Premier Issue of the Magazine

Revive Us Again! Spring Revival 2005 Women of the Harvest Identity Theft Let’s Promote Wellness Homeownership: Taking the 1st Step



Have Faith In God Rev. Dr. Lee P. Washington Senior Pastor

Reid Temple African Methodist Episcopal Church

Rev. Matthew Watley Executive Minister Rev. David Clark Director of Ministries and Outreach

11400 Glenn Dale Blvd. Glenn Dale, MD 20769

Rev. Cary James Youth Minister

(301) 352-0320 www.reidtemple.org

Joshua’s Journal - A Reid Temple A.M.E. Church Publication From the Commission on Public Relations Editor-in-Chief: Sandra L. Thompson, Public Relations Commissioner

Opportunities for Worship

Editorial Staff: Janice Aycox and Sandra Daniel IT/Graphics Staff: Vernon Jones, Jr. and Camille Chapman

Sunday Morning 7:30 AM 10:30 AM

Layout and Design: Scheré Johnson-Jordan Staff Writers & Columnists: Lauren Phelps, Nekeya O’Connor, Rev. Dr. Glenda Hodges, Shawn Jones Staff Photographers: Danita Delaney and Clifton Hoffler

Sunday Evening 6:00 PM Church School 9:15 AM Holy Communion 1st Sunday Baptism 2nd Sunday Ministry of Instruction Bible Study Classes for Adults and Youth Wednesday 7:00 PM

Editorial Note: Joshua’s Journal aims to provide all members of Reid Temple A.M.E. Church with an opportunity to convey scriptural interpretation; to report on events and activities of the church; and to share their unique gifts of creative writing. The views and opinions expressed by columnists, staff and contributing writers are based on their knowledge and personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Feel free to send your comments, suggestions and submissions, etc. to: [email protected]. You may also place any correspondence in the Public Relations mailbox addressed to the attention of Joshua’s Journal. The Editorial Staff of Joshua’s Journal reserves the right to edit and/or change a portion or exclude in its entirety any written or photographic submissions due to space constraints or if it is determined to be contrary to the mission and purpose of Reid Temple A.M.E. Church. Copyright is pending. All rights reserved. Contents of this magazine cannot be used or reproduced without written consent.



Joshua’s Journal

Contents Summer 2005 On the cover: Pastor Washington exemplifying worship during Spring Revival 2005. Photograph by Danita Delaney.

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Dedication: A special dedication to our Pastor, the Rev. Dr. Lee P. Washington.

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Letter from the Editor Sandra L. Thompson commemorates the 1st issue of Joshua’s Journal – the magazine.

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Spring Revival 2005 God sent a revival! We celebrated our 1st revival in our new worship complex.

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Women’s Day 2005 - Women of the Harvest: Sowing, Reaping & Rejoicing

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Evangelism & Outreach: Answering the Call On a Mission Young People’s and Children’s Division

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I Hear the Music in the Air An interview with Evangelist Myrna Summers, Minister of Music

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Spirituality & Medicine Let’s Promote Wellness: “P” is for Prevention

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Homeownership: Taking the 1st Step

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Protect Yourself from Identity Theft

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Extra, Extra! On the Court with Freddie Stanback III



Dear Reverend Washington: We would like to thank you. We are so grateful to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ for allowing us the opportunity to worship under your leadership. Truly, you have been an inspiration. You bless us each and every Sunday with the unadulterated truth of the gospel and you have been instrumental in our growth and development in Christ. You continue to teach us to put God first in our lives and you challenge us to be all that God would have us to be. Your bible-based teaching gives us clear understanding that our Father owns everything and all that we are and all that we have, comes from and belongs to Him. Thank you for teaching us to be good stewards of our time, our talents, our treasures and our temples. Reverend Washington, thank you so very much for your character-building preaching and teaching; thank you for not being afraid to tell us the truth about how God expects us to live, whether we want to hear it or not; thank you for planting the seeds in our hearts and in our minds so that we can be stronger Christians. Thank you for challenging us to be obedient to the Lord, so that our beliefs coincide with our behavior. Those of us who have been called out of the world to do the work of the Lord, have the continuous struggle of trying to ensure that God is reflected in the things we do and the words we speak. Each week, you remind us that Christ must be preeminent in our daily lives, under all circumstances and in every situation. You encourage us to be intentional in our walk with Jesus Christ and you give us all that you have each and every time we see you. Thank you for helping us identify and nurture our God-given gifts, so that we can use them to the glory and honor of our Lord. Thank you for showing us, through your own behavior, how to be servants. Thank you for treating each and every one of us with dignity and respect and thank you for showing us the importance of forgiveness. Thank you for teaching us how to overcome adversity and how to press forward. Thank you for reinforcing, every chance you get, that God is in control and because He is in control, there are no challenges we face that can occupy our souls. You tell us time and time again, that there is no reason to fear anything because God is on our side. Thank you for teaching us how to find comfort in Christ. You consistently remind us that things of the world are temporal and things of God are eternal. Thank you for instilling in us, the proper way (God’s way) of dealing with one another and thank you for teaching us to encourage and build each other up. Thank you for ensuring that we have reverence for God and thank you for teaching us how to love one another unconditionally. You’ve taught us that we in our own strength have no power to do good work that is pleasant and acceptable to God without the grace of God through Christ our Lord. We are accounted as righteous before God only because of Jesus Christ and by faith and not for our own works. Thank you for challenging us to develop a serious relationship with Christ and not settle for a casual one. Thank you for reminding us not to be ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ and helping us to evangelize and be a witness for the Lord. As we know, there is no greater accomplishment than that of saving a soul. Thank you for reminding us not to take one second or one minute or one hour for granted; that each breath we take is a gift from our Lord and we ought worship and praise Him, every chance we get. We love you, we pray for you and your family and we ask that God continue to show you favor in all of your endeavors. Blessings, From all of us! 

