The Macedonia Times

Volume 4 Issue December 20, 2009

www.macedoniabaptistchurch-daphne.com From the Pen of Our Pastor: Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church Rev. Charles A. Jackson Daphne, In life we are faced The disciples were confused just announced that one with many problems in our was a traitor, another lives and it seems with no would deny Him, and the solution. I write to tell you, heaviest blow was that the my Macedonia Family, that Lord was leaving. I think I Inside this issue: being a Christian does not would be safe to say that it exempt you from being would be enough to bring without problems. During sorrow to anyone. There Soldier of the Month 1 this Christmas season we was certainly not much joy most remember our Lord that night. If you feel as if Getting to Know 3 and Savior Jesus the you are lacking joy in your Christ, during our sorrow, life, listen to the words of emotions and confusion. Jesus to His disciples. Je- Kids Corner 11 sus patiently explains how I am reminded of John 16:16-33, the conclu- we can have joy in our lives regardless of our situa- Achievements 13 sion of the Upper Room Discourse with the emo- tions. tions of sorrow and confu- Jesus said there Graduates 14 about Jesus’ teaching and sion among the disciples. they were afraid. Jesus had Recipe 15 Continues on Page 2

Birthdays 24 Soldier of the Month: Sis. Marietta Conaway Figures

Submitted by After high school, she Alabama where she re- HIGHLIGHTS Paula and Madisen McCants attended Alabama State ceived her Bachelor of Sci- University, Montgomery, ence Degree in Library Me- A Special Message from ∗ Sis. Marietta Conaway dia in 1958. Sis Figures the Pastor Figures was born in Daphne, furthered her education by ∗ Dr. Regina Benjamin, Alabama to James William earning a Master’s Degree in US Surgeon General Conaway and Delores Miller Library Science from Conaway. She is the eldest Alabama State University in ∗ Amber Yelding Contin- of four children. She has 1978. ues to Excel three younger brothers: Sis. Figures' teaching James, Langdon and ∗ Healthy Advice from career began in 1958 at Sharon Curtis Clement. Sis. Figures is a Douglasville High School, 1954 graduate of Baldwin Bay Minette, Alabama ∗ View from the Pew by County Training School. Richard Perry During her high school days, she was member of the Sis. Marietta C. Figures Y Teen Organization. Continues on Page 2 Page 2 The Macedonia Times

Pastor Jackson Reminds Us That Jesus Brought Joy

Continues from page 1 toys or do we transform the situation Jesus died and His death into a new experience? The transfor- brought sorrow. His resurrection was to be sorrow at first. He would be going away and leaving the disciples mation of the experience will produce brought joy and the conquering of by sacrificing Himself for the world. faith and maturity. We will not ma- death. Jesus has delivered the world The disciples’ hopes would have ture spiritually if our broken toys are from sin and death if you will believe, seemed to have been destroyed. Jesus always replaced. After the sorrow follow and trust Jesus. There is vic- said that the world would rejoice at there will be irrepressible joy. Jesus tory over the grace, triumph over His death. The world would think said that He would arise, and His res- death. The believer’s joy of knowing death had conquered Jesus and there- urrection would cause his followers to the resurrection of Jesus Christ can- fore prove He was not the Son of God. burst forth with joy. Macedonia, keep not be taken away any more. In 1719 your eyes on Jesus and trust in Him Isaac Watts wrote, Joy To The World, The God we serve brings joy to transform your troubles, your sor- The Lord Is Come ! Let nothing take to our lives by transformation and not rows, and pain into joy! What looks away your joy. Merry Christmas substitution. Parents are familiar like a hopeless situation of defeat, is Macedonia. with the child’s toy being broken or an opportunity for victory and joy. the absence of a friend or loved one. As parents do we continue to buy new

Macedonia’s Soldier of the Month: Sis Marietta C. Figures “Sis. Figures dedication to Macedonia is seen on any day”

Continues from Page 1 Continues from page 1 there she taught seventh grade English She also volunteers at Thomas Medical and also was the Librarian. From there Center. she served as Librarian at Baldwin Sis Figures hobbies include spending County Training School and Fairhope time with her granddaughter, crossword Elementary School. Sis. Figures retired in puzzles, decorating and watching 1997 after serving thirty-nine years in the “Wheel of Fortune.” public school system. She married James Earl Figures on June 1 st , 1963. They are Sis. Figures’ dedication to Mace- the parents of one daughter, Paula Fig- donia is seen on any day striving to ures McCants and the doting grandmother maintain its heritage and her commit- of Madisen Nicole McCants. She is the ment to doing the Lord’s work. It can mother-in-law of Jeffery McCants. truly be said that Sis. Figures loves Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church. Sis. Figures was baptized at an early age in Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church. Her parents and extended family showed tireless dedication to Macedonia. Sis. Figures continues to fulfill her mis- sion as well as her family’s generational aspirations. She has held several positions over the years: Sunday School secretary, a member of the Matrons, and singing Bro. & Sis. James Figures with the Melody Chorus serving as Secre- tary. She is currently the church’s librar- commitments, she was also secretary of ian, contributor to The Macedonia Times, Conaway Sanitation, a family owned attends Sunday School and Bible Study and operated business started by her regularly. She is a devoted member of the father and youngest brother. Sis. Fig- church’s decorating committee. Aside ures is a member of the Daphne’s Pride from Sis. Figures home and church Chapter #387 Order of Eastern Stars and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Volume 4 Issue The Macedonia Times

