WWW.STPAULSAC.ORG 916.737.7070 | 1 Many Ways to Receive the Message Sunday School: 9 am • Sunday Worship: 10 am Television Sunday 1 pm, Tuesday 5 pm: Access Channel 18 Sunday 1 pm, Thursday 9 pm: Religious Channel 19 Sunday 1 pm, Thursday 9 pm: ATT U-Verse Channel 14 Live Streaming Sunday 10:00 am until 12 noon: http://www.livestream.com/stpaulsaclive Internet Streaming Sunday 1:00 pm, Tuesday 5:00 pm: http://www.accesssacramento.org Radio Broadcast Saturday 10 am: KDYA 1190 AM Sunday 7 am: KJAY 1430 AM Sunday 9 am: KFIA 710 AM Monday-Friday: 5:30 pm KFIA 710 AM Monday-Friday: 6:00 pm KDIA 1640 AM
2 | VICTORY ISSUE NUMBER 26 SECOND QUARTER 2019 SUMMER EDITION 2019 CONTENTS Pastor Announces Retirement...... 4 Youth Transitions...... 5 PUBLISHER / EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Men of St. Paul...... 6 Dr. Ephraim Williams, Pastor ______Women’s Conference...... 7 ADMINISTRATION EDITOR Couples Ministry...... 8 Lamont Harris DEW Family Life Center...... 9 Contentment...... 10 PRODUCTION EDITOR Marlynn Bailey-Cook Spirits of God...... 10 Christian Education...... 11 DIRECTOR MEDIA GROUP MINISTRIES Share Victory...... 11 Amos Holts, Sr. Holmes Financial...... 12 Results Realty...... 13 PRINT MEDIA MEMBERS Marlynn Bailey-Cook, Chair Power of Prayer...... 14 Trina Stanford Turner, Co-Chair Lemon/Lime Sparkler Recipe...... 14 Ron Bane The New You...... 15 Gwen Beverly Pastors Power Lunch...... 16 Sheryl Counter Music Youth Ensemble...... 16 Carmesha Grayson Barbara Green Summer Algebra...... 17 Terri Jennings Oak Park Pre-School...... 18 Glenn Lomax City Seminary...... 19 Hazel Sheehy Community Outreach...... 20/21 Sharon Styles Min. Michael Wright Sweet Lu’s...... 22 Portfolio Image...... 23 LAYOUT & DESIGN Freedom...... 24 Dengate Design Group PHOTOGRAPHY Share your testimony, story or article of interest Print Media Authors in Victory the St. Paul Magazine Photography Ministry Contributing Authors The next Victory Magazine will be distributed October 20, 2019. All material (text and photos) for the next edition must be submitted no later than September 21, Victory The St. Paul Magazine is a free quarterly publication of 2019. Please limit your articles to 250 words, maximum. St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church. Place material in the Print Media mailbox or send to [email protected] or [email protected]. Reproduction of the content in whole or part without permission is prohibited. MGM St. Paul We need writers, proof All rights reserved. Copyright © 2017 - Print Media Ministry readers and distributors. Come join our Print Victory A St. Paul Magazine Thank you to the Print Media Ministry.and Sacramento, California Media Ministry team that share your gifts with this produced this magazine church communications and the contributing writers. ministry.
