TCU Hosts the Consortium of Renaissance House of Terrell Heights
By Sandy Joyce
On Monday April 14, 2025 at 8:30am, TCU was host to The Renaissance House of Terrell Heights' "Corsortium" which is a group of entities, businesses, companies, organizations and people working together on projects for a common good. "The Renai" (pronounced renny) located at 1201 East Terrell Ave. on the northeast corner of Terrell Ave. at Tennessee where Fabons dead ends into East Terrell and into the historic "Flint House" now an opportunity center for the 76104 area and eventually the metroplex, arrant County and as far as can be to serve communities with inequities.
On this day, a Collaborative Care Symposium was held in TCU's Dee Kelly Alumni Center on Stadium Drive in Fort Worth, TX 76129 where a tasty continental breakfast was served buffet style and left available for the members of the symposium, as some had to come and go, over the period of the event. The Welcome and opening of the event were given by Dr. Jennifer Giddings Brooks and Marnese Elder, co-founders of the "Renai" or "RHTH" who have diligently worked to save the historic house and bring into it opportunities that help solve many of the problems in its 6104 neighborhood. Housed in the HTH is La Vida News the Black Voice, the oldest and largest African American Newspaper in Tarrant County that has been working to chronicle the information and goings on in Historic Terrell Heights located on the Grand Old Southside since 1957. Its owner Rhonda Pruitt and its editor, Sandy Joyce, as well as its lead photographer Madison Hogan Ill all grew up or lived most of their childhoods in the area that is now Historic Terrell Heights (whose name was coined by Ms. Joyce when she returned from New York after 27 years to find her childhood neighborhood under siege with grand old homes being bulldozed and the area being designated only as a location, the Near Southeast) on the Historic Grand Old Southside which is bordered by Riverside Dr. on its Eastern most side and I-35 on the South, by Vickery on the North and Rosedale as its southern border. Mrs. Marnese Barksdale Elder is also a "Southside Child" and although "Terrell Heights and Grand Old Southsider" having married Commissioner Roy Charles Brooks another child of the Southside. Jen Brooks heart and soul (like Ruth, Naomi's daughter-in-law from the Bible) along with all the aforementioned is for the people of the area which has been too long neglected and has many problems to this day as a result, but that's another story. For now, the main drive is to ensure health care for the residents who don't have it like the rest of the City of Fort
Worth. The "Consortium" is a means to an end and it is rolling along.
The Opening was at 8:30am and at 8:45am Dr. Brian Byrd, Tarrant County Director of Public Health gave an informative presentation followed at 9:15 by Dr. James Marshall, MD, Professor and Chair of Department of Pediatrics CU Burnett School of Medicine. After these two most informative presentations, two panel discussions ensued. The first panel began at 9:45am. The first panel theme was:
"Redefining Medical Education: Preparing Doctors for Holistic Healthcare" with Dr. Danika Franks, MD as panel moderator. Dr. Franks has an extensive and expansive medical history which she uses in many areas and fields into which she has delved in her efforts to heal, making her truly a "super doc". She's only missing a cape and she probably has one of those in the back of her closet and changes there and flies out of her apartment window (no more telephone booths) to fight for truth and justice and
cures and solutions for her patients. Her panelists were two close friends, also members of the medical fight for what's right. One panelist was Tricia Elliot, MD Senior VP. Academic & Research Affairs, Chief Academic Officer & Designated Institutional Officer JPS Health Network, Professor, Family Medicine COM, Burnett School of Medicine at TCU and Dr. Demequa Moore, MD Acclaim/ PS, Core Faculty for IPS Obstetrics & Gynecology Residency Program, Associate Adjunct Professor Depart-
ment of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine, Director for OB-GYN Core Clerkship, Associate Adjunct Network, Professor, Family Medicine COM, Burnett School of Medicine at TC and Dr. Demequa Moore, MD Acclaim/ JPS, Core Faculty for JPS Obstetrics & Gynecology Residen Program, Associate Adjunct Professor Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine, Director for OB-GYN Core Clerkship,
IN MEMORIAM: Pope Francis Dies as Catholic Church’s Reckoning with Racism Remains
By Stacy M. Brown, BlackPressUSA.com Senior National Correspondent
Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff and a global voice for the poor, immigrants, and the environment, died Monday at age 88. Cardinal Kevin Farrell announced his death from the Domus Santa Marta, the Vatican residence where Francis chose to live instead of the Apostolic Palace. “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father,” said Farrell. “His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church.” Church bells rang across Rome as word spread. The pope had been hospitalized since mid-February with double pneumonia, marking his longest hospitalization during his 12-year papacy. Despite his declining health, he final-
ly appeared before thousands in St. Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on December 17, 1936, Francis was the son of Italian immigrants. A former chemical technician, he entered the Jesuit order in 1958, was ordained in 1969, and rose through the ranks to become Archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998 and Cardinal in 2001. Elected pope in 2013 following Benedict XVI’s resignation, Francis quickly distinguished himself with a reformist tone. He rejected the papal palace and wore simpler vestments. He condemned economic exploitation, called for urgent action on climate change, and made the inclusion of migrants, the poor, and LGBTQ+ Catholics central to his mission. However, his papacy also deepened tensions within
the Catholic Church, especially in the United States. While Francis urged compassion and social justice, many American Catholics— particularly white conservatives—supported political figures whose policies ran counter to the pope’s teachings.
In a February op-ed for the National Catholic Reporter, writer Alessandra Harris addressed the disconnect: “We are living in a time when self-professed Catholics are not only turning a blind eye to evil but have elected and are supporting President Donald Trump, who is against diversity, against immigrants, against the poor.” Harris cited a long history of racism in the Church, from segregation and exclusion in Catholic schools and neighborhoods to the silence of Church leaders during Jim Crow and beyond. She not-
ed that 59% of white Catholics voted for Trump, writing that “the Catholic Church is once again siding with white supremacy or hoping to benefit from its proximity to whiteness at the expense of people who are Black, Native, noncitizens and LGBTQIA+.” Though Pope Francis spoke forcefully against racism, xenophobia, and exclusion, the institutional Church in the U.S. has often lagged behind his moral calls. “Trampling upon a person’s dignity is a serious sin,” Francis once said—a principle he lived by and preached consistently. Now, as the Church prepares for its next chapter, many are left wondering whether his vision of inclusion will take deeper root or fade with him. “His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church,” said Cardinal Farrell.
