AlsoInside 2 4 8 - Apostolic Church of God
Transcription
AlsoInside 2 4 8 - Apostolic Church of God
E d i f i c at i o n • I n s p i r at i o n • B o o k s • C o m m u n i t y & O u t r e a c h • He a lt h & W e l l n e s s • M i n i s t r y • Y o u t h a p u b l i c a t i o n o f t h e A p o s t o l i c C h u r c h o f g o d MAY 2012 AlsoInside 2 Walking in our inheritance | Preparing to go home | Saving more for retirement 4 8 aroundACOG Easter Weekend at ACOG E aster Weekend at Apostolic Church of God culminated Resurrection Sunday, April 8, with an awesome worship service in song (see more on pages 8-9). However, it began with a solemn yet uplifting Good Friday service, where the saints of God served one another in a spirit of love via foot-washing and Holy Communion. Photos by Leonard McGee and Marlon Medious Pastor Dr. Byron T. Brazier Founding Editor Therese McGee Managing Editor Jennifer LuVert Editors Darlene Dennard, Reginald Griffin Samira Robinson, Sharon Prince Church Office Assistant Doris Williams Photography Donnie Hampton Tyrone Mason Leonard E. McGee Editorial Assistant Sharon Prince Distribution Eric Owens Mary Robinson May Contributors Reginald Griffin Rapheal Mathis Jacquelin McCord-Harris Laura Penson Sharon Prince Design/Layout comingUP LaShaunn Tappler LT ComDesign, LLC Brotherhood Enlightenment Series. Brothers, the Word of God provides us with many answers to life’s challenges. Throughout our Christian walk, the Word of God strengthens us and lights our path as we take each step. Join us for our thought-provoking threepart “Enlightenment Series” as Dr. David Daniels speaks to the brothers on how the Word builds us and allows us to spiritually mature. We will discuss the topic May 24, at 7 p.m. 2 | The Cross&Crown Marriage Stuff Series. In the bank of love, how do you score? Join Covenant Partners Friday, May 18 at 7 p.m. for Marriage: Banking on Success. It is the second in a four-part series. This session is entitled “Reviewing Your FICO Score (Finance, Intimacy, Communications and Obligations).” You will learn to assess, examine, and fine tune your marital relationship based on God’s Word and have fun while doing it. Please join married couples that are looking to invest in a more godly relationship, renew their sense of commitment and intimacy, and eliminate liabilities and distractions of the enemy. Childcare is available. Please contact Yolanda Williams at 773.256.4184 to register. The Cross & Crown is published monthly by the Apostolic Church of God, 6320 South Dorchester Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60637 © 2012. All submissions are welcome and will be reviewed for publication. The deadline for advertisements is the first Sunday of each month prior to the month in which the ad will appear. Submissions should be left in the newsletter folder in the administrative office. ISSN: 1543-9712 Volume 10 Issue 5 The Great Inheritors ministryNEWS In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will: That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. (Ephesians 1:11–12) O T here’s one thing I know: everyone has a past and everyone wants a future. Those who want a future are always looking for a better way. They are looking for that place of self-determination, that place where their faith interconnects with their legacy of Jesus Christ and the inheritance we have with Him. A child of God (his or her life) intersects with the promises of Jesus Christ, who is our legacy, and the inheritance He has left with each of us. Joshua is a primary example of this legacy participation: After the death of Moses the servant of the LORD, it came to pass that the LORD spoke to Joshua the son of Nun, Moses’ assistant, saying: “Moses My servant is dead. Now therefore, arise, go over this Jordan, you and all this people, to the land which I am giving to them—the children of Israel. Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon I have given you, as I said to Moses. From the wilderness and this Lebanon as far as the great river, the River Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites, and to the Great Sea toward the going down of the sun, shall be your territory. No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life; as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you nor forsake you. Be strong and of good courage, for to this people you shall divide as an inheritance the land which I swore to their fathers to give them. Only be strong and very courageous, that you may observe to do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you; do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may prosper wherever you go. This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:1–9, NKJV) Because Joshua was steadfast in his belief that he and his people would receive exactly what God promised them, and that they were more than able to overcome the imposing enemy nations blocking their way, he was one of the few who were able to enter the Promised Land after spending decades in the wilderness. But even then, it wasn’t going to be easy. That’s why God repeatedly told Joshua to be strong and of good courage. We inherit so many good things when we say yes to Jesus Christ. We inherit eternal life, which begins the moment we give our lives to the Lord. At that moment, we are filled with the Holy Spirit, the guarantee of our inheritance (Ephesians 1:14). We inherit the kingdom of God, which is righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17). Yet, as joint-heirs with Christ, we will face obstacles while we walk out our faith on earth. There will be times when we wonder where did the peace and joy go. Despite our inheritance, we will face the opposition of people who are hostile toward Christianity and “hate” us because of Christ. Sometimes we may face opposition from within our Christian community. What are we to do in those situations? Be strong and of good courage. When things aren’t working out the way we think they should or are not happening quickly enough, we may be tempted to find our own solution and not wait on the Lord. What are we to do? Only be strong and very courageous, that you may observe to do according to [the Word]. There will be days when we are weary with life’s disappointments and feel nothing like children of the King with a great inheritance. What must we do when we feel like giving up? