Southern Gospel Magazine is honored to congratulate Melvin & Marge Klaudt of The Klaudt Indian Family on their first great grandchild. Melvin released the following statement: "As of 8:40 PM this evening, Marge and I have finally achieved the honor of being "GREAT GRANDPARENTS" We now feel a lot younger." Congrats and God Bless!!
Don't believe everything you hear I was asked "with all these sign's, is Jesus coming back soon?" There had been rumor's that he had already come and they missed it. Yes, those in the church of Thessalonia had started to believe that Jesus had already come. False teaching had started to spread and even after Paul had taught them in person that certain things would happen before he came again, the seed of false teaching had sprouted and fear started to set in. Time has not changed much and the tactics have not changed either. Since Paul's day there has been debates and disagreements that has continued to divide the body of Christ. Although rightly dividing the word through the Holy spirit keeps us searching for the truth, there should never be anything that divides us believers. In todays time we don't hear much about prophecy. We don't hear much about Revelations and end time teaching. We have become accustomed to hearing what lifts us up today so we can make it through the week, and that's a shame. When we started seeing wars and rumors of wars, famines, earth quakes in number like no other in history, Governments who profess Jesus as lord and pass laws that go against Gods laws, and I could go on and on, a sense of fear has creeped in because the body of Christ is being attacked unlike in Paul's time. The Word is becoming alive like never before, there are healing's, signs in the heavens, a pouring out of the spirit that is sweeping in like a flood. As Satan has tried for two thousand years to stop the Gospel, the body of Christ has been reminding him for just that long what his fate is.
Lets make sure that we understand what Paul was teaching about the return of our lord: 2 Thess 2:2 That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand. 3 Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; 4 Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God. Paul started out telling them, and us be not soon shaken in mind, troubled, neither by spirit or by word. The times have changed yet the tactics of Satan has not. He leads false teaching which causes fear and one to be troubled. Lets us see the signs of the times as a promise from our Lord that he is coming back for us. Lets not believe what is not scriptural. Paul stated that "for the day shall not come, except there come a falling away first". Do you see a great falling away? We are in a time like no other. Now is the time to study the word and allow the Holy Spirit to teach you and allow you to understand the Lords word. His word is the truth, founded before the beginning of time. Its alive, and is ready to be taught like never before. Stop looking for the sign's of our lord's return, and start doing what we are called to do, go and make disciples. Yes we are in the end times and I believe that we are seeing the Great falling away, and that is why we all must be taught and teach truth or we shall be like the Thessalonians. Lets me finish by quoting a little of the very first song I remember hearing about forty years ago which still rings in my soul today just like it was yesterday. Lets all remember that the very foundation of our belief comes from a promise as the song says, " I believe he's coming back like he said, I believe that a trumpet gonna sound so loud one day it'll wake the dead, in a twinkling of an eye he'll split the eastern sky, and I believe he's coming back like he said". Don't believe everything you are hearing, believe in the promise and the one who made that promise, the one who is coming back, Jesus Christ. Jesus is our strength Chris Ormond:
The following message from the Carroll McGruder family : "Tonight at 10:40, Sept. 15,2015 we have witnessed the promotion of our beloved Carroll McGruder, to his eternal reward. He so aptly penned the lyrics to THE GREAT HOMECOMING; today they are relevant to him. He made his transition peacefully in his own bed with family gathered around. His family and friends from around the world have held him and us in continuous prayer these past days. He expressed several times how he could "feel" that support. We thank each of you for your calls, texts, and other expressions of concern. We will all miss this great man of God immensely and ask for your continued prayers as we begin a new phase of life without his counsel, presence, and support. Our hope is in the witness that Carroll has left us. He received his reward, and we are resolved to go where he is. . - The Carroll McGruder Family"
We have the winners to open for Three Bridges at the West Birmingham Homecoming. It wasn't easy, but all the "Likes”, "Comments” and "Shares” from the Three Bridges FaceBook page have been counted. The solo winner is Jesse Fuson from Haleyville, AL and the group winner is Spoken For Trio from Prattville, AL. They will both open for Three Bridges at the West Birmingham Homecoming to be held at Adamsville Church of God, Adamsville, AL on Saturday, September 12, 2015 at 6:30 PM. Elliot McCoy of Three Bridges commented, "The contest was a great success and we thank all who participated by either posting a video or by liking, commenting, and sharing the videos of the contestants. More than 1500 different people liked, commented or shared over the past 3 weeks and we heard some great talent.” On a side note Three Bridges picked up over 500 LIKES during the contest as well. It's all about getting more of the Gospel to more people. If you would like to interview Three Bridges contact AG Publicity at info@agpublicity.com . You can learn more about Three Bridges at http://threebridgesgospel.com . You can follow Three Bridges at https://www.facebook.com/3BridgesMusic or Twitter at https://twitter.com/3BridgesMusic . Three Bridges is booked by the Beckie Simmons Agency at 615.595.7500 or beckie@bsaworld.com .
https://youtu.be/58QxzC1YkNU Video of Song!
