INTERSECTIONS @ MAY 2024 | ISSUE 41 DAY Mother’s H A P P Y Featured Story Jessie Nunery sits down with Word Tabernacle’s FOUNDING FOUNDING MOTHERS MOTHERS Ms. Kat ie Johnson Ms . Naom i Wr ight
THE IMPACT CENTER OPERATIONS C3 (CHILDHOOD, COLLEGE, AND CAREER) SUCCESS FAITH & FAMILY COMMUNITY & CAPACITY PERFORMING ARTS & MEDIA CAMPUS OPERATIONS HEALTH & WELLNESS OFFICE OF THE SR. PASTOR OFFICE OF THE FIRST LADY THE IMPACT ACADEMY M I N I S T R I E S EVERYONE THRIVING
Word Tabernacle Church Word Tabernacle Church @WordTabernacle @WordTab JAMES D. GAILLIARD SENIOR PASTOR KYLE JOHNSON NEXT GENERATION PASTOR STEPHANIE BATTLE ASSOCIATE PASTOR LENNY BATTLE WORSHIP PASTOR TRISHONDA ROBERSON LEAD COMMUNITY PASTOR DWIGHT FLOWERS TARBORO COMMUNITY PASTOR MALCOLM ALLEN VENUE MANAGEMENT DIRECTOR LATOYA GREENE TIA DIRECTOR ALBERT MCWILLIAMS CAMPUS OPERATIONS DIRECTOR SITA REDDING COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER "PEOPLE EMPOWERING PEOPLE AND COMMUNITIES IN ALL AREAS OF LIFE TO THE GLORY OF GOD" WTC EXECUTIVE MINISTRY TEAM
INTERSECTIONS TABLE OF CONTENTS 06 MINISTRY SPOTLIGHT FROM THE OFFICE OF THE SENIOR PASTOR 18 28 ANNIVERSARIES & BIRTHDAYS 22 WTC NEWS 12 FEATURED STORY FOUNDING MOTHERS
From The Office of Lady G Balancing life as a mother can be quite challenging with responsibilities at home, work, school, church, and more. As we celebrate mothers at Word Tabernacle Church this month, I want to acknowledge all mothers and women for their support of their families, children, and communities. To all women from great-great grandmothers to single women who serve in the Children’s and Youth ministries, THANK YOU for your sacrifices. Join me in acknowledging the women who have been significant to your development and share your appreciation of how they have impacted your life. Many people have impacted me, but this month, I would like to honor three mothers for their influence in my life. Minister Barbara Feaster, thank you for being the amazing woman you are! Your faithfulness, conviction, and love for God have set an example for women for many years. Your authenticity and honesty are admirable. I appreciate your consistent dedication. Thank you for the example you provided. Thank you for listening to my woes. Thank you for offering support and encouragement. Your advice and comfort have warmed me more than you know! Minister Beatrice Battle, thank you for being so incredibly positive, encouraging, and motivating! You are an encourager to so many women, sharing wisdom and exhortation each time you engage with us, but I am especially thankful for your kindness to me. You have been consistently loving, supportive, warm, and thoughtful towards me. Thank you for offering me a place of peace and respite. Thank you for being my cheerleader. Thank you for genuinely loving me. I am grateful to you and for you! Finally, I want to thank my mother, Mrs. Lillian B. Watkins. Mom, thank you for your consistent commitment, dedicated devotion, and significant support. I am so grateful to you for the sacrifices you made and the challenges you endured advocating for my behalf, pursuing opportunities for my development, and protecting my well-- being. I am thankful to God for making you my mother because you are the best mother I could ever hope for. You have been a wonderful role model and if I am half the mother to my children that you have been to me, my children will be tremendously blessed. I love you and am so grateful to call you Mom. With Love, LadyAngela
From The Office of The Senoir Pastor Mother’s Day is a time to reflect upon the profound impact of mothers and the invaluable role they play in the shaping of our families and communities. During this time of celebration, we must also recognize and celebrate the diverse spectrum of mother figures who shape our lives – beyond biological ties – encompassing a vast array of relationships rooted in love, care, and mentorship. Moreover, mothers play a vital role within the church community, often the backbone of congregations, fostering a culture of service and stewardship. Their commitment to serving others reflects the teachings of Christ. There are great portraits of motherhood in the Bible. The mother of Moses, cared so much for her son that she broke the law to teach him the faith of his people. We see the sacrificial love of the mother who appeared before King Solomon who told him that she was willing to have her son taken away by another woman rather than see any harm come to him. We have the mother of James and John who loved her boys so much that she wanted them to sit by the Lord’s side in the heavenly kingdom. There is the mother of King Lemuel, who advises her son about godly living and how to choose a good wife in Proverbs 31. We encounter multiple examples of mother figures whose nurturing presence profoundly impacts those around them. From the compassionate guidance of figures like Ruth and Naomi to the protective strength of Deborah; these women exemplify the multifaceted nature of motherhood. Celebrating Motherhood: Embracing All Mother Figures On Mother's Day, we extend our gratitude to all mother figures, including adoptive mothers, foster mothers, bonus mothers, grandmothers, aunts, sisters, and mentors. Their love knows no bounds, and their impact extends far beyond the confines of biology. Each woman bringing her own unique strengths, perspectives and challenges to the tapestry that is motherhood. We acknowledge that there is no one-size-fits-all definition of motherhood. Proverbs 31:26 reminds us, "She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue." This verse speaks not only to biological mothers but also to the countless women who serve as mentors, teachers, and role models, imparting wisdom, and kindness to the next generation. We also acknowledge the complexity of Mother's Day for those who may not fit into traditional motherhood roles or who have experienced the loss of maternal figures. To you, we offer our support and understanding, recognizing the depth of their emotions and the significance of their relationships.
