Podcasts about reverend brown

In this episode, Rev. Dr. Heber Brown, founder of the Black Food Security Network, describes how experimenting with one small church garden led to connections with other churches and then with farmers and eventually to a transformed ecosystem—in this case, a food shed. This inspiring refugia story weaves through health justice, food security, and climate resilience. Even more, this story celebrates the power of relationships among thousands of gifted, passionate, faithful people. Many thanks to Heber Brown for graciously welcoming us to a church garden at one of the network churches in Baltimore, where we enjoyed chatting together in the greenhouse. To learn more about Rev. Dr. Heber Brown as a pastor, writer, and speaker, take a look at his website. You can also explore the wider work of the Black Church Food Security Network here.Rev. Dr. Heber BrownTRANSCRIPTHeber Brown Our garden has really become like a front door. It's a demonstration site. You're not going to feed an entire city or community with a church garden, but it becomes an activation space for your congregation members and the neighbors to come and reap the personal and individual benefits of just being closer to soil, but then also to practice what collectivism looks like in a garden space. It's a very controlled environment for a laboratory for, “how do we do this together?” And those learnings can roll over into other places as well.Debra Rienstra Welcome to the Refugia Podcast. I'm your host, Professor Debra Rienstra. Refugia are habitats in nature where life endures in times of crisis. We're exploring the concept of refugia as a metaphor, discovering how people of faith can become people of refugia: nurturing life-giving spaces in the earth, in our human cultural systems, and in our spiritual communities, even in this time of severe disturbance. This season, we're paying special attention to churches and Christian communities who have figured out how to address the climate crisis together as an essential aspect of their discipleship. Today, I'm talking with Rev. Dr. Heber Brown, founder of the Black Food Security Network. Beginning with a small congregation, a 1500-square foot garden, and a divine calling, the Black Food Security Network now connects 250 Black churches and 100 Black farmers in the Mid-Atlantic states and beyond. Reverend Brown's story weaves through issues of health justice, food security and climate resilience. And I love how beautifully this story illustrates the power of refugia. One small experiment started to form connections, then spread and eventually transformed a whole ecosystem—in this case, a food shed. I think you'll find Heber's brilliance and humility and joy inspiring, but he would be the first to say that this network is built on relationships among thousands of gifted, passionate, faithful people. People finding and exercising their beauty and agency is the best part of this story. Let's get to it.Debra Rienstra Heber, it's so great to talk to you today. Thank you so much for spending some time with me.Heber Brown Thank you for the opportunity.Debra Rienstra You've told your origin story about the Black Food Security Network a million times. Will you tell it again for our listeners?Heber Brown Absolutely. So, somewhere about five years in to pastoring a beautiful congregation here in Baltimore City called the Pleasant Hope Baptist Church, I began to notice a pattern of members of our congregation who were being hospitalized, and in response to that, like any well trained pastor will do, we do the things that seminary and other places have taught us: to show up by the bedside, give prayer, give encouragement, don't stay too long, and get to the next member who needs that kind of pastoral care. And so I was doing what my family—which was a family full of pastors—and seminary taught me to do: to go and visit. And during those visits, and while extending that encouragement, those prayers and the like, I also got the opportunity to do deep listening and learn some things about the people in my church, that stuff that doesn't necessarily and normally come out on a Sunday morning during all of the activity of a service. And one of the things that would come up, that started to come up in the confidentiality of those sacred circles, was the ways that diet and food was a part of the picture that was leading to the dis-ease and suffering, physical suffering, of those in the church. And I began to hear that over and over again. So I'm going, I'm praying, I'm giving scripture, I'm listening, shaking hands and moving on, and listening and hearing about food being in the picture. Alright, next visit. I'm going, I'm praying, I'm giving scripture, I'm giving encouragement, I'm listening, shaking hands, move to the next person. Food comes up again. It came up so much that eventually I got tired of just hearing about this challenge and walking away. I got unsettled by listening to people who I love and share life with, share with me their challenges, and as much as I believe and know that prayer is powerful, I wondered if there was ways that I could pray in a different way, pray through action.And so I got the idea—well, God gave vision. Well, no, God didn't give the first vision. The first one was just my idea. And my idea was to partner with the local market that was really right across the main intersection from our church. And I wanted some type of pathway so that food from that market could get to our church, get to our members, and it could improve their quality of life and address the health challenges in our church. But I still remember the day I went over to that market. And when I went to that market, and I looked at the prices of the produce, and then I also took note of the—as the young folks would say—the vibe of the space. It failed the vibe test, and it failed the price tag test. I saw barriers that would prevent, or at least slow this idea around nutrient-rich produce coming from that market right across the main intersection to our church within walking distance. And I got frustrated by that. I was frustrated because what we needed was right within reach. It was right at our fingertips, literally, but those barriers there would have made it very difficult for us to acquire and obtain the food that was there. Over the years, and like you said, I've told this story many times, and it's a living story, and so even my reflections on parts of it illuminates different ways, even at this stage of my journey with this. But I thought about like, what stopped me from talking to the market manager anyway? So I made the decision on that day just to walk out and say, “No, I'm not going to pursue partnership.” As I reflect on it, I interrogate myself, like, “Why didn't you at least have a conversation? Because who knows, something could have come out of the conversation, and maybe they would have given you the food for free or the discounted rate...” et cetera, et cetera. And when I sat with that and I thought about it more, I think there was something within me that didn't want free food. I thought, and I still think to this day, in a different, deeper, more conscious way, more aware way—but back then it was just something within where I thought that free food would have been too expensive. And not in a dollars and cents kind of way. That would have cost us too much with respect to our dignity, our sense of somebody-ness, and I did not want to lead my congregation in kind of genuflecting to the benevolence and charity, sense of charity, of the “haves” of the neighborhood. I did not want to reinforce kind of an inferiority complex that comes with staying in a posture of subservience to what you can recognize to be unjust and racist systems that keep food away from people when I believe that food is a God-given right. Healthy, nutritious food is a God-given right. I didn't want to lead my congregation into that, and I didn't want to reinforce even a sense of superiority, which is an equally devastating and damaging thing to the human soul, to think that these poor Black people are coming across the street to get food, and we are in the position to help those poor, at risk, needy people. Whether inferiority or superiority, both, I believe, are corrosive to the human soul. I did not have the articulation of that then, but I had enough in me that was living in that space that stopped me from leading our congregation into a partnership there. And so I left out, I walked back to the church. While I'm walking back to the church, near the front door of our church, there's a plot of land, and that land I'd walked past a thousand times before that day, but on that day, with divine discontent bubbling up inside of me, that's when God gave a vision. God vetoed my idea, gave a real vision, and that vision was rooted in us growing our own food in the front yard of our congregation. And so I go inside the church and I announce this vision to members of the church, and I remember saying to them, “Hey, y'all. God gave me a vision!” And I saw eyes rolling, like, “Oh, here he goes again.” I was at that time, I was in my early thirties. I started pastoring at 28 years old. And, you know, I came in at 28, I had all the ideas in the world. We was gonna fix everything by the weekend. And this patient congregation gave me room to work out all of that energy around changing everything immediately. So they were used to hearing this kind of stuff from me before, and so the rolling of the eyes when I said, “Hey, y'all, let's start a garden,” was quite expected, but I'm grateful for a remnant of the folks who said, “This one actually might work. Let's stick with him. Let's go with him on this.” And that remnant and I, we got together, we started growing food in the front yard of our church, and long story short, that garden helped to transform the spiritual and the physical material conditions of our congregation. 1500-square feet. We started growing 1200 pounds of produce every season: tomatoes, broccoli, kale, corn, even watermelon some years. It just transformed our ministry and even attracted people to the ministry who were not Christian, who'd never come to the church. Some people flew in from out of town. Like this little congregation of like 125 people with the 1500-square foot garden became, for some people, a destination, like church. And I was like, “What is this? We don't have bells and whistles and smoke machines and everything else. We're just a regular church on the side of the road with a little piece of land. And this garden is becoming a calling card for our ministry.”Debra Rienstra It was such a wild thing to do, and yet—it's just a garden.Heber Brown It's just a garden!Debra Rienstra So, I want to come back to, now, you know, long fifteen years later, you have this network of 250 Black churches and a hundred Black farmers, mostly up and down the East Coast, but all over the US. And we'll get to that exciting development in a bit, but I want to go back to those early days, because we're really interested in how congregations get excited. So could you talk about Maxine Nicholas?Heber Brown Yes, yes. Maxine Nicholas was the president of the sanctuary choir when I first got to Pleasant Hope. And she also was the one who organized a lot of exciting trips for seniors. They went shopping and went to plays. And you know, that was my introduction to her, when I first got to the church. And really, that was the extent, pretty much, of what I knew about her, how she showed up in the ministry. And when I shared this vision from God for us to start a garden, she was one of the members who said, “I'm gonna help.” And it was critical that she...what she did was critical to even us having this conversation today because she had the agricultural and farming know-how. I didn't.Debra Rienstra You didn't know anything!Heber Brown No, I didn't know anything! I was, I mean, born in Baltimore City. Yes, I spent summers down the country. As we say in my family and community, we say, you know, “We're going down the country for the summer.” And so, when school let out, my parents took us down to our relatives' home in rural Virginia, and my big mama, mama Geraldine, we would stay with her. She had land. She grew, you know, all the things. I wasn't paying attention to any of that when I was a young child, but some seeds were planted. But it really wasn't what I was focused on then, so I didn't know much about growing or, you know, agrarian kind of rhythms of being at all. Sister Maxine, though, grew up with multiple brothers and sisters on a farm in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina. She moved to Baltimore from North Carolina around the fifties, joined Pleasant Hope shortly after that, and had really grown with the church over the years. Though she left the farm, the farm never left her. It was still in her. I didn't know it was there. My seminary-trained pastoral eyes were socialized to lock in on the gifts that people had that could be in service to our Sunday service, the production of the corporate worship experience. So if you can sing, I was trained to say, “Hey, I think you should join the choir.” If you could play an instrument, get on the band. Could you stand for two hours or so? The ushers' ministry. But I had some major blind spots about the gifts of God in people that were detached— seemingly detached and devoid—from what corporate worship and liturgy could look like in our space. Sister Maxine stepping forward helped to challenge my blind spots. She's not just a sanctuary choir president. She's not just the planner of trips for the seniors. She was a farmer.Debra Rienstra Isn't that remarkable? I think so many churches are full of such talent and passion, and sort of untilled passion, right? That, as you say, we're so focused on church programs, whatever those might be, for a church, that we often don't realize what people are capable of in the service of the name of Jesus, right? So, now you say, when you go to work with a potential partner church, you look for the Sister Maxine.Heber Brown That's right, she's a profile.Debra Rienstra How do you find the Sister Maxines? Everybody wants them.Heber Brown Yeah. Many times, well, one thing I know for sure, I'll say. Sister Maxine is rarely the pastor. It's not the pastor or anybody with the big highfalutin titles up front on the website, on the camera. It's rare. I'll just say that: it's rare, in my experience, that that's your Sister Maxine. They do play a crucial role in the furthering and establishment of this kind of ministry, “innovation,” innovation in air quotes. But Sister Maxine is, in many times, in my experience, that's the one who is recognized as getting things done in the church. And many times, they're almost allergic to attention. They're the ones who are running from the microphone or the spotlight, but they're the ones who prefer, “I'm in the background.” No, they often say things like that: “No, no, that's not for me. I just want to get stuff done. You know, I don't know what to say.” Oftentimes they talk like that. But everybody in the church knows if it's going to get done, this one's going to do it. Or, you know, maybe it's a group, they're going to get it done. And so that's one of the things that I've just trained myself to look for, like, who really is over—you know, when I shake the hand of a pastor, many times I'm looking over their shoulder. Who is behind you? Because what I know is, “Pastor, and no disrespect, but you're not the one who's gonna be with me in the garden on the land. You'll