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” Whatever obstacles we face in life, from without or within, we will prosper wherever we go when we follow as the Lord leads. Today begins another day of our legacy and our inheritance in Jesus Christ, and every day we arise is another day to praise God for all He has done (and is going to do) in our lives—no matter what we’re up against. Neighborhood Prayer Vigil n Thursday, April 5, Dr. Byron T. Brazier and a group of men and women from ACOG joined the Network of Woodlawn, which held a prayer vigil in the 6300 block of S. Evans. The vigil was held to “express solidarity and support” to residents and the family members of three men murdered inside an apartment on that block in late March, as well as to celebrate an arrest in the case. The vigil was followed by a march to 63rd and St. Lawrence Ave. for a third district Chicago Police Department roll call. 80th Annual Bible Conference Photo: Donnie Hampton by Dr. Byron T. Brazier Photo by Victor Powell aroundACOG T he 80th Annual Bible Conference, held the last week in April, did not fail to make an impact on thousands who attended. This year’s conference, which marked the 80th anniversary of the Apostolic Church of God, was streamed live via the church’s Web site. One attendee posted on Facebook, “The Bible Conference was fantastic, uplifting and full of power. We learned something new about grace each night. Nobody but the Lord could have filled and empowered those speakers with such incredible messages.” She was speaking to this year’s theme, “Amazed by Grace,” and the cadre of men and women that included repeat guest speaker Bishop Noel Jones and newcomers Dr. Cynthia James and Bishop Rudolph McKissick. One of the highlights of the conference was a video, a portion of which played each evening, highlighting pivotal moments in the church’s eighty-year history. To see the video, visit our Web site at acogchicago.org. In-depth coverage of the 80th Annual Bible Conference will be featured in the June issue of The Cross & Crown. This month’s column is based on the sermon “Love Without Limits” preached in March 2012. pastor’sCOLUMN May 2012 | 3 aroundACOG Someone You Should Know: Doris Williams by Laura Penson W hen you call the Apostolic Church of God, whose is that friendly, professional pleasant voice that you hear? It belongs to Doris Williams. The Apostolic Church of God’s receptionist and switchboard operator for twenty-two years, she is responsible for greeting guests and answering telephone calls for the staff. Doris loves her job. She loves greeting and meeting individuals who visit the church. Sometimes, she receives 650 calls per day. Doris newMEMBERS confesses that it can be cumbersome at times when greeting individuals who may not be so receptive. However, it’s important to maintain a professional, pleasant demeanor at all times even when you may be facing personal challenges. Doris has been a member of the Apostolic Church of God for fifty-five years. Before the late Bishop Arthur M. Brazier became the pastor (then Elder Brazier), Elder Clemmons was the pastor of Apostolic Church of God. When he passed, Elder Ahart Medders was appointed pastor and then Rev. Arthur M. Brazier in 1960. She was very active at the church. She served on an auxiliary called the Busy Bees with Sister Isabelle Brazier from 1989 to 1990. For fifteen years, she volunteered with the Just Checking Committee with Sister Lucille Brumfield, a ministry that coordinated Christmas parties and organized outings for the senior citizens of the church. Before Doris became a member of ACOG, she was a member of the Church of God in Christ for nine years, under the leadership of Bishop Louis Henry Ford (the same Bishop Ford for which the Calumet Expressway is named). Before working for the church, she worked for Santa Fe Railroad for seventeen years as a switchboard operator and for Michael Reese Hospital paging doctors for nine years. A native of Chicago Heights, Illinois, she moved to Chicago when she was nine years old. She attended Forestville and John Ferrin elementary schools and night school at Hyde Park high school, where she received her diploma. Doris graduated at the top of her class. When she is not working, she loves to read, listen to jazz, classical music, and old school music. Her favorite singers are Andrea Bocelli and Luciano Pavarotti. She also volunteers for the deaf (she has a daughter who is deaf). She enjoys getting up every morning and coming to work. She said working keeps her active. “Just because you are a retiree, doesn’t mean that you have to stop working,” she declares, meaning no one should have the desire to sit at home and do nothing. “You should want to have the desire to help others.” Doris has been married to her husband, John, for fifty six-years. They have six kids, eleven grandchildren, and thirteen great grandchildren. All of her children are members of the Apostolic Church of God. Doris has no plans to retire any time soon. “As long as I am able to perform my tasks, I will continue to work.” The following people came to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ or transferred their church membership in March: Ray Adkins Herman Griffin Crachey Peten Medina Alan Gabrielle Griggs Kevin Powell Marlon Bernard William Hall Carl Pruitt Kim Bradley-Martin Wendy Harris Alfreda Pryor Anya Parham Brooks Michael Hayes Heather Ratlay DeAndre Brooks Alexander Heidlberg Demetrice Stallworth Lakeisha Byrd Barbara Jackson Jermaine Stanton Andre Calahan Phyllis Johnson Arnita Sutton Nap Chhim Edric Jones Angel Shegog Rosa Colon Maurice Jones Karon Smith Jineshia Dickerson Crystal Nelms Barbara Thomas Eric Donaldson Andre Mahomes Christina Wade Micaela Eubanks Eddie Martin Sheri Wade Alicia Fisher Nancy Mitchell Pamela Ward