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Editorial Spring time, allergies, misery and relief. It is always a challenge to go through an allergy season, the end of grade testing, assembling a magazine or planning an event; however, the result of your hard work and the completion is always rewarding. TCP Magazine is back another year supporting the North Carolina Gospel Announcers Guild (NCGAG). Being an officer of the organization keeps me in the middle so for another two years, my responsibility will center on NCGAG events but TCP does have other territories. This issue is dedicated to the NCGAG Convention. Our cover story features Steven Ford. Steven is a well-known producer in the music industry but probably unknown to those of you who do not study the credits of the CD package. Steven has a passion for choirs and has a dynamic symposium and new book geared toward the church’s music ministry. Don’t miss this cover story and share it with your Pastor.
Peggy Tatum and Apostle J.A. McDonald at his Founder’s Day Celebration
It’s apparent that I am aging along with my friends. Over the past few months, there have been reports of heart attacks, high and low blood pressure problems, tumors, aneurisms, and deaths involving people that you can say are in my inner circle. Sickness and death are not uncommon but we tend to be so busy that it takes our bodies sounding a loud alarm to get our attention to slow down. I just say, “Lord I Thank You” that things are as well as they are. One of my favorite songs now is “One More Sunny Day.” Do you appreciate life as much as I do?
During the summer, we will be supporting a number of events including me chairing New Providence Baptist Church’s 150 Church Anniversary where I am under the leadership of Pastor Nathaniel J. Wood. Our summer issue will highlight entrepreneurship followed by the Fall Issue focusing on church growth and trends. If you are not subscribed to our internet eblast, please visit our website at www.tcpmagazine.com to sign up and you will get updated information on events and other opportunities. Thanks to all of the advertisers for both the magazine and eblasts. We appreciate your business and look forward to a continued relationship. Peggy Tatum, Editor www.tcpmagazine.com, email: peggy@tcpmagazine.com Volume 02, Issue Number 4 Publisher/Editor-In-Chief: Peggy Tatum Webmaster: Ted Tatum Photographer: Rick Crank - PIXBYRIC.COM Graphic Design: Denver A. Wright WIZPRO Creative Services, www.wizprocreative.com Contributing Writers: Adrienne Miller, April Mial, Dr. Paige Chargois, Dr. Francene Hash, Tolly Carr The Connection Place, Inc. 181-104 Wind Chime Court Raleigh, NC 27615 Tel: 919-676-0263 info@theconnectionplace.com Copyright © 2010 The Connection Place, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material in this magazine is prohibited without written permission of the Editor.
Contents 5 - Editorial 6 - NCGAG Welcome 7 - NCGAG Convention Agenda 9 - Lifetime Achievement Recipient, Bishop Eli Ratcliff 10 - The Williams Brothers – Blockbuster Winners 15 - A Farewell to Dorothy Irene Height 16 - Steven Ford – Resurgence of the Church Choir 20 - Mega Mime 2010 Conference 23 - Adrienne Miller’s, Listening In Fast Forward
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Message from NCGAG President Greetings in the Name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ: Once again, we come to another year of celebration. This year had so many changes for all of God’s people. I never thought that just a few weeks ago, I would be preaching my own Father’s Funeral, the Late Great Apostle Arvetra Jones, Sr. To my family we lost a jewel, but heaven gained a STAR. We really miss him, but it is our blessed hope that we shall meet again. This year we saw sickness come and go, but at the beginning and end of the day, He is still Lord. Some 14 years ago, the North Carolina Gospel Announcers Guild was formed. Since then we have watched it grow from a baby to a young adult. I will be the first to tell you, it has not been ice cream and cake these many years. There were times I wanted to walk away, but I always remembered that in Revelations 2:10 the Bible tells me “Be thou faithful unto death.” This is one of my favorite scriptures. You see God does not want us to rush out but he wants us to wear out doing His will. Thank God for my Mentor, Pastor Lydia Jones, who keeps the NCGAG prayed up at all times along with every Guild member who knows how to pray. We pray God’s Blessings on everyone’s life for this truly will be the greatest NCGAG Convention of all times. This week as we go Back to the Basics, remember to love on your brothers and sisters, for God has set this time for the NCGAG to get back to realizing that He is GOD and before Him there is no other. As the President of the greatest guild on the planet, I want to welcome everyone who pressed their way here to GO BACK TO THE BASICS with us. Special thanks to all my Officers and Board of Directors, and every member of the NCGAG. You make us who we are. I love all my Guild