March/April 2024 Christian Outlook

THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK

“THE CONVERGENCE OF PENTECOSTALS”

MARCH/APRIL 2024

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THANK YOU TO OUR YEARLY SUPPORTERS! 1. Bishop Theodore L. Brooks, Sr. - New Haven, CT Presider Beulah Heights First Pentecostal Church www.BeulahHeightsChurch.org 2. Bishop Mark C. Tolbert - Kansas City, MO First Assistant Presider Victorious Life Church www.vlckc.com 3. Bishop Richard D. Howell - Minneapolis, MN Second Assistant Presider Shiloh Temple International Ministries www.ShilohTemple.com 4. Bishop Charles. H. Ellis III - Detroit, MI Greater Grace Temple www.GreaterGrace.org 5. Bishop Horace E. Smith, M.D. - Chicago, IL Apostolic Faith Church www.afcchicago.org 6. Bishop Sherman L. Merritt - Nashville, TN Greater Christ Temple Church www.greaterchristtemplechurch.org 7. Bishop C. Wayne Brantley - Cleveland, OH Zion Pentecostal Church of Christ www.zionpcc.org 8. Bishop Lance. R. Foster - Omaha, NE New Hope Apostolic Temple www.nhat.org 9. Bishop Charles M. Finnell - Indianapolis, IN Christ Temple Apostolic Faith Assembly www.christtempleac.org 10. Bishop Ira Combs, Jr. - Jackson, MI Greater Bibleway Temple www.gbwt.net 11. Bishop James W. Gaiters, Sr. - Columbus, OH Grace Apostolic Church www.graceap.com 12. Bishop Barrington Smith - Mississauga, ON Kingdom Life Ministries www.klife.ca 13. Bishop Jones Foote - Springfield, MO Faith Tabernacle Apostolic Church www.faith-tabernacle.org 14. Bishop Gary Harper - Taylor, MI Greater Grace Temple O.G. Hayes Memorial www.ggtoghm.org 15. Bishop Robert T. Douglas, Sr. - Inglewood, CA Jacob’s Ladder Community Fellowship www.jacobsladderchurch.com 16. Bishop James Daniel - Harvey, LA Philadelphia Ministries, Intl. www.philadelphiaministriespaw.org

17. Bishop Carl Turner - Wilmington, DE Highway Word of Faith www.HighWayWordOfFaith.com 18. Bishop Robert Douglas - Inglewood, CA Jacobs Ladder Community Fellowship www.JacobsLadderChurch.com 19. Bishop Marvin E. Donaldson - Kansas City, KS Greater Pentecostal Temple www.GPTChurch.org 20. Bishop Fredrick Jackson - Hartford, CT Christ Church of Deliverance www.ChristChurchofDeliverance.com 21. Bishop Gregory Irvin - Urbana, OH Bethesda Apostolic Church www.gregoryirvin.org 22. Bishop Kevin Dobbs - Niagra Falls, NY Christ Redemption Tabernacle www.christredemption.org 23. Bishop Kevin M. Harrison, Sr. - Indianapolis, IN Grace Apostolic Church www.gracechurchindy.org 24. Bishop Dr. Errol O’Savio - Mount Vernon, NY Mt. Olivet Apostolic Faith Church www.Mt-Olivet.org 25. Bishop Derek Pierson - New Rochelle, NY Holy Lighthouse Church Inc. www.holylighthousechurch.org 26. Bishop Rader Johnson - Louisville, KY Greater Bethel Temple www.greaterbetheltemple.org 27. Bishop William A. Benson - La Mesa, CA Total Deliverance Worship Center www.TotalDeliverance.org 28. Bishop Lafayette Boyd - Corona, CA True Word Apostolic Church www.truewordapostolic.org 29. Bishop J. D. Guthrie, Conley, GA First Apostolic Ministries International www.firstapostolicchurchatl.org 30. Bishop Billy G Newton - Orlando, FL The Word of God Church www.wogc.org 31. Bishop Michael Bender - Birmingham, AL Faith Apostolic Church www.faithapostolic-al.org 32. Bishop Jeffrey D. Goldsmith - Oklahoma City, OK Emmanuel Tabernacle www.emmanuelokc.com 33. Bishop Brian T. Hamilton Transformed Life Church - Piqua, OH www.thetransformed.org

34. Bishop Craig High - Dayton, OH Bethesda Temple www.bethesdatempledayton.com 35. Bishop Arden L. Luster, Sr. - Jacksonville, FL BrideGroom Apostolic Church www.kavodchatan.org 36. Bishop Maxie Dobson - Fayetteville, NC The Tabernacle of Miracles Church www.tmiracles-church.com 37. Bishop Leonard Scott - Indianapolis, IN Rock Community Church www.FamNet.org 38. Bishop Ann Storey-Pratt - Springfield, OH Church of Jesus Family Worship Center www.churchofjesusfwc.org 39. Bishop James G. Rodges - Savannah, GA Jonesville Baptist Church www.JBC-PAW.org 40. Suffragan Bishop Stewart Reese, III - Decatur, GA Bethesda Cathedral www.bethesdacathedral.org 41. Suffragan Bishop Charles L. Smith - Cincinnati, OH Zion Temple First Pentecostal Church www.ztfpc.com 42. Suffragan Bishop Joseph C. Farmer - Sutherlin, VA White Stone Pentecostal Church www.whitestonepentecostalchurch.org 43. Suffragan Bishop Julian R. Johnson - Normandy, MO Bethesda Temple Church www.bethesdatemplestl.org 44. Suffragan Bishop David H. Birchette - Marion, IN Christ Temple Church www.ctcmarion.org 45. Suffragan Bishop David E. Johnson - Minnetonka, MN Grace Apostolic Church www.gacmn.org 46. Suffragan Bishop Prentis Vasco Johnson, Sr. Ph.D, Th.D. - Tacoma, WA Greater Christ Temple www.greaterchristtemple.org 47. Suffragan Bishop Dale I. Shaw Sr. - New Britain, CT Bethesda Apostolic Church www.ba-ct.com 48. Suffragan Bishop Dr. D. W. Cummings - Wheeling, WV Bethlehem Apostolic Temple www.bethlehemapostolictemple.org 49. Suffragan Bishop Robert E. Martin, Jr. Zion Temple Church www.ziontemplechurch.org

50. Suffragan Bishop LaVelton J. Daniel, Sr. Greater Emmanuel Apostolic Temple www.geat1150.org 51. Suffragan Bishop David Parker - Akron, OH Zion Apostolic Faith Church www.ziononline.net 52. Suffragan Bishop Derrick Famer - Jamaica, NY Christ Pentecostal Temple, Inc. www.christpentecostaltemple.org 53. Suffragan Bishop Dr. Eugene T.W. Sanders - Sandusky, OH Emannuel Temple Church www.emmanueltemplesandusky.org 54. Suffragan Bishop Jon Slaughter - Lansing, MI Christ Temple Church www.CTCLansing.org 55. Suffragan Bishop Carolyn Strigglers - Hesperia, CA The Finest of the Wheat Community Church www.TFWCC.org 56. Suffragan Bishop Clinton House – Las Vegas, NV Mountaintop Faith Ministries www.mfmnv.org 57. Suffragan Bishop Laurence Nevels - Oberlin, OH Christ Temple Apostolic Church www.facebook.com/CTtheplace2be 58. Suffragan Bishop Charles Little, Jr - OKC, OK Greater First Deliverance Temple www.gfdtinc.org 59. Suffragan Bishop Edgar L. Usher The Ship of Praise Church - Dayton, OH Deliverancce Temple Ministries, Houston, TX 60. District Elder Helen Orme - Seattle, WA Shekinah Glory Tabernacle www.shekinahglorytabernacle.com 61. District Elder Kameron L. Adams - Charlotte, NC Calvary Christian Church www.calvaryclt.org 62. District Elder Phillip Johnson - Bay City, MI Apostolic Life Church www.ApostolicLife.church 63. District Elder Lamar Burch Christian Life Fellowship - New Miami, OH www.clfellowship.org 64. District Elder Denard R. Booker - Gardena, CA Cornerstone Apostolic Church www.facebook.com/CornerstoneAPC 65. Pastor Carlton D. Ashlock – Marysville, CA Agape Worship Center www.agapewc.com

WOULD YOUR MINISTRY LIKE TO SUPPORT THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK? IF YOUR NAME IS MISSING OR IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE A 2 THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK “THE CONVERGENCE OF PENTECOSTALS” MARCH/APRIL 2024 CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK “THE CONVERGENCE OF PENTECOSTALS” MARCH/APRIL 2024 2023 33 THETHE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK “AND THEY CONTINUED” NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2 THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK “AND THEY CONTINUED” NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 SUPPORTER, PLEASE CONTACT THECHRISTIANOUTLOOK@PAWINC.ORG.

