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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 • H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S • M I N I S T R Y • YO 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
N OV E M B E R 2013
Be hospitable
to one another
without
grumbling.
1 Peter 4:9, NKJV
AlsoInside
2
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Remembering Elder Robert McGee Sr. | Is it wise to pay off your mortgage? | Understanding more about diabetes
9
aroundACOG
Remembering a Giant in the Faith
O
n October 5, the Apostolic Church of God said goodbye to a giant in the faith and the last of its
spiritual fathers, when senior assistant pastor Reverend Robert J. McGee Sr. was called home to
be with the Lord. He served the Kingdom faithfully most of his 97 years on earth. His life was
celebrated in a spirited home-going service October 11. Following are a few snapshots from
Rev. McGee’s life.
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
Leonard E. McGee
Editorial Assistant
Sharon Prince
Distribution
Eric Owens
Mary Robinson
November Contributors
Jacquelin Harris
Reginald Griffin
Therese McGee
Sharon Prince
Rosa Sailes
Design/Layout
LaShaunn Tappler
LT ComDesign, LLC
comingUP
Daytimers Conference.
“God Is…” is the theme of the
Daytimers’ annual conference.
It’s Thursday, November 14,
beginning at 9 a.m. This year’s
teacher and speaker are Evangelist Kathy West and assistant
pastor Elder Alan Conley.
Sister Clara Pate is this year’s Mistress of Ceremony.
Registration is $15 and includes continental breakfast
and lunch.
2 | The Cross&Crown
Sisterhood Connection
Worship Service. Please
join the Women’s Ministry:
Sisterhood Connection in its
final service of 2013, Sunday,
November 17, at 3:45 p.m. We
will end the year in celebration
with Dr. Jeanne Porter-King as
our speaker. The theme for this service is “It’s Time,
Part II.” “It’s Time to Cultivate Our Relationship
with God” was rendered at our October service. Our
Women’s Choir will minister in song and a special
guest liturgical group will also minister in worship.
You don’t want to miss this service!
The Cross & Crown is published
monthly by the Apostolic Church of
God, 6320 South Dorchester Avenue,
Chicago, Illinois 60637 ©2013.
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 11 Issue 8
aroundACOG
ministryNEWS
Singles Lead the
Christmas Toy Drive
L
by Dr. Byron T. Brazier
ast winter, Sister Diane Wheeler took
on a great and important project:
Chicken Soup for Elder Robert J. McGee
Sr.—Letters from the Heart. It was a
collection of letters written by members of our
faith community. As Sister Wheeler, secretary of
the official board, wrote in the foreword, “Each
letter has special ingredients of love, admiration,
respect, and well wishes for a man who is deeply
a part of our lives here at the Apostolic Church
of God.” From the foundational families of the
Apostolic Church of God, to some of our newest
members, it’s hard to think of a person who has
not been touched by the life of Elder McGee.
Elder McGee loved those letters. So in honor of
a great man of faith who meant so much to our
church family, I wanted to share a few quotes
from Chicken Soup for Elder Robert J. McGee Sr.—
Letters from the Heart:
Photo by Fred Brown
You’ve been unwavering in your faith, consistent
in your service, faithful to your pastor, and such
an example of God’s keeping power! You’re
hitting a “century” and still going strong in spirit!
Remember when I threw you that lifeline (safety
pin)? You still owe me! ~ Sister Toni Blackmon
Elder, we have seen that you carry a praise for the
Lord in your heart—in good times and in bad—
ready to be shared as
an encouragement
for the saints.
You show us that
Christians should
be known as
joyful people who
are grateful for all
that the Lord has
done in our lives.
~ Thomas and
Enchelle
Bolden
A FATHER OF FAITH
I remember a long time ago that you had been
missing in action for a couple of Sundays. When
you returned, I gave you a big hug because I was
so glad to see you again. I also said that I was
worried about you. You said, “Don’t ever waste
your time worrying about me. Just pray!”
~ Gladys Carr
Elder McGee, you are truly the Apostolic man.
My prayer is that I shall and will be like you
and follow after Jesus as you and the disciples
of Christ did. My love for you is never ending.
May God continue to bless you so that you can
continue to bless others as you have blessed me.
~ Donald Rose
Your commitment and knowledge of God’s
Word speaks volumes and is an inspiration to
all with whom you come in contact. And what
can we say about your faithfulness? You serve
us by visiting those who are hospitalized and
giving wise counsel in the hallways of the church
to those who need someone to pray with. Your
faithfulness is on display on your post in the
cafeteria selling donuts and your faithful opening
of our Bible class with the admonition to “turn off
your cell phones.” ~ Elaine Carmichael
T
he Christmas season is just around
the corner and Living the Single
Life Ministry is sponsoring a
toy drive to help the children
of families of the Apostolic Church of God
and children in shelters this Christmas.
The ministry is asking the congregation to
purchase and donate toys through December.
Toys should be placed in the marked barrels
located throughout the church. And they can
be donated throughout the week any time
the church is open. The Singles Ministry is
asking that you do not donate any toy guns,
movies, violent videos, and video games
(X-box, etc.). The deadline for donating a toy
is December 11.
If you are a member of Apostolic Church of
God and would like to receive a toy for your
child/children for Christmas, stop by a kiosk
through December 8 to fill out the card and
place the completed card in one of the drop
boxes located throughout the church. No cards
will be accepted after December 8.
When I think of you I think of all the good
times riding in your van (not custom made).
We enjoyed sitting in the back going to picnics,
Riverview and different places. Most of all I want
to thank you for being the brother I never had.
You were always there for me through the good
times and the bad. ~ Daisy Clemons
One thing I know for sure is that when you
spoke, everyone listened. You have so much
wisdom and history that whenever you came to
my desk for “jelly beans,” I would stop what I
was doing to get my history lesson for the day.
