THE FRIENDLY CONNECTION NEWSLETTER FRIENDLY TEMPLE CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST

“ WHERE EVERYBODY IS SOMEBODY AND JESUS CHRIST IS LORD!” 16570 “E” STREET VICTORVILLE, CA 92395 -- (760) 245-8788

BISHOP ROGER THOMAS, PASTOR - DR. MARIE THOMAS, FIRST LADY

February 2017 Volume 8, Issue 2 Published Monthly

================= Newsletter Staff:

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Deborah Ealy

ASSOCIATE EDITOR: Evangelist Henrietta

Givens

STAFF MEMBERS: Elder Larry Ealy

Bettie Young Sherease Durden

Mary Jackson

COLUMNISTS: Charmayne Moore

WRITERS Elder Loren Due, PhD,

DMin, MA, and Evangelist Arjeana Due

Off-Site Correspondents: Evang. Isarene Doyle Moriah Washington

NOTICE TO OUR READERS: The views expressed by the

authors/originators of materials in this publication are not necessarily those of The Friendly Connection or

Friendly Temple Church of God in Christ.

Please address any concerns or errors noted in this

newsletter to larrydeborah@gmail.com

IN 2017, YOUR VICTORY IS IN YOUR WORSHIP! “Let the high praises of God be in their mouth, and a two-edged

sword in their hand…...” Psalms 149:6,7 ================================================================================================================================================================================================================================================

“… let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doeth easily beset us, and run with patience the race that is set before us.”

FROM THE PASTOR’S DESK

“He is Worthy” continued

Psalms 29:2: “Give unto the LORD the glory due unto His name; worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness.”

God delights in our worship of Him. And why shouldn’t He? And why shouldn’t we want to praise Him? It is God alone who has saved us from our sins. I don’t know about you, but I’m glad I’m saved today.

Salvation isn’t something you take lightly. Do you know the alternative to not being saved? It is “on your way to a place called h-e-l-l.”

God liberated us from all our bondages. Many of us were hooked on something, or many have fences they’ve erected between themselves and their loved ones in their lives. But, if we know how to let Jesus come into our lives, He can tear down fences, He can relieve us from our burdens. Many of us were so burdened down that we didn’t know what to do. The song says “when my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to that Rock that is higher than I.” God is our Rock. God came and He lifted those heavy burdens. It was God who brought us and kept us through 2016. (To be continued…)

2

.

MINISTERS’ CORNER

GOD, YOU SAID IT, AND I BELIEVE IT. Revelation 21:5: “And he who was seated on the throne said, Behold, I am making all things new. Also, he said, Write this down for these words are trustworthy and true.”

We hear people say, if God said this wall was polka dot, it would immediately be polka dot. I believe it would be so! Do you believe? The problem is never God, the problem is our belief/faith or lack of belief or faith.

The word says to trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths (Prov. 3 5-6). We all have gotten a little under the weather before. If we had the flu we would have a fever, chills, a sore throat, etc. We would take Tylenol, Theraflu or Ibuprofen. But the sickness does not leave because we treated the symptoms. Our body has to fight off the virus that is attacking us. The Tylenol does not heal us. The Theraflu does not heal us. The doctor will say our body heals itself. There is some truth to that, but, --- that is not the whole truth. We as Christians know who heals us. We know Him by His name JEHOVAH RAPHA. GOD IS OUR HEALER. We know Him by experience, we have been healed and know beyond a shadow of a doubt that GOD healed us. And, of course, we know Him by His Word. “And by His stripes we are healed” (ISAIAH 53:5). As we continue into 2017, let us turn up the fire under our GODLY BELIEF/FAITH. On New Year’s Eve, we heard several bangs, horns and whistles as we stepped into the New Year as soldiers. Yes! We are soldiers in the army of the LORD, Confidence in JESUS CHRIST and His works, are the basis of our marching orders. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need (Hebrews 4:16). Notice that this scripture puts mercy before grace.

In 2017, while the enemy might launch attacks, know that no temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but GOD is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. (1 Cor. 10:13). GOD, thank you for first loving us!! The LORD GOD is a Sun and a Shield: the LORD bestows favor and honor. No good thing does HE withhold from those who walk upright (Ps 84:11). The enemy is busy trying to hinder our walk and we see his schemes. But we don't fret. For GOD has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind (2 Tim 1:7).

GOD, you said “I can do all things through CHRIST who strengthens me (Phil 4:13). Let us claim all our blessings for 2017. Blessed shall you be in the city, and blessed shall you be in the country (Deut.28:3). Even more: “Blessed shall you be when you come in, and blessed shall you be when you go out (Deut. 28:6). Further You said “No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue which rises against you in judgment You shall condemn (Isaiah 54:17).

Let us continue our move into 2017 with this spirit: “Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended, but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead. I press towards the goal for the prize of the upward call of GOD in CHRIST JESUS (Phil 3:13).

IN THIS ISSUE Featured Writers: Bishop Roger Thomas

Evangelist Henrietta Givens Deborah Thompson-Ealy

Charmayne Moore Mary Jackson

Loren Due, PhD. Moriah Washington

Elder Darryl Douchand

CONTENTS

…...to all of our new members who joined Friendly Temple during the month of January. We also extend a welcoming embrace to all who accepted Jesus as their Savior and Lord of their lives, or rededicated themselves during the month of

January.

WELCOME…

Pastor’s Desk 1 In This Issue 2 Minister’s Corner 2 You’ve Been Spotted 3 Family of the Month 3 The Black History Flag 4 Did You Miss It? 5 Did You Miss It? Cont’d 6 Breaking Color Barrier/Dr. White 7 When Thoughts Become Words 8 Your Spiritual Health 9 Marriage from My Perspective 10 Facts About Black History 11 Answer/Mystery Member 12 And a Time to Laugh 12 What Did You Forget? 13 Bible Mystery Person 13 Black History/American History 14 Black History/Amer. Cont’d 15 Bible Mystery Person 16 For Your Information 16 Medical Corner 17 Jesus is my Valentine 18 Answers Bible Mystery Person 18 Children’s Corner 19 Bettie’s “Sweet” Picks 20 Tax Advertisement/Dr. Due 21 Prayer Requests 22 Announcements 22 Our Daily Bread 23 How Can I Be Saved? 24

Eld. Darryl Douchand

3

YOU’VE BEEN

SPOTTED

FAMILY OF THE MONTH

`ÜA tÇw `Üá ]tÅxá ftÅ I, GENNELL Sam and my husband, James Sam attended the Ordination at Friendly Temple Church of God in Christ, Host Pastor, Bishop Roger and First Lady Joyce Thomas presiding.

