Grace&Glory 1
scripture page
Happy Father’s Day! A Father's Integrity
“I know, my God, that You examine our hearts and rejoice when You find integrity there." (1 Chronicles 29:17a)
A Father's Courage
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9)
A Father's Father
"Father to the fatherless, defender of widows - this is God, whose dwelling is holy. God places the lonely in families; He sets the prisoners free and gives them joy. But He makes the rebellious live in a sun-scorched land." (Psalm 68:5-6)
A Father's Compassion
"Just as a father has compassion on his children, So the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him." (Psalm 103:13)
A Father's Legacy
"The father of one who is right with God will have much joy. He who has a wise son will be glad in him." (Proverbs 23:24)
A Father's Wisdom
"I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths. When you walk, your steps will not be hampered; when you run, you will not stumble. Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life." (Proverbs 4:11-13)
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Grace&Glory 3
June 2022
™
on the cover: Kenyatta Clinton and James Brooks Brooks Clinton Funeral Service, P.A. www.brooksclintonfuneralservice.com
Cover Story
pgs 8-13 Brooks Clinton Funeral Service, P.A., is a family-owned and operated funeral service. They
take great pride in caring for families, and honoring loved ones is their top priority. Brooks Clinton works tirelessly to provide beautiful, lasting tributes to loved ones and we talked with them about their services, their wide range of resources and the importance of pre-planning funeral arrangements.
Special Feature - Happy Father's Day pgs 16-23 Parenting for Black fathers is unique and shaped by the social and racial contexts in which they live.
We asked four Fathers to share with us their thoughts and experiences raising Black sons in America and how they are affected by the public and violent losses of black boys and men that resonate within the Black community.
Healthy Soul 28 JOY BRINGER
34 A WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE
Season Bowers
Pastor Rhoda Turner
Sing With Me
Rest In Me
32 MONTHLY MANNA
36 TRINKETS TO TRIUMPH
Min. Carenda Deonne
Elder Tracey George
The Secret Sauce
A Date With Dad
40 SISTER CHAT Shelah Kakat
4 June 2022
Healthy Mind
Entertainment
24 TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH
44 GOSPEL & ENTERTAINMENT NEWS Ericka J.
Dr. Carla J. Debnam
What’s Next?
Healthy Life
In Every Issue Scripture Page........................................ 2 Contributors............................................ 6
38 HEALTH MATTERS
Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels
From the Editor....................................... 7
Cigarette Smoking
Call Tyson
Lesesne
Realtor The Vurganov Group
If you’re thinking about buying or selling, I’m here to answer your questions and help you get the best market value. Let’s talk!
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Grace&Glory 5
Contributors 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
PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Jackie Epps EDITORIAL Dr. Carla J. Debnam Min. Carenda McCray Tracey George Dr. Denyce Daniels Rhoda Turner Season Bowers Ericka J. Natasha Fagans Shelah Kakat GRAPHIC ARTIST Claire Lesesne www.JandCDesigns.com WEB ADMINISTRATOR Andre Felipe for Arts Period www.artsperiod.com
Copyright 2022. All rights reserved. Reproduction without expressed permission is prohibited.
Grace & Glory Magazine is the ideal publication for Encouragement, Empowerment and Inspiration. For advertising and more information contact
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6 June 2022 6 June 2022
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. ELDER TRACEY GEORGE Tracey Nicole George is an ordained elder. She is a native New Yorker residing in Maryland and married to Danny George. Tracey works with her husband managing their inventory and asset control company, George Imaging. She is the creator of Trinkets to Triumph, a Biblically-based blog and ministry, designed to edify and encourage individuals with a “trinket” of encouragement. She is a member of New Destiny Evangelistic Church. MIN. CARENDA DEONNE Min. Carenda was born and raised in Baltimore, MD. She received her BA degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology and is currently pursuing a Master's in Law degree from Regent University. Min. Carenda was licensed to preach in 2007 and has been teaching, preaching, and declaring God's word through the power of love ever since. Min. Carenda is also an author of three books. Her latest book, Perfect Patty Messed Up, is a 40 day devotional that confronts the disorder of perfectionism and opens the door to self forgiveness and restoration. 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. 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. SEASON BOWERS Season Bowers- is a Pastor, radio host, and Joy bringer! After spending over 20 years as a professional actor on stage, the Lord called her into full-time ministry. Season is passionate about releasing freedom and joy to the Glory of God in every way she can everywhere she goes.
from the editor
Our Father
This month we celebrate, honor, and remember our Fathers. Fathers are a source of strength, support, and encouragement. We dedicate this month’s issue to our Fathers, Grandfathers, Godfathers, Spiritual Fathers, and those who stand in the gap as a father figure. They deserve to be honored for all they have done and all they do! There will be those who will celebrate dad, because he has been there every step of the way. These fathers will be honored not just because they have supported their children but also because of their loving presence in their lives; but for some Father’s Day can be painful, a sad reminder of growing up without a father present in the home or being active in their lives. The pain of growing up fatherless can sometimes leave a scar that is hard to remove. There may even be some situations or circumstances that warrant the absence of dad, but to a child without a father these things or reasons mean nothing. For every situation, circumstance or reason, your father was not there, there is someone who is more than able to fill that void. That someone is God, Our Heavenly Father. Though we all may not fall into the category of growing up without a father, I would like to say to those who grew up with a father present and to those who did not . . . there is one thing we all have in common, we all can claim Our Father which art in heaven. We all share the greatest Father of all, and He has never been an absentee dad. Let me brag about Our Father. Our Father is omnipresent, He is with you at the same time He is with me, in fact He is everywhere at all times. Our Father is omniscient, He is the wisest of all, He knows everything about each one of us. Our Father is omnipotent, He is all-powerful, and He is able to do exceeding abundantly more than we could ever ask or think. Our Father is a good provider, He supplies all of our needs according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19). Our Father is a protector; He is our shield and buckler (Psalm 91). Our Father is a comforter; He mends a broken heart (Matthew 5:4). Our Father is a healer; He restores our bodies (Psalm 103:3). Our Father sounds like a pretty great dad to me. He is great and mighty. He is a friend that sticks
e i k c a J
EPPS
closer than any brother. He loves each and every one of us unconditionally with the same amount of love. And let us not forget that Our Father loved us so much that He gave His only begotten son (Jesus) so that we would be able to live with Him eternally! (John 3:16) I could go on and on but I believe the best thing about Our Father is He is whatever you need Him to be whenever you need Him. Whether or not your father is present or not, celebrate Father’s Day for no other reason, than the fact that without your father you would not exist today. And as we celebrate our earthly fathers, honor and praise the Father of all creation our Heavenly Father; He has promised us, “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” (Hebrews 13:5) After all, God is the Greatest Father of all time and we are His children forevermore! Happy Father’s Day! Grace&Glory 7
Kenyatt a
Clinton
Owner & Licensed Funeral Director
G&G: Welcome to Grace & Glory Magazine. We are delighted for the opportunity to introduce Brooks Clinton Funeral Service to our readers. Please tell us how this relationship began for the both of you, Mr. Clinton & Mr. Brooks. Mr. Clinton: First, I would like to say, “Good Morning,” and thank you for allowing Brooks Clinton Funeral Service to be featured in this month’s Father’s Day publication of Grace & Glory Magazine. Everything came about years ago. I have been in the funeral industry for about 20 years. I started off attending Catonsville Community College and obtaining my Associate’s Degree in Mortuary Science. From there, left Maryland and went to Atlanta to attend Kennesaw State University where I obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Health Science. When I came back to Maryland, I worked for various Black-owned funeral home establishments where I received my experience to learn the trade.
