Light - First Baptist Church of Glenarden

VISION
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF GLENARDEN
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF GLENARDEN
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012
January/february 2012
Feature Articles
The Lighted Lamp
How Salty Are You?
A House of Light
Salt and Light
Matthew 5:13-14
January/February 2012
1
through Discipleship, Discipline and Duplicaton
Developing Dynamic Disciples
2
First Baptist church of Glenarden
CORE
VALUES
as a result of our love for God, we continually choose and commit to strive for unity in
the body of christ. We desire to SEE HIM reflected in everything that we do.
Seek God First
EvanGelism
Excellence
Honor
InteGritY
MentorinG
SEE HIM
We commit to seek God first for direction
in every decision, whether great or small.
– Matt. 6:33
Because it is God’s desire that no one should
perish, we are equipped to share the love of
christ wherever and whenever with anyone out
of gratitude for God sparing us from eternal
damnation. – Matt. 28:19
We strive to give God our very best! diligence,
responsibility and faithfulness are essential
ingredients to succeed in anything God has
tasked us to do, as demonstrated by daniel.
– Daniel 5:14, 6:3
esteeming others higher than ourselves,
regardless of their title, position or status, is our
priority because everyone was created in the
image of God. – Romans 12:10
Honesty is demonstrated by doing what we
commit to do. – Job 31:6
God has given everyone a purpose, and we
commit to impart in others lessons learned to
help them fulfill their destiny. – 2 Tim. 2:2
VIS ION
Visit us on the Web at www.fbcglenarden.org
january/february 2012
VOLUME 15/ISSUE 1
NEWS and announcements
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39
5
Inside This Edition of Vision
Upcoming Events
FEATURES
5 Moving Forward
7 Salt and Light (Matthew 5:13-14)
8 How Salty Are You?
10Salt
11 The Lighted Lamp
12Light
13 A House of Light
14 Pouring Salt All Over the Earth
Moving Forward
20
22
SPECIAL SECTIONS
25
26
MERGE
2011 Leadership Awards Ceremony
DEPARTMENTS
16
18
20
22
23
28
31
32
33
34
23
28
In the Community
Ministry Spotlight
Senior Spotlight
Testimony Time
Milestones, Miracles and More
Black Facts
Global Impact
Movie Review
Music Review
Enhancing Your Devotions
January/February 2012
3
VISION
First Baptist Church Of Glenarden
Pastor John K. Jenkins Sr.
Inside
This
Director, Communications Ministries
Reverend Belynda Gentry
Editor-in-Chief
Edition
“You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be
seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled
underfoot by men. You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill
cannot be hidden” (Matthew 5:13-14).
As believers and followers of Jesus Christ, we are the salt of the earth.
We are also the light of the world and must not be hidden from those
yet to accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
As Christians, we are called upon to impact the world in a manner
that brings honor and glory to God. Our impact should be one of spiritual seasoning and bringing out the best in others, so that they may go
out into the world as beacons of light and hope through Jesus Christ.
As we move forward in making disciples of all nations and reaching
our God-given goals, we must be mindful to not be discouraged, to
forget the past, to press and reach forward and to mark the goal toward the prize of the upward call of God in Jesus Christ. We must move
forward with all hope in Christ, so that we positively affect others and
become all that God desires us to be.
We the staff of VISION magazine, pray that your light not be hidden
from the world and that you continue to move forward for the honor
and glory of God.
“Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on,
that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me.
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 toward the goal for the prize of the upward
call of God in Christ Jesus. Therefore let us, as many as are mature, have
this mind; and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal even this
to you. Nevertheless, to the degree that we have already attained, let us
walk by the same rule, let us be of the same mind” (Philippians 3:12-16).
Michele Renee Woodfork
Art Director
Shevona Johnson
Staff
Kathy Anderson, Audree Arrington,
Jason Atkins, Fredrica Bailey,
Tolu Bankole, Julio Barreto,
Alesia Barron, Minister Khadijah Bey,
Amanda Blackmon, Marguerite Brown,
Leatrice Burphy, Edna Butler,
Kissa Clark, Insana Collins,
Evangeline Covington, Terri Craig,
Stacey Crawford, Kirk Daley,
Marilyn Davy, Shontis Douglas-Jones,
Tyrone Eddins, Dion Gray,
Shanice Grooms, Tyrone Guiden,
Les Hamilton, Pyper Harvey,
Bianca Holman, Nikole Holt,
Le’Aun Inabinett, Patricia Clark Jackson,
Ollie Jefferson, Phyllis Johnson,
Tami Johnson, Nadine Jones,
Jerry King, Keara Lance,
Anderlynn Mitchell, Pleshette Monroe,
Carmen Morgan, Ursula Oliver,
Shannon Outlaw, Simmone Patrick,
Ebony Price, Aleysha Proctor,
Teandra Pyles, Rebecca Ramos,
Evelyn Kim Rhim, Valencia Richardson,
Angela Riddick, Mary Singleton,
Robin Smiles, Verna Smith,
Kaylen Tucker, Tameesha Tucker,
Shirley Turner, Janet Walton,
Adrianne Whitehead, Sharon Wilks,
Yvonne Willis, Larry Wilson
Contributing Writers
Reverend Gloria Miller,
Minister Cheryl Steplight
VISION is published five times a year by the
First Baptist Church of Glenarden
Magazine Ministry.
Contact us at
[email protected]
or 301-773-3600.
ISSN 2164-7720 (print)
4
Vision Magazine
Moving Forward
Based upon the Saturday, Dec. 31, 2011 and Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012 messages preached by Pastor John K. Jenkins Sr.
By Michele Renee Woodfork
The apostle Paul wrote a letter to the church in
Philippi, advising them of his not having attained
or perfected a place of arrival or destination
through Jesus Christ (Philippians 3:12-16). He also
noted what must be done in moving forward and
instructed the church to not be discouraged, to
forget the past, to press and reach forward and to
mark the goal.
Don’t be discouraged because you have not
arrived – none of us have arrived or reached our
destination. We must not be discouraged because
we are not where we think we should be. Our present situation does not reflect or determine our
destination. There may be detours in where we are
going, but we are headed somewhere. We must
thank God for what He has brought us through
and know that we are on our way.
Remember to forget your past – we must exercise the practice of forgetting those things which
are behind. Our past is sometimes brought up
by others and ourselves. We have pain and trials
in our past, but we must forget those things. We
January/February 2012
5
Moving
Pastor John K. Jenkins Sr.
forward
must learn to forget “this” or “that” and not replay
negative circumstances in our mind. Our past
should not determine our future.
Press and reach forward – we must flee our
past, while running toward our future. Our fervor in doing so should be similiar to what God
displays in reaching out to us. We must not press
aimlessly, but toward our goal. Reaching forward
stretches us beyond our comfort zone. We are
then able to grow and significantly progress as we
move toward our future.
Mark the goal – reaching forward to those
things which are ahead means marking the goal.
God has placed a goal ahead of each of us. We
may not be able to see it clearly, but we must
stretch ourselves toward the prize of the upward
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Vision Magazine
call of God in Christ Jesus. God rewards those who
diligently seek Him. We must seek God and behold
the new thing He desires to bring into our lives.
Not that I have already attained, or am already
perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that
for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me.
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 toward the goal for the prize of
the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Therefore let
us, as many as are mature, have this mind; and if in
anything you think otherwise, God will reveal even
this to you. Nevertheless, to the degree that we have
already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us
be of the same mind (Phillipians 3:12-16). ■
Salt and Light
“You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be
seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled
underfoot by men.You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill
cannot be hidden” (Matthew 5:13-14).
S
alt is good and has useful benefits. While it
can make a meal delicious and enjoyable,
a meal without salt can be bland and
tasteless. The difference in flavor has much to do
with seasoning. Salt is an effective seasoning and
preservative.