Members with the Love of Christ, and that’s real talk. To my seven sisters and my church family, “THE COME AS YOU ARE EVANGELISTIC CENTER” in Aberdeen, NC, my wife Evangelist Ruth C. Jones (who shares me with the World), my children Princess, Arvetra D, and Ruth LaOntra Jones, and I can’t and will not forget my Grands, Paris, Paradyse and Justice Jones, remember this; Find a Relationship with Christ first and all others will be easy!!! I want to thank some of the greatest men and women who came to make this a successful week, because surely this is something you did not have to do. Thank you from the depths of my heart. LOVE YOU ALL OF GOD’S PEOPLE PASTOR ARVETRA JONES, JR., PRESIDENT NCGAG and Host of: “THE HOTTEST GOSPEL SHOW ON THE PLANET”, SUNDAYS FROM 6 -10 a.m. 91.9 WFSS FM LIVE AT WWW.WFSS.ORG
Officers of The North Carolina Gospel Announcers Guild: Pastor Arvetra Jones, Jr: President Bobby Parker: Vice-President Ruthie Richardson-Robinson: Executive Assistant to the President Peggy Tatum: Secretary Apostle J.A. McDonald: Treasurer Pastor David McShaw: SGT. of Arms Minister Elvin McShaw: Chaplain
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Directors: Don “Q” Coney: Raleigh, NC Archie Swindell: Raleigh, NC Bishop J.C. Watford: Ahoskie, NC Mike Chandler: VA Beach, VA Bill Boykins: Chesapeake, VA Doris Diane Jones: Fayetteville, NC Doris Lea-Riley, Durham, NC Frank “K”, Jackson, NC - Honorary Member
2010 NCGAG Convention Agenda Wednesday, May 19 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm - Meet and Greet/Registration 6:00 pm - Banquet Seating 7:00 pm until - 2010 Prestige Awards Banquet Thursday, May 20 - Break Out Room 1 9:00 am - Registration 10:00 am – 10:15 am - Opening - Spiritual Nuggets - NCGAG Chaplain 10:15 am – 11:00 am - The Future of Radio - Mike Chandler (CEO Rejoice Network), Mike Gamble (SGN “The Light”), Alex Snipes (Glory Communications), Pastor Arvetra Jones, Jr. (President NCGAG), Bobby Parker (VP NCGAG), Al “The Bishop” Hobbs (National Chairman) and Chris Squire (CEO Wilmington Chester Mass Choir) 11:00 am - 11:15 am - Break 11:15 am – 12:00 - The Future of Radio (continued) 12:00 noon – 2:00 pm - Lunch on Your Own 2:15 pm – 3:00 pm - Marketing - Print & Internet Radio Peggy Tatum CEO of TCP Magazine & Humilitee of Gospel Fruits 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm - The Business of Running a Record Label - Troy Sneed Break Out Room 2 10:45 am - 4:45 pm - New Artist Development Classes Instructors: Garrett Johnson (Attorney - LA), Dr. Mark Williams (Voice Care Center – Nashville, TN), Steven Ford (SFord Music, Wilmington, DE), Tracy Artist (Cincinnati, Ohio), Earl Bynum (Virginia) and Thomas Rollins (New Day Distribution) 7:00 pm – Until - Nightly Showcases Friday, May 21 - Break Out Room 1 9:00 am - Registration 9:45 am – 10:00 am - Opening - Spiritual Nuggets from our State Chaplain 10:00 am -11:00 am - The Future of Radio - How To Get Your Music Played on Radio - Jerry Smith, Alex Snipes, Mike Chandler, Mike Gamble, Pastor Arvetra Jones, Jr., Bobby Parker, Archie Swindell and Al Hobbs 11:00 a.m – 11:15 am - Break 11:15 am – 11:50 am - The Future of Radio (continued) 12:00 noon - 2:00 pm - Luncheon with Bishop David G. Evans 2:30 pm – 4:00 pm - Marketing: Sheilah Belle, Humilitee, Chris Squire and Troy Sneed Break Out Room 2 10:30 am – 11:45 am 12:00 noon – 2:00 pm - Luncheon with Bishop David G. Evans 2:30 pm – 4:45 pm - New Artist Development Classes Attorney Garrett M. Johnson, Bill Carpenter, Steven Ford, Tracy Artist, Dr. Mark Williams, Mr. Troy Sneed 7:00 pm Until - Nightly Showcases Saturday, May 22 10:00 am – 2:00 pm - Breakfast Showcase – Holy Child Gospel and Others 2:00 pm - Product Servicing NIGHTLY SHOWCASES START AT 7:00 PM AND ARE FREE TO THE PUBLIC
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2010 NCGAG PRESTIGE AWARDS NOMINEES Female Vocalist of The Year CoCo McMillan Marshetta Parker Deborah Barnes Wendy Peterson Apostle Freida Cates
Choir of The Year Pastor J.J. Wilkins Jr. & the Voices of WCC Greg Kelly & Miracle Temple Truevine Mass Choir Melvin Crispell & Testimony Pure in Heart Children’s Choir Television/Media of The Year Terrence Jenkins/Donna Anderson, Producer, Spiritual Awakening Ray Green, Ray’s Gospel Rev. Therlin Kearney, Therlin Kearney Gospel Show Tracy Parker, New Dimensions in Gospel Armunda Hancock, Armunda Hancock TV Quartet Group of The Year The Christian Angels Lil’ Ricky & The Mighty Golden Stars George Dickens & Gospel Disciples The Harmonizing Echoes The Virginia Aires From the Heart The Johnsonaires Announcer of The Year - Female Callie Douglas Melissa Wade Carolyn Pettiford Ryals Cheryl Young Announcer of The Year - Male Sam Tate Bronson Williams Rod Porter Earl Harrison Michael Boykin Corey Warren