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elcome to the inaugural issue of Joshua’s Journal, The Magazine. We are honored to present this new publication to our Reid Temple family. The primary purpose of this magazine is to exalt our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, by highlighting the activities that take place at Reid Temple. We seek to enlighten our membership with useful information on relevant, topical issues. The Lord has truly blessed us. We have a multi-faceted talented congregation, and each article was written and edited by a member of Reid Temple. What a blessing it is to have saints who are willing to take time from their already busy schedules to share their experiences. We start our magazine with a letter to our phenomenal Pastor, Reverend Washington (page 4). Sis. Lauren Phelps, Sis. Wanda Scott, Sis. Sonya McCall and Sis. Chandra Johnson capture the essence of the powerful Spring Revival, which was the first revival held in our new location (page 6-11). Sis. Tish Dickens and Sis. Renee Edwards write about the awesome Women’s Day 2005 services (page 12-13) and Sis Hilda Hudson and Sis. Chandra Johnson cover the Prison Ministry Annual Prayer Breakfast (page 14). Sis. Lillian Rollins writes about her involvement in missions and outreach activities (page 15) and Sis. Shirley Watson details the activities of our youth. The Young People’s Division of the Missionary Society is very active; an overview of their monthly outreach activities is detailed on page 16. Sis. Nekeya O’Connor interviewed our very own Minister of Music, Evangelist Myrna Summers. She shares insight on the journey that led her to Reid Temple (page 18-20). It is critical that we take care of our temples. African Americans are particularly vulnerable to weight gain; Rev. Dr. Glenda Hodges provides an in-depth analysis on promoting wellness (page 21) followed by a short quiz. Other lifestyle issues include an article on first time homeownership (page 25) where Sis. Shawn Jones provides a list of critical steps for prospective buyers. I wrote an article about the fastest growing financial crime, identity theft (page 26) and we end with a story on our own basketball star- Freddie Stanback III (page 27). We hope you enjoy the magazine and we pray that relationships with Christ are strengthened so that we can live effectively for Him. Warm regards and Blessings, Sandra L. Thompson Commissioner Public Relations 

Reid Temple’s First Night of Spring Time Revival is Like Honey By Lauren D. Phelps

A modern day songwriter once said, “It’s like honey when it rushes over me. Sugar never ever was so sweet, and I’m dying for you, crying for you, I adore you!” These words couldn’t have been truer the first night of Reid Temple’s Spring Revival “The Challenges of Kingdom Growth: The Mandate, The Management, The Ministry” when the Holy Spirit rushed over the thousands of saints in attendance and had us crying out, “I’m dying for you, crying for you, I adore you Lord!” The esteemed, enthusiastic, and animated Rev. Dr. Lance Watson, Senior Pastor of The Saint Paul’s Baptist Church in Richmond, VA proclaimed to us that “these hands are full of honey”—and that first night of revival couldn’t have been sweeter. The evening kicked off with the traditional revival hymn and we reached new heights when the Reflections of God Dance Ministry worshipped God through dance while incorporating contemporary movements bringing the saints to their feet in praise. However, the highlight of the evening by far was our guest revivalist, the Rev. Dr. Lance Watson, a preacher with incredible insight into the Scripture and a tremendous gift of homiletics, applying the sacred text to any and every situation that we face today. He describes himself as a hip-hop, “urban” preacher that likes to keep it real and have fun, and that’s exactly what he did preaching on Samson the first night of

Rev. Dr. Lance D. Watson Senior Pastor St. Paul’s Baptist Church Richmond, VA revival. At one time during the sermon, he proclaimed that “Samson should have checked himself, before he wrecked himself” playing upon a popular old school rap song. His laid back style and natural use of modern day slang captured the attention and commanded the participation of the congregation, but nothing enraptured us more than the word that he brought forth; “These hands are full of honey.”



“Some time later, when he went back to marry her, he turned aside to look at the lion’s carcass. In it was a swarm of bees and some honey, which he scooped out with his hands and ate as he went along.” Judges 14:8b-9a (NIV)

All Revival Photos by Danita Delaney

Preaching from Judges 14:1-9, Pastor Watson, admonished us to not spend tremendous amounts time, energy and power in trivial pursuits making parallels with Samson’s trivial pursuit of the Philistine woman. He further encouraged the congregation by reminding us that God chose Samson at an early age to accomplish great things and despite Samson’s lack of focus and growing pains, he would ultimately do what God had ordained him to do. “Now see to it that you drink no wine or other fermented drink and that you do not eat anything unclean, because you will conceive and give birth to a son. No razor may be used on his head, because the boy is to be a Nazirite, set apart to God from birth, and he will begin the deliverance of Israel from the hands of the Philistines” (Judges 13:4-5). As Pastor Watson continued “doing the doggone thing” by walking us through the text, he warned

us that Samson’s problems started early because the devil knew what type of man he would become in the Lord, and he said that the same thing would happen to us as those chosen by God. He pointed out that the lion represents our negative circumstances, and Samson raising up and slaying the lion represents how we can overcome and come out victorious every time. The high point of the evening came when Pastor Watson declared to us that just as Samson’s hands were full of honey that faithful day; our hands are full of honey. He reminded us that we could have sweetness in life and fullness of joy even in the midst of our circumstances. He told us to “scoop out the honey” and share it with others. All of the saints that night left with sticky, sweet hands full of honey, and we eagerly anticipated the next two days of revival.



We Are Exceptional, But... Part II By Wanda L. Scott

On Tuesday May 17, t he second night of t he Spring Revival, Rev. Dr. Lance Watson had the whole audience “dippin” and “dealing with their ‘but’!” The Youth and Young Adult Choir ministered to us, awakening our spirit in preparation for the word of God. Rev. Washington incited the choir back into praise as they finished ministering with the song “No Way (The G.A. Chant)” during the offering. He stepped forward reciting the lyrics, making them personal. The sermon came from 2 Kings 5:1 on the familiar reminded us that no one is perfect and the sooner story of the acclaimed worrier Naaman. Naaman we realize that, the easier our life will be. We were was an exceptional worrier, who consistently led the told that we all have to have a ‘but’ somewhere in Syrian army to victory. Naaman was praised by his the sentence of our life. This ‘but’ represents the king and by the Syrians, but he had leprosy. Now work that the Lord has to do in cleaning up our if you had leprosy in Israel, you were lives. Although to the Finally, we got our ‘dip’ on as forced to live outside the city, but common Syrian eye, we were told, amongst the gentiles you could still Naaman seemed to be accepted, and in Naaman’s case, “don’t be trippin when we ought have it all together, but exceptional. Rev. Watson admonished under all of that shiny to be dippin.” us that the more ordinary you are the armor was a seething less exceptional you will be. Ordinary is the salt that skin disease. As we “deal with our buts,” God can has lost its flavor, and our God has called us to be the keep us marching toward exceptional. “Exceptional salt of the earth, not ordinary. As children of God gifts come out of exceptional grief,” warns Rev. we are called to be exceptional, but we have to work Watson. Naaman had exceptional grief with pain at it with the leading of the Holy Spirit. We have and the incurable disease of leprosy. to keep our eyes focused on the Lord as He brings Second, we must be careful to whom we reveal us to exceptional. We must hang around those who our ‘but’. Naaman did not walk around in all that challenge us and will take us to the next level. armor constantly because it was comfortable; we First we were taught that between ordinary and assume part of the reason was to hide his skin. exceptional there is going to be trouble! Rev. Watson As great as he was, he still did not want everyone to



