25 She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.
26 When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness.
27 She carefully watches everything in her household and suffers nothing from laziness.
28 Her children stand and bless her. Her husband praises her:
29 “There are many virtuous and capable women in the world, but you surpass them all!”
30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised.
31 Reward her for all she has done. Let her deeds publicly declare her praise.
Happy Mother's Day!!
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Min. Carenda Deonne Beamon How to Level Up When It Matters Most Pgs 8-11
This month, we welcome Reverend Reginald Kearney, Editor and Publisher of Urban Sentinel. In an exclusive conversation, Rev. Kearney shared his insights on the vital role of the Church— both globally and locally—in today’s complex social and cultural climate. He spoke candidly about what he believes the Church should be saying and doing in this critical moment.
12 A WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE
Pastor Rhoda Turner
Intimate Moments With God
20 MONTHLY MANNA
14 Pleasantly Gounded
Latoya Holloman Grief
For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.
Psalm 84:11
Contributors
DR. CARLA DEBNAM
Dr. Carla J. Debnam is the wife of Bishop Dwayne C. Debnam and an associate minister of Morning Star Baptist Church, Woodlawn, MD. She is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Maryland. She is a member of the American Counseling Association, the American Association of Christian Counselors and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Dr. Debnam has contributed to two books, Those Sisters Can Preach: 22 Pearls of Wisdom, Virtue & Hope, and 7 Ingredients To An Effective Prayer Life Series, Vol.3-5.
Jackie Epps
EDITORIAL
Dr. Carla J. Debnam
Min. Carenda Deonne
Brandie Manigault
Dr. Denyce Daniels
Rhoda Turner
Siobhan Saulsbury
Ericka J.
GRAPHIC ARTIST
Claire Lesesne
www.JandCDesigns.com
BRANDIE MANIGAULT
Brandie Manigault is the Co-founder of Healing Voice Ministries, Co-pastor of Ecos Church, and the author of New Day Fresh Start. Of all of the titles she has and hats she wears; her favorite is wife and mother. She is a firm believer that love wins and is passionate about the health of the soul.
MIN. CARENDA DEONNE
Min. Carenda is an Author, Speaker, Workshop Facilitator, Certified Life Coach, and TV Personality. Born and raised in Baltimore, MD, she received her BA degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology and her M.A. in Law Degree (Mediation and Dispute Resolution) from Regent University. Min. Carenda helps individuals and professionals rise above their circumstances by detoxing emotionally. Carenda believes Emotional Management Equals Life Management. Her new book, 12 Rounds...How to Detox Emotionally and Win, is scheduled to launch 2024.
DR. DENYCE WATTIES-DANIELS
Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels has over 25 years of experience as a clinician and nurse educator. Her areas of expertise include critical care nursing, pathophysiology, pharmacology and the use of technology in the classroom. She currently serves as faculty and the Director of the Simulation and Learning Resource Centers of the College of Health Professions at Coppin State University.
Grace & Glory Magazine is the ideal publication for Encouragement, Empowerment and Inspiration.
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PASTOR RHODA TURNER
Rhoda possesses a spirit of humility. Her ministry style is graceful, her message is powerful and her presence is comforting. Being the 9th of 10 children, Rhoda has a deep passion for family and the wholistic development of children. She is considered by many as a mentor and mother figure.
Rhoda and her husband Pastor Jason Turner, serve as senior pastors of Christian Faith Fellowship Church in Chandler, AZ.
ERICKA J.
Ericka J. is a Baltimore Native Radio and TV Personality Media Mogul. Ericka J. is a community activist who is very passionate about carrying on the legacy of her mother the late Rev. Sandi Johnson. Ericka J. is also a sought-after hair stylist and fashion icon.
Siobhan Saulsbury
Siobhan Saulsbury is a financial ally. She inspires believers to transform their financial legacy for the benefit of future generations. She teaches on God's guidelines to financial success and health in a relatable and tangible way. Her signature phrase is "Make Good Choices"!
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!
