Spotlight On Youth : Catherine Saunders

Posted by p.c. admin on September 2nd, 2011 filed in Spotlight on Youth
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Our spotlight is on a very fine young lady, Catherine Melynda Saunders.  Affectionately called “Cathy” by family and friends, Catherine is the younger of two children in the Saunders family.  Her family consists of the Saunders and Boyd families whose lineage spans across the years at Tabernacle of Faith
Baptist Church:  her parents, Mr. and Mrs. George C. (Lynda) Saunders, Jr.; older brother, Jonathan; paternal grandparents, Deacon George Cleophus
Saunders, Sr. and the late Mrs. Wilhelmina Saunders; and maternal
grandparents, Mrs. Perita Kay Boyd and the late Mr. Charles Boyd.   Catherine, who has been attending Tabernacle of Faith all of her 17 years, is a faithful
member.  She is a regular attendee in Sunday School (where her father is our esteemed Superintendent – among all the other hats he wears); she is in regular attendance in the Youth Church Ministry; she serves as a Youth Usher; she is a Praise Dancer; and participates in the Scrapbooking Ministry.

 

Catherine was born in Los Angeles, California.  She attended Rosewood
Elementary School and Paul Revere Middle School; and she is currently a senior at Palisades Charter High School anticipating graduation in June, 2012.
Catherine’s favorite subjects are History and Science.  Her GPA is 3.0.  She was an Honor Roll awardee in 9th grade; and she received an award for perfect
attendance in the 10th grade.  Catherine is on the varsity track team at her school and has run/sprint the 400 meter dash and participated in the 4 by 4 relay/race.  Since 9th grade, Catherine has been in the four year college preparatory
program AVID (Achievement – Via – Individual – Determination) which assists and empower the students with information, resources, and knowledge regarding applications for colleges/universities and scholarships.

 

Catherine stated that her career goals and objectives are to graduate from College with a major in Psychology with the ultimate goal of starting her own business in Forensic Psychology.  Catherine said the universities/college she is considering for submission of applications are as follows:  Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, Alabama; Hampton
University, Hampton, Virginia; and Spelman College, Atlanta, Georgia (a prestigious, highly selective, liberal arts college that prepares women to change the world)!

 

Catherine said she enjoys “hanging out” with her friends; going shopping; going to the movies; driving the car; and listening to music.  She said she took piano lessons for two years and violin lessons for one year.  Catherine said she also enjoys reading and that the last book she read was The Help by Kathryn Stockett and she has already seen the movie twice.  During the summer, Catherine volunteered at the Memorial Branch Library.

 

It is to be noted that Catherine was one our teen members who travelled with our Church to May Pen, Jamaica, W.I. in 2009, to fellowship with our Tabernacle of Faith Mission Church.  She reported that she had a blessed time, met some inspiring people, and especially enjoyed meeting the young people there.  She said still keeps in touch regularly via telephone with one of the teen girls in Jamaica.

 

Catherine was asked how she responds to peer pressure, and she answered:  “I try to avoid it.  But, if someone is attempting to influence me, I try to help that person and make an effort to get them to turn around.”  When asked if there were a scripture, a song, or a poem that gives her strength, inspiration, encouragement and/or keeps her grounded, Catherine replied that the song, “Lean on Me” by Kirk Franklin is very uplifting and encouraging.

 

Catherine stated that her life’s philosophy or motto is “With great power comes great responsibility.”  She shared four characteristics that describe her and they are as follows:  (1) Easy going; (2) Optimistic; (3) Determined; and (4) Family Oriented.  Catherine’s parents, Bro. George and Sis. Lynda, were asked to give four characteristics that describe Catherine and they responded as follows:  (1) Determined; (2) Focused; (3) Humorous; and (4) Tender-hearted.  As we can see, it is a blessing to know Catherine.  She is a poised, well-rounded Christian young lady who carries herself with modesty, dignity, and self-confidence.

