in the Son!
Deuteronomy 6:5-9 4 “Hear, O Israel: [b]The LORD our God, the LORD is one! 5 You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. 6 “And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. 7 You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. 8 You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. 9 You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates. This is more than a sentiment, or a friendly suggestion, it is a definitive instruction that is given in both the Old and New Testaments (Matthew 22:37-40, Mark 12:30-31, Luke 10:27),
by God to His people. Wherever God requires our obedience and submission in a matter, He makes provision to make this possible. Whether in years long gone, or years to come, God’s heart for us remain the same. In this expression towards us, He is making sure that we know that our reciprocity is vital to this relationship. God loves us completely, wholeheartedly. Let us love Him wholeheartedly and without reservation. If we were to compare ourselves, (which we cannot…or should not), God, has the better track record by far. In certain and uncertain times, Love still conquers all, it is the greatest of “these”— and abides forever. (1 Corinthians 13:13)
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Donnie McCLURKIN
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he three-time Grammy winner, Donnie McClurkin, known worldwide for his powerful and rich vocal delivery has proven that he is far more than a gospel singer. The man behind the multi- platinum and gold-selling CD(s) is an amazing songwriter that have penned chart-topping tunes like, “Stand” and “We Fall Down,” and have also worn the hat of producer on his projects. His knack for nailing songs that others can identify with has helped McClurkin to carve out a spot in the hearts of millions. His song, “I Need You” from album The Journey (Live) is making a buzz in the industry and one of the most added at gospel radio. Penned and produced by McClurkin “I Need You” is his first single since the release of his 2014 album, DUETS, for which McClurkin collaborated with fellow celebrated gospel artists inPAGE 10
cluding Dorinda Clark-Cole, Tina Campbell, John P. Kee, Marvin Sapp and Tye Tribbett. Donnie McClurkin is excited about sharing new music as well as classics on his forthcoming seventh solo album. Besides being one of the best-selling Gospel recording artists in the history of the genre, for ten years he has hosted The Donnie McClurkin Show, which draws over 5 million listeners in 70 plus markets including the international reach in London, Jamaica ,The Bahamas and Nigeria. The award-winning radio program is arguably one of the most successful syndicated properties in the history of Gospel and Urban radio. His highly rated shows are produced by T&T Creative and syndicated by Gary Bernstein’s Oceanic Tradewinds and Westwood One.
In the very challenging landscape of the new PPM ratings environment, Donnie’s radio shows sent a shockwave throughout the entire radio industry with historic #1 double digit ratings in two of the nation’s biggest radio markets, New York and Philadelphia! Indeed, TDMS is rated #1 in the highly coveted 25-54 age demographic across a large portion of Donnie’s radio footprint. His social media imprint is impressive with close to three million followers that he interacts with on a regular basis. As a way of celebrating his success with his listeners and affiliate stations, Donnie decided to embark on a 10 year anniversary tour this year where he is visiting some of the cities that have helped him achieve such incredible milestones. He is also recognizing deserving “Unsung Heroes” in every city with his personal “heart of gold award”. On the film and television side McClurkin penned songs for soundtracks such as,
“Lady Killer’s” (New Line), “The Prince of Egypt” (DreamWorks) and added his voice to a song featured in “An Extremely Goofy Movie” (Disney). From the concert stage to the big and small screen, fans have seen the singer shine in cameo appearances on shows such as “The Parkers”, “Girlfriends”, Paramount film “The Fighting Temptations” starring Cuba Gooding, Jr. and Beyonce Knowles and a myriad of award shows. However, it was in Sony Screen Gems/ Rainforest Films “The Gospel,” starring Boris Kodjoe and Idris Elba, that McClurkin made his debut in a character role. He also appears regularly as host on TBN (Trinity Broadcast Network) that has a worldwide reach. McClurkin has been featured on the pages of USA Today, New York Times, Essence Magazine, Ebony & Jet Magazines, Billboard, Daily Variety and The Hollywood Reporter. There is definitely far more to this man than his music. (R:1/23 /20)
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Glacia G
Robinson
lacia Robinson is a multi-award winning singer, songwriter, composer, producer, an anointed minister of music, praise and worship leader, missionary, and author. She spends her life in service to God and to others. Often with guitar in hand, Glacia’s travels have taken her around the world (countries like, New Zealand, Belize, Cuba, Antigua, Barbuda, Canada, Barbados, Israel, The British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Sweden) and many more.
