Your Black Gospel

KeKe Palmer and Queen Latifah have a new film coming out next month; the film is entitled "Joyful Noise". The film also stars Dolly Parton. The trailer shows a movie that is sure to make us laugh & be inspired.

KeKe recently completed an interview regarding the film and working with Queen Latifah again (she previously worked with Queen Latifah in "Barber Shop 2"). Check out the interview and movie trailer HERE.

This film definitely looks like a good one to see!!

Mega Pastor's Wife in Battle to Take Over Her Late Husband's Church

2011-12-25T16:04:00.001-05:00

After the death of the late Zachery Tims, his wife Riva Tims has been battling with Paula White supporters for control of the New Destiny Christian Center.

Click to read

Question: Should Black Women Walk Away from "Think Like a Man" The Movie?

2011-12-14T10:38:00.001-05:00

Black women, like writer Kirsten West-Savali, say that African Americans should walk away from the new Steve Harvey film, "Think Like a Man." What do you think?

Click to read

Mary Mary Cancels Christmas Tour

2011-12-10T21:21:00.000-05:00

Photo from: http://www.mary-mary.com/us/photos/official

Gospel duo, Mary Mary, has cancelled their Christmas Tour. Group member, Erica Campbell, is pregnant with her third child; as her due date draws near, doctors have advised her to rest from the vigorous schedule.

The following statement was issued via Facebook:

“Sorry everyone, we had to cancel the “Have A Mary Mary Christmas Tour.” Just know that I have the greatest passion for whom I sing about and a great love and respect for whom I sing to, so I’ll be back to what I live for as soon as I take care of mommy business.” – Erica Campbell

More details can be found HERE.

Wishing Erica much rest as she prepares for the new addition to her family!

Kirsten West Savali and Jesse Lee Peterson Debate Abortion, Margaret Sanger and Planned Parenthood

2011-12-10T19:05:00.001-05:00

Kirsten West Savali from Your Black World debates with Jesse Lee Peterson about the legacy of Margaret Sanger and abortion.

Should Men Have the Right to Opt out of Raising a Child if the Mother Gives Him No Choice about Having It?

2011-12-09T10:57:00.001-05:00

Deborrah Cooper takes issue with the article written by Yvette Carnell of Your Black World. Both women have opposing views on the concept of Financial abortions and whether men should have the same rights to opt out of child birth as women.

Click to read

Bishop Eddie Long Announces that He's Going to Take Time Off from His Church

2011-12-04T22:08:00.001-05:00

It appears that Bishop Eddie Long is going to take some time away to deal with family issues.

Click to read

Dr. Boyce: Eddie Long, Herman Cain and Powerful Black Men in the Pulpit

2011-12-03T17:51:00.001-05:00

Herman Cain, Eddie Long and other southern black men in the pulpit give us reason to reconsider how African Americans perceive money, power and entitlement.

Click to read

Dr. Boyce: Should Vanessa Long Be Standing By Her Man or Should She Have Continued with the Divorce?

2011-12-02T20:08:00.001-05:00

Does her decision to stand by her man make Vanessa Long a hero, a victim or both?

Click to read

Bishop Eddie Long's Wife Withdraws Divorce Petition Just Hours After Filing

2011-12-02T15:23:00.001-05:00

It looks like Vanessa Long is having second thoughts about her husband.

Click to read

Eddie Long's Wife Files for Divorce

2011-12-02T12:56:00.001-05:00

Vanessa Long, after enduring a ton of craziness from her husband, Bishop Eddie Long, is finally hitting the road.

Click to read

Dr. Boyce: How Oprah Helped to Fuel the HIV Epidemic in Black America

2011-12-01T12:42:00.001-05:00

Did Oprah Winfrey's show about Living on the Downlow play a role in the spread of HIV/AIDS in the black community?

Click to read

Church in KY Says Interracial Couples Can't Join

2011-12-01T11:02:00.001-05:00

The Gulnare Freewill Baptist Church in Pike County doesn’t seem to believe much in free will - interracial couples can't join.

Click to read

Bank Tries to Evict 103-Yr Old Woman, But Movers and Deputies Refuse to Put Her Out

2011-11-30T15:11:00.001-05:00

People took a stand for this elderly woman in Atlanta who was about to lose her home.

Click to read

Tyler Perry Accused of Fueling His Empire with Drug Money

2011-11-30T11:43:00.001-05:00

It appears that Tyler Perry has a few more enemies these days, but money tends to do that.

click to read

Why Would a Church Tell HIV Patients to Stop Taking Their Meds? (Video)

2011-11-29T19:11:00.001-05:00

In this video, Dr. Boyce Watkins speaks with Dr. Christopher House. The conversation centers around a church that told members of its congregation to stop taking their HIV medication. As a result, six people have died. The video is below:

click to read

Yvette Carnell: Tyler Perry's "For Better or Worse" Scrapes the Bottom of the Barrel

2011-11-28T19:28:00.001-05:00

YBW columnist and Tyler Perry supporter Yvette Carnell doesn't have many good things to say about Perry's new joint.

click to read

What the Hayell? Six HIV Patients Die After Church Tells them to Stop Taking Medication

2011-11-28T13:24:00.001-05:00

click to read

Tyler Perry Writes Open Letter to the Penn State Sex Abuse Victim

2011-11-28T09:50:00.001-05:00

Tyler Perry seems to have a soft spot for the Penn State victim.

click to read more

12-Year Old "Devout" Christian Boy Murders Parents; Shoots and Stabs Younger Siblings

2011-11-25T08:53:00.001-05:00

click to read

Survey: Half of All Black Women Unhappy with Tyler Perry's Choice of Kim Kardashian

2011-11-22T01:54:00.001-05:00

It appears that Tyler Perry has some explaining to do in his decision to put Kim Kardashian in his next movie.

