Pastor Bridget Hilliard shares Women Who Win!

Pastor Bridget Hilliard is the on-site Pastor of New Light Christian Center Church Beaumont; co-founder and wife of Bishop I.V. Hilliard. Bishop I.V. and Pastor Bridget Hilliard are the co-founders of the dynamic New Light Christian Center Church (“One Church, Multiple locations”) in North, East, West and South Houston; Beaumont and Austin, Texas.

Their passion to take God’s Word to a hurting and lost generation has resulted in a current church membership of over 20,000 and counting. New Light Christian Center Church is not only recognized around the country as a Mega-Church, but in September 2007 it was honored as one of the Top 50 Most Influential Churches in America. This Mega-Church has a nationwide television ministry, a satellite network, an Aviation Division, Light Commerce Credit Union, and an early childhood development center known as Light Christian Academy.


The Certain Ones: Women Who Win is your conference that you host annually.  Why did you feel there was a ‘need’ to form such a conference as this? I had the pleasure to attend your Women Who Win, conference. Not in person but, via Streaming Live. This was a wonderful idea for those who wanted to attend but could not. Will there be a 2012 Women Who Win, conference and will it be Streaming Live again?  And what can attendee’s expect when they attend?

Pastor Bridget:  Well um, years ago, when I first started learning the word of faith, which now it has been almost thirty years. I would go to conferences and women meetings. People would always give you the problem; nut never gave you the solution on how to get the answer.  About four years ago, the spirit of God dropped in my spirit; that I should do something to be a blessing to women and how to live by faith. That don’t just talk about the problem, but how to get the answer to their situations, and so that was the inspiration from the spirit of God to start Women who Win, in 2008. It has been quite successful and my whole goal in life is to see people win, by faith we can overcome any situation in life and by faith we can always win!

The Certain Ones: You streamed Women who Win conference this year. The spirit of God was extremely prevalent, that it transcended through Televisions and computers, as these strong women of God, shared their testimonies. Bishop Rosie O’Neal, Dr. Irishea Hilliard, – whom of which is your daughter, preached about “Mercy”, Dr. Charisse Gibert, and of course closing it out was you. The Bible states that “we over come through our testimonies.” These ladies, yourself included, where not afraid to get raw before the masses. What was the feeling actually like for you, to actually be there live?

Pastor Bridget: It was just as powerful being there of course. We made the decision to go live and streaming which we never done before, we had upward of 16,000 to 20, 000 people viewing it, every session, so it was powerful, it was absolutely incredible and looking forward to 2013, we already have theme and we are excited.

The Certain Ones: Pastor Bridget what do the body of Christ has to look forward to in the year of 2013?

Pastor Bridget: 2012, has been a lot of challenging year for those who are in the body of Christ. The theme for 2013 is connecting for restoration. Restoring and revival.  It’s going to be a time of refreshing and restoring so many people has lost a lot of things in 2012. We believe for the restoration, and the reviving in 2013!

The Certain Ones: New Light Christian Center is one church in several locations, in September 2007 was honored as one of the Top 50 Most Influential Churches in America. You and Bishop I.V. Hilliard do great work for the community. What makes your ministry so unique, that it continues to compel people, — not just a certain group, but people from all walks of life, ages, and gender? Your youth membership is impressive!

Pastor Bridget: Well I think it is because my husband (Bishop I.V. Hilliard) has made a commitment to teach the word of faith, when we started off twenty- eight years ago, God gave us specific instructions that we were to build people purpose, power, and praise. When they understood this they would praise God for the victory in their lives. We have been consistently dong that for twenty-eight years. A lot of people say my husband’s style of teaching, (and I believe he is one of the greatest teachers today)   I think his simplicity for everybody to get the understanding of how to get the word of God to work in their situation is the catalyst in our church. All our extension churches teach the same thing that Bishop as taught at every location.
The Certain Ones: Thank you for joining us today, Pastor Bridget.

Pastor Hilliard: I thank God for people like you and your commitment to getting the word of God out for and to the body of Christ. We are looking forward to a new year. My husband has declared by the spirit of God, that 2013 is the time for accelerated favor. For anybody not just the body of Christ that has ears to hear. The favor of God will show up mightily in a speedy way.  It is the year for the body of Christ to shine!

http://www.thewomenwhowin.net


                                          

Sunday Best Gospel Contestant: Elder Goldwire McLendon “It’s All God’s Doing!”

