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April 2022
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on the cover: The Living Legacy Foundation of Maryland Katja Fort Rhoden & Katja’s Son Gregory
Cover Story pgs 8-13 April is National Donate Life Month, and we welcome back The Living Legacy Foundation of Maryland. The Living Legacy Foundation of Maryland shares with us the inspiring story of Katja Fort Rhoden, the recipient of a double lung transplant, who received the ultimate gift of compassion. The Living Legacy Foundation also shares an informative ‘Did You Know?’ about transplant donation and provides a full month of activities to encourage organ donor registration.
Special Features 40 FASHION FOCUS Natasha Fagans
The Incline of Sportswear in Fashion Commerce
Healthy Soul 18 MONTHLY MANNA
32 TRINKETS TO TRIUMPH
Min. Carenda Deonne
Elder Tracey George
The Beauty of Life Changing Moments
Get Ready For Your Rehoboth
26 JOY BRINGER Season Bowers
Propelled By Love: A Dramatic Retelling 4 April 2022
36 A WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE Pastor Rhoda Turner
Distracted By Life
Healthy Mind
Entertainment
22 TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH
42 GOSPEL & ENTERTAINMENT NEWS Ericka J.
Dr. Carla J. Debnam
Encourage Yourself
Healthy Life
In Every Issue Scripture Page........................................ 2 Contributors............................................ 6
38 HEALTH MATTERS
Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels
Mental Health Issues in Youth and Young Adults
Call Tyson
Lesesne
Realtor The Vurganov Group
From the Editor....................................... 7
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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. Abigail Graham Natasha Fagans 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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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.
Good News
This month Christians all over the world will celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. We will trace the steps and events that led to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ on Good Friday. We will remember the seven last utterances of Jesus from the cross. We will tell the story of how Jesus died on the cross on Good Friday; how he was buried in a borrowed tomb, and how on the third day, early Sunday morning, He rose from the dead with all power in His hands. We call this the “Good News” of Jesus Christ! As believers, can you imagine a life without Jesus? What would life be like if Jesus had not gotten up from the grave? It would be a life without hope. We would be most miserable. In the times of trouble, we would not be able to go to the throne of God boldly with our petitions. And more important, we would not have Jesus sitting at the right hand of God as our intercessor. But, because He lives, we have hope and we have a peace that the world does not understand. But the story does not stop there. We as believers have the responsibility to keep the story alive. As we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ there may be some who will not be celebrating because they do not know or have not heard the “Good News.” When was the last time you shared this “Good News” with anyone? There is a line in a song that says, “Said I wasn’t gonna tell nobody, but I couldn’t keep it to myself.” When was the last time you had some news you just could not keep to yourself, you could not wait to tell somebody? We do not seem to have a problem with talking about the latest headlines in the news, which most of the time is not good news. We also spend a good amount of time talking with friends, co-workers, and family members about our problems and hardships. Maybe the next time someone wants to tell you about their trials and tribulations take this opportunity to tell them, “I’ve got Good News!” This is the perfect season to give those who are without hope a hope. It would be a shame if we as believers did not take this awesome opportunity to share the “Good News” with non-believers. This is a perfect time to let those who walk in darkness know that Jesus is the light of the world. Someone needs to know that Jesus came so that we may
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have life and have that life more abundantly (John 10:10); and that we would be able to live a victorious life. Someone needs to know today that Jesus is our Savior, and that today is their day of salvation. “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Romans 10:13 ‘Resurrection Sunday’ is the highest celebration in the Christian life. How awesome it would be to share the “Good News” during this season and see lives changed by the salvation of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The best news is that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us (Romans 5:8) and God loved us so much that He gave His only son as a sacrifice for us (John 3:16). All we have to do to have eternal life is to believe that Jesus died on the cross, rose from the grave, and now sits at the right hand of God the Father. (Romans 10:9). Now that’s “Good News” worth sharing! Happy Resurrection Sunday!
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The Ultimate Gift of Compassion For Latrice Price, Community Outreach Specialist for The Living Legacy Foundation of Maryland, promoting education and awareness for organ, eye, and tissue donation isn’t just a job—it’s a purpose. When asked for the one-word reason why she supports donation, her answer is simple: religion. “All religions believe in the act of giving,” she says. “It is the ultimate gift of compassion.” Latrice works closely with clergy and the faith community to make sure that people understand the truth about organ donation and the impact it has on recipients in need.