WWW.STPAULSAC.ORG 916.737.7070 | 3 Pastor’s Retirement Announcement
Today, I will be making a statement that will be the hardest statement I have had to make in my life. After spending significant time in prayer, the Holy Spirit has led me to select Pastor Kenneth Reece to serve with me as the Assistant Pastor and later succeed me as the Senior Pastor of St. Paul Baptist Church. During the Business Meeting that was held September, 2015, the congregation asked me to select someone to assist me. I want to make it clear that I have not been threatened or forced out as the Pastor of St. Paul Baptist Church. Being led by God, it is my decision to ask Pastor Kenneth Reece to assist me and succeed me. I appreciate everyone’s concern regarding my health and well-being. May 31, 2020, will be my last day as Senior Pastor of St. Paul Baptist Church. Until then, I will be mentoring and providing Pastor Kenneth Reece my full support. I will make myself available to Pastor Kenneth Reece based on my schedule to ensure a smooth transition. As we go through this Pastoral Transition, I ask that each of you would be prayerful. As you know, prayer is very dear to my heart and has undergirded my ministry for more than 50 years. Throughout the Bible there have been transitions such as; Paul and Timothy, Moses and Joshua, and Elijah and Elisha. On September 18, we will have a Business Meeting to vote on Pastor Kenneth Reece as Assistant Pastor and to succeed me as the Senior Pastor of St. Paul Baptist Church. Before that time comes, you will receive reminders about this meeting and other information related to the transition process. I am encouraging every member to attend the Business Meeting and vote based on his or her convictions. It is my deepest desire that we honor God throughout this transition. As a church, we are a witness that God is faithful, and He has never failed. God has blessed us, and if we continue to be faithful and trust Him, we will continue to see and experience His blessings. “And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.” Mark 10:27 (KJV) Because of Calvary,
Dr. Ephraim Williams 4 | VICTORY ISSUE NUMBER 26 SECOND QUARTER 2019 Youth Transitions Ceremony
St. Paul “Alert Girls” graduation and the “Manhood Development Rites of Passage” ceremonies were recently held on June 30th before morning Worship Service in the sanctuary. ALERT stands for Awareness, Leadership, Education/Energy, Respect/Responsibility and Talent/Teamwork. ALERT core values are Christ-centered (Romans 12:1-2), Honesty (Romans 12:17), Humility (Philippians 2:3), Service toward others (I Peter 4:10) and Commitment to Education (2 Timothy 2:15). They focus on those areas through bible lessons, reading, studying the bible, prayer and fellowship. Life skills, etiquette and culture are enhanced through field trips, speakers, workshops and community service. Three groups served are: Girls of Joy K-2nd grade, Girls of Hope 3rd-5th grade and Girls of Purpose 6th-8th grade. The Girls of Purpose must meet certain requirements in order to graduate from ALERT. They also have an ALERT Girl of the Year per class based on points earned throughout the year, each Girl receives a certificate and a monetary award. The Manhood Development program focuses on a few key aspects: a) Creating a safe environment in which boys can be free to express themselves while building confidence. b) Sharing Christian values involving identity formation activities based on Biblical principles. c) Creating a family-oriented community for both the students and parents so they can always feel connected Youth leaders (Gary ad Gianna Lewis) along with Dr. Ephraim Williams, Pastor work with program chairs and many group leaders to invest in our young people and guide their spiritual growth.
WWW.STPAULSAC.ORG 916.737.7070 | 5 Men of St. Paul Photos by Sharon Styles
Blessed is the Man who walks not in the counsel of the Ungodly, Nor stands in the path of sinners, Nor sits in the seat of the scornful; But his delight is in the law of the Lord, And in His law, he meditates Day and night. He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, That brings forth fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; And whatever he does shall prosper. (Psalms 1:1-3 KJV)