In our pursuit of honoring mothers, let us not forget those who have experienced loss, infertility, or estrangement. Mother’s Day can be a tender time, evoking a wide range of emotions while reminding us of the importance of empathy, sensitivity, and support in times of grief and hardship. We acknowledge the depth of your grief, and we extend our prayers and compassion to these mothers, knowing that their journey is marked by a unique resilience and strength. Although, I have often said, I am not a woman; there are many things about that experience to which I cannot speak. I can speak on aspects of motherhood, having had a wonderful mother: Ruth Mae Gailliard, known to most of you as ‘Mom Ruth.’ Mom was the most selfless, loving, and supportive mother, one with unshakeable faith. I am grateful to God for having made her my mother as she left an indelible mark on anyone with whom she came into contact. As we honor all mother figures this Mother's Day, let us celebrate the diverse tapestry of maternal love that enriches our lives. Whether through biological ties or chosen relationships, the impact of motherhood is immeasurable, shaping us into the individuals we are today. As a community, let us honor all mothers, celebrating their love, resilience, and unwavering devotion. Let us renew our commitment to cherishing and supporting mothers in all their endeavors. Let us honor their sacrifices, celebrate their achievements, and continue to create spaces where they feel seen, heard, and valued. In doing so, we honor the gift of motherhood and the profound impact it has on our lives and communities. Thriving Together, James David Gailliard @jdgaililiard @jdgaililiard Clear, challenging, and compelling conversations and commentaries on the issues that matter most with Pastor James D. Gailliard. Plug in with us each week as we gain wisdom from God’s word through listening to a featured Sunday sermon and Bible Study session every Wednesday. Tune in with James Gailliard at 5 pm every Monday as he dives into sparking conversation topics people are scared to talk about (Politics, Culture, Finance, Mental Health, and Wellness). Listen live on Choice 92.1 FM or join us live on Facebook/YouTube.
PRESS RELEASE WORD TABERNACLE CHURCH @Wordtab.net Sita.Redding Established on March 12, 2005, Word Tabernacle Church is more than a building consisting of four walls. It is a spiritual vehicle for socio-economic, system-level change committed to the Vision of “Everyone Thriving” through its Mission of “people empowering people and communities in all areas of life to the Glory of God.” Word Tabernacle Church is housed within The Impact Center located at 821 Word Plaza, Rocky Mount, NC. Media Contact: Administration Office Word Tabernacle Church 821 Word Plaza Rocky Mount, NC 27804 Phone: 252-442-2925 Fax: 252-442-3894 INTERSECTIONS 8
BUSINESS SERVICES MANAGER SPOTLIGHT with Shavanda “Brie” Roundtree A r t i c l e b y J e s s i e N u n e r y INTERSECTIONS 10
Taking a different step along her career path has allowed Shavanda Rountree room for growth – expected and unexpected. Since taking on the role of Business Services Manager at WTC, she has expanded her knowledge of financial reporting, human resources, contract and grant management. Those focus points were expected in the job description. What has been a pleasant surprise for Shavanda has been the way the role has taken her from someone who attends Word Tabernacle Church to a more wellrounded staff member and member at WTC. “I’m learning a lot more about WTC internally,” Shavanda said. “I didn’t realize how our centers were divided, and seeing the work done behind the scenes has been eye-opening. It’s been amazing to see how we work as a unit. I have also stepped out of my comfort zone, and I’m getting to know a lot more members. I now go out of my way to speak to people.” Shavanda, 28, has always been focused on her career, and she has amassed quite the resume for someone with less than 10 years of full-time experience. The Gates County, N.C. native graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a Political Science and Public Policy degree. Shavanda earned her Master of Business Administration from Campbell University. She has interned with the North Carolina General Assembly and has worked for former Congressman G.K. Butterfield, where she helped multiple counties assist non-profit organizations in their applications for grants. Most recently, Shavanda was a Business Officer for the Durham County Board of Elections. Having been a member of WTC for a few years and wanting to be closer to her parents in Gates County, Shavanda applied for the Business Services Manager role. “I knew Durham wasn’t my landing place,” Shavanda said. Shavanda said when First Lady Angela Gailliard voiced her support for her taking on the new role, she knew it was the right time to make a change. “That meant the world to me,” Shavanda said. “I told her that I had always admired the way she handled business, and I’ve asked her to be my mentor.” In her role, Shavanda is assisting the church in its continued upgrade of systems from paper to electronic. Her accounting skills are an asset to WTC’s multi-million dollar organization. She also handles the onboarding process for staff members. She will play a major role in this month’s business meeting, allowing her for the first time to report to the church as a whole. She balances her work life while also being a mother to Breon, her 9-year-old son. She also serves on the Finance Committee, sings in the choir, and is a parent volunteer for the Children’s Ministry. One day, she would like to see herself as a county or city manager, but for now, she is enjoying her new role and the relationships that have grown from it. “I think sometimes we take for granted the people around us,” Shavanda said. “I’ve enjoyed being more available for questions and being engaged. It’s been great to experience everything outside of worship.” “I think sometimes we take for granted the people around us,” Shavanda said. “I’ve enjoyed being more available for questions and being engaged. It’s been great to experience everything outside of worship.”
