christian education - First Baptist Church, Capitol Hill

See Inside for
December 2014
Vol. 54 – No. 2
 Sermon Digests
 December Bible
Readings
 FBCCH History
Moment
The Pastor’s Pen
Last month our family had the opportunity to visit the Kelly Miller Smith Hall on the
campus of Vanderbilt University. It is a special honor for our family that Vanderbilt
chose to recognize him in that way. One of the interesting ironies is that part of the
land on which Vanderbilt now sets was a part of the plantation which was owned by
Elizabeth Boddie Elliston (and sold to Vanderbilt for $5 in the 1800s), which
assumedly had slaves, now houses two buildings named for African Americans (the
other is the Bishop Joseph Johnson Black Cultural Center, named for the first African American student at
Vanderbilt).
Our 149th Church Anniversary will be Sunday, December 14, 2014. Our guest preacher for the 10:00 a.m. service
will be The Reverend Dr. Bruce N. Alick, pastor of the Mt. Zion Baptist Church of Germantown, Philadelphia PA.
Dinner will be served following the service downstairs in the Martin Luther King Fellowship Hall. As is our custom
we are asking all members to make a special donation of $149 over and above your contributions for tithes,
offerings and Jubilee Drive to be used in the general operations of the church.
2015 is our year to observe our Sesquicentennial Anniversary (150 years!). Our theme for the year will be: From
Generation to Generation: Remembering, Rejoicing, Refocusing, Rededicating. Our scriptural foundation is
Psalm 145:4 – “One generation will commend your works to another; they will tell of your mighty acts.”
There will be special activities held during the course of the year that will a part of our commemoration for this
milestone anniversary. Please see page 7 of The Torch for the list of events currently scheduled.
The first event will be our Roots Service, Sunday, January 4, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. We will share in worship with
congregations which have been directly linked with us. These churches are First Baptist Church of Nashville,
Spruce St. Baptist Church, Mt. Olive Baptist Church and New Visions Baptist Church. The Reverend Dr. Frank
Lewis, Pastor of the First Baptist Church of Nashville will preach for the service. Though we are five distinct
congregations our intent on that evening is to demonstration that we are still one in Christ Jesus. We are
preparing for a 100 voice combined choir and will share the Lord’s Supper, (which also called communion, which
means “sharing in common”). It is vital that all members and friends of FBCCH share in this service as we
commence our year of celebration. We are looking forward to a great year.
Kelly M Smith Jr.
Pastor
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CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
December 2014 Sunday
School Lessons
Beverly Scott, Superintendent
“In Awe of God,” has four lessons. These lessons explore the awesomeness of God in the books of Hebrews,
Psalms, Matthew, and Luke. In Lesson 3, Luke’s account of the Christmas story recalls the praise and adulation
expressed to God by both the angels and the shepherds.
Sunday, December 7 “WORSHIP CHRIST’S MAJESTY”
Adult Topic
Youth Topic
Children Topic
Better than Angels
Who’s in Charge?
Like Father, Like Son: Honor Him
Background Scripture: Hebrews 1:1-9
Key Verse: Hebrews 1:3 “The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being,
sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right
hand of the Majesty in heaven.”
Sunday, December 14 “MAKE A JOYFUL NOISE”
Adult Topic
Youth Topic
Children Topic
Sing a Song of Praise
Sing His Praises
Make a Joyful Noise
Background Scripture: Psalm 95:1-7a
Key Verse: Psalm 95:1 “Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation.”
Sunday, December 21 “GLORY TO GOD IN THE HIGHEST”
Adult Topic
Youth Topic
Children Topic
Spontaneous Joy!
Go Tell It on the Mountain!
Praise for the Newborn King
Background Scripture: Luke 2:1-20
Key Verse: Luke 2:20 “The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard
and seen, which were just as they had been told.”
Sunday, December 28 “IN AWE OF CHRIST’S POWER”
Adult Topic
Youth Topic
Children Topic
Believing in Miracles
Surprised by Power
What Power!
Background Scripture: Matthew 14:22-36
Key Verse: Matthew 14:32-33 “And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. Then those who were
in the boat worshiped him, saying, ‘Truly you are the Son of God.’”
SERMON DIGESTS
October
26
“Wait Until the Harvest”
Reverend Dr. Edith W. Kimbrough
Scriptural Text: Matthew 13:24-30
Submitted by: Beverly M. Brown
Rev. Dr. Kimbrough gave a historical perspective of
Matthew with an emphasis on the scripture’s
meaning. God/Christ Jesus often illustrates his love
with a parable, an earthly story with a heavenly
message. God/Christ Jesus encouraged the farmer to
not separate the wheat from the weeds (Matthew 13:
24-25), because some of the wheat could be lost
along with the weeds. Dr. Kimbrough reminded us
that the church is full of hypocrites; she prodded us
not to fall into that category.
Some Christians think they are above sin which is
not a reality, because the devil can be found in all of
God/Christ Jesus’ people. Examples cited were
Job, David, Esau and Judas, who sold Jesus out for
a few pieces of silver. Further, when humankind is
disrespectful and is casting stones toward others,
whether publicly or privately, one is not honoring
God/Christ Jesus.
Moreover, true commitment is creating a balance
with the wheat and weeds in one’s life. God/Christ
Jesus can bless all human beings in the mist of the
storms of life even when unfairness and wrongness
exist. Stated differently, God/Christ Jesus can
separate/harvest the weed and wheat in each of His
children. Amen, Amen, & Amen.
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“Getting out of the Boat”
Pastor Kelly M. Smith Jr.
Scriptural Text: Matthew 14:22-33
Submitted by: Beverly M. Brown
Pastor Smith shared that God/Christ Jesus gives
humankind everything that is needed for today and
tomorrow. We were encouraged to trust and have
faith in “The Provider” and not in the things
provided.
God will be there even when others turn their backs
on you; when you thought you could trust and
depend on people, who, instead, let you down
(Matthew 14:24-31). Peter, in these scripture verses,
was wise enough to know to hold on, rather than to
give up on God in times of trouble.
November
5
1. We must believe that Jesus is the “I am.” The
disciples initially thought Jesus was a ghost walking
on water. Jesus let the disciples know that it was
He. God/Christ Jesus wants His children to be
encouraged; He is always immediately available.