be getting an introduction to the land most times, just like I will be when I first arrive.” Who's the person who already knows it? And then too, I think you find the Sister Maxine by listening. Hearing Sister Maxine's story, and really listening to the fact that she grew up on a farm in North Carolina. And watching her face light up when she talked about growing up, she talked about her parents, and she's since passed away, but I still remember so many conversations we've had. And she would tell me about how her parents would send all the children out to work the farm before they went to school. And she would chuckle and say, “My daddy sent the boys and the girls out there to work that land,” to kind of challenge notions of this is not a woman or a girl's work. Her parents like, “Nope. Everybody get outside.” And she chuckled and laughed and smiled sharing so many of those kinds of memories. And I think you can find the Sister Maxines oftentimes by doing deep listening. And sometimes it's not a Sister Maxine that's really doing the farming thing, but it might be a Sister Maxine who's into herbalism, or, you know, or who has stories about their elders or parents who could walk in the field and put stuff together and tend to a rash or a wound or a bruise. These things might not show up on a resume, but they're in the lines of the stories of the people who are right under our nose. And so maybe I'll just offer it finally, that maybe it's, you know, you find Sister Maxine by doing deep listening.Debra Rienstra Yeah, yeah. Okay, so now you've got a church garden. And it's transforming the congregation. How? What's changing?Heber Brown Well, one of the things that transformed with the congregation was just like the pride. Members of the church was taking pride in what we were doing. You know, we're not a megachurch in the city. Never have been a megachurch. In fact, our church blended in so much in the background of the neighborhood that when I first got to the church, the trustees—really one of the trustees in particular—was really adamant about us needing to build a steeple on top of our building, because the steeple would then indicate to the community that this is a church. And thank God we never got a steeple, but we didn't need it. The garden became the steeple, and the members started taking pictures of the produce they were receiving from the church garden and posting it on their Facebook page, and putting it, you know, sharing it with their families. They began sharing recipes in the congregation related to what we were growing in our garden, and I saw people start coming to our church for worship and programming that were coming because we had a garden.Debra Rienstra Lured by the cabbages.Heber Brown That's it! Not these sermons I worked so hard to put together.Debra RienstraNope. It was the cabbages.Heber Brown I'm trying to say, “You know, this word in the Greek means...” and all this stuff. And I'm trying to, “Hey, y'all, I have a degree!” And I'm trying to show you I have a degree. Like, “no, we're here for cabbage.”Debra Rienstra You just need carrots. So, from there, we become this big network, and there's a lot going on between those steps. So you've got the garden. You start having markets after services on Sunday. What happens next to begin creating this gigantic network?Heber Brown Yeah, so this network, I mean, this activity with our garden continues to grow and mature. We're testing. We develop an appetite for experimentation and a curiosity, and nurturing kind of a congregational curiosity about what could happen, like, what if? What if, what if? And in that kind of context, my “what ifs” also grew to: “What if other churches could do this too?” And what if we could work together to systematize our efforts? And so I was very clear that I was not interested in a scaling of this experience in such a way that would create additional siloed congregational ministries. Like, that's not going to fix and help us get to the root of why we are hungry or sick in the first place. If we're going to, you know, really get at the root of, or some of the root, of the challenges, we have to create an ecosystem. We have to have churches who do it, but also work with other churches who are doing it. And we compliment—like a choir. You got your sopranos, your altos, your tenors, and you got some churches that will do this part well, other churches will do that part well, but if you sing together, you can create beautiful music together. And so that idea started rolling around in my head, and I started talking to farmers and public health professionals here in the city, and other folks, food justice folks in the city, and just kind of getting their reactions to this idea. I had never seen or heard of anything like that before at that time. And so I was just trying to get a read from others who I respected, to kind of give some insight. And in the course of that, this city, Baltimore, experienced an uprising related to the death of Freddie Gray.Debra Rienstra Yeah, this is so interesting, how this became a catalyst. Describe that.Heber Brown It kicked at the uprising and the death of Freddie Gray at the hands of Baltimore City police officers. And for those who are not familiar, Baltimore City, like many communities around this country, sadly, had experienced a long line of Black people who've been killed by Baltimore City police officers with no consequences to those officers or to government officials who supported them. So Freddie Gray in 2015 was the latest name in a long list of names and generations of Black families who've endured the brutality and the horror of those kinds of experiences. When the city goes up in demonstrations and protests against police brutality against Black people in Baltimore, one of the things that happened was those communities nearest the epicenter of the demonstrations and protests that were already what we call “food apartheid zones” and struggling with food access and food security, those neighborhoods...things intensified because the corner stores that they were dependent on also closed during that time. Public transportation did not send buses through the neighborhood, so they were stranded there. Even the public school system closed for a few days, and 80,000 students in Baltimore City, many of them who were dependent on free breakfast and free lunch from school, had to figure out something else. So with all of that support not there anymore, members of the community started to call our church, because by 2015 we were known kind of like as the “food and garden” church. They got food. It was our calling card. So they called the church office. They said, “Hey, Reverend Brown, Pastor Brown, we need food.” I called our garden team. We harvested from our garden. We called farmers that we knew. Other people just made donation to us. We transformed our church into like this food depot. We started processing donations, harvesting, loaded it up on our church van, and I was driving our church van around the city of Baltimore in the midst of the uprising, getting food to people and into the communities that called us to come.Debra Rienstra Wow, you've done a lot of driving vans around, it seems like. We'll get back to that. But it's just so fascinating that that moment catalyzed, it sounds like, an awareness of food insecurity that made it really real for people who are maybe aware of it, but now it's reached a sort of acute moment. And I love the way that you talked in an interview with Reverend Jen Bailey about how Black churches are already a network. And so that moment, it sounds like, activated that network. And in fact, the way that you talked about the legacy of Black churches having a spiritual vocation connected to social change for a long time, and so many people used to doing things with hardly any obvious resources, like not money or power, and depending on God to make a way out of no way. And it sounds like you just leveraged all of those incredible assets born of years of struggle and said, “We can do this. We can move from being consumers at the whim of systems like this to producers that create food security.” So how did you, you know, sort of leverage those assets and help people understand that they had them?Heber Brown Yeah, I think that what was helpful to me early on was to almost look at the church like, assume the posture of a social scientist. And to almost go up on the balcony of the church and look down on it. Like, just back up and try as best as possible to clean your lenses so you can just look at it. What does it do? What does it care about? What does it prioritize? Like, just really take notes. And that's a part of what I was drawn to do early on, was just: what does Pleasant Hope— and not just Pleasant Hope Baptist Church, but all the churches that we're in relationship with, and all the churches that I knew, being a preacher's kid, my dad still pastors in this city. And so I've grown up in the church, the Black churches of Baltimore and beyond, and so just stepping back and watching to see what it does gave me some curiosities, some clues, some tips and hints, like: wow, if it already does that, then if I can just run downfield a little bit and get in the path of where I know it's about to come, then potentially it could make what it's going to do anyway even more impactful. So an example is: pastors' anniversary or church anniversary services always have food in the picture. You're going to eat. And you don't have to be a Black—that's any church. You're going to eat throughout the year. It's a part of the practice of the faith. If you can run downfield and get in front of where you know the congregation is about to come—because church anniversary is the same Sunday every single year. And you can reverse-engineer like, at what point will the church need to buy food? At what point do they need to decide where they get the food from? At what point is the budget decided for the following year so they see how much money they're going to spend on food. If you can get in and kind of almost double dutch into those critical moments, like jump rope, and be like, “If I make this suggestion at this particular moment, then it's going to introduce something into the conversation with the trustees that might increase the amount of money spent on food that we then could use to connect with this particular farmer, which we then can use to connect with the kitchen ministry, who they can then use to create the menu for the meal.” And before you know it, you have a plate with local food right in front of everybody's faces at the church.Debra Rienstra You have said that after the pulpit, the second holiest place in the building is the kitchen.Heber Brown It really...honest to God, is the second, and it's a close second too, because everybody can't walk into that kitchen. And if you can strategize and think about how to leverage the stuff, the assets, but also your knowledge of how this entity operates, it could really be transformative.Here we are, chatting at the greenhouse. Debra RienstraHi, it's me, Debra. If you are enjoying this podcast episode, go ahead and subscribe on your preferred podcast platform. If you have a minute, leave a review. Good reviews help more listeners discover this podcast. To keep up with all the Refugia news, I invite you to subscribe to the Refugia newsletter on Substack. This is my fortnightly newsletter for people of faith who care about the climate crisis and want to go deeper. Every two weeks, I feature climate news, deeper dives, refugia sightings and much more. Join our community at refugianewsletter.substack.com. For even more goodies, including transcripts and show notes for this podcast, check out my website at debrarienstra.com. D-E-B-R-A-R-I-E-N-S-T-R-A dot com. Thanks so much for listening. We're glad you're part of this community. And now back to the interview.Debra Rienstra You've really asked people to go back in the system to origins, like the origins of the soil, and think about the provenance of everything they eat—in the church, but also at home and and say, “Well, why can't we help Black farmers find markets for their food by creating this whole network?” Talk a little bit about what the network actually looks like. So you've got farmers, they create produce, and then you go with a truck, and sounds like it's all you! You go with a truck, bring their stuff to a church. So explain how that all works now in the larger network.Heber Brown Yeah, so now, after getting our official start ten years ago, so I started 15 years ago on this journey. The network itself, this is the tenth year. 2025 is our ten year anniversary. And now what our network looks like is helping member churches to start gardens on land that they own. We are very clear about starting on garden-owned—sorry, on church-owned land, just because in this kind of context, gentrification, eminent domain, that's real. You got Black communities who don't know if their land or property will be taken because a highway needs to be built here. And we don't, we've not tapped into, or don't have the sense of agency, collective agency, yet to push back against those kinds of things. And so church-owned land really is important because it creates some political buffers against systems that would be hesitant to snatch church land. Just politically, it's not a good idea. So knowing that about the political environment, that they don't want to mess with—they want votes from congregations. They don't want to, you know—congregations coming after them is like, “Oh, okay, well, let's grow food on the land that is less likely to be taken by politicians or developers.” And so we help churches to start gardens or agricultural projects. It might be composting, it might be rain barrels. It might be, you know, different types of things to either establish it or to expand it. And our gardens really become like a front door. It's a demonstration site. You're not going to feed an entire city or community with a church garden, but it becomes an activation space for your congregation members and the neighbors to come and reap the personal, individual benefits of just being closer to soil, but then also to practice what collectivism looks like in a garden space. It's a very controlled environment for a laboratory, for, “How do we do this together?” And those learners can roll over into other places as well.Heber Brown So gardens is one thing. Markets, Black farmers markets. We do them at churches. We like to do it on Sundays right after worship, when people are hungry anyway. We like putting those farmers right there before people get to their car. We want to make it feel like a family reunion, a cookout in your backyard, a holiday gathering. There's a DJ, we're line dancing, there's prepared food, and there's produce, games for the children. So kind of an event experience. It's really fun. It's an experience, you know? And that's what we really try to do with that program. It's not just transactional, “Here is your squash.” It's: let's give people a nourishing experience that even goes beyond the food that the farmers are bringing. And then we do Black farm tours, where we're driving people around to kind of literally get your feet on soil. And it's become an increasing request of groups and churches that many times they don't even know there are farmers right under their nose, like right around the corner. We're so disconnected from our local food environments. So Black farm tours are helpful. And then what you reference, with respect to driving food