Kingdom Building Kingdom Kingdom Kingdom Kingdom of Hope of Minded Minded a Place We Are Are We People People Vessel Vessel the The

MAY 2015 CHRIST FOR DYING 147 WITHIN OF GOD IS KINGDOM THE YOU?ARE BUILDER OF TYPE WHAT

KINGDOM BUILDING KINGDOM KINGDOM KINGDOM KINGDOM OF HOPE OF MINDED MINDED A PLACE WE ARE ARE WE PEOPLE PEOPLE VESSEL VESSEL THE THE

WHAT’S

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Orlana Darkins Drewery INSIDE ADVISORY BOARD Rev. Dr. William H. Curtis

MANAGING EDITORS LIFESTYLE Melanie R. Brown We Love You, Mother 4 Shaunda E. Miles Laura V. Norman Mount Ararat Dr. Anthony Robins Counseling Center 11 Minerva White FEATURES The New Pittsburgh Courier 16 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Digging Deeper for Lasting Susan Frazier DeLaney What Type of Builder are You? 2 Weight Loss 26 Rev. Sharon Dennard A Place of Hope 6 Three Easy Changes You Can Make Rachel Woodson Goode Today to Meet Your Long-Term Diet Merecedes J. Howze We are Kingdom People 8 Goals 34 Michelle D. Jackson Dying for Christ 147 Not Just a Number 12 Rev. Cornell Jones Five Things Families with The Kingdom of God is Within 22 Ray Porter Jr. College-Bound Students Should Minerva White The Kingdom Minded Vessel 24 Consider 36

COMMUNICATIONS MINISTRY How to Make Dinnertime a Priority Dania Arrey for Your Family 38 Melanie Brown Thoughtful Mother's Day Ideas Deneen Childress That Won't Bust Your Budget 42 Paula Cox Susan Frazier Delaney Darnell Drewery THOUGHTFUL Garield Griin MOTHER’S DAY IDEAS, Charles Hammond PAGE 42 Merecedes J. Howze Lora Hubbard Tifany Huf Michelle D. Jackson Shaunda Miles Ray Porter Jr.

ADVERTISING Orlana Darkins Drewery Deb Cavrak, Graphic Design DYING FOR CHRIST, PAGE 12

MOUNT ARARAT BAPTIST CHURCH STAFF Rev. Dr. William H. Curtis, Senior Pastor STEELERS POLAMALU Rev. John A. Knight, RETIRES, PAGE 30 Staf Asst. to the Senior Pastor PHOTO Estelle Christian, Assistant to the Senior Pastor RECAPS Veniecia Robinson, Chief Financial Oicer Spring Gala 33 Orlana Darkins Drewery, Director of Communications Ministry Opportunity 35 Rev. Robert James, Youth Pastor Easter Weekend 2015 37 Rev. Sharon Dennard, Dean of M.A.T.A. Holy Week 39 Rev. Linda Oliver, Minister of Special Projects Mount In Motion 41 Min. Dwayne Fulton, Director, Fine Arts Department Date at the Cross 43 Rev. Trini L. Massie, Minister of Worship \Vera Helin-Edwards, Administrative Assistant MAY 2015 Rev. Sherry Brooks, Administrative Assistant ENTERTAINMENT Robert Carter, Maintenance Supervisor, Steelers Polamalu Retires 30 Sierra Hill-Akers, Accounting Assistant Movie Scene Queen 44 THE MOUNT 1 thought.. At least, some of you haven’t until a we have to remember that Jesus came to this world to usher WHAT TYPE OF recent nudge given you by a recent hit show by in the Kingdom of God, and those of us who are committed NINTH ANNUAL the same name “Empire”. If you haven’t watched to follow in his footsteps are meant to be kingdom builders this show it centers on a hip hop music and not empire builders. We must surrender our power to His. entertainment company called, Empire Enter- So what does it mean to be a builder of His kingdom? tainment, and the drama among the members of BUILDER The Word deines it clearly. In Luke 17:20-21, Jesus was the founders’ family as they ight for control of asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God was com- the company. ing, and he answered, “The kingdom of God is not coming ARE YOU? While the age of empires has passed with with things that can be observed; nor will they say, ‘Look, the process of decolonization in the twentieth here it is! or There it is!’ For, in fact, the kingdom of God is century, the notion of empire and its associat- By Orlana Darkins Drewery within you.’ ed terms continue to be a well-used currency The kingdom of God lives in our hearts. It’s a peace that in International Relations. Empire denotes a endures in the believer’s hearts. Romans 14:17 says, “For the composite of territories and peoples of vast ex- kingdom of God is not food and drink, but righteousness Programmed to look after ourselves and the tent, usually created by conquest, stretching far things that are important to us solely (including and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” In other words, the beyond the ‘homelands’ of the rulers. Said rulers kingdom of God is not something we can see or touch, it’s our needs, wants, dreams and comforts), we are - who may be a single person, a societal elite or a not a list of religious rules or a fashion style, it’s about what innately selish. From conception to death, we nation-state - are in possession of absolute sov- God is doing in our hearts. It’s about sharing what God is ind ourselves occupied with how to achieve ereignty and directly administer and often eco- doing in our individual lives and sharing our testimony with power and possessions. We are taught nomically exploit diferent communities from an early that success is contingent on how others. More, it’s introducing them to Christ and impressing Mount Ararat Baptist Church presents Biker Sunday 2015 imperial center. The existence of imperial and to others the beneits in having a real relationship with Jesus much we own and how large our subordinate societies implies that there is a core - Christ is the building of God’s Kingdom. The Word says territory. We are so to the empire as well as a periphery. that we express our love of God through obedience – much June 7, 11:45 a.m. Service cialized to be empire While territorially bound, it is not so much in a way a man and woman express their love for one Mount Ararat Baptist Church builders. But what is the territory formally covered by its (annexed) an empire? If you’re another through idelity. Jesus came to transform lives 271 Paulson Avenue, Pgh, Pa 15206 like most, you’ve not regions that deines an empire, but rather the (build His kingdom) and when we build the kingdom of God people’s lives are changed! Kingdom builders look he Mount given that much places over which it is able to exercise control. Community Ride and Fellowship After Service. 271 Paulson Ave. Empire thus denotes sovereignty relations on beyond themselves and are focused on reaching out to Pittsburgh, PA 15206 a somewhat difuse scale. Like other states, an others and bringing them to Christ. Empire builders empire maintains its political structure are focused on their own personal interests, increas- Advertising: [email protected] at least partly by coercion. Hence, ing their inluence, power and control. Which one are 412-441-1800 there’s always a power struggle. I’m you? Which one would you like to be? sure we even see similar struggles Printed in the U.S.A. 2015 Is there a deinitive distinction between empire and for power at our work places, the kingdom? Some would argue that the deinitions are classrooms, our homes, vague and can be used interchangeably. However, even in our churches. the diference between kingdom and empire However, as believers comes down to a question of legitimacy, which does not actually afect practical foreign diplo- macy. A kingdom is a state controlled by one Monarchy. As a citizen of a kingdom, you have legitimate rights and privileges. In this issue, we will examine the importance of being Kingdom builders and the beneits of sacriicing our agenda to further God’s agenda in this world. MAY 2015

DOWNLOAD OUR MOBILE APP NOW AVAILABLE IN THE APP STORE. THE MOUNT 2 Happy Mother’s Day Hello, My Dear . . . In loving memory of Happy 30th Mother’s Day! Frances illiams I am honored to have you as my mother. To Our Diane Dear With our abiding love, you have been the greatest Thank you for all the sacriices you have made for me over Dearest Mother, Mother, Nana, Sister and Friend. We love and miss you. the years and for keeping me grounded in the Word. McCray Mother, Earth hath no sorrow that heaven cannot heal. I love you and I pray that God will continue to bless you. “Shirlene” Diane McCray is an amazing You have raised three generations RWG NANA, FROM STACEY AND MATT LOVE, JUSTIN BATSON Mother of ive: Dora, Dayna, Omar, with love, wisdom, discipline and Mom, we thank you this Mother’s Myles and Luituaeb (Beautiful). patience. Many family members Day for All of you wonderful love A single mother who sometimes afectionately called you “Mother.” and support. You have been the worked three jobs to support her This will be the irst Mother’s day Cheryl Dukes Lucille H. Darkins steady foundation that this family You brought me into this world, raised me to know and family. Lady Di, as she is known that you aren’t with us and we miss Thank you for teaching us to put God irst in everything is built upon. Long-lasting memories love the Lord, and showed me how to be a woman. I hope to her friends, was born and raised you dearly. We know that you are that we do, and to always make ourselves available to Him. and traditions, put into place by your you know this Mother’s Day and every day how blessed “Praise Jesus, Praise Jesus, Praise Jesus!” in Pittsburgh and has remained resting with our Lord and one day, I am to be your daughter and how much I love you! unselish heart and tireless resolve We love you. We miss you. true to her roots. Whether it’s her we will see you again. Happy Mother’s Day! will never go unforgotten. The seeds REGINA, MARVA, ILLISA, MAREENA & ORLANA F150 Harley Davidson truck or her We Love You! LOVE, MELISSA you planted will in no way perish. classic Riedell roller skates, We can only be grateful to the you can always ind her on wheels! “Her children arise and gracious Lord above for his Blessings, She gave her life to Christ in 1985, call her blessed..” in handpicking a remarkable woman and has dedicated her life to PROVERBS 31:28 as you to be our mother! Betty A. Drewery To our loving Mother and serving Him faithfully. With All Our Heart, Grandmother, Illisa D. Johnson, WITH LOVE: TIWANDA TAYLOR LOUIS JR, TROY, AND FAMILY WE LOVE YOU. Thank you for your continuous love, WITH LOVE, MICHELLE, MIA, MICHAEL Happy Mother’s Day! support and guidance. YOUR CHILDREN 12 CHILDREN, 32 GRANDCHILDREN We love you. AND 3 GREAT GRANDCHILDREN ROMONT, JERE, AIONIS & GRANT JOHNSON

