Pastor's Journal Magazine by PJM Social

HAITI: Hope in the midst of Hurt, Salvation in the Storm - Page 24

HIV/AIDS and Adullams Place

Community Pacesettersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

IMPACTING THE WORLD WITH THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST Columbia International University

Dr. Bill Jones

Hip Hop: Behind the Music

iti Ed

Community In Action

Vo on l. 2 20 10

Urban League

The Medallion Center

Educated in Christ- page 40 Haiti, the aftermath- page 24 Features 7

Publisher’s Message

Ministry Manor

Devotional with Dr. Hardy

OUTREACH: Adullams Place

Hip Hop Summit

When Christians Become Depressed

Financial Matters

Features 27

State Farm

Adam Where Art Thou?

100% Graduation Class

Eating for Energy

CONTENTS Mrs. Elizabeth Earvin Shiver Sunrise: November 12, 1927 Sunset: February 9, 2010

“God saw her getting weary and did what He does best, stretched forth His loving arms and beckoned come Elizabeth it’s your time to rest.” I dedicate this issue of Pastors’ Journal Magazine in honor of my grandmother, Elizabeth E. Shiver, “The Woman who fought on her Back!” Your legacy will live on!

Marcus R. Shiver Sr. Pastors’ Journal Magazine Publisher

Community Pacesetters

Drying Silent Tears

Urban League

Devotional with Dr. Law

PJM Preferred Partners

Beacon of Light Foundation

PJM - Volume 2 - 2010

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PJM Leadership PJM Staff & Contributors:

PJM’s Book Shelf (New Release)

BEACON OF LIGHT FOUNDATION

PRESIDENT, CEO

MARCUS R. SHIVER Sr. PUBLISHER: BEACON OF LIGHT FOUNDATION ASSOCIATE EDITOR SR. BUSINESS EXECUTIVE: THELMA LANE EDITORIAL COORDINATORS: KIOSHA GREGG TRACY CHATMAN PROOFING EDITOR: CHRISTINE PALMER GRAPHICS/CREATIVE DIRECTOR: DERRICK M. DAVIS SUBSCRIPTION COORDINATOR: TONIA PEPPERS DISTRIBUTION MANAGERS: GREGORY SINCLAIR DARRYL BOYLES CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Rev. Johnny Ray Noble Dr. Peter Law Ronnie Pugh Marcus Benjamin Crossroads Counceling YMCA Columbia International University Columbia Urban League Christine Palmer Marvita Franklin The Cooperative Ministries Word of God Church & Ministries Bishop C.L. Hardy

Jesus the Christ, Greatest Rapper of All Time A Guide to Evangelizing Hip Hop by Ricardo Palmer We’ve been briefed by the experts. We clearly understand the ills and dangers of the culture. However, we cannot debate or pray Hip Hop away. Lost souls must be won over by the love and compassion of Jesus. Pastors, youth leaders, parents — all those who have a desire to influence Hip Hop culture — are in need of a blueprint, a plan, a strategy to witness. Jesus the Christ, Greatest Rapper of All Time is a guide that will provoke followers to be missionaries, church goers to be ambassadors, and disciples to be evangelists.

Publisher, Marcus R. Shiver Sr. has named Thelma Lane as the managing editor of PJM.

As the managing editor of PJM I will continue to strive to provide our readers information that educates, inspires, and empowers. Each issue of PJM will represent and challenge pastors, their congregations and the community at large towards personal and community development. I look forward to serving as your Managing Editor of PJM.

Sincerely,

Thelma Lane

DEVOTIONAL

God’s Will

Written by Suffragan Bishop C.L. Hardy

n 2 Samuel 7:16, God states, and thine house and thy kingdom shall be established for ever before thee: thy throne shall be established for ever. (KJV). This is an insightful scripture that is the result of God saying no to David’s desire and placing him in a far better position based on His promise. This scripture has farreaching implications in the life of a Christian. What should you do when your heart says yes and God says no? The true child of God will trust and obey God. It has been said, the safest place in the whole wide world is in the Will of God. The Christian must be careful not to operate outside of God’s Will. There is danger in allowing one’s desires, egos and ambitions to supersede the voice and Will of God. This will cause a Christian to miss out on the true blessings of God for his life.

Although it would have satisfied a need, David’s request reflected his heart and not the heart of God. Meeting a need is not enough evidence that God has set His approval on what an individual is doing. The Christian must remain sensitive to the voice of God. God had better things for the life of David. Building the House of God by David would have given temporary glory to David and the Lord. But, God wanted an everlasting glory and an everlasting kingdom after the seed of David, which is Christ. Flesh and blood cannot build God’s Kingdom, neither can flesh and blood inherit the Kingdom of God. Remember the following scripture, Matthew 16:18, And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. (KJV). David’s earthly dominion ended, but Jesus Christ, a direct descendant of David, was the ultimate fulfillment of this promise that God made to David. This promise was in connection to the promise that was made in Genesis 3:15. Christ will reign for eternity now in His Spiritual Kingdom (in Heaven and later on the Earth), and in the New Jerusalem (Luke 1:30-33, Rev. 21). Christians must remember not to allow zeal, ego and worldly ambition to cloud the vision and Will of God. Remember, God answers prayers according to His overall Will for the Church and the Kingdom of God. His promises are not according to man’s personal desires, egos and ambitions, but according to His Will.

ple, it would have served the intended purpose and appeared to all as a good work. But, it would have been out of the Will of God. In addition, it would have fallen short of the glory of God. David, having built the Temple, would have given the devil an advantage over this work because he and the work would have been out of the Will of God. There is the sin of omission and there is the sin of commission. If David had listened to Nathan and not God (2 Samuel 7:3, And Nathan said to the king, Go, do all that is in thine heart; for the LORD is with thee. (KJV)), he would have done a great work, helped the people, and served an apparent good purpose. But all that he did would have been out of God’s Will, thus giving the devil the advantage over his work. The Christian must understand that the new life dictates a surrendering of man’s desires, egos, and ambitions to God’s Will. When these are surrendered, there is actually no challenge between God’s Will and man’s will. Proverbs 3:5-6 states, Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. (KJV).

When reading God’s Word and seeking God’s Will, it’s good to remember Isaiah 55:8-9, For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. (KJV). These scriptures represent the distance between God’s thoughts and man’s thoughts, or even the difference in God’s thoughts and man’s thoughts. Man’s thoughts are often carnal, selfish, and limited to his present need. God’s thoughts on the other hand, are spiritual, non-selfish and far-reaching. David’s thoughts concerning building God’s house were limited and centered on a present need.

These scriptures represent the challenge of doing God’s Will versus man’s desires, egos, and ambitions. The source of most problems that people face are attributed to the devil. It must be remembered that the source of man’s problems are caused by himself, the devil and sin. The problem that David was getting ready to face was being caused by himself. David saw a definite need to build a permanent structure for the Ark of God. There was nothing evil about desiring to build a temple. However, had David built the tem-

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God’s Will

David was not permitted to build the House of God, but his son would have the privilege of doing so (2 Sam. 7:12-13). God’s vision was firmly established in the promise made in Genesis 3:15, and also, this vision represented the promises made to the faithfulness of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. This promise refers to the literal house, physical and spiritual dynasty that would reach into the ends of the world; even into the priesthood of Jesus Christ. God’s Will and promise here are good examples of an Old Testament passage which finds it’s fulfillment in the immediate future to Solomon and other descendants of David at that period in time; while other elements of this promise will be fulfilled only in the more distant future to Jesus Christ, the Son of David, Luke 1:31-33, And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end. (KJV). David, like so many Christians today, did not always see God’s Will because man’s desires, wants and ambitions often cloud God’s Will. God had to remind David of his past in order for David to see and understand the future and His Will. Faith and faithfulness in God’s Word and to God is a key element in seeing God’s Will. Trying to be faithful to God’s Word without first having faith in God’s Word is like attempting to fly an airplane without the airplane first having wings. The Christian must first believe God’s Word before attempting to be faithful. God assured David of His faithfulness and trust in past situations and the fact that He has more planned for him than just temporary gratification. David soon found more joy in accepting God’s Will than his own (2 Samuel 7:18-29). David’s response to this great revelation concerning the nature of his kingship was to acknowledge God’s goodness in bestowing it (vs. 18-21) and to extol God’s incomparable sovereignty (Wherefore thou art great, O LORD God: for there is none like thee, vs. 22). This, David said, was seen especially in God’s selection of Israel and His redemptive grace on her behalf (vs. 23-24). Finally, he prayed that the promise God had made might indeed find fulfillment to the glory of His own Holy Name so that His Name would be great forever (vs 25 - 29). The Christian must remember that God operates according to His spoken Word. If the Christian world wants to know what God is going to do in the future, just look at what He has said and done in the past. God is faithful, God is unchanging. Deuteronomy 7:9 states, Know therefore that the LORD thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations; (KJV). God was now establishing a covenant with David as he had established with David’s forefathers. David knew that he could trust God because his forefathers trusted Him. It is interesting to note that the Bible uses the word “covenant”. The American Heritage Dictionary defines the word covenant as a binding agreement; a compact; a formal sealed agreement or contract. The Holman’s Dictionary defines a covenant as a pact, treaty, alliance, or agreement between

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two parties of equal or of unequal authority. A covenant is simply an agreement or promise. The Christian must understand that God’s promises are not always fulfilled over night. God’s pathway to promises must be traveled. This requires patience and understanding. First, there is the spoken or written promise. Second, the circumstances that must lead to that promise. Third, the materialization of the actual promise. Fourth, the possession of the promise by the promisee. There are four types of spiritual promises. First, there is the promise of salvation. Second, there is the promise of divine protection. Third, there is the promise of eternal life. Fourth, the promise of joy, blessings and peace. There are three sources of spiritual promises. First, there is man’s promise, which is unstable and unpredictable. Second, there is the devil’s promise, which is the father of all lies. Third, there is God’s promise, who cannot lie. What should be the result of a fulfilled promise? An attitude of gratitude, worship, joy, commitment and praise. God promised to give David a son who would build the Temple and who would establish His kingdom forever. Trusting God was David’s challenge, as well as the modern Christian’s challenge. The Christian’s challenge is to understand the nature of spiritual promises and believe that God is able to do what He promised. The Christian must always understand that man’s good deeds and good intentions are not always in God’s Will. Man’s will, ambitions and desires do not always reflect the Will of God. Even the expression of thankfulness and appreciation must be within the guidelines and limitations of God’s Will. Remember the words that God told Moses, Hebrews 8:5, Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount. (KJV). Most Christians desire security and longevity for themselves and their families. God plainly makes it known that if Christians would seek God first, then there would be no need to be overly concerned about the future. Matthew 6:33, But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. (KJV). Some folks fear praying that God’s Will is done in their lives. We should not fear praying that the Lord’s Will is done in our lives. If God’s Will is done in an individual’s life or in a situation, everything will work toward and for the good of that individual. In these latter days of incorporating secular thinking to build mega ministries, great building projects and worldwide outreach programs, most Christians do not know that these works are according to and directed by God. There is no doubt that many modern ministries are serving the community and meeting a need. King David’s efforts would have also served a need, but it would have been outside of God’s Will for him to build the Temple. Today’s challenge is to function according to God’s Will and promises only after much prayer and fasting, not according to desires, egos, and ambitions.