around—it's almost like, I've called it the BCSA program. It's kind of a play off of “CSA: Community Supported Agriculture,” like the subscription box program. Black Church Supported Agriculture looks like us helping farmers with the logistics of getting bulk items from their farm to congregations. And yes, over these past ten years, I have done a lot of the driving of refrigerated trucks and box trucks. It's been my joy, though, to do that. It's been a sanctuary for me, even while pastoring. I mean, so I'm preaching on Sunday, and then I'm delivering sweet potatoes on Monday, and like, behind the wheel of a big box truck. I love that kind of stuff, just because it helps me be feel free to explore my call beyond just more conventional, classic understandings of what it means to be a clergy person. So it's been great for me to experience that, but ten years in, it is increasingly important that I get from behind the wheel and pass the keys to somebody else, so that we might really systematize it, because if it stays with me, this network won't go far at all.Debra Rienstra Yeah. Okay, so I want to read a quote from you, and then I want to ask a question about that very thing. So you put it before that your vision is to move people from being—and this is my summary—your vision is to move people from being disadvantaged consumers to confident producers, and that means, and here's your quote, “co-creating alternative micro food systems, not just because of the racism and the oppression in the current food system, but also because of the impending challenges around climate change, the growing concerns around geopolitics, and, at the time you said this, Covid-19, which showed us how fragile our current food system is.” So the Black Food Security Network is wrapped up in health justice, food security, climate resilience. Do you have ways of communicating all of that to people? Are the folks who are buying the carrots and the kale aware of all that? And if so, how are they aware of all that?Heber Brown Yeah, many. I mean, this food is a very political thing, and so it sets a good table for conversations around all of that and so much more that you just lifted up. And so there are many one-on-one conversations or small group conversations or online, you know, conversations that happen where people do recognize the implications of what we're doing. Yeah, that goes far beyond your next meal. And so that is helpful. I am definitely interested, though, in how we do more in the way of communicating that. I would love to see, for example, Sunday school curricula created that kind of takes—again, if I'm looking at how churches operate today, Christian education programs are one of the things that have been on the church budget and in the air of the programming of the church for a very long time, and I suspect it's going to stay there. How do we inject it with Sunday school curriculum that fits? So climate change, racism, social justice, food justice. How do we have Sunday school curriculum, vacation Bible school and summer camp experiences that speak to that? How might we reimagine our Sunday live streams? Is anybody really watching the full one hour of your live stream on Sunday? Could it be that we could produce programming that perhaps pops in on a piece of the sermon, but then pops out to another segment that touches on these different things, so that people really have a dynamic experience watching? Maybe there's one stream of the Sunday service that stays just on the whole service, but maybe there's an alternative link for those who may be closer to the outer edges or different edges of the ministry, who's really not interested in hearing the church announcements and when the tea is gonna be and when the that...Maybe, if we thought about how to create material, curriculum, streamed experiences that are a little bit more dynamic, it would also create a runway for the sharing of those. And last thing I'll say is: what about our small group and discipleship programs at our churches? And so many congregations have book clubs and small group studies that have done wonderful things over the years. I wonder if there could be, in addition to those kinds of groups, where there's an action component. So we don't read just for the sake of reading. We read to reflect. We read to be activated to go do, and then we come back and reflect, and then we read the next thing, and then we go do, and then come back—a praxis. Could our small group and discipleship programs embrace a different kind of praxis, or for how they are experimenting with the practice of this faith in this day and time?Debra Rienstra “Okay, let's pause and go out to weed a little bit.” There you go. So one of the things I love about your story is the way you began with this—we could call it a “low-resource refugia space,” one congregation. And I'm curious how things feel different now. So ideally, refugia in nature persist and grow, connect and spread through corridors, and eventually you have this renewed ecosystem. So the Black Food Security Network is essentially a successful refugia network. You've created an ecosystem. What feels different now for you and for the whole network? You've been at this a long time.Heber Brown What feels different now? So I was thinking this week about the rhythm of nature, and in my personal embrace of this vocation, I try to mirror and mimic nature in a number of ways. And so like during winter, you won't hear me a lot. I'm doing what nature does, and the energy is in the roots and not in the fruit. And I don't take a lot of interviews. I don't travel a lot. I get real still and real quiet. And during the spring, I start poking my head out a little bit more. During the summer, it's go time. During the fall, it's harvest time. So I look at that personally, but now I'm also beginning to look at that organizationally, and with respect to this network. And I'm saying, I'm intentionally saying “organization” and “network” separate. With respect to the organization, I am clearer today, as we go through the life cycles of what nature does, that I now have the opportunity, and the responsibility even, to till the soil again in the organization. And a part of that tilling of the soil, turning the soil over, means me renegotiating my position in the organization. That out of necessity, I leaned into a role that, for the past decade, I've been organizing and bringing things together, but I recognize, and I always have, my highest and best use is really not in the management of the day to day operations of a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. My skills are not as sharp in all of the ways that would continue to cultivate that kind of consistency and efficiencies in an organization. And so currently, I am working as hard as I can and as fast as I can to get out of positions that I've been holding, particularly with the executive director. This is not going to be overnight, but I'm articulating it and saying it out loud to help remind myself, remind my team, and also make it more real. I'm speaking it into—I'm manifesting it through my words that if the organization is to continue to grow and flourish. I can't stay in this role.Debra Rienstra Okay, you want to go back to the soil.Heber Brown Right here. For those who are listening, we're sitting at one of our member gardens, and this is where I belong. I still, I will obviously still have a role with the organization. I'm not leaving. But maybe there's a different configuration. Maybe I become more of a John the Baptist. I'm just going out, and I go out and I'm preaching in the wilderness about, and painting the picture, about the necessity of this stuff. And then after that, after I paint the picture, get folks excited, show them that it's real, help them in the early stages—I love talking about the early stages and my failures and all that kind of stuff. And then pass the baton. Once these congregations are activated and energized and ready, at some point very soon, passing the baton to those in the organization who will continue to work with them to mentor them and grow them. And then with the network as a whole, you know, going around and being like a people pollinator—that's what I really feel called to. I want to grow food, and I want to go around and people-pollinate. I want to introduce people. I want to connect folks. I think that's part of my highest use in the network, which will demand a renegotiation of how I show up in the organization.Debra Rienstra Yeah, yeah, because you've talked all along about how important relationships are in making this. It's always person to person, always about relationships. Yeah. So is the network right now fundamentally built on congregations, still? Like it's a network of congregations plus farmers.Heber Brown It's a network of congregations and it's a network of relationships with farmers. We really, over the years, one of the developments that we had over the past maybe year and a half or so, was that really the sweet spot of what we do well is work with Black congregations. That's what we do well. Black farmers, because of a century of discrimination and so many other systemic injustices against them—they need a high level of advocacy, technical assistance, support, financing, et cetera. And we really came to a place about a year and a half ago where we realized...before that point we were trying to help the churches and the farmers. I was like, no, it's enough getting a church to change one small thing, seemingly small thing. How are you going to do churches and farmers? And so a clarity around—what is the sweet spot of what we do well, and where's the thing that others are not doing as much? There are a lot of organizations now, thankfully, that give a lot of support to farmers in general and Black farmers in particular. We don't need to try to be the experts there. We can just be again in a relationship with those organizations that do that with the farmers, and just make sure that we're dancing well together in how, “If y'all help the farmers and we help the churches, now we bring together what our advocacy, organizing and programming can look like.” And so right now, it's congregations, and we're trying to increase our ability to serve our congregations well.Debra Rienstra Yeah, so that's refugia-like, too, in the sense that refugia are very particular to a species in a place, and when they spread and grow through corridors, the biodiversity increases. So you know, you're building, as you say, this ecosystem, and it naturally, you would have biodiversity increase, but there's still going to be specialized pockets. Okay, lightning round. and then a final question. Lightning round, what's your favorite veg?Heber BrownFirst thing that came up...oh man, that's a lot. Nevermind. I'm gonna go with kale. Stay with my kale.Debra RienstraKale! Okay. I'd have to say carrots for me, because they're so versatile. And they last a long time.Heber Brown I've had carrot hot dogs. I'm vegetarian, and so I've had carrot hot dogs. They are really good.Debra Rienstra Okay, so I wanted to ask you about being a vegetarian, because this is essentially the South, right? It is so meat centric. I'm vegetarian too. It is hard to find something to eat. How do you do that?Heber Brown Yes, yes.Debra RienstraWhat do you do about like, pork barbecue?Heber BrownYeah. So a lot of things—social functions and fellowships—I know I have to eat beforehand or bring my own food. And so that's what I do to kind of get through. It's like, I'm not going for the plate, I'm going for the people.Debra Rienstra Macaroni and cheese works.Heber Brown Mac and cheese still works a lot. So the sides—all the sides, I'm good on the sides.Debra Rienstra Yeah, me too. Most impressive farm skill?Heber Brown Attracting labor to help.Debra Rienstra That's a huge skill!Heber Brown Huge, huge huge. I'm still learning. I went to beginner farm school, and I'm still learning the farm stuff, and I'm excited about it, but I'm grateful that God has gifted me to get folks to show up to him.Debra Rienstra Unappreciated farm skill. Okay. Elderberry syrup for communion. Talk about that.Heber Brown When we all get to heaven, I think Jesus will be serving elderberry syrup. It's like, no, I'm playing. Yeah, that was one of those experimentations.Debra Rienstra Did it work?Heber Brown It worked! And then the next week, Covid hit and shut down. So we were just beginning. I partnered with an herbalist who was gonna—and she also was a baker, so she was gonna be doing fresh bread and elderberry syrup every communion Sunday. The day we did this, she was in the church kitchen, baking the bread, and the smell of bread is just going through the congregation. And I knew she had the elderberry syrup in this big, beautiful container. And so it was such a beautiful moment. And I was so jazzed about...I was jazzed about that, not only because the bread was good and like children were coming back for seconds for communion bread, but also because I felt like with the elderberry syrup and the bread, that it was in deeper alignment with our ethics and what we preached.Debra Rienstra It's better sacramentalism. Because, you know, as you've been saying all along, it's not consuming an element of unknown provenance. It's producing. It's the fruit of human labor, right? It's the work of God, the gift of the earth, and the fruit of human labor. And it's labor you've had your actual hands on. So it's a lot to ask for churches to do this, but it's, you know, one of these small experiments with radical intent that could be really, really cool.Heber Brown And I think in a time when congregations, well, I'm thinking about trustee ministries, those who are over financial resources of the church, right? So one of the ways that it worked at my church was, I was like, “Listen, I noticed in our financial reports here that we're spending X amount on buying these boxes of these pre-made communion cups. What if we could take some of the money we're already spending and divert it to an herbalist who could grow, who could make us the syrup that we need, and what if we can do it that way?” And so I had to speak to that particular ministry, not from the perspective of like the earth and the soil, but in a language that I thought that they could better appreciate was dollars and cents.Debra Rienstra Yeah, keeping those dollars local. Oh my gosh. Okay. Final question: what is your vision for the Church, capital C, in the next 50 years?Heber Brown That we'd be baptized back into the soil. That Scripture speaks about the ways in which we are brought from the soil, and God breathed into Adam, the breath of life. And I think there's more of the breath of life now back in the soil, if we would but release ourselves into the compost of what is happening socially now that we would be in a position where new life, resurrection, would be experienced in a different kind of way through our ministry.Debra Rienstra Heber, thank you so much. This was such a pleasure. Thank you for your time today. Thank you.Debra Rienstra Thanks for joining us for show notes and full transcripts, please visit debrarienstra.com and click on the Refugia Podcast tab. This season of the Refugia Podcast is produced with generous funding from the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship. Colin Hoogerwerf is our awesome audio producer. Thanks to Ron Rienstra for content consultation as well as technical and travel support. Till next time, be well. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit refugianewsletter.substack.com