From an email from Ernie Haase ... "I'd like to take this opportunity to announce the newest member of the EHSS family. His name is Tyler Vestal, and we are excited to have him on board! If you have been to any of our summer concerts, I'm sure you've seen Tyler playing keyboards along with our own Wayne Haun on the piano. Due to the success of StowTown Records, Wayne's producer duties for all of the StowTown projects, his additional duties as a committee member on both the Grammy and Dove Awards panels, AND his brand new daily radio show heard on Solid Gospel Radio, Wayne is a very busy man and will not be able to continue to go out with us every weekend. So, you guessed it ... this is where Tyler comes in! "Tyler has been learning the ropes from the best and he will be our new keyboardist. But never fear ... Wayne will continue to serve as our musical director and producer and will travel with us on the weekends when he is available to make sure we are continuing to do everything up to his standards! He keeps us on our toes and we need that! "So, here we grow again! The EHSS family just keeps getting bigger and, in this case, MUCH YOUNGER! I'm really enjoying having young Tyler and Dustin on the bus. They bring back so many fond memories of my younger days with the Cathedrals, and I love the new and fresh ideas they are bringing to the table."
On Saturday, September 12, 2015 the Frontier League Baseball Team the Marion Miners, proudly presented Gospel singer Steve Ladd to perform the National Anthem before about 3,000 baseball fans. Receiving a thunderous ovation the crowd was rambunctious in their applause which lingered for quite a while. Even the ball players and executives from both clubs commented on the performance being simple yet powerful and that is how Ladd intended it to be. Steve Ladd commented, "It is an absolute honor to sing the National Anthem at any event. I love this Country and wanted to sing its Anthem with respect, but also with passion.� Click the link below to view this moving rendition of our national song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UmgZV599ANw&feature=youtu.be In other news about Steve Ladd, he will be performing at the Dollywood Harvest Fest on October 7th. Steve will also be a part of the Heritage of Gold Reunion concert at the National Quartet Convention in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee on September 30th. If you would like to interview Steve Ladd contact AG Publicity at info@agpublicity.com . To learn more about Steve Ladd go to http://steveladdmusic.com . Follow Steve on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/SteveLaddMusic and Twitter at https://twitter.com/SteveLaddMusic . For booking Steve contact 256-266-1149 .
While change is never easy, when GOD is in it, it is always good. With that, owner and tenor singer of Beyond The Ashes has announced a new season for his 10 year ministry. Beyond The Ashes was started by Anthony Facello a decade ago with a passion and vision to touch lives for Christ. The group has been nominated for Dove Awards as well as receiving the Breakthrough Artist of the Year Award at the Absolutely Gospel Music Awards because of their progressive style and extraordinary talent. Facello felt a tug in his heart to move in a different direction with his life and shared that with the other members of the group. He helped each member move forward into other ministries and now that the transitions have been finalized he issued the following statement: "We all know there are changes of season. I love when Summer turns to Fall. The crisp air brings a feeling of new and fresh. With that being said there is a new season that has arrived in my life. Eight months ago God started dealing with me about a change and now the time has come for the last page of this chapter to turn. I have been blessed the last 10 years to lead the ministry of Beyond The Ashes. God has allowed me to play a part in the journey of many fine and talented gentlemen and now they are in great places. I have learned so much and my faith has become much stronger through these years. Thank you to all of the wonderful friends, churches and promoters who believed in Beyond The Ashes and in me. I will continue to nurture those wonderful relationships God has blessed me with. I love you all and ask for your continued prayers as I walk in this new season."
Though the full-time ministry of Beyond The Ashes is coming to a close, Facello anticipates continued opportunities to serve God in various capacities. He looks forward to some solo dates and, also, to periodically travel and share in music ministry with friends singing and speaking about the infinite LOVE of God. Additionally, there will be limited appearances in a new format of BTA which will be called Beyond The Ashes and Friends. For information about Anthony Facello and to keep up with exciting ministry ahead visit ww.beyondtheashesonline.com or www.facebook.com/beyondtheashes . For booking call 615-823-1557 or email scheduling@beyondtheashesonline.com .
About Anthony Facello Anthony Facello, the group’s founder and tenor singer, is no stranger to Christian music. The Dove nominated male vocalist has been traveling for 18 years. He has sung and toured with some of Gospel music’s most recognized names and even enjoyed being a part of the well-known Gaither tour on several occasions. He is a singer’s singer. His incredible tenor voice is revered as one of the best in the industry. This is an opinion, not just shared by fans, but also, by industry peers. Anthony’s heart, though, is what really sets him apart. He is deeply committed to his calling. He would rather see someone sincerely touched by the music than be recognized for his gifts. In his free time, which is pretty infrequent, Anthony loves to get in a good work out at the gym, or just sit down and have coffee with friends. Anthony shares, "I started out as a child singing in church and then with my family. Every week I would record Paul Heil's program, The Gospel Greats, and I would listen to those tapes over and over. I always knew that I was supposed to be in full time ministry and God saw fit to open that door in 1993.” In addition to being an incredible vocal artist, Anthony also enjoys writing music. He was born in Baltimore, MD and now makes his home in Pleasant View, TN.
