Grace&Glory 1
scripture page
Psalm 91 1
He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. 2
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I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.
Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence. He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.
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Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;
Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.
A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee. 8
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Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked.
Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation; 10
There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling. 11
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(KJV)
For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.
They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.
Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet. 14
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Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name.
He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him. 16
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With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.
Grace&Glory 3
July 2022
™
on the cover: Dr. Cleveland Taft Andre Mason, II Perkins Square Baptist Church 2500 Edmondson Avenue Baltimore, MD 21223 www.perkinssquare.org
Cover Story
pgs 8-12 The Rev. Dr. Cleveland Taft Andre Mason, II, is the Pastor of Perkins Square Baptist Church in Baltimore and he is celebrating his 30th Pastoral Anniversary at Perkins Square. Also, for the last 8 years, the United Baptist Missionary Convention and Auxiliaries of the State of Maryland, Incorporated has operated under the determined leadership of Dr. Mason. This dynamic servant of God has spent his life dedicated to advancing the Kingdom of God. Dr. Mason shares with us his story behind a Convention, a Church, and a Pastor.
Healthy Soul 20 JOY BRINGER Season Bowers
Joy In Every Season- Summer
24 TRINKETS TO TRIUMPH Elder Tracey George
Don’t Let The Dirt Distract You
4 July 2022
22 A WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE Pastor Rhoda Turner
Forgiveness
28 MONTHLY MANNA Min. Carenda Deonne
Welcome To Your Third Trimester!
Healthy Mind
Entertainment
16 TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH
32 GOSPEL & ENTERTAINMENT NEWS Ericka J.
Dr. Carla J. Debnam
Be Encouraged
Healthy Life
In Every Issue Scripture Page........................................ 2 Contributors............................................ 6
30 HEALTH MATTERS
Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels
From the Editor....................................... 7
Coping With Depression
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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.
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6 July 2022 6 July 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.
Keep The Faith
from the editor
The first half of the year has passed and is behind us now. Along with it has also passed some disappointments, heartaches, some ups and some downs. In spite of what has already happened in the first half of this year, we are to forget those things which are behind and keep moving forward. We have to stay strong and keep the faith. As we look back over these last six months, I’m sure we all can say that God never left us alone. And if we stay strong and keep the faith, the Bible tells us that He will never leave us or forsake us. I believe that the key to being strong and keeping the faith is to know God for yourself, in other words, you need to have a personal relationship with God. Usually when you have a personal relationship with someone it starts with a foundation of trust. Trust is the first building block of establishing a relationship. You want to be confident that the person you are in a relationship with is trustworthy. One of the best ways to establish trust with someone is to spend time with that person and to become familiar with their character. So it is with God, we build our trust in Him the same way. When we spend time with God we become familiar with who He is and we become familiar with His character. Knowing God for yourself is an exciting journey and you can start that journey by first spending time in the Word of God. Reading God’s word can stimulate and build your faith. There was a reading campaign whose slogan was, “The more you read the more you know”. Reading God’s word and knowing God’s word is rewarding and has wonderful benefits. As part of the journey to getting to know God we must also spend time in His presence through praise and worship. God’s word tells us to worship Him in spirit and in truth (John 4:24). When we worship God we tend to develop His traits and character. When we worship and praise God we honor Him for who He is.
e i k c a J
EPPS
Another part of our journey to knowing God is spending time in prayer. The word of God tells us that we should always pray and to pray without ceasing. Prayer is how we communicate with God and how He communicates with us. We express our thanks, our faith, our love, and our hopes to God in prayer, and we receive from Him answers, assurance, guidance, peace, strength, power, and revelation of who He is. (Matthew 7:7-8; John 16:13; Philippians 4:6-7; Ephesians 1:17-18). Once you have established a relationship with God, it will be easy to trust Him with your whole life. It will be easy to stay strong and keep the faith no matter what comes your way. Peace and Blessings . . .
