November/December Christian Outlook

THANK YOU TO OUR Y 1. Bishop Theodore L. Brooks, Sr. - New Haven, CT Beulah Heights First Pentecostal Church www.BeulahHeightsChurch.org

2. Bishop Charles. H. Ellis III - Detroit, MI Greater Grace Temple www.GreaterGrace.org

13. Suffragan Bishop Julian R. Johnson Normandy, MO Bethesda Temple Church www.bethesdatemplestl.org

14. Peace Apostolic Church - Carson, CA www.peaceonearth.church

3. Bishop Horace E. Smith, M.D. - Chicago, IL

15. Bishop Fredrick Jackson - Hartford, CT

4. Bishop Richard D. Howell - Minneapolis, MN

16. House of Prayer Apostolic Church of God

Apostolic Faith Church www.afcchicago.org

Shiloh Temple International Ministries www.ShilohTemple.com

5. Bishop Barrington Smith - Mississauga, ON Kingdom Life Ministries www.klife.ca

Christ Church of Deliverance www.ChristChurchofDeliverance.com

17. Bishop Gwendolyn Weeks - Dorchester, MA Bethel Tabernacle www.betheltab.org

18. First Church of Christ

6. Pastor Harold Brooks - New Haven, CT

19. Suffragan Bishop David H. Burkett - Marion, IN

7. Suffragan Bishop Charles L. Smith - Cincinnati, OH

20. First Church of Jesus Christ - Clinton TWP, MI

Beulah Heights First Pentecostal Church www.BeulahHeightsChurch.org Zion Temple First Pentecostal Church www.ztfpc.com

8. Suffragan Bishop Joseph C. Farmer - Sutherlin, VA White Stone Pentecostal Church www.whitestonepentecostalchurch.org

9. Suffragan Bishop Radar Johnson - Louisville, KY Greater Bethel Temple www.greaterbetheltemple.org

10. Suffragan Bishop Avery Burrel - Muskegon, MI Christ Temple Apostolic Faith Church www.ctafc.org

11. Indiana Avenue Pentecostal Church of God Chicago, IL www.ipc35th.org

12. Suffragan Bishop Michael C. Newman Gilbert, AZ Gethsemane Park Apostolic Church www.Gethsemanepark.Org

Christ Temple Church www.ctcmarion.org

21. Greater Mount Zion Pentecostal Church Bluefield, WV www.gmzion.org

22. Bishop Charles M. Finnell - Indianapolis, IN Christ Temple Apostolic Faith Assembly www.christtempleac.org

23. Suffragan Bishop C. Shawn Tyson Indianapolis, IN Christ Church Apostolic www.ccaindy.org

24. Grace Temple Church - Johnson City, TN 25. Bishop Sherman L. Merritt - Nashville, TN Greater Christ Temple Church www.greaterchristtemplechurch.org

26. Suffragan Bishop David E. Johnson Minnetonka, MN Grace Apostolic Church www.gacmn.org

WOULD YOUR MINISTRY LIKE TO THENOVEMBER/DECEMBER CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK? CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK “POSITIONED FOR SUPPORT PROMISE” 2021 2 THE

YEARLY SUPPORTERS! 27. Suffragan Bishop Dale I. Shaw Sr.

New Britain, CT Bethesda Apostolic Church www.ba-ct.com 28. Suffragan Bishop Robert E. Martin, Jr. Zion Temple Church www.ziontemplechurch.org

29. Suffragan Bishop LaVelton J. Daniel, Sr. Greater Emmanuel Apostolic Temple www.geat1150.org

THE

CHRISTIA VOLUME 97

M AG A Z I N E

Greater Pentecostal Temple www.GPTChurch.org

INSIDE EDIT

FIGHT LIK A GIR

31. Bishop Harry S. Grayson - Ypsilanti, MI Messias Temple Church www.MessiasTemple.org

FEATURED ART ICLE

T 2021 /AUGUS . 4 JULY E 97 NO VOLUM

Springfield, OH Church of Jesus Family Worship Center www.churchofjesusfwc.org

N A I T S K HRI O OUTL

L SOCICAE: I WE GO JUHESRT E DO HERE? W Bi

35. Suffragan Bishop Edgar Usher - Houston, TX

37. Pastor Prentis Vasco Johnson, Sr. Ph.D, Th.D.

Stewart

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Mount Vernon, NY Mt. Olivet Apostolic Faith Church www.Mt-Olivet.org

36. Bishop Jones Foote - Springfield, MO

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34. Bishop Dr. Errol O’Savio

www.theshipofpraisechurch.webs.com

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32. Bishop Kevin M. Harrison, Sr.

33. Suffragan Bishop Ann Storey-Pratt

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30. Bishop Marvin E. Donaldson - Kansas City, KS

Indianapolis, IN Grace Apostolic Church www.gracechurchindy.org

NO. 5 SEPTEMB ER/O

Tacoma, WA Greater Christ Temple www.greaterchristtemple.org

38. Bishop Gary Harper - Taylor, MI

Greater Grace Temple O.G. Hayes Memorial www.ggtoghm.org

? PLEASE CONTACT THECHRISTIANOUTLOOK@PAWINC.ORG. THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK “POSITIONED FOR PROMISE” NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 3 w

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BISHOP THEODORE L. BROOKS, SR. PRESIDING BISHOP & EXECUTIVE OFFICERS First Assistant Presiding Bishop

Second Assistant Presiding Bishop

Bishop Mark C. Tolbert, Sr.

Bishop Michael D. Hannah, Sr.

General Secretary

Assistant General Secretary

General Treasurer

Assistant General Treasurer

Suffragan Bishop Craig High

Suffragan Bishop Ann Storey Pratt

Suffragan Bishop Maxie D. Dobson

Suffragan Bishop Leon E. Parker

BOARD OF BISHOPS w Former Presiding Bishops Enebong E. Ephraim ** Ronald L. Young v George F. Austin Clifton Jones v Vanuel C. Little ** Leo C. Smith, Jr. Immanuel Paul Joseph S. Montinor Richard E. Young Horace E. Smith wv Nealon Guthrie ** James Gaiters v Charles H. Ellis III wv Michael D. Hannah, Sr. v William R. Jones ** Noel L. Jones Lance R. Foster v

v Member of Executive Bishops Council

Theodore L. Brooks, Sr. v Roland E. Hairston Charles Sims Gregory W. Newman v Sherman L. Merritt v Moses E. Butler Frank Cuomo ** Richard D. Howell, Jr. v Billy G. Newton Joseph D. Guthrie v Edgar A. Posey Ellis J. Farrington Alfonso Madden Carl Lewis Leo Simpson Marion E. Wright, Sr. v Mark C. Tolbert, Sr. v

** Emeritus Bishops

Tutai Pere Isaac Tumo Mthimkula C. Wayne Brantley v Michael D. Franklin Samuel R. Moore v Lourenco Vieira Ira Combs Gary H. Harper Larry O. Jones v Samuel Nice Nkanang Charles M. Finnell v Robert Thomas A. Glenn Brady v Earnest Pendleton Robert A. Baker James Daniel Edgar Robinson

Rufus G.W. Sanders Carl Turner v Thomas Davis Jeffrey D. Goldsmith Jones Foote v Robert T. Douglas Donnie McGriff Bruce Shaw Barrington Smith v Melvin Brown John Thorpe James Greg Rodges Mona Reide Gwendolyn Weeks Fredrick Jackson Leroy Horne Donald L. Golder

+ Honorary Bishops Harry Grayson Gregory Irvin v Stephen Zondo Arthur Fletcher Kevin Dobbs Kevin M. Harrison Derek Pierson Errol O’Savio Stewart Reese + Eulah Nelson + Ernest Miller + Marvin Donaldson +

The Episcopal address is: 3939 Meadows Drive / Indianapolis, IN 46205

PENTECOSTAL ASSEMBLIES OF THE WORLD, INC. HEADQUARTERS OFFICE / 3939 MEADOWS DRIVE INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46205 / 317.547.9541 * FAX: 317.543.0513

Ms. Roxanne McDaniel PAW Headquarters’ Office Manager Your first point of contact 317-547-9541 Fax: 317-543-0513 rmcdaniel@publishing.pawinc.org

Mrs. Jordan Brooks-Adams Chief of Staff Auxiliaries and Departments 203-376-6089 jbrooks@beulahheightschurch.org

Elder Alan Burroughs Executive Liaison for Special Committees and Director of Apostolic Day of Prayer 301-893-7300 aburroughs@pawinc.org

The CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK Magazine (ISSN10894217) is published bi-monthly, and is the official organ of the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc. Headquarters: 3939 Meadows Drive, Indianapolis, Indiana 46205; phone (317) 547-9541. Please let it be known that all rights are reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced, stored in an electronic system, or transmitted in any form by means of electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, or otherwise, without the prior permission of both the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc., and its entity the Department of Publications. Periodical postage paid at Indianapolis, IN 46206. Printed in the United States of America. All rights reserved. Over 60 years of continuous publication in the interest of Christian perfection according to Ephesians 4:11-13, and emphasizing Apostolic faith and practice, the Second Coming of Christ, and the preparation of the people to be the Bride of Christ.

SUBSCRIPTION: USA. $30.00: Foreign, please call the office for rates at: 317-547-9541. Single copies and back issues $5.00 each.

SUBMISSIONS: Please contact Roxanne McDaniel for rates at: 317547-9541. We assume no responsibility for and are not obligated to print any article or advertisement either solicited or unsolicited. Views expressed are not necessarily those of the PAW, Inc. or The Christian Outlook magazine. POSTMASTER: send address changes to: 3939 Meadows Drive, Indianapolis, Indiana 46205.

TABLE OF

CONTENTS 4

Executive Officers

6

Letter from the Presiding Bishop

9

From the Editor

10

Cover Story: Collide

12

Evangelism

14

Self Care: The Efficacy of Forgiveness

16

Advice for a Happier Marriage

EDITORIAL

18

Leadership in the 21st Century

Evangelist Neechy Dumas Editor in Chief and Director of Publications

20

The History of Messias Temple Number One

24

In Loving Memory: Dearly Departed Saints of the P.A.W.

26

Merry Christmas!

27

Happy Birthday Jesus, December 25, 2021?

28

Happy Holidays from the Bishops and First Ladies

33

Happy Holidays from P.A.W. Widows

34

Merry Christmas from the Auxiliary Leaders

35

Merry Christmas from the Staff Members

36

Meet The Christian Outlook Design Team

38

Trusting God for Bigger

40

The Blessing in Obedience

42

Preparing Your Plants for the Change

43

Business & Streaming Tips

47

Book Review: As a Child of God, How Happy Are You?

48

Adopt-A-Soul: Prison Break, Break Free

51

Statement of Ownership

MAILING ADDRESS The Christian Outlook Magazine 3939 Meadows Drive Indianapolis, IN 46205 (317) 547-9541 (317) 543-0513 FAX www.pawinc.org

Evangelist Mona Thomas-Green Associate Director/Graphic Design First Lady Jennifer Slaughter Content Administrator & Assistant to Editor in Chief Elder Demarcus Williams/FRESHDESIGNZ, LLC Cover Design Creative Director/Graphic Design www.freshdesignz.net Sister Dawne Hill/DHDesigns: Graphics Studio, LLC Graphic Design www.behance.net/dawnehill Sister Gabrielle Louden Graphic Design Roxanne McDaniel Office Manager/Accounting Director Elder David Hollis, Jr. Minister Timothy Moore Dr. Lillian Lockett Robertson Suffragan Bishop Harold E. Rayford Suffragan Bishop Leonard S. Scott Minister Ramona Ward Dr. Ruth Tyson Newton, Publication Proofreader Executive Contributors Stacey N. Monger Mary Sanford Production Associates

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From the Desk of the Presiding Bishop

Bishop Theodore L. Brooks, Sr.

Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc.

Greetings in the Precious Name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

Lady L. Janice Brooks and I send you warmest Christmas greetings! We love this time of year—the gathering of family, the joy and happiness that feels present in the air. Last holiday season was truly a unique one, as we sheltered at home and spent much anticipated time together in separate homes and spaces with the hopes of health and safety. Though we have not yet turned the corner on this pandemic as we would have hoped, it is our prayer that we have learned to cherish those we love even more. Indeed, we have seen just how quickly life can slip away.

The fragility of life brings to light for me just how magnanimous the love of God is that He would wrap Himself in flesh and enter time and humanity with the foreknowledge of his own rejection and death. How great the love of God that He would give us the ultimate gift—the gift of His presence with us—even knowing that His fleshly presence was only but for a moment in the span of time. Yet, this gift of life remains with us always now through the Holy Spirit—a comforter, edifier and all that God is within us. How beautiful, how wonderful, to know that Emmanuel, God with us, became God within us. He is a wonder.

His love is a wonder. His love is powerful. His love is peace.

More than ever, it is critical we embody and share the love of God to one another in a day and time when we may feel very alone and separated. However, God’s love transcends anything and everything, and binds us together in the days when we cannot physically share space with one another. It is our prayer that we all take a few moments each day to love on someone in your life, from your family to strangers.