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James
Brooks Director of Operations
I asked a couple of my family members to get involved in order to start our own funeral service establishment. One family member in particular, Mr. Brooks, answered the call and agreed to come along side me and help start this funeral business for our family. We are family oriented. This is a family-owned and operated funeral service. G&G: Please describe your journey after deciding to start Brooks Clinton Funeral Service. Mr. Clinton: In 2019, we came across the former Russ Funeral Home of Baltimore City which has been abandoned for about six (6) years. After purchasing the property, we did a complete renovation of the inside and outside of the facilities and opened Brooks Clinton Funeral Service in that same year. Now, we have Brooks Clinton Funeral Service that has been open since June of 2019. And here we are!
Q&A G&G: It is a blessing that Brooks Clinton Funeral Service has been serving the community for almost three (3) years now. Tell us about the services you offer. Mr. Clinton: Let me start off by saying that some of the services that we offer are very different from other funeral services here in Maryland. A lot of funeral services offer grief counseling while we do the same as well. In our case, Brooks Clinton Funeral Service keeps in touch with the families that we service as the years go on. We attempt to contact our families month by month just to check in on them and to make sure that they are doing OK while, at the same time, addressing any concerns by letting them know that we will always be there for them if we are needed. We also have case management where we reach out to our families to make sure that they are getting the help and attention that they need. We also have community events that take place here at the funeral home on 2222 W. North Avenue and the Brooks Clinton Center on 9990 Liberty Road in Randallstown. These are community events where we distribute food, clothes and even gifts on various holidays. Even if people need groceries just on a random day, there are a lot of times when families just come up and ask if we have juice or bread that we can give. Normally, we try to get those things and give them away to families as soon as we receive them. During our actual funeral services, which are a lot different from other funeral homes, we offer and incorporate something called the “Crowning Service.” If you read James 1:12, it says that God promises us the crown of life after we have been tried while enduring temptation. This service is very impactful and meaningful that includes singers, a band, mime, flaggers and, most importantly, includes an elegant and very formal-dressed gentleman that dramatically comes down the aisle and places a gold crown on the family’s loved one before closing the casket. We also offer the “Red Carpet Service” where our staff wear top hats and colors that are in coordination with what the family may wear during their loved one’s service. We incorporate “White Glove Service” where every staff member present during the funeral service has on white gloves upon the family’s arrival while being greeted at the door. It gives the family a presentation of delicacy, intimacy and a professional five-star service that is family-oriented. In conjunction, it is very beautiful. We also offer horse and carriage service as well as a
carriage that is pulled by a motorcycle that transports the family’s loved one to its final resting place. It is an alternative to a traditional hearse transporting the deceased to the cemetery. During special holidays such as Father’s Day or Mother’s Day, we may even have hot meals prepared for families to dine and participate in events. There are times where we have clothing and cleaning supplies on hand where people can just come up and pick up when they need it the most. So, these are just the different type of services that we offer which is a lot different from what other funeral homes are offering today. If we do not service your family in bereavement, we most certainly service families and our communities in benevolence. G&G: Why would someone choose Brooks Clinton Funeral Service? How do you ensure that you create a unique and meaningful experience for someone’s loved one? Mr. Clinton: First and foremost, I just want to say that I am personally involved in the preparation and appearance of anyone’s loved one. I am a touchable and relatable owner of the funeral service. Unlike other funeral homes, we are not an assembly line. We know your family by their name. We do not just have them come in, give their family a case number and send them on their way. No, we personally know our families. We know the person that actually comes in to conduct the funeral arrangement. We are with our families from start to finish! We offer a five-star service. We will walk you through the process step by step. We answer questions 24 hours a day and seven (7) days a week. We go by our slogan: “Memorializing Memories and Celebrating Lives.” We take exceptional detail and pay attention to everything that goes on in our funeral home...especially the look of your loved one. We are determined to get them back to the natural look that the family would like their loved one to have. G&G: Let’s talk about funeral planning. It is understandable that a person might be hesitant and/or leery to pre-plan for funeral arrangements? What are the benefits of preplanning funeral arrangements? Do you advise that someone should plan their own funeral arrangements? Mr. Clinton: There are certain things that families need to do right now. First, do not wait to plan for your funeral and final arrangements. Continued on page 10
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Q&A Continued from page 9
You have two options in order to fund or pay for your funeral and final arrangements. You have (1) insurance and then you have (2) pre-need or preplanning. Insurance is good for families to have. You should not wait until the last minute to become insured by a life insurance policy. Our experience is that a lot of people in the community that we serve do not have insurance. The ones that do have insurance are not checking on the status and coverage of their insurance policy. With an insurance company, they will give you a monthly premium that will have to be paid by the insured. If a payment is missed, the insurance policy will lapse. Once that happens, you will lose all the money that you have paid into the insurance policy prior to the lapse of insurance. However, we offer pre-planning where you can come in, sit down with a funeral director, make your own funeral arrangements, write down all the details of your funeral service and have your pre-arrangement already set and completed with the funeral home. The good thing about it is that you can come in and make payments toward your preplanned funeral arrangements at any time without setting restrictions of monthly or quarterly billing. In the long run, that final arrangement will always be in file at the funeral home without the fear of lapses or losing your money. Your money that you paid will already be there. Therefore, at the time of passing, everything is already mapped out and paid for without any worries. So, we are very different from an insurance company, but it is still good to make sure that your loved one is covered by insurance. In the first two years of being open in the community that we serve; Brooks Clinton Funeral Service received a greater percentage of young clients than older clients between the ages of 14 and 35 years old. Most people do not care to talk about funeral planning and do hesitate in doing so, but it is not leery, but, instead, necessary to sit down with your family to discuss insurance and pre-planning of funeral arrangements. The truth of the matter is that you never know when it will happen. Nobody knows that day or the hour when your time is up; that is what the Bible says. Your family members should not have to sit and look lost trying to figure out what to do and how to do it when it comes to funeral planning. Brooks Clinton Funeral Service will take you step by step and will encourage families to start early while their loved one is still here. It should be a priority to pre-plan your own final 10 June 2022
arrangements. It gives your family knowledge and assurance as to exactly what you want to happen and what you want to happen with your remains (burial or cremation) once that times comes. It will be predetermined and set in writing. If you decide that you want to be cremated, you do not want to wait until the time comes that you pass, and the family decides to bury you instead. Once the preplanning process is done, your wishes will more likely be honored. For example, when choosing a funeral home, a lot of people say that they would like Brooks Clinton Funeral Service to handle their final arrangements upon their passing. However, when that time comes, we have experienced that their loved ones decide to use other funeral homes and will go to someone else despite their loved ones expressed wishes. If those details are pre-planned and even documented in a living will registered with the state of Maryland, final wishes will be set and carried out without issues at the time of the passing. G&G: What does excellent customer service mean to you in this industry? What makes a funeral service business successful? What makes Brooks Clinton Funeral Service different? Mr. Clinton: The most important thing that will make any funeral service business successful is by making sure that each family is happy and pleased with your services. Brooks Clinton Funeral Service’s top priority of success is making sure that all of our families are happy with every service that is rendered by our funeral service. What makes Brooks Clinton Funeral Service different is that we give back to the community. G&G: Does Brooks Clinton provide services beyond the funeral itself? Do you stay connected with the families you serve? Mr. Clinton: Monthly, we give away food and clothing. We supply housing for families. We have apartments that we lease to those that are in need. We have acquired properties to turn them into rooms or apartments to rent to other families with low or no income so that they will have a place to stay. Three to four times out of the month, we find a way to give back to the community. Plus, we do not give away anything that we would not eat or use ourselves. We give away that good stuff! Lamb chops, chicken wings, Chick fil-a products to be prepared at home, etc. We just want to keep the community happy and to let them know that we are here to help. We are not here to take money and end the relationship.