She is particularly passionate about giving back, embracing those who have been rejected and dejected by society and their situations. Working behind the scenes, she also enjoys mentoring young and upcoming artists. This involves writing & composing songs for them, producing their material, facilitating opportunities for them to share their music and message, while helping them to identify and give voice to their unique sound, as well as their unique purpose and destiny.
A humanitarian at heart, her gifting has applauded the efforts of many charity organizations.
Glacia is a Caribbean Gospel Music Hall of Fame inductee. With five (5) award winning albums, and many singles released to date. She has extended her creative and cultural footprint by singing and recording in Spanish, Korean, Sotho, Creole and Surinamese. Glacia and her team are currently working on their 6th studio album, which is saturated with worship and a beautiful orchestrated theme. Her latest single “We Are One” was written and released in March 2020. This is a song of love, unity, encouragement, equality and hope. Presented in response to the COVID 19 pandemic, it has become a theme song for many, including being a gift to the charitable organization Food
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For The Poor. This partnership with Food For The Poor, assigns all the proceeds to be used as a rallying cry to help others in need around the world. Glacia has various collaborations with recording artists from Thomas Mc Clarey (from the Commodores), to the energetic Papa San,Terry Clarke, Maurice Gregory, Carolee Mayne, Nigel Lewis, Helén Teike, Agent Sasco, and other recording artists from Jamaica, Canada, Sweden, Norway, USA, Trinidad and Tobago, Nigeria, Puerto Rico and the list goes on. The song, " I Remember" was featured as the soundtrack for the Christian movie "Liberacion/ Liberation" in Puerto Rico. Her powerful testimony glorifies God and His mighty works in her life for she was revived from the brink of death, restored, blessed and preserved. She was sick for five and a half years (51/2 years), her body
weight plummeted to less than ninety pounds (90 lbs), passing through many hospital doors, surviving countless tests, wheelchair, pampers and strong medications. Even though doctors gave up on her, holding on to the word of God, she declared Psalm 118:17 “I shall not die but live to declare the works of the Lord.” God has a purpose for her life and she lives each day to fulfill that purpose. Her ministry extends into international missions, inspirational and motivational speaking. Visit www.glaciarobinson.com for bookings and for more information. facebook.com/glaciarobinsonministries instagram.com/glaciarobinson twitter.com/glaciarobinson
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Odayne Rhoden and the
Worship Xperience
O
dayne Rhoden and the Worship Xperience continues to impact thousands around the world. Their diversity, dynamics and rich sound sets the perfect tone to usher anyone into the presence of God. The Worship Xperience has devoted their ministry to youth empowerment and evangelism and as a result, they have hosted several projects tailored toward impacting the youth. They have embarked on several evangelistic outreach endeavors spreading the good news
through various platforms such as the prison ministry, community health fairs and back to school giveaway events. They have ministered alongside notable gospel ďŹ gures such as Donnie McClurkin, Marvin Sapp, Juanita Bynum, Dr. Matthew Stevenson, RESOUND, and many other influential gospel greats. Odayne Rhoden and The Worship Xperience are committed to sharing the good news of the Kingdom!
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Ackee and salt fish made top-ten list of national dishes by National Geographic
Jamaican Cuisine has again found favour with international palates, and our ackee and salt fish is ranked as the second-favourite on a top-ten list compilation of national dishes by National Geographic in their book, Food Journeys of a Lifetime: 500 Extraordinary Places To Eat Around The Globe. Where can you get some good Ackee and salt fish in the Bronx?
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KORI'S EAT Location: 3762 Boston Rd, The Bronx, NY 10469 Telephone: (347) 947-9200
RICHIE RICH CARIBBEAN TASTE Location: 3357 Fish Ave, The Bronx, NY 10469 Telephone: (718) 708-8431
Need Help? Ask Us! – A Movement Upwards are of African descent. We know first hand that Black Lives Matter! We offer these encouraging words and valuable information for the Upliftment of our community:
Pastor Glad Johnson
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ood Neighbors Community Outreach Agency serves a diverse group of residents in the Northeast Bronx. Our focus is to support the underserved segments of our community. We make our resources and expertise available to all without prejudice, especially because the majority of our clients
1. Plan to purchase your home and opt for a fifteen-year fixed mortgage rather than a thirty-year mortgage. You’ll save a lot of money in interest over the life of the loan. If you must get the thirty-year mortgage, verify that there is no prepayment penalty. This gives you the flexibility to pay it off early if you choose to do so. It also gives you the option of making lower payments when times are tough. 2. If you choose to be employed, when you start your job, open a Health Savings Account (HSA). It will lower your tax bracket and the money is yours to use.
You also earn, in most cases, 40% when your account exceeds $10,000.00.