As believers in Jesus Christ, we are called to make a
difference in the world. In order to be effective in our
walk with the Lord and in our witness to others, we
need to ensure that our lives are constantly seasoned
and grounded in the Word. We need to regularly
study the Word and ask the Holy Spirit to speak to
our hearts and teach us, so that we preserve the holiness of God who resides in us. Matthew 5:13 says “…
if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned?” If
we are not grounded in the Word, we will feel defeated and trampled underfoot whenever challenges
come into our lives. As useless salt, we will lose our
testimony and will not be equipped to share the love
and knowledge of Jesus Christ with others.
Jesus is the light that revealed God to the world, and
we are the light that reflects God in the world. However,
we must be plugged into our power source to give off
light.
Imagine if you lose electrical power in a thunderstorm, as most probably have. The light no longer has
an impact. In a similar way, Matthew 5:14 speaks of us
being the “light of the world.” Believers impact the world
by living in a manner that brings honor and glory to
God. We are called upon to impact the world, not to be
conformed by it.
I remember a time, before I fully surrendered my life to
the Lord, where I was involved with other individuals and
didn’t want them to know that I believed in Jesus Christ. I
would reveal that truth during convenient times. However, as the light of the world, we should share the love
of Christ in our homes, neighborhoods, places where
we work or attend school, and other places we might
visit. As believers in Jesus Christ, He is the light that lives
within us. It is important that we live our lives and make
choices so that those who interact with us will notice
that we are different from the world.
When we hide our faith in Christ, we diminish the
impact of our testimony and prevent those around us
from seeing the reflection of Jesus Christ. When we
ask the Holy Spirit to help us live in a way that pleases
the Lord, He will show us how. When He shows us by
giving direction, we choose whether or not we will be
accountable and impact the world by our character and
conduct.
Our decision to follow Christ does not end when
we ask Him to come into our hearts. It must be an ongoing relationship with Him. We should
not only spend time with Him daily in
devotion and prayer, but if we want to
live victoriously as the salt of the earth
and light of the world, we must have a
By Sharon Wilks
heart to impact the world. ■
January/February 2012
7
How
Salty
S
alt is a necessity for our physical health, as well as our spiritual
well-being. In the Old Testament, salt represents the covenant between God and His people. It is a symbol of the durability, steadfastness and resoluteness of His everlasting promises (Num. 18:19;
2 Chron. 13:5). It represents the health, vigor or stamina that is essential for
Christians to live the life that we are called to live as children of the Most
High God. Just as earthly salt is needed to balance the fluid in our bodies, preserve our food and add flavor to our meals, spiritual salt is needed
to regulate the grace in our hearts, sustain the loving-kindness that is
required for us to be at peace with one another and keep us in rightstanding with the Lord.
Mark 9:50 admonishes us to have salt in ourselves; “Salt is good, but if
the salt loses its flavor, how will you season it? Have salt in yourselves, and
have peace with one another.” This means that what we say and do must
reflect our relationship with the Lord. Just as earthly salt has a distinctive flavor in our food, the flavor of spiritual salt is grace in our hearts.
Earthly salt enhances the flavor of food while spiritual salt enhances
the flavor of our relationships. Salty hearts extend grace in speech
and actions. Colossians 4:6 says, “Let your speech always be with grace,
seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each
one.” Salty-hearted people don’t allow corrupt communication to
flow from their mouths. Their conversations are not tinged with
gossip, jealousy or pride. Nor do they manipulate, betray or
slander one another.
Those with salt in their hearts encourage and uplift one
another. What we say in certain situations is very important.
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Vision Magazine
Are You?
The way we respond to those who communicate
with us in an unwholesome manner is a test
of our character and spiritual maturity. In fact,
we should choose words and actions in all
circumstances that might lead others to trust in
Christ Jesus. Hebrews 3:13 admonishes us to
“… exhort one another daily, while it is called
‘Today,” lest any of you be hardened through the
deceitfulness of sin.”
When earthly salt loses its saltiness, our food
is dull, bland or even tasteless. Likewise, when
our spiritual salt loses its flavor, our conversations may become lifeless, especially if they are
sprinkled with false accusations, gossip, lying,
judgment, discouragement, cynicism or any
corrupt communication that would offend the
kingdom of God.
brethren, whatever things are true, whatever
things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely,
whatever things are of good report, if there is any
virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy —
meditate on these things.”
Do you embrace 1 Corinthians 13:4-8? “Love
suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love
does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not
behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity,
but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes
all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love
never fails.”
Take the salt test.
Do you live by Colossians 4:6? “Let your speech
always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you
may know how you ought to answer each one.”
Do you sift your words through Ephesians
4:29? “Let no corrupt word proceed out of your
mouth, but what is good for necessary edification,
that it may impart grace to the hearers.”
Do you adhere to Ecclesiastes 10:12?
“The words of a wise man’s mouth are
gracious, But the lips of a fool shall swallow him up.”
Do you meditate on Philippians 4:8? “Finally,
How salty are you? ■
By Shirley Turner
January/February 2012
9
“Salt is good, but if the salt loses its flavor, how will you season it. Have salt
in yourselves, and have peace with one another” (Mark 9:50).
W
hat is salt? Pure salt consists of the
elements sodium and chlorine. Its
chemical name is sodium chloride and
its formula is NaCl. Its mineral name is halite.
Salt is essential. Each of our bodies contains
four to eight ounces of salt. In the body, salt is
as important to humans as water or air. It helps
maintain the normal volume of blood and keeps
the correct balance of water in and around cells
and tissues. Salt plays an important part in the
digestion of food and is essential in making the
heart work efficiently. It is also necessary for the
formation and proper function of nerve fibers,
which carries impulses to and from the brain.
Along with calcium, magnesium and potassium,
salt helps regulate the body’s metabolism,
balances our blood and is necessary for muscle
function. When we don’t have enough sodium
chloride, we experience muscle cramps, dizziness,
exhaustion, and in extreme cases, convulsions and
death. Salt is essential to our well-being and is
most important in supporting our lives and health.
Salt is also used for seasoning and
preserving food. Webster’s Dictionary says
to be “seasoned” is to be fit by experience;
to be ripe; fit and ready for use; made
tastier.
By Valencia
Richardson
As Christians, we have everlasting life
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Vision Magazine
through Jesus Christ. We are to be fit for His service
by experience in Him. We are to be ripe and ready
to be used by Him. We are to be tasty and bring His
message to others with and in His love. Without
love, there is no peace with others.
What is God telling us when He calls us the salt
of the earth? Jesus is the bread of life. He calls His
children the salt of the earth. We are the ones to
bring His bread or His word to others. His message
is about choosing life and not death.
Jesus Christ was born of a virgin, died to save us
from sin and rose from the grave so that we may
have eternal life. No one else could pay the price
needed for our sins. God, in the person of man –
Jesus, was sinless and was the only one worthy
to pay for our sins. When we receive His gift of
salvation we are saved and will abide with Him
forever in heavenly places.
As Christians, we are the salt of the earth. We add
to our life and that of others through the Word of
God. The Word of God is essential to life. We must
shine the light of Jesus Christ for the world to
see. We must further commit to share the gift of
salvation through Jesus Christ with others.
I believe God could not have given Christians a
more appropriate name than “salt.” May we further
embrace the Word of God and walk worthy of our
calling. ■
“The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full
of light. But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light
that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness!” (Matthew 6:22-23).
C
The Lighted Lamp
hrist has empowered us to be the light of the
world. He gives us the responsibility to let others see His work within us. We must endeavor to
think and act in the ways of our Lord and Savior. We
must demonstrate godly love and kindness to those
in the body of Christ and the world. We must stand
tall and remain steadfast in His name.
Others should be able to see the light of Christ in
us and take notice of the difference in our demeanor.
We should not boast regarding achievements or be
blameful in shortcomings. We must be quick to give
God the honor for our victories, as a show of gratitude for His blessings and grace bestowed upon us.
The lamp of the body is the eye. When our eyes
are spiritually healthy, we are better able to make
choices that steer us away from evil and falsehood,
while knowing that God is never far away, never out
of reach.