find out about his leprosy, because they would look at him and treat him differently. Naaman needed to maintain his respect and be able to lead the army, so not just anyone could know of his issues. We as children of God should also take heed to the fact that not everyone can handle our ‘but’. We must use discernment in who we should share our issues with. Rev. Watson taught us that we have to be careful of those people in our lives who constantly forecast doubt into our situations. Finally, we got our ‘dip’ on as we were told, “don’t be trippin when we ought to be dippin.” Naaman was offended when he was not properly greeted and healed by the prophet Elijah. After all, he was the great worrier, Naaman, and was used to the praise of his people and his king. Elijah simply sent his servant to speak with him and tell him to dip seven times in the Jordan, one of the dirtiest rivers around. This was unacceptable to Naaman and he was about to miss his blessing, if one of his maids had not stepped up to minister to him. We are a lot like Naaman sometimes, close to missing what God has for us because it does not come in the way we expect it or in a way we think it should. Our ego gets in the way. Rev. Watson reminds us that, “grace is learning to receive in humility what you do not deserve”. If we are to be elevated, our ego has to be put aside. If the Lord says dip, we must dip even if after the 5th dip we don’t see a change. We have to keep pressing forward in what God has told us to do, expecting that on that next dip we will receive our promised miracle; on the next dip we are moving closer to the exceptional. The whole church was dipping in expectation of the move of God. Rev. Watley came forward and continued to let the Spirit move in the place encouraging the body to ‘dip’ for we never know when our blessing is just around the corner. He opened the doors of the church, and souls where

saved and members were added to the Reid Temple body. A visitor, Audrey Carroll whose daughter is a member of Reid, stated the sermon was “Very inspiring.” Lisa Dawson, a member of Reid, was at a loss for words at first, and then stated that “It was awesome.” She felt that it was hard to put into words what she received that night. Lisa then said, “It was a blessing on top of a blessing.” We left Reid Temple once again revived and looking forward in expectation to the third night of revival and to what the Lord would do through the dynamic Rev. Lance Watson.



You Ain’t Seen Nothing Yet! Part III By Sonya McCall and Chandra Johnson

From Rev. Gould to Evangelist Myrna Summers and the Mass Choir to the entire Reid Temple family, we had a “scoopin,” “dippin,” hallelujah good time on the third and final night of Spring Revival. Praise and worship was filled with great anticipation as brothers and sisters in Christ waited anxiously to hear what thus saith the Lord through his anointed man servant, the Rev. Dr. Lance D. Watson. If you missed the first night of revival you probably did not understand why Pastor Washington went home and asked Reid Temple’s first lady for “some of that honey.” If you missed the second night you could not possibly understand why Ms. Myrna rallied the congregation to “dip…dip-dip…dip-dipdip.” Pastor Washington, the reserved man of God that we know and love, even broke out in a little Holy Ghost dance before assuring us that if we “tuned into channel G-O-D” and it was “the right frequency,” we would certainly “hear a word from God” on the third and last night of revival. Rev. Watson’s sermon, “You Ain’t Seen Nothing Yet,” empowered us concerning David’s conviction about four qualities of praise. First, he showed us in the text that Real Praise is Redemptive. 2 Samuel 6:21, David said that it was because God chose him that he was praising God. As God chose David, He has chosen each of us in spite of our messed up lives. Secondly, in the text, David shows that Real Praise is Reflective – David remembered his anointing 13 years ago and thanked God for His love. Rev. Watson explained that we must have flashbacks of what God has done for us; we need to have times

in our lives when we look back and think of where the Lord has brought us. Thirdly, David explains that Real Praise is Responsive. Praise is not silent. We can’t keep silent if we are praising. 2 Samuel 6:12 shows how David not only rejoiced and praised God for his anointing, but he rejoiced for the blessing God had given to the household of ObedEdom. Rev. Watson informed us that we should not be jealous about the blessings of others because when God is blessing our neighbor, it means that He is in the neighborhood with our blessing. He continued with a story about his children eagerly awaiting the ice cream truck to come to their street, even though they did not see the truck, they heard the music and knew it was on its way. Therefore, rejoice in others blessings because we know our blessing is on the way. Finally, Rev. Watson reminded us through David that Real Praise is Resilient – Although David’s wife Michal was so incensed over David’s praising, she did not fully understand the depth of David’s love for God. Rev. Watson encouraged us that if someone does not

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like your praise, do it anyway; you should not care what the person on the pew next to you thinks, “do you.” Here’s what members attending the Wednesday night services had to say: “Kisha and I got so much from Rev. Watson last night that is was difficult to narrow it down to a few thoughts. What we talked about most though was his insight on praise. Rev. Watson preached that real praise is redemptive, reflective, responsive and resilient. He really hit home with us when he said that you can worship quietly, but you can’t praise God quietly. Kisha was reassured that when she gives God praise it does not have to be pretty and cute. To understand her praise you would have to understand her story. I was reminded that even when things are going good, you still need to give God his well deserved praise. Kisha and I left church knowing that praise is about God and not about us.” — Marlon and Kisha Broady. Rev. Watson encouraged Reid Temple to get up and praise God like we’ve never done before. As good as God has been to us, we could not help but comply. We praised God in the sanctuary! We blessed His holy name! We shouted victory! Then, we turned to our neighbors and reminded them, You Ain’t Seen Nothing Yet!

Many came forward seeking salvation, a church home, prayer and a deeper commitment to ministry.

Rev. Dr. Lance D. Watson got a chance to meet fellow Reid Temple members and guests as he signed copies of his book “Maximize Your Edge” in our book store.

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“Breakfast of Champions!”

The Rev. Dr. Rita Twiggs blessed our socks off at the 7:30 service for Women’s Day 2005! She noted that everyone present at the early service had purposed in their minds to press their way to praise the King! She used as a title for her sermon “He’s got the right one baby – Uh, huh!” and her scripture text was old and new as found in Genesis 24:12-18, 26-29 (Isaac’s servant searching for Isaac’s wife who would be Rebekah) and John 4:1-7, 28-30, 34-36 (Jesus and the Woman at the Well). Rev. Twiggs repeatedly encouraged and reminded us t hat it is about “Us”, “Him” and “Them” and the importance of “Us” understanding “Him” to go after “Them”. She noted that the job of soul winning, sowing and reaping for the Kingdom is not about singing in the choir or being a Trustee, or any of the other various ministries we have here at Reid Temple, but rather, it is truly about doing the business of the family – gathering the by-products of Jesus’ production. In the Old Testament scripture, the search was on for a woman that God could use and it had nothing to do with fingertips, lips or hips! Rebekah was a working woman, a virtuous woman with something to offer. Rev. Twiggs noted that Rebekah was in a