This month’s issue is dedicated to the hardest working woman on the planet . . . our Mothers! There is none like her. We all believe that we have the Best Mother in the world. This woman that we call Mother is by far God’s greatest creation. The thing that sets her apart is her everlasting love for her children and her intent that they lead normal, well-adjusted lives. Her attributes are so much like the attributes of God. She can be all things at once; whatever her children need her to be she can be that at the drop of a hat. In fact this woman can wear multiple hats all at the same time.
Although overworked and underpaid, Mother never complains. She will work her fingers to the bone for her children. She will come to their rescue, no matter what the cause. These are, after all, her God-given ‘talents’ to take and use for the glory of God. He expects Mother to raise and nurture her ‘charges’ to become the best they can be in this world, and to equip them for their God given purpose in this world.
Not until we become adults, do we really begin to appreciate who Mother really is. She has nurtured us through our childhood, put up with our sassy, lazy ways during our teenage years, comforted us through our fears, and supported our dreams. Mother has always been there to encourage us when we made a mistake or fell down; if she was ever disappointed she never let it show and was always willing to help us get up on our feet again.
As we grow older and have our own children, we realize that Mother was a very strong person. We also realize just what it takes to fill her shoes. In our eyes our mothers will never grow old and we are never too old to need her. On Mother’s Day, we will go all out to celebrate this woman God created; and she deserves it all and then some! Mother will always hold a place deep in our hearts.
In loving memory of my mother “Kizzy”.
Jackie
“It has been 10 years this month that my mother went home to be with the Lord. It has been a difficult journey, a journey that no one can prepare you for nor travel with you. The pain of being without your mother never goes away, you just try to adjust to life without her. I know that Mother’s Day can be a difficult day for those who no longer have their mothers here with them. Be encouraged by your memories of her, her love for you, and the time you shared together. Know that she would not want you to be sad this day but to find comfort in knowing that she is always near right there in your heart. Let us find comfort that God has promised us we will be with them again.”
Jackie Epps
KEARNEYReverend Reginald
Q&A Interview - Reverend Reginald Kearney
Ministry & Calling
G&G: Rev. Kearney, welcome to Grace & Glory Magazine. We are happy to feature you this month, let’s start with you sharing a bit about your calling into the ministry.
Rev. Kearney: This is a very interesting question. I was called into the ministry in 1979 as a young man, but as a young college graduate, I ran from my calling for years because I thought it was more important to enjoy the world instead of following Jesus. Then in 1996 I finally accepted my calling to the ministry, and I was licensed to preach at Zion Baptist Church in Welcome, MD, under the leadership of Rev. William A. Thorpe in June of 1996. At this time, I am part of the ministerial staff of Zion Baptist Church where I serve as one of the teachers of the adult Sunday school, and I am also Director of Christian Education.
G&G: What has been the most rewarding part of your ministry journey?
Rev. Kearney: Helping people in the community has been very rewarding. I have had the opportunity to work with organizations in my area and with the church I attend to assist people in the community with their needs. I also enjoy teaching and preaching God’s word, because our duty as Pastors and Ministers is to speak the “Good News” to the people. I also have 30-minute shows on the Now Network and the DMV Powered Gospel Radio where I bring the word to the viewers and listeners.
the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is- His good, pleasing and perfect will.”
G&G: Rev. Kearney, I understand that you are also a publisher. Would you tell us about that part of your life?
Rev. Kearney: Yes. I am the Editor and Publisher of the “Urban Sentinel” magazine, and I also host the Urban Sentinel Live show on POD.TV and YouTube. The magazine covers national well-known people and upcoming movers and shakers. The magazine is going into year number four and can be found on Issuu.com or at the website: www. urbansentinelmagazine.com. I enjoy publishing the magazine because it gives people the opportunity to shine their light in the community.
The Role of the Church in The Country and The World
G&G: Rev. Kearney, what do you believe is the role of the Church in today’s society?
Rev. Kearney: Overall, the church needs to be the keeper of the people today. We must address their spiritual needs and their physical needs. I think the church has failed at this because we are stuck behind our doors, and we are too scared to go out into the community to evangelize. Now, all churches are not operating this way, but there are many who do. We can make changes in our community by evangelizing and taking the fight to the streets.