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Male Vocalist of The Year Everett Silver Rev. Thomas L. Walker Warren Caldwell Rodney Raines Gerard Williams Songwriter of The Year Brandon Carr Gerald Hinton Everett Silver Jermain Freeman Melcina Yancey White Brian Foster Pastor Rodney “The Mailman” Mills James “J.Q.” Quick Gospel Announcer Pioneer Award George Thaxton James Thomas Nathaniel Smith Bishop J. C. Watford Bill Boykins Group/Duo of The Year Eternity Todd Curry & Focus Brian Foster & Josiah MAGOH John Thorpe and the Thorpe Family Holy Hip Hop of The Year Xcel Tru-Life Chosen Mr. John Duncan Gospel Jazz Chris Robinson Willie Hill Fred McLean
NCGAG Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient:
BISHOP ELI RATCLIFF, A Man of Vision
It’s easy to understand the respect many have for Bishop Eli Ratcliff. He’s a God-fearing man, a visionary and a family man. Over the years, Bishop Ratcliff has planted a legacy. Born on March 16, 1930 in Rockingham, North Carolina, he started his young life with a sickness that many thought would overcome him. However, God sought another plan for his life and deemed him destined for greatness… and greatness he achieved. One of his greatest accomplishments was becoming the husband of Margaret Nichols. Together, they have three beautiful children; William Eli Ratcliff, Pastor of Mt. Moriah Baptist Church in Louisburg, North Carolina and General Overseer of Truevine Assembly Pentecostal Churches, Inc.; Clarence Edward Ratcliff, Pastor of True Praise and Deliverance Tabernacle, and Patti Ratcliff Allen. He also has four grandchildren and one great-grandchild. But his legacy moves beyond his personal life, as he laid down the groundwork for his children and grandchildren to continue. Bishop Ratcliff is the Senior Bishop of Truevine Assembly of Pentecostal Churches, Inc. and oversees twelve other churches, including Headquarters at Lincoln Park Holiness Church (Raleigh, NC), New Trinity Holiness Church (Durham, NC), St. James Holiness Church (Durham, NC), True Praise and Deliverance Tabernacle, (Chapel Hill, NC), From the Heart Ministries (Spring Hope, NV), True Vine Mission (Portsmouth, VA), Household of Faith (Willingboro, NJ), Faithful Few Holiness Church (Portsmouth, VA), Assembly of God Christian Center (Durham, NC), Keys to the Kingdom (Alexandria, VA), Harrison Chapel (Garner, NC) and New Beginnings Fellowship (Newport News, VA). Through 50 years of leadership, Bishop Ratcliff has seen his share of ups and downs, but has persevered because of his faith in God to fulfill his purpose - experiencing sickness in later years, almost succumbing to death and having a lack of financing available to complete his first church. But instead of allowing the devil to win and disappointing God’s purpose for him, Bishop Ratcliff decided that if financing would not be available to him, that he would start the process of building his own church to show that he was a true man of faith and through the Father, his purpose would be completed … and completed it, he did with God’s help. In 1974, Bishop Ratcliff started the construction of a new church. In 1981, with a growing congregation, the small building that housed Lincoln Park now moved into a new edifice, with a healthy leadership under Bishop Eli Ratcliff. As Satan continues to destroy, his hands sought to deter Bishop Ratcliff and his congregation from spreading God’s Word. On December 12, 1983, Lincoln Park Holiness Church was destroyed by fire. Instead of feeling defeated, Bishop Ratcliff went before God, the one who is in control of everything, and prayed for the rebuilding of his church… and God delivered. Again, with the faithfulness of Bishop Ratcliff and the works supporting that faith, along with other leaders and followers of his congregation and the community, Lincoln Park Holiness Church was reopened on August 3, 1986. They entered the church, wearing white, as a symbol to God and the rest of the world. From there, Bishop Ratcliff established a scholarship fund for the church, to ensure the future of the church. He has also established a partnership with St. Francis Catholic Church that has allowed Lincoln Park to help people in need through Passage Home and the Mustard Seed Thrift store, located at Lincoln Park. In addition, Bishop Ratcliff established a prison ministry at Lincoln Park, which has brought many souls to Christ – baptizing many and increasing memberships. Through the work of Bishop Eli Ratcliff, lives have been changed. The various ministries that he has started, some with his growing congregation, with other churches and even with his children, have helped many people, as well as himself. Because he stayed focused on God’s plan for him, God gave him favor to overcome all of his sicknesses and witness the fruits of his labor. Bishop Eli Ratcliff is truly a man and follower of God with a legacy for generations to build upon. April Mial is the President of Lilac Films (www.lilacfilms.com), a film company dedicated to producing Christian movies. She is also the author of “Out on a Limb… and Still Standing” (available at BarnesandNoble.com and Amazon.com). In addition, she holds the President position for the North Carolina Chapter of The National Association of Black Female Executives in Music and Entertainment (NABFEME.org). Comments? Email April: amial@lilacfilms.com.