In this May issue, we will speak with the leader of the Stronghold Keepers Ministry of Word Tabernacle Church (WTC). For the team leaders’ security and protection and for the protection of the entire team, I cannot disclose the names or provide photos of any team members. However, this article will provide concrete information about their ministry and how they serve as a team. They are a close-knit group and top-notch professionals who are all well trained when it comes to security alliances. SPOTLIGHT WITH STRONGHOLD KEEPERS MINISTRY Written by Joyce Williams INTERSECTIONS 12
Q: Let's begin with the back story of the team leader, including the family life and what interested them about working with the Stronghold Keepers Ministry? A: I'm married and have been blessed with a beautiful family. What's even better is that I'm a father and a "papa". I can honestly say that it's been a joy to watch and continue to see my children grow to a level of maturity, and still love God. Concerning the Stronghold Keepers Ministry, there was a text message sent about an interest meeting at church. I just felt led to attend the meeting. I remember asking my wife and daughter what they thought about it. They both suggested that I should go. Immediately, when I walked into the meeting. I knew that's where I was supposed to be. There's always power when you're around Godly men and women. I truly believe He has me here for a purpose. Q: That’s beautiful and I commend you for realizing exactly what your purpose is in life. Are you from Rocky Mount, NC? If not, where are you from and when did you move here? A: No, I'm not from Rocky Mount. I'm officially from a small town called Whitakers in NC; so, I'm a country boy. However, I now reside in Nashville, NC, and have been living there for almost 17 years. Q. There is absolutely nothing wrong with a little bit of country. I learned a few years ago that there was a town called Nashville in NC, which was news to me, but it’s a beautiful community. How long have you been a member of WTC and when did you start your service with the Stronghold Keepers? A: I have been a member of WTC for 8 years. I started serving with the Stronghold Team three years ago. Q: That’s great. I’d like to talk to you more about your mission and what the protocol is to keep the congregation and Pastor Gailliard and First Lady Angela safe. Are there safety drills in place? What does that look like? A: Our protocol/mission of the Stronghold Keepers is to serve as the first contact that members and visitors to Word Tabernacle activities encounter. This means to make sure that we are in place and have a presence to help ensure the safety and security of those who come to experience God, which is the congregation. We are to prevent any disruptions which would prevent the flow of service. However, our first priority is to maintain the safety of our children in the nursery. “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.” John 15:13
Our Executive Team’s responsibility is to maintain the safety of Pastor Gailliard, the First Lady, and our Pastoral Staff. We have meetings and training sessions to make sure that we stay abreast of things that are happening, worldwide, with regards to incidents that have taken places at other churches. One important thing that we reiterate is that we are a Ministry, led by God, but we still must be vigilant and aware of what is going on in our surroundings. In our sessions, we create scenarios that could potentially happen, address what needs to be done, and the best feasible way to manage things, while trying to eliminate the distractions or disruptions. We challenge one another’s thinking; good effective communication is key. Q: It’s really good to know that so many efforts are being conducted behind the scenes, albeit I’m not surprised. Have there been any major incidents in the past that have happened at WTC that you can share? A: Yes, there have been incidents that has happened, but they were resolved expediently. Unfortunately, I’d rather not share them. Q: With so much chaos and violence going on in the world today, that doesn’t surprise me either. I’m happy to know that WTC has their own specialized form of SWAT, so to speak. Will there be gun and weapon detection systems put in place at WTC in the future? If so, when will that happen and what will it look like? A: We are always thinking about ways to improve the safety and well-being of our WTC family, which is one of our main priorities. Q: Of course… and I do not expect you to divulge any of that intel, but it’s good to know. How many members are on the Stronghold team? A: We have over sixty men and women on the Stronghold Keepers team. Each person functions in a capacity where there is need. Some share the same function but may be positioned differently at WTC. Q: That is a considerable number of team members with both men and women since there is strength, intelligence and capability found in both genders. What does the future of the Stronghold Ministry look like? A: The future of the Stronghold Keepers Ministry looks extremely good. It's growing, with both men and women. It is exciting to see people who are passionate and have a heart to serve in this Ministry. I truly see the ministry doing a lot of things; growing like a family. INTERSECTIONS 14