I captured from WHUR 96.3 FM Rankin Memorial Chapel's Guest Reverend Brown who preached from the Book of Esther, Chapter 4.  I share her Sermon on it.    SONG VIDEO CHOICE

In 1988, Eddie Murphy and director John Landis combined forces to create "Coming to America," a romantic comedy that went on to become an emblematic staple of 80s cinema. On the surface, it's a story about a prince from a fictional African country who travels to America in search of true love. But as we delve deeper, it reveals a myriad of layers that blend humour, cultural commentary, and romance in a unique blend that stands the test of time.The movie embarks on the journey of Prince Akeem of Zamunda (Eddie Murphy), who, against the backdrop of opulence and traditionalism, wishes to find love that transcends his royal status. Rejecting the arranged marriage set up by his parents, he and his confidante, Semmi (Arsenio Hall), decide to go to America—specifically, Queens, New York—to find Akeem's queen.This simple yet intriguing premise serves as a foundation for the exploration of various thematic undercurrents. "Coming to America" subtly underscores the tension between tradition and individualism. While Akeem's motivations are romantic, his journey is also an act of rebellion against Zamundan royal customs. There's a message of self-determination and autonomy, underscored by his desire to be "liked for who he is" rather than his princely status.One of the film's most notable achievements is its rich character tapestry. Eddie Murphy and Arsenio Hall, through their multiple roles, showcase an astonishing comedic range. From the hilarious barbershop patrons to the charismatic Reverend Brown and the unforgettable Sexual Chocolate band, these multifaceted roles add depth and vibrancy to the story.However, it's Murphy's portrayal of Prince Akeem that truly stands out. He masterfully captures the essence of a young man torn between duty and desire, seamlessly blending innocence, determination, and humour. Likewise, Arsenio Hall as Semmi wonderfully complements Akeem, offering both comedic relief and a contrasting perspective on their American adventure.Supporting characters, from Lisa McDowell (Shari Headley) to her father Cleo (John Amos) and the hilarious antagonist Darryl (Eriq La Salle), provide the cultural backdrop against which Akeem's journey unfolds. Their interactions with the prince not only contribute to the movie's comedic moments but also its emotional depth, presenting a nuanced portrayal of urban America in the 1980s.Beyond its romantic and comedic plotline, "Coming to America" offers an exploration of cultural contrasts. The lavish and exaggerated depiction of African royalty against the backdrop of urban Queens provides ample ground for both humour and reflection. The film plays with stereotypes, sometimes reinforcing them but often subverting them for comedic effect. One might argue that the film occasionally walks a fine line between genuine cultural appreciation and caricature. However, given the context of its release and its overall intentions, it largely manages to stay on the right side of this divide.The film also provides an interesting examination of the American Dream from an outsider's perspective. Through Akeem's eyes, America is portrayed as a land of opportunity, equality, and potential—a place where even a prince can start from the bottom.The film's soundtrack, peppered with hits from the era, adds to the movie's charm. From the catchy "Soul Glo" jingle to the memorable dance sequence set to "The Greatest Love of All," the music plays an integral role in creating the film's vibrant atmosphere.Cinematographically, "Coming to America" is a visual treat. The stark contrast between the extravagant palaces of Zamunda and the bustling streets of Queens is captured beautifully, helping to further the narrative and the humour."Coming to America" is undoubtedly a product of its time, yet its core messages and humour allow it to transcend its era. While some elements might seem outdated by contemporary standards, the film remains a testament to Eddie Murphy's brilliance and the universality of its themes.At its heart, it's a tale about finding one's place in the world, breaking free from societal constraints, and pursuing genuine love. Combine that with impeccable comedic timing, memorable characters, and a catchy soundtrack, and it's no wonder "Coming to America" remains an enduring classic.Please follow the Podcast and join our community at https://linktr.ee/borntowatchpodcast If you are looking to start a podcast and want a host or get guests to pipe in remotely, look no further than Riverside.fmClick the link below https://riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_1&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=matthew

