Grace & Glory Magazine May 2023

Proverbs 31:25-31 (NLT)

25 She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.

26 When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness.

27 She carefully watches everything in her household and suffers nothing from laziness.

28 Her children stand and bless her. Her husband praises her:

29 “There are many virtuous and capable women in the world, but you surpass them all!”

30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised.

31 Reward her for all she has done. Let her deeds publicly declare her praise.

Happy Mother's Day!!

May 2023 on the cover:

Pastor Clarinda White & Gill White

Miracle Church

3000 Huntingdon Avenue

Baltimore, MD 21211

Cover Story

Pgs 8-11

May is Mother’s Day Month and we are celebrating “Mother”! This month we are shining a spotlight on Pastor Clarinda White and Gill White, of the Miracle Church in Baltimore. We had a conversation with Pastor Clarinda White about her journey in ministry and a movement that she is the founder of called “What Happens When Women Pray”.

Healthy Soul

16 JOY BRINGER

Season Bowers

Blind People See

22 TRINKETS TO TRIUMPH

Elder Tracey George

A Mom Molded by The Master

26 MONTHLY MANNA

Min. Carenda Deonne Beamon

How To Level Up When It Matters Most (Part 1)

28 A WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE

Pastor Rhoda Turner

Love

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.

GRAPHIC ARTIST

Claire Lesesne www.JandCDesigns.com

WEB ADMINISTRATOR

Andre Felipe for Arts Period www.artsperiod.com

Contributors

DR. CARLA DEBNAM

Dr. Carla J. Debnam is the wife of Bishop Dwayne C. Debnam and an associate minister of Morning Star Baptist Church, Woodlawn, MD. She is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Maryland. She is a member of the American Counseling Association, the American Association of Christian Counselors and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Dr. Debnam has contributed to two books, Those Sisters Can Preach: 22 Pearls of Wisdom, Virtue & Hope, and 7 Ingredients To An Effective Prayer Life Series, Vol.3-5.

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.

The G.O.A.T. "Mothers"

The G.O.A.T. "Mothers"

Mother’s Day is one of the most celebrated holidays in the world. Who is this woman that we go out of our way to celebrate with such grandeur? All over the world, people will be busy shopping for this woman trying to find that one special thing that will express their love for her. Who is this woman that Hallmark goes above and beyond to describe? Who is this woman that songs and books are written about her? Poems will be read in church about her. Little children will proudly show off their ‘Crayola’ creations for this woman. Who is she? We call her Mother !

There are countless ways to describe this woman. Her ability to love unconditionally. Her protective nature is to keep her children from all hurt, harm, and danger. She is a nurturer; she makes sure her children’s physical and spiritual needs are met. She is also her children’s first teacher, developing their minds to survive in the world.

There are many attributes of this woman we call Mother When God created this woman, He knew that she would be an extension of Himself. She is by far God’s greatest creation. Her attributes are so much like the attributes of God; she can be all things at once. She is our refuge , our ‘way-maker’ , our best friend . She keeps all of our desires and dreams close to her heart. Perhaps the most important attribute of this woman is her praying spirit. Her prayers cover her children when they are near and far. These are, after all, her God-given ‘talents’ to take and use for the glory of God. God expects Mothers to raise and nurture her ‘charges’ to become the best they can be in this world and equip them for what is needed to get to the other side!

Although overworked and underpaid, Mother never complains. Whatever her children need her to be

at the time; she can be that at the drop of a hat. In fact, this woman can wear multiple hats all at the same time. She will work her fingers to the bone for her children. She will come to their rescue, no matter what the cause.

Not until we become adults do we really begin to appreciate the love of a Mother. A mother’s love is the most powerful love we will experience in life. She has nurtured us through our childhood, and has always been there to encourage us, support us and cheer us on even when we fall short. As we grow older and have our own children, we realize that Mother was a very strong person and that we will never be too old to need her.