Pigeon Forge, TN (September 28, 2015) – Over 40,000 gospel music fans are set to descend on the town of Pigeon Forge, TN as the 2015 edition of the NQC is set to officially start . Last night - Sunday, September 28, 2015 - early arrivers enjoyed a bonus evening concert by the top names in gospel music including The Hoppers, Mark Trammell Quartet, Greater Vision, the Jim Brady Trio and Tim Lovelace. The LeConte Center in Pigeon Forge, TN - a $45 million special events facility serves as the host for gospel music's largest annual event. The NQC was founded in 1857 by gospel music legend and former backup vocalist for Elvis Presley, J.D. Sumner who co-produced the event with James Blackwood. The annual convention was moved in later years to Nashville, TN and then to Louisville, KY where it was held for 20 years. Featured artists are a "Who’s Who” of gospel music, and nightly concerts feature up to 20 acts. Among them are the Booth Brothers, Greater Vision, the Hoppers, the Kingdom Heirs, Triumphant and the Collingsworth Family, as well as prominent soloists such as Grammy Award winner Jason Crabb. Special events during the week include the Singing News Fan Awards, a fanvoted program of Singing News Magazine, on Sept. 30, the keynote address by Dr. David Jeremiah on Oct. 2, the Cathedrals’ Family Reunion featuring several alumni of gospel’s most celebrated group on Sept. 30 and a Gospel Music Hymn Sing hosted by Gerald Wolfe on Oct. 3.
Vote 4 Prodigal Son..... 2015 Has been an exceptional year for HOLYwood Records/Tyscot LOUD Gospel hip hop recording artist Prodigal Son. Starting off the 2015 Year off with the continuation of his HomeComing Tour, appeared on several albums/mixtapes..Stellar Award appearance, International Television appearances, became a mentor to High Risk juvenile offenders, author and so much more. Prodigal Son (Kelly Williams) has been nominated for S. Florida's prestigous South Florida Gospel Music Awards in the category for Best Gospel Hip Hop Artist of 2015... "I won this Award in 2010 and then tragedy struck for me and my family, I put the mic down for a couple of years to refresh and find myself again. In doing that GOD gave me a fresh anointing and vision. This is a great addition to the many things GOD is doing with my life". Say's Prodigal Son. The 2015 South Florida Gospel Music Awards takes place November 7-8, 2015 in beautiful West Palm Beach Florida. Please log onto www.sfgma.com and vote for #ProdigalSon (Best Gospel Hip Hop Artist) I thank you in advance for your continued support.. Please click the link below to vote for me. Again Thank you... Prodigal Son Please click below to vote for Prodigal Son (Best Gospel Hip Hop Artist)
http://sfgma.com/sfgma-nominations-2015/
Pigeon Forge, TN (September 30, 2015) – Country music superstar Larry Gatlin made a surprise appearance during the 2015 NQC in Pigeon Forge, TN. The legendary icon stunned fans during the afternoon showcase on Wednesday, September 30, 2015. Gatlin is no stranger to gospel music, having penned several hit gospel songs and performing gospel music during his concerts. NQC - gospel music's largest annual event - continues until Saturday, October 3, 2015, at Pigeon Forge's LeConte Center. ABOUT NQC The NQC was founded in 1957 by gospel music legend and former backup vocalist for Elvis Presley, J.D. Sumner who co-produced the event with James Blackwood. The annual convention was moved in later years to Nashville, TN and then to Louisville, KY where it was held for 20 years. The LeConte Center in Pigeon Forge, TN - a $45 million special events facility serves as the host for gospel music's largest annual event. Featured artists are a "Who’s Who” of gospel music, and nightly concerts feature up to 20 acts. Among them are the Booth Brothers, Greater Vision, the Hoppers, the Kingdom Heirs, Triumphant and the Collingsworth Family, as well as prominent soloists such as Grammy Award winner Jason Crabb.
Special events during the week include the Singing News Fan Awards, a fan-voted program of Singing News Magazine, on Sept. 30, the keynote address by Dr. David Jeremiah on Oct. 2, the Cathedrals’ Family Reunion featuring several alumni of gospel’s most celebrated group on Sept. 30 and a Gospel Music Hymn Sing hosted by Gerald Wolfe on Oct. 3.
Pigeon Forge, TN (September 29, 2015) – Fox News personality and self-described gospel music fan Todd Starnes made a special guest appearance today during the 2015 NQC. The popular television host spoke during the NQC chapel service on Tuesday, September 29, 2015 at the LeConte Center in Pigeon Forge, TN. Starnes shared personal stories of his childhood, working for Fox News and his love of gospel music. The LeConte Center's halls will ring with some of the very best in gospel music this evening. Among those set to appear are The Bowling Family, The McKameys, The Perrys, Mark Trammell Quartet, The Nelons, Greater Vision and many others. A very special finale, "A Cathedrals Celebration," will conclude the evening and offer a preview of "The Cathedrals Family Reunion" showcase set for 11:30 AM on Wednesday, September 30.
Most recently, Ashley DeRamus was named Advocate of the Year 2015 by Down Syndrome International. She traveled to India August 7-22, 2015 spending time traveling and visiting with children before accepting her award on the 21st. While a trip to India is exciting with visits to landmark places such as the Taj Mahal and receiving an international award is thrilling for anyone Ashley and her traveling companions were transformed by their interaction with the citizens of the poorest part of the country. Ashley and her companions saw the best and the worst India has to offer. From a dying man lying on the side of a road with only a shirt who was saved by her staff and others to the love of a mother whose baby with Down syndrome is sick and needs help. Ashley stated, "Thank God for blessing me with Down syndrome so that I can be who I am, a Down syndrome advocate so that I can give hope to others. To meet all the wonderful people of India who have touched my heart the children who l came to love so much and my new friends from around the world.� Ashley was deeply moved by the plight of many in India. The hearts of those with her were touched as well. Her mother Connie DeRamus, Kim Whitlock who is a director of the foundation, Gary Kannegiesser is the executive director of the Ashley DeRamus Foundation and business manager of Ashley by Design as well as Video Journalist, Mick Richards who went to document the trip.