The brighter our light shines, the more difficult
it becomes to walk the broad path (Matthew 7:13).
The best way to increase our light is to spend time
in prayer with God and to meditate on His Word. The
Word of God is our call to the narrow path, which
brings forth light and moves us to do all things for
His honor and glory.
“The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD,
and He delights in his way” (Psalm 37:23). When I seek
God in prayer, I know that I am strengthened in Him
to lead my family, keep our finances in order, make
critical decisions on the job and steer clear of arguments, which serve to dim my light through Jesus
Christ.
“I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in
Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you
can do nothing” (John 15:5). As my light shines bright
and my fruit is plentiful, there is nothing I can do
outside of God. My blessings come through abiding
in Him.
“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may
prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will
of God” (Romans 12:2). I must set a godly example in
thought and action through commitment to my wife
and children, helping those less fortunate and observing the laws of my community. My light through
Jesus Christ shines brightly when I take care of my
blessings from God.
“And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for
My strength is made perfect in weakness…” (2 Corinthians 12:9). When I am weak and fall short, the grace
of God brings forgiveness. I continue to
move forward in His strength and light
through Jesus Christ.
Through the lighted lamp, we are able
to brilliantly shine in the good, acceptBy Les Hamilton
able and perfect will of God. ■
January/February 2012
11
Light
J
“You are
the light of
the world.
A city that
is set on a
hill cannot
be hidden”
(Matthew
5:14).
By Michele Renee
Woodfork
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Vision Magazine
ust as a city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden, our light through
Jesus Christ should shine before men. We must not be ashamed to
reflect that which separates us from the world so that others may
be drawn to the kingdom of God.
John the Baptist was a man sent by God to bear witness to the true
Light. His message was to those whose eyes were closed in darkness, so
that they would be spiritually awakened. He was not ashamed to proclaim the truth of God and be separate from the world. He was mindful
to place the focus beyond himself and remained faithful to his assignment from God.
John the Baptist lived his life as “The voice of one crying in the wilderness …” (John 1:23). He was clothed in camel’s hair and wore a leather
belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey. He was challenged by others, yet did not turn away from those seeking his message
about the coming Light. He baptized repentant sinners and through
love and obedience to God, also baptized Jesus Christ.
Jesus Christ came as the Light of the World. Those who follow Him
have the light of life. The light of life enables Christians to glorify God
through sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. In sharing the gospel, we
bring forth His best so that His gift of salvation is offered to the world.
Our message to the world is not very different from that of John the
Baptist. We must position ourselves through the light of Jesus Christ
and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19). We must encourage others to walk the narrow path of righteousness. We must not be
ashamed of our light and assignment from God. ■
“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works
and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).
A House of
Light
S
everal years ago, my
husband and I took a
vacation to the North
Carolina coast, where we visited some of the lighthouses
that have dotted the coastline for more than 100 years. I
was pregnant at the time, so I
wasn’t interested in climbing
the 200+ steps inside the lighthouse towers.
The history of the lighthouses
was fascinating. All constructed
in the 1800s, they were built to
warn the sailors in approaching
boats of the dangerous shoals
and shifting sandbars that line
the coast. At least one of the
lighthouses has been moved in
the last decade to save it from
erosion. Each lighthouse has
its own look and its own story.
Some are white with black patterns like stripes or diamonds,
one is only white, one is brown.
I imagined the lighthouse
keepers, living close by so they
could light the beacons at
night to guide boats away from
danger. Were they lonely? Did
they feel the weight of their
responsibility?
As Jesus followers, we are a
light to the world. We are to
warn people that they are approaching the deadly shoals
and shifting sands of time and
eternity. We are to let His light
shine through us like a beacon
to those who don’t know Him.
As His light bearers, we each
have our own story and our
own look. We can tell how He
rescued us from the dangerous
waters of our sin. We can tell
how He protected us from a
serious crash on the rocks of
bad decisions. We can tell how
we were drowning and He
offered us the lifeboat of His
forgiveness.
We are His lighthouses to
guide people safely Home.
Jesus said we should not hide
His light in us under a basket,
but to let it shine for all the
world to see. People are looking for the true Light, and they
will be drawn to it. Be a house
of light.
“Your light
will shine in
the darkness,
and your night
will be like
noonday”
(Isaiah 58:10).
Steps of Faith
Jesus, You are the true Light. You
have come to rescue people from
the darkness. Help us to be a
beacon for You. ■
Reprinted with permission — Tapestry, Friday, September 2, 2011
© 2011 by Walk Thru the Bible Ministries, Inc. Donna Pennell is editorial manager with
Walk Thru the Bible Ministries.
By Donna Pennell
January/February 2012
13
Pouring Salt
All Over the Earth
“It’s not what you say, it’s what you do.”
If there’s one person who knows the truth of this saying, it’s
Minister Susie Taylor of First Baptist Church of Glenarden. As a
missionary in Ghana, Minister Taylor witnessed the effect love
has on others and the meaning of salting the earth.
During her first missionary journey in Nkoranza, Ghana, from
2003-2006, Minister Taylor taught basic sewing skills to young
adult and elderly women. The majority of the women were
unmarried mothers who farmed for a living. They were eager to
learn a new skill that would help to improve their lives.
Learning was essential in an area where many females were
educated at no higher than an elementary school level. There
were signs on the road that read, “Please educate your girl child.”
The women Minister Taylor served were appreciative and considered sewing to be a valuable skill.
When Minister Taylor returned to Ghana in 2010, God instructed her to teach from James 3:1-2, on the destructiveness
of the tongue. The Holy Spirit guided her on how to present this
message to the different villages she taught each week. Minister
Taylor taught lessons on how to build someone up or tear someone down with our spoken words.
A highlight of this particular mission for Minister Taylor was
when she, along with the missionary group Christians in Action,
went door-to-door witnessing about Jesus Christ. The missionaries prayed with people regardless of their religion, with several
villagers accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
The manner in which the villagers received the missionaries
left Minister Taylor in awe. They expressed deep gratitude for
the love shown to them and were very grateful for their witness.
The villagers expressed their gratitude in this way because “they
could see the love of Christ and His love wins them,” said Minister Taylor.
“For people to receive you, you have to build relationships
first. You have to be what you say you are. When people see that
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Vision Magazine
you’re consistent, they’ll listen,” she added.
Minister Taylor saw the result of relationship building while ministering to a family. The family consisted of Christians and Muslims.
One of the women that helped Minister Taylor with her home was
a Christian, while her mother was a Muslim.
Because they spoke two different languages, the mother would
touch her leg as a signal for Minister Taylor to pray for her. “Here
were two women representing different cultures and religions, yet
our spirits connected,” said Minister Taylor. The mother respected
and was touched by Minister Taylor’s love. Even though she had
been sick, she dressed in her best clothes and used her walking stick to wave goodbye a few days before Minister Taylor left
Ghana.
Minister Taylor stated that you may not see an immediate
change in people’s lives when you minister to them. The important thing is to know that you have done what God called you to
do – that you shared His love with them.
She also added that you never know whether you will see
people again after you share Christ with them. In this case, the
daughter died six months after Minister Taylor’s mission ended
and the mother died six months after her daughter. The memory
of the bond they created and the way their spirits connected will
always stay with Minister Taylor.
“We think spreading the word is preaching, but it’s not. It’s living.
The life you live is how you preach it. When they see you living
what you’ve spoken to them, it draws them. People see someone
who’s not coming to condemn them. They see people coming in
love,” said Minister Taylor.
Even though our cultures and beliefs may be different, human
emotions of loneliness and sorrow are the same. People are hurting everywhere. However, God’s love can conquer our differences
and our pain. When we show His love to a world in need of Jesus
Christ, we, like Minister Taylor, are pouring salt all over the earth. ■
By Alesia Barron
January/February 2012
15
FBCG Global Missions
Medical Outreach
O
n Saturday, Oct.