6 | VICTORY ISSUE NUMBER 26 SECOND QUARTER 2019 2019 ST. PAUL BAPTIST CHURCH WOMEN’S CONFERENCE – B.O.L.D. If you missed the 2019 St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church Women’s Ministry, biennial Women’s Conference, you missed a great opportunity to engage and meet genuinely loving sisters, hear God inspired words spoken powerfully and boldly, heartfelt video testimonies, the enjoyment of a hearty dinner and full breakfast. The Women’s Conference was held on May 17th and 19th at St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church with Jada Edwards as the Keynote speaker coupled with two exciting workshop facilitators Kayla Riley Matthews and Dorothy Miller. The Conference theme was B.O.L.D. “Building Others Lives Daily,” and if you were in attendance you witnessed the Building in action. Friday evening the women were surprised with a delicious spaghetti dinner with trimmings and dessert served by Men volunteers which was a very nice touch. Before we heard from the keynote speaker, we met different women through playing Mingle Bingo, the women had a fantastic time since it took a while for us to return to our seats. It was a blast! The testimony by video transitioned the atmosphere to allow the spirit to move, opening our hearts and minds preparing us to hear and listen to the word of God. Some of the key takeaways from both Friday and Saturday sessions, Jada clearly spoke about what real freedom looks like as Paul described in the letter he wrote to the Church in Galatians. She went on to say that grace brings us to salvation, not works and that God makes divine deposits and we live like we are broke. If we get the word in us that truth never fails. Jada emphasized that we are to take every thought captive in order to obey Christ and that Bondage starts in the mind. Mastering the mind is critical. We are to stop decorating our cage, getting comfortable with the acts of the flesh and walk in the spirit. When walking in the spirit we will not carry out the desires of the flesh and that the spirit wants a real relationship with us. Be diligent about walking in the spirit. Finally, the world’s freedom starts with the believer’s freedom. As quoted by Mother Merle Wright, “What you’re doing speaks so loud, I can’t hear what you’re saying.” The world is watching us, the Christians. There were two workshops on Saturday: Kayla Riley Matthews “Measure Twice, Cut Once” Kayla emphasized the importance of God’s Word and that all scripture is breathed by God. She shared how we use the Bible, Why we should read the Bible and why do we follow His word. Some of the scriptures Kayla referenced were Matthew 4:4; Jeremiah 15:15; James 1:22-24; Proverbs 4:22-23 and many more. Dorothy Miller “It’s Not always The Leaning Tree That Goes First” In the self-care session Dorothy stressed that self-care starts with the caretaker putting the mask on your face first. Accept the help that God sends your way. Let go of guilt, shame and blame when you feel overwhelmed. Take time for yourself and what a time, what a time.
WWW.STPAULSAC.ORG 916.737.7070 | 7 The Ministry Of Marriage By: Sis. Christine and Bro. Keith Johnson Keith and I attended the St. Luke Baptist Church 20th Annual Marriage Enrichment Conference January 31-February 3, 2019 in Ocho Rios, Jamaica with Senior Pastor Dr. J.G. and First Lady Tselane McCann. The McCanns covered the theme “Committed To Love For A Lifetime” from I Corinthians 13:8 using Love Like You’ve Never Been Hurt by Jentezen Franklin. Franklin shares, “the very people we love the most will hurt us the most.” Franklin asks, “Do you want to be right or reconciled?” and writes, “the only way to be reconciled… is to love like you’ve never been hurt.” Franklin admonishes, “It is never wrong to love.”
Closer to home, we are continuing our Marriage By the Book journey finishing Laying a Solid Foundation by Doug Britton, MFT on Sundays at 9:00 AM in the Dr. Ephraim Williams Family Life Center. Our class facilitators include Bro. Lucious and Sis. Kathleen Williamson. Within the larger Sacramento community the Christian Married Coupled retreat celebrated its 40th Anniversary Retreat on April 5-7, 2019 at Zephyr Point Presbyterian Conference Center in Zephyr Cove, Nevada. The guest speakers were St. Paul’s own Pastor Kenneth and First Lady Lisa Reece of Cornerstone Missionary Baptist Church of San Francisco. The theme was, “What was, still is/Marriage through the years,” from Deuteronomy 2:7 and Hebrews 13:8. The Christian Married Couples Retreat also hosted its “Second Annual Bar-B-Q” at Mahanny Park in Roseville, California on June 22, 2019. Jentezen Franklin, Love Like You’ve Never Been Hurt, (Bloomington, Minnesota: Chosen Books) 2018.
