Fun in the Son Community Magazine 2023

FUN IN THE SON - NYC

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Table of contents EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

JAMAICAN FRUIT OF THE YEAR

OTAHEITI APPLE BREAKING THE FOUR WALLS BISHOP PAUL & REV. INGRID PEART

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Bishop & First Lady of New Testament Temple shares their perspective on the church breaking its four walls to unify the community.

EXPANDING THE COMMUNITY

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the CelebratiOn Of freedOm

Out Of many, One peOple!

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KORI’S EAT:

Ever wanted to know what produces success?

Take a closer look at the influential and tenacious businesses in the Bronx, starting with Corey Lawrence of Kori’s Eat! PAGE 40

Meet The Team

Bishop Paul A. Peart

Rev. Ingrid Peart

Rev. Glad Johnson

The Visionary, Chairman

Performing Arts Ministry, Prayer Ministry

Administrative Pastor

Acinette Nelson

Lady D, Denise Gomez

Rev. Cheryll Johnson

Shanique Burke

Cliffannie Bowman

Senior Program Manager

Jourdan Layne

Senior Stage Manager

Senior Production Manager

Senior Logistics Manager

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Administrator Follow-up Ministry

Senior Production Journalist

F

illed with streams of laughter,

at the park,

the surround-sound of joy,

and a mother pushing her newborn baby

and the ever curious cat that

in a stroller - with a cool iced tea from

lays by the street corner, is a river of

Kori’s Eats.

respect that flows from neighbor to neighbor.

This is the bustle of a community of strong citizens.

Among the bustle of a community of strong citizens is a church around the

This is where streams of laughter meet

corner, singing and shouting in

the river of respect.

melodious conviction, a certified beautician turning on the lights to her beauty salon, while on the phone making arrangements with her

This is the Bronx.

Busy, Bronx!

first client of the morning, a pharmacist walking in his office with a smile of anticipatory elation to what the day will bring, a man riding his bicycle fast along the sidewalk, so much so that others thought of him as a motorcyclist in training, a group of teenagers laughing and joking as they make their way to shoot buckets

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PROFILE

KEVIN C. RILEY New York City Council Member 12th District

K

evin Chistopher Riley is the New York City Council Member representing the 12th Council District, covering the neighborhoods of Wakefield, Baychester, Eastchester, Olinville, Edenwald, Williamsbridge and Co-op City.

Council Member Kevin Riley is the Chair of the Subcommittee on Zoning and Franchises and the Co-Chair of the Black, Latino and Asian Caucus, which is the largest caucus in the New York City Council. As Chair, he serves to prioritize creating equal opportunity and access for communities of color within New York City through the legislative, oversight, and budgetary powers of the Council. He has worked to ensure that our infrastructure empowers marginalized communities and addresses the housing crisis with initiatives for affordable housing and homeownership. For nearly the past year, the Council has approved 40 land use applications that will

result in over 12,000 projected new housing units, of which over 63 percent are affordable.

Under Council Member Kevin C. Riley’s leadership as Co-Chair of the Black, Latino and Asian Caucus, the caucus has passed the historic FDNY Diversity bill package. Signed into law, the bills aim to address true equity in recruitment and retention of underrepresented groups within the department, as well as requiring the implementation of diversity, inclusion, anti-discrimination and anti-harassment training. Council Member Riley, prime sponsor of Intro.

552-A and Intro. 553-A, further supports this goal through annual demographics reporting and ongoing training for all fire department employees— opening clear measures for transparency and accountability.

Kevin C. Riley was born and raised in the Northeast Bronx, where he continues to reside. He is a proud member of Butler

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K EVI N

C .

R IL EY

United Methodist Church where he met many of the people he is proud to call mentors today. Following his graduation from Mount Saint Michael Academy, he attended the SUNY College at Old Westbury to pursue his B.A in Politics, Economics and Law and obtained his M.P.A in Public Affairs and Administration from Metropolitan College of New York.

While pursuing his undergraduate degree, Kevin became involved with several student activities such as the Student Council, Residential Life Association and the Divine Nine Greek Council. He was the president of the Mu Omicron chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc., and was even awarded with the Fraternity Man of the Year Award. Although his undertakings were vast, Kevin believed that giving back, spreading joy, and illustrating the meaning of community was the most important goal.

After working alongside the Speaker of the New York State Assembly Carl E. Heastie for over a decade, Riley’s passion for public service and his love for his community fueled his dedication to run and win his election for the New York City Council representing the home that raised him. Since assuming office on January 6, 2021, Council Member Kevin C. Riley has never lost sight of uplifting his community and its people: investing $97 million in capital improvements for his district, enriching the quality of life through youth and senior services,

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P R O F I LE

groundbreaking NYC Public School improvements and advocating for $79.4 million to expand the Summer Youth employment Program to 100,000 slots for youth across the city.

As a firm believer in representation and being the change you want to see, Kevin personally understands the impact of mentorship and positive reinforcements in the well-being and success of our youth and community. He dedicates his time to generate positive relationships with the youth in the community and has developed a Young Men’s Mentorship program with the Academy for Scholarship and Entrepreneurship— exposing them to college readiness, how to dress for success, internship opportunities and more. In conjunction with his Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity brothers, he is a founding member of a nationwide organization called The Dad Gang. The Dad Gang is an organization that works toward eliminating the stereotypes surrounding black fatherhood, and dispelling the narrative that black dads are not a part of their children’s lives.

As a direct product of his community, Council Member Kevin C. Riley is a leader who is committed to partnering with his neighbors, listening to their needs and making his district better for future generations. Above all, his greatest accomplishment still remains being a husband and father to his three beautiful children.

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T

DONNIE McCLURKIN

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 goldselling CD(s) is an amazing songwriter that has penned chart-topping tunes like, “Stand” and “We Fall Down,” and have also worn the hat of producer on various projects. His knack for nailing songs that others can identify with has carved out a spot in the hearts of mil-

lions.