Q&A Q&A We want to give back and reinvest to make the community better than what it was before Brooks Clinton Funeral Service got here. That is what makes us different! G&G: Lastly, are there any issues facing the funeral service industry today? What is in the future for the funeral service industry? Mr. Clinton: When we started in 2019, Brooks Clinton Funeral Service was fully open and operational. We would have services with hundreds of people in and out of the building for viewings and funerals. All of a sudden, the COVID-19 pandemic hit shut down the state of Maryland. At that time, we could only have ten (10) people attend viewings and funeral services at a time. At one point in time, all services stopped because we were not allowed to have any services with any people gathering at any time. Loved ones had to either immediately bury or cremate their loved one. Cremation basically took over as the main method of disposition for a family’s loved one. Nowadays, cremation is what families are leaning towards and accounts for over 50% of final dispositions in the United States opposed to burial. Unfortunately, we are faced with the issue of taking the funeral director and establishment out of conducting funeral services while families are electing for cremation services, taking the ashes, and conducting their own memorial services at a later date amongst themselves. In that aspect, a funeral director is not needed for arrangements as such. As far as the future goes, I see that burial is phasing out and it is more so of families doing cremation. Services are getting less popular and is no longer the tradition. In the future, the funeral industry will be drastically different. ♦♦♦ G&G: Let’s shift a little and talk about you, Mr. Clinton. It would be understandable that the funeral service industry would definitely have an effect on your emotions. How do you manage to keep the emotions and stress of this business from affecting your personal life? Mr. Clinton: Well, the way that I do not allow the funeral service industry to affect my personal life and emotions is that I have a family that I can digress with after services or a long day. With great family members like Mr. Brooks, we often take time to go out to have lunch after services to talk about the activities and events of the day. Just the aspect of conversing, reviewing and even critiquing services that
we conduct to try to make what we do even better for our families takes a lot of stress and weight off my shoulders. Most importantly, my wife and newborn son that I go home to makes the difference. We do a lot of family activities that takes away a lot of stress and keeps the business off my mind when necessary. Activities such as going out, enjoying a nice park, and taking walks help to accomplish the task of managing to keep the emotions and stress of this business from affecting my mind and personal life. G&G: Are there any upcoming or future plans for Brooks Clinton Funeral Service? Mr. Brooks: Yes! Absolutely. At Brooks Clinton Funeral Service, we do have the Brooks Clinton Center at 9990 Liberty Road in Randallstown, Maryland. At the Center, we created state of the art facilities where we host events such as repasts, conventions, meetings, celebrations, etc. After funeral services, we do offer Brooks Clinton Center for families. As much as we decorate our funeral homes and make them look magnificent, we also make sure Brooks Clinton Center is done the same way. So, this is an element of our business that we offer that some funeral homes do not offer. Also, in the early part of Fall in 2022, we will conduct a Presentation of Remembrance. This will be an event for the sole purpose of honoring all of the families that we have served inclusive of plaques, certificates, dinner, and other memorable moments. This event will show them that their loved ones will never be forgotten by Brooks Clinton Funeral Services and that they will be in our memories forever. G&G: How can someone contact Brooks Clinton Funeral Service? Mr. Brooks: The quickest way to reach Brooks Clinton Funeral Service is by calling us at 410.290.6500. A live person will always answer the phone every day at any time to give information or to service your family at their greatest time of need! To get more information about a loved one that has passed or service information, please visit brooksclintonfuneralservice.com for real time information! For information about our various locations and how to find us on social media, please feel free to turn to the back cover of this magazine for addresses, pictures and where to find us on Facebook and Instagram!
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Sons Walter Jr. & Joshua
Walter Scott Bishop
Thomas, Sr.
Grandson Wayne III
16 June 2022
Grandson Joshua, Jr.
Grandson Walter III
Grandson Chandler
Raising Black Sons in America Bishop Walter Scott Thomas, Sr
Bishop Walter Scott Thomas, Sr. has served as the pastor of the New Psalmist Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland since 1975. Bishop Thomas is known as a Pastor’s Pastor; he has a Pastor’s heart and makes himself available as a mentor and source of strength for other Pastors. In 2005, Bishop Thomas was elevated to the office of Bishop and Presiding Prelate of The Kingdom Association of Covenant Pastors.
♦♦♦ G&G: Bishop Thomas, Grace & Glory is honored to have you join in this conversation. Let’s start with you introducing us to your sons and telling us a little bit about them? How would you describe each of your sons in three words? Bishop Thomas: I have two sons that I am very proud of, Rev. Walter Thomas, Jr. is my oldest son. Three words to describe him are caring, committed and consistent. Rev. Joshua Thomas is my youngest. Three words to describe him are conscientious, capable, and forward thinking. G&G: Parenting and raising children should be a wonderful, joyful experience; but it is not always that way for Black families, particularly fathers of black sons. You have two grown sons, what fears did you have for your sons growing up as little black boys, and do you have fears or concerns now for your grandsons? Bishop Thomas: The fears I had for my sons growing up was that they would be so negatively affected by the negatives in the community and in society that it would warp their sense of opportunities that exist for them. Things like racism, culturalism, and classism, I knew could destroy the lights in their eyes because I had seen it happen to so many others. For my grandsons, I worry that their world will not be as full of laughter and fun as my world was growing up and that they will miss the joy of growing up with playmates and kids in the neighborhood. G&G: I think it is safe to say we want our children to grow up whole, happy and safe. How did you explain to your sons the possible dangers they might face as a black boy growing up and later as a black man and still encourage them to have dreams and aspirations for their lives without fear? Bishop Thomas: I straight up told them that racism is real, and it’s not just something you study in books, it’s real. I tried to make them aware that they live in two worlds, and they must always be ready and equipped to live in both of those worlds. G&G: During those formulative years of your sons growing up, how did it make you feel when you would hear about incidents and injustices reported by the media involving young black men?
Bishop Thomas: It was always a sad moment for me to hear that some young life was being snuffed out or would not have the opportunity to become a productive adult. It happened so regularly and still does. So many young people are wrestling against forces so much bigger than they are and over time many of them have been defeated by those forces. G&G: Did you have that infamous ‘talk’ with your sons about the dos and don’ts for black boys/men? Was it a difficult conversation to have with them and how did your sons react? Bishop Thomas: It was not a difficult conversation to talk to them about how we live in this world and how we respond to certain situations. It wasn’t difficult because my father had that conversation with me. It is a conversation as critical as telling your children to lock the front door, drive with your seat belt on, be careful when you are out at night. It is a necessary conversation, so it didn’t bother me to have it. It was a conversation I had to have with them. It’s a conversation about survival. G&G: With all that’s going on in today’s society, it would be understandable to find it difficult to watch even grown sons walk out the door; how do you keep yourself mentally grounded when your sons are away from you? Bishop Thomas: I know my sons will take stock of where they are and how they need to respond in whatever situation they find themselves. My faith gives me a confidence that they are never in a situation by themselves, but that God is there with them. They will listen to Him, and He will give them direction. G&G: Lastly, based on your experiences as a Black Father who has raised two black sons, and now watching your grandsons grow up, is there anything you would like to say to Black fathers raising young Black men today? Bishop Thomas: I would say to never underestimate the power of God and your faith. Society is teaching us that there are problems bigger than us. We need God by our side. We must commit those we love to God’s care, and He will be with them in the situations they find themselves in. That is the strength and solace we have, and we have it because of Jesus. Grace&Glory 17
Donte’ L.
Bishop
Hickman, Sr.
& Sons Dawson and Donte’, Jr.
Raising Black Sons in America Bishop Donte’ L. Hickman, Sr.
Bishop Donte’ L. Hickman, Sr. is Senior Pastor of the Southern Baptist Church in Baltimore MD. Under his leadership Southern Baptist Church has grown to over 4000 members in several locations with multiple worship services every Sunday morning. Bishop Hickman is leading the East Baltimore Revitalization Project with the development of affordable housing, mixed use property development and community health services. Bishop Hickman also serves in the Global United Fellowship as the Bishop of Pastors.