8 | VICTORY ISSUE NUMBER 26 SECOND QUARTER 2019 Zumba: Nine Years and Counting! By: Sis. Deena Wilson The Zumba craze has evolved tremendously October 1999. In fact, Zumba is now taught to more than 15 million people in over 180 countries. Zumba is a dance fitness party of Latin and World rhythms using music from all over the world. Zumba is taking the exercise community by storm and is available at the Dr. Ephraim Williams Family Life Center. Everybody leaves with a smile and Zumba glow! Zumba Instructors, Anna Parker and Deena Wilson have taught Zumba for over nine years, seven at the Family Life Center! You can usually find both every Monday and Thursday at 7pm and some Saturdays at 9:00 am. Their commitment is to be commended. The goal of every class is to leave no student behind. There is no need to come with experience. The primary premise behind Zumba is to create an exercise experience in disguise. Every student is encouraged to join in on the Latin-based cardio exercise program with genres like Salsa, Merengue and Reggaeton just to name a few. Occasionally there are specialty classes offered like Zumba for Kids, Zumba Toning, Zumba Gold and Zumba Sentao (Chair Zumba). For those of you counting steps… average steps for a 60-minute class is around 6,000! Everyone is welcome to join in on the fun! This worldwide craze is available to all, male and female, young and old. The class sizes are intimate. All students are greeted by name, with a smile, high five or a hug. The updated class information can be found on the Family Life Center website (flcsac.org) For additional information, please feel free to reach out to Anna Parker ([email protected]) or Deena Wilson ([email protected]). Please visit the FLC website to obtain information on other exercise classes offered at the Family Life Center. There is a class for everyone! Upcoming Events: Fitness Jam: Fall, 2019 Susan B. Koman Zumbathon October 12, 2019 (fundraiser event for breast cancer research)
WWW.STPAULSAC.ORG 916.737.7070 | 9 The Seven Contentment Spirits of God By: Sis. Carmesha Grayson By: Sis. Sheryl Counter A very popular scripture Other Scriptures and that is commonly recited is References Philippians 4:13, “I can do • Isaiah 11:2-3 all things through Christ • Revelation 1:4 who strengthens me.” • Revelation 5.6 This scripture is usually The Seven Spirits of God are sent throughout used when someone the earth representing the completion and the fullness of God; and representing his is describing their ability to accomplish or Omni presence. The spirit is one in name yet become something. Contrary to what most sevenfold in virtue. His essence is one and His believe, this scripture was used by the apostle nature is one. Paul to explain how Christ gave him enough When reading the book of proverbs, we see strength to be content with an abundance and one prevalent virtue calling to those who will listen. We are instructed to continually heed a little. Living a life of contentment is a goal all to the voice of Wisdom, never forgetting her believers should strive to achieve. instructions. We do not have to live in mansions, drive When inviting the Lord Jesus Christ into your life, God the Holy Spirit takes up residence in fancy cars and have a large bank account your heart to “live in the overflow.” Whether we have a and will lead little or a lot we should always be able to see and guide you in all thy the hand of God and His goodness in each ways. The situation, which would help us to learn to be benefits of content. Constantly complaining and finding a being guided by the Holy problem in every situation is an easy task that Spirit will almost anyone can manage - but looking at all enable us situations with God’s perspective is the real - to enjoy Kingdom yet rewarding challenge! living while on earth. Though viewing situations, the way God would A) Spirit Of wisdom have us to can be difficult at times. It can B) Spirit of Counsel, become natural if we thank Him for everything: C) Spirit of Understanding, a place to stay, family, a job, transportation and D) Spirit of Reverence even waking up which we sometimes take for E) Spirit of Knowledge, granted. In conclusion, the two steps to living F) Spirit of Might a life of contentment is thanking God for all (or The Dunamis Power) things (1 Thes. 5:18) and becoming satisfied G) The Spirit of God with all that we have. The Kingdom of Heaven is at Hand.
10 | VICTORY ISSUE NUMBER 26 SECOND QUARTER 2019 Christian Education SHARE By: Sis. Bridgette VICTORY Kemp- Bell By: Sis. Terri Jennings “But thanks be to Do you enjoy God, who gives us turning the pages of the victory through the St Paul Victory our Lord Jesus Magazine? Do Christ. Therefore, you receive each my beloved quarterly publication brethren, be and look to see the contents? Perhaps it’s steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the a highlight of a past or upcoming event. The work of the lord, knowing that your labor is not in Victory Magazine spotlights members, ministries vain in the Lord” (I Corinthians 15:57-58, NKJV). and a host of other bits of information. The Print Media Ministry continues to explore How encouraging it is to know that we are ways to extend the love of Christ through our victorious in Christ Jesus! Because of our faith prayer life and our commitment of sharing the and trust in Him, we can face life’s challenges gospel. There is one area that you can help. with the confidence that we win. True. It is one Once you have completed your cover-to-cover thing to say that we have the victory, but it is read, consider sharing the Victory Magazine know an entirely different thing to we have the with a friend, relative or neighbor; conveniently know victory. How do we come to and internalize leave it on the table at your school, break room the truths about our Lord? Can we claim victory or waiting room; or take it when visiting the sick through Jesus Christ even though all around us or confined. everything seems to be falling apart? Absolutely! Your action to “Pay It Forward” can be an Hebrews 5: 12-14, emphasis on verse 14, inspiration to someone in ways you cannot admonishes mature Christians to eat “solid imagine. You may not see the results of your food” (God’s Word). As we grow and mature act but plant the seed (I Corinthians 3:6-8) and by the reading and application (use, vs. 14) of allow God to make it grow. Pray for God’s will God’s word, the Holy Spirit helps us discern to be done as you share your Victory! both good and evil. We begin to face situations with a discerning spirit that again comes from the reading and application of God’s word. It is advantageous for new believers and seasoned believers alike to be in the habit of study. When we study, our spirit will be strengthened! Our understanding will be illuminated! Our heart and mind will be immovable, stayed on Christ! We will abound, and we will be victorious! Stay in the Word! Hallelujah!