2. We must have the courage to walk in the mist
of the chaos. One has to ask if what one is doing is
beneficial or just marking time. God/Christ Jesus
does not want His children to just mark time. He
wants each person to be the best that he or she can
be, based upon who He created that individual to
be. God’s people have different time, talents,
experiences, and gifts. Peter realized that in the mist
of the chaos of the wind and the waves, Jesus was
still making progress.
3. We must have the faith to remain focused. No
matter the circumstances, social issues, or loss of
focus, when doubt creeps in, one has to have the
courage to get out of the boat—even when life
seems dark. One has to have a vision and establish a
relationship with God/Christ Jesus to keep going on.
Finally, the anchor has to be in God/Christ Jesus to
be able to “get out of the boat”—to be the best
human being that God/Christ Jesus created you to
be.
Amen,
Amen,
&
Amen.
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SERMON DIGESTS
“The Commitment to Be Different”
November
Pastor Kelly M. Smith Jr.
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Scriptural Text: Romans 12:1-2
Submitted by: Constantine L. Fenderson
There ought to be a difference between Christians
and non-Christians. As Christians we should
always demonstrate our faith in Jesus Christ. Those
of us who profess faith in Jesus Christ sometimes
know how to use the right rhetoric and express the
right beliefs. However, our beliefs should be
expressed in our actions to make us different. We
should not be different for the sake of being
different, but different because Jesus is in our lives
and our commitment in our heart to serve Him.
There are three points that help us understand the
commitment to be different:
1. We need to have a different approach to
worship. If we really want to serve God, we must
offer our bodies as a living sacrifice. Sacrifice is
what makes our worship holy and acceptable.
Therefore, when we come to worship we should
have the intent of sacrificing. Jesus made a dying
sacrifice for us; we should make the living sacrifice
for Him. Paul is saying to us that the entire
worshipping bodies must present themselves as a
living sacrifice.
2. We need to have a different way of thinking.
Paul is telling us that we should no longer conform
to worldly patterns, but be transformed by renewing
our minds. As Christians with renewed minds our
thoughts must be solidly rooted in Christian
thinking so that we can repel all the obstacles we
face.
3. We need to have a different way of moving
forward.
When we have all our Christian
principles in place we will have the foundation to
move forward. We must leave church differently
with God’s perfect will. God has never failed us,
we must be willing to offer our bodies as a living
sacrifice. This is God’s pleasing and acceptable
will.
Our goal in life is to be like Jesus. To be like Jesus
means we are constantly in the process of bearing
“The Benefit of Another Chance”
Pastor Kelly M. Smith Jr.
Scriptural Text: Luke 13:6-9
Submitted by: Benita Lynch
fruit. The challenge is that many times we call
ourselves Christians, but there is no “fruit evidence”
of it. We must have fruit to show evidence of
following Christ. This parable discusses being
given multiple “chances” or reprieves from
destruction.
November
16
1. The benefit of another chance is that it gives
us an opportunity to learn some things about
God.
In the parable, the owner believed that land was precious.
It didn’t make sense to keep the tree if it had no fruit.
However, God is not fair, because fair means that we get
what we deserve. Because of God’s grace and mercy, He
does not let us get what we deserve. God desires to show
mercy to us and He expects us to show mercy to others.
2. The benefit of another chance is that it gives
us an opportunity to learn some things about
Jesus.
The gardener pleads with the owner to allow him to
work with the fig tree another year longer, to extend
a season of grace. We, too, are in a season of grace.
We are here today, because of the work that Jesus
Christ does for us. The gardener is Jesus Christ, the
Intercessor for us.
3. The benefit of another chance is that it gives
us an opportunity to learn some things about
ourselves.
Since we are living in our season of grace, what are
we going to do differently? God has given us a
reprieve. Our goal is to get things right for the right
reasons. Our desire should be to please God,
because we want to make a difference; and not out
of fear of what may happen to us if we don’t.
We need to move beyond are physical desire and
seek out what God has for us.
ANNOUNCEMENTS & NOTICES
5
Celebrating 149 Years!
On Sunday, December 14th, First Baptist Church, Capitol Hill celebrates its 149th
Anniversary. In addition to being present, in prayer and praise, for this occasion,
members are asked to contribute $1.00 for each of our 149 years of existence, or
$149, in addition to our regular tithes & offerings. The anniversary offering will go
towards the general church operations and Ministry programs. Contributions will
be accepted throughout the month of December.
Our guest preacher will be the Rev. Dr. Bruce N. Alick of Mt. Zion Baptist Church
of Germantown in Philadelphia, PA where he has served since March of 1992. A
graduate of Morehouse School of Religion and Harvard Divinity School, Rev. Alick
is well versed on the use of technology in Christian worship and education. He
teaches such courses as “The Computer in the Life of the Church” and, “The
Essentials of Biblical Research using the World Wide Web and Biblical Software”.
Dr. Alick is an avid reader, a movie buff, a “Trekkie” (he loves Star Trek), and a
music lover (from Handel to Motown to Marsalis). He is a chess enthusiast and
enjoys surfing the ‘Net with his iPad. Dr. Alick is married to the former Kare L.
Hayes, and they are the proud parents of three children (Candice,
Daniel and Sethian), and four grandchildren.
Rev. Dr. Bruce N. Alick
after worship services in the lower level of the
church.
FBCCH Memorabilia
Please remember to donate any FBCCH
memorabilia or copies thereof to the Archives and/or
the Sesquicentennial Committee, specifically, the
Pictorial/Mural Sub-Committee.
Your assistance is needed and will be appreciated.
Please contact someone who works with Archives.
Conra Collier chairs the Pictorial/Mural SubCommittee for the Sesquicentennial.
Member’s Fellowship Dinner
The Deacons of FBCCH would like to invite all
members and friends to join them for the Deacons’
Annual Dinner. This event will be held on the
Church’s Anniversary Sunday, December 14, 2014
Sesquicentennial Celebration
Planning is proceeding for our Sesquicentennial
Celebration in 2015. Any persons interested in
working with our many sub-committees may contact
Co-Chairs, Dr. Bobby Lovett or Dwight Lewis.