Q: Amen, that’s wonderful! I would also like to get a blurb about the team from your Security team leader as well. Is that possible? A: Here is a statement from our Security team leader: "The Stronghold Keepers Ministry was founded in 2005. As a team, we aim to serve all members while harboring a safe and secure worship experience." Q. Thank you for that statement. Is there anything else you'd like to share that is in store for your team going forward? A: I foresee the team doing more extensive training, team building exercises and social gatherings to become more close-knit, and we will also facilitate training workshops at other churches to model the security procedures we have put in place at WTC. I would like to thank the team leader of the Stronghold Keepers Ministry for this forthright interview and the entire team for their loyalty and commitment for the protective services they provide. On behalf of the members [and visitors] at Word Tabernacle Church, we all appreciate your staunch efforts more than you know. Thank you all once again for your service. Stay safe and well. If you are interested in serving with the Stronghold Keepers Ministry, please contact them via email at [email protected]. Everyone Thriving and Safe! “But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble.” Psalm 59:16
As a Mother, The Past Year Has Taught Me... I’ve been coming to Word Tab for a while now. I first joined in 2016 and decided to rejoin on Easter Sunday of this year, 2024. Motherhood has taught me so much! My daughter will be four this year and she’s taught me growth and love most of all! Over the past year, I have learned that motherhood has no limitations to time. Regardless of how old my children get, my love steadily grows, my care continues to increase and my worry never ends. I’ve learned to trust them to make wise choices in life knowing that I’ll continue to be their confidant, cheerleader and counselor whenever they need me. Over the past year, Motherhood has taught me the importance of patience, time, and seizing every moment. We must seize the moment by being intentional in planting godly seeds in our children, and then with patience and time, God will allow us to see the harvest of those seeds sown. My daughter, Jasmine Glass has been a member since October 2021 and I became a member December 5, 2021. We have both been saved for a number of years and we are so grateful to be a part of the Word Tabernacle Church family! Proud Wordite! Kadijah Manning Ursula Short Teikisha Anderson
Motherhood has taught me several things. I learned to give myself GRACE!! My children aren’t hard to please, and while I’ve questioned if I was doing a good job, they’ve gotten hyped over a Chick-Fil-A meal. Simply put, I can’t second-guess myself as a mom. As long as their basic needs are met, I can’t worry about what they didn’t get or what I was unable to do. We get 24 hours a day, no more, no less. Worrying about what didn’t go right or hyper-focusing on flaws causes me to miss what I did accomplish. Another thing I’ve learned is to remember my children were assigned to me by God. I’m far from perfect and learned to celebrate little and big wins!! Something as simple as fixing a new meal, to talking to my kids for 30 minutes about their school day is a win in my book. As a mother, you learn quickly how to rise to any occasion and experience joy even while being stretched beyond limits. I once read somewhere that our children are not things to be molded, but rather are people to be unfolded. We want them to become the best version of what our Father has crafted them to be. My children (adult twins now) will be 40 years old this month. My love for them is so vast, just saying their names brings me unspeakable joy. Looking back now, I know that I would have done some things differently, however, as a mother, you do the best that you can in the moment. No mistakes, simply opportunities to learn. The nature of our involvement with our children changes over time. Being a mother to adult children has its challenges, but I find that transparency and setting boundaries are essential to maintaining a healthy relationship with them. I'm learning how to love myself. I love my children, and continue to love them, but they are at an age now where all I can do is pray for them. I lift them up every day. I send out inspiration over the phone to them. Education is important, but I tell them "to know Christ means so much more." I express my love to them and give them examples of things that God has brought me through. I believe being honest and transparent with them about things God gives me to share with them that will make their lives better. Georgettae Turrentine Linda Barnes Vikki Brown “Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate. "Proverbs 31:31 "