Grace&Glory 7
Rev. Dr. Cleveland
taft andre Mason, II
8 July 2022
A Celebration of Two Missions and a Man of God! 2022 has been a year of unprecedented challenge for all of us. More than a million lives in the United States have been lost to Covid-19. Crime and violence are sweeping across the country. Young blood flows through the streets of our cities like the Nile through Egypt as senseless shootings damage and destroy the lives of youth and their families. Mass murders are on the rise as hate-filled trigger pullers across the nation unload their assault rifles on the unsuspecting people in the community; not even sparing children. So much frustration has come upon us as we hunger for answers, solutions, resolutions, compromise and peace. People are always asking why doesn’t somebody do something? We have cried out to God, and so many wonder, is God hearing us? Where is the Church? Perhaps we need to look at the opposite side of the coin and see that there is a bright side, and all is not lost. Remember, when Elijah the prophet thought that he was the only true prophet of God left in the world and God had to reveal that there were others who had not bowed their head to Baal. Today, I want to lift up three things we can celebrate: a convention, a church and a pastor. The United Baptist Missionary Convention and Auxiliaries of the State of Maryland, Incorporated; the Perkins Square Baptist Church of Baltimore City and the Reverend Doctor Cleveland Taft Andre Mason, 2nd. Dr. Mason would want you to know that through his work as a Pastor and President he has sought to do the work that makes a difference in people’s lives. The United Baptist Missionary Convention and Auxiliaries of the State of Maryland, Incorporated For the last 8 years, the United Baptist Missionary Convention and Auxiliaries of the State of Maryland, Incorporated has operated under the determined leadership of Dr. Mason and his leadership team. He is the first elected President of the convention and the first President under the governance of the present constitution to serve two consecutive terms. During the first term 2014-2018 his leadership team was: • Pastor Frank Lance, Mt. Lebanon Baptist Church – 1st Vice President • Pastor Kirk Jackson, Mt. Hebron Baptist Church – 2nd Vice President • Bishop Dean Jones Evans, United Baptist Missionary Church – 3rd Vice President • Pastor Domanic Anthony Smith, Ezekiel Church & Ministries – Executive Secretary • Pastor Samuel D. Blow, Mt. Zion Hill Baptist Church – Treasurer The elected leadership team was supported by the Convention Trustee Board: Chairman, Dr. Greggory R. Maddox; auxiliary presidents: President Lillian Estella Wright, Women’s Auxiliary; President Paula Prioleau, Baptist Congress of Christian Education; President
Arthur Killion, Troy V. Lewis Layman’s League; President Stacey L. Benn, Generation NOW; Dr. Derrick C. DeWitt, Special Assistant to the President/Director & CFO at Maryland Baptist Aged Home, Incorporated and other appointed persons. During the second term 2018-2022 his leadership team was: • Pastor Domanic Anthony Smith, Ezekiel Church & Ministries – 1st Vice President/Chief Administrative Officer • Bishop Dean Jones Evans, United Baptist Missionary Church – 2nd Vice President/Chief Operations Officer • Pastor Samuel D. Blow, Mt. Zion Hill Baptist Church – 3rd Vice President/Chief Financial Officer (2018-2020 – deceased) • Pastor Myron Jamal Foster, Greater St. John Baptist Church – Treasurer (2018—2020) 3rd Vice President/Chief Financial Officer (2020-2022) • Mrs. Elizabeth Tedford-Miller, Fellowship Baptist Church – Executive Secretary (Appointed) • Deacon Royal Cofield, New Pleasant Grove Baptist Church – Treasurer (Appointed) • Pastor Quinten Herbert, New Pilgrim Baptist Church – Treasurer (2020-2022) The elected leadership team was supported by the Convention Trustee Board, Chairman: Dr. Greggory R. Maddox; auxiliary presidents: President LaVon Ellis, Women’s Auxiliary; President Gloria B. Irving, Baptist Congress of Christian Education; President David Smith, Troy V. Lewis Layman’s League; President Brandon Hite, Generation NOW; Dr. Derrick C. DeWitt, Special Assistant to the President/ Director & CFO at Maryland Baptist Aged Home, Incorporated and other appointed persons. We were off at a steady encouraging pace, taking on the challenges to a new administration. We had adopted a new constitution, but we had old paradigms. New ideas and new strategies would need to be tested against old wineskins. We were praying and working with new energy one by one the challenges were falling by the wayside. We began paying off legacy indebtedness and rebuilding our convention culture and sense of community. We began reducing the convention currency consciousness and monetary stress that was often turned inward, and we began to focus beyond ourselves to see ourselves, “Rebuilding Community: Keeping Christ at the Center.” Meetings became lively and exciting, and ministries began to burst forth with renewed commitments, creativity and care. Lives were being changed on both sides: the servants and those being served. The Covid-19 pandemic created problems that challenged us to the core. Changes that needed to take place had to be rapid. Decisions had Continued on page 10 Grace&Glory 9
Continued from page 9 to be made quickly. Methods of operation had to change right away. Old things had to change, behold all things had to be done new. We were forced to innovate and upgrade and, in some instances, go all out new. The pressure for the convention and for the church to change was coming from the outside but what so many of us had not paid attention to was that God had put in us what we would need before the squeeze began. Our in-person activities had to shift to better and safer practices. Our adaptation to use of digital means of communication was at lightning speed but it was exciting to see seniors emailing, texting and joining Zoom meetings We shifted our theme for the second term to “Rebuilding Community: Advancing the Kingdom of God.” There can be no turning back. The call is to move forward, to advance the kingdom of God at all costs. The wind is at our back we push forward! Ministry is changing, change today is fast and there is so much for us to do.
Perkins Square Baptist Church of Baltimore City Perkins Square Baptist Church, at 2500 Edmondson Avenue (aka Dr. Cleveland T. A. Mason, II Way) ministers in the heart of West Baltimore but has extended its reach around the world. This missional church participates in both home and foreign mission work. The church is invested in the statewide mission of the United Baptist Missionary Convention and Auxiliaries of the State of Maryland, Incorporated and is affiliated with the National Baptist Convention, USA, Incorporated. On Sunday, June 26, 2022, Perkins Square Baptist Church celebrated 141 years of Christian ministry. As is the case with all great institutions and establishments, Perkins Square Baptist Church was founded by a man of real fortitude and far-reaching vision. Such a man was the venerable Reverend Dr. Frank Randolph Williams.
