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November 2020
™
on the cover: Pastor Bryant Claiborne Co-Pastor Sheila Claiborne Agapé Miracle Church 5347 Park Heights Avenue Baltimore, MD 21215
Cover Story pgs 8-11- Happy Thanksgiving! Our cover story for November is featuring power couple Pastor Bryant Claiborne and Co-Pastor Sheila Claiborne. The Claibornes were appointed two years ago to lead and shepherd the Agapé Miracle Church, located in the Park Heights community. We talk exclusively to Pastor Bryant Claiborne about his journey that led him to the ministry of the Agapé Miracle Church.
Healthy Soul 20 WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE
22 MONTHLY MANNA
Pastor Rhoda Turner
Fear Not
Minister Carenda Deonne
Thanksgiving at The King’s Table
24 TRINKETS TO TRIUMPH
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Minister Tracey George
Giving Goals
Healthy Mind
18 TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH
Dr. Carla J. Debnam, (Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center)
Take A Stand
Healthy Body
In Every Issue Scripture Page........................................ 2 Contributors............................................ 6 From the Editor....................................... 7
28 HEALTH MATTERS 30 BODY BASICS
Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels
Charles & Ursula Harris
November is Alzheimer’s Disease Month
I’m Too Cute to Gain Weight
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Meet the 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 Charles & Ursula Harris Rhoda Turner
GRAPHIC ARTIST Claire Lesesne www.JandCDesigns.com
WEB ADMINISTRATOR Andre Felipe for Arts Period www.artsperiod.com
Copyright 2019. All rights reserved. Reproduction without expressed permission is prohibited.
Grace & Glory Magazine By Mail! For subscriptions go to our website: www.gracenglorymagazine.org
For more information contact 443-813-6547 • 410-370-2636 info@gracenglorymagazine.org Grace & Glory Magazine is the ideal publication for Encouragement, Empowerment and Inspiration. Follow us on facebook and twitter at: facebook.com/gracenglorymagazine twitter @gracenglorymag Check out our website at: www.gracenglorymagazine.org
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JACKIE EPPS is co-founder and editor of Grace & Glory Magazine. Jackie's career in communications spans over 40 years in advertising sales, program sales, media planning and television production, working in radio for 11 years and shifting to television broadcasting in 1989. She also produces the Grace & Glory show, a faith-based television program that has been on the air for 18 years. MIN. TRACEY GEORGE Tracey Nicole George is Dr. Carla J. Debnam is the wife a licensed minister and of Bishop Dwayne C. Debnam ordained deacon. She is a and an associate minister of native New Yorker residing Morning Star Baptist Church, in Maryland and married Woodlawn, MD. She is a to Danny George. Tracey National Certified Counselor works with her husband (NCC) and Licensed Clinical managing their inventory and asset control Professional Counselor company, George Imaging. She is the creator (LCPC) in Maryland. She is a member of the of Trinkets to Triumph, a Biblically-based blog American Counseling Association, the American and ministry, designed to edify and encourage Association of Christian Counselors and Delta Sigma individuals with a “trinket” of encouragement. She Theta Sorority, Inc. Dr. Debnam has contributed to is a member of New Destiny Evangelistic Church. two books, Those Sisters Can Preach: 22 Pearls of Wisdom, Virtue & Hope, and 7 Ingredients To An MIN. CARENDA DEONNE Effective Prayer Life Series, Vol.3-5. Min. Carenda was born CHARLES HARRIS and raised in Baltimore, MD. She received her BA Charles Harris is the owner degree from the Fashion of Chizel It Transformation Institute of Technology Fitness. Charles is a highly and is currently pursuing a effective fitness expert with Master's in Law degree from Regent University. a passion for health and Min. Carenda was licensed to preach in 2007 wellness. He is a certified and has been teaching, preaching, and declaring fitness trainer with the God's word through the power of love ever since. America Fitness Association of America with Min. Carenda is also an author of three books. over 20 years of experience, and a certified Yoga Her latest book, Perfect Patty Messed Up, is a Teacher at YogaWorks in Pikesville, Maryland. He 40 day devotional that confronts the disorder is the author of I’m Too Cute to Sweat, What’s Your Excuse For Not Working Out?, and It Takes 21 Days of perfectionism and opens the door to self forgiveness and restoration. To Get Fit. He currently teaches his mega cardio workout class throughout the state of Maryland. PASTOR RHODA TURNER DR. DENYCE WATTIES-DANIELS Rhoda possesses a spirit Dr. Denyce Wattiesof humility. Her ministry style Daniels has over 25 years of is graceful, her message is experience as a clinician and powerful and her presence nurse educator. Her areas of is comforting. Being the 9th expertise include critical care of 10 children, Rhoda has a deep passion for nursing, pathophysiology, family and the wholistic development of children. pharmacology and the use of technology in She is considered by many as a mentor and the classroom. She currently serves as faculty mother figure. and the Director of the Simulation and Learning Rhoda and her husband Pastor Jason Turner, Resource Centers of the College of Health serve as senior pastors of Christian Faith Professions at Coppin State University. Fellowship Church in Chandler, AZ. DR. CARLA DEBNAM