As we pray for one another and the world, I want you to join me in a special prayer for those who have lost loved ones, family members, friends, and neighbors. Too many tables are left forever changed, too many seats now forever empty of their usual occupants. Therefore, we lift up in prayer those who spend this holiday season fighting for joy, that the God of all comfort will give them strength and peace to continue their life’s journey. We lift up every family that is forever changed from this pandemic, and we join together in love and unity for peace that passes all understanding. Lord, touch the hearts of Your people everywhere.

We love you to life. Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas, from our hearts to yours!

Bishop Theodore and Lady L. Janice Brooks

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Now it

Shall Spring Forth

Positioned for Promise Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it?

I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.

- Isaiah 43:19 KJV “And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.” ‭‭- Luke 24:49 KJV‬‬

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“POSITIONED FOR PROMISE”

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

FROM THE EDITOR Evangelist Neechy Dumas

Welcome to the Nov/Dec 2021 Edition of the Christian Outlook Magazine!

As we come to the end of another year, I’m gently reminded that Christmas is a time for reflection. A truly meaningful Christmas comes not by what we say or do. It isn’t anything that we can produce or purchase. It isn’t determined by the value of gifts given or received. A truly meaningful Christmas happens when we realize that without Christ, our life would be meaningless.

O

ver the last several months, as our publication and the world continues to experience delays due to the ongoing effect of the pandemic, I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the many readers, supporters and especially the new subscribers of the Christian Outlook magazine, for their patience and support of our organization-wide publication. I am ecstatic to report that we have seen a continual increase of overall sales and subscriptions throughout the entire year of 2021 and I am always amazed at just how engaged our readers and subscribers are with our magazine. It is my continual hope, that a magazine as trusted as ours, and as welcomed into homes as the Christian Outlook has been for over 50 years, that we continue to be prayerfully-led in presenting a publication that is not only reassuring and comforting to the body of Christ, but that also aims to bring hope in the midst of the world around us. For “The Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.””

(Psalm 147:11)

most certainly our Presiders faith and Godly-conduct have encouraged and strengthened countless souls to remain faithful and unwavering in their love and servitude towards Christ.

Within these pages filled with the testimonies of the saints, it is my earnest hope that you are motivated by the entrepreneurial journey of Suffragan Bishop Edgar and Lady Rolania Usher, that you are inspired to become a greater leader by the words of Suffragan Bishop Janice Davis Lee, M.B.A, and finally that you are captivated by the full roster of our PAW Bishops and leaders on display this holiday season.

May you continue to be fully persuaded that God is capable of performing every promise made in His word, and that you find yourself in the right place at the right time, to receive every blessing that God has in store for you. Even in the last few weeks of this year, be determined to be “Positioned for Promise.”

I hope you and your family have a Merry Christmas and that you experience the blessings of the Lord in the New Year.

Blessings, Evang. Neechy Marketing & Publications Director @Neechy | www.Neechy.com www.BigDripThreads.com

I’m also grateful to our presider, Bishop Theodore L. Brooks, Sr. to be given the opportunity to serve in this capacity. The Bible instructs us to “Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.” (Hebrews 13:7) and

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COVER STORY

COLLIDE

By Pastor James E. and Lady Desiree Tyson, Indianapolis, IN

U

Collide: to strike one another or one against the other with a forceful impact; come into violent contact; crash.

ndoubtedly, like many reading this article, March of 2020 began our orientation to life’s most formative and transformative events both of us would experience.

Incomprehensible joy and indescribable pain decided to cohabitate in the corridors of our hearts, thrusting us to live through and mature in the decision of God. Yet, if anyone asks, there is a faith that can survive the collisions of life.

pandemic. To a degree, we felt a sense of relief. I am sure that may sound a bit odd given the circumstances our world was experiencing but true. Defying odds, sustaining a degree of success, and remaining faithful to Kingdom expansion – sounds like a beautifully painted story of triumph and glory, right? Nearing behind us, however, were the glaring lights of life speeding toward everything we knew to be consistent and safe.

Entering 2020, both of us were full of expectation and hope. To the glory of God, our individual and corporate ministries were thriving, goals were being met, and a new vision was being cast in our family. Typical to any maturing family navigating through the varying successes and challenges of six years of marriage, raising two young children, pursuing higher education, and achieving career goals, days were complex; however, each day, we made the intentional decision to make each moment better than the next. Corporately, our church, Christ Church Apostolic (Indianapolis, IN – Bishop C. Shawn Tyson, Senior Pastor), declared this was “The Year of BIG!” Holding fast to Ephesians 3:20, we boldly confessed, “Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us….”

True to the visionary builders that we are growing to be, we allowed our God-given imagination to spread to what is presently known as “The Genesis Center” – state-ofthe-art event space for worship services, community functions, concerts, recordings, and much more.

This space on the grounds of Christ Church Apostolic was our original sanctuary. Founded in 1976 by our grandfather, the Honorable Bishop James E. Tyson, this space served well for one of the city’s fastest-growing congregations. However, through the permission of our father and mother, Suffragan Bishop C. Shawn and Pastor Krista Tyson, we were given the leeway to exercise adaptive leadership and create a space conducive for the uncharted territory our ministry was facing.

Without notice, everything came to a screeching halt.

Our lives, possibly yours as well, went into a full-blown collision with a global pandemic. Yet, fiercely determined to think differently, we decided to maximize our season and persevere forward. We served, improved, and cultivated giftings that were unfamiliar to us before the

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In a moment of transparency, when requested to share this article with you, we intended to detail the experiences of building The Genesis Center. Every project has its difficulties – finances, deadlines, and unmet expectations are all a part of the builder’s expedition. That sojourn was the intended subject of this presentation you’ve dove headlong into. Why? Because of our choice and training to be private people. Never will you find us

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

willfully yielding our emotions to the ink of a magazine that will touch thousands of hands and hearts we have never met. Our “light afflictions” were going to serve as merely blurred scenery on a filtered canvas. Yet, the more we explored our journey, the more we discovered that this article has been deconstructed, reconstructed, torn, covered, and repurposed like the construction of The Genesis Center.

In the throes of what was sure to bring a sense of accomplishment, the collision so many families experienced over a year stepped on our porch and violently pounded our front door. Job layoffs, ministry engagements stopped, and finances were impacted, but nothing prepared us for next. After days and months of working on The Genesis Center Project, our mother calls to inform us that our brother, Isaiah, and our father and sister had contracted COVID-19. Before you tune out because of your preconceived idea that this is just another “COVID Story,” navigate with us through months of tests, adversity, and complications. Thankfully, our sister and father survived. On May 26, 2021, we and our children were preparing to leave our home to go to the church to continue our Genesis Center Project.

Deadlines needed to be met, and we had work to do.

While loading up the truck, hands full of equipment and décor, the phone rings – it’s our mother. Our 28-year-old brother went home to be with the Lord.

Sitting on the same porch grief stepped on, we wept.

Like many of you, we questioned our faith. We thought we escaped “this.” “This” was not supposed to happen.

There was too much life to live, too many Thanksgivings to attend, too many more stories to write. God, in His sovereignty, introduced us that day to a series of altering events. Days later, we stood at our son’s preschool graduation, attempting to maintain our composure and some celebratory attitude. After all, this was our son’s graduation! Days turned into weeks. What many do not realize is we continued to build through the pain and injuries of our collision.

From the opposite direction, a sickness continued to plow toward us. Lack of rest, pretending to be a people of strength for the people, fatigue, and grief all began to crash on us. Finally, nearing the conclusion of the Genesis Center Project, after a long night of painting and laboring, Desiree came home, sick. Laying in the bed, body in pain, I, James, had to keep going. My wife needed to be cared for, my children needed tending to, and the project had to be completed.

Following her, I, James, experienced COVID-19 and double pneumonia. This brought for recovery that I am still enduring as we pen this article. This series of collisions shifted the course of our lives forever. Typically,

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the average preacher would take this moment and sensationalize the conclusion of this article. “But God!” “Weeping may endure for a night….” You know, that kind of stuff. Realistically, we are still enduring the violent impact of life. Just as the sky was dark when this article was written, we are still enduring the night.

Maybe you’ve experienced this to some degree as well.

When you’ve lost so much and almost lose your life, your heart’s focus and passions change. Our gratitude is not predicated upon completing a project or seeing the sun gently appear over the horizon. We’re grateful that we survived the collision and that our perspective is changing. Healing is happening. These mountains are means for new revelation - beautiful mysteries of God that we’d never known unless we’d gone through this. One of the most challenging things to embrace is understanding God reserves the right to make edits to our expectations. The decision of God often separates us from our expectations but draws us nearer to His will and His intended identity for us.

“I thank God for the mountains, and I thank Him for the valleys, I thank Him for the storms He brought me through. For if I’d never had a problem, I wouldn’t know God could solve them, I’d never know what faith in God could do.” – Andre Crouch James E. Tyson, II (@jamestyson2) Desiree N. Tyson (@desireen.tyson) www.jamestyson.org

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EVANGELISM

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

SELF CARE: THE EFFICACY OF FORGIVENESS

S

By District Elder Dr. Helen N. Orme

elf Care is vital. One of the components of caring for self is giving and receiving forgiveness. Forgiveness is an act of giving. When a person gives, they are turning over the possession or control to someone without cost or exchange (New World Dictionary of American Language). When we forgive, we release possession or control of our destiny to God. Freely pardoning trespasses releases the creative life. This discipline allows God to take control, along with administering agape love to oneself and to others. Permission and reception, on the other hand, are crucial components of forgiveness. Granting oneself permission to receive or accept forgiveness is paramount. In addition, opening one’s heart to receive self-care through the medium of pardon and employing these principles increases the effectiveness of the overall process. Therefore, when engaging kindness and creating a space for the creative life to flow freely, it becomes evident that an exchange has taken place in one’s self-concept, emotions, thoughts, senses, gifts, talents, and calling.

Forgiveness is the act of being compassionate towards oneself. The ability to understand oneself by giving oneself affection bestows a deep feeling of compassion and kindness in the midst of transitions. It is an act of granting oneself mercy by withdrawing from the selfimposed prison of debilitating thoughts and poor selfconcept—the life-draining “I ought to” or “I should have” thoughts. We must extend the same grace to ourselves for all of the nurturing and caring we give to others.

Forgiveness provides the channel for the flow of fresh water. The scripture states “…out of your belly shall flow rivers of living waters” (John 7:38 KJV). Rivers of life, rivers of fresh ideas, and rivers of fresh creative energy, thus spring out of the belly to refresh the heart, mind

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and soul. This depth of self care stimulates the core of one’s being. Furthermore, it allows one to give oneself permission to recover and redefine the new. Giving oneself permission to let go of the old and take hold of the new while moving to the next level.

Another aspect of forgiving is forth giving. This act of giving is tridimensional. The first dimension entails moving beyond the realm of resistance to being made whole and exploring the reason why one would want to remain in the same state. Therefore, resolving and bringing closure to conflicts is necessary to forge forward to wholeness. Secondly, it requires giving up resentment and the desire to harbor old hurts, past experiences and disappointments by relinquishing the desire for vengeance and giving up the desire to exact a penalty for minor or pseudo-offenses. Thirdly, it requires one to allow the space and time to organize and put in perspective the things that are in disarray or that have changed; then accessing a new plan of action or behavior to move conscientiously toward self-care by offering pardon, love, gentleness, giving beyond the pain, and disappointments. It also includes giving oneself the time, honor and respect needed for transformation.

The greatest love is that of God for creation. God so loves the world that He gave us His only begotten Son (John 3:16). Before anyone asked for forgiveness, God moved forth to give, knowing that many would reject, resent and renounce His Son. Steadfastly reconciling the world through His Son, the mission is still being accomplished.

“Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins” (1 John 4:10 [KJV]). Forgiveness is a tremendous blessing. It provides an opportunity for reconciling with God, oneself and others.

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THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK

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FAMILY

ADVICE FOR A

HAPPIER MARRIAGE

By Lady Jennifer Slaughter “It’s Sunday and Keisha and her husband once again find their usual seats at church and settle in for worship.

They are careful not to touch or speak to each other for fear of the dirty looks and sarcasm that always bubbles near the surface. Keisha feels so very alone as she scans other couples in the sanctuary, and wonders if any of them struggle as much with their marriages as she does.

The others look so happy and together. She shrinks lower into the pew, and wonders what made her and her husband drift so far apart.”

“Elaine remembers a time when she felt so loved by her husband, but his preoccupation with watching TV and his disconnected attitude have her feeling more like a roommate than a wife. The fond times they once had fade further into her memory.”

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Both of these women are living with the challenges of a difficult marriage. They are the saints and they want to stay married, but they don’t know how to survive the continued downward spirals that ensnare their marriage.

They are our neighbors, friends, and the women we sit next to at church. Some may not even be aware of what the problems are, and are even more clueless about how to solve them. It seems like no one else in the church struggles like they do, and they wonder what’s wrong with them and why God doesn’t answer their prayers and rescue them from this pain? Is divorce their only answer?