click to read

Cornel West Ditches Princeton University to Return to His Roots

2011-11-17T22:17:00.001-05:00

Noted black scholar Cornel West has suddenly decided to leave Princeton for New York City.

click to read

Michelle Taylor on Using the Power of God to Overcome Financial Challenges

2011-11-17T10:19:00.001-05:00

click to read

Dr. Boyce Spotlight: Author Finds Hope After Enduring Financial Tragedy

2011-11-15T07:39:00.001-05:00

click to read

Rapper Creates a Catchy Kirk Franklin Dance

2011-11-08T10:37:00.001-05:00

click to read

Herman Cain's Wife Gloria Finally Goes Public

2011-11-04T20:35:00.001-04:00

Herman cain's wife Gloria is finally in the public eye.

click to read

Dr. Christina Edmondson: Is ADHD Real and How Do I Deal with It?

2011-11-02T20:01:00.001-04:00

click to read

Dr. Boyce: More Info on the Less Talk, More Action Economic Empowerment Tour

2011-11-01T11:21:00.001-04:00

click to read

Greatest Daddy-Daughter Wedding Dance Ever? Yea, It Probably Is

2011-10-31T18:36:00.001-04:00

click to read

Yes Lawud: Woman Found Keeping Her Crack Pipe in Her Bible

2011-10-30T12:00:00.001-04:00

click to read

Dr. Boyce: Does Prosperity Gospel Actually Work?

2011-10-29T10:43:00.001-04:00

click to read

Mika Edmondson: Why Do Black Churches Follow Bad Preachers?

2011-10-28T01:25:00.001-04:00

click to read

Dr. Christina Edmondson - Every Super Woman Needs Self-Care

2011-10-27T10:57:00.001-04:00

click to read

Political Hotbed: Abortion Law Requires Mothers to Hear Baby's Heartbeat Before Choosing to Terminate the Pregnancy

2011-10-26T15:20:00.001-04:00

click to read

BeBe and CeCe Winans Excited about Their New Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

2011-10-24T21:02:00.001-04:00

Your Black World Reports

BeBe and CeCe Winans have climbed nearly every mountain imaginable in order to become one of the greatest singing duos in history. On October 20th of this year, the two were given their own Hollywood Star on the Walk of Fame.

The two join Mahalia Jackson, James Cleveland and Andrae Crouch as the other gospel stars who’ve been given this honor.

"I went to see my star today just to make sure it was still there,” said CeCe.

They were sure to give God credit for their accomplishments also. "I'm grateful for All the Lord has done! To God be the Glory. Bless the Lord at All Times!!!" CeCe said.

The two have retired after releasing their last album in 2009, which won a Grammy. They got started in 1982 and have been singing loud ever since.

"We're getting older, and there are other things we want to do beyond music,” said CeCe.

Dr. Boyce Watkins: Tyler Perry, Al Sharpton and the "Proper Negro" Remark

2011-10-24T11:39:00.001-04:00

Al Sharpton defends Tyler Perry with the "proper negroes" remark, but does it all add up?

click to read

Al Sharpton Says Only "Proper Negroes" Criticize Tyler Perry Movies

2011-10-24T10:30:00.001-04:00

Al Sharpton has a lot to say about Tyler Perry and his movies.

click to read

What the Hayell? Bishop Eddie Long Trying to Get His Settlement Money Back

2011-10-02T00:32:00.001-04:00

CLICK TO READ

Mika Edmondson: Should Politicians Be in the Pulpit?

2011-09-23T15:41:00.001-04:00

by Pastor Mika Edmondson

CLICK TO READ

Man Shoots Pastor, Associate Pastor and Wife on at Church

2011-09-18T22:24:00.001-04:00

Your Black World reports

A gunman in Florida shot a pastor and associate pastor at a church in Florida on Sunday. The man was then tackled and detained by parishioners, who held him until police arrived. Jeremiah Fogel, 57, was arrested after the incident, which took place at theGreater Faith Christian Church in Lakeland. Fogel is also suspected of killing his wife before heading over to the church.

The church’s pastor, William Boss, and Associate Pastor Carl Stewart are being treated at Lakeland Regional Medical Center.

“According to the initial witness reports, Fogel ran through the front door of the church and shot both the pastor and associate pastor,” the statement said. No other church members were injured while detaining Fogel, police said.

Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd is leading the investigation to find out what happened.

“Obviously there was a conflict with his wife and/or some people in church,” Judd said. “We’re trying to find out exactly what forced him to go into his killing rage on a Sunday morning.”

Should Gay Rights Be Taught in Public Schools?

2011-09-07T09:26:00.001-04:00

CLICK TO READ

Aretha Franklin to Sing for President Obama on Monday

2011-09-04T10:30:00.001-04:00

Your Black World reports.

CLICK TO READ

Mika Edmondson: A Drive Thru Church? Really?

2011-08-30T23:29:00.000-04:00

After viewing CNN’s recent story about Texas Pastor David Ray’s “Sanctuary under the sky” drive-through services, I immediately thought “a drive-through Church…really?” However, after doing some digging around, I found this wasn’t exactly what it seemed at first (www.preschurchmaster.org). What’s curious is that the story seemed to gain traction precisely because many people kind of like the idea of a drive-through church.

The public fascination with rolling up in a locked vehicle solo only to hear sermons, hymns, and prayers by portable radio underlines what more and more people wish church life could be, namely isolated, independent, and as effortless as possible. Perhaps this very same sentiment entices many an “able-bodied Christian” to roll over on Sunday morning with remote in hand, turn to their favorite televised worship service, and think they really “had church.” Such feelings may also help fuel much of the “Church hopper syndrome” as well as the near universal excuse (I mean reason) for Church member absenteeism, namely, the “The Lord knows how I feel about Him and I don’t need to be a part of local Church to prove it!” excuse (I mean reason). Given our modern impulse towards autonomy and individualism even (of all places) in our religious life, I would like to offer just a few (among many possible) reasons the disconnected (disgruntled and/or hurt) Christian should intently, prayerfully, and discerningly seek out local Church membership TODAY.