This Mother’s Day as we celebrate, honor, and remember our mothers, let us remember to lift in prayer those whose mothers have now gone to be with the Lord and pray for those mothers who may be mourning the loss of a child.

Praise God for Mothers!

White Pastor Clarinda

Q&A Interview - Pastor Clarinda White

G&G: Pastor White, welcome to the Grace & Glory Magazine family! We are excited for this opportunity to feature you for our Mother's Day issue. You are a jewel to the Kingdom of God, and it is an honor to have you share with us. So, let’s start at the beginning to get to know you better. Tell us how your journey into ministry began?

Pastor White: I am humbled and honored for this interview. I started speaking and ministering over 20 years ago at my father’s church, formerly Mt. Hattin B.C. It was at Mt. Hattin that my father gave me the liberty to preach and serve as the youth minister. I learned so much serving the role of youth minister. I learned how to love God’s people without claiming them as my own. I learned how to lead and exemplify the virtues of Christ. I also learned how to pray and seek God’s face continuously. I learned how as a minister and now as a Pastor to seek God for direction and discernment for every decision that I need to make in my life and Miracle Church.

G&G: Most pastors have shared that “preaching the gospel” was not what they had planned for their lives. Did you always know this was your purpose? Did you have other plans for your life?

Pastor White: Pastoring was not on my radar. I enjoyed then and still do now, love serving God and His people. I was never the one that sought after or even desired to be out front. But God’s plan must always prevail and supersede my plans. I can say that I did not take the position of Pastor light heartedly. It was through much prayer and fasting that I accepted the call and walked in it. I wanted to make sure that God was the initiator and anchor of the role of Pastor. I wanted to make sure my heart was in the right place, and I was not walking into the role of Pastor with the wrong intentions or motivations.

G&G: Pastor White, looking back, are you at all surprised at where you are today, when did you realize God had called you to an assignment of such magnitude?

Pastor White: I am extremely surprised that God is using me. I have always felt that I am the least, I am so humbled and

grateful that God chose me. I knew that God called me when I had a dream over 20 years ago in which I was preaching at the church I was baptized in, Southern Baptist Church. I was not preaching at the time but in my dream, I was in the pulpit preaching. I awakened by the phone ringing and when I answered it was the Pastor Nathaniel Higgs of the church I was just dreaming about, and he said to me that God told him to call me to tell me I was called to do a work for Him. That I would be preaching the gospel and that God was going to use me mightily for His glory. What a confirmation and awesome testimony.

G&G: Pastor White, you are the Pastor and Founder of the Miracle Church. Would you share with us the vision that led to the birth of the Miracle Church? How would you describe the ministry of Miracle Church?

Pastor White: I have always believed that God is still performing signs, miracles and wonders. Miracle Church was founded on the belief that God is a miracle worker, that He is still healing, saving and delivering men and women. Our vision is to share the miraculous power of God to the world.

G&G: Pastor White, did the pandemic change your perspective in ministry? How did the Miracle church survive the pandemic? Did you ask yourself, what have I signed up for? Did you want to throw in the towel?

Pastor White: The pandemic did not change my perspective in ministry but validated that the church is needed more now than ever before. No, I did not ask myself what have I signed up for, nor did I want to throw in the towel. I felt motivated and my desire to save the lost kicked into high gear during the pandemic. I was stretched by learning a whole new way of doing ministry via the internet, but I did not at any time feel discouraged.

G&G: Pastor White, what is on the horizon for the Miracle Church? Where would you like to see this ministry in the next five years?

Continued on page 10

Pastor Clarinda White and Gill White

Pastor White: Great things are on the horizon for Miracle Church. The vision that God has given me is great. I am currently working on a book that will be published by year end. I plan to continue to Pastor Miracle Church and expand our Love In Action television broadcast in other markets around the country. I plan to continue to expand our international prayer ministry What Happens When Women Pray into other parts of the world (we are currently in Kenya, Minnesota, and Maryland).