Goldwire McLendon began his musical career at the early age of 9 years, in Jacksonville, FL. and moved to Philadelphia at the age of 17. For over 40years, he has ministered in word and song in the city of Philadelphia. Goldwire (Pop, as he is affectionately called) has been a soloist and a lead singer for “The Savettes Choral Ensemble” since its inception.

He has also been a featured artist with “The Brockington Ensemble” & “Victory Choral Union”. His voice has taken him to prisons, churches, concert halls, television, radio and many organizational functions. For many years, he and his family ministered to “the streets”. Many souls have been won to Christ through his vocal prowess and the ministry of the Living Christ. In 1978, Pop was ordained as an Elder and assigned as pastor to the Saint James Holy Church, located in Tennille, GA. After completing a successful pastoral assignment of sixteen years, Pop and his wife Ruth (of 59 years~ Mom) returned to the “Philly” area to be reunited with his entire singing family (children & grandchildren included), known as the McLendon Family.

Along with family ministry & his individual call as a minister and psalmist, his voice has been heard across the United States and even on foreign soul. In 2009, he was honored as “A Philadelphia Living Legend” along with other Philadelphia musical notables such as; Chubby Checker, Bunny Siglar, Pastor Rosie Wallace Brown, Billy Paul, Dee Dee Sharp and many others.


The Certain Ones: Why did you audition for the hit BET Reality Show Sunday Best?

Elder Goldwire McLendon: Yes, it is awesome how the Lord orchestrated my life in this direction. I am still overwhelmed that there are over a billion people on this Earth, and He picked me out to bless. I didn’t know there was a Sunday Best until my daughter in the Lord, called me. That Thursday, before the end of March in 2010. I said me? 79 years old? I was reluctant to comply with that. She begged me. And that is how I got down there.

The Certain Ones: Did you deal with any insecurity while auditioning?

Elder Goldwire McLendon: I knew that God was with me. He told me to step into your new season. He revealed he had something in stored for me.

The Certain Ones: You stated that a person has to live in order to fulfill God’s request. to answer.

Elder Goldwire McLendon: It’s all God’s doing. He is real just as you are talking to me. In order to get where I am, it takes constant prayers and meditation. God wants reverence and respect. If you’re faithful to God and his word, He will be faithful to you. God is real to me and I am so grateful to Him.

The Certain Ones: How do you feel about modern music and traditional? You are not outdated at all, as your style of music ministers to everyone.

Elder Goldwire McLendon: It is very important to live a life so God can use you.  I’ve seen people standing and clapping their hands; and some sitting singing. There is a difference when a person is anointed by God. The Bible lets us know we can’t straddle the fence.  When it comes to me, I don’t sing to entertain, but to praise God, and in turn it blesses you.

The Certain Ones: What are you feeling in that “moment” when you are ministering to your audience?

Elder Goldwire McLendon:  In that “moment”, I just begin to praise Him. When I finish, I just go into a little small area and begin to magnify the Lord in the worship and praise. And when I do this, I feel satisfied that the Holy Ghost; has touched me and used me for His glory. Many times I keep on… I get back to the Hotel and do the same thing.

 

                                    

Tony and Trisha L. Mann-Grant joins the cast of Who's Loving You?

 

Actor Tony Grant from "The Marriage Counselor" and Trisha L. Mann-Grant, joins the cast of Who's Loving You? We are taking it to another level. God always makes provisions for His visions. In my climbs, hits and misses, ups and downs, (many

No's and ignores. <------- Yep.) I am STILL encouraged, by that fact always. This is an inspirational stage production, with strong resonating messages. If you love soul-stirring singing, fierce poetry readings, and love to love, *smile*, this is the production for you! COMING SOON! Who's Loving You? Actors Tony Grant from "The Marriage Counselor" and Trisha L. Mann-Grant, joins the cast of Who's Loving You? We are taking it to another level. God always makes provisions for His visions. In my climbs, hits and misses, ups and downs, (many

 Don't forget to check out my KickStarter Campaign. I need your help. Click on link to join my causes: Endometriosis and Donating to those experiencing economic hardship at Christmas time. Check out your rewards:

Free Tickets to attend Who's Loving You Tony and Trisha L. Mann-Grant

Dinner with myself, cast, and Tony and Trisha L. Mann-Grant

A DVD Copy of Who's Loving You? 