~ Phyllis Hill
continued on page 15
pastor’sCOLUMN
November 2013 | 3
aroundACOG
Disciple Profile
Being Lydia – Extending God’s Love Through Hospitality by Jacquelin M. Harris
L
ydia is said
to have been
Asiatic (or
Asian) and
lived in Thyatira, one
of the colonies of
Macedonia. She was
a wealthy, successful
businesswoman as
a seller of purple
dye (Acts 16:14). As
a devoted follower
of the Jewish faith,
she gathered by the
riverside with others
for daily prayer. However, when she heard Paul’s teaching of the gospel,
she professed her belief in Jesus Christ and was baptized as Paul’s first
European convert. Afterward, all of the members of Lydia’s household were
baptized.
She used her monies and opened a hospitable home to missionaries. Paul
and Silas stayed with her when they were released from prison. Her home is
thought to have been the first Christian church at Philippi.
Channie was a modern-day Lydia. She and her family became Christians
while still living in slavery. After she and other enslaved Africans were
emancipated, they settled in Meherrin, Virginia. There was no church for
them to worship in this growing community. Channie opened her doors
and held church services in her home. When the Lutherans heard of the
group, they sent them a Bible teacher. In 1877, a church was built for the
congregants, and St. Mathew’s Lutheran Church became the oldest black
church in the Southern
Synod. In 1977, the church
was remodeled for its 100th
anniversary.
Lydia and Channie serve
Lydia was a strong
as examples of what the saints
businesswoman
can do through hospitality.
Today, we have so many ways
She hosted the apostle
through modern technology
Paul during his first
and social media to bring
trip to Philippi
people together, that we are
almost without excuse.
She was a Jewish
Fast Facts
about Lydia
Sources: All the Women of the Bible
by Herbert Lockyer (Zondervan
Publishing House, 1988); Psalm
119:18, 130; Acts 16:12–15, 40;
Philippians 1:1–10
proselyte, or a Gentile
converted to Judaism
newMEMBERS
The following people came to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ or transferred their church
membership in September 2013:
Rebecca Agbefe
Jennifer Aguilar
Kemonte Alexander
Destiny Amos-Lee
Ashley Anderson
Najee Anderson
Desire Bernard
Capton Brown
Kenneth Brown
Breanna Carter
Brianna Case
Melanie Clark
Nina C. Coleman
Patrick Conner
Darrell Cox
Honesty Crudup
Ashley Dawson
Mark Dickinson
Xavier Eddins
McKenzie English
Jacob Ferguson
4 | The Cross&Crown
Christopher Franklin
Winslow Fuller
Kimberly Giles
Kevin Goggins
Diamond Goudeau
Brandee Grantonz
Nevaeh Gray
Kimberly Grayson
Jelani Greene
Janika Griggs
Aurielle Grisby
Tenee Harmon
Joshua Harris
Kamaria Harris
Willie Holloway
Camryn Holmes
McKayla Holmes
Joseph Jarmon IV
Angela Jones
Derrek Jones
Erica Jones
Marquita Jones
Prima Jordan
A’Keyla Kyser
Michael Lang
Lucille Lewis
Marcell Lewis
Renetta Lewis
Sunelle Lewis
Maximilian Lloyd
Destini Lofton
Deborah Lott
Bryant Loving
Tiesha Mack
Shirolyn Miller
Marada Moffett
Miracle Montgomery
Reginald Montgomery
Grace Mukes
Rose Outlaw
Michael Palmore
Tasia Payton
Anthony Peoples
Michael Peoples
Shirley Pickett-Wilson
Vita Plummer
Ayanna Robinson
Xernona Robinson
Diane Rutter
Larry Sanders
Michael Scott
Willie Smith
Rickysha Thomas
Demetrius Thompson
Lakeyda Thompson
Dezmon Tillman Jr.
Renita Washington
Cherise Weekly
Cheyenne Whitaker
Kandice Wilson
Tonya Wright
Baby Blessings
in October
Paige Blissit
Johan Amir Cummings
Jaylen Jackson
Curtis George Mitchell
Bryce Jamison Redd
Michael Thompson
Cameron Weddington
Zavier Yarbrough
lifeAPPLICATION
Writer’s Corner
TRIBUTE TO A SON OF THUNDER
Elder Robert J. McGee, Sr. by Dr. Rosa M. Sailes (October 5, 2013)
A son of thunder has fallen.
He was a son of Thunder.
His voice was large—booming—ready to spread the Gospel
No matter where he was.
No matter who he saw.
No matter what it took.
He started in the playground of his Catholic elementary school.
He went to Mass each week, but he was learning from Elder Clemons’ teaching what holiness
was—so when he admonished the priest’s behavior, he ended his Catholic school career.
As a teen, his voice grew bolder when he worked beside Elder Clemons preparing to open a secondfloor storefront that would be called the Apostolic Church of God.
His voice became a magnet when he started teaching Sunday School at 19 years old.
As a young assistant pastor, his voice helped join two small congregations when he and Deacon
Nuckolls called Elder Brazier to pastor the newly combined Apostolic Church of God, which would
anchor a neighborhood and move a city.
And for 97 years, he continued to speak, to proclaim, to assert the truth about His Savior.
He declared the Good News even during sicknesses in his childhood
And injury during World War II.
Unexpected living was his impetus: the vision God gave him to spread the gospel.
He was a son of thunder, so he worked while it was yet day.
He worked in the city not just his neighborhood: Helping to found the NAACP Youth Movement,
querying Garvey’s “Back to Africa Movement,” helping in political campaigns and ward projects.
He cut his teeth on real estate and rubbed elbows with Richard J. Daley to learn a business few
Blacks even knew.
He worked in agencies – political and social – all fighting for justice and liberty, making sure
community people got their due.
He helped in civil rights working beside Bishop Brazier and chairing T.W.O.
Oh, yes. He was a son of thunder.
He was a son of God. He knew that Jesus is Almighty and what holiness is.
He worked in the vineyards of churches throughout this city, in the Illinois District Council, and
in the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World where his was the voice that rang out in each business
session:
Ready to speak, cajole, correct.
Ready to admonish, direct, disrupt.
Ready to have his say, no matter who didn’t want it said.
Ready to rattle the status quo.
continued on page 7
inSERVICE
Caregivers
I
f you or
someone you
know cares for a
loved one that is ill,
disabled, or a senior,
this article is for you.