15, 2011, First Baptist
Church of Glenarden’s Global Missions Ministry sponsored an
outreach through an In-House Medical
Mission. This medical outreach was the
first of the Global Missions Ministry’s 20112012 “Salt and Light” projects generated to
serve the needs of the total person – spiritual,
physical, emotional and social.
The In-House Medical Mission was formed as
a result of the vision of Reverend Belynda Gentry, director of First Baptist’s Global Missions
Ministry, to provide health care for First Baptist
adult members who are without health care
or have minimal health care coverage due to
loss of employment or being underemployed. It was held in the community
at the Walker Mill Health Center in Capitol
Heights, Md., and also provided free medical
services to residents of the Prince George’s
County, Md., community.
Jaki Bradley, nurse practitioner and First
Baptist member, coordinated the outreach. Additionally, Bradley conducted
research to determine how the current
economic situation has impacted the
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Vision Magazine
“I have been without medical
insurance for 10 years.
I am glad I came.”
“I will use healthy
cooking methods.”
“It was an excellent opportunity to get a physical without having to pay for it.”
“I was able to get a physical that is required
for the Prince Gorges County, Md., Police
Department’s fitness test.”
“I was pleased to receive an
understanding of body mass
index.”
“I received screening, diagnosis and
a prescription for medication.”
ability of county residents to maintain health
care coverage. She found that large numbers
are without health care due to employment
status and/or loss of health insurance. Additionally, she found that First Baptist members
are disproportionately affected, as are others
in the community.
Thereafter, the Global Missions Ministry
partnered with Kaiser Permanente, Suburban
Hospital and Greater Baden Health Care,
Inc. in an effort to provide much-needed
medical services. Greater Baden provided its
Capitol Heights facility, with ample space set
aside for the evangelists to share the gospel
and for prayer. Additionally, the medical
mission received strong support from First
Baptist’s Health and other ministries in
providing additional medical personnel and
administrative assistance.
A key component of the outreach was to
strengthen awareness of medical issues of
participants through education. Instruction
was given relating to cardiovascular issues
and nutrition. In conjunction with information
regarding mammograms and pelvic exams,
referrals were given for free mammograms
and Pap smear examinations.
Zereta Young, Global Missions Team Leader,
stated the hope that this mission would
be the first of an ongoing series of medical
outreaches. Through this first medical mission,
participants received consultations, physical
exams, blood pressure and cholesterol
screenings, mammography, cardiovascular and
dietary education resources and referrals for
additional free services.
The labor of love shown through the
medical mission team in its commitment to
this project is a true illustration of Matthew
5:16, “Let your light so shine before men, that
they may see your good works, and glorify your
Father which is in heaven.”
Young reiterated that in seeking to serve
others with unmet health care needs, the
medical mission is a true salt and light
project.
In addition to domestic mission trips, First
Baptist’s Global Missions Ministry will conduct
six additional salt and light projects. Young
states that, “Missions are everywhere and
everywhere is a mission field. There is
such a great need for missions inside
the United States. Our goal is to help
meet those needs, from medical to
dental care or job skills training. Our
By Evangeline
Covington
goal is to meet needs.” ■
January/February 2012
17
Touch
F RST
I
t is extremely important for followers of
Jesus Christ to demonstrate the proper
attitude when communicating and
interacting with others.
In an effort to consciously move this from
a widely known concept to a consistent
practice at First Baptist Church of
Glenarden, Pastor John K. Jenkins approved
a church-wide initiative called FIRST
TOUCH.
FIRST TOUCH – Faithfully Initiating
Relationships while Serving The masses
by Touching Others with the Utmost
Christ-like Hospitality – is an initiative
that impacts how service is provided to
members and visitors of First Baptist.
“To provide the ultimate service
experience,” is the mission of FIRST TOUCH.
“It is designed to prepare our leaders
at all levels, staff and ministry volunteers,
to serve and exude Christ in attitude and
actions,” said Deacon Stanley Featherstone,
who serves as the church administrator
at First Baptist.
The planning of FIRST TOUCH involved
First Lady Trina Jenkins, Reverend Esther
Gordon, Minister Willie Jolley, Deacon
By Tyrone A. Guiden
Stanley Featherstone, Deaconess Thelma
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Vision Magazine
Hagood, and FIRST TOUCH Coordinator
Fred Johnson.
Major components of FIRST TOUCH
involve hospitality and communication.
“Hospitality starts with understanding
what it takes to be a good servant who
anticipates needs. Philippians 2:3 and
Romans 12:10, tells us to develop an
attitude of service by always esteeming
others more highly than yourself,” said First
Lady Jenkins.
“Effective communication means giving
the right message, to the right person, at
the right time, in the right tone. Colossians
4:6 tells us that our speech should always
be with grace; that you may know how you
ought to answer each one,” said Deaconess
Hagood.
“Every encounter with a person is an
opportunity to create an atmosphere that
facilitates a positive experience in ministry
and worship,” said Johnson.
Johnson also added that, “It is important
that we all have the right attitude; to smile,
be willing to apologize and to do what may
not be comfortable, but necessary.”
Contact FIRST TOUCH through Fred
Johnson at 301-773-3600. ■
Couples Connecting: 8@8
(left to right) Ray and Wanda Chestnut, Mark and Amie Macklin, Terrance and Connie Gorum,
Michael and Tiffany Williams.
What is 8@8?
It is couples getting together for fun and fellowship
at 8 p.m. on a Friday or Saturday evening.
Ministers Skip and Beverly Little, directors of the
Couples Ministry, seek to foster relationship building
among couples. As First Baptist Church of Glenarden
continues to grow, establishing meaningful and lasting relationships becomes more important. This is
particularly true for married couples whose lives are
often dominated by responsibilities and obligations.
The marriage itself is routinely neglected.
The ministry’s 8@8 provides a vehicle for breathing life and energy into marriages through fellowship
with other couples. Through 8@8 gatherings, couples
have shared everything from dinner to a trip to King’s
Dominion. Relationships have been forged and lasting bonds have been made. More importantly, marriages have been strengthened as couples share time
and experiences with one another and with other
couples.
On Saturday, Oct. 15, 2011, the Couples Ministry
sponsored its very first ministry-wide 8@8 event.
Based on the popular reality television show, couples
participated in “An Amazing Race.” Teams were comprised of any 8@8 groups that wanted to participate.
With the Ministry Center as the starting point, they
were given clues that led them to various points of
interest in Washington, D.C.
At approximately 6 p.m., the race began as 15
teams set out to be the first to make it to the final location. As they arrived at each site, they were greeted
by a member of the couple’s core team, who took
their picture and provided them with the next clue.
Words cannot describe the fun that was had by all,
as teams communicated and strategized their way
from place to place. One team even wore matching tshirts. The fun of the game spilled on to the streets as
on-lookers laughed along with us. One father sent his
5-year-old daughter to ask what church we attended.
Then he attempted to figure out our clues. It proved
to be a great witnessing tool as well as a source of
laughter and excitement. The teams competed as if
they were winning $1 million. And although there
were no cash prizes, the memories created were priceless.
The Couples Ministry would love to
have you join us every second Saturday
of the month at 7 p.m. at the Ministry
By Minister Cheryl
Steplight
Center. ■
January/February 2012
19
Deacon Jesse & Deaconess Brenda
Anderson
Shining Their Light on Others
Little did
Deacon
Jesse and
Deaconess
Brenda
Anderson
know when
they met at
Hampton
University’s
1972
Homecoming
Dance, that
God had
begun a
marvelous
work in
them.
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Vision Magazine
Two years later, the Virginia natives were married. Their 37 years of marriage produced three daughters; Kristina (deceased), Brandy and Brittany; and grandson,
Demarco. They were blessed with decades of reasons to praise the Lord for His
grace and mercy during good and bad times. There have been countless opportunities to mentor, witness and serve others using the Word of God and their life
experiences to light a path for others.