How can “Coming to America” not be considered one of the most quoted movies of the 80's? It features a treasure trove of delightful characters. Reverend Brown. Randy Watson. Cleo McDowell. The My-T-Sharp barbers. Priceless. So, prepare the royal baggage as David O'Sullivan joins Dennis to celebrate the film's 35th Anniversary and relive a glorious time of their youth when they both worked the concession stand at the Trans-Lux Cine' in Danbury, CT. "No journey is too great when one finds what he seeks." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Some intellectuals are famous, and some are intellectual-famous. N.T. Wright appeared on The Colbert Report, and Reinhold Niebuhr testified before Congress, and Cornel West was in a couple Matrix movies. George Lindbeck didn’t do any of those, as far as I know, but in certain circles of Christian theologians, he’s indisputably intellectual-famous, opening up possibilities for ecumenical engagement and influencing Stanley Hauerwas and attending Vatican II and such. My own engagement with Lindbeck has been almost exclusively with his 1984 book The Nature of Doctrine, so when I got a chance to read Shaun C. Brown’s recent book George Lindbeck: A Biographical and Theological Introduction, I came away seeing his work in that book as a chapter in a rich and rightly intellectual-famous career. Christian Humanist Profiles is glad to welcome the Doctor Reverend Brown to the show.

The 2021 farewell tour continues with the final Monday installment of the year for the newsletter and podcast you’re about to read or listen to. This is likely also the last one that will be posted before the winter solstice. Will you be able to feel the shift, or are maneuvers of solar systems mechanics something that only shows up as a trick of the light? That’s not the concern of this edition of Charlottesville Community Engagement, but it certainly is something to note.On today’s program: The Ivy Square Shopping Center is purchased by an entity associated with the University of Virginia FoundationPiedmont Housing Alliance sets a date for the groundbreaking for the redevelopment of Friendship Court Charlottesville is considering a historic district to honor the architectural legacy of prominent builder C.H. Brown Transportation updates from the Metropolitan Planning Organization Governor-elect Youngkin names a data policy specialist to serve as Secretary of EducationIn today’s first Patreon-fueled shout-out: The Plant Northern Piedmont Natives Campaign  an initiative that wants you to grow native plants in yards, farms, public spaces and gardens in the northern Piedmont. Winter is here, but spring isn’t too far away. This is a great time to begin planning for the spring. Native plants provide habitat, food sources for wildlife, ecosystem resiliency in the face of climate change, and clean water.  Start at the Plant Northern Piedm+ont Natives Facebook page and tell them Lonnie Murray sent you!Covid updateAs the week begins, the Virginia Department of Health reports another 2,991 new cases of COVID-19, and the seven-day average for positivity PCR tests has increased to 9.3 percent. The seven-day average for new cases has risen to 3,286 a day. The Blue Ridge Health District reports another 67 new cases today and the percent positivity is at 6.7 percent.UVA Foundation purchases Ivy Square Shopping CenterA company associated with the University of Virginia Foundation has paid $20 million for the 2.77 acre shopping center where Food of All Nations is located. Ivy Square of Charlottesville LLC paid nearly 126 percent over the assessment for the two properties and three buildings. A second shopping center to the west is broken up among several owners. The UVA Foundation has been steadily purchasing properties along Ivy Road for many years. The UVA Office of the Architect began planning a master plan for the area east of Copeley Road in the fall of 2016. Work is underway for a precinct that will include the School of Data Science, the Karsh Institute for Democracy, a hotel and convention center, as well as other uses that have yet to be announced. This summer, the Office of the Architect presented a plan for the redevelopment of Ivy Gardens off of Old Ivy Road to the UVA Buildings and Grounds Committee. The Foundation purchased that property in Albemarle back in the summer of 2016 according to Albemarle County property records. (UVA making plans for Ivy Garden redevelopment, June 9, 2021)Date announced for Friendship Court groundbreakingThe Piedmont Housing Alliance has set a date for the groundbreaking for the first phase of redevelopment of Friendship Court. The nonprofit has spent several years planning to upgrade the 150-unit complex and a ceremony will be held on January 15 to mark the beginning of construction. “The last five years of dedication and hard work by the residents of the Friendship Court Advisory Committee are finally about to blossom,” said PHA executive director Sunshine Mathon in an email to Charlottesville Community Engagement this morning. “The beginning of Phase 1 of redevelopment marks the beginning of a transformed neighborhood as envisioned by the residents themselves.  I am deeply honored by the opportunity to bring their vision to creation.”According to the PHA website, the existing buildings were constructed in 1978 on what had been a neighborhood that was razed in the name of urban renewal. Piedmont Housing Alliance and the National Housing Trust acquired the property in 2002 and PHA began managing it in 2019. “We are committed to zero displacement,” reads the website. “The first phase of housing will be built on existing open land.”The city of Charlottesville has committed to a multimillion dollar investment across four phases of development. The adopted capital budget for the current fiscal year sets aside $2 million in cash for infrastructure improvements, nearly $400,000 for the first phase, and $750,000 for the second phase. Future years carry on that investment. (Council approves agreement for Friendship Court funding, October 30, 2020) New historic district?The city of Charlottesville will study whether to create a new historic district to commemorate a man who built many structures for Black families and businesses in the mid 20th century. Planning Commissioner Jody Lahendro is also a member of the Board of Architectural Review and he briefed his PC colleagues last week (staff report)“This is actually a tremendous story that I wish more of us knew about,” Lahendro said. “This designation would honor and recognize the importance of the Reverend Charles H. Brown. From his experience in the building trades in the early 30’s and 40’,s Reverend Brown personally managed, financed, and participated in the construction of about 70 houses from the 1940’s to the 1980’s.”Lahendro said Brown built in Black neighborhoods and used materials that allowed for houses to be affordable. “He often provided the co-sign and promissory notes and provided financing to get people into these houses,” Lahendro said. Lahendro said the district will cover the Holy Temple of God In Christ as well as five other homes in the Venable neighborhood built by Brown. The matter will go through the usual rezoning process including public hearings with the Planning Commission and the City Council. You’re reading to Charlottesville. Community Engagement. Let’s continue today with two more Patreon-fueled shout-outs. The first comes a long-time supporter who wants you to know:"Today is a great day to spread good cheer: reach out to an old friend, compliment a stranger, or pause for a moment of gratitude to savor a delight."The second comes from a more recent supporter who wants you to go out and read a local news story written by a local journalist. Whether it be the Daily Progress, Charlottesville Tomorrow, C-Ville Weekly, NBC29, CBS19, WINA, or some other place I’ve not mentioned - the community depends on a network of people writing about the community. Go learn about this place today!Youngkin chooses Education SecretaryGovernor-Elect Glenn Youngkin has selected the founder of a national education nonprofit to serve as his Secretary of Education. Aimee Rogstad Guidera formerly created the Data Quality Campaign in 2005 to advocate for the usage of metrics to guide education policy. In a statement released this morning, Youngkin said Guidera will help him implement his vision for public education. “Aimee is deeply respected for her distinguished career advocating for innovation and choice, data-driven reform, and high standards, and will apply these principles in order to implement the Day One Game Plan,” he wrote. “Most importantly, she understands that parents matter, and the best interests of students must come first.” Guidera stepped down from the Data Quality Campaign in 2017 and now runs her own consulting firm called Guidera Strategy. Her time at the campaign provides some insight into her philosophy on education. Here are a few examples. Time to Ditch the Data Boogeyman, June 6, 2016Data Quality Campaign Releases Statement on Trump’s Education Priorities, November 14, 2016Statement on the Recommendations from the Commission on Evidence-Based Policymaking, September 7, 2017Transportation updatesTo conclude today, let’s go back to the December 7, 2021 meeting of the Charlottesville-Albemarle Metropolitan Planning Organization’s Policy Board to get some updates. The Virginia Department of Transportation is working on a new way of planning for the state’s future connectivity needs. Project Pipeline builds off of the Smart Scale funding process which seeks to pay for projects that will accomplish specific goals. Several preliminary corridor studies are underway across Virginia, including two in Albemarle. Chuck Proctor is a transportation planner in VDOT’s Culpeper District.“One of them is for Pantops and it goes from Hansen Road to the interchange at I-64, and the other is the Shadwell intersection at Route 22 and Route 250 and also North Milton Road and 250,” Proctor said. Community engagement for both studies is expected to take place around this time with a public meeting sometime in January. Both are areas identified to have a Potential for Safety Improvement. The website for the Pantop study notes a lack of pedestrian connectivity in the area, and the website for the Shadwell study notes a prevalence for rear end collisions due to long back-ups. Those studies would yield projects for a future beyond the current looming deadline for the fifth round of Smart Scale funding. Albemarle and Charlottesville will have the chance to submit four projects. The MPO Policy Board will select four, and the Thomas Jefferson Planning District Commission will select another four. One potential application for the MPO is a pedestrian and cyclist bridge over the Rivanna River to connect Charlottesville and the Pantops section of Albemarle County. A stakeholder group has met twice in the past month to discuss that application. Sandy Shackleford is the director of transportation and planning at the TJPDC. “We’ll plan to again in the spring or maybe February or March plan to do a full meeting where we go through all of the projects for the MPO area as well as the PDC,” Shackleford said. The other three applications for the MPO under consideration are bike and pedestrian improvements on Avon Street Extended, multimodal improvements 5th Street, and a roundabout at the intersection of District Avenue and Hydraulic Road at Stonefield. Supervisor Ann Mallek said there may be support for the latter project.“I just learned this week that UVA has moved a lot of their IT department out to Hydraulic Road and they were very interested in safe crossings to Stonefield at lunch,” Mallek said. Staunton-Cville bus ridershipThe Afton Express commuter route between Staunton and Charlottesville is now in its third month of operations, according to Sara Pennington, the TJPDC program manager for Rideshare. “In those three months there have been more than 1,500 passenger trips taken and that is across the four morning and the four evening runs and the service does run Monday through Friday,” Pennington said, adding that ridership has grown steadily since launching with November outperforming September despite the Thanksgiving holiday. That’s still about 40 rides a day, and the goal from the planning study is to get to 80 riders a day. Speaking of Smart Scale, a new park-and-ride lot in Waynesboro funded through the process has just been completed.  (VDOT information)“But they also put in a shelter for the Afton Express so those kinds of things went hand in hand,” Pennington said. Pennington said Afton Express will soon launch a new text-alert system for its service that would let riders know about potential delays and other service changes. Charlottesville Area Transit is working on a pilot project to improve bus stops. Garland Williams is the agency’s director. “We’re going to use Belmont Park as kind of that test,” Williams said. “There is a shelter there but it isn’t [Americans with Disabilities Act] compliant.  It basically sits on the street. We’re going to remove that and put in a shelter so that everyone can see when we’re starting to do capital projects along transit, what it looks like and what we have to do to make it compliant.” Sean Nelson, the district engineer for VDOT’s Culpeper District, updated the MPO on the status of a project awarded Smart Scale funds in Round 4. “The only thing I can give an update on is the U.S. 29 and Hydraulic design-build package that we’re putting together,” Nelson said. “That is slated for a public hearing in March or April of 2022 with a [request for proposal] to be released at the end July 2022, anticipated award in December 2022, with a project completion in the winter of 2024.” This project will include a pedestrian bridge over U.S. 29 as well as a roundabout at the intersection of Hydraulic Road and Hillsdale Drive Extended. Learn more in the Smart Scale application. This is a public episode. Get access to private episodes at communityengagement.substack.com/subscribe

