Faith the Magazine Edition 1 by S&L Media

Faith Faith

Welcome to the inaugural issue of “Faith the Magazine”

a magazine dedicated to exploring the profound intersections of faith, spirituality, and everyday life. We are thrilled to embark on this journey with you, delving into stories of hope, inspiration, and resilience that illuminate the beauty of the human spirit.

Thank you for joining us as we embark on this enriching exploration together. May this magazine inspire and uplift!

Warm regards, Sean Wright Publisher seanwrightphotography@gmail.com S&L Media 2024

LOVE

John 15:13: “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” Love is a feeling of deep affection. We see it when we watch babies and pets with their parents, content without a care in this world. We hear it when lovers proclaim their wedding vows. We express it when we provide for our families and meet the basic needs of strangers. We taste it when we eat that homemade dish, prepared with tender loving care. We feel it when we are with those who know us, accept us, and support us unconditionally. Now think

By Daphne Perry

about this. Before we were born, God decided that He loved us so much that He gave His only Son, Jesus, to die for us. And in doing so, Jesus collected every individual pain, and distressing experience that we would encounter within our lifetime and carried it in the form of a cross to Calvary. With outstretched arms nailed to that cross, he paid our debts in full and became our Friend. His blood and death restored our relationship with God and guaranteed us eternal life if we believed in Him. That’s Love.

I Love The Lord My God!

WOMAN OF HOPE

Always smiling no matter what life hands her. Nothing is too big to get her down

By Susan Jones

Such an exquisite woman of God, she is full of life and has a contagious smile that lightens up every unpleasant circumstance to everyone that comes to her. She makes serving God easy with her joyful disposition. You can’t know her and not be attracted to her spirit. A true woman of God who embodies grace, strength, and compassion. She walks with humility and integrity, guided by faith in every aspect of her life. Her heart overflows with love, kindness, and forgiveness, reflecting the divine light within her. With unwavering devotion, she serves others selflessly, spreading hope and joy wherever she goes. Her words inspire, her actions uplift, and her presence brings peace. In her simplicity, she shines brightly, a beacon of God’s love and goodness in the world.

Mother Hamilton

She had Unshakable Faith and Love

By Casera, Nocelle and Jocelynn Hamilton

A Mississippi girl, youngest of twelve, wife of one, Mother of two, Mother in law of one, Grandmother of three, Godmother of two, Spiritual Mom to many.

Louise to Siblings, Aunt Edna to Nieces and Nephews, A Deaconess at Metropolitan and the Friendship Baptist Churches, Sister Hamiltons at Minister’s Wives and,Missionary, Matriarch in Hamilton and Smith families, namesake of Metropolitan’s Edna L. Hamilton, Global Missions Ministry.

Though In her early youth she vowed never to

marry a Preacher. Edna Louise was a Pastor’s wife, a Pastors mother, the sister a Pastor, the aunt of a Pastor, the sister in law of a Preacher, proud parishioner having two Pastors. Mother Hamilton’s love was seen in her soft smile, her tender touch. Her Encouraging words, her fervent prayers, her visits to the sick and recovering were heard in a Gospel song of worship. If anyone said to her I Love You. Mother Hamilton would respond “I Love You More.” We Believe She Did.

Oh, What Inspiration

By Milton L Evans, Sr.

Oh, what Inspiration

In days of deep discord

To join the celebration

In the Chapel of the Lord

Where strife and pain depart

As love gently Flows

To every weary heart

Healing as it goes

Oh, what inspiration

Awash with faithful prayer

And glorious revelation

Of God’s eternal care

Each sacred song a bell

With peals of joy replete

Wondrous stories tell

When all His children meet

Oh, what inspiration

The Shepherd’s lifted voice

Filled with jubilation

While worshippers rejoice

And magnify their praise

Of God’s loving grace

Glorifying the days

In this Holy Place

MAN OF GOD

He fights the good fight of the faith and takes hold of the eternal life to which he was called

Rev. William Lynn Hamilton is the Pastor of the Friendship Baptist Church, Schenectady NY. Rev. Hamilton and his wife Nicole reside in the Schenectady New York with their daughters Noelle, Jocelynn and Chocolate Labradors named Chelsea and Bailey.

Pastor Hamilton’s Love for God, Faith in Christ and Love for Family and Church Family is the source of his Joy.

