S E K’ ND IC IN E U K A HN AZ TH AC I-ET MAG BL LT AN U M ISTI R CH
www.keepthefaith.co.uk
ISSUE 110
One love and unity! Dealing with depression The impact and influence of Christian men
Donnie McClurkin
Debt-free and faith-filled
‘Live in London’ anniversary NICOLE HENRY SINGS ARETHA FRANKLIN
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“This book was singularly instrumental in awakening of the free world the conscience to the horrors experienced by our brothers and sisters behind the Iron Curtain.” Charles Colson “When you have read this No generation should book, pass it to your children. miss this story.” Rob Parsons must have a place but also in our hearts.” not only on our bookshelves Jim Graham
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Welcome to Issue 110 I hope you are enjoying the summer. It isn’t long now before the children return to school after the summer break, colleges and universities start their new terms, and autumn arrives! Before you know it, Christmas will be here… This issue of Keep The Faith is packed with the usual variety of great articles. Donnie McClurkin is back in the UK in October to celebrate 20 years since his ‘Live in London’ concert. We have an interview with Dave P of UGN Radio; Emmanuel Smith tells us about his time on The Voice UK, and we highlight how gospel artists can access the African markets. Check out our list of Christian men - role models whose lives are making an impact! Their influence is so necessary, because we also look at why there is so much hate in the world. This is a question that arises every time there is another stabbing, another shooting or another vile attack to wound and disable. ‘One love and unity’ explores the need to work together. This is a must-read! We have a really interesting article that gives insight into the role music played in the worship lifestyles of the Windrush Generation. Our ‘Debt-free and Faith-filled’ article will be useful for anyone who has financial worries. Our health pages deal with depression, prostate cancer and hypertension, and our missions pages bring inspiring testimonies from Burundi, Uganda, Zambia and Benin. What makes Keep The Faith magazine stand out from the rest is that the articles are all contributed by its readers, all keen to highlight positive and inspirational work, testimonies, music and much more from within the Christian community. Do you have something you would like to share with our readers? Then consider submitting an article to us. If you run a project in the community that would make a great feature for Keep The Faith, then get in touch. We would love to hear from you. Enjoy!
10
TS CONTE1N 10 ISSUE
NEWS
20
24
04 In the news 06 When you feed the least of these, you feed Me by Christmas Lunch on Jesus
GOSPEL MUSIC 08 Is gospel music catching festival fever? by Juliet Fletcher 10 Donnie McClurkin and the anniversary that changed gospel music by Ben Harrell 12 Sarah Téibo’s groundbreaking video with Fred Hammond by Ben Harrell 12 Deborah Denise’s ‘Give Me You’ London Tour by Ben Harrell 14 Kampala, Uganda: Where faith, music and philanthropy meet by Tom Morris 14 Opportunities for UK Gospel artists to access African markets by Segodi Leshalabe
INTERVIEW 16 Dave P: ‘Dean of the New Breed’ by Milton B. Allen 18 Ibe Giantkiller by Marlene Cato 20 Emmanuel Smith by Akosua Dwomo-Fokuo
FEATURE
26
21 One love and unity! by Richard Reddie 22 How the Windrush Generation laid the foundation for UK gospel music by Roy Francis 24 Nicole Henry sings the music of Aretha Franklin 26 The impact and influence of Christian men by Marcia Dixon
COMMENT 30 Friend or foe? by Gary Clayton 32 Salt and light - a response to the prevailing culture of hate by Dionne Gravesande 34 Food 4 Thought by Marcia Dixon 36 Don’t despise the jars of clay by Esther Kuku
Blessings
Shirley McGreal
LIFESTYLE KEEP THE FAITH MAGAZINE R
Keep The Faith Ltd keepthefaithteam 71-75 Shelton Street @keepthefaithmag Covent Garden keepthefaithmagazine London WC2H 9JQ keepthefaith.co.uk T: 0845 193 4433 keepthefaithdirectory.co.uk
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The Publisher would like to thank Juliet Fletcher, Ben Harrell, Tom Morris, Segodi Leshalabe, Milton B Allen, Marlene Cato, Akosua Dwomo-Fokou, Richard Reddie, Roy Francis, Marcia Dixon, Joy Roxborough, Dionne Gravesande, Gary Clayton, Esther Kuku, Dr T Ayodele Ajayi, Modupe Peters, Erisa Katono, Ann Fogiel-Jenkins, Karen Grima, Rebecca Parnell, Wonu Yoloye, Emily Gregoriou, Chris Wood, Diverse Media Group, our supporters and advertisers. The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Publisher.
37 A Christian response to addiction 38 Kingdom nuggets for dealing with depression by Dr T Ayodele Ajayi 40 Hypertension in the African Caribbean population by Modupe Peters
MISSION 41 Rising up for Refugees 42 In the storm: Compassion for the lonely 44 Rebuilding lives with Benin’s first and only reconstructive surgeon 45 Inspirational homes of help 46 The Ugandan pastor released from poverty and into God’s mission www.keepthefaith.co.uk
04 NEWS
MJR RAISING FUNDS TO RAISE AWARENESS A group of Christians have embarked on a campaign to raise £90,000 to finance the refurbishment of a ship which will sail around the coast of Britain in 2020 to raise awareness of the legacy of slavery. When it goes on its travels, around Britain and to the Americas, the ship will be called The Zong and aims to work with local communities. This initiative is being undertaken by the Movement of Justice and Reconciliation (MJR). Founded in 2015, MJR seeks to make society aware of the ways in which slavery still impacts Black people’s lives and encourage society to take steps to redress that legacy.
BLYTHSWOOD IS CONFIDENT IN GOD’S WORD – AND WE ARE, TOO! Erisa Katono explains why he supports Blythswood’s Shoe Box Appeal Blythswood Care Christmas Shoe Box Appeal brings together all ages at Selhurst Evangelical Church. And that’s just one reason why youth worker Erisa Katono is so enthusiastic about it. “The children are excited to fill their shoeboxes together,” he says. “It can be something as simple as donating a toothbrush. Then, on Shoe Box Sunday, they file into the church to add their boxes to the pile donated by the congregation. “They can see they are taking part in a collective effort along with the adults. Senior ladies help by pre-wrapping the boxes in nice paper. It’s a way for them to serve.” Erisa sees the Shoe Box Appeal as a practical expression of the Gospel. “It’s biblical to care for the poor,” he says. Last
year’s appeal resulted in 107,000 boxes for needy people in Eastern Europe, filled with practical gifts, such as a warm hat, a bar of soap and a packet of sweets. He also likes the fact that Blythswood addresses people’s greatest need, by including Bible storybooks and calendars. “That makes it quite unique,” he says. “It’s good to see that Blythswood is confident in God’s Word. We are as well, and this helps our young people to see that.” The appeal is supported by churches across the UK, from Shetland to Cornwall. To discover how you can join in, visit www.shoeboxappeal.org or call 01349 830777.
Church leader Pastor Alton Bell (pictured above) is MJR’s chair. He is desirous for churches to support and help MJR achieve its aims. He said, “The purpose of sailing The Zong is to support projects that deal with the issues caused by the aftermath of slavery and work with local communities to formulate projects that deal with local issues.” For more information visit www.mjr-uk.com
KINGSGEN BOOSTING CONFIDENCE FOR OXBRIDGE APPLICATIONS Christian church leader Rev Nick Nunayon is spearheading efforts to get Black children into leading schools and universities like Oxford and Cambridge via The Kingsgen Foundation, an award-winning charity he founded in 2010. He believes Black children should be encouraged and helped to attend top schools and universities because they’ll receive a quality education. The KF organises annual
trips to Cambridge and Oxford for young people, so they get insight into what it might be like to study there. It also hosts conferences for parents and young people, and a Computer Coding and Robotic Academy, to ignite young people’s interests in STEM subjects. It provides mentoring in Lewisham and Croydon, where it is set up. KF is an organisation that seeks to have an impact. Rev Nunayon stated: “Parents have
shared how informative and empowering they’ve found the special events we’ve held, whilst their children have stated that attending our initiatives has opened up their minds to the fact that attending a leading university is not an impossible dream and has given them the confidence to apply.” For more information visit www.kingsgen.co.uk
NEWS 05
“Ethan has completed our family”
Adoption has brought families together through the ages. Unfortunately, often children from BAME backgrounds wait longer than other children to find adoptive families in London. But what’s it really like adopting a child into your family? Veronica and David adopted their son Ethan through Coram two years ago, when he was 15 months old. As black adoptive parents, they felt it was important to adopt a child of African or Caribbean descent so they could understand and promote their son’s cultural heritage as he grows up. Veronica says: “Adopting a black child was important to us. We feel very comfortable to teach our son about his heritage and are best placed to support him with any challenges and issues. “We need to dispel myths around adoption” In our culture there tends to be a focus on getting married and having children and if any issues come up with this, adoption isn’t something that’s always considered. I think we need to dispel myths around adoption. There are children who need a home and
there are regular people out there ready to adopt. I think that’s something that everyone in our communities could resonate with. David says: “We went along to Coram’s open event and what struck us was how honest they were. I suppose I had an old-fashioned view of what adoption was about and Coram was realistic about what these children have been through.” Support along the adoption journey – and beyond The couple said that Coram’s approach and training were very thorough and they felt prepared at every stage. Whilst they haven’t accessed any post-adoption support yet, Veronica and David know there’s a range of support there if they need it. They have also kept in touch with other parents who adopted at Coram at a similar time, who have become part of their support network. Veronica says: “Ethan has completed our family and it’s about letting others know that they can have this experience too.”
To find out more, call Coram Ambitious for Adoption on: 020 7520 0383, email adoption@coram.org.uk, or why not join the next adoption open evening – details at coramadoption.org.uk.
A chance to play again Can you offer a permanent, loving and supportive home to a child, where they will feel happy and secure? Coram helps find adopters for children from different ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
Start your adoption journey today Come to an information event...
When : Tuesday 5 November 2019, 6:30-8:30pm Where : Coram, 41 Brunswick Square,
London, WC1N 1AZ
To book on to this event contact us:
020 7520 0383
I
adoption@coram.org.uk Find more adoption events near you at coramadoption.org.uk/ adoption-events
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06 NEWS
When you feed the least of these, you feed Me.
W
hen you think about Christmas, what do you think about? Presents? Christmas lights? Baby Jesus? The Christmas stories? Holidays? Snow? The songs sell us an image: ‘It’s the season to be jolly…’, ‘Joy to the world…’, ‘Heavenly Peace….’, ‘It is the most wonderful time of the year…’ Christmas time. The festive season. Christmas is acknowledged worldwide, and everything points to a positive, happy time, one to look forward to. It is not surprising then that most people associate the Christmas season with family, friends, exchanging gifts and enjoying a festive meal together. However, for some people, this is not the case. Christmas, for them, is a time filled with trepidation and anxiety, as they realise they are not in a financial position to meet the demands of the season, and a festive meal is but a dream.
‘Christmas Lunch on Jesus’ is an initiative that started in 2007 to help underprivileged people in the London Borough of Barnet to have access to a free nutritious Christmas lunch. It has grown considerably over the years, since other churches and organisations have got involved in distributing hampers in communities across the country. CLOJ, as we fondly refer to it, now exists in 20 boroughs in London, 15 cities in the UK and 3 other countries as a franchise. A CLOJ hamper is filled with everything that is required for a hearty healthy Christmas lunch - from the Brussel sprouts
Testimony 2: The hamper was a lovely mixture of Christmas food and things we had not been able to buy because of money problems. We had a wonderful Christmas dinner and turkey sandwich for tea. Evan the dog loved it. We had an early present opening the box and getting things out and seeing what was next. The CD was played lots of times and we had a few little dances while peeling the potatoes and sprouts. Thank you for making our Christmas a happy one, God bless you and may He keep you safe.
to the turkey! Working with the local authorities and other agencies, families in need are identified and recommended to receive a hamper. The hampers are given free to celebrate God’s gift of Jesus to the world. Over the years we have given over 20,000 hampers out. The outreach runs on the generosity of church members and of the public who donate a given amount to sponsor a hamper. We have recently had the support of large corporations who have matched donations as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility. Seeing ourselves as the hands and feet of Jesus, we believe as Christians that we must show the love of Jesus in practical ways. We believe that for some people, we will be their first contact with Jesus. In the words of a few of the recipients: Testimony 1: Thank you all very much for a wonderful Christmas hamper, it was exciting to open it and discover all the good food inside. It certainly has made our Christmas something we don’t have to worry about now because everything has been catered for. So, thank you all for making our Christmas special and wishing everyone a very happy Christmas and all the best for the new year. Love from the Brown family.
Testimony 3: Many thanks for the Christmas hamper. As a pensioner, I really appreciated it because it provided us a hot Christmas lunch. We would not have afforded it, much of our pensions go on bills and there is very little left. We are eating very frugally. There is not much cash left after paying for the gas, electricity and council tax. Please provide us a hamper next year as well. Many thanks, God bless. We would like to help as many people as we can. It is our desire to see that no one in our community goes without a traditional Christmas lunch. We can only do this with your help. Donations are the lifeblood of the CLOJ project, and we depend on the generosity of people like you. If you would like to make a difference in the lives of others this Christmas, please get involved by visiting www.christmaslunchonjesus.com
08 GOSPEL MUSIC
IS GOSPEL MUSIC CATCHING FESTIVAL FEVER? The advantage of getting caught up with mass audience participation JULIET FLETCHER
Festival of Praise, Manchester
is a former BBC Producer and funding Executive of the GMIA
T
he live music experience… As a performing artist, nothing can beat being at the forefront of a mass audience, who are totally immersed in the music, singing the lyrics, swaying, dancing, lost in the moment. Of course we experience this all the time, every week when we go to church. Whether a large or small congregation, during conventions or conferences, a beautiful exchange takes place when we are offering up thanksgiving to our worthy Father God and JESUS Christ. That’s a joyous experience. PART OF THE CULTURAL FLOW However my main reference is regarding music festivals, reinforcing the view that gospel music performers of all kinds should form a significant part of the current culture of mass crowd gatherings. This isn’t something new, because music festivals have been a part of British public enjoyment at least since the 1960s, with the beginning of rock/pop culture - although jazz and blues have undergirded that movement. Over the years, the well known faith-based festivals have given relatively little room to headline gospel artists on their own merit, preferring them instead as being a ‘featured special’. Examples in the past include Greenbelt Festival, where a few of the great British gospel acts actually got to mainstage - Kainos and Paradise are the two I recall most of all, but that was a long, long time ago. Admittedly Pentecostals and others from the Black community were very reluctant to attend and, as someone put it to me, “…spend the day in a field in my good clothes? No way!” Pastor Abimbola Komolafe
I’m not going to harp on about the issues and concerns extended to major current-day Christian events, where award-winning and internationally recognised British gospel acts have not been afforded mainstage positions. Although strictly not a music festival, Spring Harvest has done well to change its position, with the inclusion of Noel Robinson, Mark Beswick and John Fisher with IDMC appearing as guest music ministers in a week-long programme. This has helped to open up the way for praise & worship, as well as choirs from Pentecostal and Charismatic movements. FESTIVALS FOR OURSELVES My focus is to advance beyond this issue, to where artists and promoters are organising gospel-based festivals of their own that allow for British-based acts to lead the festival storyline. Artists like John Fisher, who stages the ’WeSingUSing‘ Festival that has attracted thousands of children and youth, as well as their parents; Pastor Abimbola Komolafe, alongside his late wife, Folu Komolafe, founded the hugely successful Festival of Praise in Manchester, which attracts around ten thousand people (although it is free), and FRI:3DM Festival, staged by Zoe Gospel Records - the leading gospel record and distribution company. Ideally we need a trail of gospel festivals across the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, and on the mainland from John O’ Groats to Land’s End. Some time ago, GMIA executives discussed the whole matter of festivals and the important role they have played in other countries of Europe. The decision was made to focus on a festival trail right throughout the UK, and to that end, research has taken place to see what can be done to enhance our scene through festivals. Recently I had a conversation with John
Fisher, who was describing his experience of being in Denmark as part of a six-week gospel choir-based festival: each week individuals would attend and spend that time being taught by a range of choir directors and vocal teachers. Six weeks! Can you imagine? Bazil Meade MBE has been part of expanding gospel music in countries like Italy, who seem to have an insatiable appetite for the choir sound. Peter Francis, Dave Daniel, Ruth and Emmanuel Waldron, brothers Tyndale and David Thomas, alongside John Fisher & IDMC, as well as Volney Morgan & New Ye are among those continuing to make inroads for British Gospel in various parts of Europe. Bazil Meade MBE
As our good Father would have it, I was recently asked to put together artists on behalf of the Selah Festival of Music & Arts, based in the heart of central London at Holy Sepulchre. It is a church plant by HTB (Holy Trinity Brompton, of Alpha Course fame), and is known as the National Musicians’ Church. There rest the remains of Sir Henry Wood, a founding conductor of BBC Proms, and a special Book of Remembrance marks many famous musicians in the Chapel. Without hesitation, I secured the support of the
GMIA to draw a wide range of artists and bring a new flavour and experience to Londoners. Selah Festival of Music & Arts will take place over three days: from Thursday 3rd to Saturday 5th October. Each evening will feature a special programme: Spoken Word & Poetry, with cutting edge drama; JUMPMusic Video Awards for the best in artistic excellence, for artists and videographers/filmmakers, and a concert, featuring reggae music, awarded as a listed UNESCO Global Heritage artform. Please visit www. https://selahfestival2019.eventbrite.co.uk for more information and tickets. Guests include: Joshua Luke Smith, Jermaine Wong, Loretta Andrews, The Gospel Brunch Band from the famous 606 Club, featuring Sarah Téibo, Adelaide McKenzie, Brenda Emmanuel & Elaine Rose, Patrick George & UPMass Choir, Annette Bee, The Simpson Sisters, and more. John Fisher & IDMC
Guests include: Joshua Luke Smith, Jermaine Wong, Loretta Andrews, The Gospel Brunch Band from the famous 606 Club, featuring Sarah Téibo, Adelaide McKenzie, Brenda Emmanuel & Elaine Rose, Patrick George & UPMass Choir, Annette Bee, The Simpson Sisters, and more. FESTIVALS ON THE BIGGER PLATFORMS This does not preclude artists from seeking inclusion in the many festivals that take place all over the UK. Recently, Premier Christian Radio announced a ‘virtual’ festival, where they are turning over all the platforms in its media family to broadcasting music from the festivals that have happened over the summer. These include: Big Church Day Out, Spring Harvest, Creation Fest, Woman to Woman Conference and Premier Gospel Awards. We know that is good for an airing to draw people on to one of Britain’s most popular Christian radio networks. Yet we need to consider this: According to industry umbrella body, UK Music (www.ukmusic.org), in 2017 more than four million people attended festivals and over twenty-nine million went to live music events. We could do with a slice of that cake! Were you one of the millions, like me, who watched Stormzy on stage at Glastonbury, singing his gospel-inspired, choral-driven anthem ’Blinded By Your Grace‘? I watched transfixed, as thousands sang along with him and the choir:
Lord, I’ve been broken Although I’m not worthy You fixed me, I’m blinded By Your grace You came and saved me Lord, I’ve been broken Although I’m not worthy You fixed me, now I’m blinded By Your grace You came and saved me
Stormzy
Copyright 2017 Stormzy www.stormzy.com I know, he’s not your quintessential ‘gospel artist’, however, it was an excellent sight to behold. There are individual artists, who do well performing on festival stages. LCGC has done a Sunday at Glastonbury many times, and Jake Isaac featured as a popular artist there. Unfortunately we don’t see enough of this, and the songs are yet to carry into mainstream consciousness. Of course, I am expressing a different issue when I say that, but I guess it affects how we can engage in those opportunities. It may well be that some of our artists, who are Christians but do not operate their gift under the umbrella of ‘gospel artist’, may be the very creatives who will reach out more effectively. Let me quote from a good gospel brother of mine, Tyndale Thomas MBE: “There is a hunger for what God has given us. It doesn’t always happen in the Church. The unconventional and unexpected is the Lord’s way!”