WWW.STPAULSAC.ORG 916.737.7070 | 11 12 | VICTORY ISSUE NUMBER 26 SECOND QUARTER 2019 WWW.STPAULSAC.ORG 916.737.7070 | 13 The Power of Prayer By: Sis. Trina Stanford Turner 4th century theologian John Chrysostom said, “prayer is the light of the soul, giving up true knowledge of God.” Simply stated, prayer is communion with God. God desires our communication with Him. It is through prayer that we approach His throne of grace with our praises, gratitude, repentances, sorrows, and petitions. Authentic prayer starts with a heart that is resolute and reverent towards God. Prayer can be done anytime and anywhere - reading the Bible daily, in the car, in church, exercising, etc. Each time we approach the Lord through prayer, our faith strengthens and our relationship deepens with Him. The Bible encourages us to be devoted to prayer as prayer is of immense value and importance. The power of prayer includes: Peace of mind - “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 Gratefulness - “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 Purpose - “For I know the plans I have for you, «declares the Lord,» plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11 Acceptance of God’s Will - “When we pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And, lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power and the glory, forever. Amen.” Matthew 6:9-13 Prayer is a gift that allows us to become open to His good and perfect will because of who He is.
Lemon Lime Sparkler Recipe INGREDIENTS: Organic Cane Sugar, Water, Ginger (fresh or powdered), 3 lemons/3 limes, 1-liter Sparkling Water, Heat 1 Cup Sugar, 2 Cups Water, ½ Teaspoon ginger and zest of two lemons, and two limes in a 3-quart Saucepan over medium heat for a couple of minutes. As mixture begins to boil remove from heat. Add lemon and lime juice to sugary mix; allow flavors to blend while sugary mixture cools off. Pour citrus juice, sugary mixture and sparkling water into a 2-quart glass pitcher. Add some fresh lemon and lime slices and ice cubes to enhance this refreshing beverage. Pour into 12 oz. tumblers and enjoy!
14 | VICTORY ISSUE NUMBER 26 SECOND QUARTER 2019 THE NEW YOU By: Sis. Wanda Brown
Now that I am retired, I sometimes go back and look at the plans I made for my professional career. I knew I would need both a bachelor’s and master’s degree to get where I wanted to go. I planned for it and through great sacrifice and hard work I achieved my goal. What became clear is that while I knew I needed to make plans for my professional life, I quickly realized I needed to do the same for my spiritual life. My Sunday School students often hear me say, “I want to be the Wanda that Christ died for. I know she is in there somewhere and I want to live my life in such a way that I get to experience her before I leave here.” That really is my desire! Christ died so that a spiritually mature Wanda could come forth, one born out of tribulations and faith in God. You might ask why would you want this? What greater way to thank God for sending His darling Son to die for my sins than to become the person He expects me to be. By doing this, God will be able to reveal to me the deeper things that humbles me while making me so grateful. Our new life is something to be cherished and our stewardship of it should be honorable and pleasing to the Father. To love God with all of our heart, soul, strength and might and our neighbor as ourselves will lead us to the path of real life. (Psalms 16:11) If YOU were to become the person that Christ died for, what would be your attributes? What would you be doing? What would be your strength? When you give an account to God of what you did with your new life, what would be the wonderful things you’d be able to say? Pastor’s Intercessory Prayer ministry is committed to praying that you become the person Christ died for and experience the abundant life He promised is yours. Join us in Upper Room Prayer at 9:00 a.m. on second Sundays in the Wedding Chapel as we pray for the needs of our church family. Psalms 16:5-6 “Lord, you alone are my portion and my cup; you make my lot secure. The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance.”