ANNOUNCEMENTS & NOTICES
FBCCH Annual Christmas Play
Tis The Season to be somebody else for a while in the…
The Annual Christmas Play, presented by the
Theatrical Worship Committee, will take place during
the worship service on Sunday, December 21st. The
Committee is seeking Young Adults, Youth and
Children to participate. You must be able to attend
rehearsals on December 13th and 20th. Please see
Marquentas Deaderick to sign up and get more
information.
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Notes of Thanks
To My Pastor and Church Family,
I am overwhelmed, grateful and humbled by your
many, many acts of kindness, love, concern and
assistance. They all brought a smile to my face and
joy to my heart. A special thanks to my watchcare
Deacon McFarland, who went the extra mile. My
“Thank You” seems so small compared to all you did,
but it comes from my heart.
Florence Crawford
THE AMAZING RACE 2015!
Coming in 2015, THE AMAZING RACE! (First Baptist
Style). All First Baptist family and friends will have
the opportunity to participate in this very special
Sesquicentennial event. The race will take place in
September 2015; however, beginning in January
2015 you must watch for clues that may be hidden in
the monthly editions of THE TORCH. More details
coming soon! You and your family will have a
BLAST participating in this fun adventure!!
In Sympathy
“We further engage to … cultivate Christian sympathy
in feeling and courtesy in speech….”
First Baptist Church, Capitol Hill extends our deepest
condolences to Trustee Robert and Sister Anita
Greene on the passing of Trustee Greene's brother,
the Rev. Anderson James Greene, Jr. Rev. Greene, a
resident of Indianapolis, Indiana, transitioned on
Tuesday, November 18, 2014 after a brief illness. He
is survived by his wife and daughter. Arrangements are
still as of the time of this publishing.
To Pastor Smith and Church Family,
Just a simple note of “Thanks” for all the support/love
that each of you has shown throughout my 17 years at
FBCCH. I truly appreciate the love and thank you very
much. It has been a joy and a pleasure to serve and
be a part of this great family. As I journey through my
senior year, I take all the best practices and things
learned here at First Baptist. Thanks again for always
buying, donating and giving of your time for my
success. I will go forward into the world and “Do
UProud.” I am the new face of Maplewood High
School 2014-15 Homecoming Queen. God Bless!
Whitley Campbell
ANNOUNCEMENTS & NOTICES
Dear Members of First Baptist Church, Capitol Hill
and Friends,
Mere words seem inadequate to tell you how much
my family and I appreciate the wonderful expressions
of love and fellowship that have come our way since
my fall in October. We are gratified and humbled by
all you did as I recovered from surgery and by all that
you continue to do as I seek to regain strength and
mobility through intensive physical therapy. Your
prayers and your good wishes are inspiring me as I
work to achieve my goal of returning home and
resuming my worship and service at FBCCH.
Throughout it all I have been comforted by the visits
of our Pastor, the Reverend Dr. Kelly Miller Smith,
Jr., and the Assistant to the Pastor, Rev. Dr. Arrold
Martin, and I have been cheered by the frequent
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visits from so many of you in the congregation along
with other friends. I’m sure that no one else in
thehospital or in the rehab center where I am now
recovering has received so many flowers, cards,
telephone calls and gifts, all of which have been
deeply appreciated.
I am also grateful for all the wonderful meals,
including all the splendid desserts, that have been
delivered to my husband, Charles. He has been so
devoted to spending hour after hour at my bedside,
and not having to worry about preparing his own food
when he returns home late at night has been a
blessing. Your attention has also helped to ease the
minds of our children as they have followed my
progress from their homes in other cities and on their
visits to Nashville.
I cannot imagine a warmer, more supportive group
than my First Baptist Church, Capitol Hill "family." I
will remember all that you have done, long after this
crisis has passed.
Yours in Christ Jesus,
Evelyn P. Fancher
Remembering
Roots Service
Sunday, January 4th
Rejoicing
Celebrating through Music &
Song
TBD
We are praising God for 150 years as a church family.
Next December, First Baptist Church, Capitol Hill will
celebrate its Sesquicentennial Church Anniversary. First
Baptist is planning a year of celebratory events to mark
this momentous occasion. Mark your 2015 calendars and
join us! Please see upcoming editions of The Torch for
details about these and other events.
Refocusing
Community Service Project
TBD
Rededicating
Homecoming
Sunday, October 4th
150th Anniversary Service
Sunday, December 13th
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ANNOUNCEMENTS & NOTICES
Thirteen High School Students send words of thanks.
Students of Nashville and Chattanooga High Schools send thank yous to First Baptist Church, Capitol Hill for
sponsoring ZAP ACT Test Preparation Workshop on Saturday November 1, 2014. Here are just a few excerpts;
“Rev. Martin, Thank you for the gift that you were so generous and willing to give not only to us but me, personally.
This represents your support which will definitely help in the future. Thanks, Kyndall;”
“Thank you for the opportunity you have given us. I really appreciate it. Without this I probably would not have
practiced for the ACT. Aytia;"
"Thank you so much for allowing me to come to this ACT Prep class. I would have never come without your help!
This was a very helpful class! Thanks Jameyah."
The Seasons of the Christian Calendar
Early in its history, the Church divided the year into seven
liturgical seasons based on the life and ministry of Jesus.
Advent, starting four weeks before Christmas, tells of the
coming (or advent) of Jesus.
Christmas tells of his birth.
Epiphany starts with the Manifestation to the Gentiles—
when three wise men from the Orient came to see the baby
Jesus—and proceeds through key moments in Jesus’s life.
The forty days of Lent—calling to mind the Hebrews’ 40
years of wilderness wandering, and Jesus’s 40 days of
testing in the wilderness—are a time of repentance, fasting
and preparation for baptism.
Lent leads up to Holy Week and the death of Jesus.
Easter tells of Jesus’s resurrection from the dead, his
appearance to certain disciples, and his ascension to God.
The season of Pentecost begins with the Day of Pentecost
(concerning the gift of the Holy Spirit) and is basically a
teaching season.
Each liturgical season is grounded in the Gospel accounts
of Jesus’s life. Old Testament readings and passages from
the Epistles are read in worship, as well.