 

We are delighted to present Miss Catherine Melynda Saunders.  Joy and blessings to the wonderful parents, Mr. and Mrs. George C. Saunders, Jr. for a beautiful job well done; grandparents, Deacon George C. Saunders, Sr. and Sis. Kay Boyd; and all who have played a role in the shaping and molding of this focused, goal-directed young lady.  And, Catherine, your Tabernacle of Faith family is mighty proud of you.  We salute you.  Keep up the good work.  May the LORD richly bless you in all of your endeavors (Jeremiah 29:11).

 


Pastor’s Corner – August 07, 2011

Posted by p.c. admin on August 3rd, 2011 filed in Monthly Messages
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07 August, 2011

 

“Whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” – 1 Corinthians 10: 31

 

To our Church Family and Friends:

 

We are now in the 8th month of the year 2011.  The hours, days, weeks and months are moving swiftly and before we know it, 2011 will be history.  We thank and praise God for having spared and crossed us over to a coveted privilege to be about our Lord’s Work in Action, Deed and Godly Purpose.  Remember beloved, always keep in mind that this is the Lord’s Vineyard and we are simply tenants.

 

The past month was rich and rewarding in everyway.  It was highlighted by our highly successful Vacation Bible School, our “Annual Men’s Day and concluded with our 5th Sunday Mission Emphasis Service.  We were all challenged by Pastor Hall’s sermon.

 

The month of August is now before us and we do desire your prayers for all of our regular Services, special Services and activities.

 

During these summer months when most are on vacation, please keep in mind that we need your regular and consistent financial support in order that we can keep on target with our approved no frills budget for this year.

 

Our prayers and best wishes go out to all of our students, pre-school, elementary, middle school, high school and college bound. Remember to always put GOD FIRST.

 

Finally, let us be much in prayer for President Barrack Obama, our many, many sick and shut-in, infirmed and suffering humanity everywhere.  When we keep the Faith, we can count on God’s Power …

 

HE IS ABLE….

 

 

Faithfully yours,

Pastor R.M. Leffall, III


Spotlight On Youth :: Bryson Conklin

Posted by p.c. admin on August 3rd, 2011 filed in Tab-tid-bits
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For our SPOTLIGHT ON YOUTH, we present a fine, gifted young man.  In his own words, hear him and be blessed!

 

Name: Bryson Henry Conklin  Age: 11  Birthplace? I was born in Torrance, CA at Torrance Memorial.

 

How long have you been coming to Tabernacle?

My family has been coming to Tabernacle for over 50 years so I have been coming to Tabernacle all my life. I accepted Jesus as my personal Savior when I was 5 years old and was baptized Resurrection Sunday in 2005.

 

Family member’s names: My parents, William and
Lawana Conklin; My Grandparents: the late Herman Hall and Geraldine Hall, and Donald and Josephine Conklin; My brothers, William Conklin II [BJ) and Brandon Conklin.

School Attendance: President Avenue Elementary

Favorite Subjects: I love Math because it exercises the brain and helps me to think outside the box; and I love Social Studies.  GPA:  3.9.

 

Awards and Honors received: I am a Red Sr. belt in Tak Kwan Do. I have also received several trophies in basketball and baseball, but, my favorite sport is Baseball. I have played for several little leagues and travel ball teams in the South Bay area. I am currently playing summer baseball for Carson Park; I am the starting 1st baseman.  In June, during 5th grade culmination, I received the President’s Education Award in recognition of Outstanding Academic Excellence signed by Secretary of Education Arne Duncan and President of the United States Barack Obama.

 

What do you see yourself doing in the next 10 years: I will be working on receiving my undergraduate
degree with plans to attend Law School. I would also like to continue to play baseball for the college I attend.  Career goals? What would you like to do when you grow up?  Well, I would love to be a professional
baseball player but I plan to become an Environmental Lawyer.

 

Interests?  I love playing baseball and I love to read. I completed 32 chapter books during the 5th grade school year.  Book last read? Favorite author: The Percy Jackson series, Lightning Thief by Rick Rodian who is also my favorite author.