A Conversation with our Founding Mothers Katie Johnson and Naomi Wright grew up in Rocky Mount not far from each other and attended the same elementary and high schools. They married their respective spouses and kept up with each other through the years. Katie birthed eight children with her husband, Nathaniel, and Naomi gave birth to a pair of children with her husband, James. Through the years, they could not have imagined being constituting members of a church, but in 2005, there they were, forming the journey of Word Tabernacle Church under the leadership of a dynamic pastor they had recently met, James D. Gailliard. In honor of Mother’s Day, Johnson, 83, and Wright, 80, sat down to share pearls of wisdom and their experiences on a variety of topics. Article by Jessie Nunery INTERSECTIONS 18
Early years Wright: “Once you graduated from high school there were three things you had to do. One, go to college. If not, you would leave and go up north to get a good job, or you had to get married. Johnson: “We had eight children, but my husband always had a job so we ate. We always had food. God was good, and He is still good.” Wright: “Back in those days, we didn’t have any problem with food. My husband was six years older than me and was just getting out of the service when I met him. Back in those days, people helped each other out. We had a group after we got married that we would get together and play bid whists. We would play cards, and if we got hungry two or three in the morning we had wingettes and sit there and eat. We had a good time.” Johnson: “We just had fun. No arguing or fussing. We just had fun.” Parenting Wright: “Her kids were like my kids, but raising kids was no problem. Number one, if they showed off in the grocery store, you showed off on them. People don’t punish their kids now. Johnson: “All we had to do is give them a look like, “Sit up and get straight now.” … When you give them that look, that is it. I wish it was like that now. You can punish kids without whipping them.” Wright: “One thing I’ve noticed is that children are having children. They weren’t raised, so if they weren’t trained how to act, then how would you know how to train one? You have to be the parent and let them be the children. Kids believe in their parents. If you tell them something and don’t do it, they will lose trust in you.” Spiritual Journey Johnson: “The Lord is so good to me, and I want to be good to somebody else. I’m reaping so much; sometimes I can’t believe it myself. This teaching we get from the Pastor has kept me. I went to a lot of churches where you would hear hooping and hollering and you get home and say, “What did they preach about? I don’t know, but they preached ... But Pastor is teaching us how to love one another.” Wright: “I was born and raised in church. Back in the day, we went to church, and it was a lot of hooping and hollering. When I decided to not straddle the fence and be obedient to the Holy Spirit, I started to notice that this type of ministry was not for me. You would read the word but people were doing another thing. Me and my husband found out that the only way to keep our marriage was to keep God first and the rest followed by the Word.” Wright: “I remember Pastor teaching on “Don’t let your past interfere with your future.” When I walked through the front door, my husband said, “I don’t have to ask how the church was. You got a light on you!” … I didn’t ask my husband to go next time, but he was dressed before I was, and we went to the bible study on that Tuesday in Room 209. My husband was sitting there and saying, “Mmm…Mmm…Mmm!!! … I thank God for his teaching and anointed teaching.” Word Tab Today Wright: “We never went into this looking to do things our way. We wanted someone to lead, doing it God’s way, and we found it.” Johnson: “We needed this in Rocky Mount. You have to teach people and not turn them away. It’s not about finding fault in people.” On Womanhood Wright: “My daughter gained weight when she was 7, and she was chubby. We started buying such clothes for her and my son. Girls like that could feel inferior, but you have to encourage them and let them know that God doesn’t put anything on the Earth that isn’t beautiful. You are just as pretty as anyone else. My daughter never had that complex about herself. You have to train kids while they are young so that you don’t have grownups that don’t know what to do because their mothers didn’t know.” On Today’s Young Generation Johnson: “I sometimes admire the respect of young kids. Sometimes they might not say good morning in a store, but I’ll tell them good morning. If we take up more time with them and show them love, it will help a lot instead of talking about them and putting them down. And it can come from the church. We need to give them second chances. A lot of them just need love. Show it. There are so many ways you can show love.” On Losses Wright: When I share my testimony, it has helped a lot of mothers so they don’t have to go down the same road. I tell anyone, that anything I’ve gone through was because my Heavenly Father has brought me out of. Some of my sickness was nobody but God. The prayers of the saints since the loss of my son, that is why I’m able to continue and keep moving because God doesn’t make any mistakes. That is what you have to live and believe -- God is in charge.”