G&G: What are some of the greatest challenges you’ve faced in ministry?
Rev. Kearney: The greatest challenge I face in ministry today is my ability to navigate and proclaim the Gospel in this tough world and society. If you are a man or woman of God you must stand on God’s word, even when people are against you. People want you to transform to the world we live in, but you must stand on Romans 12:2 (NIV) which reads, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by
G&G: In what ways do you think the Church needs to evolve or adapt in the modern world?
Rev. Kearney: The church must remain true to God’s word. There are churches who are trying to have it both ways, and by doing this the church will suffer. The church is forced to adapt to the world when it comes to technology, etc. But when it comes to church doctrine, we must remain true to God’s word.
Continued on page 10
Reverend Reginald Kearney is the Publisher and Editor of the Urban Sentinel.
Continued from page 9
G&G: Rev. Kearney, what do you see as some of the biggest spiritual challenges facing our country right now?
Rev. Kearney: The biggest spiritual challenge that our country faces today is the push for social change. Many people feel like the church needs to adapt to the social changes we face when it comes to the desires of the people. Right now, there is a fight between what’s right and what’s wrong, what’s acceptable and what is not acceptable, and this has put a black cloud over this country.
G&G: How do you think the Church should respond to political and social divisions?
Rev. Kearney: Today’s issues put the church in a tough spot because its members have different views on politics and social issues. The church must speak up, but they must be a-political. Now there are churches and pastors who say what they have to say, and this is good, and you have many churches who do not say anything because they do not want to lose their non-profit status with the IRS. The white evangelical churches have blurred the line, but we as the Black church must not be afraid to voice our opinions and to challenge the powers to be.
G&G: Do you believe the global church can work together to address major world issues like poverty, injustice, and inequality?
Rev. Kearney: I would have to give you a “no” as the answer to this question. There will be churches that will take on this task, but there will be churches that will fail in this area because they feel that it is not their responsibility, and they are not affected by poverty, injustice and inequality. We have to remember that they do not have a strong love for their brothers and sisters, and they want the other churches to take care of this issue.
The Future
Rev. Kearney: My plans are to continue to carry God’s word throughout the world through my programs and my writings. The magazine will be focused more on the DMV area along with national news going forward, which I hope will gain us more readers.
G&G: Rev. Kearney, how can churches prepare for the future while staying rooted in the Gospel? What role do you think the next generation will play in shaping the Church?
Rev. Kearney: In preparing for the future, the church will have to stand on God’s word. The church will also have to take ministry to the streets and evangelize to the people. We need to come outside to the people and meet them in the streets.
The next generation is going to change how we do church. The preaching, teaching and the music will change. I pray that they will continue to stand on God’s word and not change. But I really pray that they will not conform to the world and try to change God’s word for those with itchy ears.
G&G: Rev. Kearney, what do you feel God is saying to the Church in this season?
Rev. Kearney: I feel that God is telling the Church to teach, preach, and fast and to get it together. If you study God’s word and pay attention to the book of Revelations, you will see God’s word being manifested.
G&G: Rev. Kearney, lastly, what gives you hope when you look at the state of the world today? How can believers still be a light in uncertain times?
Rev. Kearney: I believe in God’s word and my belief in His promises gives me hope that during these tough times that things will improve, and people will embrace God. Even in all the chaos that is taking place I know that there is hope for our world. But I also know that God will be back for His church one day and for the believers so we must be prepared. During this time, believers need to stay prayed up and they need to read God’s word daily so they can stay in the light.
G&G: Rev. Kearney, first, what is your vision for your ministry in the future? Any new plans for your publishing business?
2 Timothy 3:1 tells us: “But understand this-In the last days terrible times will come.” It’s a reminder that hardship is a possibility, but it also encourages faith and reliance on God during such times.
Intimate Moments With God
Rhoda
TURNER
With me being an early riser, I typically pray early in the morning and very quietly due to my entire house being asleep. On this morning in particular I was worshipping and singing internally, and the internal song quickly became external but yet still soft and quiet. I remember hearing some very faint steps on the stairs in the distance. Someone was walking down the stairs. I continued to worship and pray. Once that time had concluded I opened my eyes to find my daughter staring at me with this strange look. I asked her, “Why are you looking at me like that.” She answered, “What song were you singing”? I answered with the title “He Touched Me”. She asked me to sing it again. So, I started singing the song.