By Tish Thomas Dickens Photography by Cleveland Bryant

submitted mode, not subservient, and she highlighted the importance of women willing to stand under a covering, waiting to assist. The revelation came when Rebekah not only offered water to “Him” but also to his camels, or “them,” and then it was clear that she was “The Right One, Baby!” If it’s truly about “them” then we will tell people about Jesus; we will go forth bearing His precious seed. We will choose to be a blessing to someone else, not just looking to be blessed ourselves. Rev. Twiggs masterfully related the Old Testament to the New Testament by stating that Jesus came down through 42 generations to complete the work begun in the Old Testament – the fulfillment of the Law. In essence, when Jesus met the woman at the well He had been sitting there waiting for her for a long time, just as He’s been waiting for many of us for a long time. But, Rev. Twiggs reminded us that just as Jesus was willing to wait for that woman at the well, He is equally willing to wait for us to give our hearts and souls to Him.

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SPEED THE HARVEST UP: SOW, REAP & REJOICE By Renee Anne Edwards

With regard to reaping the harvest, Rev. Twiggs said if we could see it, perceive it, conceive it, and believe it, then we could receive it. In the process of reaping, we receive seeds that need to die and be sown again into the ground before the real harvest is birthed. In the meantime, she instructed us to shut the door, don’t listen to what we hear and use the power of agreement. Get down on your knees, stretch out and worship. Bow down and lie prostrate at God’s feet and pray. Have faith and trust in God when you pray. Do something that you have never done before when you want God to answer you now. Call those things that are not yet as though they were already here. Rev. Twiggs said that new birth and new beginnings follow new praise, she identified four types of praise u “Because of” Praise – because God watched over me, because God kept me, because God protected me from my enemy u “In spite of” Praise – in spite of what I’m going through, God is still worthy; in spite of what I feel, God is still a healer; in spite of what I know, God is still my best friend u Radical Praise – praise in the midst of the storm, praise God for the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen u The Best Is Yet To Come Praise – God blesses me so that I can bless others. God wants me to be content with more than enough, not satisfied with just enough. I’m already blessed, but I praise God for my blessings now and I’m getting ready to reap a mighty harvest now and more harvest later. God, I see it coming and I’m willing to praise you now like I want it now. The congregation clearly enjoyed the powerful service. Michelle Davis exclaimed that the overall service was “enlightening, power-packed, and praiseworthy!” Lisa Purvis, president of the Singles Ministry, declared, “Rev. Rita Twiggs was phenomenal. She inspired me to continue striving to walk by faith and not by sight. Her towel analogy was very apropos for Women’s Day. Reid Temple was truly blessed to have such an anointed, gifted preacher and teacher who inspired us to continue to press on seeking God’s face.

On June 26, 2005 at the 10:30 a.m. service, the tone of worship was immediately established with the Declaration “Praise Him.” The Invocation Prayer that followed was powerful and prophetic. Evangelist Myrna Summers and the Women’s Day Choir illuminated the loft with their white and off-white ensembles while singing “Praise You” and “Mountain, Get Out of My Way”. The Reflections of God liturgical dancers also ministered to us accompanied by Martha Munizzi’s “Glorious”. This was just the beginning of the powerful 2005 Women’s Day service where the theme was “Women of the Harvest: Sowing, Reaping & Rejoicing”, from Psalm 126: 5-6. Sis. Wanda Scott introduced our guest preacher, the anointed Rev. Rita Twiggs from the Potter’s House in Dallas, Texas, who delivered the Word of God in a sermon titled “Preparation for Reaping: Speed it [The Harvest] Up. The text and parenthetical references came from the 4th chapter of 2 Kings verses 8–17 (The Shunammite’s Son Restored to Life) and 1-7 (The Widow’s Oil); Psalm 71:10-14 (Have Hope & Praise God More In Troubled Times); and Matthew 15:21-28 (The Canaanite Woman’s Faith). In each of these references, there was a great need or a lack of resources, but God sent a word through a prophet to extend favor or grace. Rev. Twiggs stated that pigs wallow in the mud and complain with their “Oink, oink”; however, sheep don’t want to stay in their mess so they continually call on God with their “Baa, baa” to get them out of their situation. The lesson I learned was that all of the people involved used what they already had to get what they needed from God. In preparation for reaping, Rev. Twiggs emphasized that we must have traits of a great “towel” servant: u Be bendable (flexible, do whatever God asks us to do) u Be dependable (faithful, stay where God plants us instead of church hopping) u Be sendable (disciple, go anywhere God sends us because God will go with us) u Be mendable (restorable, move past offenses quickly) u Be expendable (stretchable, reach out and bounce back when God needs us and make room for the holy servant of God).

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nswering the Call to be Workers for Christ “Remember those who are in prisons, as though you were in prisons with them” Hebrews 13:3 By Chandra Johnson and Hilda Hudson Photography by Leonard Brown

are changed and souls are converted. We would like to see more people participate in this essential area of ministry so that the love of Jesus Christ can be reflected within the prison walls. Dr. Felder challenged the Black church to secure grant monies to support prison ministry aftercare programs for ex-offenders. Dr. Felder is the author of Troubling Biblical Waters: Race, Class and Family, editor of Stony the Road We Trod: African American Biblical Interpretation; and general editor of The Original African Heritage Study Bible. The Prison Ministry is under the leadership of Rev. Joyce Pugh. If you are called to be apart of this evangelism and outreach ministry, please sign up at the welcome desk.

The Prison Ministry held its 5th Annual Prayer Breakfast on Saturday May 21, 2005. The theme was “Answering the Call to be Workers for Christ,” and the theme scripture was Ephesians 2:10. Reid Temple was honored to have guest speaker Rev. Dr. Cain Hope Felder, Professor of New Testament languages and literature from Howard University School of Divinity. Dr. Felder emphasized the need for the Christian community to become redemptive suffering servants on the forefront of ministry to those who are incarcerated. He reminded us that there are a disproportionate number of African American males in prison in comparison to nonminorities. A renowned scholar on the African presence in the Bible, Dr. Felder’s writings are widely used in prison ministry. The vast majority of African Americans that are incarcerated often embrace other forms of religion, and dismiss Christianity as being “the white man’s religion,” in part because they have never identified themselves in the Bible. However, when inmates are taught that they are a “royal priesthood and a holy, nation,” created by God in the image of Jesus Christ, lives

Additional Information: The Prison Ministry regularly ministers to the incarcerated in the Upper Marlboro Correctional Facility, Oak Hill Youth Detention Center and Patuxent Institution. 14

