CONNECT CHRIST THE KING CHURCH - STAYING CONNECTED!
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CHRIST THE KING CHURCH CONNECT STAYING CONNECTED! GROWING IN LOVE, DISCIPLESHIP, AND SERVICE VOL. 2, NO. 2 | CTKCHURCHGA.ORG | APRIL 2022
What's on Pastor Mimi's Mind: Love, Connect, Engage, and Expand Umm, what’s on my mind – this is it: Love, Connect, Engage, and Expand. What’s on my mind: Love. It’s like I woke up one morning from a meeting with God, and He said it’s always been about love and will always be about love. I’ve read the scripture in the bible 1 Corinthians 13, and these three remain, but the greatest of these is love. Or John, that says God is love. For some reason this day it was branded in my heart, love must be the focus. What’s on my mind: Connect – Staying connected to you, the members of CTKC. I think of God’s family at CTKC often – daily. I’m concerned about your faith journey with the Holy Spirit. Are you holding on? Is the peace and joy of God being manifested in you? Do you see God’s heart and hands active in your life? I want to stay connected to you and for you to stay connected with your church family. What’s on my mind: Engaging – Spiritual maturity requires us to be in community. You can see this in all the things God designed. There are interrelationships and dependencies among all His creatures. Also, strong and growing churches have people engaged in executing the church's vision. 1 April 2022
What’s on my mind: Expansion – We cannot stay within the walls of CTKC. Nor can we only have an awesome anointed Sunday morning experience. We must go beyond these walls. We must care, nurture, and grow spiritually within our church body, and we have a charge to go hard for the “least of these.” I pray that God will give us opportunities to expand into another community via a church plant. I pray for the elevation of leaders within the church, to include new leaders and converts coming in to join with this body of believers, as well as spiritual growth of the body. I also pray for opportunities to open our hearts and hands through strong missions and evangelism teams. These are a few of the things that are on my mind and heart. In addition, I pray for your health and prosperity. Thank you for your prayers. The one area I am so blessed with is a praying church! I hear your prayers and know I am covered. To my Church Family, Thank You! I feel your love and I hope you feel the love flowing from my heart to yours. Please enjoy this newsletter, I appreciate the inspiring words from our members and all the great information about our church. Greeting Christ the King Church, We are sending a BIG Thank You to everyone that purchased candles or made a love donation during the candle fundraiser. This whole process would have been so much more difficult without your help, and with your help we were able to reach and surpass the Goal set of 150 candles. Due to your generous donations and purchases, total sales were - wait for it - 200 candles sold as well as $635 in donations! These funds will go towards providing, Love Baskets to meet the need of God’s people in our community. Our action words are "Living In Love." Thank you again for your ongoing support! View this Thank You message by clicking the button below! - Andrea Marshall, Missions Ministry View Andrea's Thank You message by clicking the YouTube button! CTKC Connect 2
We're Living in Love! It's okay to not be okay. If you did not reach that particular goal you wanted to by the time you wanted to, it’s okay. If you have not reached that weight goal, if you have not reached that financial goal, or that career goal - it’s okay. Do not get caught up in other people’s timelines. They may appear to have it all and if they do that is great. It was their time. What God has for you is for you and you will get it when it’s your time. Focus on your goals and trust in God’s timeline. If things do not go as planned it’s okay. If you are going through a storm, it’s okay. I love the quote, “Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, but learning how to dance in the rain.” Lean not to your own understanding and trust in Him By Yvonne Jackson with all your heart. It’s okay to not be okay. Enjoy your life intentionally! CTKC Connect 4