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Bishop BishopTheodore TheodoreL.L.Brooks, Brooks,Sr. Sr. Presiding PresidingBishop Bishop

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New NewYork YorkState StateCouncil Council| |Bishop BishopKevin Kevin Dobbs Dobbs Greater Pennsylvania State Council Greater Pennsylvania State Council| | Bishop BishopCarl CarlTurner Turner(EBC) (EBC) Ohio OhioDistrict DistrictCouncil Council| Bishop | BishopJames JamesW. W. Gaiters, Sr. (EBC) Gaiters, Sr. (EBC) Apostolic Bible Students Association Apostolic Bible Students Association (A.B.S.A.) (A.B.S.A.)ofofIndiana Indiana| Bishop | BishopCharles CharlesFinnell Finnell (EBC) (EBC) Northern District (MI, S.Ontario) Council | Northern District (MI, S.Ontario) Council | Bishop Ira Combs (EBC) Bishop Ira Combs (EBC) Illinois District Council | Bishop Horace E. Illinois District Council | Bishop Horace E. Smith, MD (EBC) * Smith, MD (EBC) * Minnesota, Wisconsin and Dakota Council Minnesota, Wisconsin and Dakota Council | 2nd Assistant Presiding Bishop Richard D. | 2nd Assistant Presiding Bishop Richard D. Howell, Jr. (EBC) Howell, Jr. (EBC) Greater Tri-State (IA, NE, WY) Council | Greater Tri-State (IA, NE, WY) Council | Bishop Lance R. Foster (EBC) Bishop Lance R. Foster (EBC) Alabama District Council | Bishop George Alabama District Council | Bishop George F. Austin (EBC) F. Austin (EBC) Mississippi & West Tennessee District Mississippi & West Tennessee District Council | Bishop Clifton Jones (EBC) Council | Bishop Clifton Jones (EBC) First Apostolic Council of Kentucky & First Apostolic Council of Kentucky & Tennessee (F.A.C.) | Bishop Sherman L. Tennessee (F.A.C.) | Bishop Sherman L. Merritt (EBC) Merritt (EBC) Midwestern District Council | Bishop Larry Midwestern District Council | Bishop Larry O. Jones (EBC) O. Jones (EBC) Texas State Council | Bishop Richard E. Texas State Council | Bishop Richard E. Young Young Heart of America Council of Churches | 1st Heart of America Council of Churches | 1st Asst Presiding Bishop Mark C. Tolbert (EBC) Asst Presiding Bishop Mark C. Tolbert (EBC) Mountain States Council | Bishop James Mountain States Council | Bishop James Gregory Rodges Gregory Rodges Northern California District Council | Northern Bishop NoelCalifornia Jones District Council | BishopNorthwest Noel JonesDistrict Council | Bishop Pacific PacificE.Northwest District Council | Bishop Roland Hairston, Ph.D. Roland E.District Hairston, Ph.D. | Bishop Alfonso Arkansas Council Arkansas District Council | Bishop Alfonso Madden Madden District Council | Bishop Northeast Northeast District Gwendolyn Weeks Council | Bishop GwendolynDistrict Weeks Council | Bishop Bruce Connecticut Connecticut District Council | Bishop Bruce Shaw Shaw New Jersey State Council | Bishop Edgar New Jersey State Council | Bishop Edgar Robinson Robinson DC, Delaware & Maryland District Council | DC, Delaware & Maryland Bishop L. LaMont Turner District Council | Bishop L. LaMont Turner

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Mrs. Karol Middleton Mrs. Karol Middleton PAW Headquarters’ Office Manager PAW Headquarters’ Office Manager (317)547-9541 (317)547-9541 Fax: 317-543-0513 Fax: 317-543-0513 kmiddleton@pawinc.org kmiddleton@pawinc.org

THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK

Suffragan Suffragan Bishop Bishop Vanuel Vanuel C. C. Little, Little, Jr. Jr. General General Secretary Secretary

Suffragan Bishop Bishop Suffragan Delmar Jackson Jackson Delmar Assistant General General Secretary Secretary Assistant

SuffraganBishop Bishop Suffragan TommieHughes Hughes Tommie GeneralTreasurer Treasurer General

BOARD AND DIOCESANS DIOCESANS BOARD OF OF BISHOPS BISHOPS AND

West WestVirginia Virginia& &East EastTennessee Tennessee Council Council || Bishop BishopSamuel SamuelR. R.Moore Moore (EBC) (EBC) South SouthCarolina CarolinaCommunity Community of of Churches Churches || Bishop BishopCharles CharlesH. H.Ellis EllisIII III (EBC) (EBC) ** Nevada NevadaState StateCouncil Council|| Bishop Bishop Donald Donald Golder Golder(EBC) (EBC) Oklahoma State Council Fellowship Oklahoma State Council Fellowship of of Churches Churches||Bishop BishopJeffery Jeffery Goldsmith Goldsmith Louisiana State Council | Bishop James Louisiana State Council | Bishop James Daniel Daniel Virginia State Council | Vacant Virginia State Council | Vacant Florida State Council | Bishop Billy G. Florida State Council | Bishop Billy G. Newton Newton Georgia State Council | Bishop Joseph D. Georgia State Council | Bishop Joseph D. Guthrie (EBC) Guthrie (EBC) European Council Of Nations (East) | European Council Of Nations (East) | Bishop Michael D. Franklin Bishop Michael D. Franklin European Council Of Nations (West) | European Council Of Nations (West) | Bishop C. Wayne Brantley (EBC) Bishop C. Wayne Brantley (EBC) India District Council | Bishop Immanuel India District Council | Bishop Immanuel Paul Paul Nigeria Eastern District Council (West Nigeria Eastern District Council (West Africa) | Bishop Maxwell Akpan Africa) | Bishop Maxwell Akpan Sierra Leone District Council (West Africa) | Sierra Leone District Council (West Africa) | Bishop Mona Reide Bishop Mona Reide Liberia District Council (West Africa) | Liberia District Council (West Africa) | Bishop Leo Simpson Bishop Leo Simpson Eastern Caribbean Council of Nations | Eastern Caribbean Council of Nations | Bishop Leo C. Smith, Jr. Bishop Leo C. Smith, Jr. Jamaica District Council | Vacant Jamaica District Council | Vacant Haiti District Council | Bishop Joseph S. Haiti District Council | Bishop Joseph S. Montinor Montinor Bahamas District Council | Bishop Anthony Bahamas District Council | Bishop Anthony Farrington Farrington Egypt District Council | Vacant Egypt District VacantAfrica) | Ghana DistrictCouncil Council|(West Ghana District Council (West Africa) | Bishop Gary Harper Bishop Gary Harper Togo District Council | Vacant Togo District CouncilCouncil | Vacant| Bishop Tutai South Pacific District South Pacific District Council | Bishop Tutai Pere Pere Zimbabwe District Council | Bishop Errol Zimbabwe District Council | Bishop Errol O’Savio O’Savio Philippines District Council | Southern Southern Philippines Bishop Arden Luster District Council | Bishop District Arden Luster Hawaii Council | Bishop A. Glenn Hawaii District Council | Bishop A. Glenn Brady (EBC) Brady (EBC) Kenya District Council | Bishop Kevin Harrison Kenya District Council | Bishop Kevin Harrison

