Osprey Observer 2019-01-Christian Voice Monthly

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Volume Volume 23 22,Issue Issue11

A Inc. Observer Inc. Osprey Observer from Osprey Publication from Free Publication A Free

2019 January 2018

Two Of Christian Music’s Biggest Names Return To The Florida Strawberry Festival By Amanda Boston

Inside:

WINTER JAM SEE PAGE 3

JOSHUACORD RUN SEE PAGE 8

event from guests who are eager to hear who will be performing.”

The South Carolina rock band NEEDTOBREATHE crosses over the imaginary line between contemporary Christian music and secular music. Their 2016 album HARDLOVE debuted as No. 1 on Billboard’s Top Albums, Top Current Albums, Top Rock Albums and Top Alternative Albums charts.

"We're looking forward to being

Shoulders.

Besides nightly headline entertainment, the festival features vendors, Midway rides, livestock display and of course, the crowdpleasing favorite—strawberry shortcake.

Festival gate admission is free for ages 5 and under, $5 for ages 6-12 and $10 for ages 13 and over.

Tickets for each concert are sold separately and do not include festival gate admission. NEEDTOBREATHE tickets are $35 per person, and tickets for KING & COUNTRY are $30 per person. To pur-

The pop duo for KING & COUNTRY released their third album, Burn the Ships in October, which featured their No. 1 hit song titled, joy.

With 84 years in the making, it is no wonder why popular groups like NEEDTOBREATHE and for KING & COUNTRY return to the Strawberry festival for encore performances. The time-honored event will run from February 28-March 10 at 303 N. Lemon St. in Plant City.

GRAMMY®-nominated rock band NEEDTOBREATHE will take the stage on Tuesday, March 5 at 7:30 p.m., and the two-time GRAMMY® winners for KING & COUNTRY will perform on Thursday, March 7 at 7:30 p.m.

“Our headline entertainment lineup is one of the most anticipated announcements we make prior to the opening of the festival,” said Florida Strawberry Festival President Paul Davis. “We receive many calls throughout the year leading up to the

back at the Strawberry Festival for another great In November, the rock band NEEDTOBREATHE released year,” said NEEDTOAcoustic Live Vol. 1., an acoustic album featuring music from BREATHE, whose memfive of their studio albums. (Photo credit Nolan Feldpausch) bers include Bear Rinehart, Bo Rinehart, Seth Bolt and Josh chase tickets, visit www.flstrawberryfestiLovelace. “We’re thrilled to be a part of val.com or the Amscot Main Ticket Office another incredible lineup." located at 2209 W. Oak Avenue in Plant Also joining the noteworthy lineup is the City. pop duo for KING & COUNTRY. The For more information and to check out Aussie brothers Joel and Luke Smallbone other headline entertainment, visit have garnered four No. 1 hits with their www.flstrawberryfestival.com, Facebook, songs joy, Priceless, Fix My Eyes and Instagram and Twitter (#berryfest19).

Best-selling Author Of The Five Love Languages To Speak At Date Night Event At Bay Life

NEWS SEE PAGE 15

Columns: GraceNotes

Page 5

Hooked On Books

Page 12

Newswire

Page 15

Faith & Footprints

Page 18

After the hustle and bustle of the holidays, could you and your spouse use a date night? If so, join New York Times bestselling author Dr. Gary Chapman on Monday, February 11 from 7-9 p.m. at Bay Life Church in Brandon. The author of The Five Love Languages™ will be speaking on relationships for a special date night.

Since 1995, The Five Love Languages™ has sold more than 11 million copies and helped thousands of couples build a better marriage with practical and biblically sound advice. Dr. Chapman, also a seasoned speaker, delivers an engaging evening filled with laughter and learning.

The cost is $29 per couple with tickets available for purchase online at www.baylife.org/date. Tickets will also be available at the door.

However, due to its popularity and possible sellout, Bay Life suggests purchasing the tickets beforehand.

Tom Eichem, the executive pastor at Bay Life, commented on the event, “We are hoping it encourages and strengthens marriages in our community.” He continued, “We are excited to host Dr. Chapman and know that if couples apply the information he

By Amanda Boston

connection.

The event is not limited to married couples. Couples who are engaged or dating can significantly benefit from the seminar.

Dr. Chapman will be selling his books on site with up to 50 percent off.

Pastor Eichem also added a personal invite and said, “Love to encourage couples to just take a chance and join us. Take the time to invest in your marriage.”

Bay Life is also offering a

Dr. Gary Chapman is the author of the best-selling series, The Five Love Languages. He also presents this relationship advice at seminars around the world.

gives, it will help to build their marriages.”

Couples will be presented with valuable tips on identifying and understanding their ‘love languages’ as well as their partner’s language. Simply put, love languages are the way someone communicates their love so when couples learn how they show and receive love, it often drastically improves their communication and

four-week marriage class on Sunday afternoons following the date night event. Couples can sign up that evening. For more information, please visit www.baylife.org/date or call 6613696. Bay Life is located at 1017 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon. For further detail on Dr. Chapman, visit www.5lovelanguages.com.

Page 2 • christianvoicemonthly.com • January 2019

Page 3 • christianvoicemonthly.com • January 2019

Newsboys United To Headline With Mandisa, Newsong & More At Winter Jam 2019

By Amanda Boston

The Winter Jam Tour Spectacular will feature a new twist in its 2019 tour. Besides the fresh lineup of Christian artists, the tour will include a 360º “in the round” center stage for the performances. With 44 cities scheduled on the tour, Winter Jam will make a stop in Tampa’s Amalie arena on Saturday, January 12. The show begins at 6 p.m. with a $15 admission per person at the door.

Headlining Christian music’s biggest annual tour is the widely known Newsboys United, whose current members include Michael Tait, Duncan Phillips, Jeff Frankenstein and Jody Davis, along with former members Peter Furler and Phil Joel. With 33 #1 radio hits, four GRAMMY® nominations and multiple Dove Awards, the legendary band will perform some of their best-known hits from the band’s three-decade career.

Winter Jam’s lineup also includes GRAMMY®-nominated former American Idol finalist Danny Gokey, GRAMMY®winning recording artist Mandisa, Northern Ireland's Rend Collective, Skillet’s drummer LEDGER, GRAMMY®nominated tour creators NewSong and Dove Award-nominated music artist

Hollyn. In addition to these household names, the PreJam Party will feature up-and-coming Christian musicians.