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All marriages have seasons of difficulty, some more than others. Our common response is to blame our spouse, close down to self-protect, grow apart, or search for the nearest exit. Our society with its high divorce rate, and the “I deserve to be happy/the grass is greener” philosophies encourage the deception that divorce will solve our difficulties. Scripture teaches us that marriage is inherently difficult. If we think of the relationship between God and the Hebrew people as a marriage, then we see God coping with a difficult, contentious spouse in a marriage filled with tragedy and heartache.

Christ was a man who was filled with sorrow and grief (Isaiah 53) and suffered brutal rejection at the hands of His “beloved.” The difficulties between Christ and His bride (the church) were so severe that his death was required in order for their relationship to be possible.

Christ knew the difficulty of marriage.

Marriage means partnering with God. God is intensely involved in our marriage, whether it’s an easy or trying one. He loves you and your spouse, and is molding and shaping you. From the backyard to the bedroom, God is there. He desires good things for you. Yet we must understand that marriage is one of the prime ways he will shape our character. If you will seek God’s face concerning your marriage, He will show you your passions and your selfishness as they are played out with your spouse. You’ll be challenged to love and grieve with a desire and wisdom that can be drawn only from his resources.

He will not abandon you in your marital struggles. You are not journeying alone. Your pain is not without purpose.

Thriving will not be possible unless God is working through you.

Finding Hope God is the answer for difficult marriages - always. How He works things out and His timing are unique to each person, but God wants marriages to be healed. As women begin to heal and surrender their difficult marriages to God, He is finally free to work. God gives us the strength to challenge old patterns and courageously lead the way in relational healing. He gives us hope beyond ourselves as we humble ourselves, separate from trying to change our spouse or fix up our marriage in our own power. God alone will be our peace; He will destroy the barrier of hostility between us. (Ephesians 2:14).

The church is full of thousands of Keisha’s and Elaine’s - women who need to speak up and find support in the midst of their difficult marriages. As they grow and persevere on the Godly high road in spite of their marital struggles, the Lord will bless them beyond their expectations. Even if their marriages do not change the way that they would’ve like them to, as a result of their growth, these women will be stronger, closer to God, and live more peaceful and joyful life as a result.

5 Keys to a Happy Marriage • God describes love; make it your daily goal to measure up (1 Corinthians 13:4–7).

• Remember that criticism and nagging destroy love (Proverbs 21:19).

• Guard your thoughts (Proverbs 4:23).

• Keep Christ in the center of your home (Psalm 127:1).

• Remember that God joined you together in marriage (Matthew 19:5, 6).

ABOUT THE AUTHOR First Lady Jennifer Slaughter

Speaker | Author | Leader

Lady Slaughter is the Founder of the Women’s Ministry Movement and joyfully attends Christ Temple Church of Lansing, MI., where the Pastor is Suffragan Bishop J.L. Slaughter.

Follow her on Facebook & Instagram: @HopeLansing | @Women’s Ministry Join the HLM Women’s Ministry movement at: www.hopelansing.com THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK

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LEADERSHIP

LEADERSHIP IN THE

21ST CENTURY

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By Suffragan Bishop Janice Davis Lee

his article will help you prepare your ministry for the demands of the future. The church or ministry must bewill flexible to incorporate Century evolving This article help you prepare your21st ministry for the communications. leaders should be: demands of the future. The Today’s church church or ministry demands have21st a staff, or hire serviceschanges. to assist with flexibility tech-savvy, to incorporate Century evolving many modern skillsets.

16:3 “Commit to the Today’s church leaders shouldProverbs be: tech-savvy, have a staff, or Lord whatever and modern he will establish plans. hire services to assistyou withdo, many skillsets.your Proverbs 16:3 “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will I serve the Suffragan Bishop of Washington State establish yourasplans.

Churches of the Alaska-Yukon District Council – 56th District of the P.A.W. My leadership I serveEpiscopal as the Suffragan Bishop of Washington State mission includes leading as a mentor, managingEpiscopal resources, and Churches of the Alaska-Yukon District–56th providing spiritual guidance.

I also with lead the Janice Davis District of the P.A.W. Great leaders engage Ministries a 501 (C) non-profit community community, city(J.D.M.), council, mayor, and(3) governor.

I currently charitable organization monthly am the director oforganization. a $13.5 millionThis Japanese retirement families by in my Rowanda withorganization education, food, home sponsors recently acquired non-profit and shelter; we currently havein aSeattle, faithfulWA. following Africatown Community Land Trust I am of overfor 10,000 supporters.toI lead also serve as associate humbled the opportunity this great work in pastor the at New Hope M.B.C. and by as the president of New homeless community challenged pandemic.

I amHope Academy, 501given (c)(3)me learning institution. excited that Goda has a place to utilize my executive

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What is your leadership style in the 21st Century?

and spiritual leadership, engaging churches, city officials, organizations, and billion-dollar companies to support There are five church leadership styles: Autocratic, Laissez-a community experiencing gentrification.

Faire, Participative, Transactional, and Transformational.

Understanding leadership style will strengthen What is your leadership 21 Century? a leader’s knowledge ofstyle howintothelead in the 21st Century. Modern leaders are encouraged to visit There are five church leadership styles: Autocratic, Laissezwww.churchtechtoday.com/2016/04/27/top-5Fair, Participative, and Transformational. leadership-styles/Transactional, to understand their particular Understanding leadership style will strengthen style’s strengths and vulnerabilities.

“Warrena Buffett leader’s knowledge how to lead in the 21st Century. is known for greatofsuccess, surrounding himself with Modern leaders are encouraged to visit www._https:// people he trusts; his leadership style allows people to churchtechtoday.com/2016/04/27/top-5-leadershipdo their jobs efficiently, so he doesn’t have to worry styles/to their when particular style’s strengths and about it, understand only intervening it’s essential.”

(W.G.U., vulnerabilities.

“Warren Buffett is known for great success, 2020); this is a hallmark of efficient leadership. surrounding himself with people he trusts; his leadership style allows people to do their jobs efficiently, so he doesn’t have to worry about it, only intervening when it’s essential.”

(W.G.U., 2020); this is a hallmark of efficient leadership.

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Five Leadership Skills for the 21st Century: 1. Lead with Integrity from the inside out: Lead with integrity is the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles; moral uprightness.

People are looking for leaders who will be honest with them about life, God’s Word and share life experiences. Proverbs 11:3: “The integrity of the upright guides them, but their duplicity destroys the unfaithful.” We want to do our Father’s will daily, Jesus Christ, make good sound judgment, and make decisions to impact others positively. Dr. Addie B. Davis always advocated honesty, and it pays off with the trust you build with followers and community, which is priceless. Proverbs 12:22 “The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.”

2. Consistent Prayer Life: Jesus was praying, and when He finished, one of His disciples asked, “Lord teach us to pray as John also taught his disciples” (Luke 11:1). Verse 2-4 Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come.

Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. 3 Give us day by day our daily bread. 4 And forgive us our sins, For we also forgive everyone indebted to us.

And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one.” Psalm 119:15-16 “I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways. I will delight in your statutes; I will not forget your Word.” Ephesians 6:18-New Living Translation (N.L.T.) “Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.” Leaders need to stay connected by prayer to the voice of God to create an environment for spiritual revelation.

3. Communication: Twenty-first Century leaders have access to cell phones, laptops, tablets, texting, e-mails; these are great resources to reach the lost.

If your ministry desires to send phone messages to the church members, go to www.Robotalker. com. Another excellent popular resource for church committee meetings, prayer, or church services is www.freeconferencecall.com. There are many social media platforms for communication: Zoom, Facebook, Youtube, Instagram, Twitter, podcasts, radio, and many other apps to communicate God’s Word. Think about creative ways to communicate with your supporters? “It has been suggested that body language may account for between 60 to 65% of all communication.” (Cherry, 2019). Live video chat; your facial expressions tell more than what you say. Words are powerful; they can heal or destroy a soul. Ephesians 4:29 “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” Everything we do must be THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK

in love. This is the will of God, and if God is Love, we are to demonstrate it every day in how we interact with souls. 1 John 4:8 “Whoever does not love does not know God because God is Love.”

4. Taking Care of Business: Taking care of business in the ministry as God leads to take care of His ordained work. Bishop Emeritus Nathaniel Davis, Sr., in Seattle, Washington, a founding member of the Bethel Christian Church, created many businesses to sustain the church. He founded; the Bethel Christian Church Childcare Center (0-5), Bethel Christian Church Academy for grades (K-8), established a B.C.C. property management group, owned a construction company, financed the building of a church in Papua New Guinea along with the Late Bishop Carl Stewart and the Late Bishop Theophilus Price. Bishop Davis was installed as the pastor in the 70’s, his first goal to pay off the $50,000 mortgage, and it was a success within two years of his pastoral leadership of giving the church members a plan of how to reach the goal. The church remains debt-free to this day, where Bishop Thomas E. Davis is the current pastor. Bishop Davis, now 86 years of age, has shared, “Have a plan,” “Have a vision” Proverbs 29:18 “Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.

• Envision what your future looks like, how to sustain your ministry currently through the pandemic as well as after the pandemic.

• Invest in your church and members.

• Create multiple resources of income besides tithes and offering.

• A great help in bookkeeping is www.chitwoods.com; • Keep your 501 (C) (3), building insurance, medical/ dental insurance current.

• Set up a retirement account.

5. Discipleship: Twenty-first Century leaders live by Matthew 28:18: “Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.

And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Twenty-first Century leaders include the techniques of modern mentorship when engaging in discipleship. They cultivate spiritual growth as well as the personal growth of their mentees.

A current leader teaches the Word and teaches empowerment the tools to disciple others with the Word by taking risks and establishing boundaries.

I pray this information has been a blessing to you. If you would like more information, e-mail j.music.davis@gmail.com.

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HISTORY

P.A.W. HISTORY MESSIAS TEMPLE NUMBER ONE | YPSILANTI, MI

E

80TH CHURCH ANNIVERSARY 1941-2021

lder John T. Elders and Sister Laura Elders of Detroit, MI came to Ypsilanti to start a church.

“A white church on a corner in Ypsilanti” is what Sister Laura Elders is quoted as saying she saw in a vision.A small group of believers started having prayer meetings, standing on the corner of Monroe and Hawkins in Ypsilanti, MI (in a wooded area Sister Elders named “Messias Grove”-as stated by Bro. Doug Franklin). From there they were invited to have prayer meetings in the home of Bro. Edgar and Sister Lena Barfield.

While the church was in preparation, there were some faithful saints who came with Elder and Sister Elders to start the work in Ypsilanti – some of those names are still heard in our church and in homes yet today.

Such as Bro. & Sister Edgar (Lena) Barfield and daughter, Gladys; Sister Powell; Bro. & Sister James Naylor; Bro. Curtis Naylor; Bro. and Sister Ludie; Bro. James Frierson (Sis. Marjorie Franklin’s dad). Later, faithful members such as, Bro. Moses Bass; Bro. Sylvester and Sister Hattie Smith; Bro. John and Sister Betty Barfield; Bro. Douglas and Sister Marjorie Franklin; Sister Lois Holman; Bro. Chambers; Bro. John and Sister Margaret Cannon; Bro. and Sister Henry; Sis. Anna Belle Arnold; these all embraced and carried on the ‘faith of the saints’ as committed workers in the vineyard, praying for souls to fill the newly built Messias Temple Church.

Though Messias Temple Church Number One was formed in 1940, it was not until June 1941, that the church at 565 Monroe Street, Ypsilanti, MI was recognized as an organization. Joyfully, in the year 1945 the church building was completed (and, of course, they painted the outside “white”), and on June 3, 1946 the church was dedicated by Bishop Samuel N. Hancock, and John T. Elders was ordained as Pastor, with his wife Sister Laura Elders by his side. Just 3 years later, on March 2, 1949, Pastor John Elders left his earthly home at the age of 66. Elder John T. Elders was pastor of Messias Temple Church for 9 years, from 1941 to 1949.

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Later that year in 1949 Sister Laura Elders took the mantle as Pastor of Messias Temple Church. Members of the congregation banded with Pastor Laura Elders and continued the work of the Lord. In the early 1970’s Pastor Laura Elders Bass now married, saw a great revival of new converts. Much of the time she was confined to her house and a wheelchair but was still on fire for God. Young and old came in and received the gift of the Holy Ghost and were baptized in the name of Jesus. Her latter years of being pastor were indeed fruitful. On October 1, 1974, Pastor Laura retired as Pastor. Two years later she passed from this life to Glory on October 6, 1976. Pastor Laura Elders-Bass pastored Messias Temple Church for 25 years, from April 1949 to October 1, 1974.

A faithful servant to Pastor Laura Elders-Bass until her death, on May 25, 1975, Elder Jesse Ross was elected Pastor of Messias Temple Church. Under Elder Ross’s leadership, the church membership continued to grow, as the 1970’s and 1980’s continued to bring souls in hungry for the Word of God, and wanting to be filled with the Spirit. Yes, and many were, so much so that the need for a larger church was put into the heart of the deacon board and the Pastor. Elder Ross built a strong foundation leading by example, teaching that prayer, fasting and a daily intake of the Word was needful for a successful life in Christ. In 1984, the Messias Temple Church family members along with friends and community leaders, marched from 565 Monroe to 200 Harriet Street, (current church edifice).