"Thank you, Rev. Martin for all the support, love, and
guidance. Thank you for giving this ACT Workshop
opportunity!” Whitley Campbell
Congratulations
NashVitality—The spirit of a healthy, active, and
green city for Nashville awarded their Innovator
Award 2014 to the African American Faith
Communities Initiative for their work on suicide
prevention in the churches. First Baptist Church,
Capitol Hill Counseling Services Ministry is a
member of the African American Faith Communities
Initiative. Rev. George Brooks, Sr., Pastor of St.
James Baptist Church, serves as the Initiative’s
Chairman.
First Baptist Church, Capitol Hill is honored to be
recognized as a recipient of the Lifetime
Achievement Award which will be presented at the
annual International Human Rights Celebration
organized by a coalition of nonprofit groups and
government agencies in Nashville, Tennessee. This
event will take place on Wednesday, December 10,
2014 at 4:00 p.m. at the First Amendment Center in
Nashville, TN. Congratulations on this recognition
and thank you for all that you have done towards
furthering human rights.
Beverly Watts, 2014 Human Rights Day Planning
Committee Member
ANNOUNCEMENTS AND NOTICES
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CONTACTING FORMER MEMBERS FOR OUR 150TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
The assistance of all members is needed in contacting former First Baptist members to tell them of our 150th
Anniversary and to invite their participation. You may submit names and addresses on this form or you can send
them to the church by email: fbcch13@gmail.com. Contact persons are Augustus Bankhead and Clara Elam.
PLEASE PRINT
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City_____________________________________State_________________ZIP______________
Phone: Area Code______Number__________email____________________________________
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Form submitted by:___________________________________________Phone_______________________
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ANNOUNCEMENTS AND NOTICES
ACT Test-Prep Workshop at First Baptist Church,
Capitol Hill
On Saturday, November 1, 2014 thirteen (13)
participants, representing Davidson and Hamilton
Counties (TN) high schools, took part in the first-ever
ACT Test-Prep Workshop at First Baptist Church,
Capitol Hill. The workshop was strongly encouraged
and supported by our congregation. For this initial
workshop, all participating students were financially
sponsored by the FBCCH’s American Baptist
Women and American Baptist Men organizations,
along with several individual donors. At the outset of
the workshop, the students were informed of the
sacrifices made for each of them, and they in turn
responded with sincere gratitude by working
diligently throughout the day. Students arrived as
early as 8:20 a.m. for the meeting that was from 9:00
a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Henry and Esther Caudle, Test
Specialists and FBCCH members, formally of
Davenport, Iowa and current consultants with Zaps
Learning Company (Doorway to College, Lisbon IA),
were the instructors.
The primary focus and mission of the workshop is to
prepare students for college by supporting their
transition to higher education. The workshop seeks
to arm students with solid strategies to achieve
competitive ACT scores and succeed in the college
admission process. We are hopeful that additional
ACT, SAT, and PSAT Test-Prep Workshops are in
the planning stages for FBCCH. This community
outreach effort can be helpful to all area high school
students.
Handbell Choir Rehearsals
Saturdays, 12:00 – 1:15 p.m.
December 6, 13, 20
Sunday Morning 10:00 a.m. Worship Service
Performance
December 7, 14, 21
Please arrive at 9:30 a.m.
Children’s Choirs
The Cherub and Carol Choir will sing on the second
Sunday of each month. Please arrive at 9:30 a.m.
Please note the second Sundays:
The Choirs will rehearse after Sunday Morning
Worship Service on the following Sundays:
December 7, 21
Please contact Frankie Jackson at (615) 377-5029 if
you have any questions
Second Harvest
Second Harvest Food Bank has planned activities
and appreciates donations and volunteers. Please
remember them as you plan donations during the
holidays. For activities and more information, go to
info@secondharvestmidtn.org.
Submitted by:
Jane Fort
Blood Pressure Screenings
The Health Care Committee will be available on the
2nd and 4th Sundays to provide blood pressure
screenings in the Frankie Pierce Lounge and on the
lower level.
LET’S CONTINUE TO REMEMBER THOSE IN
NEED
Thank you so much for your support last year. The
Benevolence Committee is requesting your
continued support of donations of the following items:
 Seasoned and gently–used men’s and
women’s clothing
 Children’s clothing and toys
 Household items and linens
 Hotel-size personal care items.
For questions on where to deliver your donations, or
how you may be of additional assistance, please
contact Rosa Mimms, Chairperson.
ANNOUNCEMENTS AND NOTICES
11
The Closet
Your Ministry of Missions and Evangelism at work for you.
During the month of December the Benevolence committee,
in conjunction with the American Baptist Women will throw open the doors to "The Closet". Men, Women and
Children’s Clothing, Household Items, and Much More! Where; Ennix-Jones Building 460 10th Circle North @ Gay
Street. (615) 255-8757. The hours of operation are as follows:
Thursdays, December 4, 11, 18, 2014, from 11:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.
Saturday, December 20, 2014, from 10:00 A.M. to 12:01 P.M.
Volunteers are needed. If you are interested in serving contact Sister Rosa Mimms, Miriam Currie or call the
church office.
Ninety Plus people attended the "Youth Violence Prevention Symposium". Held on Saturday November 15,
2014. The event was sponsored by Oasis Center, Right Turn, Nashville Career Advancement Center, United Way,
Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, Metropolitan Nashville Davidson County Juvenile Court and
First Baptist Church, Capitol Hill. The Key Note Speaker was Al Duncan, motivational speaker from Atlanta
Georgia. Al was reared by teenage parents “in the hood” of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. His high school guidance
counselor laughed at the thought of Al attending college. Several rejection letters later Al’s was finally accepted
into a college only if he could pass a saxophone audition for the college band and pass some remedial courses. Al
went from being broke to earning six figures to being broke again because his money controlled him instead of him
controlling his money. He tells the story of how at the age of twenty-four and broke, he returned home to rescue
his then twelve your old younger brother from dealing drugs as a pawn in the drug world. He is the author of, "My
Success Journal" and "Get All Fired Up About Living Your Dreams". It was a captivating day for all who were
in attendance. Here are a few Duncan Nuggets: Duncan Nugget #109 Excuses are Dream Slayers. They have
killed more dreams than anything else in the history of the world. Duncan Nugget #163. The difference between a
hero and a coward is not the lack of fear. It's the lack of action. Submitted by: Lueatrice Green Lovett
FBCCH Jubilee Drive
The Church continues the "Jubilee Drive" to pay off
the church loan. We are urgently requesting 100%
membership participation. The purpose for striving
towards an early mortgage pay-off is driven by our
desire to:
Members and friends are being asked to covenant
annually to contribute to the Jubilee Drive, in addition
to the giver’s regular tithes and offerings, at one of
the following giving levels:
(Fund Raising Goal for 2014 is $400,000.00)
Crown ------------------------------- $15, 000 and above
Diamond -------------------------------- $10,000-$14,999
Platinum ----------------------------------- $5,000-$9,999
Gold ---------------------------------------- $3,000-$4,999
Silver --------------------------------------- $1,000-$2,999
Bronze ------------------------------------------ $500-$999
Emerald--------------------------------------------- $1-$499
November Update:
Original Debt: $1.85M;
Present:
$1.05M
Your participation has been commendable!