Dr. Williams was born Sunday, May 9, 1847, in Upper Marlboro, Prince George County, Maryland. The son of Thomas Williams, a local minister, and Rachel Williams, a slave, he came to This has been the posture of our convention Baltimore at an early age, and joined and every ministry auxiliary is working Allen AME Church. In 1879 he led a hard. The Women’s Auxiliary is working small flock, 9 to be exact, to a small with women and children bringing hope stable in the 900 block of Parrish Alley, and compassion that opens lives to new now Parrish Street, and set apart a church wonders of God’s grace. The Baptist in the African Methodist Episcopal Congress of Christian Education is Denomination. However, in 1880, after restructuring itself providing innovative worshipping in the stable for over a year training to the churches and communities President Mason address attendees at Presidential Gala. as Methodist, he changed his faith, and that provide insightful perspectives to became Baptist. He was baptized by life that are truly transforming. The Troy Dr. Harvey Johnson (deceased) pastor of Union Baptist Church. His V. Lewis Laymen’s League has organized men with vision and church subsequently became Baptist, and he duly organized it as the power to raise up new leaders in the community; leaders who care Fourth Baptist Church in the State of Maryland. and can make a difference. Some of us are partnering with others who may not look like us but who connect with our vision of a In the year of 1881, Dr. Williams mortgaged his home at 19 North healing community; they realize you are either part of the solution Bruce Street to make a payment on a frame church structure, costing or you are the problem. So, some of us are engaged with We-Our$3,000, which was located on the southeast corner of George Street Us; bringing help, hope and a hand to the work in our troubled and Clinton Avenue, now Ogston Street. The building was occupied communities. by a German Lutheran congregation, white, with a seating capacity of 150, and was opposite the then very beautiful Perkins Spring Through the initiatives of our churches, we are seeking to address the Square. Under the leadership of Dr. Williams, the church prospered, multitude of issues facing our people in community. Our community is and the congregation increased to such proportions, that in 1883 the expanded and broadened and more inclusive as it should be. Our help is not all Christian helpers but people helping people because they care. church was renovated to seat 300 persons. However, the congregation continued to grow to such an extent that services were held in the upper and lower auditoriums simultaneously. GenerationNOW is the newest baby in our cluster that ministers to our children, youth and young adults. It is exciting to see the energy and genius of this group of believers. Unlimited imagination and spirit with Rev. Williams, at a call meeting, told the officers he desired to have the young Reverend Ward D. Yerby as associate pastor. At a special a curiosity that is open to explore the depths of spiritual formation to church meeting it was unanimously voted by the officers and members become the children of God for this age. They are bold and courageous to send for Rev. Yerby, offering him $50.00 monthly, plus lodging, as livers of the Faith. We are encouraged by what we see in them, going associate pastor with Rev. Williams. where none have gone before. The work of this convention stretches across the State of Maryland with energetic Pastors and congregations who seek to carry forward the vision and resources of the convention to the least, the lost and the left-out. 10 July 2022
A blessing indeed for Perkins Square Baptist Church as he accepted the call, and began his work with the church, Sunday, January 6th, 1929. Here was the something the church had needed for a long time, bringing a new type of personality that smiled at all times, a character of cleanliness, honesty, big-heartedness, sympathy, and many
other virtues. He was like a new breath of life, and you automatically went along with his program. He worked wonderfully well with the officers and members of church, and at no time was there friction or misunderstanding between he and the pastor. The church soon took on a new spirit of vigor, and the congregation showed a perceptible increase. The year 1929 marked the anniversary of 50 years’ pastorate for Dr. Williams, 48 of which were as pastor of Perkins Square Baptist Church. A great celebration of 18 days was planned and held in March of that year. It was mid-March, and he had several months to lie quietly, and think clearly, as he was blessed to do. He looked back upon his church, the good times and the hard times, and he looked forward, thinking of its welfare in days to come. He had learned to love Rev. Yerby so well, and had great confidence in him, and believing he was a capable and qualified man, did not want the officers bickering with uncertainties. With this in mind, while on his deathbed, he made a solemn recommendation to the officers that the Rev. Ward D. Yerby, the associate pastor, be made the full-fledged pastor of Perkins Square Baptist Church, in his own right, within 60 days after his death. After pastoring for over 48 years, Rev. Frank Randolph Williams passed from labor to reward on Monday, November 11, 1929. The Rev. Ward D. Yerby, having endeared himself to the officers and members, and having evidenced his qualifications as a pastor, in keeping with the deceased pastor’s request, was installed as pastor of Perkins Square Baptist Church in his own right, Sunday, January 5th, 1930. The church has never had reason to regret this action. Under his leadership, it has grown spiritually, numerically and financially. It has become known as “THE FRIENDLY CHURCH.” Reverend Ward D. Yerby retired in December 31, 1971.
On September 11, 1991, two great blessings came to the Mason family: one, their 3rd child was born, a baby girl named ShaNearah Monique Mason and Perkins Square Baptist Church had unanimously elected Dr. Mason to become the 4th pastor of the church. He preached his acceptance sermon on the 1st Sunday in October 1991 and was installed as pastor on Sunday, April 12, 1992. This year marks 30 years of pastoral leadership! Dr. Mason was born to the marital union of Cleveland and Dorothy (Briscoe) Mason in Baltimore, MD on October 4, 1955. He was reared in a Christian home under the guidance of his grandmother, Julia Ruffin Holmes and his father, both are now deceased. He was educated in Baltimore City Public Schools, graduating from the Walbrook Senior High School in June 1974. Dr. Mason continued his education at Towson State University, where he earned degrees in Mass Communications and Media. October 12, 2000, he received the Doctorate of Divinity degree from Eastern Theological Seminary, Lynchburg, VA. In December 2006, Dr. Mason was honored with a Doctor of Divinity degree from the Harold A. Carter, Sr. Determined Biblical Theological Institute of Baltimore, MD. Dr. Mason was employed until December 31, 1991, by the federal government and was assigned to the Department of Health and Human Services and later, the Department of the Treasury. While serving as a federal employee, he received numerous awards for outstanding service to the United States Government and other professional achievement awards.