We love you, MOTHER MAY 2015 THE MOUNT 4 Words of forgiveness encapsulate those to provide a place of rest for the weary. It others who choose to worship in unity, in need and tug at their heartstrings to is a sanctuary for those who are hurting knowing that the doors of the church are accept Christ as their Lord and Savior. and hungry for salvation. open and that the word of God is always Many will come willingly, but the rest The church exempliies every struc- there to greet me, makes me hopeful that will ight to hold on to the pain they ture that seeks to give refuge to those in I can make it through any situation. carried through the church doors. With need. It is a hospital for the sick, a shelter “And let us consider how to stir up patient determination, God gives us the for the homeless and a place of prosperi- one another to love and good works, will to lay our burdens down. ty for the poor. It is where those who seek not neglecting to meet together, as is A On Sunday mornings throughout the comfort of family in this lonely world the habit of some, but encouraging one the world hurting people bring their can ind fellowship and serenity. It is a another, and all the more as you see the troubles to the altar. They ill empty warm and secure bed to rest our troubled Day drawing near.” -Hebrews 10:24-25 ESV pews with pleas for God’s mercy with souls. “Through him we have also obtained a similar goal in mind - to leave their For me, the church house is where I access by faith into this grace in which Place burdens at His feet and to ind rest in His go to renew my faith. It is there that I am we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the loving arms. To do this, there has to be a reminded of my purpose and God’s com- glory of God. More than that, we rejoice surrendering to the Spirit, an acceptance mitment to my salvation. In the church in our suferings, knowing that sufering of God’s sovereignty and a faith that is where I feel less alone in my struggles produces endurance, and endurance pro- surpasses all understanding. in life. In spite of its imperfections and duces character, and character produces of The church has always been a place earthly laws, it is a place that I believe hope, and hope does not put us to shame, of hope. No matter its size or promi- is built in love. It is “home” for believers because God’s love has been poured into nence, with Christ as its cornerstone, who seek a selless worship experience; our hearts through the Holy Spirit who it is a holy temple built in love by the those who hear the word and yearn to has been given to us.” -Romans 5:2-5 ESV Spirit. It symbolizes His unconditional see the smiling faces of their neighbor Hope commitment to save us from our sins and and to touch the hand and heart of

BY MICHELLE D. JACKSON Built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, As God’s chosen teacher stands tall in Christ Jesus himself being the , the pulpit preparing to call hurting souls cornerstone to their salvation, the harmonic singing in whom the whole structure, being joined together, of the choir spreads the solemn presence grows into a holy temple in the Lord. of the Lord throughout the sanctuary. The act of praise and worship in the church In him you also are being built together house brings hurting people, one-by-one, into a dwelling place into His grasp. While praise dancers for God by the Spirit. licker through the aisles like beautiful white doves and worshipers surrender to EPHESIANS 2:20-22 ESV the Holy Spirit, hearts are swollen with love in response to His unfettered kindness; souls are awakened to His grace and mercy. MAY 2015

Michelle D. Jackson is author of The Heart of a Man, a Christian

THE MOUNT novel and Founder of The Charity Supper Club, a program de- 6 signed to raise money to beneit local charities and families in need. “The Kingdom of God isn’t Our western-leaning mindset causes us to resist any notion of a monarchy. Living in a contemporary democratic society we have a hard time wrap- ushered in with visible signs. ping our minds around the idea of a kingdom. Just because a person is born into what some call a “royal family,” should they be ruling You won’t be able to say, WE ARE over people for life? In a land where we elect representatives and establish term limits, this a ludicrous notion. A pro- ‘It has begun here in this gressive world takes only a mild and passing interest in the igureheads occupying the thrones of a place or there in that few European countries. part of the country.’ KINGDOM We belong to the church, Christ’s body. Is it also necessary to For the Kingdom be citizens of God’s Kingdom? Yes! “Do you see what we’ve of God is got? An unshakable MAY 2015 kingdom! And do within you.” PEOPLE you see how thankful we must be? THE MOUNT BY REV. SHARON DENNARD Continued on the following page. 9 Not only thankful, but brimming with detailing when the Kingdom will hap- done in Christ our risen Lord. Our OVERVIEW COMMON CONCERNS worship deeply reverent before God” pen?” Here is how Jesus addressed these acknowledgment is that God’s reign is The Mount Ararat Counseling ADDRESSED BY MACC (Hebrews 12:28 MSG). Jesus and John questions, “ The Kingdom of God isn’t everlasting. Our anticipation is that His Center (MACC) is designed Depression; Anxiety; Stress; the Baptist preached, “Repent for the ushered in with visible signs. You won’t glory will be made known throughout to ill the gaps identiied in Abuse; Crisis Support; Rela- kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew be able to say, ‘It has begun here in this all creation. Our realization is that faith both the Church and in the tionship Issues; Grief, Death has already seen God’s authority invad- 3:22, 4:17 NKJ). Current and future life place or there in that part of the country.’ greater Pittsburgh community & Loss; Self-Esteem; Alcohol choices must be reevaluated with consid- For the Kingdom of God is within you” ing human history in Christ’ redeem- by providing afordable and & Substance Abuse; Identity; eration of one’s place in what they have (Luke 17:20-21TLB). To further clarify, ing mission. His character and insight accessible services as well as Development; Career Planning interchangeably called the Kingdom of “Christ’s kingdom began in some way establish the scope of the Kingdom. God or Heaven. Unavoidably, hearts and with His irst coming. It continues to His Kingdom has “come in us” when in trained licensed mental health & Development; Anger; Life minds need to radically change. To help advance as His people live the gospel imperfect, yet sincere fashion we give our professionals who incorporate Skills; Deicits; Retirement. us conceptualize these abstract ideals, message throughout the world. However, support to the poor, strength to the weak THE CENTER culturally sensitive and cultur- Jesus taught by way of parables. In the it will not realize its ultimate comple- and sympathy to the sufering. Satan’s THAT CARES ally appropriate counseling MACC STAFF thirteenth chapter of Matthew’s gospel tion until He returns” (The Word in Life strongholds as well as personal empires services that include spiritual, Trained professional or cli- our Lord utilized several of them to illus- Study Bible). We can be sure of this, are being torn down when innovative Christian and faith-based inter- nicians (i.e. licensed or mas- trate the Kingdom’s widespread nature the Kingdom is a reality and Jesus is the ventures, broken hearts and closed doors MOUNT ARARAT ventions. ters-level) with diverse qual- and great value. He brings up a variety King. Consequently we are Kingdom turn us back to our Lord. iications and backgrounds, of meaningful issues related to all areas people. We’ve come to respect and There are two classes of people: GOALS & including professional coun- appreciate that God is unaccommodating those who are constantly thinking of COUNSELING CENTER of life. People’s hearts were compared OBJECTIVES seling, marriage, couple and to diverse soil conditions and overgrown of humanity’s lax morals, permissive their rights and those who are continu- MACC’s approach to address- family therapy, psychology, weeds were equated with those who programs and selish lifestyles. The ally thinking of their duties. Kingdom ing client needs integrates pastoral counseling and coun- professed a false faith. According to awesome, terrible, holy – yet loving and people belong to the latter. We are con- Christ we may expect from the King- self-revealing God continues to invite scientiously checking our allegiance, ex- spiritual, Christian, ethical and seling psychology, conduct dom the kind of growth potential found every soul to live in the light and love of pectations, values and priorities against religious values. It is MACC’s the Mount Ararat Counseling in a mustard seed and the widespread His eternal realm. our Sovereign’s requirements. belief that the infusion of Center (MACC) counseling inluence of leaven. He estimated it to After the pattern of the disciples’ In 1762, British pastor Charles Wes- these elements into the coun- sessions. Some counseling be the most important thing in one’s life prayer we form this petition, “We ask ley published these lyrics, “A charge to seling process is essential for services may be provided by and ininitely worthy of any sacriice that your kingdom will come now” and keep I have; a God to glorify. To serve the overall development of qualiied students enrolled made to obtain it. The wicked are also ofer this praise, “For yours is the king- the present age: my calling to fulill; oh those that will be served. An- in masters-level and doctoral admonished regarding their inal doom, dom” (Matthew 6:9-15 NLT). Between may all my powers engage to do my Mas- other goal of MACC includes degree programs under the which He depicts as a ish being sorted the petition and the praise, we abide, ter’s will.” The Kingdom is an exhilarat- providing Christian-based supervision of MACC licensed serve and witness as we look forward ing place to thrive and an amazing place and discarded from a dragnet. psychological and emotion- mental health professionals For ages, theologians, clergy and with yearning for all of heaven and earth to minister. The Kingdom will grow and al support, as well as social and faculty members or doc- everyday Christians have been puzzled to respond to the divine and benevolent be worldwide. MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES: services to clients, who may toral interns who are licensed by these basic questions: “Where exactly King. At the same time we rejoice and MOUNT ARARAT COUNSELING CENTER (MACC) is The Kingdom?” “Is there a time line celebrate the victorious deeds already or may not be members of mental health professionals. 271 Paulson Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15206 Mount Ararat Baptist Church 412.441.1800 Ext. 270 (MABC), but who are in need INSURANCE & FEES THE GOOD GRIEF CENTER of professional guidance and Highmark, UPMC, and Com- 2717 Murray Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15217 advocacy in dealing with issues munity Care Behavior Health “We ask that your kingdom 412.224.4700 that may prevent efective and (CCBH) insurance companies responsible conduct of their cover MACC’s services, and RE:SOLVE CRISIS NETWORK will come now” and ofer 333 North Braddock Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15208 daily lives. we also ofer fee-for-service 1.888.796.8226 and sliding scale for those who this praise, “For yours TARGET POPULATIONS may not have insurance and/ PEER SUPPORT AND ADVOCACY NETWORK The target clientele for MACC or may have diiculty paying. (PSAN) WARMLINE are individuals, couples, In extreme cases of inancial is the kingdom.” 1-866-661-WARM (9276) families, and groups across hardships and lack of insur- MERCY BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CRISIS LINE the lifespan (i.e., children, ance, pro-bono assistance 1-877-637-2924 adolescents, adults and older may be available. Please WESTERN PSYCHIATRIC INSTITUTE AND CLINIC adults). MACC will be target- contact MACC for further 412-624-1000 or Toll free 1(877)-624-4100 ed to members of MABC, to information on the rates for other church congregations, counseling services.