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ANNOUNCEMENTS AND NOTICES
Depression and the Holidays
More than one out of five individuals will experience depression at some point in their lives. One in 10 persons
struggles with serious and persistent mental illness—the kind of serious depression that warrants treatment.
Those numbers are higher in Tennessee than the national average, as is the state’s rate of suicide. For some
people with depression, treatment is a one-time episode. Unfortunately for many others, depression is a lifetime
struggle.
What is depression? It is an illness caused by a dysregulation of brain chemistry. This can be inherited, as
depression runs in families. It is a brain disorder. Depression, particularly the episodic kind, can be caused by
stress. The stress that can lead to depression can be either emotional, including stressful life changes or physical,
like a chronic illness or pain. Depression typically begins when someone’s sadness takes precedence over
everything else in his or her universe. General signs that indicate the onset of depression include a lack of
energy, loss of motivation, negativity, social withdrawal, crying and a sense of hopelessness, all of which can
cause serious disruptions in relationships, work and families. The psychological pain can become debilitating and
is often described as more painful than anything physical. Without appropriate treatment, adults with severe
depression may believe nothing can make them feel better; they may question their reason for living; or they may
no longer feel as responsible as they used to about their family, finances and work.
Fortunately, there are proven treatments for severe depression, including antidepressant medication and therapy,
both of which can offer rapid relief and a return to normal. Antidepressants work to bring the brain chemistry back
to normal, thereby relieving the symptoms. Psychotherapy can provide relief for depression, and it is particularly
effective when combined with medication (Dr. Frank Drummond).
With the approaching holidays which can be stressful for everyone, let’s identify ways to keep stress and resulting
depression to a minimum. They are:
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


Keep expectations reasonable and manageable.
Avoid or keep drinking to a minimum.
Plan activities ahead of time. Schedule.
Don’t overspend or run up huge credit cards.
Spend time with people who are supportive

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Get proper sleep and rest.
Exercise and avoid excessive eating.
Practice relaxation exercises.
Let go of the past!
Find time for yourself!
To make sure that you are not suffering from depression, take a depression screening at the MHA of Middle
Tennessee Website, www.ichope.com. It is located on the left side of the page and, once clicked, the link will
direct you to the anonymous screening tool. If you do score in the depression range, remember that help is
available. You may call 615-269-5355 for further information.
Enjoy the Holidays!
FBCCH Counseling Services
ANNOUNCEMENTS AND NOTICES
The 150th Anniversary Celebration at First Baptist Church, Capitol Hill
Kicks off January 2015
14
ANNOUNCEMENTS AND NOTICES
Looking for a Church Home?
If you are looking for a church home, we encourage you to come and visit us! There are several ways to become
a member of FBCCH.
Baptism - when a person is willing to initially express a belief in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and is willing to
live one’s life according to His will. Baptism is the symbolic initiation into the Christian faith.
Christian Experience - when a person who has previously been a member of another church chooses to unite
with FBCCH, believing this to be the place for one’s spiritual nurturing. These persons have already been baptized
and have committed a faith relationship with Jesus Christ.
Watchcare - when a person wishes to have his or her membership with FBCCH while he or she is temporarily
living in the city.
Associate - when a person who has a membership in another church wishes to have a membership in FBCCH.
Restoration - when a former member chooses to rejoin FBCCH.
Scheduling Access to Church Buildings
To all groups needing entry and use of the church, sanctuary and Ennix-Jones Center during the week, please call
the church office at 255-8757 in advance of your event. This is to ensure personnel are available to allow entry
and to have a record for security purposes. Your cooperation is highly appreciated.
Church Email Address
Please send all electronic correspondence to: fbcch13@gmail.com.
Solution to November’s Crossword
Sudoku #19
Sudoku #20
ANNOUNCEMENTS AND NOTICES
15
Deacons of the Week
Missionary Circles of FBCCH
If you should need pastoral assistance, please contact
the Deacon of the Week for assistance.
Week
Deacon
Phone #
The American Baptist Women’s Missionary Circles of
First Baptist Church, Capitol Hill receive new
members according to the Sunday a woman joins our
church family. The December 2014 schedule is
noted below.
December 7
Ernest Rhodes
(615) 712-8903
December 14
Ronald McFarland (615) 331-0564
Sr.
December 21
Carol Boone
(615) 851-1527
December 28
Pamela Wood
(615) 259-0623
Fisk University Presents…
“One Man’s Journey,” a film by Nina Kennedy about
her father, the late Dr. Matthew Kennedy, at the
Franklin Library of Fisk University. The documentary
is available for viewing Monday-Friday during normal
library hours, by appointment only, contact Kathy
Harrell (615) 329-8730.
The Frist Senior Mondays
The Third Monday of each month is Senior Monday
at the Frist. Half price admission $5, $3 parking and
other discounts and activities.
Week of
Circle
December 7
Harris-Dawley
December 14
Cresa Lenox
December 21
Matrons
December 28
Eliza Wilson
Pied Piper Concerts
The Nashville Symphony is presenting a series of
activities and concerts for children called “Pied
Piper.” There are activities on Saturday mornings
during the concert season. The currently scheduled
shows include:
Amahl & the Night Visitors
December 6th
w/ The Wishing Chair Puppets
The Adventures of Young Amadeus
March 21st
w/ The Street Theatre Company
The Magical World of Tchaikovsky
th
April 11
w/Dancers from Nashville School of
the Arts
A fifth concert is planned with the Nashville Ballet.