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The Williams Brothers Take Home the Coveted Gold Cup – Blockbuster 2010 To the quartet community, Blockbuster is as synonymous as Homecoming and Anniversary. I’ve heard of a big event in South Carolina each year but what I pictured in my mind was not the same as what I encountered. For the second consecutive year, I was invited down to Florence, South Carolina to judge the Gold Cup for Quartet’s biggest event, “Blockbuster.” This year was significant in that it was the 30th year that the founder and organizer, Mr. James Gamble, held this event. For those who think Quartet is a dying genre, take a couple of days off next year around the first weekend in March and experience the greatest quartet groups of all time. After listening and judging 30 groups over two days, my eyes were a little buggy and my feet continued to move long after the sound of the music had died. I listened to the music of gospel legends such as The Brooklyn Allstars, Lee Williams, The Gospel Four, The Williams Brothers, The Swanee Quintet accompanied by other notable groups such as Darrell McFadden, Luther Barnes, Doc McKenzie, Paul Porter and the list goes on. It took me back to my childhood when quartets were all that I heard on the radio and on LPs. In case you’re in my age group, can you remember, “I Stood On The Banks of Jordan” or “Too Close To Heaven and I Can’t Turn Around”? They are staples that will never die. Congratulations to Lil’ Rickie & The Mighty Golden Stars, The Gospel Legends, Aris Smith and Made Men for impeccable performances. We look forward to seeing you on the big stage next year. Everyone decided to bring their A-game and, there was only a 2-3 point spread among the forerunners. A short intermission, a quick switch out of mics and up steps The Williams Brothers returning to Blockbuster after a noted absence. Dressed in tailored black suits with noticeable polished shoes, The Williams Brothers stepped to the mic in Temptation style with a sudden sweet harmonic outburst of Amazing Grace in a capella with the flavor of Southern Gospel. Their vocals were as pure as angels. Next, they jumped to a sampling of the best of The Williams Brothers. From “What A Blessing”, “Waiting on Jesus”, “I’m Just A Nobody”, “I Am A Living Testimony”, “Still Here”, “The Rugged Hill”, “Pray on My Child” to “Cooling Water” (accompanied by Lee Williams), the group displayed what kept them in the forefront of the industry for the past 50 years. After 15-16 Stellars, 7 Grammys, and now another Gold Cup’, Melvin Williams says, “We’re Still Here.” Stay tuned to TCP Magazine for updated information on Blockbuster 2011. I’m sure the 6-7,000 people who have attended for the past two years that I was there will be back waiting in line to get front row seats. By the way, in case you’re wondering about whether this is a true competition, well it’s based upon who you ask. Quartet lovers are die-hard and they enjoy every minute of the two-day weekend from standing in line to taking pictures with their favorite group, supporting the vendors, supporting the event, picking up new stage moves and fellowshipping. They will be back by the busload like every other year supporting their favorite group. To one special mother who I didn’t get a chance to meet. You stood by your son who was in a wheelchair for hours. You protected him from the traffic and attended to his every need while he enjoyed group after group. I applaud you for the example you are as a Mother. Peggy Tatum, Publisher, TCP Magazine
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Farewell Dorothy Irene Height – A Phenomenal Woman Another phenomenal woman of our times has passed through this span of our lives and has transitioned into heaven to continue her eternal reward. She is now walking the streets of gold and basking in the heavenlies with her God and thousands of other patriarchs such as Harriet Tubman, Sojourner Truth, Coretta Scott King, and the like. Dorothy Irene Height (March 24, 1912 – April 20, 2010) was an African American administrator, educator, and social activist. She was the president of the National Council of Negro Women for forty years, and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1994, and the Congressional Gold Medal in 2004. Height started working as a caseworker with the New York City Welfare Department and, at the age of twenty-five, she began a career as a civil rights activist when she joined the National Council of Negro Women. She fought for equal rights for both African Americans and women, and in 1944 she joined the national staff of the YWCA. She also served as National President of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority from 1946 to 1957. She remained active with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority thoughout her life. While there she developed leadership training programs and interracial and ecumenical education programs. In 1957, Height was named president of the National Council of Negro Women, a position she held until 1997. During the height of the civil rights movement of the 1960s, Height organized “Wednesdays in Mississippi”, which brought together black and white women from the North and South to create a dialogue of understanding. American leaders regularly took her counsel, including First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, and Height also encouraged President Dwight D. Eisenhower to desegregate schools and President Lyndon B. Johnson to appoint African American women to positions in government. In the mid 1960s, Height wrote a column entitled “A Woman’s Word” for the weekly African-American newspaper, the New York Amsterdam News, and her first column appeared in the March 20, 1965 issue on