Word “But the more they were oppressed, the more they multiplied and spread; so the Egyptians came to dread the Israelites.” Exodus 1:12 (NIV) f e b r u a r y 2015 the Avenue Greetings, Beloved Church Family! It is my joy to greet you as we begin Black History Month 2015! Our year has already been eventful in just the 31 days of January. We’ve held a Financial Empowerment Conference, a Music Ministry Workshop, a campus-wide day of service focused on our community in honor of Dr. King Day, a Spiritual Gifts Workshop and a four-part Back to the Basics doctrinal Bible Study--all while maintaining the many other daily responsibilities of Avenue Life! Our church remains acutely aware of and actively assigned to her work in this world; and we are grateful that God has blessed us to participate in advancing the cause of Christ from the Third Ward community of Houston, Texas. But, if you thought we were simply going to rest on our laurels as a consequence of a busy January--GUESS AGAIN! The next 28 days will be even more eventful than the first 31! You will find an exhaustive Black History Month calendar in the following pages of this Newsletter; but permit me to highlight just a few of the magnificent events that have been planned for the month. Before we head to the big screens to enjoy this year’s Super Bowl, we are delighted to welcome back to Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, Pastor L.K. Curry (my father in the ministry) and Pastor A. T. Curry, his son and my beloved brother and friend, who will once again preach the Gospel to us on this first Sunday of February. Each Wednesday of this month we will engage a series of Bible Study lessons entitled, The Spirit of a People. And on Friday, February 6, we will highlight the musical and artistic expressions of very gifted individuals in our church and city, entitled ‘The Spirit of a People: An Evening of Music, Art & Literature’—you do NOT want to miss that! Our Seasoned Saints Salute will culminate the first week of the month on Saturday, February 7, as we celebrate the gifts of our elders among us. Our young people will have an oratorical contest, and we solicit the support of all the parents of students to encourage your youth to participate. Additionally, we will be blessed by a full (and free) concert by the world-renowned Fisk University Jubilee Singers on the 27th, to close out our month. Whew! That’s surely enough to keep us busy, but we mustn’t forget to celebrate the birthday of our Associate Pastor on February 22nd. Rev. Alexander E. M. Johnson, and his twin sister, Agnes, have been life-long members of the family of Wheeler Avenue. We praise God for blessing them with the gift of life and for blessing our church with their commitment and dedication. I pray that you will participate in their celebration, along with their family! On the very next day, February 23, we will have our Mid-Year Church Meeting at 7pm. At that time, we will check our stewardship as a congregation thus far in this Church Year, as well as hear a report from our Building Committee which has made significant strides since our Year-End Meeting in August. Well, that’s our month-at-a-glance. Let’s make every effort to participate in the many events that have been planned for this month. Don’t forget our emphasis this Church Year! We are Building a Generous Church for the glory of our generous God! Thank you for continuing to give to the work of the building effort. You are an absolutely amazing congregation! With great expectation, M.D. Cosby 2 Happenings on the Avenue 3 Christian Life Advancement 4 February Birthdays 11 Prayer Guide 5 Adult Ministries 9 Churchwide Events 7 Young Adults and Youth Ministries 9 Black History Calendar 14 Scenes from MLK Day of Service 8 Children’s Ministries 10 Daniel’s Fast 2015 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 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 — FE B RU A RY 2 0 1 5 S u n d ay, f e b r u a r y 1 “Curry Day” 7:15am, 9am, 11am, 1pm Worship Services 9am, 11am Sunday School 4pm New Life Service m o n d ay, f e b r u a r y 2 10:30 AM Seasoned Saints Exercise 6:00 PM Deaconess Board Meeting 6:30 PM CLASS New Teacher Cohort - Intro to Theology 6:30 PM Signing Choir Rehearsal 6:30 PM Bells of Praise Handbells Rehearsal 6:30 PM Praise Dance Rehearsal 7:00 PM WAICV - Board Meeting 7:30 PM Orchestra Rehearsal 7:30 PM Mime Rehearsal t u e s d ay, f e b r u a r y 3 5:00 PM Girl Scout Meetings 6:00 PM Capital & Infrastructure Subcommittee Mtg. 6:30 PM Boy Scouts Parent Meeting 6:30 PM Chorale Choir Rehearsal 6:30 PM M2W Choir Rehearsal 7:00 PM First Tuesday on the Avenue 7:00 PM Unity Choir Rehearsal 7:00 PM POD Choir Rehearsal w e d n e s d ay, f e b r u a r y 4 10:30 AM Seasoned Saints Exercise 12:00 PM The Spirit of a People Bible Study Series - Pain & Perseverance 1:30 PM Job Search Workshop 6:00 PM Wednesday Prayer Service 6:45 PM AWANA Bible Study 7:00 PM The Spirit of a People Bible Study Series - Pain & Perseverance 7:00 PM Youth Bible Study t h u r s d ay, f e b r u a r y 5 5:00 PM Band Rehearsal 6:00 PM Sunday School Teachers Mtg. 6:30 PM Celestial Choir Rehearsal 6:30 PM “The Brook” College Bible Study 7:00 PM Chapel Choir Rehearsal 7:00 PM Financial Empowerment Ministry Meeting 7:00 PM Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal 7:00 PM Theatre Arts/Drama/Spoken Word Rehearsal f r i d ay, f e b r u a r y 6 9:30 AM Seasoned Saints Line Dancing 10:30 AM Seasoned Saints Exercise 7:00 PM Black History Presentation – The Spirit of a People: An Evening of Arts, Music and Literature s at u r d ay, f e b r u a r y 7 8:00 AM Communion Preparation 8:30 AM Transformation Meeting 9:00 AM Tutoring Ministry 9:30 AM Cub Scouts Meeting 9:30 AM Leadership & Professional Development 9:30 AM 5Cs - Honey Child Prenatal Program 10:00 AM Communications Corps Training 10:00 AM Street Witnessing 10:00 AM Health Fair Planning Meeting 11:00 AM Communications Corps Fellowship 11:00 AM Children’s Praise Dance Rehearsal 11:00 AM Seasoned Saints Salute 12:00 PM Christ Victory Steppers Rehearsal m o n d ay, f e b r u a r y 16 10:30 AM Seasoned Saints Exercise 5:30 PM Family Connection Corps 5:45 PM Women’s Guild Meeting 6:30 PM Signing Choir Rehearsal 6:30 PM Bells of Praise Handbells Rehearsal 6:30 PM Praise Dance