Catalyst Magazine Dec 2011

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CO N T EN T S December, 1 • 2011

ARTICLES Time & Eternity Joe Grimaud..............................................................................................Page 4 Esther Women of Influence ..............................................................................................................Page 5 “Occupy Till I Come” A Command of Jesus Christ Gladys Grimaud.........................................................................................Page 6 Randall C. “Randy” Horn ..............................................................................................................Page 8 Arts & Entertainment ............................................................................................................Page 10 Sheila Raye Charles Celebrates Recovery ............................................................................................................Page 12 Newton’s Laws of Influence Chakisse Newton.......................................................................................Page 15 CityLight Mission Statement ............................................................................................................Page 21 Christ Central ............................................................................................................Page 23 Jesus Pusher Stephen Manley.........................................................................................Page 29 I’ve Been Thinking About... Words Jed N. Snyder, D. Min..................................................................................Page 30

FEATURES Local Events & Points of Interest

.............................................................................................................Page 4 CityLight Prayer Breakfast Order of Service............................................................................................Page 7 Table Sponsors ..........................................................................................................Page13 Featured Volunteer ............................................................................................................Page17 Midlands Prayer Opportunities ....................................................................................................Page18 & 27 Noteworthy Community Leaders ..........................................................................................................Page24 december 2011

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Time & Eternity

By Joe Grimaud

A former pastor of mine had a unique saying every time he dedicated a baby. He would admonish the parents, “There was a time when this child did not exist anywhere.

But there will never be another time when this child does not exist somewhere. How you raise this child and set an example is likely to determine where he (or she) exists.”

I loved that dedication, because it speaks to the importance we have as parents to our children. They are going to exist somewhere. There are two places. Heaven and Hell.

We do not hear much about Hell anymore, but it is still one of the places where one might exist and exist there for an eternity.

It has been stated that our life here on Earth is nothing more than a vapor that appears and vanishes away. When you consider eternity that is a very true statement. How long is eternity? Our God is not bound by the dimension of time. He always was and always will be. The human mind cannot conceive of that because we do live in the dimension of time. But God created us in His image, and therefore although there was a time we did not exist there will never be a time when we do not exist somewhere. Christ said, “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I

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Local Events & Points of Interest THURSDAY • DEC 1ST

CAYCE 34TH ANNUAL TREE LIGHTING LOCATION: CAYCE CITY HALL 1800 12TH STREET, CAYCE, SC

THURSDAY • DEC 1ST LIGHTS BEFORE CHRISTMAS

RIVERBANKS ZOO AND GARDEN 500 WILDLIFE PARKWAY, COLUMBIA, SC

SATURDAY • DEC 2nd-3rd THIS MAN CALLED JESUS

LAKE MURRAY BAPTIST CHURCH 1001 HIGHWAY 378 WEST, LEXINGTON, SC

SUNDAY • DEC 4th

CHRISTMAS PARADE & MAIN STREET CHRISTMAS EVENT MAIN STREET, LEXINGTON

SUNDAY • DEC 4th

GLORIOUS: A MODERN WORSHIP CHRISTMAS SHANDON BAPTIST CHURCH 5250 FOREST DRIVE, COLUMBIA, SC

SATURDAY • DEC 9th - 11th SINGING CHRISTMAS TREE

SHANDON BAPTIST CHURCH 5250 FOREST DRIVE, COLUMBIA, SC

SATURDAY • DEC 10th

CHRISTMAS CANTATA: DOWN FROM HIS GLORY

COLUMBIA FIRST SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH 243 RIVERCHASE WAY, LEXINGTON, SC

ENTIRE MONTH OF DEC HOLIDAY LIGHTS ON THE RIVER

SALUDA SHOALS PARK 5605 OLD BUSH RIVER ROAD, COLUMBIA, SC ADMISSION: CARS: $10 15-PASSENGER VANS: $20 BUSES: $35

TIMES: 6 - 10 PM | PHONE: 803-772-1228 ------------------------------------------------------------FOR A FULL LIST OF LOCAL EVENTS VISIT:

www.ColumbiaCVB.com december 2011

Esther Women of Influence he Esther Women of Influence was established in the fall of 2004 as the women’s ministry, (The Esther Project), of CityLight, a non-profit 501(c) (3) faith based organization. Fulfilling the vision of Gladys Grimaud and Judy Cook, the first bible teaching class began in January of 2005. Initially these sessions lasted for twelve weeks symbolizing the twelve months of Esther’s training and preparation.

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The Esther women are a diverse group of ladies who are seeking God’s will in their lives through prayer and Bible study. The Book of Esther was used as an entry point for bible instructions on how to allow God to live through you.

Women were empowered to the next level of Worship, Fellowship, Discipleship, Ministry and Evangelism. During these sessions, the total women was concentrated on, body, soul and spirit.

Teaching the women to totally surrender to the love of Jesus Christ experiencing the compelling majesty of His power which reveals your enter beauty. These ladies were given a clear understanding that finding true love involves a readiness to die to who you are to become; the woman God created you to be. december 2011

It can be said that most women have difficulty with total submission and obedience, but it’s all about the heart of Jesus. Esther of the Old Testament was a godly humble woman who became a queen. She was chosen above all other women in the land. It was be-

Esther Retreat 2009

cause of her total submission and obedience first to Mordecai, that God was able to reveal His destiny for her life.

Before she accomplished God’s purpose for her life, she had to be prepared and trained, then she responded. That is the intent of the Esther Women of Influence. Esther proved to be a woman of unusual wisdom and courage, facing adversity and wickedness with a quiet confidence and grace. While God is not directly mentioned in the book of Esther, His hand and perfect timing are seen in every turn of events.