"I’ve been extremely excited to tell people about this year’s lineup,” said NewSong founding member and Winter Jam creator Eddie Carswell. “Not only are we thrilled to tour with several artists who’ve never been part of Winter Jam before, but we can't wait to be back on the road with some of our closest friends. It's going to be fun!”

Since 1995, Winter Jam has provided a platform to spread the gospel in major cities across the country. This year’s tour will include a gospel presentation from Dare2Share speakers Greg Stier or Zane Black.

“We’re looking forward to having a 360º stage for the first time,” Carswell added. “It’s something we've dreamed about, and now it's a reality for us and the fans. This setup will offer better views, more seating and surround sound. More than anything, I’m just ready to see how God is going to use all the artists, songs and speakers to draw people to Himself.

He’s the reason we do this every year!”

Visit jamtour.com. Amalie Arena is located at 401 Channelside Dr. in Tampa.

Cowboy-Up Ministries Offers Love, Acceptance, Forgiveness And Horses

By Joe Kerr

Each ear tag bears the name of someone who was saved, and the date they were baptized at Cowboy-Up.

A typical Cowboy-Up Sunday service includes a crowd of about 175 people. You will find Bible teaching, prayer and ministry time, but ‘traditional’ church ends when the horse training begins.

The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds has been home to the Cowboy-Up for six years. James ‘Skipper’ Calder, who pastors the ministry, regularly uses visuals in his parable-like teaching.

Like Jesus, who told parables to make a specific point, Pastor Skipper often uses animals as part of the story, and to a horse-trainer that means horses.

Pastor Skipper said, “It [Cowboy-Up Ministry] began with the first sermon series I ever preached, How to Control Your Mind. I used a horse to demonstrate that our job as a horse trainer is to control the horse’s mind.” He continued, “People are the same. When our mind is focused on Christ, then we’re trainable.”

Bible study begins at 9 a.m., and

horse-training starts at 11 a.m. Cowboy Up services are also broadcasted on Facebook Live. The long-term vision is to continue meeting at the fairgrounds while expanding the broadcast to a larger audience with people around the country re-broadcasting the unique Cowboy-Up message.

“Our main vision is to fish, to lead people to Jesus.” Pastor Skipper continued “But people need a church, and we recommend they go to the church where God leads them. The Cowboy-Up vision is simple: take what God has given us and give it to others. God through us.

That is how we become His hands, feet and voice.”

Pastor Skipper also noted, “Too many people have religion and not relationship. The horse represents relationship. People are looking for happiness, but what they really want is peace. For people to have peace, they need to be in their happy place. For many of our people, that's on a horse."

To learn more about this ministry, visit www.cowboyupministry.com. County Fairgrounds are located at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover.

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Page 4 • christianvoicemonthly.com • January 2019

Proceeds From Custom 1922 Bungalow Tea Parties Support Mission Trips

By Amanda Boston

“We should definitely have a Tea Party” is the catchphrase from the Plant City host of elegant High Teas.

Beth O’Brien hosts tea parties in her 1922 bungalow in the historic district of Plant City.

Coupling her love for tea parties with her passion to aid the people of Israel, O’Brien began hosting High Teas in her home as a means to pay for her mission trips to the Holy Land. O’Brien hosts parties from 1016 people with a suggested donation of $35 per person.

A tea party of 16 can earn about $400 in support. The profits support both her travel expenses and various service projects in Israel. In conjunction with For Zion’s Sake Ministries, a local nonprofit in Brandon, O’Brien has traveled to Israel 10 times, and in her words, “to love on the people” as she sup-

ports ongoing volunteer projects for children homes, hospitals, Israel Defense Forces, vineyards and many others.

"The Jewish people have been terribly persecuted," said O'Brien. "This is a way for us to tell them [people of Israel] we love High Teas in her historic 1922 home in Plant and support them Beth O’Brien hosts City to raise money for mission trips. and stand with them." a fun alternative for celebrating speO’Brien’s High Teas are a cial events, like birthdays and favorite among church groups, cobridal/baby showers. workers, family and friends. The parA High Tea Party often ties typically last two hours and offer embraces the donning of fancy hats

and gloves, but O’Brien said, “Guests can dress up as little or as much as they want—depending on the group’s host.”

She described the tea party’s fare as Southern classic with an English flare. O’Brien makes everything from scratch down to the crackers, which can now be requested as gluten-free. In addition to the finest tea, O’Brien offers soups, fresh scones with cream and jam, tea sandwiches and canapés and decadent sweet treats.

The venue is not open to the public. O’Brien only accepts advanced reservations. To make a reservation, call 752-2509. For more information, search ‘We should definitely have a Tea Party’ on Facebook. Further detail on For Zion’s Sake Ministries can be found at www.forzionsake.us.

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Grace Notes

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Fish Out Of Water

918 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Brandon, FL 33511 657-2418 (fax) 657-4469

By Debora Coty

There I was, feeling a bit like a fish out of water – an English-only Southern Baptist at a Hispanic Catholic funeral.

Everyone around me was kneeling at the appropriate times and responding in unison to the memorized litany (of which I was completely ignorant). I didn’t understand the order of service or what was being said.

I squirmed to the max when the priest introduced communion (bilingually) and instructed the congregation – he sure seemed to be looking right at me – that if we weren’t Catholic we should not take communion, but could come forward, if we so chose, with our arms crossed over our chests to receive a blessing.

Um. Okay. I need all the blessings I can get, I thought, slipping into the queue that had formed in front of the priest. I felt immensely heart-touched when my turn arrived and the priest flashed me a warm smile as he gently laid his hand on my shoulder and whispered a lovely blessing.

When I returned to my seat, I noticed a woman with a seeing-eye dog taking her turn in the blessing line. To my astonishment, after the priest had finished blessing the woman, he bent down and blessed the dog too.

Suddenly I felt very, well, included. A

piece of a larger puzzle. A vital part of that ‘communion of saints’ we talk about in the Apostles Creed. Not just a chosen denomination; all believers, or saints as the Bible calls them; “…those who have been sanctified in Christ Jesus, saints by calling …” (1 Corin 1:2 NASB).

Who knows? Maybe our beloved furry friends are included too. I like to picture a doggie door on the pearly gates.

Just imagine what heaven will be like when thousands upon thousands of people redeemed by Christ from different nations and cultures are gathered together in one enormous sea of praise, all worshipping Papa God in one accord. No one will worry about the right time to stand, sit, or kneel, or the correct words to say at the correct time. It’ll all be good.

We’ll each be praising and singing and howling our worship in our own styles.

And Papa God will flash each of us a big, warm smile and bless us all the way down to our toes.

