Newsletter - Word Alive Church International
Transcription
Newsletter - Word Alive Church International
January 1, 2015 Volume 1, Issue 2 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 (NKJV) A Year of MANIFESTATION Inside this issue: WACI Anniversary: Celebrates 20 Years 3 Lady Jan Honored 6 Ministry in Motion: Marriage Ministry 9 Ministry in Motion: WACI Minstrels 10 Ministry in Motion: MEGA Love 11 Word Alive Reflects on 20 Years of Ministry Page 2 Word Alive Church International—Synergy Newsletter WACI Anniversary: The Celebration Continues 1994 - 2014 Word Alive Church International—Synergy Newsletter Page 3 I n case you did not know, WACI celebrated 20 years in God’s service! The capstone of the year-long celebration was the Anniversary Gala held on September 19th at the lovely Westfield’s Marriott in Chantilly, VA. Dressed in their finest, Word Alive Covenant Partners, family, friends, and guests were blessed by an evening of elegant dining filled with prayer, music, worshipful arts, and an invocative word. Elder Delgie Jones, Sr. served as Master of Ceremonies, while special musical guest Minister Merlon Devine led a provocative worship experience with his original, melodic compositions from his tenor saxophone. The featured guest was none other than the International Presiding Bishop of Full Gospel Baptist Fellowship International, Bishop Paul S. Morton, Sr. who delivered a powerful message to encourage the people of God to not settle for being average. Said Bishop Morton, “Mediocrity is a region bound by compromise, indecision, past thinking, tradition…You can’t sit under [an] anointing and be average.” Bishop Morton then blessed the audience in song with a powerful rendition of “Something About the Name Jesus.” Bishop Cherry’s parents, Reverend James L. Cherry, Sr. and Lady Eunice Cherry also offered congratulatory remarks. Finally, Bishop Cherry and Lady Jan closed the gala with words of gratitude and appreciation for all attendees. “We felt so special. Our Covenant Partners worked so hard. They are outstanding God spirits,” said Lady Jan about the Gala. The anniversary weekend appropriately concluded on September 21st during the 11AM and 5PM Super Sunday services. The 11AM service was a praise and worship celebration, with prayers and presentations from the Word Alive Mass Choir, Worshipful Arts - including the Youth Dance Ministry and The Church Ladies. The 5PM service was graced by spoken Word from Bishop Eugene V. Reeves of The Life Church in Woodbridge, VA. Pictured clockwise: Minister Merlon Devine (photo credit-http://onemagusa.com/); Bishop Paul S. Morton (photo credit-GG Flowers Photography); Bishop Eugene V. Reeves (photo credit-New Life Anointed Ministries Inc.) Word Alive Church International—Synergy Newsletter Page 4 THE MANIFESTATION THROUGH HISTORY: In 1996, WACI becomes affiliated with the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship International. 1994 1996 Ambassador Square Ben Lomond Community Center VFW Post On May 1, 1994 the first Word Alive service was held at The Ben Lomond Community Center, fondly referred to as “The Barn” in Manassas, VA. The church rented space in the facility’s ballet room on the 2nd floor, at a cost of $25 per hour. Lady Jan Cherry recalls, “We got up early and cleaned the VFW Post each Sunday before we held service so that people would be comfortable and feel welcome. Everyone got their hands dirty and did their part.” Nathan Court Redemption Christian Church 2007 In 2007, the then Pastor Cherry was elevated to the office of Bishop. 2006 - Present Of their time at Nathan Court, Evangelist Mittie Broadnax notes, “We built it out into a lovely place. By faith we believed that God was going to send the masses.” 