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“Occupy Till I Come” A Command of Jesus Christ

Gladys Grimaud

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he present Occupy movement is about the 99% and the 1%. Have the Occupy protestors read the Bible? Two thousand years ago, Jesus gave the command to “Occupy till I come.” But as you know, to get the true meaning of this command, God’s viewpoint, one must go to the Word of God. The story of investment is told by Jesus to His disciples, Luke 19: 12 – 27.

His command to occupy is given in Luke 19: 13. Let’s examine this passage.

“And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them,

This story is about a nobleman who went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return. Before leaving on his trip, he called ten (Gk, deka/Eng, deca – regarded by some as the measure of human responsibility) servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, ‘Occupy till I come.’ The nobleman has given the command to “do business” in his kingdom to the individual human responsibility of his servants (Gk, doulos – slave or one who is devoted to another to the disregard of one’s own interests). But, look at this, he has given the responsibility to

“And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, Occupy till I come.” (KJV) Occupy till I come.” (KJV) The word, occupy, has been translated from the Greek word, pragmateuomai, and means: “to carry on business or to carry on the business of a banker or a trader.” This Greek word is used only one time in the entire Bible but a kindred word also used only one time is found in Luke 19: 15, diapragmateuomai, and is translated “gained by trading.” (Could there have been a Wall Street then?)

What does God want us to occupy?

his (doulos) servants (1%) to look out for his interests AND HE HAS SOURCED THEM TO DO IT. The response of citizens of the country (99%) when they heard about it was to hate him (1%) and sent a message after him, saying ‘We will not have this man to reign over us.’ The Message, (The Bible in Contemporary Language), says this: “But the citizens there hated him. So they sent a commission with a signed petition to oppose his rule: ‘We don’t want this man to rule us.’ “ Could it be that they were acting Continued on page 20

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CityLight Columbia Prayer Breakfast December, 1 • 2011

“Corporate Commitment in the Work Place, Building a Stronger Community” Music ..........................................................................................Heart’s Cry Praise and Worship .......................................................................Heart’s Cry National Anthem ....................................................................Henry Flowers Invocation ............................................................................... Joe Grimaud Welcome .......................................................................... Gladys Grimaud Introduction of Host Committee ........................................ Luella Redfern Introduction of Speaker ............................................................. Redfern II Song ............................................................................................Heart’s Cry Guest Speaker .............................................................................Randy Horn Instrumental ............................................................................Byron Counts ~Prayer Time Leaders~

Pastor Sylvia Mickens • Pastor Sam Perry H. L. Allen • Pastor Gary Walton Remarks ..................................................................................... Redfern II Benediction .................................................................Pastor Hattie Mickens december 2011

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andy Horn is President and Chief Executive Officer of Colonial Life.

He joined the company in March 2004 after a 27-year career with Mutual of Omaha.

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Horn served as Executive Vice President of Individual Financial Services at Mutual of Omaha and President of Companion Life Insurance Company (a New York subsidiary) from 1999 to 2003. He previously served as Executive Vice President of Group Benefit Services and has held leadership positions in risk management, claims and actuarial departments. Horn also has experience as an employee benefits consultant with Towers Perrin and as an actuarial assistant with Occidental Life.

South Carolina Chamber of Commerce.

Horn holds a bachelor of science degree in actuarial science from Drake University.

He is a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries and a member of the American Academy of Actuaries, and holds a Certified Employee Benefits Specialist designation.

He and his wife, Karen, are the parents of six grown children and live in northeast Columbia, S.C.

Horn is a board member of the Palmetto Health Foundation, the Palmetto Business Forum and the Midlands Business Leadership Group. He also serves on the South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities board of trustees. He has been active in many professional and community organizations, including the Arthritis Foundation, Salvation Army, Children’s Hospital, Children’s Museum and the 8

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ev. LaDana Clark aka LADYJAM (The Jam Stands For “Jesus Anointed Me!)

Rev. LaDana Clark aka LADYJAM gave her life to Christ in October 1985 in Monckscorner, South Carolina while in the midst of a tremendous life or death battle with drugs and alcohol. Before over dosing on drugs like her two oldest brothers who died at a very young age, Rev. Clark allowed God and Christ to flip the script, first at the club, then in her apartment at 2am where she was “Born Again”. In the words of Rev. Clark “Only Christ knows the trouble I’ve seen but, To God Be The Glory, because I’m Free!”

New Jersey community as an Outreach Pastor, Gospel “Rap-Activist”, a City of Plainfield Auxiliary Police Officer, a Plainfield Board of Education - Security Officer, a State of NJ Department of Corrections - Clergy Mentor and Served Proudly in The United States Army National Guard. As if that wasn’t enough to keep one person busy she also went beyond the call of duty and took to the stage as a Positive, Educational, Speaker and Entertainer On A Mission to Educate Youth, Young Adults and to Inspire the Young at Heart in Schools, Churches, Prisons and other places in the community.

Combining Music and Ministry for 26 Years… LADYJAM is a Professional, Educational Entertainment Consultant, Inspirational Speaker, Rapper, Singer, Songwriter, Musician and Radio Broadcast Veteran! Outreach Pastor Rev. LaDana Clark aka LADYJAM is Passionate and Powerful! Her “Words & Lyrical Concepts” Mentor and Inspire the Young and The Young at Heart!

An Original Native New Yorker, before getting her recent “Divine Re-Assignment” in South Carolina, Rev. Clark served the

Contact: RevLaDanaClark@gmail.com 908.397.7090 Facebook > LaDana Clark

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CHURCH-N-THE HOOD > It’s A Hip-Hop 4-LIFE! Faith & Social Justice Street Movement! Empowering People, Spiritually, Educationally and Economically…

ZECH 4:6 - Not By Power, Nor By Might, But By My Spirit Thus Saith The Lord!