Editor
From the
Consider
God's
Goodness
Thanksgiving 2020 is a stark contrast to Thanksgiving 2019. Of course, there was no way to know what was heading our way. A LOT has happened this year and by the time we get to Thanksgiving Day, the Year 2020 will have almost come to an end. The fact that the Thanksgiving Holiday comes at the end of the year gives us the opportunity to do a lot of reflecting on the previous months; it gives us cause to pause and reflect on everything that has happened to us all year. Looking back over these last 10 months we have to consider God’s goodness throughout this unprecedented year. I’m sure we can all agree that this year in particular, we still have plenty to be thankful and grateful for. In spite of the coronavirus pandemic and all of the unrest, heartache and despair it has caused, we still can offer God our best praise. Sure this year has brought us pain, sadness, tears, and broken hearts; but there were also some fleeting moments of joy, laughter, happiness, and hope. Even if we all agree that there were some things and some promises that we have been praying for and waiting for, that have not yet manifested; we still can stop and count our blessings. Let’s consider a few things, if you think about the goodness of the Lord and all He has done for you, you realize if it had not been for the Lord on your side, where would you be? Consider this . . . it is only because of the Lord’s mercies that you are not consumed. God’s mercies are new every morning; God is faithful. God has kept you through trials and tribulations, heartaches and disappointments. God has kept you through the good and the bad. God is your keeper.
Jackie Epps Editor-in-Chief
Consider this . . . there is nothing too hard for God. He has supplied all of your needs. God is able to keep you from falling. God is strong and mighty; He is your shield, your buckler and your protector. God is everything you need Him to be. Consider this . . . you’ve come this far by faith, leaning on the Lord, trusting in His holy word, and He’s never failed you yet. That means no turning back and no looking back. It means keep moving forward and keep the faith. It means that you can finish the race that has been set before you. Consider this . . . you may not know what the future will bring; but the good news is, you do know who holds your tomorrows and who holds your hand. God will never leave you or forsake you. God loves you. Consider this. . . God is awesome. Thank Him for all of His wonderful blessings. Thank Him for being such a loving and kind Father. Thank Him for His grace and His mercy. Thank Him for your life and things being as well as they are. Thank Him for friends and family. Consider this . . . there is nobody greater than our God. God gave His son’s life for us just so we could have eternal life and live with Him in eternity. God is our Savior. Happy Thanksgiving!
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Pastor Bryant Claiborne Agapé Miracle Church Baltimore, MD
G&G: Pastor Claiborne, welcome to Grace & Glory Magazine. We are delighted for the opportunity to talk with you. This is our Thanksgiving issue, and this has been an unprecedented year, so I would like to start off by asking you what are you most thankful for? Pastor Claiborne: I want to first thank you and the Grace & Glory Staff for featuring the Agapé Miracle Church in this Thanksgiving Day issue of the magazine. It’s a blessing to be acknowledged by this distinguished Christian publication. I am thankful for God’s keeping power. Yes, these are unprecedented times, but God is still faithful even in times like these. I am thankful for everything; I don’t take anything for granted! Of course, I am most Thankful for my life, health, my family, my church and my relationship with Christ. G&G: Pastor Claiborne, let me ask you a few ‘getting to know you’ questions. First what three words would you choose to describe yourself, and why? Pastor Claiborne: Humbled-I recognize God’s hands on my life and I did not choose Him but He chose me! I know that I don’t deserve His grace & mercy but He keeps on using me and blessing me in spite of me. Bold- I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. As long as I live I am going to tell everyone that I meet about the man named Jesus. I am confident in knowing that God is the author of my faith and gives me what to say and how to say it! Determined –I am purposed to accomplish what God has bestowed on me; to do His will regardless of opposition. I understand that each assignment the Lord gives me has to be accomplished with all of my energy. I must serve God with a spirit of excellence.