Getting to Know Our Members: Sis. Kim Perry Rarely seen or heard, Radiation Therapist at Providence Hospi- vided me the opportunity to go to college. but defined by her tal Center in Mobile, Alabama, Sister He sent me a wonderful husband and soul character and com- mate. He blessed me with two beautiful passion is a children. He placed me in the midst of a By Sis. Tracie Brown woman who is very spiritual and dedicated church fam- truly tall in statue and enormous in her ily. The list goes on and on; but the most ability to love others. She is a wife, humbling part of my testimony is that I mother, daughter, sister, relative, and did not and I do not deserve all that God friend always willing to help whenever has done for me BUT HE has blessed me and wherever she can. Not prone to re- in spite of it all.” ceive attention, she exemplifies the es- One of those blessings came in sence of humility and the beauty of grace. the form of Sister Perry’s finding spiritual Her smile lights up a room, and she is mentors among her church family. Kim always ready to share some form of affec- finds God’s grace and loveliness in three tion with all she meets. Macedonia is Perry finds time to participate in the women who have become very special to blessed to have within her family Sister American Cancer Society “Relay for her. Sister Louise Smith, Sister Elease Kim Perry. Life” and “Chili Cook Off,” serves as Powe, and Sister Lois Sellers are her Born and raised in Cuthbert, Clinical Coordinator for the University of spiritual mentors. “They have a beautiful Georgia, Kim’s spiritual roots began at South Alabama Radiation Therapy Pro- and calming spirit about them. The man- Virgil Chapel Missionary Baptist Church gram, and a member of the American ner of which they conduct themselves is a and Benevolence Missionary Baptist Society of Radiologic Technology. Nev- type of mentorship for me.” Furthermore, Church in Cuthbert. Upon graduation ertheless, Kim’s love for the Lord and her Kim’s love for the Word of God is evi- from high school, she moved to Augusta, church are evident with her continued dent in her study of the scriptures. On Georgia where she received her B.S. in growth in grace and involvement in the Wednesday night, with the exception of Radiology at Medical College of Georgia. ministries of Macedonia. those days in which she has to work late She has continued her educational studies While exercising at the YMCA or her children’s extra curricular duties in Tennessee and Texas. Although her one morning, Reverend Sylvester Haw- interfere, she is engaged in Bible study. travels have been many and her career thorne recommended that Kim and her Her favorite scriptures are Psalms 23 and aspirations have been met, the Lord saw family visit Macedonia. After visiting Philippians 4: 13. “The Word of God is fit to set into play a love story that has several services, the family made a deci- always impacting my life in some shape, lasted for over twenty years. sion to become members of the MBC form, or fashion. God’s Word is the Referring to him as her “soul household of faith. Since that time, Sister strong foundation that all aspects of living mate,” Kim married Richard Perry and Kim has become actively involved in the should be built upon. I believe that when their union has been blessed with their Foreign Mission, Matron, Health and we are grounded and rooted in God, we “two wonderful children,” Jonathan and Wellness, and Marriage Ministries. She are setting ourselves up for a sweet vic- Courtney. Because of Brother Perry’s also serves as co-teacher with her hus- tory. God’s Word says that living life career opportunities, the family has lived band for the Jr. High Sunday School with Him will not always be easy, but if in several cities, but their family bond has Class. From her humble beginnings at a we love and obey Him, He will work it been strengthened with every move be- Baptist church in Cuthbert, Georgia until out or provide for us.” Hence, she desires cause of their faith and their family back- now, Kim knows that her growth in Christ that the Lord will continue to mold her grounds, for Sister Perry accredits her is ongoing and her testimony of His role and make her into the Christian woman grandmother as being the most influential in her life is almost indescribable. that she knows that she wants to be. person in her life. “She was a very strong, “‘You’ve come a long way baby’ defi- Knowing that God’s forgiveness is a hard working, and outgoing woman. She nitely describes my personal relationship blessing, Sister Perry longs to be built up instilled in me the values of respect, self- with Christ. I have grown and matured in when and where she is weak and torn love, the importance of getting an educa- many ways since I started this journey. down. “My spiritual goal is to become tion/doing your best at all times, and However, I know and realize almost daily more Christ-Like, and to daily ask and above and before all things, trust and be- that I still have a lot of growing and ma- allow Him to direct my path.” lief in an all powerful and merciful God.” turing left to do. GOD IS SO With this foundation, Kim considers her GOOOOOD!!!!” “My testimony is that role as daughter, wife, mother, and sister we serve an AWESOME AND POWER- Continues on page 4 most seriously. Moreover, she loves to FUL GOD!!! He has done some mighty sew, knit, read, and travel. Even as Chief things in my life. He has blessed me with loving parents and grandparents. He pro- Page 4 The Macedonia Times

Getting to Know Our Members: Sister Kim Perry

TreasuringContinues from page the 3 hymns of “Just a Little Talk “Actions speak louder than words; there- way you want to be treated.” with Jesus” and “Amazing Grace” and her fore, I would like to encourage the younger The Macedonia Family is blessed to favorite Bible story, as she lovingly puts it, generations to set an example by the way have such a woman whose heart reflects the about “Them 3 Boys in the Fiery Furnace,” that I live my life and also live to be an ex- Sister Kim Perry strives to make Jesus smile ample for others to follow. I would encour- inner depths of her beauty, whose grace in her walk, in her talk, and in her love for age them to always put God first in every- embodies her compassion and humility, others. Truly the Lord’s light of compassion thing that they do. God’s children are fear- whose demeanor radiates style and dignity, shines brightly in the life of this woman fully and wonderfully made, so we must and whose smile illustrates the Lord’s light who is full of life and laughter. When asked love and respect our bodies. We must treat and love in her life - Sister Kim Perry, a how she would spiritually advise the youth our bodies as temples. We must follow the sister walking in the Spirit of God. of today, she reflects on those principles of golden rule: ‘Do unto others as you would her grandmother and the Word of God. have them do unto you.’ Treat others the