The Western Addition, better known as the Fillmore, is one of the most vibrant and unique neighborhoods in San Francisco. Historically, it was one of the three predominantly African-American San Francisco neighborhoods, and from the 1950s to the 1970s it was known nationally as “the Harlem of the West” — reflected in its music, food, and culture. Third Baptist Church has been, and still remains, the hub of the Fillmore, and Amos C. Brown is its esteemed and beloved Reverend. He is also a lifelong civil rights leader and the president of the San Francisco chapter of the NAACP. Reverend Brown joined us in September 2020 to tell us about the history of the Fillmore and his experience of San Francisco as a whole.

The Sequel everyone has been waiting on Coming 2 America! ALl your favorites are back! Eddie Murphy, Arsenio Hall, James Earl Jones and many more plus newcomers! Chris and Keith review this sequel while we revisit the first one! Tap In! And Enjoy! . . . . . . . . . . Cast Eddie Murphy - Prince Akeem / Clarence / Saul / Randy Watson Arsenio Hall - Semmi / Morris / Reverend Brown / Baba Jermaine Fowler - Lavelle Junson Leslie Jones - Mary Junson Tracy Morgan - Uncle Reem KiKi Layne - Meeka Shari Headley - Lisa Wesley Snipes - General Izzi James Earl Jones - King Jaffe Joffer John Amos - Cleo McDowell Teyana Taylor - Bopoto Vanessa Bell Calloway - Imani Izzi Paul Bates - Oha Nomzamo Mbatha - Mirembe Bella Murphy - Omma Morgan Freeman - Morgan Freeman Akiley Love - Tinashe Rotimi - Idi Izzi Louie Anderson - Maurice Trevor Noah - Totatsi Bibinyana Michael Blackson - Nexdorian Lieutenant Clint Smith - Sweets Luenell - Livia Rodney Perry - Cousin Terry Ellis - En Vogue Rhona Bennett - En Vogue Cindy Herron - En Vogue (as Cindy Herron-Braggs) Cheryl 'Salt' James - Salt (as Cheryl James) Pepa - Pepa (as Sandra Denton) Gladys Knight - Gladys Knight Rick Ross - Nexdorian Commander Garcelle Beauvais - Rose Bearer Priestess Davido - Davido Vanessa Colon - Fresh Peaches (as Vanessa Rodriguez) Janette Colon - Sugar Cube (as Janette Rosillo) Dikembe Mutombo - Dikembe Mutombo Colin Jost - Mr. Duke John Legend - John Legend . . . . . . . . . . . TimeLine: Intro 00:00 Plot 05:40 Cast 12:18 Likes 24:06 Dislikes 41:47 Slushie Meter 50:04 Closing 53:00 . . . . . . . . . . Follow us on Twitter @SlushieReview Follow us on Instagram @SlushieReviewPodcast Check us out on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts!! Subscribe!! . . . . . . . . . . Website: https://slushiereview.captivate.fm . . . . . . . . . . Intro Music: Home Base Groove by Kevin Macleod http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Kevin_MacLeod/Oddities/Home_Base_Groove #SlushieReview #Coming2America #ComingToAmerica #MovieReview #Podcast Support this podcast

When all three of us first saw “Coming To America,” we didn’t realize that there was, or would be, a lot of controversy surrounding the film. Some thirty-plus years later, there are groups of folks that can’t see the comedy thru the racial and gender politics of the film. We three still find it funny, and we chat about whether it’s because of our nostalgia or because the film is that funny. Coming to America is rated R and was released June 29, 1988 This comedy stars Eddie Murphy as Prince Akeem, Clarance, Saul, Randy Watson. The movie also features the talents of Arsenio Hall as Semmi, Morris, Extremely Ugly Girl and Reverend Brown.   Hosts: Daniel Levain, Ian Sweetman, and Eric Sweetman. Subscribe thru: Apple Podcast Google Podcast Spotify Or your search for the show on your favorite podcasting software.