G&G: Pastor White, let’s shift to your passion for women. I understand you are also the founder of a movement that is near and dear to your heart “What Happens When Women Pray”? Would you share with us the vision behind this movement?

Pastor White: What Happens When Women Pray is a global prayer movement that started in 2015. After having a traumatic experience as a child, I learned how to pray at an early age. Little did I know that one traumatic experience where I first learned to pray would develop into a global prayer ministry that has impacted thousands of lives.

G&G: Pastor White, was there a significant factor that created the need for the “What Happens When Women Pray” movement?

Pastor White: The most significant factor is that prayer changes things. Anything can happen when women connect and pray for each other and our families. Through our event marriages have been made whole, healing has taken place and restoration to the body of Christ has impacted the lives of hundreds of women and their families.

G&G: Pastor White, I understand this movement started with just a few local members and has increased in number, tell us about your national connections?

Pastor White: Yes, What Happens When Women Pray prayer movement started with 100 women, we have since then touched the lives of over 1,000 women and have expanded into the Midwest and Kenya.

G&G: Would you tell us about this year’s “What Happens When Women Pray” conference?

Pastor White: I am very excited about this year’s conference we have over 300 women pre-registered, we have nine awesome prayer warrior women who I believe will pray heaven down to earth. Each intercessor will be praying on topics that are near and dear to women.

G&G: Pastor White, with so much tragedy and heartache in society today, would you say that this conference is a valuable resource?

Pastor White: Absolutely, prayer is our connection to God. It is through my prayer time with the Lord that I remained calm and at peace during some of the most challenging times in my life. Through our conference we are showing that prayers of righteous women avail much.

G&G: Pastor White, how does someone connect with this conference or become a member?

Pastor White: You can become a member by joining our Facebook page, our meet up group or simply email whathappenswhenwomenpray@gmail.com.

G&G: Pastor White, my last few questions are about you. What three words would you choose to best describe yourself?

Pastor White: Three words that I would describe myself are, humble, happy and free.

G&G: Pastor White, being a woman pastor have you ever experienced discrimination or situations of not being accepted as a woman pastor?

Pastor White: Yes, I have experienced several situations of not being accepted as a woman in ministry. But I have never allowed those situations to stop me or discourage me. The opposite has happened, I have become stronger and more focused on becoming who God says I am.

G&G: What would you say to an aspiring young woman in ministry, who may be wrestling with a call on her life?

Pastor White: Obey and accept the call of God on your life.

Q&G: Pastor White, are there any women in your life, that have served as mentors for you?

Pastor White: Yes, Dr. Leah White and Dr. Cecilia Bryant are my spiritual mothers. They have pulled me under their wing, and I am a much better preacher and Pastor because of their love and guidance.

May is

MONTH OLDER AMERICANS

Cecil Lockhart became the oldest organ donor in the U.S. after his liver was donated at 95 years old.

George Franklin, the longest living African American kidney recipient, has lived with his transplant for 47 years.

Anyone regardless of age can be an organ donor. Did You Know?

You too can save lives through organ, eye and tissue donation. Learn more and register to be a donor at infinitelegacy.org.

BOWERS Season

Blind People See

I love the lead up to Christmas. The advent season brings much hope, a fanciful aesthetic of twinkling lights and cozy environments breeds nostalgic tradition. Not to mention the season seems to get longer every year. But I don’t typically like the aftereffects of Christmas. Of course, there is the great joy that the birth of Jesus brings to our lives, but there is something sad about packing up the decorations, cleaning up the boxes and putting away the shiny new things.

The lead up to Easter is much different. The spring season offers a dichotomy to the journey to the resurrection. During lent we focus on the real sacrifice of Jesus, even participating in a much less extreme way. It’s a more somber season, but the celebration and aftereffects are much different. He has risen, indeed. And it matters how we respond.

I was thinking about this aftereffect while reading the words of the Angel at the tomb to the women who came looking for Jesus in Matthew 28:6-7, “He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He is risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.” Of course, the women immediately ran off to go look for Jesus and I bless you to do that as well. He is alive and is at work in your life. His presence, glory, artistry, and voice are all around you.