Deacon Anderson grew up in the segregated southern town of Portsmouth, Va.,
during a time of limited opportunity, dark days and survival mode conditions. As
ministered through a gospel song, Deacon Anderson says, “Sometimes I had to
encourage myself; I had to believe in my ability to become someone.” Fortunately,
he says, “I had a praying grandmother and my wife is a living angel.” Deacon
Anderson recalls joining his grandmother’s church on Mother’s Day in 1971, after
a night of partying. When he attempted to sign the
new member documents, his hands began to shake
violently, as if Satan was trying to keep him from giving his life to the Lord.
Deaconess Anderson grew up in Newport News,
Va., in a close-knit, church-going family. She attended
Norfolk State University for two years and enjoyed
her entire professional career, from which she has
retired, at C&P Telephone, Bell Atlantic and Verizon.
By 1980, the Andersons relocated to Maryland
where they raised their family, worked and managed
their household. They visited churches in the area,
but had not selected a permanent church home.
They had more than a few struggles in their marriage,
but the Lord saw them through each one. At a First
Baptist Church of Glenarden married couples retreat,
they spoke and said they consider their marriage to
be a gift from God, and agree that, “God gives not to
the swift or strong, but to them that endureth to the
end.”
In 1993, Deacon Anderson was introduced to First
Baptist as he pursued employment as a limousine
driver. The interviewer invited him to visit First Baptist. As a result, two things happened – he rededicated his life to Christ at First Baptist, and he got the job
as a limousine driver. He often had the opportunity
to drive Pastor John K. Jenkins Sr., visiting pastors
and guests, and recalls “feeling the Holy Spirit in and
around the vehicle.” He says, “When I first came to
First Baptist, I experienced the movement of God and
it hasn’t stopped yet! God is always present and He
draws hearts to Him. Pastor Jenkins follows the mandate that God has placed on him to lead the body of
believers. I see God working through Him.”
Deaconess Anderson joined First Baptist five
months after her husband, in 1994. It was revival
night, but she and her sister had plans to attend a
secular concert. Deacon Anderson told her that something was telling him that she should skip the concert
and come to the revival. He left to drive the guest
preacher, Evangelist Tim Storey, to the revival. As he
enjoyed the awesome word of the night, he glanced
over and saw both his wife and her sister entering the
sanctuary. During the service, Evangelist Storey called
Deaconess Anderson to the front, laid hands on her,
and she fell out, filled with the Holy Spirit. That very
night she rededicated her life to Christ.
The Andersons became immediately involved in
the ministry of First Baptist. They received numerous
awards and recognition, including being named 2010
Volunteers of the Year for the Couples Ministry. They
served as assistant directors for the Couples Ministry
for seven years and are trained mentors for married
couples.
The Andersons are passionate about their service
because they have so much to share. Their marital
journey has gone from struggling to a beautifully
blessed union, which allows them to help others in
their marriages. Deaconess Anderson says, “I mentor
women at all times of the day and night, and in all
kinds of situations. I often lead them to my favorite
Scripture, Psalm 34, and it helps them through their
situations and gives them peace.”
The Andersons became deacon and deaconess in
2006. They have been faithful servants in several ministries, including the Men’s Ministry, Brothers in Discipleship, Men’s Choir, Drama Ministry and Transportation Ministry for Deacon Anderson. His lovely wife
has been involved in Women’s Ministry, Girl Scouts
Ministry, Sisters in Discipleship and Women’s Ministry
(Focus Group facilitator) and 2 nd vice president of the
Deaconess Ministry. Together they have served in the
Couples Ministry, Mind to Build Hospitality Committee and facilitated Bible Institute classes.
Deacon Anderson says, “Becoming a deacon is one
of my life’s greatest accomplishments. I have peace
that surpasses all understanding.” His favorite Scripture guides his actions and life goals. It is 1 John 2:17,
which says “And the world is passing away, and the lust
of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever.”
Although Deacon Anderson still works full-time, he
and Deaconess Anderson love spending time together talking, taking road trips, listening
to gospel music, dancing and helping
others. They are best friends with a pattern of togetherness, whose experiences
bring forth the Word of God and shines
By Kim Rhim
their light on others. ■
January/February 2012
21
God’s Favor
“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called
according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28).
Each time I hear a sermon on giving, receiving and
God’s favor, I think of my blessings in 2007.
I needed a month off from work and spent time
in the presence of God about it. I was led to apply
for another job and was hired. When I informed the
management team that I was leaving for a new job,
they presented an offer to encourage me to stay with
the company.
I again spent time in the presence of God so that
I would make the right decision. I really needed a
month off from work and was unsure about what to
do.
In the meantime, I received a call from another
employer who informed me that she had sent five
job announcements via email, and wanted to know if
I was interested in any of them.
I asked, “Lord, what is going on with all
of these offers at the same time? I just
need a month off from work, and I can
only work one full-time job at a time.”
Proverbs 3:5-6 ministered to me durBy Janet Walton
ing this time; “Trust in the LORD with all
22
Vision Magazine
your heart, and lean not on your own understanding;
In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct
your paths.”
I was glad that my husband witnessed it all,
because it would have been difficult to believe
that I had seven jobs offers at one time. In the end,
I accepted the offer to stay with the company I
planned to leave. I received a raise larger than the
one offered for the new job, a retention bonus and a
month off!
I reflected on all that had happened and realized
that God blessed me to receive so that I could give. I
received a raise and retention bonus, gave a special
offering to the church, and purchased a much needed new car for my mother – which I had been praying for – and received a needed month off from work.
I believe that all I received in excess of the month
off was God’s special favor. God’s timing is intentional and His blessings are purposeful – to help us, so
that we may help others.
All honor and glory belongs to God, for only He can
reveal His favor in such a way! ■
Photo Credit: Greg Dohler, “The Gazette”
Kim
Rhim
The Training Source
“I never intended to do this. The Lord called me to start The Training Source and I eventually
realized it to be my purpose; what I am supposed to be doing,” said Kim Rhim.
Rhim is the founder of The Training Source, a non-profit organization in Prince George’s
County, Md., that provides employment training and placement assistance, a professional
clothing closet for job seekers, a three-year youth leadership program for high school students, training for young adults in special education, self-improvement workshops for homeless families, food stamps and energy assistance – at no charge to participants.
Rhim shared the story of 100,000 people being laid off at her place of employment in 1993
and the devastation that followed. This awakened a passion within her to provide assistance
and solutions for the unemployed.
Rhim acknowledges her organization is based on faith. In the beginning, she had no business plan or budget. God gave her the vision, and then supplied provision. “It’s a ministry,”
said Rhim.
Rhim recognizes First Baptist Church of Glenarden member, Dion Gray. Gray sustained an injury on his job and didn’t know what to do. He came to The Training Source, was very committed and did all the right things. As a result, Gray is now employed as a community organizer.
“Dion has become a go-to source for entrepreneurs, highly respected community officials and
citizens in Prince George’s County, Md. That’s a success story,” said Rhim.
Rhim shares that First Baptist has given notable contributions, with one being the donation
of 175 pairs of shoes by its Sisters for Your Journey Ministry.
The Training Source recently celebrated its 18 th anniversary and was honored as the 2011
Employer of the Year by SHABACH! Ministries, Inc. The organization was also honored as a
2011 Bridge Builder for Prince George’s County, Md.
As for what’s in store for the next phase of the organization’s journey, Rhim says, “God’s
favor is going to shine upon us. It’s not about Kim Rhim – it’s about doing what the Lord
has purposed in my life through obedience and passion.”
As a result of family obedience to God, she and her husband were able to send their
two children to college and after 27 years of marriage, the couple still enjoys date
nights.
By Pyper R. Harvey
Rhim concludes, “God works out every area in our lives when we are obedient.” ■
January/February 2012
23
Congratulations
2011
Kaiser Thrive
Medical Award
Recipient
Team Award for the
Capitol Hill Medical Center Project;
planning, development
and design.
Jaki Bradley
First Baptist Church of Glenarden Member
Team Award for the
Community Ambassador
Program; establishing patient
care in neighborhood-based
clinics.