In the soulful words of Reverend Brown, “I don't know what you came to do but

SummaryReverend Brown is the creator of an inspirational platform based on biblical doctrine for promoting encouragement, renewal, and building a relationship with God. Show Notes:Rev. Brown received her BS in Computer Science, Savannah State University (Savannah, GA). MS in Counseling Psychology, Cameron University (Lawton, OK), and a MAT in Theological Studies, Liberty University, (Lynchburg, VA).Rev. Brown and her husband have a beautiful daughter, Dominique. Reverend Brown was licensed on March 3, 1997, at Independence Missionary Baptist Church of Leavenworth, Kansas, by Pastor B.J. Landrum. Rev. Brown faithfully served in several churches in various leadership roles and ministries. Rev Brown joined Sweet Home Missionary Baptist Church, Miami, FL, September 6, 2009, and received a third license to preach the gospel and was ordained November 11, 2018, by Pastor Theo Johnson. In this episode, we talk about: The inspiration for the platformThe purpose for the Biblical Truths Natural Talents vs. Spiritual Grifts The Purpose for Biblical TruthsGrowth and DevelopmentRelationship BuildingApplying practical applicationInterpreting ScriptureClosing remarks/recapPlease subscribe and download the show and if you want to talk more or have ideas for discussion please email me at tgrubbs@my2centsmatter.com. Facebook.com/My2CentsMatter1Twitter @My2CentsMatter2Instagram @my2centsmatter3Website: www.my2centsmatter.com Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched! Start for FREEDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Continuing down the Elvis Presley rabbit hole, Reverend Brown and Deacon Schuiling convert listeners in a revival-style 'come to Jesus' moment with some gospel music from 'The King.'

Reverend Amos Brown was one of eight students in the only college class ever taught by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He now serves as the pastor of the historic Third Baptist Church in San Fransisco. On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Reverend Brown joins Boyd to talk about his time with Dr. King and his new relationship with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  Boyd Matheson,Opinion Editor at Deseret News, takes you inside the latest political news and current events, providing higher ground for today's discussions. Listen weekdays 11 am to noon at 1160 AM and 102.7 FM, online at KSLNewsradio.com, or on the app.

As we continue our series of profiles of Cranford clergy, we visit with Rev. Alfred E. Brown, Jr., pastor of the First Baptist Church at 100 High Street. Both the church and Reverend Brown have a long history in Cranford, as he shares with us in this interview.

Reverend Brown preaches a simple but all important fact: trust God for today and leave tomorrow in His hands.

Reverend Brown preaches a simple but all important fact: trust God for today and leave tomorrow in His hands.

This week Reverend Brown reminds us that what we see isn't always what it seems. We may see an object bereft of life but to God it's just a vessel to be filled with life. Using the text of Ezekial 37:1-14 Reverend Brown reminds us of how Ezekial was shown a bed of dry bones. By preaching to the bones they came back to life. How many of us have passed by only seeing dry bones and not something or someone worthy of a little of Gods attention. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

In these turbulent times what help can we find in the old stories of the bible. Reverend Brown using the text of Exodus 8:8-21 shows that while the reasons for chaos have changed our responses to them are the same as they were centuries ago. Trust in the lord and all things will be handled.. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown reminds us of watching out for snakes. Using the text of John 3:7-10. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown talks to us about the importance of using jesus for support though our or day. Using the text of Acts 13:4-12. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown is off preaching at First Baptist of Park Forest we are graced with our own Joanne Lindstrom this week. Using the text of Hebrews 12:1-13. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

his week Reverend Brown reads from the book of Daniel Daniel 6:4-7. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

his week Reverend Brown reads from the book of Daniel Daniel 9:1-7. Reflecting on the recent violence in this city he wants us to think how are every day actions my be contributing to the lawlessness we see around us now. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown reads from Luke 11:5-13. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown reads from Luke 2:41-51. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown reads from Luke 2:22-32. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown reads from Luke 1:26-38. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown reads from Genesis 48:11-19 and talks to us about having to stick with the program if we are going to get results. Whether it's an exercise for our physical body or following in the foot steps of Christ for our spiritual body if we don't stick with it we shall forever be disappointed. Just as Joseph followed gods path and was given great riches we too will receive our due if we only stick with the path God has chosen for us. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown reads from Genesis 45:1-12 and reminds us that all our blessings come for a reason. When we have been so blessed it's incumbent upon us to carry this blessing on to others. Where ever we are in our daily duties we can always lend a hand to others along the way. In doing so we carry on the blessings we have received. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown reads from Genesis 25:5-11,19-21,23-24,28 and asks us what have we done in our families to create strife and discontent. With the realization that we are human and fallible we always need to be conscious of how our treatment of members in our family can turn them against each other. Looking at our relationships we can always find ways to improve how we relate to one another. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

Reading from Genesis 21:9-21 Reverend Brown reminds us to always maintain our perspective when dealing with others. How often do we use our children as pawns in relationships with other adults. Isn't it time to accept our responsibilities as Fathers and Mothers to take care of and love our children while leaving our personal wants and desires out of the picture. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

With September and everyone back in school everyone is back from vacation and we have Reverend Jesse Brown back in the pulpit. Reading from Genesis 1:26-30 Reverend Brown this week talks to us about self worth. What do we need to feel worthy. Is it a complement, is it a man or is it a new car. If these are what cause us to feel worthy maybe we need to revisit that. The love of a man a women or the smell of a new car maybe be fleeting, but the love of Jesus and God is never ending. We need to accept that all we truely need to feel loved is to accept Christ into our hearts. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

In Lamentations we are reminded that god always has a plan for us. Reading from Lamentations 3:19-33,55-58 Reverend Brown reminds us to keep our faith in God and as we see all around us our Faith will be rewarded. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

In his letter to the exiles Jeremiah outlines gods plan for the people to regain their place in Jerusalem. Reading from Jeremiah 29:1-14 Reverend Brown asks us are we following gods plan or our own plan? If we don't follow gods plan we might be left out and find ourselves in exile. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown explores whether changes in the church are the result of gods influence or the influence of society. Reading from Jeremiah 7:11-15 Reverend Brown asks is your church a victim of change for cultural reasons or is God directing you in a new way. When church's ignore Gods word to fit in society they risk losing their way and becoming negative influences in our world. . Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown teaches from the text of Isaiah 5:1-3,6-11. Reverend Brown asks us how our daily living reflects the ways of the lord. If we are not truly living in the ways of the lord then we may not only need to change our ways but move from where we are. Also this week we participated in the funeral service of Carl Price a long time member of First Baptist. He was the husband of our music director Virgina Price, please keep Virgina and her family in your prayers as they go though time time of adjustment. As a tribute to the family we have included as our musical selections two selections from this weeks service. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

We wish to thank all who prayed for our Senior pastor Reverend Jesse Brown when he was taken ill two Sundays ago. This week we welcome him back after many trips to the Doctor and a short stay in the hospital. This week Reverend Brown teaches from the text of Isaiah 1:10-11,14-20. Reverend Brown talks to us how Gods conservation with us is never finished. While we may hang up on people from whom we don't appreciate the message they are delivering, God message is consistent and forever. Reverend Brown reminds us this week that no matter how far we may have strayed from the message God keeps the line open if only we take the time to listen. This week we also unveiled our new sign. While a long time in coming the wait was well worth it. We now have a new presence in the community that will announce our activities in the neighborhood. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

Reading from Amos 5:10-15,21-24 and focusing on verses 21-24 Reverend Brown reminds us our duty to God extends way beyond the borders of our Churches. It is not right in Gods eyes for us to praise and commit our life to Jesus on Sunday if when we leave Church we allow any manner of indignities befall our neighbors and fellow citizens. We much always stand up against evil even when that stand may come at a personal cost to ourselves. An additional note this week, is please pray for our Pastor Reverend Brown as this week after finishing this sermon he was taken ill and had to be taken to the University of Chicago Hospitals. While it seems in the end this was a minor incident from which he will recover with some rest it serves as reminder how fragile our grip on this world is. We here wish him a speedy recovery. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This is the final week of Reverend Browns series of sermons based on the text of Revelations. Reading from Revelation 22:6-10,12-13,16-21 and focusing on verse 20 Reverend Brown brings us back to God Promise, that if we maintain his kingdom on earth he will return and rebuild anew. With our commitment as our key to the new kingdom we will be welcomed in to the new dominion. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown teaches from the text of Revelation 21:1-8. In our bible reading for this week we read how with our acceptance and praise of God our father, we will be destined for the new earth and the new heaven. Do we everyday with our words and actions prepare for the new city that has been for told to us by Revelations? . Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown teaches from the text of Revelation 19:5-10. Here in revelation we are told of the bringing together of all gods subjects at one grand feast. Reverend Brown talks to us of the praise and work each of us must do daily to see that we are not left out of the final event. . Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week being the 5th Sunday in the month it's customary at First Baptist to have the youth of the church perform the offices of the service. Often too at this time Reverend Brown takes a break to have one of the other members of the pastoral staff take a turn in the pulpit. Thus this week we not only have the youth of the church providing the musical selections but our own Joanne Lindstrom take the preaching duties. In her sermon this week she teaches from the text of Acts 9:1-6. While we all pride ourselves in our individuality we are often being buffeted by demands of others. We are told what to do by our schools, family members, and employers we often don't listen to what God is telling us to do. Reverend Lindstorm reminds us that while listening to all the other demands in our life we need to listen to the demands of God and when told, we need to do what we are told to do. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown teaches from the text of Revelation 5:1-15,11-14. In heaven there are no songs their are not words that are not of praise. Here on earth how often do we seek words that glorify anything but god and call it praise. Reverend Brown speaks to us this week about what we should be singing and playing when praising God. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown teaches from the text of Revelation 4:1-11,. So often we get caught up in the trappings of how we praise we often forget it's that we praise that is important. God doesn't care if we sing in tune or on the beat if we are truly singing his praises. Reverend Brown this week reminds us to praise God every day and every way no matter how we are dressed or what troubles we have encountered that day. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown teaches from the text of 1 John 3:11-24,. One of the things that is the hardest as Christians to do is show love and compassion for all. This week Reverend Brown reminds us that we can't pick and choose who we love. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown teaches from the text of John 2:7-11,15-17,. This weeks theme comes from the idea of, how often do we just go along with the world to keep the peace, rather then challenging the injustices and corruption that surround us. Very often as christians we adopt the don't ask don't tell policy. When we see things as long as they don't directly effect us we cast a blind eye even though these issues are against the basic teachings of Christ. While we may in the short term keep the piece in our world over time these issues will cause us pain in our society or personal lives. Thus, Rev Brown this week asks us to evaluate ourselves and ask are we just going along with the status quo to get along? If we are we should look at what we are allowing to pass by and challenge it if it isn't in the way of Jesus Christ. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown teaches from the text of John 14:1-14,. With the world changing around us. Whether it be the loss of a pet, loved one or someone close to us. As our communities change, though gentrification, the inevitable grind of life or the industrialization of our world. Nothing in this world stays the same. Reverend Brown teaches us how Jesus is always there and unchanging in what is expected of us and granted to us by our faith and continual work here on earth. No matter how things change here our reward is always the same. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week we managed to figure out the heating of the chapel so while it was frightfully cold out we were warm enough to be back in our old surroundings. This week Reverend Brown teaches from the text of John 11:17-27,. Reverend Brown this week explores what often is the double many of lead as Christians. While outwardly professing faith in the Jesus and the father inwardly we hold doubts. When things don't go as we plan we often blame God not believing in his plan or his faith. Still though often we then demand of god to make things right. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