He served the religious community as a lay speaker since the age of eight and was licensed to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ at age seventeen. Under the Reverend Richard H. Ogle, IV became pastormentoring of Dr. Harold A. Carter, Sr. he elect February 22, 1972, and was installed as was always in great demand and preached pastor November 19, 1972. He was born June and taught widely throughout the United 18, 1942, was educated in Baltimore City Public States. So great was the demand for this gifted communicator that he had to Schools; graduated from Carver Vocational High Dean Carl Washington,Jr., Dr. Cleveland Mason and train others to assume his work as chief School and is a graduate of Howard University in Dr. Charles Gill at 2022 National Congress. technical engineer for the media ministry Washington, D. C. of New Shiloh Baptist Church. Dr. Mason His preaching ministry began at 8 years of age. At age 9, he joined the was licensed on Sunday, February 25, 1973, and ordained on February 28, 1986; under the determined and challenging ministry of Dr. Harold Perkins Square Baptist Church on January 28, 1951. In the early 1960’s A. Carter, Sr. and the New Shiloh Baptist Church of Baltimore. Reverend Ogle was elected to pastor the House of Jacob Holiness Church on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Upon his installation at December 17, 1985, Dr. Mason was elected to serve as the second Perkins Square as the 3rd pastor he was known for having a special gift pastor of the Mount Enon Missionary Baptist Church in Southeast for understanding and teaching the Bible. He was also known for his Washington, DC. This young energetic church, under his leadership, fervent prayers and musical gifting on the piano and organ. Reverend became a triumphant pioneer in evangelism. Developing outdoor Ogle died on April 12, 1991. witnessing campaigns and airing, “Word of Life," a weekly telecast serving the Washington community, which placed this church on the Reverend Doctor Cleveland Taft Andre Mason, 2nd. cutting edge of ministry. He served Mount Enon Missionary Baptist 58 years as a born-again believer; 49 years in the Gospel ministry; 6 Church until December 31, 1991 years as Pastor at Mt. Enon Missionary Baptist Church; and now 30 years as Pastor of the historic Perkins Square Baptist Church: Our God is an awesome God! Continued on page 12 Grace&Glory 11
Continued from page 11 This maverick minister, with his dynamic and provocative style of teach-preaching, has brought a refreshing sense of revival to the church’s worship, work and witness.
Management. This ministry sponsors annually a Prayer Warriors’ Conference that instructs and inspires a mighty prayer movement in the Church and a Teaching and Training Conference on Leadership & Management (equipping leaders for purpose, productivity and partnership).
Dr. Mason tries to make a difference in the community. The church has partnered with elementary schools, Morgan State University and Coppin State University. He volunteers as a male mentor and counselor. The church provides funding and other resources for some of the unmet needs of the schools.
In August 1999, he was consecrated as Regional Overseer, in the Christian Ecumenical Covenant Fellowship, out of Indianapolis, IN., serving Presiding Prelate Bishop Thomas Garrott Benjamin, Jr. and was given jurisdiction for the State of Maryland and the Northeast Region.
A certified counselor through the American Association of Christian Counselors and the American Academy of Bereavement Facilitators, Pastor Mason seeks to provide his congregation and community with counseling support services. His most recent cohort with Dr. Dan Hale and Johns Hopkins Hospital is Congregational Depression Awareness Program (CDAP).
Dr. Mason serves as a registered national evangelist and Bible instructor for the United Christian Ashram International; founded by the late Eli Stanley Jones of Baltimore. He is an instructor in the Annual Statewide Institute of the United Baptist Missionary Convention and Auxiliaries of the State of Maryland, Incorporated, and many local institutes of many churches throughout the State of Maryland. He is also a certified instructor serving the National Congress of Christian Education of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. Dr. Mason is a serious advocate of Christian Education having instituted many new opportunities for learning at Perkins Square, as well as, requiring all officers and leaders to participate in regular Bible study and learning opportunities in and outside of the church. Dr. Mason participates continuously in personal Bible study, seminars, workshops, and institutes locally, nationally and internationally.