SuffraganBishop Bishop Suffragan YolandaHunt Hunt Yolanda AssistantGeneral GeneralTreasurer Treasurer Assistant

Brazil District DistrictCouncil Council||Bishop BishopLourenco LourencoVieira Vieira Brazil South Africa Africa Council Council || Bishop BishopIsaac IsaacTum’o Tum’o South Mtimkulu Mtimkulu Nigeria, West West Africa AfricaDistrict DistrictCouncil Council|| Nigeria, Vacant Vacant Northern Philippines PhilippinesDistrict DistrictCouncil Council|| Northern Bishop Michael Michael Bender Bender Bishop Far East East District District Council Council||Vacant Vacant Far Cameroon District Council (West Africa) Cameroon District Council (West Africa) | Vacant | Vacant Dominican Republic District Council | Dominican Republic District Council | Bishop Rader Johnson Bishop Rader Johnson Canada District Council | Bishop Barrington Canada District Council | Bishop Barrington Smith (EBC) Smith (EBC) Alaska District Council | Bishop Thomas Alaska District Council | Bishop Thomas Davis Davis Jalisco/Mexico District Council | Bishop Jalisco/Mexico District Council | Bishop Leroy Horne Leroy Horne North Carolina District Council | Vacant North Carolina District Council | Vacant Venezuela District Council | Bishop Brian Venezuela District Council | Bishop Brian Hamilton Hamilton (Western Cape) South Africa District (Western Cape) South Africa District Council | Bishop Harry S. Grayson Council | Bishop Harry S. Grayson Colorado State Council | Bishop Jones Colorado State Council | Bishop Jones Foote (EBC) Foote (EBC) Uganda Africa District Council | Bishop Uganda Africa District Council | Bishop Derek Pierson Derek Pierson Santo Domingo District Council | Bishop Santo Domingo District Council | Bishop Melvin Brown Melvin Brown (Eastern Cape) South Africa District (Eastern Cape) South Africa District Council | Vacant Council | Vacant (Mpumalanga Province) South Africa (Mpumalanga Province) South Africa District Council | Bishop Fredrick Jackson District Council | Bishop Fredrick Jackson Central California District Council | Bishop Central Robert T.California Douglas District Council | Bishop Robert T. Douglas Southern California District Council | Southern California District Council | Bishop William Benson Bishop William Benson Puerto Rico District Council | Bishop Puerto GregoryRico IrvinDistrict Council | Bishop Gregory TanzaniaIrvin District Council | Bishop Arthur Tanzania Fletcher District Council | Bishop Arthur Fletcher Zulu, Natal Province District Council | Zulu, Natal Province District Council | Bishop Stephen Zondo Bishop Stephen Northern KenyaZondo | Bishop Paul Karanja Northern Mbuthia Kenya | Bishop Paul Karanja Mbuthia Belize | Bishop Lafayette Boyd Belize | Bishop Lafayette Costa Rica | Bishop AveryBoyd Burrel Costa Rica | Bishop Avery Burrel

Mrs. Jordan Brooks-Adams Mrs. Jordan Executive Admn. toBrooks-Adams Presiding Bishop and Executive Admn.

BoardtoofPresiding Bishops Bishop and Board of Bishops (203)376-6089 (203)376-6089 jbrooks@beulahheightschurch.org jbrooks@beulahheightschurch.org

“THE CONVERGENCE OF PENTECOSTALS”

Columbia| |Bishop BishopSteven StevenFoster Foster Columbia BajaCalifornia CaliforniaNorth North| |Bishop BishopRobert Robert Baja Buckner Buckner BajaCalifornia CaliforniaSur Sur(Mexico, (Mexico,South) South)| Bishop | Bishop Baja C.Shawn ShawnTyson Tyson C. Tamaulipas,Mexico Mexico| |Bishop BishopLeon LeonParker Parker Tamaulipas, Guanajuato,Mexico Mexico| |Bishop BishopCarlton CarltonBurrel Burrel Guanajuato, CostaRica RicaAtlantic AtlanticZone Zone| Bishop | BishopCraig Craig Costa High High Suffragan Bishop Kandy Akers | Global Suffragan Bishop Kandy Akers | Global Missions Director (EBC) Missions Director (EBC) Unassigned | Bishop Ronald Young Unassigned | Bishop Ronald Young EMERITUS BISHOPS EMERITUS BISHOPS Bishop Frank Cuomo Bishop Frank Cuomo Bishop Nealon Guthrie Bishop Nealon Guthrie Bishop Edgar Posey Bishop Edgar Posey Bishop Donnie McGriff Bishop Donnie McGriff Bishop Gregory Newman Bishop Gregory Newman Bishop Earnest Pendleton Bishop Earnest Pendleton Bishop Robert Thomas Bishop Robert Thomas Bishop Charles Sims Bishop Charles Sims Bishop Moses Butler Bishop Moses Butler Bishop John Thorpe Bishop John Thorpe

HONORARY BISHOPS HONORARY BISHOPS Bishop Marvin Donaldson Bishop Marvin Donaldson Bishop Ernest J. Miller Bishop Ernest J. Miller Bishop Eulah M. Nelson Bishop Eulah M. Nelson Bishop Stewart Reese Jr. Bishop Stewart Reese Jr. Bishop David Eddings Bishop David Eddings Bishop James Bell Bishop James Bell Bishop Maxie Dobson Bishop Dobson BishopMaxie Charlotte Beeler-Petty Bishop Beeler-Petty BishopCharlotte Ann Storey-Pratt Bishop Ann Storey-Pratt Bishop Leonard Scott Bishop Scott BishopLeonard Elvin Bridgewater, Sr. Bishop Elvin Bridgewater, Sr.

The CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK Magazine (ISSN10894217) is published bimonthly, 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 are $5.00 each. SUBMISSIONS: Please contact thechristianoutlook@pawinc.org or call (317)-547-9541, Ext. 6 for rates.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS 4

Executive Officers

26 PAW Throwback Collage

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Letter from the Presiding Bishop

30 Ask God for Big Things

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From the Editor

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When Your Passion is Your Purpose

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An Exploration of Self-Care in the Ministry of Helping Others

10 The Cup That Wasn’t on the Table 12 First Lady Dr. Gezel Farrington:

A Beacon of Hope and Human RIghts in the Bahamas

17 Wanted: True Worshippers!

19 The Enemy’s Attempt at Another Crucifixtion 20 Probing the Responsibility/Accountable Tandem 22 Bishop Harry Herman: A Study in Servant Leadership EDITORIAL Evangelist Neechy Dumas Editor in Chief and Director of Publications

EBC= Executive Bishops Council EBC= Executive Bishops Council * = Former Presiding Bishop *+= = Former Presiding Bishop Assistant Presiding Bishop += Assistant Presiding Bishop

Suffragan Bishop Robert E. Martin Jr. Suffragan Robertand E. Martin Jr. Chief of StaffBishop / Auxiliaries Departments Chief of Staff / Auxiliaries and Departments (303)437-3896 (303)437-3896 iamconsultant@yahoo.com iamconsultant@yahoo.com

MARCH/APRIL 2024

First Lady Jennifer Slaughter Content Administrator & Assistant to Editor in Chief

37 Thank God for Unanswered Prayers 38 Sunday School T.I.P.S. 44 The PAW Reporter 46 Recipe 47 Puzzle

Sister Dawne Hill/DH Designs Graphics Studio, LLC Creative Director Cover Design /Graphic Design Sister Gabrielle Louden/Designs x Denise, LLC Co-Creative Director Graphic Design Elder Demarcus Williams/FRESHDESIGNS, LLC Graphic Design

Bishop Sherman Merritt D.E. Dr. Helen Orme Suffragan Bishop Harold E. Rayford Suffragan Bishop Leonard S. Scott Dr. Ruth Tyson Newton, Publication Proofreader Executive Contributors Mary Sanford Production Associate

Sister Karol Middleton Office Manager/Accounting Director

THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK

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Peace and blessings in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ!