Many of us never
think about being
a caregiver because
it is something that
we just naturally
do. Our parents or grandparents get sick,
and we go and assist them any way we can.
Some of us are children or young teenagers
caring for a disabled sibling. For example,
when Mom and Dad are at work you are
the first one home waiting on your sibling
to get home from daycare or school. You
care for them until Mom or Dad gets home.
Whatever your age or situation, when you
help them you have become a caregiver.
A caregiver is one who attends to, assists,
intervenes for, or takes care of someone
with a long-term illness or disability.
Many times it is an ongoing daily task
that wears on one’s mind, body, and spirit.
In other words, anyone who provides
care to someone who cannot give care to
themselves, such as:
• Seniors taking care of their spouse or
their friends
• Children or grandchildren taking
care of their parents or grandparents,
neighbors or friends taking care of
older adults
• Grandparents raising grandchildren
• Older siblings raising younger siblings
Care for a loved one can be difficult
and challenging if you are unaware of
the resources that are available. We
provide caregivers with information on
how to balance their care for their loved
one with other family and work-related
responsibilities. Being a caregiver should
not mean giving up your whole life. There
should be balance in your physical, mental,
spiritual, and social life.
We do not teach you how to provide
care to your loved one. But we provide
information to you about “How to Survive
continued on page 15
November 2013 | 5
Remembering a
Giant in the Faith
Reverend Robert J. McGee Sr., Assistant Pastor of the Apostolic Church of God
1916 - 2013
R
(Rev. McGee’s story as it appeared in his memorial program) by Therese McGee
everend Robert J. McGee Sr. was part of what has been called
“The Greatest Generation,” who survived two World Wars and
the Great Depression. As an African American, he carried
another legacy as well. He was born into a country deep in
racism. He lived the civil rights struggle through the middle decades
of the 20th century, striving to get an education, to get jobs, to improve
his community, and to bring his children into a society with more
opportunities than he had. In that, he showed tremendous perseverance
and determination. Yet, the most significant and eternal movement that
he has witnessed is the unfolding of a great revival. For 81 years, he has
been at the core of a spiritual movement that has swept across Chicago and
across the country. His life has spanned history, but he has long known that
only what you do for Christ will last.
Robert James McGee was born May 3, 1916, in Chicago, to Simon and
Margaret McGee, who had moved to Chicago from Arkansas. He was the
seventh child in a family of 13 children. His commitment to work and
family started early. At the age of five, he sold coal and wood on the street
to whoever would buy. He dropped out of school in the first grade to stay
home to take care of his brother Lester who had been burned in a fire. He
returned to school at the age of nine. He and his mother were determined
to make up for lost time. His mother enrolled him in a succession of
schools, trying to get him the best education that she could. He battled
racism and bureaucratic rules. Although he was number one in one
school, other boys were double promoted because they were physically
bigger than he. Yet, he was determined, and he graduated from Carter
Elementary School at age 15 with eight A’s on his report card. He went on
to Englewood High School, where he was in the jazz band, the orchestra,
and ROTC. He even joined the football team, although, as he says, if he
“drank two quarts of water he could weigh in at 130 pounds.” He was soon
“eliminated” from the team by a friend who weighed 240 pounds.
While at Carter Elementary, Robert became good friends with a young
man named Amos Clemons. Amos’ father, Walter Clemons, was a minister,
and he was about to start a church. Amos and Robert helped Elder
Clemons clean out the 3rd floor apartment in a building at 58th and State
St., and services began in April 1932. So Robert was there in 1932 when
Elder Clemons started the Apostolic Church of God. Robert was impressed
with Elder Clemons. He was a good businessman, and he took good care
6 | The Cross&Crown
of his family. He also was kind to the people of his congregation, and he
worked to get jobs for the men in the neighborhood. The Depression was
in full swing, and most were very poor, but Elder Clemons welcomed many
to his dining room table. Robert attended the Sunday school and Bible
class. He also served as a janitor for the early church.
In April, 1937, Robert was baptized in Jesus’ name at the Apostolic
Church of God. He began teaching Sunday school, which he had attended
since 1932. He continued teaching Sunday Morning Bible Study until
September 22, 2013. Robert tarried for the Holy Spirit for over three years,
and finally received the Holy Spirit, speaking in tongues, on October 17,
1940. He felt the call to the ministry on June 3, 1941, and he received
his local minister’s license in July 1941. At that point, he had taken some
college classes at Lewis Institute and Wilson Junior City College. In
February, 1941, he enrolled at the John Marshall Law School, but his prelaw class was interrupted by World War II. He entered the army.
In the army, he was a Warrant Officer Junior Grade. He served in the
European Theatre of Operations and was an interpreter in France. On
May 23, 1946, he hit a land mine in a jeep. He was hospitalized for many
months, and he wore a back brace for years. He said “I didn’t know what
I hit. I just knew that I was driving and I woke up in the hospital.” He
attributed his amazing recovery from his injuries to the power and the
grace of God. He retired from the Army on August 31, 1946. He received
a WWII Victory Medal, Europe Africa Middle Eastern Service ribbon with
two bronze stars, and three overseas bars.
On October 2, 1948, Rev. McGee married Elizabeth L. Clemons, the
daughter of Elder Walter C.Clemons. They had three children: LaVerne
Elizabeth, Robert J. Jr., and Leonard Eugene. Together, he and Elizabeth
worked diligently in the Apostolic Church of God. Elizabeth died in 1993.
Rev. McGee married Willa M. Lott in 1995, and he gained a
stepdaughter, Karmen Hillman. He was the proud father of four children,
four grandchildren, two daughters-in-law, one son-in-law, and three greatgrandchildren.
Bishop Arthur M. Brazier once said, “McGee is a unique man.” That
uniqueness was evident in his incredible energy, and his amazing strength
of will to be involved in work that he saw as important. He was involved
in an enormous range of community efforts. He served as president of the
Parent Teacher Association (PTA) at Hendricks Elementary School.
featureSTORY
He was the President of Concerned Parents of Tilden High School. He was
the first president of the Temporary Woodlawn Organization (TWO). He
was involved in politics, working to get out the vote at election time, and
serving at the polls. He was friends with a host of civic leaders, including
Dempsey Travis, Margaret Burroughs, and Leon Finney. He enjoyed
learning, and he took classes at numerous universities in Chicago. He
worked in real estate, selling property as well as maintaining and managing
property. In his 80s, he worked for II in One Contractors in whatever role
he could be of help.