Raymond Funchess Cedrick Nichols Terrance Weatherspoon Bernard Gilmore Ollie Owens Edwina Walters John Goings Lisa Parish Shawnda Wilkinson 4 | The Cross&Crown New Member Highlights Right Hand of Fellowship The next Right Hand of Fellowship is Sunday, June 3, and will be during our 9:10 a.m. and 11:40 a.m. service. Please arrive early and register at the kiosk before services begin. Wednesday Night Classes The next Wednesday night classes are June 6, 13, 20, and 27 and begin at 6:15 p.m. and will be held in the Banquet Hall. If you have questions, please call 773.256.4204 lifeAPPLICATION forSINGLES Learning How to Love For Real: Recap of the Singles Ministry “Love Again” Seminar by Reginald Griffin inTHEWord The Body of Christ Photo: disabilitycampaign.org by Jacquelin McCord-Harris J Joni Eareckson Tada in her studio L ast April, Living the Single’s Life Ministry held a seminar entitled “Love Again.” The seminar was led by Patrick Shaffer, pastor of City of Faith Christian Church and based on his book of the same title. Pastor Shaffer pealed back, layer by layer, life’s love experiences from loosing ones loved, while emphasizing that loving after loss is not limited to a romantic relationship between a man and a woman. Each seminar—four altogether—began with refreshments, which were in such abundance that they nearly made a meal. The lessons always began in prayer, which had an interesting element afterward. Pastor Shaffer asked the assembly of congregants, which included single men and women from ACOG and other local churches, to relate an experience that was most meaningful in their lives. Each week, Shaffer covered topics from the assigned chapters of his book. Before the seminar each participant was asked to purchase Pastor Shaffer’s book. Each session was filled with lively audience participation, and the lessons were filled with bullet points such as how to love again: • after a divorce • after the death of a loved one, and • after a difficult breakup with a significant other. The core of Pastor Shaffer’s teaching was learning how to heal after suffering such losses. Now at first, I thought all I had to do was read the book and forgo attending the sessions. I’m glad my thinking was quickly changed because the teaching, along with congregational participation, left participants feeling not only edified but also satisfied in a Spirit-filled experience. oni Eareckson Tada was a championship swimmer who became a quadriplegic as a result of a horrific accident. After a long period of mental and physical recovery, Joni became a wife, an artist (by holding the paint brush between her toes), a singer, an author of more than forty books, an internationally acclaimed evangelist, and a radio host. She is an inspiration for the disabled and the abled-bodied. As Christians, we are the members of the body of Christ—His church. We are knit together by His love, grace, and mercy to work in harmony with each other and in support of one another. Each of us has been blessed by God with special gifts to carry out the ministries of the church. Some will be ministers, teachers, singers, cooks, etc.— all are important in God’s work. Ephesians 4:15, 16 reads, “...Christ is the Head; from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.” Sharing our gifts through the love of God is essential to the body of Christ. Source: www.joniandfriends.org May 2012 | 5 by Dr. Byron T. Brazier Therefore, since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mind, for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, that he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of God. For we have spent enough of our past lifetime in doing the will of the Gentiles—when we walked in lewdness, lusts, drunkenness, revelries, drinking parties, and abominable idolatries. (1 Peter 4:1–3, NKJV) T he apostle Peter was writing to believers scattered throughout Asia Minor. They were aliens in the land in which they were living. They were sojourners passing through as they suffered rejection because of their obedience to Jesus Christ. As children of God, we often find ourselves in situations in which we are aliens. There are places where we should feel out of place. For instance, we should not be able to walk into a nightclub and feel comfortable, as though we belong there. We are in the world but not of it; therefore, we are sojourners in the wilderness simply passing through. We once knew it. However, having brought our lives before Jesus Christ, the life we used to know we no longer know. We’ve cut it off to declare that our lives belong to the Lord. Choosing Christ and choosing to live a different way, however, does not mean we will never find ourselves in situations that remind us of the way we used to live. As we walk out our faith, we will occasionally find ourselves face-toface with our past lives, sometimes tempted to turn back, even if only for 6 | The Cross&Crown a visit. However, when we live according to the will of God, and not according to the will of man, we’ll always find ourselves in “the right place at the right time,” empowered to make the right choice. We are always on the offense, watching and looking and preparing for the coming of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. And while we’re looking and preparing for the Lord’s coming, we’re also watchful for our enemies. Some will come boldly and directly, while others will creep in subtly. However they come, we stand firm in the Lord, contending for the faith, determined to do His will. Being aliens in the world does not mean we’re homeless, that there’s no place for us. First, we have an identity in the kingdom of God. “You are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9, NKJV). Second, heaven is our home. That’s the perspective we must keep during our time on earth. When we stay focused on our true identity (we are God’s featureSTORY children) and what’s really important (we will spend an eternity with Him), we are less prone to become sidetracked by the rejection and disappointment we are sure to experience in a place we don’t belong. As