Businesses and Black Institutions of Higher Education.
3. Only get a new car if you are renting. Otherwise purchasing a certified preowned is more economic. 4. Establish an S Corporation and incorporate your name as a Limited Liability Company (LLC) operating under the S Corp. Remember Jay-Z’s quote “I’m not a Businessman, I’m a Business Maaaaaaaan....” Let that sink in. https://info.legalzoom.com/article/howdo-i-create-llc-under-s-corp
10. Get a whole life insurance policy for yourself early, and term life policies for your children as soon as they are born. The sooner you get the policies, the cheaper they are. In certain situations you can borrow against them to fund certain projects. Also, the policies that pay dividends are usually the best! They normally are associated with the market (money market accounts). Find a good insurance broker.
5. Build business credit! The loans are bigger and the interest rates are lower.
11. If it’s possible, get the people in your immediate family to save collectively! If ten of you save $500/month, that’s 60k every year. You could buy three starter homes every year and in four years, all ten of you could be homeowners. Buy on the same block or neighborhood if you can. This will give you leverage to control the value of the homes (remember Monopoly?).
6. Get a business bank account (in most cases the cost is no more than $500 to start). 7. Consider going to a Community College first and then transferring to a four-year college as a junior (unless you have scholarships to help mitigate the costs). School is a power move, but you must be able to secure the degree. If you have the aptitude focus your major on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). These disciplines attract the highest paying jobs and can directly help your community. 8. Get with your peers from your graduating classes, those who are in your center of influence, (your church brothers & sisters for example); to plot and strategize how you can move your communities forward (commerce, politics, education, small businesses, real estate, etc.) 9. If you are an advocate for the support of Black empowerment, support Black PAGE 20
12. Expose yourself to financial literacy. Learn about building capital and creating equity to create generational wealth. Having financial freedom is everything! The Word of God says, “money answers all things.” (Ecc.10:19) At Good Neighbors Community Outreach Agency our motto is: Need Help? Ask Us! If you need guidance and help to connect with resources to advance your growth and development, “ask us.” We will point you in the right direction! Rev. Gladstone Johnson is the Executive Director of Good Neighbors Community Outreach Agency. johnson@gncdcny.org - 914-275-3961.
contd. from page 7
Carlene Davis
Winnie Mandela, Coretta King (wife of civil rights leader Martin Luther King) as well as prime ministers around the Caribbean, people of various race and culture. She has shared stages with the likes of Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, Peter Tosh, Dennis Brown, Third World, Marcia Griffiths & The I Threes, Freddy McGregor, Maxi Priest and gospel stage with CeCe Winans, Donnie McClurkin, Kirk Franklin, Martha Munizzi, Shirley Ceasar, Hezekiah Walker, Toby Mac, Judy Mowatt, and Papa San. Carlene says, “By God’s grace, I am now led to the places I once performed, going beyond denominational and cultural barriers sharing the Gospel of Jesus to the world, which is indeed a privilege.” With a successful recording career, recipient of numerous awards and now 12 Gospel albums to her credit with gospel hits such as “This Island Needs Jesus,” “My Forever Friend,” “Handful Of Salt,” “Wish I Knew Then,” “One Day At A Time,” “Ambassador For Christ” & her Billboard charted album Dripping Blood. Carlene entered another phase in ministry when in 2002 along side her husband and manager, Tommy 'Yes Indeed' Cowan as producers of the largest Gospel Festival in the Caribbean a Glory Music production “Jamaica Fun In The Son,” which is a major outreach for transforming our youths. Tommy has played a major role in the development of her career as her manager, songwriter and producer for the major part of her catalogue of music also in the music industry in Jamaica on a whole, having worked behind the scenes with the likes of Bob Marley, Dennis Brown, Jacob Miller and Junior Tucker just to name a few. As a member of the group
The Jamaicans, Tommy has been involved in artist development, music and events production. This union has produced two children along with Tommy's three children from his previous marriage. Reflecting on her life and accomplishments, Carlene maintains that her priorities will always be to put God first, her family and be the agent of change to all the people that God would choose to send her way. It is important for everyone to know that Jesus loves unconditionally, no matter where you've been and what you've done; no matter your class, colour, age and creed. We are all born for a specific purpose and out of our personal relationship with God, we will know our assignment to fulfill purpose. Speaking of assignment - 'The Assignment', is Carlene’s latest project. This album was released in 2019 with a few remix tracks. This is a Glory Music production, produced by both herself and Tommy, distributed by VPal and is now available on digital platforms such as Spotify, Amazon, Apple Music and iTunes. Singles released from this album include “Praising God,” with video (a renewed and sanctified version of ('Stealing Love On the Side'), “Jamaica Belong To Jesus” and “Pray For You” ft. Min. Marion Hall. Other collaborations include her daughter Naomi Cowan on “I'm No Longer A Slave To Fear,” a sermonette with Bishop Jackie McCullough, and “Shake It Off,” also featuring DJ Nicholas on an uptempo rendition of the same track. ,...“But we have this treasure in earthen vessel that the Excellency of the power may be of God and not us.” . 2 Cor. 4: 7 PAGE 21
Addressing Racism in the Church viewed a genocide against peoples of black and brown hue.