Since his arrival at Perkins Square, many new ministries have been birthed. Among them are: the Ministry of Christian Education & Programs; Power for Living Bible Classes and Thursday Noonday Bible Class; The Lord’s Kitchen (a weekly ministry of sermon and soul food served to the hungry in the community); the Tribe of Judah Dance Ministry; Healing and Deliverance Services (special services where the congregation gathers in an atmosphere of praise and worship He is associated with many preaching and teaching to lay hands on and pray for the sick organizations. Dr. Mason has served as President of and oppressed); Intercessory Prayer the Pastors Conference of Baltimore & Vicinity; 2nd Ministry, Community Prayer Walks; Vice President of the Baptist Ministers Conference for Security Ministry; Manpower Ministry; Baltimore & Vicinity; Vice-President at Large for the Sisterhood Ministry; Unity Day; Pastors Congress of Christian Education of the Progressive On Patrol (ministry leaders are given Baptist Convention of Maryland; and currently serves responsibility to pastor residents in the as the first elected President of the United Baptist Dr. Jerry Young, President, NBC,USA, Inc. Dr. community); The Voices of Perkins Missionary Convention and Auxiliaries of the State Cleveland Mason, UBMC of MD, Inc. Square (a reorganization of the church of Maryland, Incorporated; an affiliate of the National music ministry) and community outreach Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. He is now completing his second term providing emergency assistance with food, medical, substance abuse and celebrates a long list of accomplishments over the last eight years and other socio-economic needs. of service. Dr. Mason is a much sort after preacher and teacher. Dr. Mason’s He works for social justice issues with BRIDGE Maryland, Act Now preaching ministry is based on Acts 1:8. However, as Senior Pastor Baltimore, We-Our-US and other organizations addressing social and Teacher of Perkins Square, God has given him a vision based on justice issues in Maryland. Matthew 28:19-20, Mark 16:17-18 and Isaiah 58. He has shared his preaching ministry in Kenya, East Africa: in the cities of Mombasa, He is married to Florence Shielda Greenhill Mason. He is the father Nairobi, Nyeri; Port Antonio and Kingston, Jamaica; Cairo, Egypt; of four wonderful children: two sons, Cleveland Taft Andre Mason, Jerusalem, Israel and in Rome, Italy at Vatican Square. The Lord has 3rd; Clevon George Herbert Mason; and two daughters, ShaNearah used the life of this preacher internationally to demonstrate the saving Monique Mason and Dazia Adreanna Mahallani Mitchell. He is and healing power of Jesus Christ. blessed with three grandchildren: Caiden Taft Mason, Austin Darryl Dr. Mason is CEO of New Life Media Ministries, through which he promotes the expansion of the Gospel using electronic and print mediums; sharing his gifts in ministry, preaching crusades, revivals, and teaching workshops and seminars on corporate and personal Witnessing, Discipleship, Stewardship, Prayer, Leadership and 12 July 2022
Mason and Kennedi Sinai Mason-Johnson.
Two of the most notable sayings Pastor Mason has used as underpinnings of his ministry are: "Believers Prevailing by the Power of Prayer and Proclamation" and "Much Prayer, Much Power; Little Prayer, Little Power; No Prayer, No Power!"
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14 July 2022
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Dr. Carla DEBNAM
Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
16 July July 2022 2022 16
Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
to your good health
Be Encouraged It’s been a long two and a half years. Many are overwhelmed and exhausted because the covid-19 pandemic continues to impact us mentally, physically and spiritually. This has been troubling along with racial discrimination, gun violence and concern about school and community safety. We are all working through the daily stress of virtual meetings, commuting to work, navigating mask wearing and taking risks to return to some normalcy. We have taken on the demands of working hybrid, supporting our families and being active in the community all while facing our fears and frustrations sometimes without support. Our resolve and motivation
have been stretched and some have stopped working towards their goals and dreams due to the impact the pandemic has had on us socially and relationally. People suffered through break ups, layoffs and the loss of loved ones. So many have been displaced and even replaced as jobs and family moved across the country and the economic woes continue. We need encouragement now more than ever. The need to survive and endure the dayto-day stress of the world has drained us all. Taking time to be encouraged is sometimes low on the ‘to do’ list but it may be time to make it a priority. Our ancestors sacrificed and committed themselves to the greater good for the benefit of all and we witnessed this collective
consciousness during the past two and half years. We too have taken time to bless others. Proverbs 11:25 (NLT) gives the discouraged hope, “The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.” We need hope during this time of change, challenge and chaos. We can be hopeful because God has the final say and will help us navigate the uncertainties of life. We can be hopeful because as the gospel song says, “trouble don’t last always”. We can be hopeful because we have made it through past difficulties and our track record for overcoming adversity is proven by the fact we are still standing. You are not alone, and the battle is not yours. Together we can face the uncertainties of life. Don’t give up. Be encouraged!
Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
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18 July 2022
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Season
BOWERS
20 July July2022 2022 20
joy bringer
Joy In Every Season - Summer Fruit, freedom, fireflies, fun! All things that fill up the summer. The warm, slow, bountiful months of summer bring joy in the form of just about everything. The long bright days, the abundant fruit off the vine, the flirty glow of the firefly, the mighty roar of thunderstorms, and the laughter of children’s freedom all color summer bright with joy. Summer brings about a shedding. We lose the layers of protection and step outside, opening ourselves up to be touched by the breeze and bask in the glow of the sun. Days grow much longer and while we often take time off to rest and enjoy, our work is still important. So far this year I have written about how to find joy in both the physical and spiritual seasons of winter and spring. It’s vital to recognize where we are in order to know the assignment and get the most out of the season. It’s also important to keep in mind that seasons change. Each season builds on the next and if we are aware of this truth then we can indeed enjoy what it has to offer. Like in the natural, spiritual summers are a