children of God, we should never suffer an identity crisis because we know who Jesus is and we know who we are in Him. Because of Him we are saved and kept. Our hope is in Jesus Christ, the difference between our past and our future. God requires nothing from us to become part of His Kingdom; however, when we receive Him, we can expect to suffer (John 15:18–21; John 17: 14–18). Some people will hate us solely because of our faith. You may wonder Why do I have to go through anything? We go through because there’s always friction between right and wrong, between sin and righteousness. So when you line up on God’s side, you’re going to create friction with the world. You can’t help it. And guess what? If you don’t choose Christ, you will still have friction. It doesn’t matter whose or what side you’re on. If you’re on the Lord’s side, your friction is with sin. If you’re on sin’s side, your friction is with the Lord. So which would you rather have? It’s your choice. It’s just as Joshua told the children of Israel, “And if it seems evil to you to serve the LORD, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD” (Joshua 24:15, NKJV). We have the same choice Israel and Adam had. God told Adam not to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, “for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.” (Genesis 2:17, KJV). The Lord said to us, “come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 28:11, KJV). Like Israel, we can choose to serve the Lord over man. And while Adam made a choice to die, we can choose to eat of the fruit of Christ and live. Let’s Live what He died for Jesus died for our sins and brought us to a place of sanctification and holiness in Him. The Lord died for us to set us apart from the world to not only show a different way but the only way to true life, or eternal life. For us, the major issue about salvation, or being saved, is living a surrendered life. How do I give up what I think I know? Some people hesitate or resist saying yes to Christ because they don’t want to change. Often they don’t want to suffer being rejected by others. Yet they are torn between the darkness of their sin, which is familiar, and the light of Jesus beckoning them to come. They try to figure out ways to take advantage of the light while living in the darkness. We cannot serve both, and there’s only one right choice. It took something for Jesus to die for our sins, and it’s going to take something for us to overcome the things in our flesh, primarily those yearnings that are human nature yet connote our weaknesses. Suffering in the flesh also deals with loss. When we surrendered our lives to Christ, many of us had to leave behind certain friends, or end relationships. We had to leave what we called the good times (e.g., blue light parties for some of us, raves for others, depending on our age). We loved going out and partying. And perhaps for some of us that hasn’t changed yet. But we come to a point when our “good times” (times marred by compromise, hangovers, and/or bad company) are not as important as our walk with Christ. When we keep life in perspective—the Lord sacrificed His life for us while all we’re doing is cutting off some things—it becomes easier to let go and not revisit the “grave” of our past. Even if you visit (find yourself in a compromising situation), you come to realize “this really is not for me. That’s not even my spirit anymore.” You realize what you thought was a loss really is not that substantial because you have a different expectation. Your hope is no longer in having a “good time.” It’s no longer in partying, getting high, or even in your relationships. Your hope is in Jesus Christ. And what you thought you lost, you’ll find an increase in other things—particularly in your faith and in the spiritual fruit you produce (see Galatians 5:22–23). The Lord magnified Himself in your life, and suddenly the things you could not do before, the Lord empowered you to do them. He opened doors that were once closed to you. When you thought you had no way, He made a way nobody else could make. When you know who Jesus is, when know who the Lord is in your life, there’s no reason to turn back—and you can endure being a sojourner in a strange land. After all, it’s only for a little while. But we come to a point when our ‘good times’ (times marred by compromise, hangovers, and/or bad company) are not as important as our walk with Christ. This month’s feature story is based on the sermon “Love Without Limits,” preached March 4. Instant Message Abiding in Faith T o maintain our physical health, we need good nutrition, physical activity, and rest. To maintain our spirituality, all we need is faith. After their miraculous exodus from Egypt, the children of Israel stood at the gateway of the Promised Land and abandoned their faith. Because of their unfaithfulness, the children of Israel wandered in the desert for forty years. Forty years later, their descendants, in faith, conquered the land of Canaan. As Christians we abide in our faith and as the body of Christ we worship in faith, we fellowship in faith, and we serve in faith. — Sharon Prince May 2012 | 7 photoGALLERY 2 1 3 4 7 8 6 5 10 12 9 11 The Joy of Easter. Nearly 12,000 people commemorated the resurrection of Jesus Christ at Apostolic Church of God Sunday, April 8. And those are just the families and guests who walked through the doors. Many more joined us online via live streaming for the first service. This year’s Easter worship service featured the music ministry of Tye Tribbett, Anita Wilson, as well as our own Dwayne Lee, Elizabeth Norman-Sojourner, and Kiel Williams. Typically held Palm Sunday in the form of a concert, the Joy of Easter became a part of the Sunday morning worship services this year. People not only experienced great worship music, but they also left with an inspired word from the Lord. Photos: Leonard McGee and Donald Hampton 1) During second service, Kiel Williams sang “Darkest Night,” a song he cowrote with Stanleigh Jones. 2) Anita Wilson is an emerging gospel singer and songwriter who not only adds a new voice but a fresh sound to the genre. 