Beware of Imposters Posing as Water Employees to Gain Home Access
Fort Worth advises residents to be suspicious of people posing as Water Utility employees to gain access to their homes. Recently, the utility learned of someone posing as a Water Utility employee who tried to get into homes by claiming there was a water leak they needed to investigate.
The incidents were in the Llano Springs area, and the individual was wearing a shirt with the City logo.
Take action: Customers are advised to call the police and report any incidents when they occur. Also, call the Water Utility at 817-392-4477 to make it aware of the incident.
The bottom line: Fort Worth Water employees never need to access a resident’s home to check for a leak, check water pressure or sample water quality. Only in rare circumstances may an employee need to enter a home to follow up on an issue reported by the resident.
Why it matters: This is not the first time people pretended to be City employees to gain entry to a home. In the past, impostors have indicated the resident was due a refund. They would ask the resident to provide change for a $100 bill to receive the refund, then rob the resident of the money. In another instance, an imposter was allowed in and then ransacked the home.
Individuals falsely claiming to be City employees are committing fraud.
Talking R eal e s TaT e with Stephanie Spann Understanding Mortgage Rates and Affordability in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex
The Big Question on Everyone’s Mind
As a real estate professional serving the vibrant Fort Worth/Dallas area, one of the most common questions I get asked most frequently is about mortgage rates and whether now is a good time to buy. The good news? Despite national headlines that often paint a gloomy picture, our local market is holding strong, and there’s still plenty of opportunity for both firsttime buyers and seasoned investors.
Let’s break down what’s really happening in the market and how mortgage rates impact what you can afford in DFW.
Mortgage Rates: The Big
Question on Everyone’s Mind
Yes, mortgage rates have risen compared to the historic lows we saw in 2020 and 2021. As of early April 2025, 30-year fixed rates are hovering between 6.5% and 7%, depending on the lender and your credit profile. This may seem high if you compare it to the 2.75% rates of the past, but it’s important to remember: historically, these rates are still relatively moderate.
More importantly, buyers in the Fort Worth/Dallas area have an advantage. We’re seeing lenders offer more flexibility; think rate buydowns, adjustable-rate mort-
gage options, and even local incentives for buyers relocating or purchasing in revitalization zones.
Affordability: How Far Does Your Dollar Go in DFW?
One of the key strengths of the Fort Worth/Dallas market is its relative affordability compared to other major metros. While places like Austin, San Francisco, or New York continue to price out middle-income buyers, DFW remains one of the most accessible large housing markets in the country.
According to the most recent data, the median home price in the DFW area sits around $360,000. In Fort Worth specifically, you can
In Cinque: State School Vouchers:Legal Segregation
By Renetta W. Howard
The state of Texas, after many years of trying, has finally passed legislation to permit financial vouchers to private schools using state taxpayer’s funds. This is considered Governor Abbotts legacy which he has pushed his whole administration. With the Republican President erasing diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), from governmental, educational and business entities, any guideline used for the distri-
bution of the vouchers will be done to the discretion of the issuer.
School vouchers take us back to the days before BROWN V. THE BOARD OF EDUCATION. All schools except those in some northern public schools were segregated in some way, mostly by residences. Students attended schools in their neighborhood unless they attended a private school, mostly Catholic or ethnic persuasion. In the
TCU Consortium
Associate Adjunct Professor Burnett School of Medicine at TCU.
Beginning at 10:30am, the second panel's theme was "Innovative Responses to Social Determinants of Health" and its moderator was Chris Howell. Mr. Howell's company is Chris Howell Communications LLC, a firm that does it all, from video production to photography, spokesperson training, voice over and narration. Howell is an author, broadcast personality, executive coach and speaker. The well-known Howell along with his wife focus on inspiring, informing and having an impact in all CHC does and much of it is for what they believe is morally right and good. Howell was moderator for three extremely qualified panelists. Panelist Shannon Fletcher is Senior Vice President, Chief of
southern states, they called it ‘separate but equal’ which was just a saying because the school for white and black students were DEFINITELY SEPARATE AND MOST UNEQUAL. They were unequal from the foundation of the buildings to the resources inside as well as the personnel. The only comparisons were the number of students in a building and adults to teach them. Black classes held as many as 50 students to one teacher, maybe quali-
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fied to teach, and maybe not; used books and equipment; limited funds for operations without sustenance or health programs. White schools flourished with qualified personnel and state funds.
When BROWN V. THE BOARD OF EDUCATION was handed down in May, 1954, it ruled that segregation in public schools was unconstitutional. It took about 10 years before many southern states acknowledged that the law had been
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passed. Even then, those that did acknowledge it, looked for and found ways to get around it. Many waited until the federal government stepped in and made them show a plan for desegregation, including representation based on residence on the boards of education. Consequently, in some towns and cities, private White schools offered space for white students and some all-boys’ schools made space for white girls. White parents who could not afford the private schools got loans to pay for their children to attend the private schools. Those children whose parents felt that they were not worthy of the loan, remained in the public schools. White teachers
still find well-maintained single-family homes in the $280,000–$320,000 range which is something almost unheard of in many parts of the U.S.
This affordability, coupled with strong job growth, a diversified economy, and continued migration from out-ofstate buyers (especially from California and the Midwest), keeps our market resilient. People are still buying here not because they have to, but because it makes financial sense.
The Importance of Being Prepared:
Given the current market conditions, here are some recommendations for those considering purchasing a home: 1. Assess Your Finan-
Continued on page 3
who were nearing retirement, also remained in the public schools. Eventually, the public schools became all Black with a few poor Whites in attendance. State vouchers support and enforce school segregation. Taxpayer monies go into private businesses while the public school loses funding because it is predominately Minority, mostly Black. We need to get ‘in cinque’ and work on the nullification of that law! The education of our representatives also needs to be bought up to speed. Is this an educational movement or a racial and political movement? For sure, it is a financial movement to support segregation in schools, which is JUST THE BEGINNING OF SEGREGATION IN EVERYTHING ELSE!
