Keep The Faith magazine issue 119

S E K’ ND IC IN E U K A HN AZ TH AC I-ET MAG BL LT AN U M ISTI R CH

ISSUE 119

www.keepthefaith.co.uk

NEW TESTAMENT ASSEMBLY CELEBRATES 60 YEARS

Gospel backlash or Blacklash?

SLEEP AND WELL-BEING

Should Christians protest?

JULIET

COLEY In sickness and in health

The Voice winner counts her Blessings

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Editor’s

NOTE

ISSUE 119

PUBLISHER/ EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Shirley McGreal

SUB-EDITOR Jackie Raymond

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Becky Wybrow

ADVERTISING Diverse Media Group Limited advertising@diversemediagroup.co.uk T: 0203 868 0664

MARKETING Josie McFarlane

PUBLISHED BY Keep The Faith Ltd 71-75 Shelton Street Covent Garden London WC2H 9JQ keepthefaithteam @keepthefaithmag keepthefaithmagazine www.keepthefaith.co.uk www.keepthefaithdirectory.co.uk

THE PUBLISHER WOULD LIKE TO THANK: Marcia Dixon MBE, Dionne Gravesande, Juliet Coley, Juliet Fletcher, Lais Martins Waring, Akosua Dwomo-Fokuo, Milton B Allen, Ben Harrell, Segodi Leshalabe, Janine Shalom, Bishop Delroy Powell, Shirley Antis, Cal-l Jonel, Rev Professor Keith Magee, Bryan Bonaparte, Kimshaw Aiken, Gary Clayton, Antony Aris-Osula, Gary Anderson, Dr T Ayodele Ajayi, Marnita Coleman, Tina Boyle White, Shana Dawn Lewis, Vanessa Grossett, Paul McKenzie, our supporters and advertisers.

I hope you are enjoying the summer and are staying well and safe.

The Christian community is mourning the passing of one of its greatest leaders, Rev Joel Edwards CBE, following his battle with cancer. Rev Joel was a probation officer, church pastor, mentor, and the first Black Pentecostal Director of the Evangelical Alliance and recently appointed by the Church of England to establish a racial justice commission. He will be greatly missed.

Our cover story celebrates the life and work of Juliet Coley, a publisher, senior deputy head teacher, and presenter of the UK’s first gospel music programme.

Juliet has suffered a heart attack, had quadruple bypass surgery and cancer.

Her testimony is amazing, and she is one of the most inspiring women I have ever met.

We celebrate the 60th anniversary of the New Testament Assembly, a UK church of Caribbean heritage. We feature DAD - a compilation of stories from the MusicFootballFatherhood.com (MFF) team, the UK’s most exciting parenting and lifestyle platform for men.

We have a great feature that calls for an end to the cycle of racial trauma, and we ask ‘Should Christians Protest?’ and ‘Should “Cancel Culture” Silence the Church?’ We look at Black MPs in the UK, their faith, and how they are stepping up. We look at sleep and well-being, faith for healing: spirit, soul and body, and the trauma of losing a child.

We have some great gospel news features, too: The Voice winner counts her Blessings; Sharyn comes full circle with ‘In Full Bloom’; Isaac Carree is in the spotlight, and we interview Chanel Haynes, the lead singer of New Orleans-based group, Trin-i-tee 5:7, who will make her London stage debut as the alternate Tina.

Finally, we give thanks for the healing of Rev Les Isaac OBE, founder of Street Pastors. He was rushed into hospital in a serious condition, after experiencing complications following minor surgery. The community covered him in prayer. Rev Isaac is now at home and is recovering. He sends his heartfelt thanks to everyone who is praying for him - he so appreciates your love and support at this time of recuperation.

I hope you enjoy this issue.

Blessings

The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Publisher.

Shirley McGreal MBE

To discuss how Keep The Faith could work with you, request a media pack or book an advert, please contact Diverse Media Group.

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CONTENTS ISSUE 119

10 20 14

NEWS 06 Newsela and TAYO Fatunla making history 06 Birthed for glory - Christ Family Foursquare Church 07 The BIG Sing founders believe choirs have the power to rebuild community in COVID recovery

GOSPEL NEWS 08 Gospel Backlash or Blacklash is there a choice?

By Juliet Fletcher 10 The Voice winner counts her Blessings

By Lais Martins Waring 12 Sharyn comes full circle with ‘In Full Bloom’

By Akosua Dwomo-Fokuo 14 Todd Dulaney - ‘Anthems & Glory’

By Ben Harrell 16 In the spotlight - Isaac Carree

By Marcia Dixon MBE 18 The Africa Worship Experience

By Segodi Leshalabe with Milton B. Allen

INTERVIEW 20 Chanel Haynes

By Janine Shalom Find us on Twitter and Facebook: @KeepTheFaithmag

26

FEATURE 21 DAD - Open conversations from the frontline of fatherhood By by Cal-I Jonel 22 New Testament Assembly 60th Anniversary

By Delroy Powell 24 Black MPs, faith and stepping up

By Shirley Anstis

18

26 In sickness and in health 28 Rwanda: Christian media personality to open Christian radio station to promote the Gospel of Jesus Christ

By Nicodeme Nzahoyankuye 30 It’s time to end the cycle of racial trauma

By Rev Professor Keith Magee and Bryan Bonaparte 31 Remembering Rev Dr Joel Edwards CBE

By Marcia Dixon MBE

COMMENT 32 Should ‘cancel culture’ silence the Church?

By Kimshaw Aiken 34 Should Christians protest?

By Dionne Gravesande 36 Food 4 Thought

By Marcia Dixon MBE 37 Going the distance

By Gary Clayton

38 What’s your story?

By Antony Aris-Osula 40 Daddy and the Two Bears

By Gary Anderson

LIFESTYLE 42 The Bridge - Faith for healing: spirit, soul and body

By Tina Boyle Whyte 44 Sleep and well-being

By Dr T. Ayodele Ajayi 45 Study to show yourself approved

By Marnita Coleman 46 Banana fritters

By Shana Dawn Lewis 48 How not to approach a Literary Agent!

By Vanessa Grossett

MISSION 50 Reaching the unreachable

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06 NEWS

Birthed for glory - Christ Family Foursquare Church

B

Newsela and TAYO Fatunla Making History

irthed in January 2020, Christ Family Foursquare Church (CFFC) is part of the International Church of the Foursquare Gospel group of churches, which has around 64,000 churches in 147 countries worldwide, and comprises different races, cultures and sizes. CFFC was given its blessing to run its own church programmes and events by the National leader of Foursquare Church GB, Pastor Surekha Hulugalle. The Foursquare Church, officially named the International Church of the Foursquare Gospel, is a Pentecostal denomination that resulted from the dynamic evangelistic ministry of Aimee Semple McPherson, who opened the historic Angelus Temple on January 1, 1923.

CFFC is a loving family church (indeed it is), based in Harrow, Middlesex, and despite being a relatively young church, it is a church of influence in the community. Its statement says it experiences the presence of God during services, but as lockdown has prevented churches holding in-person services, CFFC has had to move to online meetings.

Newsela and KTF contributor/Gospel humour cartoonist, TAYO Fatunla, have announced a new content licensing partnership to supplement high-quality reading materials with original illustrations.

TAYO is a recipient of the Crayon De Porcelaine Award for his contribution to international press cartoons, and was recognised in 2018 with an East Coast Black Age of Comics (ECBACC) Pioneer Lifetime Achievement Award. “I am very excited to partner with Newsela with my cartoon documentary drawings, and to know that we are making history,” says TAYO. Newsela offers authentic, relevant instructional content at five reading levels, ranging from current events and popular culture to primary sources, historical fiction, and examples of real-world phenomena.

TAYO’s educational illustrated cartoon series, OUR ROOTS, which documents Black History, spans three decades of work, and has appeared in educational materials, newsletters and newspapers around the world, including Keep The Faith magazine. Together, Newsela and TAYO will use the power of his illustrations to bring text content to life on Newsela, starting with Newsela’s 2021 Black History Month collections of TAYO’s OUR ROOTS. TAYO’s OUR ROOTS book Volume 2 compilation is due out in October.

Elder Toyin Salami and Pastor Biola Salami

Husband-and-wife leaders, Elder Toyin Salami and Pastor Biola Salami, are very much involved in the Foursquare Church GB programmes, and their experience as resident Elder and Pastor for over 20 years, whilst attending sister Foursquare church on Old Kent Road in South East London, is evident. CFFC encourages each individual church member to develop a personal relationship with Christ by nurturing them to maturity through the teaching and preaching of the Word of God, fellowship, and a lifestyle that exalts the Name of Jesus Christ.

During lockdown, CFFC has been consistently holding online church services every Sunday, as well as weekly programmes.

Website: http://www.christfamilyfsq.org Email: connect@christfamilyfsq.org TAYO Fatunla

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NEWS 07

The BIG Sing founders believe choirs have the power to rebuild community in COVID recovery

H

oward and Gemma Francis, founders of The BIG Sing and former London Community Gospel Choir members, believe community choirs can play a pivotal role in reconnecting communities during the COVID recovery. The couple, who founded the choirs with Gemma’s brother, Jon Rattenbury, had over 1000 people across the country taking part in their choirs pre lockdown, and have seen engagement continue throughout the pandemic.

Gemma says: “We all know that many people across the UK have felt isolated, and have found the past 18 months a significant challenge to their mental health. We have seen that by gathering together, singing together and sharing life together, we have been able to build deep bonds that have provided far more worth than simply a singing group. We have seen people find hope and connection in the midst of real suffering.”

The BIG Sing have performed with big-name artists, such as Ellie Goulding, London Community Gospel Choir (LCGC) and Leona Lewis, and are planning to use the end of COVID restrictions as an opportunity to celebrate their 10-year anniversary. Howard and Gemma now have choirs all across the country, and are keen to emphasise that singing is for all cultures, backgrounds, races and ages, including The BIG Sing Community

Choirs (for everyone aged 12+ years), TINY Sing (for babies and tots 0-4 years), and LITTLE Sing (primary school music workshops for kids aged 5-11 years).

Before establishing The BIG Sing, and for over three decades, Howard had been writing many of the London Community Gospel Choir hits and produced popular songs, such as ‘Perfect Harmony’, ‘I Will Wait’ and the definitive ‘True Praises’, which received critical acclaim.

He has also performed as a pianist and vocalist for artists, such as Alexander O’Neal, Mica Paris, Blue, Five, Gloria Gaynor, Van Morrison, Tom Jones, Alesha Dixon and Des’ree.

Howard comments: “Music has the power to unite people across communities. Our choirs reach out to all ages - babies, kids, teens, adults and grandparents - and singing has helped our members overcome depression, isolation, loneliness and illness, and has provided new friendships and a real sense of community. We are more than just a choir; we are a family.”

In addition to The BIG Sing, four years ago the couple founded The BIG Sing SOUL – a charity that aims to help people in the community, who can’t physically travel to the venues where the choirs rehearse and perform.

Through the work of the charity they have supported disabled groups, nurseries, schools, care homes and other vulnerable communities.

They aim to launch a new daytime choir as part of their new charity project to encourage more people singing who can engage during the day, such as mothers at home with children, retired people, those with disabilities, the unemployed, and those struggling with mental health.

This year marks ten years since The BIG Sing was launched, and both Howard and Gemma believe now it is more important than ever for community groups to play a role in bringing people together, and providing hope and joy in a time where they are much needed.

Gareth Russell

www.keepthefaith.co.uk

08 GOSPEL NEWS

Gospel Backlash or Blacklash - is Juliet Fletcher is the Creative

Director of GreenTree Productions and Windrush Church and Music. She is also the Founder and Director of the Gospel Music Industry Alliance (GMIA).

A

s I thought about writing this article, for some reason these two words came to me. In fact, although I had heard of the word ‘backlash’, I had never heard of Blacklash. I had to look it up!

Some ask: “Why write about something you don’t know anything about?” Well, let me write on the same premise as what they used to say to me, when I first started working as a researcher on gospel music programmes at the BBC: “Juliet, it can be quite useful to have a producer who doesn’t believe in God (like you do), because they come unfettered and neutral to the table.

They can often see things from a different perspective to make the programme more accessible to people who don’t believe.”

BEFORE YOU BLACKLASH OR BACKLASH

At the time I didn’t see the point, because making a definitive programme about gospel music, sung by people who believe what they are singing from the experience and impact on their personal lives, in my view didn’t need ‘another perspective’. Let’s take, for example, People Get Ready (PGR) - the TV series of the 1980s that changed the face of British Gospel in and beyond a generation. It was co-hosted by (the now Bishop) John Francis and (now award-winning educator, author and publisher) Juliet Coley, and was authentic, with no compromise. Melanie Miller, who is fondly remembered for one of the many iconic performances of the series, singing ‘Blessed Assurance’, brought herself and the studio audience to tears with her powerfully moving rendition. There was nothing a non-believing producer could add to that. All a good producer can do is give technical and production quality that enables and empowers the very best to be displayed as naturally as possible.

Therefore, understanding motives is an important part of deciding whether you BLACKLASH or BACKLASH. Find us on Twitter and Facebook: @KeepTheFaithmag

However, let me make a confession before writing further: I didn’t even know there was a word like Blacklash in existence.

I just decided to see if it was a real word, and found it only seems to be used in America. They use it in two main ways: 1. The Black community reacting negatively against someone who says something disrespectful against someone in the Black community 2. The White community reacting negatively against something the Black community has done to express itself

Bishop John Francis

Juliet Coley

CHRISTIAN FAITH AND LASHINGS

To be honest, I had my own reason for writing about BLACKLASH and BACKLASH, although I wasn’t exactly clear on what I wanted to say. So this is a bit of exploratory thought: I think I had concerns about all the happenings since George Floyd’s evil murder, and thinking about Windrush Day 2021.

There is a connection in my mind, because of all the stories - both positive and negative - that have emerged about the Black British community, the Church and its music.

Some of these feelings have been very intense and sensitive.

As a Christian community in Britain, consisting of Black, White and other ethnic groupings, it is our responsibility to respond in a Christ-like way when offence comes.

But is it about ‘turning the other cheek’ as our Lord advises? Was He referring to a literal experience or a principle of behaviour?

In 2018, we marked 70 years of a modern British society, inclusive of Commonwealth citizens - particularly Caribbeans, who (in my opinion) undoubtedly are the bedrock of the Black community and Black Church movement. The music of our churches was a salve; we used music as a healing and for protection to our souls. When we sang ‘Blessed Jesus, Hold My Hand’ at the ‘Spirit Of Windrush’ National Service of Thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey, for many of us (at least those I spoke to afterwards) who were children and young people during those early days, we could easily see the deep-rooted meaning that song held for the elders present - namely, the often

GOSPEL NEWS 09

there a choice?

“But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.”

1 TIMOTHY 5:8

FREE SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS AT YOUR CHURCH OR COMMUNITY EVENT arduous journey that was in one sense literal in social movement, but which emphasised the non-tangible emotional impact.

There has been such a build-up from then until now, and I have listened to different conversations, and have joined in different discussions, debates and other exchanges that have varied between A. White Christians making inappropriate remarks and statements about the Black Christian experience and its music (backlash) B. Black Christians making challenging statements towards White Christians, who were either passive or silent, and Black Christians, who have reacted with no sense of responsibility in positions where they could or should bring about change (Blacklash) We can’t get away from JESUS’ directive to not carry out lashing back, whether to each other or to those around us. So I am focusing on what the ‘other cheek’ can do. What can ‘the other cheek’ do, people? What can ‘the other cheek’ do?

There are many of us who have successfully turned ‘the other cheek’ into a powerful, sustainable response of change.

One of my ‘forever heroes’ is Rev Carmel Jones. Originally a musician of the early churches, he was in the group founded

by Pastor La Touché: The Travelling Harmonizers, which featured Lavine Hudson, Pastor Douglas Wallace and, I believe, Evangelist Icilida Cameron.

CONCLUSION

I haven’t fully finished thinking about this question. When you turn ‘the other cheek’, we have to believe we bring an environment or atmosphere for change. One of the keys of change is to bring together the various components of our history, our legacy. There is so much more out there than we think. It’s a time of great opportunity. Let’s not trap ourselves in an enclave. Let’s push for more, because we have more. We need to have more people willing to take up the mantle of looking after and creating the articles, components and memorabilia as we go - not waiting years before we look back, but celebrating as we go more than ever before.

And let’s not Blacklash or backlash ourselves!

My name is Godfrey Buckle, and I am a deacon in my local church. I am a financial adviser by profession and it is my passion to help my community to enhance their life and the lives of their families by providing them with the advice to make the right decision when it comes to financial protection.

As Christians, we can at times believe that insurance is not necessary or that it is even wrong.

I have therefore made it my personal mission to attend churches and community events to inform people of the importance and benefits of future financial planning for themselves and their families if they were to become sick or have gone to be with the Lord.