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, where McClurkin collaborated with fellow celebrated gospel artists including Dorinda Clark-Cole, Tina Campbell, John P. Kee, Marvin Sapp and Tye Tribbett. Donnie McClurkin is excited

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PROFILE

CARL E. HEASTIE Speaker New York State Assembly District 83

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arl E. Heastie is the 100th Speaker of the New York State Assembly. He has the historic distinction of being the first AfricanAmerican to serve as leader of the Chamber’s 150 members representing communities across the state of New York. Since his election on February 3, 2015, he has led the Assembly Democratic Majority in efforts to uplift communities and promote a Families First agenda that prioritizes strategic investments in the health, safety, economic and social well-being of New York’s families. Under his leadership, the Assembly has won a number of landmark victories that deliver on the Assembly Majority’s promise to expand opportunities for achievement in communities around the state.

Prior to his election as Speaker, Heastie – a lifelong advocate for workers’ rights – served as chair of the Assembly Labor Committee. He was the principal negotiator in securing an increase in the minimum wage and in 2015, with the support of his Majority colleagues began

the fight for $15 in the New York State Legislature. These efforts culminated in 2016 with the successful enactment of a graduated plan to raise the minimum wage across the state to provide workers at the lowest rungs of the economic ladder a fair chance to achieve financial independence and success. Before becoming Speaker he was also the prime sponsor of the Wage Theft Prevention Act that provided a framework for the State Department of Labor to root out incidences of wage theft and help aggrieved workers reclaim their illegally withheld earnings.

Speaker Heastie is a proud product of New York City’s public schools and throughout his legislative career he has been a passionate advocate for the transformative power of education. He has joined his Majority colleagues in fighting for spending plans to provide funding for statewide universal pre-kindergarten programs and additional support for the state’s neediest schools. In 2016, this commitment was strengthened by the inclusion of additional support to estab-

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D O N N I E

M c C L U R K I N

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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. andBeyoncé 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 hisdebut 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.

The best is yet to come for this minister of music and song.

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Home Ownership A DREAM COME THROUGH

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n 2023 we embarked on a mission to uplift 1000 families to experience their Rev. Glad Johnson dream of becoming Executive Director Bronx NHS homeowners.

Our mission is focused on immigrants or descendants of immigrants. Why? Because they are hard working people with progressive passion to pursue their dreams and aspirations at almost any cost.

There is a biblical basis for such an ambitious mission.

The prophet in Isaiah 65:1 foretold such a people. Firstly, he spoke about the group of people we know as the Children of Israel. However, by extension this prophecy speaks to this group of immigrants in the Bronx of New York.

Isaiah 65:1 “I revealed myself to those who did not ask for me; I was found by those who did not seek

me. To a nation that did not call on my name, I said, ‘Here am I, here am I.’” These people did not come to America looking for God. Many of them will confess that they were closer to God when they were home in their native lands. They came seeking better economic opportunities such as jobs, houses and lands. Bishop Paul Peart, Senior Pastor of New Testament Temple Church of God in the Bronx, New York articulates this truth very well. His thoughts and plans are focused on putting systems and structures in place that will cause more of our immigrant communities to realize their dreams and aspirations.

In the text from Isaiah, the Prophet outlines the backslidden state of the people but nevertheless, our faithful and merciful God continued to look beyond their faults and minister to their needs.

Isaiah 65:8 “This is what the LORD says: “As when juice is still found in a cluster of grapes and men say, `Don’t destroy it, there is yet some good in it,’ so will I do on behalf of my servants; I

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CARL E. HEASTIE - PROFILE continued from page 10

lish community schools, a holistic approach to providing students with needs-based education that provides wraparound health, social services, mental health and afterschool programming to promote the well-being of students alongside their academic success.

In an especially poignant campaign to strengthen the achievement of all New York’s students, he championed efforts to secure the enactment of President Barack Obama’s “My Brother’s Keeper” initiative. This victory made New York the first state in the nation to commit to this innovative, multi-faceted agenda to overcome challenges and improve outcomes for boys and young men of color.

In one of his first actions as Speaker, Heastie strengthened the Assembly’s longstanding commitment to supporting high quality, public education by creating the Higher Education Road to Success Initiative to build bridges to higher education for New York’s students. Since 2015, this initiative has provided a more than 40 percent increase in funding support for opportunity programs that help thousands of low and middle income families afford a college education. It also marked the beginning of strategic annual efforts to slow down the rapidly rising cost of tuition by increasing base aid for community college students, earmarking millions in funding support for capital improvements as well as supporting child care services on public school campuses.

In keeping with his belief in pursuing holistic, consensus driven solutions,

Speaker Heastie formed work groups to explore options for meaningful and sustainable investments for issues like child care and climate change. Additionally, he convened public hearings that were instrumental in creating the framework for a multi-billion dollar investment in the 2017-2018 Budget for water quality infrastructure and remediation. Speaker Heastie represents the 83rd A.D. in the northeast Bronx and was first elected to the Assembly in 2000. Prior to becoming Assembly Speaker, he scored a victory for public health when he championed the passage of a law that prohibited the sale of water containing nicotine to children under 18 years old. He also authored a law to help victims of domestic violence by releasing them from lease obligations if it is found that remaining in the residence would keep the victim in a dangerous environment. He has been one of the state legislature’s leading advocates for the construction of new schools and his vigilance led to the development of several new schools in his district. In addition, he secured significant funding for housing, education, after school programming, health and human services, jobs readiness and computer training for constituents.

Prior to joining the Assembly, Speaker Heastie served as a budget analyst in the New York City Comptroller’s office. He earned a master’s degree in business administration with a concentration in finance from Baruch College of CUNY and a bachelor’s degree in applied mathematics and statistics from Stony Brook University (SUNY).

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Odayne Rhoden

& The Worship Xperience

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habbach Ministries International began its journey in the beautiful island of Jamaica on February 27, 2010 as Psalms Ministries. Out of the blossoming ministry grew under the leadership of Minister Odayne Rhoden, The Worship Xperience was born - in Brooklyn, New York.

