Word
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the
government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall
be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The
everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6 (KJV)
d e c e m b e r 2014
the Avenue
Greetings, Beloved Church Family!
It’s time to conclude yet another phenomenal year at Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church! To be sure, we each have had our share of peaks and
valleys, but through it all, we have made it to the last month of 2014--to God be the glory! Some would think it’s time to slow the busy pace
of the work of our church and simply enjoy the ensuing holiday season. Well, that is partially true. But in the midst of bombarding the malls
and hanging the mistletoe, we also invite you to share with us in the celebration of the Groundbreaking for Phase One of our building project
that will provide adequate parking and more worship space for the continually growing church family with which we have been blessed.
At 4:00 p.m. on December 14th, we will gather in the Sanctuary for a brief time of ceremonial and commemorative proclamation, then we
will move to the plot of ground on which the new sanctuary will be built and we will consecrate that ground in prayer as we ceremonially break
the ground to formally begin the process of building a new edifice for the glory of God. Please make plans to attend. It will be yet another
historic marker in the life of our church.
Along those lines, let me once again thank those of you who have committed your financial resources to this capital campaign experience.
Your generosity continually amazes me. Although our commitments are not yet equal to our requirement, we have great faith that the vision
will come to pass. It is our hope that the entirety of our congregation will join us in this effort. If you have not completed your Commitment
Card, please do so as soon as possible to help us reach (and even exceed) our goal!
Speaking of exceeding our goal, that’s exactly what we did last month as we brought nearly 16,000 canned goods to the church to help
supply our Third Ward Food Pantry. Additionally, we were blessed to feed more than 750 individuals who came onto our church campus on
Thanksgiving Eve. This pastor truly appreciates the level of commitment you continually show to God’s people. Whether it’s the celebration
of a pastoral anniversary in October (my perpetual gratitude still abounds), or serving homeless and hungry individuals in November, you have
proven to be a generous church! To God be the glory!
As we continue through this Advent Season, we expectantly await the celebration of the birth of our Christ. This Season of giving and
receiving reminds us that our God gave us the best gift ever when He gave His only begotten Son. Although that’s the focus of the Christmas
Season, we cannot end the story there, for that Son showed His great love for us when He gave His life at Calvary to save us from our sins.
We celebrate this Season with great joy! We glorify the God Who thought enough of us to redeem us while we were yet sinners. I pray that
you will have a most joyous Christmas Season, and that you will focus more on being a blessing than being blessed. For it is still more blessed
to give than to receive!
Still delighted by the Divine,
M.D. Cosby
p.s. Don’t forget our three New Year’s Eve services: December 31st at 12 noon, 7pm and 10:30pm. Let’s close the year giving glory to God!
2 Happenings on the Avenue
3 Christian Life Advancement
4 Adult Ministries
5 Young Adult and Youth Ministries
6 Children’s Ministries
7 Churchwide Events
W h e e l e r Av e n u e B a p t i s t C h u r c h
8 Prayer Guide
12 Church and Staff Resources
Where we worship Jesus Christ and minister to the total person
h a p p e n i n g s o n t h e a v e n u e — DE C EM B ER 2 0 1 4
s u n d ay, DE C e m b e r 7
7:15am, 9am, 11am, 1pm Worship Services
9am, 11am Sunday School
9am, 11am Financial Peace Class
11am DT – The Tabernacle
4pm New Life Service
m o n d ay, d e c e m b e r 8
10:30 AM Seasoned Saints Exercise
6:00 PM Ruth Circle Meeting
6:00 PM Women’s Guild Exec. Board Comm. Mtg.
6:30 PM Boy Scouts 50th Anniversary Meeting
6:30 PM Bells of Praise Rehearsal
6:30 PM Chorale Ministry Rehearsal
6:30 PM Praise Dance Rehearsal
6:30 PM Signing Choir Rehearsal
7:00 PM InHIMM Men’s Ministry Fellowship
7:30 PM Orchestra Rehearsal
t u e s d ay, d e c e m b e r 9
5:00 PM Girl Scout Meetings
6:00 PM Capital & Infrastructure Subcomm. Mtg.