NAMI (NATIONAL ALLIANCE ON MENTAL ILLNESS) MAY 2015 to members of the East Liberty SOUTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA 105 Braunlich Drive, Suite 200, McKnight Plaza, area of Pittsburgh, and to Pittsburgh, PA 15237 members of the greater Pitts-

Phone: 412-366-3788 or Toll free: 1-888-264-7972 burgh Community. THE MOUNT 11 DYING FOR CHRIST 147 not just a number

BY SUSAN FRAZIER DELANEY

any watched the news in horror Savior would lead to their untimely demise? “You as the unimaginable unfolded in will be hated by all because of My name, but it is the M Nairobi, Kenya at a Garissa Univer- one who has endured to the end who will be saved.” sity. On Thursday, April 2, 2015, the (Matthew 10:22) Al-Shabaab militant group claimed The term martyr originates from the Greek responsibility for the attack on this university killing term meaning “witness” and refers to someone who at least 147 people and injuring over 92, predomi- chooses to sufer persecution and/or death rather re- nantly students. Posed as worshipers wearing white nounce their religious beliefs. The tragic incident in robes, the initial attackers entered the university Kenya is evidence that Christian persecution exists and began conducting religious proiling, separating today in our so-called modern high tech world as the Christians from the Muslims. Muslims were it did some two thousand years ago. These Kenyan identiied and allowed to leave; Christians were de- Christians were martyred for their beliefs just as tained and killed (many shot in the head). All in the were many Christians from the times during and name of Allah. The attack was not a random act of following Jesus’ resurrection. James, son of Zebedee, violence, but rather a highly sophisticated premed- was recorded in the New Testament as the irst of itated plan both politically and religiously motivat- the twelve apostles to be martyred through execu- ed against the Kenyan government. The trained tion by King Herod. There are numerous accounts Islamic extremists were based in Somalia (a faction and writings of other apostles and other Christians allegedly ailiated with Al-Qaeda). How many who were persecuted for their faith and mission Christians in the twenty-irst century would have of preaching a risen Savior to the world. Peter was actually believed that professing Christ as Lord and martyred in Rome under Emperor Nero by cruciix- ion (having requested the cross to be upside down as not feeling worthy to die in the same manner of Jesus). Apostle Paul was beheaded and Andrew who traveled throughout Turkey, Greece and what is A SURVIVOR OF AN ATTACK BY ISLAMIST now Russian regions, was cruciied. Even ‘doubt- GUNMEN CLAIMED BY AL-SHABAB ON A UNIVERSITY CAMPUS IN GARISSA, KENYA, ing’ Thomas traveled as far as Syria and India IS COMFORTED BY A COLLEAGUE AFTER before soldiers pierced him with spears. Philip’s ARRIVING IN NAIROBI ON SATURDAY. ministry reached the areas of North Africa where PHOTOGRAPH BY: TONY KARUMBA, AFP, he was eventually arrested and painfully put to GETTY IMAGES , LONDON DAILY TELEGRAPH death. There are varied reports that Matthew SURVIVOR OF AN ATTACK BY ISLAMIST may not have been martyred, while others claim MAY 2015 GUNMEN CLAIMED BY AL-SHABAB ON A UNIVERSITY CAMPUS IN GARISSA, KENYA, he was killed in Ethiopia. The accounts of Bar- IS COMFORTED BY A COLLEAGUE AFTER tholomew’s martyred death vary as he traveled ARRIVING IN NAIROBI ON SATURDAY. through Arabia and Ethiopia. Matthias, who PHOTOGRAPH BY: TONY KARUMBA, AFP, replaced Judas was claimed to have been killed THE MOUNT GETTY IMAGES , LONDON DAILY TELEGRAPH Continued on the following page. 13 ฀Therefore฀ my by burning. It is said that while death diferently than those Christ as your Lord and Sav- or death situations for our be- Simon was preaching in Persia who see it as the inal act of the ior? During these end times liefs? These and similar ques- beloved brethren฀ because he refused to worship world’s stage. Perhaps, you may in which we live, would you tions should cause Christians be steadfast฀ un฀ the sun god, he was killed. “For have understood that profess- be able to give the ultimate to carefully re-examine their to me, to live is Christ and to die ing your faith as a Christian sacriice or would you deny commitment to Jesus. We movable฀ always is gain.” (Philippians 1:21) was risky business hundreds Christ to save your own life? It need to know that if we truly abounding in the As a Christian, you can of years ago, but how many of is easy to praise and worship believe and stand for some- only say that to die is gain, if you would have believed that the Lord in the comforts of thing. We must be willing to OUR SERVICES you are truly living your life someone would actually put a our churches, but what if we die for that cause. Unless you works of the Lord฀ YOU ARE WELCOME TO THE MINISTRY THAT CARES for you know that for Christ. Therefore, you view gun to your head for claiming are removed from our comfort live for something; you die for FAMILY MEMBERS SIT ON A BENCH AS zones and confronted with life nothing. SUNDAY MORNING WORSHIP SERVICES: THEY WAIT TO VIEW THE BODIES OF 7:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 11:45 a.m.* your labor is not THEIR LOVED ONES WHO HAD BEEN KILLED IN AN ATTACK ON GARISSA it is the one YOUTH OF THE MOUNT (YOTM): in vain in the Lord฀ UNIVERSITY COLLEGE AT A MOR- 1 Corinthians 15฀58฀ TUARY IN NAIROBI, KENYA, APRIL 8, who has endured Elev8: All-ages at 9:30 a.m. 2015. (PHOTO CREDIT: DAI KUROKA- Eleven47: Teens-only at 11:47 a.m. WA/EPA) to the end SUNDAY SCHOOL: who will be saved฀ 4 years old to Adult at 9:30 a.m. Matthew 10฀22฀ SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE: Saturdays at 7 p.m. BAPTISM & COMMUNION: First Tuesday of the month NEXT LEVEL SMALL CELL GROUPS: Every Tuesday* *Except the irst Tuesday of the month