T
hose of us who “grew up in church,” may
remember youth conferences and youth
retreats. We may also think back to times
of being with our parents or grandparents and
hearing songs by gospel greats like Reverend
James Cleveland or Shirley Ceasar playing
throughout the house. These memories bring
to mind wonderful times and the events helped
to increase our spiritual growth through Jesus
Christ.
As we have our events and memories, so do
today’s youth. Their memories may be created
through youth conferences, youth retreats,
Lecrae or Vertical Band. As each generation
evolves, so does the delivery of the Word of God,
and MERGE brings the Word of God to youth in
an exciting and uplifting way.
MERGE is the coming together of First Baptist
Church of Glenarden and Zion Church. It is a
praise and worship service that brings youth
together to experience the presence of God in
a way that encourages, inspires and promotes
spiritual growth through Jesus Christ.
MERGE is held on the first Friday of every
month. At MERGE, thousands of middle school,
high school and college aged youth come
together to worship God in a high-impact
and creative way. On the second, third and
fourth Fridays, a more intimate Connect Group
experience takes place. During Connect Groups,
youth are placed into groups by age and gender
with a team leader. Each group meets to discuss
the message and personal issues through
biblical application and to develop relationships
with other young Christians. Each MERGE
experience is engaging and unique.
When Vertical Band begins praise and worship,
the walls in the sanctuary are illuminated with
colorful lights and three screens reflect vivid
designs as the lyric “greatest of all” rings through
the air. Youth are gathered in a circle with hands
raised, praising God. A youth inside the circle
dances unto the Lord while wearing a smile, or
with tears streaming down his or her face.
Eventually, the music slows and there is a
unified movement of hands raised, heads lifted
and voices singing praises to God. The night’s
message may also include a skit, drama and
Scripture broken down to its core for greater
understanding. After the message, youth are
often seen embracing one another, praying
together or being called to accept Jesus Christ
as Lord and Savior in their lives.
MERGE began six months ago and has already
become one of the largest youth ministries
in the United States. With over 2,000 youth
attending services and over half of that number
participating in Connect Groups, youth in the
Maryland, Virginia and Washington D.C., area are
showing an increased desire to learn and grow
in the Lord. Many display it by their dog tag
necklaces that read “Committed to Jesus Christ,”
and their positive attitudes and open minds. As
one youth said, “Now I believe how much I need
Jesus!”
The first MERGE for 2012 will be held
on Feb. 10. The service starts at 8:30
p.m. and doors open at 7:30 p.m. for
registration. For additional information,
By Adrienne
Whitehead
visit http://mergedmv.com. ■
January/February 2012
25
FBCG 2011
T
he Leadership Appreciation Awards Ceremony is First Baptist Church of Glenarden’s way of showing appreciation to
its volunteer leaders. The Dec. 2, 2011, ceremony
provided an opportunity for each ministry leader
to recognize a ministry member that has excelled
in service during the year. First Baptist also recognized an outstanding leader nominated by ministry
members according to established criteria.
It was a star-studded evening with legendary gospel
singer Vicki Winans serving as one of the guest hosts! There
was great excitement in the air from the awardees, their
families and guests. Awards were presented for the following categories:
•
•
•
•
Rebecca Holley, Outstanding Ministry Leader of the Year
26
Vision Magazine
Ministry Volunteers of the Year
Departmental Volunteers of the Year
Outstanding Departmental Volunteer of the Year
Outstanding Ministry Leader of the Year
The recipients of the Ministry Volunteers of the Year and
the Departmental Volunteers of the Year awards are notified prior to the ceremony that they will be honored. The
Outstanding Departmental Volunteer of the Year and the
Outstanding Ministry Leader of the Year are not announced
until the ceremony!
The highest award of the evening is the Outstanding
Ministry Leader of the Year. This year’s recipient was Rebecca
Holley.
Holley is the coordinator for the Girl Scouts Ministry at
First Baptist. She has been involved in leadership of the ministry for 15 years, first as the assistant coordinator for three
years and now as coordinator for the past 12 years.
As coordinator of the Girl Scouts Ministry, Holley is dedicated to empowering ministry leaders in developing young
girls to their full potential. She has united and transformed
the ministry into an accepting and nurturing environment,
where girls can build leadership skills, strong godly values,
social conscience and conviction about their potential and
self-worth that will provide for success in the world.
When Holley assumed her position in the Girl
Scouts Ministry, the Girl Scouts Gold Award was not
listed as an accomplishment for the older scouts. The
Gold Award is the highest award that can be earned
by a senior or ambassador scout. As a result of Holley’s compassion and encouraging determination, a
total of 35 girls from the First Baptist troop have now
earned the Gold Award.
In 2011, under Holley’s watch, First Baptist scouts
earned eight Girl Scout Gold Awards and 12 Girl
Scout Silver Awards. Both awards are based on helping anyone who is not a part of the Girl Scout community. First Baptist scouts are learning to make the
world a better place at a young age. They are becoming leaders now, which in turn will make them better
leaders when they are adults.
Holley is steadfast and loyal to the Girl Scouts
Ministry and opens up her personal time, home and
life to anyone who may need help. She has been extremely helpful in the Girl Scout community on First
Baptist’s council and the Girl Scout Council of the
Nation’s Capital. She has been an Older Girl Specialist
for Service Unit 22-2, which is a part of the council of
the nation’s capital and is frequently called upon for
ideas to lead the older girls.
While the Gold Award is the end result for girl
scouts, Holley believes in starting at the beginning
with the Daisy Girl Scouts; kindergarten and first
grade. They are taught that even as Daisy Scouts
they can accomplish anything and help anyone.
With the Girl Scout leaders, Holley reaches out to
form a sisterhood of unity. The ministry stands tall
in reaching out to one another and First Baptist’s
surrounding communities. She is instrumental in
outreach activities for the ministry, such as providing
dinner for women’s shelters, helping with national
walks and providing clothes for the needy. She encourages troop leaders to step out of their comfort
zone in providing additional outreach opportunities
for the girls.
One of the ministry’s recent outreaches was the
“Day of Service,” which was formally known as
“Homeless Day.” At 6:30 a.m. on a Saturday morning,
the senior troop arrived at the Calvary Women’s
Shelter in Washington, D.C. The troop provided a hot
breakfast for the women residing at the shelter and
took over duties normally performed by its residents.
After the duties were completed, the scouts talked
with the residents and discussed issues such as
how the women became homeless and the fact that
there are rules and regulations even when one is
homeless.
After completing outreach time at the shelter, the
scouts spent the next 4 to 5 hours participating in an
exercise that gave a first-hand experience on what it
is like to be homeless. Their cell phones were taken
away and they had approximately $8 for the day to
be used for food, transportation within the city and
to get back to the New Carrollton Metro Station. If
one person did not have enough money to complete
a task, such as riding a bus, then the whole group
had to walk unless they found a way to get that person on a bus.
This created accountability among the girls. Besides getting to the New Carrollton Metro Station,
the scouts had to also make arrangements to get to
the Sasha Bruce Alternative Teen Home in Washington, D.C. At the Sasha Bruce home, the scouts talked
with teen residents and their counselors. Through
this experience, many of the girls expressed gratitude for how good things are at their respective
homes, with parents acknowledging
their daughter’s appreciation for providing them a loving home.
Congratulations Rebecca Holley!
Thank you for being a dynamic disciple
By Reverend
Belynda Gentry
of Jesus Christ! ■
January/February 2012
27
Ambassador
Suzan Johnson Cook
A Woman of Many Firsts &
Still Blazing Paths
O
n May 16, 2011, Secretary of State Hillary
Rodham Clinton presided over the swearing-in of First Baptist Church of Glenarden’s
newest member, Ambassador at-Large for International Religious Freedom, Dr. Suzan Johnson Cook,
while her sons Samuel and Christopher admiringly
looked on. For many years, Ambassador Johnson
Cook, who is a woman of many firsts, has been blazing a path for women to follow.