Rev. Paul A. Peart
T
he year 2020 has dredged up and highlighted the issue of racism here in the USA as well as worldwide. Many persons from the grass root to government are scrambling to find solutions to address this problem. I am releasing this letter in an effort to point out two things I believe to be at the root of racism, particularly the type that manifest itself as White supremacy, that has led to what can be PAGE 22
As for me, I should have sought advancement to the rank of bishop in my organization about twenty years ago, however due to the prevalence of racism in the body, I have been reluctant to advance. I recall the first General Assembly I attended as a licensed minister. On the Friday evening, Rev. Fedlyn Beason was scheduled to speak. When he was introduced and took the stage, I was stunned and shocked when (as it seemed) 1/4 of the white audience got up and walked out. I recall turning to Bishop Arscot and asking him; “What was going on?” His reply was; “That’s how they are.” That was certainly a rude awakening for me. It was also a puzzling thing for years how, despite the fact that the vast majority of the membership in New York was Black, only recently was a person of African Heritage appointed as Overseer. I can’t help but conclude that racism was a factor. May I say, I
know that this issue has kept many people out and has driven many persons including teenagers and young adults away from the Church. As for the present racial uprising in America and the world... this has been sparked by the death of George Floyd due to a knee upon his neck by a White police ofďŹ cer. Some have referred to this killing as a lynching. So, there is much protestation and discussion now about remedying the systemic injustice in America so as to avert ongoing and future conflict. I posit that this is but a pipe dream unless the true root causes of discrimination are sought out and addressed. To that end, I further posit that primal instincts related to inter-racial sexuality and the racial identity of God are among the root causes that has historically and presently continues to contribute to the oppression of one people group by another.
1) INTERRACIAL MARRIAGES PHOBIA One of the primary causes of the lynching of Black men in American history has been the concern of White people that the Black man will marry or otherwise engage in sexual relations with the White woman. Indeed the root cause of segregation and the systemic oppression of Blacks...Black men in particular, may be this very cause. Historically, the mere suspicion or accusation that a Black man has
acted inappropriately toward (as in the case of the destruction of “ Wall Street in Tulsa Oklahoma), or whistled at (as in the case of Emit Till) a White woman was enough to arrange for a lynching. In fact, the most recent girl friend of George Floyd was a White woman. Can it be that this was also his true transgression? This tendency of violence over sex is of course a natural phenomenon as throughout nature males are driven to compete for mating rights and to defend the same against any perceived threat. As a consequence, the present system of racism is likely not just about race as such, but rather complexities related to mating rights and thus the fear that the White woman may select the Black man as her mate and partner. It is worth noting that White men have had no problem mating with Black women. The evidence is the existence of a sizable subset of Americans designated as colored. For that matter, American and European men have borne mixed race children everywhere they have gone in the world, i.e.: Vietnam and South Africa, etc. The point I am trying to make here is that, if truth were told; the phobia of interracial sexual relationships is an issue that may not be so easily resolved. For some, White people are and will always be opposed to interracial marriage, and likewise, some Black people are also opposed to in-
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Addressing Racism in the Church terracial relationships. However, since Whites are still the dominant culture in America, unjust repression and deadly persecution of Blacks is likely to continue unabated under the guise of racism. As for segregation in the Church of America, it is undeniable that it is partly due to this same issue of inter-
racial marriage. Which, by the way, is settled law in the US. This issue needs to be put on the table for discussion if any treaty of peace is going to be achieved.