Lady L. Janice Brooks and I greet you with our warmest love. This season is, in my opinion, of the busiest and most marked seasons in the history of the Church. It is Resurrection season. During this time, churches around the world, from all denominations and of all sizes, are commemorating the death, burial and resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I love this time of year, not just for what it represents to us within the Apostolic faith, but to the Church universal. This Resurrection season, along with Christmas, is one of the few times in which we—those who profess to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ—come together regardless of doctrine, background, ritual, and practice to remember what Christ did for us over 2,000 years ago. We are united in our memory, united in our honor, united in our commemoration, and united in our celebration.

In this, my brothers and sisters, I find inspiration. The Bible tells us, “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14). This is one of my favorite Scriptures and one I recall and quote often. I hold it fast to my heart and live by what God says here. If we would only come together, and call on the great Name of Jesus, the miraculous will happen. If we would only come together, and call on the great Name of Jesus, the unimaginable will happen. Bishop Norman L. Wagner used to say it this way: “Anything wonderful can happen when Jesus is exalted.” We are called to be unified today and, in the days, ahead. And when we come before the Lord unified, of one mind, of one spirit, and with the heart to please God, He will show Himself mightily in our midst. I encourage you, beloved, let us draw closer together in unity, lifting the Name of Jesus high. And when we do that, we can look for Him to respond in great and wonderful ways. Wonder-worker, work a wonder in us, O God! In that same spirit, I encourage you all to meet me in Baltimore, MD this year for our 2024 International Summer Convention. This convention will be “The Convergence of Pentecostals” and I am expecting God to move mightily among us as we come together in one accord. Register now at www.pawinc.org and be a part of this Convergence.

The Master’s Servants, Bishop Theodore and Lady L. Janice Brooks

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THE THECHRISTIAN CHRISTIANOUTLOOK OUTLOOK

“AND THEY CONTINUED” “THE CONVERGENCE OF PENTECOSTALS”

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 MARCH/APRIL 2024

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REVIEWS

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PAW BOOKSTORE & OUTLOOK FEEDBACK

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Christian OutlookJanuary/February 2024 Bishop Joseph Crear

Evangelist Neechy Dumas

reetings in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!

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Spring 2024 Apostolic Light TEACHER Book Lawrence Pate

Christian Outlook- September/ October 2023 Pre-Order Beverly Burrel Johnson

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THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK

FROM THE EDITOR G

“THE CONVERGENCE OF PENTECOSTALS”

@pawministry

I’m also grateful to our presider, Bishop Theodore L. Brooks, Sr., for being given the opportunity to serve in this capacity. The Bible declares that the steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord (Psalm 37:23), and most assuredly, our Presider’s steps have been ordered as he has prayerfully navigated the P.A.W through challenging times. Under his steadfast leadership, we have weathered storms, overcome obstacles, and remained steadfast in our commitment to spreading the gospel message of hope and love. His dedication to serving the Lord and guiding our organization has been a source of inspiration to us all.

In just a few months’ time, we will once again have the privilege of coming together as a community of believers for the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World National Convention. This gathering, set to take place in Baltimore, promises to be a time of rejuvenation, fellowship, and empowerment. As we eagerly anticipate this upcoming event, we are reminded that our Convention provides a unique opportunity for us to come together, regardless of our backgrounds or geographical locations, to worship, learn, and grow in our understanding of God’s word.

As we prepare for the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World National Convention, let us do so with hearts full of anticipation and expectation. And, within these pages filled with challenges and triumphs, it is my earnest hope that you are motivated by the powerful testimony of Eld. Chris Wilkes and the leadership pursuits of Sis. Deja McGhaw, that you find wisdom from the words of Pastor Mark Boyd, Sr., and that you are inspired by the life, love and legacy of First Lady Gezel Farrington.

We invite you to join us in Baltimore as we celebrate our faith, our unity, and our shared mission to make known the love of God to all people. May this convention be a time of blessing and empowerment for each one of us, as we continue to walk faithfully in the footsteps of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

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

However, as we eagerly anticipate this gathering, we are also reminded of the profound loss we have

FOLLOW US Pentecostal Assemblies of the World Inc

As the team at Christian Outlook Publications reflects on another year of change and transformation, we wish all our readers, supporters, and especially our new subscribers, abundant blessings and grace. We are thankful to God for each of you, as your generous support is a driving force behind the success of our publication.

recently experienced. It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of a great leader and spiritual giant, Bishop Marion E. Wright, Sr. His absence leaves a void in our hearts and in our community—a testament to the impact he had on the lives of countless individuals, both within our organization and beyond.

@pawministry

@PAWMinistry

MARCH/APRIL 2024

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By Elder Chris Wilkes John 4:24

We are all created to worship God. Worship is woven in the fabric of our DNA. The problem is many people do not know God, so they worship external things. Worship means to extol or praise something, some place or someone higher and more important than anything else in life. In this scripture, John is putting emphasis on worshipping God in spirit and in truth. In other words, we’re incapable of worshipping God without receiving the Holy Spirit that connects us to Him! The paradox of life is that we are created to worship God but because we are made in His image, we want to be worshipped or extolled in some capacity as well. You can see the evidence very pronounced on social media. It’s all right to post pictures and events on your social media timeline but many people want to be adored and extolled. They want to be told how attractive, wonderful and intelligent they are. Man was not created to be worshipped. Worship, when accepted by a human is like drinking arsenic poison. Arsenic will cause negative impacts on cognitive development and even cause death.

This arsenic metaphor is an example of why many stars and super successful people fall into depression and drug abuse because they believe their own hype.

There is a myriad of things that people worship. Some worship politicians, while others worship celebrities. In my observation, the vast majority of people worship National Football League teams, Major League Baseball teams, National Hockey League teams and National Basketball Association Teams.

The worship and arrogance of these sports figures start

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in the rink, the court or on the field, and it bleeds over into the stands where the fans are sitting. That spirit then is displayed on our television screens, and it ultimately gets into our spirit, and we take on their spirit. Only God deserves to be worshipped because He is the progenitor of all things.

Acts 17:28 states that “for in him we live and move and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, for we are also his offspring.”

Many people are extremely fanatical. A fanatic is a person that is filled with excessive and single-minded zeal, especially for an extreme political, sports and often times a religious cause. Yes, there are some that worship their Pastor rather than God, thus getting carried away in a cult that subsequently causes their demise. Another trait of a person that’s fanatical is that they glean from the success of the thing that they worship, and they live vicariously through the things that they worship. A classic example of someone wanting to be worshipped is Lucifer. The Bible speaks of Lucifer in Isaiah 14:14 “for thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into Heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High”.

Christians must always be mindful that true worship only comes by not letting ANYTHING come before our God, who is our EVERYTHING!