If you would like to interview the Ashley contact AG Publicity at info@agpublicity.com . You can learn more about Ashley DeRamus and the Ashley DeRamus Foundation by going to http://ashleybydesign.com . Follow Ashley on FaceBook att https://www.facebook.com/pages/Ashley-DeRamusFoundation or Twitter at https://twitter.com/Ashley_DeRamus . To contact Ashley for a special appearance at your event E-mail adream.gk@gmail.com .
About Ashley DeRamus Foundation
The Ashley DeRamus Foundation was founded for and dedicated to the education, advancement and quality life-style of children and adults with Downs Syndrome. Through the work of Ashley and the foundation, our goal is to increase the awareness and enlighten others about the rewards and positive contributions we make. You can contact Ashley through Gary Kannegiesser at 440-670-2897 or adrehttps://.
We recently replaced our Group Business Card with a design we got from Ruthie Gainey Graphic Artist. They looked so good that we applied for an Endorsement from Clayton Picks and the put our logo on guitar picks to give away on our product table. Thanks Ruthie for your awesome work. Jerry L. Branscomb of the Branscombs Gospel
Daily Devotions, Domestic Violence Joyfulsurrender.com Joy Forrest The Blessing of Blessing Others: God’s Heart for Widows & Orphans Let’s be honest, most of us spend a great deal of time focusing on how to improve our lot in life. We think about how we can increase our income, improve our health, and find satisfaction in our relationships. It’s rare that we meditate as much on how we can bless others. Yet, in the passage I read this morning God tells us that blessing others is one of the keys to being blessed. At the end of every three years, bring all the tithes of that year’s produce and store it in your towns, so that the Levites (who have no allotment or inheritance of their own) and the aliens, the fatherless and the widows who live in your towns may come and eat and be satisfied, and so that the LORD your God may bless you in all the work of your hands. (Dt. 14:28-29) I love how God highlights helping the “fatherless and the widows.” Besides traditional widows, in modern terms, we have many single moms and children who no longer have full time fathers in their lives. I believe the church has greatly failed to answer his call to these assist the “least of these” among us. This is a theme that runs throughout the bible; yet it certainly doesn’t seem to be much of a focus in many of our churches today. In my counseling ministry I have seen many single women and their children struggling with poverty. Women who chose to stay at home with their children have suddenly been forced back into the work force after a divorce. Many face constant court battles just to get a small fraction of their previous income in spousal and child support. It can take months to years to get these issues finalized, and I have seen many women give up because the system seems so unfair. Rather than seeing churches reaching out to assist these modern widows and orphans, too often I have heard the women complain that they feel like second-class citizens because they were unable to save their marriages. Most of the women I have seen in these situations were stay-at-home moms, and did not want divorce. This is not to say the all the fault lies with husbands, but that when these situations occur the women and children are often more negatively impacted financially. In cases of abuse, abusers are masters at using finances to keep their wives at a disadvantage, and in cases of abuse we should be more concerned about the welfare of the individuals than saving a broken covenant. Too often our counsel seems reminiscent of the religious leaders in Jesus’ time who elevated rules over individuals. I can’t tell you how many times I have seen women counseled to return to abusive situations and to try to win their husbands with a quiet and gentle spirit. Unfortunately, such counsel leaves women and children in danger. Regardless of how it occurs, the bottom line is that there are children and mothers who are suffering, and the church needs to come along beside them rather than stand over them in judgment. Sadly, over the years, I have watched scores of women and children move from plenty to needy with very little help from God’s people.
They are forced to seek government assistance, which is usually far from adequate. How it breaks my heart! James 1:27 says that caring for widows and orphans is pure and undefiled religion. It is the sort of religion God accepts and desires. Perhaps we don’t get involved, because the task seems overwhelming. Yet, there are people out there in the trenches, and they tell me fundraising is extremely difficult. How difficult could it be to give a few dollars to ministries who are helping? It seems most Christians prefer to turn a blind eye to this type of need. According to this verse, refusing to see the need will not only hurt the women and children in need, but it will withhold blessings from the church as well. Until his people begin to obey his command to care for widows and orphans, I doubt we will see the revival so many of us say we want. Until we learn to care for those who are suffering and needy, we will not be the church he desires. God’s heart is for justice, and caring for the needs of others. When we rise up and answer that call, we will finally be acting like his people, and then we will bring blessings on ourselves. “Is this the kind of fast I have chosen, only a day for a man to humble himself? Is it only for bowing one’s head like a reed and for lying on sackcloth and ashes? Is that what you call a fast, a day acceptable to the LORD? “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter– when you see the naked, to clothe him, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood? Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the LORD will be your rear guard. Then you will call, and the LORD will answer; you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I. “If you do away with the yoke of oppression, with the pointing finger and malicious talk, and if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday. The LORD will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail. Your people will rebuild the ancient ruins and will raise up the ageold foundations; you will be called Repairer of Broken Walls, Restorer of Streets with Dwellings.” (Is. 58:5-12) Lord, help you church rise up to become repairers of broken walls and restorers. Sometimes the task seems overwhelming, but with you all things are possible. Open our eyes and show us how to minister most effectively. Lead us and we will follow. Lord, please wake up your slumbering church to the needs of the fatherless and widows in their midst. Amen