Looking for Jesus requires that we clean our lenses. When my dad was alive and living with us, he was constantly cleaning his glasses. In fact, he would carry around little square packets of lens cleaning cloths and not only wipe his glasses every hour or so, but he would also offer the wipes to anyone he came in contact with wearing glasses. It wasn’t until he went to his eye doctor that he found out that he had cataracts. It wasn't that his external lenses were dirty, it was the cataract that was impairing his vision.

We all have the proverbial cataract that keeps us from looking for and seeing the Lord’s glorious work all around us. Some of the dark spots are labeled doubt, disappointment, cynicism, busyness, and general apathy. Their development is often gradual and not noticeable until we feel something is missing. Our faith requires fuel. The Lord is famous for communicating in wonderful and awe-inspiring ways. The rainbow after the flood. Imagine if Noah was too traumatized from the loss of, well, everyone, and bitter with the length of waiting to see and receive the promise. What if John the Baptist was too worried about the number of people being baptized that day and didn’t pay attention to the dove that affirmed Jesus as the Chosen One of God?

The enemy wants to blind us with hurt, distract us with shiny objects, and pull our focus to ourselves or others. But Jesus heals the eyes of the blind. His tactics are unusual and vary, but the outcome is the same—blind people see. It begins with recognizing the need and bringing it to Jesus. What is causing your blindness? Jesus never turned anyone away and he wants to heal your vision so you can see him and the world around you with clarity and joy.

When my dad had his cataract surgery, he not only had the cataracts removed, he had his vision corrected. He’d been limited by extremely poor vision his whole life. As a child, his parents didn’t know that he needed glasses until he was seven. His behavior had become so erratic, and his learning development delayed that the doctors sent him to an eye doctor. He was so visually impaired that when he put on glasses for the first time, he didn’t recognize his own brother, or what a tree was. The world became new and there was so much to see and learn.

The best thing about looking for Jesus and the loving hand of the Lord in our lives is that he wants to be seen. In fact, in the account of the women on a mission to find him in Galilee, Jesus doesn't wait till they get there, he meets them on the road! “And as they went, Jesus met them and greeted them. And they ran to him, grasped his feet, and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, ‘Don’t be afraid! Go tell my brothers to leave for Galilee, and they will see me there.’” (Matt. 28:9-10)

They were already on their way. Jesus didn’t have to meet them, but he knew that the women had been through a lot. He cared to meet them, to encourage them, affirm their faith and calm their doubt. God’s love meets us in the middle. I love Jeremiah 29:13-14 especially in the Message translation, “When you come looking for me, you’ll find me. Yes, when you get serious about finding me and want it more than anything else, I’ll make sure you won’t be disappointed.” He is risen. Jesus is alive and wants to show himself and his goodness to you to fuel your faith and fill you with joy.

Joyfully,

Season Bowers

Bowers

DEBNAM Dr. Carla

Look Around Look Within

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. There are many reasons people do not like to share their mental health struggles. Many are afraid due to stigma, shame and the fear of what others will say, think or do. In other words, their truth may be too much for those around them to handle. One of the positive outcomes of the Covid-19 pandemic is that it exposed the mental health challenges of those who were suffering in silence and those who suddenly found themselves experiencing fear, panic, and despair. Both needed relief from their pain and the mental health conversation became normalized and socially acceptable. The theme for this year is the subject of this article. We all can find help for what we are going through when we look around and look within.

When we look around, we can find solutions that

help alleviate some of the symptoms related to mental health challenges. A few outside supports for mental health are outside. Getting fresh air, no matter what the season is, can be a great boost to one’s mental health. Walking, hiking, bike riding, skating and any activity done outside is beneficial for all your mental health needs. Other areas that can be a haven for good mental health is the atmosphere of the home. Making sure your home is peaceful and a refuge from the cares and confusion of the world can make a huge difference in whether you are anxious or depressed. Many people started gardens over the past few years, whether indoors or outside, gardening is a stress relieving pastime that gives people satisfaction and supports healthy living overall.