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G&G: Would you share with us one thing most people would be surprised to know about you? Pastor Claiborne: Most people will be surprised to know that I am a second generation Pastor. My father was a Pastor in the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Pastor Bryant Claiborne
Q&A
G&G: Pastor Claiborne, most pastors have shared with me that ‘preaching the gospel’ was not what they had planned for their lives. Was it the same for you, did you have other plans for your life? Pastor Claiborne: Yes, I did not plan to be a preacher of the Gospel. I believe that my calling was by default of living a sinner’s life; once I was saved I surrendered to the power of God. The plans I had for my life was only to be a member of a church and to serve in ministries of my choosing. But God had a different plan. G&G: When did you realize the call on your life to preach the gospel? Pastor Claiborne: I was a member of Payne Memorial A.M.E. Church and I went to Cincinnati, Ohio to the A.M.E. Church General Conference in 2000 to work on my pastor’s campaign for Bishop. My Pastor at the time was Rev. Dr. Vashti Murphy McKenzie and she was campaigning to be elected as the First Female Bishop in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. The Holy Spirit at that conference was so HIGH and intense that the spirit spoke to me and said, “You shall preach”. But like most preachers I ran away from the call for two years. In December of 2002, during a Sunday Service when I had a visitation from the Holy Spirit again, the Pastor of Payne Memorial A.M.E Church, Rev. Dr. Michael O. Thomas made an altar call for those who the Lord had called to preach but had not answered the call. I yielded and
answered to the call to preach along with my wife and many others, and the rest is history. G&G: Pastor Claiborne, two years ago you became the Pastor of the Agapé Miracle Church. How would you describe these last two years? Pastor Claiborne: The last two years have been challenging, but a good challenge. The people of Agapé Miracle Church welcomed us with open arms. We have been able to continue some of the work that this great church was founded upon, which is to serve the people of Park Heights through community outreach. We have been able to grow and learn with our members while doing ministry. We took this time to build a relationship with our congregation getting to know one another. Being a Pastor is not an easy task and I have learned that you really have to seek God’s guidance through much prayer in order to lead and guide His people. G&G: Pastor Claiborne, Would you tell us about your ministry journey and how that journey led you to Agapé Miracle Church. Pastor Claiborne: My Ministry journey started at Payne Memorial AME Church, years before I answered my call to preach. I was a part of the Evangelism ministry under the leadership of the late Rev. Juretha Joyner Maiden, who poured into my life by teaching me how to be an effective Evangelist. As time moved on and I started to grow in Christ, I attended Huber Memorial Church Evangelism Training, where I also learned how to effectively witness to individuals throughout the inner city of Baltimore. Sitting under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Vashti McKenzie increased my desire to save the lost and I became a leader in the church serving in various ministries. After preaching my Continued on page 10
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initial sermon in March 2003, I prepared for the preaching ministry by attending Family Bible Institute & Seminary. Also, in 2003 God gave me a vision for a ministry that would allow me to go into my old neighborhood and preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Kingdom Harvest Outreach was birthed and every year for the past 16 years, we have had “Praise in the Park” at Evergreen Park in the 2600 block of Edmondson Ave. Through this ministry many people have been saved by the Word of God it also provides a platform for Preachers across Baltimore to come and proclaim the Gospel! We provide food, clothes and resources for the community during Praise in the Park. In 2009 God called me and my wife to serve at Soul Harvest Church & Ministries under the leadership of Pastor Merrill R. Griffin where I served as Minister of Evangelism where I taught Bible Study and Evangelism Boot Camp classes, which opened doors for me to teach Evangelism classes at churches throughout Baltimore City and surrounding Counties. While in ministry at Soul Harvest I was blessed with several opportunities to go to Agapé Miracle Church to preach, teach and participate in Ordination Services. In 2011, I started fellowship with Agapé’s congregation which allowed me to develop a spiritual relationship with the church’s Pastor Cynthia Gaston. In 2015, my wife and I preached the Church’s 27th Anniversary and henceforth a covenant relationship was born. In 2018, District Elder Cynthia Gaston was considering retirement and after much prayer
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she shared that the Lord told her that I was to be the next Pastor of Agapé Miracle Church. In February of 2018, the church membership voted to accept me as their next Pastor. Due to the commitment that my wife and I have to serve God together in ministry we were installed as the new Pastor and Co-Pastor of Agapé Miracle Church on June 10, 2018. G&G: How would you best describe the ministry of Agapé Miracle Church, what are you most proud of about this ministry? Pastor Claiborne: I would describe Agapé Miracle Church as a servant ministry. The members of Agapé are committed to serving the community with unconditional love. The church mission is to provide its members with godly instruction, training them and equipping them in the Word of God to send them into ministry. I am most proud about how the congregation embraced the transition of new leadership. I am also proud that the church has supported and accepted the vision God gave the ministry that I and Co-Pastor Sheila Claiborne share together. G&G: Pastor Claiborne, what is your vision and plans for the future of the Agapé Miracle Church? How will you continue to invest in the community that this ministry serves? Pastor Claiborne: The vision and plans for the Agapé is to Love, and to teach the people how to serve through community based
Q&A