Guess Who’s Coming to Breakfast (Breakfast with Santa)

Santa Claus was the special guest at the breakfast to benefit Samuel Smith Scholarship fund on Saturday, December 12. Many children came by to share their Christmas list and eat a hearty breakfast. Santa enjoyed it so much, he gained 5 pounds. While he talked to the children he was trying to find out who had been “naughty or nice”. When the clock struck 11:00 a.m., he sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle, and away they all flew like the down of a thistle. But we heard him exclaim, as he drove out of sight, “Merry Christmas Macedonia and to all a good day”.

Macedonia Tutorial Program Resumes January 11, 2010 5 to 7 Every Monday and Thursday All Ages Welcomed All Subjects Offered Page 9 The Macedonia Times Sister Erstina Taylor Reflects on Sunday School Days Gone By contrast, however, from today as opposed "Pass me not, oh to then is the dwindling attendance, the and Savior. I never understood why we gentle Savior, hear need to issue food and snacks as a reward sang "Pass Me Not" every Sunday. I my humble cry, or to make it more appealing, and the think most were accepting of the tradi- while all others thou bewilderment and stress on the teachers to tion, but I know why we sang "Standing art calling, do not find ways to make it more interesting for on the promises of Christ my King, pass me by". I recall students. We were never rewarded to through eternal ages let His praises ring, singing this song attend Sunday School except with a smile glory in the highest I will shout and sing, every Sunday as we and a comforting thought that each child standing on the promises of God." We were dismissed to had of feeling important and knowing our were taught of the promises of God's our presence mattered. Seeing our friends unlimited and everlasting love and it was By Sis. Erstina Lett-Taylor and teachers was the reward. It was ex- impressed upon us that we could surely pected and understood that we were going stand on His word. Some of my Sunday individual Sunday School classes. We sat no matter how late we stayed out on Sat- School classmates and I often share testi- in the sanctuary according to our class urday night! We followed the example monies with each other of how we stand starting with the youngest to the Senior of our parents and church leaders because on God's promises today. We know that High classes. Many of those teachers are most of them were in Sunday School as God has been with us throughout child- still teaching today. Devotion was led by well. Sunday School lessons were taught hood, high school, college, marriage, par- Bro. Willie Johnson, and an appointee to make us think. Each child walked enthood, careers, and daily life chal- said the prayer. The late Sis. Ethel Cun- away with the knowledge and understand- lenges. If it had not been for Sunday ningham immediately followed with com- ing from the lessons that God loves us. School we would not know how to ask menting on the fervent prayer. After a We were taught about God's love and His God not to pass us by or how to stand few announcements we were dismissed to promise of eternal life by obeying His firmly on His promises. I encourage us our classes by singing the very familiar Word and accepting Jesus as our Lord all to come to Sunday School! Come to song, "Pass Me Not". As I matriculated hear about His promises, develop a closer with the same group of friends each year, relationship with Him and your class- I hold several memories: The excitement mates. of the teachers, the eagerness of the stu- dents, the bonding relationships that I still hold with my classmates and friends, and Deacon LeHerschell Lett: “Why I Love the many Bible lessons we learned. In Departments 1 and 2 we had regular re- Teaching Sunday School” views of the lesson by a Sunday School class. As we reassembled every Sunday Ephesians the fourth chapter and the we sang "Standing On the Promises", although it was a traditional hymn, all eleventh verse states, “And he gave children knew it and sang with confi- some, apostles; and some, prophets; and dence. It was obvious that the classes, some, evangelists; and some, pastors and with direction of their teachers, were teachers.” well-prepared to present their reviews. By Dea. LeHerschell Lett More importantly, the children were ex- “I count it all joy to be a cited to do it! There was pride and enthu- Sunday School teacher. God has given me this to do His Will. siasm in showing off what we had learned. There were a variety of skits, God has given me the ability to teach Sunday School. I am speeches, class summaries, and quiz truly blessed to be a Sunday School teacher. I get so excited games. As we sat in our review after Sun- on Sunday morning when it is time to teach Sunday School. day School, both sides of the Annex were full. The Youth were in full attendance To God be the glory for all the things he has done. I am going and we were happy to be there! We lis- to serve the Lord until I die.” tened with anticipation to hear what class would win the Banner Offering and Ban- ner Attendance. Students cheered if their class had won either Banner. A striking Volume 4 Issue Page 6 The Legal Angle: Alabama Power of Attorney Act