 

Volunteer work: I often assist the kindergarten teachers during my recess time with classroom set-up

and correcting papers. I have also participated in the MS Run/Walk at the Rose Bowl to help raise

money for MS. My Godmother was diagnosed with MS about 6 years ago.

Music interest/Instruments played: I have been playing the violin for 3 years.

Your life’s motto/Rules for daily living: No matter what I am doing or where I go, I always quote, “Have no fear, the Lord is near” My Nana shared that with me.

Favorite song and/or scripture that gives you strength, inspiration, encouragement, or keeps you grounded? How do you deal with peer pressure? My favorite scripture is John 3:16. In regards to peer
pressure, I really don’t think I have had to deal with it. I am more of a leader and I am not easily influenced by others.

Leadership: I am usually the team leader on class group projects; and Leader of my school book club.

 

Joy and blessings to parents, Deacon and Mrs. William Conklin; and the Hall and Conklin grandparents and family; and all who have played a role in the shaping and molding of this well-rounded, focused, goal-directed, talented young man.  And, Bryson, your Tabernacle of Faith family salutes you.  We thank God for you.  Keep up the good work.  May the LORD richly bless you in all of your endeavors.  Go forth, doubting nothing.  “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love Him (1st Corinthians 2:9 NIV).”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Pastor’s Corner – July 03, 2011

Posted by p.c. admin on August 3rd, 2011 filed in Monthly Messages
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Pastor’s Corner

 

“Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.”  – Proverbs 27: 1

03 July, 2011

My Dearly Beloved “FAMILY”

We greet you once more in the mighty and powerful name of “THE KING OF KINGS” and the “LORD OF LORD’S”.  For it is by His tender mercy that you and I have been spared and crossed over to the month of July — ONE MORE DAY —- ONE MORE GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY to be about HIS BUSINESS in WORD, in ACTION and more importantly, in PURPOSE.  I don’t know about YOU — but I THANK GOD FOR ONE MORE DAY.

 

The past month was most busy for our Church. We were blessed to have rich and rewarding Services all month-long concluding with our “Praise Dancers First Annual Worship Service” this past Sunday.

 

The month of July is now before us, and it is “pregnant” with golden opportunities from the PULPIT to the PEW.  We do solicit your prayers and support for all the regular Services, special Services and activities this month.  It will be highlighted by:

 

Vacation Bible School

July 11-15, 2011 – 6:00 P.M. – 8:30 P.M. Each Night,

Followed by our “Annual Church Picnic” on the 16th

@ El Dorado Park, Long Beach – 10:00 A.M.

 

 “Annual Men’s Day Service”

On the 4th Sunday, July 24th, 2011 @ 11:00 A.M.

Rev. Jerry Gash as Our Guest Minister,
He is a most dynamic and gifted proclaimer of God’s Word.

 

My beloved, let each of us be the ONE to pour out our lives, our daily walk in search of the promised eternal crown. As we walk with Him, we can do no less than to praise Him in every situation in life that we face, good or bad.  Only what we do for Christ will last.  Personally, I have found out that

 

I can always count on God, my heavenly Father,
For He changes not: He always is the same.

Yesterdays, today, forever, He is faithful.

And I know He loves me, praise His holy name!

In every change I’ve found out that He faithfully will remain.

 

Let us continue to be much in prayer for our sick and shut in, infirmed, bereaved and for suffering humanity everywhere.  Our prayers also go out to the thousands of persons across the nation affected by the mighty winds, floods, and other weather related occurrences. THE LORD IS SPEAKING.  May God bestow His rich blessings upon both you and yours.

 

 

Faithfully Yours,

Pastor R.M. Leffall, III


Pastor’s Corner – 05 June, 2011

Posted by p.c. admin on June 2nd, 2011 filed in Monthly Messages
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Pastor’s Corner – 05 June, 2011

“I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his people, and his incomparably great power for us who believe.,– Ephesians 1: 18-19

My Dearly beloved “FAMILY”

 

Here we are in the month of June, the minutes, hours, days, weeks and months of the year 2011 are swiftly moving.  Already we are at mid-year.