initiatives. Our Guiding Scripture is Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” The church has a Non-Profit 501 C3 Agapé Fellowship Empowerment Center which is and will continue to serve as part of the outreach arm of the church. The vision is to utilize the non-profit as a community partner with schools and other organizations to provide services to families in the Park Heights Community. We are in the process of developing an afterschool program, music program and a prevention resource center that will assist families in crisis. G&G: Pastor Claiborne, when everything got shut down in March due to the coronavirus pandemic, what was your first call of action concerning the Agapé Miracle Church? Pastor Claiborne: My first call to action was to call a church wide meeting to make sure that all our members had what they needed and was prepared for the pandemic. We made sure they had an adequate supply of food and medication especially our senior members. We also took into account our neighbors (Families) that surrounded the church, we went into the community making our neighbors aware that if they needed anything, food, clothes, etc., that they should contact the church for assistance. G&G: Pastor Claiborne, technology has had a profound effect on the church during this pandemic. A person can go to church without leaving their home and listen to a message any time using anything mobile. What are your thoughts on technology and the church? Pastor Claiborne: Technology has definitely impacted our ministry. Before the pandemic we were not streaming on any social media platforms. We only used Facebook to post upcoming church events and we used Free Conference Call
for special meetings and prayer calls. The pandemic has pushed us into the 21st Century concerning technology. Today, we are streaming live through Facebook and Zoom. We have broadened our technology ministry and constantly looking at other platforms so that we can present the Gospel. I am grateful that in this season that technology has allowed us to reach-out and minister to individuals and family members who may or may not attend church. People across the nation are able to worship with us in this season. G&G: Pastor Claiborne, you have been in ministry for many years, has this pandemic changed how you view ministry now? Pastor Claiborne: Being in Ministry for 17 years has afforded me to see different aspects of serving. But I remain vigilant even in this Pandemic that the Ministry must be synoptic to that of the early church. We are to evangelize; feed the hungry, clothe the naked, pray and preach Jesus as Savior and Redeemer during these perilous times. G&G: What have you experienced or learned from this season that we are in, that will be with you for a long time? Pastor Claiborne: The bible tells us in the Poetry Book of Ecclesiastics that there is a time and season for everything. In this season I have learned that we must keep our eyes on the Kingdom of God; although trials and tribulations may come, if we keep our focus on God and not on man He will give us the Spiritual insight to “Prosper through any Pandemic.” G&G: Pastor Claiborne, lastly, what are you hearing in the spirit, and what do you believe God is saying to the church? Pastor Claiborne: I am hearing the Spirit of the Lord saying to the church, its Renewing season. Now is the time for the church (people) to renew their relationship with Jesus Christ. I am hearing God say that in this season, it’s time to Rebuild what the enemy has torn down. I am hearing God say that it’s time to Regenerate to be reborn spiritually. And lastly, I hear God saying that he will Restore our relationship back with him.
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AGAPÉ MIRACLE CHURCH
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Agapé Miracle Church Thirty two years ago, Agapé Fellowship A.M.E. Church was born and launched out of Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, Baltimore, Maryland on Sunday, March 13, 1988, under the pastorate of Reverend Dr. John Richard Bryant (now Bishop Bryant). Over 70 members answered the call to be the first official members of the new church to be located in the Park Heights community at the 172nd session of the Baltimore Annual Conference. Reverend Dr. Eleanor Bryant, the first woman to establish an African Methodist Episcopal Church in Baltimore city, was allowed to make a preliminary report. Agapé reported 20 conversions, 90 accessions, with total tithes and offerings of $5,911.60. Endorsed by the Annual Conference, Reverend Dr. Eleanor Bryant received her first pastoral appointment. Agapé held its official service on Easter Sunday, April 10, 1988. God called Pastor Bryant “to raise up a people who would here God’s voice and follow after Him with committed hearts.” He had her survey the community He had assigned her, Park Heights, the largest urban renewal district in the country. Agapé purchased a ministry site at 4804 Reisterstown Road, where the church ministered to children, youth and families: embracing "Agapé" God's unconditional love, building up and ministering to the whole man through teaching Boot Camp (a 13-week practicum, which included a final exam, Biblically based instructional manual teaching guidelines and basic training to Christians in the army of the Lord). The class continues to be taught all over the world. The small row house at 4804 Reisterstown Road has sense been renovated and serves the community through the efforts and vision in sports of one of the ministry leaders converted through street evangelism. God called Agapé to be a blessing to the Park Heights community and to inner city Baltimore. Our past worship sites have included: the James D. Gross Recreation Center, The Palladium, Park West Medical Center, Park Heights Street Academy Annex, 3600 Woodland Avenue ( "Church Without Walls"/ The Corner of Woodland Avenue and Reisterstown Road), Edith’s House (very briefly), Langston Hughes Elementary School, and in 1998, Agapé established its ministry worship site at 4650 Reisterstown Road, known as The Love Center, and three (3) daycare centers began their partnership with Agapé and were housed there. Outdoor services was nothing new to Agapé; Back to School Anointing Services, Revivals, Holy Communion Services, and even a Baptism was held in the pool at the Towanda Recreation Center. Briefly services were also held in the Upper Sanctuary of the Brown's Memorial Baptist Church, and we are currently located at 5347 Park Heights Avenue. The church felt so strongly about its call of God to serve its community that it initiated a separate community service corporation, Agape Famiy Empowerment Center, (AFEC). The corporation was granted 501©(3) status in September 1995. Through AFEC the church’s desire to provide outreach services to the community such as an after school program involving computer technology classes, and a basic music program, was realized. In October 1998, Agapé obeyed the call of God to withdraw from the African Methodist Episcopal Church and to trust God totally with her life as a kingdom church, speaking to us through 2 Corinthians 6:17a and 16d; Exodus 29:45-46 and Leviticus 26:1-13. Agape held its first service as "the miracle church" on the second Sunday in November, November 13, 1996, incorporated as Agapé Fellowship Miracle Church. Furthermore, on December 20, 1996, we held our first service as Agapé Miracle Church on November 13, 1998 and was incorporated as Agapé Miracle Church, December 20, 1988. Agapé came into kingdom relationships with Bishop Mack and Pastor Brenda Timberlake, Pastors (now Apostles) Thomas and Phyllis Terry, and Bishop Joan Saunders. Additionally, the Lord graced us with outstanding church partnerships, including Heartland Ministries, Sharpsville, Indiana, Central Presbyterian of Towson, Maryland, Grace Fellowship of Timonium, Maryland.