CENTRE FOR BLACK THEOLOGY Offering programmes in theological education for lay and ordained leaders of Black Majority Churches from across the UK
Would you like to be a part of progressive and rigorous learning of theology shaped by the liberative and contextual lens of Black Theology?
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There’s a new MA programme accessible through part-time studies. Programme designed for busy, thoughtful and committed church and community leaders, who are keen to confront historic and contemporary issues, aided by socially transforming knowledge gained through black theological imagination.
• Find more details here: http://www.queens.ac.uk/what/bml • For an application form to study contact: admissions@queens.ac.uk • Telephone: 0121 454 1527
Classes held on Saturdays only (10 Saturdays per academic year) with Professor Robert Beckford and other Tutors.
For more information about the centre and programmes, contact the Centre Director, Dr Dulcie Dixon McKenzie: cbt@queens.ac.uk
DR DULCIE DIXON MCKENZIE PROF. ROBERT BECKFORD Director of Centre Tutor
The Queen’s Foundation Birmingham for Ecumenical Theological Education
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10 GOSPEL MUSIC
Donnie McClurkin and the an that changed gospel music BY BEN HA RRELL G LOB A L M US IC L INK E DITO RIA L T E A M
T
here are pivotal moments that occur along the career path of an entertainer that can open the door to success. Moments that not only cement their platform on a global stage but place their name in the same sentence as the greats that have gone before them. Gospel music has been blessed with the likes of Andraé Crouch, Walter Hawkins and Mahalia Jackson, who have been influences to the ‘Reigning King of Urban Gospel’. Donnie McClurkin has a music career that spans over 40 years, with an anniversary on the horizon that changed the face of gospel music 20 years ago. Roy Francis, ‘Songs of Praise’ producer, had an idea to put together a Christmas programme at the Fairfield Hall in Croydon, England. “I put my programme on paper, as one does, and presented it to my editor.” Roy was challenged to address how people can deal with loneliness at Christmas. “I went away, thought about it…I was going to film the aspect of loneliness, and I needed a song to go with it. I remember my sister kept telling me about this guy called Donnie McClurkin, so I bought his album and listened to it. I thought a track from his album called ‘Stand’ could work for my programme.” Donnie McClurkin flew to England with the intention to perform his song on the live segment of the programme. “What was interesting was his manager. I thought to myself, ‘I know him.’ We knew each other. He was the person behind Richard Smallwood, who I brought over 10 years earlier. After the recording, after the rehearsal, we had lunch and talked about working on a project together. Interestingly enough, I decided that I was going to start my own business - a production company and this was going to be a great first project. This would pave the way to the live recording of ‘Live in London and More.’ In 1999, a packed house at the Fairfield Hall in Croydon, England, became a day to remember, as Donnie McClurkin performed. Songs like ‘Caribbean Medley’ became an instant favourite as a captivated audience watched. “Donnie put a Caribbean medley together, and I always felt that gave his album a distinctive appeal. Here is an American gospel album,
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with this reggae traditional Caribbean medley, which just gave an interesting twist. “It was absolutely huge! The album propelled him into the stratosphere. It was immense; he was immense. People loved him. The choir and musicians came from London. His music took off in America, and he became a fan favourite in London.” (Roy Francis, 2019) ‘Live in London and More’ would go on to be certified as platinum, according to the Recording Industry Association of America. ‘We Fall Down’ received Traditional Gospel Recorded Song of the Year from the Dove Awards in 2001. Donnie received the BET Awards’ Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/ Inspirational Artist in 2001. Live in London would win Best Gospel Album from the Soul Train Music Awards in 2002. In the same year, Donnie received numerous Stellar Awards, such as: Artist of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year, CD of the Year, Traditional Male Vocalist of the Year, Traditional CD of the Year and Music Video of the Year for ‘Live in London’.
GOSPEL MUSIC 11
nniversary
TRANSFORMATIONAL
LEADERSHIP
JOHN C. MAXWELL BETHEL CONVENTION CENTRE KELVIN WAY WEST BROMWICH B70 7JW
01 FEB 2020 (9am - 5pm)
Tickets available at
www.leaduk.org Twenty years from the live recording marks the anniversary for the Live in London recording. “We will be doing a live concert/recording in October at New Wine Church in London. They are donating the church to us absolutely free of charge, which is amazing to me. It’s going to be a wonderful, wonderful time. We are going to bring America to England, and show America what the UK is about. It’s going to be a landmark 20th year anniversary.” (Donnie McClurkin, 2019)
“It was absolutely huge! The album propelled him into the stratosphere. It was immense; he was immense. People loved him.”ROY FRANCIS, 2019
The Live in London Anniversary concert is scheduled on Friday, October 18th. It will be held at New Wine Church in South East London: Gateway House, John Wilson Street, Woolwich, London SE18 6QQ, UK.
Ben Harrell is the founder of Ambitions of a Writer, which is dedicated to inspiring songwriters, interviewing artists and empowering entrepreneurs. He also serves as the Director of Creative Content for Spiritual Plug Entertainment. Ben offers an online course to independent artists, which covers music registration, brand building and the tools that help get returns on investments. Find out more at BenjHarrell.com.
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12 GOSPEL MUSIC
SARAH TÉIBO’S GLOBAL LAUNCH OF GROUNDBREAKING VIDEO WITH FRED HAMMOND
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arah Téibo and gospel legend Fred Hammond recently released the video for ‘Like a Child Remix’. This edgy remake will surely climb the charts, giving listeners a reason to get up. With lyrics like ‘Through the hurt and pain, I’m gonna trust Him’, you have no choice but to remember that God is bigger than your problem. This song will surely help deliver listeners out of their circumstances. About working with Fred, Sarah said: “It has been a dream come true to work with Fred. He is one of my music icons, so for him to feature with me on a song I wrote is just surreal. ‘Like a Child Remix’ is one of my favourite songs on the album but, with Fred adding his flair and creativity, it has just taken it to another level.” The groundbreaking ‘Like a Child Remix’ video hit the airwaves, with exclusive broadcast TV debuts in the UK, France, Belgium, France, Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, the Caribbean, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Cameroon, Chad, Gabon, Côte D’Ivoire and Mali. Sarah speaks with Keep the Faith on the relationship she builds with listeners of her music. “There is a level of trust that is built between an
Deborah Denise’s ‘Give Me You’ London Tour Native American gospel songstress, Deborah Denise, takes on London from 28th September through to 6th October. She is a remarkable producer, singer, songwriter, keyboard player and vocal arranger, with a catalogue of over 60 songs that she has written and produced. Deborah’s love for London started in 2012, when radio presenters and DJs heard her album and started playing it. “Deborah Denise is one the most authentic artists I love to listen to and support, and the compassion behind her songwriting shows no limits. She will never be kept in a box. Deborah’s songs are a motto for living a strong life,” said Dave P of UGN. “When I get to London,” says Deborah, “I want to allow the Holy Spirit to plant His seeds in the hearts and souls of every person God brings to me. Through the Spirit of God in me, I want to allow God to break the chains off every life that I come into contact with, and to strengthen those who are weak. I want to encourage those who are fearful, and to allow God to raise up a nation whose people are as bold as lions, and who will not be afraid to take back (their nation) by force. When God sends me to London, I am yielded to be a tool in His hands, to let His will be accomplished wherever my feet land. God has put London on my heart for many years, because there’s something special and mighty that God wants to do with the people of London, and I’m honoured that God has chosen me to be a part of that powerful movement.”
artist and a follower as the artist shares music. Social media is huge, because it opens you up to a global audience. I remember receiving a video from Tanzania of a youth group dancing to my song. I have never been to Tanzania, but the guy who sent me the video follows me on Instagram. It’s a great asset to make the most of, by creating a connection with your followers.” Sarah has been able to travel to South Africa, Cyprus, Italy, Nigeria, Ghana, Scotland and Australia due to these connections, making her a truly global artist. Spreading the message of God is Sarah’s goal. Along the journey of sharing His Word with her followers comes the joy of bringing people closer to His love. ‘Like a Child Remix’ is a relatable example of how to build our faith, which helps Sarah build a relationship with her followers, one song at a time. Follow Sarah on Instagram: sarahteibomusic Ben Harrell is the founder of Ambitions of a Writer, and the creator of Billboard and Bookings 101. Find out more at BenjHarrell.com.
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is an interactive day for 12-18s to ask their big questions about God
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PROF JOHN LENNOX @prof johnlennox
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14 GOSPEL MUSIC
KAMPALA UGANDA
Where faith, music and philanthropy meet BY TOM MORRIS Global Music Link Editorial Team
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rowing up with six siblings, Anthony Faulkner recalls the many times people helped his family survive another day. Feeling blessed to have come through those challenging days, he has vowed to make a difference in people’s lives especially kids’. He believes that if you can influence a child to see beyond their circumstances and give them hope, the odds will change drastically. He believes this because it happened to him when he was nine. His musical guardian angel, Angela Winbush, introduced him to music and it changed the course of his life forever. International recording artist, Anthony Faulkner, is no stranger to Africa and has visited more than two dozen times. Some of his prior orphanage visits include Sanyu’s Babies’ Home and Agapé House Children’s Home. His most recent trip to Africa took him to Uganda, East Africa, where he made two visits to a village in Kampala. The village is supported by the Aliguma Foundation and operates strictly on donations. Upon arrival, Anthony and the team were greeted with tribal dances and victory chants. With a huge smile on their faces they felt at home. Compassion and love filled Anthony’s heart, as he spent the prior day shopping for supplies to take to the village. As the founder of The Faulkner Foundation, Anthony’s mission was to help support daily life in the village.
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Walking down the aisle in the store, he sang his song, ‘I trust You’. Smiles abounded as Anthony Faulkner and the welcoming villagers exchanged pleasantries. The UBC Television and Radio Network had assisted in setting up the visit, and once it had been confirmed, a few journalists heard that Anthony Faulkner was coming over and were interested in giving exposure to the Aliguma Foundation. Songs were sung and traditional greetings were given to Anthony Faulkner and the crew when they arrived, and after the dances, they asked Anthony Faulkner and Calvin Calvo (of UBC) to say a few words. The following day Anthony returned to the village without the camera crews. He had a special surprise for the kids and couldn’t wait to share it. American author, Dr Ollie Wheeler III, had donated copies of his children’s book, ’So Many Rules’, and Anthony’s surprise was to read it to the kids, and to pass out some copies. The children were so excited they immediately began re-reading the book in their native language to the kids who couldn’t read. “It was so touching, and made my heart smile,” recalls Anthony. The need for support may come in many
forms. Material donations are always welcome, however another way to give is to show up and give of your time. Your smile and kind words can go a very long way for someone who needs to experience human interaction. Tomorrow is not promised, so encourage someone today.
GOSPEL MUSIC 15
Opportunities for UK gospel artists to access African markets BY SEGODI LESHALABE Global Music Link Editorial Team
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lobalisation has been the buzz word for a number of years now. Every other industry is impacted, and the music industry is no exception. The good news is that most artists in various countries have always had, as one of their long-term goals, the desire to expand beyond their country’s borders. One of the untapped opportunities for UK gospel artists is that of expanding into the African continent. South Africa, although the furthest from the UK (compared with other African countries) still presents one of the best gateways for gospel artists to extend their footprint into the African continent. South Africa is numbered amongst the biggest economies on the continent, and gospel music is its biggest selling genre. Its annual Crown Gospel Music Awards not only ranks as the second biggest awards in the country (surpassed only by the country’s main music awards, the South Africa Music Awards), but it is also the biggest Gospel Music Awards in the whole of Africa. Furthermore, in recent times the industry
Todd Dulaney
has seen significant growth with various new artists coming to the fore, contributing to the already huge market share this music genre holds. In the past, ensembles like the multiple Grammy Award-winning Soweto Gospel Choir and the popular Joyous Celebration (who even recorded one of their live DVDs in the USA) used to lead the industry’s growth, but now solo acts are taking centre stage. Recently, one of the country’s major artists for over three decades now, Bishop Benjamin Dube, recorded his live DVD at a sell-out 10,000-seat venue. Two years ago, new entrant to the industry, Dr Tumi, filled one of the iconic venues in the country: the 12,000-capacity Dome in Johannesburg. He followed that up with his next DVD recording, attracting over 30,000 people to the country’s capital city, Pretoria. This year, Dr Tumi has announced that his next recording will be at Loftus stadium, where a 50,000-capacity crowd is expected. All of these expansions represent unique opportunities for UK gospel artists to enter the market through various avenues, some of which involve collaborations. In recent years, various American artists have recognised this opportunity - and have made use of it. Artists, like Grammy award-winning Israel Houghton and Donnie McClurkin; Stellar Award-winning Vashawn Mitchell and Todd Dulaney, and Dove Award-winning Jekalyn Carr have all gone to South Africa and collaborated with local artists on various projects. JJ Hairston featured two Nigerian artists on his Miracle Worker album that was recorded in Nigeria and the USA.