In the whirlwind of life's demands, it's easy to overlook one of the most vital aspects of our existence: mental health. Health is not just physical. It’s emotional, spiritual, and mental. Mental health isn't merely the absence of mental illness; it encompasses a spectrum of emotions, thoughts, and behaviors that contribute to our overall psychological well-being. We are encouraged by the words of John that all be well with us, that we be in good health as things are well with our souls. (John 3:1) God who fearfully and wonderfully created us and sustains us included the mention of health at least 100 times in His Word. God cares about our health: Spiritual, Mental, Emotional, and Physical. Let's look closer at the difference between mental health and mental illness. Mental health refers to a state of emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing in which an individual can cope with the stresses of life, work productively, and contribute to their community. It's about resilience, self-esteem, and the ability to form meaningful relationships. Mental health is akin to a garden that requires nurturing, nourishing, and regular upkeep to flourish. We all have mental health. Now, mental illness includes a range of conditions that affect mood, thinking, and behavior. These conditions can vary in severity, from mild to debilitating, and may include depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and others. Mental illness disrupts an individual's ability to function effectively in their daily life and often requires professional intervention and treatment. We do not all have mental illness. Understanding this difference is crucial because it empowers individuals to prioritize their mental well-being proactively. Just as we engage in physical exercise to maintain our physical health, we must cultivate habits that promote mental wellness. So, how can we nurture our mental health and help others understand that mental health is a normal part of life? Understanding the Essence of Well-Being NURTURING MENTAL HEALTH By Yvette Richardson, LCSW CONVERSATIONS withthe Counseling Division of WTC COUCH INTERSECTIONS 20
Here at WTC, we have pastors and other leaders who recognize the importance of being in good health. They are advocates to break down the stigma that society has put on talking about and addressing mental health. The WTC Counseling Center supports individuals and families with a confidential, caring, loving, and safe space during difficult times. Mental health is not to be feared but understood and embraced. Here are a few suggestions that we can all do to nurture our mental health. First, self-care is soul care and is easy to do. Set aside time for activities that bring joy, relaxation, and fulfillment. Whether it's praying, meditating on God’s Word, practicing mindfulness, engaging in a hobby, spending time in nature, or simply taking a moment to breathe deeply. Self-care replenishes our emotional reserves and fosters resilience in the face of adversity. Second, building meaningful connections is essential for mental well-being. Human beings are inherently social creatures, (Gen 2:18) and healthy relationships provide us with support, validation, and a sense of belonging. Whether it's spending time with loved ones, reaching out to friends, or participating in community activities, nurturing social connections strengthens our mental health. Attend church regularly on Sunday and Midweek and join a ministry and small group. We thrive better, when we thrive together. Next, maintaining a healthy lifestyle promotes mental well-being. Regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep is not only beneficial for our physical health but also have profound effects on our mood, your thinking, and decision-making. Physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters, while a nutritious diet provides the essential nutrients our brains need to function optimally. Lastly, seeking professional help when needed is a sign of strength, not weakness. Just as we wouldn't hesitate to consult a doctor for a physical ailment, seek therapy or counseling for mental health concerns is a proactive step towards healing and self-improvement. Therapists provide a safe and non-judgmental space to explore our thoughts and emotions, offering guidance and support along the way. Prioritizing mental health is essential for leading a fulfilling and meaningful life. By understanding the distinction between mental health and mental illness and adopting habits that promote well-being, we can cultivate resilience, foster meaningful connections, and thrive in today's complex world. Taking care of your mental health is not selfish; it's a natural necessity. For more information about mental health, please contact the WTC Counseling Center at [email protected].