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FOR MORE INFO: 412-441-1800 Ext. 222 [email protected] MAY 2015 THE MOUNT 14 Cook and Hal Sutton in the early 1980s. “Tiger was my hero growing up and Ernie Els, Phil Mickelson and Justin BLACK WOMEN, MOUNT MAGAZINE NEWS PARTNER still remains the man to me,” Mat- Leonard a decade later. Adam Scott, newpittsburghcourieronline.com suyama said. “When I would watch Sergio Garcia and Justin Rose, all born in 1980. PLEASE STOP him on TV in Japan, I can remember “There seems like a bit more this thinking that he was so good and time. This one is a serious change,” Els said. “They’re learning how to win. at 20. He has four victories worldwide at DEFENDING so cool and his swing was so pure. They feel like, ‘This is my time and I A NEW GENERATION OF GOLFERS age 21. I vividly remember Tiger winning want to kick (butt).” There are seven players under the Woods was standing on a tee at age of 27 who are among the top 20 play- the U.S. Opens at Pebble Beach and YOUR HAIR Sherwood Country Club a few years ago TRAINED BY TIGER WOODS ers in the world. Day is the oldest at 27. Torrey Pines. I remember trying to when he turned to watch Dustin John- “He was always my hero growing up BY KOVIE BIAKOLO AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) — Tiger Woods trained them. son smash a drive down a par 5. Woods and watching him,” Day said. “Back then swing like him, but his swing was so said he couldn’t keep up with that kind was that larger-than-life igure in a red Nike released a commercial this we had antennas and a little turn-knob good that I had no chance.” of length, and then he added, “There are From a young age, I, like many Black shirt who was always winning. At least it week called, “Ripple.” It features a young TV. We only had four or ive channels girls, have had to defend my hair. seemed that way to a growing television McIlroy in Northern Ireland practicing a lot more guys like him.” back home. The only time I could get to They are not just longer of the tee. As a child, I didn’t like my hair. I don’t audience that included a bunch of kids in the dark and in the rain, with images watch him was when he played major remember when this started, but I do “Tiger was my hero growing up and still They are more polished in their instruc- from all over the world. of Woods winning championships as recall countless hours spent screaming championships. And the majority of time remains the man to me,” Matsuyama tion, more devoted to their itness. Not Rory McIlroy was one of them. So McIlroy grows up. Both are Nike clients, he was playing in those tournaments said. “When I would watch him on since 1994 has it taken this long into a as my thick, full, curly west African hair was Jordan Spieth. but there could have been other commer- when he was in his peak and he was TV in Japan, I can remember thinking PGA Tour season for someone to be a was being done in cornrows of diferent Jason Day was watching in Austra- cials just like it with other players. styles, using hair weaving thread and dominating. that he was so good and so cool and his multiple winner. Maybe that’s not an lia. Hideki Matsuyama was mesmerized Woods has had a massive efect on “I wanted to be like that, yes,” Day every once in a while, my mother would in Japan. television ratings, on prize money, on swing was so pure. I vividly remember accident. said. “I wanted to go out there and play Tiger winning the U.S. Opens at Pebble “Competing is still the same,” let me get it braided with extensions. If they didn’t want to grow up to be bringing more attention to the sport. If there’s one thing my mother would like he did.” Beach and Torrey Pines. I remember Woods said. “I’m trying to beat every- like Tiger, they wanted to beat him. If And now we’re seeing his efect on not let me do, however, it was perm or Matsuyama became the irst rookie trying to swing like him, but his swing body out there. That hasn’t changed. I nothing else, they were inspired by him. competition. “relax” my hair because of the chemicals to win the Japan Golf Tour money list. was so good that I had no chance.” prepare to win and expect to go and do And now they’re here. McIlroy is No. 1 in the world. He is - He just turned 23 and has seven world Matsuyama is doing OK. He is No. that. The only diference is that I won used. This next generation of players is a green jacket away from becoming the wide wins, one as an amateur in Japan, So for most of my childhood, I en- getting plenty of attention for all the 17 in the world. the Masters when Jordan was still in di- sixth player with the career Grand Slam, another at the Memorial that earned him dured countless questions about my hair right reasons. They’re winning. They are and the second-youngest at age 25 behind Woods took itness to another level, apers. That’s the diference is that guys an audience with Jack Nicklaus. and over time he looked more like a are now younger, a whole other genera- and why it was so tough; why I didn’t why the talent level seems deeper than Woods. Spieth is No. 4 in the world. He strong safety in the NFL than a golfer. tion of kids coming out.” relax it. Of course there were not only ever. They’re why it’s getting harder to won his irst PGA Tour event at 19. He TIGER WOODS TEES OFF ON THE NINTH HOLE DURING A PRAC- questions, there were taunts whenever TICE ROUND FOR THE MASTERS GOLF TOURNAMENT TUESDAY, McIlroy has become addicted to the He doesn’t know them all. But they win — even for Woods, who efectively played in the last group at the Masters APRIL 7, 2015, IN AUGUSTA, GA. (AP PHOTO/MATT SLOCUM) gym with a tailored workout routine know him. my hair was in its natural state. I was made to feel ashamed of my hair and I that has changed his body. He recently was on the cover of a men’s health mag- was. My mother eventually let me perm azine. my hair when I was getting conirmed Just about everyone has made it- at 14-years-old. But she only let me do so ness a central part of their regimen. On-call once a year until I left home for college. An exception might be Patrick small business Hair is political – we know this. And Reed. He’s the 25-year-old with a killer how do we know this? We know because instinct, who can rub people the wrong legal protection. everything from beauty to professionalism is invested in a particular under- way and cares only about winning. Join over 46,000 small Reed wears black pants and a red shirt standing of the type of hair that is asso- businesses and protect ciated with these constructs; the type on Sunday, because that’s what Woods of hair that is “acceptable” for certain always wears. And that’s not all he no- yours with LegalShield. ticed. Reed saw a mental toughness he bodies. The elephant in the room is that all these constructs are embedded wanted to copy. in racial and racist imaginations of “Be stubborn. Focus on what you’re doing and not anyone around you,” things. Like skin, the closer your hair is to European standards, the more Reed said. “You could see it just by likely it is to be considered normal, looking at him in the eyes. If looks could kill you, he would literally kill you. It’s beautiful, professional, etc.

It cannot be stressed enough that MAY 2015 MAY 2015 not because he’s not a good guy, he was K. Lyn n Jon e s just so focused and determined to play Black women’s hair is diverse – based In d ep en d en t Associ a te - Di r ector on everything from their genealogy, well. And he obviously gets it. And that’s (412) 608 -5551 to the climate they were born in, to what I’m trying to do.” klyn n j on es@ leg a lshi eld a ssoci a te.com THE MOUNT THE MOUNT Every generation brings a new set of klyn n j on es.leg a lshi eld a ssoci a te.com how they take care of it over time. So Continued on the following page. 16 stars. Mark O’Meara, Scott Hoch, John 17 let’s not get it twisted and think that every African-American actor in ilm The idea came amid Cosby’s on- Black women you see with hair that is history. going accusations that he drugged WHAT HAPPENS more straight, or associated with Euro- The entertainer has insisted dozens of women and sexually pean features, has gone the extra mile to he is retired now and only makes assaulted them. In the end, Mur- TO HOLLYWOOD’S have it that way. But there is an irony that rare appearances. phy wouldn’t make fun of Cosby, when Black women do manipulate their In February, Murphy made who won the Mark Twain Prize in hair either to conform to more European his irst return to “SNL” since 2009. PUSH FOR DIVERSITY standards, they are accused of self-hate. 1984 for the show’s 40th anni- “Eddie decides the laughs are Alternatively, when Black women versary reunion special. But his not worth it,” Macdonald said in AFTER OSCARS? either wear natural hair or braid their role was limited. Former “SNL” February. “He will not kick a man hair with extensions or do a whole host cast member Norm Macdonald when he is down.” of things with their hair, there is often later revealed a plan was scuttled BY SANDY COHEN, FOLLOW BRETT ZONGKER AT TWITTER.COM/ AP ENTERTAINMENT WRITER commentary about how the style is count- for Murphy to impersonate Bill DCARTBEAT . er-cultural or may not it well in main- Cosby behind a bar on the show. stream spaces, or is perceived as unkempt LOS ANGELES (AP) — The “Fast & Furious” series is often cited as an example of how diversity can or something negative. It is endless. Black work in Hollywood. With its multicultural casts and women, sometimes, just can’t win. You international settings, the franchise has generated have to defend your hair – whether it’s permed, straight, curly, in a weave, braid- more than $2.4 billion in global earnings. The latest ed, shaved, or natural, and doing its own installment, “Furious 7,” set box-oice records last weekend with its $147-million domestic opening. thing. I’m pretty tired of defending my hair; “Usually, big studio tent-pole ilms are all very whitewashed,” says “Furious 7฀ director James Wan. I’m tired of defending our hair. Now yes, I “People need to learn from this because this is the do perceive the hair on my head as political PHOTO CAPTION: IN THIS NOV. 3, 2012 FILE PHOTO, EDDIE MURPHY ADDRESSES SPEAKS AT THE CLOSE OF way of the future.” to the extent that I keep it in West-African EDDIE MURPHY TO “EDDIE MURPHY: ONE NIGHT ONLY,” A CELEBRATION OF Wan says the “Furious” ilms play well glob- styled braids to represent the culture and MURPHY’S CAREER AT THE SABAN THEATER IN BEVERLY HILLS, CALIF. (PHOTO BY CHRIS PIZZELLO/INVISION, FILE) ally “because they have people from that part of community I identify with. And I haven’t the world in the movies and they’re not treated like for many reasons, including that cultural RECEIVE TOP US representation, permed it or worn a weave second-class citizens.” for breaking new ground in ilms. The dearth of diversity in Hollywood was heavy in almost four years. It is a political act on HUMOR PRIZE AT BRANDY & FANTASIA TO APPEAR on the entertainment industry’s mind during awards my part. It is also an individual act that Morgan has called Murphy his “comic does not make me better than any other hero” and said Murphy set the tone for season, when the #OscarSoWhite hashtag went viral IN COURT FOR FORMER PUBLICIST and host Neil Patrick Harris joked about honoring Black woman, or any woman. But it also KENNEDY CENTER the entire industry long ago. the “best and whitest — sorry — brightest” at the doesn’t make me worse. In a written statement, Murphy BY BRETT ZONGKER, DISCRIMINATION CASE Academy Awards. What we say to society when we wear said he was deeply honored by the ASSOCIATED PRESS WRITER our hair in particular ways, deliberately recognition and to join the list of past Yet despite the success of ilms like “Furious BY SONYA ESKRIDGE or unintentionally, shouldinform our recipients of the Twain Prize. Past The publicist believes that 7฀ and increased awareness of the industry’s white, WASHINGTON (AP) — Eddie Mur- Dennison’s supposed accusations male status quo, change won’t be seen onscreen any- individual choice to wear our hair the way honorees include Jay Leno, Carol Bur- Brandy and Fantasia are being phy, famous for his standup routines, were nothing more than covert time soon. we wish, not negate those choices. Recog- nett, Tina Fey and Whoopi Goldberg. called before the court to answer ilms and his early breakout on “Sat- nizing of course, the importance of those Murphy has had a “consistently questions about why they really corporate racism. He insists that A survey by The Associated Press shows that of urday Night Live,” will be awarded the statements were an attack on about 170 ilms scheduled for release through the end beautiful India.Arie words that, “I am not brilliant comedic career” in many cut ties with their former publicist the nation’s top prize for humor this his professionalism and injurious of the year, 32 feature actors of color in prominent my hair” in all the politics of our hair. But diferent aspects of comedy, said Cap- Courtney Barnes. year by the John F. Kennedy Center to his reputation. roles. above all, Black women, whatever hair you py McGarr, one of the humor prize They’ll come face-to-face for the Performing Arts, oicials said wear on your head, let us recognize that show’s executive producers. with their former rep as witnesses He’s speciically accused True, this year’s movies were made before Thursday. we do not owe the world explanations for “He is truly a transformative in his discrimination case against Dennison of slandering his name the Oscar outcry. But whether onscreen diversity Murphy, 54, will receive the Mark in the music industry, causing improves over time as production catches up to new it. We do not need to justify it to anyone. comedian and humorist,” McGarr Sony Music,TheJasmineBrand. Twain Prize for American Humor on him great emotional stress. awareness remains to be seen. One thing’s for cer- Our hair does not need vindication from said. “Like Mark Twain, he talks about com reports. He’s accusing the Oct. 18 in a show that will be broad- Barnes is seeking $250,000 in tain, though: Much work lies ahead. society. provocative issues and he is really, company of iring him from the cast nationally. The humor prize damages, but Sony Music has Studies by researchers at UCLA and USC Stop defending your hair Black wom- really funny while doing it. label because he’s Black. honors those who inluence society in responded by stating that the case show vast underrepresentation of women and en. And every time you are put in a Murphy’s ilms have been among Barnes’ lawsuit alleges that the tradition of Samuel Clemens, the should be thrown out. minorities in every aspect of ilmmaking. position to do so, remind yourself that the highest-grossing comedies, includ- Fantasia’s manager told him that writer, satirist and social commenta- Now, both Brandy and “Recognizing a problem and changing it are two your hair, like your skin, like your body, ing “48 Hours,” ”Trading Places,” ”Dr. Sony Vice President Sarah Den- tor better known as Mark Twain. Fantasia are being asked to give a very diferent beasts,” said Cathy Schulman, the like your culture(s) is not on trial. The Dolittle” and “Coming to America.” nison hated him so much that she Through his work, Murphy “has deposition about Barnes’ allega- Oscar-winning producer of “Crash” and president only thing that continues to be on trial Murphy got his break in comedy was willing to sabotage Fanta- shown that like Mark Twain, he was tions against Sony. of Women in Film. MAY 2015 MAY 2015 is a system that makes you feel like any in 1980 when he joined the cast of sia’s career to get rid of him. The years ahead of his time,” said Kennedy In insular, high-risk, high-proit Hollywood, unique part of you should be apolo- “Saturday Night Live.” He went on music publicist also claims that ORIGINALLY SEEN ON HELLOBEAUTIFUL.COM Center President Deborah Rutter. change has to be insistent and intentional, said gized for. to become one of the ilm industry’s Fannie’s manager said Denni- Tracy Morgan, Adam Sandler, Chris top box oice performers as an actor. son accused him of using “shady Darnell Hunt, director of the Ralph J. Bunche THE MOUNT