1. Local Church membership is biblical (addressing the individualism issue): There is no such thing as “at-large Christianity.” As the Lord saves individuals, he adds them to the local church (see Acts 2:47). The clear practice of the early Christians was to walk out their faith in the context of congregational life. They were not “lone-rangers,” only interested in their discrete personal relationships with the Lord. They understood their relationships to be with Christ as the head of the body of believers, the local Church. They viewed Christ as the great purchaser and shepherd of the flock of God, rather than merely individual sheep. In short, they saw their entrance into the Christian life as an entrance into a body of parts (see 1 Corinthians 12:27), a flock of sheep (see Acts 20:28), a temple of stones (see Ephesians 2:21), a household of members (see 1 Timothy 3:15), and a kingdom of citizens (see Philippians 3:20).

The community of believers was in view more so than the individual. In fact, the majority of the biblical epistles were written to local church bodies, rather than individuals. Even the ones written to individuals were intended for specific use within broader congregational settings. Undoubtedly, the Christian life is normally lived among a discernible and definite local community of believers in Christ, covenanted together around sound biblical doctrine, baptism, communion, prayer, lovingly accountable relationships, and faithful preaching and obedience to God’s Word, i.e. a local church.

2. Local Church membership is essential to Christian growth (addressing the independence issue): Christians need one another to properly grow in Christ-likeness. Ephesians 4:16 describes the local Church as a Christ-empowered body that only grows “when each part is working properly.” Therefore, the growth of each individual believer is dependent upon God’s grace working through the other parts of a local body of believers. The metaphor of a body primarily highlights the believer’s living union with and dependence upon Christ as head, but also our union and dependence upon each other. Indeed, there is a mutual dependence among the varied parts, each of which depends upon God’s manifold grace distributed among the entire body (see 1 Peter 4:10). All of this to say, no believer can afford to live without the gifts in the local body, or has any real right to withhold their gift/s from the local body. In fact, Peter goes on to say that God is glorified specifically as we “serve one another as good stewards of God’s varied grace (1 Peter 4:10).” Therefore, proper stewardship of God’s grace means that we must serve and be served by one another according to our gifts.

Of course, all of this takes some real effort. We must get to know others and make ourselves known in deep and meaningful ways in order to effectively serve them. Moreover, we must make ourselves available to serve others, even at inconvenient times. Covenant relationships such as this involve mutual responsibilities and obligations. It is difficult to see how this mutual dependence and service could ever be properly realized among the detached occupants of separate vehicles listening via radio, among Church hoppers, or even able-bodied stay-at-home television ministry partners (you “meddlin” now Reverend).

3. Local Church membership is essential to mutual accountable relationships (addressing the autonomy issue). Let’s be brutally honest here. Many people avoid Church membership simply because they don’t want church folks “in their business” or “telling them what to do.” The driver in the next car over and the television ministry have no idea what sins we personally fight against. However, God uses the agency of other local people to remind us of our accountability to him, to guard us against destructive teaching, and even to exercise authority over our lives (see Galatians 6:1-2, Hebrews 10:24, Hebrews 13:17). In fact, the very last court of appeal in confronting the sin of a brother or sister (including the Pastor/s) is the local church (see Matthew 18:15-20).

Now, there are unchecked abuses and destructive heresies taught among some congregations which would make membership there unthinkable. In fact, the Lord himself warned that local churches would be full of pretenders (see Matthew 7:15, Matthew 13:30) and was infamously betrayed by Judas Iscariot, one of his own apostles. The apostles also repeatedly warn that some of the Church’s chief enemies would arise from amidst its own ranks (2 Corinthians 11:13, 1 Timothy 4:1, 2 Peter 2:1, 1 John 4:1, Jude1:4). So I understand the caution and I plan to blog about how to sniff out a healthy and safe church soon. Yet, knowing all the dangers which attend congregational life and knowing the near impossibility of finding a local church which perfectly fits all our personal tastes and preferences, the Lord STILL calls his people to membership in the local church (see Hebrews 10:25). So I’ll save you a seat on the pew this Sunday--all you can eat buffet to follow!

Mika Edmondson is an ordained Baptist minister. He holds a Master's of Divinity from Vanderbilt Divinity School (Nashville, TN) and is currently working toward a doctorate in Systematic Theology at Calvin Theological Seminary (Grand Rapids, MI). He may be reached at medmond3@calvinseminary.edu.

Bishop Eddie Long Issues a Statement in Response to Victims Speaking Out

2011-08-27T10:05:00.001-04:00

CLICK TO READ

Bishop Eddie Long Accusers Plan to Write a Tell-All Book

2011-08-25T12:08:00.001-04:00

It appears that the accusers of Bishop Eddie Long are not going to remain silent about what happened to them. Two of his accusers plan to write a tell-all book about their experience with Long, and the book is surely going to be a super seller.

The Bishop was accused of sexual coercion when a group of young men came forth claiming that he'd used his power to influence them into various sexual acts. The case was later settled out of court, but many are questioning whether or not the Bishop was honest with his congregation when he said that he would eventually reveal the details of the situation.

WBST TV gives more details:

For the first time since they settled their case against Bishop Eddie Long, two of the young men who accused him of sexual abuse are speaking out.

Jamal Parris and Spencer LeGrande agreed to their first sit-down interview with Channel 2 investigative reporter Jodie Fleischer inside a Miami hotel late last week.

Parris and LeGrande and three other young men entered into a confidential settlement with Long and New Birth Missionary Baptist church three months ago.