Sounds totally heavenly to me. Will you be there, my friend?

Debora M. Coty is an inspirational speaker and award-winning author of over 40 books, including the bestselling Too Blessed to be Stressed series. Visit with Debora anytime at www.DeboraCoty.com.

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Get A Taste Of Olivor Heritage Farms At Chuck’s Natural Fields Market Lovers of fresh, wellcared for and naturally made meats, produce and other foods may want to check out Olivor Heritage Farms, a new vendor at Chuck’s Natural Fields Market.

John Roberts at his Olivor stand in Chuck’s Natural Heritage Farms Fields Market. was established by John and Chrysti Roberts in February 2015. The farm prides itself on personally bred, caught and grown heritage foods, as well as being able to provide food for themselves rather than buying food from stores. Its food is all non-GMO (genetically modified organisms) and is made without herbicides or pesticides.

The farm’s name comes from a combination of their grandsons’ names, Oliver and Ivor. John and Chrysti started the farm so Oliver and Ivor could learn where their food comes from and how to grow it naturally. John later found that they had made a surplus of food.

“I noticed a niche in the market that wasn’t being filled. I decided to do something to fill that niche,” said John.

“As for Chuck’s, we’ve only been there about three weeks. I met Chuck a few months back and we just clicked. We are like-minded on food and it just seemed like a natural fit.”

John’s philosophy is to use completely natural methods of raising and

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growing animals and plants, to avoid GMO foods and chemicals due to potential dangers and to not have unhappy and unhealthy animals.

“Pretty much everything we do starts first and foremost with animal well being in mind first. Our initial values and current [values] are the proper treatment of the farm animals,” said John. “Happy animals are healthy animals and healthy animals are healthy for people and are higher quality. We use pastured poultry methods. That means no coop houses, no pens, no confinement. We allow our animals the freedom to roam and plenty of space to prevent overcrowding. This produces less stress and is much more sanitary.

Both of these practices contribute to more flavorful and consistent meat.”

The farm can be found at Chuck’s Natural Fields Market at 114 N Kings Ave. in Brandon, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m., and Saturday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. It is also located at Flow Fitness Boutique at 11331 US-301 #101 in Riverview, Monday through Friday, 8:15 a.m.-12:45 p.m. and 3:45-7:45 p.m. and Saturday, 8:15 a.m.-12 Noon.

Visit https://olivorheritagefarms.com or Facebook at www.facebook.com/olivorheritagefarms.

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Page 8 • christianvoicemonthly.com • January 2019

Help Persecuted Christians In The Joshua 1:9 Freedom 5K Run

Brenda Wade Real Estate Along With Business Partners Donate $12,600 To Seeds Of Hope

By Barb Kern

By Taylor Wells

Start the New Year off right by participating in the sixth annual Joshua 1:9 Freedom 5K Run on Saturday, January 26 at its new location at E.G. Simmons Park in Ruskin.

The 5K is hosted by Joshuacord Inc., a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, and the run will The Joshua Freedom Run’s new location is at E.G. assist in its goal of helpSimmons Park in Ruskin. ing persecuted founder of Ronnie’s Christians, especially Run, to be the race those in the Middle director due to the sucEast and Africa. cess of her past runs.

Most of these Keeney said, “In Christians have been bringing awareness to displaced from Iraq the church here, it’s a and Syria for practicgreat way to show suping their faith, and port for it and be eduthey are homeless cated.” Just bringing and living in refugee awareness and camps. Through your resources is a major participation in the help to persecuted Run, you can help them receive much needed food, supplies, shelter, Christians, she added.

Registration after January 1 but security and medical care. before January 26 costs $35. On Joshuacord will also be collectrace day, the registration is $40. ing baby blankets, gloves and hats Virtual runners must sign up and pay at the race site for the persecuted $25 before January 26 at 11:59 p.m. families.

You can run, walk, stroll, observe EST. Members of the military, veterans, first responders and people 18 or even take part virtually. Jaime of and under can register for $20. A Spirit FM 90.5 will be broadcasting sign up fee of $2.50 applies to all. on-site for the event.

Sign up at Race packets and t-shirts can be picked up at the registration table on https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Ruski n/Joshua19Freedom5KRunWalk or Saturday, January 26, beginning at send payment to Joshuacord, 3433 6:30 a.m. Start time for the 5K is 7:30 a.m. There will be prizes for top Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Ste. 120, Valrico, FL 33596. finishers in the male and female age E.G. Simmons Park is located at groups, plus a raffle. Bib numbers 2401 19th Ave NW in Ruskin. and t-shirts will be mailed to virtual For more information, email participants.

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Brenda Wade Real Estate and business partners recently donated $12,600 To Seeds of Hope during its Sixth Annual 'Partners in Giving' fundraiser on December 3.

The Brenda Wade Real Estate Team and business partners joined together for Brenda's sixth Annual ‘Partners in Giving’ fundraiser. Brenda and her agents spent one day learning from business associates and matched every dollar that was contributed by the partners, so together they could have an impact in the community.

Brenda said, “Our goal was to exceed the $11,000 amount we raised last year and we were so very happy to raise and donate $12,600 to our local charity, Seeds of Hope, Inc. Seeds of Hope president Leda Eaton was amazed, “I was beyond excited to hear the total amount raised. It really takes a village to support all that we do as an all-volunteer organization.” Last year, Seeds of Hope led relief efforts for Alafia residents affected by flooding from Hurricane Irma.

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Seeds of Hope has been in the Brandon/Valrico/Lithia community for over eight years and began with local resident Leda Eaton helping her then high school students receive meaningful community service hours. That was the beginning of the FishHawk Turkey Trot and from that Seeds of Hope was created to use the money generated to help alleviate local hunger. The organization has maintained its original commitment to providing meaningful community service for students but has grown as an organization to combat hunger in three ways by providing weekend backpacks of food for school children, boxes of food to families on Thursdays and a weekly mobile pantry aimed at short-term food relief.

Eaton is proud of the impact the charity has had, “Before Hurricane Irma, we were a food relief organization. After Hurricane Irma, we added disaster relief to our resume. It’s not something I ever would have planned but I am so thankful we were there. Larger organizations with cumbersome rules and regulations couldn’t do what we did. We targeted the people who needed/deserved help, took people shopping for personal items, provided daily hot meals, washed clothes and provided showers. So many volunteers stepped up. It was amazing to be a part of the overwhelming groundswell of community support.”

For more information about Seeds of Hope, visit www.sohopefl.org.

