Read about our Missions and Outreach Ministry on page 4.

Empowering Disciples Magazine | Volume 07 from the BISHOP’S PEN By: Bishop Walter S. Thomas, Sr., Pastor

The year 2016 is off to a great start. God has done so much for us and I am grateful. I pray that each of you have had a moment to reflect and plan how you want your year to go. Make sure you spend time with God and write the vision for this year. Plan to succeed and watch God bless your life. At New Psalmist we strive to make life better for someone else. The Missions and Outreach department does this on a consistent basis. They work tirelessly to ensure that others are taken care of and shown the love of Christ. I invite you to read about what they are doing and pray about where you can serve in this department. Before you know it, the snow will be gone, and spring will be here. As busy as life gets, remember to make time to attend church every week, and spend time with family and friends. God has done too much for you not to come and worship him. As a matter of fact bring your family and friends with you and worship God together. God Bless You. Bishop Walter S. Thomas Sr., Pastor

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EDITORBy: Joi Thomas What a wonderful year this has been so far. Bishop Thomas began the year with his series Light the Fire. I don’t know about you but that series showed me just what I need to do to get on the path God has ordained for me. We have to make sure our Fire for Christ is always lit so we can minister to others and help make life better for them. This edition of Empowering Disciples Magazine is dedicated to our Missions And Outreach Ministries who work tirelessly to show the love of Christ to those beyond our walls. There is so much we do for others as a church. I encourage you to read and find a place in the Missions and Outreach ministries where you can work and help make life better for someone else. Continue to enjoy this winter season with family and friends. I know the snow slows us down, but it gives us a chance to rest and connect with those we love. Spring will be here before you know it and everyone will be out and about again. Thank God for his divine timing. Continue to Be Blessed, Joi Thomas Empowering Disciples Magazine | Volume 05

NEW PSALMIST BAPTIST CHURCH 6020 Marian Drive Baltimore, MD 21215 (410) 945-3000 www.newpsalmist.org

PUBLISHER Bishop Walter S. Thomas, Sr., Pastor A Quarterly Publication EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Joi Thomas

ASSISTANT EDITOR CONTENTS Gayle Watkins

WRITERS Teresa Hall missions and outreach Ministries Elliott Jenkins Deanna D. Johnson Gregory Logan 4 Missionary Humanitarian Enrichment Daryn Ramsey Deborah Ramsey Emma Sellers 6 Homeless Humanitarian Enrichment Theresa Smith Jabari Walker Gayle Watkins 9 Prison Humanitarian Enrichment

PHOTOGRAPHERS 10 Social Action Legal Team (S.A.L.T.) Jerome Coates Eugene Daniel Gary Lee 12 Missions and Outreach Tracy Ross Greg Stansbury 15 Global Policy Social Action Improvement Daryl Taylor Quadre Veney Ray Winston 17 Stewardship Educational Empowerment

GRAPHIC DESIGN The Church Online 18 Financial Empowerment www.thechurchonline.com 20 Community Partnerships PRINTING New Psalmist Baptist Church 22 Armed Forces NewPsalmist.org

Homeless Outreach Ministry Empowering Disciples Magazine | Volume 07

New Psalmist Baptist Church MISSIONS AND OUTREACH NewPsalmist.org HUMANITARIAN ENRICHMENT: Missionary Ministry By: Deborah Ramsey Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” - John 20:21 (NIV)