WTC NEWS “WHERE WE KEEP YOU ABREAST OF CURRENT AND RELEVANT NEWS, EVENTS AND UPDATES” INTERSECTIONS 22 with Chasadie Searcy
MEN’S FELLOWSHIP 2024 FIRST SATURDAYS
MAY 6 MAY 26 DEADLINE TO SIGN UP SUNDAY MEMORIAL WEEKEND E-CITY ONLY! FUTURE WATCH PARTIES 4th of July Weekend Labor Day Weekend
UPCOMING EVENTSMAY 7 MAY 11 MAY 12
cafe WORDALIVE Bookstore PRODUCT OF THE MONTH $10 M A Y INTERSECTIONS 14 Mother’s Day Spiral Bound Journal/Sermon Notes
“Two are better than one, Because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion.” Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 INTERSECTIONS 28
Marriage and Ministry “And the two shall become one” Every Other Friday 12 PM and 7 PM Hosted by Associate Pastor, Stephanie Battle Beatrice and James Mullins 05/03 Gregory L. Arrington and Tangie Arrington 05/04 Milton Debrew and Christina Williams-Debrew 05/07 Lavale and Darlene Norman 05/07 Melvin and Belinda Jackson 05/09 Maurice and Tiffany R. Williams 05/09 William and Christine Barnville 05/11 Max Avent Sr and Wanda Avent 05/14 Cephus Smith and Lula Smith 05/14 Marvin and Geraldine Bullock 05/15 James and Jacqueline Johnson 05/16 Manley McKoy Sr and Velma McKoy 05/16 DeCraig and Ketarah Staton 05/16 Greg and Stephanie Bailey 05/17 Mike and Tanisha Morris 05/17 Seleste and Dionicio Rodriguez 05/17 Derrick and Meteea Garner 05/18 Joe and Patricia Edmondson 05/20 Corenzo Horne Sr and Darlene Horne 05/21 Menisa Johnson-Jenkins and Christopher Jenkins 05/21 Mykeius Richardson and Danielle Newbold 05/21 William and Leslie Staton 05/21 Jimmie and Pamela Thorne 05/23 Craig and Chanel Arrington 05/26 Maurice and Felicia Cobb 05/26 Carl and Ardis Goss 05/26 Natasha Etheridge and Ronald Etheridge Sr 05/27 Christopher and Battista Pearce 05/27 Clarence Arrington and Ida Arrington 05/28 Jason Battle Sr and Stephanie Battle 05/28 Donald and Veronica Ham 05/29 Jeffery and Cynthia Hunter 05/29 Dwight and LaTonya Eley 05/31 33 COUPLES C E L E B R A T I N G
Birthday! “With long life I will satisfy him, And show him My salvation.” Psalms 91:16 INTERSECTIONS 30
Xada Allen 05/01 Avante Hedgepeth 05/01 Gloria Holt 05/01 Jessica Battle 05/02 Brenda Cutchin-Hunter 05/02 John Hayes 05/02 Owen Vaughan Jr 05/02 Candace Bass 05/03 Janet Battle 05/03 Jaylen Davis-Hart 05/03 Olivia Johnson 05/03 Beatrice Mullins 05/03 Mikeriah Perry-Mansel 05/03 Tanasia Felder 05/04 Tiawana Lawrence 05/04 Wayne Morris Jr 05/04 Ernest Richardson 05/04 Tonisha White 05/04 Terry M. Williams 05/04 Roberta Andrews 05/05 Calvin Carter Sr 05/05 DeNaide Dickens 05/05 Laveda Harper 05/05 Johnny Jones Sr 05/05 Kim Speller 05/05 Bobbie Taylor 05/05 James R. Battle 05/06 Natalie Drummond 05/06 Jeremiah Edwards 05/06 Reginald Holloman 05/06 Melissa Jones 05/06 Voneterria Milner 05/06 Sheila Morton 05/06 Rayanni Rouse 05/06 Meco Whitaker 05/06 Renee Woodard 05/06 Z'Khyia Bentley 05/07 Jazmine Blackwell 05/07 Easter Brown 05/07 Ayana Ellington 05/07 Christine Johnson 05/07 Dwayne Johnson 05/07 Saniyah Pittman 05/07 Evoin Richardson 05/07 Jayleen Sessoms 05/07 McKenna Cooper 05/08 Nicole Harris 05/08 Charlotte Lyons 05/08 Lillie Sledge 05/08 Kiara Smith 05/08 Ruth Tabron 05/08 Cailyn Moody 05/09 Gregory L. Arrington 05/10 Chiqueta Grant 05/10 Bruce Howard 05/10 Maleesha Johnson 05/10 Corey Mills 05/10 SHIRLEY RODGERS 05/10 Jacqueline Zephirin 05/10 Camille Branch 05/11 Ebria Coe 05/11 Shykeem Grant 05/11 Brittany Herndon 05/11 Gabriel Holloman 05/11 Verna Jenkins 05/11 Stephanie McDaniel 05/11 Mary Whitaker 05/11 David Adams 05/12 Darnell Barnes 05/12 Roxie Barnes 05/12 Chrystal Davis 