By sitting down to talk with Fleischer, they risk losing that money, but said it's worth it because it's more important for everyone to know the truth.

"It's just not enough anymore. I thought I could cover the pain up. I thought I could move, start over and everything will go away. I was terribly wrong," Parris said.

Parris, 24, still bears the scars of abuse he says he suffered at the hands of Long. He is angry and emotional and wants Long to know what he's done to him.

"Before I used to look at you like you were the man. You ran everything, but now I got a voice. Like you got a voice," Parris said.

LeGrande wanted to follow his spiritual father's path and become a preacher. His strong faith in God has given him a sense of calm now.

"I was fatherless, and to have a man love me just for who I was, I didn't have to change myself, I just had to be me, I just had to love him back," he said.

SOURCE

Mother Gets Probation After Circumcising her Baby with a Box Cutter

2011-08-16T20:08:00.001-04:00

Your Black World reports

Drugs Found on Megachurch Pastor Found Dead in Times Square

2011-08-15T18:52:00.002-04:00

“A white powdery substance” was found to be on the body of 42-year old megachurch pastor, Zachery Tims, who was found dead in his hotel room in Times Square this week. Law enforcement officials have confirmed the substance to be drugs, but are still withholding the cause of death.
Tims was the head of an 8,000-member church, the New Destiny Christian Center, in Orlando, Florida. His body was found in the W. Hotel. It was discovered by a working who was trying to check the minibar in his room, who then found that the room was latched from inside. Tims was found inside the room lying on his back between the bedroom and living room.
An official familiar with the case said “what that white powdery substance is and whether it played a role in Mr. Tims’ death is still to be determined.”
Police found no signs of trauma and do not yet suspect foul play. The pastor was at a meeting in New York and planned to leave for Texas shortly thereafter. He’d grown up as a drug addict in Maryland and claimed that he’d been saved from his drug addiction in a book that was published in 2006. He earned degrees in Accounting and Theology in Baltimore and moved to live in Orlando with his wife in 1996.
Tims divorced his wife in 2009 after she found that he’d been having a long-term affair with a stripper. They were married for 15 years and had four children.

Mega Church Pastor Found Dead in Times Square

2011-08-15T18:32:00.001-04:00

CLICK TO READ

Vicki Winans Gets a New Radio Show in Detroit

2011-08-11T16:38:00.001-04:00

105.9 KISS has added legendary gospel artist Vickie Winans to the Radio One Detroit roster. Winans has been singing the praises of Jesus Christ with her fine tuned instrument that piques the emotions and uplifts the spirit for more than 24 years.

"SUNDAY MORNING PRAISE WITH VICKIE WINANS" inaugural show is Sunday, August 14, 2011 from 6am until 9am on 105.9 and will air every Sunday going forward. This will make for great conversation as Winans will be going up against her ex-husband, Pastor Marvin Winans' on competing radio station.

"Detroit has a strong gospel base that deserves to be heard. Vickie Winan’s personality merged with incredible inspirational music will uplift Sunday morning radio in Detroit," said Armando Rivera, Program Director of 105-9 KISS.

Kathy Stinehour, V.P. / General Manager said: "Vicki is an internationally renowned, hard working musician and we are honored that the name synonymously mentioned with gospel is sharing her light on our Detroit station starting this Sunday"

Get a sneak peak of the Grammy-nominated, Stellar Awards and NAACP Award Winner in the KISS studios this Sunday or call to set-up a post show interview with Wendy Cyrus-Herndon, Radio One Detroit Marketing Director at wcherndon@radio-one.com.

Marvin Moseley: Is the Father Important in a Child’s Life?

2011-08-11T10:47:00.001-04:00

This is the title of an article by Dr. Boyce Watkins of Syracuse University that was published on July 31, 2011 on the Your Black World website (www.yourblackworld.com). After reading the article I reflected on the many brothers I have met along the way who seemed to suffer from varying degrees of “confusion”. This topic is certainly worthy of discussion and this is my contribution (my 5 cent opinion). I pray that it will be edifying for all who read it.

A “bible” Christian reads and studies the world’s all-time best seller, the word of the Lord God of Israel (Psalms 106:48 KJV), THE HOLY BIBLE. A bible Christian sheds labels of interpretative doctrine (i.e. Baptist, Methodist, Lutheran etc.) and reads the book for him/herself and prays to our creator for understanding and wise counsel. (Proverbs 1: 1- 5 KJV) Someone once said that if you take what’s contained in books and put it with God’s word you will have a complete education. My father once said “The greatest choice a man can make is to seek The Kingdom of God”.

The subliminal substance of the article, to me, is to question the value of the man. This response is my effort to be on the solution side of a serious problem that plagues us. Many brothers walk the streets looking confused, disheartened, and disillusioned. I suspect that what I see is related to the emotional and/or physical absence of fathers. I once heard that A child without his father is like a house without a roof.” Vivid isn’t it? Please resist knee jerk reactions and think!!!

Maybe God’s word can help us answer this question. “Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he”. (Proverbs 29:18 KJV). God told man what to do and what not to do (Genesis 2: 15- 17 KJV). The woman was not made yet. (Genesis 2: 18-23 KJV). Once she was made they became “one flesh” (Genesis 2: 24 KJV), (Ephesians 5: 31 KJV). God set up a covenant here. Note that she was made to be a help meet (helper) for him. In Genesis Chapter 3 you see the woman, not happy with her circumstances, violate God’s prohibition against “talking” to the serpent and/or listening to anything he had to say. “I create the fruit of the lips; …” (Isaiah 57:19 KJV), “…ye have eaten the fruit of lies: because thou didst trust in thy way …” (Hosea 10: 13 KJV), ”By him, therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.” (Hebrews 13: 15 KJV). God, at times, refers to men as trees and refers to what they produce (actions and/or words) as “fruit”. (Matthew 7: 15- 20 KJV). So, the fruit was not literal fruit that grows on a tree but listening (eating) to what the serpent had to say(his fruit) was the crime.