Shackled by a heavy burden, ‘Neath a load of guilt and shame. Then the hand of Jesus touched me, And now I am no longer the same. He touched me, Oh He touched me, And oh the joy that floods my soul! Something happened and now I know, He touched me and made me whole.
Since I met this blessed Savior, Since He cleansed and made me whole, I will never cease to praise Him, I’ll shout it while eternity rolls.
He touched me, Oh He touched me, And oh the joy that floods my soul! Something happened and now I know He touched me and made me whole.
She said you weren’t singing all those lyrics, I told her that she came in on the chorus.
He touched me, oh He touched me, He touched me And oh, the joy that floods my soul! Something happened and now I know He touched me and made me whole.
She told me to stop singing just the song’s chorus unless I sing the verses as well. I asked her why? She said it’s out of context, because I’m wondering who touched you when you are by yourself, and anyone other than my daddy would have a problem; I would have a problem with someone else joy filling your soul.
I laughed and told her that I was singing about Jesus. When he lifts my shackles and burdens, I’m free, light, and made whole. We continued to laugh, and I told her that I’ll make sure that I sing the entire song.
It prompted a discussion about how music has evolved. How older songs had less words. How those words derived from a deep place. A place of truly needing something from God. I also shared with her how some of the older hymns were born out of slavery and discrimination. At that moment I truly sounded older than I am. But it was a teachable moment, how we all are in need of something from our Father no matter how old we get. Just like a natural father and child relationship, you will never come to a point in life where you won’t need your father. The Bible even tells us, “But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.”
Matthew 19:14 KJV
Jesus was giving instructions to the disciples. We are God’s children we only need childlike faith. That kind of faith is faith filled with hope. It means something to God when His children trust and believe that He will take care of everything. We went on to discuss how nothing is too hard for God. You just have to have faith, trust and belief.
She and I often have those intimate moments where we talk about God. There have been times when we’ve been in church, and something is said that she didn’t understand. She’ll text me right away and I’ll tell her don’t forget the question and we will talk about it when we get back home. Typically, on the car ride home she’ll get that question answered. As a mother it warms my heart to know and see my children’s relationship with the God that I serve. I tell them all the time. I can’t make you love God, and I can’t make you live right. But what I can do is be a light in my home and that light will draw you to Christ.
Mothers be a light to draw your children to Christ.
If I can be honest for a minute. I hated going to church every time the church doors opened, being a PK I didn’t have a choice, which made me resent church and the God that kept taking my parents from supporting me. It took me years to understand that God didn’t do anything wrong. It was a choice that was made by my parents. Once I understood that, my desire for Christ grew and I vowed at that moment to be there present.
Pastor Rhoda Turner Christian Faith Fellowship Church Chandler, AZ www.cffaz.org
Grief can be caused by so many different things. Grief of loss. The loss of a job, a pet, friendship, loved one, divorce, unborn child especially on Mother’s Day. Some other things that tend to go unnoticed is grieving health changes, a dream, a move or even retirement or something that you may have experienced in your early years, childhood, that is just now creeping up on you. The list is literally endless unfortunately.
First let me say, that everyone experiences grief differently. Just like two siblings raised the same way by the same parents in a healthy home (let’s not broach the subject of the dysfunctional family in this narrative). The siblings have completely different personalities, maybe completely different belief systems, and ethics. They have different wants, desires, and needs. The same goes for how people grieve. However, the one constant in grief is that there are five different stages. How one navigates these stages can vary, and it is not uncommon to fall back and repeat a stage or two.
1. Denial. Here people may act as if nothing has happened. This is a state of disbelief and numbed feelings. This is a common defense mechanism which helps create a numbing feeling to lessen the intensity of the situation.