Elder Chris Wilkes has been in ministry for 31 years. He is an ordained Elder of the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc. He serves as an associate Elder at Higher Learning Ministries under the leadership of Suffragan Bishop Samuel E. Wright, Jr. in Petersburg, Virginia. Elder Chris Wilkes is the author of two books: Life Quotes and Reconcilable Differences.

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HISTORY

On another occasion, Herman was ordaining a group of deacons when a member rose from the pews, ran onto the platform, and began to choke him. The man proceeded to forcibly remove Herman from the church platform and out a side door, before pushing him onto the Detroit street.

In 1969, Herman was “kicked out” of Christ Temple (Detroit).

Perhaps, the difficulty of a Caucasian leader heading an African-American congregation in the midst of civil rightsera Detroit was part of the challenge.

On the other hand, African-American pastors that followed him also encountered tense confrontations with this congregation. Their commonality was that they too espoused a traditional oneness theology.

Among them was Elder Carl Holland, a staunch oneness teacher who came to Christ Temple in 1970 from Bishop William Crossley’s PAW church in Buffalo (NY). Holland also battled this church regarding its doctrinal variances from traditional apostolic teaching.

BISHOP HARRY HERMAN: A Study in Servant Leadership

Elder Johnny James described him as “a virtuoso proponent of Apostolic theology and biblical holiness.”

Yet Bishop Harry L. Herman remains unsung among prominent PAW leaders. However, the reality is that Herman’s ministry is a uniquely inspiring study in servant leadership.

Herman was born in 1924 in Indianapolis. His mother, Theresa Anderson, received the Holy Ghost in November 1911 at the Apostolic Faith Assembly (Christ Temple) at 11th and Senate, under the ministry of Elder Garfield T. Haywood.

Although Herman remembers Haywood, his pastor (as a teen) was Elder Robert F. Tobin, the PAW’s General Secretary. After serving in U.S. Army during World War II; Herman attended Purdue University. In 1949, he was baptized and received the Holy Ghost under Elder Morris Golder; then Christ Temple’s pastor. On October 9, 1949, he wed the love of his life, Jenny Rea “Jerry” Brubaker.

Herman began his ministry under Golder, but by 1956, Elder Willie Lee had become the pastor at Christ Temple.

Herman received his PAW ministerial license in August 1956. In 1957, Lee joined Bishop Samuel Hancock in leaving the PAW to form the new Pentecostal Churches of the Apostolic Faith (PCAF). Lee had been saved at

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Christ Temple in 1925 under Bishop Haywood, but later served as Assistant Pastor at Bethlehem Temple in Detroit for several years, under Hancock.

In the new organization, Lee became the PCAF’s Assistant Presiding Bishop. He also took Christ Temple into the PCAF. In January 1961, Herman became Bishop Lee’s Assistant Pastor at Christ Temple. Herman was also consecrated Bishop in the PCAF that year.

In 1965, Bishop Herman went to Detroit to pastor Christ Temple on Davison Avenue, a PCAF church that had a history of chewing up pastors. It was there that Herman’s commitment to oneness doctrine placed him in opposition to the new organization’s theology. Herman espoused the apostolic doctrine as taught by Haywood, Tobin, Golder, and Lee to his PCAF congregation.

During one Bible study, Herman wrote “The One True God” on the blackboard, to a seemingly unphased congregation. However, when he scribbled “Jesus” underneath, a frenzy began building and the congregation came to the collective edge of their seats.

Herman then proceeded to demonstrate the divinity of Jesus, utilizing 1 John 5. The members of the church began to vocally object . . . many proclaiming loudly “you have got to go!”

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After a court battle, Holland brought the church back into the PAW and the Northern District Council until the mid-1990s. He later started the Pentecostal Assembly of Believers, another oneness organization and became its Presiding Bishop.

Aware of Herman’s difficulties in the PCAF, Bishops Ross Paddock and Lawrence Brisbin of the PAW visited Herman and encouraged him to return to the PAW. After considering it, Herman said to them, “I’d rather be a live ‘Elder’ in the PAW, than a dead ‘Bishop’.” Herman then resigned his bishopric with the PCAF and returned to the PAW as an Elder . . . not even a Pastor.

He remained in Detroit and began to worship in a predominately African-American PAW church— Pentecostal Temple on Grand River Blvd., which was pastored by Elder Johnny Williams.

When Elder Joseph Morris, who pastored Gethsemane Apostolic in Detroit, took ill in early 1970, Herman answered the call to help. He served as caretaker of Gethsemane for roughly three months, until Elder Morris was able to resume his pastoral duties. Morris later became a Chairman of the PAW’s Missions Department.

Herman remained at Gethsemane until September 1970, when PAW Presiding Bishop Ross Paddock asked him to come to Kalamazoo and become his Assistant Pastor.

Herman served two years under Paddock at Christ Temple (Kalamazoo), before Paddock resigned and turned the church over to him.

Bishop Paddock traveled for the next decade and also served as Vice Chairman of the Apostolic World Christian Fellowship, but also sat under the pastorate of Herman.

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that he encountered “Elder Herman is my pastor.”

Herman gave up being a Bishop in the PCAF and came back to the PAW as a non-pastoring Elder. After pastoring the Kalamazoo church for five years, Herman became a District Elder in the Northern District Council in 1977.

He was elected Chairman of the district for two terms in 1982. However, Herman was not elevated to the office of Bishop again until 1989 . . .20 years after returning to the PAW. Herman became Bishop of the Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Dakotas Council of the PAW; serving there until 1996.

When Bishop Burrell passed, Herman was reassigned to the Northern District Council (Michigan), where he served until 2013, when he retired from the diocese and assumed Bishop-Emeritus status.

Herman authored seven books and two gospel tracts on doctrine. They include “A Study Guide for the Principles of Apostolic Doctrine,” “An Introduction to Holiness,” and “We Believe.”

Bishop Harry L. Herman proved himself a loyal churchman and a faithful defender of the apostolic doctrine, in the face of both physical danger and confrontation. He favored the convictions of his soul over the trappings of title.

Bishop Harry Herman joins the company of apostolic fathers that are a biblical compass for our generation. *******

Special thanks, for material and informational contributions, to: www.christtemplekal.org Personal Interviews: Bishop Harry L. Herman Elder Johnny James Bishop Carl Holland Indianapolis Star, 11-4-11, pg. 7

Apostolic Roots: A Goodly Heritage, Ross P. Paddock “Early Oneness Pentecostalism: Garfield T. Haywood and the Interracial Pentecostal Assemblies of the World,, Talmadge L. French (Doctoral Dissertation – Univ. of Birmingham, Eng. 2011) A Brief History of the Bishops of the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Howard Collier (2011) District Elder Tony Thomas

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By Evangelist Neechy

I’m testifying for my friend Mark who had accumulated close to $270,000 in student loan debt. $270,000!!!!! Geesh.

A few months back, he submitted paperwork to try to get some type of relief from the debt. This week, he received an alert that the ENTIRE debt had been deleted, forgiven, erased, and no longer owed, need I go on????

You can’t tell me that God doesn’t perform MODERN DAY MIRACLES!!!

Can you imagine the stress that that type of debt causes on the mind?

Can you imagine how that type of debt affects your creditworthiness and future financial decisions? Can you imagine the weight it bears on one’s shoulders? BUT...GOD!!!!!!

The thing that I love about this particular friend...is that he’s never afraid to ask God for BIG THINGS. He has BIG...CRAZY faith! My faith was ignited after our conversation.

Here’s another example of crazy faith. At one point, I was in need of an industrial sewing machine. Brand new, the machine could easily cost between $800 - $2000 depending on the brand and features.