♦♦♦ G&G: Bishop Hickman Grace & Glory is delighted to have you join in this conversation. Let’s start with you introducing us to your sons and telling us a little bit about them? How would you describe them in three words? 18 June 2022
Bishop Hickman: It’s great to share with you and your readers Jackie in another Grace and Glory Magazine interview on a topic that is so dear to my heart. My son Donte, Jr. is going into his senior year and is a dedicated and passionate Varsity basketball
player. And Dawson is a rising Junior at The Gilman School and is also a dedicated athlete in Basketball and in Track and Field where he has competed in the hurdling events. I would describe them both in three words as Conscientious, Resilient and Driven. G&G: Parenting and raising children should be a wonderful, joyful experience; but it is not always that way for fathers of black sons. Do you have fears for your sons growing up as Black men today? How do you feel about the incidents and the injustices reported by the media involving young African American men? Bishop Hickman: Parenting my sons has been the most rewarding, restorative and relearning experience of my life. I remember promising God as I walked by the graveyard going to Edmondson High School as a teenager that I would never be an absent father in my children’s lives, and I would help them to have the confidence, self-esteem and wisdom that came so difficult to me without the guiding presence of a father in my life during my formative years. Rather than having fear of my sons growing up as Black men today I strive to instill in my sons courage, faith and respect for all people and those who are in authority. And I try as much as possible to keep them out of places and predicaments where they are vulnerable to being victimized. And I constantly keep them focused toward their kingdom purpose of being Black men of faith, power and love with a determination to make life better for others as it has been made for them. G&G: I think it is safe to say we want our children to grow up whole, happy and safe. How do you explain to your sons the possible dangers they may face as a Black boy/man in life and still encourage them to have dreams and aspirations without causing them to be fearful in society? Bishop Hickman: As a father I strive to give my sons balance and accommodate their spiritual, social and secular curiosity. And they have been fortunate to have grown up among all cultures and classes of people where they have built meaningful relationships beyond the myriad of myths and prejudices. Also, I have been very intentional about not molding them to becoming a replica of me and the vision and calling that God has on my life, but to discover what their gifts are and what they truly desire to be and to do with their lives. I support them wholeheartedly in following their dreams and I help them to navigate the complicated paths of their choices. They know that they can be and do anything that they are fully passionate about and willing to work towards beyond any insurmountable odds. They understand the success through struggle of our African American ancestors, and they know through my experiences of overcoming overwhelming odds that all things are possible to them that believe. Subsequently, my boys are not easily deterred by barriers and obstacles to their vision, purpose and passion for their lives. G&G: Have you had that infamous talk with your sons about the dos and don’ts for Black boys/men? Is it a difficult conversation to have; how did your sons respond? Bishop Hickman: In this world anything can happen at any time and in any place. And it is imperative that my boys know
how to respond comprehensively before and beyond reacting emotionally. I teach them that they are entitled to nothing but working hard to learn and to earn what they eat, where they live and what they drive and respect others as they expect to be respected. I also teach them the honor and power of humility and the ability to think and transcend meaningless moments that really don’t matter on the grand scheme of God’s purpose for their lives. And I’m grateful to God that they consistently respond comprehensively that reflects their growing confidence, competence and character. G&G: In today’s society, it would be understandable to find it difficult to watch your sons walk out the door; how do you cope when your sons are away from you? Do you have concerns that being overprotective might affect your sons’ well-being and social life, even when their safety might outweigh that concern? Bishop Hickman: I am proud to have been a part of every season of both my son’s life and that we have a relationship that enables us to do so much together. As a father it is my responsibility to protect them and keep them safe and to also give them space to explore and to engage. And I strive to know where they are and what the circumstances are when I’m not with them. I remember Donte, Jr. going to a house party in east Baltimore. I took him and his friend there and dropped them off, but little did he know I parked two blocks away and kept my eye on what looked like a powder keg situation. Fortunately, he knew his capacity and how not to get involved in self destructive and violent behaviors. He knew when it was time for him to go and was satisfied with having had that experience. My wife sometimes calls me the antiparent because I give my boys certain freedoms to experience and express themselves freely and to make choices knowing all of the consequences. Instead of telling them what not to do that tempts them to do it, I’ve shared with them the dire and deadly consequences of their attitude and actions. And fortunately, they have always chosen the safe and ethical path. It’s natural to worry when they are away from me, but I know they have the capacity and conscience to make good choices. G&G: Lastly, based on your experiences as a Black father raising Black sons, is there anything you would like to say to other fathers of young Black men? Bishop Hickman: I would like to say to other fathers of young Black men that there is no greater and more fulfilling purpose in life than to cultivate a boy into a man. And though they might not always convey how they feel about you while growing up they do value and appreciate every sacrifice you make for them. Moreover, growing them will also grow you in your understanding of who you are and what you are called to be and to do as a Black man. This is an incredible journey filled with frustrations that lead to breakthroughs and struggles that lead to favor. And if we would follow the model that God our Heavenly Father modeled with his son Jesus Christ we can be assured of the victory beyond every vulnerability and God’s will for our lives and legacy will be fulfilled even beyond our existence and the trajectory of ensuing generations will be blessed. Grace&Glory 19
Carl A. Bishop
Pierce, Sr.
& Son Carl A. Pierce, Jr.
Raising Black Sons in America Bishop Carl A. Pierce, Sr
Bishop Pierce is the Senior Pastor of Carter Memorial Church Of God In Christ in Baltimore, MD. He is Jurisdictional Prelate of Maryland Central Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction and serves the Church Of God In Christ as: Vice Chairman of the International Auxiliaries In Ministry (AIM) Convention, Vice Chair of the National Elections Commission, Logistics Coordinator for the National Leadership Conference, Associate White House Liaison for the Church Of God In Christ, and is responsible for Ecclesiastical Services in the Annual Holy Convocation.
♦♦♦ G&G: Bishop Pierce Grace & Glory is honored to have you join in this conversation. Let’s start with you introducing us to your son telling us a little bit about him. How would you describe him in three words? Bishop Pierce: Passionate, Driven, Determined. 20 June 2022
G&G: Parenting and raising children should be a wonderful, joyful experience; but it is not always that way for Black families, with all that is happening in Black communities- shootings, drugs, gangs, racial profiling. What fears and concerns did you have for your son growing up, particularly after the loss of your wife and his mother, and finding yourself a single Black father?