In this new role, she is the first woman and first
African-American to serve as chief spokesperson
for religious freedom at the U.S. State Department.
Ambassador Johnson Cook has a significant role in
implementing President Barack Obama’s policies
throughout the world, serving as a personal advisor
to him and Secretary Rodham Clinton. Ambassador
Johnson Cook heads the Office of International Religious Freedom in the Bureau of Democracy, Human
Rights and Labor. Within her first six months on the
job, Ambassador Johnson Cook traveled to Geneva,
Switzerland; Rome, Italy; Morocco, Istanbul, Turkey,
and Nigeria.
Among the many firsts for Ambassador Johnson
Cook’s distinguished career, includes being the
first woman elected president of Hampton University Ministers Conference in 2002. The conference
represents all historical African-American denominations and has approximately 10,000 attendees.
From 1983-1996, she was the first African-American
senior pastor elected in the 200-year history of the
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Vision Magazine
American Baptist Churches USA, serving at Mariners
Temple Baptist Church in lower Manhattan, N.Y.
During this period Ambassador Johnson Cook was a
professor at the New York Theological Seminary. She
is also the only woman to have served as chaplain
for the New York Police Department, a position
she held for 21 years, where she began the famous
standing room only lunchtime worship services.
In 1993, Ambassador Johnson Cook served as a
White House Fellow on the Domestic Policy Council
in President William Clinton’s administration, advising him on a range of issues including homelessness, violence and community empowerment. She
also worked with the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development on
faith-based initiatives from 1994 until 1997. In 1996,
she founded the Bronx Christian Fellowship Baptist
Church. President Clinton appointed her in 1997 to
serve on his National Initiative on Race as his only
faith advisor. Ambassador Johnson Cook served as
senior pastor and CEO at the Believers Christian
Fellowship in New York City before retiring in 2010
after 30 years of pastoral ministry.
Ambassador Johnson Cook was the founder and
president of Wisdom Women Worldwide Center and
the owner of Charisma Speakers. She has convened
women’s conferences from California to Florida,
where she encouraged women to soar in their
God-given gifts. In addition, she has written and
edited an array of books that focus on empower-
(left to right) Ambassador Suzan Johnson
Cook, Samuel Cook, Christopher Cook,
Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton
and State Department staff member.
ing women: “Sister to Sister: Devotions for and from
African-American Women; Too Blessed to Be Stressed
Words of Wisdom for Women on the Move; Live Like
You’re Blessed: Simple Steps for Making Balance,
Love, Energy, Spirit, Success, Encouragement, and
Devotion Part of Your Life; Rules for Women in Ministry” and her latest book, “Moving Up: Dr. Sujay’s Ten
Steps to Turning Your Life Around and Getting to the
Top!”
Ambassador Johnson Cook’s deceased mother,
Dorothy Johnson, knew that her daughter was destined for great things. She prepared young Suzan
by encouraging her to study hard and aim high. A
woman of impeccable taste in clothing, Johnson led
by example and made sure her daughter knew how
to make an entrance into a room. She ensured that
her daughter was primed and ready to mingle with
the African-American intellectuals of Harlem, N.Y., as
well as the establishment of her spiritual life. Young
Ambassador Cook was never at a loss for words
as both her mother and father, the late William
Johnson, who was also one of the first black business owners in New York City, entertained weekend
guests from many different cultures and social levels. Their home was the gathering place and during
this time Ambassador Johnson Cook learned her
social skills. Through her celebrated career, we can
see that she did not disappoint her mother.
Ambassador Johnson Cook received her Bachelor of Science in Speech from Emerson College in
Boston in 1976, and a Master of Arts from Teachers College, Columbia University in New York City
in 1978. She completed a Master of Divinity from
Union Theological Seminary in New York and Doctorate of Ministry from United Theological Seminary
in Dayton, Ohio in 1983 and 1990, respectively. She
was the recipient of the President’s Administrative
Fellowship at Harvard University, where she served
as associate dean and later as professor. One of the
unique aspects of Ambassador Johnson Cook’s life,
is that she has always reached back to bring other
sisters along on her journey. She has mentored
hundreds of women in ministry, as well as corporate
and political matters. Through the years, her passion
for empowering women required personal sacrifices
of time and resources that have contributed to their
success.
In all of her “firsts,” Ambassador Johnson Cook
has excelled beyond expectations because of her
unwavering commitment to excellence and more
importantly the favor of God. Therefore, she has left
doors open for other women to follow in her footsteps. We at First Baptist welcome her with open
arms and cannot wait to see what new paths she will
blaze in the future.
Ambassador Johnson Cook’s book,
“Becoming a Woman of Destiny: Turning Life’s Trials into Triumphs!” is available through the Media Center at First
Baptist. ■
By Reverend
Gloria Miller
January/February 2012
29
Benjamin Banneker
“Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your
Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).
V
By Bianca Holman
30
ery rarely do history books
mention African-American
scientists and mathematicians,
even though they made significant
contributions in their fields of study. Many
are familiar with Benjamin Banneker;
however, very few know of his importance
in the field of mathematics and science.
Banneker was born in Ellicott City, Md.
He was fortunate enough to meet and
befriend Peter Heinrichs, a Quaker farmer
who founded a school. Heinrichs taught
Banneker and shared his own personal
library with him. Banneker was a quick and
skilled learner. In 1753, the young man
borrowed a pocket watch from a wealthy
neighbor, took it apart and made a drawing
of each component. He then reassembled
the watch and returned it fully functioning
to its owner. From his drawings, Banneker
carved replicas of each part of the watch
out of wood. He constructed a working
wooden clock that kept accurate time
and struck the hours for over 50 years.
During his early adult life, Banneker
began a formal study of astronomy and
Vision Magazine
surveying federal land with Major Andrew
Ellicott. The land Banneker surveyed is
now our nation’s capital, the District of
Columbia. While living in Ellicott City,
Banneker created a six-year series of
almanacs about astronomical calculations
that predicted solar and lunar eclipses. The
almanacs were printed and sold in several
cities and states along the east coast.
Banneker’s works include rising and setting
times of the sun and moon, weather
forecasts, tide tables for the Chesapeake
Bay and home treatments for illnesses.
Today there are several parks and
schools named after Banneker, which still
allow his memory to live on. Banneker’s
life is inspirational. Despite the popular
prejudices of his time, he did not let his
race or age hinder his desire for intellectual
growth. Just as Banneker used his talents
to advance the fields of science and
mathematics, Christians must use their
talents to uplift the kingdom of God.
“As each one has received a gift, minister
it to one another, as good stewards of the
manifold grace of God” (1Peter 4:10). ■
First Baptist Church of Glenarden
2012 Global Focus
The Global Missions Ministry
advancing the kingdom of God by
Vision: Globally
spreading the love and gospel of Jesus Christ.
globally, winning souls and equipping the
mission: Going
saints and meeting spiritual and temporal needs.
DOMESTIC MISSIONS
• Washington, DC — April 2-5, 2012
Team Leader: Sylvia Johnson
• New Orleans, LA — April 28-May 4, 2012
Team Leader: Shana Payne
• McDowell, WV — Aug. 11-17, 2012
Team Leader: Priscilla Lewis
FOREIGN MISSIONS
• Ukraine — July 11-23, 2012
Team Leader: Reverend Belynda Gentry
All Core Training sessions are held at the Ministry Center, 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Contact us at: [email protected].
Go and make disciples for the glory of God.
“Courageous” is a call to action for men to
fulfill their place as spiritual leaders in their
homes. The movie follows five law enforcement officers – Adam, Nathan, Chayne, David,
Javi and an unexpected friend.
All five men, according to the world’s standards, are successful. However, they face challenges of fatherhood that test their maturity
and level of responsibility.
The story is frank and does not stray away
from tough topics such as crimes committed by males raised by a single parent, and
the effects of divorce and absent fathers on
children.
The five friends believe that because they
are providing and consistently giving their
best on the job, that they are “good enough”
by worldly standards. Adam begins to question his abilities as a father and realizes
that “good enough” shouldn’t be accepted.