I’d opted to get a used one. At that time, a used machine was $500 $800. For a few months, I searched all of the online marketplaces to see if I could find something cheaper. I remember during my prayer time saying: God, I pray that You would allow someone to BLESS me with a free sewing machine. This type of request was ABSOLUTELY CRAZY! I couldn’t even believe that I actually said it out loud! Why would someone bless me with a sewing machine? About a month later, a sister from my church came to me and said that she had a machine that she was selling for $250. I was shocked! At the time, I wasn’t even aware that she was a seamstress. $250 was still a bit of a stretch for me at that moment, but I’d resolved that this would likely be the best deal that I was gonna get. After a few weeks, we set up delivery. She delivered the machine to me and then told me that she was GIFTING IT TO ME!!!! A free industrial sewing machine!

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How often have we been afraid to ask God for something because it seemed TOO BIG? Perhaps the key here, is to start with understanding

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FAITH. Matthew 17:20 reminds us that If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.

Even the tiniest amount of faith, when entrusted to God, can lead to transformative outcomes. It’s not about the size of our faith, but about placing it in God’s capable hands. Just like a mustard seed grows into something significant, our faith, when connected to God, can lead to miraculous possibilities.

My friend Mark, stepped out on faith by submitting paperwork to get debt relief. I stepped out on faith by asking God to allow someone to bless me with a sewing machine. Neither of us knew the how or when, but we knew that GOD was well able.

Do you believe that God wants you to ask Him for things? I understand what it’s like to feel unworthy of approaching God with our needs. Look at Matthew 7:78: Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: 8. for every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.

I appreciate God because His ears are open when we bring our bold requests and heartfelt prayers before Him. I truly believe that He is a loving Father who delights in providing for His children. James 4:2 reminds us, “yet ye have not, because ye ask not.”

We confess our dependency on God and acknowledge His sovereignty when we approach Him in humility and faith. Asking God for big things reflects our trust in His limitless power and His desire to bless us. Knowing that our Heavenly Father hears us, let us fearlessly approach the throne of grace.

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Let’s look to the Bible for examples of those who had GREAT FAITH. Stephen’s faith allowed him to do great things among the people. Acts 6:8. And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people.

If you’re nervous about asking God for the impossible… don’t be.

1. SURRENDER AND TRUST HIS PROMISE:

God can and will exceed your expectations.

Matthew 17:20, assures us that faith as small as a mustard seed can move mountains.

2. BECOME A STUDENT OF HIS WORD:

The Bible is filled with stories of God’s faithfulness, provision, and miracles. Your faith will be strengthened as you read and meditate on these stories.

3. COMMUNITY:

Surround yourself with others who recognize God’s faithfulness in their own lives

Today, take some time to reflect on the areas of your life where you may have been hesitant to ask God for big things. Surrender any doubts or fears to Him and embrace the truth that God delights in hearing and answering your prayers. Take a step of faith and write down a specific big prayer request. Commit to bringing this request before God consistently in the days ahead, trusting that He will respond according to His perfect will and timing.

ASK GOD FOR BIG THINGS! Trust Him!

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BUSINESS

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HEALTH

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FINANCE

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CHRISTIAN EDUCATION

TEACH Students Need Knowledge and Skill to Live Out Their Faith

times. Creatively providing background information makes the scriptures come alive so learners can apply the Word of God to their lives.

As Apostolic teachers, we want our students to be filled with the Holy Ghost.

However, we must ask: “What then?” While the Holy Ghost brings all things to our remembrance, teachers must embrace a process to help students read and apply the Bible.

There are five areas of learning that students need to truly apply the Word of God to their lives.

This article shares the first two.

Spiritual Skills: Students need the skill to engage in spiritual practices on their own.

Students cannot live their faith based on what teachers know. Meaningful teaching requires developing learners who can independently learn and live out God’s Word. This does not mean that classes are not needed. They are! But we must do more than just help students recall what we taught in class.

Bible knowledge. We teach so our learners will know the Bible. We think that completing an activity such as repeating the Bible story, memorizing a verse, or talking about a passage is proof that they have Bible knowledge. But Bible knowledge means much more.

The Bible must be understood as a mirror with which learners can examine their lives and a plumb line by which they evaluate their spiritual journeys.

Christian education classes must help students identify the first audience, purpose, history, author, and other considerations of the text. This Biblical exegesis is not just for preachers and teachers. Class members of all ages must be taught to read the Bible with understanding.

This is more than just mimicking what the scripture has come to mean (or has been assumed to mean) over time or even for them personally. Unpacking the original meaning of a Bible passage helps students realize how the passages impacted real people in Bible

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For example, Christians are expected to pray and read the Bible, yet few people know instinctively how to do these things. In one class, the teacher, asked a student to open the class with prayer. After an awkward silence, the teacher prayed. The student later admitted that she was terrified. Praying in public was not a skill she had acquired.

Competent teachers not only pray for students but help learners learn to pray—in private and in public. Caring teachers help learners apply biblical principles that will balance their lives. They provide safe space for learners to ask questions and grapple with difficult Bible texts.

When learners develop skill in examining the Bible passage their confidence in God is strengthened and they understand that they can commit to a changed life.

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INSPIRES

By Pastor Jean S. Massey

Ohio District Council Former State Superintendent, DCE, Region V Director

By Evangelist Rosa Sailes, EdD The following article is based on the book, Elevate the Core, by Dr. Rosa Sailes

The Teacher Who

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“But there is a spirit in man: And the inspiration of the Almighty giveth them understanding.”

Job 32:8 Today, I still cherish and recall life changing stories and experiences expressed by my teachers at a young age. These stories opened my understanding of the scriptures inspired by men and women who breathed hope into my spirit. These gifted teachers faithfully studied the Word written by spirit filled writers and authored by God. As teachers, God has given us the ability to move individuals from various backgrounds, environments, situations, problems, and pressures to open their lives to the promises of God. As teachers, one becomes an encouragement to give support, confidence, or hope to the learner. As a teacher your inspiration gives understanding and authority that is influential beyond your expectation.

The inspired teacher’s key ingredient is the sincere milk of the Word. The teacher takes the ingredients of the Word, giving significance and understanding. Through study and application, the teacher first chews the sustenance that the student can digest and swallow.

The nourishment of the Word allows for growth of body, soul, and spirit. The nourishment provided is not only life changing but moves from the ordinary to the extraordinary.

The inspired teacher walks in authority and power, igniting the flames of the listener.Two despondent followers on the road to Emmaus are joined by a stranger. Not only does the stranger join them, but becomes up front and personal, a relationship is formed.

The inspirer expounds to them the significance of the current event, giving understanding and hope. Jesus makes the Scripture come alive!

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Jesus, our prime example, inspires the hearers to see the significance of the Word that makes one wise and appeals to the spirit. Jesus continues to motivate and encourage by divine influence to arouse both teacher and student. The two men now filled with hope and anticipation, return to inspire others as the Word burned within them.

Today, I remain inspired to meet the challenge to inspire...to dare to be a Daniel...Dare to stand alone...

Dare to have a purpose...Dare to make it known.

I remain committed to study God’s Word to influence, motivate, encourage, give understanding, and build relationships as we meet life’s challenges and issues.

May the scriptures come alive and make one wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.

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PREPARING TO BRING THE WORD OF LIFE TO GOD’S PEOPLE

By Elder Paulette M. Carswell, 1st Vice President, ICEA Preparation is defined as the action or process of making ready, being made ready for use or consideration; something done to get ready for an event or undertaking.

Why is preparation important? Being prepared provides an opportunity to teach God’s people with a Spirit of Excellence. A teacher should keep building their skills and knowledge even when not teaching.

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Effective preparation requires the ability to communicate clearly and effectively. Know first where you are going.