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Page 9 • christianvoicemonthly.com • January 2019

Essential Oil Distributer Joyful Harvest Offers Homeopathic Alternative

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Essential oils tree and oregano oils can be traced back can fight certain to 1000 A.D. when microbes, making them mechanical pressan alternative treatment es or steam was of such things as danused to extract oils druff and athlete’s foot. from individual Lee explained that plants. Over the doTERRA sources last decade, more than 96 percent essential oils has of its oils from farms risen in popularity. exclusive to People can rub oils doTERRA. on the skin, or they “This allows the can diffuse them quality of the oils to be into the air where the best in the world Kimberly Lee is a Gold Wellness they bind to smell since the crops are Advocate for doTERRA Essential Oils. receptors to stimu- She is located in Brandon and offers free grown in the environconsultations to new clients. late the central ment that is best suited nervous system. Some oils can even be for the high standards doTERRA has for ingested. each oil and product,” said Lee. “No pestiNo one knows the helpfulness of cides or chemicals are used on the these essential oils better than Kimberly crops.”

Lee, who has lived in the Brandon/Valrico doTERRA prides itself in the consisarea since 1962. Lee, a well-known piano tency of its oils due to extensive testing, teacher, has been giving piano lessons both on-site and in the labs at corporate for 35 years from her piano studio located headquarters, it is also tested by a third at 1339 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. In 2014, party company.

Lee was invited to an Essential Oils Of “Many of the oils are safe to ingest The Bible class by one of her piano and provide a myriad of therapeutic beneclients. fits,” said Lee. “The oils used for aro“I loved the presentation and felt God matherapy are incredible and help with a leading me to start an essential oils busivariety of emotional issues.” ness,” said Lee, a doTERRA Gold Lee’s team specializes in educating Wellness Advocate. “So I had my first their clients on the safest and most effecclass in May 2014 and started my team.” tive ways to use doTERRA products.

Essential oils can be found in bark, “We do this with a variety of classes seeds, stems, roots, flowers and other we offer in the studio several days a parts of plants. In addition to their fundaweek,” said Lee. “We also offer private mental benefits to plants as well as being consultations to help our clients. We have fragrant, essential oils can be beneficial in every oil and product on display so clients a variety of ways to humans. One recent can try them before they purchase.” study of 300 patients found that those Potential new clients can text 453who inhaled a mixture of ginger, 2879, and Lee will offer a complimentary spearmint, peppermint and cardamom wellness consultation including an iTOVI experienced a decrease in nausea after scan and a customized sample. (Must not surgery. Research has also shown that be a current doTERRA customer or worklavender oil can lower levels of the stress ing with another Wellness Advocate.) hormone cortisol, and inhaling lemonFor more on how to join Lee’s team, grass aroma was shown to help with anx- visit my.doterra.com/kimberlyleejoyfulhariety. Some studies also indicate that tea vest.

Riverview Pastor Releases New Book On Spiritual Hindrances

By Amanda Boston

In his first want people to book, new author learn from the and Riverview resiexamples in the dent Pastor Jamal Bible.”

E. Quinn explores Pastor Quinn, how believers can who also writes for hinder receiving his Wisdom for Life God’s blessings Blog, has a deep through their disdesire to encourage obedience, idolatry, others. His military pride, rebellion, stint afforded him unbelief, unforgivethe opportunity to ness and unrepenmentor young servtance. ice men and The book’s women, which was title, Seven the impetus to put Hindrances to the pen to paper. From In November, Pastor Quinn of Firm Blessings of God: concept to compleFoundation completed his first book discussing spiritual blessings and hinIdentifying and tion, the book was drances.

Removing written, edited, forHindrances to matted, designed Spiritual Growth and published by and God’s Pastor Quinn.

Blessings, clearly He continued, implies the author’s “We live in some intent. By employdifficult times in our ing recorded stonation and commuries from Scripture, nities, and this book Pastor Quinn brilis specifically directliantly guides readed toward the Body ers to uncover of Christ. Our relathese hindrances in tionship with God is their lives. restored through After more than repentance.”

20 years of He concluded, nomadic living with “I believe the book the Navy, Pastor Quinn and his wife, will encourage us to be hearers and Sheryl permanently settled in doers of the Word, and to follow Jesus Riverview in 2005. Two years later, Christ, who is the greatest example of they founded Firm Foundation doing the will of our Heavenly Father.”

Christian Fellowship, a nondenominaPastor Quinn’s book is availtional church in Riverview. able for purchase on Amazon, Nook “About five years ago, the Lord and other popular EBook outlets at had put this [book] in my heart when I https://books2read.com/sevenhinwas doing a teaching series on how drances. For additional information, God blessed His people throughout contact Pastor Quinn at the Old Testament,” said Pastor Quinn. jamq09@gmail.com or visit www.firm“But, we also saw that there were hinfoundationcf.org. Firm Foundation drances to His blessings, and God Christian Fellowship is located would discipline them for a season. I at 12001 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview.

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Page 10 • christianvoicemonthly.com • January 2019

Local Candle Company Creates Candles To Help Empower Young Girls

By Libby Hopkins

The Girls choose a scent, Empowered packaging, labeling, Mentally for ordering supplies.

Success organizaAlong the way we tion, has a mission emphasize the is to engage eleimportance of qualimentary, middle ty control and work and high school ethics.” girls, empowering Pesano and them to discover her staff made sure their passion and the GEMS were purpose through introduced to all creativity and wisaspects of the canPhala Pesano, owner of dom. dle business in local candle company, Seventh Avenue Phala Pesano, addition to the Apothecary and Valrico resident, recently manufacturing owner of local canpartnered with The Girls Empowered dle company, process from Mentally for Success organization or “GEMS” to create Transitions Candles.

Seventh Avenue preparing the canApothecary and Valrico resident, recently dle vessel, cleaning and labeling, then partnered with the GEMS to create packaging and selling.

Transitions Candles. “The director, Crystal Pesano hopes other local businesses Bailes reached out to us and told me that will get involved with the GEMS or other she was looking for a company to work local youth programs. “I would love to see with her program,” Pesano said. “I could more businesses get involved directly not resist. It is such a great cause and with programs that support youth in our right down my alley working with teens.” community in a way that helps kids sucTransitions Candles is the social ceed,” Pesano said. “Being a mentor to enterprise of GEMS that provides another these young people is just as rewarding means for a healthy transition for a for our business as it is for the kids.