Staff and External Affairs, JPS Health Network. Panelist Mervil Johnson is Di-
rector Workforce Collaboration Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County and Ma-
ria Mendez is Vice President of Government & Educa-
tion of CIGNA Healthcare. The three panelists shared
Jails Packed with Minor Offenders, New National Data Shows
By Stacy M. Brown BlackPressUSA.com Senior National Correspondent@
Newly released data from the Jail Data Initiative have provided the first national look in more than 20 years at the offenses driving America’s massive jail churn, and the findings raise serious questions about the priorities of the criminal legal system. The last comprehensive offense data for local jails came in 2002, leaving researchers and policymakers in the dark. But the Jail Data Initiative, in partnership with the Prison Policy Initiative, has now compiled data from 865 jail rosters across the country, offering a detailed portrait of who’s locked up — and for what. The data shows that more than 7.6 million jail admissions occurred in 2023. One-third of those—over 2.7 million— were for misdemeanor offenses, charges often as minor as sitting on a sidewalk or jaywalking. That figure
dwarfs the 20% captured in the Bureau of Justice Statistics’ single-day snapshot of jail populations, a discrepancy explained by shorter stays for people booked on misdemeanor charges. “This new dataset reveals what the single-day statistics can’t — that low-level offenses remain a dominant driver of incarceration,” said Emily Widra, the report’s lead author.
The report also exposes how probation and parole violations — particularly technical ones — funnel people back into jail in staggering numbers. Of the 7.6 million bookings in 2023, nearly 1 million involved probation or parole violations. Astonishingly, almost half a million people were jailed for technical violations alone, meaning they were locked up not for new crimes, but for missing curfews, failing drug tests, or skipping supervision check-ins. Even more troubling, 75% of women in jail on any given day are fac-
ing non-violent charges. And since women are more likely to be poor, they often remain in jail longer because they can’t afford bail. More than 90,000 women are incarcerated in local jails — many of them mothers, some pregnant — with consequences that ripple far beyond their cell walls. Across all detainees, about two-thirds were jailed for non-violent offenses. Public order charges were the most common top
charge category, followed by property and drug offenses. Just 14% of jail detainees faced a drug charge as their most serious offense — yet many had multiple lowerlevel charges stacked against them. The regional breakdown also proves revealing. In the South, 16% of people in jail were there for drug charges — double the 8% in the Northeast, where drug possession is more often decriminalized or classified as
a misdemeanor. The South also dominates jail expansion despite already holding more than half the nation’s jailed population.
Jail size matters, too. Larger urban jails tend to detain people for more serious violent crimes, while smaller jails disproportionately hold people on low-level charges. In facilities with fewer than 250 detainees, 9% were held for supervision violations — nearly double the
rate in jails with over 1,000 detainees. These findings come as counties nationwide continue to invest in jail expansion, pouring money into a system that often jails the poor for minor offenses, rather than addressing root causes like poverty, housing, and health care. Pretrial detention — locking up people who haven’t been convicted — remains the largest driver of jail growth. In 2023, 70% of people in jail were unconvicted. The Jail Data Initiative’s work offers a critical and updated view into a system still largely driven by outdated practices and draconian policies. For the first time in two decades, the public — and policymakers — can see clearly what too many Americans already know firsthand. “People are sitting in jails across the country not because they’re dangerous,” Widra wrote, “but because they’re poor, under supervision, or caught in a system that treats minor missteps as major offenses.”
Sharpton Presses Target and PepsiCo Over DEI Retreats as NAN Mulls Boycotts
By Stacy M. Brown BlackPressUSA.com
Rev. Al Sharpton and the National Action Network (NAN) are considering boycotts and other action against companies that have backed down from their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) commitments. On Thursday, Sharpton met with Target CEO Brian Cornell at NAN’s corporate headquarters in New York City. NAN National Board Chair Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson and NAN Senior Advisor Carra Wallace joined him. “This morning, I had a very constructive and candid meeting with Brian Cornell that included NAN National Board Chair Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson and NAN Senior Advisor Carra Wallace,” Sharpton said in a statement following the meeting. “I am going to inform our allies, including Rev. Dr. Jamal Bryant, of our discussion and what my feelings are, and we will go from there.”
Thursday’s meeting marked Sharpton’s second high-level discussion with a corporate executive this week. On Tuesday, he met with PepsiCo Chairman Ramon Laguarta and PepsiCo North America CEO Steven Williams at the company’s global headquarters in Purchase, New York. The talks centered around reports that PepsiCo had rolled back nearly $500 million in DEI commitments. “We agreed to follow up meetings within the next few days,”
Sharpton said in a separate statement following the PepsiCo meeting. “After that continued dialogue, NAN Chairman Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson and I, both former members of the company’s African American Advisory Board, will make a final determination and recommendation to the organization on what we will do around PepsiCo moving forward, as we continue to deal with a broader swath of corporations with whom we will either boycott or buycott.”
Sharpton plans to consult with NAN’s board over the Easter holiday before determining what actions to take against Target, PepsiCo, or other companies accused of retreating from their DEI programs under pressure from Donald Trump and far-right
TCU Consortium
extremely vital information about their companies and organizations and even shared personal accounts and how they worked to handle many of the problems of the persons and entities they encountered. They all share the desire to do everything they can to help the people they serve...not just the old 'bandage and take
Real Estate:
cial Readiness: Ensure your credit score is in good standing and that you have sufficient savings for a down payment and closing costs.
2. Get Pre-Approved: Obtain pre-approval for a mortgage to understand your budget and demonstrate to sellers that you are a serious buyer.