The Many Faces of Domestic Violence It is with a heavy heart I write this article today. You see this same time last year as I put pen to paper my beloved state of South Carolina was ranked number two in domestic violence. Today out of fifty states we are now ranked number one in domestic violence. South Carolina has been ranked the deadliest state in the nation for women for the fourth time in 17 years. According to the latest rankings by the Washington, D.C.-based Violence Policy Center, with 57 women slain in a year’s time, South Carolina’s murder rate for women killed by men was more than double the national average. More than 300 women have been shot, stabbed, strangled, beaten, or burned to death over the past decade by men in our state. There are 46 counties in the state of South Carolina and they have at least one animal shelter to care for stray cats and dogs but there are only 18 domestic violence shelters to help women trying to escape abusive homes. What are we doing wrong? Where as they say have we dropped the ball? Wake up people we are going in the wrong direction. Have we as individuals, law enforcement, courts and sadly our churches closed our eyes to domestic. Thinking if we ignore it it'll just go away. Or is it because we just don't care or we just don't want to get involved. Whatever reason you give it's time to open our eyes and see the many faces of domestic violence. You may ask what does domestic violence look like. It looks like your next door neighbor, your co worker, your child, even your best friend. Now I hear you say but I've never seen anything that would make me think they were being abused. Abuse isn't just broken bones and bruises. Domestic violence takes on many faces. Faces that include physical, verbal, mental and emotional. A domestic violence victim may go through any and/all of these. Domestic violence can happen to anyone and is often overlooked or denied. October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. In October of 1987 the first
Domestic Violence Awareness Month was observed and has been observed as such since then. This year marks the 29th year of bringing awareness to domestic violence. It is observed to bring light to an issue that effects our community in staggering ways. Domestic violence has no regard for socio-economic status, race ethnicity, religion, employment status, age, education, or martial status. Domestic violence not only affects every American, it also harms our communities, weaken the very foundation of our nation and hurts the ones we love the most. Did you know that every 9 seconds in the US a woman is assaulted or beaten. Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women—more than car accidents, muggings, and rapes combined. One in every four women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime. An estimated 1.3 million women are victims of physical assault by an intimate partner each year. Domestic violence can happen to anyone, yet the problem is often overlooked, excused or denied. When people think of domestic abuse they often picture women who have been physically assaulted. But not all abusive relationships involve violence. Just because you're not battered and bruised doesn't mean you're not being abused. Many women suffer from emotional abuse, which is just as destructive. Unfortunately it is often overlooked even by the person being abused. Emotional abuse includes verbal abuse, isolation, intimidation and controlling behavior. You many think physical abuse is far worse than emotional abuse. However, just like physical abuse can leave you with scars, so can emotional abuse. The scars of emotional abuse are very real. Emotional abuse can be just as damaging as physical abuse, sometimes even more.
Abusers use a variety of tactics to manipulate and exert their power. These tactics can include, dominance where the abuser is in charge of the relationship. Humiliation where the abuser will do everything they can to make you feel bad about yourself. After all, if you believe you're worthless and no one else will want you you're less likely to leave. Isolation is used to increase your dependence on him. The abuser will cut you off from the outside world, preventing you from seeing family or friends or even from going to work. Abusers commonly use threats to keep their partners from leaving. They abuser may threaten to hurt or kill you, your children or other family members. Intimidation is a tactic that is designed to scare you into submission. Denial and blame is used to shift the blame to you. Somehow his abusive behavior is your fault. Did you know abusers are able to control their behavior—they do it all the time. The abuser pick and choose whom to abuse. They don't insult, threaten or assault everyone in their life who give them grief. They carefully choose when and where to abuse. They wait until no one else is around to see their abusive behavior. They may act fine in public but lash our as soon as you're alone. The abuser is able to stop their abusive behavior when it benefits them. They're able to immediately stop their abusive behavior when it's to their advantage for example when the police show up. Violent abusers usually direst their blows where they won't show. No one should live in fear of the person they love. The battered woman, it has been said, lives in a world of terror and her home is her prison. Just within the past decade our society has begun to realize that we have turned a blind eye domestic violence. We've been viewing domestic violence as a moral and ethical dilemma. We have convinced ourselves that it's a private family matter and not a criminal act. We have for so long told ourselves that some women deserve it, or they provoked it to happen. We have excused ourselves from the problem, convincing ourselves it was acceptable to look the other way. However by looking the other way battering has become the single major cause of injury to women, more that injuries caused by mugging, rape and car accidents combined. We can not afford to continue to turn a blind eye to what is happening in our nation. Thankfully South Carolina has finally removed the blinders and has stepped up to the plate when it comes to domestic violence. But not until thousand of women have lost their lives over the years at the hands of an abuser. Finally on June 12, 2015 our governor signed into law the Domestic Violence Reform Bill. Domestic violence is not something we can continue to sweep under the rug or continue to turn our heads, close our eyes and pretend it doesn't happen. It does exist, it's real and it will continue until we all take a stand. If you suspect that someone you know is being abused, speak up! If you're hesitating, telling yourself it's none of your business, you wrong, or the person might not want to talk about it – keep in mind that by expressing your concern you or letting that person know that you care. You may even save their life. Domestic violence strives when we are silent. When we take a stand and work together, we can put a stop to domestic violence. Let's all Stand Up, Step Up and Speak Up against domestic violence. Let's remember
https://youtu.be/pSe40tX-oTA
1990 spousal abuse ad. One person commented “used to see this ad when I was a kid... It's pretty hilarious to me, not because abuse is funny, but simply because I find the abusive treatment of one individual of another in the manner portrayed in this ad is so absurd, that I can only laugh... I mean, honestly, who gets angry about pizza? It's completely irrational...� There is nothing funny about domestic violence. And yes women have been abused for something as simple as serving pizza for dinner even to a piece of paper on the floor. I hate to say this but this is the feelings of many people in our society today. Domestic violence is real and it does exist. National Coalition Against Domestic Violence 1-800-799-7233 My Prayer is that God watch over each of you and keep you all safe and well.