I offer FREE SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS at your Church or community event where I can come and inform fellow Christians about the importance of protection insurance.

I can help your community with: • Life Insurance • Income Protection • Accident Protection • Critical Illness Cover • Mortgage Protection

For more information visit www.adviser-kalonfinancial.com/godfrey-buckle or email godfrey.buckle@kalonfinancial.com

www.keepthefaith.co.uk

10 GOSPEL NEWS

The Voice winner counts her

B

Photographer: Carsten Windhorst Text: Lais Martins Waring

BLESSINGS

album also features three hymns with a close lessing Annatoria, the 18-year-old connection to Blessing Annatoria. As a young Zimbabwean-born vocal powerhouse Zimbabwean, she grew up singing hymns in from Dudley, West Midlands - and church, and has been surrounded by them all The Voice 2020 winner - has released her debut album, Count My Blessings, via Universal Music, making her the youngest ever winner in the show’s ‘All the hymns history to release an album. have been given a The album’s first single, contemporary twist and are set to introduce a ‘I Smile’, an uplifting and new audience to their empowering interpretation of uplifting powers’ the Kirk Franklin original, was released in March, and saw Blessing make a triumphant return to The Voice 2021 final for its debut performance.

The gospel-infused Count My Blessings features a stunning selection of 14 songs, representing all facets of Blessing Annatoria as an artist. From re-imagined versions of her Voice performances and songs that have inspired and uplifted her, to hymns, which she has given a contemporary twist, Blessing Annatoria wants to bring different cultures together, spreading joy and happiness.

She comments: “I chose these hymns, because I have been singing them in church my whole life, and they mean so much to me and to so many people all over the world. I wanted to put my spin on them, and produce them in a new way to how people would have heard them before. I’m really proud of the album and in particular the hymns. ‘How Great Thou Art’ is my favourite hymn on the album, as I love the heavy beat and choir arrangement.”

The upbeat and bouncy ‘I Smile’, an anthem to joyful resilience and optimism, which has received fantastic support by BBC Radio 2, is the poignant first single of Blessing’s debut album, showcasing her soulful and show-stopping vocals. She is joined on the track by a remotely recorded choir, led by Kingdom Choir’s Wayne Hernandez - best known for performing at Meghan and Harry’s wedding and who has worked with artists, including Jay Z and Gorillaz.

The album’s emotive and soul-stirring title track, ‘Count My Blessings’, which Blessing Annatoria co-wrote, is a rich melodic message about having faith, spreading kindness and helping each other.

Representing her childhood and faith, the

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her life, which is why it was so important to her to include them on Count My Blessings, particularly the striking ‘How Great Thou Art’, which Blessing describes as her “family’s song”. All the hymns have been given a contemporary twist and are set to introduce a new audience to their uplifting powers.

The Voice fans will also be thrilled with the inclusion of a beautiful new version of Blessing’s winning song, ‘Angels’

by Robbie Williams; a powerful and emotional rendition of Westlife’s ‘Flying Without Wings’, as well as an electrifying re-imagine of Mariah Carey’s ‘Without You’, the track which secured Blessing her place in the final.

Still fresh in everyone’s minds, due to being crowned the show’s ninth winner only in November 2020, after a seven-month break in filming due to the pandemic, Blessing has firmly embraced this experience to show there truly is no stopping her. Recording her debut album remotely during lockdown with award-winning producer, arranger and songwriter Rupert Christie, who has worked with the likes of Jessie J, U2, Coldplay, Lianne La Havas and Lou Reed, as well as Blackbook Music, Blessing Annatoria is releasing Count My Blessings less than five months after winning the show.

Count My Blessings is out now.

You can follow Blessing here: INSTAGRAM: @annatoria TWITTER: @annatoria TIK TOK: annatoria FACEBOOK: @BlessingTheVoiceUK

He who finds a wife finds a good thing…

Rupert and Carmel Anderson celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary earlier this year. They are happy and still in love!

Who wouldn’t want that?

“It got me thinking”, writes Iona Anderson, daughter of Rupert and Carmel, “Surely, it’s better to wait on God for real love, than to be with someone who you know deep down, you’re not meant to be with?”

Iona, who is founder of DateSmart®, a new dating site run by Christians for Christians, believes that single Christian men can learn a lot from her Dad. She said Rupert came to the UK in 1959 by ship. He worked and saved his money for 2 years so Carmel could come over by plane. Iona, who is the eldest of Rupert and Carmel’s six children, agrees with her sister Angela that while it must have been tough for their parents being apart for 2 years, Rupert had his eyes on the prize which was always going to be their Mum. Here are 3 principles on finding a wife:

1. Be who God wants you to be Rupert was a committed Christian before he married Carmel and still is. His strong Christian faith and values have filtered into every area of his life. Rupert is kind, generous, keeps his word, is respectful and respected, shows gratitude, is considerate and has a great sense of humour!

Rupert & Carmel today

2. Choose wisely Rupert chose Carmel, not only because he was attracted to her, but it was also her good character that he observed over a period of time, that made him fall in love with Carmel and adore her.

3. Serve God and others Rupert has always been active in the church, taking on various roles. He also reaches out to others and is a great encourager.

As reported by many of their friends and family at their Zoom diamond wedding celebration earlier this year. Incidentally, Rupert likes to keep up with changes and has become an expert in using his mobile and Zoom. He also fully supports single people using dating sites. And how old is he? 86!

Christian men who desire a wife…trust God’s timing.

He who finds a wife finds a good thing!

Pray…Connect…Date Join other like-minded singles today, visit www.getdatesmart.com

12 GOSPEL NEWS

BY AKOSUA DWOMO-FOKUO

U

rban gospel artist, Sharyn, follows up her Beautiful Saviour EP with the colourful In Full Bloom. Written, produced and recorded during the pandemic, the singer-songwriter’s 13-track project has received rave reviews from fans and industry gospel pundits alike. I recently caught up with Sharyn to talk about the new project.

ADF: Congrats on your debut album. I know fans have been asking for a new Sharyn project for a while, and you’ve certainly outdone yourself on In Full Bloom.

Sharyn: Thank you so much… The project was definitely a labour of love.

ADF: Where did you get the inspiration for In Full Bloom?

Sharyn: During the early days of lockdown, when ‘unlimited exercise’ was a luxury, I would go for these extremely long walks in the park and witness the roses and cherry blossom trees go from bud to bloom. In that season, I was questioning and reflecting on everything.

How does society view me as a woman, as a Black woman? Does what I do bring me joy?

If not, how can I change that? With every day came new challenges, but just like the cherry blossoms, I knew I wanted to evolve, grow and become in full bloom. I want to become the best version of myself God created me to be, and I know so many others feel the same.

ADF: What message do you want listeners to take away from the project?

Sharyn: On the album I start with a parable from Luke Chapter 8, which has this beautiful imagery of seeds (the Word of God) being planted, but not taking root and growing as it should be, due to the different conditions of the soil. This is a direct reflection of the heart: what and who we choose to surround ourselves with determines the course of our lives and how much fruitful growth can take place. I want the listener to know that the journey to wholeness is uncomfortable; navigating relationships and forgiveness involves sacrifice, but God is with us every step of the way. In Him, there is peace and true contentment.

ADF: Though your message is undeniably gospel, your sound is more urban r’n’b.

Who are some of your musical influences?

Sharyn: I must start with Kirk Franklin, as he is one of the best producers and songwriters across all genres, and one of the most successful contemporary gospel artists of all time. His ability to blend r’n’b, hip-hop, traditional Southern gospel with a hopeful message is

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SHARYN

comes full circle with ‘In Full Bloom’

is what makes him a huge inspiration to me and my music.

ADF: You are a unique artist with a very niche, vocal style. How have you managed to maintain your individuality?

Sharyn: I’ll take that as a compliment, haha!

It’s so easy to compare yourself with others, and be steered to do what’s on trend, but I just stay true to myself, who I am, and do what I love. I make sure to surround myself with a team of people who know what the vision is, so they constantly remind me and help me stay on course.

not only daring, but genius. Brandy is another huge influence, as she is the ‘vocal bible’.

From her riffs to glorious harmonies, I have studied almost every live performance, and I love the way she doubles her vocals in the studio to create these rich layers, and that is her signature. Labrinth, like Kirk Franklin, is a multifaceted musician and record producer, but he is one of those few exports that makes me proud to be a Black Brit. The way he weaves sounds together - creating these colour melodies that cannot be categorised into a genre - is unmatched. He is in a league of his own, which

ADF: Fun question: Who are the top five artists in your music playlist?

Sharyn: Oh, I love this question! I would say Mark Asari, as his most recent EP, By Your Grace, is full of some exquisite hits. Grace Tena would be up there, as her track, ‘In Theory’, has been on repeat since its release, and it’s the song of the year for me. Maverick City have been giving us what feels like a new album every week, so they are in non-stop rotation.

Finally, I would say, r’n’b artist, H.E.R, and pop teen sensation, Olivia Rodrigo, because they always complete their assignment and give us what we need: a love-song-andheartbreak ballad, because balance is key.

GOSPEL NEWS 13

The Black British Theatre Awards is the UK’s first award show to celebrate the excellence and influence of black performers and creatives in the theatre industry.

Launched in 2019, and now in its third year, we are proud to report that the BBTA’s has had an even bigger impact and reach since it’s conception and more so since it’s broadcasting on SkyArts last October. They are very honoured to be broadcast again on SkyArts during the autumn of 2021 (date to be confirmed).

There have been many productions of note over the last year and we extended the nomination date in order to include and support productions during and after the pandemic.

This year’s Black British Theatre Awards nominations 2021 will include productions from 1st August 2020 to 1st September 2021.

Nominations opened on Thursday 1st July 2021 and will close on Friday 3rd September 2021.

To fit the current climate, the BBTA’s are making a change to the usual nomination system. For this year, we will broaden the nomination criteria to include UK national productions including tours performed in a theatre live or delivered via streaming.

To nominate visit: https://vote.blackbritishtheatreawards.com/

www.keepthefaith.co.uk

14 GOSPEL NEWS

TODD DULANEY ‘ANTHEMS & GLORY’ Grammy-nominated artist, Todd Dulaney, is a prolific worshipper and songwriter who delivers his latest and greatest in Anthems & Glory. Dulaney’s new album, which was recorded live in Chicago, brings the written word to life in the form of worship.

The album includes 17 tracks that are sure to turn listeners’ pain into praise.

Keep The Faith speaks with Todd Dulaney and reviews Anthems & Glory to give the world an idea of what makes this album special.

Dulaney shares what listeners can expect from his new album: “It’s loaded, it’s my favourite album so far. I’m singing harder because I feel more confident in my ability to express myself. Even my band is expressing themselves more! Plus, we have Tamela Mann, Smokie Norful, Kierra Sheard and Todd Galberth featured on the project. I always think my next is always my best, so I really believe that this is my best.”

The ‘best’ is a great way to describe this masterpiece.

We begin by taking a look at each track, one song at a time.

“If there’s one man that can inspire the young generation and beyond, it’s Sir, Todd Dulaney, a man with vision when it comes to God’s will.”

- Dave P – UGN Jamz THE POWER OF PRAISE Track #1 ‘Overture’ – This song sets the stone by reminding us that Jesus pulls us through our storms. ‘Victory Belongs to Jesus!’ takes Dulaney back to a similar theme from his favourite part of Africa: Uganda. “Uganda did something in our hearts. There, we were able to touch the people. We were able to see how people, who don’t have as much as you, can have more joy and authority in Christ. It was the best experience of my life, and we ministered there. 75,000 people came out. We were overwhelmed with support for ‘Victory Belongs to Jesus’ (To Africa With Love).”

Track #2 ‘Prayer’ – This track ushers in the Holy Spirit and sets the tone through prayer. A prayer to the King of kings and the Lord of lords, with the proclamation: “There is one God.” Track #3 ‘Opening Flow’ – With lively drumbeats and praise from the choir, this track invites the listener to break into dance. ‘Lift up your hands, open your mouth!’

Track #4 ‘Come A Little Closer’ – ‘There’s joy in the room that’s why I really wanna be where You are.’ This song invites you to come a little closer to Jesus to get to know who He is.

Track #5 ‘My Weapon’ – ‘My praise is my weapon tonight.’ The enemy may try to attack us but we will use our praise to confuse the enemy. Dulaney reminds us this is a spiritual battle, so we need to fight accordingly. There is no fear in love.

Track #6 ‘Psalm 18’ is a love song, a song that acknowledges everything God is to us. ‘I will call on the Name of the Lord, who is worthy to be praised.’ Dulaney embodies the emotion David must have felt as he was delivered from his enemies.

Track #7 ‘Psalm 23’ – ‘I will fear no evil.’ When we dwell in the house of the Find us on Twitter and Facebook: @KeepTheFaithmag

GOSPEL NEWS 15 Lord, we have no reason to fear. His goodness and His mercy are enough. Dulaney masterfully brings this well-known chapter of the Bible to life.

Track #8 ‘Bless Your Name’ – ‘I was made to give You glory.’

Dulaney reminds us to seek the face of our King. We praise His Name because that’s what we were created to do. This song gives honour where honour is due.

Track #9 ‘Glory Flow’ – ‘We give You the glory.’ Open your mouth and praise. ‘My God, You reign forever and always.’

Track #10 ‘Yes’ – ‘Yes, Lord.’ It’s a moment of saying Yes to our Lord. Let His will be done. I trust and will follow You. Track #11 ‘All I Need’ – Just a moment with Jesus can change your life. ‘And forever You’ll be all I need.’ Think of His righteousness, His goodness and what you truly need in life.

Track #12 ‘Satisfied’ – ‘I will trust in the Lord.’ This song will remind you that when He leads, we will follow.

Track #13 ‘Satisfied Flow’ – ‘You have complete control.’

The message is clear: we are satisfied with Jesus.

Track #14 ‘Miracles, Signs and Wonders’ – ‘Miracles, signs and wonders follow those that believe.’ We are healed in Jesus’ Name and we must never forget that.

Live the Word and thank Him for it.

Track #15 ‘Proverbs 3’ – This song reminds you of the importance of knowing the Word and how you should ‘write them on the tablet of your heart.’ When we trust the Lord, it has to be with all our heart.

Track #16 ‘Revelation 4’ – We should be crying out “Holy, holy, Lord!” The One who sits upon the throne deserves it. Dulaney talks about a revelation that God gave him: “Purpose was the revelation. Purpose is greater than any dollar amount that anybody could ever give to me. I get to touch people; I get to hug people in all types of nations. That was the revelation for me. A lightbulb went off in my head.

I would rather live my life in purpose than chase a dollar.”

Track #17 ‘Get the Glory’ – ‘You get the glory, Lord.’

This Caribbean-rhythmed track puts the focus on God. On Dulaney’s travels to Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda and South Africa, he wants people to see God and not him. “I have to stay out of the way. I have to write from a place where I’m not writing about myself, in order to magnify the glory of God.” Todd Dulaney challenges us to replace fear with faith. “Those of us who are in Christ Jesus have no need to fear.” His album was written to remind us of the power of our praise. ‘Anthems and Glory’ is available now.

Ben Harrell, Global Music Link Editorial Team Ben is the founder of Ambitions of a Writer, and the creator of Billboard and Bookings 101.

Find out more at BenjHarrell.com.

HELPING TO KEEP CHILDREN SAFE

F

or more than 165 years, Hope UK (formerly Band of Hope) have been providing high-quality drug education and life-skills training to children and young people in schools, youth clubs, churches and other groups. Their aim is to equip every young person in the UK with the knowledge and skills they need to make drug-free choices.

Their work is delivered by highly trained, locally based volunteers. Selected from local churches, volunteer educators lead interactive, fun and effective sessions – both formal and informal. Sessions and activities include information about drugs, alongside learning skills including peer-resistance, decision making, healthy relationships, resilience, and communication.

Young people in the UK today are sadly likely to be offered drugs – at school, university or when out with friends. A study by UCL into Generation Z has shown that 31% of young people had tried cannabis and 10% had tried harder drugs by age 17.

More than half (53%) had engaged in binge drinking, 45% had tried a cigarette, while 12% were regular smokers at age 17.

There has been a gradual increase of the use of most drugs amongst school age pupils over the last few years*, and use of nitrous oxide and some of the new psychoactive substances have also increased recently.

Hope UK needs more people to train to become volunteer educators and help children and young people in their local communities. Volunteer training takes place partly online, but mostly over four residential weekends, where volunteers learn about drugs, and how to deliver drug prevention activities.

Topics include safeguarding, health and safety, communication, planning and leading sessions, managing groups, how people learn and much more.

Once trained, volunteers are supported by Hope UK to work with local groups. Some volunteers concentrate on working with adults, parents and youth workers for example – helping them learn how to help and support their children.