Rehearsal 6:30 PM Women’s Ministry The Waiting Room 7:30 PM Orchestra Rehearsal 7:30 PM Mime Rehearsal S u n d ay, f e b r u a r y 8 “Boy Scouts Sunday” 7:15am, 9am, 11am, 1pm Worship Services 9am, 11am Sunday School 4:00 Mt. Sinai Baptist Church m o n d ay, f e b r u a r y 9 9:00 AM Girl Scout Products Distribution 10:30 AM Seasoned Saints Exercise 6:00 PM Ruth Circle Meeting 6:00 PM Women’s Guild Executive Board Committee Meeting 6:30 PM Signing Choir Rehearsal 6:30 PM Bells of Praise Handbells Rehearsal 6:30 PM Praise Dance Rehearsal 6:30 PM WATMI Board Meeting 6:30 PM Sister Chat Bible Study 7:00 PM InHIMM Men’s Ministry Fellowship 7:30 PM Orchestra Rehearsal 7:30 PM Mime Rehearsal t u e s d ay, f e b r u a r y 17 5:00 PM Cade Circle Meeting 5:00 PM Girl Scout Meetings 6:00 PM Capital & Infrastructure Subcommittee Mtg. 6:00 PM Deacons Meeting 6:30 PM Boy Scouts Board of Review 6:30 PM CLASS New Teacher Cohort- Bible Study Methods 6:30 PM CLASS New Teacher Cohort Intro to Theology 6:30 PM M2W Choir Rehearsal 7:00 PM Cherub Choir Rehearsal 7:00 PM Unity Choir Rehearsal 7:00 PM Youth Ministry Volunteers Mtg. 7:30 PM Mass Choir Rehearsal 8:30 PM POD Choir Rehearsal t u e s d ay, f e b r u a r y 10 5:00 PM Girl Scout Meetings 5:45 PM WACA - Parent/Teacher Meeting 6:00 PM Capital & Infrastructure Subcommittee Mtg. 6:00 PM T. Davis Senior Mission Circle 6:30 PM Boy Scout Troop Parent Meeting 6:30 PM CLASS New Teacher Cohort Bible Study Methods 6:30 PM M2W Choir Rehearsal 7:00 PM Cherub Choir Rehearsal 7:00 PM Unity Choir Rehearsal 7:00 PM POD Choir Rehearsal w e d n e s d ay, f e b r u a r y 18 10:30 AM Seasoned Saints Exercise 12:00 PM The Spirit of a People Bible Study Series - Pride & Progress 1:30 PM Job Search Workshop 6:00 PM Wednesday Prayer Service 6:45 PM AWANA Bible Study 7:00 PM The Spirit of a People Bible Study Series - Pride & Progress 7:00 PM Youth Bible Study w e d n e s d ay, f e b r u a r y 11 10:30 AM Seasoned Saints Exercise 12:00 PM The Spirit of a People Bible Study Series - Prayer & Proclamation 1:30 PM Job Search Workshop 6:00 PM Wednesday Prayer Service 6:45 PM AWANA Bible Study 7:00 PM The Spirit of a People Bible Study Series - Prayer & Proclamation 7:00 PM Youth Bible Study t h u r s d ay, f e b r u a r y 19 5:00 PM Band Rehearsal 6:00 PM Finance Committee Meeting 6:00 PM Black History Oratorical Contest 6:30 PM Celestial Choir Rehearsal 6:30 PM “The Brook” College Bible Study 7:00 PM Chapel Choir Rehearsal 7:00 PM Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal 7:00 PM Theatre Arts/Drama/Spoken Word Rehearsal 7:15 PM Board of Trustees Investment Committee 7:30 PM Mass Choir Rehearsal t h u r s d ay, f e b r u a r y 12 5:00 PM Band Rehearsal 5:30 PM Building Comm. Monthly Mtg. 6:00 PM Sunday School Teachers Meeting 6:30 PM Celestial Choir Rehearsal 6:30 PM CLASS Teachers In-Service Training 6:30 PM “The Brook” College Bible Study 7:00 PM Chapel Choir Rehearsal 7:00 PM Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal 7:00 PM Theatre Arts/Drama/Spoken Word Rehearsal f r i d ay, 9:30 AM 10:30 AM 7:00 PM f r i d ay, 9:30 AM 10:30 AM 6:30 PM f e b r u a r y 20 Seasoned Saints Line Dancing Seasoned Saints Exercise Chosen for Christ Evangelism Ministry s at u r d ay, f e b r u a r y 21 8:00 AM Cub Scouts Blue and Gold Ceremony 8:30 AM Transformation Meeting 8:30 AM Black History Oratorical Contest 9:00 AM Tutoring Ministry 10:00 AM Alzheimer Support Group 10:00 AM Ephphatha Ministry Meeting 10:00 AM Street Witnessing 10:00 AM Family Group 31 Bible Study 10:00 AM Wedding Council Ministry Mtg. 11:00 AM Children’s Praise Dance Rehearsal 12:00 PM Christ Victory Steppers Rehearsal february 13 Seasoned Saints Line Dancing Seasoned Saints Exercise Poetry Night on the Avenue s at u r d ay, f e b r u a r y 14 8:00 AM Deacon Board Exec. Comm. 10:00 AM Mid-Year Church Leadership Mtg. S u n d ay, f e b r u a r y 1 5 “Boys Rites of Passage Sunday” 7:15am, 9am, 11am, 1pm Worship Services 9am, 11am Sunday School 3:00 PM “The Bridge” College Ministry Meeting 2 S u n d ay, f e b r u a r y 2 2 “Transformation Sunday” 7:15am, 9am, 11am, 1pm Worship Services 9am, 11am Sunday School 4:00 PM Greater Barbour’s Chapel m o n d ay, f e b r u a r y 2 3 7:00 PM Mid-Year Church Meeting t u e s d ay, f e b r u a r y 24 5:00 PM Girl Scout Meetings 6:00 PM Capital & Infrastructure Subcommittee Mtg. 6:30 PM CLASS New Teacher Cohort Bible Study Methods 6:30 PM CLASS New Teacher Cohort Intro to Theology 6:30 PM Evangelism Ministry Meeting 6:30 PM M2W Choir Rehearsal 7:00 PM Cherub Choir Rehearsal 7:00 PM Unity Choir Rehearsal 7:00 PM POD Choir Rehearsal w e d n e s d ay, f e b r u a r y 2 5 10:30 AM Seasoned Saints Exercise 12:00 PM The Spirit of a People Bible Study Series - Praise & Protest 1:30 PM Job Search Workshop 6:00 PM Wednesday Prayer Service 6:45 PM AWANA Bible Study 7:00 PM The Spirit of a People Bible Study Series - Praise & Protest 7:00 PM Youth Bible Study t h u r s d ay, f e b r u a r y 2 6 5:00 PM Band Rehearsal 6:00 PM Sunday School Teachers Meeting 6:00 PM Trustee Board Meeting 6:30 PM Celestial Choir Rehearsal 6:30 PM “The Brook” College Bible Study 6:30 PM Celebration of New Birth Development 7:00 PM Chapel Choir Rehearsal 7:00 PM Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal 7:00 PM Theatre Arts/Drama/Spoken Word Rehearsal f r i d ay, 9:30 AM 10:30 AM 7:00 PM february 27 Seasoned Saints Line Dancing Seasoned Saints Exercise Fisk Jubilee Singers Concert s at u r d ay, f e b r u a r y 2 8 9:00 AM Cancer Ministry Meeting 9:00 AM Stephen Ministry Supervision Development 9:30 AM Cub Scouts Meeting 9:30 AM 5Cs - Honey Child Prenatal Program 10:00 AM Family Group 11, 32, 37, 38 & 40 Bible Study 10:00 AM Pre-Marriage Session 10:30 AM Chronicles Book Club 11:00 AM Family Group 1 Bible Study 11:00 AM Children’s Praise Dance Rehearsal 12:00 PM Christ Victory Steppers Rehearsal 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. 