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n a Mission: In the Service of the Lord By Lillian Rollins

I give honor to God and am very grateful for my Pastor, Rev. Dr. Lee P. Washington and the Reid Temple family. It is truly a blessing to receive the rich spiritual food that Rev. Washington pours out each week. I thank God for this anointed Shepherd and all the ministerial staff. I thank God for all the ministries birthed in Reid Temple. I have been a member of Reid Temple for more than 10 years and have been blessed by the word of God and the many ministries at Reid. On Saturday, March 11, 2005, I had the opportunity to join the Queen Jefferson Missionary Society, under the leadership of Dorcas Hart. This is a ministry that I have been compelled to be a part of for many years and I felt that it was only right for me to be a member of the missionary society at Reid Temple. My first meeting with the missionary society was truly a blessing. I was welcomed by all in attendance. I was put to work as soon as I walked in the door. Sister Lillian Hill handed me a hymnal and asked me to lead the song for devotion. At this meeting Sister Hill requested that this article be written. I thank God for Sister Hill and her continued encouragement to me now and over the years as a member of Reid Temple. I have been involved in missions and outreach ministry since 1976. My first missions trip was to Monrovia, Liberia. My first exposure to street ministry took place in 1986 when I was attending New Life Assembly of God in Capital Heights, Maryland under the leadership of Revs. Mike and Kay Zello. These were rich spiritual experiences and training which birthed my purpose and plan in God’s kingdom building. Outreach ministry, whether it’s on the streets, in jails, prisons, correctional centers, special outreaches, hospitals, nursing homes, etc. are truly avenues to reach the unsaved, hurting, broken hearted, and many times just to lift people’s spirits. On many missions trips we have worked hand and hand with the Teen Challenge Ministry. I have truly been blessed to be a part of a missions team, Gerald Mayhan Ministries, which

travels annually across the country and overseas. The ministry team is made up of individuals from different churches, denominations, ages, and races. Gerald Mayhan Ministries has sponsored mission trips to Ghana, West Africa, Jamaica, St. Lucia, Belize, Dominica, West Indies, and New Mexico, where thousands of lives have been transformed. They have also led local Convoy of Hope outreaches in Alexandria, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. In the D.C. outreach, over 6,500 people were fed and 1,200 received salvation. Gerald Mayhan started out as a Teen Challenge graduate and now is a minister of the Gospel. It has been my desire to share the life changing Gospel with those in need. I take the Great Commission seriously – “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost (Matthew 28:19).” I’m excited about the opportunity and the experiences that lie ahead. There is no greater reward than to know that you are helping to change lives forever. In August 2005, I will have the opportunity to take part in a missions trip to Belize, Central America with the missions team. During this trip we will be sharing the gospel through various forms of ministry – street meetings, preaching and teaching in churches, prison ministry, hospital visitations, Bible and tract distribution, and working with children.

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oung People’s and Children’s Division

By Shirley Watson

Young People’s and Children’s Division of the Women’s Missionary Society of the African Methodist Episcopal Church

Sunbeams (ages 2-6) Young People’s Auxiliary (ages 13-17)

Allen Stars (ages 7-12) Young Adult Auxiliary (ages 18-26)

The YPD, Mentors, Advisors and Director are compelled by the teaching of the Word of God to go outside the box. We evangelize to the homeless along the “K” Street corridor in Washington, D.C. every first Saturday of the month. The Missionary Society along with members of the YPD, help to prepare meals for the homeless. We minister and feed an average of 110 persons each first Saturday. Many people have accepted Jesus as their personal Savior. We also fellowship with the residents at the Independence Court Assisted Living Home in Hyattsville, Maryland on the third Sunday of each month.

Outreach Testimonials: Enola Amore’ Fisher, Sunbeams - “I love to read,

pray and sing. I enjoy helping to give out the food and water to the homeless. I enjoy singing, praying and reading to the seniors at the Nursing Home. It makes me feel good.”

for the people we are ministering to. What used to be done simply out of a sense of obligation to the YPD and not God, has progressed into ministry and anticipation of how the Lord will show up and use us for His glory.”

Dante Woody, Sunbeams - “I told my mommy and

Marcia Woody, Young Adult Auxiliary - “It’s like

grandmother that I want to help. I help shop for the homeless. I love going to the Nursing Home.”

Aaron Kitt, Allen Stars - “I enjoy going to the K

Street corridor to witness, feed and give clothes to the homeless. I thank God for my gift of playing the piano and organ. I use my gift at Independence Court by playing Hymns, praying and witnessing to the residents.”

Christina Mickens, Young People’s Auxiliary - “When I do an Outreach, it’s done with great joy and love

going to visit your grandparents and wishing you could do more. We fellowship, show them love and respect, and give them hugs. My son Dante gets excited when he knows we are going to the Nursing Home. He proudly tells his grandparents in North Carolina that he went to the Nursing Home or to feed the homeless.”

Guyanna Fisher, Mentor - “It has given me the

opportunity to see how blessed I am. Everything isn’t always the way it seems, just because you are saved, you never know who you will encounter

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“For I was an hungered, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: Naked and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.” Matthew 25:35-36 (KJV)

in the street. Because people are homeless, doesn’t mean they aren’t saved. God is present in all situations and everyone is worthy of His love, peace and prosperity.”

that you are training the children at a young age so when they are old they will not depart from it. Please bring more men to worship with us!”

Robyn Williams, Mentor - “Going out feeding and

while they were witnessing. I also thanked God for sending the young people of Reid Temple to witness and care for our needs.”

witnessing to the homeless every first Saturday gives me such joy — it’s truly an honor. I have come to realize that a simple word, smile or hug can go a long way. I have even had the opportunity of befriending one of the men to whom we witnessed. Besides, I feel like this is the least I can do for my Heavenly Father considering ALL that He has done for me! It was when I began witnessing that I knew God had answered yet another prayer. I asked Him to use me to do His will and to speak to others through me.”

Homeless Person - “I saw a light around the youth

Special Thanks: Daughters of Faith, Masters Touch

and the Prince George’s County Chapel Oaks, Engine 38 Company and Ambulance Black Volunteer Fire Department, for all their assistance in helping with our outreach to the homeless. We will continue to “Grow, Glow and Go for Christ.”