Did You Know? Over 3,000 men, women, and children in Maryland currently need a life-saving organ transplant. “Love your neighbor as yourself...” (Mark 12:31) “There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” (John 15:13)
In eternity, we will not need our earthly bodies. One organ donor can save up to eight lives through organ donation and enhance more than 75 lives through tissue donation. “Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the LORD your God which he has given you.” (Deuteronomy 16:17)
“He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” (Revelation 21:5) “We can enter Heaven without having every part of our bodies present.” (Mark 9:47)
An average of 20 people die nationally each day from the lack of available organs for transplant.
Every ten minutes, another name is added to the national organ transplant waiting list.
“Heal the sick ... Give as freely as you have received.” (Matthew 10:8)
“...since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other.” (John 4:11)
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DONATE LIFE MONTH 2022 Engagement Checklist Use this engagement checklist to complete a variety of activities during Donate Life Month to show your support for organ, eye, and tissue donation. You can find links and more information for each activity in your weekly email or at www.in1word.org.
Watch The LLF's Donate Life Flag Raising Share your reason for supporting donation through the #In1Word campaign Sign up for the Donate Life Family Fun Run Color our special #In1Word coloring page and share your masterpiece on social media Wear blue and green for #BlueGreenDay on April 22 and share your photos on social media Write a thank you message to healthcare workers Write a message of hope for people waiting for a transplant Complete all four weekly Donate Life Month quizzes
Checklist prepared by The Living Legacy Foundation of Maryland. Grace&Glory 13
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Min. Caren
Deon
The Beauty of Life Changing Moments
There are special times when we experience life changing moments. Moments that shift our entire being (mindset, spirit and body). It’s beautiful when we experience those moments with Christ. When He gently yet abundantly refreshes us with His word and gives us assurance that He loves us. Throughout our 19 March 2022 18 April 2022
daily schedules and demands, ceasing the moment and yielding to Christ through song, prayer, study, and meditation is truly priceless. I recently traveled to speak at a Women’s Conference. In my room was a beautiful view of the beach. The weather
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was perfect, and the timing was divine. I grabbed a light jacket, my bible, notepad and pen, and headed for the balcony. Just taking time to look at God’s creation was joyous, but when I began to settle my spirit and relax in His arms, He spoke three things to me that has eternally changed my life.
lean not to thine own understanding, in all thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your path.” When our path is directed by God, He will see to it that destiny helpers align with His purpose for our life. We must put our trust in God! Putting our trust in man will redirect our steps outside of God’s will. We must trust God not only to protect and care for us, but also to direct our path. We don’t just want anyone interlinking in our path, who is not supposed to be there. We must remember that our path is connected through divine alignment in Christ.
The first thing He told me was “stop chasing success.” He reminded me in His word, “And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, if you obey the voice of the LORD your God.” Deuteronomy 28:2. I had this thing backwards. I was chasing and toiling on “the next big thing.” Chasing after people or events that I felt was the answer to my “big break.” However, the Lord expressed to me that my responsibility is to obey Him.
The last thing the Lord spoke to me was “change your perspective regarding delay.” I personally saw delay as rejection. However, that is not how we as Christians should perceive it. We must remember that God knows the end from the beginning. We also must remember that He is not slack concerning His promises towards us. There was a time, in the book of Daniel, when he waited twenty-one days before the angel of the Lord appeared. Daniel did not give up. He kept praying. When the angel of the Lord came to Daniel, he told him that there was much warfare going on, which hindered him from getting to Daniel sooner. However, it was because of Daniel’s fervent and persistent prayers that led to breakthrough. As a Christian we need to take hope that when we are experiencing delay, there could be something happening in the spiritual realm, that we are unaware of. Nevertheless, we must pray without ceasing. I am a true believer that you shall reap if you faint not.