On June 7, 1991, after a lengthy illness, the Lord saw fit to call home Pastor Ross. Elder Jesse Ross was pastor of Messias Temple Church for 16 years from May 28, 1975 to June 7, 1991.

In September 1991, Elder Harry S. Grayson was elected by an overwhelming vote by the members, under the direction of Bishop William Abney to be the next and fourth Pastor of Messias Temple Church. On January 25,

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1992, the installation service was filled with anticipation as the members anxiously awaited the mantle to be passed to Elder Harry S. Grayson. Bishop Willie Burrell preached a dynamic sermon, “Raise it, Raise it” (Psalms 137:7). Messias Temple Church saw the mighty move of God that night as his will was wrought.

Messias Temple Church has had transitional times, as do most churches. Pastor Grayson at Messias Temple Church stays firmly grounded in the Word of God, teaching, and preaching the “one God” whose name is Jesus. And because of that teaching many are convicted under the anointing and ask, “What must I do to be saved?” The record is clear in heaven and in the earth that for the last 30 years, under the leadership of Elder Grayson, District Elder Grayson, Suffragan Bishop, and now Bishop Harry S. Grayson, many were “restored” to their walk with the Lord, and over 2,000 souls baptized in the name of Jesus; with many of that number filled with the Holy Ghost.

Bishop Harry S. Grayson was duly elevated to the office of Diocesan Bishop of the 60th Episcopal District Council of the Western Cape, South Africa, under the leadership of Presiding Bishop Charles H. Ellis III at the 2018 Summer Convention in Atlanta, Georgia.

Bishop Grayson’s outreach ministry has taken him to the continent of Africa—Cairo, Egypt and to Harare, Zimbabwe, in South Africa where he preached for ten days and was able to leave a financial contribution that helped to complete the funding needed for a new church sanctuary and the beginning phases of building a new medical clinic, which was named in his honor.

Bishop’s compassionate, outgoing spirit is evident in the “We Care We Share” Hot Meals ministry, which he implemented in his early years of the pastorate, which feeds over 10,000 people locally at the church here in Ypsilanti, Michigan yearly. With a yearly budget of over $100,000, the “We Care We Share” ministry is a powerful entity of Bishop Grayson and the Messias Temple Church outreach. People are fed weekly, and clothing is provided to help the homeless families that have been negatively affected by the economy. Even

THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK

through the 2020 pandemic, this program stayed open and provided needs to the local community.

Other added Outreach Ministries today include weekly “Live Streaming” over the internet as well as a local Radio and TV Broadcast; these efforts focus on outreach in our home community, surrounding communities, and to the world.

During his tenure, Bishop Grayson has served the office of the Mayor of Ypsilanti, and the Ypsilanti Police Departments, also local school communities. Further, as he saw the need, he implemented the Aenon Bible College satellite base at Messias Temple Church where many received their fundamental foundation of the Principles of the Word of God and of the Apostolic Doctrine.

Bishop Grayson completed his Mechanical Engineering degree from Washtenaw Community College and University of Michigan, while continuing his fulltime position with the University of Michigan as a Refrigeration and Heating Engineer. He worked there for 20 years until a year after his elevation as Pastor of Messias Temple Church, when the Lord placed in his spirit to fully devote his time to the pastorate. Bishop Grayson resides in Ypsilanti, Michigan since 1973 with his lovely wife, Lady Mary, where they raised their son, Evan Joshua and twin daughters, Maya Britney and Shari Whitney, and one granddaughter Olivia.

“Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.” Isaiah 28:16 Today, in the year 2021, Messias Temple celebrates a great heritage of its 80th year of existence in the Ypsilanti community, as well as, now Bishop Harry S. Grayson’s 30th pastoral anniversary. God has done a mighty work indeed!

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REMEMBER WHEN

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IN LOVING MEMORY

PRECIOUS DEPARTED SAINTS PENTECOSTAL ASSEMBLIES OF THE WORLD, INC.

“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.” Psalm 116:15 Alabama District Council - #9 Bishop George F. Austin Sister Feona Bramwell Elder Lloyd Daley Brother Osbourne Daley Minister Barbara Francis Sister Glenda Hudgson Mother Agatha James Mother Hazel Robotham Sister Collen Savory Brother Franklin Savory Evangelist Adelyn Spence Mother Rose Simmons Sister Indinella Williams Suffragan Bishop Edgar Wilson Sister Mabel Yvonne Virgo

~~~~~~~ Arkansas State Council - #18 Bishop Alfonso Madden, Diocesan Missionary Rosie Burks Sister Theresa Davis Brother Jessie Driver Mother Stella Mar Driver Missionary Yvonne Dumas Brother Earl Farmer, Sr. Reuben Williams District Elder Robert L. Williams, Sr. Lady Rosie Sanders-Williams Missionary Gladys Wilson

~~~~~~~ DC, Delaware & Maryland District Council - #22 Bishop Earnest Pendleton Sister Ella Bowers Minister Johnie Dallas First Lady Lana Pendleton Deacon Leroy Wainwright

~~~~~~~ Florida State Council - #29 Bishop Billy G. Newton, Diocesan Elder Eric L. Brown, Sr. Deacon Stewart Carson Sister Latasha Christian Sister Annie Mae Gilmore Sister Barbara Ingram Sister Elyshia D. Lindsey-Johnson Brother Jimmie Lee Johnson Sister Katrina Rena Johnson Mother Joan Roberts Mother Berlena Thomas-Sheffield Sister Pamela E. Sherman Bertha Lee Stevens

~~~~~~~ Georgia State Council - #30 Bishop J.D. Guthrie, Diocesan

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Brother MacArthur Bradshaw Mother Evelena “Sissy” Boards

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Elder Abraham Boyd Sister Rajinda Chisolm Mother Annie Mae Clayton Sister Lessie Crutcher Mother Claudia Drysdale Brother Holbrook Eady Evangelist Veronica Easington Brother Charles Frison, Sr. Sister Frances Green Brother Jacob Green Brother David Hudson Sister Carolyn Jackson Mother Dorothy Jackson Brother Sylvester Jamison Sister Willetta Jenkins Mother Charlesetta Lewis Sister Olive O. Lewis Sister Ronda Matlock Sister Diona Nethels Sister Jacobia Robinson Mother Margaret L. Rouse Sister Barbara Stafford Brother Calvin Steele Sister Shirley Villalongo

~~~~~~~ Heart of America Council of Churches-#14 Bishop Mark C. Tolbert, Sr., Diocesan First Assistant Presiding Bishop Sister Betty Clemons Deaconess Lenora Douglas Lady Sharon Drone Ida Goodwin Suffragan Bishop Carnest Mitchell Sister Mary Roberson Deacon Bill Watkins

~~~~~~~ llinois District Council - #6 Bishop Horace E. Smith, M.D., Diosesan Brother Daniel Baxter Suffragan Bishop Arthur Bell Courtney Benton Elder James Bobo Laresha Bowles Glenda Davis Bugg Theresa Calloway Harriet Carter Brother Steven J. Christian Brother Frank Collier Sister Shirley Creggett Bishop Charles Davis Charlene Dean Sister Jackie Easter Yvonne Edmond Brother James Ellis Bishop William A. Ellis, D.D. Reginald Foster Antonio Fuller Elder Tubbie Gordon Shree Green Deacon Dwayne Hampton Sr. Tiera Hill

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Mother Mary L. Holifield Dr. Dorothy J. Jackson Sister Verna Jackson Sheron Marie Jackson Mother Beatrice Jacobs Yolonda Johnson Ernestine Jordan Delores Lisenby Roy Madden Mrs. Connie Maiden Mother Luvienia Martin Roger Curtis-McGowan Charles McLemore Sr. Trustee Jimmie McNair Cheryl Mitchell Annist Murphy Shirley Ann Orr Caroline Owens Dr. Charles L. Reid, District Elder Barbara F. Richardson Dorothy Robertson Sister Lisa Ross George Sims Pastor Casey Stewart Willie Summers Jr. Carolyn Taylor Phebee Terry Bryon Wardlaw Katherine Watkins Milton Webb Barbara Gene Wilson Mattie V. Wilson Barbara Works Clarence Works

~~~~~~~ Midwesterm District Council - #12 Bishop Larry O. Jones, Diocesan Mother Mary D. Parker Brother Sheron Weaver Brother James Littleton Brother Ralph Brown Sister Ethel Mae Pebbles Elder John Strain Elder Steve Horton Elder Caesar Forrest Sister Mardra Criss Sister Hazel Bass Foster Mother Mayteen Graham Elder Lansing Raymond Bell Mother Cassie Deloris V. Stoner Brother William Morganfield, Sr. Sister Roberta Post Sister Deborah K. Taylor Sister Freddie Adams Mother Wilhelmina Certain Brother James Mays Sister Mary Foster Brother Odell Keys Brother Marcus McAlister Sister Shirley Williams Brother James Motley

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VIRTUAL CONVENTION 2020 - Present [Alphabetically] Mountain States Council - #15 Bishop Gregory W. Newman, Diocesan Sister Paula DeGidio Sister Betty Eddings Dr. Pauline Eddings Elder Herman Gipson Sister Margaret Graves Mother Dorothy Goods Sister Michelle Long Brother Robert “Pop” Marshall Sr. Evangelist Ida McNeil Sister Ruth Morrow Deacon William Pennington Jr. Sister Joenelle Russell Brother Calvin Watkins

~~~~~~~ New York State Council, Inc. - #1 Bishop Kevin Dobbs, Diocesan Deacon James Bachus Pastor Emeritus Beatrice Bostic Elder William Jiles Missionary Mary McClains Pastor Gladston McGowan Evangelist Ann Mitchell District Elder Uvie Stewart Sr. Suffragan Bishop James Washington Suffragan Bishop Leslie Hodelin-Wilks

Oklahoma State Council Fellowship of Churches - #26 Bishop Jeffery D. Goldsmith, Diocesan Mother Mary Lee Evans Mother Lucille Franklin Deacon Frank Odean Goldsmith Suffragan Bishop E. Delbert Johnson, Sr. Pastor Larry Manous Minister Harvey Nickell Pastor Terry Y. Readen Brother Ida Charles Smith First Lady, Dr. Alice M. Tyler

~~~~~~~ Pacific Northwest District Council - #17 Bishop Roland E. Hairston, Ph.D., Diocesan Baby Braylon Burris Emeritus Bishop Nathaniel J. Davis, Sr. Dr. Annie Lee Richardson Dr. Lorraine Slyvester, Evangelist Mother Eveline Wilson

~~~~~~~ South Carolina Community of Churches - #24 Bishop Charles H. Ellis III, Diocesan

Mother Lerline Lucille Gandy Brother George Roger James, Jr. Sister Ruth O’Neal

Sister Joyce King Anderson Brother George Bethea Cameron Shamar Bethea Mother Hattie M. Campbell Bro. Andre Dobson Lara Gene Footman Sister Sarah Ann Holmes Frost Pastor Earnestine Leola Gordon Evangelist Joyce Lee Graham Sister Elizabeth Green Sister Queen E. Green Evangelist Murlee Hunter Deacon Ernest Inman, Jr. Sister Alberta Louise Bradford-Jackson Sister Armenthia Johnson Sister Sara Francis Jones District Elder Gwendolyn Kinard Sister Carrie Lyles Mr. Stevie McDuffie Sister Earline Middleton Deacon Tommy Miles Sr. Sister Juanita Moore Brother Charles Moss John Moses Nesmith, Sr. Deacon Calvin Satterwhite Deacon Peter Satterwhite Mr. Wesley Simon Sr. Elder Danny Williams Mother Earlene Wilson

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Northern District Council - #5 Bishop Ira Combs, Diocesan

Southern California District Council - #67 Diocesan, Bishop Donnie N. McGriff

~~~~~~~ Northeast Canadian Council - #55 Bishop Barrington Smith, Diocesan Sister Feona Bramwell Elder Lloyd Daley Brother Osbourne Daley Minister Barbara Francis Sister Glenda Hudgson Mother Agatha James Mother Hazel Robotham Sister Collen Savory Brother Franklin Savory Mother Rose Simmons Evangelist Adelyn Spence Sister Indinella Williams Suffragan Bishop Edgar Wilson Sister Mabel Yvonne Virgo

~~~~~~~ Northern California District Council, Inc. - #16 Bishop Noel Jones, Diocesan

Elder William Alford Elder Curtis Lytle Brother Herbert Smith

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Deacon Bobby Hill Mother Beatrice Jennings Mother Noretha Johnson Elder Nathan E. Jordan Mother Rosa Lowe Dr. Shirley Jean McGriff, Elect Lady Brother Charles Westley Patmon Jr. Sister Monique Robinson Brother James Rolland Brother Sylvester Rolland Mother Carolyn Stewart Dr. Esther Taylor Dr. Marjorie Williams

~~~~~~~ Virginia State Council Apostolic, Inc. - #28 Bishop Robert A. Baker, Sr., Diocesan Evangelist Gladys Barksdale Sister Christine Beamon Elder Calvin Chappell Andria Clark Elder Carl Clement Minister Beverly Goodman Suffragan Bishop Donald Johnson Deaconess Phyllis Jones Sister Lorraine Major Sister Angie Morris Sister Laverne Poe ViaSandra Short Brother Calvin Thomas Sister Dorothy Thomas Curtis Wilkins Rudy Wilkins