The UK, closer to South Africa than the USA distance-wise, has not made significant use of these avenues, meaning there are still lots of untapped opportunities. One major advantage is that South Africa’s biggest Gospel TV station, One Gospel, also broadcasts to various other countries across the African continent, so this presents a big marketing opportunity. With many SA artists using One Gospel to premiere their projects, this means many other African territories can be accessed simultaneously. South Africa is the new gateway to continental Africa. With so many opportunities, one can only hope that UK gospel artists and recording companies will make use of them - either through collaborations or live events in the country. For such partnerships to work they should include opportunities for SA artists to enter the UK market, thus creating a reciprocal win-win situation. With SA and UK enjoying longstanding ties, one can be certain that support for such initiatives can come even from various organisations, like The British Council - the UK’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities. Israel Houghton
JJ Hairston
Segodi Leshalabe is a director for NelSeg Entertainment. He’s also a speaker, blogger and an IT consultant. www.segodileshalabe.co.za
www.keepthefaith.co.uk
16 INTERVIEW
DAVE P: ‘DEAN OF THE NEW BREED’ Global Music Link recently had a rather engaging conversation with Dave P, owner of UGN Media. The conversation touched on many things, and chronicled his broadcasting journey over the last 30 years. What emerged is a remarkable story about a man who has a heart for the independent gospel artist. Hence, Mr Dave Paul has earned the mantle of ‘Dean of the New Breed’ of gospel artists.
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s a young man, Dave always loved music and his dream was to be a radio presenter. He would listen to a variety of radio stations from the UK and from different faraway places. Radio Luxembourg was a favourite on his little handheld radio. He got his first radio job playing gospel on a mainstream community station, with three shows: Saturday, Sunday and Tuesday. A remarkable thing happened one Saturday. The station manager came in, saying: “Dave, I can’t believe it! They’re listening to your show all over in the market. They are loving your gospel music. That’s never
happened before!!!” In Dave’s words: “For me, transitioning into that was a remarkable thing. I just couldn’t get away from it. It’s what I really love doing.” Dave’s consuming passion for the independents was fomented on his many trips to the States. “I used to go to America quite a lot, to the GMWA (Gospel Music Workshop of America), and what I saw with some artists - very humble - they just wanted the airplay and were so grateful. They would say: ‘You know, OK, man, I got a CD here. If you take it back to the UK, I guarantee you’re going to like it. It’s a jam, man.’ Actually, when I took it back, some of it was all right, but you could feel the passion in what they were talking about, because they just wanted to get out there.” Dave continues: “Well, I can’t imagine, if I’m a recording artist, what do I need to do to get out there? So, I put myself in their shoes to see it from their point of view, and you have a lot of radio stations, big guys, playing the same stuff over and over again, and these independent artists are writing even better songs. I just love to support because, you know, with me being independent as well, as far as I see it, I’m by myself too. So, I am a great supporter of great independent artists. That is what I do, and that is what I love doing. We all need support. That’s the way I see it.”
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“WE ALL NEED SUPPORT. THAT’S THE WAY I SEE IT.” During our far-reaching conversation, we asked Dave how he engages with this ‘new breed’ of independent gospel artist. Does he nurture them? Guide them along? Give them suggestions? “I do indeed. I am not afraid to say what I feel - with respect, of course. But they’ve got to understand that it’s a dog-eat-dog world in this game right now, and you really have to work hard. If your vocals are not on par, or if your production isn’t great, I’ll have to say you need to really go and rethink this again at the end of the day. You can tell me: ‘Man, this song has Jesus, it mentions God, and mentions going to the throne.’ No, your music really has to be on point as well, because if you want to get airplay on mainstream radio, then you’ve got to be really listening to what’s happening now. We’re not saying that you should be selling out or changing your lyrics, but you’ve got to think outside the box. You’ve got to create new songs and styles, instead of copying others. Find something inside of you, and let it happen.” We asked Dave if he thought UK gospel artists are copying the Americans too much… “That’s the thing, some people were copying too much and everything sounded the same. I know full well that I’m not the best broadcaster in the world, but guess what? I believe that I have a heart to deliver the way God created me. This is what I do at the end of the day. You know it’s not for everybody, but find something in yourself and people will sort of, like, shine together. I like that person because they are so natural. They don’t have to be using all these big fancy words; they are just like me. I just want to get by, so just let me do it. And that’s the thing about me and independent artists.” Well, Mr P, we suppose that’s why you are known as the ‘Dean of the New Breed’.
The Ministry Experience Scheme (MES) is a unique initiative The Ministry Experience Scheme (MES) is a unique initiative that gives young adults, from all(MES) backgrounds, the space The Experience is a unique initiative thatMinistry gives young adults,Scheme from all backgrounds, the space and timeyoung away adults, from the pressures of modern life to test that from all backgrounds, thelife space and gives time away from the pressures of modern to test God’s calling on their lives. It offers the chance to test experiand time awayon from thelives. pressures of modern life to to God’s calling their It offers the chance experience practical ministry, enrich theological understanding and God’s calling onministry, their lives. It offers the chance to experience ence practical enrich theological understanding and further personal development, all with ongoing support from practical ministry, enrich theological understanding and further personal development, all with ongoing support from peers and supervisors. Schemes are locally based across the further personal development, all with ongoing support from peers and supervisors. Schemes are locally based across the Church England andSchemes start in are September. peers andofsupervisors. locally based across the Church of England and start in September. Church of England start in are September. If you are aged 18and to 30 and looking for a year-long opIf you are aged 18 to 30 and are looking for a year-long opportunity to explore what God is calling you to, then the Ifportunity you are aged 18 to 30 andGod are looking foryou a year-long to explore what is calling to, then the Ministry Experience Scheme could be the forto, you. You will be opportunity to exploreScheme what God is calling then the Ministry Experience could be theyou for you. You will be placed in a church context where you can experience practiMinistry Schemewhere could be the forexperience you. You will be placed inExperience a church context you can practical ministry, suchcontext as kids where and youth work; chaplaincy; complaced in a church you can experience practical cal ministry, such as kids and youth work; chaplaincy; community work; preaching; pastoral visiting or event organisaministry, such as kids and youth work; chaplaincy; community munity work; preaching; pastoral visiting or event organisation. The year includes some theological study which can be work; preaching; pastoral visiting or event organisation. The tion. The year includes some theological study which can be tailored to you - it theological doesn't matter you have no tailored prior experiyear includes some studyifwhich can be tailored to you - it doesn't matter if you have no prior experience or already degree it. to youof - ittheology doesn’t matter if youhave havea no prior in experience of ence of theology or already have a degree in it. theology or already have a degree in it.
Supervision and mentoring are key aspects to the Ministry Supervision and mentoring are key aspects to the Ministry Experience Scheme. At every stage of your year you will be Experience Scheme. At every stage of your year you will be able to reflect on your experience with a supervisor to help able to reflect onmentoring your experience with a supervisor to help Supervision and are key aspects to the Ministry you discern what God is saying to you. In previous years 95% you discern Scheme. what GodAtisevery saying to you. In previous Experience yearthem youyears will be95% of participants have said thatstage MES of hasyour helped clarify ofable participants have said that MESwith has helped themtoclarify on your experience a supervisor help their to lifereflect calling. For some this is to pursue ordination or their life calling. For some this is to pursue ordination or you discern what God is saying to you. In previous years step into another type of church ministry; whilst others95% say step into another type ofthat church ministry; whilst others say of participants have said MES has helped them clarify they have a clearer sense of God’s purpose as disciples in they a clearer purposeordination as disciples theirhave life calling. Forsense some of thisGod’s is to pursue or in wider society and the workplace. wider society and the workplace. step into another type of church ministry; whilst others say Different local schemes provide the opportunity for retreats they havelocal a clearer sense of God’s purpose as disciples in Different schemes provide the opportunity for retreats and conferences as well as developing community with other wider society andasthe workplace. and conferences well as developing community with other participants through eating, praying and sharing life togethparticipants through eating, praying and sharingfor liferetreats togethDifferent local schemes provide the opportunity er. The scheme is free, accommodation and living expenses er. The scheme is free, accommodation and living expenses andprovided; conferences as well as developing community with other are as well ministry and theological costs being are provided; as well ministry and theological costs being participants eating, and sharing life together. covered. Thethrough exact way eachpraying local scheme is financed varies, covered. The exact way each local scheme is financed The scheme is free, accommodation and living expensesvaries, please check details upon enquiry. please check details enquiry. are provided; as wellupon ministry and theological costs being Ifcovered. you areThe passionate about maturing your Christian faith, exact way each local scheme financedfaith, varies, If you are passionate about maturing yourisChristian developing your leadership skills, growing your character and please check details upon enquiry. developing your leadership skills, growing your character and discerning further your life calling then we would love to discerning further your life calling then weChristian would love to If youfrom are passionate maturing your hear you. Pleaseabout visit our webpage to find outfaith, more. hear from you. visit our webpage findcharacter out more. developing yourPlease leadership skills, growingto your and https://www.churchofengland.org/ministryexperience discerning further your life calling then we would love to https://www.churchofengland.org/ministryexperience hear from you. Please visit our webpage to find out more. https://www.churchofengland.org/ministryexperience
www.keepthefaith.co.uk
18 INTERVIEW
Ibe ‘GiantKiller’ Otah In our last issue, Marlene Cato asked: ‘What makes Christian music producers tick?’ and she caught up with Luke Smith and Marcus Johnson. For this issue, she is talking to Ibe ‘GiantKiller’ Otah to get an insight into what he is passionate about and what motivates him.
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top music producer, Ibe has worked with many renowned artists, such as Integrity recording artist, Noel Robinson (Morris Cerullo Worship Leader); USA artists, The Kenoly Brothers (sons of Ron Kenoly); Grammy nominees, Gospel Gangstas; multi award-winning artists, like Isaiah-Raymond, Muyiwa, Guvna B, and many more. He worked with South African Grammynominated artist, Neville D, on his album, a remixed track called ‘Our God is Bigger’, which got to Number 1 on the StepFwd UK Christian Charts, and also performed well in South Africa. Otah also worked with MOBO and Premier Gospel award-winning artist Lurine Cato on remix on of her hit, ‘Power’, with producer Ian Copeland Green. The ‘Power GiantKiller Remix’ was a hit with South Africa’s top DJs, and is still a concert favourite. Ibe is diverse in his skills and interests. As the ‘GiantKiller’, he is a renowned radio personality in the UK, and well-known for his PG Saturday Breakfast Show on Premier Gospel Radio. He is the co-founder of Onboard Generation; Ibe oversees mission trips to Cape Town, South Africa, where he takes a featured artist to a region. Their activities include outreach work, musical concerts and leadership training, as well as prison ministry. Onboard Generation partners with ministries, such as The Message South Africa and His People North - the ministry’s covering - and other local churches. Ibe is also an established Christian comedian, who has performed alongside some of the UK’s top comedians. He uses joy and laughter to engage audiences, and is sure to cause many to smile, bringing healing from a friendly perspective. Born and raised in London, Otah now resides in Hertfordshire. Ibe Otah has some ‘GiantKiller’ news for his forthcoming projects, working with some exciting artists. Check out his debut single, Perfect ft Joni J. Find us on Twitter and Facebook: @KeepTheFaithmag
At what age did you first realise you would like to be in the music industry, and what was the first thing you remembered doing? When I was 18, I fell in love with production. I bought a Commodore 64 with a sampler, and started programming beats. The first artist I produced for was an artist by the name of Wariyah.
If you could offer some advice to producers at the beginning of their journey, what would it be? Study producers. Study their sounds and songwriting. Never be afraid to experiment. Music has no boundaries. But get yourself a mentor, or someone who will tell you the truth and push you.
What genre of music really excites you, and why? I love all genres, but hip-hop is my first love.
What other Christian producers do you admire? Marcus Johnson, Steve Campbell, G-Kid, Ian Copeland Green, Jimmy James and Noel Robinson.
What have you learned about being in the music industry? Relationships are important in this industry, learning to serve with your gift, and knowing what you are called to do by God. What was a major event in your life that was significant to who you are today? Connecting with 90s super producers, ‘The Ethnic Boyz’ (Steve Campbell, Marcus Johnson). Those guys mentored me, and taught me a lot about work ethic, songwriting and producing. How important is your Christian faith to you, and what would you like to say about your faith? I rely heavily on my faith. God is everything to me, and I remind myself that it’s because I made a commitment to Him that’s why I am doing this music. It is good to take time out before each project to thank God for the opportunities to share your music gift.
What else would you like to tell KTF readers? I am always working on other artists’ tracks, but check out something of my own. Single: https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/ perfect-feat-joni-j-single/1414757450 Debut Single on YouTube: https://youtu.be/S9m2nY0_IXI
Twitter: @ibegiantkiller Instagram: @officialgian tkiller Facebook: ibegiantkiller
North West agency Adoption Now is seeking a family for a lovely duo
The love, security and support of family is something that most people take for granted, but for some children, that is exactly what they need, a safe and loving family who can adopt them. Four-year-old Ayo and Amara, aged one, are a beautiful brother and sister with a close and loving bond. They enjoy playing games together and will always look out for each other, making sure they are both safe and happy in everything they do. Ayo is described as a charmer with fantastic manners, a great sense of humour and a huge smile for everyone he meets. He is a friendly and sociable little boy who is full of beans; he loves to play outside running, jumping and climbing, and is always on the go. Peter Rabbit is Ayo’s absolute favourite. He loves to watch it on television and he has a Peter Rabbit crocheted toy that he takes everywhere with him. Ayo can often be heard singing all sorts of songs that he’s learnt at nursery - he is not shy of sharing his lovely voice. Amara is a gorgeous little pocket
rocket who knows exactly what she wants and isn’t afraid to go and get it. She’s a confident little girl who likes to be independent and loves learning new things every day. Amara looks up to her big brother and is more than happy to play with him, especially when she gets to knock down the towers he builds.This always makes her giggle. Playing in water is Amara’s absolute favourite; wherever there is water you’ll find Amara, she just loves getting wet! Like her brother she loves to sing nursery rhymes especially ‘Row, row, row your boat’ and ‘Barber Shop’ because they have dancing actions. Both Ayo and Amara are loving and affectionate children who love cuddles. Like most children awaiting adoption, Ayo and Amara have had a difficult start in life, experiencing neglect and unsafe living conditions;
but despite this they are continuing to come on leaps and bounds. They are healthy and happy children who are now looking for parents who can guide them to thrive and reach their true potential. The children come from a Black African heritage and need parents who can help them to embrace their heritage, understand their identities and learn about their cultures. Ayo and Amara are just some of the many children waiting for adoption with Adoption Now. There are currently around 80 children, from a variety of different backgrounds, waiting for safe, secure and loving homes; but unfortunately, some of these children may wait longer to be adopted because of their age, heritage, additional needs or because they need to be adopted with their brothers and sisters.
If you have room in your heart and home to change a child’s life, and your own, for the better, why not take the first step and speak to the Adoption Now team on 01204 336 096 or find out more at www.adoptionnow.org.uk
PLEASE NOTE: – The children’s names and photos have been changed to protect confidentiality.
20 INTERVIEW
EMMANUEL SMITH BY AKOSUA DWOMO-FOKUO
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hanaian-born Emmanuel Smith has been making waves in the UK Gospel scene for the past eight , having shared the stage with the likes of Stellar Award-winning Jason Nelson, US-based Todd Galberth, to name just a few. As a contestant on the ITV hit show ‘The Voice UK’, the Lewishambred psalmist was catapulted to the attention of a mainstream audience, performing on the coveted main stage at Big Church Day Out and Festival of Life UK held at the ExCel London. A self-professed mummy’s boy, Emmanuel credits his mother for instilling the love of God in him at a tender age, and ensuring he remains grounded. He is passionate about engaging culture and bridging the mainstream-gospel divide without compromising the message of Christ. Akosua DF recently caught up with Emmanuel Smith for an exclusive chat. Akosua DF (ADF): Let’s start right from your genesis. Can you tell us about your childhood and how you started singing? Emmanuel Smith (ES): I have literally been singing since I was a kid. I remember being a Sunday school praise and worship leader at the age of 10. My grandad was a music director; my mum and aunties were in the choir as well, so I have always been surrounded by music. I must confess that it started off as a hobby… ‘til God took control. ADF: Earlier in the year, you graced our TV screens on the ITV hit show, ‘The Voice UK’. How did that opportunity arise? ES: Honestly, it was literally the grace of God. I auditioned in 2015 and 2017, and got No’s each time. I almost talked myself out of auditioning for the 2019 show. After searching my heart, to determine whether my motive for auditioning was right, I left it in God’s hands, praying that His will be done. During that period I got an email from the Voice team, asking me to audition. I prayed to God for a sign that it was His will, and He was gracious in granting a few, so I went ahead.