05/12 Dora Ellison 05/12 Daren Mercer 05/12 Camille Smith 05/12 Tonya Wright 05/12 Clara Anderson 05/13 Niya Askew 05/13 Nekita Avent 05/13 Saniya Berry 05/13 Lenora Clinton 05/13 Rhonney Grant 05/13 Mary Harvey 05/13 Jessica Thorpe 05/13 Gary Weems 05/13 Travis Williams Jr 05/13 Brenda Artis 05/14 Francine Battle-Peterson 05/14 Linda Forbes 05/14 Roshedia Knight 05/14 Angel Lyons Smith 05/14 Malyk Williams 05/14 Beatrice Battle 05/15 Angelo Chandler 05/15 Jerry Greene 05/15 Kielana Ham 05/15 Menisa JohnsonJenkins 05/15 Johnnie Jones 05/15 Phyllis Newton 05/15 Jamir Pulley 05/15 Frances Shaw 05/15 Nerfertiti Williams 05/15 Carol Alston 05/16 Ulysses Perry 05/16 Katherine Scott 05/16 Lonnie Berry 05/17 ASHLEY BOOTHE 05/17 Tiffany Evans 05/17 Mattie Jackson 05/17 Helen Perry 05/17 Wayne Peterson 05/17 Cheska Pringle 05/17 Amanda Spruill 05/17 Latasha Staton 05/17 Lorenzo Graham 05/18 Lucy Taylor 05/18 Johnnie Easley 05/19 Timothy Jones Jr 05/19 Gareth McAuley 05/19 Valerie Pitts 05/19 Gabriella Waterman 05/19 Sylvester Bradley 05/20 Michele Drewery 05/20 Angela Gailliard 05/20 Malcolm Logan 05/20 Larry D. Phillips 05/20 Sharon Pierce 05/20 Alicia Small 05/20 Renay Smith 05/20 Jacqueline Battle 05/21 Kay'Twon Battle 05/21 Domoneq Canady 05/21 Tysheinna Coleman 05/21 Sonya Cressionnie 05/21 Sheila P. Dickens 05/21 Aaron Meade 05/21 Minnie White 05/21 Brenda Alexander 05/22 Jaillyn Curry-Simmons 05/22 Jamarion Daniels 05/22 Michael Gary Sr 05/22 Hunter Smith 05/22 Travis Spells 05/22 Sharon Suitte 05/22 Mona Taylor 05/22 Jennifer Turner 05/22 Mickey Whitehead 05/22 Lillian Cooper 05/23 Derrick Garner 05/23 Ne'Vaeh Lee 05/23 Trishonda Roberson 05/23
Alaysha Rogers 05/23 Polly Vaughan 05/23 Krisha Bennett 05/24 Carolyn Cheek 05/24 Lisa Mitchell 05/24 Saiid Murphy 05/24 Jhalon Woodard 05/24 Denise Dunn-Cerja 05/25 Zion Horne 05/25 Maurece Lewis 05/25 Eric Moore 05/25 Aaron Newkirk 05/25 Stanley Purvis 05/25 Sheba Andrews 05/26 Keziah Batts 05/26 Farrah Grant 05/26 Melvin Hines 05/26 Georgette Nelson 05/26 Rotimi Olurin 05/26 Iris Thompson 05/26 Shakara Watson 05/26 Linda Wells 05/26 Lendo Wiggins 05/26 Raven Evans 05/27 Ardis Goss 05/27 Myisha McCoy 05/27 Valerie Moore 05/27 Lorraine Coppage 05/28 Angela Hardy-Holder 05/28 Nequileya Hart 05/28 Lesley Leonard 05/28 Reginald Rawls 05/28 Ervin Vaughn 05/28 Ayden Branch 05/29 Leon Cowell 05/29 Shunteka Gorham 05/29 Paulette Hagan 05/29 Christy Parker 05/29 Wayne Williams 05/29 Delane Alston 05/30 Lorenza Johnson 05/30 Michael Moore 05/30 Stacei Vick 05/30 Lenita Webb-Arrington 05/30 Alicia Burton 05/31 Nashunda Sessoms 05/31 Robert Wade 05/31 Tiffany L. Williams 05/31 INTERSECTIONS 32 CELEBRATING 197 Birthdays!
8 10 COME GROW WITH US MONTH OF APRIL CHURCH MEMBERSHIP BAPTISMS SALVATION REDEDICATION 29
The Impact Center Campus M A R K E T I N G A N D P U B L I C A T I O N S M I N I S T R Y [email protected] T A M M Y R O B I N S O N S I T A R E D D I N G M I Y O K O D E L K B R I T T A N Y B Y N U M - F A R M E R L I N D A M A N N K I A R A S M I T H J O Y C E W I L L I A M S J E S S I E N U N E R Y , M I N I S T R Y L E A D E R INTERSECTIONS 34 J U L A N D A M A N N Proofers Layout Designers Researcher J E S S I E N U N E R Y Writers
WTC @ VISIT US! 821 Word Plaza Rocky Mount, NC 27804 We are conveniently located right off Highway 301. The Impact Center is behind Chili's, less than 2 miles from two NC Highway 64 exits! NC Hwy 64 Exits HWY 301 (Lowes / IHOP) Hunter Hill Rd (Movie Theater) HOTELS Conveniently located off NC Hwy 64 Exits.
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