While witnessing the ordination of my son, Fred Davis, Jr to become an Elder, it reminded me of the scripture,

Mark 1:11— “Thou art my son in whom I am well pleased. I love you.” I had similar thoughts and experienced the same feelings for my son. I always knew he had a calling on his life. I birthed him, but, God raised him. I recognized that he was an anointed child by God since he was about 12 years old. He has been living out a life for Christ for years. During the ordination, I witnessed my son, Fred, kneel before his church, before the elders, before Jesus Himself. He was, in kneeling, submitting to an humbling appointment to ministry. Hands were laid on him, God’s Word was read. Prayers were spoken. Gracious words of encouragement and conviction were spoken. The charges were powerful, incisive, and in every way worth remembering. And God’s grace was sought in it all. As a youth pastor, now an Elder, he has publicly committed to continue loving Christ and to keep on doing God's work, the Father’s business.

Through it all, I was simply swept up in the emotions of the moment. I never knew this day would come, so when it did, my heart just exploded with joy, and my eyes responded with tears. As a result, I will forever keep in my heart these words from this scripture, I will bless the Lord at all times. His praises shall continually be in my mouth. Psalms 34:1.

Salute to the Bishop: To the presiding Bishop Roger Thomas and First Lady of California Southern Third Ecclesiastical Church of God In Christ and all those in a position of power at this church: I thank you for positively impacting the life of my son, Fred Davis, Jr, the lives of others and enhancing the community through your ministries offered. I salute you and yours and others for being compassionate advocates for the advancement of God’s Kingdom. I will pray for the leaders of this church that you will continue to give wisdom to those who make decisions to go into the community and make disciples all around the world. Keep on saving souls! According to Ephesians 4:11-12, "Empower people to live a Kingdom lifestyle. Equip them to overcome strongholds and to deliver nations to God. God bless you all.

f|áàxÜ aÉäxÄÄt ]ÉÜwtÇ I was “Spotted” by Henrietta Givens, a true woman of God. I feel honored to give this short bio on my life. My name is Novella Jordan, I am almost 60 years old, a woman of God, with one son, Willie Jones Jr., and one granddaughter, Malaysia Jones.

I retired from the City of Los Angeles after 32 years of service in December 2012. I am originally from the Los Angeles area. I graduated from David Starr Jordan High School. I recently attended my 40-year class reunion. Since moving to the area, I have reconnected with several Los Angeles individuals; and I bought my first home in the High Desert area in November 2013.

I was a member of Friendship Christian Fellowship Church pastored by Dr. Art Wooten, in Riverside, Ca for 8 years. I gave my life to the Lord during that time. When I announced to the church I would be relocating to the Victorville area, Pastor Wooten mentioned that we have a sister church in Victorville which he visits and speaks at the church occasionally. He also told me that Friendly Temple is a good church and his parents have been members of the church for many years. He told me that Friendly Temple would make me feel at home, and he was right.

I became a member of this church in November 2013. I have since joined CWC, by invitation of Sister Clinton, and was asked to teach a class by Sister Yolanda. My first response was, “No, I’m not sure if I could teach anyone.” Sister Yolanda sat with me and explained how to teach a lesson. She encouraged me to teach; she gave me the tools, and God did the rest. Due to her encouragement, I taught my first class in November 2016. Now I am being trained to become the secretary.

I have been a Toastmaster member for several years. I am a Tri-Community Tumbleweed Toastmaster in Phelan where I’ve held the position of Vice- President of Education for three years. I also help serve at a food ministry in Lucerne Valley twice a month. I have read stories to elementary school students in the Adelanto school district once a week. I also work at the polls for each election.

I love the Lord, I am happy and blessed. I attend the 8 a.m. service and I enjoy the music and the sermons. I am fed the Word, and am given the tools and opportunity to grow in the Lord. I want my gifts to be used by God while here at Friendly Temple Church of God in Christ.

4

The strong African markings in the stars and stripes of the Black History Flag were chosen from select authentic African textile. What gives the flag an even more distinct character is the salute to a select group of African American heroes, specifically community organizers and civil rights leaders who dedicated their lives to a cause much bigger than themselves.

It was their pride, belief, and determination that gave them the will to continue forward and change America. From Sojourner’s truth to President Obama’s promise, the Black History Flag waves a history of progress and determination of Blacks in America who fought against slavery, racism, and lingering misconceptions to make the world a better place.

Wave the Flag and pledge to turn to a young person and say, “my life was changed because…”

FEBRUARY IS BLACK HISTORY MONTH. GIVE HONOR TO GOD AS YOU REMEMBER HOW FAR HE HAS BROUGHT US FROM!

4

5

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO TWINS:

DUANE AND RASHAUN THOMAS!

(The talented sons of Bishop and Lady Thomas)

J-3 WORKERS MEETING

DID YOU MISS IT??

6

J-3 ORDINATION SERVICE

BROTHERHOOD PRAYER BREAKFAST

7

(EDITOR’S NOTE: DR. JUDY D. WHITE HAS BEEN A DEAR FRIEND OF MINE FOR ALMOST 40 YEARS. SHE HAS BEEN BREAKING BARRIERS SINCE HER HIGH SCHOOL DAYS. SHE IS SAVED AND IS ALSO A MINISTER OF GOD’S WORD.

IT’S AN HONOR TO CELEBRATE JUDY’S GREAT ACCOMPLISHMENTS DURING THIS BLACK HISTORY MONTH AS SHE CONTINUES TO LEAD THE PACK AMONG TALENTED AFRICAN AMERICANS WHO PUT THEIR GOD-GIVEN GIFTS TO USE BY HELPING HIS PEOPLE. D. EALY, Editor-in-Chief)

BELOW IS A REPRINT OF AN ARTICLE, IN IT’S ENTIRETY, APPEARING IN THE PRESS ENTERPRISE WRITTEN BY STEPHEN WALL (THE HIGHLIGHTS WERE ADDED BY THE FRIENDLY CONNECTION NEWSLETTER, NOT THE PRESS ENTERPRISE.)