Bishop Pierce: Both prior to and after my wife’s transition, my concern has always been for the well-being of my family. Desiring my son to succeed me in every facet of life, it has always been mine to attempt to showcase a measure of excellence before him, providing by example the dos and don’ts of life. But too, laying before him a pattern for good behavior, a good work ethic and a disciplined life that contributes greatly towards a successful end. After the loss of my wife and his mother, who was his heart, his confidant, his master encourager, a best friend and so much more, I became extremely concerned about the void that was left in his life as a result of her passing and knew that some alterations and adjustments on my part were needed in order to meet the parental support for his life. The availability of time, a listening ear and ministry to him beyond the pulpit has proven to be ingredients towards the maintenance of a wholesome relationship with my son. G&G: I think it is safe to say we want our children to grow up whole, happy, and safe. How did you explain to your son the possible dangers he might face as a Black boy growing up and later as a Black man and still encourage him to have dreams and aspirations for his life without living in fear? Bishop Pierce: My son has always seemingly possessed a knowledge of both the blessings and yet the potential ills of the day. In fact, I can remember on many occasions when it was from my adult son’s experiences and personal perspective that my awareness was sharpened about the dangers that young Black men face in this day and time. After being racially profiled, stopped, and inspected by police officers for no reason other than the color of his skin, the length of his hair, or a predetermined perception of Black men today, the “how-to survive tips” along with the “what to do when certain things happen” was instilled in him and even rehearsed down through the years. It has proven beneficial in the time of need. Additionally, as a father, I have always tried to instill in my son the fact that the key to his future is in his own hands and must not be handed over to another. Thus, neither people nor situations can be given the authority to call the shots in your life; to control your thinking, nor direct your feelings or movement when the drive for success must be within him. So, amidst a world that thrives on trends and ever-changing movement, I have always exhorted my son to remain focused, to not be distracted and not stop to entertain a temporary thrill that does not fit in the puzzle of his life. G&G: There are too many racial profiling stories to even count. How does it make you feel when you hear about incidents and injustices reported by the media involving young Black men? Do you discuss these injustices with your son? Being a young Black man how does he process these incidents? Bishop Pierce: Being a father that wants nothing shy of the very best for his son, it has pained me beyond measure to see the blatant attack on our young Black men in today’s society. During the Freddie Gray death in 2015 and subsequent events
in the City of Baltimore, my son was intrigued by the activities surrounding the unrest and the expressions of protest that followed. As one of the clergy that labored for some resolve on behalf of a hurting community, he walked with and stood alongside his father throughout much of the unrest as we prayed for healing and fought for solutions to the problems that are prevalent in our communities today. G&G: Have you had that infamous ‘talk’ with your son about the dos and don’ts for Black boys/men? Was it a difficult conversation to have with him and what was his reaction? Bishop Pierce: I am proud to say that being a chip off the old block, my son has never wavered from any major conversation. Possessing an inquisitive mind, he has always been wellinformed through research, reading and availing himself for downloads of information that will fuel his future. It has been and remains my desire that my mistakes do not become his; that my weaknesses nor lack in any area not become his to repeat, but rather his to learn from and build upon. We have indeed talked and continue to dialogue on the dos and don'ts for success and the fulfillment of life. Growing up the son of a pastor and proclaimer of the Gospel, I’m sure he would probably say, “Yes, I’ve had those infamous talks with my father, and have heard the speeches, before, during and even after the sermon.” G&G: With all that is going on today, it would be understandable to find it difficult to watch your son walk out the door; how do you keep yourself mentally grounded when you are away from your son? Bishop Pierce: Realizing the cruelness of the world in which we live, and not to mention the ills of both city and suburban living, it goes without saying that a good father is concerned for his family. Amidst the crime rates in our cities along with the blatant disrespect that people have for each other today, it is indeed mentally unnerving at the mere thought of when my child leaves home and thoughts come to mind of if he will return home safely or not. But with prayer, along with the deposits for well-being that I have instilled in my son, I trust God to cover and safeguard him. I trust him as best he can to make good decisions that will contribute towards a long, prosperous and healthy life. G&G: Lastly, based on your experiences as a Black father and watching your son come into his own manhood, is there anything you would like to say to Black fathers raising young Black men today? Bishop Pierce: • Lead and guild by example. • Talk when the talking is hard; when the object of the conversation is uncomfortable, but necessary. Keep the communication valve open with your son. • Listen and learn from him. • Try not to live your life through him but allow your son to live his life before you, knowing that you have provided him the tools for a well-maintained life. • Realize that while providing for him is good, but your time with him is better. Grace&Glory 21
C. Guy
Bishop
Son Cameron
Robinson
Grandsons Marquis and Christian
Raising Black Sons in America Bishop C. Guy Robinson
C. Guy Robinson is a bishop, pastor, educator, musician and mental health theologian. He serves as Maryland State Bishop for the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship International and Pastor of the Tabernacle of the Lord Church in Baltimore, MD. He also serves as an adjunct professor/lecturer in the School of Social Work at Morgan State University in Baltimore, MD, and an adjunct faculty member at Hampton University in Hampton, Virginia, in the Department of Religious Studies.
♦♦♦ G&G: Bishop Robinson Grace & Glory is honored to have you join in this conversation. Let’s start with you introducing us to your son and grandsons and telling us a little bit about them? How would you describe each of them in three words? Bishop Robinson: My son is Cameron Guy. Three words to describe him are personable, protective, and loyal. My oldest grandson is Marquis. He is athletic, observant, and kindhearted. And my youngest grandson is Christian, the designated junior deacon and scientist of our family! He is erudite, humorous, kindhearted as well. In fact, each of them is so gifted that I could easily say much more. I’m a proud dad and grandfather! G&G: Parenting and raising children should be a wonderful, joyful experience; but it is not always that way for Black families, with all that is happening in the Black community today- shootings, drugs, gangs, racial profiling, what are your fears and concerns for your son and grandsons? Bishop Robinson: I truly experience all of those concerns for my son and grandsons. I can indeed relate to the biblical testimony of Job, who regularly prayed to God on behalf of his children (Job 1:5). Moreover, I relate to Jesus’ prayer for Peter that his faith would not fail in times of trial and temptation (Luke 22:31). I cite those verses to illuminate the thought that there are certain discouraging and destructive realities 22 June 2022
to which I would like my sons to never be exposed, much less engage, or indulge. And if it were possible, as a parent, I would follow them everywhere to shield them from such evils. However, I believe the more realistic parental goal is to strive to impart certain values in them that will empower them to effectively avoid distractions, resist temptations, overcome obstacles, and maximize their potential as fearfully and wonderfully created, blessed, bright, and beautiful young black men. To that end, multiple generations of our family have made intentional decisions to raise our children with strong roots in the Christian faith. And amid the realities of all of the trials, temptations, and tragedies of this life, what calms my fears is the hope that my sons have received a faith foundation that will not fail. G&G: I think it is safe to say we want our children to grow up whole, happy, and safe. How do you explain to your sons the possible dangers they might face as a Black boy growing up and later as a Black man and still encourage them to have dreams and aspirations for their lives without living in fear? Bishop Robinson: I agree. Desiring our children to be whole, happy, and safe is a normal parental experience. To me, this speaks of human flourishing or holistic health. I’m thereby reminded of a psychological definition of health, which is partially characterized by the active realizing of one’s abilities, followed by the ability to cope with life’s
Son & Grandsons