PHOTO CREDIT: GROVE AVENUE R.E.A.L. Sister's Ministry Relevant, Empowered, Authentic, and Loving Ministry Spotlight: R.E.A.L. Sisters Women's Ministry By Lisa Aiken By Portia By Dss. Jamila Miller Huckleberry-Dennis What is the biggest impact you believe that the and visitors are allowing the women to come R.E.A.L. Sisters Women’s Ministry has on Christ together to fellowship with other women; to the King Church members and visitors? talk about subjects; things that they are going through; and/or things they are wanting to Lisa: The impact for me is to encourage women know. The events that the Women's Ministry to grow their relationship with GOD, and have, conveys and highlights to them that they connect with other women by providing support are not alone. This establishes a zone of comfort or mentorship. that we believe they are receptive to engaging about the topics presented. Personally, before Portia: I believe the biggest impact the Women's I became a member of the committee, it Ministry has is bringing women together in order gave me the opportunity to engage with other to fellowship and build new relationships with women I learned they were going through some each other. of the same things, and they had some of the same questions that I did which made me feel Dss. Jamila: The biggest impact that I believe that I wasn't the only one. that the Women's Ministry has on CTKC members 7 April 2022
What part of the Women’s Ministry work do you enjoy most or find the most rewarding? Dss. Jamila: My favorite memory with the Women's Ministry is when I went on my first Lisa: The focus, faith, and relationship with GOD. women's trip a few years ago and had the opportunity to bring my sister and mother along. Portia: What I find most rewarding is being able This was an experience that i enjoyed, were i to fellowship with the woman of Christ the King was able to connect with them on a different Church and building relationships. level outside of what we normally do. Dss. Jamila: The part of the Women's Ministry that I enjoy and find most rewarding is being able to be hands-on with the event planning. It is nothing more rewarding than to have an event where you hear women talking about how much they enjoyed it and how much of an effect it had on their life. Hearing those comments, is like WOW! I was a part of that. As a member of the Women’s Ministry what is your message to women in the church? Lisa: As a woman that GOD created, you are loved and cherished. Portia: My message to the women of CTKC is this: if you have not had the opportunity to attend one of our events please find time to attend one this year. You will not leave the same. Dss. Jamila: The message that I would give the women in the church is, sis you are not alone and don't feel that you have to do it by yourself. Us R.E.A.L. Sisters and the CTKC church are here to connect with you, grow with you and walk with you on your spiritual journey. What is your favorite memory with the R.E.A.L. Sisters Women’s Ministry? Lisa: What is your favorite memory with this Ministry? The Women’s Ministry trip to Destin, FL - the love we shared for GOD by pouring out our souls, and the sisterly bonds that were built. Portia: One of my most favorite memories is the first trip with the women to Destin, Florida. I was able to fellowship with the women like never before. I return home excited to explore and join other ministries that are available within our church. Actually, that is how I ended up joining the CTKC Choir! CTKC Connect 8
PHOTO CREDIT: BIBLE STUDY TOOLS For My People... By Rosalyn Aaron For many years, I have been drawn in by 2 and have chosen this Temple as the place for Chronicles 7:14 (NIV): “if my people, who are making sacrifices.’” called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their So, let’s examine the four things God admonished wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and the children of Israel to do. I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” The most curious word in that verse that could HUMBLE THEMSELVES. As much as we think we be considered an edict, announcement, or know, we do not have all the answers. decree was the word “then,” which suggests that something significant preceded that PRAY. P- is for praise. I will bless the Lord at all announcement or decree. We learn that what times! R- is for repent. Recognize, admit, and preceded it was a time of jubilation in Israel own your mistakes. Apologize directly to the because King Solomon completed everything injured party, and even if the injured party does he had planned to do in the construction of the not accept your apology, embrace and take Temple and the Palace. 2 Chronicles 7:12 (NIV) comfort in knowing that you’ve done your part. reads, “Then, one night the Lord appeared to A- is for ask. Ask for guidance and direction Solomon and said, ‘I have heard your prayer from God through the Holy Spirit. Y- is for yield. 9 April 2022