2) IDOLATRY The second issue of relevance is Idolatry. Here, the near universal portrayal of God as a White man may very well be the spiritual root of white PAGE 24
supremacy. Although the rendering of the Deity in the likeness of man has historically been widely practiced throughout the world, for the past 2000 plus years Greco-Roman based Western Civilization has imposed upon the world a falsity that God is white or generally of a light complexion. I have per-
sonally witnessed this in Africa – I can explain further during discussion. It is also a feature of the caste system in India. It is relevant to state that people of European descent are not the only ones guilty of idolatry. Perhaps all nations have imagined God in some demeaning manner. Certainly Africans have participated in this evil, and their ancestors going back to Babel, may well have been the originators of idolatry. Certainly also, in recent cont. on page 34
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Flip The Switch Rev. Clover Hawthorne
L
ook at the amazing passage of Scripture in Isaiah 45:11. "Thus saith the LORD, the Holy One of Israel, and his Maker, Ask me of things to come concerning my sons, and concerning the work of my hands command ye me" (KJV). What a powerful scripture! What does the Lord mean when He tells us to command Him? Well, He certainly doesn’t mean we are mightier and more powerful than Him and can order Him around. He means, concerning the things He has already done, He wants us to take our authority and command His power. I recall one of my mentors saying, “when we take our authority and command God’s power, it’s like electricity.” The power company generates the power and delivers it to your house. It’s not your power, but it’s under your control. You don’t call the power company each time you walk to your room or kitchen or bathroom PAGE 26
and ask them to turn the lights on. No! That would not work! You could plead with the power company all you want, but they would not be able to flip the switch for you. They generate the power, but it’s under your command. You simply flip the switch on the wall and command the power to work. Does this mean you are the power source? Certainly not! You can put a light bulb in your mouth, and it would never come on. You aren’t the power source, but you are the one in control of what that power does. You have to assume your authority and acknowledge the power is under your command. That’s what the Lord was referring to in Isaiah 45. He has already healed everyone who will
ever be healed. He did it two thousand years ago when He bore our stripes on His back. Then He deposited His resurrection power inside every believer (Eph. 1:19-20). He’s done His part, and now it is up to us to do ours. We need to take the authority He has given us and become commanders instead of beggars. We don’t need to beg him to heal us! This is a powerful truth that works, and it’s the reason we see so many miraculous healings at the Gathering International Ministries. God’s power is in His Word. He is upholding all things by the Word of His power (Heb. 1:3). You need to learn to minister and walk from a point of authority. In His earthly ministry, Jesus said such things as “Be thou made
whole,” and “Take up your bed and walk.” Then to a lame man Peter in Acts 3:6 said, “In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.” (KJV) He ministered and spoke from a point of authority. One of the benefits of being a believer is that Jesus Christ shares His authority with you. Jesus has all authority in Heaven and Earth, and now, it’s available to you! Why settle for less than all of what God has provided? His divine power has given unto you “all things that pertain unto life and godliness.” (2 Peter 1:3, KJV) You just need to flip the switch!
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NadjeLeslie Nadjé Leslie was born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica. She frequently credits her parents for getting her started on the violin at the tender age of 7 years old. She took her violin prowess to the World Stage in 2006, after winning the enviable title, “Junior Instrumental Grand Champion of the World” in Hollywood, California. Nadjé has recorded two albums to date: Nadjé, Violin Girl In Jamaica vol.1, re-
leased in 2007 and Christmas Is Here released in 2015. She has performed for several heads of state, including Prince Charles and Prince Harry on their visits to Jamaica. She continues to mesmerize audiences with her outstanding talent as she effortlessly plays many contemporary rhythms; from the hypnotic force of reggae, to smooth jazz and classical idioms that are known to thrill audiences all over the world.
Rev.
Matthew Auguiste
“N
ever judge a book by its cover” is the perfect adage to describe this veteran of the faith. Though somewhat small in stature; a reservoir of knowledge, wisdom and experience dwells in this humble servant of God. Matthew Auguiste is a proud alumni of Christ for the Nations Institute in Dallas Texas and hails from the nature island - Dominica. There he has served in full time ministry for over 25 years and is now the Senior Pastor of New Life Ministries, located in Marigot and in Belles. Rev. Auguiste has been instrumental in drafting the National Youth Policy for Dominica and has served as the General Youth Director of the Pentecostal Assemblies of the West Indies for seven consecutive years. He has been featured in several conferences, seminars and crusade services across the Caribbean, England and the USA.
Through the unique anointing on his life, Rev. Auguiste has witnessed many lives transformed for the glory of God. His passion, conviction and dynamism transcends into everything he is involved in. His unique voice can be heard weekly on the Q95 FM radio station, where he co-hosts an influential radio program called "Kingdom Connection." Rev. Auguiste’s calling extends well beyond the four walls. He is well known for his presence on the cricket field as a regional cricket umpire. He is also known to be an avid farmer, but nothing tops the love he holds for his dear family - his first ministry. The enabling of the Holy Spirit coupled with the unwavering support of his beautiful wife, Liz, and their five amazing children are what he attests to his success.