3. Explore Different Loan Options: Compare various mortgage products to find the best fit for your financial situation.
groups. Since announcing changes to its DEI structure, Target has faced sustained backlash from Black consumers. Rev. Dr. Jamal Bryant has organized a widely supported “TargetFast” that’s help result in declining foot traffic at Target locations. Still, concern has emerged over Sharpton’s failure to involve Bryant or the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) in discussions with corporations. The NNPA is the trade association representing the Black Press of America. A spokesperson for Sharpton acknowledged that including the 198-year-old Black Press is necessary.
“I know that Rev. Sharpton has particularly addressed the lack of ad dollars that have gone to the Black Press by some of these corporations
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two aspirins and call me and set up an appointment to see me next week'. The panelists passionately and expertly answered the questions of the very special group of students from O.D. Wyatt High School who attended symposium and all other attendees from CU, the community etc., including the health care champion,
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4. Consider the Total Cost of Homeownership: Beyond the mortgage payment, factor in property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and potential homeowners association (HOA) fees. 5. Stay Informed: Regularly monitor market trends and interest rates, as they can impact your purchasing power and affordability. Navigating the real estate market can be complex, but with careful planning and informed decision-making, you can find a home that fits your needs and budget. Consulting with a knowledgeable real estate agent can provide personalized guidance tailored to your situation.
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historically and even now,” the spokesperson said. “He’s even spoken specifically about that at the National Action Network convention.” Led by Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., the NNPA has been at the forefront of a public education and selective buying campaign following Target’s DEI rollback announcement. Chavis, who said he plans to reach out to Sharpton, has maintained that he’s confident that Sharpton is working on behalf of all African Americans including the Black Press. Alison Taylor, a professor at NYU’s Stern School of Business and author of Higher Ground: How Business Can Do the Right Thing in a Turbulent World, said Target’s brand is already suffering.
“My gut is that they’ve realized they misstepped and are trying to figure out a positive path,” Taylor told Retail Dive. “So, keeping the substance won’t necessarily make up for a loss of trust. It’s a sad story, as I think Target is well-intentioned and caught between a rock and a hard place.” After a modest 3.6% increase in store traffic in January, Target saw foot traffic drop by 9% in February and 6.5% in March. During the same period, foot traffic rose at Costco and held steadier at Walmart. Sharpton said he and the NAN board would weigh all input before deciding on the next steps. “We had the meetings,” he said. “Now comes the moment to decide what happens next.”
Corridor in Alcatraz Prison with cells of to the sides (Photo by Owen JC Smith)
Rev. Al Sharpton speaks at the National Action Network House of Justice Saturday Morning Rally on Sat., January 22, 2022 (Wikimedia Commons / Photo by Metropolitan Transportation Authority of the State of New York
former Commissioner Roy Charles Brooks who still in-
Sunday School Lesson Sunday School Lesson
The Lamb Is Worthy
Revelation 5
Key Text: They sung a new song, saying, thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation.
—Revelation 5:9
Introduction: What Is Worth? People have very different ideas about what makes someone worthy of honor. In modern cultures, a person’s worthiness for various honors often seems to be based on the person’s wealth, success, or popularity in the public eye.
My friend Joe does not fit this model of a worthy person. Joe works as a mid-level manager of a small company that makes medical equipment. By some standards, Joe is not rich. In the eyes of the world, his life is simple and unremarkable. But Joe has a wife and four children whom he loves dearly. He goes to work every day and works hard in a thankless profession to provide for his family. His wife and children never go without, even though Joe often does. He models self-sacrificial love daily. Were you offered a choice between being a famous but self-serving person or being unknown but self-sacrificial, whom do you think God would consider more worthy of honor?
Revelation 4 and 5 narrate the apostle John’s vision of the divine throne room. This vision immediately follows the appearance of the “one like unto the Son of man” (Revelation 1:13; compare Daniel 7:13), who dictates letters to seven churches in the province of Asia Minor. These letters offered both encouragement and caution to churches that ranged from being faithful to unfaithful.
Two good questions to ask in many life situations are “What’s so?” and “So what?”
In answer to the first question, Revelation 1–3 establishes the facts regarding the status of seven churches; in answer to the second question, the visions of Revelation 4 and following describe rewards and consequences. This allows us to see God’s authority and power, the reality that He remains in charge even when earthly events would suggest otherwise (compare Psalm 47:8).
John’s visions begin in Revelation 4:1 with a glimpse of God in His throne room (compare Isaiah 6:1). This is the location of the true and ultimate ruler of the universe.
While “in the spirit” (Revelation 4:2), John witnesses startling and glorious things: precious stones, elders with crowns, fiery lamps, creatures who worship God day and night, etc. After this broad look around the throne room, John’s vision zooms in to focus on a specific object. I. Who Is Worthy? (Revelation 5:1–4)
Sealed Scroll (v. 1)
And I saw in the right hand of him that sat on the throne a book written within and on the backside, sealed with seven seals. When we see the word
book, we naturally think of a modern book with edge-binding, numbered pages, etc. But the word being translated is also translated as “scroll” in Revelation 6:14, and that interpretation is also applicable in this context. A scroll is typically made from flattened papyrus or animal skins and is opened and closed by being unrolled and rolled (again, 6:14).
The description of the document as having been written within and on the backside witnesses to its unusual nature. Most scrolls were written on only one side, but lengthy documents could take up both sides. The fact that this scroll has writing on it front and back signals its contents’ breadth, depth, or both (compare Ezekiel 2:9–10).
Naturally, we are curious about the scroll’s contents, and various proposals have been offered. However, the focus of Revelation 5 is not on the scroll’s contents but on the fact that it is sealed with seven seals. Scrolls were the common medium in the ancient world for important documents. These were often sealed to prevent someone from reading or tampering with their contents. A seal in this context would normally consist of hot wax poured over threads that tied the scroll in its rolled-up state. Legal documents would have several seals, indicating several witnesses. These witnesses often used a signet ring to press into the wax for selfidentification. This made it impossible to open the scroll without detection of tampering. Many students believe that the number seven stands for “perfection” or “completeness,” based on how it is used elsewhere in the Bible (compare Revelation 15:1, 8). Checking Candidates (vv. 2–4) And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, who is worthy to open the book, and to loose the seals thereof?