Odayne Rhoden and the Worship Xperience continues to impact their communities and endeavors to make their sound heard worldwide. This beloved group believes that transformation extends beyond their worship at church services, concerts and outreach events; they go beyond the aesthetics of what is externally offered each time they perform. Their targeted focus is to serve their brothers and sisters in love (and with love) because FUN IN THE SON - NYC

when the lights go off and the music ceases, there is generosity and unity that they aspire to achieve. With rigor, this dynamic group of young people steadily launches into the community to serve those who are often forgotten.

They host health fairs, provide hot meals for the less fortunate, visit the sick in hospitals and nursing homes, and go as far as to break the walls of the church down to extend the love of Christ to those incarcerated. They are a team that functions more than bandmates, better than just comrades, but more so like a close-knit family. Odayne Rhoden & The Worship Xperience continually apply their love of scripture in sharing the good news of salvation, locally and internationally, touching lives wherever they go.

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Strengthening Communities

WE PROUDLY SUPPORT THE FUN IN THE SON COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT PRESENTED BY

The Good Neighbors Community Outreach Agency

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Everything Matters

PROFILE

JAMAAL T. BAILEY New York State Senator, 36th Senate District

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tate Senator Jamaal T. Bailey was elected to the New York State Senate on November 8th, 2016. Senator Jamaal T. Bailey represents New York's 36th State Senate District, which covers the Bronx neighborhoods of Coop City, Wakefield, Woodlawn, Pelham Gardens, Edenwald, Eastchester, and Baychester and the Westchester city of Mount Vernon. He currently serves as the Chair of the Senate Committee on Codes; and a member of the Judiciary; Children and Families, Crime Victims, Crime and Correction; Finance; and Rules committees, and the Joint Senate Task Force on Opioids, Addiction & Overdose Prevention.

Senator Bailey is a lifelong resident of the 36th District. He grew up in the Wakefield section of the Bronx and attended P.S. 83 in Morris Park and later attended MS 181 in Co-op City. He graduated from the Bronx High School of Science, went on to receive his bachelor’s degree from SUNY Albany and received his law degree from CUNY School of

Law. As a graduate of the Community and Economic Development clinic of CUNY Law, Jamaal is no stranger to the fight for social and economic justice. He believes that increased access to healthy food, giving people greater and affordable access to quality health care, and revamping education to focus on the whole child as opposed to simply teaching to a test will make a difference in our community. Jamaal believes that a more engaged and informed community is a community that can thrive. He believes that criminal justice reform is sorely needed in this present age of overcrowded prisons, unjust legal decisions, and ongoing injustice. He believes that access to civil legal services should widely be made available.

Jamaal has been involved in his community since he was of a young age. He played in North Bronx Little League, has been a member of the Butler Memorial United Methodist Church, and is a member of the Williamsbridge Branch of the NAACP. During his senior year at continued on page 46

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LET THE RHYTHM OF JAMAICA BRING YOU BACK TO WHERE YOUR HEART BELONGS.

VISITJAMAICA.COM

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HOME OWNERSHIP - A DREAM COME THROUGH continued from page 14

will not destroy them all.’”

Then, God through the Prophet gives us His blessed assurance. He will be with His people always even to the end of the age. He will never leave them nor forsake them.

The following scripture continues this narrative in his letter to the exiles.

Jeremiah 29:5-14 5.

Build houses and settle down; plant gardens and eat what they produce.

Marry and have sons and daughters; find wives for your sons and give your daughters in marriage, so that they too may have sons and daughters. Increase in number there; do not decrease. 7. Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the LORD for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” 8. Yes, this is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says: “Do not let the prophets and diviners among you deceive you. Do not listen to the dreams you encourage them to have.

6.

They are prophesying lies to you in my name. I have not sent them,” declares the LORD. 10. This is what the LORD says: “When seventy years are completed for Babylon, I will come to you and fulfill my good promise to bring you back to this place. 11. For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

9.

I will be found by you,” declares the LORD, “and will bring you back from captivity. I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you,” declares the LORD, “and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile.”

14.

The Spiritual leaders who are facilitating the process for immigrants to build houses and enjoy the fruit of their labor in the land of promise are in line with the prophetic instructions given by God through his Prophets, Isaiah and Jeremiah. The Prophecy is clear - we are not to listen to those among us who are Anti-America, with focus on bashing the systems in place. They may not be in place to benefit us, but God has a plan to benefit us. He is saying we should build houses and live in them; plant gardens and eat their produce; help wives and husbands, and encourage our children to do the same. Multiply, do not decrease, and most importantly we are to seek the welfare of the city that we are in and pray to God on its behalf!

Upliftment 1000 is the vision of our Bishop Paul Peart and it is what God is saying to us in this season. Let us be diligent to focus on what God is saying and get busy doing what He says and see what the Lord will do.

Let’s Occupy Until He Comes.

If you need help with housing such as purchasing your home, home repairs, foreclosure assistance contact Pastor Gladstone Johnson at (914) 275-3961 or email g.johnson@bronxnhs.org

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hOpe day

With hOpe, there is unity!

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Dr. Donovan & Faith Thomas

O

ChOOse life!

ver 700,000 people die by suicide every year.

It is statistically known that suicide is among the leading cause of death worldwide. The rates are higher than breast cancer, malaria, HIV/AIDS or war and homicide.

As reflected in their motto ‘Helping People Live’, the flagship program of Choose Life International, since inception, has been Suicide Prevention. It is acknowledged to us all that many people that are hurting want to hurt past the immediate feeling; they are hurting to the point of wanting to take their own life! On an almost daily basis, those who are hurting are often hopeless and helpless about their circumstances and contemplate taking their own lives. The factors stem from family trauma, societal exclusion, financial distress, no hope for the future– the list is endless.