But his most consistent work over the years was in the church. In
1949, Rev. McGee became the Assistant Pastor of the Apostolic Church
of God. He served under Elder Walter Clemons until 1959, when Elder
Clemons died. In 1960, Rev. McGee and Deacon Gerald Nuckolls asked
Elder Arthur Brazier to be the pastor of the Apostolic Church of God. He
continued to serve under Bishop Arthur M. Brazier and then Dr. Byron
Brazier until his very last days. He served as Assistant Pastor for 64 years.
Rev. McGee loved the church. He wanted to be there whenever the
doors were open – for services, for programs, for auxiliary meetings, and
for events. For many years, he and Elder Rudolph Brumfield led Friday
night prayer. His was the voice that opened Sunday morning services,
and the voice that many new saints heard as they were baptized. He
was a consistent teacher for the Lions of Judah, and he seldom missed a
Wednesday Bible Class or a Sunday 4:00 service. Even in his 90s, he worked
with the Consolation Committee, the Veterans group, and the Daytimers,
He believed that we should not only be involved in our own events, but we
should also support the programs and events of others.
Rev. McGee was deeply involved in the Illinois District Council and in
the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World. He was elected Treasurer of the
Illinois District Council Sunday School Department in 1984. He served
as Parliamentarian under Dr. Rosa Sailes. He was also elected to serve as
Treasurer of the IDC Brotherhood and worked with or chaired numerous
committees for them. In the IDC, he also served as Parliamentarian and
often ruled on points of order to make sure business kept moving. He was
instrumental in making sure that IDC and PAW meetings were conducted
according to Robert’s Rules of Order. He also worked extensively with the
PAW International Brotherhood (treasurer), Sunday School and Wayfarers.
At the PAW Convention in 2010, he was honored for his many years of
service.
Some months ago, when asked what his legacy should be, he said: “I
just want to be known as a child of the king.” On Friday evening October
4, 2013, many gathered in his hospital room singing songs of praise like
“Friday Night Prayer.” When asked by one of his sons how was he feeling,
he responded, “I’m blessed and highly favored.” On Saturday morning
October 5, 2013, he greeted members from his prayer line, talked with his
family, ate some lunch, and departed this life with his sons, daughter-inlaw, and nephew by his side.
Rev. Robert McGee leaves to mourn his wife, Willa, his three children,
Robert McGee Jr. (Therese), Leonard E. McGee (Rochelle), and LaVerne E.
McGee, his stepdaughter Karmine Hillman (Michael), his sister Alfredia
McDade, his sister-in-law Daisy Clemons, his four grandchildren, Shelly
Quiles (Timothy), Robert J. McGee III, Leah McGee, and Kristin Lott,
as well as three great-grandchildren, and a host of nephews, nieces,
godchildren, and dear friends. He will be remembered as a man who
pressed on no matter the circumstances, and was quick to say, “When I
think of the goodness of Jesus, and all He has done for me, my soul cries
out Hallelujah! Thank God for saving me.”
Tribute, continued from page 5
Ready to love and to be loved despite the differences and
debates.
Oh, he was a son of thunder.
Ready to preach, apt to teach, always abounding in the work of the
Lord.
A man who always thought about “the goodness of Jesus” and
then said what he had to say.
A man who let you know, even in sickness, that he knew his
mission was to serve.
From his wheelchair, he took communion to the sick and made
calls praying for those confined to hospital beds and homes.
While others saw him diminishing, he saw opportunities to
minister.
He encouraged brothers – young and old – taking them under his
wing, passing the torch, testing their mettle.
When you stooped to hug his neck or kiss his cheek and say, “I
love you,” He would say “Oh, daughter. You’re doing a good job.
Keep it up.” And you realized that God had him prepared to
encourage you when you thought you had come to encourage
him.
He was a son of thunder and we will miss him.
We will miss his booming voice.
We will miss his smile.
We will miss the quirky things he did and funny things he said
We will miss his raspy singing voice and his testimony.
We will miss him because he loved life and he loved us all.
We miss him – our son of thunder, our Elder Robert J. McGee, Sr.
Instant Message
Hospitable by Sharon Prince
A
t an early age we discover how powerful words are. By the time we transition from larger than life childhood
characters to true knowledge of the world, we discover that not only are our words powerful but so are our
actions. As Christians, we represent the body of Christ, so we must remember that our words and our actions
should be used to be encouraging, inspiring, and at all times exemplifying the life of Christ.
November 2013 | 7
photoGALLERY
Ministerial Alliance
The Ministerial Alliance welcomed its newest members of
licensed and ordained ministers Friday, November 1.
Dr. Noah Nicholson II of One Way Family church delivered
a charge to the new ministers. Photos: Donnie Hampton
NEWLY ORDAINED MINISTERS
Listed in Alphabetical Order: Brian Boone, I. David Byrd, Evelyn Colbert, Sonja Cooper,
Janice Fuller, James Gordon, Carol Marshall, Maria Maxwell, Latice Porter, Pamela Pratt,
Denise Washington Smith, Thea Smith
8 | The Cross&Crown
photoGALLERY
NEWLY LICENSED MINISTERS
Listed in Alphabetical Order: Charles Adams, Nathan Arnold, Lillian Davis,
Rachel Green, Haddie Malone, James McNeil, Bryan Nowells
November 2013 | 9
youthPAGE
Don't Miss It!
Following are some of the regular programs run
by the Destiny1212 Youth Ministry. Check the
Sunday bulletin for days and times, or contact
Rev. William Hall at 773.256.4236 or williamh@
acog-chicago.net.
Spiritual Growth
• G.R.A.C.E. for teen girls 13 to 18 meets first
Saturdays, 8:30 a.m.
• B.R.I.D.G.E.S. for teen girls 13 to 18 meets
first, third, and fifth Fridays, 7 p.m.