By Mary C. Parks Stone, JD trust or property management with a sion for the benefit of the agent; and An important part of life- conservator appointed by the court. provides ways for the agent to give time planning is the Alabama passed our current notice of resignation if the principal is power of attorney. Valid in all states, durable power of attorney statute in incapacitated. these documents give one or more per- 1997 (See Ala. Code § 26-1-2). This is The act encourages accep- sons the power to act on your behalf. the only Code section relating to dura- tance of a power of attorney by third The power may be limited to a par- ble power of attorneys. One must des- parties by: Providing broad protec- ticular activity (e.g., closing the sale of ignate the power of attorney as tions for the good faith acceptance or your home) or general in its applica- “durable” for it to remain in effect refusal of an acknowledged power of tion, empowering on or more persons even when the maker subsequently attorney; Recognizing portability of to act on your behalf in a variety of becomes incompetent. The default powers of attorney validly created in situations. rule remains for powers of attorney to other states; Offering an additional The Alabama legislature con- be void when the maker becomes in- protective measure for the principal venes January 12, 2010. The Ala- competent and has not specifically by providing that third persons may bama Law Institute has completed a designated the power to continue refuse the power if they have the be- two-year study of Alabama’s Power of when the maker is incompetent. This lief that “the principal may be subject Attorney Act statute. act preserves the effectiveness of du- to physical or financial abuse, neglect, rable powers as a low-cost, flexible exploitation or abandonment by the The following is a summary of the and private form of decision-making new revisions the Institute will ask agent or person acting for or with the for property, and does not include agent, and make a report to the ap- the legislature to consider. A “power health care decision. of attorney” is an authorization for propriate adult protective service one person to act on someone else’s The act offers clear guidelines agency”; and Providing a statutory behalf in a legal or business matter. for the agent, who is often a trusted form for designation of an agent and grant of authority through this op- The person authorized to act is the family member. The act: tional statutory form. The act is effec- “agent” and the person granting the Recognizes that an agent who acts tive for powers of attorney made after authorization is the “principal”. A with care, competence and diligence January 1, 2011. Source: The Ala- durable power of attorney is a power for the best interest of the principal is bama Lawyer, Vol. 70, No. 6 that continues or becomes effective not liable solely be- after the principal becomes incapaci- cause he or she also 2607 Dauphin Street tated. The concept of a durable power benefits from the act Mobile, Alabama 36606 of attorney was first incorporated into or has conflicting in- the Uniform Probate Code in 1969 to terests; Permits a (251) 471-9900 offer an inexpensive method of allow- principal to include in ing another decision maker to those the power of attorney whose modest assets did not justify a an exoneration provi- Daphne High School Hall of Fame Inductee

Sis. Leah Conaway-Washington was one of the “2009 Hall of Fame Inductees” at Daphne High School. While at DHS, Leah was President of the Senior Class, Secretary of the National Honor Society, Captain of the Varsity Cheerleading Squad, Homecom- ing Queen and Miss DHS (Prom Queen). Her fondest memory was that the faculty and the staff were very supportive of the students. Leah received a BS degree in Elementary Education from Alabama State University, Masters in Elementary Education from Louisiana State University, and Educational Specialist in Elementary Education from the University of South Alabama. Presently, Mrs. Conaway-Washington is a fourth grade teacher at Fairhope Intermediate School. The Macedonia Times Page 11 Page 10 The Macedonia Times The Macedonia Times Page 14

Action Committee Honors Commissioner David Ed Bishop

The Point Clear/ The organization refers to the black series of articles about the area. Pic- Fairhope Action Com- community south of Fairhope as the tured from the left are: Sister Patricia mittee recently Crawford, Sister Willa Craw- gave Baldwin ford, Elder Henry A. Craw- County Com- ford, Richardson Crawford, missioner David Elder Essex Crawford, Vala- Ed Bishop a rie Chaney, Rev. Henry L. Submitted by Johnny Chaney Crawford, Commis-sioner Bishop, Rev. William Brown, plaque of appreciation recog- Rev. Benny L. Richardson Ill, nizing the work he has done in Charles Hall, Sarah Harris, the “Invisible Community” Rose W. Wilson, Evangelist during the past several years. Cynthia Coleman, Vanessa Bishop and the community Jiles-Johnson and Mayor Tim organization have built the Kant. sidewalk on Twin Beech Road, obtained additional voting places and worked on drainage, sew- Invisible Community since a Fairhope age and clean-up in the community. Courier reporter named it that in a

Shanavia Reed Graduates From the University of Alabama says “Roll Tide” Miss Shanavia Le Ann Reed graduated from the University of Alabama in Tusca- loosa on Saturday, December 12th. Shanavia majored in Broadcasting with a Mi- nor in Communicative Disorders, and has interned with TV. station 3340 (ABC) in Birmingham, Al. Currently employed with Forest Lake Kids Daycare, Shanavia is planning for a career in Broadcasting. Shanavia is the daughter of Mr. & Mrs. John (Iris) Williams, the granddaughter of Mrs. Ida Jean Reed, Mr. John Williams Sr. and the late Blanche Williams, and the niece of Deacon George Rudolph.

ROLL TIDE ROLL!

Shamika L. Bracy Completes Administrative Certification at Alabama State Miss Shamika L. Bracy received her Master's Degree in Educational Lead- ership and Supervision from Alabama Sate University in Montgomery, Alabama. She is currently employed with the Mobile County Public School System at Craighead Elementary, where she teaches fifth grade. She is the daughter of Harold Bracy and Yvette Jones Bracy. She is the grand daughter of the the late Mr. Douglas Jones and the late Mr. LC Benson and Mrs. Mary Alice Benson. Page 13 The Macedonia Times

Macedonia Times Achievement Section

By Krysten Williams

Jacob Moore is a 5th grader at Daphne East Elementary School. He received all A’s for the first quarter. Jacob also re- ceived a certificate for perfect attendance and for accelerated reading- independent level.