ADF: As a renowned worship leader, venturing into mainstream was bound to attract some cynicism and harsh criticism. Were you taken aback by the backlash? ES: If I can be honest, it was really hurtful. I actually began to doubt whether I had truly heard from God before auditioning. Despite the love and support I received, being human I seemed to imbibe the negative feedback more. I had to take the matter to God in prayer, and the Holy Spirit spoke to me through Luke 11:33. He affirmed my calling as light meant to shine in the midst of darkness to the righteous and unrighteous. Interestingly, the tide turned after I sang Travis Greene’s ‘Made A Way’. I think that performance was a game-changer for those who had been critical of me. They finally realised that I was intent on representing God. My mandate is the Great Commission, so I have to go out into the world with the Gospel of Jesus, and that’s actually every Christian’s assignment. ADF: You got all the way to the semi-finals on the show, and were then eliminated. What thoughts flooded your mind as the results were being read out, and it became obvious that you were heading home? ES: I vividly recall that night. I missed a line in my rap, so felt I had messed up. Though I wanted to get to the finals, I mentally expected the worst so I wasn’t surprised to be sent home. A week later I had flashbacks, and all the disappointment began flooding in… All the ‘What if’ questions came to mind. Counting my blessings (getting to the semi-finals, and having an opportunity to sing gospel on mainstream TV) was what got me through that season. ADF: I notice that both your singles have an ‘RnB’ vibe to them. There is almost a dichotomy between ‘Emmanuel Smith, the recording artist’ and ‘Emmanuel Smith, the live artist’, as most of your live performances are worship sets. Are you trying to be more commercially appealing with your records? ES: Hmmm… let’s just say I am still discovering myself artistically. I want to be versatile and not boxed in. I think it’s better to experiment with different musical styles early in your career, so that you don’t shock your core fan base when you finally unleash yourself musically. Who knows, I could come out with a garage gospel anthem! No, I’m just kidding.
ADF: 2019 has been a HUGE year for you, starting off with The Voice UK, Big Church Day Out, then ministering before an audience of over 20,000 at Festival of Life UK, plus a string of local and international dates. You, however, made a very big announcement in the middle of July. ES: Honestly, I couldn’t have planned my year (any better). It’s been surreal. Each year I give God a blank sheet to take charge. Yes, I can officially announce that I am headlining my own concert at Indigo at the O2 on 3rd November. Tickets are currently on sale. I also have an EP coming out over the next few months, so it’s a busy season but I am grateful to God. ADF: Amazing!!! Definitely very exciting times for you. What can people expect from the concert? There seems to be the assumption that it will be a worship night. ES: Yeah, people are expecting a worship night. All I will say is that the expectations of God and man shall be met. I don’t want to give away too much; I’m expecting a mixed crowd of Christians and unbelievers, but ultimately God will be lifted up. Tickets for Emmanuel Smith Live in Concert are available on Reevo Tickets: https://reevotickets.com/events/event-details/?e v=emmanuelsmithliveinconcert
FEATURE 21
RICHARD REDDIE
is the Director of Justice and Inclusion at Churches Together in Britain and Ireland www.ctbi.org.uk
ONE D N A E V LO UNITY!
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he late Jamaican reggae singer, Peter Tosh, who sang alongside Bob Marley when he was part of the musical group, the Wailers, produced one of the best solo reggae albums of all time, Equal Rights, in 1977. One of the tracks on this groundbreaking LP, African, called on all Black people to recognise their African heritage. Although Tosh, who was a Rasta, was no fan of Christianity or the Church, he argued that those worshipping in the various Christian denominations must recognise the fact that while they described themselves ‘Catholics’, ‘Methodists’ or ‘Church of God’, they were still Africans! Tosh’s assertion was intriguing in that, though he reeled off a long list of Church-related denominations, he considered all to be Christian. What’s more, there was no sense of hierarchy or importance in this roster; they were all the same - a homogenous entity. As someone who works for an organisation that encourages Christian unity, I’m acutely aware of the existing theological and ecclesiological tensions between Christians that make real harmony a challenge. Moreover, having worshipped in a range of churches over the many years, I know to my disappointment Peter Tosh
that a certain spiritual or intellectual snobbery exists between denominations and traditions. Some Christians (particularly those from traditional, conservative congregations) decry certain believers for being too ‘experiential’ - their church services are too excitable - and lacking intellectual rigour and reflection. Conversely, those accused of being ‘experiential’ argue that their detractors love to stifle the Holy Spirit by putting their ‘heads’ before their ‘hearts’ when worshipping God. This can often be petty stuff, but it becomes serious when Christians refuse to engage with one another due to the positions they take on theological matters. For me, it is a real tragedy when it stops them from working together to address justice issues - particularly life and death ones, such as serious youth violence. I am cognizant that there are some doctrinal matters within Christianity on which it is difficult to have an ‘agree to disagree’ position. However, it is quite ironic – some would suggest contradictory – that those who have drawn these ‘red lines’ with Christians, maintain more of a readiness to work with non-Christians (those of other faiths and none) in the interests of being ‘inclusive’ and pursuing a ‘joined-up approach’, rather than work with those who share their trinitarian beliefs. As I pointed out earlier, Christian unity is a lot easier said than done, but something for which we must strive. In John 17, Jesus makes the powerful case for unity, using His relationship with God as the blueprint for how His followers ought to live. In verse six we read: “I ask that they may all be one, just as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You have sent Me.” And again, in verse 22, He adds: “The glory that You have given Me I have given to them, that
they may be one even as We are one.” If we really believe in the maxim of ‘stronger together’ when it comes to addressing justice issues, such as racism, serious youth violence, asylum/refugee work, etc., we must be courageous enough to put aside certain differences and come together for the common good. That means focusing on the ‘big picture’ when seeking to forge alliances. What’s more, I would argue that the need to work together is an evangelical imperative that is posited on the desire to be the unified Body of Christ, which is a witness to the Good News we proclaim. It is a strange kind of witness to our world, if we who claim to follow a Saviour who reconciles us to God, cannot be reconciled with our fellow Christian brothers and sisters.
‘Christian unity is a lot easier said than done, but something for which we must strive.’ In November this year, Churches Together in Britain and Ireland (CTBI) will bring together representatives from its 40-plus member churches that include a range of churches from the Catholic, Protestant and Orthodox traditions, in an attempt to pursue and encourage the ecumenical agenda. While CTBI believes it is crucial that the churches recognise their unique histories, traditions and doctrinal emphases, this should not preclude them from finding ways to better understand and speak one another’s language. Ultimately, this process should lead to us being able to speak prophetically (with one voice) to a world that is desperately in need of the hope, compassion and love for which Christ died. www.keepthefaith.co.uk
22 FEATURE
How the Windrush Generation laid the foundation for UK gospel music Author Roy Francis gives insight into the role music played in the lives and worship styles of the Windrush Generation.
O
n 22nd June 1948, an old troop carrier, The Empire Windrush, slipped into the Docks at Tilbury in the East End of London, once the principal port for handling goods and grain coming into the UK. On board the old carrier were 492 West Indians who had travelled 8,000 miles to get to Britain. They had come because work was plentiful, and because they saw it as their patriotic duty to ‘go and help rebuild the Mother Country’… or at least that’s what the poster said back home. This incident - and those West Indians who subsequently came in the 1950s and 60s marked the beginning of a wave of migration from the Caribbean, bringing people who are now called the ‘Windrush Generation’. It is against this background that West Indian Christians also came to Britain. Many were regular churchgoers in their homeland, and belonged to many of the established churches there. Others were Pentecostals, who were part of the network of independent churches that had been operating in the West Indies since the turn of the century. It is now well documented how badly the indigenous Christians reacted, and how badly they treated West Indian Christians when they turned up for Sunday services in their localities. What is not so well known is how those who were Pentecostal fared. What Pentecostals did when they arrived in Britain, mainly in the 1960s, was to look for other Pentecostals like themselves, and they started to hold ‘prayer meetings’ in each other’s homes. At first, these meetings were in secret - so as not to attract attention - and they were usually held after work, on either a Wednesday or a Friday evening. From people’s homes, these groups went on to rent church halls to hold their services and, as a church, began to put down roots to develop and grow. Churches back then didn’t have any instruments to accompany their singing - perhaps only a tambourine - and they would sing their hymns and choruses, clap their hands, and stamp their feet, which Joel Edwards, in his book, Let’s Praise Him Again, described as songs that incorporate ‘a bold simplicity and urgency, conveyed by repetitive and uncompromising directness.’
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BY ROY FRANCIS
FEATURE 23
lurkin Donnie McC
At first, hymns were central to this group of West Indians and, although both the New Testament Church of God, the Church of God of Prophecy and the Seventh-Day Adventists had their own hymn books, most churches used one of two hymn books: Sacred Songs and Solos by Ira D. Sankey or The Redemption Hymnal, published by the Elim Pentecostal Church in 1951. Apart from hymns, songs that people brought with them from the West Indies played their part in West Indian worship. Hymns were sung in threeor four-part harmonies, and each singer was expected to find their own ‘voice’ (harmony) as a hymn progressed. Hymns were ‘tracked’, which allowed everyone to join in, even if they couldn’t read or didn’t have a hymn book. ‘Tracking a hymn’ has long been associated with the Southern States of America, where it’s called ‘lining’, but it is thought to have originated in Scotland, taken to the Southern States of America and, in the 1780s, found its way into Jamaica. Tracking a hymn is when a member of a congregation reads aloud the words of a hymn, line by line as it’s being sung, with the congregation joining in, singing each line simultaneously, which continues until the end of the hymn. As West Indian churches settled and became established in Britain, they began to add instruments to their services. Almost anyone who had an instrument could join in and play in a church service. All they had to do was bring along their instrument, set themselves up alongside the existing players, and join in and play. Musicians then played ‘by ear’, which meant that they played without notes and played as they heard the music. But it’s in the singing of choruses that the true identity of West Indian church music finds its true expression - a time when voices, music, hands clapping, feet stomping and tambourine playing become one in a moment of a unique expression of joy and praise. There’s nothing like it! Donnie McClurkin’s ‘Caribbean Medley’ on his Live in London CD is a good example of this, and comes very close. Until 1966, West Indian church music remained a closed affair, until it came into contact with the songs of the Billy Graham Crusade. This influenced Black Christians and left a lasting impression. Although in 1966 the West Indian community in Britain was still relatively small, many West Indian Christians went to the Earl’s Court Crusade. They enjoyed this national public display of evangelical Christianity, and returned to their churches spiritually uplifted and fulfilled. Crucially they took away with them the free song book with all the songs they’d learnt at the Crusade. Soon they were singing ‘Blessed Assurance’, ‘The Old Rugged Cross’, ‘I Am Thine, O Lord’, ‘Love Lifted Me’ and ‘How Great Thou Art’, which they had learnt at the Crusade. Over time, many of these and other Crusade songs became part of West Indian church music, and have remained so ever since. The next big change in West Indian church music came with the emergence of groups like The Soul Seekers, The Singing Stewarts, The Harmonisers, The Persuaders and other church groups, who were leading the way to a new form
T he Sou l Seeker s of West Indian church music. This was a complete break from the past, but still within accepted West Indian church music limits; it was accepted and not rejected. Moreover, because it also incorporated many of the new sounds coming out of the 1960s, it appealed to the young people in the church, who championed it. Another significant change in West Indian church music came with the music of Jim Reeves and Tennessee Ernie Ford. These were two American country music singers, whose music became very popular in West Indian church circles. In fact, every West Indian home in the 60s and 70s had a Jim Reeves record, and even those who didn’t attend church would always play his gospel songs on Sundays. ‘We Thank Thee’ is perhaps Jim Reeves’ best loved gospel album and, of the 12 tracks on this album, half of them, including ‘Never Grow Old’, ‘I’ll Fly Away’, ‘I’d Rather Have Jesus Than Silver or Gold’, ‘Across the Bridge’, ‘Have Thine Own Way, Lord’, ‘Where Do I Go From Here?’ and ‘This World is Not My Home’, were all sung regularly in West Indian churches. Tennessee Ernie Ford’s songs were also very popular and, because it had a mid-tempo beat, his songs could easily be turned into choruses. Examples of these are: ‘When God Dips His Pen of Love in My Heart’, ‘I Can Tell You the Time’, ‘I Can Take You to the Place’ and ‘Have a Little Talk with Jesus’. Unfortunately, many of the songs West Indians brought over with them to Britain - the songs of Jim Reeves and Tennessee Ernie Ford – and those sung at the Billy Graham Crusade are now hardly ever heard. What has endured, however, are the main West Indian churches that started in people’s front rooms and are still going and very much a part of Britain’s religious life. These are the Church of God in Christ, the New Testament Church of God, the Church of God of Prophecy, and my own father’s church, the International Pentecostal Church of the First-Born. Roy Francis is a music consultant/gospel music promoter/agent, who has just released his debut book, How to Make Gospel Music Work For You. To purchase a copy, visit www.rfproductions.co.uk.
www.keepthefaith.co.uk
24 FEATURE
NICOLE HENRY SINGS THE MUSIC OF ARETHA FRANKLIN Sensational New York-based jazz and soul singer, Nicole Henry, returns to the UK, the scene of her sell-out shows opening the 2017 London Jazz Festival, to perform the music of Aretha Franklin. Nicole’s potent combination of dynamic vocal abilities, impeccable phrasing and powerful emotional resonance has made her one of the world’s most acclaimed soul vocalists. Welcome to the UK. Is this your first time performing here? Thank you, delighted to be here. My first public performances here were in (Autumn) 2017, when we had four sell-out concerts. We opened the
Cambridge Jazz Festival – I can never forget the beauty of Kings College Chapel – and then two nights launching the London Jazz Festival. Tell us a little about yourself and your music. You are a very successful award-winner in the US; you’ve filled concert halls around the world, and recorded many top selling albums. Where did your musical life start? Ha…Well, thank you for reminding me about the awards! It’s not what I really think about much. I’ve been a full-time musician since 2001, and released my first full-length, international album in 2004. I’ve since released a total of seven albums, including two live projects. My latest project was actually recorded in London, with a long-time songwriting partner, guitarist James Bryan. While I grew up on pop, soul, classic gospel and RnB, I had an all-in love affair with jazz, which started in 2002 and lasted about six years, releasing three pure jazz albums. Since 2008, I’ve been incorporating much more of everything into my sound. To me, good music has always been good music - whatever the genre - but I’ve always had a more pop/soul foundation in my vocal style. Like many vocalists, my musical life started in school and church choirs. My mother was classically trained as a child, and played a good amount of classical music on piano and from albums. This influenced me to play cello for six years, too. I hadn’t thought of a career in music until a DJ invited me to record house music during my college years. That’s when I discovered (at a rave) I wanted to sing professionally and just get better at my craft. Was Aretha Franklin an early influence? What is it about her music that resonates with so many people? Indeed, Aretha was an early influence. I can’t think of a time when I didn’t know every word to her Amazing Grace album. How do you explain her gift that was a once-in-a-lifetime sort of talent? If you ever listen to gospel music, you know why Aretha resonates with so many people. They sing gospel music because they BELIEVE it, and the Gospel is truth to those who believe. Because of Aretha, I always knew singing to be like that. If you don’t believe what you’re singing, it will not resonate. When Aretha sings, it is TRUTH. Aside from having one of the best and most distinctive vocal instruments ever, through every word she sings, she is making you a believer. So, for me, believing in God, and growing up and learning how to relate to the love and power of God through Aretha’s voice…that set the bar for any vocal performance.
Aretha was listed by Billboard magazine as the greatest singer of all time, and named the Queen of Soul. What can your audiences expect from your concerts? No pressure, right? HA HA! They can expect a musical celebration of ‘ReRe’ through some of the best soul songs ever recorded. Come out if you want to feel something real… Tell us something of the songs and music of Aretha Franklin you will be singing. Surely it has to include RESPECT and Amazing Grace? Well, yes, you can’t honour Aretha without giving her RESPECT. So, you can count on that. We will definitely hit at least one of her gospel tunes. We plan on spanning her repertoire, which included gospel, blues, jazz, soul and pop. And your musicians this time - led by ace guitarist, Nick Fitch - are young British soul and blues players. Sounds like you’ll all be cooking up a storm! That’s the plan!! Yes, Nick is quite a talented, in-demand arranger and player. He’s been wonderfully creative and so easy to work with... And he is definitely steeped in the genre so… we’re going to have some fun! It’s great that you are returning to the UK and will conclude your tour in London at the wonderful St John’s Smith Square. So, on this tour you don’t just visit a wonderful church, you get to sing in one. Yes, we’ll be sure to blow the roof off all the other venues, but we’ll try to keep that one intact :) I’m really looking forward to it!
Nicole Henry, singing the music of Aretha Franklin, will be performing in the UK: WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 9TH The Apex, Bury St Edmunds THURSDAY OCTOBER 10TH PizzaExpress Live, Maidstone FRIDAY OCTOBER 11TH Dereham Memorial Hall, Norwich SATURDAY OCTOBER 12TH St John’s Smith Square, London All concerts are featured on our website in date order www.jbgbevents.com
THE MUSIC OF ARETHA FRANKLIN “THE QUEEN OF SOUL”
Featuring the sensational soulful voice and presence, of US star Nicole Henry, accompanied by a UK 6-piece band With great A songs includretha “Amazing Gr ing “Say A Little ace”, “Natural WoPrayer”, “Spirit In Th man”, e “RESPECTD”ark”, & many mor e.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2019 AT 7:30PM TICKETS £35, £25, £20, £15 ∙ BOX OFFICE ∙ 020 7222 1061
www.sjss.org.uk www.jbgbevents.com St John’s Smith Square, London, SW1P 3HA
26 FEATURE
THE IMPACT AND INFLUENCE OF CHRISTIAN MEN
Bernard P Achampong Bishop Dr Joe Aldred
The Christian community is full of men who are having an impact within the Church and wider society. Keep The Faith has compiled a list of Christian men, who serve as role models, and whose lives are making a difference to the lives of others.