God punished and corrected the woman by putting her under the man’s rule. However, he held the man ultimately responsible for the crime. (Genesis 3: 6- 13, 16- 19 KJV). His job wasn’t to be a tyrant, but he was to direct her, lead her, and protect her and their children. God praised a man he called his “friend” (Isaiah 41:8 KJV) (James 2:23 KJV) who conducted his house in this way (Genesis 18: 17- 19 KJV). The woman was to submit to his rule. (Ephesians 5: 22- 29 KJV). The man was to teach his children. “And ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:4 KJV) “Fathers provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged” (Colossians 3: 21 KJV). They were to work together. (1 Peter 3: 1-6, 7 ” Likewise ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.” KJV). Why? God made them “one” to work together to produce Godly children with the man leading the way. “And did not he make one? Yet had he the residue of the spirit. And wherefore one? That he might seek a Godly seed…” (Malachi 2: 15 KJV). The purpose of this relationship God created was to produce a Godly generation so that their prayers would not be hindered. God’s word is here to guide us in all things. “…the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth:…” (John 16: 13 KJV). If we disregard his word, then our prayers will be hindered. “ He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall be abomination.” (Proverbs 28:9 KJV) Without God’s word guiding us, we can’t possibly hope to rear Godly children. “Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.” (Psalms 127:3 KJV)

Can a woman literally raise a boy (feed, clothe, house) to be an adult man? Absolutely!!! Can a woman raise a boy to be a man who obeys the voice of God? No. A man has to do this. “Iron sharpeneth iron…” (Proverbs 27: 17) Sisters who think they can? “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” (Proverbs 3: 5- 6 KJV) “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55: 8-9 KJV). We are living in tough times. Our families are disintegrating in the absence of spiritual man leadership. “ Brothers, Wake up!!! God will not hold us blameless!!! “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou has rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee…… seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children.” (Hosea 4: 6 KJV).

“BLESSED BE GOD, EVEN THE FATHER OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST, THE FATHER OF MERCIES, AND THE GOD OF ALL COMFORT;” (2 Corinthians1:3 KJV) PEACE, IN JESUS’ NAME, AMEN! Marvis Moseley, Jr (Gideon)

August 5, 2011.

GA Pastor Arrested on Child Sex Charges

2011-08-08T01:27:00.001-04:00

Your Black World reports.

A pastor is being held this week without bond in the Clayton County jail on accusations that he molested and solicited sodomy from a child. Samuel Walsham Chapman, a 58-year old man out of Decatur, GA, was arrested last week and charged with molestation, solicitation of sodomy and enticing a child for indecent purposes.

Court records show that Chapman is the pastor at Riverdale Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Jonesboro. It is being alleged that Chapman took a 15-year old boy to a parking lot in March and performed a sex act in front of him. He then asked the boy to give him oral sex, which he refused to do.

Chapman was arrested when the boy told his mother and grandmother about what allegedly happened on May 4. Police then investigated, asking the boy to describe the pastor’s genitals, which led to Chapman’s arrest.

Chapman was given a bond of $5,000 on the solicitation charge but denied bond on the other two charges. His next court appearance is on August 18.

Stephanie Humphrey: Do Religion and Technology Mix?

2011-08-01T21:24:00.001-04:00

Can a Woman Raise a Boy to be a Man without Male Intervention? Most Men Don’t Think So

2011-07-31T12:36:00.001-04:00

CLICK TO READ

Yes, there is a Fifth Accuser in the Case Against Bishop Eddie Long

2011-07-29T07:51:00.001-04:00

There has been yet another man added to the list of accusers of Bishop Eddie Long. Centino Kemp has never filed a lawsuit, but it is being reported that he also had an inappropriate relationship with the pastor at one point in his life.

CLICK TO READ

Wanda Sykes Makes Awkward Gay Marriage Appeal at NAACP Annual Convention

2011-07-28T16:17:00.001-04:00

By JasmineHughes

Gay rights are an awkward topic for the NAACP. An appearance by Comedian Wanda Sykes may have made some attendees uneasy at a panel discussion in Downtown L.A.

Sykes opened up her Monday appearance at the NAACP annual convention by saying “I didn’t have to ‘come out’ black.”

CLICK TO READ

Have People Stopped Attending Church

2011-07-26T06:15:00.000-04:00

With so much going on in today's times, it appears that the number of those attending church should be increasing. However, here's an interesting article by Dr. Lisa Tait on the state of church attendance.

Click here to read

Jasmine Hughes: Should You Have to Pay for Someone Else’s Birth Control?

2011-07-25T11:44:00.001-04:00

By JasmineHughes

There’s a new discussion regarding one of today’s most controversial topics: birth control. In the past it has been questioned why birth control pills are currently not covered by most private insurance plans, but products like Viagra are. It seems change may be coming soon. This week, the non-partisan Institute of Medicine recommended that health insurers reclassify women’s contraceptives as “preventive care” and cover them without requiring a co-payment under the Affordable Care Act.

Read more »

TD Jakes Set to Release a New Film, “On the Seventh Day”

2011-07-21T10:05:00.001-04:00

CLICK TO READ

Poll: African Americans Most Religious Group

2011-07-08T11:34:00.001-04:00

CLICK TO READ

Bishop Eddie Long Accuser Arrested for Allegedly Being a Dope Dealer

2011-07-01T08:22:00.001-04:00

click to read

Pastor Convicted of Sexually Assaulting an 11-Year Old Girl

2011-06-23T12:52:00.001-04:00

click to read

Dr. Boyce Watkins: Bishop TD Jakes Speaks Up on Eddie Long–Bad Move

2011-06-22T22:44:00.001-04:00

click to read

Southern Baptists Choose a Black Leader–Good Move

2011-06-16T02:01:00.001-04:00

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Your Black World

The meeting of the Southern Baptists this week in Phoenix revealed an interesting surprise. In an effort to increase minority representation in its ranks, the group has elected an African American pastor to become First Vice President. This is the first time in the group’s history that this move has been made.