1. At the end of the lesson the student will be able to, i.e., point out on a map Paul’s missionary journeys.

2. Teach the skills necessary to assist students in the learning process, such as learning the biblical vocabulary.

3. Analyze and recap.

4. Master your monologue and closing.

5. Know the lesson and be ready!

The fundamentals of your spiritual life are prayer, fasting, and studying. Your students will see your life lived as a result of the Holy Spirit and will want to emulate you. This is how some people become teachers. You are given a clearer understanding of God through prayer, and this THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK

naturally equips you for the work.

In conclusion, Biblical preparation involves us calling upon the Lord, coming to Him in relationship, and seeking the Lord with all our heart, soul, and mind. Living and

growing in Christ is what Jesus taught us throughout the gospels. Your spiritual life is the key that opens the door for effective preparation as a teacher of the Word. I Peter 3:15: “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear.”

Elder Paulette Carswell is an ordained minister. She is the 1st Vice President of the International Christian Education Auxiliary, and resides in Red Oak, Texas. She attends Zion Apostolic Temple, under the pastorate of Bishop Leon E. Parker, and serves as a teacher, minister, and liaison for the Sunday school.

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The Model of Leadership

DistrictElder Elder Kimberly Kimberly Batise, 2nd Vice President, ICEA ByByDistrict Baptise, 2nd Vice President, ICEA

How do we prepare?

1. Make a realistic schedule time.

2. Make it personal. Your notes should reflect you.

3. Make sure you understand everything you are assigned to teach, including people, places, and times.

4. Preparation is a skill that will continually improve with discipline and experience.

5. A Sunday school teacher should not be impromptu. If the need arises and you are called unexpectedly to fill in, all your previous preparations will come in handy.

When you mentally prepare it strengthens the belief that success is not only possible but probable. Visualize your students receiving what you have taught. This will eliminate distractions and help keep your mind focused. The groundwork put in place will boost your self-confidence. Students should know what to expect when they attend your class. There should be an air of excitement. A prepared person is cautious, discreet, and expedient. They trust and rely on God.

SERVESERVE The Model of Leadership

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When someone decides to enlist in the military What a privilege have been given to use thehas gifts When someone decides to enlist in the military to togiven to us

by God we to serve others.

As each one serve their country there is an oath of service that is given to us by God to serve others.

As each one has serve their country there is an oath of service that is received a gift, minister it to one another, as good taken.

This oath of service is an open commitment so received a gift, minister it to one another, as good taken. This oath of service is an open commitment so stewards of the manifold grace of God. –1 Peter 4:10 allknow will know the country means to the individualNKJV stewards of the manifold grace of God. –1 Peter 4:10 all will whatwhat the country means to the individual and they whatwill they will NKJV and what do to do it,toitsdefend it, its defend values, and We are servants of God, let values, right We are servants of God, the right to aand waythe of life. us ponder: to a way of of life.this The let us ponder: The embodiment pledge is not a simple S - see future.the embodiment of this S- and see shape and the shape house of thoughts and E -engage pledge is not a simple future. and develop emotions, now a part others.ww houseitofis thoughts and E- engage and develop of the mind, body, and a R - others.

Reinvent continuously. emotions, it is now soul part in who themind, enlistee V - RValue Results. of the body, Reinvent continuously. has become.

E - VEmbody the Vision. and soul in who the Value Results. enlistee has become.

E- Embody the Vision.

As kingdom laborers we We should follow the great are called to SERVE.laborers It is command Jesus follow gave thethe As kingdom We should one of honors disciples: therefore and wethe arehighest called to SERVE. great Go command Jesus we can It make disciples of all theGo It isrender one of to theGod. highest gave the disciples: startshonors with our and nations, baptizing themmake in we love can render therefore and joy intoserving Psalms the disciples name of the and God. Him. It starts with of allFather the nations, 100:2—Serve of the Son andthem of the in Holythe our love the and Lord joy in baptizing with serving gladness.Him. Psalms Spirit, 20 teaching them name of the Father and To serve the way God to observe all and things thatHoly I 100:2—Serve the of the Son of the intended, we must have commanded you; and Lord with gladness…

Spirit, 20 teaching them pattern the the GREATEST lo, Itoam with you always, To serve way God observe all things that example there is, the even to the end of the age. intended, we must I have commanded you; chosen example ever Amen.

28: 19pattern the that GREATEST and–St. lo,Matthew I am with you walked this earth—JESUS. 20 NKJV example there is, the always, even to the end Jesus,chosen the model servant example that ever walked this earth— JESUS. of the age. Amen. –St. Matthew 28: 19-20 NKJV demonstrated the strength of servicing by washing the The command to GO and MAKE will be done through feet of the disciples—St. John 13:1-17. Just imagine God our acts to serve.

Jesus, the model servant demonstrated the strength The command to GO and MAKE will be done through in the flesh is willing to serve. So, the question is are we of servicing by washing the feet of the disciples—St. our acts to serve. willing to follow His example to serve?

John 13:1-17. Just imagine God in the flesh is willing to serve. So, the question is are we willing to follow In the book of St. Mark, we receive the powerful words His example to serve? of Jesus as He speaks of the honor to serve—For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, In the book of St. Mark, we receive the powerful words and to give His life a ransom for many.” -St. Mark 10:45 of Jesus as He speaks of the honor to serve—For even What a privilege we have been given to use the gifts the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”

-St. Mark 10:45

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Your Source for Church News and Information Bishop Theodore L. Brooks, Sr., Presiding Bishop

Maxie D. Dobson, CPA (Retired) Executive Editor

IRS Increases Standard Mileage Rate for 2024 On December 14, 2023, the Internal Revenue Service issued the 2024 optional standard mileage rates used to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business, charitable, medical or moving purposes.

Beginning on January 1, 2024, the standard mileage rates for the use of a car (also vans, pickups or panel trucks) will be: •

67 cents per mile driven for business use, up 1.5 cents from 2023.

•

21 cents per mile driven for medical or moving purposes for qualified active-duty members of the Armed Forces, a decrease of 1 cent from 2023.

•

14 cents per mile driven in service of charitable organizations; the rate is set by statute and remains unchanged from 2023.

These rates apply to electric and hybrid-electric automobiles as well as gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles. Source: www.irs.gov (12/14/23) IRS Increase 401(k) Limit to $23,000, and IRA Limit to $7,000 for 2024 On November 1, 2023, the Internal Revenue Service announced that the amount individuals can contribute to their 401(k) plans in 2024 has increased to $23,000, up from $22,500 for 2023. The limit on annual contributions to an IRA will increase to $7,000 in 2024, up from $6,500.

The IRA catchup contribution limit for individuals aged 50 and over remain unchanged at $1,000 for 2024.

Source: www.irs.gov (11/01/23)

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Wyatt McDowell, JD, LLM Senior Editor

Nonprofits: Highly Trusted, But a Trust That’s Declining A majority (52%) of Americans say they place high trust in nonprofits, making nonprofits the second-most-trusted institution among five institutions named in a survey.

Trust levels in nonprofits were behind small businesses while ahead of the federal government, the news media, big businesses, and corporations. On the other hand, among the five institutions referenced in the survey, nonprofits saw the biggest decline in trust—a decline of 4 percentage points. This was the steepest decline for nonprofits recorded in the four years the groups have profiled in the survey. The survey polled 3,000 people in mid-2023.

The survey also found that the more people attend worship, the higher their trust in the nonprofit sector.