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Byron Counts Byron Counts is a singer, song writer, producer who has exemplified musical excellence for more than 25 years. As a Columbia native, his skills range from gospel, jazz, classical as well as urban. Byron currently scores music for such shows as: Dateline NBC, Access Hollywood, and CNN just to name a few. He is also the VP

and musical director of Auntie Karen Inc. and Director of Music at St. John Baptist Church. He will be performing a song from his new Christmas cd entitled “It’s Christmas”.

ByronCountsMusic.com cdbaby.com facebook.com/byron.counts For bookings call 803.622.3601

TABLE SPONSORS Sam ‘s Home Repair & Custom Cabinetry CityLight Prayer Group # 1 First Ecumenical Church Holy Light Tabernacle Church Dr. Augustus Rodgers Chapin Furniture Precision Tune Esther Women of Influence december 2011

James P. LaRose Adrian Moldovan Trezcom IntegratedTechnologies Systematic Building Services Rep. Leon Howard Morning Glory Prayer Group CityLight Asia CityLight.org

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S HEILA RAYE CHARLES CELEBRATES RECOVERY at Christ Central Columbia Mission Station

heila Raye Charles, the daughter of the legendary Icon Ray Charles, was special guest speaker at the Thanksgiving dinner at Christ Central Columbia Mission Station. Invited by Luella Redfern, Volunteer Coordinator, on Wednesday, November 23, Sheila shared her testimony about losing her identity, drug addiction and finding Christ while growing up in the shadow of a legend.

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“Gladys Grimaud, Founder of CityLight, told me that Sheila was in town and was interested in sharing about her ministry with CityLight” said Luella Redfern. “I felt that her visit would be a special treat and an inspiration to many of the people we serve.

So, I made the call and spoke with her husband and road manager, Michael Steptoe.

I explained to him that Christ Central is a mission station serving the needs of working poor, underprivileged, disabled veterans, abused and displaced women, men and children, recently released convicts, and the homeless for over 14 years and we would be honored if Sheila would come and share a brief message and a song with us. He said yes.”

Sheila shared her life story. “I was one of 12 children fathered by Ray Charles”, said Sheila, she was raised by her mother, Sandra Jean Betts. “I didn’t meet my father until I was 14 years old. I had a difficult childhood. Loneliness as a child and the hurt of being rejected by an absentee father lead to bad choices that resulted in physical and sexual abuse. I spent many years struggling to find my identity.”

After a difficult and troubled childhood, life on the streets and failed attempts to launch a successful musical career, Sheila went into

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a downward spiral of drug dependency. Addicted to crack, she found herself in federal prison three times. This became a cycle for Sheila. She gave birth to five children and lost custody of all of them because of her drug addiction. Sheila was at rock bottom, at a place of no return.

den. God told me He didn’t save me for myself but for others”. With the publication of her life story, Behind the Shades and musical CD with the same name, Sheila provides insight into her life and her path to God. She says, “now I am walking in the joy of the Lord.”

While incarcerated, Sheila cried out to the Lord, totally surrendering to Him. He heard her cry. She says while in lock down for 15 days unable to communicate with anyone else, God spoke to her. “Every minute of the day, from the time I woke up until the time I fell asleep, I was reading the Bible and praying,” says Sheila.

“Our staff and clients were truly blessed

At one point, she laid on the floor, spread her arms out like Christ on the cross and said, “I am here at the lowest point humbly beseeching you, God. Fill my heart with your love, fill my mind with your wisdom and with your spirit and with your grace.” God showed Sheila a love that she had never experienced before and, in turn, she had to share with the rest of the world just how precious and divine that love really is.

She spent 15 months at Bryan FPC and Houston Federal Prison. It was during this time that she learned to forgive her father, to forgive herself and God laid the groundwork for her book and life story.

“God told me to Sheila, “to tell the truth and to bare my soul for the world to see. He told her to leave no stone unturned and no issue or occurrence is forbiddecember 2011

by Sheila’s message and ministry in songs” said Pastor Sylvia Mickens, Director.

Listeners and fans of her late father Ray Charles definitely got a kick out of her sassy rendition of her father’s hit song “Hit the Road Jack”. Sheila belted out this track in her personal perspective, “Hit the Road Crack”. She also shared her version of Georgia and the song, “Haven’t I Told You”, which she says God gave to her as a gift to share her life story.

“A special thanks to Sheila Raye Charles, her husband, Michael Steptoe and special be transparent”, said friend Dr. Vernetta Edmonds for visiting us at Christ Central. We look “I am here at the lowest point forward to Sheila’s humbly beseeching you, God. Fill return to Colummy heart with your love, fill my bia next year along with her 11 brothmind with your wisdom and with ers and sisters” said your spirit and with your grace.” Luella Redfern.

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Esther Women Continued from page 5

2007 Esther Retreat

2006 Esther Leadership

There were three additional eight week training sessions spiritually equipping and empowering over 30 women as leaders. During these sessions we also witness a need to develop a disciplined prayer life.

The Esther Prayer Group was established in September 2007. An Esther Prayer Group starts with an individual leader selecting 12 ladies who want (1) a deeper, more intense relationship with God; (2) seeking to understand why we pray and how to pray; (3) to keep the two Great commandments and carry out the Great Commission and (4) to have a ministry of prayer and evangelism. The purpose of these Prayer Groups is to allow Jesus to be the light of the world by shining

through each member. It is our goal to develop and encourage the 7 leadership keys in the heart of Easter: Prayer, Scripture, Service, Submission, Commitment, Accountability, and Fruit.