Seniors at Independence Court - “We are thankful 17

By Nekeya O’Connor

It is no secret that the worship of Reid Temple has increased and reached a new level within the last three years alone. Now that Reid Temple has moved into the new edifice, more persons are coming to Christ, and God’s presence has never been felt the way that it is now. The worship experience allows the Christian, the sinner, the human, to feel their burdens being lifted. This is the vision of Evangelist Myrna Summers—to bring the worship experience at Reid Temple to a new level that is so high that you will literally feel as if you are in heavenly places rejoicing with the angels. Many don’t know the personal history of Evangelist Myrna Summers—her music, worship, and her professional singing career, which led to her becoming the Minister of Music at Reid Temple. In fact, Evangelist Summers first served as a Choir Director at Refreshing Spring Church of God in Christ in Riverdale, MD. Growing up in a Pentecostal church, Evangelist Summers quickly learned that God had given her a gift and a talent that He would allow her to use so that He would get the glory. Myrna Summers’ music is rooted and grounded in the Word. Her soul

I HEAR THE MUSIC IN THE AIR!

● Song and Album of the Year awards from the Gospel Music Workshop of America ● Mahalia Jackson Award ● A Grammy nomination for “Give Me Something To Hold On To” (1979) ● Album titled “We’re Going To Make It” (1988) became one of her best selling albums ● Stellar Award for Best Traditional Gospel Artist (Female). Evangelist Summers was gracious enough to grant this interview with Joshua’s Journal. Read on for more insight into the road she traveled that ultimately led her to us, here at Reid Temple.

Evangelist Myrna Summers Minister of Music Reid Temple AME Church stirring alto voice distinctly sets her apart from others. She has a message for the people of God. Her gifts and talent have brought her much acclaim. Her musical accomplishments include:

● A Grammy nomination for “God Gave Me A Song” (1970) 18

How did you first get started in the music industry, and then in particular gospel music? I was invited to appear at a place called Rockland Palace in New York in the winter of 1970. I was completely unaware that the talent scouts from Atlantic Records were there. Unable to reach me at the time, they talked with my organist and he gave them my number. They contacted me the following week, flew my mom and I to New York, and I sold the master copy of “God Gave Me A Song,” which I had introduced earlier that year

viewing the videos of Rev. Washington preaching, I just knew that Reid was my next assignment. About two weeks later, Rev. Washington called, met with me and in May 2001 I came to Reid. I love my Pastor, Sis. Ann and the Reid Temple family. Surprisingly, it’s like being home.

in Detroit, Michigan at the Gospel Music Workshop of America under the leadership of the late Rev. James Cleveland. What are some of the challenges that you faced while you were in the music recording industry? Approximately two years later, I was released by Atlantic because “God Gave Me A Song” could not reach the status that “O Happy Day” had reached, although, “O Happy Day” had crossed over into the secular arena and was making gospel music history. However, Atlantic Records did make me an offer that I could not refuse. They offered me a deal to sing secular music. What was your reason then for returning to gospel music if you found that you were able to make more money singing secular music and still do what you love most, which is singing? Well, I was immediately flown to Philadelphia where I worked with writers of the Gamble/Huff Production Staff. To make a long story short, one night while sitting behind the console during an “O’Jays” recording session, a young man who was a fill-in for Eddie Levert recognized me and the Lord used him to chastise me for even being there. I didn’t even know his name but I’m so grateful that he knew me and that he allowed God to use him to wake me up. Within 3 weeks I was out of that commitment. To God Be the Glory!

As the Minister of Music, what are some of the goals that you see for Reid Temple, in regards to the music ministry? First and foremost, not just to make a CD, but to develop a church-owned label. Second, to establish an institute of musical arts instruction and finally, to develop an orchestra.

What do you think is the driving force behind most of the music that is made today, whether it is secular, contemporary gospel, etc? Money! Every artist desires a “Hit.” Every label is demanding a seller. So how did you make the decision to come to Reid Temple? Aah. It was a set-up. A divine plan originated from God of course. After the untimely death of my friend and accompanist, Patrick Roche, returning from his home going service in Pittsburgh, riding on the bus with Reid Temple Choir (Combined Voices) and

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The worship level at Reid Temple has definitely increased in that more and more persons are beginning to become more open to the fact that you are free to worship at Reid and not be ashamed about it. Where do you see the worship of Reid Temple in the next five years? Well, God’s timing is everything. As we continue to yield to the spirit of God we will go from glory to glory. This is my prayer. This is my desire, “Until He Returns.” Reflecting on this interview with Evangelist Summers, I can truly say that it was a blessing learning from her perspective the challenges of the music industry, and how God is able to get the glory out of every situation. Photography by Clifton Hoffler and Danita Delaney

The Reid Temple Orchestra: The Music Continues

Photography by Clifton Hoffler and Danita Delaney

It was a personal vision of Evangelist Myrna Summers that an orchestra would be established within the Music Ministry. The plans came together in the Fall of 2004. The purpose and mission of the orchestra is to allow others to express their gifts and talents through instrumental worship. Alan Young was named the Conductor for the orchestra. Evangelist Summers states, “I attended one of his previous performances and was overwhelmed by his wonderful talent. I later asked, “Would you consider leading the orchestra at Reid Temple?” I was glad his response was “Yes.” Reid Temple is looking forward to expanding the orchestra. Musical genres will include Hymns, Spirituals, Gospel, and Christian/Inspirational Music. If you are interested in becoming active in this ministry contact David Thompson (Coordinator) at (301) 785-7670 for more information and requirements for participation.

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Let’s Promote Wellness: “P” is for Prevention By Rev. Dr. Glenda Hodges

It has been said that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Stated alternatively, one yearly, scheduled appointment with our health care professional is worth more than several subsequent, mandatory sessions to fix a problem that could have been easily detected during a regular office visit. The American Cancer Society’s Guidelines on Nutrition and Physical Activity for Cancer Prevention have suggested that eating a healthy diet and being physically active may help us lower our chances of diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, heart disease and some types of cancer. The National Cancer Institute recommends eating 5 to 9 servings of fruits and vegetables each day. Additionally, it is recommended that we devote at least 30 minutes to some type of cardiovascular activity, 3 to 4 times each week. This could include paced walking, jogging, swimming or any other aerobic activity that one finds enjoyable. These are important

steps to take on the road to good health, they guard against obesity and they characterize the American Cancer Society’s plan for “Living Smart.”

What is Obesity?