It’s in our obedience to what God would have us to do that would cause the blessings of the Lord not only to come upon us, but also overtake us. I was encouraged that God’s blessings do not just come in any form or manner; no, they are coming in such a way that will outdistance us. Wow, how powerful is that? God is not only in the blessing business but blessing overhaul! What makes His blessings so much sweeter is that they enrich us, free from regret, shame or sorrow. The second thing the Lord spoke to me was, “not to put more trust in man than in Him.” I was convicted on trusting God in my prayers but trusting man to answer my prayers. However, the bible teaches us in Proverbs 3:5-7, “Trust in the Lord with all of your heart, and
As we welcome Spring and as the weather begins to shift, I pray that God will also show Himself mighty in our lives. It is my sincere hope that He will speak to us and share life changing wisdom that will align our path with His perfect will. I wanted to share this personal testimony with you to encourage you that God is still in the speaking business. He has much to say in this season of our lives. Therefore, take time to relax, settle your spirit and open your heart to receive ALL that He desires to share with you. It will be the best decision you ever made. Walking in the Ezra Anointing, Min. Carenda Deonne www.carendadeonne.com @carendadeonne Grace&Glory 19
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to your good health
Dr. Carla
DEBNAM
Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
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Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
to your good health
Encourage Yourself So many people are overly critical of themselves and not looking at the good qualities they have because of what people have said about them or more importantly what they have said to themselves. This negative self-talk is not good for them mentally, physically or spiritually. Aligning your thoughts with the scripture along with highlighting your unique skills and abilities, focusing on the positive and developing your potential is essential. It is important for learning and being the person God created you to be. It is about coming into agreement with who God says you are and articulating that to yourself and then others to the glory of God. It is not bragging but it is acknowledging the gift you are to others and more importantly to yourself. It is not prideful or arrogant. You must get past your barriers and shame and break through to your potential. That requires a growth mindset. What’s a growth mindset? We get a growth mindset as we are transformed by renewing our minds and as we continually work towards being our best self. We were created to grow and go into the world to share ourselves. Affirming yourself and building up your mind, character and potential, benefit the Body of Christ. We are one body. Each of us needs to do our part and to do it to the best of our ability. It’s not about performance but potential. A growth mindset is not about perfection but is about taking on iron sharpening assignments so that you can become all you were created to be. The scriptures remind us, “For as he thinks in his heart, so is he” Proverbs 23:7 (NKJV); and “Life and death are in the power of the tongue.” Proverbs 18:21 (NIV). We have what it takes to be our best. We must believe it.
We have Jesus as an example to follow and need to implement the strategy of encouragement in every area of our lives. Our example is God who when creating the universe complemented His work, with the words “it was good”. It starts with knowing who you are in Christ. You are a new creature and were created to do good works. You are a child of God, and this is the most important role and title you possess. Words have different meanings and are powerful when spoken with authority and spiritual confidence. We must choose our words wisely. Words have power. Think before you speak. This is what you usually do when speaking to others and it is essential especially when the world has negative messages we must fight through. We must also learn to practice self-compassion. Many times, we have not seen it modeled in our families or in others we relate with. Many of us have been taught to be kind, helpful and loving to others but we fail to treat ourselves kindly. We have forgotten the Second Greatest commandment: “You must love your neighbor as you love yourself.” Matthew 22:39 (CEB). The question becomes, “do you love yourself?” We would all say yes! But how do you show it? Do you treat other people better than you treat yourself? If so, are you living the second commandment to love your neighbor ‘as’, meaning equally, as you love yourself? We can all be challenged by the voice in our head that reminds us of our faults more than our faith, our problems more than God’s promises and our foes more than our friends. We must learn to affirm ourselves with the truth and not the lies we have learned to believe. Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
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joy bringer
Season
BOWERS 26 26 April April2022 2022