Couple of points about this weeks podcast. Weather in Chicago took a turn for the cold this week with our first sub zero temperatures we have seen in a while. Even with our new heating plant we were unable to keep our main sanctuary warn enough for Sundays worship service. Thus at the last minute we moved our service to a warmer room in the church. The sound quality this week isn't what it has been but it was the best we could do given the conditions. Hopefully you can get the message that is being delivered. This week Reverend Brown teaches from the text of John 10:1-5,7-18,. Reverend Brown asks us what type of sheep we are? Are we weak and graze on the outside only to be attacked when danger is present? Do we run to the middle of the crowd and hide from danger. Or, are we the type of sheep that rings our bell and leads the others away from from danger? Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown teaches from the text of John 8:12-20,12:44-45,. How often when there is darkness all around us do we arrogantly try to light our world. Jesus reminds us that he is the light of the World. Looking to his light we will move into a world of light rather then trying to provide our own light. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown continues reading from the text of John 6:34-40,7:37-39,. Though this teaching Reverend we are reminded that only by committing ourself to Christ and his teachings can the water of the spirit flow though us. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown teaches from the text of John 5:19-29,. Though this teaching Reverend Brown reminds us how just like Jesus was committed to his father, we need to be totally committed to the words of his father the lord God. Only though this commitment can we ever hope to enter the gates of heaven. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown teaches from the text of John 8:31-38,48-56,58-59. In this text Jesus is set upon by some of his listeners when he dares to bring up their history. How many of us will attack the messenger when our situation or the situation of our family is called into question. As listeners we must always listen though the words and try to understand the meaning while as speakers we must always endeavor to not offend our listeners. Reverend Brown asks us to listen critically and question intelligently and not strike out at messages we disagree with. Often when we hear though to the meaning of the message we see truths in ourselves that are not always evident. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown teaches from the text of Philippians 2:1-11 Teaching from this text Rev. Brown reminds us as Jesus showed us to put God and his will above all. Whether it's singing his praises in Church or the most mundane task around the home. We need to perform the tasks as if God had asked us directly to perform it and not for the glorification of our own self. As this was the 5th Sunday of December it was Youth Sunday and the children of the church performed the offices of the service for us. Our Musical selections are of the children's choir this Sunday. We at First Baptist would like to thank everyone that has listened in this year to this ministry. A special Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all our subscribers. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown teaches from the text of John 1:1-18 In the month of December when the hours of daylight are the fewest it is the words of John that reminds us that Jesus is our guiding light. Can we be the type of Christian that will let Jesus’ light shine though us a light the world? When there is so much darkness around we all need to reflect some of Jesus light to the rest of the world. We at First Baptist would like to thank everyone that has listened in this year to this ministry. A special Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all our subscribers. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown teaches from the text of 1 John 1:1-10; 2:1-5.When times are tough and we seem to be in total darkness we need to remember that God is the light though which we can pierce the darkness. .If we are sensitive to God then his light will show us the way. Do we have the sensitivity to listen and look for where God is guiding us? Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

You Just Need To Sing Anyhow This week Reverend Brown teaches from the text of 1 Hebrews1:1-9.Working from this text Reverend Brown reminds us there is nothing more binding then the work of god. While many of gods profits and emissaries in the forms of Angles may say great things, it’s only when it’s the word of the Lord being spoken is it binding and everlasting. . Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown teaches from the text of 2 chronicles 36:15-21; Psalm 137:1-6.Reverend Brown reminds us that no matter where we are or our situation our God expects us to sing his praise. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown teaches from the text of 1 Kings 18:20-24,30-35,38-39. Rev. Brown reminds us that when we are in need “Gods got everything I need?. Often when things seem the most dire is when we forget it’s God who is providing for us and will see that we have what it takes to get though our present difficulty. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

With October 29th being the fifth Sunday in the month it was time for the adult choir to step aside and the youth choir to come to the front. So our musical selection this is from the younger members of First Baptist. Our sermon this week was preached by our own Reverend Alex Brown. Reverend Brown in keeping with the youth day theme used as his text Ephesians 6. Reverend Brown dedicated this reading and his sermon to all the youth members of First Baptist and those that hear his words on this podcast. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown teaches from the text of 2 Samuel 7:8-17. In making the statement "I Think I Need To Do Something Else" Rev. Brown asks us to remember the big picture items when we feel our lives need a change. We always need to be mindful when planning for changes in our lives, are these changes my will or are these changes the will of God. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week we have as one of the musical numbers Reverend Jim Harris singing. Many of the First Baptist members fondly remember Reverend Harris from his time spent at First Baptist. We truly appreciated his impromptu singing this Sunday. We were blessed to have Reverend Jesse M. Brown back in the pulpit this week, recovered from his illness. Reverend Brown working with the text Judges 4:4-10,12-16 he asks “Who can you count on?. Can we as Christians be friends that can be counted on? Not to shield and hide or friends from the world but be the type of friends that encourage the people we are with to grow and mature in the world and the lord. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a Note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown teaches from the text of Exodus 19:1-6,24:3-8. Rev Brown asks the question "Who were we before all this happened to us". Reverend Brown reminds us to reflect on where we came from and not always accept what we are today. Just as the slaves of Egypt needed to be reminded of where they came from, often today we and our young people have forgotten where we have come from. It's time to look back at where we have come from and decide where we are to take ourselfs in the future. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might hear in this ministry. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

This week Reverend Brown teaches from the text of Second Corinthians 8:1-15. Reverend Brown shows us this week how even when living in poverty and oppression by living in the grace of Jesus we can develop and support a growing Christian community. By giving of our own rich generosity, our own Christian communities can be enriched with the grace of God. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. This week we have again included some music from our morning service. Please drop us a note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might here in this program. We enjoy hearing your comments about our ministry or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

As this week was the final week of Vacation Bible School, Reverend Brown took a much needed rest and had one of the other Pastoral staff preach this sundays sermon. So this week we were blessed to have Reverend Alice Brown come and speak with us on this fifth Sunday. Keeping with the Sunday school studies she continued working with Paul's first letter to the Corinthians with text being 1 Corinthians 13:1-13. In these verses Reverend Alice Brown shows us how Paul defines what real love is. So when presented with something purporting to be love we can distinguish between the real lasting love of God and the often short lived and shallow counterfeit love of the world we live in. Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments here on the web page about anything you might here in this program. We enjoy hearing your comments about our show or anything you might think of to improve this ministry. Again thank you all for listening and have a blessed week from the pastoral and technical staff at First Baptist Church of Chicago.

Continuing with our study of First Corinthians, Reverend Brown takes a look at First Corinthians 12:1-13. Here John in his letters asks of the members of the church in Corinth, are you using your gifts for yourself and your needs or are you using them for the "Common Good" in your church. When our gifts seem to go unnoticed do, we find ways to grow them within our church or do we become frustrated and just move along to another church?If we treat our spiritual life as a shopping trip are we just mixing and matching what ever we might find for our good, rather then listening to the call for the common good.Todays sermon asks of us can we strive for developing and expanding the body of Christ and the common good of the church, rather then looking for personal satisfaction and reward.Thanks to everyone listening to our podcast. Please drop us a note at fbcpreacher@fbcpreacher.com or submit your comments about anything you might hear in this program or how we can better serve you!

Reverend Brown continues with his discussion of Paul's First letter to the church in Corinth. Here in First Corinthians 8:1-13Paul addresses the issue of how christians can deal with their individuality while still participating in the body of Christ. In a conflict between Christians involving personal freedom, the Christian is obligated in the Lord to surrender his freedom for the sake of his Christian brother or sister.