stressful realities. Just those two characteristics alone provide a substantive parental job description. Our fundamental assignment as parents is to nurture a healthy sense of identity (who we are) that facilitates a healthy sense of ability (who we have the potential to become and what we can accomplish). Concomitantly, there is the parental responsibility to make our children aware and equipped to confront, cope with, and overcome the discouraging, distressful and even dangerous experiences that present themselves in contradiction to the realization of their potential. For black people in America, the pursuit of happiness and holistic health is distinctively or disproportionately challenged by multiple socially constructed realities, including, but not limited to historical and present-day forms of racism (institutional, cultural, and interpersonal) and the post-traumatic effects of the same, from persistent socioeconomic disparities to self-destructive behaviors. So, as a pastor serving a predominantly black community, as a product and pedagogue at two historically black universities, but most importantly, as a parent of black sons, I am committed to raising black consciousness and encouraging success in spite of forces that would try to distress, or deny the achieving of those goals. And to do that, we must talk about it. G&G: There are too many racial profiling stories to even count. How does it make you feel when you hear about incidents and injustices reported by the media involving young Black men? Do you discuss these injustices with your son/grandsons? How do they process these incidents? Bishop Robinson: Yes, I do indeed discuss the troubling realities of “driving while black” with my sons. In fact, this question is very personal to me because I witnessed an erroneous act of profiling as a father. My son, who also serves as our church drummer, was stopped on a Sunday morning while trying to park his car outside of our church. Thankfully, some of our church members came and told me what was going on. Several of our deacons and ministers came with me as I approached the scene and spoke to the lead officer. While the lead officer was relatively calm with me, the aggressive actions, provocative rhetoric, and negative assumptions being made by fellow officers who swarmed my son’s vehicle were arrogant and simply wrong. Factually, my son was a young black male with a decent car in an urban neighborhood, not because he was a criminal, but because he was a church drummer; and upon realization of that fact, the arrogance with which the officers left the scene only compounded the offense. Thank God, my son handled the moment gracefully. But had we not had such conversations, and had those officers not been surrounded by a pastoral parent with a cloud of church witnesses, things could have taken a turn for the worse. So, while I do indeed appreciate the many good police officers who serve our communities, the lack of training in bias awareness, cultural competence, and other means of public engagement besides the worst-case scenarios of physical altercation and life-threatening encounters appears to be an ongoing area of concern. G&G: Have you had that infamous ‘talk’ with your son/grandsons about the dos and don’ts for Black boys/men? Was it a difficult conversation to have with them, what was their reaction? Bishop Robinson: Yes, that conversation is a rite of passage in our family, as it is in many if not all black families. The goal is not to instill fear, but to equip them with awareness and some essential
survival skills. Reactions to the “talk” are mixed, depending on the age and stage of development. Nigrescence (the experience of being and becoming black) in America is a process. In certain stages, overt exposure to racism has not yet occurred, and the “talk” may seem to be irrelevant or unnecessary. But that doesn’t mean that the subject should be avoided or delayed. An appreciation for coping and overcoming skills amid the realities of microaggressions, overt expressions of racism, and conscious or unconscious expressions of race-oriented prejudice and privilege may not be appreciated until later in life. But then again, when there is such easy access to video footage and media reports of racially motivated incidents like protests in Charlottesville, Virginia and massacres like those at a black church in Charlottesville, South Carolina, or a market in Buffalo, New York, it can be said that vicarious exposure to overt racism expedites the nigrescence experience for all and thereby substantiates and necessitates the need for the “talk” even the more. G&G: With all that is going on today, it would be understandable to find it difficult to watch your young black boys walk out the door; how do you keep yourself mentally grounded when your son/grandsons are away from you? Bishop Robinson: Ultimately, my faith keeps me grounded amid the plethora of anxiety-provoking realities of life. I don’t say that to be dismissively churchy; but I say that quite theologically, philosophically, and pragmatically. Faith is confidence, even in the absence of sensorial evidence or epistemic certainty. In other words, I can’t see it or know it for certain right now, but I choose to be confident that things will work out. I choose to believe that they will make it back home safely. By scientific definition, I can’t be certain, but I can believe. Otherwise, I’d never let them go! That’s not easy, because it is very human to want certainty. But in this life, we mostly get statistical probability and the opportunity to determine what is an acceptable risk. In other words, we live by faith in more ways than we may realize. The question is: In whom or what do we put our trust? When my children walk out of the door, I pray that God will keep them. I pray that what we instilled in them as parents, teachers, and members of a faith community will help them to cope, overcome, and become all that the Lord would have them to be for his glory. G&G: Lastly, based on your experiences as a Black father and now watching your grandsons grow up, is there anything you would like to say to Black fathers raising young Black men today? Bishop Robinson: Yes, I would encourage fathers to continue to be an active presence in the lives of our children. An abundance of evidencebased research concludes that our active presence makes a difference. And as a pastor, I would emphasize the spiritual principle that there is an anointing to teach on the lives of fathers (Psalm 78:5, Proverbs 1:8, Ephesians 6:4). And the Bible also informs us that the gifts and callings of God are without repentance or irrevocable (Romans 11:29). So, either way, we are teaching our children something. We’re teaching them something by our presence. And we’re teaching them something by our absence. We’re teaching them intentionally or unintentionally. Sociologically speaking, research shows increased familial stability and life expectancy for black people who consistently participate in faith communities. And again, biblically, there is a mantle of spiritual impartation and instruction entrusted to fathers for the building and maintenance of family legacy. Let’s not allow the adversary or various biopsychosocial forces of adversity discourage us into forfeiting our birthright. Be encouraged to continue, because your active and intentional presence matters! Grace&Glory 23
Dr. Carla
DEBNAM
Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
24 June June 2022 2022 24
Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
to your good health
What’s Next? We are in a season of
be associated with annual
more focused on whatworks
celebration. Graduations,
events but sometimes there
for us and not continue
weddings, Mother’s Day,
is pressure to outperform
to be concerned about
Father’s Day, Juneteenth
the last big event or to outdo
what others think. Taking
and many other special
other people. We begin to
time between milestones,
occasions. These days come
compare ourselves to our
special memories and
with a lot of planning,
peers, friends and even
other significant events
preparation and are often
family members. Comparing
helps us to narrow our
filled with promise and hope. ourselves to others
goals and to explore
We focus on the celebrations
sometimes makes us try to
options we previously
and those being celebrated
do more than we planned
ignored. This exercise in
but for some these days
to so we can keep up with
discovering what’s next
come with a weight of
those who seem to be more
can be enlightening when
expectations and people
accomplished.
we search for our purpose
often find themselves asking,
and push towards creativity
“What’s next?”. We move
Living in the shadow
not to compete but to move
on from the celebration and
of the reputation of
toward being our best
on to being concerned with
others or searching for
selves. Seeking to grow and
what we may be expected
opportunities that satisfy
change is the best reason
to do now that the special
your competitivity but not
to go after ‘what’s next’.
day has ended. This can
your passion is sometimes
There is always a reason
lead to stress as anticipation
a result of not being sure of
to celebrate so why not
increases once the newness
what’s next. This is a sign
celebrate what’s next in
wears off. It may not always
that it may time for us to get
your life.
Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
Grace&Glory 25
26 June 2022
Grace&Glory 27
Season
BOWERS 28 June June2022 2022 28
joy bringer
Sing With Me “Summertime, and the livin’ is easy.” Well, that’s what the song says anyhow. But the livin’ ain’t easy. In fact, there is so much pain and injustice all around, how can we even sing? I’ve been singing my whole life. Songs are deeply rooted in my heart so it’s appropriate that not only is my name from scripture, Ecclesiastes 3:1, “To everything there is a season and a time for every purpose under heaven”, it’s also a song! The Byrds recorded Turn, Turn, Turn more than a decade before I was born but the lyrics (taken from Ecclesiastes 3:1-8) have had great impact on my life. There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace. That’s quite a list! But there is one thing missing from this list that has recently struck me - Singing. I woke up the day after the elementary school shooting in TX with such compound grief in my heart. The cry of my soul was, “It’s too much, Lord!” I heard him respond, “Sing.” How? Nothing I have to say sounds adequate right now! And there was the answer. I didn’t need to say the right thing. I could sing. Sing the melody of grief. Sing the tone of sadness. Sing the line of anger. Sing the message of justice. Sing the song of hope.