GEMS girl. “The girls came into our shop Tampa has several great programs for and the first step was to sit down and talk young people, but they need community about business principles, the value of support both financial but also by giving being an entrepreneur, the perks and the your time for the kids.” challenges of owning your own business Visit its website at as well as the core values you must www.girlsrgems.org. If you’d like to purestablish,” Pesano said. “We go into the chase a Transitions Candle, you can visit how and whats of choosing a product and the candle website at www.transitionscanhow to establish everything from bookdles.com or call Pesano at 247-3814. keeping to manufacturing to ordering sup- Seventh Avenue Apothecary is located at plies, etc. Then the process of how to 3810 E. 7th Ave. in Tampa.

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Page 11 • christianvoicemonthly.com • January 2019

Local Author Shares 100 Things To Do In Tampa Bay In New Book

By Taylor Wells

Solomon’s Castle in Ona in Hardee County.

Kristen Hare, the author of 100 Things to Do in Tampa Bay Before You Die, 2nd Edition.

The cover of 100 Things to Do in Tampa You can now read local Bay Before You Die, 2nd Edition. author Kristen Hare’s 100 Things Hare said this about writto Do in Tampa Bay Before You Die, ing her guidebook, “When we 2nd Edition, which recently became first moved here in 2012, my available in October. The helpfully family thought it would just be varied and descriptive bucket list for a year, so we decided to live like shares Hare’s personal experiences tourists and see, try and go everyof the most noteworthy attractions where we could. We loved it here so she visited in Tampa Bay. Whether you are new to the area or a longtime much that we decided to look for jobs resident, you may find some new and that would let us stay.” Writing this book has allowed her to explore even interesting places nearby to visit. more places.

The second edition features 30 The author has many personal new adventures on the list. This new favorites. She loves Medard Park in edition of Hare’s book was written Plant City for its convenient location with locals in mind so tourists would and the fun kids have there. Then not be the only ones having fun. there is Leaven Brewing in Riverview, Everything inside is a good time for a top brewery that is perfect for date all, so everyone is encouraged to nights. Next up is Brocante Market in give these 100 things a try.

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Hooked On Christian Books Make A Graceful Resolution In 2019

By Kelly Wise Valdes

The New Year’s Eve celebrations quickly turn into resolutions on New Year’s Day. If you’re like most people, keeping resolutions prove to be difficult. We start with good intentions of self-improvement, but most of us are not prepared to make the changes we vowed on January 1. This year, consider making a resolution of improving your life with more grace. What is in your heart? What is occupying your mind? Are there any unresolved feelings of anger or the inability to forgive? Are you holding onto unhealthy resentment? This year you can resolve to examine your emotional and spiritual health daily. Let go of the bitterness in your life in the new year. God is ready to take hold of those things that you have been holding onto emotionally.

Let 2019 be the year you lay your heart in the hands of God. Be blessed.

Chicken Soup for the Soul: My Resolution: 101 Stories Great Ideas for Your Mind, Body, and Wallet By: Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen, D'ette Corona Everyone makes resolutions—for New Year's, for big birthdays, for new school years. In fact, most of us are so good at resolutions that we make the same ones year after year. This book is an inspiring look at those resolutions. Why did we make them? How did they turn out?

What did we learn? This collection of real-life stories covers topics such as losing weight, getting organized, stopping bad habits and restoring relationships.

Keep the Change By: Becky Tirabassir We all have areas of our lives in which we would like to see improvement or do things differently. But how often are we able to bring about permanent change?

The secret to lifelong transformation rather than another failed New Year's resolution involves more than just recognizing some important self-truths.

This book addresses challenges we all face—from overcoming addictions to struggles with weight, controlling anger, procrastination and disorganized lifestyles. Get ready to make some new commitments and lifestyle adjustments in your journey to Keep the Change.

Small Changes for a Better Life: Daily Steps to Living God's Plan for You By: Elizabeth George How can you improve your relationships, stretch your budget, streamline your schedule, break bad habits and cultivate good ones?

Providing cutting-edge answers from God's Word, this book offers practical tips to enhance every area of your daily life—from family, home and work to friendships, finances and health.

Surviving One Bad Year: Spiritual Strategies For When Life Goes Terribly Wrong By: Nancie Carmichael Loss can come in many forms including divorce, death, illness, bankruptcy and more. When you experience these losses, you may wonder, "How will I survive?" This book offers spiritual strength and practical strategies to help you with emergency tactics to keep your head above water when tragedy strikes. It reveals tactics to help you navigate the stormy days ahead. While the impact of most losses extends beyond one year, you can take a step down the path of healing now.

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Page 13 • christianvoicemonthly.com • January 2019

BAPTIST Bay Life Church 1017 Kingsway Ave., Brandon (813) 661-3696 Bell Shoals Baptist - Brandon 2102 Bell Shoals Rd., Brandon (813) 689-4229 Congregación Hispana 2102 Bell Shoals Rd., Brandon (813) 689-4229 ext. 242 Bell Shoals Baptist - Apollo Beach 408 Apollo Beach Blvd., Apollo Beach (813) 641-2222 Bell Shoals Baptist - Palm River 5415 Palm River Rd.,Tampa (813) 621-2058 Bell Shoals Baptist - Riverview 11525 Ramble Creek Dr., Riverview (813) 689-4229, ext. 232 First Baptist Church of Brandon 216 N. Parsons Ave., Brandon (813) 689-1204 First Baptist Church of Bloomingdale 3303 Bloomingdale Ave.,Valrico (813) 689-3847 First Baptist Church of Gibsonton 9912 Indiana St., Gibsonton (813) 677-1301 First Baptist Church of Ruskin 820 College Ave. W., Ruskin (813) 645-6439 FishHawk Fellowship 15326 Fishhawk Blvd., Lithia, (813) 655-7431 Grace Baptist Temple 2909 John Moore Rd., Brandon (813) 689-7190 Journey Church 1310 John Moore Rd., Brandon (813) 699-8262 Shiloh Baptist Church 1104 Cason St., Plant City (813) 752-8345 South Bay Baptist Church 13498 US 301 S., Riverview 813-677-0721 CATHOLIC Nativity Catholic Church 705 E Brandon Blvd., Brandon (813) 681-4608