Propelled By Joy: A Dramatic Retelling Everything felt strange. Nothing about today was ordinary. Nothing about today was going as she had thought it would, and with every passing hour things seemed only to get worse. An eerie quietness settled over her as she stood at the base of the hill, powerlessly watching Him suffer. It was all so surreal. Images of all they had shared flashed before her eyes: the miracles, the love and friendship, the words of life, the simple moments together. Present-moment reality rattled her with a cruel jolt. Now Jesus, her Jesus, the Man she knew and loved, was gone. Keep moving, she urged herself. She had to keep moving or else, fall apart, so she followed them to the tomb, watching as they laid Him to rest. The pain was unbearable, yet she clung desperately to every moment to be near His body. There were still things to be done before the sun set and Sabbath began. She knew she had to leave Him and run to the market to buy all the spices and oils necessary to honor Him, wanting nothing to delay her return to the tomb on Sunday morning. But leave Him? How? Numbness, having replaced the pain, left her paralyzed. Her only consolation was the opportunity to care for Him in death as He had cared for her in life. That was all the fuel she needed. The tasks were accomplished in a determined haze, and now, if nothing else, she could provide a proper burial. But first, the Sabbath. How could she possibly rest with Jesus gone? It seemed almost impossible at this moment. A hot flood of memories washed over her again, as she recalled the example He’d set. She managed
a half-smile through welled eyes, whispering, “Even now, He’s still caring for me.” Jesus was her model and no matter what was going on in His ministry, He had known how to rest. She had learned so much from watching Him. He had shown her the freedom and joy found in obedience, in always living in response to the Father’s love. In humble determination to honor the Sabbath in order to honor her Lord, she yielded. Oddly, the forced rest was good, giving them time to process and grieve. One emotion gave way to another. They were angry—He was innocent! They were confused—why didn’t He fight back? They were resolved—they must keep His ministry going. As they voiced their questions and reflected on all the things, He said that hadn’t made sense in the moment, many of His words became chillingly clear. Hadn’t He told them this would happen? No one slept much those two nights and the moment the sun began to rise on Sunday morning, they made their way back to where His body was laid. What started as a walk, quickly turned into a run. They were desperate to get to Him. Devotion and love carried them the whole way. But as they approached the tomb, anticipation turned to fear. The ground began to shake; lightning and thunder stopped them in their tracks. They exchanged startled glances. The men who were guarding the tomb fell to the ground, unconscious, the stone pushed aside. The tomb was empty. Jesus was gone. Horror overcame her. A man (or at least he looked like a man, yet so bright and blinding) appeared and began to speak. His words pierced into her soul. She was in shock but what she
heard changed everything. “He’s not here. He’s alive. GO. TELL.” It made no sense but at the same time this was the truest thing her soul had ever heard. The desperate ache within was telling her to stay—to stay where Jesus had been, but revelation was inviting her to go. And so, she ran. Even though she hadn’t seen Him yet, the truth that He was alive propelled her forward with a joy that overpowered her pain and fear. Tears streaming down her face, heart pounding, and her legs moving faster than ever before, she had one goal—find the rest to tell them He was alive! They needed to know. Everyone needed to know. But would they believe her? She ran without care or concern for her dignity. None of it seemed to matter now that her Lord was alive. Her lungs burned but she kept running. And then, just there, ahead in the distance, she saw Him. She froze. Standing in the middle of the road they locked eyes, and even from afar, she knew it was Him. Jesus. Time stood still and nothing else existed in the brilliance of that moment. She fell at His feet. Her tears soaked them as she poured out her love upon Him—it wasn’t the first time. This was a familiar posture. She didn’t know what to say to Him, her words meant nothing compared to how she felt. Jesus had met her. He had come for her. He had come for them and for us. It was true. He’s alive. Go! Tell! Season Bowers Pastor, Author, Radio Host, Joy bringer 619-807-8509 Follow the joy at seasonbowers.com Instragram, Facebook Grace&Glory 27
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trinkets to triumph
Tracey
GEORGE
32 32 April April2022 2022
trinkets to triumph
Get Ready for Your Rehoboth
Perk up and praise Him! It’s a new season and the clarion call is to get ready for your Rehoboth. Despite every obstacle and opposition that you are facing, get ready for God to enlarge your territory. Get ready for God to fight for you and fill every void in your life. Get ready for God to load you with lots of blessings and the benefits of being a child of the Most High God. Get ready for your Rehoboth. If you recall, Rehoboth was the name of the third well Isaac dug in Gerar after much opposition with the men of Gerar (Genesis 26:12-22). Isaac named the well Rehoboth because he said, "Now the Lord has given us room and we will flourish in the land.” (Genesis 26:22) He was finally at a place for his bountiful blessings to flow without the men of Gerar trying to stop him. God is making room for you to flourish and has an open space and plan tailormade just for you to give you the desires of your heart (Psalm 37:4). When you obey and do what the Lord has called you to do, you will overcome all your obstacles, outmatch any opponents, and be on your way to living a flourishing, favorfilled life. Get ready for your Rehoboth.