~~~~~~~ West Virginia & East Tennessee Council - #23 Bishop Samuel R. Moore, Diocesan Deacon Maynard Fleshman Deacon Kenneth Gillispie Sister Urania Turner-Gilmore Sister Octavia Hollie Brother Jerry Jackson Sister Mildred Jones Brother Larry Lee Sister Shirley Leftwich Deacon Charles Love Sister Mollie J. Manuel Sister Ramesha Oxendine Sister Mary Kate Reeves Sister Teresa Stevens Sister Julie Taylor Brother Xavier Thomas Brother Boyce Young

~~~~~~~

Minister Ramona Ainsworth District Elder Elect Mildred Crawford Deacon Judson Davis Deacon Ishmel Frank, Jr. Dr. Betty Givens Elder Raymond L. Hampton Mother Catherine Hansbro

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Merry Christmas!

S

Bishop Mark C. Tolbert, First Assistant Presiding Bishop eason’s Greetings to the EBC of the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, The Board of Bishops and to the Body of Christ within the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World. It is that season again that we honor the birth of Jesus Christ. The eagle eye prophet Isiah introduces him this way: Isaiah 9:6-7 KJV—For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even forever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.

turned over tables in the temple, He stopped executions, He raised people from the dead, He fed people He didn’t know personally. Jesus was all about helping people find their way to better. Better life, better love, better way to get through the challenges you must go through.

That’s why Isaiah said the government shall be upon His shoulder. He was not talking about these groups we have today fighting over power, prestige or who controls the White House. Isaiah is talking about the government of the church. You can’t see the government of the church with the naked eye. The government of the church is a heart condition by which each of us who are true Christians govern our hearts, our words and our actions according to the Holy Spirit that lives in us, talks to us and guides us.

While Christmas means gifts, toys and candy to many.

Those of us who know the true meaning of Christmas celebrate in a different way. The world does not understand our type of celebration. We don’t need to party drink and smoke to celebrate Christmas. When we think about what Isaiah said: for unto us a child is born and unto us a son is given, we realize Jesus was born to die. His sinless body would be sacrificed for our willful sin. The devil didn’t know God’s plan. God had a master plan to deliver humanity from the grips of sin.

1 Co 2:8 KJV—Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.

So, I say to all who know the real meaning of Christmas: Merry Christmas. Enjoy the season of celebration. Don’t get caught up in the hype of buying gifts you can’t afford, and items people will discard within ten minutes of opening. Take time to celebrate life and celebrate each other, knowing that Jesus had to be born before He could do any of the other great things He did. Let’s take time to celebrate the gifts of life, love and happiness.

Christmas means so many different things to so many people. There are over 7 billion people on the earth.

Many will stop to celebrate this day called Christmas but don’t really reverence the true meaning of the day.

Though I believe God has visited earth before, this time He did not come as a king but as a babe wrapped in swaddling clothes. Born in a manger, in a barn with animals, wise men, stars and angels. His entrance and introduction to the world as the Son of God. From this meager beginning, Jesus grew into manhood and His ministry was launched at a wedding feast when He turned water into wine.

If more of us took our que from Jesus, we would not be tied to traditional fallacies. Jesus was not traditional. He

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY JESUS,

December 25, 2021?

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Bishop Michael D. Hannah, Second Assistant Presiding Bishop t is that time of year again when opposing sides of the argument debate whether or not Jesus was born on December 25th.

I believe it was John Heywood’s Proverbs collection in 1546 That quotes: “We cannot see the Forest because we are standing too close to the trees.” In other words, we are often so busy focusing on the small things in our arguments that we miss the big picture. I would like to open this commentary by focusing first on the big picture and then the plethora of debates that we all hear this time of year.

I salute our church leadership for pointing out the origin of paganism attached to our Christmas season. My friends, as a church leader, I invite you to take a journey with me as we step away from the Tree and examine the forest.

Anyone who does a modicum of study will soon realize that in everything we do in society, in our churches, In our occupations, etc., all are connected or intermingled with pagan customs. Let me start with the date December 25, 2021.

December is the 12th and final month of the year in the Julian and Gregorian calendars. It is also the last of seven months to have a length of 31 days. December got its name from the Latin word “decem” (meaning ten). Now, the question begs if December is the 12th month, then why does December mean ten?

My friend, in almost everything we do, paganism is involved.

Please note that the original Calendar only had ten months. January and February were added later, approximately 100 years later. The month of January is named after the Roman god Janus. Janus was the Roman god of gates or doorways, depicted with two faces looking in opposite directions. His festival is the month of January. February gets it’s origin from Frebrua, meaning the pagan day of purification. The month of March is named after Mars. The month of April is named after Aphrodite the Greek goddess of love and beauty.

The month of May is named after Maia (meaning great one). It is the Italic goddess of Spring. The month of

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June comes from the name of the goddess Juno. Juno is the principle goddess of the Roman pantheon. She is the goddess of marriage and the well being of women. The month of July is named after Julius Caesar. The month of August is name after Augustus Caesar. September means seven because we only had ten months, and the calendar year started with the month of March, which initially was the first month of the year. The month of October means eight. The month of November means nine and December means ten.

My friend, as I prepare to bring my thoughts to an end, I would further like to elucidate the pagan problem with the day “the 25th.” Please note the very day of the week has a pagan origin. Sunday was named in honor of the sun god. Monday was named to honor the moon god.

Tuesday was named to honor the of Saxon god Twi. Wednesday was named to honor the planet Mercury, honoring the Teutonic god Wooden. Thursday honored the planet Jupiter named Thor. Friday honored the planet Venus later named the god Frigg of Freia. Finally Saturday honored the Roman god Saturn also the planet Saturn.

My friend in closing I would suggest to you that no one knows when Jesus was born. Some say he was born during the fall of the year. Some say he was born during the spring of the year. I believe if the actual birthdate of Jesus was that important the Word of God would have revealed it to us. Perhaps the reason God did not reveal the actual birth date of Jesus to us may be because He knew we would worship the day, month and year of His birth like the Greeks and the Romans. My advice is as the big picture suggests: Why worship the month, day and or year when we should worship the God who made the month, day and year. If Jesus is the physical manifestation of the invisible God He really has no birthday because He is Alpha and Omega.

The epistle of Colossians chapter 1:15-19 states: “Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature.” Verse 16: “For by him we’re all things creative, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or power: all things were created by him:” Verse 17: “And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.“ Verse 18: “And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the first born from the dead; that in all things he might have preeminence.”

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Happy Holidays

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BISHOPS AND FIRST LADIES OF THE PENTECOSTAL ASSEMBLIES OF THE WORLD

Bishop Ronald and First Lady Rose Young

Bishop George and First Lady Sheila Austin

Bishop Clifton and First Lady May Frances Jones

Bishop Vanuel and First Lady Alice Little

Bishop Leo and First Lady Joyce Smith

Bishop Immanuel Paul

Bishop Richard E. and First Lady Arlene M. Young

Bishop Horace E. and First Lady Susan Smith

Bishop Nealon Guthrie

Bishop James and First Lady Marcia Gaiters

Bishop Charles H. and First Lady Crisette Ellis III

Bishop Noel Jones

Bishop William and First Lady Irene Jones

Bishop Lance and First Lady Debra Foster

Bishop Roland and First Lady June Hairston

Bishop Charles and First Lady Jane Sims

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

Bishop Sherman and First Lady Vera Merritt

Bishop Gregory and First Lady Cynthia Newman

Bishop Billy G. and First Lady Ruth A. Newton

Bishop Moses and First Lady Katherine Bulter

Bishop Frank and First Lady Lila Cuomo

Bishop Richard and First Lady Betty Howell

Bishop Joseph D. and First Lady Marsha Guthrie

Bishop Edgar and First Lady Tracey Posey

Bishop Ellis and First Lady Daisy Farrington

Bishop Alfonso and First Lady Priscilla Madden

Bishop Carl and First Lady Thelma Lewis

Bishop Leo and First Lady Myra Simpson

Bishop Marion E. Wright , Sr.

Bishop Tutai and First Lady Patricia Pere

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Happy Holidays

BISHOPS AND FIRST LADIES OF THE PENTECOSTAL ASSEMBLIES OF THE WORLD

Bishop C. Wayne and First Lady Darlene Brantley

Bishop Michael D. and First Lady Chevone Franklin

Bishop Samuel R. and First Lady K. Reena Moore

Bishop Ira and First Lady Kimberly Combs

Bishop Gary H. and First Lady Pamela Harper

Bishop Larry and First Lady Nina Jones

Bishop Samuel N. Nikanang

Bishop Charles and First Lady Vivian Finnell

Bishop Robert B. and First Lady Deborah Thomas

Bishop A. Glenn and First Lady Angela Brady

Bishop Earnest L. Pendleton

Bishop Robert and First Lady G. Patricia Baker

Bishop James and First Lady Janette Daniel

Bishop Edgar and First Lady Vanessa Robinson

Bishop Rufus G.W. and First Lady Joann Sanders

Bishop Carl A. and First Lady Karen Turner

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Merry Christmas

Bishop Thomas and First Lady Denise Davis

Bishop Jeffrey D. and First Lady Regina Goldsmith

Bishop Jones and First Lady Dianne Foote

Bishop Robert and First Lady Paulette Douglas

Bishop Donnie McGriff

Bishop Bruce and First Lady Virginia Shaw

Bishop Barrington and First Lady Kareen Smith

Bishop Melvin Brown

Bishop John and First Lady Vivienne Thorpe

Bishop James and First Lady Phyllis Fraizer Rodges

Bishop Mona and Attorney Jerome Reide

Bishop Gwendolyn Weeks

Bishop Fredrick and First Lady Michelle Jackson

Bishop Leroy Horne

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Bishop Donald L. and First Lady Barbara A. Golder

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Bishop Harry and First Lady Mary Grayson

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Enjoy

BISHOPS, FIRST LADIES AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND THEIR SPOUSES OF THE PENTECOSTAL ASSEMBLIES OF THE WORLD

Bishop Gregory S. and First Lady Carmen Irvin

Bishop Stephen Zondo

Bishop Kevin M. and First Lady Deborah Harrison

Bishop Derek and First Lady Sharon Pierson

Honorary Bishop Eulah and Elder I.V. Nelson

Bishop Arthur and First Lady Pamela Fletcher

Bishop Errol and First Lady Judith O’Savio

Honorary Bishop Ernest and First Lady Virginia Miller

Bishop Kevin and First Lady Norschenia Dobbs

Honorary Bishop Stewart and First Lady Navoria Reese

Honorary Bishop Marvin Donaldson

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS-PENTECOSTAL ASSEMBLIES OF THE WORLD

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General Secretary Assistant General Secretary General Treasurer Assistant General Treasurer Suffragan Bishop Craig and Suffragan Bishop Suffragan Bishop Leon and Suffragan Bishop Maxie D. and FirstCHRISTIAN Lady TeresaOUTLOOK High Ann Storey Pratt First Lady Charlotte2021 Parker THE “POSITIONED FORFirst PROMISE” NOVEMBER/DECEMBER Lady Arletha F. Dobson

From God ’s Precious Jewels, the Bishops’ Beloveds Enjoy Your Family This Holiday Season

Lady Lorraine Abney

Lady Rebecca Bowers

Lady Isabelle Brazier

Lady Wilma Johnson

Lady Juana Johnson

Lady Sadie Peart

Lady Betty Roberts

Lady Elease Shaw

Lady Rita H. Wagner

Elder Larry Cushinberry

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Lady Ann Storey Pratt

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Lady Gloria Dawkins

Lady Marie Price

Lady Jewel Watkins

Lady Margie Garrett

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Merry Christmas Aenon Bible College Bishop Michael D. Hannah, Sr. 2nd Assistant Presiding Bishop President

International Christian Education Association Dr. Barbara Payne President

International Missions Department Dr. Kandy Akers President

International Pentecostal Young People’s Union Evangelist Freda Morrison President

International Deaf Ministry Evangelist Bertha M. Brown President

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AUXILIARY LEADERS OF THE PENTECOSTAL ASSEMBLIES OF THE WORLD

International Men’s Ministry Auxiliary District Elder Tommie Hughes President

Seed Agency Bishop James Daniel Director

International Single People’s Alliance Evangelist Cherylyn Williams President

International Usher Board Sister Hazel Lucas President

International Ministers’ Wives and Ministers’ Widows Auxiliary Dr. Barbara Scott Golder President

International Wayfarers Dr. Olivia Burkett President

Department of Transformational Leadership Bishop Jones Foote Director

International Health Professionals Sister Margaret M. Kongi, RN President

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International Missionary and Christian Women’s Auxiliary Dr. Charlotte M. Parker President