TUTORING

St. Anne Catholic Church 106 11th Ave. NE, Ruskin (813) 645-1714 St. Matthews Anglican Church 10701 Bloomingdale Avenue, Riverview 813-663-0334 St. Stephen Catholic Church 10118 Saint Stephen Circle, Riverview (813) 689-4900 CHURCH OF GOD Boyette Springs Church of God 12114 Boyette Rd., Riverview (813) 671-0086 Plant City Church of God 2103 Mud Lake Rd., Plant City (813) 752-4591 EPISCOPAL Holy Innocents' Episcopal Church 604 N. Valrico Rd., Valrico (813) 689-3130 LUTHERAN Immanuel Lutheran Church 2913 John Moore Rd., Brandon (813) 689-1787 Living Savior Lutheran Church 2650 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico (813) 681-2375 METHODIST First United Methodist Church of Seffner 1310 South Kingsway Rd., Seffner (813) 689-3513 Grace Community United Methodist Church 5708 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Lithia (813) 661-8858 • info@mygraceumc.com New Hope United Methodist Church 120 N. Knights Ave., Brandon (813) 689-4161 Riverview First United Methodist Church 8002 US Hwy 301., Riverview www.riverviewflumc.org Ruskin United Methodist Church 105 4th Ave. NW, Ruskin (813) 645-1241 South Shore United Methodist Church 11525 Big Bend Rd., Riverview (813) 649-9462 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Destiny Church 2322 11th Ave. SE, Ruskin (813) 645-3337

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Sports Connection Grace Christian Volleyball Team Wins State Championship Title The Grace Christian varsity volleyball team avenged last year’s state championship loss to Heritage Christian in three straight sets to claim the state title. The team finished with an overall record of 30-2, while going undefeated (17-0) in conference play.

“It was a goal we always reached for,” said senior Amarrie Welton. “It means a lot to the team especially this year because this was our last year. We finally won the state game.”

She is the daughter of Head Coach Sean Welton.

Amarrie Welton was named MVP of the conference and of the Championship game. “It’s always tough to have your dad coach,” said Sean Welton. “When she was selected as MVP by other coaches of the conference and at the state game, it solidified her as a great player. It made me proud to be her dad and her coach.”

According to Coach Welton, the team was able to successfully prepare for conference play by playing tough teams that were in a higher division during non-conference play. They won two tournaments in the regular season, the Bayshore Christian Tournament and the Pensacola PCC Tournament.

Players that were on the team include: Amarrie Welton, Grace Pukas, Shelby Salinas, Jazmine Spencer, Jasmine Welton, Brea Simmons, Daviana Denney, Grace McKeen, Landri Clark and

By Nick Nahas

Cameron Givens.

There were seven seniors on this team. Captain setter Grace Pukas will attend Wesleyan College to play volleyball and outside hitter Amarrie Welton is signing with Minot State in North Dakota. Some players will retire from volleyball while others will continue to look for opportunities to play at the next level. This was Sean Welton’s fourth season as head coach and was his last season at the helm. The JV head coach and Grace Christian alumnus, Madison Blalock will take over for the retired Welton.

“I’m happy for the girls and all the hard work they put in on and off the court for the last four years,” said Sean Welton. “Just to work hard and continue to get better and to finally win the state championship was just a wonderful experience for them.

It showed them that with hard work, a good attitude and a good Christian effort, you’ll be able to accomplish most things.”

Grace Christian School is located at 1425 N. Valrico Rd. in Valrico. More information on the school can be found at www.gracechristianschool.com.

Page 15 • christianvoicemonthly.com • January 2019

Hot Off The Christian News Wire

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Tim Tebow's First Movie to Hit Theaters In February

Run the Race will officially hit theaters on Friday, February 22, 2019. Tebow co-produced the film with his brother, Robby. The story follows the life of Zach and David, two fictional brothers grieving their mother's death and father's sudden abandonment. They turn to football and faith to handle their devastating loss, but it isn't easy. After one of the brothers suffers an injury, they must figure out how to salvage their careers and depend on each other.

"I wanted to be part of something that's encouraging and inspirational to the viewer. I believe 'Run The Race' accomplishes this by showing two brothers struggling with real life, but them getting through it by supporting each other and their faith," Tim Tebow said in a statement. "I hope those who see it can walk away with more faith, hope, and love."

Although Tebow isn't the one in front of the camera this time around, he can identify with the two brothers in the movie.

Run the Race stars Frances Fisher, Evan Hofer, Tanner Stine, Mykelti Williamson, Mario Van Peebles and Eddie George. To watch the official trailer, visit www.YouTube.com and search for Run The Race.

'Focus on the Family' Premieres New Short-Form Comedy Series on YouTube

Focus on the Family has debuted a shortform comedy series on the popular social media platform YouTube.com. Created and developed by the organization's social media strategy team, the new series is titled "The Elephant in the Room" and it uses humor to explore the paradoxical nature of the unaddressed conflicts through a quirky set of "actual" elephants.

"Jesus was a storyteller. He always taught people through parables and he

was incredible at telling stories. Our goal is to follow his example and tell stories that are truly engaging at an emotional level, but that also underscore deeper truths as they do so," the series creators Jake Roberson and Ryan Klaver said in a press release. "We're excited to do that using humor and comedy with 'The Elephant in the Room.'"

A second season is under development and is planned for release in February 2019. For more information visit www.focusonthefamily.com.

lines from Chris Tomlin’s hit How Great is Our God. For more information, follow Chance the Rapper on Instagram at chancetherapper.

Running For Those Who Are Not Free To Run Yet

Join radio personality Carmen and Team FREEDOM as they run for the millions enslaved around the world, including the Tampa Bay area. The team will be running the Gasparilla Distance Classic on the weekend of Saturday, February 23 and Sunday, February 24. The Saturday races are 5k or 15k and a 5k-stroller race.

On Sunday, the options are 8k or half marathon. Registration fees vary by race.

If you commit to fundraising for Hope for Justice by Tuesday, January 15, you will secure a spot on Team FREEDOM, which is separate from the registration fee. For questions, email teamfreedom@thejoyfm.com. Hope for Justice at www.hopeforjustice.org.

Busch Garden’s Christmas Town™ Festivities Extended To January 6

Keep the spirit of the season glowing bright with more opportunities to visit Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay’s Christmas Town™. Park guests can stroll through Christmas Town Village under millions of twinkling lights and enjoy fan-favorite holiday shows each day now through January 6.

Guests will be immersed in festive fun at the Christmas Town Village, including merry merchandise and tasty holiday treats. The holiday merriment continues into 2019 with the Three Kings Celebration on January 5 & 6. This cultural celebration boasts authentic Latin flavors found only during the holidays and live entertainment honoring the three Wise Men under a dazzling display of twinkling Yuletide lights.

For complete event information, including dates, times and packages, visit ChristmasTown.com.

What you will find at Journey: • • • • •

Chance the Rapper Goes on "Sabbatical" to Meditate on the Word of God, Shares Prayer on Instagram

Grammy award-winning hip-hop artist Chance the Rapper has taken some time off from music to make studying and meditating on God’s Word his main focus.