2010 Since 2010, Bishop Cherry has served as the State Bishop. In 2006, WACI opened the doors of the church at its current location at 8517 Rixlew Lane. The story of how WACI came to own this $1M+ prime property in the center of the Manassas business corridor is just one of the many testimonies that is a direct result of the faith walk of this ministry. The building formerly housed REMAX Realty Offices. Bishop Cherry recalls, “[We] were in the building to find space to rent [for WACI]. [The realtor] said, ’I don’t know why I am saying this but would you be interested in buying this building?’” Bishop Cherry laughs as he remembered being told by the Holy Spirit not to speak; then, Elder “Donnie” Broadnax said, “That sounds good.” They left and returned later that day to REMAX with a business plan. The rest - as they say - is history. Since 2010, WACI serves as the Headquarters facility for the State of Virginia Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship International. Word Alive Church International—Synergy Newsletter Page 5 “Equipping the saints and establishing them in present truth.” (1Peter 1:12) In 1999, Pastor Cherry becomes the Overseer for the Northern Virginia District. 1999 2005 Maplewood Drive Metz Middle School Ballsford Road Facility George Mason University’s Verizon Center Youth For Tomorrow 2014 20th Anniversary Word Alive Church International - Rixlew Lane, Manassas, VA Word Alive Church International—Synergy Newsletter Page 6 Lady Jan Cherry Honored Among Top 20 First Ladies Lady Jan receives her award (photo credit: Pharoh Martin) O n November 8, 2014, our very own Lady Jan Marie Cherry was honored at the 3rd Annual First Ladies Tea Awards, hosted by Radio One affiliates Praise 104.1 (WPRS) and Spirit 1340 (WYCB). Held at the Martin’s Crosswinds in Greenbelt, MD the event honored 20 women in the Washington, DC metropolitan area who stand in partnership with their husbands, supporting them as they lead their ministries. Gospel recording-artist Karen Clark-Sheard (pictured left) was the special featured guest at this glorious event. “I was very excited! It was a very humbling experience,” says Lady Jan of receiving the award. But there is no pause in the work for Lady Jan, as she notes, “There are still things we need to do. The bar has been raised and we will do more.” (photo credit: Pharoh Martin) Word Alive Church International—Synergy Newsletter Page 7 Clockwise from the top: Honored First Ladies pose with Karen Clark-Sheard; Lady Jan and Bishop Cherry are all smiles; WACI Covenant Partners in attendance cheer as Lady Jan’s name is called for her award. (Photo credit: Pharoh Martin) Word Alive Church International—Synergy Newsletter Page 8 ...About WACI’s International Songstress Minister Salimu Terrell? N ot only does she share her gift of song - in every range - on the Praise Team and the WACI Choir, our very own Minister Salimu Terrell makes a joyful noise around the globe as a member of Gentle Giant Ministries (GGM), a Christian/gospel music company from Washington DC. Since 2008, GGM has been performing in countries such as Italy, Spain, Germany, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Amsterdam, Paris, London and many more. In 2013, GGM was crowned 1st Place Winners in the Verizon Wireless How Sweet the Sound Competition in Baltimore MD (2013). Synergy staff sat down with Minister Terrell to chat about her experiences with GGM and being a part of an international ministry ... Synergy Staff: How did you become part of the group? Minister Salimu Terrell: I became a part of the group about 6 yrs ago. [Sister] Alisa Cherry told me about the auditions. She was suppose to join me, but could not make it. SS: What stands out to you as an experience as part of the group that is a manifestation of God's purpose for using you as part of the ministry? ST: What stands out most for me is the integrity and musical excellence of the leader and the group as a whole. It is a ministry that consists of people who have a heart for worship and music. It's always about ministry first. Nate Brown, the founder and leader of GGM, helps to nurture and strengthen our musical abilities. SS: What is the best part about being in the group? ST: The best part of being apart of the ministry is it does not take away from my duties at my local church. It also pushes me to perfect my gift that I may become a more effective worship leader. The things I have learned and been afforded to experience through GGM have been lifechanging and very humbling. I