Minister Kenneth Colvin, Sr., lead to preach and enhance their Minister Colvin: The uniqueness minister of the NPBC Missionary ministerial experience. of our ministry lies in the worship Ministry, shared his thoughts in service that we provide. We try to EDM: What aspects of the an interview with Empowering bring a full worship experience Missionary Ministry are most Disciples Magazine, about the at our services. The residents enjoyable? aspects of this ministry and the are brought into a worship servant-hearted missionaries that Minister Colvin: I believe that we environment where scripture is make up this wonderful team. get joy in knowing that we are read, prayer is given, testimonies making a difference in someone’s can be shared, the gospel of EDM: What is the purpose of the life. It’s in seeing “the light come Jesus Christ proclaimed, and the Missionary Ministry? back on” in someone’s Christian opportunity for salvation is given. Minister Colvin: The purpose of journey as they remember those We model our services after the the Missionary Ministry is to bring Old Songs of Zion; and their worship experience we receive at the word of God to those who are enjoyment in hearing the word of the New Psalmist Baptist Church. sick and shut-in, and are not able God. to attend a formal worship service. EDM: Does the Missionary Ministry EDM: How often does the demonstrate a servant-hearted EDM: Who serves on the Missionary Ministry visit nursing concern for those to whom they Missionary Ministry? homes? minister? Minister Colvin: The ministry Minister Colvin: The Missionary Minister Colvin: Without question, consists of discipleship and Ministry conducts six (6) worship I believe this is the essence of leadership graduates, and services per month at five (5) our ministry. You have persons members of the Minister’s in nursing home facilities throughout volunteering time, talents, and Training Ministry of the NPBC. Baltimore City and County. passion to make a difference This collaboration makes up EDM: Are there certain things in someone’s life. There is a our worship service teams. Our about the Missionary Ministry that compassionate spirit within our partnership with the Ministers make it unique? members and a willingness to affords them an opportunity 4 serve the spiritual needs of the Empowering Disciples Magazine | Volume 07 people we visit. Whether it’s in our services serve as church for that the Lord is watching over singing songs, reading scripture, them, as well. But our greatest them, and He’s with them always. providing prayer, or simply being joy is the blessing of witnessing Our mission scripture is Matthew a listening ear. Our members a resident or staff member, give 25:35, “for I was hungry and truly exemplify a servant-hearted their lives to Christ, during our you gave me food; I was thirsty concern for the people we serve. worship services. and you gave me drink; I was a stranger and you took me in; I was EDM: During your visits, what EDM: How does the Missionary naked and you clothed me; I WAS reactions are witnessed by Ministry minister to nursing home SICK AND YOU VISITED ME.” members of the Missionary residents upon arrival on site? Ministry from nursing home Minister Colvin: We minister EDM: What is the one thing you residents and staff? through prayer, song, the would like others to remember Minister Colvin: Our visits are proclaiming of God’s words, and about the Missionary Ministry? always met with excitement by the concern we show His people. Minister Colvin: Servanthood, a the residents. So many of them We minister by visiting the rooms willingness to give of ourselves are church members and having of those who are not able to attend so that we may be a blessing a worship service where they our services, offering prayer to someone else. The NPBC’s can continually hear the word, and the ministry of presence, Missionary Ministry desires to and singing those old songs, when presence is needed. We exemplify the commitment of bless their hearts. For many minister by bringing hope and our church to be, “brothers and of them we’ve become family, the knowledge that Jesus has not sisters ministering to brothers and family whom they know will visit forsaken them and that His ear IS sisters, and our mission is to make and family that makes them feel inclined to their prayers. life better for someone else”. That cared about. The staff, I believe, is is the essence of our Ministry! EDM: Is there a favorite scripture equally excited. There is genuine that the Missionary Ministry uses Missionary Ministry: A worship respect for the authenticity of our regularly? team that exemplifies a concern commitment and in what we do. for others, bringing the word of I believe that the staff also gets Minister Colvin: One of the most God to those who are sick and delight in seeing the enjoyment comforting scriptures we use is shut-in. of the residents during and after one that is familiar to all; Psalm our services. For many of them, 23. It is one that reminds them

5 NewPsalmist.org HUMANITARIAN ENRICHMENT: HELPING TO HEAL THE HOMELESS

Did you know that Homelessness can be a constant state of transition? When one is displaced by circumstances such as unemployment, loss of income, sickness, physical and mental abuse, and the death of a loved one, it can lead to no permanent place to call home. Add financial, physical and emotional challenges and the lack of familial ties, these once-very healthy and productive individuals become crippled by delusion and helplessness. The lifestyle once known, and the safety and security of a roof, are no longer present but a distant reality.

No one is really exempt from becoming homeless because situations, problems, circumstances and lives can change instantly. The mission and mantra of NPBC’s Homeless Ministry is to “minister like Jesus” by donating food, clothing and blankets while spreading the Good News. Homeless Ministry members include Bro. D.J. Roberts, president, Bro. McDonald Hines, vice president, Bro. Tavon Manning, chaplain and Sis. Joyce Flowers, secretary, health coach, and former social worker identified as the “go to person” for information about the ministry. The ministry members hail from unique cultural, social and professional backgrounds with core graduate competencies in discipleship training and leadership school.