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WWW.STPAULSAC.ORG 916.737.7070 | 15 Music Ministry By Sis. Velma Larry St. Paul, again, has begun providing a program to develop young instrumentalists for service in the church music ministry. The first attempt began over 25 years ago under the direction of Mr. Randall Horton. This newly formed group is being directed by Mrs. Felicia Bessent. Mrs. Bessent, a retired principal of Edward Harris Middle School in the Elk Grove Unified School District, began her career in the field of education as a high school music teacher. At the present, she serves our music ministry as the musician in charge of the Little Workers’ Guild (choir for children) and music teacher for the Youth Praise Team. Presently, the trumpet section of our youth orchestra ensemble consists of Joshua Campbell, Josiah Campbell, and Collier Hughes. All are middle school students in local schools. Recently, these students performed at worship services a medley arranged by Mrs. Bessent which included This Day and The Lord’s Prayer. The congregation expressed sheer joy as the youngsters demonstrated their skill in this act of praise to God. Recruitment is currently underway for St. Paul members in elementary, middle, or high school who play band or orchestral instruments, or young people who take private instrumental music lessons. If you know youth who fit the above categories, please contact Mrs. Bessent at 916.764.6421.
Pastor’s Power Lunch Article By: Men’s Ministry The Men’s Ministry held The Pastor’s Power Lunch on May 24, 2019 at the Wackerford Community Center in Elk Grove, California. The theme of the luncheon was “The Power of Purpose, Godly Men Doing Godly Things.” The guest speaker was Pastor Francis Anfus of The Rock of Roseville Church. Bro. Daryl Walker and Bro. Michael McCall and their team did an amazing job with this event. It was done with elegance, grace, and the food which was catered was out right delicious. The male chorus led us with Praise and Worship along with a Holy Ghost, hand clapping, and foot tapping song by Min. Curtis Parker that really set the tone of the event. Afterwards we dined on baked chicken, salmon, salad, mashed potatoes, and an assortment of desserts. Pastor Anfus delivered a power, profound word on our purpose as men of God that was definitely an eye opener. Pastor Williams in his Spiritual Fatherly voice captivated the brothers as well as with his wisdom. There were numerous comments and acknowledgments on how Pastor Williams has touch so many lives and has always given great directions to those brothers who has been in his presence. Many who had the same sentiments and stated how Pastor Williams would always say after giving an assignment or task “You will do well.”
16 | VICTORY ISSUE NUMBER 26 SECOND QUARTER 2019 St. Paul DEWFLC Summer Algebra Institute
The California State University, CSU, system has created the Summer Algebra Institute to prepare and help support students to excel in high school Mathematics while planning for college and career opportunities. Instruction utilizes EdReady, a computer based program, which assesses student’s readiness for college math. Other features for the program include live instruction from a qualified math instructor, cultural lessons, STEAM activities, CSU college readiness workshops and college campus tours. The St. Paul DEWFLC Summer Algebra Institute has been blessed to enroll student’s grades 8th to 12th from the surrounding communities. We meet Monday through Fridays from 8 am to 1:30 pm. Our talented math instructor is Professor Donna Smith from Sierra College and our Teaching Assistant is Myla Love, a student at St. Mary’s College and our Parent Volunteer Nicole Gordon. We have completed our first two weeks of the institute with the students completing the assessment Pre-test, working with the EdReady program and enjoying an informative Sierra College campus tour and completing the raisin and compressed air vehicle challenges. A California State University Sacramento campus tour is planned and several career and college speakers from St. Paul have been scheduled along with the possibility of a Shuttle Mission to Mars the last week of the Institute. Professor Smith has generated lessons focusing on the Growth Mindset helping students realize their unlimited potential through Christ. Colossians 3:23, Proverbs 23:7 and 2 Timothy 1:7 were our scriptures for the first few weeks. The Lord is a daily part of our message and lessons. Prayer is an integral part of our day. It is a true blessing to see students happy as they learn and gain confidence as they experience this college enriching challenge. One of the student’s family member said, “Her nephew was so happy that he was signed up for this program. He was learning and gaining confidence while working with students and staff that looked like him.” We are grateful to the CSU system, our Institute Staff and to the St. Paul Administration for their effort and support in creating this academic opportunity for these young people. Prayerfully, this is the first of many Summer Algebra Institutes to come.