Rev. Fred Luter Jr. was the man selected for the post, elected on Tuesday to help run the nation’s largest Protestant denomination. The group is seeing declining membership levels, and in response, has been working to bring minorities into the fold. Executive Committee President and CEO Frank Page has admitted that there needs to be “measurable information” to help the Southern Baptists evaluate their progress on race relations.

"I believe we are living in a day and time where there will be increased ethnic involvement and increased sensitivity to ethnic diversity within our convention," said Page. "In the principle of honesty, I tell you we have not done as we ought."

The Southern Baptists Convention has seen a decline in the rate of Baptism by five percent since 2009 and a .15 percent decline in membership, making this the fourth year the number has dipped. There was a debate regarding whether there should be specific language in the group’s charter to address diversity. Some felt that it was too deliberate, while others felt the change was necessary.

"We cannot any longer be a convention that is basically a white convention that anybody can come to," said Pastor Jim Goforth, who leads a multicultural church in Florissant, Mo. "We must intentionally be a convention that reaches out to everyone, and until the stage looks like we want the pew to look like, it won't be that way. It doesn't happen by accident."

SBC President Bryant Wright acknowledges that the Southern Baptist Convention was created to defend slavery.

"It took us 150 years to come to our senses … and seek the forgiveness of God and to apologize with our African-American friends and to ask their forgiveness for the strain of racism all through our history," he said. "But there's a noble reason for which we were founded, and that is for the propagation of the gospel of Jesus Christ."

It seems that the Southern Baptist Convention has the same problem as the Republican Party. Even though the groups possess many principles that are in alignment with common views within the black community, they’ve allowed the blindness of racism to keep them from taking advantage of an opportunity for greater support. Republicans are continuously hindered by those on the Right Wing who can’t stomach a black president, which keeps African Americans loyal to the Democrats, even when the loyalty has not been earned.

I am impressed that there are those within the Southern Baptist Convention who avoid the temptation to, like so many other institutions, use the word “diversity” in every pamphlet without truly proving that they are committed to the concept. I spoke with a friend today who works for a law firm where there is only one black female attorney out of over 200 total attorneys working for the organization. There are quite a few organizations with equally embarrassing statistics, and no one holds these groups accountable for this blatant form of Americanized apartheid. If you are involved with a company, university or organization that has less than 10% African American representation within its ranks, the organization needs to be confronted in an honest and forthright way. It’s much easier to use the word “diversity” than to prove that diversity actually exists.

There are few institutions that run deeper in black America than the church. Additionally, the Southern Baptist tradition in is strong, alive and well. It is both wasteful and confusing that the Southern Baptist Convention has waited this long to take advantage of the obvious connection. But now that they’ve opened that door to accepting black people as their fellow citizens with the Lord, they’ve taken a few steps closer to Godliness.

Dr. Boyce Watkins is a Professor at Syracuse University and founder of the Your Black World coalition. To have Dr. Boyce commentary delivered to your email, please click here.

Is Eddie Long’s Wife Leaving Him?

2011-06-14T08:23:00.001-04:00

click to read

Creflo Dollar: Bishop Eddie Long “already has a ticket into heaven”

2011-06-12T13:13:00.001-04:00

In this “interesting” video, Creflo Dollar tells his congregation that Bishop Eddie Long already has a ticket into heaven.

click to read

When Faith Challenges

2011-06-03T23:49:00.000-04:00

This has been a most difficult year for those who proclaim a hope and faith in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. From headlines involving charges of Pastoral sexual allegations against youth, senseless infighting, the use of religious who do not provide children health treatments; polygamous sects; how religion is one's financial destiny to today's story, where religion is to blame taking the fun out of sex while dating. On the surface, only the Christian faith is the cause of all ill, Islam, Buddhism, Vodoun, various sects do not play the same role as hindering progress as those who love Jesus, even though the report of the Worldwide Religious News Service (WWRN) reports from the world perspective.

Even when it comes to ethnic-based religious news, unlike American Religious reporting which has a tendency not to report the whole story but only those parts which have a tendency to downplay the significance of all religions in the world. When talking specifically about Black Religions and the religious influence of Blackamericans, to only speak in terms of Christianity is misleading, for Blackamericans are not all Christians, some identify themselves as secularists, humanists, theistic or nontheistics, Christians, Muslims, Buddhists, African Traditionalists, and yet many more names to describe their belief system, even if they atheists, agnostic, gnostic, the various religious and nonreligious instruction, quite often as people of color we have allowed ourselves to become duped, bamboozled, that we cannot see the forest for the trees.

The tenets of a belief system differ even within the same grouping. For example, there is a grave difference of the humanism expressed by Black Church Theologian William R. Jones who wrote God is a White Racist, and humanism expressed in the early 17th century. However, if your source is based on Focus on the Family who only started including Blacks in their reports after the mid-1980sl, or the work of the Church Pollster whom many Black Conservative Clergy follow blindly, George Barna, who prior to the 1990s rarely included Blacks in his research; or, reports of the Family Research Council. Recent articles written Ken Blackwell and Bob Morrison, senior fellows with the Family Research Council in Washington, D.C., reveals the religious danger of this organization and influence with political ideology which goes unchallenged by Black academia.
'
Revisionist historians of American Christianity and the significance of Black Religion which was argued during the 2008 Presidential Campaign by an individual whose claim to fame is neoconservatism and brashness perceived as boldness with selective guests with the aid of the Philadelphia native whose ministry in Boston was brought to America's attention because of his impression record in fighting gang violence. These articles are used not because they provide correct information, but the opposite reason - misinformation. Why? Using a homiletics tool, "I'm glad you asked."