Pastor Lynn and his older brother Lionel were raised in Colonie NY by their parents Rev. Ernest W. and Edna L Hamilton originally from the State of Mississippi. Being raised by believing parents, Pastor Hamilton began his journey of faith from an early age at the Metropolitan Baptist Church Albany NY. He is a graduate of the College of St. Rose in Albany NY, where he received Bachelor of Arts Degrees in Religious Studies and Sociology. Pastor Lynn is a graduate of the State University

of New York, School of Social Work where in received an MSW in Social Welfare Management.

As an avid sports enthusiast, Lynn led the College of St. Rose, Mens Basketball Team to it’s first two Championship Titles and was later inducted into the St. Rose Athletic Hall of Fame.

Additionally he earned a 2nd Degree Black Belt in Kenpo Karate and also studied other Martial Arts Disciplines.

Pastor Hamilton has studied at the Colgate Divinity School, Rochester New York, and the New York Theological Seminary New York, New York where he was mentored by Rev. Dr. J Edward Lewis. Pastor Hamilton continued his Christian Graduate Studies Education at the Mid America Baptist Theological Seminary in Upstate New York Campus, where he was mentored by the Rev. Dr. David H. Shepherd. On June 24, 2001, Lynn Hamilton preached

his initial sermon at Metropolitan Baptist Church entitled, “Go Make Disciples”.

On October 4, 2009 Rev. Hamilton was ordained to Preach the Gospel under the mentorship Rev. Dr. Damone Paul Johnson, the esteemed pastor of the Metropolitan Baptist Church, Albany New York.

On October 24, 2009 Rev. Hamilton became Pastor Hamilton became the 13th Pastor of the Historic Friendship Baptist Church, Schenectady NY, which was founded in 1919. During the first 7 years of Pastorate, Rev. Hamilton was employed as a NYS Parole Officer and retired from State Public Employment in 2017 after 30 years of Service.

To Date Rev. William Lynn Hamilton serves as a Schenectady Police Department Chaplain and is a member of the Schenectady Police Department Hiring Review Committee and continues to Preach the Gospel with Clarity and Conviction.

SISTERS

There’’s no better friend than a sister.”―Mary

Engelbreit

SBy Gordon Smith

isters, Noelle and Jocelynn. Sisters by any other name would be, Noelle and Jocelynn. Each sister is a Sister, Each sister has a sister.

Sisters, connected at the hip and inextricably bound by love.

Sister’s are God’s creation having two hearts that beat as one in perfect rhythm, rhyme and harmony.

Sisters, same smile, same laugh, same voice, same pitch, set at different volumes and always heard.

Oddly, Noelle and Jocie can effortlessly cause the other to double over in a hysterical laughing fit, they do not share the same sense of humor. Like other Sisters, they have the same likes and different dislikes. One is a nurturer the other obviously not. One sings her own song while the other walks to the beat of her own drum.

Sisters; the same yet different, different and yet the same.

Sisters; Always in the moment, comfortable with who they are, each having the ability share the same space and own the space at the same time.

If they could Noelle nor Jocelynn would change their sister one bit but neither would want to be the other for minute.

To communicate they don’t need words, they have their own private language in which they share their thoughts with an unnoticeable glance, a stance, a smile, a simple gesture, tilt of the head or with silence.

Sisters; perfectly imperfect. Noelle and Jocelynn argue, fuss and disagree without giving ground and never giving up. Of course they argue they’re sisters

When the bickering in over it seams that their Sisterly bond is strengthened instead of weakened.

Noelle and Jocelynn go together Peanut Butter and Jelly, Ham and Eggs, like Prince and Purple. Sisters, like Mary and Martha, Sasha and Malia, Tia and Tamera, Myra and Charlie Sue, you know, sisters.

Their mother would tell you that Noelle and Jocelynn are her sunshine, their father would say they are his joy. Both mother and father would say that they are gifts from God.

JEAN MONTIL

By Sean Wright and Jean Montil

Jean Montil was born in Jacmel,Haiti and has been sharing the gospel since 1975. He became an Evangelist in the town of Huntington, New York in 1999.

What Topic Will You Preach on at a new Church?

Love! Because Love is the beginning of a good christian life. When you preach about love. Nobody can be offended. Love is the perfect topic. When you love, you can not hate and you treat people with compassion.Love is the fruit of spirit.

Can anyone become an Evangelist?

No. You have to be called by God. An Evangelist is a Missionary and a Missionary has a special mission for God that hat should be different from a Pastor.