There is always a time to sing. Songs take our words (or groans from our soul) and transcend them into something far more powerful. It’s often a joke that Musical Theater people (that’s me) will spontaneously burst into song. There is actually a motivation for that. In acting school, I was taught that when the words no longer convey the emotion, we must sing, and when the song just doesn’t cut it, we dance. From the beginning, music has been an expression of our love, great celebration, our anger, sorrow and pain, our victory, and our hope. Scripture is full of songs, and they are meant to be sung. I heard a teacher say, “If the book of Psalms was in the New Testament, our worship services would look and sound very different.” And we are called to sing. The Lord has given us the gift of song to express what our words can’t. We can sing of our pain with great expectation in the Lord’s faithfulness. “Sing, O childless woman, you who have never given birth! Break into loud and joyful song, O Jerusalem, you who have never been in labor. For the desolate woman now has more children than the woman who lives with her husband,” says the Lord. (Isaiah 54:1) Today, dear reader, I want to lock arms with you and sing. Sing loudly the desperate cry of help. Sing the declaration of His justice. Sing with longing the song of mercy. Sing with tears the melody of sadness. And sing the song of joy - joy in the Lord’s faithfulness. I want to sing with you, “Songs of joy and victory are sung in the camp of the godly. The strong right arm of the Lord has done glorious things!” (Psalm 118:15). Now is the time to sing. Joyfully, Season Bowers
Season Bowers Pastor, Author, Radio Host, Joy bringer 619-807-8509 Follow the joy at seasonbowers.com Instragram, Facebook Grace&Glory 29
30 June 2022
Grace&Glory 31
Min. Carenda
32 June 2022 32 June 2022
Deonne
monthly manna
The Secret Sauce In the motivational speaking industry, there is a term used called “the secret sauce.” It’s a great way to pique the interest of individuals to help solve their problems and create an excitement for solution-based results. The “Secret Sauce” is usually actionable steps that you can make applicable to your life almost immediately. As a minister, mediator and motivational speaker, I want to share the “secret sauce” with you on what we as Christian disciples must do in order to maintain and thrive no matter what situation we find ourselves in. The “secret sauce” can be found in Romans 12:12. It states, “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.” (ESV) I would challenge you to not only commit this scripture to prayer, but also place it around your home to remind yourself of it regularly. It is so easy to become distracted, disheveled and disappointed. We all have our own stories of pain, grief, hardships, and/or sickness. However, there is a “secret sauce.” The word of God equips us fully with what is needed daily in our Christian walk; no matter if we are experiencing rain or basting in the beauty of the rainbow. The first call to action is rejoice in hope. Let’s look at a few scriptures on how important hope is. Hebrews 10: 23 states, “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.” Isaiah 40:31 states, “But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.” Psalm 9:18 states, “But God will never forget the needy; the hope of the afflicted will never perish.” We must rejoice in hope. We must rejoice in the expectation for a certain thing to happen, shift or change! Rejoice in hope that your latter will be greater than your former. Rejoice in hope that our God is an ever-present help in a time of need. Rejoice in hope that the boundary lines have fallen for you in pleasant places, and indeed you have a beautiful inheritance. Pain is real, but so is hope. Grief is real, but so is hope. Suffering is real, but so is hope!
The second call to action is patience in tribulation. Lord, I may need to say that again. The second call to action is patience in tribulation. Healing takes time! Don’t rush the process of your restoration. Tribulation does not feel good but if we extend patience, we can allow God to speak to us, counsel us, and comfort us. When you display a lack of patience in your tribulation, you could prolong the situation or circumstance. In addition, you could damage yourself and others, and you could limit the opportunity to heal fully. Be kind to yourself in this process and wait on the Lord. Hold on and hold out, your tribulation has an expiration date. The final call to action is consistency in prayer. As Christians we all know the importance of prayer. We all are aware that prayer is one way to communicate and commune with God. The question may not be if you pray, but how consistent are you? The bible also tells us to pray without ceasing. There must be something powerful, earth shaken, and heaven bound when we are consistent in prayer. Don’t get caught up on if you have the right words, or how long or short a prayer needs to be, or even where you pray. When you pray, pray to the Father, give thanks, be honest and open, thank God for answered prayers, and always seal it in Jesus’ name. You may have a speech impediment but keep praying. You may feel weary but keeping praying. You may feel unworthy but keep praying. The secret sauce is to be consistent. Pray in the good times and the challenging times. God desires that closeness. The consistency builds your faith and trust in Christ. The consistency helps to break chains and strongholds. The consistency continues to guide you and strengthen you in spirit and in truth. Now you have it! You have the secret sauce on what it will take to maintain and thrive as a Christian believer. Will you make it applicable to your everyday living? Will you lean, rely and depend on Romans 12:12 to be your guide, in this thing we call life? The Lord loves you, yield to His desires on living a fruitful Christian life. I don’t know about you, but its time to taste and see that the Lord is good! Please, enjoy your “secret sauce!” Grace&Glory 33
a woman’s perspective
Rest In Me
“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Matthew 11:28-29
guide us through life so that we are no longer carrying these burdens. I’m glad that we serve a Father who is diligently concerned about His children.
While living life we carry burdens. As we are caring these said burdens, we are communicating with God asking questions like, when will things change or get better, why does it seem like everything happens to me, or how much longer God? I know that I’ve asked these question time and time again. I’m reminded about His word that’s stated above.
I remember when my oldest daughter was a baby and she wanted to reach something off of a shelf and she kept reaching without asking for any help. I remember her grabbing a chair and standing on that chair; she still couldn’t reach it. Now her dad is watching her the entire time as she struggles and wrestles with this problem. I was trying to get him to help her he saw that she was struggling. He told me that he was waiting for her to figure it out. He allowed her to try and when she hadn’t prevailed, he wanted her to ask for assistance so that he could help her. After a moment she did go to her dad and asked for assistance. Some of us fight with the same battle as my child did wrestling with a problem while our Father is waiting for you to ask for help so that he can take your burden and guide you. Asking for help doesn’t make you a quitter. It shows growth and maturity resting in God knowing that He has it under control.
God is telling His children to find rest and peace in Him. He wants us to carry our burdens to Him so that we won’t be heavy ladened. As we rest in Him and lay down our burdens, in exchange we can pick up His yoke and allow Him to lead and
Father help your children establish a relationship allowing them to know that God Pastor Rhoda Turner will aid them if they ask Him to. Christian Faith Fellowship Church He is waiting to guide them just as Chandler, AZ He guides you. www.cffaz.org
Rhoda TURNER
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Tracey
GEORGE
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A Date with Dad
Do a date day with your dad! Call your dad and say, “Let’s do a date day.” Father’s Day is approaching, and this occasion is the perfect part of the year to call your dad and take him on a date to do dinner, lunch, or brunch. Grab the family or decide to do some one-on-one time with your dad and do a date that is designated just to celebrate him. Make plans to make a memorable moment with the one that is devoted to being the best dad to his ability. Dads do so much to take care of their loved ones by providing wise counsel, covering and protection, comfort and calming, and the confidence boosts that seem to come just at the right time. Even if your natural dad is no longer alive or in your life, find a father figure to spend some time with to let him know how much you love and appreciate him for the impact he has made on your life. If you cannot find a father figure, know that your Heavenly Father is always willing and waiting to spend time with you. Make it a divine dad date with Him! This Father’s Day, do a good deed and schedule a date with your dad. King David was a dad that did
it all. From disappointments to being deemed “a man after God’s own heart”, King David was a determined dad. Throughout the psalms it is evident that King David is the epitome of someone who looked and longed for time to spend with his Heavenly Father. Although his life wasn’t perfect, one of the things that David was determined to do was to keep his promise to his friend and be a father figure for his friend’s children. David initiated a search for his friend Jonathan’s descendants in order to show them kindness like he vowed to do. His search resulted in finding Jonathan’s son, Mephibosheth (2 Samuel 9:1-13) and he made a decree that Mephibosheth would always have a seat at his table (2 Samuel 9:11-13). It would be someone like David to be a king but still show how compassionate he could be as a dad. Do a date with your dad and honor him for being on the frontline of your family. Also consider taking the time to celebrate all the meaningful men in your life that can be a father figure to you.