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Coping in the time of C-O-V-I-D The following strategies are adapted from my pending book on Transformational Coping. In response to the unique challenges of the coronavirus, I have used the letters in the name of the virus to suggest healthy coping approaches that I hope you find helpful.
contracting it, and or passing it on to others. The virus has instilled significant fear, and generated anxiety around many aspects of life, from losing jobs and livelihood, to dying alone.
Delia M. Farquharson, LCSW City Councilmember, City of Mount Vernon, NY
Compassion
C
ompassion is about being kind and gentle. In being compassionate, you have the capacity to first be kind to self, and then to others, in dealing with stress or managing difficulties. With this COVID-19 situation, compassion is absolutely required. Those not paralyzed with the fear of being infected with the virus, are immobilized with isolation and loneliness. We have no control over the virus, and we are all at risk for
COVID-19 shuttered places of employment and entertainment. COVID-19 closed schools, and required some parents to do double duty as they guided their children through the lesson plans required to compete the school year. This virus changed life as we knew it. Compassion can only exist in the absence of judgement. Compassion does not require the specific details of the situation to exist. Simply understanding that someone is dealing with a difficult situation, or a loss is enough information to allow you to choose to suspend blame, or avoid giving advice. Compassion is communication of care, and can be accomplished with no spoken words, but with only the quietness of your presence. In teaching individuals about self-compassion, I often ask, what would you say to your mother, or your best friend if they PAGE 33
contd. from page 33
were dealing with this situation? How would you communicate reassurance? Think about the words you would use to your best friend or your mother, and then use those words, to yourself.
a new normal herald not only our survival, but our thriving. “Be Open to All Possibilities”
Verbalize The depression, and emotional impact of COVID-19 propels us to exercise compassion to everyone we meet, even as we grapple with the reality that suicide rates have significantly increased during the quarantine period. “Communicate with Compassion”
Be Open To be open suggests that you are emotionally and psychologically available and inviting to the possibilities that exists. Openness is the idea that you have not, and cannot possibly conceive all ideas or solutions. Therefore you are willing to consider, and believe that help can arrive or evolve from unexpected places. When you are experiencing difficult times, the mind often defaults to worse case scenarios and think in catastrophes. Humans often believe that challenging situations will only get worse. The tendency to think negative thoughts is a practiced, unhealthy coping strategy, that does not support emotional transformation. The physical closure of buildings and activities, leaves us no choice but to open ourselves emotionally and psychologically, to how we respond to these closures, and the methods we use to survive. The experience of the virus has many rethinking what is important and what takes priority in our lives. Keeping ourselves open to the benefits of
What COVID-19 has exposed, is that we are all susceptible to stress. With anxiety provoking conditions, individuals will start to show the signs of distress. The governor of New York understood early on the emotional impact of the virus. As a part of the COVID-19 response in New York a first response team of emotional support workers was created. I was honored to serve as one of those responders. The most important service provided by that team is providing a safe, healthy way for New Yorkers affected by the virus to talk about their feelings. Verbalizing feelings is the first step to gaining control over them. In being able to describe what is being felt, the individual is able to give form, and language to the experience and engage in solutions focused discussions. The coronavirus is unique in that it socially separated families, communities and our society from each other. Many went for months without the ability to be physically present with loved ones. The ability to communicate and verbalize feeling therefore took on greater significance. Talking to loved ones became the single most important way to maintain connections. “Verbalize Problems, visualize solutions”
Imagine In my work I use the magic window to help people to develop solutions. I encourage them to look through my magic cont. on page 36
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Coping in the time of C-O-V-I-D contd. from page 34
window into a future where they have resolved their pressing problems. Imagination requires the ability to believe and expect things to be better. It is important to be able to imagine a better outcome when faced with challenges or dealing with a difficult situation. COVID19 was unexpected and devastating, and instilled fear in almost everyone. In times like these, being able to imagine a resolution, where the situation can and will be resolved, is essential for inspiring hope. In combatting COVID-19, the hope and expectation of getting better, of being released from the hospital and reuniting with loved ones at home provided healing for many. I saw the story recently of a retired principal who was hospitalized for 128 days with the virus, and before he was intubated, he told his family that he would, “never stop fighting.” He imagined a better outcome, even as he understood how sick he was. That man communicated his expectation of recovery to his family before he temporarily lost his ability to speak. In understanding his desired outcome, that family never gave up fighting. His family was encouraged to say goodbye but they never did. They kept fighting. The imagined outcome was realized when the world witnessed his release from the hospital. He imagined he would be healed and it happened.