WWW.STPAULSAC.ORG 916.737.7070 | 17 OAK PARK PRESCHOOL We strive for a balanced, nurturing, developmental approach to educate the whole child. Children from 2 (potty-trained) through 5 years are welcome. Oak Park Preschool is a high quality, licensed, state-funded preschool proudly serving diverse families since 1966, now with two campuses. The program includes full-time and part-time, free and reduced fee programs based upon eligibility. Our program provides freedom for children to have spontaneous play and interaction, make discoveries, explore, solve problems, and develop social skills. In addition, structured, teacher-directed activities provide for individualized and small group learning. Our curriculum supports children as they develop the school readiness skills, self-esteem, and the executive functioning skills that promote long-term school success. Hours for Both Campuses Monday – Friday 6:30 a.m.- 6:00 p.m. Closed on Holidays • Lunches and snacks served daily. Parent Participation is encouraged. Call or visit to learn more about our special place
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18 | VICTORY ISSUE NUMBER 26 SECOND QUARTER 2019 City Seminary’s Debt-Free Tuition Policy Opens Doors for Local Students by Wayne Johnson When City Seminary launched its post-graduate program to train pastors for Sacramento ministry, the vision was that no qualified student for the ministry should be denied an education simply because they could not afford it. While distant seminaries across the country continued to charge higher and higher tuition, Sacramento’s City Seminary offered an attractive alternative. Stay home in your local church and study here debt-free.
And for 19 years, no student has incurred a single penny of student loan Wayne Johnson, Member debt, thanks to the school’s generous aid programs. Not only does the Board of Governors seminary offer scholarships instead of loans, it actually forbids students to City Seminary of Sacramento apply for outside tuition loans. The unique approach began as a response to the flawed seminary model that assumes God only calls men into ministry who can afford it, or who don’t have jobs and families to support. In truth, many are called to ministry later in life and, for them, City Seminary has been an answer to prayer. The average student at City Seminary is more than thirty years old, married with a family and holding down a full-time job. To meet their circumstances, City’s classes are held evenings and Saturdays. Most students carry a part-time class load which means it takes a little longer to earn a degree, but that’s just fine with those whose life circumstances would make it impossible to uproot their family, leave the oversight of their home church, move to a distant city and graduate deeply in debt. The seminary has a reputation for academic excellence, and a strong commitment to the inspiration, inerrancy and authority of the Bible. “We’re serious about providing a well-grounded and complete seminary education,” says Board of Governors President Tom Lagomarsino. Our Master of Divinity degree means the graduate has learned Greek and Hebrew, Systematic Theology, Apologetics, Hermeneutics, Church History, everything you would get at a traditional seminary without leaving home.” The seasoned faculty is drawn from among conservative Reformed and Presbyterian churches, but the student body is primary composed of Baptist and non-denominational students. “We’re here to help local churches train up their next generation of leaders. If you’re here to escape submission to your local church, this is not the school for you,” said Lagomarsino. Those interested in pursuing a 2 or 4-year theology degree, a certificate program or simply wanting to improve their knowledge of the faith can register for classes and review scholarship programs at www.CitySeminary.org
Dr. Frank Walker (l) shares a lighter moment with first year student Demari Young (c) and second year student Paul Liberati (r).
WWW.STPAULSAC.ORG 916.737.7070 | 19 ST PAUL COMMUNITY OUTREACH IN ACTION By Sis. Kim Rhodes Luke 10:2, Therefore He said, unto them, the harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he sends forth laborers into his harvest. Go your ways: behold, I send you forth as lambs among wolves.