Obstacles always lead to opportunities. God told Isaac to stay in place even in the midst of the famine. God’s promise and plan was to bless him (Genesis 26:1-6). Even in the midst of the obstacles and opposition, Isaac was obedient and later blessed. Isaac feared for his life, he had to fight to find a place to dig a well, but he remained faithful to the fight. Through the famine and the foes, God manifested His promise to not only Isaac but to his descendants also. Get ready to receive the blessings the Lord has for you and make room for your Rehoboth. You are bound for a bumper crop blessing. Get ready for your Rehoboth.
Obedience leads to abundance. When you are obedient, it gives God an opportunity to bless you. Isaac listened to the Lord and obeyed His instructions and, as a result, not only was he blessed but his descendants were too. Opting out to obey the instructions God gave you will never end well. Even when situations and circumstances don’t line up or make sense, remember that all situations and circumstances always work for your good when God is involved (Romans 8:28).
While you are waiting for your Rehoboth to be ready for you to occupy, continue to be steadfast, immovable, and always abound in the works of the Lord knowing that your labor will not be in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58). Your space is opened, and your access is granted. Get ready to activate your gifts and talents that will lead you to experiencing the blessings God has for you. Your gift will make room for you (Proverbs 18:16). Get ready for God to release a new open space in your life. Be prepared for God to fill every void in your life that has left you feeling lost, lonely, or left out. Even in opposition, God is going to open doors for you that no man can shut. God is getting ready to give you a blank canvas to create the life He ordained for you. You will then sing to yourself the song by Phil Wickham, “Spring up, O well, within my soul. Spring up, O well, and make me whole. Spring up, O well, and give to me that life abundantly.” Worship Him and He will water you. God will not withhold any well from you in this winning season. Get ready for your Rehoboth! Elder Tracey Nicole George www.traceystrinketstotriumph.com
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a woman’s perspective
Distracted By Life
thing and birds of the air, for I am sorry that I have made them.” But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord.” Genesis 6:6-8 NKJV
Rhoda TURNER
My oldest daughter preached a message entitled Survival Guide. You should truly go and listen to it. You can find it at www.cffcaz. com Season 4 episode 17. I’m telling you it will change your life. In her message she talked about Noah’s Survival Guide, and out of her message birthed this article. Distracted By Life. God has given each of us an assignment. His horrific crucifixion bridged a pathway for His children to come back to Him. Our assignment is simple. Because of His death we now have eternal life. Our declaration as His children is to tell a dying world about a living Christ. How do we do that? We do that by telling our story. Noah was given an assignment and that was to build an Ark. A little background about Noah. Noah was a drunk that lived in an area that hadn’t received rain in a long time. The people truly thought Noah was crazy. You can imagine how he was treated. I know that we all have a crazy drunk uncle that clearly hears from God especially when that uncle is drunk (insert sarcasm!). Well, maybe not you, but I know I did. I can now identify that uncle in my family because of Noah’s story. I was inclined to listen to him particularly because occasionally that drunk truly heard from God. Noah kept to the work that God had told him to do. At that time in history, God was a tad bit disappointed with man, but He found favor in Noah. “And the Lord was sorry that He had made man on the earth, and He was grieved in His heart. So the Lord said, “I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth, both man and beast, creeping 36 April 2022