There are resources aimed at families, at churches and youth workers. E-learning modules are available free for anyone who wants to know a bit more about drugs and related issues.

For more information about what Hope UK offers, visit www.hopeuk.org * Smoking, Drinking and Drug Use among young people 2018 (published August 2019) www.keepthefaith.co.uk

16 GOSPEL NEWS

In the spotlight

I

ISAAC CARREE

saac Carree has one of the finest voices in gospel. The son of a pastor, Isaac came to the fore 25 years ago, singing with gospel legend, John P Kee. He then joined Men of Standard - a group known for their exceptional vocal skills - before going solo. His earnest and unique artistry has landed him at #1 on Gospel Billboard Charts and on gospel radio multiple times. His popular songs include ‘In The Middle’ and ‘Clean This House’.

After a six-year break, Isaac, an awardwinning artist, is back with a new album release entitled No Risk No Reward.

Taking risks is something the Atlanta-based Renaissance man is well acquainted with. His motto is “Why not?!” He explains: “I’m intentional about everything I do. Sometimes I do things even if I am afraid, but I do it! Why not?!”

It is this spirit that led the singer to step away from the recording scene to allow himself the opportunity to explore various creative avenues. “Allowing myself this time afforded me the opportunity to shift the trajectory of my mind, and to reset to prepare for this moment now,” shares Carree. “I had the life-changing experience of touring with Diddy and the Bad Boy Reunion Tour. I also toured with Tim McGraw and Faith Hill on the Soul II Soul World Tour and had the time of my life. After being away from the industry and not having new music out for six years, it feels really good to be back and to partner with Zoe Records who believe in my vision.”

No Risk No Reward features the album’s first and chart-climbing single ‘Her’. This ballad is a powerful anthem from men to their women.

It is Isaac Carree’s tribute to his wife, Dietra.

“I love my wife,” says Carree. “She deserves NOTHING but the best! We’ve grown together, we’ve had our ups and our downs, but she stuck with me by my side. She’s loyal, she’s a prayer warrior, she’s the mother of our child, so this song embodies how GRATEFUL to God I am for HER!” Isaac is an artist who is totally at ease with himself. “There’s no one like me because God only made one me, and I’m comfortable doing me,” confesses the award-winning singer, songwriter and producer. “So I embrace whatever comes with that!”

Like Kirk Franklin, The Winans and Andraé Crouch before him, with No Risk No Reward Isaac Carree stretches the musical boundaries

Find us on Twitter and Facebook: @KeepTheFaithmag

of gospel and inspirational r’n’b to bring the message to a wider audience. As such, No Risk No Reward is a beautifully-produced, musically varied album that runs the gamut from urban contemporary grooves to old school gospel.

Isaac is joined by Eric Dawkins, Gene Moore, Zacardi Cortez and Jason Nelson on a new version of ‘Ordinary Just Won’t Do’, in tribute to influential gospel group, Commissioned.

Other collaborations include Kirk Franklin (on the Interlude ‘Love’); Lisa Knowles & The Brown Singers (‘What Kind of Man’), and Parker Dawkins (‘The Win’), among others.

No Risk No Reward is Isaac Carree’s third solo recording, and is produced by Dove Award-winner and two-time Grammy Awardwinning producer, Blac Elvis, who shared: “Working with an artist like Isaac Carree is a breath of fresh air!

BY M ARC IA D I XON M BE

I don’t simply wanna label him a ‘gospel artist’, because he’s so much more!”

As with many 21st century artists, Isaac does more than sing. He presents a radio show called Good Vibes on Kirk Franklin’s Praise, Channel 64 on Sirius XM. He also recently published his debut book, Service: My Life. My Words. My Truth, which encourages readers to fulfil their God-given potential.

It’s evident that Isaac is not frightened to take risks - musical or otherwise - in pursuance of fulfilling God’s purpose and sharing his talents and gifting with others.

And it’s also evident that releasing No Risk No Reward was a risk worth taking.

No Risk No Reward is available on digital platforms, including Apple Music, Spotify and Deezer.

Visit www.isaaccarree.com for more info

Unlock resources, training and support to help release potential in children and young people.

Energize contains the perfect combination of the very best Bible-based activities for ages 3 to 15+ and is designed to suit volunteers, staff and parents alike. You can add as many Energize users to your account as you need, right across the age ranges a nd you can unlock the resources, training and support for free with your own 30-day trial.

Urban Saints have been helping churches, community groups and individuals make young disciples for Jesus Christ since 1906, through every season and circumstance. Energize, from Urban Saints, has been equipping and inspiring people like you for nearly two decades – whatever challenges they were facing.

However you plan to stay connected with children and young people this year, trust Energize for everything you need.

Energize for free. Visit www.urbansaints.org/unlock-energize

Change a child s life If you have room in your heart and a room in your home for a child we want to hear from you.

In return we will: • give you financial allowances and rewards of up to £815 a week • give you extensive training • support you every step of the way Best of all is the satisfaction of making a difference to a child’s life just when they need you most.

Visit us at islington.gov.uk/fostering

Call us on 020 7527 7933 or email fostering@islington.gov.uk

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter

Foster with Islington.

You may have more to offer than you think.

Foster carers play a vital role in looking after children and change lives with their love and support. Your care really makes a difference and helps young people achieve their best.

Many people hold back from enquiring thinking they need to own their home or that their faith may hold them back, which is untrue.

There is no standard foster carer and just like the young people in their care Islington carers come from a range of ethnicities, backgrounds and beliefs.

If you’ve had children or have worked with young people, you will have life skills you can use.

Fostering is increasingly considered a career choice with generous allowances and a wide selection of training available to help build your skills. Islington carers receive 24-hour support from the service and benefit from strong peer support from the Islington Foster Carer’s Association.

You don’t need educational qualifications but you do need space in your heart and a room in your home. Think this may be for you? Then why not call today to start your journey, 020 7527 7933 or email us at fostering@islington.gov.uk you can find out more at www.islington.gov.uk/fostering

18 GOSPEL NEWS

Part two

THE AFRICA WORSHIP EXPERIENCE

BY SEGODI LESHALABE WITH MILTON B. ALLEN, GLOBAL MUSIC LINK EDITORIAL TEAM

South African artists united in worship under the African skies

T

he concept of unity is one that has always existed even from ancient times, one that has been shown to strengthen the collective abilities of those united in it. In the book of Genesis, when mankind united to build the Tower of Babel, which they hoped would enable them to reach the heavens, we hear God expressing how powerful it is being united as one. He says in Genesis 11:6 - “If, as one people speaking the same language, they have begun to do this, then nothing they plan to do will be impossible for them.” In South Africa, one movement that has taken the concept of unity to heart is a movement called MegaGospel.

For 10 years it has worked tirelessly to unite artists, often bringing them together to praise and worship in unity.

Find us on Twitter and Facebook: @KeepTheFaithmag

With the COVID-19 pandemic regulations still in full force in South Africa, the movement opted to celebrate their 10-year anniversary via a virtual concert that featured a host of leading South African worshippers. The evening included various award-winning artists, like Bongi & Collin, Lebohang Kgapola, KeMoriti (formerly known as Karabo), Mabongi, Janine Price, Kingdmusic and Thando Makhaphela.

For close to two hours, they sang songs of Janine Price

praise and worship, including several collaborations where they all sang together in unity on stage - a testament of being one and speaking the same language, just as it was in the book of Genesis. The entire concert was shown online via MegaGospelTV.com, thus helping bring together worshippers from around the globe to join in worship under the African skies. The success of the event prompted organisers to start looking at bringing in artists from other countries, like the UK and the US, for future editions or even taking the event there. “Our goal remains to turn this into a global movement of worship and praise, bringing together artists and audiences from across the world for a common cause,” said the movement’s founder. Just as Jesus said “…it is by the love that you share, that they will know you are My disciples”, our aim is to see this love being spread across the global family of the Body of Christ.

The evening was a remarkable success, with the featured artists having nothing but great comments to say about it afterwards.

GOSPEL NEWS 19

Lebohang Kgapola

The award-winning husband-and-wife duo, Bongi & Collin, shared how amazing it has been to see the movement grow from strength to strength, especially given they have been there since its conception 10 years ago.

Another featured artist, who has been with the movement from the beginning, Karabo (now known as KeMoriti), expressed how it had been a nice experience collaborating with other artists to share and minister through their God-given talents and gifts. Karabo is no stranger to gospel music platforms, having won multiple awards at the Crown Gospel Music Awards in South Africa, and even going all the way to win an African Gospel Music Award in London, UK, a few years ago. Janine Price, who has been in the music industry for many years now, made her first appearance on the movement stage, and expressed how the whole set-up felt like one big family, thus making everyone feel at ease. Lebohang Kgapola, who recently did a duet with Grammy-nominated Todd Dulaney, and who also performed in London in 2018, shared how the organisation of the event had been professionally done, so it was easy for everyone involved to tap in and play their role. Even Mabongi, who has been there for

a few years with MegaGospel, Kingdmusic and Thando, who were making their first appearances, all shared positive sentiments about their experiences from the Worship Night. Audiences following the event online also gave the Worship Night a thumbs up.

All in all, despite the COVID-19 pandemic challenges, MegaGospel still helped spread the good news to audiences globally, and continues to do so as the Worship Night remains available online. As the book of Psalm 133 says: “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people dwell together in unity!” and MegaGospel intends to be an enabler of exactly that, for many years to come.

Bongin & Collin

Black children are waiting for adoptive families!

North West Agency, Adoption Now’s plea for more adopters from Black heritages There are many children across the country waiting for safe and loving families who can adopt them, but the sad fact is Black children can often wait longer to be adopted.

The recent ‘Adopted and Looked-after children report’, shows that Black boys of African descent waited on average 1,302 days to be found new families, whereas children from mixed-race backgrounds waited 996 days and White British children around 919 days.

Many people may not be aware that there are very few criteria people need to meet to be able to adopt, you need to be aged over 21 years old and live in the UK. Other factors such as ethnicity, religion or marital status do not prevent people from becoming adopters.

Children waiting to be adopted come from a range of backgrounds and need parents who can help them to embrace their heritages, understand their identities and learn about their cultures.

You don’t need lots of money in the bank or to own your own huge home, you can even have birth children already. Don’t rule yourself out because love, time and commitment are the three most important attributes you need to adopt.

In 2019 only 3% of adopters approved were from Black or Black British heritages, So, if you’re thinking about adopting a child which has sparked fresh calls to encourage or children chances are you can! a more diverse range of people to come forward and consider adoption.

You can be the difference in the lives of children who need a safe, secure and Adoption Now has joined forces with other loving home; so why not take that first adoption agencies across the country to step and speak to the Adoption Now promote the #YouCanAdopt recruitment team on 01204 336096 or find out more campaign which aims to bust myths at www.adoptionnow.org.uk around who is eligible to adopt.

www.keepthefaith.co.uk

20 INTERVIEW

Chanel Haynes

BY JANINE SHALOM

C

hanel Haynes, who will make her London stage debut as the alternate Tina, was discovered by Quincy Jones while she was still a teenager, and went on to become an original member and lead singer of the New Orleans-based group, Trin-i-tee 5:7, selling over 2.5 million albums worldwide and earning two Grammy nominations.

At the 2008 Grammy Awards, she was part of the line-up with Trin-i-tee 5:7, which also included performances from Tina Turner, Beyoncé and Aretha Franklin. She made her musical theatre debut in 2014 at the Zach Theatre in Austin, Texas, where, in 2018, she won the B. Iden Payne Award for Best Leading Actress in a Musical for her role as Billie Holiday in Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill.

Keep The Faith caught up with Chanel to find out more about the Grammy-nominated singer who is playing Tina Turner at the Aldwych Theatre.

Keep The Faith (KTF): What role did faith play in your upbringing?

Chanel Haynes (CH): I am a preacher’s daughter and with that comes great responsibility.

I’m pretty sure I attended church five to six times a week from the age of six until I started my recording career at the age of 19. My father is still pastoring in the city of New Orleans, LA. Whenever I visit my home church, I still have to sing a song or two before the congregation.

KTF: Who is the most memorable person you have interviewed/written about/met, and why?

CH: When I was a little girl (about 11 years old) I got the chance to meet Muhammad Ali ‘The Greatest Boxer of All Time’. My Dad was a big fan, so I would watch his classic matches as a child. At this fragile time in my life I had suffered from low self-esteem, like many young girls. When I walked over to meet him, I gave him a big hug. He then said to the press: “I am surrounded by beauty!” That moment changed me forever, because ‘The Greatest’ saw my beauty before I did...so I thought it had to be true. That was the beginning of a new truth for me.

Website: www.tinathemusical.com

Find us on Twitter and Facebook: @KeepTheFaithmag

KTF: Tell me about an accomplishment you consider to be the most significant in your career.

CH: The highest career honours for me are my two Grammy nominations. To share this great honour with my mentor and inspiration, Tina Turner, is one of my greatest pleasures! Being cast to play the iconic Tina Turner is one of the most significant and perhaps the greatest accomplishment I have experienced as an entertainer. When the film, ‘What’s Love Got To Do With It’ was released, I knew I had to get to know her! I was still in high school, but I decided I wouldn’t stop until I’d got her attention. I studied her, I discovered all our similarities over the years... We are both preachers’ daughters from the ‘South’; sang gospel in the church; dyslexic; have two sons; left California to reinvent ourselves as artists in London in our 40s... the list goes on and on! I think you can see why this is such a significant milestone in my life.

KTF: What kinds of things bring you the most pleasure now?

CH: The thing that brings me the most joy and pleasure is when my two sons, Alexander (3) and Zion (7), climb into bed with their dad and me early in the morning, and we watch cartoons together. It’s those precious moments that Facebook: TinaTheMusical

give me that focus and strength I need to execute on stage night after night.

KTF: What is important to you in a church?

In the leadership of the church?

CH: It’s important to me that the church leaders show their humanity, and have the courage to say “I don’t know”, when they don’t have the answers. The best response to me is “Let’s find out together.” I find that the greatest leaders are humble, and they don’t fear being flawed; they embrace it, and then learn from their mistakes or misjudgements.

KTF: What are you most passionate about in life and in your work?

CH: I am most passionate about fulfilling my destiny and purpose. I rarely give great attention to situations or persons who do not support the vision God has placed inside my heart.

I practise kindness, mercy and compassion.

I am also very discerning, and can tell if I am planting seeds into good soil or into soil that will not produce good fruit. I told you... I’m a preacher’s daughter! Haha!

Tina – The Tina Turner Musical re-opens at the Aldwych Theatre on 5th August 2021.

Twitter: TinaTheMusical

Instagram: TinaTheMusical

FEATURE 21

DAD

m o r f s n o i t a s r O–pen Conve of Fatherhood the Frontline y Cal-I Jonel b

D

espite the significant challenges we have faced this year as a global collective, the silver lining has been to witness a shift in conversation around the important role fathers play within the home and lives of their families. Elliot Rae (founder of Music Football Fatherhood) decided to contribute to this zeitgeist by curating a collection of 20 powerful and defiant stories from real dads across the UK, each chapter carrying its own unique dose of truth and vulnerability.

DAD is a compilation of stories from the MusicFootballFatherhood.com (MFF) team.

MFF is the UK’s most exciting parenting and lifestyle platform for men. Called the “Dads’ version of Mumsnet” by the BBC, MFF is the online community for fathers. Through blogs, podcasts and events, MFF aims to increase positive representation of diverse dads; champion equal parenting, and provide a space and community for dads to have open conversations around fatherhood.

DAD has a diverse range of contributors whose stories often go unheard. These are ordinary men, being extraordinary by sharing their story with the world. Our contributors have come together from different walks of life, because they believe in the shared purpose, vision and movement, hence the book’s newly popularised hashtag, #WEAREDAD. This is a groundbreaking book.

A movement. Never before has a group of men come together to bare their souls and speak so openly and honestly about their fatherhood experiences. The mental health of men is still overlooked, with suicide remaining the biggest killer of men under the age of 45, and 12.5% of men in the UK suffering from depression and anxiety. This has been further compounded by the pandemic and lockdown. New dads are particularly vulnerable, as financial and work pressures - coupled with a huge life change - can have a significant

impact. DAD is a cathartic book that will contribute to better mental health, and help men and dads realise they are not alone.

This book aims to encourage better dialogue between colleagues, friends and especially within families: between husbands and wives, brothers and sisters, dads and children. We know men and dads don’t always have the space to speak openly about their experiences. We believe DAD can change the world and move forward the conversations around fatherhood, masculinity, mental health and gender equality.

I was blessed to have the opportunity to discuss in my particular chapter how my faith has shaped my fatherhood, identity and life.

It was refreshing to be able to do so in such an open and honest way, during a time when discussions around Christianity and faith have become increasingly marginalised within mainstream culture. This just speaks to the intent behind DAD to give every dad a voice.