DON’T KEEP HIM TO YOURSELF, SHARE THE BLESSINGS OF GOD!
In January 2019, evangelism training was provided to the Church to equip us for going outside the walls and share our faith. Here are a few tips from the training, make evangelism personal and share what the Lord has done for you. There is not one way to share the gospel, just be yourself. Always pray, don’t forget that any evangelism work is preceded by prayer. Model it, make evangelism your own priority and follow your own steps. The Church priorities include evangelism and outreach and it is Pastor’s desire that every ministry participate in some type of evangelism in the year 2019. A ministry calendar has been created for the year. Each ministry leader will receive an e-mail from Sister Kim Rhodes announcing which ministry has been selected for that specific month. The outreach/street witnessing is normally scheduled for the 2nd Saturday of each month with a few exceptions.
You are invited!
Everyone is welcome to participate in the evangelism/outreach events. If you are still praying about your gift and which ministry to join, you are still invited to participate in the evangelism/outreach activities. Please watch the Church bulletin for upcoming evangelism/outreach opportunities.
Evangelism and Outreach
On April 13, 2019, the Evangelism and Outreach ministry and the Adult Praise Team participated in Street Witnessing in the Oak Park neighborhood. There were three teams of three walking throughout the neighborhood. Three individuals accepted Christ and received a new Bible. This was the first time for a couple of our members and they stated they truly enjoyed and was blessed by the experience. Some members observed and prayed while the seasoned members spoke with the community members, and some stepped out on faith and shared God’s Word. We all met at the Church at 9:45 am, had prayer and split up in teams, and walked various streets throughout Oak Park. At 12:00 pm, the teams met up to discuss the experiences and closed in prayer.
20 | VICTORY ISSUE NUMBER 26 SECOND QUARTER 2019 On May 11, 2019, the Evangelism and Outreach ministry along with representatives from the First Aide, Hospitality, and Security ministries prepared and acknowledge the mothers at McClatchy Park with roses and invitation to Sunday service. The mothers that received a rose were so grateful and so thankful. One mother shared that she is raising her son who is 21 and she knows the rose will be the only gift she will receive. This is another awesome experience in sharing God’s love.
On June 15, the Evangelism and Outreach ministry along with representatives from the Inspirational Choir and Singles ministry handed out hotdogs and water for Father’s Day at McClatchy Park. The folks in the park were so grateful for the food and water. We also were able to give away one Bible. At the end of the event, we had cooked hot dogs left over, so Brother Braxton Sheehy took the food and some water to Tent City underneath the freeway. Brother Braxton stated that they were hungry and thirsty and that some of the people came jogging for the food. It is such a blessing to be able to talk and minister to those less fortunate. When you plant the seed (introduce Christ), someone will come along and water it (possibly accept Christ). This is what God wants us to do, He places opportunities in our path, so we can introduce Him by sharing our personal testimonies or just pray for an individual. If you have any questions or would like to join the Evangelism and Outreach ministry please e-mail Sister Kim Rhodes at [email protected] or Sister Marilyn Johnson at [email protected].
WWW.STPAULSAC.ORG 916.737.7070 | 21 22 | VICTORY ISSUE NUMBER 26 SECOND QUARTER 2019 Portfolio Image Skin Care
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WWW.STPAULSAC.ORG 916.737.7070 | 23 Freedom By Sis. Terri Jennings
The Emancipation Proclamation was issued in 1863; Declared those that were slaves were then set free. Chains are loose but enslaved to this world’s law; Are men and women whose sins, the Lord saw. Men fighting wars for the freedom of our United States; But the price of freedom continues to escalate. So many laws and ordinances for the world to abide; For whom will you follow? Who is on the Lord’s side? We live in a country where many want to be; God bless America, a land said to be of the free. The true fight is fought not against flesh and blood: But with the spiritual power of one who controlled the flood A jail sentence is not the only way to be confined; Men and women in bondage, both physical and of the mind. All the freedom at hand is not the true freedom we need; It is he whom the Son sets free is truly free indeed
24 | VICTORY ISSUE NUMBER 26 SECOND QUARTER 2019