The dramatic action in the rest of this scene is set up by this proclamation of a strong angel, who is unnamed (compare Revelation 10:1). The use of the word worthy makes his question not so much an open invitation as it is a rhetorical challenge. The term worthy in this context encompasses not just moral excellence but also signifies someone who possesses the authority and power to break the seals.
And no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon.
The search for someone worthy seems at first to fail. The mention of heaven, earth, and under the earth was a typical method of depicting the domains of heavenly beings, earthly beings, and the world of the deceased (compare Exodus 20:4, 11; Psalm 146:6). But to focus on the scientific nature of each of the three locations is to miss the bigger picture. That bigger picture is “anywhere you can think of.” This description, therefore, highlights the entirety of the cosmos, as it does in Philippians 2:10. Every part of
creation has been explored, and no one qualified has been found—yet.
And I wept much, because no man was found worthy to open and to read the book, neither to look thereon.
People are described as weeping in many places in the Bible. But the phrase wept much is an intense form found elsewhere in the New Testament only at Matthew 2:18; Mark 5:38; and Philippians 3:18. The sense can be one of the duration of the weeping or depth of distress or both (compare Genesis 46:29; Judges 20:23; Ezra 3:12; 10:1).
One theory that might explain John’s reaction concerns what he was told at the beginning of the throne-room scene. There, he was told that future events would be revealed to him (Revelation 4:1). But now, in the verse before us, John’s expectations become frustrated. If John connects the scroll’s contents with knowledge of future events and no one can open the scroll, then the promise will not be fulfilled. Even he, John, was not worthy to open and to read the book, neither to look thereon. John’s weeping is consistent with what he knows and doesn’t know. But that is about to change.
II. Christ Is Worthy (Revelation 5:5–10)
Lion and Root (v. 5)
And one of the elders saith unto me, weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.
John is comforted by one of the 24 elders present around God’s throne (Revelation 4:4, 10). Someone is indeed worthy, the elder claims, and he refers to this person with two important designations.
The first designation, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, comes from Genesis 49:9–10, where Jacob refers to his son Judah as a “lion’s welp” and compares him to a lion that no one dares rouse. This metaphor is immediately followed by the promise that Judah will always have the right of rulership.
The other designation, the Root of David, confirms that the Messiah is in view. This description comes from Isaiah 11:1, 10, another text viewed as a prophecy about the coming Messiah. The specific title in Isaiah 11:10 is “a root of Jesse” (Jesse having been the father of David). Isaiah prophesied how the Messiah will bring justice and peace to the earth and unity to the nations. The designation “the root and the offspring of David” is explicitly claimed by Jesus near the book’s end (Revelation 22:16).
The one who is both Lion and Root has the right to open the scroll because He has “prevailed.” The narrative doesn’t tell us at this point what that victory is, but the coupling of this word with the imagery of the regal lion implies a conquering king. The reader expects someone as mighty as a lion to enter the scene.
Slain Lamb (v. 6)
And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain.
The reader first encounters the four beasts and the elders in Revelation 4:4–6. The word beasts implies that these beings are neither humans nor angels. In the book of Revelation, the number “four” is symbolic of the entirety of the earth and its inhabitants (compare 7:1). Combining that observation with the creatures’ multitudes of eyes (4:8) indicates that they are watching the entire earth; nothing is hidden from them. This symbolizes the allknowing nature of the Lord, His omniscience (compare Hebrews 4:13). would likely be a lion, per the previous verse. To the readers’ likely surprise, however, the spotlight focuses on a Lamb. This is a startling plot twist, especially given the Lamb’s outward appearance. It bears the marks of having been slain, yet it lives, given that it is standing. A metaphor is used here to represent Christ, who was killed but resurrected. The image of the slain Lamb recalls the Old Testament’s concept of blood sacrifice, yet the Lamb in John’s vision didn’t remain dead; it is depicted as alive, bearing visible, serious wounds (compare Isaiah 53:7; John 20:24–29; Revelation 13:8). The New Testa ment uses the capitalized word Lamb or Lamb’s some 30 times, and all but two of those are in the book of Revelation.
Having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth.
The description of the Lamb combines the number seven (symbolizing perfection or completeness; see commentary on Revelation 5:1, above) with horns (symbolizing power per Psalm 132:17; Ezekiel 29:21; Daniel 7:7–24; 8:3–22) and eyes (symbolizing divine knowledge per 2 Chronicles 16:9; Zechariah 4:10). The exact
meaning of the seven Spirits of God is difficult to determine (compare and contrast Revelation 1:4; 4:5). Some students take this phrase to be the same as the sevenfold Spirit depicted in Isaiah 11:2–3; this viewpoint allows a reference to the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity.
Another viewpoint understands the seven Spirits to refer to God’s seven angels of Revelation 8:2, 6; 15:1; etc. Some ancient Jewish texts mention seven archangels that stand before God’s throne. The nonbiblical Tobit 12:15, for example, speaks of “Raphael, one of the seven holy angels, which present the prayers of the saints, and which go in and out before the glory of the Holy One.”
In any case, translators have to make a choice here: to translate as upper-case Spirits indicates a belief on the translators’ part that this word refers to Revelation 5:9. deity; that is the choice the translators of the King James Version made.
In either case, the fact that these Spirits or spirits serve the Lamb’s purpose shows His power and authority.
Praise to the Lamb (vv. 7–10)
And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne.
The Lamb demonstrates His worthiness by receiving the scroll out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne. All present, including John, undoubtedly watch in amazement as the Lamb does this audacious thing! However, this is not an act of thievery or usurpation, for God has been waiting for the Lamb. The scroll and its contents belong to the Lamb.
And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb. With the transfer of the
scroll, worship in Heaven resumes. But now the four beasts and four and twenty elders bow before the Lamb. This is not to recognize a transfer of power that diminishes the authority of the one on the throne. Rather, it recognizes the Lamb’s authority and His unity with the one on the throne.