• PIVOT for youth 9 to 13 meets second, third,
and fourth Tuesdays, 6 p.m.
• Lions of Judah for teen boys 13 to 18 meets
first, second, third, and fifth Fridays at 7 p.m.
• Young Brothers for Christ meets second, third,
and fourth Saturdays, 9 a.m.
• Young Sisters for Christ meets second and
fourth Saturdays, 9 a.m.
• Worship on the Wall is every Sunday at
12:00 p.m.
• Children’s Church is every Sunday (except fifth
Sundays) at 9:10 a.m. and 11:40 a.m.
• Un4gettable Encounters is second Sundays
at 4 p.m.
Education & Careers
solution on page 11
• College Prep, Tuesdays through Thursdays,
5:30 p.m.
• Tutoring, Monday–Thursday, 6 p.m.
Resources for Teens
Get Lost by Dannah K. Gresh. What’s the secret to finding love that satisfies? Gresh says that
a girl’s heart should be so lost in God that a man must seek Him to find her! Challenging
society’s dating assumptions, she reveals the dangers of romance, joys of pursuing your heart’s
deepest desires, reasons why happily-ever-after stories spring from friendship, and more.
$13.99*
Every Young Man’s Battle by Stephen Arterburn, Fred Stoeker, Mike Yorkey. From
the authors of Every Man’s Battle comes a survival guide for male teens and young adults
struggling with sexual temptation. Learn how to help young men implement a practical “battle
plan”—exchanging shame and confusion for a positive, thriving relationship with Christ. It
includes a companion workbook. $15.99*
Respectable Sins by Jerry Bridges. Christians talk a lot about the “bad” sin of society. But are
we guilty of overlooking the “okay” sin in our own lives, such as self-righteousness, anger,
even anxiety? Jerry Bridges’ landmark exploration of tolerated sin and God’s remedy has been
specifically adapted (not dumbed down!) for teens. $12.99*
* Product descriptions from Christianbook.com and Amazon.com
10 | The Cross&Crown
lifeAPPLICATION
TECHNOLOGYandYOU
You can find a home for
your old iPhone
November is American Diabetes Month
W
What you should know about diabetes
e’ve all heard about diabetes mellitus (or
simply diabetes), usually in reference to
how the disease is becoming so prevalent.
More than 25 million Americans have it, according
to the American Diabetes Association. But not many
people know what it is and how they can avoid getting it.
The food we eat is digested into nutrients, which are
then absorbed by the body. Protein turns into amino
acids, fat into fatty acids, and starch (carbohydrates)
into glucose. Glucose is transported by the blood to the cells, where it’s used for energy. But to enter
the cells, insulin is needed. Without it, the level of glucose in the bloodstream gets too high. It can
damage the blood vessels, cause kidney failure, impotence, blindness, and risks for amputation. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body still produces insulin, but the cells have become resistant
to it. For a while, the body can compensate by producing more insulin, but the cells become even
more resistant. When the body can no longer produce enough insulin, type 2 diabetes has occurred.
Who is at risk, what they can do
The largest risk factor is being overweight. Others include age, a family history of the disease, high
blood pressure, high cholesterol, and lack of exercise. Before developing type 2, people almost
always have pre-diabetes, a condition marked by a blood glucose level that’s too high. There are no
symptoms, so those with pre-diabetes often don’t realize they have it. But their doctors will warn
them, and they should listen.
Because it could take some time for pre-diabetes to turn into a full-blown case, there’s an
opportunity for prevention. Studies show that changes in diet, weight loss and exercise can prevent
diabetes in up to 60 percent of cases.
continued on right
D
on’t stuff your old iPhone in a
drawer—sell it! You can sell it on
eBay or Craigslist, but many folks
don’t want to take the time to deal
with an auction. Web sites such as NextWorth
and Gazelle will buy it directly, offering a bid
with a 30-day locked guarantee, depending on
the model. Walmart, Best Buy, RadioShack, and
Target accept trade-ins for credit. Even Apple
has joined the reselling craze with its recycling
program. Gazelle offers $340 for the previous
model iPhone 5 in good condition, according to
USA Today.
Diabetes Month, continued from left
N
ot having a mortgage can be satisfying, but it may not be smart. Financial planners
recommend you consider doing other things before you pay off your mortgage.
• Pay off credit card balances. Paying credit card debt gives you an instant return equal to the
interest rate on your card.
Financial planners say a mortgage is a good debt and should be one of the last ones to be paid off
• Put extra money into your retirement account instead. The last 10 years of working and saving
give you a chance to stash more money in a tax-advantaged retirement account. If you are over
50, you can put $23,000 in a 401(k) and $6,500 in an IRA or Roth IRA during 2013.
• Bulk up your emergency savings account. Unless you have six months of living expenses, you
could end up draining retirement accounts. If you do that, you could be house rich and cash
poor in retirement.
• Weigh the return versus the risk. At Kiplinger’s Personal Finance, experts say if you’re paying
4 percent interest on your mortgage and your nonretirement cash accounts are earning
1 percent, go ahead and pay off the mortgage.
Puzzle Solution
Paying off your mortgage may not be best use for
your money
Once diabetes is diagnosed, patients have
it in their power to reduce the most serious
side effects. By maintaining glycemic control,
keeping blood pressure under control and
improving their cholesterol, they can reduce the
risk of complications such as heart disease, nerve
problems, kidney, and eye diseases by one-third
to one-half.