All concerts begin at 11:00 a.m. Contact the
Nashville Symphony (615) 687-6400 or visit
www.NashvilleSymphony.org/Pied Piper
16
YOUTH AND CHILDREN’S DEPARTMENT
First Baptist Church, Capitol Hill
Scholarship Committee 2014 - 2015
First Nine Weeks Honor Roll Students
Gabriel Faulcon, Ninth Grade, University School, Katelyn Johnson, Fifth Grade, Kenrose Elementary
Honor Roll. Son of Gary and Mercedes Faulcon
School, Honor Roll. Daughter of Venoris and Felicia
Johnson
Ryan Gentry, First Grade, Jones Paideia, Honor Roll.
Daughter of Sharon Gentry and Howard Gentry
Kena Maria McDaniel, Eighth Grade, Thurgood
Marshall Middle School, Honor Roll. Daughter of
Cheyene Haskins, First Grade, Carter Lawrence Derrick and Kenya McDaniel
Elementary School, Honor Roll. Daughter of Sherika
Marshan Miller, Fourth Grade, Alex Green Elementary
Lynch and granddaughter of Bonita Lynch
School, Honor Roll.
Son of Carmen Howse and
Allison Johnson, Seventh Grade, Woodland Middle grandson of John and Deborah Howse
School, Honor Roll. Daughter of Venoris and Felecia Jeffrey Wood, Jr., Second Grade, St, Pius X Classical
Johnson
Academy Honor Roll. Son of Jeffrey Wood, Sr. and
grandson of Brian and Pamela Wood
Christopher Johnson, Third Grade, Kenrose
Elementary School, Honor Roll. Son of Venoris and Mackenzie Wood, Second Grade, St. Pius X Classical
Felicia Johnson
Academy Honor Roll. Daughter of Sean Wood, and
granddaughter of Brian and Pamela Wood
USHER TRAINING has convened!! Usher training for children ages 6 -12 every 4th Sunday of the month I will
schedule a child or two to usher with the men. I will pick from the names I currently have and add to the list as
warranted. If you do not want your child to participate in this training, simply let me know and I will remove his or
her name from the rotation list. The attire for ushering will be a white top and a dark bottom; children may wear
their FBCCH T-shirt as the top if they have one, but please have them tuck it into their pants or skirt. A rotation list
will be distributed to the parents. Questions, concerns, and ideas may be relayed to Felecia Johnson &/or Trustee
Bill McDaniel.
DECEMBER CALENDAR
01 MONDAY
Gary M. Faulcon, Sr.
02 TUESDAY
Barbara Doughty
03 WEDNESDAY
Deborah H. Luter
5:00 Fellowship Meal
6:00 Wednesday Night Live!
04 THURSDAY
Torrie Washington
05 FRIDAY
Ashley P. Slay
06 SATURDAY
Jennie P. Wilkins
07 SUNDAY
Pearl Harbor Remembrance
Bernice Barnes
Tondrick Chandler
Vicki Todd-Stubbs
8:45 Sunday Morning Live!
10:00 Worship Service
08 MONDAY
09 TUESDAY
10 WEDNESDAY
5:00 Fellowship Meal
6:00 Wednesday Night Live!
11 THURSDAY
12 FRIDAY
13 SATURDAY
14 SUNDAY
149th Church Anniversary
Celebration
Brenda Duff
Louise Walker
8:45 Sunday Morning Live!
10:00 Worship Service
15 MONDAY
Bettye Springfield
16 TUESDAY
Gloria Elam-Norris
17 WEDNESDAY
Darryl Mason
5:00 Fellowship Meal
6:00 Wednesday Night Live!
18 THURSDAY
Vonda McDaniel
19 FRIDAY
20 SATURDAY
21 SUNDAY
8:45 Sunday Morning Live!
10:00 Worship Service
22 MONDAY
Ivan R. Davis, Jr.
23 TUESDAY
Why Jesus is Better than Santa Claus
Santa lives at the North Pole; Jesus is everywhere
Santa comes but once a year; Jesus is an ever
present help.
You have to wait in line to see Santa;
Jesus is as close as the mention of His name.
Santa lets you sit on his lap; Jesus lets you rest in
His arms
Santa says, “You better not cry”; Jesus says, “Cast
all your cares on me for I care for you.”
17
Christopher McGriff
Gloria Westbrook
Solomon Westbrook
24 WEDNESDAY
Christmas Eve
Breanna Grimes
Cora Johnson
THURSDAY
Christmas Day
26
27
28
8:45
10:00
29
30
31
5:00
6:00
Valerie Lin Robinson
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
Sunday Morning Live!
Worship Service
MONDAY
TUESDAY
Al Dumas
WEDNESDAY
Jacqueline Knight
Fellowship Meal
Wednesday Night Live!
While Santa puts gifts under your tree…Jesus
became our gift and died on a tree…the cross.
JANUARY CALENDAR
18
01 THURSDAY
New Year’s Day
Darrius Anglin
Elizabeth Davis
02 FRIDAY
03 SATURDAY
04 SUNDAY
8:45
10:00
05
06
07
5:00
6:00
08
09
10
11
8:45
10:00
12
13
14
5:00
150th Anniversary Roots
Service
Sunday Morning Live!
Worship Service
MONDAY
TUESDAY
Epiphany
Tamia McKnight
Diane J. Robertson
WEDNESDAY
Timarion J. Smith
Kelando Townsend
Betty L. Wilson
Fellowship Meal
Wednesday Night Live!
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
Chester R. Crawford
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
Sunday Morning Live!
Worship Service
MONDAY
Roddarrian C. Smith
TUESDAY
Karan J. Brown
WEDNESDAY
Kathy Harrell
Becky S. Hindman
Ronald McFarland, Sr.
Fellowship Meal
6:00 Wednesday Night Live!
15 THURSDAY
Sydney Covington
Se’Bon Daughtdrill
Brooke McFarland
16 FRIDAY
17 SATURDAY
18 SUNDAY
8:45 Sunday Morning Live!