Convention Evangelism & Outreach Services Pastor Julian Johnson President

Youth In Action (YIA) Sister Nicole Gaiters President

International Music & Scared Arts Suffragan Bishop Michael Bender President

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

Merry Christmas

STAFF MEMBERS OF THE PENTECOSTAL ASSEMBLIES OF THE WORLD

Sister Roxanne McDaniel

Sister Jordan Brooks-Adams

Sister Shelly Hall

District Elder Angelo Willams

Evangelist Karol Middleton

Minister Mary Sanford

Evangelist Jaclyn Dunn

Elder Baron Poitier

Evangelist Neechy Dumas

Lady Ruth Tyson Newton

Evangelist Mona Thomas-Green

Sister Stacey (Little Bit) Monger

AENON BIBLE COLLEGE HEADQUARTERS STAFF

Evangelist Brenda Starks

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Sister Dovie Cunningham

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THE

MEET THE

OUTLO OK

M AG A Z I N E

CHRISTIAN D E S IG N T E A M

DAWNE M. HILL Dawne M. Hill is a Graphic Designer and the owner of D H Designs: Graphics Studio LLC. Artistic from childhood, her father encouraged her to enter a logo design contest at the age of 16. She entered and won first place. Her logo design for the Ohio District Council is still in use today!

Currently a resident of Tennessee, Dawne is a life-time member of the Ohio District Council and serves remotely as a member of the ODC TECS Team and as a member of the Grace Apostolic Worship Arts & Technology ministry at Grace Apostolic Church in Columbus, Ohio, where her father, Bishop James W. Gaiters, Sr., is pastor. Dawne has also lent her vocal music talents in ministry with both the church and ODC over the years.

Aside from her business, decorating, sewing and other interests, Dawne’s pride and joy is her adoring husband and three sons.

DEMARCUS WILLIAMS Demarcus Williams serves as an Associate Pastor and Director of Evangelism at Greater Emmanuel

Temple of Grace in Durham, NC, where the Honorable Bishop Marion E. Wright, Sr. is the Senior Pastor. He is also the son of District Elder Angelo Williams, who serves as the Director of Business & Operations Support for the Pentecostal Assemblies of World, Inc. Demarcus is also actively involved with the North Carolina State Council where he serves as President of the North Carolina State Council Young People’s Union.

Demarcus currently serves as Creative Director for The Christian Outlook, where he was responsible for the redesign of the magazine’s layout and template for the design team, its complete design and layout for subsequent issues and the preparation of each issue for production.

In the community, Demarcus serves on several boards and committees both locally and statewide, including the North Carolina Commission for Volunteerism and Community Service, which is a position appointed by the Office of the Governor, Roy Cooper (NC), the City of Durham Participatory Budgeting Steering Committee and the NC State Alumni Association Board of Directors.

Professionally, Demarcus serves as the Interim Chief Marketing Officer for Saint Augustine’s University in Raleigh, NC and owns FRESHDESIGNZ, LLC, where he has provided graphic design services for small to medium sized businesses since 2003. For more information, visit www.linktr.ee/demarcuswilliams.

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ERICK D. BOWENS Erick D. Bowens currently serves as the Associate Pastor of Youth & Young Adults at The Chosen

Vessel Church in Fort Worth, TX, where Bishop Marvin L. Sapp is the Senior Pastor. At his church he serves in a number of additional capacities including on the Media Ministry creating all of the graphic content for the church and his pastor. Erick is also a talented musician. He enjoys playing the keys as he has served as a musician and Minister of Music at previous ministry assignments.

Erick is a gifted speaker who travels sharing the word of God and giving seminars on marketing, branding, and design. For The Christian Outlook, Erick designed the March/April 2020 and September/October 2020 covers and several articles.

Erick also uses his creative ability as the CEO of Bowens Enterprise, a marketing and graphic design company that assists clients create their needs in a creative and sophisticated way. Services for his company range from book covers, flyers & informationals, web design, video editing and more. His company can be reached at www. bowensenterprise.co or by email at info@bowensenterprise.com

GABRIELLE D. LOUDEN Gabrielle D. Louden faithfully serves at her local assembly, Greater Bethel Temple Apostolic

Church in Louisville, KY under the leadership of Suffragan Bishop Rader Johnson, Pastor. She serves at her church in various capacities including, but not limited to Trustee, Media Team where she has served as a photographer and Social Media manager. Gabrielle has passionately and faithfully worked in Music Ministry since her youth and has operated as a praise team & choir member, choir director and musician. She plays multiple instruments including drums, bass guitar and trumpet. Gabrielle enjoys working with young people and served as the Greater Bethel Temple Youth Ministry President for 13 years. Not only has she held leadership positions in her local church but she previously held the office of Vice President of the PYPU of the First Apostolic Council of Kentucky and Tennessee where Bishop Sherman L. Merritt, DD is the Diocesan Bishop.

Gabrielle was privileged to design the March/April 2021 and the September/October 2021 covers of the Christian Outlook as well as a plethora of articles. In addition to working on the graphic design team of the Christian Outlook, she has been a social media ambassador under Evangelist Neechy Dumas since 2019. Gabrielle is an entrepreneur and is the owner of Designs by Denise where she specializes in marketing, branding and other design work including flyers, banners. invitations, album covers, merchandise design and more. You can contact her company via email at gabriellelouden@gmail.com. In her free time, Gabrielle loves to travel, make others laugh, spend time with friends & family and meet new people.

MONA THOMAS-GREEN Mona Thomas-Green, is a member of Temple of Praise Assembly where the Honorable Bishop Donald L. Golder, is pastor where she serves as associate minister and Ministerial Alliance assistant to the Pastor. Mona also serves as an Altar Worker and loves Outreach which she is a member.

Employed since 1981 serving as Graphic Artist in the Department of Publications of the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World under (5) Editors of The Christian Outlook magazine. She also serves as the Associate Director of the Department of Publications, handling the day-to-day operation.

During the tenure of Dr. Tyson as Editor of The Christian Outlook, Mona’s love for outreach created the Adopt-ASoul prison ministry, where she is responsible for corresponding to incoming mail from correctional institutions, as well as the articles that are published covering the Adopt-A-Soul prison ministry in our Christian Outlook magazine.

Mona is an author and she loves outreach. Her future goals are currently under development. Her new ministry, “Just Right Ministries” will include more outreach endeavors.

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BUSINESS

TRUSTING GOD FOR BIGGER

IN MINISTRY AND BUSINESS:

A Couples Journey of Love, Ministry and Entrepreneurship

By Suffragan Bishop Edgar and Lady Rolania Usher

Have you ever had a dream that went beyond your current circumstances? Have you ever believed God for MORE…? We’ve certainly felt this way throughout our journey. This article is written for all those that dream beyond your current circumstances; My wife and I, in our youth, were big dreamers and today, our journey is a true testament of God’s favor, love, and his faithfulness.

G

od has blessed us repeatedly beyond anything we could have expected or imagine, with more than what we could have dreamed of as kids. Today, I am a fourth-generation Apostolic Preacher, recognized for my distinguished leadership as one of Houston’s finest young preachers. I have preached all over the United States and abroad. My wife is a successful multi-milliondollar businesswoman, venturing into many industries, including tax preparation, delivery, childcare, coaching, event planning, and more. A proud Jill of many trades, Lady Usher is definitely among the most influential black women in America.

Yet, while my wife and I have amazing testimonies of God blessing us with the more, giving us the greater and of his amazing favor that has been graced upon our lives…we certainly can’t tell you that it didn’t’t come with a price. As soon as you begin to believe God for anything, rest assured you will be faced with some test, some challenge, some issues, some heart ache that will attempt to throw you off track. The more saints believe God for, the bigger the test sometimes becomes.

We’ve faced many obstacles and challenges prior to our

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marriage…and after, simply because we were doing what we believed God called us to do.

Our journey began in the middle of a pandemic: We courted and married during the height of COVID-19, which presented many challenges we’ve had to overcome.

The pandemic took the world by storm. It impacted everything around us; my church, her businesses, our time to court and ultimately our wedding, all had some sort of negative impact directly related to COVID-19 and the world began shutting down.

During this time, I had to close the church doors and offer services online, which was extremely difficult. Born and raised in Houston, Texas, I can recall at a very young age, playing church with my siblings in the back yard.

I always played the pastor, and at the age of 13, my dream was to one day become a preacher, and eventually become a pastor. Closing the church doors was a big shift for me. On top of the challenge of converting to an online ministry, I lost over 30 preaching engagements

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that year. Although, it appeared I was losing a lot, I kept my faith and kept believing God to cover the ministry, Lady Usher’s businesses, our finances and peace of mind.

I knew like Job, that if I stayed faithful to God during all the challenges, God would bless us with more, bigger and better than we had before.

Lady Rolania was born and raised in New Orleans.

Her journey started in foster care in the custody of Louisiana state. As a young girl she dreamed of being re-united with her mom, sisters and brother, and she later began to dream about changing and improving the entire foster care system. Today, Lady Usher is a successful businesswoman, who is now in the process of building her first group home for foster children in partnership with her Suffragan Bishop, Dr. Craig High and Bethesda Temple.

But even though she was successful in business, that all changed when the pandemic hit and many businesses were forced to shut down. “Closed” and “Out of Business” were seen in store windows all around. Yet, while many companies were forced to shut down, God covered Lady Usher’s Amazon delivery business; though there were initial discussions of layoffs, ultimately Lady Usher’s business was placed on Amazon’s “Essential Business” list and later asked to increase her employees and routes. We started believing God for double. He did exactly that. God doubled the number of routes and employees; eventually growing the company to the largest Amazon delivery business in the state.

While I jumped all in on the business adventures that Lady Usher had going, she jumped all in as the First Lady and is serving in the ministry with me. Through it all, I have mastered the online ministry while reaching souls near and far. Many join our online services each week and my preaching engagements have doubled.

My wife often says, “I can’t do anything without God, I would only fail.” We can’t take credit for any of our successes and blessings from God. We recognize all of it, “the greater” exist because of our faith in Him and because of His favor, love and kindness toward us.

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All of our dreams are coming true. We love God and are forever grateful to Him. Our marriage, businesses and ministries have been dedicated to Him and will always be a testament to what God can do for his children.

Here are three tips that will help YOU achieve “the greater” success in ministry and business:

1. Increase Your Faith in God. Romans 12:3 says

“...God has dealt to each one a measure of faith.”

This gift of faith that has been entrusted to each of us and makes it possible to not only live a life that is pleasing to God but gives us access to all the resources of heaven.

2. Develop Spiritual “Grit.” Refuse to give up. Giving

up can never be an option. In all situations, good or bad, God has called us to conquer. “Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.” - Romans 8:37

3. Remember, Recall and Recite God’s Word Often.

Regularly reading God’s Word changes our thinking so that we can grow in spiritual maturity, and gives us the faith to believe for the impossible. One of our favorites is Ephesians 3:20 KJV “Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly, above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us”

Suffragan Bishop Edgar L. Usher and Lady Rolania Lee-Usher serve as the Senior Pastor and First Lady of The Ship of Praise Church located in Houston, Texas.

Suffragan Bishop Usher currently serves as the Vice Chairman of the Texas State Council and Chairman of the Bay Area District Fellowship. Lady Usher serves as the Projects Administrator at Bethesda Temple Apostolic Church, and General Secretary for the Puerto District Council. They are the proud parents of De’Ja Lee, Divine Lee and Ashley Usher.

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YOUTH CORNER

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HOME & GARDENING

PREPARING YOUR PLANTS

FOR THE

CHANGE

By Cynthia Owens

M