page 8. Height served on a number of committees, including as a consultant on African affairs to the Secretary of State, the President’s Committee on the Employment of the Handicapped, and the President’s Committee on the Status of Women. In 1974 Height was named to the National Council for the Protection of Human Subjects of Biomedical and Behavioral Research, which published The Belmont Report, a response to the infamous “Tuskegee Syphilis Study” and an international ethical touchstone for researchers to this day. Dorothy Heights is now an angel in heaven still doing good works but now directly with her creator. For we as believers have a blessed assurance that there is no sting of death; for to be absent from our physical body is to be eternally in the presence of our Lord. Thank you Dorothy for paving the way for us and for the legacy you left to show women how to plow through adversities to make an impact upon our own generation. We will miss you! Mark 10:45 For even the son of man did not come to be served, but to serve and give His life a ransom for many. Sources:Height, Dorothy. Open Wide the Freedom Gates: A Memoir. Tracey A. Fitzgerald, The National Council of Negro Women and the Feminist Movement, 1935–1975, Georgetown University Press, 1985. Judith Weisenfeld, “Dorothy Height”, Black Women in America: Profiles, MacMillan Library Reference USA, New York, 1999, pp. 128–130. Dr. Francene Hash, contributing writer. Author, leadership and volunteer trainer, conference speaker, ministry administrative consultant: francenehash@gmail.com
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Resurgence of the “Church Choir” A Steven Ford Perspective For years it appeared that solo artists and groups took the forefront in the Gospel Music Industry. However, there’s a shifting taking place, thrusting the “church choir” back to the forefront. While the visibility of the church choir dissipated, the church choir never disappeared, according to famed producer, Steven Ford a musician, songwriter, conductor, teacher, and preacher who has spent more than 40 years in music ministry mostly working with church choirs. Although soloists and groups took the spotlight for a season, the church choir remained strong and visible in the local church, behind the industry’s stage. “There is a separation between ministry and industry, although many won’t admit it, but there is,” Ford said. He attributes the current shift to the industry. In order for record companies to sell records, they had to make sure artists were mobile enough to travel and push their CDs. Church choirs could not meet this demand due to the expense associated with transporting and lodging a large group. As a result, choral ensembles narrowed down to groups of twelve, nine, six and so on, introducing smaller traveling groups. Ford reflects back to the James Cleveland era, “You had the big choral sound with the choir, then artists like Andrea Crouch, the Hawkins Family, and quartets came along with smaller traveling groups. They had mobile ability to go where choirs could not go. This took the attention off the “church choir”. Record companies realized the opportunity to make money and began pushing smaller groups to the forefront,” he said. This only made it appear that the church choir had taken a back seat, but not really, according to Ford, “The church choir never died and will never die.” Additionally, the global economy played a major role in the “church choir’s” resurgence. At one time, ministries around the country filled their conferences and services with guest artists. Now, due to the shift in the economy, these same ministries have gravitated back to the choir and a “home base” presentation from their music departments, saving money and strengthening their own music presentations. Furthermore, Ford explains, “Every pastor wants a great choir in his or her church, because a full choir stand also plays an important role in filling the pews. People will come to church not only to hear the word of God preached, but also to hear their family members sing with a good choir.” The music industry also went through a period of praise and worship, with the Hillsong movement taking on an identity of its own. This movement also pulled attention away from the choir. But again, Ford stresses, it was only an era that’s now transitioning back, causing people, including those in the industry, to understand the importance of choral ministry. “ I believe there should be a balance with the praise and worship team and the choir,” Ford said. “They should both receive the same kind of attention and support from a ministry, directed and concentrated in different areas.” Ministries should not toss aside their choirs and present praise and worship only, nor present all choral music without corporate worship – they both have a vital role in ministry. “The praise and worship team, as we call it, is important for the corporate worship segment of a service, and the choir is important for the choral presentation.” In addition to the choir and the praise and worship team, there are different artists whose styles are more contemporary, taking on the form of hip-hop, jazz, and even spoken word. These artists compel people to come to God and if they compel them to come, there has to be a chief Levite of the house. He or she should oversee the music of the LORD. “The levitical priest oversees the music of the synagogue, where there is a different sound – a choral sound,” Ford said. The Levite must first and foremost, have a relationship with God, which is more important than music. The Bible says walk circumspectly. “I’m very meticulous about my walk and my life with God by living a consecrated life, a separated life, ‘being isolated to be insulated’.