2. Anger. In this phase you are often hiding the actual emotions you are feeling, creating a mask. This anger may be redirected at other people, such as the person who died, your ex, your old boss, a parent, or friend. You may even aim your anger at inanimate objects. While your rational brain knows the object of your anger isn’t to blame, your feelings in that moment are too intense to act according to that. Anger may mask itself in feelings like bitterness or resentment. It may not be clear-cut fury or rage. Not everyone feels this stage while some linger here for some time. Anger may mask itself in feelings like bitterness or resentment. It may not be clear-cut fury or rage.
3. Bargaining. In this stage of grief, you may find yourself creating a lot of “what if” and “if only” statements. You may be making promises to God in hopes of feelings of relief from the pain you are feeling. For some, it helps postpone feelings of sadness or guilt.
4. Depression. This stage is often a quiet stage during the grieving process. Depression may feel like the inevitable landing point of any loss. This may be a period of isolation and loneliness during which you process and reflect on the loss.
5. Acceptance. This stage is not necessarily a happy or uplifting stage of grief. It doesn’t mean you’ve moved past the grief or loss. It does, however, mean that you’ve accepted it and have come to understand what it means in your life now. You may feel very different in this stage. That’s entirely expected.
You’ve had a major change in your life, and that upends the way you feel about many things. Look to acceptance to see that there may be more good days than bad. There may still be bad — and that’s OK.
Remember, not all grief is recognizable to others when an obvious event doesn’t occur and often you can find yourself grieving over something or someone from years prior. But just because someone may not know you are grieving; it does not diminish your situation. Remember, there’s no blueprint for grief. It happens when it does, and it happens how we allow it to happen. The first thing to remember is that YOUR grief is not anyone else’s. So do not compare yourself. It is hard to do that currently with social media and conforming to societal norms. Grief is heavy and it is scary, but by taking baby steps BACKWARDS will help you to move forward. How? It helps you to acknowledge the roughness of grief and the strength of moving forward through it. Basically, allowing yourself to navigate through the stages.
There are three Cs of grief. Choosing, connecting, and communicating.
Choose what’s best for you. Often during the stages of grief, you feel like you have no control over anything. Emotions while grieving can be overwhelming. You still have a choice to attend an event, a gathering, or go out. Remember, you and only you have the choice of what you do and do not do.
Grief can intensify feelings of loneliness and often leads to isolation. Taking some time off from the world, social media, etc. may be healthy. But don’t stay there too long. As humans, we are predestined for connection. So, connect with those who help you feel supported and safe.
Communication can to your friends and family help them know how best to come alongside you and provide support in the way you desire. Talk about it with those you trust, seek help if it gets too overwhelming. Remember, talking about it is healing.
Grief sucks. But hiding it makes it worse. And navigating it can be difficult. You may not feel like yourself throughout this process, you aren’t your best version of yourself. But you can take baby steps towards healing. Even if you fall, remember you fall forward. So, you’re still going in the right direction.
Mental health month is a time we focus on what it means to have good mental health and opening a dialogue for those struggling with a mental illness. Mental health has also gotten a lot more attention these past few years due to the rise in youth suicides, the covid-19 pandemic and as celebrities and athletes opened up about their struggles. This is good news since one in five people will be diagnosed with a mental illness over the course of their lives. The severity of the disorder may range from severe to mild, from no impairment to severely impaired. Most disorders are on a continuum and treatment varies as a result of the differences. Treatment has evolved over the years and includes holistic practices such as yoga, exercise, music, drama, dance and art therapy. The variety of potential treatment methods helps reach more persons especially those that respond well to conventional talk therapy and medications.
We have seen the Christian community embrace therapy, treatment and support groups as a mean of healing the broken and wounded within our churches. There have been
a few cases where pastors have been suicidal due to burnout and the non-stop schedules they were expected to keep. Pastor’s families often suffered too, resulting in dysfunctions and divorce when the issues became overwhelming. Taking time to be refreshed is often overlooked by the church but we are slowly getting back into the rhythm of rest God put in place by observing the sabbath.
Rest, healthy eating, exercise, sleep, connecting with nature, pets and people are all good for our mental well-being. Attending worship services, serving in the community and supporting your favorite team, charity or restaurant is good for you as well. Over these past few years, stress, anxiety and depression have increased not only due to the pandemic but the racial trauma, inequities, community violence, family drama, economic woes, caregiving and other challenging life experiences.