Tia Alphonse is a 6 th grader at W.J. Carroll Intermediate School. She made all A’s for first quarter. Tia received a cer- tificate in accelerated reading – star level. Tia is also a member of the National Elementary Honor Society.

Autumn Ford is a 4 th grader at Daphne East Elementary School. She received all A’s for the first quarter. Autumn also received a certificate for perfect attendance.

Krysten Williams is a 6 th grader at W.J. Carroll Intermediate School. She made all A’s for the first quarter. Krysten is also a member of the National Elementary Honor Society. In addition, she received an award for band.

Rashad Yelding is a 4 th grader at Daphne East Elementary School. He made all A’s for the first quarter. Rashad has also received a certificate in accelerated reader- super level.

Nyla Jackson is a 2 nd grader at Chickasaw Magnet School. She has made all A’s for the first quarter.

Lance Mitchell is a 7th grader at Central Baldwin Middle School. He has made all A’s/B’s for the first quarter. He also has received an award for football.

“CJ” Cedric Yelding , Jr., is an 8th grader at Daphne Middle School pushing forward at Daphne Middle School. “CJ” is following in the footsteps of his father on the basketball court. “CJ” plays point guard for the Trojans and is averaging 6 points per game this season.

A Homecoming Princess and Queen of the Court: Amber Yelding

DHS

Amber Yelding is a 10th grader going strong in her studies at Daphne High School. Amber was recently sidelined with an ankle injury, but she was averaging 16 points and 6 steals per game. The Lady Trojans look forward to her return. The Macedonia Times Page 15 Page 25 The Macedonia Times

With Heartfelt Sympathy to January 2010 the following families: To Sis. Christina Ward in the loss of her Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat uncle. 1 2 To Sis. Theresa Yelding in the loss of her uncle. 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 To Sis. Alma Rudolph in the loss of her sister. 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 To Sis. Vashti Johnson in the loss of her nephew. 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 To Sis. Gail Montgomery in the loss of 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 her mother. To Sis. Marcelete Mitchell and Maxine 31 Autry in the loss of their cousin.

Macedonia Members Celebrate Birthday and Anniversaries

SEPTEMBER Annie Williams NOVEMBER DECEMBER Dr. Clarence A. Lett Phyllis Yelding Bailey Yelding, Jr. Dea. Lawrence Yelding Gartrell Agee OCTOBER Marjorie Y. Lewis Amber Yelding Victoria Mitchell Anniece Baker Andrea Conaway Sharlene Barge Emma Houlsen Bernice Hale Desmond Bolton Ellen Leonard Pamela Yelding Marcelete Mitchell Dominic Washington Gail Montgomery Hamilton Baker Autumn Ford Courtney Conaway Vashti Bolar Johnson Tracie Brown James Chancely Claude Jackson Mary Alice Benson Teronda Smith Stacey Houlsen Carlos Yelding Maxine Autry Tia Alphonse Alexander Smith, Jr. Shamika Bracy Willie Brown Dea. Bernard Floyd, Jr. Janie Thomas Willie E. Jemison Osmond Curtis Jamall Brown Barbara Smith Francis Conaway Annie Jackson Chemyiah Brown Mary Woods Lisa Roberson Mary Banks Shirley Harris Williest Crosby Anniversaries Yvette Jackson Francis & Tommie Conaway Nora Johnson John & Ellen Leonard Dr. Charles Lett Jeremy & Tiffany Mitchell Orrie & Earlie Smith Dea. LeHerschell & Sis. Lett The Macedonia Times Page 12

Talk With Tia: “Why Were Gifts Given For the Birth of Jesus?” “The wise men brought gifts for the birth of Jesus because they heard that a king was born. They saw a star as it rose in the east, and they came to worship him. It was a custom to acknowledge the king by bringing him gifts. They brought expensive gifts, gold, Frankincense, and myrrh. Gold was for royalty, frankincense was for deity, and myrrh was spice used to anoint a body for burial. The importance of this story is that Jesus is wor- thy of royal honors from all humanity. Gentiles as well as Jews are included in God’s redemptive plan.”

In The Season of Autumn: “Why Was the Birth of Jesus the Most Important Event Since the World’s Creation?” “Amazingly, the Creation celebrates the unity and perfection of the universe and emphasizes God’s grandeur and power. It takes place over seven days, and “seven” has come to represent perfection and completion. Thus, God blessed the seventh day. God’s creation set a pattern for people’s lives: six days of work, then a day of rest (the Sabbath). However, the birth of Jesus was the most important event since the World’s Creation. By marrying Mary, Joseph fulfills the prophecy that the Messiah will be the “Son of David” because his adopted son becomes a descendant of King David. The “Messiah” will not be the political or military figure so many Jews expected, but a Savior who will deliver people from sin and evil.”

Along the Jordan: “Why Do We Celebrate Christmas?” We celebrate Christmas in remembrance of our Lord and Savior Je- sus Christ. Jesus was born on December 25th in a stable in Bethle- hem . His parents were Mary and Joseph. When he was born, three wise men each brought him a present. Mary and Joseph knew he would be a king. If it was not for Jesus we would not be here right now. Jesus made us who we are today.