6:00 PM T. Davis Senior Mission Circle
6:30 PM Boy Scout Court of Honor
6:30 PM CLASS New Teacher Cohort- Intro to Theology
6:30 PM DT - Masterlife I
6:30 PM Financial Peace Class
6:30 PM M2W Choir Rehearsal
7:00 PM Cherub Choir Rehearsal
7:00 PM POD Choir Rehearsal
7:00 PM Unity Choir Rehearsal
w e d n e s d ay, d e c e m b e r 10
10:30 AM Seasoned Saints Exercise
12:00 PM Noon Day Bible Study
1:30 PM Job Search Work Team
6:00 PM Wednesday Prayer Service
6:45 PM AWANA Bible Study
7:00 PM General Bible Study
7:00 PM Youth Bible Study
t h u r s d ay, d e c e m b e r 1 1
5:00 PM Band Rehearsal
5:30 PM Building Committee Monthly Meeting
6:30 PM Celestial Choir Rehearsal
6:30 PM CLASS Teachers In-Service Training
6:30 PM “The Brook” College Bible Study
6:30 PM Courtesy Corps Meeting
7:00 PM Chapel Parents & Youth Interest Meeting
7:30 PM Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal
f r i d ay, d e c e m b e r 1 2
9:30 AM Seasoned Saints Line Dancing
10:30 AM Seasoned Saints Exercise
6:00 PM Salsa Soiree
6:30 PM ONEderful Life Holiday Fellowship
s at u r d ay, d e c e m b e r 1 3
8:00 AM Cub Scouts Christmas Blast
8:00 AM Deacon Board Executive Committee
8:30 AM Transformation Meetings
9:00 AM Boy Scout Merit Badge Class
9:00 AM Tutoring Ministry
s at u r d ay, d e c e m b e r 13 (continued)
10:00 AMFresh Start Event and Training
10:00 AM5Cs - Honey Child Prenatal Program
11:00 AM Children’s Praise Dance Rehearsal
11:00 AM Mass Choir Rehearsal
12:00 PM Christ Victory Steppers Rehearsal
1:00 PM Wedding Council Ministry Meeting
s u n d ay, d e c e m b e r 14
7:15am, 9am, 11am, 1pm Worship Services
9am, 11am Sunday School
11:00am Involvement Sunday
m o n d ay, d e c e m b e r 15
10:30 AM Seasoned Saints Exercise
5:45 PM Women’s Guild Meeting
6:30 PM Chorale Ministry Rehearsal
6:30 PM Bells of Praise Rehearsal
6:30 PM Praise Dance Rehearsal
6:30 PM Women’s Ministry - The Waiting Room
7:30 PM Orchestra Rehearsal
t u e s d ay, d e c e m b e r 16
5:00 PM Cade Circle Meeting
5:00 PM Girl Scout Meetings
6:00 PM Capital & Infrastructure Subcomm. Mtg.
6:00 PM Deacons Meeting
6:00 PM Girl Scouts - Kwanzaa Celebration
6:30 PM Boy Scouts Board of Review
6:30 PM Celestial & M2W Choir Rehearsal
6:30 PM DT - Masterlife I
6:30 PM Financial Peace Class
7:00 PM Christmas Production Rehearsal
7:00 PM Youth Ministry Volunteers Meeting
w e d n e s d ay, d e c e m b e r 17
10:30 AM Seasoned Saints Exercise
1:30 PM Job Search Work Team
6:00 PM Wednesday Prayer Service
6:45 PM AWANA Bible Study
7:00 PM General Bible Study
7:00 PM Youth Bible Study
t h u r s d ay, d e c e m b e r 18
5:00 PM Band Rehearsal
6:00 PM Finance Committee Meeting
6:00 PM Sunday School Teachers Meetings
6:30 PM Celestial & M2W Choir Rehearsal
6:30 PM “The Brook” College Bible Study
6:30 PM Celebration of New Birth
7:00 PM Christmas Production Rehearsal
f r i d ay, d e c e m b e r 19
9:30 AM Seasoned Saints Line Dancing
10:30 AM Seasoned Saints Exercise
s at u r d ay, d e c e m b e r 20
10:00 AMChildren’s Praise Dance Rehearsal
11:00 AM Christmas Production Rehearsal
s u n d ay, d e c e m b e r 21
7:15am, 9am, 11am, 1pm Worship Services
9am, 11am Sunday School
2
m o n d ay, d e c e m b e r 2 2
Campus Closed – Christmas Holiday
t u e s d ay, d e c e m b e r 2 3
Campus Closed – Christmas Holiday
w e d n e s d ay, d e c e m b e r 24
Campus Closed – Christmas Eve
t h u r s d ay, d e c e m b e r 2 5
Campus Closed – Christmas Day
f r i d ay, d e c e m b e r 26
Campus Closed – Christmas Holiday
s at u r d ay, d e c e m b e r 2 7
Campus Closed – Christmas Holiday
s u n d ay, d e c e m b e r 28
7:15am, 9am, 11am, 1pm Worship Services
9am, 11am Sunday School
m o n d ay, d e c e m b e r 2 9
Campus Closed – Christmas Holiday
t u e s d ay, d e c e m b e r 3 0
Campus Closed – Christmas Holiday
w e d n e s d ay, d e c e m b e r 31
12 pm, 7pm, 10:30pm – New Year’s Eve Worship Services
Christian Life Advancement
S u n d a y Sc h o o l C L A SS L i s t i n g s & L o ca t i o n s
A d u lt 1/ C h o i r
9 :0 0 a . m . – 10 :15 a . m . l CLC - Ro o m 216
The Adult I/Choir class is a dedicated family of believers in Christ, whose members enjoy gathering together for spirited
teaching and discussion, as we study God’s Holy Word. We are a diverse group of men and women, singles, married
individuals and couples.