If God called you to preach on foreign on soil. Would you go? Yes.I’m an employee of God. He’s my boss. He’s my master and I have to obey Him without any complaints.

ELITA EDOUARDZIN

A Woman With God On Her Side Will Never Stop Fighting

By Marie Carmelle

Growing up in tropical Aux--kayes, Haiti.Life was not always easy but,God is good, God is great. God is always there for me. He has always shown me the right path to take and right road to follow. God knows your heart at all times. I have learned to give my all of my burdens to the Lord , and he has taken good care of me. God’s constant protection is proof of my existence. He shelters, comforts and feeds me daily. My strong love for the King of Kings will

never die.Ok Lord with my confidence in you for the love you’ve shown in me. I promise you to stay at your feet for the rest of my life. My family and friends are also true blessings from God. They cheer me up when I am down. We pray together often and we feel the mighty presence of our creator. We are grateful to acknowledge Him for today,

tomorrow and forever. Our Holy Father is divine gift. I know there will be easier days for me and for you. God always provides for His children. We must never stop believing in Him. When we stop believing in God. We call Him a liar. No matter ho bad our current situation may be. God knows and hears our prayers. We must pray fervently. I do my very best to attend church every Sunday to worship Him. Church is how I cleanse my soul at least twice a month. The Pastor and members make me feel whole and closer to the Lord.

JESUS

What He surely means to me in Nigeria

First and foremost, Jesus represents hope. In a nation often grappling with socioeconomic disparities, political instability, and religious tensions, the message of hope that Jesus brings is a beacon of light amid darkness. His teachings of love, forgiveness, and redemption offer solace to individuals navigating through personal struggles and societal upheavals. In times of despair, many Nigerians turn to their faith in Jesus, finding strength in the belief that a brighter tomorrow is possible. Moreover, Jesus symbolizes compassion in a country where poverty and suffering are stark realities for many. Nigeria is home to millions living below the poverty line, facing hunger, disease, and lack of basic necessities. In the teachings of Jesus, I find the call to serve the marginalized, feed the hungry, and care for the sick. This message resonates deeply in a society where

acts of kindness and charity are often the only lifelines for those in need. Through

Rhoda Joel

initiatives inspired by Jesus’ example, such as charity organizations and outreach programs, Nigerians strive to alleviate the suffering of their fellow citizens, embodying the spirit of compassion that Jesus exemplified. Furthermore, Jesus embodies resilience in a nation marked by adversity. Nigerians face numerous challenges, from economic hardships to security threats, yet they endure with unwavering faith. The story of Jesus’ own trials and

triumphs serves as a source of inspiration for many, reminding them that resilience in the face of adversity is not only possible but essential. In times of hardship, Nigerians draw strength from their faith in Jesus, believing that with perseverance and faith, they can overcome any obstacle. In conclusion, Jesus holds profound significance for me as a Nigerian, representing hope, compassion, and resilience in the face of adversity. His teachings resonate deeply in a country marked by diversity and challenges, offering guidance and inspiration to navigate through life’s complexities. As I journey through life in Nigeria, I find comfort and strength in the message of Jesus, knowing that His love and grace are ever-present, guiding me through both the joys and trials of life.

An Interview with PASTOR WILLIAM LYNN HAMILTON

HOW DO YOU LIVE OUT YOUR FAITH IN CHRIST?

I live out my faith by the help of the Holy Ghost. All believers are indwelled by the Holy Spirit. John 16:13 says that the Holy Spirit willl lead, guide and direct you into all truth. Only by allowing oneself to be led by the Spirit of God can one truly live out their Faith.

WHAT ARE THE TOP THREE RESPONSIBILITIES OF A PASTOR?

2 Timothy 4:2 a young pastor Timothy is charged to preach the word in and out of Season. So the Pastor Must Preach the Word of God. The Pastor must Love God, the Word of the and the people of God. If he or she does he will meet all the other responsibilities.

WHAT IS THE DOCTRINAL STATEMENT OF YOUR CHURCH?

The Doctrinal Statement of Friendship is none other than the Great Commission given by Jesus Christ himself. In Matthew 28:19-20 the soon departing Resurrected Savior commissions every believer to “Go make disciples of men, women, boys and girls of all nationalities and Cultures. Baptizing the in the name of the God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Ghost. Teaching them to follow the commands of God and to do this until His return. The commission has not changed. This is God’s Command and the mission of every Christian Church to go make disciples.

HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE ON CALL 24/7?