BERNARD P ACHAMPONG Role: Station Director, Premier Radio Reason for influence: This former BBC Radio 2 producer and founder of unedited: - a company that creates radio, podcasts and digital content - now serves as Station Director for Premier Radio. www.premier.org.uk.
PASTOR YEMI ADEDEJI Role: Pastor, Leadership Consultant, Author Reason for influence: Pentecostal minister and ordained Anglican priest, Pastor Yemi wears many hats. He is a director of One People Commission (an arm of the Evangelical Alliance), which seeks to unite and represent ethnic church leaders. He also works as Global Ambassador for Compassion, and has played a major role in raising substantial funds for the charity from within the BMC (Black-Majority Churches). He also runs a leadership consultancy that provides support and advice to church leaders. www.yemiadedeji.co.uk Pastor Yemi Adedeji
BISHOP DR JOE ALDRED Role: Church Leader, Ecumenist, Writer, Broadcaster Reason for influence: A church leader with much experience, Bishop Dr Joe Aldred serves in various capacities. He is Principal Officer for Pentecostal and Multicultural Relations at Churches Together in England. He is also a broadcaster, ecumenist, speaker and writer, and his range of titles includes ‘From Top Mountain – An Autobiography’. He is involved in all aspects of Black Church life, and played a pivotal role in the committee that organised the service commemorating the 70th Anniversary of the arrival of the HMS Windrush, which heralded the start of the mass migration of Caribbeans to the UK. www.drjoealdred.info
Rev Dr Carver Anderson
REV DR CARVER ANDERSON Role: Co-founder of Bringing Hope, a Birmingham-based charity Reason for influence: Rev Anderson leads a charity that works with individuals and families whose lives have been impacted by crime and violence, both victims and perpetrators. This also involves working in prisons. He has been part of various committees and conferences regarding family and communityassociated issues. These include being a member of four Round Tables led by Home Secretaries of various UK governments. Carver is a qualified social worker, and is a former Director of Youth and Education at the New Testament Church of God. www.bringinghope.co.uk
Bishop Donald Bolt
BISHOP DONALD BOLT Role: National Overseer, New Testament Church of God Reason for influence: The New Testament Church of God is one of the largest denominations founded by Britain’s Black Caribbean community. Founded in 1953, the church now has congregations across the UK, in many of Britain’s urban areas. Bishop Bolt is the current head of NTCG, providing overall leadership for the organisation and leading the charge for the church to develop more diverse congregations. www.ntcg.org.uk Find us on Twitter and Facebook: @KeepTheFaithmag
Shane Bowes
FEATURE 27
SHANE BOWES Role: CEO, Pentecostal Credit Union Reason for influence: For the past five years, Shane has served as Head of the Pentecostal Credit Union, Britain’s second largest credit union. Under his leadership, the PCU has become one of the most well known organisations, started by a member of the Windrush Generation. The PCU hosts free financial workshops in churches; has a youth shadow board, which provides personal development for young people, and runs a business course for start-ups and individuals, who want to take their business to the next level. The PCU aims to play a role in the economic development of the Black community. www.pcuuk.com
REGGIE COLE Role: Businessman Reason for influence: Reggie Cole is a self-made businessman, who has experienced the ups and downs of running a business, having gone bankrupt during the economic downturn of the noughties. He has since rebuilt his business, and has a growing national profile as a successful businessman, running companies that now turn over millions. Earlier this year, released his debut book, Compassionate Capitalism.
also a regular contributor to BBC4’s Thought for the Day. In 2017 he received the Langton Award for Community Service from the Archbishop of Canterbury for his work in uniting Christians to challenge global injustice. www.facebook.com/joeledwards
BISHOP JOHN FRANCIS Role: Founder and Senior Pastor, Ruach City Church Reason for influence: The son of a pioneering church leader, Bishop John Francis is one of Britain’s foremost Black Church leaders from a Caribbean background, due to his church and TV ministry in the UK and abroad. He was formerly director of the Inspirational Choir, the gospel outfit that alerted the world to UK Gospel, and served as a successful evangelist and preacher before launching Ruach City Church. It is one of the largest Black-majority churches in the UK, and in 2006 became the first Black church to host a British Prime Minister, when Tony Blair visited the church. www.ruachcitychurch.org Bishop John Francis
Reggie Cole
Rev Joel Edwards CBE
BRUCE DYER Role: Founder of Love Light UK Reason for influence: Bruce Dyer is well known in the town of Barnsley, south Yorkshire, for his work via Love Light UK, an organisation that goes into prisons to preach, pray and offer support to inmates. One of its many schemes – the Bruce Dyer Love Life Soccer Schools – runs programmes for young people in schools, including its popular summer soccer schools. www.bdllss.com Bruce Dyer
Pastor Agu Irukwu
PASTOR AGU IRUKWU
REV JOEL EDWARDS CBE Role: International Director, Micah Challenge Reason for influence: A leading light in the church, Rev Edwards, who was ordained within the NTCG, has occupied a number of key roles. A former probation officer, he occupied one of the most powerful positions in the Church, serving as General Director of the Evangelical Alliance from 1997 to 2009. He is currently International Director for the Micah Challenge, and is a Commissioner at the Equality and Human Rights Commission. He is
Role: Head of Redeemed Christian Church of God UK Reason for influence: In just over 20 years, the Redeemed Christian Church of God has become one of the most influential Black Pentecostal denominations in the UK, with over 700 churches across the UK. Pastor Agu serves as the Head of RCCG’s Executive Council, and is senior pastor of Jesus House, one of the largest churches in the denomination. In 2017, Pastor Agu was appointed Pentecostal President of Churches Together in England. Under his leadership, RCCG has built greater engagement with the local community with a range of services, and has developed relationships with Britain’s traditional organisations. www.rccguk.church
REV LES ISAAC OBE Role: Co-founder of Street Pastors and the Synergy Network Reason for influence: Rev Les Isaac founded and launched one of the biggest responses to knife crime – Street Pastors - in 2013. This charity is now
Rev Les Isaac OBE Ben Lindsay
28 FEATURE
Muyiwa
established in over 250 towns and cities throughout the UK and abroad. In recent months Rev Isaac launched The Synergy Network, which brings together organisations that work with young people, with an aim of reducing knife crime and violence. www.streetpastors.co.uk
BEN LINDSAY Role: Pastor, Founder of youth charity, Power The Fight, Author Reason for influence: This influencer runs a charity that trains and equips practitioners, who work with young people involved in gangs and crime, and also supports families affected by crime. In 2018 Ben was named as one of The Evening Standard’s 1000 London’s most influential people. He recently released a much talked about book, We Need to Talk About Race. www.powerthefight.org.uk
REV ADE OMOOBA MBE Role: Founder of Christian Concern, CEO of Christian Concern Reason for influence: Rev Ade Omooba has been in full time ministry in the UK for over 25 years. He is a co-founder of several organisations, including: the Christian Victory Group – ‘I Care’ Projects, which has helped set up over 100 social action/inclusion projects in the last 19 years; Christian Concern (CC), a UK lobby/campaign group on public policy, and the Christian Legal Centre (CLC), addressing Christian liberty cases. He also serves as co-chair of the National Church Leaders’ Forum, the representative body for Black Church leaders here in the UK. www.christianconcern.com
Nathaniel Peat
Rev Ade Omooba MBE
MUYIWA Role: Worship Leader, TV Presenter, Station Director, Premier Gospel Reason for influence: He is one of Britain’s most well known Black Christian artists. He is also Station Director of Britain’s most listened-to gospel music station, Premier Gospel, and presents a popular show on Premier Gospel. Muyiwa is also known worldwide, particularly in Africa as a result of presenting Christian magazine show, Turning Point. www.muyiwa.co.uk
Seth Pinnock
PASTOR PETER NEMBHARD Role: Senior Pastor, The ARC Reason for influence: Pastor Peter is leading Pastor of The Arc, a growing congregation of churches that are seeking to have local and national impact. He currently presides over six churches, with more to come. He has become a church leader of note because he is succeeding in attracting young people to church without gimmicks, particularly those formerly involved in knife crime. www.arc4u.org.uk Pastor Peter Nembhard
NATHANIEL PEAT Role: Businessman, Founder of The Safety Box Reason for influence: This multi award-winning, in-demand speaker and businessman is regularly featured in lists of the most powerful young business executives. A Seventh-Day Adventist, Nathaniel runs Gennex, which aims to provide inexpensive electricity for Kenyans living in rural areas. He also runs Safety Box, a charity that teaches young people how to avoid crime and violence, and diverts them into a more positive path. www.nathanielpeat.com
Bishop Tedroy Powell
SETH PINNOCK Role: Head of African Caribbean Engagement, Tearfund Reason for influence: Seth is one of the most well connected millennials in the UK. Prior to joining Tearfund, Seth hosted the successful Midnight Oil events, which attracted thousands of young people across the UK. In his Tearfund role, Seth raises awareness of and encourages the Black Christian community to support the charity. He is also runs a charity, Symphony Co, which serves the local homeless, and provides free tuition to inner city youth in Birmingham. www.sethanthonyp.com Find us on Twitter and Facebook: @KeepTheFaithmag
Bishop Mike Royal
FEATURE 29
BISHOP TEDROY POWELL
ARCHBISHOP JOHN SENTAMU
Role: Head of the Church of God of Prophecy Reason for influence: The Church of God of Prophecy is one of the historic Pentecostal denominations developed and populated by people of the Windrush Generation. Founded in the 1950s, Bishop Powell has taken up the helm of the organisation at a pivotal point in its history. He has extensive experience leading and planting churches, as well as providing training for church leaders and workers. www.cogop.org.uk
Role: Archbishop of York Reason for influence: In 2005, Ugandan-born John Sentamu made history when he became the first Black man to be appointed Archbishop of York, the second most senior position in the Church of England. He is known as a leader who hates injustice, and has a heart for young people. Alongside his role, Archbishop Sentamu serves as President of Youth for Christ and was President of the YMCA in April 2005. He also heads a Youth Trust and an online charity, Acts435, that supports people in need.
NOEL ROBINSON
AMANI SIMPSON
Role: Worship Leader Reason for influence: Noel Robinson is a worship leader of influence, has the accolade of being the first ever Black British artist to be signed to Integrity Music, the world’s leading worship label. For the past 11 years he has hosted the Kingdom Worship Movement conferences, attracting hundreds of people from the UK and Europe. He now also hosts an annual retreat. Noel is in demand to perform at events across the world, and continues to fly the flag for UK gospel/worship music. www.noelrobinson.com
Role: Filmmaker, anti-knife crime campaigner Reason for influence: Amani has become a key influencer amongst young people, after the online release of his short anti-knife crime film, Amani’s Story, which shares his true story of how he almost lost his life after being stabbed seven times. To date, it has had almost 2 million YouTube views, and its success has led to Amani being an in-demand speaker in schools, at youth groups and in the church. He recently launched youth workshops for schools. www.aviard.co.uk
Noel Robinson
Archbishop John Sentamu
Amani Simpson
PASTOR IAN SWEENEY Role: President, Seventh-Day Adventist Church Reason for influence: Pastor Sweeney enjoyed 18 years as a local church pastor until 2008, when he was called to serve as president of the North England conference. Since 2011, Pastor Sweeney has held the position of President of the British Union Conference. He currently presides over a church that has 300 churches and 39,000 adherents. He is keen for the Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Britain to make a greater impact and for the church to fulfil its purpose in serving communities. www.adventist.uk
Pastor Ian Sweeney
SHELDON THOMAS Role: CEO of Gangsline Reason for influence: Anytime there is a story about gangs or knife crime, Sheldon Thomas is one of the commentators called upon to share his opinion. He is the founder of Gangsline, a helpline to support parents of gang members, and young people who want to leave gangs. He also runs workshops and lectures, and gives talks to the police, local authorities and churches about gangs. www.gangsline.com
PASTOR MICHAEL WHITE BISHOP MIKE ROYAL Role: CEO – Cinnamon Network Reason for influence: Birmingham based Church leader Bishop Royal is currently CEO of the Cinnamon Network, a leading charity that encourages churches to run activities/projects that enable them to engage with their local community. Prior to taking up his current role, Bishop Royal worked as National Director for Transforming Lives for Good, which provided early intervention programmes for young people at risk of being excluded from school. He also serves as a Mental Health chaplain. www.cinnamonnetwork.co.uk
Role: Senior Pastor, The Tab Reason for influence: Pastor Michael White is well known amongst Christians throughout the UK, due to his preaching programme on TBN UK, Momentum. He also presides over a fast growing church, The Tab, in Lewisham. The son of a pioneering church leader, the late Bishop Leon White, founder of Bibleway UK, Pastor White has inherited his father’s determination and tenacity and, under his leadership, he has seen the church transformed from one with a decreasing membership to a thriving, vibrant and community-minded church. www.thetab.org.uk
Sheldon Thomas
Pastor Michael White
30 COMMENT
Friend or foe? Having looked at biblically based friendships in the last issue, Gary Clayton, MAF Copywriter and Editor, warns against the fallout when church friends fall out. GARY CLAYTON
is Copywriter and Editor at Mission Aviation Fellowship: www.maf-uk.org
T
he article ‘Friends in High Places’ (Issue 109) looked at the many joys and blessings friendships provide. But what if things go wrong and relationships break down? For those who’ve experienced this, it can be one of the most painful things in the world. I remember falling out with a friend at school, and feeling so sad that I jammed part of my gum into my dental brace to prevent me from crying. The loss of a dear friend proved painful in every sense of the word! But what about the times we fall out with others in church? Sometimes, rather than confronting them outright, it might be better to ask God to change our heart – and theirs – in private, rather than getting into fruitless arguments that will not only yield bad fruit, but set our teeth on edge and leave a nasty taste in the mouth. Not every grievance needs to be aired, especially if it leads to bad blood or bad feelings. Indeed, we can be so blinded by hurt, rage or anger that, when we find ourselves on a collision course with a fellow believer, we’re sometimes blind to the potential consequences. It’s also hard to take the speck out of our
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own eye (Luke 6:41-42) if we’re at loggerheads with someone else! Sadly, tragically, there are even times when differences, issues or disagreements become so contentious that others take sides, causing the worrying danger of a possible church split. I’ve seen it occur a couple of times, and can’t help noticing that, whenever there’s tension in the church and the risk of people splitting, the congregation invariably ends up singing ‘Bind us together, Lord, bind us together’ as a forlorn and unattainable hope, rather than an inspirational act of worship. And yet, as Jesus reminds us in Matthew 5:9 - ‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.’ There are enough conflicts raging throughout the globe – many in the countries MAF serves with its fleet of life-saving aircraft – without our throwing caution to the winds, adding fuel to the fire, and kindling another. Romans 12:18, acknowledging this issue, says: ‘If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone’, while James 4:1-2 asks: ‘What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet, but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight.’ John 2:11 provides an equally sobering warning: ‘Anyone who hates a brother or sister is in the darkness… They do not know where they are going, because the darkness has blinded them.’ In life, being able to see clearly in all senses of the word is clearly necessary for our physical and spiritual survival. It’s not just the Pharisees who, like the blind leading the blind, can end up falling into a pit! Luke 6:27-37 is particularly challenging: “Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn to them the other also. If someone takes your coat, do not withhold your shirt from them... Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” Experience indicates that, when Matthew 18:21-22 says to forgive those who sin against us “not seven times, but seventy-seven times”, this not only includes wrongs caused by ‘repeat offenders’ but our need to stop reciting, recalling or reliving the offence originally caused. So we should be careful not to speak out when situations don’t demand it, God doesn’t
require it, and Scripture doesn’t command it. But there’s another reason why it’s good to avoid conflict and to strive for peace. Christians, someone once said, are a bit like cards in a pack. At some point or other, we’ll probably be reshuffled and may end up next to someone we used to know, worked for, or went out with.