Moreno Valley Unified School District Superintendent Judy White made history Wednesday, becoming the first woman or minority to become Riverside County’s schools chief.

After an hour-long public interview session, county board members picked White, an African American woman, over the other finalist, deputy county schools superintendent Paul Jessup.

The vote was 4-3, with Vice President Elizabeth Romero and trustees Ray Curtis, Bruce Dennis and Barbara Hale supporting White and President Wendel Tucker and board members Jeanie Corral and Susan Rainey opposing her.

An earlier motion by Tucker to appoint Jessup failed with Romero, Curtis, Dennis and Hale voting against him and Tucker, Corral and Rainey in favor.

A packed crowd erupted in applause after White’s selection. More than a dozen speakers spoke before the interviews, with many backing her appointment. Both candidates took turns answering questions from board members during the session.

“I’m a history maker and a stereotype breaker,” White, a 61-year-old Moreno Valley resident, said at the end of the interview. “I bring unity wherever I go.”

White is the first woman and minority to become superintendent since Riverside County was formed in 1893. There have been 11 previous schools’ chiefs.

“I’m still taking it all in,” White said after the meeting.

“I am very, very grateful for this opportunity. I can assure you, you will not be disappointed,” she told the crowd after the vote.

White has broken other barriers. She noted during the interview she was the first female Associated Student Body president of her high school and afterward said she was the first person of color to serve as an assistant superintendent in the San Bernardino City Unified School District, where she worked before becoming Moreno Valley Unified’s superintendent almost six years ago. White was Moreno Valley Unified’s first black superintendent, trustee Jesus Holguin said.

Her supporters touted her success in raising graduation rates and starting innovative programs that earned Moreno Valley Unified state and local honors.

“What Dr. White has accomplished over the last six years is nothing short of remarkable,” Dennis said.

While praising White’s achievements, Tucker said Jessup would ensure continuity in the position.

“I think we have very viable programs taking place that need to be completed over the next two years,” Tucker said.

White said she spoke with Jessup before the meeting and that he told her he would support her if she got the job. Jessup has been the county deputy superintendent and chief administrative officer since July 2007

and will remain in that role.

DR. JUDY D. WHITE

7

8

When thoughts become words…... A personal commentary by Charmayne “Char” Moore

“But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your

reward will be great, and you will be children of t he Most High, because He is kind to the ungrateful and wicked."-Luke 6:35

February is the man-made month of Love . A pattern that I am seeing is that people mostly show love to those close to them; their family, friends and spouses.

But people, myself included, fail to show love to strangers and their enemies. "

Why would I show love to someone who doesn't know nor care about me in any way?"

"There's no way I would show love to him/her after what he did to me."

Loving people who have wronged you is by far one of the hardest tasks for me in the bible, and I'm not alone in feeling this way. However, it is necessary to learn how to love people if we are going to make it in this life.

If you believe that it's too hard to love those who are doing wrong, imagine how God feels to know that we live in sin. That same disgust we show regarding people that we dislike is the same disgust God shows when we sin. The difference is He STILL loves you anyway.

His love is unconditional. Have you ever felt loved by someone? Your very existence excites them. When you're wrong they don't dismiss you, but encourage you to be right. Love that is true, makes your heart ache with happiness, all because it never changes, but remains the same.

That is the love of God and we all yearn for that feeling. So why not show this type of love to others? Especially in the times that we live in today, more love is needed to erase the hate.

We need to remember that we make a lot of mistakes similar to the people who have wronged you. Some of us have hurt people with our lies, deceit, unfaithfulness, infidelities, messiness, and negative actions. When we do this, we always want people to love and treat us the same, but we can't do it for one another.

The benefits from loving your enemies includes GROWTH and STRENGTH. Loving your enemies benefits you more than it does them. It promotes growth, strength and GREAT rewards from God.

This month I encourage each of us to at least TRY to love those who hurt you, try to forgive, try to look at other perspective's and try not to forget the hurt YOU have caused others. Loving your enemies will bring true peace into your life. I believe peace of mind is one of the most sought after blessings, and the best way to get it is to show the love of God to all people.

Be Blessed!

-Char

9

YOUR SPIRITUAL HEALTH….

In the opinion of spiritual philosopher Loren Due, PhD.

Twenty-six years of doing income taxes for hundreds of very nice people all over the country, some of whom flew from other states just have their income taxes prepared by me, it is amazing how loyal people can be to a particular income tax preparer. At one time, I had several hundred clients before I sold my income tax practice in 1991. Loyalty is amazing; something that is rare in this day and time. It seems that most people are committed only to their own success and not interested in anyone else but themselves.

Why are we talking about Income Tax Preparation? Because everyone in America and all provinces under the authority of the Internal Revenue Service and Treasury department who had earned income in 2016 are required to file an income tax return? Is the system fair? It is not up to this article to depend or represent the system. It is the law.

A quote from Wikipedia: “The history of taxation in the United States begins with the colonial protest against British taxation policy in the 1760s, leading to the American Revolution. The independent nation collected taxes on imports ("tariffs"), whiskey, and (for a while) on glass windows. States and localities collected poll taxes on voters and property taxes on land and commercial buildings. There are state and federal excise taxes. State and federal inheritance taxes began after 1900, while the states (but not the federal government) began collecting sales taxes in the 1930s. The United States imposed income taxes briefly during the Civil War and the 1890s, and on a permanent basis from 1913. There have been no export taxes, taxes on trade between states, or taxes on charities and religious bodies, and no value-added tax.”

Another great reason to talk about Income Tax preparation is because everybody needs a preparer unless they are a preparer themselves. When you decide to do your taxes, you have the option of:

· Self-Preparer CPA · EA Attorney · Accountant Friend · H & R Block Tax Doctor · Liberty Tax

And a number of different tax preparers in your town or city

The list above is not a complete list but a sample of those typically used to prepare Income Taxes.