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Resurgence of the “Church Choir” By Tamara Hundley, Author and Freelance Writer (continued from page 13) This allows me to remain in a close relationship with God, to hear His voice, and to oversee the Lord’s music ministry. Ford’s background certainly gives him insight into effective music ministry and church choirs. He recalls playing the piano as early as seven years old. At nine years old, without formal training, he became the main musician and minister of music for his father’s church, The Highway Church of Christ in Philadelphia, PA. He, along with his brother, Andrew Ford, Jr. who was only 12 years old at the time, led four different choirs within the church. Additionally, his sister Michelle played the drums and directed choirs, while yet another sister, Dolores, later served as the assistant administrator. “My parents started us in ministry at very young ages and we all loved it. Today, we all continue to serve in ministry. My brother (Bishop Andrew Ford, Jr.) and sister (Pastor Michelle Ford- Johnson) now serve as pastors.” At 12 years old, Ford began playing for professional recording artists such as Professor Brockington, Johnny Thompson, The Savettes, and Rev. James Cleveland and The Philadelphia GMWA Mass Choir. By age 14, he was appointed the National Musician, and later the National Minister of Music of the Highway Churches of Christ. “That same year I began my professional recording career, working on national recording projects for the Mighty Clouds of Joy, The Williams Brothers, and many more.” In the early 80’s Ford produced several choir projects including the Secret Closet Project, featuring Bishop Robert Evans and the Highway Churches of Christ National Mass Choir. This project’s charting hit song entitled, An Old Story, featured Richard “Mr. Clean” White. “It was “Mr. Clean” who called Milton Biggham from Savoy Records and told him about my ability to produce church choirs,” Ford said. “Soon after that, I began to come to the forefront by producing mega artists as well as launching new artists on my brother’s record label (Sweet Rain Records).” After which, Ford’s production career soared, providing him the opportunity to produce some of the industry’s most notable choirs such as Hezekiah Walker and The Love Fellowship Choir; The Wilmington Chester Mass Choir; The Southeast Inspirational Choir, The DFW Mass Choir; Alvin Slaughter (lead singer with the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir); Bishop T.D. Jakes & The Potter’s House Mass Choir, “Woman Thou Art Loosed”, Bishop Andrew Merritt and The Straight Gate Mass Choir (Faith in the House); and more. He has also produced some of the industries most notable artists including The Winans; Ron Winans and Friends; Richard Smallwood and Vision; Vickie Winans; Pastor Shirley Caesar; Donnie McClurkin; Maurette Brown-Clark; and the list goes on. While many musicians and producers begin careers in the industry, few experience enduring careers. Yet, Ford still serves after 40 years. He attributes his longevity and “success” to the fact that he acknowledges he does not play well by himself. “I need the hand of God upon me to do what I do. As long as I honor Him, he will honor me by playing with, and through me. His ‘super’ on my ‘natural’ permitted my longevity.” Giving all glory to God, Ford shares that he has spiritual mentors who have also played major roles in his life. “My parents and my family were very instrumental in getting me where I am today,” he said. He also acknowledges three men, Bishop Andrew Merritt, Detroit, MI; Bishop Jerome Stokes, Baltimore, MD; and Bishop Michael Blue, Marion, SC, whose love for the Lord and exemplarily lives have inspired him spiritually. He points out that they are all pastors who happen to love music as well. “I’m inspired by their love for God, the way they all walk before Him, and their knowledge of the Word and study habits,” he said. On the musical/ career side, he says Richard Smallwood and Pastor Marvin Winans stand out. “These two men were really responsible for much of my accomplishments, because they gave me opportunities and were very loyal to me.” He added, “I think I started working with Richard Smallwood as a teenager.” (concluded page 18)
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Resurgence of the “Church Choir” A Steven Ford Perspective (concluded) “I am still writing and producing for select artists, while devoting time to training others to come after me, allowing them to grow,” Ford said. He is considering producing a project in 2011 that would include several artists he’s produced in the past – a project similar to what Qunicy Jones produced a few years ago. Ford also recently agreed to produce Richard Smallwood’s new project entitled, “The Promises”; and has completed three choir projects slated for release in a few months – 30 Years of Music by Bishop Andrew Merritt & The Straight Gate International Mass Choir; Bishop Alfred Owens and Greater Mt. Calvary Choir; and is planning to produce and/or release several other choir projects within the next two years – all part of what he calls “The Church Choir Resurgence”. He adds that while he loves all types of music, choirs are his passion. Additionally, Ford says he has produced a few artists on his independent label, SFord Music. These artists include Pastor Bruce Parham of Delaware; and Pastor Terrance Hundley of Baltimore, MD, who he plans to produce a second project for in the near future. His passion for music birthed the idea for the Steven Ford Music Symposium, which started three years ago. “I wanted to take time off from the demand of