Looking inside is a call to take

inventory of what is causing the inner challenges and get the treatment necessary to grow and stabilize. This is often easier said than done. Outward changes can bring instant results and can mask the inner issues that many of us struggle with, especially with the sociopolitical, environmental, and economic challenges in the world. We have found that our wellbeing is more important than anything. Our mental, physical, and spiritual health is key to our success and when you look around and look within, we begin the healing journey so many of us seek. Spread the word that inner and outside changes can take time but the outcome is worth the effort. Stay focused and keep trying new things until you find what works for you. Support others who are struggling and be open to your role in healing yourself and your community.

Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center

Tracey

GEORGE

A Mom Molded by the Master

May is the month for mothers! Mothers and mother figures include women who birthed, been there for, or blessed someone in a motherly fashion. May is the month to make all the moms in your life feel extra special by acknowledging them with sweet sentiments and savoring the time you can spend with them. Mothers are marvelous, magnificent, and mean the most to the ones that love them. Imagine a mom molded by the Master. A mom molded by the Master is one with all of those aforementioned qualities in addition to possessing a mindset like Mary, the Master’s mother, one that meditates on God’s word, and one that is ready to be God’s fearfully and wonderfully made minister and messenger of the Gospel.

A mom molded by the Master is like clay in the potter’s hand (Jeremiah 18:6). God, like a potter, can take your life and shape and mold you to be His perfect vessel to show forth His glory in the Earth. A mom molded by the Master is the epitome of God using your life to be His representative and His ambassador. You have His Word hidden deep down in your heart, so you don’t sin against Him (Psalm 119:11). His word is a lamp to your feet and light to your path showing you the way (Psalm 119:105). His Word is the perfect tool to shape you into the person He designed you to be. A Master-made mom can minister to millions by letting your light shine (Matthew 5:14–16) and making yourself available

to share His message and minister to others. A mom molded by the Master is the work of His Hands (Isaiah 64:8).

Mary was a mom molded by the Master just by carrying the Master and Messiah, Jesus Christ. When Mary said, “May everything you say about me come true” (Luke 1:38 TLB), Mary immediately made up her mind that she would be available for God to use to birth the Messiah. She was willing to let Him shape and mold her life according to His plan even if it didn’t immediately make sense to her. She was ready to be molded by the Master to be open and obedient to Him. She was confident in the fact that when you are open, obedient and about your Master’s business, miracles, signs, and wonders will follow. Match Mary’s mindset and let the Master mold you. Your testimony will be, “Blessed is she that believed for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord.”

(Luke 1:45)

“God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved.” (Psalm 46:5). A mom molded by the Master is a mom that is a part of God’s chosen people. God was with Jerusalem, His chosen people, and He is with all the moms too. A mom molded by the Master is in the palm of His hand and no one can pluck you out (John 10:28). A mom molded by the Master is His masterpiece!

Elder Tracey Nicole George www.traceystrinketstotriumph.com

Deonne Min. Carenda

How To Level Up When It Matters Most….

There is no time like the present to level up. What do I mean when I say that? Now is the time for you to be clear on who you are in 2023. This is not the time to show up like someone else but be your authentic self. Be who God has called you to be. I don't know about you, but at times I feel such an overload of information coming into my personal space. There has been such an increase in emails, advertisement, sales pitches, and commercials that all promise me how I can make more money. How I can attract more clients. How I can build and scale my business to six figures. How I can attract sponsors and partners, and how I can live my dreams by just taking a workshop, investing in a book, paying for a webinar, and/or attending a conference. Don't get me wrong, I think it's great that people are ready to share information and use that information to help others. I think it's great that people are not holding back what it took for them to get to their next level.