10:00 Worship Service
19
MONDAY
20
21
5:00
6:00
22
23
24
25
8:45
10:00
26
27
28
Bobby L. Lovett
TUESDAY
Carl Crutchfield
Jessica Powell
Christopher E. Wade
Sean Q. Wood
WEDNESDAY
Inez Crutchfield
D’Juan R. Johnson
Fellowship Meal
Wednesday Night Live!
THURSDAY
Dell Ray Adams
Jason Robertson
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
Robert Greene
Lueatrice Green Lovett
SUNDAY
Sunday Morning Live!
Worship Service
MONDAY
Carole B. McDaniel
TUESDAY
Evelyn Gains Guzman
James U. Lowe, III
WEDNESDAY
5:00
6:00
29
30
31
Gerard McShepard
Fellowship Meal
Wednesday Night Live!
THURSDAY
Hortense Price Jones
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
Virginia W. McClain
Evan K. Smith-Erving
EPIPHANY
Epiphany is one of the oldest
Christian feasts. It was celebrated
since the end of the second century,
before the Christmas holiday was
established. It is commonly known
as Twelfth Night, Twelfth Day, or the
Feast of Epiphany. It means
“manifestation” or “showing forth”. It
is also called Theophany
(”manifestation of God”). It
commemorates the first two
occasions on which Jesus’ divinity,
according to Christian belief, was
manifested: when the three kings
visited infant Jesus in Bethlehem,
and when John the Baptist baptized
him in the River Jordan. Various
painting, artworks and sketches
show the three wise men and Jesus.
The kings are important because
their visit illustrates that Jesus was
the king of all kings who came for the
Jews and the Gentiles. The star that
guides the wise men symbolizes
Epiphany, as well as the three gifts
they gave Jesus: gold (fit for a king);
frankincense (used to worship at a
temple); and myrrh (used for
embalming, as well as a slave for
irritations such as diaper rash).
CONNECT WITH GOD
19
Daily Bible Readings for December
December 1
Daniel 9:3-10
“Great and Awesome God”
December 2
Daniel 9:11-19
“O Lord, Hear and Forgive”
December 3
Revelation 19:1-8
“God the Almighty Reigns”
December 4
Revelation 22:8-14
“First and Last, Beginning and End”
December 5
Matthew 3:13-17
“My Son, the Beloved”
December 6
1 Timothy 1:12-17
“Honor and Glory Forever”
December 7
Hebrews 1:1-9
“The Son Reflects God’s Glory”
December 8
Deuteronomy 13:1-8
“Hold Fast to God”
December 9
1 Kings 8:54-62
“Devote Yourselves to the Lord”
December 10
Hebrews 12:22-29
“Worship with Reverence and Awe”
December 11
1 Chronicles 16:7-15
“Sing Praises to God”
December 12
Deuteronomy 32:1-7
“Ascribe Greatness to Our God”
December 13
Hebrews 13:6-15
“A Sacrifice of Praise to God”
December 14
Psalm 95:1-7
“Let Us Worship and Bow Down”
December 15
1 Chronicles 16:35-41
“Give Thanks to God’s Holy Name”
December 16
2 Chronicles 5:2-14
“Praising and Thanking God Together”
December 17
Psalm 19
“The Heavens Proclaim God’s Handiwork”
December 18
Psalm 108:1-6
“God’s Glory over All the Earth”
December 19
Romans 5:1-5
“Our Hope of Sharing God’s Glory”
December 20
Luke 2:1-7
“Expecting a Child”
December 21
Luke 2:8-20
“A Savior Born This Day”
December 22
Hebrews 11:1-6
“By Faith We Please God”
December 23
Luke 8:19-25
“Where Is Your Faith?”
December 24
Mark 9:15-24
“I Believe; Help My Unbelief”
December 25
John 1:1-9
“The Light Overpowers Darkness”
December 26
Matthew 17:14-20
“A Mustard-Seed-Sized Faith”
December 27
Matthew 15:21-31
“Great Is Your Faith”
December 28
Matthew 14:22-36
“Oh You of Little Faith”
December 29
Matthew 6:1-8
“Whenever You Pray”
December 30
Leviticus 22:26-33
“You Shall Not Profane My Name”
December 31
Psalm 103:1-13
“Bless God’s Holy Name
20
Prayers for Maya
“In times like this, we need an anchor…”
I write this note on behalf of
our fellow FBCCH family
members, Brother Dejuan
Foster and Sister Brittanie
Saxon, as well as their
children—Antwain and Maya.
As many of you are aware,
five-month-old Maya was
born with a few health
challenges, one requiring her
to undergo heart surgery; she
will require more corrective
surgeries at a later date. She
is currently in Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital’s
ICU suffering from complications from her
heart surgery.
The times I’ve visited Maya my heart was
heavy yet equally impressed by the strength of
the human spirit. Everyone will experience
difficult seasons in life and although Maya may
never remember this time, she’ll learn that she,
too, is not exempt from life’s challenges. But
God…it’s in difficult times like these that we are
all reminded that we have God as our anchor!
The Spirit anchors us in truth about who God is
and reminds us of Christ’s healing work on the
Cross for each of us. Brittanie and Dejuan
have experienced and are experiencing God in
a new kind of way this season! They need our
anchoring support and prayers as they
continue to entrust baby Maya's healing to the
Lord, as well as continue to provide Antwain
what he needs to cope as he, too, tries to
understand what’s happening through fouryear-old lenses.
We don’t always understand why God allows
certain things to happen, but during the last
few weeks, I have been personally grateful that
God has allowed Maya to
remind me of the truth found
in Psalm 127:3a: “Children
are a gift from the Lord.”
Children never ask to be
born, but they are given as
gifts to teach us about God’s
love and grace. As baby
Maya continues to fight, I’m
learning that her fight and
journey toward healing is a
part of our journey as a
congregation. Maya is one of
our children…one of God’s little gifts entrusted
to our care. As a congregation, we are called to
care not only for Maya, but for Antwain and all
of our children—for they are sweet gifts given
to remind us that we as a congregation have a
future worth investing in.