time of spiritual development and fruit bearing. There is nothing like seeing the literal fruit of our labor come up out of the depths. The process of growth can be very painful so when the bud begins to show through the dirt, the flowers open, and the fruit appears, it’s cause for celebration! The summer assignment is twofold: water and weed. “Water, water, water.” My sister-in-law owns a plant nursery and that’s what she tells me every time I ask her for advice. She says most people simply don’t water enough. They may sprinkle or even pour, but most often the soil doesn’t get saturated. The way she can tell if a potted plant has enough water? If it’s heavy. She can tell by the weight. The same applies with us. We need to be spiritually full with the fresh living water! Heavy and dripping with it. We need to be filled to overflowing. Jesus promises us that we need never be thirsty again, but unfortunately many of us are dehydrated! For some reason, we take a sip and run only to find themselves parched and dry shortly after. It doesn’t have to be this way. One way I have found to stay hydrated in the natural is by always having a source of water with me. I like a big ol’ container - with a straw. That’s vital! If I have it with me, I will drink it. If I don’t, I will go all day without even thinking about it. That’s not good, and the same danger is found in our spiritual summer. We want to be sure to water our souls and the fruit the Lord is producing with God's word and His presence. If we don't, the fruit that we’ve planted will wither and the harvest will be minimal. How you stay
spiritually hydrated is unique to your relationship with the Lord, but may I suggest considering a new spiritual discipline? Have you tried silence? How about memorizing or singing scripture? Giving, opening your home, or intentionally stopping for someone one are other practices that may help water your soul. There is an enemy out to steal your fruit. Weeds! And of course, bugs, and my archrivals, the little lizards that eat the baby buds. But weeds are where you can really be deceived. Back to my sister-inlaw. When I invited her into my garden to help me weed and prune, I was shocked. She cut away and pulled up things I would never have realized shouldn’t be there. It’s important that the water, sun, and nutrients go to the fruit. The weeds and “suckers” can choke out and destroy the good stuff if we aren’t careful. Spiritually this looks like us spending our time, energy, and resources on things that aren’t from the Lord. This is where the Holy Spirit comes in. Being attentive to the Spirit allows us to know what needs to be cut or pulled. Just because something looks good or even produces fruit doesn’t mean it’s from the Lord or should be cultivated. Perhaps now is a good time to ask the Lord what weeds need pulling in your life? Our assignment to water and weed in the summer comes with another pairing. Growth and stillness. The work is good, but so is the rest. The summer invites us to rest in the shade, appreciate the beauty of our surroundings and reflect on how far we’ve come. John Steinbeck said, “What good is the warmth of summer, without the cold of winter to give it sweetness.” It’s here that we find Jesus. Of all the leaders in the history of the world, Jesus had every reason to push through and not stop. But it was in the resting where he was filled. Rest helped Jesus maintain joy. The time spent alone connecting with the Father or communing with friends was vital to handle the tasks ahead. Because Jesus was only reliant on his two feet (or the legs of an animal) there was forced downtime to recover. With so many technological advances, we have the option to almost never stop. But summer calls for rest and stillness. Why? Because Autumn will come. If we cultivate with diligence and wisdom, the harvest will be plentiful. Summer is a time of growth, it’s not the culmination of the work. To every season, turn, turn, turn…. Seasons change. The spiritual summer brings great joy, and we are invited to join Jesus in the work and play. Season Bowers Pastor, Author, Radio Host, Joy bringer 619-807-8509 Follow the joy at seasonbowers.com Instragram, Facebook Grace&Glory 21
a woman’s perspective
FORGIVENESS
Rhoda
with anything. I typically ask them, "How do you think God would handle this situation?", and the response I usually get is something along the lines of "she’s just so irritating”. I then will turn it on them by showing them how they too can be that way and reminding them that we are not responsible for their actions, but we are always responsible for our own actions and responses. Their inability to control themselves does not dictate how we respond. I know there have been plenty of times when I irritated the Lord. He never got an attitude with me or stopped speaking to me. He embraced me, irritations and all. That’s something that we have to remember. God loves us with all of our flaws. It's just like God to present us with opportunities to implement His Word. Recently, a co-worker who is also a believer, behaved in a way that gave me a chance to practice what I had been preaching to my daughters. An incident happened at work where she filed a complaint against me with the Human Resource Department. HR came to the campus that I work at and had a meeting with the principal and a couple of the Distinct Administrators. The individual was in tears because of something that I had done towards her. The whole incident was baffling to me, as I was only following a directive given to me by the principal. After investigating the allegations, the truth came to light regarding who filed the complaint. This coworker blamed me for what happened. Again, I was following and doing what I was told to do. What it boiled down to was that she was upset with the principal, but she took her anger out on me, and from that moment on our relationship was never the same. Her attitude towards me changed. She became rude, but I continued to walk in God’s love to her. I believe that the more you strive to be like Christ the easier it becomes. I was able to love her in spite of her treatment towards me, because I practice loving people daily. I was even able to forgive her, because I had practice in that area too. And I practice it with the Word backing me up. Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” And they divided His garments and cast lots.” Luke 23:34 NKJV. We can forgive them like Jesus when we keep in mind that they don't really know what they are doing sometimes. Take Jesus' words at face value. When I read this scripture, I take it at face value at that moment. When people are causing harm, they aren’t always in the correct frame of mind; if they were they wouldn’t have done what they did. They would have chosen differently. They haven't contemplated the aftermath of their actions, only immediate gratification. Forgiveness provides the offender the Pastor Rhoda Turner opportunity to get back to their proper mind Christian Faith and do things differently, clean slates. And we Fellowship Church have the opportunity to provide them Chandler, AZ with that. www.cffaz.org