The key to Income Tax preparation is to find someone you really like and learn to trust doing your taxes. The way people find tax preparers is funny in that those who do not have a plan of discovery usually take the advice of a friend if they are just starting to have their taxes prepared by a professional; or if they are unhappy with what they have they will look in the yellow pages to find someone who has a record of service in the community. Others take a more systematic approach to finding a preparer by finding out the Better Business ranking of a preparer. And yet others today are discovering the internet advertising or they see someone standing on a corner dressed as a statue of liberty. You

probably have your own story how you found your tax person (man) so go ahead and reminisce while you continue to pull all your income tax papers together and wait on the final W-2’s, 1099s, and other forms to arrive before January 31, 2017. Just think of all the people who got a head start on you by filing their taxes electronically. Thousands of taxpayers who are getting large refunds and they know it because of certain tax credits starting filing returns on January 23, 2017 with hopes of the money being put into their bank accounts, or they applied for an advance through one of the services so they could have their money NOW.

However, there is an article in Forbes Magazine written by Ashlea Ebeling: “It’s better to owe taxes in April than to get a refund, and for the 2017 tax filing season, it’s especially important. The Internal Revenue Service today issued a warning of 2017 tax refund delays for certain taxpayers, urging folks to adjust their tax withholding now. We’re talking about your 2016 taxes that are due April 15, 2017. There’s good reason to pay attention—at least there’s something you can do about it.

“We don’t want people caught by surprise if they get their refund a few weeks later than previous years,” said IRS Commissioner John Koskinen in the release.

A couple things are to blame. First, a new tax law effective next year requires the IRS to hold refunds a few weeks for some early filers who claim the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Additional Child Tax Credit. The IRS has to hold the entire refund, not just the portion associated with those credits, until at least February 15.

Second, the rise in identity theft is causing the IRS and state tax authorities to spend additional review time to protect against fraud. Additional safeguards will be set in place for the upcoming 2017 filing season. “We want people to be aware we are taking additional steps to protect taxpayers from identity theft, and that sometimes means the real taxpayers face a slight delay in their refunds,” Koskinen said.”

You are probably saying to yourself what does spirituality have to do with this: Jesus instructed Peter to do the following: Matthew 17:27 (KJV) 27

Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee.” I am not suggesting that you go the Mojave River down the street from Friendly Temple COGIC to find your tax money but rather that you pull your paper work together and file your taxes before the tax season is over. Over the years, I have met too many well-meaning Christians who were too busy serving God but they failed to filed their taxes which I believe in the long run is a hindrance for them to be a complete saint. Fasting, prayer and speaking in tongues have their place; but when it is time to file the return, the government is not concerned about how much you pray, fast or speak in tongues, but rather they are looking to receive the appropriate tax forms to be filed in a timely manner.

Will you file your taxes on time this year?

Income Tax Preparation for You! By: Loren Due Article 30

10

MARRIAGE, from my perspective. A commentary in the opinion of by Moriah Washington

Ever since high school, I was more focused on getting married than having a relationship with Christ. I wish I had put as much of an effort into seeking Christ as I did learning how to be a good wife. Today, this world has a lot of us believing that it's ok to act like a married couple and not really be married. The world makes us focus on the fear of being tied down to the same person the rest of our lives - or not getting to enjoy life the way we want to - or that all marriages end up in divorce - and a whole bunch of other lies. Ladies if you're single, dating or engaged you really need to ask yourself why you’re getting married or want to get married? Is it because you want the attention or you think that after you get married he will treat you better and stop being unfaithful? I have been with plenty of guys that I thought I could change and let me tell you only God can change a man from his evil ways. Until you allow God to step in you ain't doing nothing but stressing yourself out, trust me! This is a great time for you to get started on drawing closer to God and allowing Him to show you your purpose in life. Your purpose is not just to be a wife; it is bigger than that. Yes, your family comes first but that is not the only passion God has given you. For a long

time, I struggled to watch my husband pursue his purpose and I just sat behind the scenes making myself believe that I was just supposed to cook and clean all day. Don't get me wrong, taking care of my home and family is rewarding and I do receive joy from it, but I started asking myself how can I use this to bring a lost soul to Christ. Did you catch that? I can use something as small as cleaning to bring a lost soul to Christ. This may seem small to you but just by me sharing homemaking tips with women, I am cancelling those lies that Satan made them believe, of how they will never be a good wife nor a wife that their husbands are proud of, Titus 2:4-5 says, "Then they can urge the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God". If you are married, I recommend you reevaluating your view of your marriage and making sure it lines up with God’s Word. Once you evaluate your marriage don't try to be the first one in line at the courthouse, instead be the first one at your table reading your Bible learning how you can realign your marriage with God’s Word. – “Marriage is

not your only ticket into heaven!"

Moriah Washington

Editor’s note: Welcome, to our newest offsite columnist, the daughter of our own Missionary Clover Clinton, as she discusses her perspective on marriage and its ups and downs, from a young married Christian point of view. She has a popular established blog with a significant number of followers. Enjoy, and welcome to the new addition of our Friendly Connection staff!!

11

5 facts about Black History Month By Joe Carter

Every February Americans observe Black History Month (also known as National African American History Month), a time set aside to celebrate the contributions that African Americans have made to American history. Here are five facts you need to know about the history of the observance:

1. The precursor to Black History Month was created in 1926 when historian Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History announced the second week of February to be “Negro History Week.” Woodson chose the second week of February to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln, the author of the Emancipation Proclamation, and of Frederick Douglass, an early African-American abolitionist.

2. Woodson, the son of a slave, began high school at the age of 20 and then proceeded to study at Berea College, the University of Chicago, the Sorbonne, and Harvard University, where he earned a Ph.D. in 1912. Woodson founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History in 1915 to train black historians and to collect, preserve, and publish documents on black life and black people. He also founded the Journal of Negro History (1916), Associated Publishers (1922), and the Negro Bulletin (1937). Woodson spent his life working to educate all people about the vast contributions made by black men and women throughout history. The reason Woodson started Negro History Week was to ensure the legacy of black Americans would not be lost. He used the Jewish people as a model for black Americans: If a race has no history, it has no worthwhile tradition, it becomes a negligible factor in the thought of the world, and it stands in danger of being exterminated. The American Indian left no continuous record. He did not appreciate the value of tradition; and where is he today? The Hebrew keenly appreciated the value of tradition, as is attested by the Bible itself. In spite of worldwide persecution, therefore, he is a great factor in our civilization.