The Homeless Ministry’s foundational scripture is Matthew 25:35-40 (NIV). 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ 37 “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ 40 “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’

As this missions and outreach ministry “makes life better for someone else,” it first engages in active prayer at least four times every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month prior to visiting approximately four commonly-populated homeless “living spaces” in Baltimore City. During the winter months, NPBC Homeless Ministry members distribute soup, sandwiches and toiletries to homeless individuals, which are funded by the Discipleship Ministry. Donations of bedspreads and blankets from the church-at-large are also given to homeless individuals before lifting them in prayer and offering divine hope as they transition through the cycle of poverty, addiction and homelessness to self-sufficiency. Be encouraged to support NPBC’s Homeless Ministry because no one is too great, too small, or ill-qualified to be an effective link in this ministry. Remind yourself that you have the capacity to activate your power and ability 6 to do whatever it takes to help someone less fortunate. “Life is a mission, not an intermission.” Empowering Disciples Magazine | Volume 07

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8 Empowering Disciples Magazine | Volume 07 HUMANITARIAN ENRICHMENT: PRISON MINISTRY

By: Elliott Jenkins

“I WAS IN PRISON AND YOU CAME TO VISIT ME” Matthew 25:36 (NIV)

Matthew 25:36 teaches us to serve God by ministering to prisoners. God offers forgiveness and salvation to those who are incarcerated.

The mission of the NPBC Prison Ministry is to minister to inmates and ex-offenders, and encourage their faith in the Word of God. Prison services are also provided to empower those who are due for release to transition back to society. The Prison Ministry has 35 members comprised of ministers and lay members who visit two women’s correctional facilities and six male correctional facilities.

A typical visit includes praise and worship songs, followed by words of exhortation and a sermon. When the “doors of the church are open,” the invitation to accept Christ as Lord and Savior is given. Members of the prison ministry say that it is always a joy when someone makes the decision for Christ. “Serving God comes with a blessing to the one who is serving,” said Min. Patricia McKenzie. “The Prison Ministry has been a blessing to me because it gave me the opportunity to see hope and faith in action through inmates who are enduring severe hardship and imprisonment, yet still have a praise for the Lord and worship Him in spite of,” she continued. The experience and servitude seems worth the inconveniences of security checks and protocols that go along with visiting correctional facilities.

Min. Mary Thomas said, “This ministry has impacted my life because it has helped me see how God uses the spiritual gifts he has given ordinary people, like each of us in the ministry, to preach the Good News of Jesus Christ to those who are incarcerated, and to see firsthand how the Word can set people free.” “They may never be released from prison but are at total peace with their relationship with God. In some cases, this is enviable,” she added.

Are you interested in joining NPBC’s Prison Ministry? Visit www.newpsalmist.org\Ministries\connect- with-a-ministry and send an email via the Prison Ministry Group. Ministry meetings are held every 2nd Saturday at 11 a.m. in room 1003.

9 NewPsalmist.org SOCIAL ACTION IMPROVEMENT: Social Action Legal Team (S.A.L.T.) By: Daryn Ramsey

The Social Action Legal Team, S.A.L.T., seeks to was renamed the Social Action Legal Team (S.A.L.T.) empower people with information and resources and then blossomed into a ministry with a heart to make their voices heard on social issues. The for people, partnerships, learning and knowledge. ministry also seeks to educate and empower the One thing led to another and before long, congregation and community through the Love of workshops, informational sessions and trainings Christ by identifying and facilitating social action were developed to enhance the congregation and seminars and workshops, which can make a positive community’s awareness about social issues that and substantive contribution to the community. affect their lives.

EDM: Minister Stewart can you briefly tell me about EDM: Does the legal ministry partner with any other the ministry; its inception, purpose, mission and vision? organizations and if not, are you looking to do so?

Minister Stewart: During an Associate Minister’s Minister Stewart: The ministry has partnered with meeting, Bishop Thomas shared his vision of many organizations including the Baltimore Police partnering with the criminal justice and legal Department’s Northwestern District, The Governor’s communities to educate the congregation and Task Force on Human Trafficking, and the Baltimore others about the judicial system, which would create City State’s Attorney’s Office. Partnering has societal awareness about laws and procedures produced socially-conscious projects based on that affect the lives and well-being of everyone. current events that invigorate the community’s Because of our law enforcement experience, awareness of social concerns, as well as the need Bishop Thomas tasked Minister Warren Harding and for Christ’s sustenance in daily living. me with developing this partnership. After meeting EDM: What life / legal situations could benefit from with New Psalmist Member Judge Wanda Heard the the services of this ministry? Legal Ministry was birthed. Minister Stewart: Our sessions include topics EDM: Am I right or wrong in saying that the Social like: what to do when stopped by police, domestic Action Legal Ministry is concerned about legal violence, elder affairs, behavioral health and child education and accessibility to justice for all citizens? custody. As we engage the community, our belief Minister Stewart: Initially, our mission was to is that the church can assist in many of the life provide information about criminal justice and the situations that occur by showing the community legal system to associate ministers to share with the various options that exist and directing them to the congregation and community. However, Bishop relevant resources and services in the community. Thomas broadened the scope of the mission, and EDM: What jurisdiction if any does the ministry the ministry joined the Social Action Committee. It 10 serve? Empowering Disciples Magazine | Volume 07