Volume 2 - 2010 | Pastors’ Journal Magazine | 11

LEAD THE WAY Phaneros Consulting

Embracing Our Potential to Lead eadership: “The capacity we possess to influence people, situations and events around us to facilitate transformational change incrementally, significantly and eternally.”© Leadership development is growing or increasing our capacity to deploy that influence.

During our most recent leadership workshop, I was asked (by a non-participant) if I thought everyone could be a leader. I answered with the same response I’ve given hundreds of times. “Absolutely!” Everyone possesses the potential to lead. At its core, leadership is about influence. More often than not, the quality of our influence is intricately tied to how aware of and comfortable we are with our gifts and abilities. The degree to which we embrace those gifts and abilities directly impacts our willingness to share them with others. As the young pastor of the church at Ephesus, Timothy was encouraged by the Apostle Paul not to be distracted by what others might perceive about his leadership but to focus on embracing the opportunity that lay before him: “Let no one look down on your youthfulness, rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe. Until I come, give attention to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation and teaching. Do not neglect the spiritual gift within you, which was bestowed on you through prophetic utterance with the laying on of hands by the presbytery. Take pains with these things; be absorbed in them, so that your progress will be evident to all.” (emphasis mine, 1 Tim 4:12-15, NASB) Paul encourages the young pastor not to neglect his spiritual gift but to fully embrace and develop what has been deposited in him. Paul’s advice was very specific—he wanted Timothy to meditate on and ponder over his gifts and abilities in order to perform well. This highlights an important point that both emerging and seasoned leaders often overlook. Paul was suggesting that Timothy be “reflective”—to take time to think about the significance of his gifts and how he would deploy them. I appreciate the use of the phrase, “take pains with these things.” Reflection can often be a painful process. If a leader is truly committed to growth, it’s important to evaluate personal effectiveness on a regular basis. Leaders must critically assess what interpersonal skills and leader behaviors add value as they engage people and processes. They must also discern which behaviors are no longer effective. I frequently assist leaders whose most valuable leadership strategy for growth involves eliminating negative behaviors that keep them from creating an en-

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written by MARVITA FRANKLIN, CONSULTANT/ COACH vironment where their leader influence can thrive. This reflective process is very often the missing piece in a leader’s development. It is why some leaders continually struggle at familiar leadership intersections instead of adopting alternative behaviors that help them push past comfort zones to experience new levels of performance. While many of us may be aware of the obvious strengths and abilities we possess in any given situation, we tend to be less familiar with or willing to take a hard look at our vulnerabilities. Taking a more comprehensive look at the full spectrum of who we are as leaders can help us consistently move forward in leader development. Paul goes on to advise Timothy to “be absorbed” in these gifts—to immerse himself completely in them. The New Living Translation of the Bible uses the phrase “throw yourself into your task.” This is great advice for any leader who wants to grow. With a clear understanding that each gift, ability and skill we possess is from God, we ought to throw ourselves into the tasks of using those abilities to showcase His glory. We could wait for permission from others to use our gifts and talents, but why? Many people have a tough time giving themselves permission to move forward, so don’t wait for them to give it to you. The sovereign God of the universe has blessed us to be a blessing to everyone we encounter. At this point, the real question is, “Are we willing to embrace the many dimensions of ability He’s placed within us? Are we willing to expand our comfort zones in order to grow as leaders?” Each time we are willing to do these things, our experience broadens and we are more prepared for the next opportunity. The last point I would like to highlight speaks to the reason we are to throw ourselves into the gift – so that our “progress may be evident to all.” All of this is so that our forward movement, advancement and growth would be apparent to those we encounter—for the glory of God. When we embrace and deploy our gifts and talents, we show the world how benevolent and faithful He is. Our growth demonstrates how generous God is and how committed He is to complete all of the work He has begun in us. Paul understood that, for emerging and seasoned leaders, it is necessary to continue to sharpen and refine what has been placed in us. Our leader workshops encourage leaders to dig deeper and strategically value the power of influence given to each of us. It involves a level of risk-taking and self-awareness that forces us to make a decision about our willingness to be transformed and to evolve as leaders. So…what are you waiting for? It’s your life…are you who you want to be?

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Community Outreach Adullams Place

Adullams

Place

HIV/AIDS ministries “First classified as a gay white male disease, HIV has now ascended into the African American community affecting over 80% of women and 70% of men... Columbia, South Carolina ranks 9th in the nation”

Samuel 22:1-2, teaches us about David escaping to the “Cave of Adullam” as a place of refuge, and that everyone who was in distress, everyone who was in debt, and everyone who was discontented gathered to him. But in that cave, he built them up as amighty army. With the same concept, as a safe haven, a place of safety/protection and holistic deliverance, Adullams Place was established for families and individuals who were affected or infected with HIV/AIDS. Adullams Place stresses the importance of holiness and purity unto Christ, while fostering education initiatives for youth and adults on sexual transmitted diseases, the consequences of unprotected sex and the importance of abstinence.” Led by the Love-in-Action Care Team, ministry participants have access to educational programs, six to eight week support sessions, annual workshops, spiritual guidance, testing and discipleship. The ministries’ curriculum is composed of several topics such as Perseverance, the Battlefield of the Mind, Power of the Tongue, Self-Esteem, Hope and Faith. Through a persistent, faithful stride, Adullams Place continues to be faith-based advocate for those suffering with HIV/AIDS in silence.

wide pandemic. First classified as a gay white male disease, HIV has now ascended into the African American community affecting over 80% of women and 70% of men. Statistically speaking, South Carolina ranks 8th in the nation for new AIDS cases while Columbia, South Carolina ranks 9th in the nation. Within South Carolina, Richland County ranks #1 in the state for new HIV/AIDS cases. Currently, South Carolina is #1 in the nation for cumulative cases of HIV for heterosexual contact. This virus alone can be carried for up to 7 to 10 years undetectable. On November 7th, 2009, Adullams Place presented its first conference on promoting HIV/AIDS education and prevention awareness. Through various speakers, conference panelists, and medical professionals, participants received practical and spiritual in-depth knowledge on HIV/AIDS, encouragements through testimonials, a skit, spoken word, and the opportunity to ask questions and voice concerns.

In the last 29 years, HIV has gone from an epidemic to a world-

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Community Outreach Adullams Pla Place ace Conference speakers included Dr. Adelero Adebajo of the Richland Community Health Care Association who focused on the holistic approach of HIV addressing the emotional, physical, and spiritual disparities, Ms. Deadra Lawson Smith, a community liaison of the South Carolina HIV/AIDS Council who focused on her personal journey of endurance as one infected with HIV, and Mr. Kenneth Cobb, a retired veteran and public health coordinator with the Moncrief Army Community Hospital . Through education, and compassion, not only must we become our brothers keeper, but we must rise to the challenge of networking with churches and health organizations, challenge all people to respond to the epidemic bringing about change, and advocating for those infected and affected by HIV/AIDS to a life of victory and empowermentâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;LOVE IN ACTION.

Adullams Ministries nistries (HIV/Aids (H HIV/Aids Ministry) @ Word of God Church and Ministries 7355 Garners Ferry Road Columbia, SC 29209 Phone: 803 799 3535 Pastor: Eric W. Davis Leaders: Minister Margo Williams & Euquan Knighton

Anniversary Edition 2009 | Pastorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Journal Magazine | 17

TALENT SPOTLIGHT Behind the Music Youth Forum

BEHIND the

Music

Youth

Forum

written by Christine Palmer

s it ok for Christians to listen to secular hip hop music? Should secular hip hop receive the blame for some of the negative images of African-Americans in our society? Is holy hip hop of God and can it be used by the church to reach out to those of this generation? These are just a few examples of the controversial questions that were addressed at the “Behind the Music” youth forum hosted and moderated by Jamal Bates (Kiss 103.1) at Little Zion Baptist Church in Blythewood, SC. The purpose of the event was to discuss Hip Hop and Holy Hip Hop and their effects on our youth, the church, and society in general. The evening began with performances by a number of Christian artists and drama/step teams, including Jae-O, Pearl, Kenny Smith, and Double Portion. The forum itself was conducted in a question/answer format directed to six invited panelists. These panelists included Tony “Gee” of Glory Communications (95.3 WFMV), Minister Ricardo Palmer of Spirit of Truth Christian Church, Rev. Christopher Leevy Johnson of Brookland Baptist Church NE, Darryl Boyles of G&M Showcase Group, Vanzell Haire of Kiss 103.1, and Drayson Clark (Double Portion) of Dunamis Records. The panelists provided a variety of perspectives and views and offered insightful commentaries throughout the evening. The forum began with a discussion of secular hip hop with its famed icons and artists. Topics ranged from whether the hip hop music industry was to blame for the ills of the culture to the effects of secular hip hop on the behavior and dress of our young people to whether it’s ok for secular artists to put out gospel albums and thank God for the awards they win. Many of the audience members participated with comments and challenging questions for the panelists.

The forum somewhat changed direction in the second half by discussing the validity of holy hip hop and its use in the church. Panelists addressed the issue of what holy hip hop is and whether it can be used effectively for God’s purposes. They also discussed the use of secular beats by Christian artists and whether this practice should be accepted by the Christian community. Last, but not least, the forum turned its attention to the importance of reaching out to the generation under the influence of hip hop culture and how we as Christians can maintain our commitment to Christ while still staying relevant to this generation. Without a doubt, those that attended the event were challenged to consider their stance on hip hop and its overall effect on our society. Many found resolve for some of their concerns and others walked away with a new motivation to understand God’s perspective on the culture and its need for redemption. There are plans to host another forum and panel discussion in the coming months. For more information, contact Jamal Bates via Facebook or send an email to jamalrbates@gmail.com.

Jamal Bates www.PastorsJournalOnline.com

Volume 2 - 2010 | Pastors’ Journal Magazine | 17

HEALTH When Christians Become Depressed

When Christians Become written by

Depressed

Cr ossr oads Counseli ng Center

here are major causes of depression such as: biological/ genetic, learned helplessness, rejection, abuse, trauma, and severe life stressors. The word depression is used to describe everything from a day full of work/life stressors to the actual deep dark hopeless state of mind. The Bible actually does not use the word depression, but describes people, symptoms and behavior that clearly indicate depression. What are the characteristics of a depressed person? hopeless and helpless speech and behavior, irritable/anger, tearful, unable to keep track of time, constant complaining, overwhelmed by most circumstances, isolation, not reading scripture, no pray life, unable to sleep or sleeping too much, eating too much or not eating at all, fatigued, physical pain, excessive feelings of guilt and shame, and often suicidal threats, gestures, or attempts.

Christians must realize that basing our lives on emotions does not align with our Christian belief. Our Christian belief of life is based on truth, not feelings. Christianity commands us to find truth, comfort and guidance through Biblical study and prayer. David fought and lifted depressive thoughts and feelings by meditating, confessing and sharing with others. The depressed person’s inability to think clearly is a flag for a firm, but caring family member or friend to ask questions. Are you sleeping? What are your eating habits? Are you going to work? Are you in pain? Ask if he or she have stopped Biblical reading, praying or going to church. Be visually observant if the person has stopped their usual tasks (housekeeping, yard work) or not maintaining usual hygiene or appearance. Ask if he or she is thinking of hurting themselves – be bold. Do not hesitate to ask questions and especially ask if he or she have plans to hurt themselves. These questions actually bring relief to a hurting person.