TURNER
Recently, I was looking over some of the previous articles that I had written. I wanted to see what God had been speaking to me to speak to you. What I found was that the topic that He had given me last year in July is the exact same topic that He gave me for this July's article. And the topic is: FORGIVENESS. Forgiveness is an attribute that we will have to continuously apply through life. As people we all will have to forgive someone during the course of our days here on earth. You may have to even forgive the same person for the same thing multiple times. Each walk is different. I was speaking with an individual who is walking through her journey of healing and forgiveness explaining to her that when you have wronged an individual you then have to give that individual time to process the hurt and the pain that you caused them. We are all striving to be like Christ. That striving is part of our walk towards maturity. The Bible tells us, “Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” Ephesians 4:31-32 NKJV. God makes forgiveness easy. The enemy makes it hard. It’s his job to stop us from receiving God’s promises. I have four daughters and when one is just being nasty towards her other sisters and unforgiving it’s really hard for me to reward her 22 July 2022
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Tracey
GEORGE
24 24 June July 2022 2022
trinkets to triumph
Don’t Let the Dirt Distract You Don’t let the dirt distract you. Dig. Your well is waiting for you! God has a well just for you overflowing with water to meet every one of your needs. Take a moment and think of all the things that you have on your prayer list. God wants to grant you with the desires of your heart but sometimes it involves digging or doing the work to get the answer to your prayer. It may get dirty in this case meaning dark, daunting, distracting, and maybe even disturbing but don’t let the dirt distract you from getting to the water in your well. Imitate Isaac and keep digging until you find your Rehoboth which is the open space and blessing God has just for you (Genesis 26:12-22). When you dig and go after what God has for you, put His name on it and He will do it. D.I.G. but this time (D)o (I) it in (G)od. When digging you must choose the right ground, prep for the possibility of long labor, and let downs. Don’t let the dirt distract you. Persevere, endure, and dig. Keep your eyes on the prize in which this case is the water. The dirt will try to distract you. Do not look at the dirt. Dig. Your well will be worth it. Don’t dwell on the distractions. Don’t grow weary in well doing for in due season, you will reap if you faint not (Galatians 6:9). Declare that you will dig, and you will do it in God. Dig in Jesus’s name. Put His name on it. Pray and dig. Put a plan in place and dig. Put a praise on it and dig. Picture in your mind what God is going to manifest and make tangible for you. He’s going to do it, but you must dig. When you dig, it will get dirty. When you are digging deep, there will be darkness all around you because of the dirt blocking your view
but remember to look up and see the s-u-n and the S-O-N. Don’t let the dirt distract you. Do it in God. Your labor is not in vain. When you dig deep trying to get to your blessings, people may do you dirty. People may try to deter you from digging. Don’t worry. Dig. Dig and God’s going to give you the desires of your heart (Psalm 37:4). While you are digging, get down on your knees and pray. While you are digging, declare God’s going to do it. While you are digging, decree it’s already done. While you are digging, demand the dead or dormant gifts to come forth. Dig until the dunamis power of the Holy Ghost propels you into the place and blessings God has for you. At times, there may be tantrums, trials, tests, temptations in these trenches but you can use trench warfare. Trench warfare is the tactic used in wars in which soldiers dug out underground space to defend themselves against and from enemy fire. Deep down in the trenches you are able to use trench warfare and avoid the attacks of the enemy. Deep down in the trenches you will be triumphant getting to your well. Your well is waiting for you. When you do dig, God’s going to give you double for your trouble (Isaiah 61:7). He’s going to give you access to a well that will overflow with all the water you need. You may have failed or fell short but dig again. Re-digging can result in a revival. Your well is waiting for you. Don’t let the dirt distract you. D.I.G. Do it in God, get your blessing, and give God the glory. Elder Tracey Nicole George www.traceystrinketstotriumph.com
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www.gracenglorymagazine.org
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Min. Carenda Deonne
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monthly manna
Welcome to Your Third Trimester! Welcome to the third quarter of 2022. I know many of you, including myself, is thinking where is the time going? One day it’s the first of the month, and before you know it the month is getting ready to end. As I was reflecting about what to write, the Lord shared with me to announce, “You just crossed over into your third trimester!” When I googled the significance and process that comes with a woman’s third trimester in pregnancy, it means it’s the last phase of her pregnancy. The period can go anywhere from twenty-nine to forty weeks. It means she is in the home stretch of her pregnancy. It means the baby inside of her even starts to change positions in order to get ready for birth. Wow! What a powerful revelation from God! You are in the home stretch of your harvest. Whatever you do, hold on and hold out. Whatever you do, trust the Lord with all your heart. Whatever you do, know that the purpose and destiny within you is literally changing positions and making preparation for manifestation. Thanks be unto God who has announced that you are in the last phase. Thanks be unto God whose grace has been sufficient for you! In my research it states that the third trimester of pregnancy can be the most tiring and uncomfortable. In addition, it states that it can be physically and emotionally challenging. The reason for this is because the size and position of the baby makes it harder for you to get comfortable. Did you get that from a spiritual perspective? The greatness and magnitude of your destiny will make you uncomfortable in this third trimester. In fact, it might be the most uncomfortable experience you are yet to face, but all things are working together for your good. There may be days when you feel a little uneasy, cramped and painful, but take hope. These are all signs that your purpose, spiritual maturity, and vision continues to go to another level. The discomfort, due to the expansion of your purpose, will take you out of your comfort zone to remind you that greater