Many more!

   http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1593585232/whos-loving-you-the-stage-production-by-vanessa-ri

My Life. One Story at a Time.

I was honored to share my project with  Donna McBroom-Theriot, blogger extraordinaire on

My Life. One Story at a Time.   Cick on link to read my in depth causes.

http://mylife-in-stories.blogspot.com/2012/09/the-endometriosis-foundation-of-america.ht

Thank you for dropping in!

 

Let's go get it!

 

Vanessa 

KICK STARTER: Who's Loving You? Stage Production

The Cause: Hello!  I would love for you to help with the birth of my baby. :) I am so excited about this production!  “Who’s Loving You?”  These inspirational stage productions rewards me with the ability to connect with some very courageous people.  These people, some would probably consider to be ordinary people, - I would beg to differ. They come from various walks of life and have endured many trials and tribulations and have prevailed in many of them.  Our endeavors has been the focus of various local and national media outlets.

To DONATE Click on link----->  http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1593585232/whos-loving-you-the-stage-production-by-vanessa-ri

I’ve created an annual free acting/drama class or session. I describe these sessions as: “I AM,” it's an self-proclamation and reminder, that set goals and aspiration can be obtained in spite of hardships. At the end of the year; group participants get the opportunity to perform live on stage!   I write characters opposite of their true personalities. If they are introverts, I write a character who is not introversive; and if an individual in the group is bold and possesses a great deal of confidence,- they would act out character of someone, who has low self-esteem. 

Our meet-ups, literally allow participants to walk in the shoes of others. When  joining; they aren't aware, that I write varying characters mirroring members personalities. These drama classes as proven to be successful.  It provides a sense of faith, family, and friend atmosphere. We also collect nonperishable food items and warm clothing to donate to those who are experiencing economic hardships.
In addition to helping out our youths and the economically challenged. A portion of proceeds will be donated to The Endometriosis Foundation of America ( EndoFound) to further aid in the research for a cure.  http://www.endofound.org/Endometriosis.
 
The Endometriosis Foundation of America strives to increase disease recognition, provide advocacy, facilitate expert surgical training, and fund landmark endometriosis research. Engaged in a robust campaign to inform both the medical community and the public, the EFA places particular emphasis on the critical importance of early diagnosis and effective intervention while simultaneously providing education to the next generation of medical professionals and their patients. 

In 2009, Lakshmi co-founded the Endometriosis Foundation of America alongside World Renowned Advanced Gynecological Surgeon Tamer Seckin, MD. After suffering from the disease for decades herself, she has been able to make amazing strides with the Foundation such as launching the first interdisciplinary research facility in the country for Gynopathology as a joint project between Harvard Medical School and MIT, where she gave the keynote address at the Center’s opening in December 2009.

Endometriosis Facts & Statistics

• Most women with endometriosis suffer pain—and present symptoms—up to a full decade prior to diagnosis.
• Approximately 176 million women and girls worldwide suffer from endometriosis; 8.5 million in North America alone.
• Associated costs of the disease are estimated to be a staggering $22 billion annually.
• The average woman is 27 when she is first diagnosed with endometriosis.
• Endometriosis is one of the top three causes of female infertility. While it is one of the most treatable, it remains the least treated.
• Abdominal and bowel symptoms linked to endometriosis are commonly misdiagnosed as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
• Endometriosis is often misdiagnosed as Pelvic Congestion or Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID).
• Many infertile women with endometriosis experienced debilitating painful periods as teenagers but were misdiagnosed.
• Many women suffer silently because they feel that their pain, especially pain associated with sexual intercourse, is just too personal to discuss with their gynecologist. This is more common in some cultures than others.
• Many cases of endometriosis can be successfully treated with Laparoscopic Excision Surgery. Hysterectomy should only ever be considered as a last resort. There is no oral medication to cure endometriosis. Stats taken from Endofound.org. http://www.endofound.org/endometriosis

Donations/proceeds will be sent to:

Endometriosis Foundation of America
872 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10065
212.988.4160.