Tragedy strikes each of the five friends,
testing their faith. When the men are
By Bianca Holman
forced to their knees, they realize they
32
Vision Magazine
are in the perfect position to pray. As Adam
overcomes his family’s tragedy, he seeks
counsel from his pastor and concludes that
now more than ever he must not take his
position as a father lightly. “…one who rules
his own house well, having his children in
submission with all reverence (for if a man does
not know how to rule his own house, how will
he take care of the church of God?)” (1 Timothy
3:4-5).
Adam takes a fatherhood pledge with his
friends to be the father that Christ intended.
With their public declaration, the enemy tries
harder than ever to make them stumble.
“Courageous” is an action-packed, heart
touching and inspirational story that ministers the word of God to its audience. You will
find yourself laughing, crying, cheering and
praying with these five memorable friends.
Every husband, boyfriend, father, father-to-be,
uncle, brother, cousin, co-worker and coach
should see this film!
“But as for me and my house, we will serve the
LORD” (Joshua 24:15). ■

T
he Bible says, “Make a joyful
shout to God, all the earth!
Sing out the honor of His
name; Make His praise glorious” (Psalm 66: 1-2). Tonya Baker’s “The
Live Encounter” CD puts us in a posture
to do just that.
When we make God’s praise glorious,
He will dwell in our midst. On this CD,
Baker makes it clear that she came
to praise the Lord. Her first song “I
Came to Praise” is a refreshing rendition of praise unto God because of
how good He has been to us. Baker
then encourages us to let our praise
“Shine Forth,” – “like the light of a
new day in spite of life’s darkness
and disparity.”
In “Nothing Compares” Baker
honors God by telling Him that nothing can separate
her from His love and there is nothing that compares to Him. The soul stirring
“Let Your Glory Fill This House” worshipfully asks the Lord to provide us with His presence and His power; for we can do nothing without the Lord’s power in our lives.
The song, “This is How We Love” is an encouraging and moving reminder that we display the love of Christ by helping others and meeting their needs. The sweet sounding
“I’ll Sing Forever” proclaims that God has freely given to us and we will rejoice, sing,
shout and praise Him forever.
Singing along in praise and worship with the melodic “Give Thanks” to God for His
faithfulness and love that endures forever, takes the focus off of self and puts it on
to Jesus. I have learned that the more God blesses me, the more I need Him. I was
reminded of this while listening to the bold declaration of Jesus’ life changing gift of
salvation through the song “I Won’t Forget.”
After we remember what the Lord has done for us on the cross, we are persuaded
to “Shout to God” with the voice of victory; declaring His Kingship and Glory. In her
closing song, “Kingdom Advancement,” Baker admonishes, “from the days of John the
Baptist until now the Kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by
force” (Matthew 11:12).
Baker passionately confronts us to not back down from the violent spirit that
comes to kill, steal and destroy. Instead, as God’s agents on earth we must stand
on the Rock of our salvation, who is Jesus Christ our Lord, to defeat the tricks of
the enemy.
By Rebecca Ramos
Tonya Baker’s “Live Encounter” CD is clearly one with our risen Lord. ■

January/February 2012
33
Light
in the Lord
Light illuminates and brings vision to the unseen. Darkness hides and conceals the splendor of light.
Imagine entering a room where God has stored your blessings and finding the room to
be completely dark. How wonderful that we would never find that to be so, because God
is light and Jesus Christ is the Light of the World.
Jesus Christ was sent forth as light, so that whoever follows Him shall not be in darkness, but have the light of life. As followers of Jesus Christ, we receive light through the
Word of God. The Word of God illuminates our path and reveals direction, leading us into
His service.
God desires that our service shine before men for His honor and glory. We are light in
darkness and must not be hidden from the world. We are a brilliant city!
“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they
light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are
in the house” (Matthew 5:14-15). ■
By Michele Renee
Woodfork
34
Vision Magazine
Prayer
and Meditation
It may sometimes be difficult to deal with the complicated issues of life. That’s why daily
prayer and meditation are necessary to stay connected to God, so that He may direct our
steps.
Set aside time for prayer and meditation in a comfortable atmosphere. Rejoice in and
thank the Lord for His presence. Acknowledge the sacrifice of our Lord and Savior, Jesus
Christ. Meditate on the Word of God in order to refresh and renew your spirit. God will refresh and restore through His love, peace and power.
Philippians 4:8 says, “… whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever
things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are
of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy — meditate on
these things.”
Be refreshed and connected through prayer and meditating on the things of God. ■
By Patricia
Clark-Jackson
January/February 2012
35
M o v i n g Fo
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January/February 2012
37
Member record
FBCG members:
We need you!
Help us go green with our membership records database.
To help us stay in touch with you, please review, validate and update your
membership information online:
n Visit
the church Web site at www.fbcglenarden.org and click
on the membership update image
on the home page.
n You
may also access your information at
www.fbcglenarden.org/membership-record-update/.
PLEASE NOTE!
you do not have an email address already in the FBCG membership
database, please contact us at [email protected]
(include your name, email and date of birth).
n If
n If
you do not have an email address, please call the
church at 301-773-3600, x 434.
n Your
information will not be shared with any third party entities.
First Baptist Church of Glenarden
Online Giving
We have established the ability for you to make a financial contribution online.
This provides a convenient way to give once or on a regular basis. E-Giving
provides you with the capability to:
Establish and maintain your personal user name and password.
● Make debit card transactions.
● View and edit your member profile.
● View your transactions and their status.
●
In addition to the above features, all E-Giving transactions are secure.
To establish or access your E-Giving account, please go to our Web site at
www.fbcglenarden.org.
38
Vision Magazine
Upcoming Events
March/April 2012
Family Life Ministries Day
Resurrection Day Services
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Worship Center
6 a.m., 8 a.m., 10 a.m., noon
Ministry Center
6:30 p.m.
Women’s Retreat
Wednesday, March 14 Friday, March 16, 2012
Cambridge, MD
Men’s Conference
Education and Training
Ministries Day
Saturday, April 14, 2012
Worship Center
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Men’s Day
Good Friday Service
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Friday, April 6, 2012
Ministry Center
7:30 p.m.
January/February 2012
39
First Baptist Church of Glenarden
is a progressive ministry with a strong emphasis
on relevant biblical teaching and preaching the
Word of God. Under the leadership of Pastor
John K. Jenkins Sr., God has steadily increased
the church membership from 500 to more
than 20,000. An average of 10,000 people
attend weekly Sunday services. Pastor Jenkins
and his devoted wife, First Lady Trina Jenkins,
have dedicated their lives to winning the
lost and developing dynamic disciples
to impact the lives of people in our
community and throughout the
world.”
Worship the Lord with us!
Sunday Worship
ON SMARTPHONES & iPADS
Worship Center
8 a.m., 10 a.m. and noon services
are held at the Worship Center.
View live services on your computer,
Smartphone or iPad:
Worship Center: www.fbcglive.com
Ministry Center: www.fbcglive.com/mc
600 Watkins Park Drive
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
Praise and Worship begins 15
minutes prior to the start of the
8 a.m. and 10 a.m. services only.
on the web
6:30 p.m. service is held at the
Ministry Center, except on the 4th
Sunday (Communion service)
and special events as noted.
Live Worship Services Broadcasts:
Sundays at 8 a.m., 10 a.m., noon
and 6:30 p.m.
Bible Study on Tuesdays, 7 p.m.
24-Hour Television and Video on Demand
bible study
on radio
Tuesdays at 7 p.m. at the Worship
Center and Wednesdays at
noon at the Ministry Center.
Saturdays
WPRS Praise 104.1 FM - 9:30 a.m.
WAVA 105.1 FM - 10:30 a.m.
ministry Center
3600 Brightseat Road
Landover, MD 20785
Phone: 301-773-3600
www.fbcglenarden.org
E-mail: [email protected]
ISSN 2164-7720 (print)