The number of elders, 24, is double the number 12, which may represent the people of God from both the Old and New Testaments. Israel, the covenant people of the Old Testament era, was comprised of 12 tribes (Exodus 24:4; compare Revelation 21:12). Christians, the covenant people of the New Testament era, are linked with the 12 apostles (Luke 6:13; compare Revelation 21:14), who are the foundation of the church (Ephesians 2:20). Jesus himself combines the idea of 12 tribes with 12 apostles in His description of the future (Matthew 19:28; Luke 22:30).
Having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints.
Following the transfer of the scroll, new details unfold before John’s eyes. The elders now have harps, which they presumably use for worship music, given that harps were common as instruments of worship (Psalms 33:2; 71:22; 147:7; etc.). Harps are also mentioned in Revelation 14:2; 15:2.
The fact that the elders also hold golden vials full of odours offers the reader a rarity in the book of Revelation: the two words which are. These two words indicate that an explanation of the symbolism comes next. In several passages, the “which are/is” language explains symbolism with more symbolism (example: Revelation 5:6). But that isn’t the case here, given the
Church Directory
Poisoning Our Future: The Trump Administration’s Dangerous Coal Exemptions
By Ben Jealous
Another day, another deadly move that defies logic, morality, and economic common sense.
Last week, the Trump administration granted nearly 70 coal-fired power plants a two-year exemption from the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards. The move allows them to emit increased levels of hazardous pollutants like mercury, arsenic, and lead.
Mercury is a potent neurotoxin, particularly harmful to children and pregnant women, that causes developmental disorders and other severe health issues. The standards established to limit such emissions have been instrumental in reducing these toxins in our environment. Once all coal plants were brought into compliance, the EPA estimated the standards would prevent 11,000 premature
Ben Jealous
deaths, 4,700 heart attacks, and 130,000 asthma attacks each year.
By rolling back the most recent update to those protections, the administration is senselessly prioritizing outdated, polluting energy sources over the well-being of American communities –maybe your community. The exempted power plants and coal-burning units are in ev-
ery region of the country –from Arizona to Pennsylvania, Wyoming to Alabama, from the Dakotas down to Texas, and in Illinois, Indiana, Missouri and throughout the Midwest.
This decision is not only a public health concern but also an economic misstep. The energy market has been shifting away from coal for years, with cleaner and more cost-effective alternatives like renewables taking the lead. Attempting to revive the coal industry through deregulation ignores market trends and the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions.
The administration’s shallow argument that this is about energy security, and even national security, does not pass the laugh test. True energy security lies in diversifying our energy sources and investing in resilient,
clean technologies – not in propping up an industry in its death throes that if revived would only poison and cause the actual deaths of Americans by the tens of thousands.
Communities across the nation, especially those near these coal plants, will bear the brunt of increased pollution. This reckless regulatory rollback is just one of the latest moves in this administration’s efforts to undermine decades of progress in environmental and health protections.
So how do we hold our leaders accountable and pursue policies that prioritize the health of our people and our planet? One way is to work with the organizations and community groups pushing tirelessly to move us towards a cleaner, healthier future.
Civil society groups –those non-governmental or-
ganizations, associations, and institutions that advocate and fight for the causes Americans care about – play not just a vital role in our democracy, but a vital role in protecting our interests, our health, and even our lives.
Take the Sierra Club’s Beyond Coal Campaign as one example. A single campaign.
Since 2010, that campaign has helped retire more than 380 coal-fired power plants.
The energy from those plants has been and remains easily replaceable by other sources.
And by reducing the burning of that dirtiest of dirty fossil fuels, we saved American lives and entire communities.
In fact, the retirement of all that coal burning has now saved nearly 63,000 lives!
And it has saved Americans $29 billion in health care costs. That is due to all the heart attacks, cancer, asthma
attacks and other lung disease, and heavy metal poisoning that the closure of these plants stopped in American communities from coast to coast.
So why on earth would we backslide? Why would we expose millions more Americans – especially the young children most at risk – to the irreversible effects of braindamaging neurotoxins like mercury? Or developing fetuses to the risk of the birth defects these toxins cause?
These are the questions we need to be asking. But even as they make our air less safe, don’t hold your own breath waiting for an honest answer from this administration –because it doesn’t exist.
Ben Jealous is the Executive Director of the Sierra Club and a Professor of Practice at the University of Pennsylvania.
Trump Moves to Expose MLK Files — Critics Warn of Smear Campaign
By Lauren Burke
On January 23, three days into his second term, President Donald Trump signed Executive Order 14176, called the Declassification of Records Concerning the Assassinations of President John F. Kennedy, Senator Robert F. Kennedy, and the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Since then, only the records of November 22, 1963, the assassination of John F. Kennedy has been made public. There had been year-long debates about whether the records should be released. The Kennedy records were deemed underwhelming by many who examined them, some of whom were joined to a six decades-long conspiracy theory that Lee Harvey Oswald was not the lone murderer of President Kennedy. But the long-classified documents on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., may spark a different set of issues. The civil rights icon’s personal life is likely to be reviewed when the documents are released. The files, compiled between the late 1950s and Dr. King’s assassination in 1968, are believed to include extensive surveillance records, wiretaps, and psychological profiles created during the height of the FBI and CIA’s covert monitoring of domestic activists as part of their COINTELPRO domestic surveillance program. Even though the January 2025 executive order in part reads that “the federal government has not released to the public all of its records related to those events. Their families and the American people deserve transparency and truth,” some believe that all the release of documents will do damage to the public reputation of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Even though Trump announced that transparency was the reason for the executive order, the King Family assured on January 24, the day after the executive order was signed, that the real goal was character assassination.