Surrender to God’s perfect will for your life. no rain…” Our agriculture officials have seen in 2020 concentrations of adult grasshoppers SEEK MY FACE. The single most amazing across about 55,000 square miles in the West. revelation here is the acknowledgment that Biblical symptoms of the arid conditions have to move on to the next step requires seeking emerged a fresh infestation of grasshoppers. God’s face, because the fourth point is virtually impossible without the third. • The second part of 2 Chronicles 7:13 states, “or command locusts to devour the land...” TURN FROM YOUR WICKED WAYS. Without God What were American plagues? Although not we can do nothing. If we could turn from our exclusive to America, the worst outbreaks in wicked ways on our own without humility, U.S. History include smallpox, yellow fever, prayer and surrender we would not be in the cholera, scarlet fever, 1918 H1N1 or the predicament we find ourselves in today. Spanish flu, diphtheria, polio, whooping cough, and of course COVID-19. 2 Chronicles 7:14 GOD is crystal clear in identifying to whom He is speaking which are • 2 Chronicles 7:13 concludes with, “or send a His chosen people. Not just any people, but the plague among my people.” So, my brothers ones who acknowledged Him as the one true and sisters, the signs are clear: death does God. Allow me to exert a somewhat abstract not care about your color, ethnicity, or comparison between the jubilation of Israel political preference. God has the final say. during that period in the Old Testament and an event in modern day America, that resulted Let’s humble ourselves, pray, seek God’s face, in jubilation in 2008 for not just Americans that and turn from wicked ways, so that God may look like me but for the majority of America. I hear from heaven, forgive our sins, and heal our am talking about the election of the first African land Peace! American President. Born in Kansas, he is an African American in the purest sense of the word; Live in Love! the blood running through the veins of the 44th President of the United States of America was that of African origin from the African nation of Kenya and not a descendent of the survivors of the most brutal system of slavery in the history of mankind. Despite disproved conspiracy theories regarding his citizenship, his DNA did not thwart his eligibility to run for and win the highest office in the land in the most powerful country in the world, not once, but twice. Surely, this neither rivals nor compares to the accomplishments of King Solomon. So, please indulge an old lady to draw a parallel between what God warned King Solomon and what our nation and the world has experienced. As we look back over the history of our relatively young nation, there was the infamous Dust Bowl. A name given to the drought-stricken Southern Plains during a dry period in the 1930’s. • The first part of 2 Chronicles 7:13 (NIV) says, “When I shut up the heavens so that there is CTKC Connect 10
Submit your answers to newsletter@ctkchurchga.org. First three (3) correct, completed submissions will win a prize! Word Search: 2 Chronicles Angels Dynasty Grasshopper King Royal Animals Epidemic Heard Levities Sacrifice Answer Face Heart Lord Seek Sing Appear Fail Heaven Military Solomon Ark Faith History Mother Temple Called Father Holy Palace Trumpets Commands Forgive Humble Prayer Trust Dance Glory Israel Priest Wisdom Devour God Joy Rejoice 11 April 2022
The Kindness Diaries By Justine Clyde MATTHEW 25:38-40 NIV “When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you? The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’” Recently I began watching a show on Brigham Young University (BYU) television called the “Kindness Diaries,” which is about a man named Leon Logothetis, who counting solely on the kindness of strangers for food, shelter, and fuel, travels around the world on a vintage motorcycle looking for the good in humanity. The trip began and ended in Los Angeles where it intrigued and touched me like few shows have before. Contrary to what many may think, there are some truly selfless people in the world. Luckily, we get to glimpse into their hearts and realize there is still hope for the world. What impressed me the most about Leon and his small crew was not only did Leon meet people who helped him, but most of the time the individuals were already helping others. The host of BYU was so moved and inspired, that, in many cases, he was given back and contributed to their various causes. In one instance, Leon offered a homeless man he met on the street shelter in the form of a new home and a chance to go back to school. For a destitute farmer, Leon purchased a dairy cow which would greatly increase his wealth. He purchased rescue equipment for a world-renowned disaster rescue organization; 1,000 books, new sports equipment and arranged clean drinking water for an orphanage in