Fa i t h a n d W o r k s
9:0 0 a . m . – 10 :15 a . m . l CLC - Ro o m 210
Faith and Works strives to be a living example of James 2:17 from which the class derived its name. This is a diverse
group of believers in age and gender. The learning and applying of the lesson is through group discussion that aims to
get to the heart of the WORD of God by listening and learning from each other.
Men’s Cl ass
9:00 a . m . – 10 :15 a . m . l CLC - Ro o m 207
The Adult Men’s class consists of men who are at various levels of spiritual maturity. The men in this class treasure
the wisdom, application of scripture to their everyday lives and fellowship with other men of God. We know that iron
sharpens iron. We welcome and encourage questions and comments from all members of the class.
Spiritual Deliverance
9:0 0 a . m . – 10 :15 a . m . l C LC - Ro o m 217
The Spiritual Deliverance Class is a unique blend of men and women. The class embodies a range of Christian maturity,
from “emerging to mature” Christians. This class encourages interaction and involvement of the learners to foster
spiritual transformation and develop strong witnesses for Christ.
Women’s Cl ass
9:0 0 a . m . – 10 :15 a . m . l ChLC - Fello wsh ip Hall (L eft )
The Women’s class utilizes varying teaching techniques that include women sharing in lively discussions of scripture and
the assigned lessons. This class is comprised of a diverse group of married women, single women and single mothers.
Attendees of the Women’s class appreciate the friendship, fellowship, support and spiritual growth they receive as a
result of participating in this class.
a d u lt C l a s s
1 1 :0 0 a . m . -12:15 p. m . l CLC - Ro o m 215
This is a combined (co-ed) adult group that is intentionally intergenerational, ranging from young adult to adult. This
class focuses on the discovery, understanding, and application of the Word of God for the whole person.
Topical Adult Christian Life
Sunday School Classes
We are excited to have two new
Christian Life Sunday School Classes.
Living Your Faith
Using curriculum written and
developed by WABC, this class
deals with the nexus of your faith
and everyday life. It examines the
importance of incorporating our
belief and faith into all of our life
circumstances. This class lasts for 12
weeks. Join us at 11:00 a.m. in the
Community Life Center (Worship
Center) Room 216.
T O P I C A L A d u lt C la s s E S
Vision Seekers
9:0 0 a . m . – 10 :15 a . m . l CLC - Ro o m 218
Geared to young adults, ages 21-35, the mission is to seek and see the deeper depths of God by seeking first the
kingdom of God and all His righteousness, launching in the deep, increasing our individual study of God’s word and
seeking God’s promises.
L i v i n g Y o u r Fa i t h
11:0 0 a . m . – 12 :15 p. m . l C LC - Ro o m 216
Using curriculum developed by WABC, this class deals with the nexus of your faith and everyday life. It examines the
importance of incorporating our belief and faith into all of our life circumstances.
New Life as an Insider
11:0 0 a . m . – 12 :15 p. m . l C LC - Ro o m 216
This class is specifically designed for new believers in Christ. As a new believer you are no longer living in the world, but
are now an insider connected to the body of believers everywhere. What does this mean to how you now live your life?
This class will help you understand what you believe and how to articulate that belief.
M i d d le Sc h ool - Hi g h Sc h ool C la s s e s
God and Church
11:0 0 a . m . – 12 :15 p. m . l C LC - Ro o m 218
For Middle School - High School ages, this class is a collaboration with Boy Scouts, but all students are welcomed. This
class is taught 2nd through 4th Sundays in the summer and fall.