THE MOUNT Rock and Samuel L. Jackson have all Center for African American Studies at UCLA. ORIGINALLY SEEN ON HTTP://HELLOBEAUTIFUL.COM/ The Kennedy Center said Murphy business practices.” hailed Murphy for his inluence and is the most commercially successful Continued on the following page. 18 19 “Let’s put it this PITTSBURGH’S way: Money Premiere talks,” Wan said. FINE-DINING DESTINATION “Hollywood is all about money. If having diversity equals box-ofﬁce receipts around the world, they’ll listen to it. That’s IN THIS WED., APRIL 1, 2015 FILE PHOTO, JAMES WAN, CENTER, TYRESE GIBSON, LEFT, AND LUDACRIS ARRIVE AT THE PREMIERE OF “FURIOUS 7” AT THE TCL CHINESE THEATRE IMAX, IN LOS ANGELES. FEATURING MULTICULTURAL CASTS AND INTERNATIONAL SETTINGS, THE FRANCHISE HAS CONTINUED FOR 14 YEARS AND GENERATED $2.4 BILLION IN GLOBAL EARNINGS. WAN, DIRECTOR OF THE LATEST INSTALLMENT, “FURIOUS 7,” the bottom line.” SAID KEEPING CASTS DIVERSE IS “ALMOST LIKE A NO-BRAINER.” (PHOTO BY MATT SAYLES/INVISION/AP, FILE)

“It’s not going to correct UCLA study to be over- that three of the four also had make sure the public has their itself naturally,” said the whelmingly white and male a higher percentage of blacks stories accurately relected in sociology professor, co-author — usually hire people they’ve in leading or supporting roles the media.” of UCLA’s annual report on worked with before, which — but that other minorities But change is slow and minority representation in the reproduces the dismal ethnic lagged far behind. proit is king. industry. “I suspect we’ll have and gender ratios. A recent Industry leaders are “Let’s put it this way: more and more dysfunction study by USC and the advo- receptive to discussions about Money talks,” Wan said. “Hol- and lack of alignment of peo- cacy group Women in Film increasing diversity, Hunt lywood is all about money. ple in the industry holding shows women have repre- and Schulman each said. If having diversity equals onto an approach they’ve had sented fewer than 5 percent of They’ve separately met with box-oice receipts around for generations and ignoring directors of top ilms during studio heads to talk about the the world, they’ll listen to it. where America is.” the past two decades. disparity and how to ix it. That’s the bottom line.” His team’s ongoing study People of color have “Hollywood is not this AP FILM WRITER LINDSEY BAHR CONTRIBUT- of the entertainment industry made incremental progress monolithic beast,” Hunt said. ED TO THIS REPORT. aims to quantify the relation- recently in some areas of the “There are people in Holly- FOLLOW AP ENTERTAINMENT WRITER SANDY ship between diversity and entertainment business, the wood who are very commit- COHEN AT WWW.TWITTER.COM/APSANDY . proitability. Their second UCLA study found. Lead roles ted to diversity, who recog- annual Hollywood diversity for non-white actors in ilm nize its good business sense or report, released in February, and TV increased by about have a social responsibility to shows that while women and 1½ percent in 2013 over the minorities are underrepre- previous year. But even with sented across entertainment the success of minority-led relative to the U.S. popula- TV series such as “The Mindy tion, movies and TV shows Project,” ”Scandal” and “How RESTAURANT with diverse casts tend to to Get Away With Murder,” perform well in ratings non-white show-runners Join us and experience cuisine prepared by Celebrity Chef Kevin Watson. With and at the box oice. account for less than 6 percent “There’s a myth of people of all broadcast scripted fare, numerous awards, including The People’s Choice Award, Best Savory Dish, Best of color not being viable the study found. MAY 2015 Sweet Dish and back to back awards for the Best Appetizer, SAVOY has become internationally when the An AP analysis of Fall rest of the world is di- 2014 prime-time network pro- Pittsburgh’s premier venue for ine dining. verse,” Hunt said. gramming found that three of the four networks were whiter THE MOUNT Film and TV studio To make reservations or for more information, heads — found by the than the U.S. population and 20 call 412-281-0660 or visit SAVOYPGH.COM 2623 Penn Ave • Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15222 • 412.281.0660 • SAVOYPGH.COM “The kingdom to truly advocate for the kingdom in the world. We will have yielded to God’s of God is within.” dominion and our lives will be proof (Luke 17:21) that God’s will is good, acceptable and Jesus spoke those words two thousand perfect! We will be illed with His love and compassion and the world will know years ago. It’s not what they wanted to hear then and probably not what most that when we speak to them, it is not just people want to hear now. Back then, the in judgment. This will not happen until Jews were looking for a physical king- we go from merely celebrating the word dom, and many of us today are seeking of God to actually applying it, individ- a kingdom built by the hands of man ually and as a church community. We need to do more than sing, as well. We hope for a better life and pursue all types of avenues to achieve a “When you’re Spirit speaks to me, with my whole heart I’ll agree and my material kingdom. We hope for a stronger nation and we elect people who we answer will be Yes, Lord, Yes!” We need believe will bring about sweeping chang- to live it! I encourage you to read the book es. While we should vote, and “occupy” until Christ’s return as commanded in of Acts. This is exactly what happened with a group of disciples who gave their the Word (Luke 19:13), the problem is that business acumen and legislation will not lives and their very bodies to become bring about morality or holiness in our dwelling places of the Holy Spirit. They lives. Even if our elected oicials could turned the known world upside down. THE KINGDOM OF GOD IS agree and work together, sin is a heart The same thing can happen today if we issue. There are not enough laws to ix STOP tolerating wrong mindsets and the human heart. proclivities. If this happened in just one church, the world will never be the We in the church know the answer; - the answer is Jesus Christ! The problem same. D.L. Moody, an American evan gelist and publisher, who founded the WITHIN is that we don’t always live like He is the answer. We were supposed to be in the Moody Church, Moody Bible Institute, world and not of the world, but we have and Moody Publishers (Source: Wikipedia) BY MINERVA WHITE lost our distinctiveness and with it, we said it doesn’t even take that much, “The world has yet to see what God can do have lost the power to enact change. We pray “Thy kingdom come, thy with a man fully consecrated to him.” will be done” and then we do what we Today, if we would each listen for God’s voice and not harden our hearts, want. The kingdom of God must irst change would come to our marriages, ‘come’ into the heart of every believer. It comes through the process of swapping families, schools, communities, nation out our own carnal mind and taking on and to the world. The kingdom of God the mind of Christ. (Romans 12:2) It comes IS near! Christ wants to be shaped in through the surrender of our ways and each of us. Paul expressed it this way in our rule over ourselves and through Colossians 1:27, “Christ in us, the hope of submission to the constant guidance of glory!” What an idea! What an invita- the Holy Spirit. (Gal. 5:25) tion! Revelation 3:20 states that Jesus These truths are emphasized is standing at the door of His church… through the message Pastor William KNOCKING! Let’s open the door! I don’t Curtis, of Mount Ararat Baptist Church know about you Church, but I need Him, in Pittsburgh preached about on April and this world needs Him! 12, “The Gift of a Changing Tolerance.” As believers we must be willing to dis- cern and speak in an informed fashion PRAYER: about what is not of God (or a product of Jesus, I open the door. Lord, forgive His kingdom). We must be able to speak me for shutting you out! I belong to to that distinction irst in ourselves and then in our church. Jesus said it this you and I want your kingdom to be MAY 2015 way, “First take the plank out of your a reality in me. Have your way! Help own eye.” (Matthew 7:5) After we have fully availed ourselves me! For the glory of your Name, and have opened our churches to the THE MOUNT Amen! work of the Holy Spirit, we will be able 22 “THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD BECOMES THE GPS OF THAT PERSON’S MIND.”