Last month, the 25-year-old took to Instagram to give his 9.2 million followers a peek into his morning devotions.

“I’m going away to learn the Word of God which I am admittedly very unfamiliar with.

I’ve been brought up by my family to know Christ but I haven’t taken it upon myself to really just take a couple days and read my Bible,” he said. “We all quote scripture and tell each other what God likes and doesn’t like but how much time do we spend as followers of Jesus to really just read and KNOW his Word. I’m definitely guilty of not devoting time to it.”

Chance has proudly expressed his Christian faith in the past, with his 2016 album Coloring Book featuring gospel artists like Kirk Franklin and including

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Page 16 • christianvoicemonthly.com • January 2019

Live Like You Mean It Peace this Christmas Because of Grace

By Derek Maul “From his fullness we have all received grace upon grace.” – John 1:16 Peace is one of the ‘Big Four’ Christmas words (Hope, Peace, Love, Joy). But I’m not sure peace is possible outside the practice of grace.

When we offer grace conflict has no fuel to burn. Not that grace gives free passes, or behavior doesn’t matter, but that grace creates an atmosphere where enmity and judgment and exclusion lose their power. Grace knows we are all equally lost, all equally forgiven, all equally welcome home.

Christmas grace invites us to sit at a table with no hierarchy, in a banquet hall with no gate. But at the door there is a deep pit where we must drop our weapons, our arguments, our pride, our guilt, our superiority, and our issues – the heavy garments of self and rightness that weigh us down.

Then we can enter clothed with humility. Grace not only welcomes, but it expects us to welcome others too.

Grace may be defined as ‘free’ but let us not misunderstand; the way for grace was made clear at great cost.

We only gain a proper appreciation for what grace is when we extend it to

others and bear some of the cost ourselves. So here’s a thought: Maybe grace is not only a gift we can accept but a burden we must share?

Ultimately it is no hardship to extend Grace. But – just like un-harnessing our weapons and dropping the heavy clothing of our self-rightness at the door to the banquet – living in grace will appear costly until we get the hang of it, until we understand the freedom of it all the way to our bones, all the way to our hearts and spirits and souls, all the way through to Jesus.

This is how I am thinking about grace and peace this Christmas. My prayer is that these thoughts help you on your 2018 journey to Bethlehem, on your path to the infant child in the manger, on your decision to accept the invitation too.

Derek Maul has written for many news outlets, including the Tampa Tribune, The United Methodist News Service, All Pro Dad, FOCUS Magazine, Newsweek, USA Today, The Christian Science Monitor, Presbyterians Today, Guideposts, Chicken Soup for the Soul and many other publications. Read Derek Maul’s daily blog posts at www.derekmaul.wordpress.com

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New 10,000 Sq. Ft. Building Will Be Built For The Women’s Resource Center

By Tatiana Ortiz

each month.

Women’s Resource Center of Tampa and Executive Director Cheryl Hickman said we walk families through the whole process. “We stay with our families as long as it takes,” Hickman said.

It does offer a A groundbreaking ceremony was held on December 5 for the variety of services as Women’s Resource Center of Tampa’s new 10,000 sq. ft. space. Construction will begin during the first week of January well such as health 2019. care, employment Volunteers, Bay Life Church memand more just to name a few. With the bers, Hillsborough County Sheriff’s larger facility, it will offer a new computer Office, Tampa Police Department and lab with eight brand new computers, 12 other community supporters attended case management stations and two the Women’s Resource Center of classrooms for educational classes such Tampa’s groundbreaking ceremony on as GED (General Educational December 5 for its new 10,000 sq. ft.

Development). The Women’s Resource space. Since the organization reached Center of Tampa will also expand its capacity and outgrew it, many look forfood pantry, storage area, clothes closet ward to the construction that will begin and more. during the first week of January. To add, Bay Life Church Care Pastor and this place will also help the organization Counseling Center Director, Brenton continue to fulfill its passion of changing Shephard shared how the families will lives and restore hope to women and benefit from the new building. “It will their families. provide a long term housing place for In 2003, The Women’s Resource the families,” Shephard said. “Overall, Center of Tampa became established. my heart is to serve those who are lost Since then, more than 33,000 people and broken,” Hickman said. received assistance. As it is Christ-cenFor information, visit www.wrctamtered, the organization focuses on pa.org. Check out the Facebook page restoration of the mind, heart and more at www.facebook.com/WRCofTampa/. It to the needy women and families in the is located at 1017 Kingsway Rd. in community. In addition, the Women’s Brandon. Open Monday through Resource Center does provide services Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Call 309-3357. to 90 residents of Hillsborough County

Page 17 • christianvoicemonthly.com • January 2019

New Brunchery Owners Excited To LifeCare Network Asks Local Community To Support Diaper Drive Continue Community Tradition

By Amanda Boston

By Tatiana Ortiz

For 30 years, had me washing dishes The Brunchery in as a 15 year old to pay Valrico has been for my first car,” said known for its Athan. “My favorite part stuffed french of the business is being toast, homemade with my customers and muffins and making sure they are decadent quiche taken care of from the special, but also time they are greeted for its founding walking in until the time owner, Kevyn they leave.”

Farley. Farley The opportunity came opened the origiat the right time for Athan nal location in to become owner of the Brandon, which Brunchery as he was later moved to its searching for places in current spot in Florida. He fell in love the River Hills with the 2,300 sq. ft.

Plaza. And in Stanley Athan, new owner of the restaurant and its rooster Brunchery.

November, a new theme, decor and friendly family moved to the area, took over atmosphere. ownership and pledged to keep the “I want the community to know same staff and menu that fans have that we plan on being here for a long come to know and love. time and appreciate how welcoming “We use the exact same ingredithe customers make us feel,” Athan ents and recipes that Mrs. Farley said. did,” described new owner Stanley The Brunchery offers a variety of Athan, who purchased the restaurant breakfast and lunch items, such as with wife Natalia. “We buy the same homemade grits, seasonal coffees products from the exact same venand its popular home fries along with dors; same bread distributor and a new special called the Red Rooster same produce distributor. And I that starts at $12. It is located at would never change your coffee. I 4389 Lynx Paw Trail in Valrico. Open truly believe you don’t fix what isn’t Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m.- 2 broken.” p.m. and Saturday through Sunday Athan comes from a restaurant 7:30 a.m.- 1:30 p.m. Call 654-9036. background and grew up in Seattle Starting January 1, The Brunchery as the youngest of three boys. “I've will be open until 3 p.m. on seen all aspects of the business. Dad Saturdays and Sundays.