Minister Stewart: The ministry does not serve any EDM: Besides being spiritually led, what skillsets particular jurisdiction as we are simply a resource are used in this ministry and what gifts, talents and for the community at large. skills are the ministry in need of, to fulfill the mission and vision to touch more lives? EDM: Beyond the community assistance that the social network provides, does the ministry look for Minister Stewart: The ministry is unique in that it evangelism opportunities in its interactions with uses a vast array of individuals with a plethora of groups and individuals? talents and gifts, because the ministry interacts with the many challenges facing Minister Stewart: Christ first our communities. As such, is the main thrust of S.A.L.T. whatever skill set a person In all endeavors, we educate has been blessed with will be and empower with the love of an asset to S.A.L.T. Christ to make life better for someone else. EDM: Approximately how many members are currently EDM: Has the legal serving in the ministry and profession been thankful how often do you all meet? for the assistance that you all have provided in serving Minister Stewart: The Social the community, and if so Action Legal Team currently what ways have they shown has 10 members. We meet gratitude? once a month.

Minister Stewart: Many of EDM: How would a member our presenters are judges, of New Psalmist go about lawyers and officials of seeking assistance from the federal, state and local ministry? government as well as Minister Stewart: If a person professionals from renowned is in need of information, they organizations. To show their may contact our ministry liaison, Rev. Alfred Bailey support, they have offered their expert tutelage at 410-945-3000. pro bono. EDM: What should someone do who has an interest EDM: Does the ministry ever work in concert with in this ministry? Also, is the ministry pursuing the prison ministry of NPBC? assistance in particular areas to improve its Minister Stewart: Earlier this year, S.A.L.T. partnered effectiveness? to create the seminar, “Re-Entry: Returning to the Minister Stewart: The ministry is always expanding Community after Incarceration.” The session was its scope and improving its effectiveness, we a huge success as federal, state and local officials invite all who have a passion to stimulate societal discussed opportunities for those returning to cognizance with a passion for Christ. If someone is society after incarceration and the programs that interested in serving in this area, they should call were available to them. the church and ask for Rev. Alfred Bailey. 11 NewPsalmist.org MISSIONS AND OUTREACH MINISTRY “From the time that I was a little kid, I had always dreamed of traveling around the world but I never imagined that hanging out with God would make my dreams become a reality. Now, I am living my dream while serving a great God!” - Rev. Alfred Bailey, II, director of Missions and Outreach Ministries at NPBC

By: Gayle Watkins

Rev. Alfred “Al” Bailey, II, followed his dad NPBC’S MISSIONS AND OUTREACH MINISTRY Alfred Bailey, Sr. to NPBC years ago and soon SOCIAL ACTION IMPROVEMENT afterwards, was called by God into ministry. He Ministries: immediately enrolled at Howard University’s • Foreign Outreach Schools of Divinity and for three years, worked • Global Policy • Social Action Legal Team (S.A.L.T.) full time and attended school full time. This rigorous routine prepared him for the fast pace HUMANITARIAN ENRICHMENT and long hours of full time work in ministry. Rev. Ministries: Al’s father’s passion for God and his mother’s • Armed Forces strong work ethic, both contributed to how he • Homeless • Missionary always sought to minister like Jesus and look for • Prison doors of opportunity to build upon God’s kingdom; • Christmas Outreach develop kingdom-partnerships with communities • Project 100 and organizations; and make kingdom-impacts • Project 200 - Job Training Center on the lives of all people. Rev. Al has been EDUCATIONAL EMPOWERMENT married more than 20 years to Tracey Bailey, and Ministries: they have two sons, Khari and Christian. A giant, • Archives wall-size whiteboard faces Rev. Al as he sits in his • Associate Ministers & Ministers in Training church office at his desk. Using color markers, he • Black History drew diagrams containing the new structure of • Evangelism NPBC’s Missions and Outreach Ministry, a credit • Choose to Be GREAT Summer Camp he gave to educators and course developers • God’s Messengers • Stewardship (Financial Academy) of Coppin State University, who recommended better ways of piecing elements of missions and HEALTH AND WELLNESS outreach together to ensure a cascading and Ministries: • Fitness complementary effect on the big picture. The • Cancer Support new structure looks like this: • Health Empowerment 12 Empowering Disciples Magazine | Volume 07