Our History On December 1, 2003, God called to His eternal home our beloved founding pastor and visionary, the Reverend Dr. Eleanor Graham Bryant, and on December 4, 2003, Reverend Cynthia M. Gaston was elected by Agape’s Board of Directors to serve as the pastor of Agapé Fellowship Miracle Church. Pastor Gaston, a dedicated member of Agapé for 30 years came to this ministry as a veteran from the United States Army. Prior to elevation as Senior Pastor, she was consecrated and set apart as the Pastor of Administration and Assistant Pastor on July 15, 2001. In April 2014, Agapé Fellowship Miracle Church officially changed its name to Agape Miracle Church, Incorporated. Pastor Gaston served the church with direction, commitment and devotion, using her gifts to further the work of raising up a people who would hear God’s voice and follow after Him with committed hearts. Under Pastor Gaston's leadership, women in ministry continued to be built up with off site weekend revival services and training. Our community relationships continued to grow and remain with connections to the Northwest Faith Based Partnership Association. In January 2014, Agapé came under the spiritual covering of Bishop Ronald L. Howard, Sr., M. Div., Presiding Prelate of New Freedom Ecumenical Ministries, International, where Pastor Gaston served proudly and humble as a District Elder within the organization. District Elder Gaston began a spiritual relationship with Minister Bryant Claiborne in 2011 who would come and preach and assist with ministerial ordinations, and provide joint business efforts. On the 27th church anniversary in 2015, Minister Bryant and his wife Reverend Sheila Claiborne preached a dual sermon; and henceforth, a covenant relationship was born. In 2018 when District Elder Gaston was considering retirement, the Lord placed Minister Bryant Claiborne upon her heart to become the future pastor of Agapé Miracle Church. In the beginning of 2018, the church membership voted to accept Minister Bryant Claiborne to become the third pastor of Agapé. Due to Minister Bryant and Reverend Sheila's commitment together in ministry as husband and wife, they were installed as the new pastor and co-pastor on June 10, 2018. The church remains consistent in building the body of Christ under the leadership of Pastor Bryant and Co-Pastor Sheila Claiborne who have diligently been working along with the members to further empower the ministry with: • Weekly Wednesday Night Bible Study and Prayer • Host of Praise in the Park at Evergreen Park • Continuous Corporate 1-Hour Thankful Thursday Night Prayer which produced and hosted a Prayer Breakfast • Men, Women, Children and Youth With a Purpose monthly fellowship • Family and Friends Day Celebration • Evangelistic Boot Camp Training • Hosts of the Agapé Thanksgiving Service and Community Dinner • An Agapé Outreach Christmas Toy Give-A-Way • Continuing the Agapé Outreach of Love (AOL) Ministry to the Homeless • Good Friday Noon Day Service • Continued Participation with Northwest Faith-Based Community Partnership for National Day of Prayer Activities Due to the global pandemic of COVID-19, Agapé Miracle Church, Incorporated celebrated anniversaries and other planned activities very simplistically on social media, and continues to further preach, teach, and do outreach ministry out of our current location while following governmental and CDC guidelines. For the next few months through the end of the year, listen closely for upcoming events Agape has planned for the holidays.