‘...be careful not to speak out when situations don’t demand it, God doesn’t require it, and Scripture doesn’t command it.’ It’s happened to me on a number of occasions when, to my surprise and embarrassment, an ex-girlfriend or former boss unexpectedly materialised! Thank goodness I’d managed to remain on reasonably good terms... Indeed, I used to think that, unless we’re very different by the time we see our heavenly Father, there’s a danger we’ll spend the rest of eternity attempting to hide from the people we couldn’t get on with on earth! Mercifully, Scripture indicates that we’ll be completely changed (1 Corinthians 15:51-53), so thank heaven that the life to come will be vastly different to our life on earth! Gary Clayton is blessed to be married to Julie, his best friend, and father of Christopher (15) and Emma (12). He is Copywriter and Editor at Mission Aviation Fellowship. To learn how MAF’s pilots and personnel befriend communities living in 27 of the world’s poorest nations, visit www.maf-uk.org.
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Men, we are with you.
32 COMMENT
SALT AND LIGHT
A response to the prevailing culture of hate DIONNE GRAVESANDE
Global Ecumenical Relations at Christian Aid
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hy is there so much hate in the world? The question arises again today, as it does every time there is another stabbing, another shooting or another vile attack to wound and disable. And every time these things happen here or anywhere in the world, we ask: How can people do this to other people simply for who they are, what they wear, where they live or what they believe? As a mother I ask the question what kind of hateful rhetoric fuels such thinking, but hatred and evil are nothing new in our world. They have been around since the beginning of mankind, with acts of so much hatred and so much evil through history that we don’t like to even think about many of them. For all of us who are alive today, we want to believe that things have changed, that mankind today is different, and that all hatred and evil can be exorcised out of the world - somehow through laws, regulations and decrees. Of course, we can and must do things to prevent those filled with this kind of hatred for others, from being able to carry out their evil acts. Some hearts and souls of people cannot be changed, however - that job is for a higher power - but still we have an important part to play to confront and change a culture of hate to a culture of love, respect and dignity. We can, each in our own way, take steps every day against hate through billions of acts of love and hope around the world. Both personal and corporate acts can counteract and make a difference against the hated norms that exist. So how does a Christian specifically engage with culture, specifically if such culture incubates hate? Well, I think Jesus shared with us a few pointers through the paradigms of salt and light together. At our best we are salt in the earth and we are light to the world. This means that we engage in every culture to influence people to live out the holistic values demonstrated by Jesus. He shared with us a few different ways that, as a Christian community, we can
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respond to prevailing cultures around, using the themes of salt and light. 1. Preserving Influence “You are the salt of the earth…” (Matthew 5:13)
4. Open Influence “You are the light of the world. A city situated on a hill cannot be hidden” (Matthew 5:14).
The first way is to be a preserving influence. Jesus was saying, in effect, that humanity - without core values of love, dignity, value and worth - will not survive. We should not tire of speaking or acting out these values.
The fourth way to influence the culture is being an open influence. A light is meant to be seen. Here Jesus was not talking about massive lights, but about little lamps to light the world. Even a tiny flicker of light can dispel the darkness of hate, so we must find new ways of stoking each other’s flames.
2. Positive Influence “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you should answer each person” (Colossians 4:6).
5. Guiding Influence “No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket, but rather on a lampstand, and it gives light for all who are in the house.” (Matthew 5:15)
We use ‘taste’ to speak of a distinct flavour and intellectual quality. The idea here is that if we lose that positive influence, then we can become not just tasteless in the sense that we can’t sense the flavour. We should not tire of demonstrating the way we want to be treated by treating others with grace and respect.
The fifth way that we can be an influence is by being a guiding influence. When Jesus said that we are light, He was speaking of the influence of our Christian walk of witness. Together we bear witness, and empathise and support each other when the load feels insurmountable. For those who are lost, wounded and filled with hate, they also need it to find their way in dark places, and any guiding light should be shared with all who need it.
3. Sacrificial Influence “For everyone will be salted with fire.Salt is good, but if the salt should lose its flavour, how can you season it? Have salt among yourselves, and be at peace with one another” (Mark 9:49–50). This lesson is in Matthew, Luke and Mark. Yet, Mark adds this detail: Salt is an important ingredient used when making a sacrifice, but Jesus added a warning: “If the salt loses its flavour, how shall it be seasoned?” We cannot or should not become diluted by unjust principles nor practices. We must keep advocating for justice and peace.
Debt free and faith-filled
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hen tragedy struck, Francella’s first priority was to be there for her family. Keeping on top of her finances was, understandably, not top of her list. But before long, she found herself not only newly widowed but also deep in debt. ‘My husband passed away. I thought there might be something put aside in case anything happened to him, but I wasn’t expecting to be left with debts. I had to pay everything, while the companies I owed wanted to raise the fees, and it was starting to build up. I was still grieving – unable to sleep – but now I was also worrying about whether I’d ever pay off my debts. I suffer from high blood pressure. Anxiety kicks in and I can’t breathe. The stress was constant. It was a struggle to pay the bills and even to afford food for my kids. When they came home asking about school activities, I had to use the rent money to pay for them, so they wouldn’t miss out.’ Sadly, this is all too familiar a story seen by Christians Against Poverty (CAP). We’re a national charity dedicated to setting people free from poverty and demonstrating God’s amazing love. We help thousands of people like Francella every single year. Through unexpected circumstances like bereavement, illness or redundancy, it’s easy to suddenly slip into hardship. Through face-to-face debt coaching, volunteer befrienders and a team of highly trained caseworkers, CAP steps into the lives of those overwhelmed by their finances. ‘I told a friend at church about my problem, and she introduced me to Christians Against Poverty. Ian, my CAP Debt Coach, came round to help me work out a budget. Once they started helping me, I was able to manage things so that I even had some money left over to put into savings.’
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@capuk
Helping clients learn to budget and save is only the beginning, though. CAP’s Debt Coaches are always willing to pray with anyone who wants prayer, and every Debt Centre is planted firmly within the supportive community of a local church. Francella was encouraged by this, and felt more able to trust CAP. ‘We prayed together, which was good. God works in every way. CAP listen and they care. They don’t come to take your money, they just want to help you. It’s good to be able to open up to people and talk about your problems. They encouraged me a lot.’ Volunteer befrienders meet up with CAP clients to offer emotional support. After all, if you’re struggling to make ends meet and it’s affecting your health, it’s good to have someone to talk to. ‘In the end, it took less than a year to pay everything off. That call telling me I was completely debt free – it was wonderful.’
I know the Lord has brought me through these problems and trials. More and more clients like Francella celebrate becoming debt free every day. It’s not just about the fresh start financially, but about what that means for people and their families. ‘Now I can pay my rent and feed my children. I can meet their needs and save money too. It’s a positive thing being able to pay your bills. I don’t want to get in a situation where I’m struggling like that again. My children can see the difference in me. I’m so happy and confident now. CAP has had a big impact on my life. I don’t have to wake up worrying about whether I have enough money to pay my debts or if someone is going to come to the door demanding payment.
I know the Lord has brought me through these problems and trials. There are still miracles.’ For Francella, working with CAP hasn’t just resolved her money worries and supported her family, it’s also strengthened her faith. She’s seen what the Church can do to help those in need. When she was struggling, it was other Christians who gave her the practical and spiritual input to change her situation: a picture of Jesus’ words, ‘By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.’ (John 13:35) ‘If other people need help like I did, I’ll always introduce them to CAP. They helped me and I want to encourage others now. If it wasn’t for CAP I’d still be paying off my debts. I want to save up enough to be able to visit my family in Jamaica one day.’ A year ago, she’d never have imagined she’d be able to take her children to meet their relatives but now she’s budgeting a little each month to make that amazing trip possible. There are many more stories like Francella’s, just waiting for someone to step in and offer a helping hand. This month, we need to raise £32,250 to help 150 more people become debt free. It costs CAP £215 to take one family through a Debt Management Plan. Will you give £28 to fund the first part of someone’s journey, including setting up their case? Perhaps you’ll give £110 to fund the second part, including creating a bespoke budgeting plan. Or would you stretch to cover the cost of their entire journey to debt freedom with a gift of £215? However much you can give, you’ll make a huge difference for a family like Francella’s.
You can set people free from the prison of poverty. Donate at:
capuk.org/keepthefaith always hope.
34 COMMENT
FOOD 4
THOUGHT marciadixonpr.co.uk
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MARCIA DIXON
A leading PR specialist and journalist
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FIRST EVER DESTINED TO SOAR WOMEN’S CONFERENCE TO TAKE PLACE
I am currently organising the first ever Destined to Soar Women’s
Learn to love yourself too!
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hen asked by His disciples what was the greatest commandment, Jesus answered in Matthew 22:37-40: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbour as yourself.’ On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.” (Matthew 22:37-40). During the forthcoming Black History Month, it would be worthwhile for the Black community to focus on the subject of love. Not the fuzzy, butterflies-in-the-stomach, weak-at-the knees kind of love that people feel when they meet a romantic partner, but rather love that is characterised by consistency, loyalty, strength of character, respect, self-control, boundaries, personal development, hope and faith. Whenever people talk about Jesus’ perspective of what constitutes the greatest commandments, they either focus on loving God or loving others, but don’t necessarily focus on the self-loving aspect of this transformative commandment. Can you imagine what the Black community would be like, if we loved ourselves like we loved our neighbours? For those of us who also love God, self-love would make us realise and take pride in the fact that we are a people, made in the image of a God who is just and who upholds mercy and truth. It would also help eradicate that sense of inferiority some Black people feel due to racism. I found it fascinating when it was recently revealed in the media that slave masters used to remove certain books and chapters from the Bibles before giving them to slaves. They obviously understood the power of God’s Word, and recognised that by just reading Scripture, it would awaken in the people they enslaved cries for freedom and justice. It is apparent that those Black men and women, who fought for Black civil rights whether from slavery, colonialism, apartheid or racism, whether Christian or not - recognised, subconsciously, that they were people of worth and value, that they were not subservient or inferior to other races, and that they should be allowed to determine their own future by
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pursuing the ambitions and goals they wanted to. In effect, they loved themselves. In the current age we live in, and in light of some of the issues and problems the Black community in Britain is facing, self-love, not of a narcissistic, selfish kind, but a self-love that is empowering, respectful of self and others, and which encourages greater self-awareness, could play a part in bringing about the social change we desire. It would make people feel better about themselves, cause them to acknowledge that they are people of worth, promote inner peace, and encourage them to maximise their God-given potential – in spite of the difficulties and obstacles they face. Love for self should not stop us from loving our neighbour, whom we should see as our equal and, of course, love for God should always be paramount. Self love will change us, love for God will help us change the world.
Conference, which is scheduled to take place on October 12 at The ARC, Forest Gate, London. The conference theme is ‘Being All You Can Be’, and will encourage women to dig deep into God, use their gifts and talents to impact society, and be a witness for the Lord. I’m excited about it, and believe it will provide a great place of sharing, fellowship and networking. When I joined forces with Keep The Faith magazine to host the DTS Women’s Breakfasts, I never envisaged that 1) I would get such a broad range of women attending; 2) it would have such a transformative impact on the women who attended, and 3) I’d end up hosting a Women’s conference. I felt led to start a series of breakfasts that would help women develop their leadership skills and hear practical information on how to build successful ministries. I have now hosted a total of 11 breakfasts, with attendees coming from across the UK and, most importantly, the feedback has been positive. The information learnt has caused many to take their careers, businesses and ministries to a new level. It’s my prayer and aim that people have a good experience at the conference, and that they leave having made some new friends, renewed their confidence, learnt some insights on how to have a greater impact for God in the world, and deepened their spiritual walk. I look forward to seeing you there.
Focus on His story, not yours Christians, who are given the honour of preaching the Gospel, should recognise they are called to share the Gospel story, not their story. I am hearing increasing numbers of people state that many of the sermons they are hearing these days are loosely based on Scripture, with the preacher focusing on sharing spiritual truths based on anecdotes from their life. It’s so easy in the age of motivational speakers, personal development and the desire for inspiration rather than correction, for some speakers to focus on telling their story to illustrate spiritual matters. It’s the Word of the Bible that changes people, transforms hearts, and saves people from sin. So, any speaker who thinks their story is as important as God’s Word, I’d implore them to think again, and remind them that God’s Word will remain long after you and I leave this earth.
LYTIE
The man behind the music Signed copy and gift available via cherishedint.org.
LOVE BROKE THE SILENCE BY SERENA PETERS
Are you being abused - emotionally, physically, or sexually - but afraid to tell anyone? Perhaps someone you love is being abused. You could speak up. Your could report it, but you are afraid. Serena Peters, a social worker born in England and raised in Nigeria, has been in both of those dark places. Love Broke the Silence is her Story. After many years of abuse - first by her father, and later by her husband - Serena found a way to break the silence. You can too. Read about her search for answers - and how she found them.
Love Broke The Silence is available in paperback or Kindle via Amazon, email oneofhistreasures@gmail.com or visit www.cherishedint.org
Supplying quality contract furniture since 1982
Lloyd Powell, better known by his stage name, Lytie, is an international reggae artist who hails from Birmingham, UK. Lytie’s musical inspiration came from the many hours of listening to Nat King Cole and Dennis Brown, and he would then mimic their voice until he was able to develop his own style of singing. Following his passion, Lytie’s ambition to perform materialised and he was soon touring Europe, sharing the stage with Dennis Brown, Gregory Isaacs, Sanchez, Frankie Paul, to name a few. Securing Number 1 hit in the reggae charts with single entitled ‘I Want You’ Lytie went on to gain two gold discs for ‘Best Male Reggae Singer’ and ‘Best-Selling Single’. Just when it seemed that life couldn’t get any better, things took an unexplainable turn and in desperation for answers, Lytie’s journey of self-discovery took him across to the United States. The three month trip was a life-changing experience which he will never forget. Returning to the UK, Lytie cemented his faith and lost relationship with Christ, sparking a new direction towards the gospel genre. With his roots firmly in the Caribbean, some of his biggest accolades include performing in Barbados, Tobago and the Bahamas. The ‘Smooth Man of Gospel’ has often time been compared with the late Dennis Brown. Lytie received this title from a radio DJ who admired his silky smooth voice and those high notes he reached with ease, slip-sliding over each note. Lytie is also a qualified plasterer - a line of work he enjoys. While working, melodious sounds can be heard bouncing of the walls with each stroke of his trowel. Lytie not only ministers the Word through music but he’s very active in the community. Each month he attends a day centre where he sings and spends time with the elderly residents. After much hard work and dedication, Lytie has enjoyed an accomplished career with the release of his new album ‘Light of the World’. This album is a must, and is already receiving overwhelming airplay on various radio stations. By the grace of God, his mission to share and produce good quality music will manifest once again. For more information and to buy the album, email Mobrown1962@googlemail.com. Also available to download from iTunes, Spotify and Google Play. Facebook lytiepowell YouTube lytiepowell Twitter @lytiepowell
www.keepthefaith.co.uk
36 COMMENT
Don’t despise the jars of clay The fiery furnace of the kiln transforms an unfinished product into a household amenity. No matter how beautiful it is, it is fragile and easily broken. The Bible describes us as jars of clay, with a treasure hidden inside (2 Corinthians 4:7-10). Everything about us is beautiful, functional… but easily broken. Being a mum to small children as well as older stepchildren, I am faced daily with my weaknesses. Often it’s in the form of exhaustion and impatience. A case study week in our house goes like this: I am tired, but I keep going… The tiredness can lead to impatience with my family, although they
are not to blame; they are a blessing and a joy. The exhaustion is a reminder that I am a clay jar and part of a fallen world. Without the grace of God and His divine enabling, I can do nothing. I am an unlikely container - as many of us are. Doesn’t it seem really odd that the Word of God and the power of its message could be carried in fragile messengers like you and I? God purposely designed it this way, so there would be absolute clarity as to the Source of the life-changing power of the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. Verse seven of my opening text couldn’t be clearer with the contrast between treasure and a clay jar. What if, rather than trying to do things in our own strength, we acknowledged our frailties and used them to lead us to the One who never grows weary? What if we fixed our eyes on the things that are eternal and not those things that are temporary? I don’t think it matters whether you’ve been saved for one year or 20 years. Throughout our Christian walk, as the principles of growth work themselves out in our lives, we are faced with the decisions of whether to focus on what’s temporary or what’s eternal. Walking in forgiveness when I was single was hard sometimes, but also relatively straightforward. Fast forward to married life and,
ESTHER KUKU
Journalist and Communications Professional. Love God, love life, love people Twitter: @mew36
in a bid to ‘stand my ground’, I can find myself trying to do deals with God! We need to allow God’s truth to refocus our eyes on the treasure that dwells within us - a treasure that can fill the emptiest vessel. A jar is designed to hold something. I pray that we all cultivate the habit of asking God to fill us with His power and His peace. There are times when as a mum I feel so helpless and empty. Those moments are when I am walking in my humanity, and not realising that feeling empty is an opportunity – an opportunity to rely on God’s strength and to receive from Him what I was created to carry. Suddenly I am positioned for restoration, and I realise that I may be hard pressed on every side, but not crushed, perplexed but not in despair, persecuted but not abandoned, struck down but not destroyed. When we look in the mirror and see only a fragile clay pot, despair is the natural response. But, when we see the beautiful treasure we hold, we are inwardly renewed. The cracks in our clay pots are not to be despised; they serve a purpose. They allow the life of God - that precious treasure - to seep out for all those around us to see.