November 2013 | 11
Books & Music
mediaMATTERS
21 Days to a Satisfied Life by Beth Jones
The little things count when we’re seeking to make big changes in our
lives. Beth Jones draws life lessons from the Proverbs 31 woman, offering
readers “secrets” for living a satisfied life. Receive twenty-one days of
encouragement as you learn how to approach your days with less stress
and more faith. $4.99
Break Out by Joel Osteen
Best-selling author Joel Osteen offers five keys for breaking down barriers
in his latest book. Those five keys include daring to believe that the best
will happen for you, adopting a “break through” attitude to overcome
challenges, making room for increase, praying bold prayers, and following
God’s plan beyond your circumstances. $26.00
God is Not Mad at You by Joyce Meyer
Imagine living a completely guilt-free life. You can when you learn how
to rest in God’s love for you and accept that He has completely forgiven
you. Bible teacher and best-selling author Joyce Meyer sets out to help
those who haven’t truly received God’s love because of their fear of His
disapproval. She helps readers better understand God’s character so that
they better understand their place in Him. $24.00
Kingdom Man by Tony Evans
“The enemy doesn’t want you to know it, but you’re not the man you think
you are. You’re a whole lot more.” Live your best life for Jesus Christ by
becoming the man God called you to be. Tony Evans invites men to take a
journey with him on discovering their hidden strength as leaders in their
homes, their churches, and their communities. In three sections, this book
covers the formation of a kingdom man, the foundation of a kingdom
man, and the function of a kingdom man. $19.99
Kingdom Woman by Tony Evans and Chrystal Evans Hurst
“One of the most important principles for you as a kingdom woman is that
your life flows through different seasons.” In this companion to Kingdom
Man, Tony Evans and his daughter explain how women can unleash new
spiritual purpose, power, and possibilities in their lives. Gain new and
transforming insights into the Word via the teaching, including the fact
that God “tenderly cares about every woman.” $19.99
The Power of Right Believing by Joseph Prince
Joseph Prince offers seven keys to finding freedom from fear, guilt, and
addiction: believe in God’s love for you, learn to see what God sees, receive
God’s complete forgiveness, win the battle for your mind, be free from
self-occupation, have a confident expectation of good, and find rest in the
Father’s love. $24.00
All titles are available in Saving Grace Book Center, 773.256.4113. Prices are subject to change.
READthis
12 | The Cross&Crown
by Reginald Griffin
Essential Music by Dr. Willetta Greene-Johnson. She’s known for writing prolific lyrics. Now Dr. Willetta
Greene-Johnson has written a book. Essential Music is her statement on music ministry, showing that God wants much
more from His ministry in the church. The essence of the book is Dr. Johnson’s take on her music and her Christian
journey, as well as her “calling out to the God of the universe for the restoration of Holy Music; to a gifted future generation to know what music ministry truly is.”
Succinctly, the dilemma she writes of lies in the music ministry, before the commercialism, which was fostered by
mainstream multi-media. Worship then was dictated by how the church service proceeded. The worship of Jesus Christ
was not an item on a program, assigned to a timeslot, particularly in the African-American church, where the worship of Jesus merited the entire day, “regardless of inclement weather conditions, the social climate, the people of God
chose to assemble, to worship God! There, the entire worship service, beginning with the music ministry, produced an
atmosphere for: the soul saving; the deliverance of souls and the aspiring to the obedience of Christ Jesus; soaked in the
anointing that would guide their praise and worship! But in today’s church the worship of God has been compromised,
particularly in urban areas, to a “degenerated anemic shell of a former self. While we were asleep, the enemy crept in and
sowed distorted, destructive agendas, tares among wheat.”
Dr. Greene-Johnson’s thirty years of experience in music ministry includes being a producer, arranger, and composer.
Her works have been performed or premiered by the Chicago Sinfonietta, the Memphis Orchestra, the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, Yolanda Adams, Pastor Marvin Sapp, Mary Mary, and many others. In 2004, her song “Saved” was graced to
be part of the Grammy-winning project Live: This is Your House, recorded by The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir.
Dilemma is now on sale in the Saving Grace bookstore located within the church. Call 773.256.4113 for store hours.
aroundACOG
Alternatives (CommunityCALENDAR)
CALENDAR
Crystal Hogue Ministries & Productions
Inc. presents a gospel stage play featuring
ministries of the Apostolic Church of
God. It’s a community outreach ministry
production. Ticket donation is $20 (group
discounts are available). For tickets or more
information, call 888.282.6064 or visit
chmproductions.org. Tickets can also be
purchased in the Saving Grace bookstore, 773.256.4113.
FRIDAY
November 8
SATURDAY
November 9
Marriage Ministry:
Alzheimer’s
“Becoming the
Dynamic Duo,” 7 p.m. Conference, 11 a.m.
SUNDAY
November 10
Un4gettable
Encounters, 4 p.m.
November 14, 2013 – January 5, 2014
Christmas Around the World & Holidays of Light
Museum of Science & Industry • 57th St. & Lake Shore Dr.
See how nations around
the world celebrate
Christmas in this annual
exhibit. In its 72nd year,
Christmas Around the
World started out in
1942 with a single tree
honoring the Allies of World War II. Today it includes more than 50 trees,
including the 45-foot Grand Tree, which takes center stage with 30,000 lights
and 1,000 ornaments. This makes an excellent outing for the entire family.
General admission is $18, $17 for seniors, and $11 for children ages 3–11.
THURSDAY
November 14
Daytimers Annual
Conference, 9 a.m.
SUNDAY
November 24
Brotherhood
4th@ Four, 4 p.m.
THURSDAY
November 28
Thanksgiving Day
NOVEMBER ‘13
November 22 & 23
Ready or Not, Here I Come (Play)
Kennedy King College Theater •
740 W. 63rd Street • Chicago
morecomingUP
Comedy Show
The Singles Ministry and Pat Hudson presents “So
Funny Saturday Comedy Show” on December 14,
featuring Big Keef, Barry Brewer, Marci Deloney,
and Mz Jae. The doors open at 6:30 p.m. and show
starts at 7 p.m. in the Apostolic Church of God
Banquet Hall. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at
the door. For tickets, go online at acog-chicago.org
or stop by the Saving Grace bookstore during hours
of operations.
Thanksgiving Service
Mark your calendar for our annual Thanksgiving
service. For just one hour, come out to praise the
Lord for everything He’s done and is doing—and just
because He is. It’s Thanksgiving Day, November 28,
from 10 to 11 a.m.
New Member Classes
The next Wednesday new member sessions
will be December 4, 11, and 18. The date of the
fourth class will be announced at a later date.
The sessions start promptly at 6:15 p.m. and will
be held in our second floor classrooms. The date
of the fourth and final class will be announced at a later date. For those
who cannot make the Wednesday evening class, there’s a Saturday session
December 21 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. It features classes for children,
teens, and adults to serve the whole family. All classes are held on the
second floor. If you have questions, please contact us at 773.256.4204.