still stand in amazement at the opportunities I've experienced through GGM. SS: Where can people find out more about the group? ST: People can find out more about GGM on their website at: www.gentlegiantmusicministries.com. Minister Terrell has worked in accounting for 15+ years. She actively participates in countless WACI Ministries, even sharing her comedic side as Sister Rubenstein for the Church Ladies. She is the daughter of Mother Sallie Terrell, and they have been Covenant Partners at WACI for 7 years. Minister Terrell resides in Manassas, VA. Introducing the Word Alive Helps Line Are you feeling frustrated or overwhelmed? Are prior habits resurfacing and you're feeling loss or hopeless? Allow the WACI Helps Line to be a supportive instrument or means of assistance. The WACI HELPS LINE is a confidential phone number where you will reach a caring person who is available to meet you where you are and to move you toward the glory of God's grace. Let us help you through the hang-ups (struggles) and hurts. "Allow us to walk with you." (Isaiah 43:1-2) WAC I H E L P S L I N E 571-288-1890 Word Alive Church International—Synergy Newsletter Page 9 Not Easily Broken: Enriching Marriages Made Stronger with God Ministry Mission: To lay the biblical foundation to have a divorce free ministry that encourages communication, love and respect. Through the word of God, we will demonstrate God’s love to the world and share the information given to encourage strong relationships. T he WACI Marriage Ministry, Not Easily Broken is full throttle, engaging in relevant and timely fellowship to uplift those who have committed to the Holy Covenant of Marriage. Standing firm as examples of love, partnership, and servitude, Ministers Bart and Kamah Johnson are leading the charge for this ministry, opening doors for candid and honest discussions about the issues affecting married couples, using The Word of God as the roadmap to navigate through it all. The Johnsons were asked by Bishop Cherry, shortly after joining as Covenant Partners, to lead the ministry. Says Minister Kamah, “We had recently joined WACI and I had decided to simply sit and be ministered to; but God had other plans.” The Johnsons agree that for them, the Minister Kamah of God’s impact on couples through this ministry. “[We are] humbled when we hear testimonies from couples about how their marriages have been positively impacted by the ministry.” best part of being in the ministry is serving and being available to pour into God's people. “Seeing couples who had major issues; some contemplating divorce, loving and respecting each other; hearing people say their marriages are better,” They have witnessed the manifestation of God's purpose for choosing them as vessels through the ministry. The Johnsons were ministers in their former church and did not want anyone to know. However, even though it was not in their plans, God continues to reveal why they have been placed in this ministry. “We hear from couples about how much they needed something we shared; we have watched God turn marriages around and making them better.” Not Easily Broken hosts couples’ retreats and holds Marriage Enrichment Classes on a monthly basis. For more information and upcoming events, visit the WACI website at http://thewordisalive.com or the Word Alive page on Facebook. Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. Ecclesiastes 4:12 Word Alive Church International—Synergy Newsletter Page 10 WACI Minstrels Celebrate Before the LORD With All Kinds of Instruments T WACI Minstrels Elder Dion Anthony Elder Darien Hayes Elder Delgie Jones, Sr. Brother Broderick Franklin Brother James Gee Brother Brien Gibson Brother Marcus Smith Brother Jacques Stith Brother Jesse Terry Brother Rob Wilson ACH Accord Brother Teddy Awua Brother Vic Carter Brother Jason Hardy Brother Chris Taylor he WACI Minstrels tirelessly avail their gifts each Sunday facilitating praise and worship - with all kinds of instruments. Although the musicians represent a variety of diverse backgrounds and experiences, they are all threaded by one common emotion when it comes to serving in the