“Imagine it better” Delay Before you do it, put a pause in it and PAGE 36
demonstrate self-control by delaying. Delay is not denial, but rather taking a moment, or two, or as many as necessary, to reflect on your next steps before taking action. It is always helpful to not respond impulsively or in haste. Not every situation warrants an immediate response; most difficult situations benefit from taking the time to process, digest new information, and then decide on next steps. Delay in the face of COVID-19 bears examination. Does one delay accessing care or getting tested if there is reason to suspect the virus? Absolutely not! The quarantine in response to the virus in many ways was the ultimate delay. All the appointments and schedules that were so crucial before March 17th, 2020, took a back seat to flattening the curve of the virus and minimizing infections and deaths. Suddenly, nothing was that important and all appointments, whether medical or personal care were cancelled. Cities, countries and the whole world were forced to delay
“Delay then Decide” I hope you find these copings strategies helpful as we all navigate the coronavirus. Coping skills are most effective when they are utilized, practiced and shared. I encourage you to communicate with compassion, be open to all the possibilities, verbalize your problems so you can visualize your solutions, imagine it being better and you always give yourself the benefit of a delay before you decide.
Addressing Racism in the Church contd. from page 24
times, some Jamaicans have deified a black messiah, in the person of the late Emperor Selassie of Ethiopia. However, Rastafarians acted to deify a black man as Messiah in reaction to the imposition of a white Christ upon the colonized.
the Supreme Being is a White Man, and that given the deeply psychospiritual nature of this delusion, which has been used to deceive, ensnare and captivate people, it will be highly unlikely to achieve sought after equality and end racism, classism and casteism without first eradicating this type of idolatry.
“
However, as it relates to Western civilization On a brighter side, and the nations it was recently reand peoples ported out of LonI have on occasion, pointed that have come don, that the out that our Black churches under its inarchbishop of fluence, the Canterbury, Justin are filled with single women idolatrous pracWelby, says; porwho are not able to marry tice of portraytrayal of Jesus as ing the Father White should be because most of the Black and the Son as reconsidered. In men have been swallowed white men is a another report, he reality that admitted that up by this unjust system. need to be corJesus was in fact rected for many not white. reasons. Chiefly, that Therefore, since such a portrayal of God has led to an Christendom, including the American inferiority complex in the mind of the Church has been complicit in foisting non-white and a corresponding su- this idolatry upon the nations periority complex among Whites. through Missionaries who have gone Consequently, the Western White out into the entire world preaching Church has used this deception to the “gospel”, I appeal to Church leadclaim for themselves the right to ership to address this issue; local, naconquer, subjugate, enslave, exploit, tional and international, and that the kill, etc., peoples of other races. This church help lead the way in addressbelief has also led to other ideologies ing these falsehoods throughout the such as Manifest Destiny. body of Christ. It would be unreasonable to expect that there will be reI therefore posit for consideration vival in the church unless there is that; White Supremacy stems from a repentance from idolatry. delusion that is rooted in a belief that
”
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cont. on page 40
Addressing Racism in the Church contd. from page 38
People of African heritage have been dehumanized, disenfranchised and exploited for the past 400 years on the basis of these two falsehoods. Unfortunately the church, beginning with Roman Catholicism, has been the main perpetrators of these sins. While it has been the historical response of people of African heritage to express forgiveness to these evils, there are some that are presently crying out for reparations. It is difďŹ cult to foresee whether the church will repent of the sin of idolatry. It is even more unlikely that White people including the White church will countenance interracial marriages even though US Law has settled this matter. I may be that racial reconciliation and reparations will need to be determined upon other conditions.