The mission of the Outreach Ministries of New Psalmist Baptist Church is to save the lost and nurture believers in the faith by providing outreach services and resources to empower our community and world. For more information about becoming a member of any Missions and Outreach ministry, contact Rev. Al Bailey at 410-945-3000. NewPsalmist.org SOCIAL ACTION IMPROVEMENT:

14 Empowering Disciples Magazine | Volume 07 Global Policy and the WASH in Schools Initiative

By: Gayle Watkins

New Psalmist Baptist Church is accredited by the programs based on that faith’s core teachings, beliefs and United Nations Environment Program, the leading practices. Paired in 2009 with Shadrack Kimalel Primary global environmental advocate and authority that sets School in Nairobi, Kenya, New Psalmist Baptist Church the global environmental agenda, and promotes the stepped in to improve water, sanitation and hygiene in environmental dimension of sustainable development that area. “All major faiths include water, sanitation and within the United Nations system. Accreditation was cleanliness in their texts.” In collaboration with UNICEF and a lengthy application and screening process that has ARC, the Foreign Outreach Ministry of NPBC continually allowed the church as an organization to participate in works to gather global mapping data for the WASH in global civil society meetings and weigh in on policies that Schools initiative. The WASH in Schools initiative focuses protect our planet. “New Psalmist Baptist Church’s Global on Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) inadequacies Policy Committee is proud to be a part of this process,” among the “poorest, most vulnerable, and hardest-to- said Rev. Al, director of Missions and Outreach Ministries reach children and families in the world.” Data about water, at NPBC. “It is wonderful being in the kitchen when a sanitation and hygiene practices is collected, documented, cake is being made and having input on what is added and published on www.washinschoolsmapping.com, a in the cake before it is cooked and served. The same is virtual library of water, sanitation and hygiene experiences true with global environmental policy development – we of children in 53 countries around the world. This website [NPBC’s Global Policy Committee] sit in conference rooms is managed by NPBC’s foreign outreach and global policy at roundtable discussions as civil society thought leaders teams, who also respond to website inquiries from expressing our views to global policy makers on the main interested people all over the world wanting to gather ingredients that alleviate human suffering, safeguard water, sanitation and hygiene data to increase advocacy human dignity, empower disenfranchised people, build and investment in the WASH in Schools initiative. Rev. institutional capacity, and honor the earth by being good Al leads the mapping group for the UNICEF-ARC-NPBC stewards of the environment,” Rev. Al continued. He also Call-to-Action for WASH in Schools. In 2015, UNICEF surmised that global policy makers pass environmental sponsored a publication called, “Putting Clean Hands solutions to the U.S. government for action, which trickles Together: Changing children’s lives around the world by down to state government, then to local government for working with faith schools to improve Water, Sanitation implementation in communities. and Hygiene.” Shadrack Kimalel Primary School was featured in the publication as a case study under the One of the most noteworthy achievements under Rev. Al’s Christianity and WASH category, based on an interview leadership include partnerships with the United Nations Rev. Al gave to the writer. Bishop Walter S. Thomas, Sr., Children’s Fund (UNICEF), a program that provides long- Rev. Al, and NPBC received acknowledgment in the 2015 term humanitarian and developmental assistance to publication for editorial contributions, peer reviews, and children and families in developing countries – and the publication support. For more information, visit www. Alliance of Religions and Conservation (ARC), a secular body faithinwater.org or www.washinschoolsmapping.com. that helps the world’s major faiths develop environmental 15 NewPsalmist.org