“And God said to Noah, “The end of all flesh has come before Me, for the earth is filled with violence through them; and behold, I will destroy them with the earth. Make yourself an ark of gopherwood; make rooms in the ark, and cover it inside and outside with pitch. And this is how you shall make it: The length of the ark shall be three hundred cubits, its width fifty cubits, and its height thirty cubits. You shall make a window for the ark, and you shall finish it to a cubit from above; and set the door of the ark in its side. You shall make it with lower, second, and third decks. And behold, I Myself am bringing floodwaters on the earth, to destroy from under heaven all flesh in which is the breath of life; everything that is on the earth shall die. But I will establish My covenant with you; and you shall go into the ark—you, your sons, your wife, and your sons’ wives with you. And of every living thing of all flesh you shall bring two of every sort into the ark, to keep them alive with you; they shall be male and female. Of the birds after their kind, of animals after their kind, and of every creeping thing of the earth after its kind, two of every kind will come to you to keep them alive. And you shall take for yourself of all food that is eaten, and you shall gather it to yourself; and it shall be food for you and for them.” Thus Noah did; according to all that God commanded him, so he did.” Genesis 6:13-22 NKJV In spite of ridicule and his own persecution Noah pursued, and he kept working. Noah was given an assignment, an instruction, and tools for the job. Noah, himself, brought the willingness to work. Those are the exact things that God has given you. What’s your ark? What promise are you holding on to that God said was going to happen? Don’t allow the doubt and the disbelief of others stop you from finishing what God told you to do. YOU were given the assignment. Others won’t see it because God didn’t show them; He showed you. Don’t get distracted by life. GO BUILD YOUR ARK. While you do your part, watch God do what He said He’s going to do. Stay focused on the assignment and build. You may be wondering why God chose to use Noah. It's simple. It’s because He could trust him. Just like God trusted him He also can trust you, and He has chosen you. “But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, that no flesh should glory in His presence.” I Corinthians 1:27-29 NKJV You've got this. You've got everything you need. Don’t Get Distracted! Pastor Rhoda Turner Christian Faith Fellowship Church Chandler, AZ www.cffaz.org
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health matters
Mental Health Issues in Youth and Young Adults
The Covid-19 pandemic had an emotional effect on many of us. Many adults have to cope with various losses, grief, isolation, and anxiety regarding the future. Recent data suggest that adolescents and college-age students also experienced similar emotions caused by the isolation and insecurity of the pandemic. Adolescent mental health issues are often overlooked and are disregarded. Some parents, educators, and youth pastors consider the moodiness and anxiety that signal some emotional disorders as a phase of development. Studies show young adults and adolescents with mental health conditions are particularly vulnerable to social exclusion, discrimination, and stigma (affecting readiness to seek help). Many young adults with emotional issues experience educational difficulties, engage in risk-taking behaviors, and exhibit physical health problems. Unfortunately, many young adults with mental health issues are undiagnosed. Diagnosis and treatment are delayed until several years later when they can no longer effectively cope in social situations and experience problems in relationships—common mental health issues, including anxiety disorders and suicide. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health disorders in adolescents. Anxiety disorders are clinically significant when they interfere with important areas of functioning, such as school, work, or relationships with family and peers. They often occur in conjunction with depressive disorders or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and are associated with an increased risk of suicide. Extreme poverty, physical or cyberbullying, physical or sexual abuse, and loss contribute to the development of various anxiety disorders. Signs and symptoms of anxiety can include sleeplessness, panic attacks, and alcohol and substance abuse. Physical symptoms are common for many anxiety disorders. Symptoms may include chest pains, palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, syncope, nausea, vomiting, recurrent abdominal pain. Social scientists identified that anxiety-related disorders increased during the Covid pandemic. Lack of interaction with 38 April 2022