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 217 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 C LC - Room 209 9: 00 a . m . - 10: 15 a . m . l C LC - Room 21 2 9: 00 a . m . - 10: 15 a . m . l C LC - Room 21 1 11:00 a . m . - 12:30 p. m . l C LC - 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 h a p p y b i r t h d a y , f e b r u a r y bab i e s ! Samuel Abankwa Bryson Abney Aalia Abram Ugoma Achebe Amber Adams Consuella Adams Tia Adams Yvette Adams Raphael Alford Edward Allen James Allen Kelly Allen Lizie Allen Richard Allen Rondell Allen Tory Allen-Ford Janet Alston Antonia Altemus Cherye Altice Jobe Amadi Tonia Ambers Adewale Amosu Kimbriel Anders Assunti Anderson Cory Anderson Natia Anderson Reggie Anderson Tianne Anderson Joe Arrington Tamika Arrington DaVaunte Arroyo Justin Arroyo Adjoa Asare Abreah Ash Alexander Ashe Brittany Ashford Loretta Atwood Joyce Aubrey Tameka Augustin Kail Austin Charlene Babin Alexander Bagley Aishia Bahar Savannah Ballesteros Don Balthrop Cortney Banks Andrea Barnes Elisa Barnes Niki Barnes Janelle Barnett Shaundra Barnett Warren Barnett Christopher Barr Cartarious Barrett Darrilyn Bartlow LaToya Bass Dwight Batro Joi Beasley Gwendolyn Bell Lynn Bell Robyn Bell Destiny Bennett Lawrence Bennett Shane Bennett Veleria Bennett Antuiya Bentun Manuel Berry Michelle Berry Reginald Berry Jami Bertrand Candece Beverly Shametria Bickley Alneada Biggers Tayler BishopJohnson James Black Simeon Black Verlye Black Chyna Blackmon Mable Blackwell Rhonda Blake Roslynn Blake Faye Bolds Kevin Boling Clara Bolton Linda Bolton Michael Bonner Gerald Bowers Talisha Bowers Gail Bradford Meshel Bradley Tanya Braggs Blair Branch Trevor Brandon Jerrell Brewer Jesse Brewer Quiniee Bridges Anngelea Bright Chantrelle Brimmer Erica Brobbey Marcus Brooks Felicia Broussard Jessica Broussard Joshua Broussard Justin Broussard Ashly Brown Brandi Brown Chester Brown Chloe Brown Erica Brown Jimmie Brown Keoni Brown Lanny Brown Linda Brown Mina Brown Tianna Brown Vanessa Brown Sheletta Brundidge Netania Buckner Jason Bugg Ebony Burch Bessie Burks Benjamin Burns Brennen Burns Rachel Burrell Alexia Burton Nicholas Burton Rockell Burton LaKeshia Butcher Edgar Butler Joseph Butler Emmylou Cabrera Mary Cadet Keion Cage Rayshod Caldwell Paul Calhoun Bennie Callies Antonio Cameron Lindsay Campbell Kenneth Cane Trenay Capers Ashley Carey Justin Carr Tiffaney Carr Billy Carrington Natoya Carrington Chantae Carter Christopher Carter Gregory Carter Laquiesha Carter Leah Carter Pacia Carter Thomas Carter Cynthia Cash Gracie Cash Henry Cash Toni Catchings Kristen Chambers Cameron Chandler Sara Chandler Terika Chandler Jeri Charlot Mark Charlot Orean Chatman Ben Cheeks Trinita Childress Harold Chrisentery Paula Chrishon Darren Clark Delores Clark Maurece Clark Tasheikia Clark Rodmesia Clarke Edward Clay Tiffany Clay Jessyca Clemons Khalil Coffield Barbara Cole Rhonda Cole Bernice Coleman Dominique Coleman Isaiah Coleman Patricia Coleman Marcus Colvin Austin Comeaux Pamishia Cook Dasira Cook-Jackson Glenn Cooper Gwendolyn Cooper Justin Cooper Kevin Cooper Telecia Cooper Quachelle Copeland Dana Copelin Clifton Cormier Ambericent Cornett Matthew Coward Philip Cox Scott Cox Shena Cox Hebert Craft Sandra Craft Lillie Craven Cherelle Crenshaw D Crockett Mona Cunningham Michael Curl Stacey Curry Rachel Dallas Anita Daniel Donald Daniel Nigel Daniel Edward Daniels Sharon Daniels Terry Daniels Nicoya Darby-Toney Mercedes Davenport Teniqua Davenport Ambrielle Davis Barry Davis Carleshia Davis Carlton Davis Caryn Davis Falan Davis Jalisa Davis Kenneth Davis Kimaia Davis Lassonya Davis Mallory Davis Megan Davis Morgan Davis Porcia Davis Terrance Davis Lynn Dawson Leontyne Dean Lawrence Deburr Vicky DeCatur Asalia Delco Teresa-Jo DeLemos Tim Denton Freshauna Dexter Brian Dickens Alexandria Dillard Cymetria Dillard DeQuintez Doan D.J. Doby VerAmber Dockins Gene Donahue Don Donatto Michael Dorsey Sedonia Doty Isarel Doucet Charlene Drake Charles Drayden Natasha Drayden Alfred Drummond Terry Duhon Victoria Duncan Helen Dunn Patricia Dupree Timothy Duren Thomas Durst Shanethia Ealy Adrian Earle Danielle Earles Tirra Eckles Teala Edmonds Barbara Edwards Dawn Edwards Shervonne Edwards Dara Elam Elizabeth Elcine Stacie Elkins William Ellison Johnnie Ellisor Phillip Emenogu Phillip Emerson Mia Emilien Ntube Epie Inuaghata Esasa Marcus Esekhaigbe Omamoya Esiso Keiva Espree Bernice Evans Carl Evans Dillon Evans Ethel Evans Jon Evans Ricky Evans Raheim Everance William Everett Jacqueline Fagan Jeramie Feliciano Julian Felix Queensley Felix Catherine Felton Dicy Ferrias Mercy Ferrias Kama Fisher-Ingram Cabrin Fitzpatrick Anthony Florence Adrienne Floyd Amber Foreman Danielle Foster Quincy Fox Faran Foy Mary Francisco Jaleesa Frank Jasmine Franklin 4 Jessica Frederick Asha Freeman Tami Friday William Fuller Gwendolyn Gabriel Marcus Gabriel Yolanda Gabriel Sharla Gadson Christopher Gandy Andrea Garcia Oscar Garcia Elizabeth Gardner Krystal Garner Kayla Garrett Sinclaire Gaston Cherrise Gayle Cebee Gbunblee Joseph George Tanisha George Clliff Ghoram Charlie Gibson D’Mya Gibson LaTausha Gibson Eldridge Gilbert Nita Gilbert Leon Gilchrist Brooke Gillespie Robert Gillespie Harriet Gillis Anzilla Gilmore Kaitlyn Glasco Sandra Glass Shellie Goings Diana Golden Deninah Goodwin Kilm Gordon Devin Goree Nina Grant Pamela Graves Kimberly Gray Kristen Grayson Efrem Greely Jordan Green Montreal Green Shayla Green Malcolm Greer Tami Gregory Walker Griffea Kelli Grim Erin Grimes Markesha Grimes DeSoun Guiberteaux Cordell Guillory Javis Guillory Lenjuana Halbert Anthony Hall David Hall Prince Hall Monique Hambric Bree Angela Hamilton Marla Hamilton Thomasha Hamilton Stacy Hammond Brenae’ Hardeman Marcus Hardy Quinton Harp Drevonta Harper Joyce Harper Michael Harper Rome Harper Charles Harrell Alexandria Harris Alontae Harris Amber Harris Delores Harris Dorine Harris Jonathan Harris Paula Harris Tai Harris Gary Harrison Shaquanna Harrison Theary Harrison Brenda HarrisonHartsfield Janet Harry-Taylor Dominique Harvey Ethel Hawkins JoAnn Hawkins Quintin Hawkins Taylor Hayden Bryan Hayes Celeste Hayes Ollie Heard Tiffany Heartfield Tyler Heartfield Micheal Helm D’Savion Henderson James-Robert Henderson Minnie Henderson Nikkita Henderson Joanie Hendrix Jianna Henley Devondra Henry Paul Henry Jessica Herbert John Hernandez Courtney Hewett Alissia Hicks Cornell Hill Daniel Hill Julian Hill Whitney Hill Lori Hill-Thompson Harrison Hiner M. Hobbs Marvin Holmes Maxwell Holmes Nakia Holmes Zackary Holmes LaJada Holt Aaron Homer Ryan Homer Mildred Hooper Ashly Horace Derral Horton Orlando Horton Barry Hoskins Rose Hoskins