However, I am convinced that this is a season and a time to level up on what God has called you to do. It is imperative for you to know who you are in this year 2023! Just because someone is joining a venture does not mean you have to be a part of their team. Just because someone is sharing with you how they are investing in a company or a new project that they are working on does not necessarily mean you have to say yes to those objectives as well. Stay true to YOUR God given identity! Remember, YOUR gifts will make room for you!

(Proverbs 18:16)

To be honest there were times where I got caught in that cycle and circle of jumping on this idea, and prematurely investing in another without truly asking myself two to three very important questions. Number one have I consulted with God? Number two does this new project, investment, or initiative align with my purpose, and number three what is my why? Why am I considering taking on a new assignment or task? Why am I considering making the financial investment into a certain project? What is my why?

It is very imperative that you ask yourself those questions as you move forward in life because at some point pivoting gets old. It’s okay to pivot at times because there are seasons where you may need to rebrand or recalibrate. However, pivoting should not be the norm. When and if you decide to pivot regarding your life, business, or ministry, it really should align with the principle of supply and demand, seed time and harvest, or with the changes in the industry in which you serve. I want to challenge you! Don't pivot based on an idea, but pivot based on alignment. Does it make sense for you to rotate or shift something if it is not in alignment with your purpose? The answer is no. Even if pivoting might cause a burst of financial increase, I still say do not do it if it’s out of alignment with God’s intended created purpose for your life. Remember, God’s purpose is that we not only bring forth fruit but that our fruit should remain. (John 15:16)

The other thing I want to challenge you to do as you process what it means to level up, is decreasing your output and increasing your input. It is hard to level up when you have not disciplined your lifestyle to respect patience and time. I listened to a video a few months ago from Bishop TD Jakes and he talked about how patience is respect. He talked about how good things, really really good things, come when you give it time. You cannot level up with a microwave mentality. We cannot look at our lives in the same way in which we may desire our food. It's great to come home sometimes from a long day and have the option to

Part 1

use or utilize a microwave to reheat dinner, or cook a frozen meal, but remember a microwave can also sometimes heat your food unevenly.

That means as convenient as it is, it’s not always beneficial. As convenient as it is, when your food is not cooked well, it is not desirable. If you have a microwave mentality when it comes to your life, when it comes to building your relationship with God, when it comes to your response from affliction and tribulation there is a good chance that you may miss some valuable lessons. There is a good chance of having uneven traits and behaviors of immaturity that ultimately will not give you an advantage.

Finally, to level up when it matters most, we must respect time. Some people have no respect for time. Some people are even oblivious to the amount of time they spend on things that are NOT making a difference in their lives. I know some may cringe when I say this, but the amount of time that we are on social media and watching TV is really scary. There should be some things in your life that are not negotiable when it comes to your input, meaning your growth and your development (spiritually, mentally, emotionally, physically, and financially) as a God-fearing Christian.

That is not to say that you may have days where you miss the mark, we all do but there must be a standard. What is your standard? I personally believe people make time for what they want to make time for, and if you are going to level up when it matters most, you must respect time. What is time telling you to do right now? Is it telling you to rest? Is it telling you to go back to school? Is it telling you to write the book? Is it telling you to start the business? Is it telling you to be still? Is it telling you to wait? Is it telling you to spend a certain amount of quality time with God and your family? Is it telling you to be more dedicated and growing your relationship with God and your family? Is it telling you to go to the doctors? I personally deal sometimes with procrastination and laziness, but what I have come to understand is that they do not respect time! In this year 2023, work on areas in your life, little by little, day by day that will challenge you to be more respectful of time, choices, and decisions.