school activities and friends contributed to feelings of isolation. Suicide is the second leading cause of death in young people aged 15–24 years old. Contributing factors that increase the risk of suicide include poor academic achievement, family and relationship dysfunction, problems with sexual orientation, gender identity, and involvement in abusive relationships. Young adults and adolescents dealing with similar issues feel trapped without a means to escape the situation and start to question life itself. Negative social media acceptance and lack of positive social relationships can also lead to depression in young people. Some young people are capable of masking their feelings to friends and family. Suicide attempts and successes come as a shock to those around them. What can we do as friends, family, educators and church leaders? We must be sensitive to the feelings of our youth. Although Philippians 4:6 admonishes us to be anxious for nothing, our young people are anxious. We must direct young adults and teens to find the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, to guard [their] hearts and minds through Christ Jesus, as stated in verse seven. Provide an atmosphere where young adults and teens can express themselves without judgment. Listen to their concerns. Validate their feelings. Engage professional help when emotional issues are complicated, continue, and not resolved. Health care providers with experience and training in treating adolescents with mental health disorders should be selected to care for young clients. Become familiar with online tools and resources to support youth mental health. Be an advocate and support youth mental health services. Be sensitive and acknowledge that the Covid-19 pandemic significantly affected the emotional stability of our Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels youth and young adults. Your Assistant Professor at support and encouragement Coppin State University DWatties-Daniels@coppin.edu may save a life. healthytips025@gmail.com
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PROCLAIM JOIN WITH US AND OTHER MINISTRIES ACROSS THE BALTIMORE METROPOLITAN AREA AS WE COME TOGETHER AS ONE TO CHANGE THE NARRATIVE OF OUR CITY. ON RESURRECTION SUNDAY WE WILL PROCLAIM THE HEART OF GOD FOR BALTIMORE! "(As it is written, I have made thee a father of many nations,) before him whom he believed, even God, who quickeneth the dead, and calleth those things which be not as though they were." Romans 4:17 KJV
Sunday, April 17, 2022 Sunrise at 6 AM
Baltimore Inner Harbor Corner of Pratt St & Light St
Kingdom Worship Center Bishop Gregory & Pastor Tonya Dennis, Senior Pastors Baltimore, MD | Columbia, MD | E-Campus www.kingdomworshipcenter.org
Following Proclaim we will have one combined service at 9 am at our Towson location. 6419 York Rd Baltimore, MD 21212
Grace&Glory 39
fashion focus
Natasha
Fagans
THE INCLINE OF SPORTSWEAR IN FASHION COMMERCE AND WHAT IT MEANS FOR BRANDS Sportswear Big Business is by far dominating the fashion industry. It has become quite the norm for consumers all over to spend the highest dollar on a nice sweatsuit or trendy tracksuit. Long gone are the days of purchasing athleisure just for the gym or sports activities. While there are a significant amount of people exercising at home, comfortable wear is the everyday “go-to” fit. Some independent/ start up sportwear brands saw nearly 500%+ increases in sales this past year alone. Nowadays, the average workday or business meeting is in the living room on a laptop, and as a result yoga pants and basketball shorts have become prevalent wardrobe items for almost any industry professional that works remotely. Some statistics even show that the sportswear apparel 40 April 2022
market valued at over $105 billion in 2020. These numbers are expected to double over the next ten years. One of the main reasons for the increase in interest of the consumer is the multi seasonal functionality of most sportswear. Purchasing clothing that can be worn all year around makes more economic sense, especially for families with multiple children. Dress codes may be a thing of the past soon, but trends that fit any season of the year will never go away. Influencers, especially on social media, have played a key role in helping larger brands make their clothing look sensible to the everyday consumer. Sportswear lovers are more likely to invest in clothing that is durable, inclusive and high in fashion demand.
Spending money that makes “cents” is always the way to keep consumers coming back, but that doesn’t stop the luxury brands from mashing the gas in prices and collabs. From Gucci and Louis Vuitton to Alexander McQueen, high line luxury has not held back its entry into the market. This forces the lower end brands to stay current in order to survive the ever-growing market. Independently owned brands have also become extremely popular with the creation of private brands that have luxury qualities. What does the future look like? I’d say, if these leading brands understand and keep up with the industry demands of the times, sportswear fashion shows no end in sight. Authentic style is important but paying attention to the target consumers is the only way that any brand, especially an athleisure company will remain relevant in a nonstop growing market.