Xavier House Michael Hoyt Candance Hubert Trevon Hudson Tricia Hudson Troy Hudson Dalton Hughes Jennifer Hunt Conswaglo Hunter Mattie Hunter N. Hunter Delia Hurst Kiera Hurst Desiree’ Irby Angelia Irving Theresa Isedore Linda Jack Lionel Jack Amanda Jackson Brittany Jackson Carolyn Jackson Diamante Jackson Gerald Jackson Gloria Jackson Nicole Jackson Whitney Jackson DeShawn James Nosa James Olivia James Tim Jamison Ashley Jarrett Bernie Jefferson Roddrick Jefferson Jayson Jenkins Nichelle Jenkins Rhonda Jenkins Aishia Jetson Hassan John-Baptiste Agnes Johnson Alexander Johnson Aundrea Johnson Benedetta Johnson Brunesha Johnson Caliss Johnson Chericka Johnson Courtney Johnson Gerard Johnson Kenyetta Johnson Kimberly Johnson Krystal Johnson Pleshette Johnson Silvester Johnson Sunni Johnson Terrance Johnson Theresa Johnson Trenton Johnson Tiffany Joiner Adam Jones Angela Jones Briana Jones Crandall Jones Danielle Jones Isaac Jones Jerel Jones Jessalyn Jones LaDarius Jones Marshall Jones Sonya Jones Steven Jones Taymarius Jones Tranel Jones Angel Jordan Carlita Joseph Brandi Justice Genevia Kanu Blarsiuwoar Kargou Angelica Kelly Antwana Kelly Danita Kelly Kelva Kelly Yarmon Kennedy Chanitha Keys Rodrick Kilpatrick Norma King Gwynette Kirby Justin Kirk Margaret Kizzee-Taylor Regina Knox Karen Kyle DeLisa Landry Jayla Lane Warren Latham Rosalyn Laudermilk Raymond Lavine Charde Lawrence Brandon Lawson Mychelle Lawson Blage Ledbetter Amanda Lee Minelva Lestrade Ronald Levi Steven Levine Markia Levy Bria Lewis Serving through ministries adult ministries Ministries of the Month We’re taking the month of February to highlight our Music and Arts Ministries. Please stop by their tables following worship for more information. If you’re interested in becoming involved in any of our Music and Arts Ministries, go to the William Alexander Lawson Christian or Community Life Center immediately following worship to sign up, or to receive more information. • • • • • • • Celestial Chapel Cherub Christ Victory Steppers Grace Praise Dancers Bells of Praise Mighty Men of Wheeler • • • • • • • Orchestra Psalms of David Sanctuary Unity WABC Chorale WABC Mercy Mime Women’s Choir others serve women’s guild The Women’s Guild will meet Monday, February 16, 2015, at 6:00 p.m. (Fellowship Hall-left). Come join us as we foster fellowship and plan projects to serve the community. Refreshments will be served. aids walk 2015 Please join the Wheeler Avenue HIV Ministry and participate in AIDS Walk 2015. Each year over 1,200 people are newly infected in the Houston community. The walk will take place on Sunday, March 8, 2015, at 1:00 p.m. After worshiping at church, we will carpool to Sam Houston Park-Downtown. For more information, please come to our registration table after church services or contact Wanda Jenkins at [email protected] or 832-687-6533. 2015 audrey h. lawson impact awards luncheon and fashion show Wheeler Avenue Inner City Visions Inc. - Women’s Guild will celebrate 52 YEARS OF SERVICE to the Houston community at the 2015 Audrey H. Lawson IMPACT Awards Luncheon and Fashion Show on Saturday, April 25, 2015, at the Hyatt Regency Houston, 1200 Louisiana Street. This year’s honorary chair is Carolyn Guess. Honorees, who will be recognized for their many contributions to the community, include: Jacqueline Alton, Owner, Almeda Travel Dr. Rose Austin, Retired Administrator, Lone Star College Dr. Heather Brown, Orthodontist Pastor Suzette Caldwell, Associate Pastor, Windsor Village United Methodist Church Gayla Gardner, Co-Founder, Twelve Days of Christmas Winell Herron, H.E.B. Group Vice President, Public Affairs, Diversity, and Environmental Affairs The Honorable Sheila Jackson Lee, U.S. Representative, 18th Congressional District Tickets are $65. Sponsorship packages are available. Proceeds benefit Wheeler Avenue Inner City Visions, Incorporated. For more information, please contact [email protected] or 832-332-8013. 5 Serving through ministries adult ministries 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 Seasoned Saints Salute We love our seasoned saints here on the Avenue, and we’re calling all Seasoned Saints to join Rev. Jacques Denkins and the Seniors Ministry on Saturday, February 7 at 11:00 a.m. in the Community Life Center for our Seasoned Saints Salute. You don’t want to miss this time of fun, food and fellowship! 1st Tuesday on the Avenue marriage enrichment session—Tuesday, February 3, 2015 We are continuing with our series entitled Rounding the Bases of a Successful Marriage. It has been a lively and enriching experience geared for couples of all ages. In our last session, we discussed a biblical fight plan; and, in this session, we will entertain communication and conflict. We are fairly certain that not many couples at Wheeler will need any of this, but, if you do, please plan to attend on Tuesday, February 3, 7:00 pm. FINANCIAL EMPOWERMENT MINISTRY We began the year with a phenomenal Faith and Finances Conference. But that was only the beginning. Now it’s time to go deeper. Financial Peace is a nine-week class series being offered to help you change your money and your life. This isn’t your typical “money class.” Financial Peace University (FPU) is practical, entertaining and fun! And the average family completing the course pays off $5,300 and saves $2,700 in just 90 days. Whether you’re struggling to make ends meet or you’re a millionaire, FPU has something for you. It’s based on more than 800 verses of scripture and is a proven plan that will work for you. Two class sessions will be offered beginning Sunday, February 8: one at 9:00 am and another at 11:00 am in the Sanctuary Choir Room. Please consider investing time in this worthwhile class. It will change your life! Questions? Contact the Financial Empowerment Ministry at [email protected]. Serving through ministries young adults and youth ministries POETRY NIGHT ON THE AVENUE Join Rev. Mitchell and the College Ministry for Poetry Night on the Avenue on Friday, February 13 at 7:00p.m. Back by popular demand will be our featured artist, Joe Solomon, with spoken word and musical selections, along with other guest artists. If you’re interested in rocking the mic, contact Rev. Mitchell at [email protected]. Serving through ministries young adults and youth