Grief, unemployment, health disparities and heightened health awareness have taken their toll. Therefore, the mental health conversation is almost a daily one and is being discussed in boardrooms,
financial institutions, schools, workplaces and yes, even the church. We all see how good mental health is a major part of what it means to be healthy.
As Christians we too have guidance for staying mentally healthy. We are encouraged to be transformed by the renewing of our minds in Romans 12:2. The spiritual disciplines of prayer, meditation, and silence can help us refocus. Fellowship with others gives us the human connection we all need. One of the greatest challenges the last few years was the lack of social connections which lead to loneliness and depression. Being together has helped us heal and encouraged us in many ways we did not realize we needed until having to be isolated due to the pandemic. God has promised to keep us in perfect peace as we focus on him. Mental health is wealth. We can start strengthening ours by being honest about our hurts, addressing anything that keeps us in a cycle of negativity and evaluate our circle of friends. These will all help towards the goal of being mentally fit and building a healthy and whole mindset.
Deonne Min. Carenda
How to Level Up When It Matters Most
There is no time like the present to level up. What do I mean when I say that? Now is the time for you to be clear on who you are in 2025. This is not the time to show up like someone else but be your authentic self. Be who God has called you to be. I don’t know about you, but at times I feel such an overload of information coming into my personal space. There has been such an increase in emails, advertisement, sales pitches, and commercials that all promise me how I can make more money. How I can attract more clients. How I can build and scale my business to six figures. How I can attract sponsors and partners, and how I can live my dreams by just taking a workshop, investing in a book, paying for a webinar, and/or attending a conference. Don’t get me wrong, I think it’s great that people are ready to share information and use that information to help others. I think it’s great that people are not holding back what it took for them to get to their next level. However, I am convinced that this is a season and a time to level up on what God has called you to do. It is imperative for you to know who you are this year! Just because someone is joining a venture does not mean you have to be a part of their team. Just because someone is sharing with you how they are investing in a company or a new project that they are working on does not necessarily mean you have to say yes to those objectives as well. Stay true to YOUR God given identity! Remember, YOUR gifts will make room for you! (Proverbs 18:16)
To be honest there were times when I got caught in that cycle and circle of jumping on this idea and prematurely investing in another without truly asking myself 3 very important questions. One, have I consulted with God? Two, does this new project, investment, or initiative align with my purpose, and three what is my why? Why am I considering taking on a new assignment or task? Why am I considering making the financial investment into a certain project? What is my why?
It is very imperative that you ask yourself those questions as you move forward in life because at some point pivoting gets old. It’s okay to pivot at times because there are seasons where you may need to rebrand or recalibrate. However, pivoting should not be the norm. When and if you decide to pivot regarding your life, business, or ministry, it really should align with the principle of supply and demand, seed time and harvest, or with the changes in the industry in which you serve. I want to challenge you! Don’t pivot based on an idea, but pivot based on alignment. Does it make sense for you to rotate or shift something if it is not in alignment with your purpose? The answer is no. Even if pivoting might cause a burst of financial increase, I still say do not do it if it’s out of alignment with God’s intended created purpose for your life. Remember, God’s purpose is that we not only bring forth fruit but that our fruit should remain. (John 15:16)
The other thing I want to challenge you to do as you process what it means to level up, is decreasing your output and increasing your input. It is hard to level up when you have not disciplined your lifestyle to respect patience and time. Bishop TD Jakes says, “Good things, really, really good things, come when you give it time.” You cannot level up with a microwave mentality. We cannot look at our lives in the same way in which we may desire our food. That means as convenient
as it is, it’s not always beneficial. As convenient as it is, when your food is not cooked well, it is not desirable. If you have a microwave mentality when it comes to your life, when it comes to building your relationship with God, when it comes to your response from affliction and tribulation there is a good chance that you may miss some valuable lessons. There is a good chance of having uneven traits and behaviors of immaturity that ultimately will not give you an advantage.