With a lofty goal Jessica Rickenbach, of 100,000 diapers, the Development LifeCare Network is Director of LifeCare asking the community Network in Brandon. to be the helping “This year we started hands with its Sanctity to run out of sizes in of Life Diaper Drive.

October. We are hopFor more than 30 ing that others in our years, LifeCare community will partNetwork has sought ner with us for the to protect the sanctity diaper drive.” of life through promotLifeCare Choices ing biblical sexuality Centers offer a variand educating new ety of support for parents. expecting mothers Pictured are Bell Shoals The diaper and and new parents.

Baptist Church members wipe drive correFrom pregnancy who assisted with last year's Sanctity of Life sponds with National tests to assistance Diaper Drive.

Sanctity of Life after the birth, the Sunday, which falls on the third Sunday ministry educates as it provides physiin January. President Ronald Reagan cal, emotional and spiritual support. first enacted the Sanctity of Life Sunday The diaper and wipe drive specifion January 22, 1984, which was also cally supports its ‘Earn While You the same day that the U.S. Supreme Learn’ program, which offers classes Court legalized abortion in all 50 states covering prenatal care, labor and deliv(January 22, 1973). The Church uses ery, nutrition and breastfeeding. While the third Sunday in January to celethe clients learn, they also earn ‘Baby brate human life as well as mourn the Bucks’ to purchase items like diapers lives lost to abortion. and other supplies in its Baby Boutique.

In previous years, local churches The nonprofit is requesting diaper supplied the demand for diapers, but sizes newborn to five with the greatest this year, the nonprofit is reaching out need for sizes 3, 4, 5. Rickenbach to businesses, neighborhoods and added, “We are believing that the Lord schools to host a drive. The amount of will provide immeasurably more diapers 100,000 diapers would sustain and wipes than we could ever imagine.”

LifeCare’s Choices Centers in Brandon For information or to get involved, and SouthShore for the entire year of visit www.LifeCareNetwork.net, contact 2019.

Jessica Rickenbach at “Our need for diapers is growing as Jessica@LifeCareNetwork.net or call we are serving more clients,” said 654-0491.

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Page 18 • christianvoicemonthly.com • January 2019

Local Organization Helps Cancer Patients Find Strength And Courage

By Libby Hopkins

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Grace Cathedral -San Francisco, CA

Soaring over San Francisco's famous Nob Hill neighborhood, the iconic Grace Cathedral is both a tourist landmark as well as a symbol of hope. It’s known for its 'Gates of Paradise,' breathtaking murals and labyrinths. It is also one of the largest Episcopalian churches in the United States. Meticulously built over the course of 37 years, the cathedral is teeming with rich culture and history.

Grace Cathedral began as a small parish that was built during the California Gold Rush of 1849. However, the 1906 earthquake destroyed the original structure. A wealthy San Francisco family donated their Nob Hill land for construction of the new church. The construction took place from 1927 until completion in 1964. The dedication was celebrated with a sermon by Martin Luther King Jr., which was attended by nearly 5,000 people.

The architecture and attention to detail make this cathedral a popular tourist destination. One of the entrances to the cathedral boasts doors also known as 'Gates of Paradise.' They are replicas of the doors designed by famed Italian artist Lorenzo Ghiberti. Cast from bronze and covered with gold, the doors depict several biblical events.

Grace Cathedral is also known for its two labyrinths, one inside and one outside. The outdoor labyrinth is accessible year-round.

The labyrinths are a tradition dating back to France's Chartres Cathedral in 1220 when people would walk through the winding labyrinth as a way to meditate and return to God's healing power.

Inspired by the Notre Dame in Paris, the church is also known for its stained glass windows and vibrant murals that adorn the walls. The murals depict several important events in the history of San Francisco, such as the earthquake of 1906 and the drafting of the U.N. charter in 1945. The stained glass windows of the cathedral are decorated with portraits of Adam and Eve as well as notable people in world history, such as Albert Einstein and Robert Frost. Many famous people have spoken at Grace Cathedral including Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Jane Goodall, Carlos Santana, Sandra Day O'Connor and the Dalai Lama.

Some of the best views of San Francisco can be seen from the top of its south tower. Free guided tours of the church are available on select days.

More information and a free visitor guide can be found at www.gracecathedral.org.

Ruth Walker created the Courage Through Cancer foundation to help those affected by cancer and their loved ones who are caregivers. She started the foundation after she lost her husband, Deacon Darryl Walker, to Esophagus cancer. The mission of Courage Through Cancer is to help one who will reach one.

It is often said that courage is not having the strength to go on, it is going on when you have not strength. Ruth Walker, CEO of Courage Through Cancer in Riverview, would agree with this statement because she too found the strength to go on when she felt like she could not after her husband, Deacon Darryl Walker, was diagnosed with Esophageal cancer.

He was the inspiration for starting Courage Through Cancer.

“My husband displayed courage through his cancer and he maintained his faith and took time out to encourage others,” Walker said. “It got to the point where we maintained our faith and our positivity and others began to seek us out at Moffitt as well as Florida Cancer Center to offer prayers or encouragement to others.”

The mission of Courage Through Cancer is to help one who will reach one.

So many people are hurt beyond what we see. There is no preparation in losing a loved one and no words for watching them suffer. “At Courage Through Cancer, we cannot change your circumstances, but we can love you and be your support through it,” Walker said.

“Our goal at Courage Through Cancer is to help patients and families financially, spiritually and in areas of comfort living to enable them to be consoled during their time of need. God has given us this mission and in being obedient to His will, our heart’s mission is to open our doors for you to come and receive all that He has to offer for His people.”

One of the projects that Walker is currently working on to help expand Courage Through Cancer’s mission is building the Darryl Anthony House in honor of her late husband. “The Darryl Anthony House is one of our main objectives,” Walker said. “It’s a place for the weak and weary. As a caregiver, you can bring your burdens to the Darryl Anthony House. A home named after a man who prayed without ceasing throughout his battle. The best part about visiting the Darryl Anthony House is that you bring your anxieties, your worries and your fears and you get to leave them there and leave with a renewed spirit.”

If you’d like to learn more about Courage Through Cancer, or if you would like to make a donation to help build the Darryl Anthony House, you can www.couragethroughcancer.org or call Walker at 900-9878.

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Page 19 • christianvoicemonthly.com • January 2019

Page 20 • christianvoicemonthly.com • January 2019