Debbie Floyd
News From the Town of Olanta, South Carolina In the southwestern corner of Florence County with a population of 613 sits the small rural town of Olanta, South Carolina. A place I am proud to call my home for the past 30 years. On Tuesday, October 6th, Mayor Mary Huggins will sign into effect a proclamation declaring October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in the Town of Olanta. By signing this proclamation the Town of Olanta acknowledges the problem we as a nation have concerning domestic violence. The town also recognizes that the state of South Carolina ranks 1st in the nation for domestic violence with a 57 women slain in a year's time and that more than 300 women have been shot, stabbed, strangled, beaten or burned to death over the past decade by men in our state. That 7 women are abused every minute, 400 women are abused every hour and 10,000 women are abused every day. We as citizens of Olanta SC will Stand Up, Step Up and Speak Up against Domestic Violence. Debbie Floyd
Feeling Abandoned by God When You’re Sick Physical illness, especially when it’s long-term, can unsettle your world. It saps your energy and possibly your finances. It throws your vulnerable mortality right in your face. And it can make you question God: His goodness, His power, His caring, and whether He ever intervenes in our lives today. You feel abandoned by God. I remember Geraldine who came to see me for some gynecologic problems. She wanted to be pregnant, but dealing with her bleeding problems became the most important initial concern. Humanly speaking, it was unlikely she would ever give birth to a child. Geraldine also struggled with a large load of guilt and fear; ongoing abuse as a teenager had prompted her to engage in a number of unhealthy relationships for several years. She worried that her promiscuous lifestyle in the past was causing her problems now, and that God would have nothing to do with her. When you’ve caused your own problems, at least in part, it may be even harder to believe that God will do anything for you: Infertility caused by a previous sexually-transmitted disease Lung disease caused by smoking Diabetes caused by being overweight Mental challenges after years of substance abuse Serious head injury caused by taking a foolish risk
At least if you did something to cause your own problems, you might not blame God for not wanting to help. But what about those times when the person suffering had nothing at all to do with causing their problems: A child born with a serious birth defect A faithful pastor’s wife dying of cancer while her children are still young A godly man’s wife and son killed by a drunk driver A heart attack, or Alzheimer’s disease, after living the perfectly healthy lifestyle So it’s really not about whether you caused your problem or not. In this world we can get hammered whether we do what’s right or not. Sure, living well saves us from plenty of negative consequences. But as far as God’s concerned, all of us are messed up and in need of healing.
Has God Abandoned You? Probably most of you reading this will intellectually answer that question NO. And intellectually I agree with you. That kind of faith is important, but it doesn’t always stop our souls from questioning God. If Moses, Elijah, Job, David, and other Bible characters could question God’s goodness, power, and presence in the midst of their personal troubles (both those of their own making, and those they didn’t cause), we shouldn’t think it strange when we struggle with the same questions. Just look at a couple of these verses: Moses returned to the LORD and said, "O Lord, why have you brought trouble upon this people? Is this why you sent me? Ever since I went to Pharaoh to speak in your name, he has brought trouble upon this people, and you have not rescued your people at all." (Exodus 5:22-23) Because of your wrath there is no health in my body; my bones have no soundness because of my sin. (Psalm 38:3) Yet for your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered. Awake, O Lord! Why do you sleep? Rouse yourself! Do not reject us forever. Why do you hide your face and forget our misery and oppression? (Psalm 44:22 -24) And we could list many others. In the worst moments of His life on Earth, even Jesus cried out, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46) And yet there’s something consistent about all these friends of God who wrestled with discouragement, sickness, pain, or feeling abandoned. They took their questions to God. I could point to many more Scriptures that affirm God has not abandoned you. The witness of believers down through the centuries affirms the same thing. There’s nothing strange about you wrestling with the same feelings and haunting questions as God’s best friends in the world have done before you. So don’t ignore the questions. Take them to the One who IS the Answer. It may be that the very moment when you feel abandoned is the time when He is the closest to you. Let Him become the Answer for you, too.
This is my very favorite coffee cake! I love anything with pumpkin and spices you will love this coffee cake. Dough 2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons baking powder 1/2 stick butter or margarine or 4 tablespoons 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 3/4 cup buttermilk 3/4 cup canned pumpkin (Not the pumpkin pie mix) 2 tablespoons honey 1/2 to 1 cup walnut pieces or nuts of your choice Spice mixture for dough 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cloves 1 cup brown sugar 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 stick butter or margarine or 8 tablespoons
s. I cannot leave it alone when it is in the house. If you like pumpkin recipes,
Welcome to the Porch, Grab a nice cold glass of sweet tea or a nice warm cup of coffee and let’s chat. First, let’s say a short prayer asking God to open our ears and our hearts. Father, we come to you now asking that you will use these words in such a way that hearts will be blessed and open to you. Father, all we do we do for you. Each of us humbled, by your love and mercies every day. Amen Salvation is free, but discipleship will cost you your life There is great cost in being a disciple of Jesus. We can see this in Luke14: 25-35. Jesus lays out at least 4 conditions for being a disciple The Cost of Discipleship 25 Now great crowds accompanied him, and he turned and said to them, 26 “If anyone comes to me and does not hate (Jesus used such a strong word here to indicate a lesser degree of devotion, we all know that to hate would go against the teachings of the scriptures. We must love Him above all) his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple. 27 Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple. 28 For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it? 29 Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, 30 saying, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish.’ 31 Or what king, going out to encounter another king in war, will not sit down first and deliberate whether he is able with ten thousand to meet him who comes against him with twenty thousand? 32 And if not, while the other is yet a great way off, he sends a delegation and asks for terms of peace.33 So therefore, any one of you who does not renounce all that he has cannot be my disciple. Jesus tell us her that there are conditions to being His disciple 1 – He is priority ONE Going to church comes before a ball game, a visit with family, a show on TV, Playing a game on the computer 2 – We must have the right purpose Our purpose must be to teach the world about Jesus love and His saving grace.