Elijah’s symptoms were of sadness, hopelessness and fatigue. God first made sure that Elijah had proper food and rest, before speaking with Elijah about the other problems in his life. God spoke to Elijah in a small firm voice that he was loved and peopled cared for him. He gave Elijah hope and normalized the overwhelming challenges.

How to help a depressed person as Biblically directed? For example,

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HEALTH When Christians Become Depressed, cont’d Today, a Christian would do the same but can offer many other resources. It is most critical to find a Counselor (Licensed Professional Counselor, Marriage and Family Therapist) who is a Christian. The counselor will evaluate the severity of the depressed symptoms and advise a course of treatment.

“Christians must realize that basing our lives on emotions does not align with our Christian belief. Our Christian belief of life is based on truth, not feelings. Christianity commands us to find truth, comfort and guidance through Biblical study and prayer.”

Treatment can be hospitalization, individual/family/couple counseling, medication, exercise, eating and sleeping properly and many other choices (pending severity). A comprehensive physical is always a part of treatment. It is helpful to remind a depressed person that thoughts will either cause feelings of contentment and joy or feelings of sadness and hopelessness. The best thoughts to cause self encouragement thinking are found in the the eight qualities given in Philippians 4:8-9. God bless each of you who reach out with boldness and understanding to help someone lost in depression.

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FINANCIAL God Doesn’t Expect Pastors to be Financial Advisors

God Doesn’t Expect Pastors to be written by Marcus Benjamin

all Street is slowly recovering from the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression. Investors, both corporate and individual, are regaining confidence in the market which sucked away billions of dollars in assets in an 18 month span. How did this happen? How could people who have collectively lost billions of dollars now put their money back into the same system which failed them? With that said, let’s take a quick look at Small Business Boulevard. Small Business Boulevard is also seeing gains as new unemployment claims are decreasing and revenues are slightly increasing. This is a very important segment of the economy because 80% of all new jobs created or lost come from an employer with less than 500 employees. Again we ask the question, “How is this happening?” I must candidly admit our national economy has not fully recovered. It appears that it will probably be around 2012 or 2013 before the sour taste of the recent economic meltdown is fully out of our mouth. However, one can only think about the reasons why such critical components of our economy, Wall Street and small businesses, are rebuilding and have plans for future expansion while Church Street and Believers Boulevard are trying to “tie everything down and wait till this storm blows over.” A big part of the answer lies in a few concepts… 1. A believable, competent spokesman 2. A belief in the system 3. An investment understanding When we consider the growing recovery of Wall Street and small businesses, we find all three of the above scriptural principles at work. Consider the following: on November 12, 2009, I was scheduled to do a financial conference in Stockbridge—a suburb of Atlanta, GA. I was excited about the trip and the opportunity to bring God’s economic plan to a growing church. I meticulously planned my presentation to last about an hour and a half so that I could get back to the hotel room for a special broadcast on television that I wanted to catch. When the time came for my presentation, the Holy Spirit gently nudged me in another direction and, with the pastor’s permission, I ended up presenting for about 2 hours to a group of people who were glued to their seats!

remembered about the broadcast. After glancing at my watch, I noticed it had been over by more than an hour. A little disappointed, I decided to turn on the television anyway and watch a little ESPN. To my amazement, the broadcast was still on—so I thought. The broadcast I am referring to was the “Keeping America Great” discussion led by capitalism icons Warren Buffet and Bill Gates and hosted by the Columbia University School of Business. I know, you probably thought I was going to say TBN or something—pray for me (smile). Well, CNBC decided to re-air the broadcast three times that night! I stayed up and watched the two and a half hour discussion and was not disappointed. Here is the reason I am sharing this story with you. American business understands that if we have believable, competent people to put in front of an audience, and these individuals believe in the system we promote, regardless of the investment, we will secure them as our greatest weapon against our system failing. Do you get that? Warren Buffet and Bill Gates are two of the most “believable” people regarding wealth in the world. They are believable because they did not inherit the wealth they have, but earned it through business, investments and excellent financial management. Secondly, they believe in the American system of capitalism. They believe in a free-enterprise economic system which provides the opportunity for each person to accumulate wealth. Even if it temporarily falters, they still believe it will recover. Did you notice the two points mentioned earlier in these last statements? They are both believable and competent, and they believe in the system of capitalism. Ok, here is the third one. Someone very smart made the necessary financial investment to host this event so the entire world would have the opportunity to be influenced by their words!

Needless to say, when my wife and I got back to our room, it was late, and we were exhausted. I was so humbled by the move of the Spirit and the wisdom communicated to the congregation, that I completely forgot about the broadcast. As I crawled in the bed, I

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God Doesn’t Expect Pastors to be Financial Advisors, cont’d Consider the scripture mentioned at the beginning of this article. “The sons of Issachar who had understanding of the times to know what Israel ought to do … Just as Warren Buffet and Bill Gates are recognized as “knowing what’s going on in capitalism and what has to change,” pastors must recognize who God has anointed as “sons of Issachar” – men who understand the economic times we live in from God’s perspective and what we are to do. Pastors cannot have pressure on them to know everything; however, they should be highly proficient in their particular assignment and the gospel of the kingdom. As they [pastors] become more proficient in their assignment, they should surround themselves with and expose their congregations to other men and women who have competence in areas they are not required to have. God has anointed people who have this economic understanding, and pastors must seek them out and make a reasonable investment for their churches to benefit from their understanding. Although this is not a cultural competition, our white brothers and sisters are far ahead of blacks in this category. Let’s use a simple example. Dave Ramsey, the financial guy who is dominantly known among our white brothers and sisters, is very busy right now. His books, toolkits and event tickets are still selling thousands upon thousands of units. He has to turn down speaking invitations because he cannot fill them all! Even during down economic times, there are church leaders who are either intentionally or unintentionally doing the three actions steps I mentioned above. Dave Ramsey is 1. Believable and competent, and 2. Understands God’s system of economic freedom. Because of that, many, many churches led by our white brothers and sisters are executing point number three by taking the risk to make the necessary financial investment to get him or his material into their churches and before their members. They have received Dave as a “son of Issachar.”

God has given to us. Now, I am not saying pastors need not speak about finances in their church. Paul told Timothy to charge the rich in his congregation, “…that they be not high minded nor have their hope set on the uncertainty of riches,...that they do good...that they be ready to distribute…” (1 Tim. 6:17-18, ASV) So, we can see God is not muting church leaders from speaking God’s perspective about finances; however, “sons of Issachar” are in the Body to give members the “nuts and bolts” of financial management. This financial management is based upon scripture and sound understanding of the economic environment we live in. Do you see the difference? Do you see the value of collaboration? Paul said in I Corinthians 12:12-20 (NIV), “The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one body. So it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body— whether Jews or Greeks, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. Now the body is not made up of one part but of many. If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason cease to be part of the body. And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason cease to be part of the body. If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? But in fact God has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. If they were all one part, where would the body be? As it is, there are many parts, but one body.” Now is the picture becoming clearer? God never gives one person everything. If He were to give one person everything, He would set that individual up for extreme failure. Collaboration of the eyes, nose, mouth, ears, brows, hair and skin produces a head. If you took away one or more of them, you probably have something that is pretty challenging to look at. In the area of financial impartation, the pastor [church leader] has a specific role; however, there are other parts that need to collaborate together to get the whole financial picture. Editors Note: This article is an excerpt from the presentation titled “God Doesn’t Expect Pastors to be Financial Advisors.” Stay tuned to the next publication for the continuation of this topic.

The other day I was speaking with a very financially competent, anointed, and highly respected financial advisor who also happens to be an elder at his church. He is definitely a “son of Issachar.” As I was looking to secure a date on his calendar, he made a startling statement. “I am not busy enough, and churches just aren’t calling like they should.” I can understand if churches weren’t ringing my phone off the hook, but this guy – I cannot understand. It is not my intent to muddy the proverbial water, but simply to communicate that God has appointed financial voices in these challenging times who “know the times and what the Body of Christ must do.” Pastors, we must seek them out prayerfully and allow their proficiency to increase the proficiency of the vision

Marcus Benjamin Senior Pastor: Champions Faith Center CEO: The Benjamin Consulting Group

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HAITI: Hope in the midst of Hurt, Salvation in the Storm!

ver the past 3 months, people around the world have witnessed the devastating scenes from Haiti. Most are just now beginning to grasp the utter loss of life and total collapse of the Haitian infrastructure – a collapse made even worse by a bleak outlook and a prolonged economic drought experienced by the Haitian people. Ultimately, we are left with the question, “What now?” What is our individual responsibility, as well as the Church’s collective responsibility, to this as well as other crises that may arise? What cultural differences must be overcome to ensure that our criteria for success in Haiti can be attained? Finally, we must ask the question, “Can we sustain what’s been started?” What are we prepared to do now that the glow of the television cameras has been turned off of Haiti and turned on to some other natural disaster? One thing is certain; Haiti represents one of the many areas affected by natural disasters. However, unlike others, Haiti appears the least likely able to respond and rebuild at a rate that will ensure the future health and vitality of the country. Those that remain behind echo the sentiment that there is a remnant of people that are waiting on the blessings of the Father and that the generational curses they believe in will be broken and replaced with hope and anticipation of a new and wonderful country where opportunity springs eternal. They are hoping for a day when the faceless, voiceless remnant of Haiti will sway in unison to the words spoken by Christ, “In so much as you have done to the least of these, you have done unto me.”

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We are reminded in the New Testament that if we identify ourselves as Christians (Christ-like) that we will “feed His sheep.” Sheep remind us of our own humble beginnings, our own inadequacies and missed opportunities. The Haitian people may not have had the same opportunities as us, but they are sheep, nonetheless. We cannot afford to turn a blind eye and deaf ear to the plight of the populous. We should become “life coaches” to the Haitian people. Each church’s organization should be responsible for making a positive difference for a segment of the Haitian people. We cannot expect the various governments to continue the welfare approach to solving crises around the globe – an approach whereby they pour in the necessary financial support and prop up the fledgling country’s infrastructure and, as a result, these countries become dependent on those governments for economic survival. It holds true for all people. My pastor once told us, “We are to be dependent totally upon God, but interdependent upon each other.” We have to present ourselves to the people before we can offer Christ and the Word of God to the people. Haiti is a country hurting, grieving, convulsing from the weight of years of political blight and governmental rule from the top down. Only a select few receive the profits and economic windfalls from various mechanisms within the country. God’s economy is vastly different. Isaiah 9:6 says, “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder…” In God’s economy, leaders lead from the bottom up. Until God is restored unto His rightful place in the hearts and minds of the Haitian people, they will continue to have a government that cannot provide for their basic needs.