3. The expansion of Black History Week to Black History Month was first proposed by the leaders of the Black United Students at Kent State University in February 1969. The first celebration of Black History Month took place at Kent State one year later, in February 1970.

4. In 1976 as part of the United States Bicentennial, the informal expansion of Negro History Week to Black History Month was officially recognized by the U.S. government. President Gerald Ford spoke in regards to this, urging Americans to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”

5. In 1986 Congress passed Public Law 99-244 which designated February 1986 as “National Black (Afro-American) History Month.” This law noted that February 1, 1986 would “mark the beginning of the sixtieth annual public and private salute to Black History.” Since 1975, every U.S. President has issued a proclamation for the observance, though the names have often changed: Black History Week (1975), Black History Month (1976), National Afro-American (Black) History Month (1978), African-American History Month (1992), and National African-American History Month (1993).

11

12

JANUARY MYSTERY PERSON

Sis. Karen Minnifield-Johnson

Then Now

MYSTERY PERSON THIS MONTH

Who is this handsome young man?

“

“AND A TIME A TO LAUGH…”

I got someone chocolates

for Valentine’s Day

But I changed my mind, and I’m giving her

this pretty heart-shaped box instead!

13

What did you forget? Submitted by District Missionary Dr. Gloria Sterling - From “A Class

Act – Being the Best You” -- Bishop Charles E. Blake, Sr. and Lady Mae ================================================================================================

AIRPORT ETIQUETTE

It is very important to remember to arrive at the airport 1 ½ - 2 hours before

departure. This will eliminate rushing and stressful situations.

The AIRPORT SKYCAP is the one who checks you in after arriving at the airport. He or she will usually prepare your boarding pass, and will also give you your

luggage receipts. There may be a fee for this service.

It is also appropriate to provide a tip

of $2.00 - $3.00 per piece of luggage.

Be aware that currently these charges may vary with each airline. For example,

if your bag is over 50 pounds, there may

be an additional cost of $25 per bag.

Usually, airlines will not accept cash at curbside. So, be prepared to pay

luggage fees with a credit card.

Romans 12:10-17—“Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the

Lord; Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer; Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality. Bless them which

persecute you: bless, and curse not. Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep

with them that weep. Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits. Recompense

to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.”

14

BLACK HISTORY IS

AMERICAN HISTORY

BY HERRON KEYON GASTON Graduate student at Yale University

In 1915, Dr. Carter G. Woodson established the Asso ciation for the Study of African American Life and History. It was a way to highlight the contributions of African Americans, and to set the record straight t hat African Americans remained at the heart of the American story. He als o wanted to make African American history accessible for all Americans. The teaching of African American history did not happen in a vacuum, but instead, it took nearly a hundred years to come to fruition. In 1926, America began to cele brate Negro History Week in the month of February as a way to commemorate the l ife and contributions of African Americans. The month of February was select ed because it was the birth month of Fredrick Douglas and Abraham Lincoln. Thes e two legendary men played a crucial role in history with respect to th eir influence on Black life and culture. However, in the 1960s with the rise of the Civil Ri ghts Movement coupled with the Black Power Movement and the unrelenting quest for civil rights, African Americans begin to expand Negro History Week into a month-long celebration, and lobbied the powers- that-be in 1976 to expand N egro History Week into Black History Month. As a result of this push to inculcat e Black history into the rubric of American history, most schools across the United States adopted African American history to be included in their school’s c urriculum. Interestingly enough, in post racial America, there are still a n umber of institutions out there that unequivocally refuse to include Black History as a part of their curriculum. The fact of the matter is — Black history is Americ an history. The African American impact on history is far-reaching and is d eeply etched in the social fabric of America. We cannot talk about American hi story without talking about African American history. These two stories are int rinsically intertwined. African Americans have made significant contributions to ev ery field of the human endeavor, including science, technology, engineerin g, mathematics, theology, arts, literature, athletics, politics, and especial ly to the American economy. In every facet of the American experience lies the sto ry of African Americans . Continued on next page

15

BLACK HISTORY IS AMERICAN HISTORY conclusion

Hence, since the inception of this country, with th e exception of perhaps the

First Nation peoples, African- Americans fertilized and impregnated the soil with

the drippings of their blood, sweat, and tears.

The African American experience is nestled in strug gle and

liberation. It is undergirded by multiple forms of oppression

and degradation. It is a story of how we survived the horrors

of slavery, the domestic terror and violence of the Ku Klux

Klan, the ferocity of Jim Crow Sr., and the lingeri ng residue of Jim Crow Jr. in

the 21st century. But in the midst of that sufferin g, we see a linage and heritage

of perseverance, fortitude, and a dogged -determina tion to reject as false the

notion that African Americans are at the bottom run g of American society.

Though the month of February is set aside to celebr ate Black history by

remembering the lives of our forebearers who relent lessly sacrificed their lives

as martyrs for liberation and advancement of the Bl ack community, we must not

forget that every day in America Black history is b eing made. African- Americans

have struggled through decades of injustice, and st ill carry on in that legacy

today; yet with persistent resolve and unwavering g rit, we continue to shatter

the glass ceiling. We must not be confined to a mon th in telling our stories, but

our stories must be told each and every day. As a w ise man once said to me, “If

you don’t know your history, you don’t know your pa st. If you don’t know your

past, you don’t know your present, and if you don’t know your present, you don’t

know your future.”

Therefore, I challenge my brothers and sisters of t he African diaspora to

continue to make your indelible imprints on society . The blood of the martyrs is

screaming from the ground, and is challenging us to not let their legacy be in

vain. We must tell our stories from the boardroom t o the courtroom; and from

the outhouse to the White House. That we are at the heart of the American story,

and without our story, there is no authentic Americ an story.

16

FOR YOUR INFORMATION Submitted by Mary Jackson

LIFE APPLICATION Often, we use this great verse to apply to doctrinal matters relating to the work, worship and organization of the church. I believe this is an accurate application. But this verse has great implications beyond our collective activities.