 

The past month was rich and rewarding in every way.  We had great moments of worship and praise, and souls were added to our Sheepfold.  The month was highlighted by our “Annual Women’s Day” and concluded with our 5th Sunday, Mission Emphasis Service.

 

These are the times that try men’s souls. On one hand, an agnostic has said that the catastrophic occurrences of our time are related to God’s displeasure with His people, their sinful ways; on the other side, some place God on ‘trial’ asking why a loving God would permit the rage of violence that dots our cities, communities and states.  Where is He they say?  In spirit of the air of skepticism and pessimism, the child of God must be sustained and have an unfaltering Trust and Faith that will not shrink tho pressed by many a foe.  Thus, I encourage all of us from the pulpit to the pew to BE STRONG, and hold to God’s unchanging Hand.  Each victory will help you, He will carry you through!

 

Be Strong

We are not here to play, to dream, to drift

We have hard work to do, and loads to lift

Shun not the struggle – face it – it is God’s gift

Be Strong

Say not, ‘The days are evil, Who’s to blame?’

And fold the hands and acquiesce, Oh shame!

Stand up, speak out, and bravely! In God’s name

Be Strong

It matters not how deep entrenched the wrong

How hard the battle goes, the day how long

Faint not – fight on – Tomorrow comes the song.

 

The month of June is now before us, and we do solicit your prayers and support for all of our regular Services, special Services and activities during this month.

 

We salute to all of our graduates from pre-school to the college level.  We are mighty, mighty proud of all of you and wish for you the very best as you move onward and upward in your educational pursuits.  Remember, to always put God First.

 

Finally, let us continue to be much in prayer for our many, many sick and shut-in, infirmed, bereaved and for suffering humanity everywhere.  In addition, our prayers and thoughts go out in a special way to the victims and families affected by the devastating tornado and twisters across the southern and mid-western states, and more recently on the east coast.  Many lives have been lost … The Lord is Speaking

 

Your co-traveler with Christ,

 

Pastor R. M. Leffall


SpotLight On Youth – Rahshaun Haylock

Posted by p.c. admin on June 2nd, 2011 filed in Spotlight on Youth
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King Solomon, the author of Proverbs, writes:  “Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it (Proverbs 22:6).”

Our spotlight is on a very talented young man, whom we are proud to
present:  Mr. Rahshaun Yusef Haylock, age 27.  He is the grandson of the family’s matriarch, our own Sis. Cora Bruner, long time member and Mother at the Tabernacle.  Sis. Sheila Haylock is the mother of Rahshaun and his two younger brothers, Amir Haylock, age 25, and Essan Cassidy, age 16 – all fine young men brought up with excellent Christian home
training.  Rahshaun has been at The Tabernacle all of his life.  He currently serves as Youth Church Assistant; and Announcement Clerk where he
regularly makes the announcements and welcomes the guest worshippers at Sunday Morning Worship Service.

 

Rahshaun spent his elementary school years at Redeemer Alternative School in Compton, CA; he attended Orville Wright Middle School,
Westchester (Los Angeles, CA); and El Segundo High School in El
Segundo, CA.  After graduation from high school, Rahshaun attended and graduated from California State University, Northridge.  Rahshaun said that his favorite subjects in school were broadcasting classes.  He majored in Journalism with an emphasis in Broadcasting.   He was the recipient of the following scholarships:  Our own Tabernacle of Faith’s Edna G. White Scholarship; Richard Hill Scholarship Award – the Laymen’s Auxiliary of Providence District Association; Kaiser Permanente Bill Coggins Leadership Scholarship.  Rahshaun was additionally awarded the following
recognitions:  Hawthorne/Lawndale City Cable Rookie of the year; City of Los Angeles Unsung Heroes in Watts for Achievement in Sports Broadcasting; Friends of Alma Reaves Woods Library honoree for Achievement in Sports Broadcasting; SportsNetUSA.net Outstanding Achievement in Sports Broadcasting; Society of Professional Journalists Region 11 Mark of Excellence Awards for Sports Television Reporting (3rd Place).