ministries 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’re interested in ministering with the WABC Grace Praise Dancers. CHRIST VICTORY STEPPERS Christ Victory Steppers practice on Saturdays, 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. h a p p y b i r t h d a y , f e b r u a r y bab i e s ! Donald Lewis John Lewis Latoya Lewis Bill Littlejohn Deborah Livingston Chrysta Lloyd Merrell Lloyd Velma Lloyd Naomi Lockett Destiny Lockings Renee Logans Nicora Long Thomas Long Dawn Lord Gilbert Loston LaTonya Love Medora Love Brandon Luckett Wayne Luckett Stafford Lucky Michael Lyle Patricia Lyons Joseph Mack Mary Mack Darcelle Mackyeon Raphael Madison Michael Mallet Donovan Malone Octavieus Manadier Glenn Manning Monalisa Marclouis Antwan Marshal Catherine Martel James Martin Tez Mason DeAngel Mathis Ahmad Mattazzi Reginald Matthews Sheldon Matthews Dee Mattox-Hall Brittney May Michara Mayes Camille Mayo Krystal Mayo Shermerrian Mayon London McAdams Debra McBride Yolanda McCammon Cynthia McClain Andre McClelland Troy McClelland Jessica McCloudy Wilbur McConico Kendall McCoy Kenneth McCoy Thomas McCutcheon Brandy McDonald Yoshana McEachin Marjorie McElrath Charles McFail Karen McGowan Shelby McLaughlin Delana McLin Reginald McNair Marcel McNeese Bria McNeil Francisco Medina Tomiko MeeksHenderson James Merrell Larry Merritt Brandon Mikell Adrienne Miles DeShawn Miller Emmanuel Miller Lewis Miller Morgahn Miller Sunshine Misa-Uli Nicole Mitchell Reginald Mitchell Yulanda Mitchell Joe Modica Marlena Moltimer Donovan Monroe Baxter Montgomery Chantal Moon Michael Moore Nicholas Moore Nicki Moore Valerie Moore Alisa Morgan Dymond Mosley Rachelle Mouton Day Mullings Anthony Mullins Harold Mullins Suzan Mullins Aazariah Murphy Cassandra Murphy Debra Murray Andrea Nailon Yvette Nance Charmian Nelson Diane Nelson Jerome Nelson Lorraine Nelson Stanley Newman Isaac Newsome Steven Newton Andrea Nicholas Tiffany Nicholson Joe Nixon Joseph Nixon Rhome Nixon Leslie Nobles Penelope Nobles Barika Noris Willie Norman Anson North Jordan North Anthony Nwoke Krystofer O’Gilvie Stephen O’Suji Abena Ochoa Camille Ofulue Stephanie Ofulue Okpe Okpe Darrell Oliney Charmaine Osbin Tannerria Owens Victoria Owens Dorothy Pace Derek Parker T. Parker Williams Parker Catina Parrott Adriana Partida Jaquoren PattersonThomas London Patton Isiah Paul Ebony Pearson Michael Pearson Valerie Perez Christian Perkins Jakeem Perkins Cynthia Perry John Perry Matthew Pervis Kenneth Peters Lynette Petithomme Lee Pierce Jada Pierre Shan`Neishe Pierre Thelma Pierre Rijean Pitre BerRhonda Pitts Constance Pleasant Diedra Porche` Ajia Porter DeUndre Potts Annissa Powell Donn Powell Lanita Prentis Krystal Price Patrick Price Erin Quander Teri Quinn Sheryl Raglin Ahmed Raheem Jamail Randle Shon Rankin Cameron Ray Carolyn Reece Erin Reed Isis Reed Shanice Reed VanShella Reeves Eleanor Rem Ivan Revis Maria Reynolds Eric Rhodes Ladarius Rhone Alicia Richardson Rodney Rideau Imani Riley Nicole Riley De’Mettria Riser Charlet Roberts Joshua Roberts Patricia Roberts Sade’ Roberts Warren Roberts Brian Robinson DeAngelo Robinson Durron Robinson Feragi Robinson Lakisha Robinson Morgann Robinson Tieshia Robinson Adam Rogers Christina Rogers Patrick Rogers Anya Rolle Brian Rollins Gloria Rose James Rose Brittany Ross Reginald Sadberry Dorothy Sadler Jessica Salinas Stacey Sanchez Tameka Sanchez Robert Sanders Gerome Sapp Nickia Sauls Belinda Saulsberry Jasmine Saunders Roderick Savage Morgan Sawyer Brittany Scineaux Andrea Scott Chameka Scott Frederick Scott Lorna Scott Shandrea Sellers Orlando Seriale Latika Sewell Andre’ Shackelford Milton Shackelford Derrell Shannon Jaelan Sharp Joshua Sharp Willie Sharpe Cheryl Shelton Elizabeth Shelton Tony Shelvin Rudolph Sherrard Carolyn Shields Elijah Simmons Emmily Simmons Juno Simmons Sherry Simpson Sidra Simpson Chelsea Sims Evan Sims Sheori Sinegal Jessica Small Alicia Smith Aston Smith Darvin Smith Erica Smith Gene Smith Gerard Smith Gina Smith Herman Smith Javonna Smith Kebharu Smith Kirkland Smith Omoniyi Smith Priscilla Smith Regina Smith Roz Smith Shegailia Smith Veronica Smith William Smith Akili SmithWashington Mamie Sneed Nick Solomon Crystal Sowah Colleen Spiller Doylean Sprauve Anthony Square Anysa Square Jarman St.Julien Donte’ Stalberte Andrea Stallworth Ronnie Starling Naomi Stelivan Nikia Stelivan 7 (continued from page 4) Andrea Stephens Norman Sterling Queen Stevenson Olivia Steward Delores Stewart Dianne Stewart Evelyn Stewart Lauren Stewart Keith Strawder Raigena Strickland Avery Suber Elliott Suttles Rebecca Swindle Cleveland Tate Darius Tate Alexia Taylor Desiree Taylor Leslie Taylor Michelle Taylor Minnie Taylor Nina Taylor Ramona Taylor Betty TaylorThompson Niecy Telemaque Ruby Telsee-Tinker Rashad Terrell Jarvis Tezeno D’Juana Thibedeaux Terrika Thibodeaux Carl Thomas Earl Thomas Georgia Thomas Krysten Thomas Maschiki Thomas Reanitra Thomas Robert Thomas Stella Thomas Veronica Thomas Ronetia Thompson Sherry Thompson Zatavia Thorn Sa’Ron Thornton Tericka Threatt Tiffany Toliver Tracey Tolliver Markus Tolson Sarah Trotty Robyn Troup Malcolm Troupe Martin Troupe Mica Tucker Candace Tuiteleieapaga Kiara Turner Roscoe Turner Shalanda Turner Chloe’ Twymon Shadai Valentine Terrence Valery Wynter Valery Thomas Valley Erik Vallie Xadrian Vanburen Brendan Vasquez David Wade Terrence Wadley Lanna Waithe Alice Walker C’Nae Walker Christina Walker DeMarcus Walker Dionne Walker Gary Walker Toni Wallace William Wallace Dolores Walls Shani Walsh Raylon Walters Bradley Ward Davida Ward Jennifer Ward Katrina Ward Ikeshia Ware Thomas Warner Haili Warren Trina Warren Debbie Washington Michael Washington Morgan Washington Raven Washington Sandra Washington Terrell Washington Melanie Watkins Maxcine Watson Samaya Watson Dwayne Weaver Sylvia Weddington Sylvia Wellington Cleveland Wesley Carlos Whitaker Aaron White Carla White Danielle White Demez White Lakaysha White Leonard White Quincy White Sophia White Tayana White Betty Whitfield Daja Whitlow Nieshia Whitt George Wiggins Brian Wilcox Melanie Wilcox Miles Tanita Wiley Brandy Wilkerson Andre` Williams Candace Williams Casey Williams Cherquarivs Williams Jordon Williams Kayonna Williams Lauryn Williams Marshanda Williams Mary Williams Shantese Williams Traci Williams