So how has faith shaped me as a parent and spouse?

Being a family man at heart, my faith has enabled me to understand that my wife and

children are my first ministry - the first group of people I serve, nurture and cultivate.

That said, my wife and I strive to keep our relationship with God at the centre of everything we do and every decision we make as husband and wife, as parents and as human beings.

Ultimately, parenthood is bigger than us. It’s our duty to nurture the leaders of tomorrow - leaders who are secure, wise, loving and resilient human beings of integrity. By God’s grace, our children are the legacy we will leave behind when we are gone. So, our challenge today is to train up our children in the way of the Lord, so that when they grow older, they will not depart from it (Proverbs 22:6).

You can read more about my journey through faith, fatherhood, identity and life plus so many other wonderful and nuanced stories from real men on the frontline of fatherhood - in our new book, DAD. DAD will initially be published in hardback and e-book formats, with the paperback and audiobook to follow. It’s available to purchase from Waterstones, WHSmith, Amazon and Foyles.

For more information, or to buy the book, visit www.wearedad.co.uk www.keepthefaith.co.uk

22 FEATURE

New Testament Assembly 60th Anniversary NTA Founders Bishop Melvin Powell & Bishop Donald Bernard

“Hitherto has the Lord helped us”

T

he impact of diaspora churches from Africa, the Caribbean, Asia and Latin America on the religious landscape of the United Kingdom and into all levels of society has been astonishing. Contributing to this phenomenon is the New Testament Assembly, the church where I currently serve as its national leader. The NTA was established in Jamaica, West Indies, in 1954. The church, which had its roots in the USA, was birthed out of resistance and in protest to the unacceptable racial inequalities and injustice that existed at that time.

Among the founders of NTA were my late father, Melvin L Powell, and his close friend, Bishop Donald E Bernard. The two men in their twenties formed what was to become an enduring partnership. They travelled to England in 1961, and planted the NTA on British soil in the same year. The many challenges that West Indians faced when they came to Britain are well documented and widely available in many publications, books and film documentaries. My father often recalled stories about the harsh treatment, being turned away from places of worship or denied the use of premises, that he and other Caribbean migrants experienced. They were seen as

eiving her MBE Rev Rose Powell rec

second-class believers and not welcomed.

Despite all this, he and his compatriots showed great resilience and, by God’s grace, persevered.

From its humble beginnings, in the living room of the late Reverend Alfred Doyley (and his wife Kathrine) in Balham, South London, the NTA has grown into a global organisation, with churches and ministries across four continents. As well as being known for its vibrant worship and Christian witness, the NTA has a long and recognised history of community engagement and Christian social action. This includes the Tooting Neighbourhood Centre, its Home Care and other activities for which my late mother, Rev Amy Rose Powell, was awarded an MBE. The Ethnicity and Mental Health Improvement

Project, prison support, homeless food programmes and more are all a part of this rich legacy.

The NTA is also home to pioneering women leaders like my aunt, the late Rev Dr Io Smith MBE; Bishop Esme Beswick MBE, and Rev Nezlin Sterling, who will be remembered for their indispensable contribution to the innovative role the NTA played in intercultural ecumenism, and the high regard in which it is held in mainstream denominations.

Pastor Io Smith with form er

Archbishop Carey

FEATURE 23 NTA leaders in the ‘60s

Leadership succession within church organisations can be a vexing issue, but not for the pioneers of the NTA, who wisely discerned whenever transition was needed and acted accordingly. The mantle of leadership subsequently fell on the shoulders of the late Bishop David W Greaves, my predecessor who, as with King David, with skilful hands and integrity of heart presided over the organisation from 1999 to 2013.

Over the years, the NTA has planted 14 churches across London and the Midlands, and in some instances other independent churches joined the group. Several properties were purchased to facilitate the growth of the organisation, most of which are now mortgage-free, serving both as a house of worship and used by the community.

NTA book launch with Author Richard Reddie

Aspects of the journey and achievements of the NTA are documented in the book, ‘From an Acorn to an Oak Tree’ and ‘The Ebony Cross’, authored by Rev Dr Smith. Some specifics worthy of mention here are: • The establishment of the NTA Institute of Theology & Christian Counselling, which attained Accreditation with two leading universities • Our ecumenical involvement with members serving on the Board of Christian Aid, Churches Together in Britain, membership of the Church of England General Synod and the Free Churches Group

NTA church leaders in Ghana

• A slew of visits from international and national figures to various events, including HRH Queen Elizabeth II; the late Diana, Princess of Wales; former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher; Reverend Jesse Jackson, and many more civic and church leaders • The acquisition of 13 freehold properties • The establishment of the Mother Smith School in Kumasi, Ghana

We recognise that the NTA is one of several UK churches of Caribbean heritage, who are celebrating their 60th Diamond Anniversary.

Sadly, the story of the NTA and its achievements is not the same for many of the churches which emerged around the same time and thrived Margaret Thatcher me ets Bishop Powell throughout the sixties and seventies. Not all survived the journey, and among the remaining or bad is a matter of debate. These are churches from the West Indian Diaspora, the unprecedented times, and the NTA - as with question of what the future might look like for all institutions - needs to re-examine and these more traditional denominations repurpose itself in the new normal. The demands serious and critical reflection. disruption and accelerated changes brought We are worlds apart from 1961, and so about by the COVID pandemic provides an much of church and society - as we have opportunity to reset some things, discard known it - has disappeared. Whether for good others, and breathe fresh life into what it means to be ecclesia: to boldly witness to a broken humanity the unfolding revelation of God’s Kingdom of love in the here and now.

On the occasion of its 60th Anniversary, the NTA stands at a critical moment, on the crest of a wave that began on a ‘little rock’ in the Caribbean, poised to take more territories and to continue building an enduring legacy for generations to come.

Presiding National Bishop Delroy Powell New Testament Assembly England New Testament Assembly England will be celebrating its Diamond Anniversary with a special virtual and in-person combined event on 27th – 29th August 2021. Please subscribe to www.ntaworldwide.org.uk for updates. www.keepthefaith.co.uk

24 FEATURE

BLACK MPS, FAITH AND STEPPING UP

BY SHIRLEY ANSTIS

O

ver this past year, we’ve had to slow down and pay attention to ourselves and each other. We are more aware of stuff in our own lives and the suffering of people we have never met. From the constant news cycle, we know of the over-representation of Black people in the COVID-19 death figures. There are questions around inequality, racism and privilege that will be discussed for many years to come.

In the midst of such change and upheaval, there are always people who choose to get into the ring and take on the challenge. For me, Members of Parliament are one such group.

Of course some of them are self-serving, but most of them have a conviction to serve others.

Many have given up good jobs to enter the debating chamber that is the House of Commons - depending on the electorate to re-elect them at future elections.

As a career adviser for many years, I watched Black and minority ethnic young people search for role models to admire. They longed to see career progression outside of music and sport, but this was very limited.

As more Black Members of Parliament won seats at elections, I felt the need to bring this to the attention of young people, their parents and their teachers. It is so important that they can go to their school or community library and see people who look like them on the shelves.

This is necessary in fiction and non-fiction.

Although I began writing Black MPs in the House of Commons in 2017, I completed Chi Onwurah MP

Find us on Twitter and Facebook: @KeepTheFaithmag

it after the December 2019 elections, when seven new names were added to their number. One of the new MPs in 2017 was Marsha De Cordova MP, who represents Battersea in London. Marsha is one of several MPs who are Christians, and she is currently a vice-chair of the Christians in Politics All-Party Parliamentary Group. It’s good to think of people of faith in the House of Commons, making decisions about peoples’ lives and livelihoods. David Lammy MP and Florence Eshalomi MP also show how their faith can impact their role. If MPs believe we are all worthy children of God, then they will govern in that way. Of course this is quite sophisticated and still manifests Claudia Webbe MP

in different party affiliations. There is more than one way of being a Christian, and there is more than one way to be a Christian MP. What I hadn’t fully appreciated before my research was the range and depth of issues that MPs deal with. When looking at the written and spoken contributions in the House of Commons, I could read what they had said on food banks, the Windrush scandal, the Grenfell Tower disaster, Black Lives Matter, deaths from COVID-19, and many more. This book is not party political and not scandal seeking; it simply presents the achievements and challenges that these Members of Parliament experience.

These 22 mini biographies of currently serving Black MPs show their story so far - from their journey to be elected, and what they have done since. Many of us are familiar with the longer serving MPs, such as Diane Abbott MP and David Lammy MP, but there are many more. Although Black MPs are still slightly under-represented, women are not. Indeed, of the seven new Black MPs voted in at the December 2019 elections, six were women.

Diane Abbott MP

David Lammy MP

So history is being written all the time.

It is good to look back at the journey that got us here, and it is also good to celebrate Florence Eshalomi MP

David Lammy MP, Florence Eshalomi MP, Diane Abbott MP, Helen Grant MP, Chi Onwurah MP, Kim Johnson MP, Claudia Webbe MP - photos by David Woolfall - Wiki. Marsha De Cordova MP - photo by Chris McAndrew - Wiki

FEATURE 25 Kim Johnson MP

‘This book is not party political and not scandal seeking; it simply presents the achievements and challenges that these Members of Parliament experience.’ those who keep putting themselves forward, especially in the age of social media. As the first Black female Member of Parliament, Diane Abbott has represented her constituency

Marsha De Cordova MP

Helen Grant MP

since 1987 and she receives some of the worst online attacks (racist and sexist), but she continues to persevere. Despite this, many others put themselves forward, and there are still many firsts being achieved. Among the Black MPs in the House of Commons, you will also read of Helen Grant MP, the first mixed (Black and White) female Conservative MP, and Chi Onwurah, Newcastle’s first Black and mixed Member of Parliament. Kim Johnson is the first Black MP in Liverpool. Claudia Webbe is the first female MP for Leicester East. Claudia and Kim became MPs in 2019, and so the story continues.

Get your copy - or gift one to someone you care about. These stories of success and representation despite challenges give us all hope as we come out of this pandemic and seek to rebuild our lives.

Black MPs in the House of Commons is available to buy from Amazon.

Shirley Anstis MA. BSc. MBACP is an author and counsellor, who supports her clients through change so that they can create the life they envision.

You can connect with her @shirleyanstis on Twitter and Instagram.

Grants to help keep your church in good repair from The National Churches Trust

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hurch buildings are key places where communities come together for worship and community activities. Over the last eighteen months, churches have provided much needed support for so many people; from becoming vaccination centres to offering counselling, from foodbanks to credit unions.

We know how churches across the UK are providing essential services for people in need.

We help protect these vital life-changing buildings through our grants programmes. Our grants are available to any Christian place of worship in the UK whether a medieval Grade I Listed building or a more modern unlisted church, as long as they are open for regular worship.

Last year we allocated £1.7million of grants for urgent repairs, essential maintenance and the installation of community facilities.

In the last ten years we have awarded over 1,500 grants totalling £14 million.

We are aware that this year many churches are suffering financially due to being asked to close for long periods of time and therefore being unable to raise income. From repairing a roof to helping to install facilities like toilets and kitchens, our grants can help your church continue to be in good repair and serving your community.

We often take our churches for granted, thinking that they will always be there, doors open and welcoming. That is, until one day the roof starts leaking or bits of stonework starts to fall off. Maintenance can seem like a daunting prospect and can easily be put off, but sometimes, taking care of the smaller things can help prevent bigger problems later down the line. This is why we also provide maintenance grants to help with keeping your church building in good condition, now and in the future.

If you want to find out more, our free grant workshops are designed to help you find out more about how we can help your church.

For more details visit www.nationalchurchestrust.org

www.keepthefaith.co.uk

26 FEATURE

In Sickness & in Health Publisher and presenter of the UK’s first gospel music programme, Juliet Coley shares the Scriptures and quotes that kept her going in sickness and in health Legacy Matters “I shall not die but live, and declare the works of the Lord.” (Psalm 118:17) Following a heart attack at 48 and quadruple bypass surgery (lasting 9 hours) at 49, former People Get Ready gospel show presenter, Juliet Coley, had to take a good look at her life and evaluate her priorities. Five years later, she was sitting in her consultant’s office being told she had bowel cancer, and would have to have a colectomy and a stoma bag.

Her first reaction was to laugh.

“I had a heart-to-heart with God and told Him I was not the Bible character Job,” she said. “So He needed to sort it. The only ‘bag’ I was having post op would be a Hermès Berkin!” She avoided going in for surgery, opting instead to make some dramatic changes. She got rid of her Fitbit (because she was told it created radiation in her body) and also decided to become a vegan.

“I gave up after two weeks! My children were fed up with me sniffing their chicken and licking the gravy!” Six months on from her diagnosis, she had the 12-hour cancer surgery.

Her six-week post op check-up showed the cancer had spread, and she was put on a three-month course of chemotherapy.

“Chemo was even more challenging, and during the painful recovery process I began to think about my legacy. What had I achieved?

What would I leave behind?”

People Get Ready Gospel Music Show “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” (Philippians 4:13) Juliet was due to have bypass surgery in 2014 following a heart attack, and a week prior to admission, ‘nesting mode’ kicked in.

“I began cleaning my skirting boards, washing the net curtains, and clearing out all the Find us on Twitter and Facebook: @KeepTheFaithmag

Former Senior Deputy Head Teacher, Juliet Coley, sharing her teaching legacy: ‘39 Weeks, Life Behind the School Gates’

cupboards. I wanted everyone to know, if I woke up following the operation that, in my yard, cleanliness was next to godliness!”

Her son pulled from inside a cupboard a box with neatly packed VHS tapes inside.

“What’s People Get Ready?” he asked, after reading the labels. When they watched an episode, her children were shocked and found it hilarious watching their mum on TV in the ‘olden days’. Juliet decided to convert and upload them all to YouTube and the response was amazing.

“Everyone talks so positively and fondly about the programme, which was the gospel music soundtrack to many lives,” Juliet said.

There was talk about how great a reunion would be and, during the pandemic, she spoke to gospel writer Marcia Dixon and Nicky Brown, the former musical director of the show, about doing a more practical and manageable walk down memory lane in the form of a vodcast. Planning this during lockdown was a perfect opportunity to get people to participate, because they weren’t on tour or busy with church business... Like the whole country, they had to Stay At Home.

“What I loved about this project was seeing the growth of the original cast and their journeys post-People Get Ready. So many have gone on to do incredible things in society and on the international music platform,” Juliet said. “My co-presenter, John Francis, is the Bishop and founder of Ruach City Churches, which are local, national and international, and Nicky Brown has been a producer for Stormzy, a musical director for Emeli Sandé, and a musician for Paul Weller, and even the backing singers on the show have appeared on television in the UK and internationally.” Priscilla Jones-Campbell was a vocal coach on TV show American Idol and sang on the Voice UK, and Paul Lee received critical acclaim when he sang the lead vocals on the Kingdom Choir’s song ‘Stand by Me’, which was performed at Prince Harry and Meghan’s wedding.

The vodcast premiered in May 2021, and featured a tribute to gospel songbird, Lavine Hudson, who sadly died in 2016. “We were just a group of kids, who loved God, and were catapulted into the limelight through a national television series,” Juliet reminisced. “It was

FEATURE 27 definitely the best of times.”

The People Get Ready vodcast can be found on YouTube under People Get Ready Podcast Mix.

Senior Deputy Head Teacher

“The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.”

(Mark Twain) Being a television presenter was great, but Juliet says the day she found her purpose was the day she walked into a classroom officially as a teacher.

Juliet loves young people, and her journey from Beginner teacher to Senior Deputy Head was a roller coaster, but she has not regretted a second of it.

Her journey, spanning over 20 years, is documented in her memoir, ‘39 Weeks: Life Behind the School Gates’, and she is donating an audio and e-book copy to every teacher in the UK as part of National Thank a Teacher Day. They must visit her website for a download link.

As a Senior Leader in Education, Juliet was instrumental in turning one particular school into an Ofsted Outstanding institution; received a Wise Woman Award, and was also rewarded by her local authority for her efforts. She said: “Nothing beats leading teams that support youngsters to achieve and that give them the ability to make choices, along with working with students to become positive and active citizens in society.”

Writing the book, which is currently in development to be a UK Black British movie, was important to Juliet. She cited her Windrush grandparents, her mother and the Black Church as being instrumental in shaping her character and heavily influencing her leadership style - something she felt was important to document and share.

Publisher: Young Lit Stars

“For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall much be required.” (Luke 12:48 KJV) Juliet’s health challenges had a dramatic impact on her hands-on role in managing a school. She had dedicated her life to supporting children, and was forced to retire in 2019. Nevertheless, her passion to see children’s confidence and self-esteem develop and push barriers continues through her current role as a publisher, who works with Black children aged 6 to 15, to become published authors.