 

Rahshaun is currently employed at KCBS2/KCAL9 Sports; FoxSportsWest.com; Lawndale/HCTV Channel 22 Sports; and SportsNetUSA.net Internet Radio. He said that in five years/ten years he sees himself “married, raising a family and with a fulltime career being seen and heard covering sports.”

 

Rahshaun’s interests include family, traveling, food, sports, broadcasting, public speaking/mentoring youth,
career days, helping youth attain internships, coaching basketball, bowling, networking, video games, and spending time with his God-daughters, Amaya and Leah; and being a role model for his younger siblings, Amir and Essan.  Also
included are his interests and work with Big Sunday (Community Service); Revlon Walk, and Juvenile Walk for
Diabetes.  He said the last book he read was Meat Market:  Inside the Smash-Mouth World of College Football
Recruiting by Bruce Feldman.  His musical interests are R&B, Hip-hop, and Gospel.  He said he played the snare drum in 6th grade.

 

Rahshaun said that a scripture that gives him strength, inspiration and encouragement is  Philippians 4:6 which tells us to not worry about anything and to pray about everything…  In dealing with peer pressure, he stated:  “I stand firm in my beliefs and try to see situations before they happen.”  He gave his philosophical statement as:  “Do what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life.”

 

We are delighted to present Mr. Rahshaun Yusef Haylock.  Joy and blessings to Rahshaun’s family and all who have played a role in the shaping and molding of Rahshaun.  He is a wonderful Christian young man.  And, Rahshaun, your Tabernacle of Faith family is mighty proud of you.  We salute you!  Keep up the good work.  May the LORD richly bless you and the work of your hands.

 


Pastors Corner – May 2011

Posted by p.c. admin on June 2nd, 2011 filed in Tab-tid-bits
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Pastor’s Corner – 01 May, 2011

“Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” – John 14: 6

 

Our Dearly beloved “FAMILY and FRIENDS”

 

How swiftly these months are coming as we are now in the 5th month of the year 2011.  We thank and praise our risen Lord and Savior for having spared us to cross over into a coveted opportunity to be about our Lord’s Business, in WORD in ACTION in DEED and Godly Purpose.

 

On a somber note we have witnessed the homegoing of our own members and bereavement affected our Church Family.  Our prayers go out to those who experience an “empty chair” of immediate family and friends.

 

The past month was rich and rewarding in every way we closed the month on a high spiritual note with the “23rd Annual Women’s Prayer Breakfast” followed by last Sunday’s “Resurrection Service”.

 

The month of May is now before us, and we do solicit the prayers and support of every loyal member for all of our regular and special Services.  I do call your special attention to our “Annual Women’s Day Service” on the 3rd Sunday with our Sis. Chelsea Williams as the speaker.  Sis Florence Bean once again serves as the director of the Women’s Day Chorus.  All giving for the Women’s Day and all Annual Days is earmarked for our Building Fund.  We desire and ask that every loyal member support our Building Fund over and above Tithes and regular offerings.

 

I do want to encourage every loyal member to heed our Lord’s Great Commission to become a “Soul Winner”.  It is a personal task from the PULPIT to the PEW as followers of Christ.  It involves moving from mere MEMBERSHIP to DISCIPLESHIP.  Remember that our continuing goal is that each member become a “Soul Winner” in 2011.  Can the MASTER count on you??

 

Finally, let us continue to be in prayer for our sick and shut-in, infirmed and for suffering humanity everywhere.   Our thoughts and prayers also go out to those families affected by the “tornado activity” across the Southern states as well as the East Coast and the raging fires across the State of Texas … “The Lord is Speaking”

 

Faithfully Yours

 

Pastor Leffall


SPOTLIGHT ON YOUTH – Jason Weatherall

Posted by p.c. admin on May 20th, 2011 filed in Tab-tid-bits
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King Solomon, the author of Proverbs, writes:  “Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it (Proverbs 22:6).”