Through interventions, individuals who seek the help are placed with trained professionals who provide proficient help, and hope is restored to the broken.

A new lease on life was granted .

Choose Life International (CLI) is a faithbased non-governmental organization that was established in Jamaica in 2008 and the USA in 2018. As a Registered Charity in both countries, Choose Life International exists to help people live: physically, emotionally and spiritually.

Over the years CLI has offered a number of services, which include The Art of Science and Happiness, Emotional Screening, Counseling and Coaching, and Seminars, among many other resourceful tools.

Know this: if you are facing travailing times, as much as you have heard before, know for sure that you are NOT alone.

There is a tribe of people with hands extended that want to help you, that want to pray for you through your moments of intense pressure, and life’s low spaces.

There are trained professionals that want you to seek the light through the darkness, to pull you into life.

No matter the cost, Choose Life!

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MINISTER

KEVIN HEATH

R

ecording Gospel Artist Kevin Heath is known for being a kingdom believer, an evangelist, a Preacher, a motivational speaker, a counselor. Above all, Minister Kevin Heath is known for being a jovial man of God. He is a native of Jamaica who hails from the Parish of St. Elizabeth. He migrated to the Parish of St. James where he got married and he lived in the Cayman Islands for 12 and a half years, then returned to Jamaica to do full time ministry and now resides in the Parish

of St. Catherine.

After surviving a fatal accident, Minister Kevin Heath challenged the gates of hell when he returned from his “out of body” experience and made a vow to make Jesus known in every corner of the world he touches. With the determination and tenacity of a warrior, he went on to pursue a career in ministerial music and won the Cayman Islands Gospel Festival in 2012 with his hit song “True Friend.”

He was also Gospel Artist of the Year in the Cayman Islands in 2013. In 2018, his song “I’m Above '' broke through charts

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and was nominated Local Gospel Hit of the Year.

United States of America, England and Europe.

Mr. Heath has shared the stage with a number of dominating artists of the gospel industry, including Minister Carlene Davis, Donnie McClurkin, DJ Nicholas, Papa San, Lieutenant Stitchie, Kevin Downswell, Clifford (FYAH) Henry, Todd Dulaney, Travis Greene, and the late Sister Scully, to name a few.

Kevin Heath is happily married to his admirable wife, Tamara Heath. Their union has produced two boys; Kevroy and Tadrew. Kevin continues to reach the multitude of people wherever he goes, whether on school tours, canvassing different churches and corporate facilities, children's home, the infirmary, charity events, concerts, inner city wherever he is, the presence of God follows, as he makes great effort to reach souls and help bring them to Christ.

Minister Heath has spent his time traveling and ministering in varying parishes of Jamaica, and continues to make his mark in the Caribbean. He has seen the walks of those in Honduras, St. Maarten, and the Grand Cayman. He’s even spread the Word of God internationally; ministering in Canada, the

He is living proof that what God brings to life, He is able to sustain in POWER!

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BREAKING THE FOUR WALLS Feat. Bishop Paul & Rev. Ingrid Peart

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n their first-ever sit-down interview conducted by Fun in the Son (FITS), Bishop & Rev. Peart shared their perspective on the impact churches make when they “break the four walls” of generational tendencies and extend love to the residents of the Northeast sector of the Bronx, New

York. This dynamic duo has been senior and associate pastors of a 500-member congregation at the New Testament Temple Church of God on Seymour Avenue for over 30 years.

Q: What separates Fun in the Son from other music festivals?

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Peart’s: Fun in the Son is Christcentered. The event sparks unity in a commonplace and provides people with continuity, relationships, and the ability to make generational growth.

Q: Can you describe the role Fun in the Son plays in getting residents of the community together?

Peart’s: People come out to enjoy this event each year. FITS represents nations of people in the Bronx coming together, including elected officials, law enforcement, businesses, churches, and families. It provides opportunities for adults and children to appreciate the spirit of volunteering and participating in activities, learn the logistical components, and execute the program.

Q: Fun in the Son is engaging and fun and filled with so much energy.

How do you ensure that the messaging or theme runs smoothly?

Bishop Peart: To be honest, many music festivals risk being monotonous or redundant over time. FITS offers variety with an element of surprise. The theme changes annually based on the needs of the people. We have also found that when we offer

resources, they add value to the event. This year, our Mental Health forum included assets to uplift the mind, body, and soul.

The lineup of Artists is a critical part of the stage performances the event is known for. Word of mouth also keeps things fresh; there are new faces each time, so that effect brings more excitement!

Q: How do you work through moments of feeling the intensity of the impact made by this momentous event? Do you often find that you must “get away” because it’s overwhelming?

Peart’s: Have you ever heard of “teamwork makes the dream work?” We have a team of people who ensure that the burden and stress of it all is logistically spread evenly among everyone. This team includes leaders and approximately 200 volunteers.

We believe in the power of prayer, which is the focal point of it all.

Q: Pausing here at the place of prayer, how has prayer benefited this event and, more importantly, the people who willingly show up?

Is there a story/testimony of a family or a passerby of the event that stands out to you?

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HEALED PEOPLE, HEAL THE COMMUNITY “What lies before us and what lies behind us are small matters compared to what lies within us. And when you bring what is within, out into the world, miracles happen.”

Henry David

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any of y o u reading this article, are miracles waiting to happen. Believe it or not, you are gifted to heal Rev. Cheryll Johnson others. You may be Administrator going through a Follow-up Ministry season of brokenness but, this is because you are being equipped to bring healing to others and your community. For grapes to produce grape juice or for olives to produce olive oil they must be broken and crushed. For the gift of healing to come forth, it must come from broken vessels.

Through the Bible, we meet individuals who exhibited mental health issues, such as King Saul– one minute he was on an expedition to find and kill David and in another minute, David was playing the harp for him to dispel the tormenting demons around him.

You are not damaged, you’re just broken, and God can fix the broken!

You may say, “why is this happening to me or why can’t I overcome this?”