y name is Cynthia Owens. I am a Plant Enthusiast and love caring for them. Seasons change and plants react to that change just as you and I do. Transitioning houseplants from summer to winter calls for preparation. Spring and summer are such good and healthy times for houseplants….well all plants. The air outside and inside has more humidity which is wonderful for them. Everything is growing and flowering, looking beautiful. Plenty of sunshine and rain….just what the plants need but then the seasons change. As the weather gets cooler, changes can occur with our houseplants.

Plants have different requirements just as people do (smile). It’s important to know what they do and don’t need. If you put your plants outside for the summer, you want to take certain steps before returning them indoors. Bugs love soil, whether it’s in the ground or in a pot. You do not want to bring potted plants into your home without flushing the soil, a process called “A Bubble Bath”. Water thoroughly with a non-greaser dish liquid, allowing inches of soap suds to remain on top to dissolve into the soil. This process will not harm your plant but will resolve and rid any problems of pest.

The location of your plants is also an important factor that many people do not consider. Before placing your plants, make sure you do not have any drafts coming through your windows. Drafts will cause dryness and browning of the leaves. Also try not to place your plants in front of heat vents, which could cause dry crispy and/ or wimpy leaves. Think of your plant leafs like SKIN... cold air and heat from vents can irritate the skin causing cracking, flaking and peeling. Not good! This harms the plant’s leaves.

If you have multiple Green Babies in your home like me, consider grouping them together is a good idea.

Grouping your plants will create warmth and humidity and allow them to thrive together. Grouping plants which have the same requirements is very important.

Plants that need humidity should be grouped together.

A humidifier may be necessary to maintain the needed level of humidity. Misting also helps but the humidifier is better. Sun Lovers should be grouped together in front of a window that provides sufficient bright light for them. Med-Low light plants should hang out together also. Grouping your plants makes it easier as you go through your weekly routine of caring for them.

WINTER TIPS: • Try not to repot: they are growing slower, some plants are hibernating.

• No need to fertilize during the winter.

• Water less, they drink less in winter.

• Some leaves may drop, that’s normal, mist your plants to supply a little extra moisture.

If you are intimidated by plants but would like 1 or 2, you want to start off with some that are carefree and easy. Here are a few low maintenance plants that only require watering every 2-3 weeks: Chinese Evergreen: med-low light Dieffenbachia/Dumb Cane: high-med light Golden Phothos: med light Monstera: high-med light Philodendron: high-med light Snake Plant: med-low light ZZ Plant: med-low light I hope these tips help you with the transitional seasons.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Cynthia Owens is a longtime member of Greater Grace Temple in Detroit, Michigan where Bishop Charles H. Ellis III is the Pastor. Cynthia is the owner of PlantBiz, which sells plants and provides local plant services for those that need help in this area. Cynthia also cares for the 40 plants at Greater Grace Temple and for the over 50 plants in her personal collection.

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S

oooo, this was pretty awesome…

In August of this year, I was contacted by StreamYard to serve as an Industry Expert for their Faith-based Industry Showcase. Whoa! What an honor! StreamYard is a live streaming platform service that has become very popular amongst brands, churches, entrepreneurs and the like. I am grateful that I can honestly say that I enjoy every portion of the live streaming process—whether I’m in front of the camera or behind the scenes navigating a conference, it all feels very natural to me, but I know that not everyone feels the same. So when StreamYard asked me to serve as an industry expert, I was excited to share my thoughts.

TECHNOLOGY

BUSINESS& STREAMING TIPS Here are a few tips to that you can use to help you to get over the nervousness of having a live stream or to enhance what you’re already doing: 1. Plan ahead. Have an idea of what points you want to focus on and stick to it.

2. Be timely. 5 minutes in person vs 5 minutes watching a live video are two totally different things.

Less will always be more.

3. Start Promptly. Avoid sitting on camera or leaving your audience to “allow more people to join”. This is frustrating for the end user. Besides…most people will catch your stream during the replay.

4. Ask for help. You can definitely be on camera AND run the live streaming set up on your own, but also consider asking a friend to handle navigating guest entries and comments for you.

5. Notify your audience. Use newsletters, text messages and social media posts to give advance notice of your upcoming live stream.

During the live session, I was able to convey not only how I’ve successfully used streaming for my own personal brand, but also how we, as an organization, have been consistent in connecting with our delegates and broadening our reach, via live streaming.

When Covid hit in 2020, it was clear that if we weren’t already secure with our online media platforms, we definitely needed to play catch up, quickly. We saw many organizations and businesses scurrying to find a way to connect with their members, customers, patrons and delegates. Online streaming, regardless of the software or platform that you choose, is an absolute necessity… not only for your church but for YOU as a leader.…

Think about it…over the past 18 months or so, we’ve increased the amount of time that we spend consuming video content. Theres no doubt that VIDEO is the king of media. As I go throughout my day, I’m often on my phone or computer more than I watch my actual television. What am I trying to say? If you’re not already comfortable with live streaming, there’s no time like the present.

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6. Use graphics. Graphics can take your live stream from basic to amazing. Hire a graphic designer to create your desired elements and incorporate them into your broadcast.

7. Communicate. If your broadcasts include outside guests, communicate login details, the expectation, length of time and topic focus in advance. This will ensure smooth transitions and great conversation.

8. Be Consistent. If you are a business, consider going live once a week on the same day and offer tips or resources for potential customers and supporters.

This will help to build your overall brand awareness and create trust with your audience.

9. Invest in the proper equipment: A good ring light and a plug in microphone from your local appliance store will do wonders for your live stream.

Don’t feel like you have to incorporate all of these tips at once, but choose a few and start your journey to growing your brand, audience and ministry.

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RECIPE PAGE

International Missionary and Christian Women’s Auxiliary A Book of Favorite Recipes Compiled by The Women of the Word Women’s Auxiliary of Jerusalem Temple Church

Dirty Chicken

RECIPES

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

Ingredients • • • • • • • •

chicken wings or all parts celery fresh mushrooms onions green peppers fresh garlic oregano salt

• white, black or red pepper • noodles or rice • parsley • 1 Tbsp. butter or margarine

Instructions Wash chicken. Place in large baking dish. Wash all vegetables. Place over top of chicken. Add all seasonings to taste. Add 1/2 cup water, place in 350 oven and bake until done. Cook noodles or rice. In separate pan, add butter or margarine to keep noodles or rice from sticking together. Place chicken over rice or noodles. -Sister Christeen Lewis

Quick Biscuits Ingredients • • • • •

2 c Jiffy mix 1/3 c. sour cream 3 Tbsp. hot water 1/2 tsp. baking soda 3 Tbsp. flour

Instructions

Cocoa Fudge Brownies Ingredients • 1/3 c. butter or oleo • 3/4 c. sugar • 1/2 c. honey or 1/4 c. light corn syrup • 2 tsp. vanilla • 2 eggs • 1/2 c. all-purpose flour • 1/3 c. Hershey’s cocoa • 1/2 tsp. salt • 1 c. chopped nuts

Icing: • 1/2 stick butter or oleo • 1/2 box powdered sugar • 2 Tbsp. Hershey’s cocoa • 1/4 tsp. vanilla • milk (add for desired • consistency)

In a large 1 quart bowl put mix. With a large spoon, make a well in center of dry mix, add sour cream. Sprinkle baking soda over sour cream, add hot water to baking soda-sour cream mixture. Blend ingredients until well mixed and forms a soft ball. Sprinkle flour on rolling board, pat lightly and quickly put dough on board to about 1/2-inch in thickness.

Cut out biscuits. Place on lightly greased baking sheet at 4250 for about 15 to 20 minutes. Remove, butter top.

-Dr. Helen Glenn, Southfield, MI

Instructions Cream butter or oleo and sugar in small mixer bowl. Blend in honey or corn syrup and vanilla. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Combine flour, cocoa and salt, gradually add to creamed mixture. Stir in nuts. Pour into a greased 9x9x1 3/4-inch pan. Bake at 3500 for 25 to 30 minutes or until brownies begin to pull away from edge of pan. Cool, frost with favorite chocolate frosting, or icing as above.

-Sister Lena M. Russell Apostolic Church of Jesus Christ, Topeka, KS

THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK

“POSITIONED FOR PROMISE”

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Joy To The World!

Joy To The Joy World!

To The World!

Joy To The World!

N O SN O A SHATH RTN R O F SGGHA N RF B W W N N DYN BN YN BY N ITI R W YB B O S T O G N I N RIDN B W NO O FA H R R BO FW G DN RW WW DN G GQGNQ V N JGEE M IE R G SV G Q N V J LEEJ M M R EL KA I RIGB S G GS G TS TG M E GJ G GM QM N RT VRLT MI B MRAL RB E RKA B G A K G U X M R Joy X LR M M G JM B TY UN X M X X N Q L Y G Q S J BJ R T T To The World!

UQ XLThe M RM XWorld!

XQ NQSQ MJ R GBM QR ST Y R M T U X M R X Joy XX N Q M G SML M Y M T BTM To S V T B Y KS Z M Q G JN Y V B K Z S A R M M N Q N R J YJ T S ST VAA TRRY BM YM KN ZNR SR AN RR M MRR RT Q NYG RTG Y S V TE B Y K Z S M Q N G J X C E E D IE N G G R E A T J O Y O C H R E X C E E D I N G G R E A T J O Y O C H R XF CG EN EI DR IB N G G RN EN AY TB J O Y O C H AH T R O W W D E XNNCOJOE DN I N G G R E A T J ON YR O C HASRRA QR H SSA BE GH D G D N N C M R N E Y S A Q H J S B G N D G D N N C M R Y S T R OJ FS GB G IN RD BG W W DN NC YN BE D N M R N E Y Q S G G G Q N V T J E M M R L E I R B A G K E E E L L E O A R N I E Z C U E M E W A W E E E L L E O A R N I E Z C U E M E W A W G GNQDN G V T EEN ML M KC R J SSUBGXG D N CLGRM REAYNIRJ RE SGZTA EQ JE EQLOS NBBY IRAEM U EQMHE W A M R X X N L M M T MM L R B X H X RW ZM IB M O PR Q K IZ G EO EK PK II N MQ L N H R W Z SN I P O PR I TG E I NI Q N LB M G YN JI B M TP LR H W PE GTQ P E EA P EWP N E EUSEX L L E O A N I E Z C U M E W V T B Y K Z S A R M M N R Q N R G J Y A T B B D N T Z A IA A K K E L O J H L K L S N K L A SB D N T A I K K E L O J H L K L S N K S V Y K R M M N R Q N R G J Y T BG D NR TE AA IT KJ KO EY LO OC JH HR L K L S N L K E X C E E D I N G M LE BX H R W Z N I O P K I G P E E P I N Q N C A E R O R O SR E ER JR A E SS IE SEJ C D XS YS N A O O N J O S I S OI S E D I N JE YE NDG ANG RNR OCE ORT NNS SEO EYO ERH SQR OD S X D Y X S Y J S B G N D G M S A H T G RTN EAD R G A K EE ER YA U H RE E R S K TR Z T R L K Y U H N E A BJ DS N IS DLK L O L LQ N B N EE Y R H SAN TK RNEC EI M RER AZN LCJN KUH EE S EMA YK U HAS N R R EK S RLK S T K Z T E E E L L E O R E W W I S T R R E N C R M S N G T M R A Y R T M I S T R R E N C R M S N G T M R A Y R T M E LR LOE N O AS NTEIR EJR ZE W W INRSE EI CNG NISAG N AEMRELO SUCPSEREMM IEESO DTQ M X RY ASY R T B H R W Z I O P K P N H H E F A N H Y G E E S E M F V B A L E M H H E F A N H Y G E E S E M F V B A L EL M M L B H R W Z NH IH OE PF KA IN GH PY EG EE PE IS NE Q M F V B A E S TAARBLBM E R A L K E E Y U H N R E R S K T Z D N T A I K K E L O J H L K L S N K L L T I T P J J N N N D P I O W W L B M L M L T I T P J J N N N D P I O W W L B M D N A I KL KM EL LT OI JT HP LJ KJ LN SN NN KD LP I O W W L B N A R O R EZ E SB SO IT OM DX XAY YY SX I SN TAL R R C R MRJBNJ S N M R MA DT XD Y O CRN BON ZLNS FC IBE S YS LYR A T D YLS E N R ISD B O O M LT A R EO N E EZ SFSG IZ O SR S Y C Z F Z I Y B O O M L T S T R E R A L K E E Y U H N R E R S K T Z PH Q PA N L RP Z G ER K Q N R M PQ Q O N M Q LVK Z G H T R EAM RNA LA O KY E YM U E R SQ Z H HS IEA FT A G EM E SGN ER F L SHE ESMKE QK N ACE R A PNH Q OT PMM NRH M LRBT RTA Z G Q S R R E N R M S A Y M C B E Y N H YR N K KY X XK U B Z G Q TU CC B H Y K X M D M X B G S R T RI R RR M N G TN M R Y R T M C RG RENS BEN YSM HED YM NFP KVA K X M DEW M X UBZ BM ZQ G T Q L MI HLV T T P J J N D I O W L H E F A N H Y B A L M Y N T H YV R NH T R Q Q R N M I N N Z M D R Q H H H E FI A YH EYI Z ETY M SYT X ER FN B AX LT E VJ G YDM RPD NI V N Z M XLM TBM D RQ QR QM R N MM N L T I T P J N N N O W W M L YLLCMJMM N B Z S F Z R I Y B O O M L A T D X M R D T Z Q L B K R D E A T K Y T B A J M M R D T Z Q L B K R D E A T K Y T B A L T I T P JJ JM NM NR ND DT PZ IQ OL W ME A T K Y T B BLW KA LRTBD L Y C N B Z S F Z R I Y B O O M D XN M YQZ PO G Y PM KYIMIJP Z XY KK KX M INR J W W KQ K J NLJ L J NJ A RL AR P Q L OJPYROLKPZ G HTJXJ SDLLJ E K Y M C NIP B SR F Z YG B M LZJ A XJK R Y P G Z L K W ARRA MPPQ PN NM QT LQ RQ ZG GH HD SE EK KQ NN BAW XQY N Y T T YX PT KY S X KQ NOP B W PM Y T Q Q PQW D S X K W N MY O Q LN R ZT S NK C RACRN B H N K K X M D M X U B Z G Q T N B W P X N Y T T Y T Q P K D S X K W C RRRRBBYYHHYYNNKKKKXXMMDDMMXXUUBBZZGGQQTT V HVVIHHYI I YTY TTYYYR TRRD R Q QNNR M N M RN NN N ZZMMX X T D QQQQRRMM MM Joseph Straw JosephR N N Z M X T DStraw Straw RDStar D TZ L BBBKKK DED E Y TTK J Star MJ JM RMRD TTJoseph QQLL AKYT Y Innkeeper Innkeeper MMM ZZQ RRDR AAE TT K BBInnkeeper AA T B A Star Rejoice Y PRejoice PGRejoice GYY PPKK J J ZZXX J J LDonkey L KKWWKK J J LLDonkey N I I YP N R Miracle MRRM I MY G Miracle Y P K J Z X Birth J Lof Jesus K W Birth KJ JDonkey J L J N of Jesus Miracle Birth of Jesus N B W P X N Y T T Y T Q Q P K D S X K W N Manger Kings Kings Manger BW KP D S N K W N Manger Kings N Herod BNW P PXXHerod NNHerod YY TT TTY YT Q T QQ PQ K XDK Emmanuel SW Emmanuel X Emmanuel