Among those who attend religious worship services regularly, 60% have a high level of trust in “nonprofit organizations to do what is right.” In another measure, the survey discovered that nearly 70% of people are more likely to trust an organization with a presence in their local community. Source: www.ecfa.org Attorney General Investigations into Churches and Nonprofits Are on the Rise While the Internal Revenue Service is seen as the primary watchdog to the nonprofit world, Attorneys General (AG) also can investigate nonprofits, and AG investigations into nonprofits and churches are on the rise. Most state Attorneys General not only have the power to investigate nonprofits and churches, but they also have the power to render civil and criminal penalties and prosecute and remove board members.

In one non-church nonprofit matter in Minnesota, the attorney general even petitioned to dissolve a nonprofit

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The potential for fraud, state Attorneys General are very interested in how church boards handle money provided by the citizens of their states. The complaint process that can trigger an investigation include, but are not limited to, the following: 1. Loans to directors and officers: In many states, it is illegal for a church to loan any money to individual board members. This may even include using church credit cards for personal purchases and reimbursing the church later, which amounts to short-term loans. There are serious legal consequences here for what essentially amounts to the comingling of church and personal funds.

2. Misuse of ministry-owned housing: Problems occur in this area when a board member—most often a pastoral staff member—lives in ministry-owned property but does not have a housing allowance set up or in place, and the church does not report the value of the ministry-provided housing on individual tax returns.

The questionable expenditures, mentioned above, potentially violate the tax laws. Accordingly, when an Attorney General receives a complaint that a board member is personally benefitting, the law treats this as “inurement” (improper personal financial gain from the nonprofit or church). Making sure your church board members are aware of the potential for this kind of problem and understand their roles will virtually eliminate this risk. Source: www.churchlawandtax.com

giving fall by 4.4%; churches with revenue of $6 million to $10 million experienced a 4.2% dip in cash giving, while churches with $10 million to $20 million in revenue saw a 2.1% decline in cash giving. Only churches with revenue of $20 million or higher saw an increase in their cash giving bump up some 2.3%. Source: www. christianpost.com (12/06/23) Americans Who Attend Church Online Read the Bible More Than Those Who Attend in Person

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(In the Matter of the Voluntary Dissolution of Feeding Our Future).

The American Bible Society released the seventh chapter of its State of the Bible USA 2023 report on October 12, 2023, titled “Bible Use and Technology.” The data included in the report is based on responses collected from 2,761 United States adults. The report found that 39% of those in the U.S surveyed met the criteria of a “Bible user,” meaning they read the Bible independently in settings other than at a large church service at least three to four times a year. Twenty-five percent of respondents were “weekly Bible users” who consult the Bible outside of church at least once a week, with 9% using it daily. Meanwhile, 38% of U.S. adults “never” used the Bible outside of a church setting.

Broken down by denomination, Evangelical Protestants have the highest share of adherents (53%) who read the Bible at least once a week, followed by historically Black Protestants (44%), mainline Protestants (36%) and Catholics (21%). Additionally, 74% of those who attended church services primarily or equally online used the Bible at least once a week compared to just 32% of respondents who primarily went to in-person church services. Source: www.christianpost.com (10/13/23)

Cash Giving Hit 10-Year Low in 2022 for Churches Except the Richest Ones Churches, in general, experienced a drop in cash donations for the first time in 10 years in 2022, except for those pulling in revenue of $20 million or more, data from the 2023 Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability State of Giving report show.

Churches reporting under $2 million in annual revenue in 2022 saw their revenues decline by 3.5%; churches with annual revenue of $2 million to $4 million saw cash

The PAW Reporter is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject matter covered. It is distributed with the understanding that the publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting, or other professional service. If legal advice or other expert assistance is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought. “From a Declaration of Principles jointly adopted by a Committee of the American Bar Association and a Committee of Publishers and Associations.”

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Chicken Fried Steak • • • • • •

• 1/4 tsp salt 1/2 tsp ground black pepper • 6 (4-oz) cube steaks 38 saltine crackers (1 sleeve) • • crushed 1 1/4 c all purpose flour, • • divided 1/2 tsp baking powder

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2 tsp salt divided 1 1/2 tsp ground black pepper divided 1/2 tsp ground red pepper 4 3/4 c milk divided 2 lg eggs 3 1/2 cups peanut oil

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Sunday Brunch Casserole 1 bag Simply Potatoes shredded hash browns 4 T. Butter, melted 2 tsp kosher salt 1/4 tsp ground black pepper 2/3 c cheddar cheese

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. In a mixing bowl, combine the hash brown potatoes, butter, salt and pepper. Toss to combine. Transfer to a 3-quart baking dish and bake for 25 minutes, until crispy. Reserve. Reduce oven to 350 degrees. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese and chopped bacon evenly over the baked hashbrowns.

Pineapple Crunch Pudding Cake 1 1/4 lb can crushed pineapple 1 c coconut 1 yellow cake mix 1/2 c all purpose sifted flour 1 c melted butter

Grease 13x9x2 inch pan. Pour pineapple and juice in pan. Mix all ingredients and pour over pineapple. Pour cup of melted butter over dry ingredients and bake for 50 to 55 minutes in 350 degree oven or 325 in glass pan.

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Fry steaks warm in a 225 degree oven. Carefully drain hot oil, reserving cooked bits and 1 tablespoon drippings in skillet. Whisk together remaining 1/4 cup flour, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper and 4 cups of milk. Pour mixture into reserved drippings in skillet. Cook over medium-high heat, whisking constantly, 10 to 12 minutes, or until thickened. Serve gravy with steaks and mashed potatoes. Yield: 6 servings.

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Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon each of salt and black pepper over steaks.

Set aside. Combine cracker crumbs, 1 cup flour, baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper and red pepper. Whisk together 3/4 cup milk and eggs. Dredge steaks in crack crumb mixture. Dip in milk mixture and dredge in cracker mixture again.

Preheat oven to 225 degrees. Pour oil into a 1-inch skillet. Heat to 360 degrees. (Do not use a nonstick skillet.)

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ACROSS 1 When Jesus met the disciples behind closed doors, He said to them, "Stop __________ and believe." (Jn. 20:27) 8 In order to prove that Jesus was not a ghost, He asked for something to eat. What did the disciples give Him? (Lk. 24:41‐42) two words 9 Jesus stood among them and said, "__________ be with you." (Jn. 20:19) 10 Jesus showed His disciples His hands and His __________." (Lk. 24:39) 12 Jesus told the disciples that everything about Him had to be fulfilled in the ____________ __________ __________, the Prophets and the Psalms. (Lk. 24:44) three words 14 Jesus said, "I am with you __________." (Mt. 28:20) 15 Jesus said, "A ghost does not have __________ __________ __________." (Lk. 24:39) three words 17 When Jesus met the women, He said, "Don't be __________." (Mt. 28:10) 18 With what words did Jesus now remind them that He was no longer the humble Servant, but the exalted Lord of heaven and earth? (Mt. 28:18) two words 19 How many of the disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain Jesus had told them to go? (Mt. 28:16) 20 From the Great Commission, Jesus said that we are to make __________ of all nations. (Mt. 28:19) DOWN 2 Jesus said, "Go and make disciples of all __________. (Mt. 28:19) 3 On what day of the week did Jesus appear to His disciples? (Jn. 20:19) 4 When the women met the risen Lord, what did He say to them? (Mt. 28:9) 5 Jesus told the disciples that they were __________ of the things that had taken place. (Lk. 24:48) 6 When Jesus appeared to His disciples, the door were locked for fear of the __________, (Jn. 20:19) 7 From the Great Commission, Jesus said that when we make disciples, we are to baptize and __________ them to obey Him. (Mt. 28:19‐20) 11 What did the disciples do when they saw the Lord? (Mt. 28:17) 13 When Jesus appeared, what did the disciples think they saw? (Lk. 24:37) 16 Jesus said, "If you forgive anyone his __________, they are forgiven. (Jn. 20:23)

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