Bringing life to these productions can become overwhelmingly bittersweet at times.  However I knew that giving up is NOT be an option for me. In spite of physical and financial limitations, I still write these annual scripts and meet with my wonderfully small, --yet humbling cast members.  I walk with the faith that our show (s) will/must go on.  I’ve had High School and College students, write me, with heartfelt requests to participate in our performances. 
Some couldn’t afford transportation or wardrobe. So, I would meet them at a designated location and rehearse with them, other times, we’d rehearse over the phone. We also, provided make overs and food.   Upon doing this, I felt great humility, that I was able, (although it would financially hurt me), to help others in their need.

What is needed: We want to build a set for “Who’s Loving You?”  We are in need of sound technicians, a set to be built, transportation fees for cast and to distribute donated food and clothing items, to agencies and charities, promotional tools, and large food containers for storage of donated food items and clothing.

Additional needs:
Your donation will go towards the following:
1) Administrative fees: marketing, fundraising, financial management<----- This is crucial to productions success rate!!!! Our voices and cause needs to be heard and seen.
2) Space rental for rehearsals and slated performance (s).
3)  Printing of our advertisements tools: Programs, posters, flyers, and postcards.
4) Production filming fees.
5) Building of our set.
So you can see that there is a lot of work that is put into these productions. But, I have great faith! Together you and I can make it work! Let's go get it!

I cannot express my THANK YOU!, aptly enough for your staid support and prayers!  Just know that, I AM so very thankful for you!

Wanda B. Campbell Author of Unresolved Issues Virtual Book Tour

 Author Wanda B. Campbell

Wanda B. Campbell is an extraordinary and talented writer who brings creativity, a new sense of hope, and restoration through the healing power of God to the Kingdom, by way of Christian fiction. She uses real life everyday issues to exhort, motivate, and give comfort.

Wanda B. Campbell believes there is nothing too hard for God and through His love and power; He can heal you in EVERY area you hurt. Wanda believes with God’s help our darkest time can become our brightest moments. Her primary mission is to encourage everyone to experience the unfailing love of Christ. Wanda is not limited by race, age, sex, denomination or organization; believing the liberation that comes from Christ is free to all.

Wanda B. Campbell’s literary achievements include: Mommy’s Present, a short story appearing in the anthology The Midnight Clear, November 2006, First Sunday in October, January 2007, Crusin for Christ I Short Story Contest winner with Illusions, which landed a multi-book deal with Urban Christian. Illusions, the novel, February 2009,Right Package, Wrong Baggage, August 2010, and Silver Lining, August 2011. Her fourth novel, Unresolved Issues, is scheduled for release August 2012.

Wanda is a two-time winner of the Urban Reviews Top Shelf Book Award, two-time winner of Coffee Time Romance’s Critical Review Award, and a three-time Black Expressions Book Club Bestselling Author. She has appeared on the BCNN1/BCBC National Bestselling List multiple times and was nominated at the 2011 African American Literary Awards Show in the Christian Fiction category.

Wanda is a mother of three and currently resides in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband of twenty-two years and two sons and enjoys spending time with her grandson.

For More Information

Visit the author online at:

 www.wandabcampbell.com

View the blog tour schedule at: 

http://www.tywebbin.com/blog-tours/authors-on-tour/2012-tours/

About the Book

Stacelyn thought her life was complete the day she married Dr. Derrick Garrison. The fairytale life she envisioned quickly vanishes, however, when Derrick’s late nights and unexplained absences cause her to question his motives for marrying her. As secrets from the past and emotional wounds are revealed, Stacelyn discovers the hard way that it takes more than love to build a marriage.

Alone and bitter after Derrick’s sudden departure, Stacelyn is forced to face hard truths about the man she married. In the process, she discovers her own unresolved issues.

Will the revelations drive her to her knees, or send her seeking comfort from the enemy?

Purchase the Book Online at:

Amazon.com

BarnesandNoble.com

Unresolved Issues Book Trailer

      

Let the church say amen

“Let the church say amen.” The congregation repeated it in unison. After an emotionally charged sermon, those were the exodus words of Pastor Rosa Meredith. As the congregation sang the word in unison, a feeling of peace and tranquility descended in the sanctuary, unexpectedly changing the atmosphere. Upon observation, it was evident that the older generation recognized those inspiring words from the old-time hymn. While the younger generation clearly identified with the modern version stemming from the song, composed by Andrae Crouch – “Let the Church Say Amen,” featuring Pastor Marvin Winans. On that day, I’d once again allow the lyrics to pore into me:

Let the church say amen, let the church say amen
God has spoken, so let the church say amen
Let the church, let ‘em say amen
If you believe the word, let the whole church say amen
God has spoken, so let the church say amen
Lift your hands, lift your hands
God has spoken, so let the church say amen,
Oh, thank you Lord
God has spoken, so let the church say amen.