Call his name JesusCall his name Jesus Hope Hope Call his name Jesus Hope Bring forth a son Bring forth a son Mary Mary Joseph Straw Mary Bring forth a son Joseph Straw Three Kings Nazareth Three Kings Nazareth Star Innkeeper Nazareth Three Kings Star Innkeeper Jerusalem Gabriel Jerusalem Gabriel Rejoice Donkey Straw JosephRejoice Gabriel Jerusalem Donkey Savior Wise Men Wise Men Savior Miracle Birth of Jesus Savior Wise Men Star Miracle Innkeeper Birth of Jesus Stable Messiah Stable Messiah Manger Kings Messiah Stable Kings Donkey RejoiceManger Camels Frankincense Camels Frankincense Herod Emmanuel Frankincense Camels Herod Emmanuel Angel of TheJesus Lord Angel of The Lord Swaddling Clothes Swaddling Clothes Miracle Call Birth of Jesus his name Hope Swaddling Clothes Angel of The Lord Call his name Jesus Glory Hope Glory Exceeding great joy Exceeding great joy Mary Bring forth a son Kings MangerMary Exceeding great joy Glory Bring forth a son Myrrh Myrrh Three Kings Nazareth Myrrh Herod Three Emmanuel Kings Nazareth Jerusalem Gabriel Gabriel Hope Call hisJerusalem name Jesus Wise Men Savior Wise Men Savior Stable Messiah Mary Bring forthNOVEMBER/DECEMBER a son THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK “POSITIONED FOR PROMISE” 2021 46 Stable Messiah Camels Frankincense Three Kings Nazareth Camels Frankincense Angel of The Lord Swaddling Clothes

BOOK REVIEW

AS A CHILD OF GOD, HOW HAPPY ARE YOU?

P

eople are searching for happiness in life. Happiness is usually based on circumstances. There is much happiness to be gained from friendships, books, and the many delights in the natural realm! However, for the Christian, genuine joy is based on knowing the Savior-not circumstances. There are better and more permanent things to come. There is no state of distraction on earth that can be comparable compare to the Master saying, “Enter thou into the joy of ty Lord” (Matthew 25:21). For, truly, “What shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” (Mark 8:36).

As a spirit-filled believer, what’s sapping and killing your joy and happiness in this life when our Lord has said according to St. John 15:11: Jesus said, “These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full” If you are really looking to find happiness and joy in your life, this book is for you.

Dr. Joe R. Williams Sr. resides in Lawton, Oklahoma with his wife, Tredoe Keam, and is the founder and pastor of the True Love Apostoic Faith Church. He is the author of the The Impact of the Holy Spirit on Mortal Man and The Holy Ghost is your One-Way Ticket to Heaven. He has six children three daughters-in-law, one son-in-law, and nine grandchildren.

Dr. Williams is also available for workshops and preaching engagements. To invite Dr. Williams to minister at your next event, please contact his office at (580) 248-3668, (580) 585-1370 (cell) or Email: joe0610@hotmail.com.

ORDER YOUR COPY TODAY! WWW.PAWBOOKSTORE.COM THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK

“POSITIONED FOR PROMISE”

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

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LET US PRAY...

D H ear

eavenly

F

ather,

THE READING OF GOD’S WORD Psalm 115 Partial

Thank You for your goodness, Your mercy, Your kindness, Your love, Your joy, Your peace, Your gentleness, Your peace and Your long suffering. Thank You for the precious blood of Jesus Christ. Thank You for Calvary. Thank You for Your incredible sacrifice that we might have freedom and life. Help keep us to set our eyes and hearts on you afresh. Renew our spirit, fill us with Your peace and joy.

1 Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us, but unto thy name give glory, for thy mercy, and for thy truth’s sake.

We love You and we need You, this day and every day. We give You praise and thanks, for You alone are worthy!

3 But our God is in the heavens: he hath done whatsoever he hath pleased.

Lord, You offer freedom to all people. We pray for those who are incarcerated. Break the bands of fear and isolation that exist. We cover those incarcerated and their families and friends, prison staff and all who care in the precious blood of Jesus. And for them to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. Please heal those who have been wounded by the actions of others, especially the victims of crime. Help us to forgive one another, to act justly, love mercy and walk humbly together with Jesus Christ in His strength and in His Spirit, now and every day.

11 Ye that fear the Lord, trust in the Lord: He is their help and their shield.

Father, the secrets of all hearts are known to You alone. You know who is just and You forgive the unjust. You alone are the Almighty Judge. We are not worthy of judging anyone.

Your mercy is enough for sinners. Hear our prayers for those incarcerated. We pray for repentance and that they will believe, have faith and trust completely in Jesus Christ. Give them patience and hope in their sufferings and bring them home again soon. Comfort their loves ones. Help them to put all their hope and trust in You, Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

– Evangelist Johnetta Tate

2 Wherefore should the heathen say, Where is now their God?

12 The Lord hath been mindful of us: He will bless us; He will bless the house of Israel; He will bless the house of Aaron.

13 He will bless them that fear the Lord, both small and great.

14 The Lord shall increase you more and more, you and your children.

15 Ye are blessed of the Lord which made heaven and earth.

16 The heaven, even the heavens, are the Lord’s: but the earth hath He given to the children of men.

17 The dead praise not the Lord, neither any that go down into silence.

18 But we will bless the Lord from this time forth and for evermore. Praise the Lord.

****************************************************************************

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THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK

“POSITIONED FOR PROMISE”

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

PENTECOSTAL ASSEMBLIES OF THE WORLD INC.

Through the Adopt-A-Soul Prison Ministry, thank you for your visit for “I was in prison and you came to Me!”- Matthew 25:36

G

reetings in the mighty name of our Lord Jesus; my heart is overwhelmed with joy and my spirit is filled. Friday July 24, 2021, I received your letter. Some of the guys were wondering why I was so upbeat and excited; for the first time in five years, an apostolic magazine, published and written by, One God, apostolic, tongue talkers, Holy Ghost filled, fire baptized believers, who believe in the liberating power of Jesus Name, is in the house. Further, more apostolic material is on its way, it makes me want to shout hallelujah! Glory to God, for tje great things He has done.

Evangelist Thomas-Green, thank you for your proactive approach, having a heart of evangelism, and taking time out of your busy schedule, too, tending to souls in need of salvation behind these prison walls. It brings tears to my eyes; just a few days ago, I was speaking with one of my apostolic comrades, expressing the disappointment I felt in the lack of a response from the various apostolic organizations I wrote. However, God has a way of showing up when you least expect Him to move.

The Christian Outlook magazine was insightful and contained powerful testimonials. God is still on the throne, and actively working in the affairs of His people.

From the looks of it, the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World is doing a fine job in declaring this apostolic truth. Upon my vindication and/or release, my wife, sons, and I will be visiting some of the P.A.W. churches. I truly love the Lord and His word; when He saved me, He truly saved me. Some say, “If you’re so saved, what are you doing in prison?” Not everyone in prison is criminally minded; some made mistakes, are political prisoners, and some wrongfully convicted. As a kid, born in Jamaica, I always desired to work in law enforcement or become an FBI agent. At the age of nineteen years old, as a sophomore in college, the door opened for me to fulfill my dream. At nineteen years old, I was the youngest African American law enforcement officer hired by the Broward County Sheriff’s Office.

Sadly, at twenty-one years old my career would end. January 23, 2010, was my accident; 2015 I was convicted of Vehicular Homicide, and sentenced to 117.3 months in Florida State Prison. September 2016 at the age of twenty-seven I came to prison; now thirty-three years old and still waiting for my day of deliverance.

THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK

Prior to my trial, I said to God, “if you let me go to prison, that will be the day I stop serving You”; but thanks be to God, five years later I am still walking with the Lord and in the power of His might. My relationship with the Lord, the fervency of His Word in my life has only been elevated. Amazingly, I was married, ordained as a minister and had two sons Micah (7) and Malachi (5) all before I was snatched away to prison.

Thanks be to God; my wife and I are still going 11 years strong.

I am still father of the year, and I continue to do the work of an evangelist, preaching and teaching this apostolic truth. I share my testimony briefly to reassure the ministry of P.A.W., that the resources provided will be utilized to magnify the name of Jesus. Through the help of the Holy Ghost, the apostolic truth will be broadcasted in the prison faith base dorm and the general compound.

As I am writing this letter, I feel the need to say a word of prayer: “In the name of Jesus, God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; the God who never fails and remains the undisputed champion of the world; the God of Elijah who called fire down from heaven, hear me this day. I thank You for all Your blessings and favor, life, health, and strength. As I come to You Most High God, I put before You Evangelist Thomas-Green; thank You for giving her the heart of a shepherd, being concerned about the one who went missing. Thank You for using her to encourage and uplift the broken hearted. Lord Jesus, I pray a double portion of the anointing of the Holy Ghost upon her life, to touch and heal lives. I pray for a financial blessing that will overtake her accounts in Jesus’ name; touch her body and strengthen it now in Jesus’ name; remember her family and loved ones, every unspoken request grant it unto her now in Jesus’ name. Remember the leadership of the P.A.W.; increase, expand in the name of Jesus; let them be a beacon that shines in this dark and dying world. Jesus, we thank You for all that You have done and continue to do; this I ask in only name that saves, heals, and delivers, in the mighty name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen!”

Until we speak again, as my mother-in-the-Lord would say, “stay sweet in Jesus.” Be blessed in the Lord in all that you do, salutations to the churches of Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc. In the name of the Lord Jesus, Franklyn McCurrie

“POSITIONED FOR PROMISE”

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INSPIRITUAL WRITER INSPIRATIONAL WRITER

A

matter to God! Your ll souls souls matter Your witness witness and words of inspiration inspiration and and encouragement encouragement can can guide and redirect redirect a soul towards the things of of God. God. There There are are many many more more souls souls like Bradon Bradonwhom whosesoul soul been to hashas been liftedlifted to the the a place of darkness, because lightlight in a in place of darkness, because of one of oneInspiritual of our Inspiritual Writers.

You of our Writers. You too can jointoo us can join us in of theGod, garden of God, for some in the garden for some plant, while plant, while others is God other water, but it iswater, God but whoit will givewho the will give in theHis increase in His Kingdom. increase Kingdom.

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SPONSORSHIP SPONSORSHIP

earReader, Reader, prison ministry is growing daily byofword of ear ourour prison ministry is growing daily by word mouth mouth fromwho those are incarcerated, whoour shares our magfrom those arewho incarcerated, who shares magazine with azine with and they want atopart become part of this minothers, andothers, they too want totoo become of thisa ministry. istry.

My friends we need more sponsors. For only $10 you can help My friends wefor need sponsors.

For only $10and youa can help sponsor a soul one more issue of The Christian Outlook quarterly sponsor a soul for one issue of The Christian Outlook and a quarSunday school book. terly Sunday school book.

OR Donate any amount of $50 orOR more, and to show our gratitude, Donate amount $45 you or more, not onlyany that, but toofhelp fulfil and the to showCommission our gratitude, that, You but Great of not ouronly Lord.

PREPARATION Dear Reader, ifif you you would would like like to to fulfil fulfil to Dear Reader, you fulfil Great Commission willhelp receive our the Prepartion-End Times the Word of God God according according to to Matthew Matthew of receivetract, our PreparWHAT ARE YOU PREPARATING YOURSELF FOR? 5 our 1/2 Lord. by 8 You 1/2 will pamplet with a 25:36; 40 in your life, please 25:36; in your life, please consider consider tion-End 1/2 wording by 8 1/2 pamplet RAPTURE customizedTimes four 5line of your becoming becoming an Adopt-A-Soul Adopt-A-Soul Inspiritual Inspiritual tract, with a customized four lineiswording choice.

Tracts sold separtately $15.99 Writer /Exhorter. /Exhorter. of choice. sold Please separately plusyour shipping andTracts handling. visit are plus shipping and handling. our: $15.99 www.pawbookstore.com and click Please visit our: the following: Thewww.pawbookstore.

Christian Outlook; com and click the ChrisAdopt-A-Soul thanfollowing: make yourThe donation tian Outlook; Adopt-A-Soul then make selection.

For customized donation write FOR CALL FORMORE MOREDETAILS, DETAILS, PLEASE PLEASE CALL your donation selection.

For customized in comment selection your customized EVANGELIST MONA THOMAS-GREEN EVANGELIST MONA THOMAS-GREEN donation, write in comment section your wording you would like on the tracts.

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