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HAITI: Hope in the Midst of Hurt, Salvation in the Storm

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HAITI:

Standing in the midst of the crowd, one can easily get lost, or overlooked, by others. The Haitian people are often overlooked and their perspective lost. In the midst of their overwhelming conditions, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy for the church to see the big picture but lose sight of the individual. We see Haiti, but do we truly see the Haitian people? We see the displaced, disgusted and disgruntled. Can we allow ourselves to see the desperate, determined and inspired who are motivated for change? Where we saw devastation, they saw opportunity. Where we saw an ending, they have allowed themselves to believe in a new beginning. Now is an excellent time to dust off the old manuscripts that contain our purpose and mission statements and engage the world for the greater good of all mankind. Many in Haiti have found hope in the midst of overwhelming hurt; some have even found salvation in the midst of the storm!

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H A I T I :

Hope in the Midst of Hurt, Salvation in the Storm, contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d

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Anatomy of an Auto Policy written by Veronica Isaac

icture this scenario: A woman leaves her car securely locked and safely parked on a quiet side street. But the unexpected happens. When she returns, her car is severely damaged. This scenario has a happy ending. After the initial shock, she calls her insurance agent. The agent guides the woman through the claim process and explains that her car policy’s collision coverage will pay the cost, after the deductible is met, to repair her car.

Why insurance? State laws require owners and drivers of motor vehicles to be financially responsible for damages they cause in a car accident. Insurance satisfies this requirement. In addition, optional coverages are available that can further reduce your risk of significant financial loss from a car crash, even if it is not your fault. Types of coverage available There are various types of coverage available when purchasing an Auto insurance policy. * Liability: Pays damages for bodily injury to others and damage to property that result from a wreck that is caused by an insured under your policy. Also pays for other costs including legal defense and court fees in the event an insured is sued because of a car wreck. * Collision: Pays for damage, after a deductible is met, to your insured car when it strikes, or is struck by, another vehicle or object. * Comprehensive: Pays for damage to your insured car that was not caused by a collision. Some examples include damage caused fire, wind, hail, flood, vandalism, theft, or impact with an animal. There may or may not be a deductible for this coverage. * Medical Payments Coverage: Pays the reasonable and necessary medical expenses for an insured that is injured in a car crash, regardless of who is at fault for the wreck. * Uninsured Motorist Coverage: Pays damages to an insured that is injured in a car crash caused by a driver who does not have liability insurance. * Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Pays damages to an insured that is injured in a car crash when the person(s) responsible for the wreck accident has insufficient liability insurance to fully compensate the insured for the injury. * Car Rental Expense: Pays eligible rental car expenses if your car is not drivable because of a loss which would be payable under Collision Coverage or Comprehensive Coverage. * Emergency Road Service: Pays for items such as towing expenses, the cost to deliver gasoline, and specified labor charges to unlock your car if the key is locked inside the car. When shopping for insurance, it’s important to look at more than the total cost. Become familiar with the amount and type of coverage that is being offered. Also, note what isn’t being covered, who is covered while driving your vehicle and the quality of customer service in the event of an accident. And always remember to make sure the company you’re insured by is financially strong. The bottom line is that you should understand your policy and buy the amount of insurance you think you need.

Adam

Where Art Thou? written by Rev. Johnny Ray Noble

“And the LORD God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou?” Genesis 3:9

unday mornings are usually filled with excitement as families get ready to attend services at their local churches. Mothers, daughters, and sons scramble to get into their vehicles, but visibly missing from this pious scene, in many cases, are the fathers. Let me preface this discussion by saying that we do have some strong men and fathers in our homes and churches providing excellent examples of morals and leadership. Some churches have many brothers who work tirelessly to take on their God-given responsibility and provide headship, spirituality, and prayer portraying the image of a strong Christian man. We thank God for those men who are fulfilling their spiritual mandate! However, in more than a few cases, there is a class of men who are failing today in the area of leadership and are missing from the church scene. There is no shortage of men biologically. There is no shortage socially. Yet, we cannot turn a blind eye or a deaf ear to the growing shortage of men in leadership of the home, church, school and the general community. It is no mistake that a growing number of communities are seeing their women rise up to fill vacancies created by the absence of men in leadership. Where there is a son or a daughter, there is a father somewhere, but mother is providing the family leadership in many instances. Where there is a church, women are rising to chair the committees and shoulder the responsibilities of men. In the community, an increasing number of women are becoming elected officials on school boards and other civic bodies because of a leadership vacuum. Why are so many women leaving their husbands in the bed, washing the car, cutting the grass, playing cards or dominoes, working around the house, or punching a clock on Sunday mornings? Honestly, I do not believe there is a plain and simple answer, or even one specific answer, to this question. The answers are as unique as the men who are missing. Here are my thoughts on the subject. MEN DON’T LIKE TO SUBMIT TO OTHER MEN IN AUTHORITY Most men do not like to be told what to do. Men don’t take orders well from other men. God made man to have dominion and rule. That is man in the natural sense. It is very difficult for a man to submit to another’s authority because it means that he has to change the essence of who he is. To a man, the pastor or deacons are men just like himself; therefore, he will not subject himself to dictation by any other man. Submission to another man in some cases is viewed as being “weak.” Men have very big egos and will not tolerate domination. The church can be viewed by some men as a control mechanism, and there are many men who will resist any type of control, feeling it is

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an attack on their manhood. Spiritual men realize that God works through biblical leadership which fashions itself through love, respect, and common courtesy among fellow co-laborers. Men often feel that they are being disrespected and “talked down to” at church. Who wants to go to a place where most sermons are negative towards you and label you the bad guy? Some men are also disheartened by the territorialism of churches, vying for control and membership. MATERIALISTIC GOSPEL The image portrayed by the church has turned many men in the opposite direction of the church. Men with whom I interact who are not “churchgoers” feel that the church is in existence for self-perpetuation – the building of empires and the erecting of compounds of brick, mortar, steel and stained glass. Some brothers purport that the church itself is lost in an age where it is consumed by the god of materialism. It’s one thing for the world to be ensnared by the trappings of materialism – but the church? The lifestyles of the so-called “prosperity preachers” have not helped to quell the “pimpish” image of the church either. Many men are angered over the fact that many preachers wear flashy clothes, exclusive jewelry, expensive suits, and drive cars costing a small fortune. While many people are just struggling to make ends meet, it would seem the preacher lives above everyone in his congregation. Some are incensed by the Bentley, Rolls Royce, and Mercedes-buying preachers who live in suburban escapes, a far cry from the inner-city ghettos where they pastor, bidding members to sacrifice in the name of God. Often times, the members cannot see because the diamond-beveled Rolex swinging from the arm of the pastor is blinding them. These days, cathedrals and worship centers exist where the pastor and his wife/co-pastor, exact per diem and drive luxury vehicles, their modest salaries boosted by tithes and offerings from poor folks in a struggling congregation of families, a number of them headed by single women. Yet, despite billions of dollars taken from collection plates, much of it from the poor, there are, in contrast, few homes for the elderly, few recreation centers, sparse church-financed housing developments or tangible measures of return on years of investment. Men watch finances closely. If the church is collecting a large number of tithes and offerings and not uplifting the community, real men know this is a scam. Large congregations should not be paying on church buildings forever, and churches are to be run like businesses, with plans to help the sick and needy. That is GOD’s work. Love is an action word, a verb – not dry preaching without resources to follow. People feel good when their lives take shape. The “feel good” sermon wears off shortly after Sunday service.

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Adam Where Art Thou, cont’d LOST RELEVANCE, EMOTIONALISM, NEGATIVITY, AND FEMININITY A growing number of men are absent from the religious and church scene because there seems to be no connection and correlation with their lives or present circumstances. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., who, more than 40 years ago in his “Letter From a Birmingham Jail,” wrote that the church was in danger of being “dismissed as an irrelevant social club.” Men have needs that must also be addressed. Many men protest that the church is no longer relevant, that it offers no discernible message for what ails the 21st-century “male soul.” This, perhaps, is the biggest problem the church faces. Until the church projects the image of speaking truth to power, of being serious and aggressive about community uplift and economic empowerment, a lot of men will remain uninterested. Men hold the view that the church caters to females and disregards men. A majority of men see the church as emotional. Maybe that is why more women are in the church than men. Hearing the choir sing can stir an emotion inside of someone that is overwhelming. The preaching moment usually draws people in off of their own emotions and convictions. Since women tend to be emotional creatures, they will be more inclined to return to service every Sunday. Furthermore, who wants to take their wife or lady somewhere only to have them potentially salivating over the pastor. It can become an emotional attachment. Unfortunately, some women serve, go home, and talk about the pastor like he is the reincarnation of God himself, and some women treat the pastor better than they serve their husbands, which results in resentment.

After being put down and living in negative situations, the last place a man needs unconstructive criticism is at church. It is harder for a man to walk into a building and have another man on stage telling you how you should be governing your life and your family. No one wants to sit Sunday after Sunday and hear one-sided, manipulated messages admonishing males every ten minutes, but saying nothing in regards to females or inappropriate female conduct. THE BOTTOM LINE The reasons men don’t attend church are varied and more complex than I could ever discuss. Whatever the excuse or reason, the bottom line is this: Men, we need to go to church and we also need to study the Word so we can lead appropriately and under the guidance of the Most High. Let’s stop making excuses and return to church because spirituality has always been the nucleus of who we are and a part of what makes us strong and dynamic as men.

Rev. Johnny Ray Noble

by Ricardo Palmer We’ve been briefed by the experts. We clearly understand the ills and dangers of the culture. However, we cannot debate or pray Hip Hop away. Lost souls must be won over by the love and compassion of Jesus. Pastors, youth leaders, parents — all those who have a desire to influence Hip Hop culture — are in need of a blueprint, a plan, a strategy to witness. Jesus the Christ, Greatest Rapper of All Time is a guide that will provoke followers to be missionaries, church goers to be ambassadors, and disciples to be evangelists. This guide will answer questions such as: •How do we spark a conversation with those influenced by hip hop culture? •How can we make the gods of Hip Hop serve us? •Where do we draw the line in relating to Hip Hop? •How do we raise our youth to fight the negative influences of hip hop culture? “This book will serve as a blueprint for anyone looking for principles on pursuing ministry in such a hip hop driven society. Minister Ricardo has such an authentic and genuine way of bridging that great gap between the hip hop community and the church, causing the two cultures to find some form of common ground.”

“This book gives us a new perspective on relating to this culture and dealing with 21st century youth at a relational level. It will help us close the gap and connect Jesus to a culture that has been lost for quite some time. It will open the eyes of the traditional church and cause them to reach out to today’s youth in a non-traditional way.”

-Raquel

To purchase your copy please contact: 803.546.7388 or visit www.Lulu.com | amenanation@aol.com

“This is a must read for every leader, Christian, sinner, parent, and child. Through his personal testimony, knowledge of various rap artists, and examples from the Bible, Minister Palmer takes you on a journey and gives you a thought provoking inside look at hip hop culture. As a parent and a Christian leader, this book will help me to sit down with my children and with those of hip hop culture to establish an open and honest dialogue. It is the first step into a new beginning.”