She secured investment from friends and family, and has since established Young Lit Stars Europe’s only publishing company that publishes young writers aged 6 to 13 years. She conducted free literacy workshops; has worked with hundreds of children, and published 14 books with 37 young authors.

The books work to build and spread the stories and legacy of Black people. The titles introduce young readers to the culture and experience of the Caribbean; highlights Black male and female role models; tells the stories of the Windrush generation, and their most powerful title to date, which was launched in June 2021 is ‘Why Are They Crying?’

- a book on racism, written by Brianna-Kayla Lynch (aged 12) and Nia Lekuwa (aged 15).

“My authors have to date won five awards, and have been featured in local and national print, radio and television media. When I was young, a typical author was White, male and middle-aged.

I feel blessed to be able to bring young, gifted and Black talent to the fore. When one door closes, the Lord opens another - brighter, bigger and better. I feel blessed that the Father has given me the opportunity to continue to serve in this way.”

‘Hey, Black Boy! UK Special’ This is the seventh book written by three-time award-winning author, Romeo Bremmer, who is 13 years old.

‘Our Roots’ 27 children interview their grandparents, and share their inspiring stories of moving from the Caribbean to the UK.

‘Why Are They Crying?’

A collection of words, pictures, thoughts and feelings of local, national and international Black heroes and heroines.

More details on: www.iamjulietcoley.com www.younglitstars.com Photos courtesy of Paul McKenzie The Team who brought back the golden age of UK Gospel in the 1980s in the People Get Ready vodcast www.keepthefaith.co.uk

28 FEATURE

Rwanda: Christian media personality to open Christian radio station to promote the Gospel of Jesus Christ

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icodeme Nzahoyankuye is a Rwandan media personality with an extensive background in media ministry, spanning over seven years, where he has served with different media houses. He has been nominated for and has won various awards, such as Groove Awards Rwanda, Rwanda Broadcasters Excellence Awards, and the Peace and Reconciliation Awards among the others.

Nicodeme has been appointed by Rabagirana Ministries as Media Promoter of Reconciliation. He was twice awarded Best Gospel Radio Promoter of the Year, and twice Best Gospel Radio Programme.

He is a warrior for Jesus, with a passion for sharing the Gospel through media. He has initiated different events, including healing and gospel festivals in his home country, Rwanda. He instigated the Rabagirana Festival, a leading gospel festival, aimed at promoting the Gospel of Jesus.

His dream is to open a fully Gospel-centred radio station in his community, and to organise crusades.

He has a heart to bring the Gospel closer to the least-reached communities of Rwanda, and to carry the message of hope, healing the inner wounds of genocide-affected communities in Rwanda. Nicodeme hopes to establish a community Christian radio station that promotes and takes the Gospel into

the communities. The radio station will focus its programmes on the Word of God, healing the inner wounds and reconciliation.

“I am praying that God will favour my initiative to establish a radio station.

In Rwanda, establishing a community radio station requires a budget of between $25,000 and $40,000 to buy equipment as well as license processing documents.

This is a large amount, but we are praying that God will open doors for people to partner with us or do a fundraising for us as we unfold this vision of building a saved society, equipped with the message of the Gospel of Jesus, hope, healing and reconciliation,’’ said Nicodeme in a recent interview.

His heart is to win souls for Christ through crusades and festivals.

Nicodeme started organising crusades and gospel festivals in the remote places of Rwanda to win souls for Christ. He does the organising, and invites local, regional and international evangelists to preach the Gospel. His calling is to help evangelists from around the world to preach the Gospel through crusades that take place in the remote areas and underprivileged communities.

Why healing and reconciliation?

Rwanda has faced obscurity following the genocide against Tutsis, when more than one million were massacred. The many inner wounded cases in Rwandan society and communities mean there is a continuous journey towards reconciliation to heal these wounds. Radio is one of the most important tools to reach many people – especially in the remote places – and Nicodeme believes radio will contribute towards that healing when the Gospel of Jesus is broadcast to these amazing people.

What’s next?

Nicodeme Nzahoyankuye is now pursuing his dream to see his country filled and equipped with the Gospel through radio. He extends the invitation to every believer throughout the world to pray for this vision and to partner with him in this initiative.

“I humbly request prayers for this initiative, and for people to contribute in any way. You can share this message to many, so they can fundraise, contribute and pray. Wherever you are, please do your part to help us fulfil the Great Commission through radio. I also invite evangelists and missionaries, who have a heart for Africa, so we can help them fulfil their mission and organise crusades and other events.’’

For more information you can contact Nicodeme by email at nnzahoyankuye@gmail.com

God’s heart for the vulnerable among us

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afeguarding children, young people and adults has become a live topic again over recent years. Abuse perpetrated by international aid workers, by international ministry leaders, by church leaders, staff, volunteers, and members and even abuse perpetrated by children on other children or adults have all hit the headlines.

Whenever these things are brought into the light, or allegations of current or historic abuse are made, we start to focus our attention on safeguarding. But what is safeguarding and why does it matter to us as churches?

For years, many of us have thought about safeguarding as a legal requirement and therefore something we must comply with.

This is true, but it is not the whole story, and we would suggest it is not even the main story.

For us, safeguarding matters because it matters to our Heavenly Father who hates any form of oppression, abuse, or exploitation. We see safeguarding as a practical outworking of biblical principles.

So why does safeguarding matter? Because it is a practical outworking of biblical principles, and it impacts our gospel witness. Perhaps it would be helpful to think about it not as a legal requirement so much as a matter of the heart. What do we mean by that?

• It is about the heart of God for those made in his image; particularly those who are vulnerable or defenceless • It is about hearts that are wicked and deceitful; that do not see as God sees • It is about hearts that are broken and lives damaged or destroyed by the evil that people do to one another But does scripture really speak into the matter of safeguarding?

Surely that is a new concept that was unknown to people in biblical times? It is certainly true that scripture does not use the safeguarding vocabulary, but it has a great deal to say about the theme of safeguarding, and about those who exploit or abuse the vulnerable because they have power.

We cannot go into detail here, but let’s consider a few examples.

• Human life is valuable - Genesis 1 tells us that human beings are made in the image of God. As such, every human being is valuable to God. This includes the life of unborn children (Exodus 21: 22-25).

- Psalm 139 tells us that we are uniquely created and formed

by God. • The reality of life in a fallen world presses in constantly - We are fallen people (Genesis 3) - The human heart is deceitful and wicked (Jeremiah 17: 9) - We must always be mindful that we can fall into sin (1 Corinthians 10:12) • The Old Testament law repeatedly tells us to be honest in our dealings and to care for the orphan, the widow, and the stranger (E.g. Exodus 22, Leviticus 19, 25 etc) • The Lord rebukes those who oppress or abuse the vulnerable (e.g. Nehemiah 13, Jeremiah 10, Ezekiel 34 etc)

• The Lord brings sin into the light (e.g. Joshua 7, 2 Samuel 12, Acts 5 etc) • Jesus own example and teaching (e.g. Matthew 19, Luke 17) • The early church cared for its own and for others (e.g. Acts 6) • We are to obey those that the Lord has set in authority over us (e.g. Romans 13) • We are to do everything for the glory of God (e.g. 1 Peter 2: 12) We could draw out many more principles, but this gives us a sense of the matter.

At CSS, we are passionate about the Gospel, the church as the bride of Christ and the safety of the Lord’s people. We work with churches and other Christian Faith based organisations, helping them to think about safeguarding from a biblical perspective, and then to ensure that these principles are thoroughly worked through to ensure that our ministry is biblically faithful, reflects the heart of God, and fully complies with and even exceeds the standards that the government set for us.

If you would like to explore how we can help your organisation, please check out our website or send us an e-mail and we will be happy to talk through how we can help. Our services include: • DBS checking • Model policies and procedures • Training • Advice line • Consultancy • Etc

www.thecss.co.uk contact@thecss.co.uk

www.keepthefaith.co.uk

30 FEATURE

IT’S TIME TO END THE CYCLE OF RACIAL TRAUMA B Y R E V P R O F E S S O R K E I T H M A G E E A N D B R YA N B O N A PA R T E

As Black men living in London – one American and one British – we have both been struggling recently with a double dose of race-related toxicity.

Back in March of this year, the opening sessions of the trial of Derek Chauvin – the White former Minneapolis police officer, who casually knelt on George Floyd’s neck until he stopped breathing – brought the visceral horror of that event flooding back. Like so many others, we found the tearful witness statements and the new video footage of the murder almost unbearable to watch. It felt personal, terrifying – that could have been one of us suffocating under that knee, calling out for his mother.

We didn’t even know we were turning the other cheek, and then came the second blow.

The UK’s Commission on Race and Ethnic Disparities (CRED) delivered its insulting report, concluding – incredibly – that systemic racism no longer exists in Britain. The commission was set up by No 10 in the wake of last summer’s Black Lives Matter protests, sparked by the death of George Floyd. And so this grim wheel continued its nightmarish rotation: parts of the CRED report read like excerpts from Donald Trump’s playlist. The impact on Black British people was clear: by denying their lived experience of institutionalised racism, this report has and will re-traumatise many.

Tragically, for most non-White British and American citizens, racial trauma and its Find us on Twitter and Facebook: @KeepTheFaithmag

consequences are part of everyday life, and the triggers come thick and fast: walking past statues of Confederate generals or slave owners; encounters with the police; interactions online; just watching the evening news...

This profound anxiety is rooted in a collective pain that began when the first Africans were enslaved and transported to a life of unimaginable cruelty. Abolition did not bring healing. Instead, the trauma of freed slaves and their descendants has continued to be compounded to this day, as every subsequent generation has faced ongoing racism and injustice on both sides of the Atlantic.

‘History must be faced and learned from, so that we can take the best from it and leave the rest behind.’

The American psychologist and sociologist, Dr Joy DeGruy, has given this historical racial trauma a name: Post-Traumatic Slave Syndrome. She points out that it is deeply embedded, community-wide and multi-generational.

As a result, countless Black Britons and Americans suffer symptoms similar to those of PTSD, including anger issues, lack of self-worth and purpose, loss of identity, stress and anxiety. Although often unaware of the underlying cause, we are all too conscious of this trauma’s manifestations in the form of educational exclusion, incarceration, family dysfunction and substance misuse, to name just a few.

We all experience things differently, of course. Black people have had to be highly resilient, and many have made extraordinary contributions to their communities and to their countries.

Yet, however many equal opportunities we create, it will all be to no avail if some of our citizens continue to struggle under the weight of inherited racial trauma, while others are unencumbered. This is not just a Black problem. We are permanently woven into the fabric of these great nations,

so it is imperative we address this trauma. If we fail, we will all be the lesser for it.

The first step is not to gaslight people into believing that systemic racism no longer exists, but to recognise the extent to which it is still a problem.

Then we must allow ourselves to acknowledge old wounds and to grieve. It can be tempting, when you live with trauma, to avoid triggers, to turn away, perhaps even to topple things in an attempt to erase reminders of a harrowing past. But that is a grave mistake.

The act of forgetting does not aid recovery; it makes it impossible. History must be faced and learned from, so that we can take the best from it and leave the rest behind.

WE NEED A CHANGE

FEATURE 31

Remembering Rev Dr Joel Edwards CBE Keith Magee

Bryan Bonaparte

The next step is healing. We can’t reach it through anger and hurt; righteous indignation alone will get us nowhere. Instead, each of us needs to connect with others – those who look like us and those who don’t. Those who pray like us and those who don’t. Those who vote like us and those who don’t. We can learn much from other minorities with experience of trauma and marginalisation – sadly, there are many such groups. But, while we should denounce attempts at whitewashing, we must resist apportioning blame. This is about positive allyship and moving forward.

Our elected leaders have a crucial role to play. Both our governments must now engage their populations in a serious, transparent conversation about race. They should each begin by convening a Citizens’ Assembly, made up of randomly selected participants who reflect their nation’s diversity, and who can come together to seek common ground. This will allow robust, informed, public input to help design policies that – if implemented – might actually succeed in overcoming racial trauma and disparities.

As well as educating their students about racial trauma, teachers can ensure that every child’s humanity is valued. If they are positive about diversity, actively highlighting its benefits, and encourage children to appreciate each other’s ethnicity and cultural heritage, teachers can help to liberate our young people from damaging myths about race.

Four hundred years is long enough to carry a burden based on hate. Change is in the air - both in America and in Britain. Together, let’s seize this moment and break the cycle of racial trauma. Like so many others, we both bear its scars, and we sincerely hope that future generations will not.

Britain’s Christian community is mourning the passing of one of its greatest leaders, Rev Joel Edwards, following his battle with cancer. He was, without doubt, one of the most influential leaders to come from Britain’s Black Pentecostal church.

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he Jamaican-born minister, who migrated to Britain as a young boy, and who spent his formative years as a Christian, serving in the New Testament Church of God (NTCG), made history in 1997 when he became the first Black man to be appointed leader of the Evangelical Alliance(EA), the representative body for evangelical Christians.

Such was the significance of his role, that in 2003 Joel was awarded a medal of appreciation for services to Jamaica and, in 2007, he was given an honorary doctorate from the University of St Andrews. During Rev Edward’s illustrious ministry, he was appointed honorary canon at St Paul’s Cathedral, and was appointed a commissioner for the Equalities and Human Rights Commission.

Prior to taking up a full-time role at the EA, Joel had been a member of groundbreaking gospel band, Kainos; was a respected youth leader; worked as a probation officer, and served as senior pastor of a cutting-edge NTCG congregation in Mile End. At the time of writing, 1.2k people had ‘liked’ and 789 people had commented on the post that announced Joel’s passing.

It had been penned by Joel, and in a touching message, he thanked everyone for their prayers; told us that he was ‘gone’, and commended his family to the Christian community, before ending with the words, ‘I wait to welcome you.’

Keith Magee is Professor of Social Justice at Newcastle University. He is also Senior Fellow in Culture and Justice at UCL, where he is co-chair of Black Britain and Beyond.

He is the author of Prophetic Justice: Essays and Reflections on Race, Religion, and Politics, published in January 2021.

Bryan Bonaparte is a Senior Lecturer in Psychology at the University of Westminster and co-chair of Black Britain and Beyond, a social platform which brings together Black Britons and allies to explore and engage in the significance of Black Britishness.

Tributes have poured in for Joel from across the denominational spectrum. The Archbishops of Canterbury and York, Justin Welby and Stephen Cottrall (respectively) put out a tribute on social media, writing they were ‘saddened by his death’ and commended his advisory role on the CoE’s Racial Justice Commission.

Bishop Donald Bolt, leader of the New Testament Church of God, described Joel as “a true believer, a mature disciple, a focused pilgrim, a highly respected minister and a leader with integrity.”

Gavin Calver, General Director of the Evangelical Alliance, praised Joel’s contribution to the evangelical community, writing: “Under his leadership he deepened the diversity of the EA, while bringing credibility and attention to evangelicals in the ecumenical and secular spheres.”

In his final years, Joel attended Emmanuel Christian Centre in Walthamstow.

Doug Williams was his pastor. He said: “Joel was a man people could trust; a teacher they could understand; a leader they were willing to follow; a preacher who always applied his message to his own life first; a husband and father that valued family; a mentor who inspired hope; a brother every sibling could be proud of... and a friend I will never forget!”

Joel is survived by his wife Carol, children Davina and Joel Jnr, and grandchildren.

Marcia Dixon

Joel with his son, Joel Jnr www.keepthefaith.co.uk

32 COMMENT

Should ‘Cancel Culture’ Silence the Church?

KIMSHAW AIKEN

is a writer and an educator with 15 years of teaching experience.

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here is a reality of another pandemic upon us. Many of us who are Christians may find ourselves cowering in fear or uncertainty, wondering to what extent we can ‘faith out loud’. Times are getting serious, and daily we make the decision about how to navigate living in a secular world safely while holding onto our faith.

Whatever field we work in, we acknowledge that work itself is good. Work was introduced before the Fall (Genesis 1), so we know it is not a curse, as God Himself worked. We should honour God as we carry out our jobs, and it is right to seek to do them well.

But how can we do this safely, when all around us - the very jobs we work in; the very news programmes we watch; the media discussions we are forced to engage in – goes completely against our Christian worldview?

In fact, these aggressive non-Christian ideologies are not just going against us; they are identifying us, shaming us, and then snatching our livelihoods in some cases. Many Christians are scared - scared to post their beliefs on social media. Some pastors feel compelled to sugar-coat the Gospel, and many of us refrain from sharing views in regular informal discussions that may later come back to implicate us. I do not think it has anything really to do with the fact that we are loving God any less, but there is a sense that suffering may be inflicted upon us and our families if we do not begin to silence ourselves in the name of ‘wokeness’ and ‘tolerance’. The thing is, on the surface, many of these ideologies seem to advocate very ‘normal’ things.