producing to develop my symposium at the University of Delaware. The symposium provides a setting to further educate the musician or singer in music ministry. No longer can we give inspiration without education,” Ford said. The Symposium takes place on a college campus, taking everyone out of the church setting and placing them in a classroom setting for musical education, development, and empowerment. People attend from all over the country, and even Europe, to learn about music ministry. Industry professionals provide instruction on the technical, business, and application components of music. Ford said the symposium is unique. “Not only are the instructors educated and experienced, but have lived what they speak about,” Ford said. “We also cut out the fluff. We have presenters with degrees, including PHDs, who sit down with the attendees for lunch or on breaks to talk – leaving egos out the door.” He also pointed out that, in addition to knowledge, the symposium gives back tangible gifts such as equipment and instruments, to individuals to take back to their ministries. In addition to all Ford has achieved, he is now being awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Arts Degree, and striving for an earned degree in theology. “I’m successful, but not satisfied. I’ve started writing, and want to produce a requiem – something similar to Bach and Beethoven’s writings, which may take two or three years. Also, birthed from the symposium is my desire to have an institute, specifically designed for music ministry, providing on-going, yearlong courses.” Ford recently released a new book, Is Your Music Department Ministry or Misery. He says he wrote the book to help others avoid the pitfalls he’s hit in music ministry. Its content focuses on church music ministry and the “church choir”, yet, it has something for everyone, including producers, musicians, singers, pastors, and non-musicians. The book instructs from godly principals and Ford’s own personal experiences. Last, but not least, Ford says he is happily married and wouldn’t be where he is without the constant love and support of his wife, Deborah Ford, who he affectionately calls “his angel”. For more information and booking, please visit www.sfordmusic.com.
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Message in The Movement!
By Paige Lanier Chargois
“Mega Mime 2010” Brings Its “Atmosphere” Into Raleigh We tend to think of a virus as something contagious . . . something that’s not usually healthy for us! But there is a new “virus” in the Body of Christ that is wonderfully contagious . . . infecting worship across the country and moving beyond our American shores into the world of nations! What could be more exciting than a new expression of our faith and a new stimulus to greater worship in churches near and far? PANEH MIME MINISTRIES INTERNATIONAL has become synonymous with “ushering in the manifest presence of God through the historical art of mime-dance.” The supreme message of “salvation, deliverance, and hopes to heal the broken hearted” is not secondary to the dance, it is the primary message of those who come to minister to those who have come to worship a mighty God and living Savior! You need a “word?” Come to where no words are spoken because the message is beyond the words and nestled in each movement. If you need a “word” you’ll get not a 20, 30, or 40 minute sermon but, a 3 to 5 minute musical expression that will lift you to new heights of praise and lower you to new depths of worship where bodies twist and turn, bend and stretch, stand and run, all in an effort to declare only one message: Jesus is King of Kings and Lord of Lords!
It all happened at the North Raleigh Hilton in Raleigh, NC, April 22nd – 25th as Pastor Timothy and co-pastor Chandra Midgette of Durham, NC, hosted their 2010 International Conference, “Atmosphere of Faith”. They are not only one in marriage, they are one in mime, and one ministry to the nations near and far. When Jesus said, “Go ye into all the world . . .” He most likely did not have “mime” in mind though dancing before the Lord and in the Spirit were quite usual. The Midgettes have now taken mime “into the world” such as to the island of Fiji and to the nation of England but folk are now coming from other nations as this ministry begins to spread around the globe! This year’s theme, “Atmosphere of Faith”, emphasizes the spiritual quality of the conference and the onus on each group to not entertain but worship through dance and lead others into the very presence of God! Though there are workshops to teach greater techniques in mime, groups must already have more than technique in place when they arrive—dancing to songs that “lift up the name of Jesus” and that convey the essence of the Gospel. In other words, Pastor Chandra has announced that “there must be a message behind your movement!” Paneh is no stranger to the big stage having ministered with such internationally renowned Gospel singers as Kirk Franklin, Shirley Caesar, Luther Barnes, Rance Allen, Hezekiah Walker, Kim Burell, Dorothy Norwood and countless others. Pastor Timothy and Co-Pastor Chandra are the founders of The Paneh Center of Durham, a facility dedicated to developing, enhancing and equipping dance-mime ministries for Kingdom service. The Center offers instructional, hands-on workshops that have been directly instrumental in catapulting countless mime ministries across the nation and abroad. With a calling to equip the nations in mime, in 2004 Paneh developed the “Atmosphere Control Mime Conference.” However, in 2006 God changed the name and direction of the conference, to “Desperate for Him Mime Conference.”