This season, as we join in prayer for Maya’s
healing and for her heart to be covered and
protected in love, I also ask that we as her
church family would generously, as the Lord
leads, give to a fund created to help cover
hospital expenses. A fund has been set up by
one of Brittanie’s friends and we want to join
others by financially showing our love and
support for one of our own FBCCH family
members. Any amount is welcomed and will be
greatly appreciated.
Visit http://www.gofundme.com/hho3y0.
Also, Brittanie and Dejuan provide status
updates on their respective Facebook pages.
Submitted by Rev. Joe Ella Darby, Chair of
Ministry of Discipleship
MEMBERSHIP ANNIVERSARIES
80 Plus Years
Jennie P. Wilkins (1920 – 85 years)
70 Plus Years
Evelyn R. Gaines (1940 – 74 years)
Ida Swanson Corbett (1943 – 71 years)
65 Plus Years
Thomas Swanson (1945 – 69 years)
Inez Crutchfield (1949 – 65 years)
60 Plus Years
Virginia Suggs (1950 – 64 years)
Brenda Duff (1951 – 63 years)
David Gandy (1951 – 63 years)
Mai Olive Lusk (1951 – 63 years)
Alice C. Smith Risby (1951 – 63 years)
Augustus Bankhead (1952 – 62 years)
Dorothy K. Fort (1952 – 62 years)
William B. Ewing, Sr. (1953 – 61 years)
Zelma Ewing (1953 – 61 years)
Carrie Gentry (1953 – 61 years)
Conra Collier (1954 – 60 years)
21
50 Plus Years
Naomi Norman (1955 – 59 years)
Harry Grant (1956 – 58 years)
Jane Fort (1959 – 55 years)
Pastor Kelly M. Smith, Jr. (1961 – 53 years)
Clara Elam (1962 – 52 years)
Deborah Howse
2014 Newest Members
Sylvia A. Burton
Easter M. Caudle
Henry L. Caudle
Jasmine Easley
Dorothy B. Jarrett
Jessica Powell
Brittanie L. Saxon
Dainon Sidney
Evan K. Smith-Erving
22
PRAYER REQUESTS AND LISTING
“We further engage to watch over one another in brotherly love; to remember one another in prayer…”
Mrs. Vergia Green
Chicago, IL
(Willie Magee’ sister)
Mr. Oliver Hardge
California
Dr. Edward Isibor
8220 Frontier Lane
Brentwood, TN 37027
PRAYER REQUESTS
Mrs. Callie Brown
Mr. Leroy Duff
Baby Maya Foster
Mr. David Gandy
Mrs. Katherine Harrell
Mr. L. Quincy Jackson
Tameka Robinson
Mrs. Daisy Scott
Ms. Ilene White
PRAYER LIST
Dr. Elizabeth Backus
650 Vanderhorst Drive
Nashville, TN 37207
Mrs. Frances Baker
1503 Beechwood Ave.
Nashville, TN 37212
Major Alicia R. Bodie
US Army
Mrs. Pearlie Collier
20 Porch Reed Dr.
Waverly, TN 37185
(Deacon James Collier’s
Mother)
Mrs. Evelyn Fancher
Room 213 A
Richland Place Health
Center, 37205
Mrs. Rose McDonald
111 N. Carolina Ave.
#204
Lexington, NC 27292
Mrs. Dale Mitchell
4650 Clarksville Highway
Nashville, TN 37218
Mrs. Wendolyn Larkins
Mapleton, GA
(Gwen Harris’ Daughter)
Mrs. Naomi Norman
#208 Life Care Center of
Hickory Woods
4200 Murfreesboro Rd.
Antioch, TN
Mrs. Ida Lewis
503 Shelby Ave.
Nashville, TN 37206
Ms. Isolina Rankins
601 A North Dupont
Madison, TN 37115
Mrs. Elizabeth Lowe
184 Country Wood Circle
Nashville, TN 37214
Mrs. Katie Reed
Vanco Health Care and
Rehabilitation
813 S. Dickerson Rd.
Room 108 B
Goodlettsville, TN 37072
(Lueatrice Green Lovett’s
Mother)
Mr. J.D. Martin
1650 Pine Tree Pass
Lane
Lilburn, GA 30047
Ms. Ella Matambo
Macon, GA
(Friend of the Currie
Family)
Mr. Derrick McDaniel
Christian Care Center
Nursing Home
202 Enon Springs Rd. E.
Smyrna, TN 37167
Mrs. Maggie Roper
732 Garrison Dr.
Nashville, TN 37207
Mr. Roosevelt Roper
732 Garrison Dr.
Nashville, TN 37207
Mrs. Bertha Taylor
105 Valley Green Dr.
Antioch, TN 37013
Mrs. Susie Thomas
Welcomes Visitors
4217 Ashland City
Highway
Nashville, TN 37218
Mrs. Dorothy Vassall
3747 Westport Drive
Nashville, TN 37218
Mr. Walter Vincent
4824 Fairmeade Court
Nashville, TN 37218
CWO3 LaTonya Ingram
Wallace
US Navy
Mrs. Jennie P. Wilkins
Schrader Acres
1204 Schrader Acres Dr.
Room 226
Nashville, TN 37208
Mrs. Leslie Williams
2929 Old Franklin Road
Nashville, TN 37013
In order to make our
prayer list current,
please let the church
office know if you (or
someone you know)
have changed address
or if someone should
be added to or removed
from the prayer list.
RENEWING THE MIND
Soduko #21
Soduko #22
23
December Puzzles
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, CAPITOL HILL
www.firstbaptistcapitolhill.org
email: fbcch13@gmail.com
615-255-8757
TORCH STAFF
Editor-in-Chief
Kelly M. Smith Jr.
Sermon Digest Reporters
Managing Editor
Beverly M. Brown
Conra G. Collier Constantine Fenderson
Marquentas S. Deaderick
Alice Smith Risby
Black Heritage Editor
Ernest C. Rhodes
Editor
Black History Editor
Bobby L. Lovett
Member Spotlight Editor
Evelyn Fancher
Sharanda Smith Carole McDaniel
Reporters-at-Large
Carole McDaniel
Reporter for Youth
TBA
Emeritus
Bertha Taylor
Charles B. Fancher
Willie M. Magee
Deborah Luter
Mary Pleas
Proofreaders
E. Jean Lambert
Lueatrice Green Lovett