However, it is not tolerance the secular world is actually advocating; it is complete acceptance and submission to ideologies that conflict with the Bible we believe. These groups do not understand (or, rather, choose not to understand) that our faith is our identity and what guides our lives. It is not a social club for us. The Word of God literally brings life and instruction to all believers. We believe it and choose to follow it. We recognise there are other beliefs and ideologies and, while we can tolerate these, forcing us to accept them automatically becomes a real problem.

Find us on Twitter and Facebook: @KeepTheFaithmag

We love God first, and His precepts guide us on how to live the best way possible.

WHAT SHOULD OUR POSTURE BE AS CHRISTIANS? 1) We need to remember we are in fact aliens and strangers on this earth. This world is not our home.

1 Peter 11:13 ‘These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.’

2) We should remember that, as believers, we should expect persecution.

2 Corinthians 12:10 ‘That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.’

3) Reflect on the story of Daniel and his friends. When the king passed a decree requiring the people to serve the gods of Nebuchadnezzar and the image of gold he had set up, Daniel’s friends refused even though the consequence was to perish in a fiery furnace.

The question: Daniel 3:14 ‘... and Nebuchadnezzar said to them, “Is it true, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, that you do not serve my gods or worship the image of gold I have set up?”’

The response: Daniel 3:16-18 ‘Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to him, “King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and He will deliver us from Your Majesty’s hand. But even if He does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.”’

The world is growing more anti-Christian on a daily basis. Balancing our love for our fellow man - and ensuring we do not compromise our faith - is at the core of our daily existence.

The reality is we may get cancelled, but where do we put our hope?

John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

COMMENT 33

Would you like to be Prison Fellowship’s next Head of Volunteer Engagement?

Prison Fellowship’s mission is to show Christ’s love to prisoners by coming alongside them and supporting them. We seek through prayer and practical care to help, support and develop a Christian ministry to prisoners and their families. We do this through our network of over 3,000 volunteers. We are currently ministering in almost all of the 120 prisons in England and Wales.

We are seeking a dedicated and talented individual to help enable our volunteers to reach their full potential in delivering Prison Fellowship’s mission in prisons across England and Wales. Specifically, to lead and grow PF’s national volunteer leadership structures as well as our training and development approaches to become the best in the sector.

The post holder will be an outstanding leader who understands the prison environment and is aligned with our mission to show Christ’s love to those in prison.

This role is currently home-based due to the ongoing pandemic.

Once it is safe to do so, the post holder will be required to work flexibly between our Westminster office, home and prison group locations.

For more information visit

www.prisonfellowship.org.uk/ about/jobs

www.keepthefaith.co.uk

34 COMMENT

Should Christians Protest?

DIONNE GRAVESANDE

Global Ecumenical Relations at Christian Aid

W

ith the backdrop of a pandemic, social unrest on race and climate catastrophe, I have over the last few months listened to several theological commentators and their thinking, as they relate to God’s Word and how or where the Bible speaks to such experiences. I have also reflected on particular questions coming out of African and Caribbean communities, and I want to look again at the biblical texts that affirm, challenge or reshape our thinking on public protests.

It seems that in public life, Race and Racism is having its moment. George Floyd’s death rightly brings to the forefront of our

minds disregarded people across the UK shores and beyond. With COP26 (2021 UN Climate Change Conference) due to happen at the end of the year, we are reminded of the harsh reality that the triple nexus of COVID-19, climate change and racism is widening the equalities gap here in the UK and around the world. With such disturbing statistics, we have reason to protest. Levelling up has to be more than a political slogan; it needs to move us forward into a new reality. Evangelicals are no exception to the protest-oriented attitude of our day. We have set social media platforms aflame with heated debate about everything, from Black Lives Matter to asking the question

about who is impacted by climate change.

In many cases, Christians have joined fellow citizens in taking to the streets with banners, signs and shouts to publicly demonstrate their opinion on Black Lives Matter campaigns. So, I hear you asking the question: ‘Should Christians engage in public protest centred on political and social issues, digitally or otherwise?’ My answer is Yes, and here’s why. Jesus came to bring ‘good news’ to the poor and ‘freedom’ for the oppressed, calling us to action. Through His life and teaching, His death and His resurrection, Jesus inspired His followers to love God, love their neighbours, and to seek justice for those who are oppressed. Jesus practised this principle throughout His earthly ministry. The power over the oppressed will not be just given up, we have to reclaim it. Collectively we must break down systems and structures that keep people from fulfilling their potential.

For me, freedom is a Gospel imperative.

The Calvary Global Network has given this some thought, and cites five ways we can act to demonstrate our protest:

1. PROTEST BY PRAYER The greatest method of protest we can engage in is to petition the throne of heaven in prayer.

If there is a clear biblical exhortation to believers about how they can make a difference in their community, it is the call to pray for human leaders, found in 1 Timothy 2:1-7.

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COMMENT 35 obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29).

When it comes to human authority trying to force us to deny Jesus or pervert the Gospel, Christians must resist. Our values are firmly rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

2. PROTEST BY PERSONAL EXAMPLE To protest by personal example is simply to cultivate the character of Jesus in how we live, in every sphere of life. The essence of Jesus’ message and way of interacting with people and society was countercultural in itself: His constitution was the Sermon on the Mount, and His life’s ambition was to live out the gospel-acts that the Christian Church now proclaims in what we know as the gospel message.

3. PROTEST BY PARTICIPATION This is where we get down to more obvious forms of protest. Christians have a biblically defined freedom to raise a voice of protest according to their particular government’s provision. The Bible is clear that Christians are to be ‘subject to the governing authorities’ (Romans 13:1). If the government has declared the people to have a right to peaceably assemble in protest, we can obey the biblical command to submit to that government, while voicing disapproval with the decisions and actions of government leaders at the same time. This is where we have seen participation of bishops, senior clergy and Christian activists.

4. PROTEST BY PROPRIETY If Christians want to join the ranks of public demonstrators (digitally or on the street), they should do so in a way that provides a clear distinction between them and people who do not know Jesus.

5. PROTEST BY PRIORITY If called to act against the principles of our faith, or to commit acts of sin, we must be willing to resist. As Peter replied to those who would silence his gospel preaching: “We must

The UK government message is that together we must ‘build back better’, but what does this mean for the Church? Perhaps we need to rethink assumptions, beliefs and behaviours that underpin what we do and how we operate.

Reforms must be structural as well as in the hearts of individuals. We all have common needs even if they are experienced differently.

We all need clean air, water, food, shelter, sanitation, hygiene and opportunities to earn a decent wage. We all want to thrive and flourish.

We all yearn to be listened to, supported, valued and more importantly protected.

A prophetic call for justice runs throughout the Old Testament Scriptures, as well as the New Testament. As God’s image-bearers, we can and must exercise our agency for justice for the common good. If, like me, you have never had reason to separate your faith from political action, then let us combine both our head and heart to seek social change, so that all may flourish and prosper.

It is what God calls us to do.

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36 COMMENT

FOOD 4

THOUGHT marciadixonpr.co.uk

marciadixonpr

BY

MARCIA DIXON MBE A leading PR specialist and journalist

Calling for more discussions between older and younger women

Marcia-Dixon-Public-Relations

Effective Gospel evangelism can combat crime

F

ollowing the spate of youth shootings, stabbings and killings that hit the headlines after the easing of lockdown, I had to call a friend to release some of the pain, anguish and concern I was feeling about it.

During the course of the conversation, I asked my friend what she felt the Church could do to help stem the crime wave, and she replied: “Evangelise.” My initial response was “Really?”, as it’s known that the causes of crime and the response to combating crime are complex and multilayered. However, the more I thought about it, the more I felt my friend had a point.

I remember over 10 years ago, the church I attended at the time hosted an outreach that targeted people who were involved in criminal activity, especially those caught up in gun crime or drug dealing. The promotion for the meeting obviously worked, because the church was full to overflowing, and surprisingly, for once, the number of men in attendance greatly outnumbered the women.

What was even more surprising was that after the preacher, Bishop Wayne Malcolm, preached his sermon, men flooded the altar.

Some handed in the drugs they were due to sell; some handed in weapons, and some made a commitment to accept God’s gift of salvation.

Whilst the solution to the crime we are seeing on our streets and in our communities today are multifaceted, we know God has given our churches formidable tools: His Word and the Gospel message to preach.

The Bible lets us know that God’s Word is powerful. Hebrews 4:12 says this: ‘For the Word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.’

No matter what is happening in the wider

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world, its cultural temperature or the dominant prevailing philosophies impacting people, we know that the Gospel message has the power to cut through negative mindsets, false philosophies and sinful behaviour, and convict people of their need for a Saviour.

We, as the Church, also know that any individuals who are hell-bent on taking violent action or stealing what they have not worked for need a mindset change. The effective preaching of the Gospel can certainly deliver that.

Maybe I should have posed different questions to my friend... Instead of asking about what can the Church do to stem the crime wave, I should have asked several questions: • What steps can churches take to preach the Gospel in a culturally relevant way?

• How can churches reach Millennials and Generation Z? • How should churches empower and resource the evangelists in their midst?

And, more importantly: • How do we remind all Christians about the power inherent within the Gospel to change lives and transform communities, so that they are excited about evangelism?

During the month of May, I held a series of discussions aimed at bridging the gap between older and younger Christian women.

The discussions aimed to give both parties an opportunity to hear and learn from each other.

What surprised me was that the younger women welcomed the discussions. It’s easy to believe, as we women get older, that younger women are not interested in what we have to say. The series of discussions highlighted to me that nothing could be further from the truth. One woman shared that she and her friends thought the discussions were amazing, because they had never heard older women share so openly.

When I was younger, I would have welcomed sitting down with an older woman to hear her share truths about faith, life, work, love and relationships. It would have saved me from experiencing the angst and mistakes I made on my journey to Christian maturity.

I believe it’s beholden for older women to love, share and teach their younger sisters. In fact, Titus 2:3-5 states older women must: (i) live in a way that honours God (ii) teach others what is good, and (iii) train younger women to love their husbands and their children.

No more needs to be said! Amen.

ANNOUNCING LAUNCH OF THE MINISTRY JOURNEY PODCAST I love the fact that we live in a time when there are so many different ways for people to communicate their truth: social media, podcasts, video, blogs, e-books... I could go on and on.

In my efforts to support women who are in ministry, I will be launching a podcast called The Ministry Journey. I will be interviewing female church leaders, as well as those who have established ministries to meet a social need, so that others can learn about the work they do and hear about the role faith in God has played in their lives and ministries.

It’s my prayer that those who hear The Ministry Journey will be inspired and motivated by the work Christian women are doing, and will in turn find out how best they can use their talents to serve God.

COMMENT 37

Going the distance GARY CLAYTON is a

Copywriter and Editor at Mission Aviation Fellowship www.maf-uk.org

D

uring these strange times of COVID-19, a friend did something that initially shocked me – though it wasn’t in itself unpleasant: he hugged me. Or, to be more precise, he extended his right arm sideways (we were standing side by side) and gently patted me on the back.

Having done the same, I immediately wondered about the danger of catching coronavirus.

Later, after we’d parted, it occurred to me that, because we were both wearing innumerable layers to keep warm, it was pretty unlikely any transmission of the virus would have taken place – particularly since contact had been momentary and neither of us actually had COVID-19!

For those of us living in the UK, concerns like these appear to have receded – unless the guidance changes before you read this.

Until now, it’s been a subject that few writers have – if you’ll pardon the pun – tended to embrace. The focus has generally been on handwashing, wearing face masks, staying indoors, protecting the NHS (which I thought was there to protect us), and following the advice of SAGE – the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies – assuming that SAGE knew its onions, of course.

Because we live in a country that’s fairly reserved, the subject of hugging – or its year-long socially imposed absence – has hardly been touched upon.

Now that we seem to be more or less back to normal, the question of social distancing may possibly end up consigned to the dim, distant past, now that people can either hug or refrain at their own discretion.

When I began writing this, several friends were excited by the concept of a backslapping, bear-hugging, glad-handing future – and not just those who go to charismatic churches!

Others, however, said they weren’t at all tactile, and had been glad to go the distance when it came to social distancing.

During the height of lockdown, a friend who supports MAF (Mission Aviation Fellowship) said life had been particularly painful. He wrote: “Someone who knows me well asked how I’m coping with not being able to hug people.

I replied: ‘That’s why I got a dog.’”

Humour aside, it occurs to me that, because physical contact is such an important aspect of being human, it’s probably time we considered the issue.

Babies and small children thrive on touch, which can boost the immune system and lower blood pressure. Hugging also causes our brains to release oxytocin – the ‘bonding hormone’ which stimulates the release of ‘feel-good’ hormones, such as dopamine and serotonin. These reduce stress and anxiety, lessen pain and help regulate one’s mood.

Although some people crave touch more than others, the need for some form of physical contact is nevertheless strong. It’s part of who we are, and how God created us.

So, while some covet the affectionate contact that comes from hugs and kisses, others enjoy the physical interaction provided by football, basketball, rugby, wrestling or martial arts.

But what does the Bible say about touch, and is there anything we can learn from it?

One way we can do so is to look at how Jesus interacted with others.

He reached out to the man who suffered from leprosy (Matthew 8:2-3); touched the hand of Peter’s feverish mother-in-law (8:14-15), and allowed the woman who’d been subject to bleeding to touch His prayer shawl or cloak (9:20-22). Jesus did the same with those who came to Him at Gennesaret (14:34-36).

He took the hand of the synagogue leader’s daughter and restored her to life (Matthew 9:23-25); touched the eyes of the blind and restored their sight (9:27-30, 20:30-34); cleansed the leper by reaching

out His hand (Mark 1:40-42), and cured a man ‘who was deaf and could hardly talk’ by putting His fingers in his ears (Mark 7:32-35).

Finally, when Peter attacked the high priest’s servant with a sword, Jesus touched the man’s ear and healed him (Luke 22:49-51).

There are other examples, too.

Later, in the book of Revelation, when the author sees the Son of man in all His glory, John writes: ‘When I saw Him, I fell at His feet as though dead. Then He placed His right hand on me and said: “Do not be afraid”’ (Revelation 1:17).

It’s an episode reminiscent of the one when Peter, James and John fell to the ground on the Mount of Transfiguration, and the Lord touched them and said: “Don’t be afraid” (Matthew 17:5-7).

However things pan out in terms of COVID-19, Jesus’ words and comforting presence should give us courage and hope.

As we think of the One who continues to touch countless lives, it’s good to know that God has not only placed everything in Jesus’ hands (John 3:35), but – in appointing Him head over all – has placed everything under His feet (Ephesians 1:22).

As people who are often described as Jesus’ hands and feet, let’s seek to touch the lives of others in a way that encourages them and honours Him. Gary Clayton is married to Julie, the father of Christopher (17) and Emma (14), and works for Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF). To learn how MAF aircraft serve people in some of the Africa’s most isolated areas, visit www.maf-uk.org

38 COMMENT

WHAT’S YOUR STORY? ANTONY ARIS-OSULA

Actor, presenter and author of Coconut Prince: Memoir of a Black Sheep, available on Amazon from 30th July

I

’m a storyteller. You’re a storyteller. Our lives revolve around the stories we tell ourselves, and the ones we allow into our minds and hearts. This is the case - whether it’s fact or fiction, true or false. An inconvenient truth is always going to be less desirable than an attractive lie. Hollywood is living proof of this, and is the go-to example whenever people want to emphasise the difference between how we want life to be and how it really is. In the world of movies, life is simple; in the real world it’s complicated. What both of these worlds share is a narrative: a journey from one place in life to the next, with a protagonist at its centre. In the story of your life you get top billing and, most of the time, you determine what happens to you. But what if you didn’t?

What if God is the Author and He has a better ending in store than both Hollywood and you put together? If life today is a story, then currently we are all dealing with the aftermath of a global disaster movie.

Growing up I felt like I was miscast in my own story. A Black child within a White adoptive family, my early years felt like a recreation of the sitcom, Diff’rent Strokes. For many years I struggled with my story, and tried to escape it - without success. I wanted what everyone

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else had, not an identity crisis, loss of parents, homelessness and trauma. Having wrestled with my issues, then spending years writing it down to share with the world as a book, I found that it hadn’t really been my story all along. It became clear to me that God’s fingerprints were all over the pages of my life, and I recognised His voice at key moments of my life. If God were in fact the Author of my journey, then He must know how it all turns out, right? If that were true for me, then it must also be true for everyone else - including you, the reader.