Much of what we suffer from is precipitated by what we consume. As such, preventive medicine continues to echo one raging challenge to prevention – the battle against obesity. Typically, one is considered “obese” or suffering from “obesity” when there is an excess accumulation of fat in the body. In normal adults, fat constitutes 15 to 22% of the body in men and 18 to 32% in women. As such, where the fat content is greater than 22% in males and 32% in females, there is a condition of obesity. There are a number of methods for determining total body fat, but the most practical approach is the body mass index (BMI). These calculations are easily done in the physician’s office and are good indications for establishing baselines for ideal body weight. A sedentary lifestyle and poor

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dietary habits have made a number of African Americans particularly vulnerable to weight gain. We use food as a comfort in times of crisis, a panacea when we are “going through” and a source of celebration during our high times. Until recently, the result of mismanaged consumption was viewed as a rather benign condition not necessarily requiring treatment. As health professionals have become more aware of the health risks associated with obesity, its prevalence has increased remarkably. In the United States, the costs of situations associated with obesity have been estimated to be 68.8 billion dollars. While biological determinations may account for 25% to 40% of the situations of obesity, more than 50% of all cases are directly associated with lifestyle, dietary habits and the way we view food. Persuading persons to eat healthier to prevent obesity is more than a notion! More often we opt for seemingly quick fixes to the problem – such as crash dieting, surgical interventions, and brief,

aggressive exercise regimens. The better recommendation is to become empowered to the extent that we are able to follow appropriate nutritional guidelines and ultimately conquer obesity.

Health Disparities

Many obesity related diseases, including diabetes, hypertension, cancer and heart disease are found in higher rates among African Americans as compared to Whites. The research indicates that diabetes has been reported to occur at a rate of 16 to 26% in Hispanic and African Americans, aged 45 to 74, as compared with 12% in Whites of the same age. Among African Americans, the high prevalence of obesity and obesity-related diseases such as hypertension and type 2 diabetes, are factors that are reported to contribute to the increased death rate from coronary heart disease. The high prevalence of obesity is also reported to be a contributing factor to the occurrence of

hypertension in minority populations, especially among African Americans. The economic indications also suggest that obesity is more prevalent among African Americans than Whites. According to a study done by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, one in four adults below the poverty level are obese as compared with 1 in 6 households with an income of $67,000 or more. Formerly, this assumption was substantiated in part because poor people were making bad food and lifestyle choices, i.e., doughnuts instead of whole wheat bread. Recently, this conclusion has been tempered as we factor education and income levels. Cheap foods tend to be based with sugar, fat and refined grains, i.e., cookies and chocolate bars. In general, processed foods have become a larger portion of all American diets. A pound of lean steak costs much more than a pound of hot dogs. Processed foods are cheap, tasty, filling and

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easily accessible. Depending on our income levels, cheap processed foods may be staples and not merely poor selections. Because of the scarcity of grocery stores in some African American neighborhoods, many of our brothers and sisters purchase much of their daily groceries from convenience stores.

We Shall Overcome

The best way to significantly affect the prevalence of obesity is to prevent it. Generally, there are two simple approaches that may be utilized in order to ensure that we win our battle against obesity. The first approach is dietary management. Food is fuel; make it work for you. Eating the right foods can make all the difference in practicing prevention and promoting wellness. What you put in your body can help you go the extra mile and present your best you! It’s time to stop making bad food choices and begin to take steps toward living healthier lives.

“The truth of the matter is there is no secret for preventing disease and promoting wellness. It is as simple as balancing the calories we eat with the calories we burn...” Rather than counting calories and wasting time with yo-yo diets, let’s begin to look for foods that are minimally processed, offer good dietary fiber (read the labels for fiber content) and have 15 grams of sugar per 100 calories (to limit sugar). A good selection of fiber rich foods include cereals (oatmeal, bran flakes); breads (whole-wheat, rye); beans (kidney, garbanzo, navy, black); and fruits (apples, oranges, dried figs, dried apricots). Always remember that caffeine-free beverages and waterrich foods maximize fluid intake and help to fight fatigue. We are what we eat – remember the five food groups: bread, vegetable, fruit, milk and meat. The second approach is to include sufficient exercise in our daily regimen. This helps to maintain weight loss and redistribute body fat into muscle. Remember to start small with any exercise program and gradually increase to avoid possible loss of interest and discouragement. Create the exercise commitment

and include it as a part of your regular routine. The American Aerobics Association has indicated that exercise improves your mental health and outlook, increases everyday energy levels, improves sound sleep and enhances self-esteem. Consider the following exercise tips if you are pressed for time: get off public transportation a few stops early and walk the rest of the way to your destination, use the stairs instead of the elevator, join a nearby health club and exercise during your lunch hour, take advantage of a speaker phone and get up and move around during calls, sign up for a community sports team and finally, loose the remote! Our bodies are our holy temples unto the Lord. Let’s work to make sure that they are fitly framed together and pleasing unto Him. God cares about every aspect of our lives. His desire for

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us is that we prosper and be in health, even as our souls prosper. Unfortunately, many of us are contracting diseases that could be prevented by merely making a few changes in our daily lives. The truth of the matter is there is no secret for preventing disease and promoting wellness. It is as simple as balancing the calories we eat with the calories we burn and as practical as following our physician’s advice such that we may add quality to the days that God allows.

?

Living Smart Quiz Are you living smart

Yes No

Check Yes or No next to each question, then check below to see how you rated. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12.

I eat at least five servings of vegetables and fruits every day. I eat a least six servings of bread, rice, pasta and cereal every day. I drink reduced-fat or fat-free milk and yogurt, and seldom eat high fat cheeses. I rarely eat high-fat meat like bacon, hot dogs, sausage, steak or ground beef. I take it easy on high-fat baked goods, such as pies, cakes, cookies, sweet rolls and doughnuts. I rarely add butter, margarine, oil, sour cream, or mayonnaise to foods when I’m cooking or at the table. I rarely (less than twice a week) eat fried foods. I try to maintain a healthy weight. I am physically active for at least 30 minutes on most days of the week. I usually take the stairs instead of waiting for an elevator. I try to spend most of my free time being active, instead of watching television or sitting at the computer. I never drink alcohol.

How do you rate? 0-4 Yes answers

Diet Alert! Your diet is probably too high in fat and too low in plant foods like vegetables, fruits and grains. You may want to take a look at your eating habits and find ways to make some changes.

4-8 Yes answers

Not Bad! You’re halfway there! You still have a way to go. Look at your No answers to help you decide which areas of your diet needs to be improved or whether your physical activity level should be increased.

9-12 Yes answers

Good for you! You’re living smart! Keep up the good habits and keep looking for ways to improve.

References:

American Cancer Society, Guide to Eating Healthy and Being Active: Living Smart. 1999, American Cancer Society, Inc. www.cancer.org Kaul, Lalita, Nidiry, Joseph and Williams, Henry, Jr. Multidisciplinary Approach to the Management of Obesity: Handbook for Physicians and Health Care Professionals. Medical and Engineering Publishers, Inc., 2005. http://www.mepublishers.com

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Homeownership: Taking the 1st Step By Shawn Jones

C

ongratulations on deciding to purchase your first home. Although home ownership brings a sense of pride, it can also be a hair-raising experience. Surely, you probably have good reasons in mind. Perhaps you are ready to settle down in your community. Maybe you need more space for your family. Or, maybe you want more freedom than you currently have as a renter. From securing a mortgage loan and, finding the “right” property and getting to the settlement table can create a roller coaster of emotions. For most of us, purchasing a home is the largest financial investment we will ever make. Often the emotions of homeownership can cloud our business judgment. Doesn’t it make sense to become as completely informed as possible before you buy a home? The right real estate professional can help you make good sound business decisions based on your personal circumstances.