Hamilton In My Eyes: “What Did the Birth of Jesus Prove To Us?” “For some, the birth of Jesus proved that He was real. Jesus came as a human to show us how to live. He is really alive, and God loved us to send His only Son.” Page 17 The Macedonia Times

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Dr. Regina Benjamin, a Daphne Native, is Named US Surgeon General

Dr. Regina Benjamin, the niece of boards and committees, including bama, she formerly served as vice of our own Sister Leanna Alphonse, the Kaiser Commission on Medicaid president of the Governor's Com- was recently appointed mission on Aging, by President Barack and also formerly Obama to serve as Sur- as a member of the geon General of the Governor's Health . Benja- Care Reform Task min is a former associ- Force and the Gov- ate dean for rural health ernor's Task Force at the University of on Children's South Alabama College Health. of Medicine in Mobile, where she administers Benjamin's clinic the Alabama AHEC was destroyed in program and previously 2005 by Hurricane directed its Telemedi- Katrina and in 2006 cine Program. She by a fire on New serves as the current Year's Day, one day president of the Medi- before the sched- cal Association of the uled reopening. She State of Alabama. In made headlines 1995, she was elected when she rebuilt the US Surgeon General Dr. Regina Benjamin and Sis. Leanna Alphonse to the American Medical clinic a second time. Association’s board of trustees, and the Uninsured, Catholic Health making her the first physician under East, Medical Association of the Benjamin is founder and CEO of age 40 and the first African- State of Alabama, Alabama Board the Bayou La Batre Rural Health American woman to be elected. She of Medical Examiners, Alabama Clinic in Bayou La Batre . also served on the Florida A & M State Committee of Public Health, University Board of Trustees after Mobile County Medical Society, being appointed by Florida Gover- Alabama Rural Health Association, nor . From 2008-2009, she Leadership Alabama, Mobile Area served as Chair of the Board of Red Cross, Mercy Medical, Mobile Trustees of the Federation of State Chamber of Commerce, United Medical Boards, a national non- Way of Mobile, Physicians for Hu- profit organization, representing the man Rights and Deep South Girl 70 medical boards of the United Scout Council. States and its territories. She was appointed by the US Benjamin is a diplomat of the Department of Health and Human American Board of Family Practice Services Secretary and a Fellow of the American Acad- to the Clinical Laboratory Improve- emy of Family Physicians. She was ment Act Committee and to the a Kellogg National Fellow and also Council of Graduate Medical Edu- a Rockefeller Next Generation cation, and she is also a member of Leader. She has served on a variety the "Step 3 Committee." In Ala- Continues on Page 11 The Macedonia Times Page 19

Surgeon General Has Family Ties in Daphne and Macedonia On July 13, 2009 President Obama an- also received an award from the Holy See, a Year" by People magazine. She was also nounced the choice of Benjamin for the strong opponent of such procedures. Benja- featured on the December 1999 cover of position of Surgeon General and as a Medi- min also sits on the board of the Catholic cal Director in the regular corps of the Pub- Health Association and is an active member lic Health. Benjamin was unanimously con- of Shrine of The Holy Cross Catholic firmed by the US Senate on October 29, Church, Daphne, Alabama. 2009. In 1998 she was the United States recipient of the Nelson Mandela Award for Health and Human Rights.

Clarity Magazine and received the 2000 National Caring Award, which was inspired by Mother Theresa.

Benjamin accepted the President's nomina- In 2006, she was awarded the pa- tion, and made clear of her dissatisfaction pal cross Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice by Pope with the current health care system, in terms Benedict XVI. of both accessibility, as well as cost. Also in accepting her nomination, Benjamin de- In 2008, Benjamin was named one scribed her own hardships faced by disease of America's Best Leaders by US News and and illness in her own family. She noted her World Report. In September 2008, she was brother, who died of HIV, as well as her one of that year's class of 25 in the MacAr- father, who died of high blood pressure and Benjamin was named by TIME thur’s Fellows Program nicknamed the diabetes, and her mother who died of lung magazine as one of the "Nation's 50 Future cancer. All of which, she implied, were "Genius Awards," receiving a grant of Leaders Age 40 and Under." She has been $500,000 over five years. "preventable diseases.” featured in a New York Times article, "Angel in a White Coat," and was chosen Sources: Wikipedia & Jet Magazine Her political support for abortion rights has "Person of the Week" by ABC’s World been cited as a source of controversy, since News Tonight, "Woman of the Year" by Benjamin, who is a Roman Catholic, has CBS This Morning , and "Woman of the

Another New Addition to the Macedonia Family Braceson Donel Dailey Weight: 6lbs, 14oz, 19 3/4 inches Parents: Larry Dailey and Shamika Bracy Date: August 7, 2009 Time: 12:23 p.m. Place: Thomas Hospital Physician: Dr. Fred Diegmann

Grandparents: Harold Bracy and Yvette J. Bracy, Ms. Joyce Finkley (Patricia Dailey- deceased), and Mr. Leo and Mamie Finkley Great-Grandparents: Mrs. Mary A. Benson and Mrs. Maxine Bracy-Palmer Page 8 The Macedonia Times

Heart to Heart: How to Have Success Over the Holidays

ing the holidays. The key is mod- Use lean meats and when Holidays are a eration and realizing there is a to- possible, look for recipes that offer time of year that morrow. low-fat substitutions. we look forward Things you can do for success are: If you are going out to din- ner, have a health snack before By Sis. Sharon Curtis, RN to cele- Increase your water. Each day in- brating. clude some type of physical activ- you leave home. The holiday season brings festive ity in your schedule. Remember the main event, family get-togethers, office parties Avoid cream sauces; they tend to is to socialize and enjoy your fam- and other traditional activities. ily and friends. These common gathering have one be high in fat and cholesterol. Try thing in common….Food, food, to balance intake of these items Most of all remember, the reason and more food. On average, with regular servings of fruits and for the season and enjoy, enjoy, American’s gain 5-7 pounds dur- vegetables. enjoy!!!!! Volume 4 Issue The Macedonia Times