November 2013 | 13
funPAGE
DOWN
1. but he ___ his neck, and hardened his heart (2 Chron 36:13) KJV
9. like a lion in the forest she ___ at me (Jer 12:8)
14. answer me, for I am ___ and needy (Ps 86:1)
15. Of them which thou gavest me have I lost ____ (John 18:9) KJV
16. burn the bull’s flesh and its hide and its ___ (Ex 29:14)
17. He came ____ his own, and his own received him not (John 1:11)
18. Of the oaks of Bashan have they made thine ____(Ezek 27:6) KJV
19. second was like an ox, the third had ___ ___ like a man (1,4) (Rev 4:7)
20. that anointing is ___ , not counterfeit (1 John 2:27)
21. break their ___, they say, and throw off their fetters (Ps 2:3)
23. last letter of Hebrew alphabet
24. a suffix, meaning of or belonging to a nationality or group
26. The brasen altar, and the brasen ___ for it (Ex 38:30) KJV
28. no tree in the garden of God could ___ its beauty (Ezek 31:8)
31. But Esau ran to ___ Jacob and embraced him (Gen33:4)
32. ____ for that day is great (Jer 30:7)
36. Four days ____ I was fasting until this hour (Acts 10:30)
37. nor change it, a good for ___ ___ (1,3) (Lev 27:10)
39. see the great ___ within her and the oppression (Amos 3:9)
41. Eat not of it ____, nor sodden at all with water (Exodus 12:9)
42. You have ____ them with the bread of tears (Ps 80:5)
43. they shall run to and ____ to seek the word of the LORD (Amos 8:12)
44. Because thou saidst, ____, against my sanctuary (Ezek 25:3) KJV
45. Abraham gave him ___ ___ of everything (1,5) (Heb 7:2)
47. they swarmed around me like ___ (Ps 118:12)
48. had furnished Solomon with cedar trees and ____trees (1 King 9:11)
49. Now therefore are we all ____ present before God (Acts 10:33)
50. the cloud was over the tabernacle only ___ ___ days (1,3) (Num 9:20)
52. said through the prophet: “Out of ___ I called my son (Matt 2:15)
54. Isn’t he the man who raised ___ in Jerusalem (Acts 9:21)
56. The law of the wise ___ ___ fountain of life (2,1) (Prov 13:14)
57. the great ___ and the raven will nest there (Isa 34:11)
60. The shekel is to consist of twenty ___ (Ezek 45:12)
62. of the Gershonites was Eliasaph son of ___ (Num 3:24)
66. ___ loveth instruction loveth knowledge (Prov 12:1) (KJV)
68. Render therefore to all their ____ (Rom 13:7)
69. man shall not ____ by bread alone, but by every word of God (Luke 4:4)
70. My feet stand on ___ ground (Ps 26:12)
71. Isaac loved ____, because he did eat of his venison (Gen 25:28)
72. Adams first home (Gen 2:8)
73. we pray you in Christ’s ____, be ye reconciled to God (2 Cor 5:20) KJV
74. so that you will not be ___ on anybody (1 Thess 4:12)
33. produced branches and put out ___ boughs (Ezek 17:6)
34. to Joppa, where he found ___ ___ bound for that port (1,4) (Jonah 1:3)
35. They replied, “Let us ___ rebuilding.” So they began (Neh 2:18)
38. Let us ___ decently, as in the daytime (Rom 13:13)
40. they have ears, but cannot hear, ____, but they cannot smell (Ps 115:6)
43. The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are ___ (Luke 10:2)
46. abbr. for the 16th book of the O.T
47. I was afraid ___ I was naked; so I hid (Gen 3:10)
51. out of the hills, ___ the river and came to Joshua (Josh 2:23)
53. Saul was very angry; this refrain ___ him (1 Sam 18:8)
55. in purple and have ___ ___ chain placed around his neck (1,4) (Dan 5:7)
56. married a wife, deceased, and, having no ____ (Matt 22:25)
57. ___ shall dwell there, and satyrs shall dance there (Isa 13:21) (KJV)
58. If the iron be blunt, and he do not ___ the edge (Eccl 10:10) KJV
59. let us not ___ in word, neither in tongue; but in (1 John 3:18)
61. ___ on wood, kindle the fire (Ezek 24:10)
63. Joshua son of Nun, who had been Moses’ ___ (Num 11:28)
64. for he commandeth ____ the winds and water (Luke 8:25) KJV
65. I have neither ____ on usury, nor men have lent to me (Jer 15:10)
67. Jesus, walking by the ____ of Galilee, saw two brethren (Matt 4:18)
Puzzle Solution
1. let us consider how we may ___ one another on toward love (Heb 10:24)
2. I wish I could be with you now and change my ___ (Gal 4:20)
3. tenth letter of Greek alphabet
4. because you ___ like a heifer threshing grain (Jer 50:11)
5. Cain`s oldest son (Gen 4:17)
6. First zookeeper
7. the dragon was ___ at the woman (Rev 12:17)
8. Brethren, my heart’s ____ and prayer to God for Israel is (Romans 10:1)
9. The lazy man does not ___ his game (Prov 12:27)
10. sprout wings and fly ___ to the sky like an eagle (Prov 23:5)
11. and in ___ ___ pasture shall they feed (1,3) (Ezek 34:14) KJV
12. anyone who says to his brother, ___ is answerable to the (Matt 5:22)
13. raised up Jesus, whom ye ____ and hanged on a tree (Acts 5:30) KJV
22. are controlled not by the sinful ___ but by the Spirit (Rom 8:9)
25. His spear ___ was like a weaver’s rod (1 Sam 17:7)
27. he touched the man’s ___ and healed him (Luke 22:51)
28. When they came to ___, they could not drink its water (Ex 15:23)
29. in the third row a jacinth, an ___ and an amethyst (Ex 28:18-20)
30. let us build us a city and a ____, whose top may reach unto heaven (Gen 11:4)
31. and being exceedingly ___ against them (Acts 26:11)
ACROSS
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.