The Esther women are from many different cultures, races, communities, societies and denominations, speaking many different languages but we are united as one body in Christ. It is our prayer and desire that the gospel reach 2006 Retreat Prayer Walk every home, in every community, in every city, in every state, in every nation in our lifetime.

The Esther Women of Influence 6th annual retreat is scheduled for January 27 through 29, 2012 at Landmark Resort in Myrtle Beach, SC. Come join the fellowship and fun as we continue to discover together who we are in Christ. If you are unable to attend, please sponsor a special lady. In Him, for such a time as this.

“Our mission is to prepare women to lead Godly lives, teaching biblical principles for the individual, her family and her nation.�

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Luella Redfern Executive Director, Esther Women of Influence

december 2011

CHAKISSE NEWTON’S

NEWTON’S LAWS OF INFLUENCE Tools and Tips to Improve Professional and Personal Success working event is to make sure that you’re prepared fort the event. Then you can use these 5 simple tips to work the room like a pro (and feel confident doing it).

1. ROLL OUT THE WELCOME WAGON Recently, I attended a conference where I didn’t know anyone. When I arrived at breakfast, the event staff person beamed at me and welcomed me to the group.

When I asked what she did for the company, she said, “Oh, I don’t work here. When you smile when people walk in, you get to meet everybody.” Give it a try by positioning yourself near the registration table or entrance.

Pretend that you’re the unofficial greeter.

You’ll meet a lot more people and they’ll be glad to see you.

2. COMPLIMENT THE HOST

Chakisse Newton Cardinal Consulting 803.753.1311 | CardinalConsulting.net

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ttending networking events can be nerve racking. How can you meet the “right” people? How can you turn a casual conversation into an opportunity? How can you pluck up the courage to step away from the buffet and say anything at all?

The first step to feeling confident at a netdecember 2011

Events don’t run by themselves. Find the event organizer and introduce yourself. Compliment them on the event (if you mean it) and make polite conversation. You can learn a lot about the event and meet a lot of people at the same time. The host may be the best-connected person in the room and they are often the easiest person to talk to.

3. DIVIDE AND CONQUER Try attending events with a friend. Separate when you arrive at the event and then make a point of introducing each other to everyone you meet. Use these mutual introductions to promote your friend and vice versa. You can say, “Let me introduce Continued on pg 16 CityLight.org

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HOW TO WORK A ROOM AT A NETWORKING EVENT Continued from page 15 you to Jane.” Then, once you’re together, “Jane, this is Mr. Doe with Acme Widgets.”

“Mr. Doe, this is Jane. She’s a n amazing attorney and a good friend of mine.” Your friend should return the favor with her contacts.

5. DON’T DEPEND ON YOUR MEMORY Take a few moments to make notes and record thoughts at the event. Carry a small notepad to the event, use a digital recorder like I do, or use the memo functions on your smartphone. Note the people you meet, how you plan to follow up and your general impressions of the event and how successful it was for you.

4. MAKE A MATCH Make an extra effort introduce the new people you meet to one another. Be certain to do this if you meet two who share common interests. When you connect people, you’re providing a favor that everyone will appreciate. And, in addition to doing a good deed, it makes people want to help you in return. Simply say, “Have you met Jane yet? Let me introduce you.”

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Use those five techniques at your next networking event and you’ll make many quality connections. Best of all, you’ll “work the room” and have fun doing it.

Happy networking!

Reprinted with permission from: Chakisse Newton & Cardinal Consulting | © 2011 141-F Pelham Drive, Suite 150 Columbia, SC 29209 • 803.753.1311

december 2011

Making a Difference Spotlight on Community Volunteers other Helen Woods 80 year old volunteer at Christ Central Praise the Lord, God is good all the time! I am 80 years old and I have been saved for over 50 years. I am truly a born again child of God, baptized in Jesus name, and full of the Gift of the Holy Ghost.

Recipe Pick of the Month

Peppermint Patties

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God has been good to me! I have been sick many times, even at death’s door. But God touched my body, raised me up, and healed me every time. I know without a shadow of a doubt that God is still keeping me alive.

God has given me a serious work to do. He has called me to be an intercessor and prayer warrior. I also call people on the phone and pray for them. I call the sick to encourage and pray for them. I never get too busy to pray for others.

I am the Prayer coordinator for my church, Greater Faith United Missionary Church, under the leadership of Pastor Dr. Charles E. Graham.

God has also given me a work at Christ Central Ministry with Pastor Sylvia. He put us together about 5 years ago.

You can find me at Christ Central every Tuesday preaching, teaching and praying for the people. The people at Christ Central are very dear to me and I have seen the power of God move and touch many of their lives. Praise is what I do and all my praises go to God. I will keep on running for Jesus while the blood is running warm in my veins.

“I will carefully listen to what God is saying, for He speaks to his people”. (Psalm 85:8)

3/4 cup sweetened condensed milk 1 1/2 teaspoons peppermint extract 4 cups confectioners’ sugar 3 cups semisweet chocolate chips 2 teaspoons shortening In a large mixing bowl, combine condensed milk and peppermint extract. Beat in enough confectioners’ sugar, a little at a time, to form a stiff dough that is no longer sticky. Form into 1 inch balls, then place on waxed paper and flatten with fingers to form patties. Let patties dry at room temperature two hours, turning once.

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt chocolate with shortening, stirring often.

Remove from heat. Dip patties, one at a time, into chocolate by laying them on the tines of a fork and lowering the fork into the liquid. Let cool on waxed paper until set.

Create a definite plan for carrying out your desire and begin C at once, whether you ready or not, to put this plan into action.”