God always has a purpose in our pain, and He will create a message out of our madness.

2. Identity - Many of us were not taught who we are truly created to be! We receive lies about our identity (e.g. you are not good enough, you are not smart enough, you are not kind enough etc.) leaving us in a state of limbo or causing us to align with the wrong crowd.

There are some areas in which we all experience issues concerning clarity, which if not resolved can lead to Mental Health instability, which subsequently leads to setbacks in life. They include: 1. Family of Origin - the ways we were raised, the secrets that we feel compelled to keep, mental, verbal & physical abuse, rejection, abandonment and financial hardships are just some of the issues that contribute.

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e c a l p t e k r Ma

Glad to be a part of Such Event May God Continue to Bless our Community...

May God Continue to Bless From : Palm Tree Marketplace & Family our Community...

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Otaheiti apple CObbler reCipe ingredients FOR FILLING

3 cups of sliced oahetie apples 1/2 cup of sugar for filling 1 cup frozen blueberries 1 tsp vanilla 1/2 tsp almond extract A pinch of salt 1/2 tsp cornstarch For Cobbler Dough 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 3 tbsp sugar 2 tsp baking powder 3/4 sea salt 1 tsp orange zest 6 tbsp unsalted butter (diced) 1/2 milk For Topping 1 egg 1 tsp milk 1 tbsp sugar

nOW, let’s WOrk: 1. Pour sugar over apples and stir.

Cover and let apples marinate overnight or (for about 5 hours) in the fridge to release excess water. When it has marinated, drain off most of the liquid from the apples.

2. Add 1 cup of frozen blueberries,

vanilla, almond extract corn starch, salt and stir to combine with the apples.

3. Transfer the fruit mixture to the

baking dish. It should fill the dish halfway to three-quarters full, leaving a good inch or so of extra space for the cobbler topping.

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4. Heat Oven to 375 degrees, and

mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt together in a large bowl.

5. Cut butter and work into the

flour until you get a crumbly mixture.

6. Pour in 0.5 cup of milk. Stir until just combined.

7. Brush the cobbler dough with the egg wash and sprinkle with sugar.

8. Place the cobbler on a rimmed baking sheet to catch drips, or place aluminum foil beneath it in the oven.

9. Bake until the topping is turning golden brown around the edges and the fruit filling is bubbling, 45 to 55 minutes.

10. Cool & Enjoy! [recipe courtesy of Chef Samantha George, YouTube] PAGE 33

Financial Literacy in the Community

H

ey everyone! I’m excited to be writing to you Rhoan Cassells Jr. all in this year’s Wealthy Village Rep. Fun in the Son magazine.

A part of this year’s Fun in the Son festivities is the Wealthy Village, where we aim to provide financial education and resources to the community. Along with scriptures that command us to serve (Matthew 6:24), the Bible tells us to be wise with our finances, that we may enjoy the better things in life (Proverbs 21:20).

Strong financial literacy is a critical component in creating lasting wealth in this country. When categorized by racial or ethnic group, the data suggests that financial literacy rates are not evenly dispersed in our community. Through Fun in the Son, Wealthy Village is able to provide foundational information that will help bridge the racial financial literacy gap, and empower people within the

community to make more informed decisions with their finances.

There are three of many principles you can use to create financial wealth that can last:

Principle 1: Have a plan

Having a 6-month, 3 year, or even a 10 year plan can give you a concrete road map in managing your finances, by giving you a savings goal, a budget, and outline how your money and resources will grow and be allocated over time.

Even though circumstances and financial situations may change, having a financial plan is a tool that will allow you to minimize some unpredictability when it comes to your wealth.

Principle 2: Ownership, Ownership, Ownership!

While earning money through your occupation can provide a great foundation for one’s finances, ownership allows you to own income producing assets that will allow you to generate wealth without the need to be present at a job. What do we

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mean? Whether it’s a house, stocks, bonds, land, companies, artwork, or insurance policies, it is encouraged for everyone to pursue ownership of income producing assets that you will perpetually reap the rewards. As a homeowner myself, I can truly attest to the satisfaction of the ability to call something yours!

Principle 3: Know the rules! Taxes, Credit Hosea 4:6 states that “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge”, which applies to our finances as well! One of the biggest limiting factors to achieving financial prosperity is not knowing the “rules'' that govern the country we live in.

Whether that is knowing what tax bene-

fits to invest in regarding your assets, or knowing the principles that will increase your credit score; knowing these rules will allow you to make informative based decisions when executing your master financial plan.

Overall, sustaining great financial health takes a combination of planning, intentionality, resourcefulness and ultimate faith in the One from which all good things that we have come from– Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Praying God’s blessings over your life, health, and wealth!

OTAHEITI APPLE Otaheite Apple also known as Jamaican Apple is our fruit of the year!

Besides the amazing sweet taste of home and a hint of rose, this beloved fruit of the island carries many benefits, which includes: ● ● ● ●

low sugar content that balances those who have diabetes calcium found in the skin of the apple known in growing bones, teeth, and muscles potency in vitamin A & vitamin C that helps to kill infectious bacteria and protects the immune system and an abundance of recipes to make from it

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Take The Limits Off Your God Mathew 6: 25-34

Rev. Clover Hawthorne Pastor The Gathering International Ministries

D

id you know that it’s possible to limit God and hinder His work in your life?

Many times, our doubt, unbelief, and our inability to see beyond our current circumstances keep us from receiving the best God has for us. It’s time to see yourself the way the limitless God has made you. God wants to prosper us in every way—spiritually, financially, emotionally, and physically; but we need to start seeing ourselves as He sees us.

God has great plans for you “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11).

You have to ask God for things that make

him look like He IS God. Stop looking to your job; your job is not your source. God has arranged all things for you according to His good will and eternal purposes.