It was with gratefulness that Agapé celebrates our past and current spiritual leaders; and look forward to many years of fruitful service in God’s vineyard. Our Guiding Scripture is: Jeremiah 29:11-12 FOR ALL THAT GOD HAS DONE, IS DOING, AND SHALL DO, WE GIVE HIM PRAISE!!! www.gracenglorymagazine.org 13
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to your good health
There are times when we have done our best and it has not been received or appreciated. It may be a work project that was done on time but not acknowledged. It may be the time you covered the rent for a family member but whenever you are in need, they are unable to help. Maybe it is when a loved one became ill and had limited resources, so you had to step in and take the role of caregiver, financier and taxi. Whatever challenges you may face, there are times when you must take a stand. We have seen how this plays out in the culture and sometimes in the church. We often wait until things become unmanageable before we begin setting limits and expectations with our loved ones, coworkers and colleagues. Being proactive and not reactive is a key strategy when goals are not met, or standards have been lowered. Ensuring that our needs and expectations are communicated to those around us is crucial. We cannot hold persons accountable who are not in line with our vision, mission or more importantly the Word of God, when we have not conveyed the message to them. Taking a stand is more important now than ever because we have seen the chaos engulf our communities. Racism, unjust policing, violence, a public health crisis and political turmoil have pushed many of us to our limits. This is when we must take a stand. We have to proclaim our message of hope with practical application and compassion. People are looking for the Church to take a stand on social justice, healthcare, housing, education, employment and many more concerns. If you believe that the church should stay in their lane, look at Matthew 25. Jesus was concerned about people and their circumstances not only their souls. Taking a stand is sometimes uncomfortable and takes courage but it is something we are called to do. Joshua was challenged by God to be strong and courageous and lead Israel to the Promised Land. Esther was challenged to speak to the king on behalf of her people. Joseph was put in position to save many lives including his family. Paul was called to spread the Gospel to the Gentiles. Each of us will be called to take a stand for ourselves or for others. Doing the right thing may not be popular but as the saying goes, “If you do not stand for something you will fall for anything.” Now is the time to take a stand, you, your family, Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, your community, your church and Renaissance Christian your country is depending on it. Counseling Center
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D I V CO
woman’s perspective
FEAR NOT What is fear? Fear can be used as a noun or a verb. As a noun it is defined as: an unpleasant emotion caused by belief that someone or something is dangerous, likely to cause pain, or a threat. Fear as a verb means: be afraid of (someone or something) as likely to be painful, dangerous or threatening. Have you ever had a time in your life where you were afraid or paralyzed with fear; where fear was seen as a noun or a verb? I know that I have. When COVID 19 hit I was paralyzed with fear; fear of the unknown. I was afraid to go out and afraid to allow others in. All during this time I had to go to work and function in a working environment. My job was practicing Social Distancing, and we were in masks all day, but with all the necessary precautions I was taking I was still moving in fear. I would come home from work, change my clothing, and then shower just to make sure that I didn’t bring any germs in the house. My ultimate purpose in it all was to keep my family safe. I kept having a repeating dream that my husband was dying because of contracting the virus leaving me to raise my daughters alone. I know this dream was a trick of the enemy coupled with my thoughts running in all directions as a result of the virus.
Something had to change. I had to pray I was living in fear. I had to combat that and turn to the Word to ease my fear, fear with the Word of God and continue uncomfortableness and my troubled mind. to remind myself what His Word had to After praying and reading I was reminded say regarding my household. Psalms 23 through the Word of God what and how I reminds me not to be afraid because God is should be handling myself during this time. with me. In Isaiah 41:10 (NKJV) it says, “Fear So be reminded and encouraged that as not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for we continue to walk through this pandemic I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, to be not afraid because God is with you, I will help you, I will uphold you with My and He's got you. Reject the enemy's righteous right hand.” I had to be reminded attempts to plant seeds of fear and doubt that God is with me so there was no need that lead to anxiety. With the Holiday to be afraid. I was reassured and comforted season upon us, he’s definitely going to try that He had me and my family. The enemy to derail you in your mind and emotions. wanted me to continually live in paralyzing This season may not look like previous fear, but I know that God didn’t want me holiday seasons, but use this as a time to to live like that. Fear is an emotion that make different kinds of memories. Do not we were given, but it’s when the emotion let the enemy win. tries to overtake you that it becomes a Know that God’s got you and as long as spirit, and that’s not what God intended. Be you continually reminded that we have control over all of read your Word our emotions. I had to remind myself that and pray over as well. the situation you II Timothy 1:7 (KNJV) says, “For God will come out has not given us a spirit of fear, but of victorious. power and of love and of a sound mind.” The enemy wants to steal, kill Pastor Rhoda Turner and destroy. It is his mission Christian Faith Fellowship Church concerning your life. If he can get Chandler, AZ your mind he will steal your faith www.cffaz.org and that will destroy you. So while
FEAR NOT
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monthly manna