music ministry - LOVE. They individually love to spend countless hours practicing and perfecting each note they play; their service is their expression of love, adoration, and praise to God. Most of our talented minstrels are self-taught and play by ear. Their experience ranges from three years to over 35 years. They practice for hours each day. But it is an effortless labor of love. Pianist Brother Broderick Franklin has been playing for 20 years. The son of a preacher, he started playing in the church he grew up in because they did not have a musician. Says Franklin, “[Playing] is a way to acknowledge the gift that God gave me. It is my form of worship and service to God. The best part is that I am able to pour out [this gift] to others and edify the body [of Christ].” Brother Jacques Stith plays the electric guitar and notes that for him, the best part of serving in the music ministry is “seeing the impact on the people.” Resident bassist Brother James Gee says of sharing his gifting that he “can’t stop smiling.” ~ And it came about, when the minstrel played, that the hand of the LORD came upon him. ~ 2 Kings 3:15 ~ David and all Israel were celebrating with all their might before the LORD, with castanets, harps, lyres, timbrels, sistrums and cymbals.~ 2 Samuel 6:5 Word Alive Church International—Synergy Newsletter Page 11 WACI Ministries Show MEGA LOVE Through Community Outreach W ord Alive is active in the community! On Saturday, December 20th, multi -ple Word Alive ministries joined together to show "MEGA LOVE" in our community. As Christians we are to be known by our love. As Elder Darlene Moody notes, “We are joining together to see more lives changed forever by Jesus Christ. Through prayer, the giving of our time and talents, gifts for children whose parents are incarcerated, donating a meal to a family who is in need, providing clean warm clothing, the Word of God (Bibles) and most importantly sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ with our community. We are truly active in the community all year as separate ministries. This is the coming together of the body of Christ as a whole here at Word Alive.” This ministry coalition has united together to minister to the needs of the total family and not just giving gifts/toys to the children. “This changes it from ‘a ministry within the church’ to ‘the church,’” says Elder Moody. For her, the best part is “seeing and hearing the gratitude expressed by the guardians of the children.” This year WACI Covenant Partners pulled together their time, talents, and gifts to bless 55 families with meals and 25 children with Christmas presents. Now that’s MEGA LOVE! For more information about the Mega Love Project or future outreach programs, see Elder Moody, Lucy Alleyne, Sharon REGISTER TODAY @ http://www.fullgospelconference.org/ Page 12 Word Alive Church International—Synergy Newsletter Y E A R I N R E V I E W Word Alive Church International—Synergy Newsletter Page 13 Y E A R I N R E V I E W THE YEAR OF MANIFESTATION PSALM 118:23 YEAR IN REVIEW Word Alive Church International—Synergy Newsletter Page 14 Welcome New Covenant Partners Welcome Word Alive’s Covenant Partners who have joined since July 2014: Ashley Carter Brayden Carter Jackie Daniel Sherrell Jackson Clari Mbi Sharmaine Moser Zoe Moser Deon Smith Michaelle Smith Jael Smith Leah Smith Isaiah Smith Ministry Spotlight Word Alive celebrates the dedication and commitment exhibited by our Covenant Partners! Here are a few of our honorees from this year: July August September Sister Rennay Johnson Sister Rhonda Burnett Sister Denee Vaughn October November December Sister Joyce Terry Brother Ivory & Sister Eva Mimms Brother Adam & Sister Stacey Capers Not receiving the WIN weekly announcements? Text* MANIFEST to 22828 to be added to the WIN email list. *Message and data rates may apply. Weekly Intercessory Prayer Call is held every Tuesday 8:25p - 9:15p. Join the call by dialing 567-7040521Password 1234567. Please see Elder Sezandra Pinckney, Deacon Berthe Alleyne or Sister Debra Johnson for additional information. Word Alive is taking social media by storm! Help