hrough my years of going Let’s look at how this works. Now to church, I have heard that I am living according to the will a lot of people say “Lord, and direction of God, I can use my T you can use me.” From gifts, resources and abilities to change hearing that statement the world in which we live. Each of and even saying it myself, us have been given a “promise land” I really had to sit back and think about in which we are to use our Kingdom if it was being said to sound good or if Minded Mentality. Your “promised the feeling was authentic. If you really land” is the place you are to occupy think about the numerous people in and exercise Kingdom inluence. the world that claim to be believers, The numerous places that we do how many are living with a Kingdom this are in our jobs, communities, mentality? My deinition of a Kingdom homes, churches, political venues, and mentality is one who focuses on the everywhere we ind ourselves. things of God rather than things of this The Scripture says “Therefore world. In essence, it is knowing that hear, O Israel, and be careful to observe God is more important than all other it, that it may be well with you, and that things in this world. It is realizing who you may multiply greatly as the LORD we are in Christ Jesus. It is knowing God of your fathers has promised you that we are ambassadors of the a land lowing with milk and honey. “ Kingdom of our Lord. We must realize (Deut. 6:3) that God is the Sovereign ruler over our The word multiply stands out in entire lives. this scripture for me. It makes me think Let’s take a moment to see how to about that old 1980’s movie Gremlins develop a Kingdom mentality. The irst when the little monsters multiplied so step is to repent. Scripture says “From fast that they took over the town. Think that time Jesus began to preach and to of what would happen if we had some BY: REV. CORNELL JONES, IRON CROSS MINISTRIES say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven Kingdom Minded Vessels multiplied is at hand.” (Matt. 4:17) all over the city of Pittsburgh. All the Now after John was put in prison, things terrorizing our community Jesus came to Galilee, preaching the would stop because of our living gospel of the kingdom of God, and according to the Word of God. I believe saying, “The time is fulilled, and the that this CAN happen! kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, The challenge that I present to all and believe in the gospel.” (Mark 1:14-15) of us is to remember that God wants to If someone truly repents, he has use us RIGHT NOW!! The bible says shown humility and submission to the “But seek irst the kingdom of God and will of God. This type of person usually His righteousness, and all these things makes a great leader because he or she shall be added to you.” (Mt. 6:33) is leading through the spirit of the Lord If WE submit to the authority and not through their own direction. of God WE will experience “Thy This person strives to make God happy Kingdom Come, Thy Will Be Done On and by doing this, the lives of the Earth...As It Is In Heaven. people around them are transformed. The Spirit of the Lord becomes the GPS For more information about Iron Cross MAY 2015 “SEEK FIRST THE KINGDOM OF GOD AND of that person’s mind. Community Ministries, call (412) 952-5230. HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS, AND ALL THESE THINGS SHALL BE ADDED TO YOU.” THE MOUNT (MT. 6:33) 24 DIGGING DEEPER for Lasting Weight Loss

BY: RACHEL WOODSON GOODE

Recently, God has taken me on a , For most of us process where I have had to dig a little Lasting weight loss the measure of weight loss success is deeper and uncover some behaviors that must be measured ultimately based on the numbers on the were hindering me from achieving my by more than just scale and the size of our clothes. When we see a loss, there are bouts of internal desired weight loss goals. The process the scale If the scale says a certain number, many celebration (maybe external) and we re- has been painful and challenging. It has moved slower than I expected. My of us feel that our work is done. We ceive a sense of accomplishment. If you weight loss has not been what I expected poll anyone who is engaging the process achieved our weight goal! The converse is also true – if the scale does not say of weight loss, a common desire is often it to be. However, I have noticed that I am stronger and have been in the spiritu- our ideal number, then we are quick to for the weight to be lost quickly. While al process of building a brick house that discount any positive change that may most will admit that the weight gaining is strong and will shelter me from the ad- process did not happen overnight, it have occurred. Weight loss success is complicated, and will require new seems harder to accept that weight loss versity that I will eventually face. As you consider “digging deeper,” here are some – lasting weight loss –may take a little behaviors that will take repeated efort to things that you may need to consider: master. When we “dig deep” to achieve longer. It will likely require us to dig weight loss, our success may be seen in underneath the surface to examine the a change in our eating behavior or in strength of our foundation and hidden Be prepared to barriers to achieving ultimate weight loss frequent trips to the gym. Also, success explore the may mean that we have spent more time success. reasons for your reading God’s Word and have addressed Several months ago, I was fortunate excess weight our desires to use food as an emotional to hear Rev. Nichelle Nelson preach a Have you considered the reasons why support, instead of for the physical pur- message about how God often places you may be overweight? Again, most of us in situations where he causes us to poses that God intends. In short, while us understand we need to eat better and the scale may be the most preferred “dig deep so that we can build high.” In move more, but usually don’t extend the measure of weight loss success, do not the message, Nelson used the story of conversation further. It is important discount all the work that may be going the Three Little Pigs as an illustration to to consider exploring your individual on beneath the surface in preparation for describe the outcome of building a house relationship with food. Why do you your eventual attainment of your weight made with straw compared to building ind it so hard to resist eating ______loss goals. a house made with brick. The story is and ______? How do you manage stress familiar: the big, bad wolf was able to or your health? Why do you overeat at destroy the pig’s house that was made every meal? Asking questions like these with straw, but was unable to destroy You need God’s help may be some of the irst steps toward the You serve a God with the power to help the house made with brick. As I applied development of new healthy behaviors. you lose this weight - permanently. He this to my recurrent struggle with weight Additionally, these questions may help can do this. I know I often doubted loss, I realized that often I was building some of us realize our eating may be a God’s power and his ability to make a a weight loss ‘house’ of straw. Instead of coping behavior we have developed to diference in my personal weight loss looking at the deeper concerns that may MAY 2015 help us hide or mask past hurts and/or challenges. There were so many more have facilitated the process of my weight trauma. If you want to reach the goal of signiicant challenges in the world, and gain, I would rather make some quick permanent weight loss, this process is honestly, I thought I should just be able exercise and eating changes in hopes of essential and will give you clues toward to get this thing together. But I just

THE MOUNT achieving successful weight loss. Can the next steps. couldn’t. you relate? Continued on the following page. 26 The #1 reason why most of stronghold? Your prayers, us can’t lose weight is because obedience, and relationship our weight loss challenges are with God are essential tools to KELLY spiritual and we aren’t pre- victory. Stand on HIS word, STRAYHORN pared for the ight. Why do and watch him move moun- THEATER you think it is so hard for you tains and transform your life. May 7–9, 2015 to eat right? Why is it so hard We must engage the process This May, Kelly Strayhorn for you to do the things that of ‘digging deep’ so we can Theater presents three are best for your body? If you build stronger, higher, and nights of exciting new work by choreographers realize that you are ighting a solid houses that will allow us from Pittsburgh and spiritual battle, you may re- to enjoy a healthy body and around the country at the 2015 newMoves Contem- consider the weapons that you mind. porary Dance Festival. use for warfare. Ephesians 6 Losing weight is more Each day, join us for talks, encourages us to remember than just the physical shed- classes, workshops and more. newMoves is your that we need to be strong in ding of pounds. While there chance to go behind the are quick ways to achieve scenes and meet up- the Lord and the strength of and-coming dancers and HIS might. Moreover, Paul some of our physical goals, dance makers. Complete - digging deeper requires us details available online at encourages us in 2 Corinthi kelly-strayhorn.org. ans 10:3-4, that we do not ight to examine our weight loss as the world does, but that the behaviors thoughtfully. With 412.363.3000 weapons of our warfare “have God, all things are possible, kelly-strayhorn.org the divine power the demolish and we must engage him in strongholds.” What strong our process. Remember – we words of encouragement! serve a God of miracles. Let’s Most of us come into allow him to take us on a this weight loss ight entirely journey that will result in the unarmed and unprepared for transforming of our lives, as

the spiritual forces of dark- well as lower numbers on the Photo: Reed Dance at the 2013 ness that are coming to knock scale. newMoves Festival us out of the ight. Does your battle with food feel like a