As I write this article I have gone back and forth on what I wanted to say. I must be honest; my heart is heavy thinking about how this holiday will be very different for many of us. Some of us will notice an empty seat at the table and some of us will not be able to travel or be with family due to safety measures and precautions. Our laughter may feel minimal, but may we be reminded that the earth is the Lords and the fullness thereof and all that dwell therein. (Psalm 24:1) Let us be thankful that we belong to a King who desires we cast all of our cares upon Him. I don’t know about you, but I am indeed grateful for that. I am grateful that I don’t have to carry the weight of this world on my shoulders. I am grateful that we don’t have to worry about what we will eat or wear. We serve a King that truly supplies ALL of our needs. When you think of needs, I don’t want you to only think of it from a physical mindset, but also a spiritual mindset. The need of peace, comfort, restoration, healing and strength is supplied to us too! In addition the need for protection, safety and security has also been supplied! The menu for thanksgiving might look a little shorter, but God’s menu of supply towards us is never ending. For that reason alone, we truly have much to be thankful for. Dr. Charles Stanley says, “We are tallest and strongest on our knees.” Take some time over this holiday to kneel and pray. And when you pray remember to cast all of your cares upon the Lord and trust that your faith is growing stronger and your worship is growing taller because HE LOVES YOU! I have come to the realization that the reason we are commissioned to cast all of our cares upon the Lord is because of LOVE! His love is able to heal a broken heart. His love is able to give strength when you feel weak. His love is able to conquer and defeat every lie of the enemy. Let us be reminded
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that His love never fails! The “holiday” we know as Thanksgiving will come and go, but God’s love will always remain. After we eat a little turkey and sweet potato pie, let us be thankful that Jesus will continue to care, love and supply ALL of our needs. Things might feel and actually be a little different this year, but God’s love is at your table filled with compassion and never running dry. As the song writer says, “Joy Min. Carenda Deonne is here and the table is spread, www.carendadeonne.com where the feast of the Lord is 888-473-2221 going on!” Don’t miss it! admin@carendadeonne.com Happy Thanksgiving! Facebook: @carendadeonne Live life on the promise of IMPACT!
Twitter: @cdpgem Instagram: @carendadeonne Linkedin: @carendadeonne YouTube: @carendadeonne Anchor: www.anchor.fm/takeaim
Sharp Street Memorial United Methodist Church 1206 Etting Street Baltimore, MD 21217
Happy Thanksgiving Day!
Pastor Warren L. Savage
Give thanks to the Lord for He is good, his love endures forever. I Chronicles 16:34
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trinkets to triumph
Giving goals are good to have. Giving goals is a plot and a plan to share your goods, gifts, time and talents with others. In this season of Thanksgiving, in addition to taking some time out to give thanks for everything God has blessed you with, try to think of innovative and impactful ways to be a blessing by giving to others. Giving to others includes giving gratitude to God, sharing your gifts and talents with others, and giving some of your goods to those in need. God promises that when you do give, you will be blessed with it back in good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over (Luke 6:38). When you have a giving goal, you are making a plan to give to others a bit of your blessing. Your gifts and talents are no good unless you put them to good use by sharing them with others. The Prophet Elijah and the Widow at Zarephath is the perfect example of what happens when you have a goal to give (1 Kings 17:7-16). A goal to give leaves you blessed in return for your giving and usually with more than you
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expected. The widow, albeit down and almost out, decided to listen to Elijah and make him a small loaf of bread to eat first before feeding herself and her son. She took Elijah at his word and followed his instructions. She gave the little she had but received a whole lot back in return. Even in her state of not knowing the outcome, it was her goal to give Elijah something to eat. Because she was willing to feed him first, she and her son was able to feast on the flour and oil until the rain came (1 Kings 17:14-16). Her goal to give to the prophet resulted in the widow receiving a bountiful blessing. Her lack turned into an overload of provision. A goal to give, even if it is your last, can result in you being blessed for a lifetime. God gave you the ultimate example of giving goals by giving His only begotten son, Jesus Christ, to be your Savior (John 3:16). God demonstrated His giving goals by sending you His Son to save you from sin. You can give Him your gratitude by giving
Him the glory by giving your time, using your talents, and giving your tithe. Make the most of this season of Thanksgiving by going out of your way to give and to be a blessing to others. Your giving goals could be as simple as giving thanks to God (Psalm 136:1), giving more of your time by helping a neighbor, or you can share some of a gift or blessing you received. Something as simple as making an extra effort to give someone a smile can lift someone’s spirit. Even something as small as sharing the Gospel with someone. This type of giving leads to great rewards. You can add many of these things and more to your giving goals list. Begin to gather your giving goals list and get Tracey Nicole George going! www.traceystrinketstotriumph.com
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health matters
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Picture this, you are visiting an elderly loved one on a Saturday afternoon. Your loved one states that they misplaced a hairbrush in the house. Your loved one seems ok. They are alert and oriented. You noticed that they have lost weight and they are preoccupied with folding their napkin repetitively. They engage socially with friends and attend their doctor’s appointments. Yet, later in your conversation with them, they tell you again that they lost their hairbrush. They have forgotten that they mentioned this previously. You are wondering if this is a normal memory loss related to aging or a point for concern. November is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. Events are held around the country to increase awareness and understanding of this disease and to bring support to the many caregivers of victims of this devastating disorder. Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is characterized by progressive memory loss and poor cognition. According to the national Alzheimer’s Association, 5.7 million people are living with a diagnosis of this specific form of dementia. Individuals with Alzheimer's lose the ability to engage in a conversation and respond appropriately to people and the environment around them. The majority of people with the disorder are 65 years old and older. The mental deterioration of Alzheimer’s disease gets worst over time, resulting in loss of short and long-term memory and individuals not recognizing loved ones. The disorder is characterized by a change in the levels of certain biochemical markers and the development of protein fragment plaques and tangles in the brain. Researchers identify ten warning signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease: 1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life. 2. Challenges in planning or solving problems. 3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks. 4. Confusion with time or place. 5. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships-losing balance, trouble walking, judging space. 6. Problems with words remembering words in speaking or writing. 7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps. 8. Decreased or poor judgment. 9. Withdrawal from work or social activities. 10. Changes in mood and personality. Currently, there is no cure for AD. Early detection of the symptoms and prompt treatment can slow the progression of the disease and improve the quality of life for those with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. Early diagnosis also enables families to take action to prepare for progressing symptoms and to make appropriate plans for the extended care of their loved ones. Patients may be prescribed cognition-enhancing medications to improve mental functioning and balance mood. Unfortunately, the positive effects of these medications will decrease as the disorder progresses. Caregivers are challenged with providing a safe, nurturing, and loving environment for the person with AD. Daily care focuses on the physical, mental, and emotional care needs of the patient. Caregivers are encouraged to participate in support AD groups to share their feelings and with others who are undergoing similar experiences. Caregivers must be encouraged to engage in healthy outlets to relieve stress, to pay attention to their own needs, and not to neglect their own health care needs. You can help by volunteering to prepare dinner, run errands, or complete light housekeeping for the person with AD and their caregiver. Join your faith to theirs. Faith is a source of comfort during difficult situations. Pray for the patience, strength, and wisdom for the caregiver. Pray for healing, peace, and comfort for the person with AD. “May you be strengthened with all power according to His glorious might, for Dr. Denyce Watties Daniels all endurance and patience with joy”(Col Associate Professor at 1:11); Cast your cares on the Lord and Coppin State University he will sustain you; he will never let the DWatties-Daniels@coppin.edu righteous fall.”(Psl 55:22). healthytips 025@gmail.com
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body basics
I’m Too Cute To Gain Weight!
Your Health Is Your Wealth! Did you know that a study once revealed thin people earn more money than obese individuals? That is why I believe that your health is your wealth; not only for that reason, but also because Americans spend large quantities of time away from the workplace due to illness and health related issues. Many of these sick days are taken without pay simply because the majority of people are not prepared for health challenges. Your weight plays a big part on how you feel. This does not mean that being overweight is equivalent to being unfit. In fact, being underweight actually kills over 30,000 Americans each year, so why do Americans continue to buy into the idea that thinner is better? Even though diets prove to be ineffective 95 percent of the time, we spend 40 billion dollars annually on diet products. Studies also show that 7 million women suffer from eating disorders; 35 percent of those who diet go on yo-yo dieting, which is unhealthier than being overweight, and 25 percent of those who diet tend to develop some type of severe eating disorder. The first step to making changes in your life is admitting that you need help. Do not be afraid to talk with a certified fitness trainer or nutritionist to get you started. The pandemic may have made things a little tight, but you can still make it happen. The time is now, and this is the perfect opportunity to get back
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to the fundamentals of life by enjoying family and friends during the holidays. Hang in there! Your breakthrough is coming. If you are considering eliminating some luxuries, do not let fitness be one of them. Make taking care of your health a top priority. In fact, there are many ways to use these tough times to your advantage. A healthy lifestyle is CHARLES & URSULA HARRIS, essential because it helps Fitness Experts relieve stress and release Chizel It Transformation Fitness Center endorphins to keep us 9006 Liberty Rd • Randallstown Md 21133 443-253-0090 • www.chizelit.com emotionally stable and happy. The last thing we need right now, or at any time, is to lie around and let our current situation consume us. Someone once told me that it’s hard for the devil to hit a moving target and that is why I believe it is so important to get involved with activities that make you feel good and boost your self-esteem. Staying healthy and being active does not have to be an expensive journey. You can form a small walk group with some friends and family just to keep yourself accountable. Your local recreation center or YMCA is a great place to find fun and affordable activities right now, and I have found their facilities to be clean and well sanitized. There are also tons of cable TV fitness channels and YouTube workouts these days. From a nutritional stand point, it can be a challenging eating healthy throughout the holidays. This is the perfect time to meal prep and incorporate portion control. This will help you look and feel healthier. Before leaving the house, make sure you carry some water and healthy snacks with you. This will help cut down on drinking fatty beverages and making bad food choices. Getting into the habit of eating small portion meals throughout the day will boost your metabolism and prevent you from impulse eating. Let’s finish this year strong. We have experienced too much this year to allow our bodies to become unhealthy. Once you add these simple steps into your life, you will enter 2021 fit and ready.
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