God trusts you. When others say you can’t, God says you can. He will use your skills and give you the aptitude to function in it. I encourage you to cultivate the discipline of affirmation speak God’s word over your life. You are in God’s hand, rest there and leave all else to Him. Keep acknowledging Him in all your ways and trust Him to direct your path.

Put God into the equation and tap into His limitless power. And listen, don’t

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continue to allow your natural eyes to close out what your spirit eye is yearning to see. God created you for greatness, however, most people never reach their God-given potential. Why? They’ve put limitations on their life. They say, “I’m not smart enough”, “I’m not good enough”, “I’m not talented enough”.

Listen, according to Ephesians 2:10, you are His workmanship, His masterpiece.

BUT, if you see yourself as no one special, then you won’t live out the special unique limitless life God has for you. Don’t limit God by only what you can do.

The Israelites are an example of how limiting God can have serious ramifications.

Psalm 78:40-42 tell us, “How oft did they provoke him in the wilderness, and grieve him in the desert! Yea, they turned back and tempted God, and limited the Holy One of Israel. They remembered not his hand, nor the day when he delivered them from the enemy.”

Don’t be like the Israelites. When it came time to trust God, they resorted to murmuring and complaining, even though He had proven Himself strong many times. I want to encourage you to quit murmuring and complaining. I can almost hear someone saying, “but you don’t understand.” Well, let me ask you, how is murmuring and complaining working out for you?

keeping God, and He never breaks His covenant with you. If He said it, He will make it good. God returns by way of His promise.

GOD TOLD ME TO TAKE THE LIMITS OFF

The Lord showed me many things He wanted me to do through our ministry.

I even told other people what they were.

But the truth was, I just couldn’t see myself doing them, and that was limiting God. One day I received a prophetic word from the Lord through one of His trusted servants. “Woman of God, if you could see the magnitude of your call.” As she continued, I responded, “Lord, I receive and embrace my call.” To my surprise, when I made that decision, things began to change almost immediately. It released something in the spiritual realm when I began to take the limits off and to see myself the way God sees me.

What God is calling me to do is much bigger than me, and what He wants to do through you will always be beyond your own ability and talent. I’m telling you that if everything you have accomplished has been gained by your own strength and power, you have not yet tapped into God’s will for your life.

Now, there are some things you need to change if you want to step into the destiny God has for you, and to be who God created you to be, and live the limitless life.

God is a consistent God. He is a covenant continued on page 46 PAGE 37

MEET

Skerrit Bwoy aka Mr. Jesus Party

"1

00% Jesus Music" is his slogan, and at Fun in the Son, DJ Skerrit Bwoy is excited to bring you the Jesus Party!

As a Christian, Skerrit Bwoy has amassed three #1 albums and seven top-10 singles on the iTunes Dance and Electronic Music charts through his Jesus Party series. He also has a hit TikTok Challenge called the #JesusPartyChallenge, where people from every inhabitable continent have been dancing to his theme song, Jesus Party. You should definitely GOOGLE this guy!

Born in the Caribbean island of Antigua and raised in The Bronx, New York City, Skerrit Bwoy went from Dancehall Reggae parties with Ghetto Life Entertainment to EDM festivals with Major Lazer before giving it all up for Jesus Christ.

Skerrit Bwoy is now a producer, artist, and DJ of Electronic Gospel Music & Christian EDM. He spans PAGE 38

multiple international genres, and his audience encompasses various age demographics, race, and socioeconomic status. "I love to have fun for Jesus; apparently, many others do too. I'm extremely blessed to be the facilitator of this diverse set of people and this Jesus Party movement," says Skerrit Bwoy.

The word "fun" is only the beginning of his music ministry. Skerrit Bwoy is no stranger to the entertainment industry.

Before his conversion to Christianity, he was featured by prominent media outlets such as CNN, Large Up, The Fader, and TruTV. His documentary" Temporary Sanity" by Dan Bruun, was featured in several film festivals worldwide. Live events are a specialty of Skerrit Bwoy. From Coachella to Ultra and many more, he has performed on major festival stages across over 50 countries. After his spiritual conversion,

popular music platforms, including Vice, Brooklyn Vegan, Rapzilla, and more, have covered Skerrit Bwoy's transition.

He has also appeared at live events like Fun in the Son NYC, Unity Music Festival, and the C&MA's Life Conference.

You can catch Skerrit Bwoy in the church lending a helping hand, rocking festival stages, or in the recording studio producing new skool Christian music.

Skerrit Bwoy would like to thank you for your continued love and support through his multiple seasons of transitions. #OhMyJesus Please, check out www.SkerritBwoy.com for more info, music, videos, and upcoming events.

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Business Spotlight

Kori’s Eat: Expanding the Community

M

r. Corey Lawrence is no stranger to us here at Fun in the Son Bronx. In fact, he graced our 2019 cover of Good Neighbors. After talking with Mr. Lawrence, it is clear that though success isn’t linear, once you’ve developed a concrete blueprint to the life of entrepreneurship, the one thing you can do is expect the unexpected. Corey has ensured that Kori’s Eat is the mark in the community that unites waffles lovers with Jamaican food lovers, who are united with lovers of chicken and waffles.

Kori’s Eat was founded by Corey Lawrence in 2016 after the birth of his daughter Kori Lawrence.

Corey has worked and owns one of the largest breakfast Franchise Restaurant chains for over 25 years. The first Kori’s Eat restaurant location was established in

November 2019 in The Bronx, New York.

Kori’s Eat is a privately held corporation that sells Island and American eats, as well as a franchisor of restaurants. Kori’s Eat specializes in chicken and waffles, which spans to 22 flavored waffles, 14 flavors pancakes and 14 flavor wings. The goal of this franchise is to serve the best Island and American eats with superb service. The wellrounded menu includes breakfast favorites like omelets, and pastries, shakes– and the best part?

Breakfast is served each day, throughout the day.

Are you hungry, yet? Because I am.

Mr. Lawrence is a proof of the tenacity shown within our Bronx community.

Once you have the vision, make it plain, and live it out loud with no apology!