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MAY 2015

Be sure to get a copy of The Mount Magazine, stay connected with us on social media and Mount TV, for an updated listing of our advertising partners! THE MOUNT 28 s the Pittsburgh Steelers pre- was Hines Ward, a wide receiver) in 2012, USC, started in all but one game, giving pare for their 2015 season, they who begged the Steelers to keep him him 36 total starts in his college career. Steelers A are aware that they will have one more season, but the team wouldn’t Polamalu inished his career at USC as to make hard decisions. For give in. Eventually Ward retired because a three-year starter. In all, he made 278 example: Getting rid of veter- he couldn’t see himself playing for any tackles with 29 of them being behind the Polamalu an players so they can make room for other team but the Steelers. line of scrimmage, six interceptions, 13 younger ones. Such is the life of not only This week, the Steelers learned of pass delections and four blocked punts. the NFL, but of sports. It’s truly one big another popular name who is moving Following his senior season in 2002, cycle. And sometimes (As R&B’s Boyz II on. Veteran Safety Troy Polamalu has Polamalu was recognized as a consensus Retires Men put it), “it’s so hard to say goodbye announced that he is retiring from the irst-team All-American, after receiving to yesterday.” NFL after 12 years of service. One could irst-team All-American honors from To many surprise, it’s not just the argue strongly that he did the Steelers the Associated Press, the Football Writ- BY RAY PORTER JR. old players (seasoned I like to describe a favor by so doing. Unfortunately, the ers Association of America, the Wal- them as) or the popular names that Steeler leadership would have had to ter Camp Football Foundation and even non-fans know who are in jeopar- once again make the hard decision-and ESPN. He was also a two-time irst-team dy of being let go, many factors lead to cut him for salary purposes. All-Pac-10 selection and was awarded the personnel changes. Whether by retire- Polamalu (33), was unique in every Most Inspirational Player Award by his ment or but terminating their contract type of way. In the ield, he played his teammates. Polamalu was named as a (or in layman’s terms: getting cut), the position unlike any player in NFL his- inalist for the Jim Thorpe Award, given Steelers have watched many big and tory. His career precursory to the NFL to the nation’s best defensive back. popular names leave. Most recently is was as notable. He was a standout at Continued on the following page. MAY 2015 THE MOUNT 31 In 2003, Polamalu was so Steeler to get named the NFL coveted by the Steelers that Defensive Player of the Year. YOUR PASSPORT TO SUMMER FUN they traded up in the NFL That same year, the Steelers Draft-just so they were able to went back to the Super Bowl get him They were successful losing to the Green Bay Pack- in their pursuits securing Pol- ers. PHOTO amalu as their 1st round pick. Unfortunately, things didn’t RECAP But most folks didn’t know go well for Polamalu in his that the San Diego Chargers ensuing years as he sufered also wanted Polamalu and injuries in 2011 and 2012. tried to compete to get him, Although he did put togeth- but the Steelers won that er another Pro Bowl season FAMILY battle. in 2013, it was clear that he GUIDANCE Although he didn’t start wasn’t the same player as or play much in his rookie evidenced in 2014. SPRING year, Polamalu was the heir Of the ield, Polamalu is a apparent to the Strong Safety true gentleman and humani- GALA position, which was handed tarian. He and his wife Theo- Recently, Mount Ararat attend- to him in 2004. He rewarded dora support many charities ed Family Guidance’s annual - the Steelers with their faith in (Including FOCUS of Pitts Spring Gala event held at the him that season by recording burgh) and they founded the Fairmont Hotel, Downtown. ive interceptions en route Harry Panos Fund to honor Summer kicks off with music, dancing, and the East End’s best food and drink at KST’s Full Bloom Summer Dance Party The event featured Broadway to his irst Pro-Bowl appear- Theodora’s grandfather who Star Ivan Rutherford, “Les ance. This would begin a served in World War II. Early Bird Tickets on sale now — quantities limited! streak of seven consecutive Polamalu’s hair is one Miserables” veteran, whose Pro-Bowl appearances and of his most distinguishing JUNE 6 KELLY-STRAYHORN THEATER portrayal of Jean Valjean spans two NFL All-Pro selections. characteristics allowing him 20 years. Rutherford was ac- He was labeled the best to be easily spotted on the GET ALL THE DETAILS ONLINE companied by musical theater KELLY-STRAYHORN.ORG/FULLBLOOM Strong Safety in the league. ield. In the CBS Playofs professionals Kate Loprest and In 2005, Polamalu tied Pre-game Show, Polamalu Lexi Rhoades. The event raised the NFL record for most sacks said the last time he had money for Family Guidance’s in a single game by a safety, gotten a haircut was in 2000 programs and services that achieving three sacks. With at USC when a coach told includes mentoring for youth credit to defensive genius him he needed one. He also and marriage and family en- Dick LeBeau, Polamalu was has a contract with Head & richment seminars. For more used in a high percentage Shoulders shampoo and has of defensive plays in a wide starred in ive commercials information, visit: variety of defensive roles. He for the product. In August www.FamilyGuidance.net became known for confus- 2010, P&G paid for a mil- ing opposing ofenses often lion-dollar insurance policy stumping them because they from Lloyd’s of London for never knew where he was on Polamalu’s hair which is 32 the ield-at least until they inches long. saw his lowing hair. Although his NFL jour- Polamalu has also been ney is done on the ield, he to three Super Bowls with the still has one more level to get Steelers, winning two. His to: The Pro Football Hall of fourth quarter interception Fame which he will be eligi- return for a touchdown in ble for in the year 2020. the 2008 AFC Champion- ship game against the Bal- Ray Porter Jr. is a freelance Sports timore Ravens helped the Writer for Urban Media Today Steelers clinch a victory (www.urbanmediatoday.com). You en route to another Super can follow Ray @urbanmediaRay MAY 2015 MAY 2015 Bowl appearance. on Twitter. Perhaps his best season was in 2010, where he led the veteran defense (and THE MOUNT THE MOUNT NFL) with seven inter- 32 ceptions and was the 6th 33 SNACK ON about incorporating olives Three Easy Changes You Can into a healthy Mediterra- BOLD FLAVORS nean diet at Olives.com. Whether you’re on the go or Make Today to Meet Your at home, snack time can be MAKE FRIENDS WITH FAT a dieter’s downfall. Rather PHOTO A major mistake many Long-Term Diet Goals than buying full-sized bags RECAP dieters make is trying to of high-fat snacks like chips, cut all of the fat from their which are easy to binge on, The biggest hurdles to In addition to all of the diet. Fat is a necessary opt for single-serving snacks sticking to a new diet are critical functions water per- component of any healthy that are wholesome and full NEW MINISTRY convenience and lavor. forms in your body, staying diet. Monounsaturated fat, of lavor. 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Olives Olives in a cup can be just non-proit organization that palate. to dress up water and add and avocados are fruit, so as satisfying as a serving works to provide technology to Here are three easy a hint of nutritional value: they also boost your fruit of chips, but they’re glu- low-income families in Western changes you can make to Add slices of strawberry intake. ten-free, dairy-free, sug- Pennsylvania, across the United your diet today: or cucumber, wedges of Try tossing olives, ar-free, cholesterol-free, States and in 22 countries lemon, lime or orange, canned tuna or avocados trans-fat-free, GMO-free internationally. No technical HYDRATE YOURSELF chunks of watermelon or into a salad; sprinkle al- and vegan. They’re easy to background is needed. Hands several sprigs of fresh mint monds or walnuts over Water reigns supreme as open and stay fresh until on training is provided. Sign up or basil. 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Add to salads or sandwiches for bold lavor without a lot (STATEPOINT) of extra calories. Read more MAY 2015 MAY 2015 THE MOUNT THE MOUNT 34 35 private loans, free online MONEY MANAGEMENT resources can help guide For many students, college Five Things Families with you through the process. is the irst time they Check out resources will gain some inancial College Bound Students designed for college-bound - independence. Set your kids students and their families, PHOTO up for success by teaching Should Consider such as Wells Fargo’s “5 RECAP them how to establish Steps to Financial Aid” a workable budget. A Transitioning to college life before visiting the doctor video series, which ofers checking and savings can be diicult on students so you can provide that helpful advice on inding account designed for and families. From new information at your a scholarship, applying for RESURRECTION college students can help expenses to a new lifestyle, appointment. loans, and more from “Mr. them stay on track. You can WEEKEND being prepared for what lies Fellows, your wiser college review money-management Resurrection Weekend was a ahead can help you avoid advisor,” at WellsFargo.com/ FINANCING COLLEGE tools for college students at “White-Out” at Mount Ararat common bumps in the road. ivesteps. as we wore our “Only Jesus” College may be one of your www.WellsFargo.com. Here are ive things tee-shirts. The weekend cele- family’s biggest investments families with college-bound STAYING IN TOUCH bration included Mount Ararat’s to date. Whether that Don’t let the transition to students should consider: Praise Team, Dance Ensemble, describes your family or not, You’re busy. Your kid is college catch your family of Prayer, Fellowship and the there’s no doubt about it, busy. But regular check-ins guard. Parents can make the GETTING INVOLVED Word of God presented by higher education comes with your student can help transition easier for students Pastor Curtis. Remember, you Being away from home with a big price tag. It’s you know that everything by striking the right balance are invited to join us at any one and making new friends never too late in the process is going well. Set up a of “letting go” and staying of our four services: Saturday can seem daunting. to seek out new inancing weekly appointment to involved. at 7:00p.m. and Sunday morn- Encourage your student options, even if your child is chat by phone and get the ings at 7:30a.m., 9:30a.m. and to get involved in school already away out school. scoop -- just make sure your (STATEPOINT) 11:45a.m. activities and events. From From illing out the student’s phone plan allows joining the campus paper Free Application for Federal for suicient texting and to running for student Student Aid, to exploring calling. government, there are a range of extracurricular opportunities that can lead to new friendships, help students maintain an active calendar and round out one’s classroom education.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS Late nights spent studying instead of sleeping, as well as crowded dorm rooms, can be a prescription for colds and lu. Check out on- campus and local health care options before your student gets sick. No one wants to scramble to research medical options when he or she MAY 2015