It is a privilege to be on call for God. I have been blessed to work with tremendous Deacons, Deaconess and Ministry Leaders who handle many calls and issues before they get to me. Yet when I get the unexpected emergency I am keenly aware that responding to the call is my God given assignment as the under Shepherd of the Lord’s Sheep.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO PREPARE A SERMON?

A Sermon takes about 24 hours total of Prayer, Prep, Plan, Pen to Paper and the Presentation. It sounds like a long time yet while in Seminary a Mentor, Rev. Dr. David H. Shepherd shared that other than the occasional exception, it is not unusual for a Pastor to spend one hour of preparation for every one minute he will preach.

WHERE DO YOUR YOUR SERMON TITLES COME FROM?

I try not to get too cute in Sermon Titles lest we miss the message but, I try to take the Title from the text. For example when the soldiers were directed to lie and say that Jesus’s body was stolen at Calvary. My Sermon title was the “COVER UP AT CALVARY”.

VENA BENOIT

Serving God is an honor In his life

By Scott Jackson

VenaBenoit believes that serving God is an honor that permeates every facet of his life, infusing it with purpose, meaning, and a strong divine connection. It is a sacred calling that transcends all human desires and elevates the soul to much higher realms of existence. In the journey of serving God, Benoit finds fulfillment not in selfish pursuits but, in selfless devotion to the Creator and His creation.

The essence of serving God lies in recognizing His presence in all things and dedicating Vena’s actions to God’s will. It is a commitment to live in alignment with divine principles of love, compassion, and righteousness. Through acts of worship, prayer, and service, Vena forges a deep bond with God, experiencing His grace and guidance in Vena’s life.

Serving God is an invitation to participate in His divine plan for the world, to be instruments of His peace and agents of His mercy. It is a privilege

bestowed upon humanity, affirming our inherent dignity and spiritual potential. In serving God, Vena affirms his interconnectedness with all of creation, recognizing the inherent value of every soul and the sacredness of all life.

Moreover, serving God is not confined to religious rituals or sacred spaces; it encompasses every aspect of existence. Whether in the pursuit of knowledge, the practice of kindness, or the exercise of justice, serving God becomes a way of being in the world—a constant striving towards goodness and truth.

In conclusion, serving God is not merely a duty but, a profound honor bestowed upon Benoit. It is a journey of the heart, a path of transformation, and a source of immeasurable joy and fulfillment. May we embrace this honor with humility and gratitude, dedicating our lives to the service of the Divine and the betterment of humanity.

MEDITATION

By Steve Siegelwaks

In a world filled with distractions of all kinds, the first best solution is a robust meditative practice. Easy to do , as it turns out with the proper basic tools, guidance and patient application of some tried and true methods relative to finding your “still-point”. Initially, determining a livingbreathing human teacher is integral to the cultivation of any substantive wholesome inner-awareness work that is to endure. Known, clearly distinct roadsigns mark the “Heroes’ Journey” along the path to self-discovery. It is therefore essential that wise counsel is onhand for course correction and to provide discussion as to what perspective may be gleaned as we travel the byways to and of enhanced consciousness.

Proper “set and setting” that establishes a decent environment for meditation is as varied as is the practitioner. Henry David Thoreau specifies that there are as many religions as there are people. What is notable is that direct access to one’s quite core, resplendent with harmony, is straightforward. Simple, simple, simple is key here. Effortless ease into a state of grace is essential. Good relaxed sustainable body posturing and

positioning, proper breathing posture, comfortable clothing (preferably natural fiber and nonbinding) and an upbeat mental outlook are all helpful here.

Oftentimes I hear people refer to never having had exposure to the meditative arts. They remain hesitant to begin any practice out of a resistance steeped upon false doctrine and petty fears. Fears that, when discussed squarely, turn out to be very easily surmountable by simple application of properly informed and cogently directed free will and a healthy dose of self-discipline! Moving past any insecurities involving the easy passage of thought-forms comes as second nature to us when the soil is ripe! We watch for movement within the inner landscape as images arise and move on out of your “stage”. Without grasping or clinging to any phrase or imagery, let your waves of continuous chatter pass over you without feeling possessive about any of them. Emphasis is on this last part!! The length of time spent meditating varies as your requirements remain key to your process. The where, when, how much and the form it takes is always the “x” factor. Embrace

the potential variation on the theme of loosely adhering to any meditation schedule. Many people around the world keep to a structured, very carefully monitored time and place where meditation is conducted. This is a tried and true methodology, no doubt. Beyond the scope of that practice, a less formal approach is serviceable for many of us, presently. Either way, the essential element is to remain true to yourself and your ability to dive deeply into your core to get to the truth of your heart and mind.