16 Empowering Disciples Magazine | Volume 07 EDUCATIONAL EMPOWERMENT: THE STEWARDSHIP MINISTRY

By: Theresa M. Smith

There comes a time in almost all of our adult to teach God’s people how to become good lives when our finances seem to spiral backward. stewards of not only their finances but also the There may be a disconnect between the amount reality that stewardship is a function of their of money coming in and the amount going out. work life, family life, and spiritual growth. Bishop Thomas sometimes refers to this as, “your The mission of the Financial Academy as described money acting funny,” or maybe you just cannot by Deaconess Lockley, will be “to provide financial seem to save enough for emergencies, start a education and counseling for the people of God retirement account, pay off student loans, or save who are seeking financial freedom and desiring for your children’s college education. to be faithful stewards of God’s gifts.” Don’t we all have a vision of what we desire It is the hope of the ministry leaders that, our finances to look like but often lack the skills “Stewardship will be evident in the lives of each needed to accomplish our goals? In the Book of participant by their management of time, talent Titus, a letter of encouragement and instruction and treasure for Kingdom purposes to the glory of was written to Titus by the Apostle Paul. This letter God.” The current ministry members have begun served as a reminder of how Titus was to build up developing a program that focuses on budgeting, the people in the faith and teach them to live as investing, and debt relief. A churchwide survey Christians who had received God’s grace. Some was conducted to help determine what specific of Paul’s final remarks are a wise reminder of how financial interests members had. Classes and the people of God should be living today, “Our counseling will soon be offered in groups and people must learn to devote themselves to doing with individuals. what is good, in order that they may provide for daily necessities and not live unproductive lives.” If you BELIEVE there is a blessing in store for (Titus 4:14 NIV) you by participating in this ministry, check the church’s website often for upcoming events - In an effort to encourage and fulfill this need among www.newpsalmist.org. God’s people, Bishop Thomas has launched the New Psalmist Baptist Church Financial Academy Anyone with a financial background or those who beginning in January 2016, under the leadership would like more information about how to use your of Rev. Alfred Bailey, Minister of Missions and spiritual gift(s) for God’s purposes, can leave their Outreach, and Deaconess Sharon Lockley. The contact information at the Member Services desk

Stewardship Ministry will dedicate themselves in the church narthex. 17 NewPsalmist.org SOCIAL ACTION IMPROVEMENT: Financial Empowerment Ministry “The man who had received the five talents went at once and put his money to work and gained five more.” - Matthew 25:16

By: Gregory Logan

The New Psalmist Baptist Church Financial paying yourself through saving is easier. God has Empowerment Ministry began in the mid-1990’s given you this money. If you don’t give to Him, why when the church was located in downtown should He give you more? Baltimore. Its purpose is to encourage better 4. Set your budget before deciding stewardship for God among church whether to begin investing in such members by teaching them how to things as stocks and mutual funds. manage their finances. 5. Start a long term savings plan, such The Financial Empowerment Ministry as a 401K. Invest a minimum of $25 members include Minister Yolanda per pay period. The earlier you get it Bethea, her husband, Deacon Jerryl started, the better. Time is money and Bethea (co-presidents) and Sis. money is time. Diana Fowlkes (vice president), who explained that the ministry is structured 6. Consider an automated savings similar to the Discipleship program. plan that will be difficult to access for There are classes and workshops on withdrawals, such as through a credit different topics, such as planning, union. When your money is out of budgeting, investing and retirement. sight, it’s also out of mind. Class registrants are organized by age. Rev. Al Deacon Bethea added that younger income earners Bailey is the ministry liaison. should “max out life insurance coverage. It’s Financial Tips for Young People: cheaper when you’re younger.” 1. Create a financial goal and write it down. It could Advice for Senior Citizens Looking Forward be to buy a house, to travel or to start a family. to Retirement: 2. Develop a budget for achieving those goals. 1. Decide what post retirement lifestyle you want. Do you want to leave a legacy to the church? Provide 3. Get your spiritual house in order by paying tithes. for your children and grandchildren? Travel? Move Once you get used to paying God what you owe, 18 to a new location? Empowering Disciples Magazine | Volume 07

2. Ask yourself: How many years away from In January 2016, the Financial Empowerment retirement am I? How much money will I need to Ministry introduced the Financial Academy live comfortably? under the leadership of Minister Sharon Lockley. Bi-weekly classes are designed to help members 3. Eliminate as much of your debt as possible. Most move toward financial freedom. Spring semester people who want to retire early can’t because of it. began January 30 – May 21, 2016. Spring Break Look at paying it off as an investment in your future. is the week of March 20. If you would like more 4. Determine how many expenses you will have information about Financial Academy 2016, call and what they will cost. NPBC at 410-945-3000.