These articles and others manifested daily are filled with half-truths and innuendos, information whose filter should be question. Those who write against Black religion in blogs, are not honest and they cannot help it, because they have not devoted the time, research, serious debate, and that is not their fault along. As we were privy to the Smiley and Joiner early years on the Public Broadcasting System where they produced several meetings on the State of the Black Church, which could have been a broad based topic on the role of Black Religions in today's changing culture.

After teaching Black Religion and Black Religions of the Diaspora for over 20 years, expanding, revising, attempting to assist students in becoming critical thinkers and not ever to accept my word without checking all sources, many seminarians and Black Studies, Africana Studies, Africologists, have abandoned or merely dropped serious dialogue about Black Religions, and particularly its significance for those who are descendants of enslaved Africans. Contrary to the early teachings of Joseph R. Washington with his 1963 publication, there is a need to reaffirm the debate which led to the development of Black Theology which had been initially suggested by Swiss Theologian Karl Barth.

The time has come for a serious dialogue to take place by those who are concerned with the authenticity and in discovering the role of Black Religions. For those who would argue that race doesn't matter, maybe they should reread the Biblical text, or revisit their theological thinking, for example, telling people they will know their loved one when we all get to heaven. Yet, if the Bible is taken seriously, race is seriously exposed. Contrary to the feverish conversation of Hannity and Rivers, they selectively forget while standing against Jeremiah Wright to show his wrongs, they need to re-examine their pontification which continually contribute to the proclamation of questionable ignorance which makes their smiley faces quite dangerous.

Knowledge of Black Religion birth in America still escapes the mental deliberations of this present age. In an earlier article I spoke of the one hour I was given to share with the late Dr. Manning Marable when he came to Nebraska. We agreed that the next level for African Studies will be Black Religion as birth in America. What we see today the lack of credible discussions on religions, we seem to have been weighed in the balance and found wanting. Faith is challenging us = and yet our response is lacking.

Teacher Says She Was Fired for Praying at School

2011-05-29T18:12:00.001-04:00

click to read

A Stunning Tribute to Black Mothers: Is This Your Mama By Chance?

2011-05-29T11:36:00.001-04:00

click to read

Oldie But Goodie Tribute to Oprah: Dr. Boyce, Roland Martin and Wendy Williams Discuss Oprah Winfrey on CNN

2011-05-28T19:56:00.001-04:00

click to read

Breaking down the Rhetoric of Bishop Eddie Long

2011-05-28T10:09:00.001-04:00

click to read

Has Essence Magazine Lost It’s Appeal for Black Women’s Issues?

2011-05-27T02:30:00.001-04:00

click to read

Bishop Eddie Long Reaches a Settlement, but Is He Ever Going to Tell the Truth?

2011-05-26T17:50:00.001-04:00

click to read

Judge Mathis Goes Off on a Deadbeat Dad (video)

2011-05-26T01:00:00.001-04:00

click to read

The peculiar candidacy of Mr. Herman Cain. How it could reshape black America

2011-05-23T22:12:00.001-04:00

Click to read

Mother Shoots It out With Police over Daughter’s Medication

2011-05-23T08:09:00.001-04:00

click to read

Al Sharpton Featured on 60 Minutes – Video

2011-05-23T07:26:00.001-04:00

The CBS show, 60 Minutes, had a lot to say about Rev. Al Sharpton. It’s an interesting segment about his life, his politics, and how he has changed over the years.

Click to watch

The End of the World Means Big Money for This Man

2011-05-21T07:35:00.001-04:00

click to read

Should Pastors Also Run a Business on the side?

2011-05-12T00:38:00.000-04:00

Click to read

Our Sisterhood – Leslie DeTouche

2011-05-11T09:57:00.001-04:00

What makes black women into sisters? Leslie DeTouche tell us.

click to read

Technorati Tags: black women,african american women,leslie detouche

Dr. Boyce and Rev. Al Sharpton discuss Black Unemployment and the Onslow Ross Prosecution

2011-05-10T00:16:00.001-04:00

click to read

Technorati Tags: al sharpton,black politics,black scholars,dr. boyce watkins

Pastor Onslow Ross: A Crook or a Victim?

2011-05-09T14:25:00.001-04:00

Is this pastor a crook or a victim? Why he got 10 years in prison.

click to read

Technorati Tags: pastor onslow ross,black preachers,african american preachers

Alabama Tornado Victims Struggle to Stay Strong Emotionally

2011-05-08T09:50:00.001-04:00

Alabama tornado victims get by through faith and football.

click to read

Survey: Black Women More Likely to be Single Than Any Other Group

2011-05-07T09:33:00.001-04:00

A new census bureau survey said that black women are the least likely of all ethnic groups to jump the broom. Why is that?

Click to read

Technorati Tags: black news,black women,african american women

Roland Martin Apologizes for Donald Trump’s Behavior

2011-05-06T23:33:00.001-04:00

CNN’s Roland Martin had some interesting things to say about "The Donald” – Click to read.

South Park Makes Fun of Tyler Perry

2011-05-06T07:59:00.001-04:00

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Your Black World

South Park is a show that takes no prisoners. Sometimes they can be brutal, and when your name is mentioned on the show, you might as well prepare to be embarrassed. The latest victim of the show is Tyler Perry, who is presented as “Funny Bot,” a woman in a dress who tells silly stereotypical jokes that make you laugh over and over again. Every time Funny Bot throws out a catch phrase (“Oh lawud, this chicken sho is hot!”), someone hands him a dollar. He is also, by the way, presented as the greatest threat to all of man-kind by President Barack Obama (you can see a clip by clicking here).

click to read

Technorati Tags: tyler perry,south park,black celebrities,black celebrity gossip

Pastor Argues that Bin Laden Died Long Ago

2011-05-04T08:51:00.001-04:00

Editor's Note: The Rev. David Lewicki is co-pastor of North Decatur Presbyterian Church in Decatur, Georgia. He is a graduate of Yale University and Union Theological Seminary and was ordained in 2005 by the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).