9: 00 a . m . - 10:15 a . m . l CLC - Room 209
9: 00 a . m . - 10:15 a . m . l CLC - Room 21 2
9: 00 a . m . - 10: 15 a . m . l CLC - Room 21 1
11: 00 a . m . - 12 :30 p. m . l CLC - Room 21 8
Interactive experiences where youth learn about Jesus and engage biblical truths that help them grow closer to Jesus
and to be equipped for facing everyday life. It’s a fun way to get to know Jesus and other youth, while we grow spiritually.
Grades 6-8
Grades 9-10
Grades 11-12
Grades 6-12
y o u n g C h il d r e n C la s s e s
9: 00 a . m . - 10: 15 a . m . l ChLC - Rooms 1 1 6-1 1 7
9:00 a . m . - 10: 15 a . m . l ChLC - Rooms 1 33-1 38
9 : 00 a . m . - 10: 15 a . m . l ChLC - Rooms 1 34 -1 35
9:00 a . m . - 10: 15 a . m . l ChLC - FH ( Ri ght )
9: 00 a . m . - 10: 15 a . m . l ChLC - Rooms 1 36 -1 37
Our focus is to teach children about God’s love and His amazing gift of salvation to prepare them to know Jesus and
accept Him as Lord and Savior. We use age-appropriate lessons, games, crafts, and other creative ways to teach the
Word of God. We help children build Bible skills that encourage them to memorize and apply God’s Word.
Pre-School
Prek - Kindergarten
1st and 2nd Grades
3rd and 4th Grades
5th Grade 3
New Life as an Insider
This class is specifically designed for
new believers in Christ. As a new
believer, you are no longer living in
the world, but are now an insider
connected to the body of believers
everywhere. What does this mean to
how you now live your life? This class
will help you understand what you
believe and how to articulate that
belief. This class lasts for 12 weeks.
Join us at 11:00 a.m. in the
Community Life Center
(Worship Center) Room 217.
Serving through ministries
adult ministries
Ministries of the Month
We’re taking the month of December to highlight our Congregational Care and Concern Ministries. Please stop by
their tables following worship for more information. If you’re interested in becoming involved in any of our Care and
Concern Ministries, go to the William A. Lawson Christian or Community Life Center immediately following worship
to sign-up or to receive more information. Congregational Care and Concern Ministries include:
• Barnabas Encouragers
• Congregational Care Ministry
• Congregational Development Ministry
• Counseling Ministry
• Prayer Ministry
• Family Connection Corps
others
serve
women’s guild
The Women’s Guild will meet Monday, December 15, at 5:45 p.m. in the William A. Lawson Christian Life Center
(Fellowship Hall-left). Come join us as we foster fellowship and plan projects to serve the community. Refreshments
will be served.
Seasoned Saints Ministry
Monthly Activities of the Seasoned Saints Ministry are as follows:
Mondays
Wednesdays
Fridays 10:30 a.m. - Aerobics
11:30 a.m. - Seasoned Table Talk
10:30 a.m. - Aerobics
12:00 p.m. - Bible Study
9:30 a.m. - Line Dancing
10:30 a.m. - Aerobics
11:30 a.m. - Bible Study
The Health and Wellness Ministry presents Bailando and Bootcamp!
Bailando and Bootcamp is coming back to The Avenue. Latin dance will be on the first three Tuesdays in December
(2nd, 9th and 16th) from 6:30 p.m. - 7:20 p.m. for beginners new to Latin dance. The second class is from 7:30 pm. 8:20 p.m. and requires a dance partner to learn combinations and a variety of Latin dance styles. Bootcamp will be on
the first three Thursdays in December (4th, 11th and 18th) at 6:30 p.m. and will get your body moving towards the end
of a great year! Contact Shaundra Barnett at [email protected] for more information.
ONEderful Life Singles (40+): “Steppin’ in the Holiday Spirit”
Join us on Friday, December 12 at 7:00 p.m. and enjoy live music, great food, mature games and free dance lessons.
Save the date and don’t miss this fabulous time of fellowship and fun in the Fellowship Hall.
4
Serving through ministries
young adults and youth ministries
College Tour
Calling all parents and high school students! After the success of last year’s HBCU Tour, we are already hard at work
and finalizing plans for our 2015 WABC College Tour! Our tour will be held March 15-18, 2015 and will include
stops at LSU, Southern University, Grambling State, Tugaloo College and more! The cost to register is $300.00 per
participant.
Praise Dancers
Rehearsals are Mondays, 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., in the William A. Lawson Community Life Center, Room 207. Please
contact Sis. Erica Henderson ([email protected]), if you are interested in ministering with the WABC Grace Praise
Dancers.