"The assassination of our father is a deeply personal family loss that we have endured over the last 56 years. We hope to be provided the opportunity to review the files as a family prior to its public release," the family said in an Instagram post on Jan. 24, the day after Trump's order. They know the right wing wants to smear Dr. King, and one way
to do it is by putting these smears in public under the guise of transparency. If there are assassination records, release those. But smears are not assassination records,” a message on Instagram read. Reports suggest the file may include allegations of infidelity, associations with individuals once suspected of Communist ties, and efforts by intelligence agencies to destabilize King’s influence through covert means. Scholars warn that without context, such revelations could be easily misinterpreted or manipulated. Virgie Hoban, a histori-
an at Georgetown University, explained in 2021 that, “the intelligence community of the 1960s was deeply invested in discrediting King. These files may say more about Hoover’s FBI than about King himself.” Teressa Raiford, a civil rights activist, has pointed out that the FBI, “understood that the civil rights movement was winning people’s hearts and minds through the circulation of photographs and videos of nonviolent, peaceful protests,” and that the reason that King’s image is so vital to the overall movement means that safeguarding it is vital.
Sports & Entertainment Sports & Entertainment
Grizzlies Dominate Mavericks to Clinch Final Playoff Spot,
Set Sights on Thunder
The Memphis Grizzlies punched their ticket to the NBA Playoffs with a commanding 120-106 win over the Dallas Mavericks in the Western Conference Play-In Tournament finale on Friday night at FedExForum. The victory secures Memphis the coveted No. 8 seed and sets up a first-round showdown with the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder.
The Grizzlies came out firing on all cylinders, never trailing as they overwhelmed Dallas early with a 39-24 first-quarter blitz. All five starters scored in double figures, led by Jaren Jackson Jr.’s 24 points and 7 rebounds. Ja Morant and Desmond Bane added 22 points apiece, combining for 12 rebounds and 18 assists, marking the first time the trio each scored 20+ in a postseason game. Rookie standout Zach Edey delivered his second straight Play-In double-double with 15 points and 11 boards, while Scotty Pippen Jr. added 13 points in his second consecutive start.
The Grizzlies’ early domi-
The Lamb Is Worthy
unambiguous identification of the prayers of the saints. The context implies that the Lamb receives those prayers; He doesn’t ignore them.
And they sung a new song
Worship of the Lamb includes singing. What the elders sing is not an old favorite but a new song. This imperative is stressed throughout the Psalter (Psalms 33:3; 40:3; 96:1; 98:1; 144:9; 149:1). Revelation 14:3 is an additional implementation (compare Isaiah 42:10). However, in that instance, it’s the 144,000 redeemed who are singing while the four beasts and the elders (apparently) listen. Saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood.
The reality that the Lamb had been slain would have been perceived as a source of embarrassment by many. But the heavenly court praises the Lamb not in spite of His death but because of it. Christ’s obedient death is humanity’s victory over sin-guilt (Romans 3:25–26). The Lamb’s unique obedience to the Father made Him worthy to take the book and open the seals thereof.
The heavenly court then explains the implications of that death further. Primary is the truth that it redeemed us. The verb translated “redeem” occurs about 30 times in the New Testament; it always refers to a purchase that involves an exchange (examples: Matthew 13:44, 46; John 13:29). Such purchases can refer to paying a price to free someone (examples: 1 Corinthians 6:20; 7:23), and
Continued from page 4
that’s the sense here. Out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation.
The song now recognizes the diverse nature of those who have been redeemed. The diversity is fourfold in that they come from every family group (kindred), every language group (tongue), every demographic (people), and every ethnic group (nation). This heavenly mix is drawn from the entire world. And hast made us unto our God kings and priests.
This half-verse yields three minor problems regarding the original author’s words per the various Greek manuscripts. The first challenge concerns the word us. In some manuscripts, it’s the Greek word translated “them” instead. This may have been a scribe’s intent to match the
nance, including a 22-9 run late in the first quarter, built a cushion that proved insurmountable for the Mavs. Memphis led by as many as 25 points in the second quarter and took a 66-49 lead into halftime. Dallas trimmed the deficit to single digits in the third quarter, but a clutch three-pointer from John Konchar stopped the bleeding and restored a double-digit lead the Grizzlies would not relinquish.
Anthony Davis led the Mavericks with 40 points and 9 rebounds, while Klay Thompson chipped in 18. Brandon Williams added 16 points and 7 assists off the bench, and Naji Marshall had 13. Still, it wasn’t enough to overcome the Mavs’ 16 turnovers, which led to 24 Memphis points, or their 16-7 deficit on the offensive glass. The loss ends a turbulent season
TCU
vests his time, expertise and wisdom in making health care available and what it should be throughout all communities and especially where there have been and often still are many inequities.
After a successful symposium, The Fort Worth Health and Wellness Consortium of The Renaissance House of Terrell Heights acknowledged
for the Mavericks, who were attempting to become the first No. 10 seed to reach the playoffs since the play-in tournament’s inception in 2021.
“When you look at our leader (Davis), I thought him and Klay played well,” said Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd. “But give Memphis credit. They were the better team tonight.” Ja Morant, playing just days after spraining his right ankle, logged 33 minutes thanks to a pain-killing injection. His resilience helped anchor Memphis in a game that saw them dictate the pace from start to finish. With the win, the Grizzlies now turn their attention to a best-of-seven series against the Oklahoma City Thunder, tipping off Sunday at noon in OKC. By The Thunder won game in OKC by a score of 131-80, game 2 will on Tuesday on TNT.
and thanked their Collaborative Care Symposium hosts. They thanked their sponsors CU, ADDRAN and CIGNA. La Vida News congratulates and thanks all the members of the symposium and charges each and every attendee to work towards making everything better, everything right. Together, let us all push and fight to make everything right.
word “them” to the diverse group in Revelation 5:9c, just studied.
The second minor challenge is that the phrase unto our God does not appear in the oldest manuscripts. The third challenge is that the oldest manuscripts have the Greek word for kingdom instead of kings. Revelation 1:6 also has “kings” instead of “kingdom” in a manuscript variant, so that’s evidence for the word kings. However, Exodus 19:6 speaks of “a kingdom of priests,” which seems to be the antecedent or pattern for the issue. In any case, we will be treated like royalty when God’s kingdom is manifested in its fullest; note the golden crowns the elders wear in Revelation 4:4!
Returning to Revelation 1:6, that passage can help us with the “unto our God” challenge since, without question, it has “unto God” as equiva-
lent. Offering certain parallels and directions to the halfverse before us are Isaiah 61:6; 1 Peter 2:5, 9; and Revelation 20:6. And we shall reign on the earth.