3) INITIAL STEP TOWARDS MEANINGFUL CHANGE If the leadership of our church will accept the premise of this letter and commit to help addressing them, then we can go on to address other matters that stems from these roots, such as: Mass Incarceration (which is the new form of slavery that provides free labor for the Prison Industry Complex), Federal funding of abortions (which is largely targeted at miPAGE 40
nority communities), the disenfranchisement of Black people, the deprivation of voting rights, and so many other evils which put together very much resembles systematic genocide. Sadly, these things are happening with the silent consent of the church. I have on occasion, pointed out that our Black churches are ďŹ lled with single women who are not able to marry because most of the Black men have been swallowed up by this unjust system. We have become like compliant sheep to the slaughter. It is not my intent to level this litany of charges or complaint simply as a matter of airing grievances. I would much rather provide a word of wisdom to enable us to seize whatever opportunity this present crisis affords. If given the opportunity, I would love to offer a proposal, which, with the support of our White brethren can save America and provide redress to the African Continent and the African Diaspora here in the West. Sincerely Yours in Christ, Rev. Paul A. Peart New Testament Temple
THE BRONX NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSING SERVICES CDC, Inc. 1451 E. GUN HILL ROAD, BRONX, NY 10469 TEL: 718-881-1180 | Fax: 718-881-1190 EMAIL: INFO@BRONXNHS.ORG WEB: BRONXNHS.ORG
About Us Our Purpose The Bronx Neighborhood Housing Services has been around for over 30 years, providing vital services to prospective and existing homeowners. We are a non-profit counseling agency approved by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
Our mission is to revitalize communities and address emerging needs while empowering residents to achieve self-sufficiency through homeownership. Bronx NHS works with the NYS Affordable Housing Corp., NYS Homes & Community Renewal, and the NYC Dept. of Housing Preservation & Development to provide FREE education, counseling and other resources to potential and existing homeowners. Sustaining homeownership protects our neighborhoods from property abandonment, which can drive home values down.
What we do
EDUCATION & COUNSELING GRANT/LOAN FACILITATION REAL ESTATE SERVICES FREE TAX PREPARATION REFERRALS
Foreclosure Prevention
First Time Homebuyer Bronx NHS is a recognized leader in helping community residents overcome the barriers to homeownership and offers a full range of educational services designed to build knowledge and confidence and strengthen neighborhoods. Bronx NHS provides the following housing and education services aimed at first-time homebuyers: 2 Hours orientation/Free of charge Learn what it takes to become a home owner Grants for down payment and closing cost Competitive loan products Education and counseling Referrals to lenders, inspectors, attorneys, real estate & insurance agents First Home Education Course (FHC) This course is for long-term clients that may need more time to get ready to purchase. It will meet 3 times quarterly. Will help prepare client to buy first home. Fast Track Course Designed for near ready to buy clients or Bank approved clients. One day, 8-Hour Class Will help prepare client to buy first home.
Struggling with your mortgage payments? Our experienced counselors will help you understand the different options available and determine the best course of action for you to take based on your circumstances. Together, we will: Review your budget and finances Negotiate with your lender as needed: Refinance, Modification, Forbearance, Partial Claim, Reverse Mortgage Review paperwork and submit on your behalf Help you find a reputable attorney or realtor. Discuss other potential options available
What You Need to Do 1. Attend free Homeowners seminar 2. Complete Bronx NHS intake form 3. Gather required documents: 2 most recent paystubs W-2 or 1099 forms for past 2 years Tax returns for past 2 years Social security award letter (if applicable) Proof of alimony and child support (if applicable) Proof of additional income (if applicable) Proof of funds available (i.e. bank statements) Schedule a counseling session with us
To learn more or to register for a homebuyer orientation, please visit our website www.bronxnhs.org Follow us on
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1451 East Gun Hill Road, 2nd Floor, Bronx, NY 10469 - (718) 881-1180 - www.bronxnhs.org
JR Allen
Senior Loan Officer | NMLS ID#1910107 917.691.5938 JRAllen@ContourMtg.com
A true mortgage professional Purchasing a home is a the largest emotional financial endeavor you will undertake other than a running a business; it can also be extremely rewarding with the right guidance. My objective is to be a reliable, informative resource for my clients, whether first-time or experienced home buyers. I take the time to carefully review your loan application to select options that will help you meet your long and short-term financial goals. Every prospective clients’ needs are different. I pride myself on making sure the client fully understands all their options and which will suit them best. Through that experience, I have acquired a vast knowledge of all mortgage loan programs. Whether it be conventional, FHA or refinance loans, I am confident that with my expertise in the mortgage industry, you will not be misinformed. My relationship with a client does not necessarily end after a loan is secured. A major part of my success has been the chain of referrals I’ve accumulated and built upon with each of my borrowers. I aim to keep coomunication open for any financial needs you may have in the future as well. I am always available to answer your questions and address any concerns.
JR ALLEN
SENIOR LOAN OFFICER NMLS ID#1910107 917.691.5938 516.853.2138 516.888.1785 JRAllen@ContourMtg.com ContourMortgage.com/JR-Allen
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Eternity Funeral Services, LLC Karrie O. Harvey-Edwards ~ CEO / Licensed Manager 725 East Gun Hill Road, Bronx, NY 10467 ph (718) 231-8737 • fax (718) 231-3169 efsnys@gmail.com www.EternityFuneralServicesNY.com