 

Our spotlight is on a very talented young man, whom we are proud to present:  Mr. Jason Adam Weatherall, affectionately called “J” by family and friends.  Jason has been coming to the Tabernacle of Faith Baptist Church all of his life, where he and his family have been actively involved in all aspects of the Church’s work and activities for youth.   The Weatherall family consists of Jason’s father, Bro. Michael Weatherall, Sunday School teacher and Youth Church Ministry teacher, who himself was a youth pupil at The Tabernacle where he now teaches pupils where he once sat; his mother, Debra; brother, Lawrance; and two sisters, Kandis (who is away attending Norfolk State University in Virginia); and Kristy- a very fine family and well disciplined young people brought up with service-oriented Christian home training.

 

Jason attended Amestoy Elementary School in Gardena, CA;

Orville Wright Middle School (magnet school), Westchester (Los

Angeles, CA); and Banning High School in Wilmington, CA.  Jason said that his favorite subjects in school were Mathematics and English.  After graduation from high school, Jason attended and graduated from California State University, Los Angeles with a major in Television – Film and Media Studies.  He was the recipient of the following scholarships:  Governor’s Scholarship; Track and Field Scholarship; and our own Tabernacle of Faith’s Edna G. White Scholarship.  Jason is currently employed at the Health Services Academy (Teacher’s Aide)/Maranatha High School(Basketball Coach, Junior Varsity).  He said that in five years/ten years he sees himself teaching his own class or counseling and coaching.

 

Jason lists his interests as The Bible – his love of reading, studying and teaching God’s Word.  He is a sports enthusiast who loves basketball, football, track and field; and he has a love for food (he enjoys cooking and eating)!  Jason also plays the violin.  Jason said that the last book he read was Values of the Game by Bill Bradley, an inspiring book which discusses the formation of character on and off the court with such values as discipline, respect, courage, leadership, selflessness, and responsibility – to name a few.   In addition to his work and interests, Jason is also very busy doing volunteer work which includes Make-A-Wish Foundation; You Can Read (Elementary Reading Program); and Jason has served here at the Tabernacle over a large span of his young life.  During his pre-teen and teen years, Jason regularly made the Sunday School announcements and welcomed the visitors. Jason is currently a member of the Tabernacle’s Audio Ministry; he is Assistant Teacher of the Men’s Bible Class; a member of the Finance Committee; and a Deacon-in-Training.

 

Jason said that a favorite song that gives him strength, inspiration and encouragement is :  “Run Til I Finish” by Smokie Norful, gospel singer and pianist.  Jason gave his philosophical statement as:  “Why complain?  It doesn’t fix anything.”  He further shared regarding how he deals with peer pressure:  “I apply peer pressure by questioning it.”  Jason further stated:  “I consider my life to be a leadership experience; I have heard it time and time again ‘be careful of how you live, you may be the only Bible some people may read;’ With that, I have to lead the best possible life.”

 

To the proud parents:  father, Bro. Michael Weatherall; and mother, Debra, you are to be commended for a beautiful job well done!  Congratulations and blessings, Bro. Jason Adam Weatherall.  Your Tabernacle family is also very, very proud of you.  We salute you and thank God for you.  May the LORD richly bless you in all of your endeavors.

 


WOMAN OF THE YEAR 2011

Posted by p.c. admin on May 20th, 2011 filed in Tab-tid-bits
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WOMAN OF THE YEAR 2011
To
Jackolyn King

Your claim to our admiration is derived from your loyal and dedicated service as a member of the Tabernacle of Faith Baptist Church across the span of more than 30 Years. We do take particular note of your outstanding leadership as a Corporate Officer and Chairperson of our Trustee Ministry for the past 15 years; Coordinator of Team Jamaica visit to our sister Church in Jamaica, W.I.; officer of the Watts World Revival; Co-Chair of our successful 65th Church Anniversary and more recently, initiator of our Scrapbooking Ministry. You have freely shared your time, talents and means to advance the cause of Christ. You have and continue to be a blessing to our Church, your family and the community at large.