-Napoleon Hill december 2011

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Prayer Opportunities GREATER COLUMBIA CALL TO PRAYER 9:30 – 11:30 am Columbia International University 7435 Monticello Road Columbia, SC 29230 Prayer Gatherings are held on the second Saturday of each month in the Alumni Center at CIU. Remaining 2011 GCCTP dates are: December 10.

For information contact H. L. Allen at 803-513-2003 or at allenhl@windstream.net

CITYLIGHT PRAYER BREAKFAST First Thursday Each Month 7:00 – 8:30am Brookland Banquet and Conference Center 1066 Sunset Blvd. (US 378) West Columbia, SC 29169 Breakfast and Prayer for Our City and Nation. www.citylight.org

WALK THE LABYRINTH AND PRAY First Friday every month 10:00 am – 8:00pm Wesley Hall at Lexington United Methodist Church 309 East Main Street, Lexington, SC 29072.

A labyrinth is a sacred path and space used for prayer, meditation, and contemplation. Unlike a maze, a labyrinth has a single path to the center and back. It is walked in an attitude of prayer and meditation. Come and spend as much time as you desire and as God leads. www.lexumc.com | 803-359-6838

INTERCESSORY PRAYER CONFERENCE November 11th & 12th Brookland Baptist Church 1066 Sunset Blvd. (US 378) West Columbia, SC 29169 Coordinator Evangelist Maryland Bashfield | 803-730-7669

F IRST FRIDAY PRAYER FOCUS A day of fasting and prayer each month for revival and for those in authority (1 Tim. 2:1). Participants are encouraged to make Friday–especially the first Friday of the month–a day of special emphasis on revival in the church. This emphasis is our modern expression of a National Prayer Accord. (For more information visit the website at www.ifapray.org. ________________________________________________________________________

More Prayer Opportunities on Page 27 18

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Time & Eternity

By Joe Grimaud

will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” John 14:3 (kjv) That’s eternal life with Christ.

But Matthew 18:8 (kjv) says “Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire.” This is only one of a number references in the Bible to the eternal nature of Hell.

Now, just how long is eternity? The other day I received a message from Dr Tony Evans who used the illustration of a bird taking trips to the ocean with a grain of sand on each trip. He said when the ocean is filled with sand, only one second of eternity would have passed.

But really, it is even beyond that.

We cannot even conceive of it.

My own illustration is to me more meaningfully depicted in the Heavens. We look into a clear sky at night and we see the light of stars and we understand that if the light of even the closest star to us went out, it would be four years before we would know it. That light we see left that star four years ago. And some of the stars

december 2011

Continued from page 5

we see with the naked eye are thousands of light years from us, not just four years. You can go to “Google” and ask the question “How far can the Hubble telescope see?” You will read: “The Hubble Space Telescope can see out to a distance of several billions of light-years. A light-year is the distance that light travels in 1 year. Since light has a speed of 186,000 miles per second (light can travel about 7 times around the entire earth in 1 second!), light travels about 5,865,696,000,000 miles in just one year. You can attach 9 more zeros to the end of this to get 1 billion light-years and another one for 10 billion light-years. The farthest that Hubble has seen so far is about 10-15 billion light-years away. The farthest area looked at is called the Hubble Deep Field.”

And that is not the end, just as far as the Hubbell Telescope can see.

Heaven and Hell are real and eternal.

Life is as short as eternity is long.

Isn’t it amazing that all we have to do is accept Christ as our Savior and spend eternity with Christ in Heaven. And yet, the Bible tells us that there will be more that do not accept Him than those who do. Even this short life span on Earth is better when we follow Him.

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“Occupy Till I Come” A Command of Jesus Christ

ruler called him a fool and asked, “Why didn’t you at least invest the money in securities so I would have gotten a little interest on it?”

foolishly? Is it possible that jealousy and greed was at the bottom of this attitude?

Was this a just ruler? Does the Bible say that when the righteous rule, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people mourn? (Proverbs 29:2) Without even knowing anything about the new ruler, the citizens have judged him as evil. While I will admit that there are some individuals who act out of greed on Wall Street, I will not judge the system of “doing business” on Wall Street as evil.

I wonder how many of the ‘occupiers” realize that they despise the very system that has supported the welfare system in this country? Could it be that the occupiers of Wall Street are also acting out of greed when they desire to have what belongs to someone else without the process of “diapragmateuomai” – doing the business of trading by individual responsibility.

Then the impossible happened! The ruler gave the command to the others, “Take the money from him and give it to the servant who doubled my stake.” The others couldn’t understand. They said, “but, but, but he is already rich (one of the 1%) and this man is poor (one of the 99%).” Don’t misunderstand what the Bible is saying here. God loves the poor and has given many commands that His people are to be generous toward them, but He does not reward the “do nothing” crowd. But, you say, “There are no jobs.” Oh really. Are we to walk in faith or to walk in fear? The ruler said, “That’s what I mean: Risk your life and get more than you ever dreamed of.

Play it safe and end up holding the bag. As for these enemies of mine who petitioned against my rule, clear them out of here. I don’t want to see their faces around here again.”

The Message Version

Continued from pg 6

The story continues, and the ruler eventually comes back. What is the first thing that he wants to know? What have they done with his monetary investment? The result was that one had doubled his money, one had a 50% profit on his money, but one had DONE NOTHING with his money.

The lazy one used the excuse that he knew the ruler was a tough guy and expected a lot out of him, so he said that out of fear he hid the money in the ground. How is it possible that he thought he would have been commended for doing nothing? The 20

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Take a deep breath.