Calcutta; and a new house for a Cambodian lady living in a shack and suffering from HIV. He would go on to fund cataract surgery for 100 rural Vietnamese farmers, then helping a young woman who grew up in an orphanage open her own. There are many other stories and gifts too numerous to mention that are shown in the “Kindness Diaries,” but what I learned from these experiences is that the people who have the least are the ones who are willing to help the most. You see, kindness is a relative to hospitality and true hospitality is kindness shown to strangers, to people that you don’t know rather than to those that you do know. One of Leon’s last statements as season one came to an end was that some people spend their lives taking, while others spend their lives giving and he was so honored to have met a few of those giving people in all parts of the world. Even when there were barriers, kindness and love still prevailed. It only takes one act of Kindness and caring to change a person’s life. CTKC Connect 12
PHOTO CREDIT: THOROLD NEWS On the Frontlines with God By Morgan DeLoach, RN, FNP-C As a nurse working on the frontlines during the pandemic, I found myself more often than not discouraged many times. However, I persevered day after day as my unit became a primary unit for COVID-19 positive patients with the spirit of the Lord covering my family and me. I have seen death, doubt, and fear at an all-time high. Some may ask how I found the strength to continue working and others projected their fears upon me. The place where I found my strength and protection came from the Lord. I have been a devout Christian for many years of my young life, but during the pandemic, I found myself growing closer to God and becoming more specific with my prayers. I have grown from a more general prayer life to something closer to God - something more personal and a relationship with God that has no barriers. Before, in the mornings, I said a general, “Thank you, Lord, for allowing me to see another day,” however now, it is more specific and intentional. I laugh with God and cry with God now because I have a closer relationship with Him. The pandemic has also taught me to be more intentional with my time and how I maneuver through life. I no longer spend time on things that do not bring joy to God, my family, or my friends. I am intentional from the moment I wake up until I go to sleep and kiss my children good night. I intentionally no longer surround myself with those who do not speak positive things or those who never can say they are having a good day. I do not believe trouble will always last and everyday is not meant for us to weep and moan. “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13). I genuinely believe there is joy in this season of uncertainty and that this is a season of growth for us all. 13 April 2022
Who Inspires You in the Bible? Minister Sonya Harris says...Enoch. In the Old Testament there is a man named Enoch whose walk with God was so pure, so vibrant, and so honest, the Lord said, “This is what it's all about.” The Bible summarizes Enoch's life in 12 words that reveal a powerful and vibrant faith that God could not wait any longer. God took Enoch to be with Him in heaven. Enoch had a relationship with GOD!! Because I have a relationship with God, I can become everything GOD called me to be and more in HIM. When you journey through life experiences, you never depart without HIM! Why? Because He sees and knows all things. When we approach life with an attitude of not knowing everything, we leave room for GOD to teach and LEAD us in the way we should go in order to become more like HIM! Minister Bobbie Pittman says...Deborah. Deborah inspires me with her many roles as a woman of God. She was a wife, a prophet of God, a female judge, a songwriter, a worshiping warrior, and a military leader with authority. I have learned from her that when God calls you to do something, it does not matter what people think about you, just as it does not matter if you have an excellent skill or the words to say. God prepares you for the assignment, and your authority comes from Him. By yourself, you may not be able to do what God has called you to, but WITH Him, you can do all things. CTKC Connect 14
15 April 2022