General
■ Dora La Couture—providing custom-made bridal gowns, bridesmaid gowns,
ask about price for early prom gowns. Place your order today, 773.374.8863, 8246
S. Kimbark Ave. doralacouture@gmail.com.
■ Cruise Vacation—whether you are a cruise rookie or veteran there is a cruise to
fit your time and budget. Contact Toya, 312.203.7552 or travelwithtoya@
gmail.com.
■ New and high end pre-owned automobiles and SUVs. Contact Tom Williams of
Toro Automotive Group, 312.646.8365 or e-mail tagx2@gmail.com. For everyone
who brings in this publication and makes a purchase, the Apostolic Church of
God will receive a $100 donation from Toro Automotive Group.
■ 36" Vanity Combo for Sale. Glacier Bay Del Mar Expresso vanity with European
Composite top 37"W X 18.8"DX36.7"H Like new with satin nickel faucet. $225;
left-handed 5ft length X 32-in wide almond American Standard whirlpool bathtub
w/6 jets and ½ horse power motor with heater attached, $400
For Rent
■ Alsip—lrg 1-bdrm condo w/in-unit washer & dryer, SS appliances including
dishwasher, CA, custom carpet and window treatments, storage room, patio, lot &
off-street parking, gas included, $850/mo., 773.848.2741.
■ 7634 S. Cornell Ave.—lrg, beautiful 3-bdrm/2-bath apt. in vintage 3-flat,
773.955.5689.
■ 78th & Colfax—3-bdrm/full-bath apt w/living rm & dining rm, full kitchen,
in-unit laundry, CA/heat, hrdwd flrs, $1100/mo., Sec. 8 accepted, 847.331.1542.
■ Morgan Park—newly remodeled 3-bdrm apt. w/full bath, hrdwd flrs, ceramic
tile, $1150/mo., utilities not included, Sec. 8 welcome, 773.978.0300.
Real Estate
■ Do you need help understanding the 2014 Medicare Benefits Updates? Open
enrollment is October 15 to December 7. For more information please contact
Shawnee Barlow at 312.296.7581.
■ Woodlawn— 3-bdrm/2-bath sun-filled condo, loft-like feel w/vaulted ceiling,
skylights, open plan, high-end finishes, hrwd flrs, laundry, stainless steel
appliances, alarm, whirlpool, fireplace, balcony & private deck w/park view. Near
U of C, tennis, golf, beach, trails, shopping, movies, dining, conv. to trans 10 min
to downtown, $139,900. Call Holly DuPart, 773.406.5118.
■ The Insurance Professionals—providing competitive prices and the most
innovative coverage in auto, homeowners, renters, life, professional liability, and
business insurance. Now offering health insurance, we can help you navigate the
Affordable Care Act and what it means to you. For a free quote, call Michael Nunn
at 312.278.0099 ext. 101, or e-mail mnunn@tipllc.net. Mention this ad.
■ Hyde Park —lrg updated 2-bdrm luxury just 6 blocks from President Obama’s
home and 2 blocks from the New Hyatt Place Hotel in Harper Court, near the
U of C and many business on the revitalized 53rd St. Monthly assessment includes
basic cable, 24-hour sec., maintenance, heat, water, gas, and taxes. Structured
parking is also available. Call Sheila, 773.255.5405.
■ Pixie Travel presents several trips—explore the Midwest, visit Missouri’s Own
Sweetie Pie’s May 27-29, 2014, 3 days/2 nights includes round-trip transportation,
city tour, and more; learn the Amish way in Ohio, 2 days/1 night includes roundtrip transportation, lodging for the night, breakfast, lunch in an Amish home,
country tour, and more August 25-26, 2014; visit the Madame C. J. Walker and the
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park and Peace Memorial in Indiana April 25-26, 2014.
Also: spend a week at Orlando, Fla., June 22-27, 2014. For details, call
773.660.9200.
Father of the Faith, continued from page 3
Caregivers, continued from page 5
As an overall awesome leader of God’s people, I can only wish I knew as
much as you have forgotten over the years in this Pentecostal ministry.
Your support of our late Bishop Brazier and our present pastor has been
uncompromised. Your searing honest humor is a source of joy for me and
many others. ~ Dr. Barbara Martin
Caregiving.” We deal with the four spheres of humans—physical, mental,
spiritual, and social. The leadership team consists of people that are or have
been caregivers, so we understand the needs and struggles of providing
care to someone who cannot care for themselves. Some of the topics we
have presented are “Your Health,” “Caregivers Tips,” “Stress Management,”
“Depression,” “Handling Legal Affairs,” “Power of Attorney/Living Will,”
and much more.
For additional information, call our helpline at 1.773.256.4202. If
you would like to join our Caregiver’s Ministry Team, please contact
Servanthood Connection at 773.256.4193 or e-mail volunteer@
acog-chicago.net.
I take this opportunity to thank you for the encouragement that you have
given to me all of my life. You taught me how to be, and how not to be.
I especially thank you for all the books you recommended (Bible
Expositor, Sunday School Book, etc.) down through the years, as well as
your great example of faithfulness and loyalty. ~ Elder Ronald E. Smith Sr.
When I think of you, one word comes to mind, faithful. To know of
someone who has dedicated his life to Christian service, teaching, and
leadership as long and as committed as you have is a tremendous blessing.
Your faithfulness to your Creator, His kingdom, your family, and your
church is evident for all to see. Like Christ, you have set a fitting example
as to how we should face the journey set before us. ~ Steve Small
mortgage, continued from page 11
• Have a flexible future. To pay off your home faster, consider paying
extra on the principle of your current mortgage. You could save a
great deal of interest. And if your finances hit a rough patch, you can
revert to the lower payment.
If you’re paid ahead on some mortgages held by credit unions and banks,
you might not have to pay anything at all for a time.
November 2013 | 15
Apostolic Church of God
6320 South Dorchester Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60637
www.acog-chicago.org
CONNECT WITH US!
Web
acog-chicago.org
Facebook
/ACOGChicago
Twitter
@ACOGChicago
Next Issue’s Theme: Believer
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