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H E AL E D PE OPL E , HE AL THE CO MMUNIT Y continued from Page 30

We all have an innate need to have an affirmative sense of self: a sense of confidence, uniqueness, adequacy, achievement and respect for others.

Many people look to solve this identity crisis through alternative lifestyles, such as self medicating, joining gangs or immersing themselves in habits that take over their life.

For us to be successful, we must break these dangerous patterns. The definition of success is consistency in one direction over a period of time, and many of us do not have the capacity to do this because our mind needs renewal, which comes from healing. We become what we think; our thoughts are a seed for the future.

When we change our thinking, we can make better choices which change the course of our lives. There is an invitation for us to be healed and to heal others.

Our community is crying out in distress.

Our children are being negatively impacted by the culture of the day, and our adults are not equipped to steer them in the right direction. Our systems are broken– family, health care, religion, Security Services, Education, Media, etc.

But, we can become healed in our minds and bring restoration where there was brokenness and become a “repairer of the breach.”

“Setback to Comeback” is a lifestyle change that famous Life Coach, Tim Storey teaches. He uses seasoned principles and humor to help people overcome many obstacles that hold them hostage.

We must wise up to know that our setbacks do not need to define us; we can take our setbacks and make them springboard us into comebacks so we are an asset to our community and not a liability.

1. Seek Counsel a) Advisors b) Lay counselors (seasoned in the Word of Truth) c) Pastoral authority (Pastors, Ministers who are skilled and filled) d) Professional counseling (Christian counselors, Psychologists, Therapists) 2. Identify faulty beliefs 3. Replace faulty beliefs with Truth (Advisors/Mentors) 4. Rehearse the Truth for at least 3-6 months, to think differently, till they become your reality 5. Become your authentic self a) being restored to our Creator’s original upright and locked position Rev. Cheryll Johnson is a Pastor at New Testament Temple who is called along with her Husband to the Deliverance and Inner Healing Ministry. Her passion is mentoring persons into their God-given identity. She is an ordained Minister, a licensed Professional Counselor and a licensed Hairstylist and a Health enthusiast.

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Uplifting the Community One Program at a Time The Early Days The sound of music, news, talk, radio drama, and laughter were played on radio stations in homes across the quaint Lady D Denise Gomez community of Producer & Presenter Pennants in North Inside the Zone Central Clarendon, Jamaica. Residents used this communication medium to socialize and keep each other up to date on the hot topics of the day. These conversations were often intense and held in bars, tailor shops, grocery stores, and at the crossroads where commuters waited endlessly for their buses, trucks, and minivans to their destinations. During these times, I developed a fascination for a specific equipment that helped word get around town. I formed images of announcers in my mind as they read the news or voiced an audio commercial.

How they articulated and lured their listeners into their programs intrigued me.

We felt close, like friends. Listening intently, I envisioned myself becoming a

radio personality in the future. The mind of a child is a terrible thing to waste!

Herbie Our family had a General Electric (GE) stereo console. Like other households, we listened to the two prominent radio stations – Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC) and Radio Jamaica Rediffusion (RJR). The collection of vinyl "45s" and "LPs" was the music of choice. In retrospect, the GE was no contrast to that of an infamous man whom I will call "Herbie." Herbie was known to walk with his transistor radio hoisted on his muscular shoulder daily and tuned in to every program with his dog in tow, machete in hand, and barefooted. The burning asphalt was not a match for his feet.

I wondered if his hands never got tired from holding his prized possession.

Again, Herbie was a very unusual man, and quite possibly, if there was dead air, Herbie would have taken out his frustration on his radio and chopped it into pieces – enough said.

Allegiance to Radio Herbie's intense approach as he listened to his radio left an impression on me as

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continued on page 48

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TAKE THE LIMITS OFF YOUR GOD continued from Page 37

First: Change How You See God

The Bible tells us God is so big that the heavens can’t contain Him (1 Kings 8:27).

He is all-powerful and all-knowing. God is infinite and without limits, so, focus on how big God is and not how big your problems are.

Second: Change Your Thinking

What you think determines what you believe and what you believe determines what you do. Proverbs 23:7 says, “as a person thinks in their heart, so are they.”

What are you thinking about, pertaining to yourself? About God, and about the circumstances in your life? Change your thinking to line up with what the Word of God says. The Word says, you are more than a conqueror, you are forgiven, you are blessed, you are the righteousness of God, and you can do all things through Christ! The Word says that He is able, He is willing, and nothing is impossible with Him. Begin to think good and

positive things about who you are in Christ. Thoughts are hidden words and hidden words become actions; so speak and declare what God’s Word says!

Third: Change your confession Your words have power. Proverbs 18:21 tells us, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” What you say determines the course of your life. Where you are in life today is a product of the words you’ve spoken. Where you will be tomorrow will be determined by the words you speak today (James 3:3-4). Change your confession, and that will change your life. That place where you are is not where He wants you to be- He has greater things for you (Gen. 13: 14- 17).

Lift up your eyes from the place where you are.

God will give you every place where you set your foot. It’s time to make your move!

JAMAAL T. BAILEY New York State Senator, 36th Senate District

continued from Page 20

SUNY Albany, he served as an intern for New York State Assemblyman, Speaker Carl Heastie where he was able to immerse himself in the legislative process, coming up with an idea for legislation that ultimately became law.

Above all, Jamaal is a dedicated family man who lives with his wife, Giamara, and their two young daughters in Baychester, where he continues to live out the advice of his family- that one can only get out of their community what they put into it.

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The RED Letters

T

he Red Letters is a group of five talented men from New York City who operate in their gifting to bring Christian/worship music to the lives of many. Founded in their church in 2003 in the Dyre Avenue sector of the Bronx, these exuberant instrumentalists

solidified their brotherhood through spontaneous jam sessions that turned into them receiving invitations to play at events in their community. The Red Letters credits their indie rock sound to influential persons who made an impact on them individually and collectively.