Doctor’s Orders As the United States Inches Toward Health Care Reform Many Questions Remain Unanswered

There is no doubt would expand coverage to 36 million panded. 4. Required insurance in anybody’s mind people by 2019. The Senate bill extends could still be too expensive for that there is a health coverage to 31 million. many. Both bills require virtually care crisis in Amer- Outlaw discrimination all Americans to have insurance. ica. The problem is based on pre-existing conditions But the caps on how much we're that the cost of expected to pay are way too high, Dr. Herbert Stone, M.D . and gender. Insurance companies care has be- will have to stop denying coverage and the subsidies are way too low. come so ex- to people with "pre-existing condi- Many progressives are working to pensive that many people, especially the tions." And they won't be allowed fix this, but it's going to be a sig- sickest and the poorest among us, are to charge women more than men nificant fight. 4. Reproductive denied care for exactly those rea- rights are severely restricted in the for the same coverage. sons. The Obama administration has un- House bill. An anti-choice amend- dertaken a massive project to address Eliminate coverage limits ment in the bill virtually prohibits these problems. A bill containing a ver- and price-gouging. The bills differ anyone purchasing insurance in the sion of what is being proposed passed the on some details, but in general Exchange from buying a plan that U.S. House of Representatives last month would place limits on how much covers abortion—even if paid for and the Senate is aiming to pass its ver- people have to pay for health care with their own money. There are sion before Christmas. beyond their premiums. They both many who consider this cap out-of-pocket costs and ban a “rollback” of reproductive The “health care debate” has so insurance companies from setting many moving parts that it's hard for any- rights. 5. The Senate bill could limits on how much health care discriminate against lower income body to keep them straight, and we were they'll cover for a person each somewhat reluctant to present this infor- workers. The current Senate legis- year. mation because it is so dynamic and lation retains a version of what's changes from minute to minute. But in Here's what still needs to called the "free rider" provision, order that you might have what you need be fixed: 1. Both bills leave mil- which essentially penalizes em- to make some informed decisions for lions uninsured. The House bill ployers for hiring lower income yourself, here is an overview of where leaves 18 million without insur- workers. This provision needs to we're at—both good and bad. ance in 2019; the Senate bill, 24 be fixed before the bill is finalized. million. Neither comes close to the Neither of these bills is close to There's a lot going on here, and vision for universal coverage that we're all going to need to be vigilant to perfect. But we're entering the home so many of us envisioned. 2. The stretch where we risk losing a lot of ensure the good pieces end up in the final Senate public option is weak, and bill, and the bad ones are fixed. Make it what's good in these bills and where we conservatives are pushing to make have a huge opportunity to strengthen the a point on your part to stay informed it weaker. The public option is a and to let your elected representatives parts that need work. core piece of reform that will cre- know what your opinions are. Overall, both pieces of legisla- ate real accountability and compe- tion would do four major things: tition for private insurance—and Create a "Health Insuance Ex- that's why it's at the center of such change." The bills create a one-stop mar- a huge fight. While the House bill ketplace where people can choose from creates a national public option, the various insurance plans, including the Senate lets states opt out, denying public option . The details aren't set yet, their residents access to it. Plus, but initially the Exchange would likely be conservatives are working to open to the self-employed, people without weaken it even more. 3. Many re- insurance at work, and small busi- forms don't start quickly enough. nesses. The key with the Exchange is that While some pieces of reform go it brings "the bargaining power and scale into effect right away, the larger that's generally accessible only to large structural changes are not sched- employers" to individuals—and with that, uled to go into effect until 2013 (House bill) or 2014 (Senate bill). lower costs and better options. This includes the Exchange, the Provide insurance to over 30 public option, and subsidies—the million more people. The House bill major ways coverage will be ex- Page 21 The Macedonia Times Page 22 The Macedonia Times Pastoral Installation Ceremony The Macedonia Times Page 23 Burning the Mortgage Page 16 The Macedonia Times

Youth Department (This Year Has Been One of Challenges and Dedication)

Our vision for the looking forward to taking youth ministry has always our youth on this adventure been one of Truth and in hopes that the experi- Dare - teach them the ence will make a great im- great truths of the Bible pact in their lives, along and dare them to believe with many other activities and become empowered by for the year. A very special His Words. Many of our thanks to all our youth are very active in Counselors and special their schools and on their helpers! jobs and we are thankful to those that have yet re- mained faithful and dedi- cated to the youth minis- Up Coming Events: try. Though we are very proud of Our job is to encourage them but Youth Outing & Caroling all our youth and young adults, we need you to enforce it! Next our objective is to aim a little year we'll be traveling to Texas 19 th of Dec. higher for next year and parents for the National Baptist Conven- Shopping * Dinner * Movie that mean we need your help. tion for the first time, and we're