We must win the lost Carrying out the commission that he has laid before us We must MAKE DISCIPLES 3 – It is a long term commitment, It is a Covenant with Him How do we grow in our love for Christ? Our love in born in time spent together. Jesus wanted us to have the same relationship with Him as He had with God the Father. Just as Jesus our days are full but the Father was His focal point. Time with Jesus will mean that our daily lives will be centered on Him, both planned and spontaneous. Time with Jesus will begin to create a change in our mind set and behavior. When things are at their worst this is when we/Christians should be at our/their best (***** Here I am reminded of when my brother Wilson was so sick with pneumonia, he got to the point where he could barely walk and was having shaking episodes that were so bad he would shake the couch, chair or bed where ever he was. But HE STOOD FIRM, that FATHER Had it all under control. Wilson is one that is loyal to his family and work. He missed over a month of work. This within its self was a huge burden factor to him. He told me that he was reminded of Job. He looked at this as a test, to see if he would stay strong. There was a fellow employee that had to drive him home from work, and when he prayed, he told Wilson, that this showed him that he was not where he should be with God. To which, Wilson replied, “If my sickness helps you it is worth it all” I was amazed at the amount of faith that Wilson was showing. I have always looked up to him as an example of how a Christian should act and look in the eyes of the world. I honestly can say I would not have acted in the same manner. My faith just isn’t that strong. My brother, Wilson is an amazing man and I am glad God gave him to me.) As a disciple our goal should be, our purpose is Jesus’ purpose. When this happen it means that we are willing to do without personal things, monetary things to do the work of Jesus. John 3:30 He must increase, but I must decrease God is the one who transforms us, but it is our practicing our belief / faith that generates the environment of change that allows the Holy Spirit to work. Jesus wanted us to share our teaching, our knowledge with other so that they too may become disciples for Jesus. Jesus told us to “make disciples of all nations” The Great CO-Mission Matthew 28: 19(ESV) Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and The Holy Spirit, The best way we can spend our time is investing in teaching other about Jesus, His love, His salvation and the joys of being a child of the KING. Discipleship is an ongoing, growing relationship. When we stop growing in Jesus He ceases to be a healthy part of our lives. If you don’t water a plant it will surely die. The same is true about our walk with Jesus.
How are we feed? By The Word By prayer Alone time just LISTENING By attending church or classes where the lessons of Jesus are taught By talking with other disciples. We cannot take lightly our call to be a disciple of Jesus. It is a costly decision but one that the rewards or out of this world. It is not an easy walk. Most of the time it will seem unfair and you will want to give up. Yes, YOU WILL FALL, but Jesus is there to pick you up, hold your hand and get you started out again. Remember Discipleship is a growing creation within us, and we never stop growing. ARE YOU READY? Till next time Thanks for joining me on the porch Brian Comments may be sent to brianmaceministries@gmail.com
www.brianmaceministries.com
Hendersonville, TN (September 28th, 2015) – Daywind Records and Tribute Quartet announce an exciting chance to cruise along with 25 of the best in southern gospel on the 2016 Singing at Sea Cruise sponsored by Templeton Tours Inc. Tribute Quartet’s new single, “Those Who Know Me Know,” brings a Caribbean touch to Tribute’s progressive quartet style and inspired this opportunity. One winner and a guest will win a free cabin on the Singing at Sea Cruise, sailing to Grand Cayman & Cozumel on February 15-20, 2016. To enter, simply fill out an entry form and return at a Tribute concert, or enter online at daywind.com/cruise. One entry per person. A complete listing of rules can be found at daywind.com/cruise. All entries must be submitted by November 30, 2015. Daywind Records is home to an award-winning roster of artists, including Legacy Five, Adam Crabb, Browders, Jim Brady Trio, Karen Peck & New River, Joseph Habedank, Adam Crabb, Blackwood Brothers, Bowling Family, Tribute, Nelons, Brian Free & Assurance, and Wilburn & Wilburn, among others. Daywind is distributed to retail through New Day Christian Distributors, Sony Red, and all major digital outlets, including iTunes. For more information, visit www.daywindrecords.com or contact Dani Phillips at publicity@daywind.com. For more information on Tribute Quartet, visit
tributequartet.com.