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Message in The Movement! (continued)
By Paige Lanier Chargois
The conference, intimately known as “A Call To Worship,” offers a solid introduction to the basics of pantomime by instructing students in the fundamental principles and techniques of the art. It culminates in a spectacular, awe striking concert featuring mimes of all ages ministering simultaneously unto the glory of God. In April of 2009, the conference included over 1200 participants from all over the nation, including three international ministries, and garnered a concert attendance of over 2200 people. The 2010 Conference matched and exceeded last year’s attendance with 1,200 registered; 2,200 seated at the Concert, which was held at the Progress Center for the Performing Arts, and this year 33 states and 4 countries were represented. In addition to the worship experience, the conference provides an opportunity for mime ministries to network and build long lasting relationships while enjoying the matchless glory of God. Beginning ministry as “youth pastors,” Pastors Timothy and Chandra have retained that special affinity for the younger generations in the church as they provide opportunities for the sharing of their gifts. Paneh has a ministry of training at their Durham site which includes not only instruction in mime dancing but also the spiritual nurture of the “Now Generation” as they dance unto the Lord! Both interracial and multicultural, this mime conference truly transcends many historical and current divisions within the Body of Christ. Yet the many messages in dance are still evangelistic, tailored to the audience while lifting up the name of Jesus! The Midgettes do not rest on their successes nor their laurels; they are currently operating an after-school program along with a summer program and camp for those 13 to 18. Yet the many challenges persist with the needs of greater financial support, space, and reaching more people!
Talent alone is not sufficient for the Midgettes. Great talent with a dwarfed spirit will render the dancer mechanical and self-focused. They require that those who mime have “a teachable spirit, be willing to learn, understand the ministry side of the dance, have a balanced life along with integrity and respect! With such a focused vision of care and growth not only for their ministry but also for those who minister, greater barriers will be broken and farther boundaries will be transcended as Paneh moves around the world! To learn more about this organization, visit them online at www.panehmime.org. Rev. Dr. Paige Lanier Chargois serves churches and organizations as a consultant in the areas of leadership, faith and ministry development. She is an author of Certain Women Called By Christ and Work of a Greeter, Judson Press. Dr. Paige Chargois is available for preaching and teaching engagements. To book her workshop “LEAVING THE PAST BEHIND: THE POWER OF FORGIVENESS!”, contact TCP Magazine at 919 676-0263.
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“Listening In Fast Forward” © By Adrienne Miller When I was growing up, and yes, I admit this even today, I feel that “fast forward” is the lifestyle everyone should live. When I was little, I thought that everyone did live in “fast forward.” I soon realized my timing and urgency didn’t always match up with others interpretation of surrounding events. I spent a lot of timing wondering why people didn’t just “hurry up.” As I grow older I see the value of taking it easy once in awhile. The only problem is that now my days are assigned more than when I was little and my days were allocated by the next thought in mind. Everyday challenges require us to go live and listen in fast forward. Making decisions as we go. Learning to live not only by faith, but in it—that’s where God is, in the middle, at the very center of it all. I find that so far, 2010 has not really had any more challenges than 2009. Similar problems and situations arise needing a “fast forward approach,” and sometimes a slow prayerful process, requiring me to stop thinking and acting with my own thoughts and desires in my heart and mind. But, thinking and knowing if I belong to God, He has all my worries, concerns and fears in His hands and all of my hurts and sorrows on His mind. I’m glad I know God, and have Him here with me. Not just for the tough times, which never seem to come announced like a baby shower or a birthday, but come unannounced at a moments notice, not caring the time or place or impact. I have entertained thoughts of unrest these days. Not at the unfaithfulness of God, but at the predictability of humans. Their force can last awhile, their hurt to run deep if I don’t stop the impact. I’ll let God absorb the blows of this world, while He teaches me that living by faith is far more advantageous than “cringing in fear” or losing my mind over someone else’s foolishness and unwise comments. Living in faith is not for the weak. It’s for those who want to be made strong for God, and for those who realize wherever we are, we’re not far from His eyes. A. Miller.
© 2010 A. Miller Reproduction, distribution or reprint of this article is prohibited without express written permission of the author,
Adrienne is President/Founder of Share His Light® Ministries and Founder of Life’s Food For Thought.sm Adrienne is the author of three books. She travels worldwide preaching, teaching, and sharing the message of holiness. And that God wants to have a personal relationship with all of us. Visit her on the web: www.lifesfoodforthought.org and www.sharehislightministries.org Contact her: amiller@sharehislightministries.org
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