This verse says “whatever you do in word or in deed.” Jesus’ authority does not end when we leave the church house. It extends to every aspect of our lives. “Whatever” includes our daily activities; our job, recreation, relationships, our homes, dress and speech.

When we act in someone’s “name” we are serving as a representative of that person. When you serve as a power of

authority you are acting in their stead, representing their interests, and carrying out their wishes.

Whatever we say or do, we represent Christ to the world. Our actions and attitudes should give Him glory, honor and praise. We demonstrate our respect for Him by accurately exemplifying His person, purity, and purpose with passion to a corrupt culture. When we compromise our mission and ministry, we are not glorifying God.

Too often we make such a distinction between secular and sacred matters that we forget that our entire lives are given to God as our spiritual service (Rom. 12:1-2). Regardless of your profession, you can honor God through your diligence, honesty and resourcefulness in your job.

In our homes when husbands and wives follow God’s pattern and obey His marriage laws, we are honoring Him. As we rear our children “in the Lord” we are obeying the principle of this passage.

“Whatever you do” includes Facebook posts, text messages , tweets and all other interactions on social media. We should ask ourselves “are my words, attitudes, and pictures exalting the Lord to unbelievers?”

“Whatever you do” extends to the books we read, the movies we watch, and the internet sites we visit. Are these activities properly portraying and glorifying Christ?

“Whatever you do in word or deed” is a 24-7 command . There are no exemptions or exclusions. It’s all about honoring the Lord all the time and in every way.

BIBLE MYSTERY PERSONS- submitted by Evang. Henrietta Givens (Location, Location, Location)

1. It was predicted that Jesus would be born in what city?

2. When Saul was blinded he was on the road to _______.

3. Where was Daniel cast when he wouldn’t stop worshiping God?

4. Where did Jesus perform His first miracle?

5. What country took the Southern Kingdom/Judah into captivity?

6. Location described as flowing with milk and honey.

7. Where did God give Moses the Ten Commandments?

8. The rich queen that visited Solomon was from_______.

9. The Israelites failed to conquer this city because of Achan’s sin.

10. The story of the Good Samaritan tells of a journey from Jerusalem to _______.

17

SLEEPLESS NIGHTS LINKED TO

ASTHMA LATER IN LIFE

ADULTS WITH CHRONIC INSOMNIA 3 TIMES MORE

LIKELY TO DEVELOP THE RESPIRATORY DISORDER,

STUDY SUGGESTS

BY Robert Preidt, HealthDay Reporter

Insomnia may increase adults' risk of asthma, a new

study suggests.

People with chronic sleep struggles were three times

more likely to develop asthma than those without

insomnia, researchers at the Norwegian University

of Science and Technology found.

"Insomnia, defined as having difficulties initiating or

maintaining sleep, or having poor sleep quality, is

common among asthma patients, but whether

insomnia patients have a higher risk of developing

asthma at a later stage has not been thoroughly

investigated," said study co-author Linn Beate

Strand.

The study included data from nearly 18,000 people,

aged 20 to 65, in Norway. The researchers found

that people who said they had difficulty falling

asleep "often" or "almost every night" had a 65

percent and 108 percent increased risk, respectively,

of developing asthma over 11 years.

People who said they woke too early and couldn't

get back to sleep "often" or "almost every night" had

a 92 percent and 36 percent increased risk,

respectively, of asthma. And those who had poor

quality sleep at least once a week had a 94 percent

increased risk of developing asthma, the findings

showed.

However, the study doesn't prove a cause-and-

effect relationship between insomnia and asthma.

Further research is required to confirm the findings,

Strand said.

About 300 million people worldwide have asthma, a

chronic respiratory disorder characterized by

wheezing, chest tightness and shortness of breath.

Known risk factors include smoking, obesity and air

pollution.

"As insomnia is a manageable condition, an

increased focus on the adverse health effects of

insomnia could be helpful in the prevention of

asthma," Strand said in a news release from the

European Lung Foundation.

According to study lead author Ben Brumpton: "A

key finding in our study is that those people with

chronic insomnia had more than three times the risk

of developing asthma, compared to those without

chronic insomnia, which suggests that any changes

in the body due to insomnia may accumulate and

result in more severe harmful effects on the

airways."

Brumpton is also affiliated with Norway's Trondheim

University Hospital, in the department of thoracic

and occupational medicine.

Recent research also suggests that depression and

anxiety may be associated with adults' risk of

developing asthma, according to background notes

with the study.

MEDICAL CORNER

18

ANSWERS TO BIBLE MYSTERY PERSONS – by Evangelist Henrietta Givens

1. Bethlehem Micah 5:2; Matthew 2:1

2. Damascus Acts 9: 1-9

3. Lion’s Den Daniel 6:8-16

4. In Cana John 2: 1-11

5. Babylon 2 Kings 25: 1-25

6. Canaan Exodus 3:8, Joshua 5:6- 12

7. Mt Sinai Exodus 31:18

8. Sheba 1 Kings 10:1-2

9. Ai Joshua 7:1-26

10. Jericho Luke 10:30

]xáâá |á Åç itÄxÇà|Çx

Romans 5:8 – But God commandeth His love toward us, in

that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

19

FAMOUS BLACK AMERICANS

20

3-Layer Buttermilk Cake with Chocolate Frosting 2 1/2 cups sugar 1 cup shortening 6 eggs 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 3 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon baking soda 1 cup buttermilk Beat sugar, shortening, vanilla and eggs together with spoon or mixer. Mix flour, salt and baking soda with a wire whisk and add to creamed mixture. Add milk and continue mixing until smooth. Divide between 3 sprayed cake 8’ pans and bake in preheated 3250 oven for 30-35 minutes until centers test done. Place on wire racks. Let cool and remove from pans. Frost.