fashion focus
Natasha Fagans @nmfagans
SNEAKER FORECAST FOR APRIL 2022 APRIL 2 - RETRO 1 HI ’85 “GEORGETOWN” APRIL 9 - JORDAN 5 “JADE” APRIL 9 - ADIDAS YEEZY 350 v2 ZEBRA APRIL 16 - YEEZY FOAM RUNNER “SULFUR” APRIL 27 - RETRO 5 “EASTER” APRIL 30 - RETRO 13 “NAVY/ BLACK” APRIL 30 - ADIDAS YEEZY 450 “SULFUR”
Grace&Glory 41
gospel & entertainment news
42 2022 42 April April 2022
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Gospel & Entertainment Johnny Brown Johnny Brown who we also affectionately knew as “Bookman” from the sitcom “Good Times”, the actor, comedian, and musician was reportedly at his doctor’s office having his pacemaker checked out, and at some point, while he was there went into cardiac arrest, collapsed and died suddenly. Brown was 84 years old. There was such an outpouring of love from those in Hollywood who had the opportunity to work with him, inclusive of but not limited to Janet Jackson who played “Penny” on Good Times, Holly Robinson Pete who worked with him in “Hangin with Mr. Cooper”, Stephanie Mills who did her first Broadway Show “Maggie Flynn” with his daughter, and Kim Fields, as well as gospel icon Kurt Carr. He leaves his legacy to his wife of 61 years, and 2 children. I’m such a fan of Good Times and still watch it till this day Traci Braxton Traci was the middle Sister of The Braxton Clan and part of the cast of “Braxton Family Values”. On March 12, her sister Toni Braxton, announced her sister had transitioned as a result of a yearlong battle with cancer. She had privately been undergoing a series of treatments for Esophageal Cancer. Outside of singing with her sisters, she has released her own solo albums, made some acting appearances, and she and her husband Kevin Surratt joined the cast of the reality show “Marriage Boot Camp”. Traci transitioned surrounded by her family and friends; she was 50 years old. The Color Purple Warner Bothers has announced the cast of the upcoming remake of the movie “The Color Purple”, the original novel written by Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize novel. This star-studded cast includes, Louis Gossett Jr., Tamela Mann, David Allen Grier, Phylicia Pearl Mpasi, Deon Cole, and Stephen Hill to name a few. Warner Brothers’ picture is set to start filming late March, and is slated to release in December 2023. LaShun Pace Rhodes Atlanta native, world renowned singer LaShun Pace Rhodes, passed away on March 21st, at the age of 60. Pace was on dialysis and awaiting a kidney transplant but unfortunately succumbed to heart failure. Her voice was so powerful and along with her 8 sisters, “The Pace Sisters” definitely made their mark in music history. She got her start with her sisters and went on to also pursue her solo career. I have followed their career since its start, and I can honestly say their sound was so harmonious and very distinct. Most recently, Tik Tok sensation can also be added to her resume, as her song “Act Like You Know” has been featured a gazillion times! Gospel music has again suffered a major loss with this one, another golden voice has left in the physical but her music is legendary and shall remain,
News
and let’s absolutely look out for her daughter Aarion Rhodes she is quite the singer herself, like her mom. Tyler Perry spoke very highly of her and his experience working with her since his stage play “I Know I’ve Been Changed”, and how they remained friends until her death. He even granted the matriarch of the Pace Family “Mother Pace” her dying wish to own her home, so he purchased her one in 2020. While we mourn this loss, This Queen’s voice shall continue to resound throughout the earth! Deitrick Haddon D’Haddy is back with brand new music “God Made” as well as an amazing music video! Y’all have to check it out! Go download it! Thank me later! This guy is unstoppable, and, on a mission, he just keeps cranking out great music! We love it and we are here for it! Lord knows I felt the lyrics! Lawrence Flowers & Intercession Here me clear! Lawrence Flowers & Intercession is honestly one of my favorite groups and he’s one of my favorite artists! I am legit still rocking to his previous projects to this very day, and here he is bringing up more! His new single “Calculated” has already hit the Top of Billboard Charts at #1 for the first time, whoop whoop, and I’m so happy, very well deserved! “Merge” is the title of his album, download it all! Thank Me Later and go grab his other projects too, get the entire experience!
Tyrae Brown On March 31st DMV’s own Tyrae Brown has released his sound with his new EP titled “Thinking Out Loud”, on his label Brownsville Music, his single “Heaven” is the lead single. He has served some of DMV’s major churches, New Psalmist Baptist Church, Mt Ennon Baptist Church, and Celebration Church. In addition, he has worked with some of gospel music’s major artists including Tamela Mann, Earnest Pugh, Anthony Brown & Group Therapy, to name a few. As extensive as his resume is with other artists, he’s continued to chart his path creating his own original music and charting! The single is very musically infused mixed with jazz and soul, IT’S ALL THERE! Available now at all digital media outlets, support our own y’all! Johnny Brown
Traci Braxton
Deitrick Haddon
The Color Purple
Lawrence Flowers & Intercession
LaShun Pace Rhodes
Tyrae Brown
“Til next month, Be blessed, love real big, in real life!” Follow me: Facebook, Instagram & Twitter @misserickaj Email iammisserickaj@gmail.com Grace&Glory 43
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