By the Rev. David Lewicki, Special to CNN

On Sunday night I watched the news as it crescendoed around the president’s speech declaring the death of Osama bin Laden. The talking heads worked capably with what few details they had. On the split screen, familiar spliced video footage replayed what little most of us know — or care to know — about bin Laden: wearing a turban, sitting drinking tea, a long salt and pepper beard, speaking to friends, crouching holding a machine gun, skyscrapers smoking.

Twitter gave a way to take the public temperature. Some passed information without editorial: “Bin Laden is dead!” Others tried to score political points: “took O 2 years to do what B couldn’t do in 7,” or “THAT’S a ‘mission accomplished.’” Reports said impromptu crowds gathered in front of the White House and at Ground Zero exuberantly chanting “USA! USA!,” singing our anthem. Others retorted that they would not celebrate any person’s death, no matter who it was. Still others retrieved unsettling data about what it has cost us to find and kill bin Laden, in dollars and human lives.

Finally, from those with an intimate connection to the innocents of 9/11, there were tweets about tears. Tears of relief? Tears because the news dragged them back to the still-tender memories of a decade ago? Yes and yes. I was a first-year theology student in New York City on that day in 2001; I know the tears.

All of these responses are authentic for a Christian who lives in America. Bin Laden has had more influence in the last decade over the way we live our lives than any other person. He was a wedge in our politics, he disrupted our ability to come and go freely; he triggered a vast global security and surveillance apparatus. He was directly or indirectly the focus of two wars that affected the material well-being and peace of mind of millions here and across the world.

He desecrated Islam and radicalized Christianity, making some Christians more enthusiastic about military action than they might have been otherwise, while making others more enthusiastic about trying to find peaceful solutions to global problems.

He robbed people of mothers and fathers, took away their children. He made a whole nation feel vulnerable and fearful of unpredictable catastrophic violence.

One thing we might do well today is give permission to each other to feel all of the things that we might be feeling. There is no one manner by which to respond to this man’s death, because his life impacted all of us, sometimes in radically divergent ways.

click to read

Bishop Desmond Tutu Announces Changes in South African Aids Policy

2011-05-03T18:22:00.001-04:00

Your Black World Reports

Desmond Tutu -- former Anglican Archbishop of Cape Town, South Africa -- says South Africa should not be embarrassed about its policies to combat AIDS.

"For many years we were embarrassed in international gatherings for what we were not doing in fighting AIDS. We therefore thank the Minister of Health, Aaron Motsoaledi, for the change in policy....It is a very rare privilege and honor for us the older ones to say we are passing the baton to you the young to carry on with the fight against this pandemic." - Desmond Tutu

Aaron Motsoaledi is leading the rigorous anti-AIDS testing and treatment campaign pledged by President Jacob Zuma in 2009. This anti-AIDS effort is being lauded by AIDS activists who experienced conflict with a previous health minister who endorsed natural remedies as AIDS treatments and looked skeptically upon the connection between HIV and AIDS. Taking strides to engage younger generations in this fight against disease, Motsoaledi and Tutu attended a United Nations conference discussing ways to motivate new generations to get involved in proliferating the AIDS-prevention message.

Please join the Your Black World Coalition by visiting YourBlackWorld.com

Find People

2011-04-18T06:33:00.003-04:00

How You See Yourself

2011-04-15T06:51:00.000-04:00

The more time you spend feeling sorry for yourself, the more things you’ll have to be sorry about. If you insist on seeing yourself as a victim, you’ll end up experiencing your life as a victim.

It doesn’t have to be that way. Because you can choose right now, and every day, to see yourself in a positive, empowering light.

The way you see yourself is up to you. It doesn’t have anything to do with the circumstances you happen to be facing.

See yourself as the unique, beautiful, creative and effective person you know you are. See yourself as a bundle of positive, inspiring and meaningful possibilities that are well on their way to being fulfilled.

See that you are able to successfully handle whatever life sends your way.

See that you are able to thrive and grow and make positive meaning out of the world in which you live.

See yourself as constantly moving forward through it all, with love and joy and purpose. And what you see, you will be.

— Ralph Marston

Beyond Our Asking!

2011-04-06T06:01:00.001-04:00

Blessings,

Every Day is a Good Day!

2011-03-13T20:39:00.004-04:00

Lately, I’ve been thinking about how every day is a good day; no matter what these days entail. Each day we’re blessed to see is a day someone didn’t get to see & a day to try to get things right yet again :) We take so much for granted & it’s easy to lose sight of this.

When looking at the news & all that is going on in the world, my prayers go out to those affected by the earthquakes, tsunamis, flooding, & more. We look at the TV and begin to wonder, “Why is this happening?” and again, “Why is this happening to them?”. I think that there may be things in life that we don’t receive answers to, but I do believe that God does things to show us that He’s still in control; no matter what things may seem like.

So, my friends, live each day to the fullest; know the opportunities that God presents in each day. We have another opportunity to LIVE & there’s no reason we should waste the opportunity God presents us with. No matter what you see on the news, TV, or read about, focus on God & the fact that “every day is a good day!” Even if something occurs throughout the day that makes you think otherwise, every day is the prime gift to praise God for life, love, & health!

Enjoy your “good day”!

Until next time.

Blessings,

© Lisi P, 2011