Mix all ingredients listed for Chocolate Frosting with mixer until spreading consistency. Spread on cake

Chocolate Challah Bread Pudding INGREDIENTS 8 cups challah bread (crust removed and torn into bite-size pieces) - we used fresh bread but day-old bread is fine as well 4 cups milk 4 eggs 4 tbsp. unsalted butter, melted 1 tbsp. vanilla 1/2 cup sugar 1 tbsp. cinnamon 1 tsp allspice pinch salt 1/4 cup cocoa powder ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional) 3/4 cup chocolate chips (bittersweet or milk chocolate) + extra melted chocolate for drizzling on top of plated slices INSTRUCTIONS Beat eggs lightly in a bowl and set aside. Heat milk to scalding. Slowly pour milk into eggs whisking constantly so you don’t curdle the eggs. Stir in melted butter, sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla and salt. Spread bread pieces evenly on bottom of 9” x 13” (3-quart) baking dish. Sprinkle in chocolate chips. Pour milk & egg mixture over the bread and chocolate. Bake for 40 minutes at 3500. Note: the bread pudding will rise really high in the baking dish. Don’t worry. it will settle once you take it out of the oven and let it cool. Serve with a drizzle of melted chocolate, scoop of vanilla ice cream or powdered sugar and some fresh fruit.

White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bites I N GR E D I E N TS

• For the Custard: • Half bag (6 oz.) pure white chocolate chips • ¼ cup half and half • 1½ (12oz total) blocks whole cream cheese, • softened to almost melted • ¼ cup sugar • 2 large eggs • 1 tsp vanilla extract

D I R E C T I O N S Make Crust: In a large bowl, mix fine cookie crumbs with butter until well incorporated. Should resemble wet sand. Scoop 1 slightly rounded tsp crumb mixture evenly into 48 lined mini muffin tins. Press down to form bottom crusts. Preheat oven to 325F, with rack on lower middle position. Make Raspberry Sauce: Combine raspberries, sugar, and dissolved cornstarch in a saucepan and bring to a boil, stirring often. Once mixture is thickened, remove from heat and set aside. Make Custard: In heavy saucepan, melt white chocolate chips together with half and half on low heat, stirring often. Remove from heat. In large bowl, mix together nearly melted cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time. Add vanilla and the melted white chocolate mixture. Scoop 1 rounded TB custard evenly into lined mini muffin tins. Dollop ½ tsp raspberry sauce over the custard. Gently use a thin knife to lightly swirl. Bake 20 minutes or until tops are puffy and no longer sticky upon light touch. Let cool to room temp and then cover and chill in fridge. If keeping longer than a couple of days, you can freeze them. Top with Stabilized Whipped Cream and serve.

Chocolate Frosting: 1 stick or 1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened 3 cups powdered sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 5 to 6 tablespoons milk 1/2 cup cocoa (I use Nestles 100% pure cocoa)

• For the Raspberry Sauce: • 5 oz. frozen or fresh raspberries • 1 TB granulated sugar • 1½ tsp cornstarch dissolved in 3 TB water

• For the Crust: • 1½ cups Oreo cookie crumbs, cream centers • removed (about 22-23 finely crushed cookies) • 6 TB salted butter, melted

21

Income Tax Preparation for You! (Advertisement submitted by Dr. Loren Due)

Twenty-five years I went to Income Tax preparation school every year before the tax season started to learn the latest techniques and hot points of the IRS. Yo u probably are wondering why I said in my article “ twenty-six years.” Because the first year I started doing Income taxes I was in High School. Now I am out of High School and want to introduce to you my new company VTax. I work for VTax as a Brand Manager and my sol e responsibility is to find people who want their tax es done competently and quickly.

Why VTax!

Taxes made easy, wherever you are. File your simple tax return the fastest and easiest way possible in almost no time at all. Leave the hard parts to Refund Adva ntage and be on your way to the maximum tax refund guaranteed!

It's your refund, keep more of it!

You may be asking yourself how VTax can be so much easier to use than other tax preparation option. We have spent countless hours analyzing the wants and needs of customers just like you and we know exactl y what you are looking for. For consumers, the best o f both worlds, the hassle-free convenience of havin g your taxes done on-demand anytime, anywhere and assuranc e that your tax return is being prepared by credentialed tax professionals and reviewed by enro lled agents and CPA's with the proper training an experience.

You can't beat VTax's value.

VTax is a full-service tax preparation firm that is designed for you, the individual taxpayer. Each VT ax tax professional is registered with the IRS to prepare and e-file your tax returns electronically.

Top-notch, Expert Tax Preparation

Only registered licensed tax professionals work for us, which means these are serious tax professional s. You'll get the ultimate in quality of preparation n o matter how complicated, messy, or difficult your tax dilemma might seem. Finally, the assurance that you r return has been reviewed for accuracy or missing credits or deductions by an experienced enrolled ag ent or CPA and will alert you to any problem areas or missing data before you file your return.

VTax guarantees the largest refund possible

We guarantee that you will receive the maximum refu nd you are entitled or we will refund you the prepa ration fees you paid.

No Appointment Necessary!

With the VTax mobile app for both Android or iOS in as little as 15 minutes you can now conveniently a nd securely connect with our team of licensed and cred entialed tax professionals and have your taxes professionally filed anytime and from anywhere you choose. Just grab your forms and your phone, and yo u're on your way to your maximum refund.

Audit Assistance Included in All Tax Preparation

We deal with the IRS so you don't have to. We stand behind our work, therefore if you get a letter or contacted by the IRS or state taxing agency, our expert repre sentatives will defend any income tax return we pre pared at NO additional charge.

Secure

VTax utilizes secure technology with a password-pro tected client portal to protect documents and profi le information. The VTax centralized team of tax profe ssionals are vetted to ensure integrity during the return process, and kept current of all tax regulations an d changes. Our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee and Audi t Assistance are in place to ensure that your returns are safe and secure .

Will you file your Income Taxes this year?

22

.Delores Spivery

.Bro. & Sis. Wooten

.Sis. Pearlena Jones

.Viola Briggs

.Dorothy Wright

.Nelson Taylor Sr

.Dea. Jessie Thompson

.Robert Williams

.Bro. Joe Phillips

.Christine Collins

.Novella Jordan

.Dr. Bernard Brown

.Mother Grace Robinson .Sis. Rosie Hudson

.Bryan Allen

.Jazmine Williams

.Diane Drayton

.Ella McKenzie

.Erma Sutton

.Kevin R. Jackson

.Cassandra Williams

.Joy Wilton

.Elder James Ham

.Sis. Mary Ham

.Robert Nolan

.Josiah Hunter

.Michael Ray Philips

.Sis. Mattie Allen

.Diane Tyler-Fulson

.Rick Hawkins

.Sis. Burney Colbert

.Derick Kington

.Josephine Alsup

.Sis. Beverly Gonzales

.Lewis D. Shaw, Jr.