“If you don’t own and tell your story, others will rise up and tell it for you…”

A Scripture that has been resonating with me throughout the pandemic has been Romans 8:19. The whole of creation has been eagerly awaiting the ‘manifestation’ of God’s children. For those in Christ, that means us. If the last year was a disaster movie, we are the heroes entering the picture at the crisis point. As the world scrambles to find meaning,

to find a narrative that makes sense, we have been prepared by God all this time for this story. Like Noah, we have been preparing and building our lives to be a solution to the world’s many problems in our spheres of influence, helping lost people find hope. What may have been difficult chapters in your life will be testimonies of healing to someone who needs to know that, because you made it, they can too. We live and breathe our story, but the greatest story ever told is the one where God became flesh, dwelt amongst human beings and died for our sins. Why isn’t this story widespread? Because those who know it either keep it to themselves, or reject it as an inconvenient truth, not sexy enough for our culture. But what if the star of the movie, the central character of the book, was not us all along, but the One who is the Author of all stories, the Word who became flesh, Jesus Christ? What if, rather than our own changing narratives and culture that suits our life choices, we are characters in His eternal story, and how we encounter Him transforms our own storylines for the better?

Who knows what life after this worldchanging pandemic will look like, but for us who recognise we are in God’s story as major players bringing His narrative to earth, we should get excited, as things are about to get interesting! The script has been rewritten, and we get the chance to bring as many people into this story as possible, bringing them truth, purpose and identity during an uncertain time.

If you don’t own and tell your story, others will rise up and tell it for you. Though it looks like the end is nigh, God’s words are being revealed in a way the world has never seen before, and it will get that hoped-for happy ending.

Now that’s a story I couldn’t have written better myself.

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40 COMMENT

Daddy and the Two Bears

BY GARY ANDERSON

N

o parent should have to go through losing a child, but as we know, this is tragically an ever-occurring reality.

My twin baby daughters died in October and November 2003 - three and a half weeks apart. My loss may have been over 17 years ago, but for me, real grieving didn’t begin until 2017, when another tragedy - my wife being diagnosed with breast cancer tipped the balance and my grief poured out.

Gary and his wife Michelle on their Wedding Day

It was only then that I decided to write down my experience of the times and events around my twin daughters’ deaths. I didn’t know where it would lead and, at that point, only imagined sharing it with my wife. I wanted to express how I’d been feeling back then, and how traumatised I had been, having not shared my feelings with her at the time.

Whilst writing, it occurred to me there were probably hundreds, if not thousands, of dads out there, who might have also spent years internalising their grief like I had.

With this at the forefront of my mind, I knew I wanted to turn my memories and experiences into a book for others to read: for dads like me; partners like my wife; families, friends and medical/mental health professionals even… anyone, really, who

would benefit from gaining an insight into such a tragic situation. So, my first book, ‘Daddy and the Two Bears’, was born, and it was finally published in March 2021 over three years later.

The book will carry you through the joys of finding out my wife was pregnant, after being presented with a gold box containing a ‘positive’ pregnancy test; then finding out at 11 weeks that we were having not just one baby but two; through to the journey of them becoming Twin 1 and Twin 2 and, later, twin girls called Alana and Dana. But first they were ‘The Bears’, a name I had affectionately given them early on in the pregnancy. It’s often said that nine months gives you time to get your head around having children. You prepare. You tell your friends.

I couldn’t wait for the twins to arrive, so that I could fill them with the love and support I felt I’d never received as a child. I was also struggling with my own mental health issues at this point in my life - issues that had been plaguing me since childhood.

“...my story shows that eventually things did begin to change for me in a more positive way, and my light did begin to flicker again” All seemed to be going well until one day a scan showed that all was not going well at all. From that point, the raw emotions I felt were so real. I tried to keep them in, but sometimes they oozed out, mostly presenting as anger, my go-to response. I tried to pray and ask for God’s help, not for me, but for my little Bears. In the trauma and tragedy that followed, however, I battled between needing God and rebuking Him in equal measure. I hadn’t a clue how I was meant to feel, how I was meant to act,

with every day and every new scan telling us more news about our little girls.

Six months later and three hospitals later, they were born, and for them to be alive was an incredible feeling. They’d made it, and I was their dad. However, what followed still remains the most devastating time of my life – as I’m sure it is for anyone who has experienced the death of a child (or children).

‘Daddy and the Two Bears’ is a raw and open account of my journey.

For many, it feels like there isn’t a light at the end of the tunnel – or ever will be – but my story shows that eventually things did begin to change for me in a more positive way, and my light did begin to flicker again.

As a counsellor myself now, my hope is that my book opens conversations, especially conversations that have been hidden under a veil of grief or tragedy. My wish is for it to support others to learn, become aware and share.

‘Daddy and the Two Bears’ is available from Amazon in paperback and Kindle versions.

Gary and his daughter Alana Find us on Twitter and Facebook: @KeepTheFaithmag

LIFESTYLE 41

LIFTING THE LIES OF LIMITATION

BY BISHOP BARRINGTON MULLINGS

B

ishop Barrington A. Mullings’s debut book, titled Capacity Expansion and Development is an enthralling and thoroughly practical leadership guidance masterpiece of relevant theory and applicable strategy. It is created as “an essential resource for supporting others to grow and develop their God-given capacities” regardless of their background, age, or status.

Its core aims focus on combatting spiritual stagnation by correcting wrong concepts; exploring vital biblical truths to flourish in capacity and giftings; and applying critical principles to advance maturity. These include prayer, peer-conversation, personal reflection, supervision, and scriptural study.

Published by AuthorHouse, this “must have” flagship training resource from the School of Ministerial Excellence (SOME) is borne out of the wealth of experience and sincere passion of a transformational servant-leader intent on reaching and teaching the masses to efficiently identify, utilise and develop their gifts for God’s glory.

After being frequently told by his own father and teachers that he “would never amount to anything of worth” in a world “predetermined by abject poverty”, Bishop Mullings writes, having been powerfully delivered from severe self-doubt, low self-esteem, and crippling depressive thoughts and redeemed to full acceptance of God’s promises and the recognition of the position of significance that God calls all His people to.

Bishop Barrington Mullings is an anointed preacher, He holds extensive ministerial credentials and a wealth of church leadership expertise currently serving the Manchester District of NTCG and as Senior Pastor of the Brooks’ Bar NTCG. He has also served as a National Executive Council member for four years and on the National Education Board for ten years.

You can purchase Capacity Expansion and Development online at AuthorHouse, Barnes & Noble and Amazon. All proceeds of the book will be donated to the NTCG Brooks’ Bar Building Project dedicated to serving the church and wider community.

For further information, visit NTCG Brooks’ Bar Building Fund at gofundme.com or email b.mullings@schoolofministerialexcellence.com.

www.keepthefaith.co.uk

42 LIFESTYLE

THE BRIDGE

FAITH FOR HEALING: SPIRIT, SOUL AND BODY

BY TINA BOYLE WHYTE Global Music Link Editorial Team

O

ur world is in need of healing.

Collectively we have tried to navigate through what we have experienced during the last 18 months, but quite honestly, for me, it has been totally traumatising yet a blessing. Unfortunately, for many it has not been a blessing. In fact, there have been many who have struggled immensely to navigate these times, while many have navigated successfully without any concerns at all.

As I write about navigating how to journey over this bridge, I find myself wondering today, HOW ARE YOU? How are your relationships?

How is your family? When was the last time you were able to have an enjoyable day with the people you love? Yes, take an inventory to assess how you are doing. How are you spiritually? Have you found yourself in a good place or a hard place? How is your mind? Are you worried or at peace? Finally, how is your body? Have you found yourself more stressed?

Are you eating comfort food to manage?

Have you taken on a healthier eating lifestyle?

In this masked world, we have gotten away from checking in on each other. It has been a long time since I have seen a simple smile.

I would say, this time has been really good for people who don’t like smiling, or even talking to people. For anyone who wanted to hide behind a mask - this was perfect.

I want to remind myself that we, as the BODY OF CHRIST, have to remember to be the light. As we transition out of the masks into a more open world, we will need to be the light. Matthew 5:16 encourages us of the light we should be. I want to look at it from

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two versions. The King James Version (KJV) is straightforward, in that we have to show our works through being a light, and God will be glorified.

Matthew 5:16 (KJV) “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”

Then the Message version of this: Matthew 5:14-16 (The Message) “Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colours in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand - shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven.”

Matthew 5:16 encourages us to remember, even in these times, to not hide behind our masks but to stand out and be the difference for the world, who needs to see it. More importantly, we have to do it so our Father in heaven will receive the glory.

So again, I ask, how are you? How have you remained resilient? It is about being resilient in times like these. I have experienced unconscious stress throughout this season.

As more people are openly acknowledging they are having mental health issues, I want you to know that it is OK to acknowledge if you are feeling different. Seek help! Share with someone. Please remember, there is no shame in acknowledging you are feeling different.

So, given those previous concerns, I want to share a few practices I do that helped me navigate through this time. It takes faith for healing the spirit, soul and body.

James 2:14-17 reminds us how faith in action works.

James 2:14-17 (Living Bible) ‘Dear brothers, what’s the use of saying that you have faith and are Christians if you aren’t proving it by helping others? Will that kind of faith save anyone? If you have a friend who is in need of food and clothing, and you say to him, “Well, goodbye and God bless

LIFESTYLE 43 you; stay warm and eat hearty,” and then don’t give him clothes or food, what good does that do? So you see, it isn’t enough just to have faith. You must also do good to prove that you have it. Faith that doesn’t show itself by good works is no faith at all - it is dead and useless.’

This Scripture is a constant reminder that I need to have faith in everything I do.

In addition to having faith, I need to put it to action. I put my faith to work for healing.

I couldn’t only say I was going to be healed, I needed to take action to see healing.

I had faith for healing. I found it very useful to become balanced in my spirit, soul and body; it is amazing how they all work together.

I want to share a few thoughts on my faith-for-healing journey. I have personally incorporated the following, and use them to make sure I continue to maintain my personal wellness in all three areas.

SPIRIT: 1. Return to your community of worship. I have my community of worship. I serve as the Assistant Pastor in my local ministry, and I have deepened relationships with significant people I trust.

2. Socialise and continue to connect with people. I find myself connecting with people who I genuinely connect with, and with people who really understand me.

3. Read your word for wisdom. I read my word for inspiration.

4. Praise. Sing songs of praise. I have found great worship videos on YouTube to help navigate through times of struggle.

5. Be led by the Holy Spirit. I ask and allow the Spirit of God to lead and guide me in everything I do in my life.

SOUL: 1. Serenity Prayer - accept what you can’t change.

2. Avoid toxic people and toxic situations.

Minimise the toxicity in your life.

3. Relax and rest.

4. Build new knowledge.

5. Generosity - give your time, talents and abilities.

BODY: 1. Exercise - walk, swim or light jog.

2. Eat well - increase your fruits and vegetables.

3. Get fresh air - breathe in fresh air and the sun.

4. Breathe - just breathe.

5. Relax and rest.

Those are just a few thoughts about how I have remained well. Once we know you are well, how do you plan to check in with others? I

really suggest taking some time to check in with others. See how someone else is navigating through this season.

As the world opens up again, we will begin to see the residual impact of these times. Be ready to shine your light. The world needs what you have. I encourage you to stay in a place of FAITH & REST. Then our Father would be truly glorified.

Please reach me at tinaboylewhyte@ gmail.com. I look forward to the opportunity to help you to get from where you are to where you want and need to be. God bless!

www.keepthefaith.co.uk

44 LIFESTYLE

Sleep and well-being DR T. AYODELE AJAYI is a Consultant Psychiatrist, a radio host, author and is on the pastoral team of his church

Sleep – A Natural Well-being Elixir One of the most damaging myths of the 21st century is that productivity can be increased by cutting down on adequate sleep time. Sleep powers the mind, restores the body, regulates metabolism, fortifies virtually every system in the body, and is crucial for optimal functioning.

Sleep Science According to the UK Sleep Council, 40% of people in the UK suffer from sleep issues, and 25% of schoolchildren are not getting enough sleep. The question to ask is: “How much sleep is adequate for me?” Every person is different in the exact amount of sleep that is optimal for them, but most people fall into a range depending on their age. Authorities agree that for newborns up to 3 months, 14-17 hours is required, progressively falling to 8-10 hours for older teenagers, and 9-11 hours for school-aged children between 6 and 13.

Adults need an average of between 6-9 hours every night, bearing in mind individual level of activity and general health. Some indicators you may not be getting enough sleep include: requiring a caffeine fix to get through the day; poor concentration and irritability; diminished productivity, and sleeping more than usual when you have an open schedule.

Thousands of brain cells are switched off during sleep. These changes are crucial for cognitive functions, such as memory consolidation and normal brain function when awake. Other body changes include fluctuations in the production of growth hormones responsible for growth: Cortisol - stress-regulating hormone, and Leptin and Gherlin - appetite regulators.

Some links have been made

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between poor sleep and weight gain, heart disease, diabetes, premature ageing and road-accident deaths.

Sleep and mental health There is a complex interplay between sleep and mental health conditions. Mental health problems can cause sleep disturbance, and poor sleep can affect mental well-being. For instance, anxiety can make it difficult to turn the mind off at night; depression can result in waking up too early or oversleeping, and post-traumatic stress disorder can be marked with nightmares that cause interruptions.

Disruption of natural sleep schedules can trigger relapses in mental health conditions.

Unwanted effects of medication can also cause excessive sedation or insomnia.

Sleep Hygiene Tips Establishing a regular bedtime routine - one that lets you unwind and sends a signal to your brain that it is time to sleep - is a first step to promoting good sleep. Going to sleep and waking up at the same time each day, including weekends, programmes the brain for better sleep.

Consider a wind-down routine that can include reading, Scriptural meditation, listening to calming music, journalling, having a warm bath, and having a warm, milky drink or herbal tea. YouTube has a range of Christian sleep music recordings, and there is the Soultime App - also a free Christian relaxation resource.

The free NHS sleep app, Pzizz, is available on both App Store and Google Play.

Keeping the bedroom comfortable - by paying attention to temperature, ambience, lighting and mattress firmness - is another quick-win approach.

Based on knowledge that the body lowers its temperature in going to sleep, there is some thinking that the optimal bedroom temperature is between 16 to 19 Celsius.

Using ear plugs to block out noise, investing in a firm, comfortable mattress and pillows, and using blackout shades to control lighting are worth considering. One study showed that 42 minutes’ extra sleep was gained when swapping an old bed for a new one (UK Sleep Council).

Use your bed only for sleep or intimacy to train your brain to associate it with sleep.

If you struggle to sleep, get up and do something relaxing, like listening to soft music or reading until you feel sleepy.

Regular exercise - best avoided near bedtime - is another approach that works.

Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and spicy and fried foods right before bedtime. Whilst alcohol may help you fall asleep initially, it will interrupt your sleep later in the night. It is also important to keep an eye on your total daily caffeine intake, as excessive use is associated with sleep disruption and anxiety. According to the Food and Drug Agency, up to 400 milligrams (mg) of caffeine a day appears to be safe for most healthy adults. “That is roughly the amount of caffeine in four cups of brewed coffee, 10 cans of cola or two energy shot drinks” (Mayo Clinic).

Avoid using smartphones, tablets and screen devices in the evenings especially, at least an hour before bedtime. The light from screens can have a negative effect on sleep, as can social media, news and games, as these all stimulate your brain, resulting in anxiety.

If self-help is ineffective, speak to your GP who will look for underlying causes; may suggest further lifestyle changes; consider short-term sleeping pills, and explore specialist sleep clinic referral.

Keep us updated on your journey, email tripartcare @gmail.com

LIFESTYLE 45

Marnita Coleman GLOBAL MUSIC LINK EDITORIAL TEAM Marnita is an author and host of The Marnita Show, a parenting show aired daily across the globe

STUDY TO SHOW YOURSELF APPROVED

I

n a 2015 speech, Nick Gibb, Minister of State for School Standards of United Kingdom, concluded: “Education is the engine of our economy; it is the foundation of our culture, and it’s an essential preparation for adult life.” He further declared to a room of teachers: “We all have a responsibility to educate the next generation of informed citizens, introducing them to the best that has been thought and said, and instilling in them a love of knowledge and culture for their own sake.” In a broad sense, Gibb, in a reformative discourse, placed the quality of life on the UK’s altar of education.

Clearly, education is a pillar necessarily woven into the fabric of every developed society. Individuals need to learn the basics of reading, writing and arithmetic. While Gibb’s remarks on the significance of education were noteworthy, my mind contrasted his latter comment with the Apostle Paul’s insightful writing, instructing Timothy to ‘study to show himself approved unto God, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth’ (2 Timothy 2:15). Paul places accountability of appropriating godly knowledge onto the student, rather than the system.