-Henry Simons

-Otis Williams

Ricardo Palmer is available for Conferences, Workshops and Seminars. For booking information please contact (803)546-7388. Visit us on Facebook.com

HIGHLIGHT

Head of the Class

written and reported originally by Duaa Eldeib in the ChicagoTribune (March 5, 2010) Four years ago, Bryant Alexander watched his mother weep. She stared down at a muddle of D’s and F’s on his eighth-grade report card and threatened to kick him out. He had barely passed elementary school, and high school wasn’t even on his radar. “Something just clicked,” Alexander, now 18, said. “I knew I had to do something.” On Friday, Alexander proudly swapped his high school’s red uniform tie for a striped red and gold one — the ritual at Englewood’s Urban Prep Academy for Young Men that signifies a student has been accepted into college. As the Roseland resident and 12 others tied their knots, Chicago’s only public all-male, all-African-American high school fulfilled its mission: 100 percent of its first senior class had been accepted to fouryear colleges.

Hutchinson was Northwestern’s assistant director of undergraduate admissions. Inspired by what he’d seen, he started working for Urban Prep two months later. “I’m them,” he said Friday as he fought back tears. “Being accepted to college is the first step to changing their lives and their communities.” Hutchinson plays a major role in the school, where college is omnipresent. Students are assigned college counselors from day one. To prepare students for the next level, the school offers a longer than typical day — about 170,000 minutes longer, over four years, than other city schools — and more than double the usual number of English credits, King said Even the school’s voice-mail system has a student declaring “I am college-bound” before asking callers to dial an extension.

Mayor Richard Daley and city schools chief Ron Huberman surprised students at the all-school assembly Friday morning with congratulations, and school leaders announced that as a reward, prom would be free.

The rigorous academic environment and strict uniform policy of black blazers, red ties and khakis isn’t for everyone. The first senior class began with 150 students. Of those who left, many moved out of the area and some moved into neighborhoods that were too dangerous to cross to get to the school, King said. Fewer than 10 were expelled or dropped out, he said.

The achievement might not merit a visit from top brass if it happened at one of the city’s elite, selective enrollment high schools. But Urban Prep, a charter school that enrolls all comers in one of Chicago’s most beleaguered neighborhoods, faced much more difficult odds.

At last count, the 107 seniors gained acceptance to a total of 72 different colleges, including Northwestern University, Morehouse College, Howard University, Rutgers University and University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana. Alexander was accepted to DePaul University.

Only 4 percent of this year’s senior class read at grade level as freshmen, said Tim King, the school’s founder and CEO.

While college acceptance is an enormous hurdle to jump, school leaders said they know their job isn’t done; they want to make sure the students actually attend.

“There were those who told me that you can’t defy the data,” King said. “Black boys are killed. Black boys drop out of high school. Black boys go to jail. Black boys don’t go to college. Black boys don’t graduate from college. “They were wrong,” he said. Every day, before attending advanced placement biology classes and lectures on changing the world, students must first pass through the neighborhood, then metal detectors. “Poverty, gangs, drugs, crime, low graduation rates, teen pregnancy — you name it, Englewood has it,” said Kenneth Hutchinson, the school’s director of college counseling, who was born and raised in Englewood. He met the students the summer before they began their freshman year during a field trip to Northwestern University, the first time many of them had ever stepped foot on a college campus. At the time,

FIT FOR LIFE Eating for Energy

Eating For Tips & info from the YMCA

ood is fuel for our body and mind, powering us through our days. If you’re feeling sluggish and tired on a regular basis, you may want to pay particular attention to what, when and how you eat. Eating nutritious food isn’t just a matter of maintaining weight; it can significantly impact how much energy you bring to daily life. Energy boosters: WATER–Dehydration is one of the most common causes of fatigue. Drink more water. BREAKFAST–A combination of some protein and complex carbohydrates will keep you focused through the A.M. COMPLEX CARBOHYDRATES AND GOOD FATS–Not all carbohydrates and fats are bad. Complex carbs—beans, whole grains, root vegetables—that take longer to digest (fueling you longer) and good fats like those contained in nuts, avocados and olive oil keep you going. EATING MORE OFTEN AND JUST ENOUGH–Remember it takes time for your body to register what it’s taken in. Ending a meal before you’re full, eating smaller meals more often and munching on healthy snacks will keep you fueled but not feeling full and ready for a nap. TREATS–Dark chocolate, fruits and vegetables and limited amounts of coffee and tea can all give you a little boost without plummeting your blood sugar levels.

Give a Hand to Save Others from Sudden Cardiac Arrest Hands-Only™ CPR—Facts Sudden cardiac arrest claims hundreds of thousands of lives each year. One of the main reasons is because no one at the scene does anything to help. In fact, less than one-third of sudden cardiac arrest victims receive bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Getting help right away—within a few minutes—is the key to survival. Fortunately, the American Heart Association has a new way for anyone to step in and help adults who suddenly collapse—Hands-Only™ CPR. Hands-Only CPR is CPR without mouth-to-mouth rescue breaths. It involves two easy steps: Call 911 and push hard and fast on the center of the chest. Don’t stop until help or an AED arrives. Anyone can perform Hands-Only CPR and everyone should perform it if they aren’t confident in their CPR skills or haven’t learned conventional CPR. Hands-Only CPR is easy to remember and results in delivery of more, uninterrupted chest compressions until more advanced care arrives on the scene. Bystanders must take action when they see someone suddenly collapse and stop breathing normally. When effective bystander CPR is given immediately after sudden cardiac arrest, it can double or triple a victim’s chance of survival. Hands-Only CPR can help save lives. Find out more, and watch an instructional video at HandsOnlyCPR.heart.org. Do not give Hands-Only CPR to infants and children—all infants and children who have a sudden cardiac arrest need conventional CPR. Adults who nearly-drown or have cardiac arrest due to a respiratory cause need conventional CPR.

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Angelo A. McBride Angelo A. McBride is the Business Administrator for the City of Columbia, SC, Office of Business Opportunities. He leads the City’s effort to eliminate economic disparity and create access and equity for all businesses by providing professional support to build small business capacity. Through innovative education and training, networking, increased access to contracts and capital, and by supporting inclusive relationships between private and public sectors, McBride and his sevenmember staff continue to accelerate the viability and strategic growth of small businesses for sustainable success in the 21st century and beyond. McBride has held several positions within Columbia city government since 1992, serving in administrative capacities since 2000. He was promoted to his current position in 2007. McBride is an active member of the International Economic Development Council and International Council of Shopping Centers. McBride also is a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve. McBride has a B.A. degree in Political Science History from Morris College, Sumter, SC, and is completing his MBA in Business Management through the University of Phoenix School of Business. He is married to his wife, Lillian, of 18 years. They have a teenage daughter, Brittney, and reside in Northeast Columbia, SC. They are active members of the Clement Road Church of God serving faithfully as Youth Directors.

Community

Pacesetters Jimmy Reed Jim is a Minister, devoted husband, and father. He is also a practitioner, police officer/victim advocate, and motivational speaker with 25 years combined law enforcement and military experience. He received a M.A. Degree in Business and Technology from Webster University, a B.A. Degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice, and an Associate Degree with a concentration in Criminal Justice from USC. Currently, he is employed by the Columbia Police Department, assigned to the Victim Services Unit as a Victim Advocate, and Chairperson of the CPD’s Domestic Violence Task Force. In 1993, he accepted the call to the Ministry and was ordained by the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME). He is also a member of the Eau Claire Ministerial Alliance and a motivational speaker for the organization.

Jim is a native of Colleton County, SC. His law enforcement career began at the SC Department of Corrections as a correctional officer. He also served at Columbia Corrections Institute (CCI) where he served the citizens of SC by supervising and managing death row offenders. A dedicated and committed patriot, he served 8 years in the United States Army. During his first 4 years of active duty, he participated in 2 terms of combat in Panama “Operation Just Cause” and Saudi Arabia “Operation Desert Storm.” He served as an educator with the Colleton County School District and was later elected President of the PTO at Webber Elementary School in Eastover. He is currently an adviser to the Institute for Adolescent Males and a Certified Youth Mentor. He is a former advisor to the “Just Say No Club”, the Drug Free School at Walterboro High and Colleton Middle Schools, a former member of the National and States Associations of School Resource Officers, the Heritage trust Credit Union Advisory Board, and Co-founder of Believers Organized to Motivate Believers (BOMB). He is also a board member of FJJ/Dept. of Juvenile Justice, Save our Kids, Bethel Recovery House for Men and SC Center for Fatherhood and Family.

Community Community

Pacesetters

Kimberly y Isaac Isaac-House House Kimberly Isaac-House is a native of Columbia, South Carolina and is the proud mother of Tabitha Jones. Kimberly is a graduate of W.J. Keenan High School, Midlands Technical College and Columbia College. She has diligently spent the last 16 years working with children, families and in the arena of non-profit management. She has volunteered for various non-profits in the Midlands area for 18 years and is one of the founding members of Girls Inc. of Greater Columbia and former board member of the organization. Kimberly is currently the Program Specialist for United Way of the Midlands Partners in Compassion Institute, where she assists faith and community based organizations to strengthen their ability to provide services in their communities. Kimberly believes that we are morally obligated to help those in under-served communities by giving our time, talent and or resources to uplift families.

Joy McLaughlin Joy, is the founder and executive director for “ Touch of Joy.” Touch of Joy is a non-profit 501 c (3) located in Columbia, SC and surrounding areas. The mission of Touch of Joy is to help others achieve their maximum potential by cultivating skills of personal development and financial literacy. Touch of Joy will kick off FLOT (Future Leaders of Tomorrow) summer camp this June. Our overall goals through our programs are to see the level of poverty decrease, more young business owners, and stronger leadership throughout the community. For more information on our programs, become a member, or make donations go to www.touchofjoy.org or contact us at (803) 467-0463. It’s better to try and fail than to never try at all, Don’t let failure stand in the way of maximizing your potential!

COMMUNITY OUTREACH TCM C.A.R. Program

The Cooperative Ministry

P r o g r a m from The Cooperative Ministry cally drinking at home. She is very glad she never got a DUI or hurt anyone while intoxicated. She has been sober for six months and taking one day at a time. She needed transportation and applied to our Community Automobile Repository Program (C.A.R.). After fulfilling the application process, attending the required seminars and waiting patiently for a car to be donated she was finally on the road again. A very kind person donated a 1998 Ford Escort that needed a motor. After selling a few cars we were able to repair this car for the C.A.R. program. We sell those cars that don’t meet our clients’ needs, i.e. a 6 mile an hour gas guzzler or one that maintenance and taxes are so high they couldn’t afford to use it.

he Cooperative Ministry C.A.R. Program has been helping people with transportation for over 20 years. The Program helps the working poor maintain or improve their employment by providing them with a car. In order to be able to have this service, we rely on the generosity of the public, donating their unwanted cars. We take all vehicles, whether they are running or not. To our knowledge we are the only organization in the state that gives cars back to the public. This opportunity to donate a car serves many people – our clients who are in the program, the donors who get a tax break of fair market value (to our knowledge we are the only organization that gives this fair market tax break), and the buyers of the cars we sell who get them at very fair prices. The cars that are sold to the public or sold for junk enable us to make the necessary repairs to the vehicles that we give away. We recently gave a car to a woman at Killingsworth, a recovery house for women. She had reached rock bottom with her alcohol addiction, losing her husband, 11-year-old son and her apartment. She was advised to go to a transition home called Killingsworth. With nothing to lose, she put her belongings in storage and made that life-changing step. This lady has always been employed, basi-

This lady is so excited to be able to get to work with dependable transportation, make those visits to see her son, go to church, go to those important AA meetings and she is looking forward to helping others with their recovery by taking them to meetings with her. This gift will change her life in ways she can’t even imagine. She was humbled by the thoughtfulness of others. Please keep in mind we have a diverse clientele list. We have single moms, single dads and whole families of all races and nationalities. Transportation is a basic need that crosses all boundaries. Consider donating your old car!