3) Sanctuary Choir director Raymond Nuckolls likes what he hears as Jimmy Hudson leads “Jesus is Alive.” 4) ACOG quickly learned that Tye Tribbett is just as energetic and exciting in person as he is on video. 5) Led the choir on congregational favorite “Jesus is Alive.” 6) Every seat was filled on Easter 8 | The Cross&Crown morning. 7) Travis Newsome and the Sanctuary Choir sing “I won’t Turn Back” by William McDowell. 8) Tye Tribbett meets First Lady Mary Brazier. 9) Two soul-singing artists who love God equal one amazing worship service. 10) Byron Brazier Jr., Alleece Baker, Zerick Baker, Amanda Hunt, Darnetta Jones, Jasmine Jones, and Laveda Lark sing Craig Aven’s “Faithful” during the offering. 11) Tye Tribbett and his backup singers pause for a picture. 12) Tye Tribbett signs CDs following the worship service. photoGALLERY 13 14 15 18 17 19 20 22 13–19) At ACOG, families celebrate Easter together. 20–22) The service was so awesome that even the people who ended up in the overflow, whether in Kenwood or Fellowship Hall, were fully engaged. 16 21 23 24 23) Dr. Brazier and music director Willetta Greene-Johnson (second from right) greet our musical guests. 24) Drummer Kelsey Tarver connects with Tye Tribbett. May 2012 | 9 parentingPAGE Don't Miss It! May Youth Calendar Destiny1212 Youth Ministry: Tweens Editor’s note: Last month, the Apostolic Church of God College Tour took a group of high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors to various schools in the south. Following is a letter one of the students wrote detailing his experience. PIVOT — 2nd, 3rd, 4th Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6 p.m. Teen Guys Lions of Judah — 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th Fridays, 7 p.m. Teen Girls G.R.A.C.E. — 1st Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. B.R.I.D.G.E.S. — 1st, 3rd, 5th Fridays, 6:45 p.m. Also.. Young Brothers for Christ — 2nd, 3rd & 4th Saturdays, 9 a.m. Young Sisters for Christ — 2nd, 4th Saturdays, 9 a.m. Homework Lab (all ages) — Monday – Friday, 3 p.m. Tutoring, Monday – Thursday, 6 p.m. For a complete listing of Destiny1212 Youth Ministry activities, visit www.acog-chicago.org G.R.AC.E. Annual Culminating Event Celebrate with G.R.A.C.E. its 18th annual culminating event Friday, June 15, in the Banquet Hall. Purchase tickets in Fellowship Hall after first service or online at acog-chicago.org Resources College Without Compromise The challenges of our economy are making some American dreams, like homeownership, more difficult to realize. That also includes getting a college education without inheriting the enormous debt that often comes with it. At some private universities, tuition and room and board exceed the $50,000 mark—and costs will continue to rise. This book will help parents and their college-bound students develop a plan that works best for them and makes college feasible. They will learn how to go about the traditional path, as well as the “independent (year standing)” plans that progress yearly with the independent accumulation of college credits. Chapters provide a general overview of terminology, admissions procedures, GenEd requirements, financial aid, CLEP, DSST, AP, online college, dual enrollment, and more. $14.99 10 | The Cross&Crown College Tour: Recap by Rapheal Mathis M y name is Rapheal Mathis. I am a junior at Plainfield East High School in Plainfield, Illinois. I am very active in my school and I participate in many extracurricular activities. I attend Christ Temple Apostolic Faith Church where my pastor is Bishop D. Rayford Bell. I am also an active member there. Going on a college tour can be scary. You’re visiting different schools; you’re away from home and around a group of people you don’t know. This college tour, however, was different. I was able to meet a lot of new people and start some great friendships. The chaperones were outstanding and were always there to help. They helped on the campus by giving us questions to ask and made the trip a learning experience. I benefitted from this because I was able to make decisions on which colleges would be good for me. They not only supervised us but instilled into us values necessary to help us in life. The relationship between the students and chaperones was also good. There was a sense of trust and a level of understanding that really impressed me. I also liked the maturity level of the students. We all got along, we all respected each other, and we all looked out for each other. Even though I am not a member of Apostolic Church of God, I know that the church has a reputation of doing things with a spirit of excellence. And I can honestly say that they lived up to that reputation and exceeded what was required of them. I hope to attend next year and also spread the word so other people can be exposed to this opportunity. lifeAPPLICATION RealEstateNotes Ask the Expert Healthy and Wise O ver the past few months, we have talked about embracing the philosophy to “Live Your Best Life.” At April’s 360 degree health session on Muscles, Bones, and Joints, Dr. James Hill emphasized the importance of communication, in particular with your health provider. We have to ask the right questions and seek the right answers. . The Health and Wellness Ministry would like to thank all for coming out for the kickoff of the 360 degree Health Session in April. The great turnout indicates we are striving to live our best lives. On Thursday, May 10, Dr. Eloise Chapman-Davis joined us to speak on the issues of Gynecological cancers. Several things can affect our health and quality of life. Learning what we can do about them is a key to good health. May has been designated as: • National Asthma and Allergy Month. Asthma is a disease of the lungs in which the airways become blocked or narrowed causing breathing difficulty. A large number of African Americans are diagnosed with asthma. Visit aafa.org to learn more about causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. • National Mental Health Month. Mental Health America is raising awareness of trauma, the devastating impact it has on physical, emotional, and mental well-being, and how therapeutic techniques based in neuroscience can mitigate these effects and create dramatic changes in people’s lives. To learn more about how trauma-informed care has emerged to ensure that trauma is recognized and treated and that survivors are not re-victimized when they seek care, visit nmha.org. • National Stroke Month. Stroke is the number four cause of death and a leading cause of longterm disability. African Americans are at a greater risk of stroke. Choosing a healthy lifestyle can decrease the risk. Learn about the warning signs at americanstrokeassociation.org. • Lupus Awareness Month. Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can damage any part of the body (skin, joints, and/or organs inside the body). Women of color are 2–3 times more likely to develop lupus, although people of all races and ethnic groups can develop lupus. To learn more about lupus, visit lupus.org. Recalculating Your Retirement Plan T o maintain your current lifestyle in retirement, economists say you’ll need about 80 percent of your current income. Social Security will provide about 30 percent. The rest may come from pension benefits, a job or personal savings and investments. You can get a personalized estimate of how much to expect from Social Security at www.ssa.gov/ estimator. If you discover a shortfall, you can save more, plan to work longer, look for higher returns on savings or plan to reduce your retirement lifestyle. continued on page 15 Q We have found a home we want to buy, but the property taxes seem to be way higher than they should be. Is there anything we can do about it? A Maybe. You can appeal the valuation that taxes are based on by showing an appraisal from a respected company, but that may not work. Still, if you buy the home, you will be paying far less mortgage interest than you would have paid at any time in more than 50 years. So that smaller monthly payment would allow you to save money for the property tax bills. Though it may not be much of a consolation for you, property taxes nationwide decreased by .9 percent last year when adjusted for inflation. On average, however, cities and counties are collecting more property taxes than they did when home values were much higher than they are now. The rates are slowly starting to decline, but taxes in many places are based on valuations that might be up to seven years old. The assessment office for a county near Chicago says the goal of these formulas is to make property tax income stable during an economic turmoil, unlike income and sales taxes. continued on page 15 May 2012 | 11 Books & Music mediaMATTERS Strength for Every Moment by T.D. Jakes In this small handbook, Bishop T.D. Jakes will empower you with wisdom to turn your challenges into triumphs and your breakdowns into breakthroughs. Through inspirational Scripture and personal insights, each devotional reading will embolden your spirit and invigorate your faith. (From Christianbook.com) The Busy Mom’s Devotional by Lisa T. Bergren Perhaps better than anyone, moms know how to juggle multiple responsibilities and manage packed schedules. However, even moms can become overwhelmed with all they have to do and find difficulty carving out time for themselves and God. These ten-minute devotions can make a difference in your walk with Christ. $14.99 I Am Woman Series by Dr. Cindy Trimm Cindy Trimm delivers an empowering message to women. She inspires women to reclaim their identity in every arena of their lives: personal, professional, and spiritual. If you’re a woman seeking to be liberated from negative feelings like guilt and shame, pick up a copy of this DVD. Momisms This little book is filled with inspirational thoughts, quotations, and Scriptures that are a tribute to the most important woman in our lives: Mom. It makes a nice Mother’s Day gift. $4.99 Having a Real Relationship with God by Kay Arthur Set your own pace—forty minutes a week or forty minutes a day—when you delve into this transformative, inductive study on developing a meaningful relationship with God. Gain a deeper understanding of God’s love for you. $7.99 Go Get It by Mary Mary Sisters Eric and Tina Campbell have a new show (a reality show Mary Mary on WeTV) and a new CD (out May 8). It features a compilation of the duo’s most loved songs, including “Shackles,” “God in Me,” and “Can’t Give Up Now,” as well as the new single “Go Get It.” $11.99 All titles are available in Saving Grace Book Center, 773.256.4113. Prices are subject to change. ReadTHIS Woman Thou Art Loosed by T.D. Jakes Woman Thou Art Loosed, the book, is one year shy of its tenth anniversary, but its message remains relevant for women who have been wounded by their pasts. “The balm in this book will soothe all manner of traumas, tragedies, and disappointments.” It started out as a class and eventually became a conference that’s still held today (the WTAL Conference will be held in Atlanta this October). There’s even a movie based on the concept. For many women, a life that’s defined by traumatic experiences of the past is more than a book, a conference, or a movie: it’s a reality; yet, it does not have to be the thing that shapes the course of their lives. This classic book helps women to see themselves not as victims but as victors, to overcome the pain of their pasts and be free to be all God has called them to be 12 | The Cross&Crown aroundACOG Alternatives (CommunityCalendar) Lincoln Park Zoo • Chicago May 26 & 27, 3 p.m. to participate. For more information about Lincoln Park Zoo and other exhibits, visit lpzoo.org. For membership information, call 312.742.2322, Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or e-mail members@ lpzoo.org. Prison Praise June 2, 2012 Apostolic Faith Church • 3823 S. Indiana Ave. • Chicago SUNDAY May 13 Mother’s Day FRIDAY May 18 Marriage Stuff 7 p.m. SUNDAY May 20 Pearls Service 4 p.m. comingUP Pearls Service. “Celebrating Pearls: The Apple of God’s Eye” is the theme of the 2012 Pearls Service, honoring ACOG