The band is led by lead singer and rhythm guitarist, Joshua. Other band members include Julian (bass player), Sam (drummer), Jesus (lead guitar) & Moses (vocals, keyboards, and synth).

The name The Red Letters derives from the red letter print seen in scriptures indicating when Jesus is speaking.

Their mission is to bring Jesus’ message to the world through their uplifting and life changing music.

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UPLIFTING THE COMMUNITY ONE PROGRAM AT A TIME continued from Page 44

a young child. I realized that people have an insatiable thirst for information, and it is the announcer's responsibility to create an engaging platform through which they can discuss topics relative to their community and share their stories, triumphs, and heartbreaks. On June 5, 2008, I launched Inside the Zone (ITZ) with Lady D on Linkage Radio in New York. Now in its fourteenth year, the show's tagline, "the community platform where information is guaranteed," is consistently proving to be an extraordinary radio show in the Jamaican Diaspora.

The Connection

As a Culture Centric radio program that connects the Jamaican Diaspora and international audiences worldwide, I ensure the show's content captures our people's social, cultural, and collective

views on issues that affect their communities – family, health, finance, education, immigration, housing, wealth management, real estate, life, and health insurance, and food insecurity. ITZ airs Monday and Thursday from 5 pm – 7 pm and 6 pm – 8 pm respectively. On Saturday mornings at 10 am Satideh Mawnin Runnings on my YouTube channel, Inside the Zone with Lady D, is nostalgic and captures the life experiences of Caribbean people and customs.

A Voice

Everyone has a voice, and their opinions matter. In this technologically advancing age, radio competes against pervasive digital portals. Still, with any dedicated announcer, listeners will maintain their allegiance to radio as the most powerful communication medium.

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the CelebratiOn Of freedOm Out Of many, One peOple!

EMANCIPATION – AUGUST 1 • INDEPENDENCE DAY – AUGUST 7

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I HOPE YOU KNOW

An Ode to Women of Passion, Vision, & Tenacity Do you know the power you hold?

Do you know that when you speak, the whole world stops to listen? It takes in the wonder of the words from your lips, and in obedience, flows in your conviction.

Do you know the impression you leave behind in the wake of trendsetters and generation cultivators? They perch

upon your ideas that gratify the hunger of a community; willing to share in the whirlpool of your transformational dreams.

Do you know that the echo of your heart touches the very heart of God? That every purpose led project, every plan and design is orchestrated by the Creator that proclaims a resounding “Well Done.”

Do you know the power you hold in the strategy you form, or the conversations you hold; the microphone you speak into, or the pen you hold; the attention to detail you give, or the authority you possess?

Do you know how impactful you are?

You lead with vivacious grace— this, I hope you know.

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B R E A K I N G T H E F O U R WA L L S continued from Page 29

Bishop Peart: In placing prayer When her daughter came home as the base of our foundation, from work, her daughter asked if we’ve seen God intervene on our they could take a walk to see what behalf regarding financial was going on, and together, they breakthroughs. With our limited strolled to the park. When they budget, we partnered in prayer arrived, they saw the prayer tent. and God allowed favor to rest on With heightened eagerness, they us through city and state officials. approached evangelists for Through the years, our budget prayer. The mother had has increased. We keep Stage 4 Cancer. We the momentum and believed God with People come to continuity of her for a FITS to be uplifted steadfast prayer miracle and and are transformed and have seen the prayed for a when they are guided in hand of God move to open doors that praying a prayer that leads them to Jesus, where they our budget can’t subsequently receive open. We say, “If it breakthrough. deliverance. is God’s Will, it is Doctors told God’s bill.” this mother that the impossible was Rev. Peart: People come to possible when she lived 3Fun in the Son for relief and 4 years past her “due time.” support. The spiritual aspect of Prayer works because it the event works just as much or transforms, opens doors, and even more than the holistic establishes miracles. resources provided. Prayer is the crucial component of the event Q: Reflecting on FITS through the that brings transformation and past ten years, what do you envision leads people to know God for for the next ten years? themselves. We can share many Bishop Peart: It’s been something I’ve given great thought to. FITS stories concerning the power of is a vast undertaking, drawing prayer, but one stands out about over 10 to 15,000 people. I can see a mother who heard music from us condensing this grand event the FITS stage from her window.

“

”

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B R E A K I N G T H E F O U R WA L L S

into multiple events and staging them in various areas in and beyond the Bronx. The purpose of FITS is to draw community residents together while showcasing the Gospel in a vibrant way that is genuine, authentic, and memorable.

These events occurring in different regions would germinate seeds that will flourish. New York City is vast, and if FITS is making as much of an impact within the borough now, imagine how much more significant it can be for the Kingdom of God when we partner with other churches and organizations!

remainder of the year. In talking about passing the baton to the next generation, I see us engaging the youth and young adults to share what the Lord has been speaking to their heart’s about concerning vision for the future. That aligns with what Bishop is saying regarding the miniature FITS events possibly launching in various areas of this state: having the next generation rise on the shoulders of those before them and proclaiming, “Thus saith the Lord.”

Rev. Peart: New Testament Temple Church of God does an annual 40-day fast, and the Lord always instructs us with the focus on the next season and the

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DEAR YOU, Thank you for rocking with us for a whole decade! Thank you for sharing the word to family and friends, and coworkers, and social media each time Fun in the Son traveled LIVE to you; whether in person, on your stereos, or on the television screens.

Thank you for your prayers, your words of encouragement, and your pledges. Thank you for showing up and showing out!

A special thank you to every team member that put in the work to make

this decade’s event a success! All that you’ve done; moving equipment, building stages, cooking and distributing food, organizing clothes with tender care, pushing the power of prayer, creating a space for the children of our community, orchestrating ways to build up our community in all aspects of life– everything! We want to extend our gratitude to you.

Your unique role and dedicated service makes all the difference.

Here’s to celebrating 10 more years with YOU!

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