Minister Bethea said, “First time members feel overwhelmed by this advice and think that they can’t follow it. However, after attending about three of our classes, they say, I can do this!”

19 NewPsalmist.org Missions and Outreach: COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS

By: Leroy McKenzie, Jr.

Most people already know about NPBC’s return from active duty. And NPBC has become partnership with select schools to provide a certified disaster response site as a result of students with incentives, resources, information, its partnership with The American Red Cross. assistance, school supplies and opportunities to Many NPBC members serve on disaster relief and excel educationally, but this year there is more! response teams for the Red Cross and respond to crisis situations daily. Partnerships with NPBC not only bring fellowship among the organizations and communities, but cast Feedback from these various partnerships has a wider net to meet the greater need, therefore, sparked many compliments and accolades impacting various communities in even greater including how God is using NPBC and its partnership ways. Where one organization offers a product, organizations to make significant impacts in the lives another organization offers services, and then of children and families in various communities. NPBC, equipped with its resources, creates the community partnerships that make life better for The Missions and Outreach Ministry is seeking someone else. membership growth. The goal is to have at least 100 members participating in the 24 Missions and Comcast Cable has partnered with NPBC to Outreach ministries of NPBC by the end of 2016. provide students in our partner schools with laptops If you would like more information about joining and desktop computers to ensure that students this ministry, visit NPBC’s website and connect with complete classwork and homework assignments. the ministry. Johns Hopkins Hospital has partnered with NPBC and the Project 200 Job Training Center to prepare http://www.newpsalmist.org/ministries/ and equip church members with knowledge, skills connect-with-a-ministry and abilities for various jobs in the workforce. This partnership opened doors for some members to get jobs, and for others, it created mentorship and coaching opportunities. Under Armor partnered with NPBC to assist veterans in finding jobs as they

20 Empowering Disciples Magazine | Volume 07 Missions and Outreach:

21 NewPsalmist.org HUMANITARIAN ENRICHMENT: THE ARMED FORCES MINISTRY By: Teresa Hall

The Armed Forces Ministry at New Psalmist Affairs (VA) system in 2016. For example, there Baptist Church began in 2011 as a committee to are resources available for veterans who own provide information and resources about veterans’ small businesses; need medical services; or are benefits, and encourage Christian fellowship and interested in home ownership programs and home spiritual support to NPBC members who were improvement grants. also members of the U.S. Armed Forces. The The Prayers for Peace Memorial was created committee blossomed into a church ministry by the Armed Forces Ministry. Dedicated on with four members: Brother Damon A. Stinger, November 10, 2012 to acknowledge the ultimate Sr., president, Brother Anthony Hairston, vice sacrifice of thousands of servicemen and women, president, Brother John Anderson, treasurer and it contains colored ribbons that have significant Sister Phyllis Smith, secretary. meaning along with memorial tags hung in front The Armed Forces Ministry serves Active Duty of NPBC outside on poles. Service Members, reservists, retirees, veterans, Gold ribbons represented prayers by NPBC and the National Guard component, and honors members for the thousands of U.S. Service men their sacrifices and those of their families. While and women who lost their lives in the Iraq and ministering to homeless veterans in Baltimore and Afghanistan wars – and their families. Memorial wounded warriors at the Walter Reed National tags included the name, rank and age of the Military Medical Center in Bethesda, members of fallen service members. Blue ribbons represented the ministry also coordinate fun and educational prayers for individuals and families around the field trips for school children at NPBC’s partner world who live without freedom. Green ribbons schools to visit Baltimore’s War Memorial on Gay represented prayers for peace. Street and Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. How has the Armed Forces Ministry inspired For Christmas 2015, the Armed Forces Ministry you as a leader? collaborated with Under Armour® and the Connected Warrior Foundation to provide “I am a 26-year combat veteran. The Armed Christmas baskets to four Wounded Warrior Forces Ministry allows me to share my knowledge Project® families. with other veterans and keeps me connected to my military fraternity. It’s a positive experience The Ministry plans to conduct informational when I can talk to people about military issues and seminars about veteran benefits, resources, veteran benefits. Since there is so much negativity and changes in the U.S. Department of Veterans about our armed forces, it is my pleasure to be a 22 Empowering Disciples Magazine | Volume 07