Things look rough now, but the day is coming – and is already here - when God is going to clear house. We know that the nobleman in this story is Jesus Christ and that His Father sent him to this world (far country) to bring the Kingdom of God to earth. What an eye opener for me as I studied this passage! God used the story of businessmen to explain how He wants us to live in this world. I would like to propose that: God owns everything. He is the source of His children to do business in this world. He wants us to operate in faith and be individually responsible to give Him a return on His investment. Not to do so is to not have Him. december 2011

CityLight| n February 1996, Joe and Gladys Grimaud maud, along with a group of Columbia area Christians began meeting and seeking God’s direction for our city. The group included Pastors, community leaders, and lay people from different racial, cultural and denominational backgrounds with different talents and gifts. Each member of the group was concerned about the problems and needs of the community, many of which are the result of the breakdown of the family unity. The group knew that there is a wealth of available talent and resources, and that if mobilized, could be used to address the spiritual and physical needs of individuals, families, and the community.

City Light Columbia organized as a non-

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We believe that Churches and the body of Christ should be the focal point of love and compassion in our community and should work together in addressing the needs of the community. profit 501 (c)(3) corporation in June 1996 to bring churches and the body of Christ together to make a positive impact in our community. Our Mission is “to unify the Christian community by lifting up Christ, evangelizing, disciplining, and impacting the community through the local Church”.

We believe that Churches and the body of Christ should be the focal point of love and december 2011

a Catalyst Connecting Christ to the Culture for Community Change

compassion in our community and should work together in addressing the needs of the community. City Light serves as a liaison and a facilitator between Churches, the public and private sectors, and the community at-large to help identify needs and match those needs with available resources.

We help Churches and the community to become more vibrant by encouraging them to become actively involved in community outreach and to experience the rewards of helping the less fortunate and those in need. City Light Columbia sponsored the Tony Evans Crusade at Williams-Brice Stadium in May 1997 which served as a catalyst for bringing God’s people together in a spirit of revival to empower us to begin the process of bringing moral, spiritual, and economic change to our community. Dr. Evans’ messages during the three nights of the crusade addressed racial reconciliation, one’s personal responsibility in helping to bring about change, family renewal, and the role of the local Church in reaching out to help meet the needs of the community.

The vision that God has given to CityLight is unlimited. Every day, we are seeking new opportunities to reach out into the community, to mobilize the body of Christ, and to match available resources with the needs of the community. As we grow and the opportunities to serve Him increase, we need more volunteers and workers to help fulfill the Mission of CityLight. If you would like to join the efforts of CityLight, you can begin by praying for us. You can become a contact person in your own church body to help us form a spiritually powerful and effective movement of God in the Columbia area. You can help support us financially.

You can also volunteer to serve on one of the following CityLight Columbia.

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9. CHURCH AND LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT Train, prepare, and equip Churches and community leaders for maximum community outreach.

1. PRAYER NETWORK Establish a citywide prayer network involving Pastors and laity.

10. FAMILY RENEWAL Rebuild and strengthen families in the community according too Biblical family principles, with an emphasis on targeting “at risk youth”.

a Catalyst Connecting Christ to the Culture for Community Change

2. FINANCE Seek and develop ways to generate an on-going income stream to support the CityLight’s Mission.

3. COMMUNICATION Coordinate a communication network within the community involving Churches, Christian ministries, and the community at-large.

4. VOLUNTEER COORDINATION Coordinate and integrate CityLight volunteers based on their areas of interest.

5. EVENTS Coordinate information on Christian events taking place in the Columbia area and coordinate CityLight sponsored events. Citylight is a Catalyst Connecting Christ to the Culture for Community Change 6. MINISTRY COORDINATION Coordinate information on Christian ministries and outreach opportunities in the Columbia area and develop a “Ministry Directory” listing available ministries and resources in the community.

7. UNITY AND RECONCILIATION Promote unity and reconciliation across racial, cultural, and denominational lines by encouraging Pastors, laity, and the business community to work together to bring moral, spiritual, and economic changes to the community.

8. CHURCH AND COMMUNITY MOBILIZATION Mobilize Churches and the community to capitalize on available gifts, talents, and resources to address the problems and needs of the community.

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11. EDUCATIONAL REVITALIZATION Work with Churches and the community in the areas of youth tutorial, remedial instruction, illiteracy, and other educational related problems.

12. HOUSING REDEVELOPMENT Foster safer neighborhoods, promote and provide affordable housing for the homeless and others with housing needs, encourage neighborhood property beautification, and strengthen neighborhood relationships.

13. HEALTH REVITALIZATION Work with Churches and the community to identify and address problems that are contributing to the deterioration of the physical and emotional health of the community.

14. BUSINESS AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Work with Churches and the community to promote business stability and growth using available resources to help the unemployed, underemployed, and others in need in the community.

If you would like tot be a part of the move of God in Columbia and volunteer to serve on one of the CityLight Committees or if you would like more information about the CityLight Mission, you may call or write to us at: CityLight P.O. Box 8642 Columbia, SC 29202 803.518.1257 | citylight.org

CityLight is a Catalyst Connecting Christ to the Culture for Community Change december 2011

CHRIST CENTRAL Columbia • South Carolina

PASTOR SYLVIA MICKENS|Director hrist Central Columbia, under the directorship of Pastor Sylvia Mickens, has been the proving ground for many of the successful programs used in Mission Stations across South Carolina.

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Christ Central Columbia located at 2401 Main Street, Columbia SC, has been serving daily meals to the working poor, under privileged, disabled veterans, abused and displaced women, men and children at the same location for over 14 years. During this time we have gratefully relied on donations from our churches, faith based, educational and professional communities. The donations and gifts we receive dramatically impact the community we serve and greatly assist us with the maintenance and normal day-to-day upkeep of our facility.

Christ Central Columbia is a non-profit organization that operates with an all volunteer staff. We have achieved measurable success during this past year in providing medical services for the homeless and disadvantage, life skill and educational classes and a Job fair, connecting the local community with prospective employers.