Home Buying Tips 1. Don’t wait to get a loan. Talk to a lender and get pre-qualified for a mortgage before you start looking. It is very important to know what you can afford. 2. Get your finances in order. Review your credit report and be sure you have enough money to cover your down payment and closing costs. 3. Be picky, but not unrealistic. There is no perfect home. 4. Do your homework before you start looking. Decide specifically what features you want in a home and which are most important to you. 5. Get help. Hire a Realtor® as a buyer’s representative. A buyer’s representative is working only for you. 6. Don’t ask too many people for opinions. It will drive you crazy. Select one or two people to turn to if you feel you need a second opinion. 7. Decide when you could move. When is your lease up? 8. Think long-term. Are you looking for a starter house with the idea of moving up in a few years or do you hope to stay in this home longer? This decision may dictate what type of home you’ll buy as well as the type of mortgage terms that suit you best. 9. Don’t let yourself be “house poor”. If you max yourself out to buy the biggest home you can afford, you will not have any money left for maintenance or decoration or to save money for other financial goals. 10. Don’t be naïve. Insist on a home inspection and, if possible, get a warranty from the seller to cover defects within one year.

REALTOR® Magazine Online (Source)

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Protect Yourself from Identity Theft By Sandra L. Thompson

These days, your personal and financial information can be as good as cash to a fraud artist. Here are some things that you can do to keep your identity to yourself. Protect your Social Security number, credit card and debit card numbers, PINs, passwords and other personal information. Never provide this information in response to an unsolicited phone call, fax, letter or e-mail—no matter how friendly or official the circumstances may appear. In case your wallet gets lost or stolen, only carry the identification, checks, credit cards or debit cards you really need. The rest, including your Social Security card, are best kept in a safe place.

1.

Protect your mail. Chances are that your mail carrier will deliver a credit card or bank statement, an envelope containing a check, or other items that can be very valuable to a thief. For incoming mail, use a locked mailbox or other secure location, such as a P.O. box. If your mailbox isn’t locked or in a secure location, try to promptly remove mail that’s been delivered or move the mailbox to a safer place. For outgoing mail, deposit it in a U.S. Postal Service blue collection box, hand it to a mail carrier or take it to the post office.

2.

Carefully dispose of your trash. Thieves known as “dumpster divers” pick through garbage looking for pieces of paper containing Social Security numbers, bank account information and other details they can use to commit fraud. Your best protection against dumpster divers is to shred these items before throwing them out.

3.

Keep a close watch on your bank account statements and credit card bills. Monitor these statements each month and contact your financial institution immediately if there’s a discrepancy in your records or if you notice something suspicious. Contact your institution if a bank statement or credit card bill doesn’t arrive on time.

4.

Avoid ID theft on the Internet. You can do a lot to protect yourself while shopping, banking, e-mailing or surfing on the Web. For example, never provide bank account or other personal information in response to an unsolicited e-mail or when visiting a Web site that doesn’t explain how your personal information would be protected.

5.

Periodically review your credit report. The Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act (FACTA) allows you to get one free credit report each year from each of the three nationwide credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian and TransUnion—with just a single phone call, letter or e-mail. Review your credit report for warning signs of actual or potential ID theft, including mention of a credit card, loan or lease you never signed up for, and requests for a copy of your credit record from someone you don’t recognize.

6.

Your personal and financial information can be as good as cash to a criminal. So, take ID theft seriously. Start by following our simple suggestions for keeping your sensitive information under wraps. It’s a lot easier to rethink your habits and behaviors now than to repair the damage after identity theft occurs. 26

On the Court with Freddie Stanback III Freddie Stanback, III is a member of Reid Temple AME Church. He is the son of Fred and Connie Stanback and the grandson of Oreese Stanback who are also members of Reid Temple. Freddie graduated from Bishop O’Connell High School in Arlington, VA last year with a 3.3 GPA and received several athletic scholarship offers from Division I schools to play basketball. He accepted a full Athletic Scholarship to Loyola College in Baltimore, Maryland. Freddie excels in the sport of basketball and was recruited by the new Head Coach at Loyola, Jimmy Patsos who is the former assistant coach to Gary Williams, head coach at the University of Maryland, College Park. Freddie was named to the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference All-Rookie Team, the league office announced on March 3, 2005. Stanback, 6’5” power forward from Lanham, Maryland, joins C.J. Anderson (Manhattan), Ryan Stilphen (Marist), Jason Thompson (Rider) and Jack McClinton (Siena) on this year’s All-Rookie Squad. He was runner up behind C.J. Anderson who won Rookie of the Year. “Freddie was the cornerstone of our recruiting class a year ago,” says Loyola Head Coach Jimmy Patsos “He hung in there all year and did a very good job playing a lot of minutes as a freshman.” Stanback netted double digits in 12 games during his rookie campaign. He was named the MAAC Rookie of the Week once this year when he scored 19 points in non-conference play against Pittsburgh. He finished the regular season with team-high 139 rebounds,

with 36 assists and 18 steals and is the team’s second leading scorer. He also averaged 9.6 points per game and connected on a team-best 35 three-point field goals. Freddie scored 19 points against both Navy and Marist and pulled down a season-best 10 rebounds at Manhattan. Before Loyola, Freddie won three varsity letters and two state championships at Bishop O’ Connell ... was team captain both junior and senior seasons ... led team to WCAC title with season averages of 18 points, eight rebounds and four assists senior year ... named first-team all-state as a sophomore, junior and senior ...named Virginia Player of the Year senior year ... was also on the All-Met Team senior season ... named team Most Valuable Player senior year by his coaches ... also made Top-150 list for the McDonald’s All-America game…. selected to play in the Jordan Brand game but decided because of the experience he would gain, chose to accept the offer to play on the USA 18 and Under Junior Olympic Team in the Albert Schweitzer Tournament held in Manheim, Germany where he was selected as the Best Defensive Player for the USA Team. The first organized basketball team Freddie played on was the Reid Temple Basketball Team in the summer of 1992 at the age of 6. 27

For God says, “At just the right time, I heard you. On the day of salvation, I helped you.” Indeed God is ready to help you right now. Today is the day of salvation. 2 Corinthians 6:2 (NLT)

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