members 70 and older. The service is Sunday, May 20, at 3:45 p.m. in the Kenwood Sanctuary. The speaker will be Dr. Rosa Sailes. Breakfast Seminar. Living the Single Life Ministry will present three breakfast seminars for teens, parents of teens, young adults, and singles you do not want to miss. Part I focuses on the pitfalls of dating and the Internet. Parents, do you know what your teen is seeing on the Internet and who they are sending text messages to? Singles, are you using the Internet in hopes of meeting Mr. or Ms. Right? Evangelist Stacy DorityEdwards will be on hand to alert you to the hidden dangers of modern technology and dating, including cyber sex and sexting. Everyone—single or married, young or old—can benefit from this seminar. So join us Saturday, June 16, in the Banquet Hall, from 9 to 12:30 p.m. Breakfast will be served at 9 a.m. Tickets are $10.00 and can be purchased in the Fellowship Hall after first service, in the bookstore during the weekdays, and online. SUNDAY May 20 CDM Meet & Greet After both services FRIDAY May 25 Simply Q’s Couponing, 7 p.m. MONDAY May 28 Memorial Day MAY ‘12 CALENDAR Make a family trip to the zoo a part of your Memorial Day weekend activities. On May 26 – 27, the zoo will provide free guided safari tours (one for adults only at 10 a.m. and a family-friendly one at 3 p.m.). The tour is free, but safari and zoologist-level membership is required Dr. Willetta Greene-Johnson & StrategicMusic will present “Prison Praise: Overwhelm, Overcome at the Apostolic Faith Church. For more information, call 773.684.6650 or e-mail smuinc@gmail.com. Men of Power: R.U.E.3 Series . R.U.E3? In this reflective series, we biblically define and critically analyze each aspect of this year’s theme. The second part of the series is “Empowered.” The key Scripture is Acts 1:8. The speakers are Elder Marlon Medious and Elder Tony Briscoe. Brothers, gain a better understanding of what it means to be “Empowered,” as well as how we, as young Christian men, should respond after being “Empowered.” The series is Saturday, June 9, in FC100. A continental breakfast will be served. Registration begins May 13. The cost of the event is $5. Simply Q’s. Does watching Extreme Couponing on TLC have you discouraged or motivated? Want to learn how to save over 50% on your store purchases? Join us Friday, May 25, at 7 p.m. in Room FC-100, as we demystify “The Art of Couponing” and teach you how to save hundreds and thousands of dollars on your purchases simple and fast! Tons are doing it and loving it; now it’s time to let our church family in on the secrets. What do you need to bring? A notebook, pen, and Sunday’s paper. Register in Fellowship Hall between first and second services or online at acog-chicago.org. The class is free and open to all. May 2012 | 13 extendedPHOTOgallery ACROSS 1 appointed the ___ of the priests and the Levites (Neh 13:30) KJV 6. mystery that has been kept hidden for ____ and generations (Col 1:26) 10. God made them ____ and female (Mark 10:6) 14. and like ___ ___ out of dry ground (1,4) (Isa 53:2) 15. if the ____ has faded and has not spread in the skin (Lev 13:6) 16. Israel, who pursued ___ ___ of righteousness (1,3) (Rom 9:31) 17. when Nabal was ___, his wife told him all (1 Sam 25:37) 18. Adams first home (Gen 2:8) 19. the increase of thy ___, and the flocks (Deut 7:13) (KJV) 20. I denied myself nothing my eyes ___ (Eccl 2:10) 22. Fools mock at making ___ for sin (Prov 14:9) 25. upon Sodom and upon Gomorrah brimstone and ____ (Gen 19:24) 26. and their round ___ like the moon (Isa 3:18) KJV 27. the tendon attached to the ___ of the hip (Gen 32:31-32) 31. Light is ___ upon the righteous and joy on the upright (Ps 97:11) 34. Jesus found a young donkey and sat ___ it (John 12:14) 35. Above all ___ , guard your heart (Prov 4:23) 37. men ___ into the city that day as men steal in (2 Sam 19:3) 41. The price for his ___ is to be based on the (Lev 25:50) 43. began shouting: “Great is ___ of the Ephesians!” (Acts 19:28) 45. ____ not into the path of the wicked (Prov 4:14) 46. Who shall change our ____ body, that it may be (Phil 3:21) 48. more than over ninety and ____ just persons (Luke 15:7) 49. what is a man profited, if he shall ____ the whole (Matt 6:26) 51. as if he were a ___ treading the clay (Isa 41:25) 53. Then these men went as a ___ and found Daniel (Dan 6:11) 56. eyes of the LORD, which ___ to and fro (Zech 4:10) NKJV 58. but he ends up with a mouth full of ___ (Prov 20:17) 59. where moth and rust destroy, and where ___ break (Matt 6:19) 63. let us not ___ in word, neither in tongue; but in (1 John 3:18) 64. had feet like those of ___ ___ and a mouth like (1,4) (Rev 13:2) 66. ____ are creatures of little strength (Prov 30:25) 68. not the least stroke of ___ ___ will by any means (1,3) (Matt 5:18) 69. stop, end (Ps 46:9) 70. ___ at the fields! They are ripe for harvest (John 4:35) 71. Then the beasts go into ____, and remain (Job 37:8) 72. The ____ shall serve the younger (Romans 9:12) 73. sent me from Kadesh-barnea to ___ out the land (Josh 14:7) KJV DOWN 33. A voice of one calling in the ___ (Matt 3:3) 36. Reuben, Simeon, ____, and Judah, (Exodus 1:2) 38. temporary dwelling (Ex 33:7) 39. leave out 40. thou shalt bind this ____ of scarlet thread in the (Joshua 2:18) 42. The Danites answered, Don’t ___ with us` (Judg 18:25) 44. ___ of Broken Walls, restorer of Streets (Isa 58:12) 47. and made her Queen ___ of Vashti. (Esth 2:17) 50. I go to prepare ___ ___ for you (1,5) (John 14:2) 52. “No ___ sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old (Matt 9:16) 53. At midday you will ___ about like a blind man (Deut 28:29) 54. he sent forth a ____, which went forth to and fro (Gen 8:7) 55. into your ___ and kneading troughs. (Ex 8:3) 57. and a hundred of you will ___ ten thousand (Lev 26:8) 58. preaching and shewing the ____ tidings of the kingdom (Luke 8:1) 60. So he sent him out of the ___ of Hebron (Gen 37:14) KJV 61. son of Seth (Gen 4:26) KJV 62. and put it into my side. ___ doubting and believe (John 20:27) 65. Babylon is taken, ____ is confounded (Jer 50:2) 67. foul