6 | Pastors’ Journal Magazine | Anniversary Edition 2009

www.PastorsJournalOnline.com

For Christ and His Church The Kingdom Advances By Langley Burch, Director of Marketing and Communications Erskine Seminary has recently achieved a goal seven years in the making. At its meeting in February 2010, the Board of Commissioners for the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) approved the request of Erskine Theological Seminary “to oﬀer the complete Master of Divinity, the Master of Arts in Practical Ministry, and the Doctor of Ministry degree programs” at the Columbia campus.

Upcoming Courses for 2010

Summer 2010 Survey of Church History

Classes have been oﬀered in Columbia since 2004 as an additional extension site for Erskine. For many years extension classes have also been oﬀered in Charleston, Greenville, and Augusta, and more recently in Florence. Under ATS standards students taking courses at extension sites cannot take more than half of their degree program in any one extension site and at least one year of courses must be taken in residence at the main campus in Due West. Now students can complete their residency requirements or their whole degree program in either Due West or Columbia, or by combining courses from both. The many commuting Erskine students now have more options for completing their degree programs and the seminary is positioned to extend its ministry.

Introduction to Theological Education

Dr. Mark Ross joined the Erskine faculty in 2004 and became the first resident professor in Columbia. In 2006 he was named as Associate Dean for the Columbia campus. In that same year Dr. Max Rogland, a minister in the PCA, joined the faculty to teach Old Testament and Hebrew. The renowned scholar, Dr. Hughes Oliphant Old, moved to the Columbia campus from Due West in 2008, along with the Institute for Reformed Worship. The Institute provides courses in the Erskine Doctor of Ministry program, as well as conferences and workshops in worship.

Worship and Preaching I

From the very beginning, Dr. Neely Gaston, Executive Vice-President for Erskine Theological Seminary, has led the eﬀort to secure approval from the ATS for the Columbia campus. Speaking of the recent decision by ATS, Dr. Gaston said, “The joint vision set forth in 2003 by First Presbyterian Church and Erskine Theological Seminary is now poised to bear fruit for Christ and His Church. The future is bright for many denominations as the Columbia campus will provide training for the next generation of church leaders and pastors. The central location of the Columbia campus will make theological education more readily available to students from the many constituencies represented in the state. We give thanks to God for his continued blessings on Erskine Theological Seminary!”

Bible Survey Black Studies Writing for Ministry

Fall 2010 Romans Principles of Exegesis New Testament I Hebrew I Systematic Theology I Bible Survey Leadership/Church Administration

The mission of Erskine Theological Seminary is to equip persons for service in the Christian Church. Now with two degree-granting campuses, and with extension sites in four major cities of the region, there is much greater opportunity for service than ever before in Erskine’s history. If you would like any more information about Erskine Theological Seminary’s Columbia campus or other information from this article, please contact Langley Burch (burch@erskine.edu) or Crystal Tolbert (tolbert@erskine.edu) at 803-771-6180 (oﬃce). The Columbia campus is located at 1500 Lady Street, Columbia, SC 29201.

www.erskine.edu/seminary | 800.770.6936

Introduction to Theological Education Cross-Cultural Communication Writing for Ministry

by Garry James , D.Min. God’s Plan for Relationships “In the beginning God created…” - Genesis 1:1 The first two verses in the Bible provide us with remarkable evidence of the sovereignty, power, and plan of God for godly relationships. They state: “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was formless and void, and darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God moving over the surface of the waters.” -Genesis 1:1-2 The Lord is the divine architect of all that has been developed in our universe. The Bible does not reveal that He had any known points of reference when He created our world, but it does reveal that He had a perfect plan in place. During the creation of the world, the Lord illustrated the unity of godly and appropriate relationships. Scriptural evidence provides that there was a joint effort between God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit in creating the universe (i.e., Genesis 1:1; Genesis 1:26; Genesis 3:22). In the original Hebrew language, the word Elohim used in these passages is the pluralistic form of God, illustrating how He worked in unity with Himself from the beginning of creation. This joint effort models relational unity, cooperation, and respect, not one party exploiting the other, which is reflected daily in the media in the form of child abuse and neglect. At the core of child maltreatment is the existence of inappropriate relationships between individuals that have been influenced by Satan. He has influenced inappropriate parent/child relationships, inappropriate caregiver/child or stranger/child relationships, and inappropriate older child/younger child relationships. The results of his efforts have become real and personal in the literal destruction of human life. Various national and international Christian organizations have submitted reports providing evidence of the destruction of life within their respective denominations, even within our faith. In an effort to restore the ‘best practices’ for godly relationships which were modeled by the Lord in Genesis 1, we have to counter the enemy’s disruptive influences and provide safe havens for the most vulnerable members of our society, the children. In John’s gospel, we find a passage that reflects the heart of the Father for His children: “Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you.” -John 14:1-2 The ‘mansions’ or ‘dwelling places’ described in this passage are defined as ‘places of rest’ by biblical scholars. They have discovered that the Lord intends for each of us to have the opportunity to reside in a place where there is no fear, threat of harm, pain, or suffering. In Matthew 6, we find that Christ impressed upon the disciples to pray that His “will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” Our prayer should be that all children have ‘mansions’ or ‘places of rest’ here on earth as they will have in heaven. May we be the vessels that He uses to establish these ‘safe havens’ as we reduce child exploitation by working together to create safe environments for children worldwide.

Dr. Garry James is available for workshops, seminars, and conferences on the subject of child abuse and neglect for your church using his newly released book and workbook titled, Drying Silent Tears. Please contact us at :

(803)530-0969 or visit us online www.dryingsilenttears.org jamesoctob@bellsouth.net

Who We Are

Columbia International University is a biblical university. What does that mean? CIU’s first President Robert C. McQuilkin put it this way: “Neither a Bible institute nor a liberal arts college, Columbia International University offers a curriculum with the spiritual advantages of the former, cultural advantages of the latter.” Here’s the way CIU’s current president, Dr. Bill Jones explains our purpose: “CIU educates people from a biblical worldview to impact the nations with the message of Christ.” CIU students are challenged to achieve academic excellence, grow in character formation, and refine their ministry skills to make a difference for God wherever He calls them. With over 17,000 alumni ministering in nearly 150 countries, CIU is uniquely positioned to impact the world for Christ.

Core Values

In a world full of shifting beliefs, when truth is a moving target, when the voices of the culture conflict – what’s at the core of CIU does not change. What we believe is set in stone! Literally!

There are five stones on campus that represent our Core Values: t Authority of Scripture At CIU you’ll learn to understand the Bible and apply its teaching. t Victorious Christian Living You’ll be encouraged to strive for academic excellence but also personal growth, relying on the Holy Spirit to make you more like Christ in daily living. t World Evangelization You’ll be prepared to reach the world and those around you with the gospel and make a spiritual impact through your career, local church and potentially as a missionary. t Prayer & Faith You’ll be part of a community that seeks to be marked by joyful reliance on God for material provision, victory over sin, growth in Christlikeness, and fruitfulness in ministry. t Evangelical Unity You’ll learn to live in unity with Christians of various evangelical convictions, as you encourage and edify one another and share in the work of ministry.

To learn more about Columbia International University or to schedule a visit, contact us today!

Philosophy

CIU’s philosophy is based on an integrated education for the whole person as illustrated by the Educational Triad. This approach ensures that our graduates are equipped and confident for their professional workplace or ministry. There is no match for the stability that comes from combined development in Academics, Spiritual Life, and Ministry Skills.

Head (Content)

Heart (Character)

Effective ministry begins with Academic Excellence, E ll founded f d d on knowledge k l d off Scripture S i and knowledge of the world. You will be challenged academically by your professors and your classmates.

Effective ministry is the fruit of discipline in SSpiritual i i l Lif Life FFormation. i FFrom curriculum i l development, to advising students, to activities, to chapel programming, prayer days and conferences, we desire for our students to continue to mature in their knowledge and love of the living God, and to experience His grace and power.

Hands (Competence) CIU takes a practical approach to Ministry Skills D Development. l tO Our programs include i l d supervised i d internships and other opportunities to ensure your readiness for the task to which God has called and equipped you.

Programs

Programs Undergraduate Programs

When you walk across the stage on graduation day at CIU, the diploma in your hand will represent a double major. You’ll have a major in Bible and an academic/ professional major. You’ll be double prepared to change the world! Degrees and Certificates t 0OF :FBS #JCMF $FSUJöDBUF t 5XP :FBS "TTPDJBUF PG "SUT t 'PVS :FBS #BDIFMPS PG 4DJFODF "SUT

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t :PVUI .JOJTUSZ Minors t %JHJUBM .FEJB t #VTJOFTT 0SHBOJ[BUJPOBM -FBEFSTIJQ t &OHMJTI t *OUFSOBUJPOBM $PNNVOJUZ %FWFMPQNFOU t 0VUEPPS -FBEFSTIJQ t 1IJMPTPQIZ t 5FBDIJOH &OHMJTI BT B 'PSFJHO -BOHVBHF

Graduate School Programs

Seminary & School of Missions Programs

t $FSUJöDBUF JO 5FBDIJOH &OHMJTI BT B 'PSFJHO -BOHVBHF (TEFL)

t #JCMJDBM .JOJTUSZ $FSUJöDBUF t #JCMF BOE 5IFPMPHZ $FSUJöDBUF t "DBEFNJD .BTUFS PG "SUT %FHSFFT Concentrations: Theological Studies, Intercultural Studies, Muslim Studies t 1SPGFTTJPOBM .BTUFS PG "SUT %FHSFFT Concentrations: Bible Exposition, Educational Ministries, Global Studies, Leadership for Evangelism & Mobilization, Pastoral Counseling t .BTUFS PG %JWJOJUZ %FHSFFT Concentrations: Ministry Leadership, Academic Ministries, Bible Exposition, Educational Ministries, Global Studies, Pastoral Counseling t %PDUPS PG .JOJTUSZ %FHSFFT Concentrations: Leadership, Member Care, Military Chaplaincy, Missions, Preaching

t .BTUFS PG "SUT JO #JCMF 5FBDIJOH t .BTUFS PG "SUT JO 5FBDIJOH &OHMJTI BT B 'PSFJHO Language t .BTUFS PG "SUT JO $PVOTFMJOH t .BTUFS PG &EVDBUJPO JO &EVDBUJPOBM "ENJOJTUSBUJPO t .BTUFS PG &EVDBUJPO $VSSJDVMVN *OTUSVDUJPO t %PDUPS PG &EVDBUJPO JO &EVDBUJPOBM -FBEFSTIJQ

www.ciu.edu | (800) 777-2227 | yesciu@ciu.edu

Undergraduate Testimonies

Testimonies Brent Metcalf Youth Ministry Graduate Brevard Community Church Brevard, NC

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The greatest way that CIU prepared me was by professors who invested in me relationally. They mentored and challenged me in my walk with Christ inside and outside the classroom. I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t feel like a student, I felt like I was a friend. Watching their authenticity and passion for being a Christ follower had a tremendous impact on my own personal walk with Christ. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t believe there is a better place than CIU to prepare for student ministry.â&#x20AC;?