In fact, Paul tells Timothy in 1 Timothy 3:14-17: ‘You must continue to advance in strength with the truth [of God’s Word] wrapped around your heart, being assured by God that He is the One who has truly taught you all these things. Remember what you were taught from your childhood from the Holy Scrolls, which can impart to you wisdom to experience everlasting life through the faith of

Jesus, the Anointed One! God has transmitted His very substance into every Scripture, for it is God-breathed. It will empower you by its instruction and correction, giving you the strength to take the right direction and lead you deeper into the path of godliness. Then you will be God’s servant, fully mature and perfectly prepared to fulfil any assignment God gives you.’

‘Reading God’s Word will improve your overall health, mind, body and soul.’

Along with Christian education, we incorporate traditional education because it is necessary and has relevance. However, the secular should not be more esteemed than the sacred. Yet, some think a degree replaces God’s anointing. In our zeal to thrive in life, has the body of believers devalued Christian education? According to a new poll commissioned for the Archbishops’ Council Evangelism Task Force, only six percent of British adults read the Bible, while 55 percent of Christians in the UK never do so.

For those of you, who are astonished by the above statistics and desire to reset the passion in your hearts to study God’s Word, here are three simple steps for daily time in the Word.

1. Make reading the Word of God a priority. While everyone is busy doing life, schedule time for daily dosages of Christian

education. Reading God’s Word will improve your overall health, mind, body and soul.

Proverbs 4:20-22 says: “My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings.

Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart. For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh.”

2. Select a quiet place to spend time with God. When studying the Word of God, find a quiet spot away from high-traffic areas, noisy locations, or loads of movement, so you can concentrate and hear God’s voice.

Jesus said in Luke 11:28, “But even more blessed are all who hear the Word of God and put it into practice.”

3. Take time when examining the Scriptures. There is no need to rush through the Bible. Getting an understanding is more important than reading numerous chapters.

Let the Word of God marinate in your heart and mind. Joshua 1:8 says of the Word: “Meditate on it day and night, so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do.”

When life can be fast and furious, it is easy to miss a thing or two. The pandemic has taught us how to pause and prioritise.

Hopefully, we will not go back to the hustle and bustle of pre-COVID days. Respectfully, traditional education is required as a matter of law, and it is a good thing. On the other hand, Christian education is a choice and matter of love. God gave us His Word so we would know Him as our Father. Do not disappoint the King of glory. Study to show yourself approved! www.keepthefaith.co.uk

46 LIFESTYLE

Banana Fritters Shana Dawn Lewis has been a

qualified chef for over 25 years, and was the winner of the Wise Women Award 2021 in the Life Turnaround category

I

’m pretty sure if you could get Harry, Meghan and a few of his family members in one room, and Boris Johnson, Dominic Cummings and Matt Hancock in another room, all sat down at a table with a plate of these beauties in front of them…nyaming them down - yes, I said nyaming, lol, which we know simply means ‘to eat’ in Caribbean dialect - they would be able to solve a lot (maybe not all) of their problems, and put to rest some issues. They could even wash them down with my homemade Guinness punch recipe (see Keep The Faith issue 114 June 2020).

OK, OK, so I jest a little here, but I wanted to put a little smile on your face, before you set about starting this quick, easy and very moreish recipe of Shana’s Banana Fritters.

I thought, as part of this issue of Keep The Faith is dedicated to studying and universities, then this type of recipe would appeal to our younger adult readers. As I said earlier, it is quick, easy, moreish and inexpensive too, which will be of great help to those of you, who

want a sweet treat, have low funds, and want to impress your uni buddies with your culinary skills. Turn up with a plastic container of these for a ‘bring and share’ and you’ll have friends for life. With the added bonus of making them vegan-friendly* too, you’ll have even more friends for life, lol.

Ingredients:

3 medium, ripe bananas 8oz of self-raising flour 4oz of sugar 2-3oz of milk* Ground cinnamon/nutmeg/ mixed spices Oil 1 teaspoon baking powder (optional) You should get 12 good-sized fritters using a serving spoon, or 24 smaller ones if you use a tablespoon.

Method:

Peel the bananas, put them into a medium-sized mixing bowl.

Using the back of a dinner fork, mash the bananas into a mushy pulp. You can leave some chunky bits of banana, if you prefer; it just adds to the overall eating experience, which is yummy!

Add the flour, sugar, your choice of spice – mine is cinnamon – and baking powder.

Baking powder is not necessary as you’re already using self-raising flour, but I just like mine extra fluffy and soft.

(This is exactly one of the reasons why these are called Shana’s Banana Fritters, as I’m aware I do them a bit differently to some of the more traditional methods.)

Mix all these ingredients together until they become a sticky but firm consistency.

Now add your milk - a little at a time - until the mixture becomes less firm, but NOT

runny. You want to be able to spoon your mixture into the frying pan, NOT pour it in.

Set the mixture to one side and prepare your frying pan. Place it onto a medium to medium-high heat, as you do not want the frying pan to get too hot. Pour in your oil enough to shallow-fry but not deep-fry them.

Not putting enough oil in could cause the fritters to burn… Sorry, I don’t have any firm tips for this part, other than to use your own judgement, and keep an eye on things.

Once your frying pan has heated up, place a full spoonful of mixture into the pan. (How many you fry at a time depends on the size of your pan.) Leave enough room between each one so you can turn your fritters safely.

Cook on one side until you start to see bubbles appear on top of the mixture, and the outer edges of the fritters start to look cooked. Using a spatula, turn each fritter gently, and cook for a further 2 minutes. Feel free at any time during this process to lower the heat, as it might be too high and the fritters could burn.

Don’t forget, you want golden brown fritters…

Once they are golden brown on both sides, take them out, and place onto a plate that has already been prepared with kitchen roll to soak up any excess oil.

Let them cool for about 5 minutes (if you can wait that long!) and eat them just as they are, or serve with vanilla ice cream. If you are serving them as a dessert, you can add banana and strawberry slices as a garnish with the ice cream.

As an added extra, I like to grater fresh nutmeg over the top of my fritters. The smell and the taste just take it to a whole new wonderful level!

The fritters taste great cold, and will keep nicely overnight. Simply cover in kitchen roll and eat the next day. However, they do not taste so great heated up, in my opinion, but you can try it - you might just like it.

Happy eating all!

Shana Dawn Lewis of Christlike Creations * For a vegan-friendly version, use an alternative plant-based milk of choice, or you can simply use water. You won’t get the same rich depth of flavour, though, if you use water.

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Every life matters to God, all around the world

Over the past year, we’ve been reminded of the immeasurable worth of hospital beds, life-saving supplies and medical professionals. We’ve also felt the undeniable, unquantifiable value of each human life, as the pandemic spread around the world.

Here, in the UK, we caught a fleeting glimpse of daily life without guaranteed access to doctors, dentists and hospitals.

Painful toothaches went untreated, GPs triaged appointments, and hundreds of operations were postponed. Perhaps you personally have gained a new appreciation for medical care.

With the vaccine being rolled out, summer dawns with hope on the horizon for many.

Yet, in the poorest African nations, painful toothaches persist, and lumps are still growing on people’s gums, threatening to become tumours. Tragically, although the worst may be over for us, in low-income countries there is now a critical surgical backlog. More than half a million people had their life-altering surgery cancelled, as over-stretched health systems in low-income nations were forced to divert limited resources.

But thanks to supporters and volunteers, Mercy Ships remains faithful to its mission - to be a beacon of hope for the poorest.

Images: Houleye before and after surgery onboard the Africa Mercy.

www.mercyships.org.uk/matchmygift

Throughout the pandemic, our volunteers selflessly enabled Mercy Ships to continue bringing hope and healing.

Working with partners on the ground, we trained dental students and donated over one million items of PPE to 11 nations least equipped to deal with a pandemic. Life-changing surgeries also continued, through a partnership with CURE International, ensuring the most vulnerable can still have hope.

For the first time in 20 years, global poverty is expected to increase. As we begin to emerge from COVID-19 in richer Western nations, we have an unprecedented window of opportunity to care for every life equally – with your help...

For little Houleye, surgery was out of reach due to a lack of money and local expertise. Having been born with a small lump on her neck, five-year-old Houleye had learned to live with the emotional and physical toll of her condition: a tumour that obscured almost half of her face. Onboard the Africa Mercy hospital ship, she began to play with other children without ridicule for the first time in her life. Finally feeling loved and accepted for who she really was, Houleye slowly began to recognise her true value. Her healing had begun.

Free surgery by Mercy Ships volunteers removed the painful tumour, giving young Houleye a fresh start, free from pain that would have become unbearable eventually.

At a time when we have all learned the immeasurable value of medical care, and the worth of every human being, you can help change the lives of some of the poorest people in the world. With an estimated 46 million people worldwide expected to be pushed back into extreme poverty following the pandemic, now is the time to act. You can make a difference.

Mercy Ships believes no one should be forced to live a day longer with pain, shame or ridicule; no one should fear death from a treatable medical condition; and no one should suffer needlessly. Together, we can put these beliefs into action!

Please will you partner with Mercy Ships, to help show every patient, like Houleye, that their life matters to God? Give now at www.mercyships.org.uk/matchmygift to double your gift, as one Mercy Ships supporter will match it pound for pound until the end of August 2021.

48 LIFESTYLE

Vanessa Grossett

www.theauthorscare.co.uk

How not to approach a Literary Agent!

R

ecently I was invited to an online literary agents meeting. Other than talking about news within the publishing industry, it was mentioned a few times how the way authors are approaching agents for representation has changed. It is now becoming too informal, as well as unprofessional.

Not only that, but also, when an author gets turned down, the emails can get abusive.

Some writers believe it is OK to informally approach an agent; in their minds, without them agents wouldn’t be in business!

Yes, authors play a big part in an agent’s success, but this does not mean we should be approached in a manner that, at times, can be unpleasant, because there are still many serious creative writers who are seeking agents.

Here are some tips on how not to approach a literary agent, taken from some emails that not only I have received, but colleagues too.

As a disclaimer, no names were mentioned, nor was the whole email quoted - just the part we were unhappy with.

1. ‘I have a great manuscript. I know you will love it, let’s arrange to talk.’ Unless an author is 100% certain to be a client, then agents don’t have the time to talk to authors who simply believe their manuscripts are great. Furthermore, since we talk regularly with editors we know what the publishers actually want. It is best to send a query letter with a synopsis and three sample chapters (for fiction), and a proposal with a sample chapter (for non-fiction). If an agent is interested, you will be contacted.

2. ‘Can you please read through my manuscript and let me know your opinion?’

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This is not an unpleasant request, but shows the author has not done their research. Unless you are a client, an agent will not read your manuscript. If you want your manuscript to be read, then you can hire an editor or a beta reader. They should not be members of your family or friends; they will give you an objective view of your book. Make sure it is constructive criticism that will enhance your manuscript and writing.

‘Just because an author believes that God ‘sent’ them to a particul ar agent, doesn’t mean that agent will believ e it.’

3. ‘I don’t understand why you said No. Have you read the chapters properly?

I would ask you to reconsider.’ This is a common response that I and my colleagues receive when turning down an author. This can also come across as quite aggressive, and further confirms that I was right in my decision to say No. I want to work with my client as a team; together we will be successful. I do not want a client who gets aggressive or upset with me if, for example, a publisher doesn’t accept their manuscript. Not everyone is for you; sometimes you have to go through the process to get to the right person. Don’t take the No’s personally, just keep on moving to the next one, because the right person is there for you, and then you will be thankful for the previous No’s. Learn to handle what I call ‘redirection’ (instead of rejection) professionally, because you know God will

divinely connect you to the right agent and publisher for your manuscript.

4. ‘The manuscript is God-inspired, therefore you must take this manuscript.’

I read this statement a lot from Christianbased authors. Yes, your manuscript may be God-inspired, but the agent’s job is to sell manuscripts that the publishers want and are seeking. Just because an agent is a Christian, or may accept Christian-based manuscripts, doesn’t mean they will accept any manuscript that the authors think is God-inspired. Those working in the publishing industry don’t see it as a ministry but a business. The publishers want books that will sell.

5. ‘God sent me to you. Don’t look at policy, pray about it.’ To me, this is a forceful tactic. “God sent me to you, therefore you must take me on.” Just because an author believes that God ‘sent’ them to a particular agent, doesn’t mean that agent will believe it. As mentioned before, what is for you is for you; there will be no forcing the issue, especially when it comes from God. There are many more statements but, for the purpose of this article, I chose the main ones that are received regularly. Remember when approaching an agent to stay professional; don’t get familiar; send a query letter with sample chapters, and if you get ‘redirected’, accept the decision gracefully and move on.

Happy writing.

Vanessa Grossett can be contacted via email address vanessa@theauthorscare.co.uk

LEPROSY STILL EXISTS. BUT £24 WILL CURE SOMEONE LIKE ZAINA.

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I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

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50 MISSION

REACHING THE UNREACHABLE

I

n the aftermath of WWII, a handful of Christian airmen and women surveyed a world where aircraft had been used for defence and destruction. The question stirring their hearts was: ‘Could planes used so effectively for war bring God’s love to unreached pockets of Central Africa and beyond?’

Joining as members of a fledgling charity named Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF), Betty Greene, Stuart King and Jack Hemmings became the first aviators to survey remote areas never reached by air. It was a true adventure of faith, and saw the Gospel penetrate unreached areas of Central Africa and Latin America for the first time.

The earliest MAF flight, taking off from Los Angeles on 23 February 1945, reached a Wycliffe jungle camp in southern Mexico a week later - making Betty the world’s first mission pilot.

For Stuart and Jack, MAF’s pioneering survey from London in 1948 lasted six months.

With little more than a map, compass and flimsy wooden Miles Gemini aircraft, the pair plotted a route across Libya, Sudan, Kenya, and the Belgian Congo using the River Nile as their guide.

Discovering hundreds of remote mission outposts in need of a humanitarian air service, MAF’s founders realised that with the help of light aircraft, emergency cargo, medical equipment and Christian missionaries could travel safely and efficiently, saving many days by land.

The team pressed forward with increased momentum. It became MAF’s mission to make sure the most isolated communities on earth received the essentials they needed to thrive.

But MAF dedicated itself to helping the Church grow and flourish in many parts of Sub-Saharan Africa; helping evangelists cover new ground never imagined without the speed and safety of light aircraft.

In the 1950s, many of the indigenous communities Stuart encountered in Sudan had never seen a plane. ‘They looked closely at us foolhardy people who travelled in such a strange and dangerous vehicle,’ he recalled.

‘But we started bringing in doctors or getting seriously ill patients medical care and our aircraft became a welcome sight. We put a name on its nose in Arabic: Asfur Allah, ‘God’s bird.’’

In the 1970s, a young Maasai received a Heavenly awakening in Tanzania, and felt called to take the Gospel to remote, nomadic tribes.

Elisha Moita – aged 16 – began on foot, confronting dangerous wildlife and excruciating heat. Encountering MAF in 1985, Elisha’s ministry was transformed. ‘Before I was alone with many dangers,’ he says. ‘But MAF is a wonderful help to see miracles. Evangelism can go further and faster than ever before.’

Elisha has been a regular MAF passenger for almost 50 years, and hundreds of Maasai have received the Good News.

Throughout the 1980s, 90s and into the new millennium, MAF became a world-leading responder to natural disasters. Flying relief experts to places devastated by earthquakes, tsunamis, and famine, MAF aircraft have reached the most vulnerable communities with emergency help in the face of desperate need.

Inspired by the bravery, vision, and faith of MAF’s founders, thousands of skilled and compassionate pilots, engineers and ground-staff have enrolled to take life-saving cargo and the Christian Gospel to the furthest corners of the world. 1,000 of MAF’s 1,300 employees are local people – comprising 12 African, 6 South American, 7 Central-Asian and 9 European nationalities.

Still rooted in its founding desire to reach isolated communities with no access to education, infrastructure, or healthcare, today MAF delivers lifesaving cargo across more than 25 developing countries worldwide. From a handful of post-war veterans to 1,300 staff, the award-winning, trusted air service has grown to become the world’s largest humanitarian airline.

Above and Beyond is MAF’s new lavishly illustrated history, recalling key moments in the organisation’s inspiring mission. Decade by decade, this book takes the reader on a 75-year journey, including inspiring stories, moving accounts, and fascinating facts about the extraordinary countries, aircraft, and remote communities where MAF serves.

Through the pages of Above and Beyond, readers can travel to the very ends of the earth and discover what it really means to fly for life.

To get your discounted boo k today, visit www.maf-uk.o rg/ beyond

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From the ashes of WWII, a handful of Christian airmen and women dreamed of using aircraft to deliver peace and healing to isolated communities.

Through the pages of Above and Beyond, you can travel to the furthest corners of the world to encounter hidden tribes, life-saving partnerships, and inspiring stories that span seven decades of MAF’s inspiring history!

Scan the QR code or visit our website below to order your discounted copy.

www.maf-uk.org/beyond Registered charity in England and Wales (1064598) and in Scotland (SC039107) ® Registered trademark 3026860, 3026908, 3026915