Easy Organizing Tips To Enhance Your Seasons by Dot A Wiggins Life is full of emotions, duties, obligations, challenges and STUFF! Most people are very aware of their environment and clutter is a distraction to productivity at minimum. For some it can be a cause for emotional and mental issues. Organizing conjures fear, anxious and unpleasant thoughts to many but it can be a breath of fresh air in an over packed life. Order, purpose and celebration are my philosophical goals when I am trying to assist someone or organize my own space. Use your life’s cues, your favorite colors, scents, seasonal and holiday items and fulfilling a goal: Make my space/home/car more pleasing . Start with your calendar ~Digital or paper. Make sure it is up -to-date with your activities, special occasions, reminders, etc. MAKE SURE THE HOLIDAYS ARE BLOCKED OFF and you’re your prep days space in there too. Think about your preferences and needs for inspiration, light, scents etc. Collect your supplies to enhance your seasonal inspiration and motivation. Vision boards get cleared and refreshed more in the last quarter of the year than any other time. Harvest time is a great time to reflect on the sowing season and see what you want to do differently next year. Ask yourself, “What is coming up in my day, month, quarter that MUST be prepared for, planned out, tasks completed. Which ones are connected to goals? Mark these PRIORITIES! Add notes to these tasks and dates in your calendar to keep you focused. Synching your digital calendar to a computer-based program like Google will allow you to print out your schedule, Lists and notes. Place them in a binder with a nice inspirational photo on the front and review it often. Our thoughts inspire our actions and behaviors. Purposefully controlling our thoughts and focusing on our priorities helps us plan better after a challenge or obstacle is encountered. Illness is always a consideration and the unexpected issues but having a WRITTEN plan of action with our intentions and ideas makes the last minute changes easier to handle with grace, patience, and serenity. Aroma therapy
and colors can help influence our moods, mental clarity, energy level, and keep us healthy. Essential oils are great enhancers, health preventatives & remedies, air cleaners and fresheners. I use Simply Aroma for the effectiveness as pure oils and their affordable and easy use. Lemon is always a great scent for healthy, fresh air, mental clarity and a little pep, Peppermint, Eucalyptus, Cloves are some other good seasonal scents. Would love to discuss your Fall and Winter goals and plans to achieve them. Let’s connect on Facebook, Organizing and Goal Accomplishing: http://www.Facebook.com / UniquelyOrganizedandUtilized For Essential Oils https://www.facebook.com/SimplyAromaDotAWiggins or via email uniquelyorganiz@gmail.com Visit the Website www.uniquelyorganizedandutilized.com get a ½ off coupon for consult. Contest! oh what fun.. You enter for the fun of it and the thoughts of "if I win, this could be cool" (but that nagging voice reminds you "Just what you need one more thing to find a place for or one more thing to make sure you use before it expires".) uggg.
Wish there was a contest that could help solve one of your burning problems? Do you want a prize you can really use to improve things? How about entering to receive a Free Coaching /Strategies Session to actually fix whatever is keeping you from accomplishing things that would increase your enjoyment of your space, stuff, talents, and/or time? Complete the form to enter! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1BKyoUf5QqnSfTf-QECbFX6Z2oVy9zvF8SCsxzu2Y_U/viewform?usp=send_form
Three time GRAMMY® Award Nominated and three time Dove winning group, Karen Peck and New River is excited to announce the addition of Season Eight American Idol contestant, Ricky Braddy as the newest member of their group. Bringing with him not only a great voice, but a wonderful stage personality, he brings not only his experience from younger years singing with his parents Gospel group but also his American Idol time. Ricky has an understanding of what it means to sing with conviction to get the Gospel message across. Karen Peck Gooch said, "Ricky is such an anointed singer. We cannot wait for everybody to meet him and hear him sing. We are so blessed that God has led him to our Ministry.” Ricky stated, "I couldn’t be more excited to be joining such an awesome group. It is obvious that God is working through Karen Peck and New River, and I am so thankful to be a part of it.” Ricky Braddy, a graduate of Belmont University, is a Christian/Worship artist living in Nashville, TN. Growing up in rural North Carolina, Ricky developed his love for music in the church. Sibling duets, family quartets, and Gospel trios were some of the first musical experiences he gained. One of his most notable endeavors was on Season Eight and made it to the top 15 of Fox’s hit reality television show, American Idol. After his departure from American Idol, Ricky spent the next few years working on original music that was released in the summer of 2013. The opportunity to return to the music he loves and the passion that drives him has been incredibly fulfilling. He is very passionate about creating music that will bring glory to God. Ricky is continu-
ing to follow the leadership of God’s Spirit in his life. Be watching for more great things in the future from Karen Peck and New River. Please help Karen, Susan and Ricky spread the word by using this suggested Hashtag for social media: #PrayNow . To learn more about Karen Peck and New River go to http:// www.karenpeckandnewriver.com . You can follow the group on FaceBook or https://www.facebook.com/pages/KarenPeck-and-New-River or on Twitter at https://twitter.com/KarenPeckNR . Karen Peck and New River are booked by The Harper Agency. Contact them at http://www.harperagency.com or by E-mail at info@harperagency.com
About Karen Peck and New River No doubt the most popular mixed trio in Gospel Music, Karen Peck and New River are a music powerhouse in the music industry. With hit after hit and multiple number one songs, they are one of the most sought after groups today. Karen is known country flair and for having possibly the finest and highest soprano voice in any genre of music. Karen was also recipient of the Susan Unthank Memorial Award, an award given by Absolutely Gospel Music only to women who have excelled in their work in a man's world. Karen had a feature role in the hit movie "Joyful Noise”, starring Dolly Parton and Queen Latifah. New River's hit song "Four Days Late” has become a classic in Gospel music.