Let us recap part one as we begin this beautiful journey of leveling up when it matters most. The first thing to remember is we will not say yes or commit to anyone or anything until we have consulted with God first. Some of you may say, “Well, what if I prayed and asked God for directions and answers, and I don't hear anything?” I will tell you a word of wisdom that my spiritual mother, Elder Joylette Hillard tells me all the time, “Sometimes silence is an answer.” Secondly, we will only pivot if it aligns with our purpose. We are no longer going to pivot based on good ideas, or influence. Third, we are going to discipline our lifestyles in such a way that we have respect for patience and time. We will set healthy boundaries, and let our yes be yes and our no be no. (Matthew

5:37)

I hope you enjoyed part one of our series. Next month we will continue to discover tangible ways on how to level up when it matters most. This is your year! This is our year! I am so grateful that good news located you today. No matter the scars, no matter the hurt, no matter the disappointment or the pain, it time to level up when it matters most! Stay true to YOUR God given identity!

Live Life on The Promise of IMPACT!

Min. Carenda Deonne – www.carendadeonne.com

Rhoda

Love TURNER

and people living their own lives. I don’t understand why politicians can’t come to an equal compromise to bring an end to these unnecessary acts of violence. While the political system is trying to wrap their heads around adults killing innocent people, now we have children added to this horrible act of violence.

I cry every time I think about this. My question to God has been how do I protect my family? I know that I can purchase a firearm but how does that help the cause. He answered me by saying, “Pray, continuously.” “And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.” Luke 6:12 KJV. As you pray, pray for protection over your family, your friends, and the world. Also, to, “Pray without ceasing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:17 KJV

He also stated have no fear, “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.”

1 John 4:18 KJV

I’ve had such a difficult time focusing my thoughts for this article. I knew what I’ve wanted to say for quite some time. I thought if I could just sit with it for a moment the word would come but still I’ve waited. Knowing what to say while hoping what I’m saying won’t be offensive to some of the readers, well here it goes.

I am not a politician nor am I an activist, I don’t work for a gun lobbyist, nor have I protested for a cause. However, I am a human, I’m a mother, a wife as well as an educator. I’ve been trying to wrap my head around these acts of mass shootings happening all over the world. I don’t know how easy or difficult it is to purchase certain firearms. However, it appears to be easier than what I’ve imagined. I also don’t understand why some people refuse to seek help when they are in need.

I don’t understand why someone would walk into a room with every intention to cause harm to innocent children

Know that God’s hand of protection surrounds us. I had to remind myself what God’s word says concerning my life. I’ve been afraid to go to work and just doing simple things outside of my home. But I had to remind myself of what His word says, which has been my comforter during these troubling times. He also shared with me to remember to love my neighbor as myself. “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” (Matthew 22:37–39). I’m going to walk in Love because I don’t know who may need some unconditional love.

While the politician and the lobbyist do what they do I’m going to continue to do what I need to do and that’s Pray and Love. If you find yourself in the same situation that I found myself in, remember to pray without ceasing and continuously show the Love of God.

Pastor Rhoda Turner Christian Faith Fellowship Church Chandler, AZ www.cffaz.org

Caring for Your Loved One

Scripture verses in Exodus 20, Deuteronomy 5, and Ephesians 6 tell us to, "Honor your father and your mother that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you." Many adult children are faced with honoring their parents by providing care for them as their physical capabilities and mental functions decline. Over 65 million people (29%) of the US population give care to chronically ill, disabled, or elderly family members and friends. Those providing family support spend an estimated 20 hours a week delivering care. On average, adult women are more likely than men to care for aging parents.

Assuming care for a parent may not be easy. Being a caregiver is a significant responsibility, requiring much work, sacrifice, and time. You are confronted with the reality that a parent's level of independence has changed. Subtle signs may appear that your parent's ability to drive, pay bills, and fix meals is declining. Studies show that most caregiving for aging parents is not in the form of financial support or personal care. Adult children often helped their aging parents with errands, housework, and home repairs.

Emotional support is a big part of caregiving. Many adults say they provide emotional support for their aging parents by engaging in reassuring conversations by phone or through frequent visits.

