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
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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/
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THE YEAR OF MANIFESTATION
PSALM 118:23
YEAR IN REVIEW
Word Alive Church International—Synergy Newsletter
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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