MAY 2015 isn’t feeling well. Many campuses ofer student insurance. See what makes the most sense THE MOUNT THE MOUNT for your family. Locate 36 a nearby pharmacist 37 be a myth created by older kids, do a role reversal How to Make Dinnertime a food manufacturers and one night a week and have marketers. Your child might them do the cooking. like chicken piccata as much It can be fun to re- Priority for Your Family as chicken ingers. create meals kids have seen Entice picky eaters by advertised on TV or eaten PHOTO Do you have dinner with amuse your children, such as modeling adventurous in restaurants. For example, RECAP your kids? It’s become something mischievous the eating. Eat the new food most supermarkets ofer almost a luxury today, with dog did. Starting by telling with gusto, and then ask, ready-made pizza dough. our crammed schedules. as story yourself can get the “Would you like to taste it? Combined with tomato And yet, numerous studies conversation rolling. Can you describe the taste?” sauce from a jar, it’s simple EAST END show that no other hour Ask questions that This focuses your child’s to make pizza at home. in your children’s day will demonstrate you’ve been attention on the food, Let teens choose music FELLOWSHIP deliver as many emotional paying attention. For rather than on rejecting it. to listen to during dinner. Churches on Pittsburgh’s East and psychological beneits example, “I know that today Avoid letting food On other nights, play End gathered to worship as the one spent unwinding was your irst art class. become a power struggle. music you listened to as a together during Holy Week and connecting over food What was it like?” If your child refuses a teenager. (Monday, March 30 through and conversation. To deepen conversation, particular meal, stay calm Friday, April 3rd). Each night “A nightly commitment turn to daily media content. and ofer an alternative such For more dinnertime featured one of the partici- to family dinners can be For example, elections can as a peanut butter and jelly insights, and information pating churches and on Good transformative,” says Anne prompt discussions about sandwich -- nothing that about the book, visit Friday an Associate from each K. Fishel, Ph.D., therapist, how democracy works. makes much extra work for www.amacombooks.org/ church delivered a brief sermon cofounder of Family Dinner Scandals can provide fodder you. HomeForDinner.htm. based on the seven last words Project, and author of for talk about truth-telling. Family dinner ofers Jesus spoke while on the cross. “Home for Dinner, Mixing HAVE FUN more than just nutrition. The Good Friday service fea- Food, Fun, and Conversation TRYING NEW THINGS Food may bring everyone tured the following speakers: for a Happier Family and Ask kids to help with meal Don’t underestimate to the table, but it is the fun Rev. Gwendolyn G. Harris, Sixth Healthier Kids,” (AMACOM). preparation. Spinning salad your child’s taste buds. and conversation that will Mt. Zion Baptist Church; Rev. Amongst inicky eaters, greens and setting the timer The idea that young keep them there. Michelle Page, Good Hope deiant teens and the lure of are some of the many things children and adults must Baptist Church; Rev. Sanford fast food, how can home young children can do. For eat diferent foods might (STATEPOINT) Chisholm, Rodman St. Mission- cooking and family dinner ary Baptist Church; Rev. Dr. be your household’s Leola Cherry, St. Paul Baptist priority? Church, Rev. Darrell Williams, In her new book, Fishel Mount Ararat Baptist Church, shares strategies for busy Rev. Pamela Denson, Shiloh parents to overcome family Community Missionary Baptist dinnertime hurdles. Here Church and Rev. Edward Herd, she shares a few parenting Cornerstone Baptist Church insights: MEANINGFUL CONVERSATION A family meal is an excellent opportunity to connect with your children. Foster dinner conversation by making the family table a technology-free zone. You may ind that MAY 2015 MAY 2015 parents have a harder time than kids turning of their gadgets. THE MOUNT THE MOUNT Throughout your day, 38 collect stories that might 39 Get “The Mount” delivered straight to your door! PHOTO RECAP Subscribe to receive Pittsburgh’s Monthly Christian Lifestyle Magazine. Enjoy uplifting and informative articles to enhance your Christian walk, Movie Reviews, Sports Editorials, Finance, 12 MONTHS BAPTISM & Health & Wellness, Local and National $ News and so much more! 42 COMMUNION On Tuesday,April 7 Bishop Joseph Garlington, the choir 6 MONTHS and congregation of Cove- $ nant Church of Pittsburgh to 21 worshipped along with Mount Ararat during their monthly Baptism & Communion service. The service also welcomes new members and provides an opportunity for everyone to THERE’S SOMETHING participate in the Lord’s Sup- FOR EVERYONE IN... SUBSCRIBE per. Mount Ararat’s Baptism & TODAY! Communion Service is held the irst Tuesday of every month. 412-441-1800 Ext. 222 MAY 2015 THE MOUNT 41 tools. Spend the aternoon TELL THE BIRDS creating something that will Thoughtful Mothers Day Does your mom love the ' grow all season long and outdoors? Pick out a unique remind Mom of her time Ideas That Wont birdhouse and bird seed ' spent with you. for her, so she can enjoy PHOTO Bust Your Budget the natural sounds of the RECAP BAKE AND MAKE season. You could even turn Mom might love her Spring is here and with it it into an art and crats proj- BREAKFAST IN BED kitchen just the way it is, comes a great day to cele- ect and make a birdhouse Pamper mom with break- but you can add a splash of brate moms. If you’re watch- together. A DATE AT fast in bed, complete with color and lair with some ing your wallet, you may be To save even more delicious pancakes, a good inexpensive additions from in need of some great ideas on Mother’s Day gits, THE CROSS book or magazine and hot a discount retailer, such for celebrating Mother’s download digital coupons Mount Ararat’s Sunday School cofee. She’ll love the oppor- as Dollar General. Update Day. As it turns out, some from DG.com, and look for Department depicted the cru- tunity to relax and enjoy her Mom’s kitchen with new ac- of the most thoughtful git everyday low prices at over ciixion and resurrection of our morning without the hustle cessories, like a kitchen tow- and activity ideas are the 11,800 nationwide locations. Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and bustle of everyday life. el or oven mitt, or even a most economical and easy in their production entitled, new appliance like a cofee to plan. This Mother’s Day, show “A Date at the Cross,” held on maker or mixer. Complete To help you plan your GROW SOMETHING Mom how much you care, Friday, March 27 at 7:00PM. your kitchen additions with while making memories Mother’s Day celebration, TOGETHER You are welcome to join us! a baking mix for cookies or you can cherish for years to the discount experts at Sometimes the best git is Our Sunday School classes are brownies, and spend time come. Dollar General are ofering held every week at 9:30a.m. in an aternoon spent to- with Mom creating some- some great ideas. gether. Pick out a planter the Youth Sanctuary. Classes thing yummy together. (STATEPOINT) Mom will love, along with are available for the entire seeds, soil and gardening family. MAY 2015 MAY 2015 THE MOUNT THE MOUNT 42 43 MOVIE SCENE MORE CHURCH IN PAUL WALKER IS QUEEN MAINSTREAM MEDIA: THE EPITOME OF MERECEDES J. HOWZE A.D. THE BIBLE CONTINUES FURIOUS 7 SUCCESS Merecedes J. Howze started Movie Scene NBC’s new miniseries, “A.D. The Bible of his full armor of love, power, grace, For the seventh time, the car racing gang is back for Queen to share her thoughts about the latest Continues”, comes from executive and mercy. movie happenings with fellow movie lovers. producers and married couple Roma We, as Christians, have heard this Universal Pictures’ “Furious 7”. The movie, starring Vin She’s studied journalism at Clark Atlanta Downey (“The Bible”) and Mark story a thousand times, but it never gets Diesel, Paul Walker, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Michelle University and Duquesne University, while Burnett (“The Voice”). These hour long old. This timeless narrative is tastefully Rodriguez, Ludacris and Tyrese, is about the team’s efort to practicing the discipline for nearly a decade. renditions provide a powerful glimpse portrayed for network TV. From Peter’s kill a mischievous assassin. The New Pittsburgh Courier named her one of into the days after Jesus’ death. cowardice to Judas’ betrayal, pierced for While “Furious 7” is 140 minutes of explosive action, their Fab 40, Under 40 recipients in 2013 for The show, which premiered on our transgression. fearless special efects, and countless examples of true her vast volunteering endeavors, while being Easter Sunday, opens up strong and Besides Joel Osteen and your friendship, it is the ilm’s ending that musters up the sweetest the single mother of two young children and boldly when Jesus (Juan Pablo Di Pace) typical Sunday morning programming, icing on the cake-- an emotional tribute to Paul Walker, maintaining her post as a project coordinator claims he is the Messiah, Son of God. Christianity is almost blacked out who died late 2013. Directed by James Wan, “Furious 7” is with the Pittsburgh Public Schools. In its augural episode, Jesus is charged from mainstream media. The newest by far the best way to commemorate the work Paul Walker with blasphemy and gruesomely separation is not only between church committed to as a respected actor, father and philanthropist. nailed to the cross. From the start, the and state, but also between church The opening box oice in April was also explosive, to say show gets right to the gut-wrenching and media. The media sprinkles small the least. The ilm made history Easter weekend by earning prosecution that Jesus and His followers doses of Christianity into programming, $143.6 million at the U.S. box oice. The ilm ranks #9 on the had to endure. but pollutes it with reality TV, violence, Top 10 Biggest U.S. Opening Weekends list, making more While we all have our own idea of and racy content. history as the only movie on the list not based of a comic what some of the Bible’s most notorious “A.D. The Bible Continues”, even book or novel. characters look like, the show clearly in its 4-week span, is rewarding and Social media responded in the same way as the box oice portrays a diverse group of actors. I refreshing. Although I love to read, I with millions of fans pouring out tweets and posts of commend the show’s creators for this am a visual learner. With only two adoration using the hashtag #ForPaul. variation when they casted the roles of episodes, I am already inding myself Ludacris, who released his eighth studio album days Mary, Mother of Jesus, Mary Magdalene on a spiritual journey to dig deeper into before the movie’s April 3rd release, even jumped in on the

and Jesus’ twelve disciples. the Word and dissect unfamiliar terms. social media action. On April 5th, he posted this viral picture CCAC Open House— During an episode, a prosecutor “A.D. The Bible Continues” is a learning to his Instagram: Become a asks, “What is it about this Jesus that experience for all ages. College Student drives people to madness?” Even after The show airs on Sundays at 9/8c. in One Day! Jesus was killed, devoted Christians You can also catch up on the series with and followers were still willing to full episodes on NBC.com. Learn about: lose everything, even their lives, to protect their faith. His omnipotence is • Associate degree, perplexing for those who are not aware certiicate & diploma programs • Transfer programs • In-demand careers • Scholarships, grants & loans

Tuesday, July 14 8:00AM–7:00PM At all CCAC campuses & centers

MAY 2015 OUR GOAL IS YOUR ccac.edu/openhouse [email protected]

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