Rashanique Williams Celeste Willis Jarry Wilson Tiffany Wilson Zelquawana Wilson Leviathan Winn Dwain Nolan Woodfork Ashley Woods Karen Woods Kirstin Woods Jessica Wortham Danielle Wright George Wright Javad Wright Branden York Judy Young Tiara Young Lidia Zaldivar 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) February is a month when special emphasis is placed on those who laid the ground work for African Americans. As Wheeler Avenue Christian Academy observes Black History this month, we must pay tribute to Mrs. Audrey Hoffman Lawson, who founded the Wheeler Avenue Infant School, which is now Wheeler Avenue Christian Academy. The school existed from the inception of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church until Pastor Cosby had a vision of a Christian school with higher levels of learning. We thank Mrs. Lawson and those who worked with her, as well as former WACA Executive Directors, Dr. Doris Bilton, Dr. Jacqueline Cobbins, Deacon Billie J. Johnson, and the present executive director, Deaconess Ada D. Carr. We would also like to thank former Infant School Director, Mrs. Gloria Rose. We salute all former and present staff members. A Christian Education is a blessing. We are still enrolling students. Please call 713579-2792 for more information. 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]. 8 churchwide events Hour of Power Prayer Service Join us every Wednesday during the month of February 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_BusinessDirectory-2014.pdf. Calendar February 2015 Wednesday, February 4 e Spirit of a People Bible Study Series Pain & Perserverance 12noon & 7:00pm THE SUNDAY FEAST – BEGINNING FEBRUARY 22 You are invited to feast on God’s Word each Sunday at 11:00 am during the season of Lent in Room 207. This series will infuse your prayer life and fortify your commitment to our congregational fast. All proceeds from the book support the WABC Building Fund, so purchase a copy today at Chronicles Bookstore. Friday, February 6 e Spirit of a People: An Evening of Music, Arts and Literature 7:00pm Saturday, February 7 Seasoned Saints Salute 11:00am Wednesday, February 11 e Spirit of a People Bible Study Series Prayer & Proclamation 12noon & 7:00pm Avenues to Employment - February Class Schedule The Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church Employment Assistance Ministry, Avenues to Employment, will offer resume preparation workshops on Wednesday, February 4 and Wednesday, February 11. The two-hour workshops will begin at 1:30 p.m. and will be held in the Christian Life Center. For more information, please email [email protected], or go to the ministry website: http://avenues.thejobconnection.org/ Ash Wednesday, February 18 e Spirit of a People Bible Study Series Pride & Progress 12noon & 7:00pm Saturday, February 21 Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church Oratorical Contest 9:00am Wednesday, February 25 e Spirit of a People Bible Study Series Praise & Protest 12noon & 7:00pm Friday, February 27 Fisk Jubilee Singers Concert 7:00pm 9 DANIEL FAST 2015 IN OBSERVANCE OF THE HOLY SEASON OF LENT: FEBRUARY 18 - APRIL 4 Greetings, Beloved, This year as we approach the Holy Season of Lent, we will modify our usual fast. The entirety of the Wheeler Avenue congregation is being called to join together and prayerfully engage in the experience of the Daniel Fast for the 40 days of Lent: February 18th – April 4th (excluding Sundays). While we desire all to join together in this effort, we recognize that there are those who find themselves in different places, spiritually. As a consequence, for those who are simply beyond the Daniel Fast, we will ask that you join us in a complete fast from 6am - 6pm and the Daniel Fast thereafter for the 40-day experience. The third option is for those who feel as they cannot join in the full Daniel Fast for the entirety of the 40 days. If this is your reality, join us in the Daniel Fast from 6am - 6pm, breaking fast thereafter. There are three options above, which are each centered around the Daniel Fast. Not only does the Daniel Fast bring to us the opportunity to increase our spiritual lives, it likewise allows us to discipline our eating habits. To be sure, this is a season of SACRIFICE. You should stretch yourself beyond what is comfortable, and have faith to believe God for the miraculous. The Daniel Fast is a biblically-based partial fast. There are two anchoring scriptures for the Daniel Fast. In Daniel 1, the Prophet ate only vegetables (that would have included fruits) and drank only water. So from these scriptures, we get two of the guidelines for the fast: • Only fruits and vegetables • Only water for a beverage Then, in Daniel 10, we read that the Prophet ate no meat nor any precious breads or foods, and he drank no wine for 21 days. So, from this scripture, we get a third guideline: No sweeteners and no breads. Another important guideline is drawn from Jewish fasting principles, where no leaven is used during the fast. So that’s why yeast, baking powder, and the like, are not allowed on the Daniel Fast. Finally, with all the above puzzle pieces, we conclude that no artificial or processed foods nor any chemicals are allowed on the Daniel Fast. 10 FOODS TO enjoy All fruits. These can be fresh, frozen, dried, juiced or canned. Fruits include but are not limited to apples, apricots, bananas, blackberries, blueberries, boysenberries, cantaloupe, cherries, cranberries, figs, grapefruit, grapes, guava, honeydew melon, kiwi, lemons, limes, mangoes, nectarines, oranges, papayas, peaches, pears, pineapples, plums, prunes, raisins, raspberries, strawberries, tangelos, tangerines and watermelon. All vegetables. These can be fresh, frozen, dried, juiced or canned. Vegetables include but are not limited to artichokes, asparagus, beets, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celery, chili peppers, collard greens, corn, cucumbers, eggplant, garlic, ginger root, kale, leeks, lettuce, mushrooms, mustard greens, okra, onions, parsley, potatoes, radishes, rutabagas, scallions, spinach, sprouts, squashes, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, turnips, watercress, yams and zucchini. Veggie burgers are an option if you are not allergic to soy. All whole grains, including, but