CHRIST VICTORY STEPPERS
Christ Victory Steppers practice on Saturdays from 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. in the William A. Lawson Community Life
Center, Worship Center. For more information, contact Loren Hickerson at [email protected] or 615-202-7077.
College Students… are you looking for a great way to destress after a long semester? Young Adults… are you ready
to add a little spice to the holiday season? Let’s celebrate the
Savior with a little salsa!!!
On Friday, December 12, college students and young adults
of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church will join forces for a
night of food, fun, games and dancing. The fun takes place
at 7 p.m. in the Community Life Center. Enjoy salsa dance
lessons for all, plus prizes and giveaways totaling hundreds of
dollars! The first 75 persons to arrive qualify for a Christmas
bonus! See you there!
holy land trip postponed
Due to the recent unrest in the area, the trip to the Holy Land has been postponed to 2016. We want to ensure the
safety of our congregants above all else. For those interested, the trip is now scheduled to take place March 13 - March
23, 2016. If you would like more information, contact Sis. Andrea Tucker at [email protected].
5
Serving through ministries
children’s ministries
cherub choir (Children, ages 2-10)
Rehearsal is held every Tuesday, excluding the Tuesday following the Third Sunday, at 7:00 pm in the choir room and
every Saturday immediately preceding the Third Sunday of the month at 10:00 a.m. in the Sanctuary.
children’s church
Children’s Church services are at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. in the Christian Life
Center. If you would like to volunteer, please contact Sis. Harlisha Homer at:
[email protected].
Children’s Church Drop-off
2 and 3 year olds: Christian Life Center, Room 117
4 and 5 year olds: Christian Life Center, Room 138
1st – 5th Grade: Fellowship Hall (Left)
ACOLYTES
If your child is interested in lighting the candles during any of the four worship services, please contact Sis. Harlisha
Homer at: [email protected].
KIDCHECK
KidCheck is available for Wheeler’s children. In order to use the check-in system, you must register your
child/children. Parents may do so by going to go.kidcheck.com or clicking on the KidCheck link on the
Wheeler Avenue website.
Wheeler Avenue Christian Academy (WACA)
December will be a busy month for WACA as we prepare for the celebration of the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. All
are invited to our Christmas program on Tuesday, December 16, 2014 at 10:00 AM. We are still enrolling students for
the second semester. Deaconess Ada Carr serves as Executive Director. If you would like to receive further information,
contact us at 713-579-2792.
the children’s ministRy needs your help!
Children’s Ministry needs teachers, assistant teachers, helpers, and parent volunteers! For
more information, and to begin your training, please contact Rev. Alexander E.M. Johnson
at 713-579-2703 or [email protected].
6
churchwide events
Hour of Power Prayer Service
Join us every Wednesday during the month of December at 6:00 p.m. in the sanctuary as we offer prayers of praise and
petition to our God.
The WABC Business Directory is Here!
We want to be those who support our own, so make your way to the Chronicles Bookstore in the William Alexander
Lawson Christian Life Center to get your free copy of our latest Business Directory. You may be surprised about some
of the great opportunities that can be found right here within your own church! The directory is also available online at
http://www.wheelerbc.org/Documents/WABC_Business-Directory-2014.pdf.
AVENUES TO EMPLOYMENT Ministry
If you are unemployed or underemployed and are looking for work, the AVENUES TO EMPLOYMENT Ministry right
here at Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church offers the assistance you need. The AVENUES TO EMPLOYMENT Ministry
focuses on providing support and encouragement in the form of job search events and workshops, personal guidance/
coaching, and online tools and resources to help members find good employment. Each month we offer a series of
workshops designed to assist members in preparing for their search for employment. The next JS101 Employment
Workshop will be held from 1:30PM to 3:30PM on December 10, 2014 in the Christian Life Center. No additional
employment workshops are scheduled for the month of December. The regular weekly workshops will resume on
January 7, 2015. For more information visit the Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church’s website and click on Avenues to
Employment ministry link or email us at [email protected].
preliminary
Please join us as we gather in the Sanctuary for a brief time of
ceremonial and commemorative proclamation. After which,
we will move to the plot of ground on which the new sanctuary
will be built and we will consecrate that ground in prayer as
we ceremonially break ground to formally begin the process of
building a new edifice for the glory of God.
sunday, december 14, 4:00 PM
groundbreaking
Please make plans to attend this historic marker
in the life of our church.
7
PRAYER GUIDE
D ECE M B E R 2 0 1 4
Dear Congregants,
The month of December is filled with excitement as we prepare to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ.