We salute you today and extend our very best wishes for continued good health, peace and joy. May God bestow His choicest blessings upon you and yours, both now and always.

Done May 15, 2011

TABERNACLE OF FAITH BAPTIST CHURCH
Women’s Day Committee

Mrs. Maye H. Leffall, Co-Chair Dr. R. M. Leffall
Mrs. Constance Stanley, Co-Chair Senior Pastor


Spotlight on Youth

Posted by p.c. admin on April 1st, 2011 filed in Spotlight on Youth
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Our spotlight for this month is on a wonderful young lady, Miss Rayina Sexton. Rayina was born in Los Angeles, CA and grew up in
Corona, CA.  She is the youngest of three children.  The Sexton family members consist of father, Willie, Sr.; mother, Sheila; and two older brothers, Willie, Jr. and Deandre.  Rayina attended Promenade
Elementary School in Corona; and Villegas Middle School in Corona.  Rayina spent the past years in the Greater Los Angeles area where she attended Compton High School and graduated with a 3.0 Grade Point Average.  Rayina said that her favorite subjects are English and
Chemistry.

 

Rayina is a work-study student currently taking classes at Long Beach City College and working as a teller at Wells Fargo Bank.  When asked what she sees herself doing in five years, and in ten years, Rayina responded that within the next five years, she hopes to have received a Masters degree in one of her triple majors:  Business, Psychology, or General Medicine.  She discussed her career plans and goals as follows:  She has been accepted by Indiana State
University and has received a scholarship from Indiana State for study in Psychology.  She stated that her goal within the next ten years is to have received a Doctorate in Psychology (i.e.,PsyD or Ph.D) and own her own business; and to have begun working with the elderly and persons with mental disabilities.

 

Rayina’s interests include reading and music.  She said she learned how to play the flute in school during her years as a youth and found it to be an easy and enjoyable instrument to play.

 

Rayina was involved in the following school activities:  In Middle school she was Co-Captain of the Cheer Leading Squad.  In high school Rayina was the Captain of the Tartaretts, a spirit squad which attended all games from football to baseball to support their school’s teams.

 

Rayina said her life’s philosophy or motto is:  “Never give up on something that you really want to do because the person with the biggest dream is often more powerful.”

 

Rayina related that the songs which give her strength and encouragement are “He’s Able” by Kirk Franklin and “Jesus Promised Me a Home” as sung by Jennifer Hudson. She said that her favorite Scripture is Matthew 7:7-8 (regarding God’s Word; Ask…Seek… and Knock…).  Rayina goes on to say:  “As far as peer pressure, I’ve never been the type to be pressured into things that I don’t feel comfortable with doing.   ‘No’ means ‘No’ and we just leave it at that.”

Rayina is one of our young people who welcomes worshippers and reads the Church’s announcements at
Morning Worship here at The Tabernacle.  Rayina also works with the Youth Ministry/Youth Director mentoring youth from age 15 and above to get them more involved in Church and help guide them in the correct path. Rayina   feels that she can relate more to this age group especially since she is in their age range.

 

We are happy to present Miss Rayina Sexton who is a fine Christian young lady. She loves the LORD and
demonstrates Christian values in her life.  She also applies the principles of the work ethic:  she is industrious, studious, conscientious, busy, and organized.  She is also resourceful and positive.

 

Congratulations and blessings to the parents and all of the family members, which includes Rayina’s aunt, our own Sis. Wilma Jean Benjamin, who is brimming over with love and support.  And, Rayina, your Tabernacle Family is also well pleased.  We wish you much success and many blessings in your undergraduate and graduate education and career endeavors.  May God richly bless you.  (Proverbs 3:5-6).