Finally, to level up when it matters most, we must respect time. Some people have no respect for time. Some people are even oblivious to the amount of time they spend on things that are NOT making a difference in their lives. I know some may cringe when I say this, but the amount of time that we spend on social media and watching TV is really scary. There should be some things in your life that are not negotiable when it comes to your input, meaning your growth and your development (spiritually, mentally, emotionally, physically, and financially) as a God-fearing Christian.
That is not to say that you may have days where you miss the mark, we all do but there must be a standard. What is your standard? I personally believe people make time for what they want to make time for, and if you are going to level up when it matters most, you must respect time. What is time telling you to do right now? Is it telling you to rest? Is it telling you to go back to school? Is it telling you to write the book? Is it telling you to start the business? Is it telling you to be still? Is it telling you to wait? Is it telling you to spend a certain amount of quality time with God and your family? Is it telling you to be more dedicated and growing your relationship with God and your family? Is it telling you to go to the doctors? I personally deal sometimes with procrastination and laziness, but what I have come to understand is that they do not respect time. This year work on areas in your life, little by little, day by day that will challenge you to be more respectful of time, choices, and decisions.
Let us recap as we begin this beautiful journey of leveling up when it matters most. The first thing to remember is we will not say yes or commit to anyone or anything until we have consulted with God first. You may say, “Well, what if I prayed and asked God for directions and answers, and I don’t hear anything?” I will tell you a word of wisdom from my spiritual mother, Elder Joylette Hillard, “Sometimes silence is an answer.” Secondly, we will only pivot if it aligns with our purpose. We are no longer going to pivot based on good ideas, or influence. Third, we are going to discipline our lifestyles in such a way that we have respect for patience and time. We will set healthy boundaries, and let our yes be yes and our no be no. (Matthew 5:37)
This is your year! This is our year! I am so grateful that good news located you today. No matter the scars, no matter the hurt, no matter the disappointment or the pain, it time to level up when it matters most! Stay true to YOUR God given identity!
Live Life on The Promise of IMPACT!
Min Carenda Deonne Author/Speaker/Life Coach
The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Health Care: Revolutionizing Modern Medicine
Artificial Intelligence (AI), you’ve heard about it, but you may not understand it. Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing how we interact with the world around us. AI has infiltrated itself into our lives. From business and finance, online shopping, and checking grammar on a document, to healthcare, AI provides information to its users.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a technological innovation that mimics human intelligence by performing tasks typically performed by humans. It refers to the simulation of human interactions and thinking processes by computer systems. of human intelligence processes by machines, especially computer systems. AI mimics human intelligence and problem-solving ability. These actions include learning, problem-solving, decision-making, and understanding language. If you have interacted with an online chat service from your bank or on a retail site, you’ve probably interacted with an AI-guided computer application.
AI is not a new innovation. AI processes were developed and used in mathematics in the 1950s. AI gained public interest in 1997, when intelligent computer algorithms were used to defeat chess world champion Garry Kasparov, proving that AI could “think.”
Health care stands out as one of the most promising areas for its application. From diagnosis and treatment to administrative tasks and patient engagement, AI is reshaping how health care is delivered, making it more efficient, personalized, and accessible.
One of the most impactful uses of AI in health care is disease diagnosis. AI algorithms can analyze medical data, such as imaging scans, lab results, and genetic
profiles, with remarkable accuracy. AI tools help develop personalized treatment plans by examining a patient’s unique medical history, genetic information, and lifestyle. These approaches enhance treatment effectiveness and minimize side effects, particularly in oncology, where personalized treatment can significantly improve outcomes.
AI-powered virtual assistants and chatbots provide patients with 24/7 access to health information. Patients use AI tools to remind themselves to take medication and monitor symptoms. This empowers patients to be actively involved in their healthcare.
Despite its potential, the use of AI in healthcare comes with challenges. Healthcare consumers and professionals are concerned about data privacy and algorithmic bias. Computer technologists and healthcare providers need to collaborate to ensure that AI tools are safe, reliable, and user-friendly.
You are probably interacting with AI if you perform online searches or constantly see the same advertisements on your internet feeds. AI tools are embedded on smartphones, and support information is available online. AI tools in healthcare are not designed to replace human doctors, but they are powerful tools that can support and enhance patient diagnosis and treatment by improving accuracy, efficiency, and personalization of treatment plans.