Sitting in the church pew, I looked around and my eyes rested upon a young woman. She was beautiful, not just aesthetically, beautiful, but beauty resonating from the inside out. From afar I have witnessed her ups and downs. Through it all I have never heard her complain. Her head was tilted slightly to the left, she was oblivious to those around her; she was simply living in that moment. The young girl’s mouth moved, softly repeating the empowering words, affirming that what she prayed for God had heard and will answer. She ignored the flirtatious and envious stares, remaining focused. “God has spoken. So let the church say amen.”
A glance to my left revealed a man whom, I’ve known for years. Some of the congregants had long ago dubbed him simply as “The Rock.” Many witnessed his private loss, an episode which should have sent him spiraling into a state of despair. Instead he endured, becoming a living testimony to those who suffered severe losses in their lives. He looked down at his folded hands, nodding and softly sang the words. “God has spoken. So let the church say amen.”

In front of me was a septuagenarian — you would never have known she was in her 70s if she didn’t voice it aloud, which she humbly does. She was chubby-cheeked, bright-eyed, and always offering, an infectious smile to those who were ever blessed to cross her path. She had lived to see many of her friends come and go and had witnessed the good and the bad, sometimes, it seemed, it was more bad than good. Yet, she still prayed. Still believed, becoming better and not bitter in life and age. Her head was bent, her mouth softly singing the words “God has spoken. So let the church say amen.” I loved the sound of her joyous voice. She subtly began rocking back and forth, lifting her hands saying thank you.
Different individuals with different problems, yet that day they were all linked together on one accord. Just like the day of Pentecost the Bible spoke of. “On the day of Pentecost all the believers were meeting together in one place.” Acts 2:1. There is strength not only in numbers, but unity and supporting each other in their hurts and trials. A person can be healed, yet still feel the residuals of their symptom. The mind has to be reformed all over again. There are many who can testify to this; I know personally I can. Has God has spoken healing, deliverance, breakthrough, renewal, marriage, and restoration to you? Then rest assured it is going to happen.

The congregation began exiting the sanctuary; in a perfect world everyone would leave renewed and revived. Unfortunately that is not the case. There is timing and walking the staid path of faith, believing if not today, then it will be tomorrow, that which God has promised you shall come to pass. “God has spoken. So let the church say amen.” And so be it. You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hidden. “Matthew 5:14. I am a firm believer that inside of us all are great testimonies. Testimonies are lighthouses to the world. God will give us beauty for ashes. Let the church say...AMEN.

Let The Church Say Amen (extended) - Andrae Crouch feat. Marvin Winans

The Journey...Has just begun.

 The 2012 Olympic Women's Gymnastics All-Around Gold Medal Winner Gabby Douglas

As I was gearing up for my weekly The Certain Ones, radio interview, with special guest “The Journey.” Author Jamee Greene. I just received the news that Gabrielle “Gabby” Douglas has won, the 2012 Olympic Women's Gymnastics All-Around Gold Medal! This is winning for America! And also a historical landmark as, Gabby is now hailed as being the first woman of color to win this event! If you have been watching this young lady’s light shine, in the competition you’d witness her grit and determination to win the gold. Her performance has been acknowledged as almost flawless, with a score of 62.232.

The pictures that captures Gabby’s breakthrough performances, gives testament to this. Gabby isn’t called “The Flying Squirrel for just any reason, this young woman is true to the name. She is fast and incredibly flexible. Only 16 years of age, Gabby Douglas’ journey to get to where she is today; has been no easy feat. For her part, it took dedication, sacrifice, and practice, --and not focusing on the negative commentary of the naysayers. Gabby’s mother was hesitant to release her daughter at such a young so she could train with Liang Chow, the former coach of Olympic champion Shawn Johnson. Fast forward, this journey has only just begun for Gabby, endorsements and speaking engagements, I would surmise are certainly apart of Gabby’s journey.

“The Journey” by Jamee Greene is another powerful testimony that should not be missed check out her inspiring interview on The Certain Ones Online Radio Talk Show.  Your journey has just begun!

 

 Check out our interview at www.blogtalkradio.com/thecertainones.  Let's go get it!