Adults who help an aging parent generally see the task as rewarding. Financial stability and adequate time to support a parent contribute to feeling comfortable providing for aging parents. However, adult caregivers often feel stressed and experience caregiver role strain while caring for parents. Balancing caring for elderly parents while maintaining a career and caring for their families can be stressful. Caregiver role strain is

when the caregiver feels unable to provide care to parents because of financial burdens, increased responsibility, a change in family life, or a role change.

Symptoms of caregiver role strain can manifest both physically and emotionally. Physical signs of role strain can include periods of insomnia, body aches, and loss of appetite and libido. Crying, mood swings, inappropriate anger, feeling guilty, and alcohol abuse are frequent signs of emotional strain.

Adult caregivers must take steps to care for themselves to stay emotionally and physically healthy. Be intentional in finding ways to support yourself. Self-care can be as simple as setting aside time to put yourself first. Let go of those worries, and do things not because they need to be done but because they make you feel good. Resist the urge to feel guilty for spending quality time with yourself. Separating from social media, going for a walk, participating in a bible study, and keeping a journal are ways to support your wellbeing.

The Spirit of God is a solid presence to help you cope with caring for a parent. Matthew 11:28-30 says, "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." Caring for a parent can be a blessing. Cast your cares on God, and take time to relax and decrease role strain. Remember, you deserve it.

Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels Assistant Professor at Coppin State University DWatties-Daniels@coppin.edu

(author unknown)

(author unknown)

Remembering

Ericka J.

Gospel & Entertainment

Whitney Houston

When you are WHITNEY HOUSTON you can “spin the bin for win” and still chart after you’ve gone on. New music as well as some past hits are featured on this project “I Go to the Rock: The Gospel Music of Whitney Houston” chronicles the singer’s journey from the junior choir to singing hymns in major motion pictures and large arenas. This fourteen-track album went straight to the TOP of Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums charts. This is her second round at the top of Gospel Album charts since 1996, when The Preacher’s Wife motion picture soundtrack hit No. 1 and dominated the list for an entire half-year. You are in for a treat; this album contains 6 never-before-released recordings among the album’s incandescent selections. There are three rare studio performances including the 1981 “He Can Use Me,” which gives us the seventeen-year-old Whitney Houston. On the track, also available as a lyric video, Whitney drives home the life-affirming decision of discipleship with gut-wrenching shouts and flowering flights of falsetto. In this performance, you hear both Whitney, who sang congregants happy at New Hope, and the emerging Pop Star, it makes you love her even more. Resting Queen emerges musically!

The Hawkins Family

The 8th Black Honors Celebration is taking place this month and they will be honoring gospel legends, such as The Hawkins Family, a much-deserved honor. So much timeless music has come from this amazing music family, their music will sing forever literally, they set the bar for the excellence of gospel music; foundational in its sound musically and has almost been one of the templates for gospel that it’s drawn from. The taping will take place in Atlanta at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center on May 19, hosted by LeToya Luckett and DeRay Davis.

Anthony Brown

Anthony Brown & Group Therapy has dropped new music, our home grown never ceases to deliver good music. The single “We Speak Your Name” is currently available at all digital media outlets. I have been waiting for new music from them and can’t wait til the album drops! Go support good gospel music!

VaShawn Mitchell

VaShawn just released the music video for his single “See the Goodness” featuring Donnie McClurkin, this song is so good yall! I absolutely love it so much. VaShawn & Uncle Donnie are in the flow it’s magical. Shout out to DMV’s

own Stems music on the BGV’s I see you! Keep reppin us globally!

Melvin Crispell lll

Sunday’s Best Winner Melvin Crispell III has released a new single, and I’m loving it, he took a James Cleveland classic “God Is” and gave it a quartet country twang and I love what he’s done with it, it’s available right now and so is the official music video, and I think you’ll love them both! Go grab it!

“Til next month, Be blessed, love real big, in real life!” Follow me: Facebook, Instagram & Twitter @misserickaj Email iammisserickaj@gmail.com

VaShawn Mitchell

Melvin Crispell lll

The Hawkins Family Anthony Brown

Whitney Houston