****In the spirit of transparency, I used AI to develop this article.
DWatties-Daniels@coppin.edu
healthytips025@gmail.com
Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels Assistant Professor at Coppin State University
Ericka J.
Gospel & Entertainment
Miles Caton
We’ve literally watched Miles Caton, gospel’s “boy wonder,” grow up before our eyes. From a young teen sharing the stage with his mother, powerhouse vocalist Timiney Figueroa (of “Calling My Name” fame with Bishop Hezekiah Walker & Love Fellowship Crusade Choir), to performing with The Kurt Carr Singers and even touring with R&B star H.E.R., Miles has always left audiences amazed. Now, he’s taken a bold leap into acting, starring as “Lil Sammy” in the new film Sinners, alongside Michael B. Jordan. While the film has stirred some conversation around its darker themes, one thing is certain: Miles’ performance is extraordinary. It may be his first acting role, but it surely won’t be his last. Congratulations to Miles and the entire Figueroa family!
Jason Nelson
If you’ve been watching American Idol, you may have caught one of the most powerful moments yet. Finalist Jamal Roberts performed “Forever” by Apostle Jason Nelson, and the response was electric. Though the song is nearly a decade old, its message and anointing still resonate deeply. Now, it’s been introduced to an even broader audience, and we’ll be singing it… FOREVER. Big congrats to Apostle Jason Nelson on this moment of recognition!
Kierra Sheard
Kierra Sheard is back with a fresh single titled “Rain”, and she’s hitting the road to share it live! She’ll be part of the powerhouse Live Breathe Fight Tour, featuring Tye Tribbett, Tamela & David Mann, Erica Campbell, and Karen Clark Sheard; tour dates May 15 – June 1. Be sure to grab the single “Rain” and check out this unforgettable tour when it comes to a city near you!
Todd Dulaney
Todd Dulaney never misses! His latest single “Proverbs 3” has skyrocketed up the charts since its release—and if you haven’t added it to your playlist yet, now’s the time! GO GRAB IT. IT’S THAT GOOD.
Lucinda Moore
A true gospel veteran, Lucinda Moore remains consistent in delivering award-winning music. Her new single “Someone Who Cares (The Lala Song)” featuring Bishop Paul Morton is here! Originally recorded in the 1970s by Bishop J.C. White, Lucinda brings it forward for 2025— and we’re loving it! Available now on all digital outlets.
Eric Waddell
News
Eric Waddell is going all out this Father’s Day, honoring the Life & Legacy of Mr. Lonnie Parker, who dreamed of one last concert before his transition—and that dream is coming true. At the same time, Eric is celebrating 15 years of his choir, the Abundant Life Singers, Sunday, June 15, 4 PM, at Israel Baptist Church, featuring Professor James Hall & Worship & Praise; Lisa Knowles & The Brown Sisters; Bre Holly & Faithful; Lil David & The Bells Of Joy; Kenny Davis & The Melodyaires; and Eric Waddell & The Abundant Life Singers. For tickets search “BIG FATHER’S DAY CONCERT” on Eventbrite; in-person Parker’s Barbershop – 5606 Reisterstown Rd. or call 443-300-6168.
Zebulon Ellis
One of my absolute faves is back! Zebulon Ellis just dropped a new single “Lily of the Valley”, off his upcoming project “Church Boy Live”. Let me say it plain—SING ZEB!!
Download it NOW & thank me later!
Ronzell Pretlow
Without a doubt, one of the most powerful, skilled, and anointed voices of our time—whether preaching or singing. And yes, the wait is OVER! Bishop Ronzell Pretlow just released “I Took The Stairs”, now available on all digital platforms. He even covered the classic “I’d Rather Have Jesus” (originally by Dallas Fort Worth Mass Choir) … and absolutely NAILED IT. Go grab this album and support the Bishop!
“Til next month, Be blessed, love real big, in real life!”
Here are some things to consider when you have some “extra” money. Take time to decide whether short-term saving or more long-term investing is right for you and your financial goals.
Tip 2
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Tip 3
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