share Word Alive with the Word! “Like Us” on Facebook and “Follow Us” on Twitter! Join Christian Fellowship Basketball with the Word Alive Warriors under new head coach, Brother Michael Morgan on Saturdays at First Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Dumfries, VA. Athletes contact Elder Mike Carter 571-220-4106. Word Alive Church International—Synergy Newsletter Page 15 From the Heart of Lady Jan Cherry W e showed up and God moved mightily in the Year of Manifestation! He continues to guide us toward our purpose and it is time to build upon the work. Looking forward to 2015 and beyond, I am energized about the work the kingdom is doing to edify the body, mind, and spirit. I look forward to bridging ministry efforts of Women Armed & Ready (WAR), Souls for Glory, and OneWay Youth to collaborate in the areas of evangelism, mentorship, other important topics such as domestic violence. Partnering with the SHARE ministry, we want to make an even bigger impact on our community. As we enter our 21st year: We are still declaring more… We are still pushing toward the mark… We are still praying steadfastly… We are still believing in God to exceed our expectations… In Christ’s Love, Lady Jan Cherry From The Desk of Bishop Wesley T. Cherry, Sr. w Bishop Wesley T. Cherry, Sr. WORD ALIVE CHURCH INTERNATIONAL MANASSAS, VA ‘Notable ’ Quotables e continue to be excited through our faith about what God has in store for us in 2015 and beyond. God is not “Don’t limit our limitless God.” bound by the days, weeks, months, or years on the calendar; neither should our expectation of His love, - Bishop Wesley T. Cherry, Sr. grace, and kept promises. As we move into our 21st year, we know that all that has manifested in this ministry is the Lord's doing; and it is marvelous in our eyes (Psalm 118:23). Through prayer and thanksgiving, we will continue to move in God’s purpose through Kingdom-driven ministry - preaching the word, being ready in season and out of season (2 Timothy 4:2). Our Father came to raise the sons of the earth; we must uphold our mantle while we wait so that we are ready when the manifestation comes. For the Word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart (Hebrews 4:12). It is so - He will do just what he said. Peace, Bishop Wesley T. Cherry, Sr. CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2.0 HEBREWS 4:12 January 2015 February 2015 March 2015 17 - WAR Fellowship, 9AM, Ledbetter Fellowship Hall 6 - 7 OneWAY Youth Ministry Empowerment Revival 14 - Community Outreach/SERVE Bowl-a-thon Bowl America, Manassas, VA 21 - District Empowerment Conference - WACI 18 - SHARE Food Program Orders Due 13 - Annual Sweetheart Ball - Ashburn, VA 31 - SHARE Distribution (Pick-up) 21 - SOFC presents Café Night, 6:30PM Save The Date! May 3, 2015 WACI Church Anniversary May 14-16 2015 VA State Empowerment Conference - WACI July 15 - 17 2015 Full Gospel International Empowerment Conference - New Orleans, LA MISSION... MANDATE... MOTIVE... COME WORSHIP WITH US WHERE THE WORD IS ALIVE! Synergy Working together for good...according to His purpose. Editor-in-Chief Bishop Wesley T. Cherry, Sr. Staff Sister Rhonda Burnett Sister Stacey Capers Mother Marilyn Furbush If you have a suggestion or testimony for a newsletter feature, please email us at [email protected] or [email protected]. WACI Services SUNDAY 8:00-9:30 AM - Morning Glory 9:45-10:45 AM - Christian Education 11:00 AM - Morning Worship TUESDAY 12:00 PM - Destiny Moments First Sunday (Only) Schedule 8:00 AM - Worship Service 10:00 AM - Holy Communion 11:00 AM - Worship Service WEDNESDAY 7:30 PM - Prayer & Bible Study Wo r d A l i ve Ch ur c h, I nt er n a t i o na l 8517 Rixlew Lane Manassas, VA 20109 PHONE: (703) 369-6770 FAX: (703) 257-5300 www.thewordisalive.com Bishop Wesley T. Cherry, Sr. Pastor Elder’s Council Elder Stacey Fayne Elder Darian Hayes Elder Aaron Matlock, Sr. Elder’s College Elder Dion Anthony Elder Dorion Baker Elder Mickel Carter, Sr. Elder Delgie Jones Elder Darlene Moody Elder Sezandra Pinckney Administrative Staff Evangelist Mittie Broadnax Evangelist Ruby Carter Sister Shelita Winfield