.Elder Lloyd James

.Willie James Glen

.Mother Mattie Welch

.Jessica Ogura

.Catherine Ramirez

.Sis. Joetta Collins

.Shanice Bradford

.Mary Timm

.Karen Minniefield

.Dea. Odell Jones

.John Philips

.Donna Lee Phillips

.Linda Walker

.Kenether Riley

.Dea. Robert Andrews

.Orlando Mays

.Bishop Higgins

.Bro. Kevin Dawson

.Boot Dilliard Bereavement Elder Leonard Green Bro. Jimmy Franklin Elder Ham & Family Josephine Martinez

ANNOUNCEMENTS

SUNDAY MORNING WORSHIP SERVICES:

8:00 am and 11:30 am, Sunday School 9:45 am

CORPORATE PRAYER: Every Tuesday at 6 am, Wednesday at 6:30 am and Thursday at 6 am.

Call (641) 715-3272 and enter code 557700#.

Missionary Circle Prayer every 2nd & 4th Sunday at 7:00 am.

Monday Prayer 6:00 am and 6:00 pm.

Noon Day Prayer Wednesday-Friday at 12:00 noon.

PRAYER & BIBLE BAND: Tuesdays at 9:00 am

PRAYER & FAMILY BIBLE STUDY: Wednesdays at 7:00 pm

2017 ANNUAL LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE: Friday and Saturday, February 24th & 25th at

Friendly Temple COGIC. Presenters will be Admin. Assistant Ida Martin, Admin. Assistant

Clover Clinton, and Evangelist Verrene Palmer. “Reflecting the Leadership of Christ.”

BLACK HISTORY PROGRAM: Sunday, February 26th at 5:00 pm.

“Celebrating the African American Experience and Historical Icons.”

Wear your African Attire on this day. For more information, see

Sis. Byroena Early, Elder Loren Due or Sis. Evelyn Lopez.

THE CHILDREN’S CHURCH is having a Juice Box Drive. Donate juice boxes to our Children’s

Ministry. Just drop off your donation at the sign-in table during the 11:30 am. service. We

appreciate every single donation.

PLEASE PRAY FOR OUR MILITARY AND OUR COUNTRY

Pray also for our missionaries abroad

who are being persecuted.

“THE EFFECTUAL FERVENT PRAYER OF A RIGHTEOUS MAN AVAILETH MUCH”

23

OUR DAILY BREAD ================================================================================================

All Alone on Valentine’s Day

Written By JJ, Singapore

Valentine’s Day may be the season of love and romance for many, but for some of us, it brings pain. It could be a reminder of love lost through a recent break-up or rejection, or the loss of a loved one. And although some of us are able to respond (with a strained smile) to questions like “When are you going to find a boyfriend/girlfriend?” or “When are you getting married?”, the questions inevitably have a way of unsettling our already fragile hearts. “Time heals all wounds” is the advice we are often given. But how can we move on when the pain fills our minds and consumes our every waking thought? What hope is there when our hearts are heavy and it seems like we will never get over it? How can anyone out there understand what it feels like to go through the seemingly unending hurt? I went through a break-up recently after a five-year relationship. My girlfriend and I had been struggling for months and eventually realized that our lives were going in different directions. It was really hard at the time to deal with the sudden changes to my life. When I was attached, my instinctive response to seeing or hearing anything nice, interesting, or funny was to share it with her, but now, I no longer had the opportunity to do the same. My feelings of bliss and happiness were replaced by an aching, empty silence. I remember thinking: “What if I cannot move on? Am I going to spend the rest of my life alone?” Though the days were dark and the nights were lonely, I was reminded through time with God and His Word that I was not alone. For Christ, who came into this world as one of us, had also experienced the pain and sorrow of being rejected, abandoned by those He loved, and left to suffer alone. The Creator of the universe knows exactly how we feel, because He has experienced firsthand our disappointments and hurts. But Jesus is not only able to sympathize with us; He has also promised to be with us. We may go through periods when we feel rejected by those we love, burdened by unresolved questions, and lonely in a way that no one seems to understand. But we can be sure that God will not forsake us—He will walk alongside us, comfort us, and give us the assurance of His presence. And that’s not the end of it. Even though our relationships on earth can fail, we can look forward to a perfect relationship in the future—when Christ the Groom comes back for his Bride, the church. The heartbreaks we face in this life cannot compare to the immense joy we will feel at the wedding supper of the Lamb (Revelations 19:7-10). In fact, we can already start to enjoy this relationship we have with Him now. These truths were a great source of comfort to me after my break-up, and they still comfort me today. Even though I am going to spend this Valentine’s Day by myself, I can rest in my relationship with Jesus, whose eternal love will never fail. If you’re feeling lonely during this season of love and romance, remember—you are not alone.

The heartbreaks we face in this life cannot compare to the immense joy we will feel at the wedding supper of the Lamb.

24

Postage

We’re on the Web! Visit us at: www.friendlytemplechurchvv.org. Also, our

newsletter can be viewed at friendlytemple.wordpress.com.

FRIENDLY TEMPLE CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST

16570 “E” Street

Victorville, CA 92395

HOW CAN I BE SAVED?

You must confess and believe. Romans10:9 says, “If thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus and shalt believe in thine heart that God raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” If you believe that God raised Jesus of Nazareth up from the grave and can confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord, you shall – not maybe – you shall be saved.

THE PRAYER

If you desire to be saved, would you pray the following prayer?

Dear God, I know that I am a sinner. And I know that Jesus died for my sins. I believe You raised Jesus from the dead, and I want Him to be my Lord and Savior. Jesus, come into my heart and save me.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Bishop Roger Thomas, Church of God in Christ California Southern Third Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction Prelate

Mother Mary F. Hodge, Jurisdictional Supervisor of Women