Sarah Orner Communication Graduate Southeastern Freight Lines Lexington, SC â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Communication Program prepared me for the business world by teaching me the basics of computer processing, advertising, marketing, writing, culture and research. It also taught me to think â&#x20AC;&#x153;outside the boxâ&#x20AC;? for ways I can improve my performance on the job. Also, the various theology and Bible classes that I took at CIU have been invaluable in preparing me for my ministry in the business world.â&#x20AC;?

LaToya Reed Youth Ministry Graduate Assistant Chaplain at South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice Columbia, SC â&#x20AC;&#x153;The knowledge I gained from studying and researching prepared me for preaching and teaching the Word of God, and gave me the wisdom I need to work with youth. CIU helped me see the importance of God in everything * EP BOE UP SFBMJ[F XIP * BN JO +FTVT $ISJTU 5ISPVHI $*6 I found the gifts and talents that exist within me, and I became bold and courageous. My CIU experiences with God, professors, and friends changed my life.â&#x20AC;?

Christy Grames Teacher Education Graduate 5FBDIFS JO $BSBDBT 7FOF[VFMB

â&#x20AC;&#x153;CIU prepared me for teaching abroad by giving me a firm foundation of biblical truth which helps me to survive the chaos of life overseas. The Teacher Education Program equipped me with the latest methods of teaching and valuable experiences in the classroom. The many hours of serving people from various backgrounds during CIU field education, prepared me to teach my very diverse class today.â&#x20AC;?

Emily Shorey Psychology Graduate First Steps for Families and Children Massachusetts â&#x20AC;&#x153;I say without reservation that the Psychology Program at CIU more than prepared me for my graduate work. Thanks to Psychology Program Director Dr. Stephen Farra and his team, I had no problem with any graduate school Psychology-related class.â&#x20AC;?

To learn more about Columbia International University or to schedule a visit, contact us today!

Graduate School Testimonies

Testimonies Dell Brabham Education Assistant Principal Round Top Elementary School Columbia, SC

â&#x20AC;&#x153;CIU was very instrumental in the preparation for my job, especially the field experiences, along with the many hours reflecting on how God has a purpose for our lives. The professors were very professional, and shared experiences from which we could learn. Time spent in prayer before and at the close of class gave me a spiritual fine tuning that assisted me through my daily activities as I prepared for my teaching career. A wonderful experience that I would not trade for anything!â&#x20AC;?

Bert Medlin Counseling Counselor at First Presbyterian Church Counseling Center Columbia, SC â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am so thankful for the CIU counseling department and how they equipped me to be able to impact peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives in my profession on a daily basis for the glory of God. I would highly recommend anyone to pursue their masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree at CIU because you will leave prepared to fulfill the ministry that God has called you to accomplish.â&#x20AC;?

Seminary & School of Missions Testimonies

Testimonies Andre Melvin Senior Pastor Temple Zion Baptist Church Columbia, SC

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The quality faculty at CIU provided me with the training necessary to handle the Word of God appropriately and effectively. My teaching and preaching skills have been greatly enhanced as a result of my studies at CIU. Also at CIU, God helped me to understand that He is calling me to be a pastor with a heart for missions. In other XPSET (PE XBOUT UP VTF NF UP NPCJMJ[F JO QBSUJDVMBS our predominantly African-American church to take part in seving the mission field.â&#x20AC;?

Jeryl Salmond Ordained Minister Brookland Baptist Church West Columbia, SC â&#x20AC;&#x153;My experience at CIU has been extremely rewarding QFSTPOBMMZ BOE QSPGFTTJPOBMMZ $*6 4FNJOBSZ 4DIPPM of Missions has prepared me to teach and preach in a contemporary culture without diluting the gospel regardless of the setting. Challenging, yet accessible and caring professors have made the discipline of rigorous study an enjoyable experience.â&#x20AC;?

Jonathan Schaeffer Pastor at Grace Church, Cleveland, OH $PSQPSBUF 7JDF 1SFTJEFOU PG 5IF $ISJTUJBO .JTTJPOBSZ "MMJBODF â&#x20AC;&#x153;CIU had a huge impact on my life! It was a greenhouse environment for me â&#x20AC;&#x201C; stirring chapel services, passionate and caring professors, lifelong friends, shaping ministry experiences, and more. In my ministry and leadership today, I often reflect on lessons learned during my years at CIU.â&#x20AC;?

www.ciu.edu | (800) 777-2227 | yesciu@ciu.edu

PASTORS’ JOURNAL MAGAZINE LEADERSHIP COUNCIL PROUDLY PRESENTS…

PUTTING TOGETHER THE PUZZLE OF

THE OLD TESTAMENT IS GOD IS CALLING YOU TO TAKE YOUR SKILLS TO THE NEXT LEVEL? PJM WILL BE HOSTING THE 8-WEEK OLD TESTAMENT COURSE AT COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY STARTING MONDAY, JUNE 14, 2010!

Course Outline: Old Testament Survey (Day and Evening Course)

Instructor: Location:

Dr. Bill Jones (President, Columbia International University) Columbia International University 7435 Monticello Road Columbia, SC

Start Date: Monday, June 14, 2010 thru Monday, August 9, 2010 Times: 12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m. (Daytime Course) 6:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. (Evening Course) The course will be held every Monday for 8 weeks with the exception of July 5, 2010! Cost: Contact:

$20.00 Thelma Lane—Pastors’ Journal Magazine 803.255.0835

Highlight

Media Ownership

by James T. McLawhorn Jr., Columbia Urban League, President and CEO

ost often a community’s perception is determined by how it is covered by the media. Over the years, the Columbia Urban League has developed a strong relationship with local media as it implements its mission to promote equal opportunity for the disenfranchised. Although television news reports, in particular, can define a community, in many instances there is a gap in how a community views itself when compared with the media’s interpretation. Perceptions portrayed by the media are not always accurate because the lenses used to tell the story aren’t always reality focused but situational, which is not necessarily in sync with the reality of that community. It’s not what we see or how we see it, it’s what we don’t see. That’s why the media must be especially diligent in seeking stories that help to show a community in its entirety. Otherwise, African Americans and other minorities will continue to be bombarded with seeing themselves portrayed as a culture of worthlessness that is not reflective of the community in its totality. Media outlets have made strides in providing fair and balanced coverage. However, there still remains a long way to go. People, by nature, tend to generalize rather than explore an issue or situation in its entirety. Therefore, when more negative stories are reported about a particular group of people, inaccurate assumptions or stereotypes are the results. That’s why the media should work extremely hard to counter inaccurate generalizations and make a conscious effort to balance their reporting with stories that are positive in nature. The importance of how African Americans are covered by the media was addressed in 1968 by a presidential commission that studied the causes of inner-city riots. The Kerner commission report indicated “the news media must publish newspapers and produce programs that recognize the existence and activities of the Negro, both as a Negro and as a part of the community. It would be a contribution of inestimable importance to race relations in the United States simply to treat ordinary news about Negroes as news of other groups is now treated.” In 1996, the Columbia Urban League examined local television coverage of African Americans in its publication The State of Black South Carolina. A study cited in this examination was of particular importance because of the high percentage of African Americans living in the state. It suggested that with as large a minority population that exists in South Carolina – about one third – it should not be difficult for the media to include African Americans as sources, in pictures or to explore issues affecting their lives. “Positive and

50 | Pastors’ Journal Magazine | Spring Edition 2010

i would ld bbe expected d to bbalance l i negative stories out over time,” according to authors Ken Campbell, Ernie Wiggins and Sonya Forte Duhe’, journalism professors at the University of South Carolina. They go on to write: “A familiar anecdote in the African-American community contends that when blacks do something good, the media are no where to be found, but when a shooting or some other problem arises, reporters and cameras descend upon the community (Race Against Prime Time, 1984). That anecdote might be exaggerated, but its perception is real in the African American community.” The authors also cited a 1992 study that found that African Americans were most likely to be included in network crime news stories than in any other category. More than a decade since the Urban League’s examination of television coverage, locally there appears to be more African American news anchors than before. The number of African American reporters has improved but seems to fluctuate; and few, if any, African Americans hold decision-making roles in selecting news stories and editing content. Programming focusing on issues relevant to African Americans in the Midlands and the state continues to remain minimal. At the same time, the African-American-centric programming that does exist fails to connect African Americans with mainstream society. Such news programs should do more to show the inter-relationships between the races and their ideals.

www.PastorsJournalOnline.com

FCC F CC CM Media eddia Ownership, Ow wneershhipp, cont’d connt’dd

We contend there has been some progress. But, we’re still falling short in portraying African Americans as part of the total fabric of our society. Time and time again, it has been shown that television networks have unparalleled power to promote social justice. Therefore, networks should continuously examine their staffing at all levels and news decisions to ensure fair and balanced coverage of the communities they serve. They must understand that diversity goes beyond race and gender. Job candidates, whether white or black, should be vetted for their experiences and comfort levels with working with diverse cultures and there should be an ongoing familiarity with the issues and sensitivities of the communities they serve. With that comes the need to identify and cover issues and stories of relevance to Africans with the same attention or aggressiveness as crime stories or other issues such as education and quality of life issues that work to perpetuate negative stereotypes. For example, for every story that depicts a mostly minority, high poverty school is failing to meet national and state academic standards, a story can be told about another school of similar socio-economic makeup where students are excelling. Where there are gaps/disparities in academic achievement, health, finances or other quality of life issues, there is a person or program that is working to close that gap. Who is an African-American male entrepreneur who is taking time to mentor minority students? Is there a community that is banding together to fight crime? What programs are helping to guide African Americans as they work to attain the same financial stability as their white counterparts? How about covering the school that was referenced in the 2008 edition of The State of Black South Carolina where culturally relevant teaching is working to raise the academic success of African American students. These are some of the stories that can be told that are being overlooked. (cont’d on page 56)

Devotional

What does God Want?

What does God want from the Body of Christ? –in 2010 and beyond –

dishonor to His Name; the embracing of forgiveness and His amazing grace that saves and continues to keep us.

There is only one appropriate answer to the question posed above. What God wants from the Church in 2010, indeed for an eternity, is exactly what He has always desired from His people: their full and total devotion.