You are not only blessed to have an opportunity to have a
trinkets to triumph
date with your dad who is your natural father, but you also have a Heavenly Father that you can do a divine date with. Both dads are fathers that indeed care for you, cover you, and continuously show you love. Both dads want to fulfill all promises to you, fight for you, be a friend, and to fill all your voids. Although some natural dads are not perfect, can make mistakes, and even at times mess up and miss the mark, your Master and Divine Dad is always there waiting and willing to make up the difference. Your Divine Dad is so awesome that while you are planning a date to dine with Him by spending time with Him praying, reading the scriptures, and meditation, He already has a table set for you (Psalm 23:5). With God in your life as a Divine Dad, Father’s Day can last forever. During these Divine Dad dates, not only do you get a chance to shower Him with your praise, worship, and adoration, He gets the opportunity to lavish you with His love, loyalty, and an everlasting life. Have a date with your dad! Elder Tracey Nicole George www.traceystrinketstotriumph.com
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health matters
Cigarette Smoking
Let’s address the “elephant in the room” cigarette smoking. Yes, Saints of God, some Christians are addicted to tobacco products. Nicotine, the primary chemical in tobacco, is a highly addictive substance. The CDC reports an estimated 12.5% (30.8 million) of U.S. adults currently smoke cigarettes regularly. Cigarette smoking is idolized in the media. Rugged men and sultry women smoked. No one spoke about the severe medical conditions that develop in individuals who smoke cigarettes. When smoking, individuals draw Nicotine and other chemicals such as formaldehyde into their bloodstream. These chemicals affect all organs in the body, which leads to multiple health problems. Nicotine causes an increase in blood pressure, heart rate, and blood flow to the heart. Nicotine also contributes to arteriosclerosis, or hardening of the arterial walls, which may lead to a heart attack. The chemical assault of Nicotine on the tissues of the lungs causes irritation, inflammation, and stiffness. This change in lung structure leads to the development of emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and cancer. Other common side effects of Nicotine include decreased appetite, nausea, diarrhea, increased blood flow to the brain, causing heightened mood, better memory, and increased alertness. However, the increased blood flow to the brain with the narrowed blood vessels puts the individual at risk for strokes. E-cigarettes or vaping is a new form of cigarette smoking. Vaping is popular among young people in middle and high school. Vaping appeals to youth because it produces no odor and is less costly than traditional tobacco products. Vaping is less harmful than smoking cigarettes, but it’s still not safe. E-cigarettes heat extracted Nicotine from tobacco and add flavorings and other chemicals to create an inhaled aerosol. Severe and irreversible lung damage and multiple death is associated with vaping. Studies show that vaping use increased during the pandemic.
Cigarette addiction is a chronic relapsing condition. Most people who use tobacco want to quit but may try to quit multiple times before succeeding. Various resources are available to help individuals who desire to quit smoking. Smokers may participate in counseling. Counseling support can help individuals make and implement a plan to quit smoking. Primary care providers may prescribe medication to block the desire to smoke and reduce nicotine withdrawal symptoms. The use of a mobile app like quitSTART can help smokers with tips and information to prepare them to become smoke-free. Smoking cessation apps provide incentives and badges for achieving milestones. They provide suggestions for managing nicotine cravings in healthy ways. The CDC offers online resources and quit-guides to help individuals to stop smoking. Most recently, the CDC implemented the Tips From Former Smokers campaign featuring people who were able to quit smoking and highlighting the hazards of tobacco use. This campaign features T.V. commercials of people with cigarette-related illnesses. https://www. cdc.gov/tobacco/quit_smoking/index.htm All smokers are encouraged to stop smoking. Studies show that smokers may attempt to quit smoking several times before becoming successful. Some physical damage from smoking can begin to reverse in as little as 24 hours after quitting. Don’t give up hope! Spiritual strength is essential in overcoming any addiction. Prayer and fasting will move the mountain of nicotine addiction. Encourage those around you to get help to Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels stop smoking. Have faith Assistant Professor at that the nicotine habit can Coppin State University be broken. DWatties-Daniels@coppin.edu healthytips025@gmail.com
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Shelah
Kakat
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The Sister Chat
The Sister Chat In September 2016 an idea of creating a new community of empowered women emerged as a result of conversation between two longtime best friends. The idea had been brewing for quite a while and finally on a flight from a wedding in Montego Bay, God gave the outline of how to pursue the idea to manifestation. Thus, was born The Sistah Chat. The idea of community has become especially important even before the pandemic. After meeting such beautiful, gifted, talented and powerful women in their own rankings, it was necessary to bring these ladies together and develop a community of women to share discussions of like and unlike concerns and open themselves up to other women, all in the process of becoming. The initial idea was to create a safe environment in bringing women of ALL ages together crossing the “generation gaps” in order to share ideas and opinions - old and new. The idea of forging new relationships and influencing perspectives was not a novel idea but certainly a necessary idea.
As the Lord would lead, sisters were invited to join The Sistah Chat with the hope of inspiring, encouraging, motivating and empowering women in whatever God has called them to do. One of the key tools we encourage is to incorporate a journal to record thoughts and ideas. My mentor has said, “Once you commit something to paper, you in essence form a contract between yourself and God.” When we initially started our group, we were able to meet in person and each lady was given a journal and an ink pen to record notes from our gatherings as well as recording ideas and thoughts between our gatherings that were impactful and important. We have seen growth in individuals that show us, we are being impactful in these simple 90- minute monthly gatherings. Our conversations have included subjects on Mental Health During the Pandemic, The Power of Words, Paying Attention to Our Finances, The Effects of Internal and External Stress, Mindfulness – inclusive of breathing and meditation techniques, Relationships,
Racism Outside of The Black Community, Self-Care, Habits, etc. We also have “homework” as well as challenges. This helps reinforce information shared during our gatherings. One of our home assignments, for example was to take five minutes at the end of each day for at least one week and record meaningful activities in order to see how we lived our day. It was not an assignment to determine our accomplishments. This was a challenging assignment for some of our sistahs because we generally judge ourselves by our accomplishments and “internally bash” ourselves for the things we don’t get done. We are blessed with an array of talented sistahs from Educational Administrators, ministers, business owners, at least three published authors, artists, an attorney, government workers and other professionals. With an eclectic mix of ladies, we have experienced personal growth and breakthroughs. Our essential foundation is the Word of God. Our motto is “Everyone Matters In The Circle.” md_szakat@hotmail.com
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. J a k c i Er
Gospel & Entertainment Kirk Franklin & Maverick City Music Oh Yea! New Music dropping from this insane collabo! “Bless Me”, June 3rd! I’ve heard the snippet and it’s a vibe! Kirk doesn’t let us down, and accompanied by Maverick City, they are a good problem! It’s a head boppin chant kinda vibe! I’m diggin it! It’s the lead single from the upcoming project “Kingdom Book One”, which is currently available for pre-order. Now if you didn’t know, now you do, they are on tour together RIGHT NOW ! Coming to a city near you! Tamela Mann She’s breaking all kinds of records and making a whole lotta noise! Apparently, she is now the “#1 of #1’s”, breaking Kirk Franklin’s record who formerly held the title, he’s gotta feel like a proud brother! “He Did It For Me” is her 9th #1 on Billboard’s Most Gospel Air Play! She is currently on her own tour, and in addition she has some spot date appearances with the Kirk Franklin & Maverick City Tour, WORK SIS! DMV let me slide this in, we can’t leave her music director and producer Phillip Bryant out, he’s all over her album! Keep reppin DMV! We love to see it! Tasha Cobbs Leonard June 3rd! The people are headed to Chicago! Tasha Cobbs
Kirk Franklin
Tasha Cobbs Leonard
News
Leonard will be doing her first live recording since 2015. “It will be an experience that will impact our future”, says Tasha. Oh and dare I add that featured on this project is Mary Mary, Donald Lawrence, Kierra Sheard, and The Walls Group. HYMNS LIVE FROM GREENWOOD OASIS, I’m looking forward to hearing what shall come out of this! Jason Nelson “All I Need” is ALL I NEED TO SAY! Jason Nelson yet another sound and song of declaration, please check out the music video now available on You Tube and VEVO! Let it bless you! Lisa Knowles Smith This vocal powerhouse has been quite busy doing kingdom business! She and her family have released a new single titled “Jesus Knows” and if you know anything about The Brown Family, they deliver that good ole quartet music we love, they understand the assignment and they keep it alive! That good ole Hand clappin’, foot stomping’ music, WE LIVE TO SEE & HEAR IT! It is available at all digital media outlets RIGHT NOW GO GET IT! Oh, and I can’t neglect to mention she just signed the emerging quartet group “Men Of Prayze” to her label EVO Music World Group. “Til next month, Be blessed, love real big, in real life!” Follow me: Facebook, Instagram & Twitter @misserickaj Email iammisserickaj@gmail.com
Maverick City Music
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