Frequency duration and location even the form meditation will take today/NOW is subject to and bound only to a healthy, open mind and flexible spirit! The liberal use of music, singing bowls, chimes, chrystal bowls and all sorts of mechanical devises sometimes find their way into the meditative forum. All are welcome as long as they don’t interfere with the direct and pristine meditation experience!Find joy and clarity, most importantly in this endeavor. Establishing and cultivating harmony and the joy of living is the essence of a sound meditative practice.

CANINE Companionship

By Todd S.

Who would ever debate the longstanding loyalty-based unconditional love fostered from and to our four legged canine companions. For the most part, none of us escapes the scope of adoration long associated with the domesticated dog and the role played at home in recent times. The notable theme that remains consistent between our 4 legged friends and us is that of marrow-deep faith and loyalty. This quality stands out in these times as a rare and welcome characteristic of the pets we take into our hearts and hearths. Faith is a key agent that is ever present in the mindset of the healthy animals we keep, raise and nurture in our lives. More than any single characteristic, dogs possess the unique ability to endlessly conjure up an unbounded fountain of warmth and generosity of spirit because it is their nature. Ask anybody in your travels their dog(s) at home are generally considered treasures without end. Their personalities creep under our skin and effortlessly

take hold of our heart-strings. The exuberant greetings alone are worth any struggles along the route! We, in-turn, would walk through fire for our best friends, which they instinctually know about us. Due to the telepathic, common vibe call it what you like, our pets know us well and care deeply for us. Always eager to support us during thick and thin, our chums are always in our corner as our greatest cheering squad. To declare that they can always discern our joys and despair and seek to fill in the gaps to reinforce our efforts to find meaning in our everyday affairs is an understatement. Beyond understanding, it is an impeccable perception that guides our canines to hold a peaceful ground for us as we seek higher ground from moment to moment during our lives. Who would, for even an instant, doubt the authenticity of the wonder that speaks to this distinguishing, direct and pure bonding. This trust is the appeal our dogs hold out to and for us. It’s always been this way.

The First Lady

A beautiful woman who loves the Lord

Kind. sweet and charming.

Determined, tenacious and strong willed! A power force of nature! Nicole Hamilton is rose by any other Name would smell as sweet. Nicole Hamilton, First Lady at Friendship Baptist Church Schenectady NY, wife of Friendship’s Pastor, Rev. William Lynn Hamilton. You will see her in Sunday School and Wednesday Bible Study. You will also see and hear her every Sunday as she leads Friendship’s gospel choir and the congregation in worship and praise. Nicole is the Music Minister of the Church at Friendship. She works tirelessly with Deacon Pool, Eunice Stevens, organist Azaam Hameed percussionist and daughter Jocelynn along with the choir members to render music that invites each congregant to sing praises to God. The Bible says that your gifts make room for you, well Lady Nicole’s gifts fill the Sanctuary every Sunday.

Under her direction the songs of celebration soar.

As she stated in a recent Albany Capital District Gospel Music Documentary.

“I’m not saying that I’m the best but, give it my best every time I stand before the choir and congregation. Nicole’s ability to bring out the best voice a each choir member truly a gift of God. Young at heart herself, Nicole takes special pleasure in leading the youth choir at Friendship. Though music is her passion, Lady Nicole has a Masters Degree in Public Administration from Marist College, Poughkeepsie NY and a Bachelors in African American Studies from the State University Albany NY. A former Field Parole Officer, Nicole is employed as a Senior Parole Officer at the New York State Dept. of Correctional Service Community Supervision Training Academy. Nicole is most proud of her daughters Noelle and Jocelynn who she

refers to as her Pride and Joy. Both daughters are active in the church choir. Noelle is an extremely gifted vocalist, with an incredible ear, able to sing soprano, alto and tenor parts flawlessly. Jocelynn the church percussionist is not a force of nature, she is more of a quiet storm. She does not say much, she lets the drums speak of for her. Nicole and Lynn met purely by accident at the Metropolitan Baptist Church in Albany, New York where Pastor Hamilton was licensed and Ordained.

The two later married at the Morning Star Baptist Church in a service conducted by the late Rev. Ernest W Hamilton. Nicole believes that she can do all things through Christ. She is an amazing woman who loves the Lord!