During this time of celebration, please include in your celebration a few minutes of daily corporate prayer.
• Monday thru Saturday between 12 noon and 1 p.m.
• We will SUSPEND Wednesdays fasting until after the New Year.
• Let the Holy Spirit lead you in your time of prayer. This is meant only as a guide for bringing a unified focus.
• Saturday’s prayer focus is for the city, state, nation, and world. Please be watchful of what is happening in all of these places so
that you can pray into those situations.
PR AYER GUIDE
December 1, 2014 – Monday
Isaiah 7:14 – Therefore the Lord Himself shall give you a sign: Behold, the young woman who is unmarried and a virgin shall conceive and bear a
son, and shall call his name Immanuel [God with us]. AMP
Suggested Prayer Direction:
1. Thank God for revealing Himself to you.
2. Ask Him to help you to always remember that He is with you.
3. Pray for WABC’s building campaign and your commitment to it and Him.
December 2, 2014 Tuesday
Mark 1:1-2 – The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God; As it is written in the prophets, Behold, I send my messenger before thy
face, which shall prepare thy way before these. KJV
Suggested Prayer Direction:
1. Thank God for preparing our hearts to obey Him.
2. Ask Him to help you hear His voice and direction.
3. Pray for WABC building campaign and your commitment to it and Him.
December 3, 2014 Wednesday
Mark 1:3 – The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. KJV
Suggested Prayer Direction:
1. Thank God for the voice of His Spirit.
2. Ask Him to awaken you to His call to service.
3. Pray for WABC’s building campaign and your commitment to it and Him.
December 4, 2014 Thursday
Mark 1:8 – I have baptized you with water: but he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost. KJV
Suggested Prayer Direction:
1. Thank God for the manifestation of His Spirit.
2. Ask Him to fill you up again with His Spirit.
3. Pray for WABC’s building campaign and your commitment to it and Him.
December 5, 2014 Friday
Matthew 1:18 – Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place under these circumstances: When His mother Mary had been promised in marriage to
Joseph, before they came together, she was found to be pregnant [through the power] of the Holy Spirit. AMP
Suggested Prayer Direction:
1. Thank God that He is Lord over your circumstances.
2. Pray that the conception of His plans will be revealed through the power of Holy Spirit.
3. Pray for WABC’s building campaign and your commitment to it and Him.
8
PRAYER GUIDE
D ECE M B E R 2 0 1 4
December 8, 2014 Monday
Matthew 1:19 – And her [promised] husband Joseph, being a just and upright man and not willing to expose her publicly and to shame and
disgrace her, decided to repudiate and dismiss (divorce) her quietly and secretly. AMP
Suggested Prayer Direction:
1. Thank God that that which He has promised, He will do.
2. Pray that God will continue to help you be just and upright.
3. Pray for WABC’s building campaign and your commitment to it and Him.
December 9, 2014 Tuesday
Matthew 1:23 – Behold, the virgin shall become pregnant and give birth to a Son, and they shall call His name Emmanuel—which, when
translated, means, God with us. AMP
Suggested Prayer Direction:
1. Thank God for Jesus!
2. Pray that the Lord will help you to practice His presence.
3. Pray for WABC’s building campaign and your commitment to it and Him.
December 10, 2014 Wednesday
Matthew 1:24 – Then Joseph, being aroused from his sleep, did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him: he took [her to his side as] his
wife. AMP
Suggested Prayer Direction:
1. Thank God for awakening us to His plans.
2. Pray that the Lord will help you to follow His command.
3. Pray for WABC’s building campaign and your commitment to it and Him.
December 11, 2014 Thursday
Isaiah 9:6 – For to us a Child is born, to us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful
Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father [of Eternity], Prince of Peace. AMP
Suggested Prayer Direction:
1. Thank God that He is a counselor!
2. Pray God will help you to trust Him with the government of this nation, state, city, and church.
3. Pray for WABC’s building campaign and your commitment to it and Him.
December 12, 2014 Friday
Isaiah 9:7 – Of the increase of His government and of peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish
it and uphold it with justice and with righteousness from the [latter] time forth, even forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform
this. AMP
Suggested Prayer Direction
1. Thank God for His zeal.
2. Pray for God’s will
3. Pray for WABC’s building campaign and your commitment to it and Him.
December 15, 2014 Monday
Luke 2:6 – While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born. NIV
Suggested Prayer Direction:
1. Thank God for His perfect timing.
2. Pray that while you are living your ordinary life, you will see your breakthrough.
3. Pray for WABC’s building campaign and your commitment to it and Him.
December 16, 2014 Tuesday
Luke 2:7 – And she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room
available for them. NIV
Suggested Prayer Direction:
1. Thank God that He always makes a way for His people.
2. Pray that you will learn to trust God for your provision.
3. Pray for WABC’s building campaign and your commitment to it and Him.
9
PRAYER GUIDE
D ECE M B E R 2 0 1 4
December 17, 2014 Wednesday
Micah 5:2 – But you, Bethlehem Ephratah, you are little to be among the clans of Judah; [yet] out of you shall One come forth for Me Who is
to be Ruler in Israel, Whose goings forth have been from of old, from ancient days (eternity). AMP
Suggested Prayer Direction:
1. Thank God that He uses the simple things of this world to bring forth His Glory!
2. Pray that He will help you to be faithful in the small things.
3. Pray for WABC’s building campaign and your commitment to it and Him.
December 18, 2014 Thursday
Zechariah 9:9a – Rejoice greatly, O Daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O Daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your King comes to you; He is
[uncompromisingly] just and having salvation [triumphant and victorious]… AMP
Suggested Prayer Direction:
1. Thank God for the King of Kings and Lord of Lord, Jesus!
2. Pray that God will teach you to rejoice and shout the victory!
3. Pray for WABC’s building campaign and your commitment to it and Him.
December 19, 2014 Friday
Isaiah 11:1 – And there shall come forth a Shoot out of the stock of Jesse [David’s father], and a Branch out of his roots shall grow and bear fruit.
AMP
Suggested Prayer Direction:
1. Thank God for His plans and ways.
2. Pray that God will manifest the generational blessings for you and your family.
3. Pray for WABC’s building campaign and your commitment to it and Him.
December 22, 2014 Monday
Luke 1:28 – And he came to her and said, Hail, O favored one [endued with grace]! The Lord is with you! Blessed (favored of God) are you before
all other women! AMP
Suggested Prayer Direction:
1. Thank God for His favor toward all humankind through His son Jesus the Christ!
2. Pray for God’s favor over your life.
3. Pray for WABC’s building campaign and your commitment to it and Him.
December 23, 2014 Tuesday
Luke 1:29 – But when she saw him, she was greatly troubled and disturbed and confused at what he said and kept revolving in her mind what
such a greeting might mean. AMP
Suggested Prayer Direction:
1. Thank God for the preaching of His Word.
2. Pray that God will help you to understand His plans and purposes for your life.
3. Pray for WABC’s building campaign and your commitment to it and Him.
December 24, 2014 Wednesday
Luke 1:30 – And the angel said to her, Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found grace (free, spontaneous, absolute favor and loving-kindness)
with God. AMP
Suggested Prayer Direction:
1. Thank God for the Holy Spirit Who helps us to understand God’s will for our lives.
2. Pray that you continue to find favor with God.
3. Pray for WABC’s building campaign and your commitment to it and Him.
December 25, 2014 Thursday
Luke 1:31 – And listen! You will become pregnant and will give birth to a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus. AMP
Suggested Prayer Direction:
1. Thank God for the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ! Merry Christmas!!
2. Express your gratitude to God for the gift of His Son!
3. Pray for WABC’s building campaign and your commitment to it and Him!
10
PRAYER GUIDE
D ECE M B E R 2 0 1 4
December 26, 2014 Friday
Luke 1:32 – He will be great (eminent) and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give to Him the throne of His
forefather David, AMP
Suggested Prayer Direction:
1. Thank God for the great work of Jesus, the Son of the Most High.
2. Pray that the Lord will help you to make Him eminent in your life.
3. Pray for WABC’s building campaign and your commitment to it and Him.
December 29, 2014 Monday
Luke 1:33 – And He will reign over the house of Jacob throughout the ages; and of His reign there will be no end. AMP.
Suggested Prayer Direction:
1. Thank God that He is from everlasting to everlasting.
2. Pray that God will reign over your house forever.
3. Pray for WABC’s building campaign and your commitment to it and Him.
December 30, 2014 Tuesday
Luke 1:35 – Then the angel said to her, The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you [like a shining
cloud]; and so the holy (pure, sinless) Thing (Offspring) which shall be born of you will be called the Son of God. AMP
Suggested Prayer Direction:
1. Thank God for His awesome power.
2. Pray that whatever God is trying to birth in you will come to pass.
3. Pray for WABC’s building campaign and commitment to it and Him.
December 31, 2014 Wednesday
Luke 1:37 – For with God nothing is impossible and no word from God shall be without power or impossible of fulfillment. AMP
Suggested Prayer Direction:
1. Thank God that He is able to do the impossible and that He keeps His word.
2. Pray that God will help you to trust Him more.
3. Pray for WABC’s building campaign and your commitment to it and Him.
January 1, 2015 Thursday
Isaiah 43:18 – Do not [earnestly] remember the former things; neither consider the things of old. AMP
Suggested Prayer Direction:
1. Thank God that He not only gives second chances, but He also brings us to new beginnings.
2. Pray that God will give you a vision for the new beginnings in your life.
3. Pray for WABC’s building campaign and your commitment to it and Him.
January 2, 2015 Friday
Isaiah 43:19 – Behold, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs forth; do you not perceive and know it and will you not give heed to it? I will even
make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. AMP
Suggested Prayer Direction:
1. Thank God that He makes a way out of no way.
2. Pray that you will see the path (way) God is making for you and take it.
3. Pray for WABC’s building campaign and your commitment to it and Him.
11
worship services
Sunday: 7:15 a.m.* 9:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m.*
Sunday School: 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.
Children’s Church: 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
1:00 p.m.
*Sign language provided for the hearing impaired
Watch Sunday Worship and Bible Study Live Online:
http://cdn.streamingfaith.com/oc/wheeler-avenue-baptist/
C ONTACT US
Rev. Dr. Marcus D. Cosby, Senior Pastor
Rev. Alexander E.M. Johnson, Associate Pastor for Worship & Ministry
Rev. William A. Lawson, Founding Pastor Emeritus
Rev. Lekesha R. Barnett
Minister to Singles and Young Adults
[email protected]
Rev. Dr. Patricia Williams
Minister of Congregational Care and Development
[email protected]
Deacon Maurice Carr
Church Business Administrator
[email protected]
BOARD CHAIRS
Deacon Tophas Anderson, III
Deaconess Penelope Nobles
Trustee Shirley C. Evans
Sis. Audrey Cosby
Interim Director of Middle School Ministry
[email protected]
Rev. Jacques Denkins
Minister to Seniors
[email protected]
MEMBERSHIP CONTACTS
Rev. Bonita Barnes
Matthew 25
Urgent Needs Ministry
713-579-2725 [email protected]
Deaconess Paulette Frederick
Budget & Finance Manager
[email protected]
Sis. Carolyn Clark
Scheduling of Weddings and Building Use Requests;
On-line at www.wheelerbc.org
713-579-2720 [email protected]
Minister Leon C. Lewis
Minister of Music
[email protected]
Sis. Audrey Cosby
Baby Dedications
713-579-2724 [email protected]
Rev. Joshua Mitchell
Minister to Youth & College Students
[email protected]
Sis. Ramona Parker
Chronicles Bookstore
713-579-2753 [email protected]
Rev. Lana Reese
Minister of Prayer
[email protected]
Rev. Lana Reese
Prayer Requests
713-741-4611 [email protected]
Sis. Andrea Tucker
Administrative Assistant to the Pastor
[email protected]
Sis. Shirley Wilkerson
Membership Updates and Baptism Information
713-579-2778 [email protected]
Deacon Vernon Umstead
Human Resources & Technology Manager
[email protected]
Rev. Dr. Patricia Williams
Homebound Care and Hospital Visits, Bereavement
and Grief Counseling, Funeral Notices and
New Member Inquiries
713-579-2718 [email protected]
Rev. Dr. Barbara Williams
Minister of Christian Counseling
[email protected]
Rev. David Moore, Minister of Christian Marriage
and Counseling
[email protected]
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FOLLOW us on Twitter
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CHRONICLES BOOKSTORE
Visit the Chronicles Bookstore today to
purchase:
Sunday Worship Service CDs: $5
Sunday Worship Service DVDs: $10
50th Anniversary Concert CD featuring
the WABC Mass Choir: $15
Wednesdays in the Word
CD Series: $20
Wednesdays in the Word
DVD Series: $30
50th Anniversary Worship Service DVD:
$15
Bookstore Phone Number:
713-579-2753
Bookstore Hours:
Monday, 1 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, 1 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Friday: 1 p.m. - 4 p.m
Saturday: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Sunday: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
The Avenue Word is a monthly print and online
publication of the Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church,
3826 Wheeler Avenue, Houston, Texas 77004.
www.wheelerbc.org
Follow us on Instagram
@WheelerAvenueBC
3826 Wheeler Avenue Houston, Texas 77004 713.748.5240 www.wheelerbc.org