THE
95% of children & young people don’t go to church!
Does that statistic concern you? Would you like to do more to introduce these young people to Jesus but you haven’t got the time, ideas or resources? Join The 95 Campaign for exclusive access to free resources, research findings, and much-needed support.
sign up for free at the95.org.uk and start benefitting today Find us on Twitter and Facebook: @KeepTheFaithmag
Yeldall Manor is all about recovery for life – men finding freedom from addiction so that they can go on to live life to the full. Over the years, hundreds of men have experienced this transformation at Yeldall Manor, finding healing, wholeness and hope for the future whilst completing our programmes. Today, these men are enjoying life drug and alcohol-free, a life free from guilt and shame, a life full of good relationships, a life of productive and fulfilling work, a life they can feel proud of.
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ROMANS 8 – THEREFORE, THERE IS NOW NO CONDEMNATION IN JESUS CHRIST.
O
ur addictions usually start in early life. We use substances to join in with peers, show off, avoid and escape from negative feelings. It can be any one of many things including culture, community, abuse, family breakdown, bereavement. As the grip of addiction increases we start to carry around more and more guilt and shame, weighing us down and dragging us further into trouble leading to crime, mental health issues, estrangement from family and children. We are trapped in the vicious cycle and can’t see a way out. It takes a great deal of courage to admit that addiction is controlling and ruining your life and the lives of those around you. If you are willing to take that step of courage then Yeldall may be the place for you to change, learn and grow.
The Yeldall Manor programmes are designed to help residents to live a fulfilled and new life free from using drugs or alcohol. The level of change necessary in order to achieve this is considerable, and we believe that the acceptance and structure found at Yeldall Manor are essential to bring about this change. Love and acceptance for each resident as a unique individual provides hope and dignity. The discipline and structure of the programme provides the environment in which old
feelings and attitudes can be challenged, and new ones tried and tested. Yeldall Manor is firmly based in the love of Jesus. That love extends to men of all faiths or none. There is no judgment or condemnation of any resident no matter what his background. A resident makes his own journey at Yeldall with assistance and love from the staff team and his peers on the programme. If you are sick and tired of being sick and tired and want to break the cycle then take a look at the website, ring in for advice, be brave and defy conformity. Getting into Recovery will have a profound effect on you, your family and your friends. You could be the one to take the first step that encourages so many others to be bold and change for an infinitely better life.
www.keepthefaith.co.uk
38 LIFESTYLE
DR T. AYODELE AJAYI is a Consultant Psychiatrist, a radio host, author and is on the pastoral team of his church
Kingdom Nuggets for dealing with
DEPRESSION Depression in church? Depression? Featured in a Christian magazine? Yes! Contrary to popular opinion, depression is not a baby boomer or millennial generation predicament. It existed back in Bible days, and remains present - both among the sheep and shepherds today. What other clinical condition so perfectly typifies Job’s and David’s accounts of their morbid grief and sorrow, when describing their “skin cleaving to their bones” and being “laid low in the dust”? It’s hard to accept that Christians can and sometimes do battle depression, and much of the challenge comes from our failure to either recognise it or understand how to overcome its occultic presence. The resulting cocktail of ignorance, spiked with myth, is the perfect recipe for stigma. The first victory, in my view as a Christian who is privileged to serve as a psychiatrist, is that of recognition. What, then, is depression? Depression is a clinical condition presenting as a morbid, intense state of heaviness of heart, marked with persistently sad moods, loss of enjoyment of usual pleasures, and undue fatigue. Associated features include: anxiety attacks, sleep disruption, poor or excessive appetite, weight loss, poor concentration, loss of drive and libido, and feeling guilty, worthless, helpless and hopeless commonly culminates in death wishes or even suicidal thoughts. A friend of mine - who has been there, fought it and has a trophy of victory - describes depression as “life losing its taste.” In its most severe form, depression is associated with experiences not rooted in reality, such as hearing voices without sounds (hallucinations) and false, tenaciously held beliefs (delusions). Depression is not an attention-seeking behaviour or self-inflicted condition, nor a sign of being weak in faith. It is unfeeling and naive to accuse the sufferer of having sinned, because we know that this condition is closely associated Find us on Twitter and Facebook: @KeepTheFaithmag
with chemical imbalances and physical changes in the brain. So the common flippant advice, for sufferers to “Pull yourself together” or “Get over it, brother/sister”, is more damaging than helpful.
lack of confiding relationships increases the risk of suffering depression. Maintaining confidentiality would encourage disclosure from those standing in faith against depression.
Hope for the depressed My key message is there is hope for the depressed. “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” There is sufficient, convincing research evidence that faith confers relative protection against depression, and also promotes quicker recovery when it sets in. Here are the five Kingdom Nuggets for dealing with depression.
3. Control your environment in depression Leisure activities and socialising become a chore when depressed. Victory, however, lies in persisting while going through the motions, as this will eventually result in spontaneity. There is plenty of evidence that exercise releases happy brain chemicals. Music remains a powerful weapon to combat depression, so fill the atmosphere of your home and car with worship, praise and faith-filled words. If David’s harp-playing lifted King Saul’s mood when the ministry of the Holy Spirit was not present, how much more now?
1. Confront depression and seek help Acknowledging depression as a condition to be tackled is not a sign of weakness or a lack of faith. Depression festers when denied; denial indicates there is no legitimate reason to seek help, whilst the condition worsens. Taking antidepressants or undergoing psychological therapy are not in conflict with having faith in God, just as it is not anti-faith to seek marital counselling for a fledgling marriage. Acclaimed, in the UK, as the most versatile psychological therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) relies heavily – without acknowledgement, however - on the scriptural principle of guarding one’s heart (Proverbs 4:23) and being transformed by renewing one’s mind or thoughts (Romans 12:1-2). My answer to the often-asked question as to whether a spiritual or medical approach should be adopted to combat mental disorders has always been: both! Obtaining spiritual support through prayers does not preclude help from GPs and Mental Health Specialists. A holistic approach is best. 2. Confide about depression Depression can be a very lonely experience, and having a non-judgmental, sensitive and supportive confidant to unburden your mind to can bring great relief. Research shows that the
4. Confess against depression Without fail, my favourite phrase to my depressed patients is: “I expect you to recover.” Words create and control atmospheres. Science is now catching up with what Scripture has always taught. The temptation is to speak unbelief, doubt, and gloom and doom when depressed, however negative words always create negative thoughts. Negative thoughts (referred to by CBT therapists as ‘Negative Automatic Thoughts’) are known to be pivotal in creating and maintaining the depressed mood and state. So, speak words of faith, and consciously paint a different picture. 5. Cast away unhealthy emotions of depression Unresolved, difficult emotions, such as anger, unforgiveness and bitterness, only add extra weight to the spirit that is already heavy. Sometimes the strength to let go comes when one counts the cost of holding onto these toxic emotions. Depression can be conquered. Be encouraged. Dr T. Ayodele Ajayi is a member of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, a radio host on Kent Christian Radio, and author of Footprints of Giants.
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#StandWithHer Christian children’s charity World Vision UK is asking people to support the movement for gender equality by sponsoring 1000 girls in developing countries by International Day of the Girl.
T
his year 12 million girls will be married against their will and 31 million will be out of school – many forced into work or domestic servitude. Less than two in five countries provide girls and boys with equal access to education. The #1000girls campaign comes at a critical time for girls around the world, who are fighting terrible odds to give themselves a better future. World Vision aims to get 1000 girls sponsored by the International Day of the Girl on 11th October. This global moment celebrates girls’ strength and potential in the face of severe challenges. World Vision UK chief executive Tim Pilkington says: “Too often, girls suffer unfair treatment every day in their communities and homes. Gender inequality wreaks havoc with a girl’s self-belief, contracts her horizons and narrows
her ambitions. Such injustices are a scourge on the world’s conscience.” “Motivated by our faith, we stand with these girls. World Vision does not accept that they are second class citizens. We believe every girl has a God-given right to reach her full potential. Girls everywhere are standing up for their rights. They are breaking through barriers, raising their voices against violence, and setting themselves free.” World Vision runs programmes in over 60 countries which help tackle gender discrimination. The charity work alongside marginalised girls in poor areas - and with community leaders, teachers and families - to fight abuse and oppression. It gets girls into school, stops child marriage, provides sexual health services, tackles menstrual stigma and combats sexual violence and harassment.
World Vision staff mentor girls through school and help them grow up to be community leaders. They train teachers to support girls through education and provide schools with clean water and girl-friendly toilets. They help mothers spot the signs of malnutrition, learn skills, set up businesses and advocate for girls and women’s rights. Pilkington says: “All our work is made possible through child sponsorship. We now have 1000 more girls waiting for a sponsor. Please visit our child sponsorship page, find a girl and stand with her. “When you sponsor a girl, you don’t just support and protect her. You do something far bigger. You empower that girl to achieve more in her life for herself and for others. You change the attitudes of whole communities. You join a global movement.”
To j o i n t h e m o v e m e n t t o s p o n s o r 1 0 0 0 G i r l s v i s i t :
worldvision.org.uk/1000girls World Vision UK is a charity registered in England (no. 285908).
40 LIFESTYLE
Hypertension in the African Caribbean population
H
igh blood pressure (hypertension) – very common in the UK – contributes to around half of all heart attacks and strokes in the UK. More than 14 million adults are diagnosed with the condition, plus as many as a further 5 million, who are thought to be undiagnosed. Blood pressure levels are consistently higher amongst people of African Caribbean descent, compared to their White counterparts, contributing to an earlier onset of hypertension.
• Too much alcohol or caffeinated drinks • Long-term sleep deprivation
What is hypertension? Blood pressure simply means the force at which the heart pumps blood around the body. It is recorded with two numbers: the systolic pressure (top number) is the force at which the heart pumps blood around the body, and the diastolic pressure (bottom number) is the resistance to the blood flow in the blood vessels. Both numbers are measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg). As a general guide, blood pressure is considered to be high at 140/90mmHg, with ideal blood pressure usually considered to be between 90/60mmHg and 120/80mmHg. High blood pressure rarely has noticeable symptoms but, if left untreated, it increases the risk of serious problems, such as heart attacks, strokes and kidney disease.
Maintaining a healthy weight: There is a strong link between high blood pressure and being overweight, so losing weight - even as little as 5-10% of your starting weight - will help. The best way to lose weight is by reducing your calorie intake and increasing your daily physical activity. Speak to your GP about a referral to your community Dietetic service or local weight loss management programme for help with losing weight.
Potential causes of hypertension • Age: The older we get, the higher the risk of developing hypertension, because our blood vessels don’t stretch as well anymore • Being overweight: The higher your body mass index (BMI), the higher your risk of high blood pressure • Family history of high blood pressure: Having a family member with high blood pressure means you are more likely to have the condition as well • Increased salt intake: Research has shown that people from African Caribbean backgrounds are more likely to have elevated blood pressure levels due to increased salt intake • Low level of exercise/physical activity
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Ways to help lower blood pressure You can help to reduce your risk of high blood pressure by making certain lifestyle changes. Of course, being African Caribbean is already a big risk factor that we cannot change, but we can invest efforts to modify our lifestyles, by making healthier food choices and increasing our activity level. Some of these changes include:
Being physically active: This is one of the most important things you can do to reduce your blood pressure. Try to build more physical activity into your daily routine, aiming for at least 150 minutes (2 ½ hours) of moderate intensity activity per week, starting off slow and steady. ‘Moderate intensity’ activity means any activity that makes you breathe harder and makes your heart beat faster than usual. Remember to check with your GP if starting any new exercise regime to make sure it’s safe to do so, especially if you have any heart-related problems. Reduce salt intake: Keep within the recommended intake of 6g a day (about 1 teaspoon). There is no need to use salt in cooking if you are already using seasonings, stock cubes and powders, like Maggi/Knorr/All-purpose seasoning and Everyday seasoning. Avoid adding salt at the table too. Try using herbs, spices and peppers in cooking instead. Limit intake of foods very high
in salt, ie. salt fish and smoked turkey (soak in water and drain off salted water before cooking), as well as cheese, crisps and salted nuts. Reduce alcohol intake: Drinking more than the recommended amount of alcohol can cause high blood pressure and damage to your heart muscle. The recommended limit is 14 units per week for both men and women, and it’s best to spread your intake evenly across the week. Reducing your intake of coffee and other caffeinated drinks, such as tea and cola drinks; increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables to at least five portions a day; increasing your intake of wholegrain foods, such as wholewheat pasta, wholegrain or multigrain bread, brown rice, and having 2-3 servings of low fat dairy products in your diet will help lower your risk of hypertension.
‘There is a strong link between high blood pressure and being overweight, so losing weight even as little as 5-10% of your starting weight - will help.’ Treatment Hypertension is usually treated with a combination of lifestyle changes (as above) and with medication. It is important to have your blood pressure monitored regularly; ideally, an annual check is recommended, if you have an increased risk. If you are already being treated for hypertension, please do take your medication as prescribed, and arrange regular check-ups with your GP. Sometimes people from Black African Caribbean backgrounds omit medication in favour of using local herbal remedies ‘from home’. This practice can be dangerous, as the dose of active ingredients taken is often unknown. Others often wish to employ faith for healing from hypertension, and stop taking their medication. It is important that you make wise decisions about your health. In all cases, inform your GP or healthcare provider.
MISSION 41
RISING UP FOR REFUGEES
Your church could change lives this winter. Join us and take a stand for refugees.
Meet Joseph, a refugee from Congo. Joseph’s story is one of hope. After being forced to leave his home and spending 10 long years living in a refugee camp in Burundi, he now enjoys a peaceful life with his wife and three children in the UK. Unfortunately, Joseph’s happy ending is a rare one. We are living through the worst refugee crisis in decades, and violence and war leave people like Joseph with no choice but to flee their homes and everything they know. After trekking across continents in search of safety, some come to Britain. But once they arrive, a new struggle begins. At Refugee Action we hear heartbreaking stories every day. Stories of hatred, isolation and poverty. Not from the places they’ve fled, but from right here in the UK. You would be forgiven for believing that when refugees and people seeking asylum arrive here, their journey to safety is over. For too many, this is not the case. Contrary to popular belief, seeking safety in the UK is not easy. The asylum system damages and disempowers so many of the people who go through it. Many find themselves trapped in a cycle of poverty due to endless delays in asylum claims. A lack of opportunity to learn English means people cannot communicate with others around them, preventing them from finding work or understanding their rights. At Refugee Action, we know it doesn’t have to be this way. Together with churches like yours, we can rise up for refugees. When Joseph and his family first arrived in the UK, we welcomed them at the airport. We helped them settle into their new house, access healthcare and get to know their new town. With our help, a generous community of neighbours and the kindness of their local church, Joseph and his family were given the support they needed to rebuild their lives here the UK. Today, Joseph plays the keyboard at his local church and feels a part of his community. His English is improving, he has found work and he is full of plans for the future. Refugee Action were by Joseph’s side throughout these milestones, ensuring that he had the tools
OUR STORY with which to build a happy life for himself and his family. When refugees and people seeking asylum arrive in the UK with nothing, we make sure they have the basic support they need. Then we help them find the resources to build a new life and make a positive contribution. We help them live. This winter, Refugee Action are asking congregations like yours to stand with refugees like Joseph. With your help, we can be a source of support for more people who truly need us. Get involved and host a collection for Refugee Action this winter. Simply dedicate a Sunday service to Refugee Action during Harvest or Christmas, and ask your congregation to donate to support refugees like Joseph as they rebuild their lives.
Together with your church, we can show the world that humanity can win. Support Refugee Action this winter.
Refugee Action were founded in 1981 to help refugees from Vietnam. Since then, we have made a real difference to the lives of thousands of refugees. Small but powerful, our vision is a future where refugees and people seeking protection are welcomed and given the compassion, justice and support to live with dignity. Will your church be a part of this journey with us?