weather today: for the ____ is red and lowring. (Matt 16:3) Puzzle Solution 1 spoken by the Lord, and ____ confirmed unto us by (Heb 2:3) 2. I see ___ ___ of an almond tree (1,3) (Jer 1:11) 3. David was clothed with a ____ of fine linen (1 Chr 15:27) 4. Man ___ not live on bread alone (Matt 4:4) 5. and out goes ___; quarrels and insults (Prov 22:10) 6. the prophet of today used to be called ___ ___ (1,4) (1 Sam 9:9) 7. the temple of the great ___ Diana should be despised (Acts 19:27) (KJV) 8. LORD, how long will it be ___ thou be quiet? (Jer 47:6) KJV 9. and all the ____ of the children of Israel (Acts 5:21) 10. He is the ___ of the Bear and Orion (Job 9:9) 11. The carpenter measures with ___ ___ (1,4) (Isa 44:13) 12. We have mortgaged our ____, vineyards, and houses (Neh 5:3) 13. female sheep (Gen 33:13) 21. according to all the ____ of it, and according to all (Num 9:3) 23. as the colour of amber, out of the ___ of the fire (Ezek 1:4) (KJV) 24. thou shalt not be to him as an ____ (Exod 22:25) (KJV) 28. and his ears are ____ unto their prayers (1 Pet 3:12) 29. brought the ass, and the ___, and put on them (Matt 21:7) (KJV) 30. every ____ will bow before me; every tongue will (Rom 14:11) 32. a time to kill and a time to ___ (Eccl 3:3) 14 | The Cross&Crown Ads inTHEknow The classified advertising in The Cross & Crown is a free service. The deadline for ads is the first Sunday of each month. All ads will be placed in the first available issue (typically the month following the Sunday you submit your ad). At the church’s discretion, The Cross & Crown reserves the right to not print any ad for any reason. Classified advertising in The Cross & Crown does not necessarily imply the endorsement of the church. For Rent General ■ Dolton—4-bdrm brick home w/4 levels of living space. 1½ baths, stove/refrig, hdwd flrs, finished basement, C/A, side drive to 2½ car garage. $1250/mo., plus 1 mo. sec. Contact Joseph McGee III 708.921.2365. ■ Debbie Maintenance & Cleaning Services— servicing condos, offices, schools church, apts., etc. Great customer service, excellent references, trustworthy and reliable staff. Please contact Debbie at 872.223.0228. ■ Riverdale—spacious, 3-bdrm, 1-bath apt. w/ living room, dining room, partial finished basement, 1-car garage, large fenced yard. $1200/mo. + sec. Call 708.439.9703. ■ Join Chicago author and ACOG member Licia Johnson for a book talk: “Strength to Speak: One Woman’s Struggle to Make Peace with Her Past.” Saturday, May 5, at the Chicago Bee Branch Library 3647 S. State St., noon – 2pm. ■ Serving at Risk Families (Preserving Families) 1745 E. 71st St. Lea Kirby, Executive Director 773-667-7258 lkirby@sarfdv.org Retirement, continued from page 11 • Play catch-up. Ideally, you should plan to contribute 15 percent of gross earnings to retirement savings, including employer contributions. Make the most of the company’s 401(k) plan. Or contribute up to $5,000 to your own IRA or Roth IRA. If you are over 50, you can contribute $6,000. • Work longer at your present job or decide to get part-time work after you retire. • Create lifetime retirement income. The Government Accountability Office recommends using up to half of your savings to buy an income annuity to avoid the risk of outliving your savings. But you can invest as little as $10,000 now and set the date when you will begin taking payouts. • Delay taking Social Security. Many workers claim benefits before their normal retirement age, passing up an additional 25 percent or more in monthly inflation-adjusted benefits for the rest of their lives. Normal retirement age is 66 for those born from 1943 to 1954 and gradually rising to 67 for those born in 1960 or later. Real estate, continued from page 11 School districts, which are supported by property taxes, are already suffering from reduced state funding. Nationwide, public schools have cut 270,000 employees. Factors delaying tax reductions: • Laws that cap property tax hikes also limit decreases. • Delayed assessments are supposed to protect homeowners from fast-rising taxes when home values soar, but they also delay tax cuts when values fall. Though the idea of funding public schools may not appeal to you, you probably realize that educating American children is one of the bases for having a better nationwide economic future. If you can pay the property taxes, go ahead and buy the house. You’ll be happier, and you’ll be helping to create a more successful America for all, including yourself. ■ Free Safelink Wireless Cell Phone—Get 250 free minutes per month. Must receive some type of government assistance (e.g., Sect. 8 or subsidized housing, food stamps, Medicaid, SSI, national free lunch program). Call Cynthia, 773.798.9130. ■ Dora La Couture—Prom season is here. Call today and make an appointment. ■ Seeking Job—Certificate in janitorial and in maintenance. Qualified for mopping, waxing, and buffing floors. Some plumbing, electrical, carpentry, and HVAC. Available to work seven days a week, 8am–11pm. Call Ronald, 312.566.6102 or 630.486.0909. writer’sCORNER Just Wait by Monique Steward When life appears unfair and my spirit wretched When I feel overwhelmed my struggle too heavy to carry When my purpose diluted My living seems in vain I wait on the Lord to renew my strength I wait on the Lord For it is He that directs my ways When I can’t find the words to pray I speak His name In His time He restores my joy His generous Spirit provides resilience I wait on the Lord because my soul loves Jesus I wait on the Lord In Him I commit my trust May 2012 | 15 Apostolic Church of God 6320 South Dorchester Avenue Chicago, Illinois 60637 www.acog-chicago.org Connect with Us! Web www.acog-chicago.org Facebook /ACOGChicago Twitter @ACOGChicago Next Issue’s Theme: Believe and Lead ACOG SERVICE TIMES Sundays 9:10 a.m., First Service 11:40 a.m., Second Service 4 p.m., Afternoon Service Tuesdays 10 a.m., Daytimers Bible Class Wednesdays 1 p.m., Prayer 7:30 p.m., Bible Class Fridays 7:30 p.m., Intercessory Prayer Television Broadcasts Sundays, 8 a.m. WCIU/TV, Channel 26 ■ Cable stations may vary