not limited to, whole wheat, brown rice, millet, quinoa, oats, barley, grits, whole wheat pasta, whole wheat tortillas, rice cakes and popcorn. All nuts and seeds, including, but not limited to, sunflower seeds, cashews, peanuts and sesame. Also, nut butters including peanut butter. All legumes. These can be canned or dried. Legumes including, but are not limited to, dried beans, pinto beans, split peas, lentils, black eyed peas, kidney beans, black beans, cannellini beans and white beans. All quality oils including, but not limited to, olive, canola, grape seed, peanut and sesame. Beverages: spring water, distilled water or other pure waters. Other: tofu, soy products, vinegar, seasonings, salt, herbs and spices. FOODS TO avoid All meat and animal products including, but not limited to, beef, lamb, pork, poultry, and fish. All dairy products including but not limited to milk, cheese, cream, butter, and eggs. All sweeteners including, but not limited to, sugar, raw sugar, honey, syrups, molasses, and cane juice. All leavened bread including Ezekiel Bread (it contains yeast and honey) and baked goods. All refined and processed food products including, but not limited to, artificial flavorings, food additives, chemicals, white rice, white flour, and foods that contain artificial preservatives. All deep fried foods including, but not limited to, potato chips, French fries and corn chips. All solid fats including shortening, margarine, lard and foods high in fat. Beverages including, but not limited to, coffee, tea, herbal teas, carbonated beverages, energy drinks, and alcohol. Remember, READ THE LABELS! 11 PRAYER GUIDE FEBR UA R Y 20 1 5 Dear Congregants, The month of February is generally a month when people think about love more. This month let’s focus our attention on God’s love for us, our love for Him, and our love for one another. Below you will find our Prayer Guide for the month of February. • • • • Monday thru Saturday between 12 noon and 1 p.m., please pray. Remember that Lent begins on February 18th, and Pastor is asking that we participate in a church wide forty-day fast. Beginning on February 18th, we are asked to practice the Daniel Fast, Monday through Saturday. Sundays are not included in the fast. 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 February 2, 2015 – Monday Exodus 15:13 – You in Your mercy and loving-kindness have led forth the people whom You have redeemed; You have guided them in Your strength to Your holy habitation. 1. Thank God for His mercy and loving-kindness and his guidance. 2. Pray that the Lord will guide you to where He wants you to be. 3. Pray for WABC and the building campaign and your commitment to it. February 3, 2015 - Tuesday Exodus 34:6 – And the Lord passed by before him, and proclaimed, The Lord! The Lord! A God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abundant in loving-kindness and truth. 1. Thank God for His loving-kindness and truth toward you. 2. Pray that the Lord will help you to be merciful and gracious, abounding in love. 3. Pray for WABC and the building campaign and your commitment to it. February 4, 2015 – Wednesday Zephaniah 3:17 – The Lord your God is in the midst of you, a Mighty One, a Savior [Who saves]! He will rejoice over you with joy; He will rest [in silent satisfaction] and in His love He will be silent and make no mention [of past sins, or even recall them]; He will exult over you with singing. 1. Thank God for forgiving all of your sins and for His great love. 2. Pray that the Lord will reveal those places in you where you need His forgiveness. 3. Pray for WABC and the building campaign and your commitment to it. February 5, 2015 – Thursday I Chronicles 16:34 – O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; for His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever! 1. Thank God that He is the same forever! 2. Pray that the Lord will help you to see His manifested mercy and loving-kindness in your life. 3. Pray for WABC and the building campaign and your commitment to it. February 6, 2015 – Friday Psalm 13:5 – But I have trusted, leaned on, and been confident in Your mercy and loving-kindness; my heart shall rejoice and be in high spirits in Your salvation. 1. Thank God that He is the one in Whom we have salvation. 2. Pray that you will learn to trust in His love toward YOU. 3. Pray for WABC and the building campaign and your commitment to it. 12 PRAYER GUIDE FEBR UA R Y 20 1 5 February 9, 2015 – Monday Mark 12:30 – And you shall love the Lord your God out of and with your whole heart and out of and with all your soul (your life) and out of and with all your mind (with your faculty of thought and your moral understanding) and out of and with all your strength. This is the first and principal commandment. 1. Thank God for His commandments. 2. Pray that the Lord will help you to love Him more. 3. Pray for WABC and the building campaign and your commitment to it. February 10, 2015 – Tuesday Mark 12:31 – The second is like it and is this, You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these. 1. Thank God for what He is to those who trust Him. 2. Pray that the Lord will help you to love yourself so that you can love others. 3. Pray for WABC and the building campaign and your commitment to it. February 11, 2015 – Wednesday John 3:16 – For so God so greatly loved and dearly prized the world that He [even] gave up His only begotten (unique) Son, so that whoever believes in (trusts in, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish (come to destruction, be lost) but have eternal (everlasting) life. 1. Thank God for the gift of His Son, Jesus the Christ. 2. Pray that the Lord will give you opportunities to share the good news of the Gospel. 3. Pray for WABC and the building campaign and your commitment to it. February 12, 2015 – Thursday Romans 5:5 – Such hope never disappoints or deludes or shames us, for God’s love has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit Who has been given to us. 1. Thank God for the hope you have in Him. 2. Pray that the Lord will fill you up with His love. 3. Pray for WABC and the building campaign and your commitment to it. February 13, 2015 – Friday I Corinthians 13:1 – If I [can] speak in the tongues of men and [even] of angels, but have not love (that reasoning, intentional, spiritual devotion such as is inspired by God’s love for and in us), I am only a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. 