Business Spotlight: Be Rooted Founded by Jasmin Foster What inspired you to create your own business? I am a huge fan of all things stationery! I have always owned one too many journals and planners. However, I have often felt disconnected from the category because I did not think the designs or aesthetic fully spoke to me. What’s the purpose of your business? I created Be Rooted to uplift and celebrate women of color in their everyday life with reflective imagery and uplifting messaging. What do you love the most about your work? The impact! It brings me so much joy to see so many women gifting these journals to their friends and family as a form of self-care and wellness. I often receive messages of gratitude from people telling me that my journals finally made them feel seen. What role has God played in your entrepreneur life? Entrepreneurship is a hard journey, and it can sometimes feel lonely. However, I know that God is ordering my steps to be walking in my purpose and because of that I can wake up each day ready to conquer whatever obstacles there may be. Please visit our website at www.berootedco.com and follow us @berootedco on all social channels for more details on Be Rooted. Jasmin Foster CTKC Connect 16
PHOTO CREDIT: JUT BETWEEN US MAGAZINE ARISE Youth is Rising Higher in 2022 By Pastor DeShannon Lewis Youth Pastor Hello, Christ the King Church family. On behalf of the ARISE Youth Ministry, let me proclaim boldly to you that the Youth Ministry is moving forward in 2022! I would like to take this opportunity to share some events we have planned for this quarter. First and foremost, our Middle and High schoolers are gathering once again in person for Sunday Service. That is right, you read that correctly! Middle and High Schoolers are now meeting up for Sunday ervices and we are glad about it! Following our time of praise and worship, the teens are dismissed up to the “Den” where we teach God's word on relevant topics in an engaging atmosphere. We have not forgotten about our grade schoolers either. As part of our phased-in approach to receiving the youth back in-person, the ARISE Youth Ministry is making preparations to welcome back K-5 in April 2022. Next order of business: Resurrection Sunday is quickly approaching. We will celebrate in-person with all our grade school levels. There will be fun and games geared toward honor and reverence of our risen Savior as we meditate on his sacrificial love. Additional details and registration information to follow. On to our graduates: We at Christ the King Church look forward for opportunities to 17 April 2022
celebrate our youth and their accomplishments. We are so proud of the fortitude exemplified by our youth in reaching this epic milestone. We will have a day set aside for our High School graduates where we will come together, build comradery, and encourage them along the path to their next journey. Additional details will soon be made available. Looking ahead to Vacation Bible School (VBS): This year’s VBS will be in-person - God willing! We have high expectation for bringing the youth together in-person to kick off this year’s VBS over the summer and will make adjustments as needed following COVID-19 protocol. Our ARISE Youth will need your guidance, support, and prayers as they navigate this pivotal part of their development: Seeking to grow in their walk with Christ. We are petitioning Christ-like leaders such as yourself to serve our young members of the congregation in helping them to reach their full potential. One writer said it like this, “Investing in today’s youth is necessary in growing the body of Christ. Teaching young people in the church to grow in their relationship with the Lord prepares them to serve Christ in all they do. As a result, this nurtures the congregation and allows the church to flourish.” May we count on you CTKC, to bridge the current gap? If you would like to express an interest in serving our youth, please contact us at youthpastor@ctkchurchga.org. Blessings, Pastor DS CTKC Connect 18
To Give digitally, Let's Get Social! Connect point your camera at With CTKC! the QR code to be Live stream and watch past services on our directed to Givelify. Facebook and YouTube pages @ctkga Editorial Board Pastor Marion Sailor Jordan Coleman Dss. Tiffany Nelson Contributing Writers Yvonne Jackson..................................Page 04 Lisa AIken............................................. Page 07 Portia Huckleberry-Dennis..................Page 07 Dss. Jamila Miller..................................Page 07 Rosalyn Aaron......................................Page 09 Justine Clyde....................................... Page 12 Morgan DeLoach................................Page 13 Min. Sonya Harris................................. Page 14 Min. Bobbie Pittman........................... Page 14 Jasmin Foster....................................... Page 16 Pastor DeShannon Lewis.................... Page 17 High School Applicants College Applicants Rev. Marion Sailor, Senior Pastor 258 Rabbit Hill Rd, Dacula, GA 30019 | 770-963-8447 | info@ctkchurchga.org
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