Christ Central is an approved site for The Benefits Bank, offering free counselor assisted programs to low and moderate income families.

Many are able complete State and Government applications and qualify for assistance with tax credits and other benefits.

At Christ Central, we offer “hope in our words and help in our hands” In addition to the famous hot meals from our DHEC certified kitchen, many are assisted with clothes, health

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care services, groceries, pampers, birth certificates, ID’s, bus tickets, phone calls home, support/exercise classes and N/A and A/A meetings and more.

To carry forward the mission of Christ Central, we are first grateful to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ who is Central to all hope. And to our most dedicated and faithful volunteer staff and generous donors, we salute you for continued support of Christ Central Columbia. Your generosity is gratefully appreciated.

This year 2011 has been a year of economic crisis for non-profit organizations. As many, we have been deeply affected by these crises.

There are more Americans in need or homeless than any other time in US history. In order for us to ensure that our mission station continues to serve those in need of the Midlands, we need your financial support and/or an inkind donation of any of the items listed below.

Christ Central Columbia occupies an older building in down town Columbia, which is in need of some repairs.

Items on our prayer list include a 7.5 ton heating and cooling unit, a commercial stove/oven, and paper products & cleaning supplies (a constant need). Pray with us about these needs and if you feel led to help in any way or just need more information, please contact us:

Christ Central 803-765-1998 Pastor Sylvia at 803-237-2547 Please see page 25 for a list of monthly needs at Christ Central.

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NOTEWORTHY COMMUNITY LEADERS GINGER Y. SIMMONS was born in Columbia South Carolina to Dr. and Mrs. Jesse D. Simmons Sr. After living in a ministers home and being in church in her formative years, Ginger stepped into sin and rebellion in her mid teens and continued in that life of destruction for 25 years. Running from the call of God on her life, she became involved with drugs and alcohol. She was in and out of many relationships including very abusive ones.

However, on March 14, 2001, Jesus reached down into the pit of mess that was her life as she was on the brink of attempting suicide and radically saved her, making her mess a message! Since that glorious day, Ginger has attended and graduated Destiny Bible College. She is an ordained minister holding credentials through the International Pentecostal Holiness Church. In 2006, Ginger became an Ordained Missionary with the World Mission Ministries of the IPHC and has traveled extensively to include Costa Rica, Mexico, Belize, South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Kenya, France, Belgium, Germany, England and Ireland.

She has also traveled the United States sharing the message of hope, love and forgiveness that she has experienced.

Early in 2011, Ginger began to feel a shift and is transitioning. God awoke her in South Africa three years earlier and laid in her spirit a ministry which He named Esther’s Heart Ministries. Esther’s Heart Ministries is all about “If it pleases our King”! God has given Esther’s Heart Ministries a mandate of resurrection to breathe life back into His children and bring intimacy! He has asked our team to bring people into a Holy Place where they are “soaking” in His presence. God’s desire is for His children to know His heart, to be so close to Him we can hear His heartbeat.

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Esther’s Heart Ministries ministers in prophetic song, preaching, prophesying and praying over people. We also serve in benevolence ministry giving clothes and food to those in need as God brings them to us.

Ginger and Esther’s Heart Ministries would be so honored to come and minister with you!

Shalom!

Email: estherandherking@gmail.com Phone: 803.445.1885 esthersheartministries.org

MARGARET BARBER was appointed by Governor Nikki Haley and confirmed this past February as director of the S.C. Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ). Barber began a lifelong career in social services as a probation officer in York County in the late 60s, and has served as DJJ chief of staff from 2007 to January 2011. Other positions within DJJ include upstate regional administrator (1999-2007) and York County director (1993-1999).

“From staff members to field workers to our many volunteers, the people at DJJ are truly a family,” says Barber. “Their energy inspires me — they are so dedicated to helping our children succeed. It speaks well of Columbia that we have more volunteers than staff. We can’t say enough about our friends of Juvenile Justice. They’re part of our family as well, and we couldn’t do it without them. If you’re wondering how you can help, let us connect you — we work hard to match our needs to the strengths of every volunteer and supporter.” A York County native and resident of Fort Mill, Barber says the spirit of collaboration in Columbia is strong as she’s ever seen.

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CHRIST CENTRAL Columbia • South Carolina

MONTHLY NEEDS

Paper plates Covered paper plates Napkins Plastic ware (forks ) Plastic ware ( spoons) Large cups 16 oz Small cups 8-9 oz Paper towels Bathroom Tissue Facial Tissue (Kleenex) 40 Gallon trash bags 60 Gallon trash bags 13 Gallon trash bags Recycled grocery bags Aluminum foil (commercial roll) Plastic wrap (commercial roll) Clorox Dish Detergent (32oz) Pine Sol Laundry Detergent Post-it Notes Card Stock Business envelopes Standard envelopes Note Pads Legal pads File folders december 2011

3000 per month 500 per month 3000-5000 per month 3000 per month 1000 per month 3000 per month 1000 per month 15 per month 150 per month 15 per month 200 per month 200 per month 200 per month All that we can collect 1 Large 1 Large 8-10 gallons per 5-6 bottles per month 3 large bottles monthly

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FIRST

ECUMENICAL CHURCH

Sam’s

Home Repair & Custom Cabinetry

803.466.9155

SAM AND PAULA PERRY 2401 Main Street • Columbia, SC

CITYLIGHT

2401 Main Street P.O. Box 8642 Columbia, SC CityLight.org

midlands

Prayer Opportunities F IRST NATIONS MONDAY The purpose of First Nations Monday is to encourage Native American leaders, prayer coordinators, independent intercessory prayer groups, organizations and churches to join together in prayer the first Monday of each month for Native Ministry.