What does God want to do with the Body of Christ? – in 2010 and beyond –

What is in focus here, and in danger of being lost in the shuffle of Christian business and busyness, is what we are privileged to witness in Isaiah’s encounter with the almighty God of the universe in Isaiah chapter six: namely, our stance before the face of God. This potential prophet, when immersed in the reality of God’s holiness, was awakened to an agonizing appreciation of the depths of his sin. He experienced the inexpressible pain of God’s cleansing act, as the white-hot coal touched and purified his leprous lips. “Oh most holy God!” you can hear him cry. “How can I stand? How can I live?” There is only one appropriate posture for any of us before the living God. When confronted with His holiness, our default position as human creatures is to fall face down before Him in contrite repentance and humble worship. Little wonder then that Isaiah utters aloud, “Woe is me, for I am undone!” Ruined! Revealed! Unveiled! Exposed! Known for who he knew himself to be when standing there face to face with the holy, righteous God of the universe. “I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips!” Isaiah experienced the transforming power of God’s righteous, restorative benevolence and His humbling grace. And only then, after the action of a thorough cleansing from the courts of heaven, did he qualify for the task assigned him by God, to speak forth His Word to the nations.

While there is one all-encompassing and most appropriate answer to the question posed above – He wants to purify His Church and present her holy before His presence with exceeding joy – there remain numerous legitimate responses. God wants to ignite the Church and send her forth into a world that is both ignorant of His saving grace, and blindly content with a damning god of it’s own devising. A god I may conjure up in my mind through finite musings, is a god so casually appeased, so easily dismissed. I am never concerned with nor afraid of the god of my own imaginings. Why? Because the god that I myself concoct is a god designed to suit my purposes, obey my bidding and turn a blind eye to my sin. Such a deity has no power or authority over me, demands no servile respect or obedience from me, and lacks all power to save me. He does not dwell in unapproachable light and will soon diminish in “majesty” by virtue of my fickle, waning attention and lack of desire to worship something as empty and benign as any ill-concocted figment of my own invention would naturally be. This is the god worshipped by an increasing number of men, women and young people who live and operate outside the walls of our churches on any given day of the week – citizens of the communities into which God has strategically placed us as His Church. Their god has them bound in darkness, spiritual blindness and ignorance of the truth.

God’s glorious agenda for the church has never changed. We are asked to love Him totally - with heart, soul, mind and strength and our neighbors as ourselves. He wants our devotion. The Body of Christ is the living organism whose purpose is to glorify God, to enjoy Him forever and to represent Him in the world as His commissioned agency for the building of His kingdom, reaching the nations with the gospel. But like Isaiah, we are subject to God’s prerogative as God, to ready us for the task. And that readying process will inevitably bring us into direct confrontation with the holiness of God for the purpose of our cleansing. It is necessary that those who stand for God, representing Him before the world, do so robed in the perfect righteousness of Christ, renewed through the cleansing power of His shed blood and kept by His grace. But first, the preparation – the revelation of God’s holiness and the sinfulness of my sin before Him; the confession of sin and a turning away from all that brings

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The Church in 2010: What Does God Want?, cont’d

The one thing that God desires from the church today, is what he has always wanted from the Church: unadulterated worship from humbled servants of His Lordship as the righteous King of heaven and earth. But that is not happening. Isaiah’s God elicited a most remarkable response from His awe-smitten (servant) worshipper – “Woe is me, for I am undone” – that led to a deepening appreciation of grace, and a richer, more acute sense of the holiness of God and His worthiness to receive uncompromised adoration. The god of this world has blinded the eyes of those seeking their solace and comfort in what the world has to offer, and has ruthlessly bound them in personal commitment to his conniving bidding. It is into this world that God is sending us as His spokesmen and women.

why God is constantly at work to graciously awaken us from our debilitating slumber, bring us to our knees in repentance, wean us away from the world, ignite our hearts with a passion for Christ, and increase in us our burden for the lost.

God can only do in us and through us what He desires to do, when we surrender ourselves in complete submission to His will and purpose for our lives, as those who collectively make up His Church. He is faithful, and He will do it. Are you willing and ready to submit?

To glimpse God’s holiness and taste His grace, is to be susceptible to His call, out of the deepest gratitude of heart for all He has done for us. But even a most cursory examination of the visible church in our western culture today will expose a number of glaring spiritual fault lines, rendering the church vulnerable to the chastening words of Christ leveled at the Ephesians: “You have lost your first love” (Rev.2:4). The very same church that had so faithfully represented the word and character of God throughout Asia Minor thirty years before, now exhibited the telltale signs of apostasy. Convinced of God’s favor, they anticipated His commendation. Instead, they received His chastening hand of discipline: “Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lamp stand from its place – unless you repent” (Revelation 2:5). The one thing that God desires from the church today, is what he has always wanted from the Church: unadulterated worship from humbled servants of His Lordship as the righteous King of heaven and earth. But that is not happening. Were it to happen, the neighborhood, indeed the nation, would be inverted – turned upside down! What is at stake here is not so much our reputation as a Church before a watching world: many Christians faithfully labor to put feet to compassion both at home and around the globe. Work is done and ministry performed at great sacrifice and enormous cost by a huge number of believers in conjunction with multiple Christian agencies throughout this nation and the world. Nor is it our record of fulfilling official weekly expectations and obligations incumbent upon self-respecting church-going citizens: churches continue to function and programs are implemented aimed at addressing the individual needs of men, women and young people in communities large and small. No. What is at stake here is the joy and satisfaction derived by God’s family when we lay aside the attractions of the world in favor of faithful service of the King, in obedience of His call upon our lives. That is

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The Beacon of Light Foundation’s (B0LF) mission is to serve as a viable and engaging, multi-service community development center to empower citizens of Columbia through an array of programs and services. BOLF was founded in 2003 by Marcus R. Shiver Sr. who desired to develop an organization that would foster an environment of excellence that would, in turn, perpetuate itself in the community it serves. Shiver, a native of Columbia, SC, served as a City of Columbia Police Officer for over 11 years and is presently the Senior Pastor at the Spirit of Truth Christian Church. With a thorough knowledge of the problems that injure and weaken our communities, Shiver decided to establish a proactive organization that would address the same. BOLF serves as a facilitator and a catalyst for positive change in the Columbia communities. With the belief that positive change in any environment is a matter of product, the foundation constantly assesses the needs of the communities and seeks to collaborate with others or establish program systems that can rectify the problem—beginning with the product itself, the citizens of Columbia. BOLF believes that all people require and deserve personal and professional assistance that can prepare them to effectively perform their fiscal and civic responsibilities and live satisfying and meaningful lives. BOLF is structured as a 501(c)3 organization.

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The Center of Empowerment: SC Professional Management Institute The professional management course is the hallmark program for the Center of Empowerment. It is an intensive professional management certification course endorsed by professional corporations. The program is an integration of management and technology, as well as entry, managerial, and executive level training. The Center of Empowerment is currently developing a new curriculum for the program.

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Beacon of Light Outreach Center &Beacon of Light Thrift Store The Beacon of Light Outreach Center is dedicated to providing a variety of goods and services to the citizens of Columbia, SC who are in need. It is comprised of a thrift store, food bank, and a distribution center providing toiletry products and much more! The Beacon of Light Outreach Center is housed on the complex of the Spirit of Truth Christian Church, located at 301 Sunset Drive, Columbia SC.

Community Service Network of America Community Service Network of America is a community-based organization whose mission is to develop healthy, safe, and empowered communities through the promotion and development of community-based programs and services throughout SC. All network affiliates and members are assigned to the primary headquarters located at 301 Sunset Drive, Columbia SC. If you would like to donate, volunteer, or learn more about one of the BOLF programs, please contact us at beaconoflightfoundation@gmail.com. You can also call us at 803.255.0835.

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FCC F CC CM Media eddia Ownership, Ow wneershhipp, con cont’d nt’dd While the public may see more African-American faces when they turn on their televisions, they may not be aware that behind the scenes there is very little or no representation at the decision-making table. Coverage and content decisions are at the core of how news is presented. The unique perspective that can be given by an African American needs to be reflected in how a story is presented. We recommend more aggressive approaches to ensuring minority representation in decision-making and management-level positions, such as training programs that prepare and position minority staff for these leadership roles just as similar programs exists in other corporate and business environments. Also, there needs to be regular participation in media diversity training that focuses on cultural sensitivity and balanced reporting should be required of journalism professionals at all levels from the camera crew to upper management. Furthermore, steps should be taken to provide more access for students who attend Historically Black College and Universities to participate in internships. Too often students who attend HBCUs have difficulty in gaining access to internships in the newsroom of local media because of media representatives’ unfamiliarity with HBCUs. Equally as important, heightened recruitment efforts that involve a panel comprised of credible minority community leaders to offer input should be employed as a viable strategy, as well. More importantly, television stations should examine its decision-making. Given the power of the media that’s invested in local television, they must focus on two questions: One, what message do we want to send; and two, what message are we sending. Until those questions are addressed, we will continue to have discussions about the lack of fair and comprehensive coverage of the minority community. We also encourage the FCC to call for a national examination of the amount and type of coverage devoted to African Americans and other minorities so that the media can enhance its awareness in balancing news coverage.

Stay Tuned....

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There are hundreds of organizations ready to help Midlands residents who need a hand. So many, in fact, that people seeking assistance can feel overwhelmed. Those in need are looking for a simple way to ﬁnd help. Now there is a way, and it’s called 2-1-1. By dialing this easy-toremember number, anybody can get in touch with a trained specialist who can asses their needs and refer them to an appropriate community-based program or service.

How does United Way 2-1-1 work? Callers simply dial 2-1-1 for information and referral service. United Way of the Midlands 2-1-1 is: • Free and conﬁdential • Available 24 hours a day • Available in many languages • Staffed by certiﬁed information and referral specialists

What kind of help can people find by dialing 2-1-1? United Way 2-1-1 can be your answer for a host of problems concerning: • Food and family needs – find food banks, clothing closets, child care, mentoring, tutoring or other services • Child Care – 2-1-1 now offers help in finding quality child care resources and referrals • Housing – locate shelters, find rental assistance, home buying information and more • Employment – discover job training opportunities, transportation assistance, education programs and other helpful services • Counseling – find crisis intervention services, as well as family and individual counseling • Health care – get connected with health insurance programs, home health care, homemaker services and other programs

How can people who want to volunteer use 2-1-1? In addition to ﬁnding resources for those individuals seeking assistance, 2-1-1 helps people who want to give back to their community by volunteering. Operators will direct you to openings or you can ﬁnd the opportunity that is perfect for you by visiting www.uway.org/volunteer.

What area does United Way of the Midlands 2-1-1 cover? Richland, Lexington, Newberry, Fairﬁeld, Orangeburg and Calhoun counties. Should a disaster be declared, 2-1-1 becomes available statewide.

How can you reach United Way of the Midlands 2-1-1? Local land-line and cell phone callers simply dial 2-1-1 or call 803-733-5408. Out of the service area users call 1-866892-9211 (toll free). You may also search our online database of resources by visiting www.uway.org/get_help/.

Professor Andre Rogers Director, Pastoral Ministries Program Pastor, Concord Fellowship Baptist Church Columbia, SC

The church desperately needs rock-solid, biblical leadership. At CIU, our goal is to build men and women who will shepherd the next generation to become leaders that impact their communities and the world with the message of Christ. Is God calling you to take the next step in becoming the pastor, church leader, or follower of Christ He designed you to be? Let’s meet. To learn more about our undergraduate and seminary programs, visit www.ciu.edu.

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