1. Thank God for the inspiration His love brings you. 2. Pray that the Lord will show you how to walk in love. 3. Pray for WABC and the building campaign and your commitment to it. February 16, 2015 – Monday I Corinthians 13:2 – And if I have prophetic powers (the gift of interpreting the divine will and purpose), and understand all the secret truths and mysteries and possess all knowledge, and if I have [sufficient] faith so that I can remove mountains, but have not love (God’s love in me) I am nothing (a useless nobody). 1. Thank God for all of the gifting and abilities He has given you. 2. Pray that the Lord will keep you humble. 3. Pray for WABC and the building campaign and your commitment to it. February 17, 2015 – Tuesday I Corinthians 13:3 – Even if I dole out all that I have [to the poor in providing] food, and if I surrender my body to be burned in order that I may glory, but have not love (God’s love in me), I gain nothing. 1. Thank God for giving you opportunities to be a blessing to others. 2. Pray that the Lord will not allow you to work in vain. 3. Pray for WABC and the building campaign and your commitment to it. February 18, 2015 – Wednesday Ephesians 3:17 – May Christ through your faith [actually] dwell (settle down, abide, make His permanent home) in your hearts! May you be rooted deep in love and founded securely on love. 1. Thank God for His presence on the inside of you. 2. Pray that your heart will be filled with the love of God. 3. Pray for WABC and the building campaign and your commitment to it. 13 PRAYER GUIDE FEBR UA R Y 20 1 5 February 19, 2015 – Thursday Galatians 5: 22-23 – But the fruit of the [Holy] Spirit [the work which His presence within accomplishes] is love, joy (gladness), peace, patience (an even temper, forbearance), kindness, goodness (benevolence), faithfulness, Gentleness (meekness, humility), self-control (self-restraint, continence). Against such things there is no law [that can bring a charge]. 1. Thank God for His faithfulness in completing the work He began in you. 2. Pray that the fruit of the Spirit will be made manifest in your life. 3. Pray for WABC and the building campaign and your commitment to it. February 20, 2015 – Friday Philippians 1:9 – And this I pray: that your love may abound yet more and more and extend to its fullest development in knowledge and all keen insight [that your love may display itself in greater depth of acquaintance and more comprehensive discernment], 1. Thank God that His love never grows cold or changes. 2. Pray that the Lord will cause your love of Him and others to grow more and more. 3. Pray for WABC and the building campaign and your commitment to it. February 23, 2015 – Monday Philippians 1:10 – So that you may surely learn to sense what is vital, and approve and prize what is excellent and of real value [recognizing the highest and the best, and distinguishing the moral differences], and that you may be untainted and pure and unerring and blameless [so that with hearts sincere and certain and unsullied, you may approach] the day of Christ [not stumbling nor causing others to stumble]. 1. Thank God that He keeps your foot from slipping. 2. Pray that the Lord will help you to put all things in their proper perspective. 3. Pray for WABC and the building campaign and your commitment to it. February 24, 2015 – Tuesday Colossians 3:14 – And above all these [put on] love and enfold yourselves with the bond of perfectness [which binds everything together completely in ideal harmony]. 1. Thank God that He is love and love never fails. 2. Pray that the Lord will help you to allow the perfect love of God to cast out all your fears. 3. Pray for WABC and the building campaign and your commitment to it. February 25, 2015 – Wednesday Hebrews 6:10 – For God is not unrighteous to forget or overlook your labor and the love which you have shown for His name’s sake in ministering to the needs of the saints (His own consecrated people), as you still do. 1. Thank God that He rewards the faithful. 2. Pray that the Lord will help you to love those who are of the household of faith. 3. Pray for WABC and the building campaign and your commitment to it. February 26, 2015 – Thursday Hebrews 10:24 – And let us consider and give attentive, continuous care to watching over one another, studying how we may stir up (stimulate and incite) to love and helpful deeds and noble activities. 1. Thank God that He watches over you with a watchful eye. 2. Pray that the Lord will use you to encourage others in the faith. 3. Pray for WABC and the building campaign and your commitment to it. February 27, 2015 – Friday I Peter 1:22 – Since by your obedience to the Truth through the [Holy] Spirit you have purified your hearts for the sincere affection of the brethren, [see that you] love one another fervently from a pure heart. 1. Thank God that nothing can separate you from His love. 2. Pray that the Lord will search your heart for purity. 3. Pray for WABC and the building campaign and your commitment to it. 14 s c e n e s f r o m 2015 m l k day o f s e r v i c e 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 ONT ACT 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. David Moore, Minister of Christian Marriage and Counseling [email protected] Rev. Lana Reese Prayer Requests 713-741-4611 [email protected] Rev. Lana Reese Minister of Prayer [email protected] Sis. Shirley Wilkerson Membership Updates and Baptism Information 713-579-2778 [email protected] Sis. Andrea Tucker Administrative Assistant to the Pastor [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] Deacon Vernon Umstead Human Resources & Technology Manager [email protected] 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 Rev. Dr. Barbara Williams Minister of Christian Counseling [email protected] LIKE us on facebook www.facebook.com/WheelerAvenueBC 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 FOLLOW us on Twitter @WheelerAvenueBC www.twitter.com/WheelerAvenueBC Follow us on Instagram @WheelerAvenueBC 3826 Wheeler Avenue Houston, Texas 77004 713.748.5240 www.wheelerbc.org
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