THANKSGIVING FEAST

The Annual Com- dine throughout the day. munity Thanksgiving Many members of the congregation Feast sponsored by the contributed food and their cooking Ministries of Macedonia expertise to was make this possible, By Sis. Elease Powe while volun- teers from once again a great the church success. Held on and commu- Thanksgiving Day, gravy: Rev. Mitchell and Dea. nity took meals were prepared Thomas Smith will get up at the time away and delivered to the crack of dawn to have a turkey frying from their homes of the shut- competition; Rev. Jackson is the own celebra- ins, elderly, and champion of smoked turkey (did he tions to will- those without fami- stay awake all night?); Bro. Chaney ingly serve lies. Meals were also won the carving marathon; Bro. others. delivered to the pa- Pritchett cuts a precise potato pie; tients, inmates, and employees of two Some observations made and com- Sis. Mary Williams knows how to Daphne institutions: the City Jail and ments over- heard: Sis. Bolar gets keep a tidy kitchen; and Bro. Shep- the Shoulders. People from the com- the Blue Ribbon for her dressing and herd’s delivery system works better munity were welcomed to come in and than Papa John’s. Volume 4 Issue The Macedonia Times

A Child is Born

Read Luke 2:1-20 [Mary] wrapped [the baby] in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. Luke 2:7 (NIV)

In an overcrowded train, dark and dirty beyond imagination, lay a woman in labor. Since I am a medical professional, I could help. I managed to reach the woman. In a moment of silence, I prayed for help and guidance in what seemed an impossible situation. The baby was in breech; the mother was young and frail. The space around me was almost too small for me to move in it. But in a few minutes, a baby was born. What a joy! Every- one in the coach chanted with joy in the African manner of celebrating the birth of a child. On the night when Jesus was born in Bethlehem, Mary “wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger because there was no room in the inn.” When Jesus was born, a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angels to praise God. The birth of this child was good news for the whole world. Christmas invites us to let Jesus be born in our lives. Then every day God will give us life, joy, and peace.

Prayer: Thank you, God, for the life of your son and our king, Jesus Christ. Thank you, Immanuel, for the joy and peace you give us. Amen.

Thought for the Month No matter how dirty or crowded our situation may be, Christ can be born anew in our lives this Christmas.

- The Upper Room Page 26 The Macedonia Times Business Name Andre’ McConico, Editor Tracie Brown, Editor Dea. Bernard Floyd, Staff Writer Krysten Williams, Staff Writer Macedonia Baptist Church 902 Daphne Avenue Tempie Singleton, Staff Writer Marietta C. Figures, Contributor Post Office Box 385 Kay F. Williams, Contributor Dr. Herbert Stone, Contributor Daphne, AL 36526 Mary Stone, Contributor Robert Wright, Contributor www.macedoniabaptistchurch-daphne.com Phone: 251-626-9393 Pam Brown, Contributor Derrick Yelding, Contributor Pastor’s Office: 251-626-8286 Fax: 251-626-4632 Elease Powe, Contributor Renee Hagler, Contributor Email: [email protected] Francis B. Conaway, Ministry Leader

Holiday Days “Building God’s Kingdom One Issue At A Time” From The The Macedonia Times Staff

View from the Pew An Interesting Thought: “What’s On My Christmas List?” Members are invited to submit editorials to the Macedonia Times, but the views expressed here are not necessarily the opinion of the Macedonia Baptist Church or Macedonia Times.

Have you In “It’s a Wonderful Life”, we are pre- God’s purpose for my life? completed your sented with a different storyline. In this The Christmas season for Chris- holiday prepara- story, a man named George is so over- tians is time for celebration and sharing tions? During whelmed by the troubles and problems he time with people we love. We celebrate one of Pastor is facing that he wants to take his own the birth of Jesus Christ. We embrace the Jackson’s ser- life. Clarence, his guardian angel, inter- salvation of his gift of eternal life. We mons this venes and proceeds to show George rich- embrace the faith, hope, and love offered By Bro. Richard Perry month, he ness that he has added to the lives of the By Bro. Richard Perry by him. This is the perfect time to share asked us what many people he has helped and touched his gift with others. We should be elevat- was on our during his lifetime. In the end, George ing him as the true reason for the season. wish list for Christmas. I am sure many of comes to the realization that he has been The joy and fullness of our life in him and us have been reflecting on his question. truly blessed with a wonderful life. our worship and love for him should in- During this time of year, we are As I reflect, I remember family spire others to want this same experience. normally treated to a host of traditional and friends who are no longer with me on Therefore, my Christmas wish Christmas movies on TV. Many of us this side. I reflect on the good and bad list looks like this have seen them year after year – Frosty times and the changes which have happen the Snowman, Rudolph the Red-Nose in my life. I think about the things which I 1) Grow in my relationship with Reindeer, It’s a Wonderful Life, A Christ- would still like to experience during this God. th mas Carol, and Miracle on 34 Street. In lifetime. I also reflect on the blessings 2) Continue to grow in love for my a couple of these stories, the main charac- which God has given to me. Some of the family, my Christian brethren ter goes through a self-reflection process. many blessings are health, food, and shel- and all God’s children. In A Christmas Carol, three ghosts repre- ter. I have a wonderful family and friends. senting his past, present, and future, help I have a good job. I live in a country 3) Seek guidance from the Holy Ebenezer Scrooge see the failures and where I am free to worship Jesus Christ as Spirit in continuing to fulfill shortcomings in his life. This motivates I chose. His blessings have been too nu- God’s purpose for my life. him to reflect on his life and attempt to merous to count, and I am truly grateful. change the potential outcome of his life. Therefore, I ask myself am I fulfilling Page 24 The Macedonia Times

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Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church Media Ministry Publication * Copyright December 2009