THE ARMED FORCES MINISTRY

strong voice and strong advocate for all veterans of membership. The Armed Forces Ministry is open to all military branches. Bishop Thomas has always been all NPBC members. The ministry’s goal for 2016 is a great support for armed forces and serving in this to grow to more than 100 members by the end of ministry really ignites my passion. God gave Bishop the year. If anyone is interesting in serving in this Thomas the vision of an Armed Forces Ministry, but area of ministry, please contact Rev. Al Bailey at God gave the U.S. Armed Forces the assignment. It is 410-945-3000. a really great feeling to serve God through the Armed “He said: The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my Forces Ministry. I love the opportunity to give back deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, and to help others, especially our veterans.” - Sgt. my shield and the horn of my salvation. He is my Damon A. Stinger, Sr., U.S. Army (Ret.) stronghold, my refuge and my savior — from violent While lots of NPBC members are members of the people you save me.” - 2 Samuel 22:2-3 (NIV) U.S. Armed Forces, it is not a requirement for ministry 23 NewPsalmist.org

UPCOMING EVENTS

MARCH 2016 3/5/16, Sat 9:00am Baptism 3/10/16,Thurs 6:45pm Holy Communion CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Odell Dickerson, Jr. 3/13/16, Sun 2:00pm Baby Blessings [email protected] 3/20/16, Sun Palm Sunday 3/22-23/16, T-W 6:30pm Worship w/Sharon Baptist Church, Rev. A.C.D.Vaughn MINISTER OF MUSIC 3/25/16,Fri Good Friday Service [Office Closed] Bro. J.D. Alston ext-3023 | [email protected] 3/26/16, Sat 12:00pm - 2:00pm Kingdom Kidz Easter Hunt 3/27/16, Sun Easter/ Resurrection Sunday MINISTER OF OUTREACH APRIL 2016 Rev. Alfred Bailey ext-3193 | [email protected] 4/3/16, Wed Bishop's 41st Pastoral Anniversary 4/6/16, Wed 6:30pm Baptism MEDIA RELATIONS AND PROMOTIONS Sis. Joi Thomas 6:45pm Holy Communion 4/7/16, Thurs ext-3015 | [email protected] 4/17/16, Sun 2:00pm Baby Blessings 4/17/16, Sun Ushers 116th Anniversary EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE OFFICE OF THE BISHOP 4/19/16, Tues 6:30pm Worship w/Sweet Hope Baptist Church [Rev. Terry Thornton-14th] Deaconess Renita Fulton ext-3018 | [email protected] 4/30/16, Sat 9:00am Baptism MAY 2016 MINSTER OF CONGREGATIONAL CARE Rev. James Green 5/1/16, Sun 4:00pm Worship w/Shiloh Baptist Edgemere [Bishop Heber Brown-30th] ext-3042 | [email protected] 5/5/16, Thurs NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER 5/5/16, Thurs 6:45pm Holy Communion MINISTER OF DISCIPLESHIP Min. Monique Lemmon 5/7/16, Sat 11:00am Trustee Meeting ext-3043 |[email protected] 5/8/16, Sun Mother’s Day 5/14/16, Sat 8:30am Discipleship Prayer Breakfast EVENT ADMINISTRATOR 5/15/16, Sun Pentecost Sunday Deaconess Linda Harris ext-3024 | [email protected] 5/15/16, Sun Bishop and Lady Thomas 40th Wedding Anniversary 5/20-22/16, Fri-Sun 8:30am MEN’S MINISTRY RETREAT - offsite BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR 5/22/16, Sun 2:00pm Baby Blessings Janine Hawes 5/25/16, Wed 6:30pm Barnabas Memorial Service ext-3002 | [email protected] 5/25/16, Wed 6:30pm Discipleship Commencement MINISTER OF WORSHIP ARTS SEASON OF CELEBRATIONS Bro. Tamba Giles 5/29/16, Sun YOUNG ADULT DAY ext-3195 | [email protected] Worship with First Baptist Church of Steelton, Harrisburg, PA 5/29/16, Sun 5:00pm MINISTER OF FAMILY WHOLENESS Rev. Walter S. Thomas Jr., Pastor Dr. Dianne Roberts 5/30/16, Mon Memorial Day [Building Closed] ext-3192 | [email protected]

PASTORAL COUNSELING Sis. Angela Smith ext-3039 | [email protected]

MINISTER OF AUDIO, VIDEO AND MEDIA Min. Joshua Thomas ext-3020 | [email protected]

FOOD SERVICES Holly Archer ext-3025 | [email protected]

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