To serve as a royal priesthood comes with a promise: God’s people will one day reign on the earth. Christ made this promise explicitly in the letter to the church of Laodicea (Revelation 3:21), and it appears elsewhere in the New Testament as well (2 Timothy 2:12). This is an astonishing and humbling responsibility (compare Luke 19:17).
Conclusion: Jesus Is Worthy The answer to the ques-
tion What makes a person worthy of honor? depends greatly on who is bestowing the honor. In God’s economy, earthly success does not draw His praise. Ultimately, Jesus alone is worthy of all glory and honor. He alone is worthy to unbind the scroll. While Jesus will always reign supreme, we will be honored by being called to reign with Him. But our worthiness will be tested! Expect it. Thought to Remember: Jesus alone is worthy of all honor and praise. Standard Publishing. KJV Standard Lesson Commentary® 2024-2025 (p. 812). David C Cook. Kindle Edition.
Recieve your digital copy of La Vida News The Black Voice in your in-box. e-mail us at newsdesk@lavidanews.com
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Dallas Mavericks Anthony Davis during Saturday loss to the Memphis Grizzlies
Photo Courtesy of the Dallas Mavericks
Here’s What’s Happening Here’s What’s Happening
Ongoing Events
Are you a resident of the Rolling Hills area? Join the Glencrest Civic League Neighborhood Association and become part of our mission to create a safe, secure, clean, and well-maintained community. We actively seek residents’ support for our mission by spearheading neighborhood committee initiatives, coordinating, supporting, and planning various community events, actively engaging local leaders and nurturing a strong sense of community unity.
Join us for our Monthly Community Meetings:
• When: 10:00 AM on the 3rd Saturday of Each Month
• Where: C.R. Bradley Center, 2600 Timberline Drive, Fort Worth, TX 76119. For more information and to become a member, check out our Facebook Page (Glencrest Civic League Neighborhood Association) or visit our website at https:// www.glencrest.org. You may also email us at glencrest. na@gmail.com.
Fort Worth Wiley College Alumni Club Membership Meeting: Second Saturday of each month, 1 p.m., Carter Metropolitan CME Church,
4601 Wichita St. Fort Worth 76119. For additional information, contact one of the following members: Helen Crowder (817) 688-8937, Larry Pugh (817) 293-6543, Daisy Kahn (817) 292-1077.
I.M. Terrell Alumni Association Membership Meeting, 1st Tuesday of each month, 5 p.m., I. M. Terrell Stem/VPA Academy, 1411 I M Terrell Way, Fort Worth 76102.
M.L.Kirkpatrick Alumni Association Membership Meeting: First Saturday of each month at 2 p.m. at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church, 2823 North Houston Street, Fort Worth 76106.
P.L. Dunbar Alumni Association Memberships Meeting: 3rd Saturday of each month at 3p.m. at The CenterFor STOP SIX HERITAGE, 5100 Willie St. next to Young Men’s Leadership Academy, Fort Worth. pldalumniassoc@gmail.com
Como Alumni. Every third Tureday, 7 p.m., Como Community Center, 4900 Horne Street, Fort Worth, TX 76107
Join the Texas Coalition of Black Democrats! We meet every fourth Saturday of the
month from 5-6 p.m. at the Charles F. Griffin Sub-courthouse, 3500 Miller Ave. Fort Worth 76119. New Monthly Speakers.
United Methodist Church, 522 Missouri Ave. Fort Worth 76104. The Food pantry is open on the third Saturday of each month from 8 -10 a.m. For questions or concerns, please contact the Church Office at (817) 336-2117.
Forest Hill Ushers Union, “Welcomes All Church Ushers/Doorkeepers in Tarrant County”
Juniors & Young People (7-18)
Young Adults (19-35)
Seniors (36+)
Affiliations:
Texas Church Ushers
Southern Region Ushers
National United Church Ushers
Association of America, Inc. (NUCUAAA) For more information contact: Wanda King (817) 821-3017, Helen Moore (817) 584-7370, Thomas E. Troupe (817) 2292509
AARP Southeast Chapter #4508. Meets the 4th Wednesday of each month at 10:30 a.m., Southside Community Center, 959 E. Rosedale, Fort Worth, TX 76104.
For additional information contact Debra Rivers by email:riv3ers@sbcglobal.net.
Sat. Apr . 26, 2025
The Dock Bookshop, Indie Bookstore Day, 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Mon. May . 19, 2025
The Dock Bookshop, Author talk & Book Signing, 3-5 p.m. Dr. Ibram X. Kendi -”Malcolm Lives”
Public Transportation Help
Are you in need of transportation services? Here’s a list of resources that are available to you across Tarrant County. Trinity Metro TEXRail op-
erates daily between downtown Fort Worth and DFW International Airport’s Terminal B. Serving Fort Worth, North Richland Hills, Grapevine. RIDETRINITYMETRO.org/texrail or 817-2158600
Trinity Railway Express operates between downtown Fort Worth and downtown Dallas. Serving Fort Worth, Hurst, Irving, Dallas. trinityrailwayexpress.org or 817215-8600
ZIPZONE on-demand service areas: Alliance, Crowley, Mercantile. Trinity Metro has expanded the Southside ZIPZONE to reach the TCU campus, the Fort Worth Zoo and the entertainment district along the West 7th corridor, including Crockett Row and Montgom-
ery Plaza. Formerly known as the Near Southside ZIPZONE, the service area will continue to include access to the hospitals and facilities within the Medical District and the many popular destinations along Magnolia Avenue, plus grocery stores and other services throughout the Southside. Southside ZIPZONE riders may also connect to TEXRail and Trinity Railway Express at Fort Worth T&P Station or to bus routes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5a, 5b, 6, 7, 9, 10, 14, 24 and The Dash. Hours of operation Current schedule: Daily: 6 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday-Wednesday:6 a.m.8 p.m.
Thursday-Saturday: 6 a.m.midnight
RIDETRINITYMETRO. org/zipzone or 817-215-8600