For more information visit the website - firstnationsmonday.com Or contact Jeny Covill at jcovill@cyberport.

CALL TO PRAYER FOR THE POOR & SUFFERING December 12, 2011 - 12:00 PM There are countless needs across the globe and the rising numbers of the poor and oppressed continue to grow rapidly. Join with men and women of faith from around the world as we lift up impoverished families and intercede on behalf of millions live from International House of Prayer, Kansas City, MO Visit www.prayforhope.com to learn more.

SEEK GOD FOR T HE CITY 2012 Forty days of prayer from February 22, 2012 to Palm Sunday April 1, 2012 These forty days of prayer are anchored in God’s Word. At this hour in history, we stand at a crucial threshold. Now is the time to pray in step with God’s great passion to draw a people to Himself from every people, with outbreaks of his kingdom in every community on earth.

For information contact H. L. Allen at 803-513-2003 or by e-mail at allenhl@windsteam.net. www.waymakers.org

NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER May 3, 2012 - 12:00 – 1:00 pm State House Steps For more information contact: Chris Smith at 803-422-6337 or by e-mail at chrisasmith@bellsouth.net H. L. Allen at 803-513-2003 or by e-mail at allenhl@windsteam.net

GLOBAL DAY OF PRAYER May 27, 2012 In 2011, millions of Christians from 204 nations united in prayer on Pentecost Sunday, June 12. On May 27, 2012 the nations of the world will once again unite in the Global Day of Prayer. This prayer time will be preceded with 10 Days of Prayer from May 17 through May 26 followed by 90 Days of Blessing. ____________________________________________________________________

More Prayer Opportunities on Page 18 december 2011

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I’VE BEEN T HINKING ABOUT…

WORDS

JED N. SNYDER, D. MIN. Founder/President Jesus Every Day Ministries, Inc. | www.jedministries.com Words can be very powerful. This prayer given by the Psalmist in the older Scriptures is an important reminder about our words. I have quoted it in two slightly differing versions here to bring out the real significance of what we can glean from this ancient prayer.

Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips! Take control of what I say, O LORD, and guard my lips.

Psalm 141:3 Many times as I sit counseling with someone, we interact over the power of words. Words reveal much of the inner person. An angry person often reveals his anger in the words that he speaks. A kindhearted person will speak words which tend to result in the betterment of the listener. A fearful person will express things differently than will a confident one.

to speak the truth and to speak it in love. …we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church.

Ephesians 4:15 What we find in these two passages reinforces that the focus of our words should be toward that which benefits the listener. It seems too often, that a person lets his words fly and frequently wishes he could retract what he has just said. If our focus is always on helping the other one, the listener, then it will become increasingly easy to speak in a helpful way.

A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver. Like a gold ring or an ornament of gold is a wise reprover to a listening ear.

Proverbs 25:11-12

A Biblical passage that has come to mean a great deal to me, especially in recent years, is found in Ephesians in the New Testament.

Perhaps as you read this and evaluate what words come from your mouth you may breath a prayer of your own, something like this.

Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. Ephesians 4:29

“Dear Lord, Please help my words enhance the fullness of the life of those who hear them. Amen.”

Earlier in the same chapter, Paul admonished 28

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May your day be full of happy, helpful words. december 2011

am a Jesus pusher!!! There is an “unseen” world; it is just as real as the “seen” world. It has more authority and influence than our Stephen Manley physical world. Our www.jesuspusher.org physical “seen” world is constantly responding to the spiritual “unseen” world. The tip of an iceberg is plainly seen projecting from the water. However, there is a massive amount of the iceberg not seen. The tip does not determine the activity of the iceberg; it is only an indicator of what is not seen. Could it be my physical existence is simply an indicator of the massive movement in the spiritual realm? The physical is a stage upon which the spiritual displays itself.

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Jesus is the iceberg; we are allowed to see the tip of His activities for a few years.

What took place in the spiritual realm was so explosive; it thrust itself into our physical realm. Stars began speaking to wise men. They came to Jerusalem. Surely the Jews, who were to be the physical avenue of the world’s redemption, would know His location. These wise men searched the Scriptures; He was born in Bethlehem, five miles from Jerusalem. Not one Jewish leader went to see the “explosion of the spiritual into the physical.” The physical realm responded with indifference. Herod, the King, declared war on the new revelation. His war contained deception (Matthew 2:8), anger (Matthew 2:16), and the destruction of baby boys (Matthew 2:16).

I will not join them! I will embrace Jesus, the revelation of the “unseen” world. As the spiritual world moved through Him into my physical world, so I will allow Him to move through me. I welcome His controlling, spiritual presence to disturb my physical world.

I am a Jesus pusher!!!

“Jesus is the iceberg”

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Publisher ................................................................................... Redfern II CityLight Founders ......................................... Joe and Gladys Grimaud

Editor ..................................................................................... Casey Lowe Creative Director ................................................................. Gabe Lowe

Director ............................................................................ Sylvia Mickens Casting ............................................................................... Luella Redfern Logistics .............................................................................. Sandra Taylor

IT ...................................................................................... Bruce Trezevant Photographer - Videographer .............. Zoe Warren | Pistuo Productions

Columnists ................................................................................................ Joe Grimaud ........................................................................................... Gladys Grimaud ........................................................................................ Chakissee Newton .................................................................................................... H.L. Allen 30

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CityLight Prayer Group Structure One person starts a prayer group of 12.

Each person in that group starts a new group of 12

“God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints, and to be had in reverence of all them that are about him.”

Psalm 89:7 (KJV)

For more information, visit CityLight.org CityLight worldwide on Facebook CITYLIGHT 2401 Main Street | P.O. Box 8642 Columbia, SC | CityLight.org