is your reward. Your next level in kingdom living is going to come with some uncomfortable times, but it’s necessary to remind you of God’s wondrous power working inside of you. There are nights you may not be able to sleep. Just be reminded that destiny is getting into position. There are times you may feel restless. Just be reminded that destiny is getting into position. There are moments you may have pain in your back and hips. Just be reminded that destiny is getting into position. The weight of your destiny is reaching its highest peak, hold on and hold out. Just as a baby can open its eyes, see, hear and smile during this third trimester, be mindful that your destiny and purpose can hear what you are saying, and feel what you are doing. The connection between mother and baby is even stronger during this time, and so it is also with your purpose. Be careful of the words you speak in your third trimester. Be careful of your actions and attitude in your third trimester. Your destiny is feeding off your energy, spirit, words, and mindset. This is not the time to grow weary in well doing, for in due season you shall reap if you faint not. (Galatians 6:9) Finally, one of the things you should avoid during your third trimester is strenuous exercise, for this can cause injury to your stomach. Likewise, do not allow anxiety, fear or doubt to overtake you, for it can cause injury to your purpose and destiny. Stand firm on God’s word. Start seeing and believing with the end in mind. There is a reward on the other side. There is life, peace, and abundant blessings on the other side of this trimester. Hold on and hold out. Take time this month and thank God that His grace is sufficient for you to birth ALL that He has already prepared for you to walk in! Congrats! You made it to your third trimester! Walking in the Ezra Anointing, Min. Carenda Deonne www.carendadeonne.com Grace&Glory 29
health matters
Coping with Depression Many individuals are facing major life changes. The loss of a loved one, retirement, children leaving home, or dealing with a personal illness, these situations can cause a person to develop feelings of uncertainty and Depression. Depression is more than occasionally feeling blue. Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. Depression can affect how you feel, think, and behave, leading to various emotional and physical problems. Feelings of Depression can interfere with daily activities. Individuals often cease engaging in activities that previously brought them joy. A 2013 study by the Clergy Health Initiative at Duke Divinity School identified that pastors and other clergy were susceptible to Depression. The demands placed on men and women clergy by themselves, society, and their congregations put pastors at greater risk for Depression than individuals with other occupations. Charles Spurgeon had a lifelong battle with Depression. Creflo Dollar speaks about the time he dealt with Depression. Jared Wilson, once a prominent preacher at Harvest Christian Fellowship in Riverside, California, succumbed to suicide. Medically known as clinical depression or major depression disorder may last for several weeks or several months. Symptoms of Depression include feeling sad, hopeless, and empty. Other symptoms may include insomnia or increased sleeping, anger, tearfulness, irritability, worthlessness, negative feelings and fixation on past events, poor concentration, and failure to make decisions. Extreme cases of Depression can manifest ideas of death and suicide.
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The good news is Depression can be effectively treated. Medical providers take a multidisciplinary approach to treating Depression. Treatment may include a combination of psychotherapy, regulating diet, exercise, and sleep, and short-term or long-term use of medications. Unfortunately, many individuals suffer in silence and will not seek treatment. Many people are embarrassed that they cannot overcome their feelings, leading to increased guilt and selfridicule. Take the following depression screening (https:// screening.mhanational.org/screening-tools/ depression/) to see if your feelings of sadness are related to Depression. Seek help from a medical professional or psychotherapist if you have Depression. God says, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Dealing with Depression can be scary. This verse reminds you that with God on your side, there's nothing to fear or be ashamed of if you have Depression. Engage in praise for the feelings of heaviness. Seek help from professionals to halt chronic symptoms. For more information on Depression see the Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels National Alliance for Assistant Professor at Coppin State University Mental Illness.
DWatties-Daniels@coppin.edu healthytips025@gmail.com
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Gospel & Entertainment Chadwick Boseman The late actor, while being known for his many roles, his most notable that broke box office records was “Black Panther”. Boseman lost his battle with colon cancer in 2020 and died without having a written will. Well, his estate has finally been settled and will be split amongst his widow and his parents. His estate was worth a little under four million, after legal fees, 2.3 million is left and will be split evenly amongst the two-family entities. The Stellar Awards On July 16 “The Stellars” will take place in Atlanta at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center. This year’s celebration will include a major announcement about Stellar TV Network. The hosts will be Jekalyn Carr and Kierra Sheard. The nominees are officially in! Congrats Cee Cee Winans, Albertina Walker, Mike Todd Jr., Tamela Mann, Jonathan McReynolds, Mali Music, Todd Dulaney, Kelontae Gavin, Maverick City, Israel Houghton, Ricky Dillard, E. Dewey Smith, and Jason Clayborne, Performances by Tye Tribbett, Marvin Sapp, Maranda Curtis, Ricky Dillard, Kelontae Gavin, Rudy Currence, Chrisette Michele, DOE, James Fortune, Jason Nelson, Travis Greene, Darrel Walls, and Jor’Dan Armstrong. The Stellar Awards will air in August! Stay Tuned!
News
Chadwick Boseman
The Stellar Awards
Kirk Franklin & Lil Baby Congrats to Kirk Franklin and rapper Lil Baby on winning Best Gospel/Inspirational Artist at the 2022 BET Awards. Kirk also had an amazing performance with Maverick City, he just never disappoints! Ron Summers His brand new Single, “It Is So”, featuring Tasha Page Lockhart has hit the Top 5 on Billboard Charts, #5 Most Increased Plays, #2 Most added. Baltimore we should be so proud of this guy, he is a force and deserves this and more! If you don’t have the single go grab it, especially Baltimore he’s our own! Celebrate your Independence! You deserve it! Celebrate Responsibly! “Til next month, Be blessed, love real big, in real life!” Follow me: Facebook, Instagram & Twitter @misserickaj Email iammisserickaj@gmail.com
Kirk Franklin & Lil Baby
Ron Summers Grace&Glory 33
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Son & Grandsons