Join with churches across the UK and host a Collection for Humanity. We have a wealth of resources available for your group or church, Including sermon notes, prayer cards, stories of our work and donation envelopes. Sign up and find out more at refugee-action.org.uk/keepthefaith
42 MISSION
IN THE STORM Compassion for the lonely
Chaundra grew up in New Brunswick, Canada, hearing stories of her dad and uncles smuggling Bibles into the USSR. Excited by the idea of mission, Chaundra and her husband Matt joined MAF in 2013. Matt serves as a missionary pilot in Uganda and Chaundra works as Visitor Co-ordinator, where her passion for people and missions continues to grow. ‘…Yet I am not alone, for my Father is with me.’ John 16:32, NIV The storm that struck that night was the kind that made you believe the world was coming to an end. There were lightning strikes all around, and thunder shook our house. The next morning, mudslides on our hill and fallen compound walls forced me to take my run in a different direction from usual. As I prepared to set off, something caught my eye. It was a girl, a little younger than my daughter. She was muddy and bruised, her nightgown ripped to shreds. Blood trickled down her face from her nose. After a savage beating from relatives with whom she’d been living in the city, they had chased her into the street, where she found herself hiding in a drain during the downpour and chaos of the storm. Sometimes it’s hard to understand the circumstances God allows us to go through; the ones that separate us from our families or which make us feel utterly alone, rejected and unloved. Sometimes it’s hard to wrap our heads around how a loving God could allow His beloved children to feel so alone. But that’s where, as His hands and feet, we come in. He has called us to love one another (1 John 4:7) and to have compassion for each other (Colossians 3:12). As followers of Christ, we don’t arrive in these stories with super hero capes on our backs, but we crawl into them with His cross; His compassion for us on our shoulders. Death and distance may separate us, relationships fall apart; people leave. Tough times and difficult circumstances can make you feel like you’re walking alone. But there is One who is always with us. Remember: you are His child; you’ll never be alone in the storm. Jesus Christ is the greatest example of someone who shows true compassion. He spent time with the sick, the outcast, the poor and the lonely. And then, in a great act of compassion, He died for us so we could always have a place with Him. We have a good Father, one who will always walk with us, and never leave us – whatever storms life brings. ‘At my first defense, no one came to my support, but everyone deserted me. May it not be held against them. But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. And I was delivered from the lion’s mouth.’ 2 Timothy 4:16-17, NIV Extract from ‘Recalibrate: Bible study and workbook’; a selection of 28 biblical reflections written by MAF international and national staff. MAF is the world’s largest humanitarian airline, bringing help, hope and healing to those in greatest need. To get your free copy today, visit www.maf-uk.org/keepthefaith
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MAF is the world’s largest humanitarian airline, bringing help, hope and healing to those in need.
Reflect and realign your lives back to Christ Recalibrate; Bible study and workbook is a selection of biblical reflections written by national and international staff serving with Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF).
FREE * COPY
We have created this workbook in the hope that it will be a useful tool to enable you, your church or Bible study group to enjoy an even deeper walk with God. As you read through the stories and Bible verses, allow the questions to guide you into a conversation with God – using the time to reassess your current condition and, where necessary, change direction.
To receive your FREE copy, visit
www.maf-uk.org/lonely MAF UK Castle House, Castle Hill Avenue, Folkestone, Kent CT20 2TQ Scotland Office 29 Canal Street, Glasgow G4 0AD T 01303 850950 E supporter.relations@maf-uk.org
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44 MISSION
Rebuilding lives with Benin’s first and only reconstructive surgeon
I
n 1995, a 12-year-old Odry Agbessi saw a woman, who’d had acid thrown in her face. The woman’s face and torso had become fused together. She needed reconstructive surgery, but there were no reconstructive surgeons in Benin to help her. In that moment, seeing the woman’s injuries brought the young Agbessi to a decision: she was going to become a reconstructive surgeon to help people in her country like that woman. This decision started a journey for Agbessi, a journey that was to be long and hard fought; a journey that those closest to her would often try to dissuade her from, but one that would bring her closer to God. “In my country, women do not often become surgeons. My family were supportive of my education, but they worried about me. They wanted me to study something different,” said Agbessi. She would not give up on her dream and, in 2003, she started studying medicine. Nine years later, the now Dr Agbessi graduated from medical school. Despite having come so far and now being a qualified doctor, she still faced resistance to becoming a reconstructive surgeon. “My parents didn’t want me to do surgery. They were worried there would be a male atmosphere, and it would be too difficult an environment for me. They wanted me to do cardiology instead. But I said “No!” and continued to send out my CV.” Then, in 2010, not long after her graduation, Dr Agbessi’s father passed away unexpectedly. “He died at around 6pm. People started to arrive and we were all crying. Then, at around 10pm that evening, I had a call to tell me I had been accepted to study in Morocco. It was all on the same day,” said Agbessi. It was a heartbreaking moment for the young doctor. “I had the place but not on a scholarship. I couldn’t ask my mother to support me financially.
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So I asked myself: ’Should I take this opportunity?’ But I am a believer. I told myself that if God gave me this opportunity then He would provide for me.” Dr Agbessi decided to travel to Morocco. It was a difficult and lonely time to be away from her family. Her father had just passed away, and she had to support herself by braiding hair when she was not studying to become a surgeon. Dr Agbessi’s hard work was not in vain, and her effort was to be rewarded after five years of study. In 2015, Dr Agbessi returned to Benin as the country’s only qualified reconstructive surgeon. But there were still challenges to face, however, as the young surgeon says: “If God says Yes, then no one can say No. “The thing that made me choose my speciality was the burn contractures. But where I did my specialisation, in Morocco, they treated well the burned people, so they didn’t have many burn contractures. Most of the treatment skills I learned were with humanitarian missions, like Mercy Ships,” she said. Mercy Ships operates the world’s largest charity hospital ship, the Africa Mercy, and they exist because, in sub-Saharan Africa, 93% of the population cannot access the healthcare they need. Following the model of Jesus, to bring hope and healing, this floating hospital travels to developing nations to provide free healthcare for some of the world’s poorest people and provide training for local professionals. When Mercy Ships depart a region, they leave a legacy of lasting change and strengthened healthcare there. The arrival of the Africa Mercy in Benin gave Dr Agbessi the opportunity she had prayed for. In 2016, Dr Agbessi joined a mentoring programme onboard the Africa Mercy to improve
her skills operating on burns. “I learnt a lot from them. I made friends and did a pain management course. They trained me to train other people too. Then when the ship left Benin to go to Cameroon, Mercy Ships asked me if I would go to help deliver training.” Dr Agbessi now delivers training both at the National Teaching Hospital in Benin and onboard the Africa Mercy throughout West Africa. She has also become somewhat of a role model and inspiration to others. “I was happy to see there were many other women studying surgery after me. Even if not in the trauma department, but in general surgery, there are now three women working.” Looking back over her career so far, Dr Agbessi believes it has been as much a spiritual journey as a professional one. “You can serve God by serving people. Becoming a plastic surgeon has been a journey which has been a strong, spiritual experience. If I didn’t have such a faith, I wouldn’t have been inspired to do what I did. God found a way to help me achieve.” See Dr Agbessi teaching and learn more about Mercy Ships in the video and pack online: www.mercyships.org.uk/church.
MISSION 45
W When all is lost and the way forward is uncertain, what do you do? The inspiring story of Chitalu Chishimba – Zambian project partner of charity, Mission Direct – tells us that surrendering it all to Jesus is the best way forward.
me of Chitalu with so
VoH in 2016 the residents of
ith a broken marriage and two young daughters depending on her, Chitalu faced isolation from her family and the possibility of life on the streets of Lusaka, Zambia. In that moment, she looked to God to pave the way, and her calling to rescue street girls began to unfold. “I had worked for two months without pay, and that morning I decided to resign,” says Chitalu. “On my way home, I met a woman I used to go to church with, and she offered me a lift.” As they got out, Chitalu was confronted with the bustle of boys, girls and street mission workers, and realised this woman was working with street children. “I didn’t know anyone or what was going on,” Chitalu said, “and shortly after arriving, my friend was called away on an emergency, leaving me there.” Reality of life on the streets was all too familiar, and Chitalu was quickly put to use, working with a group of 13 to 17-year-old boys. Chitalu was recruited as part of the growing team, and her opportunity to change the lives of young women developed. Given permission to think of new incentives, she presented the idea of a sanitary-wear service for the women she had encountered. Many children in the villages of Lusaka are unable to afford underwear or sanitary products. Many are left using thick rags to try to control their bleeding. “What happens to a girl on the streets when she is bleeding is very depressing. She will stand up at some points and just rotate her skirt, sit, and then you can see the fidgeting because she has no underwear. These children are often sexually abused,” explains Chitalu. Chitalu spent two days a week on the outreach team, and two days running the new girls’ programme. Her work became widely known and, a year later, Chitalu was headhunted by the government to take part in another programme. Chitalu’s dream came under attack here, however, when the department’s new supervisor told her she’d have to sleep with him for her projects to continue. Chitalu refused and left. “I had two daughters to look after, a small house I was renting, and a helper at home I needed to pay. My sister and her husband had died and left two boys as orphans, whom I was also taking care of.” But Chitalu was confident of God’s plan and provision. Chitalu continued doing outreach in her own capacity, but this time she had connections. “Little did I know I was building my team on the ground!” With resources wearing thin, these
Volunteer tea m from Mission Direct painting the ne w facility in 20 16
eek trip to work If you would like to find out more about a two-w to support them or , Hope of Vision and lu Chita with partners like financially, visit missiondirect.org.
Chitalu with some of the girls
at the Vision of Hope Safe
House
were the connections that would keep her going. One of these connections was a lady whose husband was working for a mining company. She offered to help Chitalu, and the two women together provided what they could for three months until, in 2009, Chitalu was introduced to the CEO of the mining company. He was known for leaving something to the community in every country he worked in.“He came to visit, we had dinner, and he just told me to ‘find a place’!. For the first few months he was paying rent for us in a vacant house.” Having received building provisions, the favour didn’t stop there. It seemed that each time she picked up the phone, there was a blessing at the other end. A distant relative offered to invest money into the work for a year - and profits inevitably grew. “She just popped up! God just sent her! My children never stopped going to school, I was able to pay rent, and we managed to run this facility just on God’s grace.” Then, in 2011, somebody came to buy them a piece of land as a gift, and Vision of Hope – a safe house for street girls - was founded. Mission Direct, a UK-based volunteering charity, visited the site in 2014 and, on seeing the bare land, quickly set out to build a home to support Lusaka’s young street girls. For the next two years, self-funding volunteers travelled to Lusaka to support the build of a new facility, combined with the generosity of donors through the charity, and in 2016 the home was opened. Now, with over 40 girls, Vision of Hope is filled with life and love. “From the time God spoke to me, I would say to God: ‘I am just Your servant. These children, whatever they lack, You are the provider, so make Your way,” said Chitalu. Chitalu is already seeing the fruits of her decision to follow God’s calling, with girls graduating school and embarking on successful careers. Last year, the Egmont Trust in the UK awarded Chitalu the title of ‘Most Inspirational Woman of the Year 2018’.
46 MISSION
THE UGANDAN PASTOR RELEASED FROM POVERTY AND INTO GOD’S MISSION
R
ichmond Wandera has early happy memories of growing up in Uganda. However, when Richmond was eight his father was murdered. The family lost their home, Richmond had to leave school and he stole food to simply survive. Through the generosity of a teenage girl from the UK, Richmond and his family’s lives were changed forever when he was sponsored through the child development charity, Compassion. Growing up in one of Uganda’s largest slums, Richmond was supported through school and university by Compassion. He is now the Pastor at New Life Baptist Church in Kampala and founder of the Pastors Discipleship Network which trains and equips pastors with vital ministry skills. Over the last 10 years the Pastors Discipleship Network has helped over 6,000 pastors across East Africa. Richmond recently chatted to Keep the Faith about the journey which led him to where he is today.
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Could you tell us about your childhood and what life was like? I was born in a family of six. I grew up as part of a very joyful family. My father was a very fun individual. He was a lawyer. We were one united family heading in one direction with a lot of hope. But that all changed when he was murdered. We were thrown out of our four-bedroom house and moved into a one-room house in the slums. That’s when everything became grey and dark. I remember when I was told I could not go to school. It was hard to see my fellow children go to school with books in their hands. Every child, as young as they might be, has an opinion on who they are. I felt like my opinion of myself was damaged because I began spending more time on the street, stealing food from gardens to survive. But I really lost my dignity when our roof was leaking severely under one heavy storm. Our home just became one giant puddle. It was just instance after instance that kept tearing away at the fabric of the soul. As a child you just give up and accept “this is who I am. I am unloved, I am unwanted, with nothing to be proud of. No hope.” But that was not the end of the story because God sent help, a 15-year-old girl called Heather took a babysitting job and sponsored me through Compassion. That changed everything. It changed my life, it changed my family’s life, it changed my church. It’s very important to distinguish between physical, emotional and psychological poverty. Many people fix their eyes on physical poverty because that’s what they see.
MISSION 47
How did your sponsor help sow into the person you are today? I cannot find the words to describe the joy that filled our home when we got the news “Richmond you’ve got a sponsor, which means you can now go back to school, it means food will be given to us.” I began to walk into that reality, that ushered in me an opportunity to rekindle the hope that was taken away. Heather wrote to me. To hear words like Richmond I love you, Richmond I’m praying for you - They began to bring healing into the places destroyed by the voices of poverty. I credit a lot of how I feel about myself now to those letters.
Poverty’s not just about disease. True poverty is a voice that tells a child “you are nothing, nobody loves you, nobody will ever want you, you don’t have permission to dream”. That poverty is stronger than money. It takes an arsenal such as love, presence, care and constant words of affirmation to push back. It doesn’t cost money to tell someone that you love them. The gift of encouragement doesn’t cost a thing. Yet it yields better results than money can ever achieve. I think that’s what happened to me. The reason I say this is because of the people who worked at my project, and also my sponsor. By loving us so, I began to feel healed on the inside. I remember June 3rd, 1996, I walked forward and accepted the Lord Jesus into my heart. I began to feel, like wow, I have been released from poverty. Later, my pastor identified there was a pastoral heart in me. Fast forward to today, I pastor the exact church I was sponsored in as a Compassion-supported child. God blessed me with high quality theological training that many pastors in Uganda don’t have. I went to Moody Bible Institute and I spent three years turning over the pages of scriptures. I learnt to whom much is given, much is required. There I decided I was going to take this and train pastors and that’s why 10 years ago I founded the Pastors Discipleship Network. Right now, God has allowed us to help 6,000 pastors find hope in the word of God. For this I give God great glory, but I have to think, where did it all start? One decision of a girl. She chose to live with less so I could live with more. And here I am today.
Is there one thing God has taught you about leadership recently? God has taught me to wait on Him. I used to be convinced that a vision is a burden in the heart of a leader, that they will not rest until that burden is resolved or that gap is filled. I’ve found that actually, any vision that has to do with the church, the body or the kingdom, fits within a bigger vision. And no pastor has an independent vision for the church that is separate from Christ’s vision. Christ said, apart from me you can do nothing. But every so often, we are caught as leaders just running. It takes faith and self-control to wait on God; to say, in the words of Moses, I will not go until you go with Me. When God says, pack up and move, you pack up and move. If you practice waiting on Him enough, it can become so personal it can control how you speak, how you listen and how you care for people. It can take away a lot of stress and pressure. So I can wait, I can truly have a new vision of Christ as my commander and chief. The battle is raging on, but I need His orders. What is your vision for both the church you pastor and the Pastors Discipleship Network? Our church is called New Life Baptist Church and our big tagline is bringing new life to the city. My vision for our church is that we’ll become a church in the city where the gospel of Jesus Christ is celebrated and all are welcome; where all find practical help - finding purpose and meaning; finding ways of utilising their resources to advance the Kingdom of God.
The key word for me is relevance. I think God will use churches that strike a relevant chord. Everyone who reads the gospels has no doubt that Jesus’ ministry was relevant to the people. That is my vision for the church. In terms of the Pastors Discipleship Network, I see it as a voice to pastors, calling them back to the word, back to submission, back to the one who founded the church. And back to training. I believe deeply that when a pastor is trained and equipped and gets it, then that church is trained and equipped, and then that community cannot remain the same either. And when a community is transformed, a nation is transformed. Pastors Discipleship Network is currently in Uganda, South Sudan, Congo and Rwanda. Our hope is that we will enter into Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi, Zimbabwe and Zambia in the next six years. My vision is also that the Lord will allow us to start a more formal programme, my hope is to start an institution where we can give accreditation. God has provided us a 16-acre facility in Kampala. That’s a miracle provision. God’s taking all these resources and causing them to be the home of the African pastor – that they can come far and wide to study. And it’s all because one girl in the UK decided I was worth investing in. What would you say to a UK church wondering whether to prioritise children? There’s a reality that we don’t think about enough: these children will be around long after we’re gone. They are responsible for deciding the future. To invest now is probably the most strategic decision a leader can make. If they ignore these children, it will cost the future significantly. For me – even if a person decided, I am going to spend my life investing in one child, could be a child in Uganda, could be a child in the UK. This one child – I am going to be there for you – such a life is not a wasted life.
Through the generous heart of a sponsor in the UK, Richmond’s life was changed for the better. To learn more about how sponsoring a child can help release them from poverty visit www.compassionuk.org
