Authors

Dr. Jeremiah Wright, author of A Sankofa Moment: The History of Trinity United Church of Christ A Sankofa Moment gives the 48-year history of the Trinity United Church of Christ with a major emphasis on the building of the largest United Church of Christ congregation within the denomination that developed several ministries and several entities under the pastorate of Rev. Jeremiah A. Wright, Jr.

Jeffrey A. Johnson, Sr., author of Life Illustrated: Daily Thoughts for Your Daily Walk! by Jeffrey A. Johnson, Sr. Life Illustrated is a devotional book that will bless individuals and families pursuing a closer walk with God. It is a collection of stories, illustrations and real life experiences that help explain the Word of God and make it applicable for everyday life. This book will serve as a daily reminder of God's love, faithfulness, and grace.

Bettie D Grady, author of Sparks of Lyrical Truths Igniting This book, Sparks of Lyrical Truths Igniting, is unique, in that; it is a Total Collection of One Hundred and Seventy Six (176) Gospel Lyrics (for singing) of Gods' truths, with a lively alluring twist in words, that will lead to excitement and enlightenment, in the studying of God's word. This book can "Do" just what the title, Sparks of Lyrical Truths Igniting, denotes, for a multiplicity of entities. Just to name a few people, and subject matters, that can and will be affected by this book: Vocalists; Musicians; Concerts; Plays; Skits; Movies; Television; Sermons; Seminars - stimulating themes & discussions; Training tools; Personal enrichment; Bible studies; Book club discussions; Leisure reading; Storytelling; Love; Healthy relationships; Good core values; Plus something for any and every individual or entity who needs Sparks of Lyrical (Poetic) Truths, to Ignite them in whatever avenue requiring a spark of light, to go forward! Yes! This book will serve 'limitless purpose', and is sure to provoke a swelling of the kingdom of God, worldwide. Amen! "Let us sing!"

Larry Macon, author of The Black Church At Its Best: A Man, his Story and the Black Church The Black Church at its Best tells the rich history of the Black Church with introductory porch stories told to the author by his father. "During these days of focus on diversity, Dr. Larry Macon comes forth with the declaration that the uniqueness of the Black Church must be acknowledged. His treatment of the Black Church from its West African roots to its present posture, as a vehicle of self-identity and social change, is a work well worth reading. The Black Church at Its Best is a challenge for the Christian community-at-large to embrace the theology, preaching, and hermeneutical genius of a people who have survived the seemingly impossible and continue to be a model worthy of respect and emulation." --Dr. Charles E. Booth, pastor, Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, Columbus, Ohio "There are few scholars who have the love and appreciation for the Black Church as does Dr. Larry Macon. This work will help the reader glimpse not only the theology of the Black Church but also the sociology of its community. It is a must read for every student of the Black Religious experience." --Walter Scott Thomas, senior pastor, New Psalmist Baptist Church, Baltimore, Maryland

Bishop Joey Johnson, author of God is Greater than Family Mess: How God Uses Family Mess As a Vehicle of Our Destiny On the basis of the biblical phrase, "visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children, to the third and fourth generation," the author traces Family Mess or "generational bondage" in the family of Abraham to the fourth generation. As the father of Israel and of the Christian faith, Abraham provides an excellent example for us to examine his family mess in order to help us conquer our own. God is Greater Than Family Mess will help you... Understand how God worked through the difficult circumstances of Old Testament characters to give them a destiny. Understand the impact of dysfunction in your family of origin. Look at dysfunction and co-dependency from a biblical perspective. Identify your own "family mess." Understand that God is greater than your upbringing. Pursue your hopes, dreams, expectations, and destiny in the Holy Spirit. God worked in the midst of Abraham's family problems to give the promise of a brighter future. He gave Abraham and his posterity a destiny that overcame their outward limitations. Praise God that He does the same thing for us, the spiritual children of Abraham.

Janet Smith, author of Colandra's World: Caress the Sun--Embrace the Thunder THIS IS A STORY about the Ayore Village in Paraguay, where Colandra, a ten-year-old mute resides. Pastor Youngblood, the American missionary, has returned to the field, along with his staff. They minister to the Ayore people and teach them the Word of God. This book reveals God's work in Colandra's life. Salvation and faith are the focus of this story.

Bertha Roscoe, author of When Thou Art Converted A compilation of messages and lessons to challenge, motivate, and inspire the body of Christ. When Thou Art Converted is a compilation of messages and lessons to challenge, motivate and inspire the body of Christ. Many believers live a life of secret sin and compromise not answering God's call for righteousness and true holiness as stated in Galatians 4:24. This book challenges the reader to truly consider their conversion and calls for proof of the evidence as given in Scripture. It will also help the reader identify their stage of development within the womb of the Spirit; many claims on maturity are made by some who are actually in the embryonic or fetal stage. When Thou Art Converted provides a simple approach to a complex issue, and through Biblical truth, will break down but then build up the reader, sharing profound truth that cries loudly over strongholds and battle grounds to come forth in a new life of blessing and grace.

L. W. Francisco III, author ofThe 21st Century Man The 21st Century Man helps today's man realize the success waiting for him regardless of what the changing times of our society are saying. Men who are spiritually depleted, financially stressed, relationally drained, emotionally distraught, and have lost hope and given up on their dreams will benefit greatly from reading this book. Bishop Francisco shows men how to find answers to today's many questions and gives tools of empowerment to equip men to overcome the hurdles of life and confront the challenging times of the 21st century. In The 21st Century Man you will find strategies to: Discover the tremendous potential inside of you; Utilize your influence to impact your family and community; Understand your purpose while living in trying times; Learn how to strengthen your relationship with God, family and others

Rudolph W. McKissick, author of God's Got My Back In August of 2008, Bishop Rudolph McKissick underwent an extensive spinal surgery that resulted in a four-month hiatus and birthed a multiplicity of other physical challenges, inclusive of the possibility of never proclaiming the Word of God again. In this new book, McKissick allows us to journey with him from discovery through recovery and see how God not only birthed a medical miracle in his life but also how God revealed to him spiritual principles for life that he now shares with all. Read this book and learn how to discover and recover from the challenges that come into your life.

Marcus L. Clarke, author of What is God's Melody for Me? This is an awesome workbook targeting youth ages 12-18, but is also great for everyone. The book highlights five consistent messages that are communicated in today's most popular Hip-Hop, R&B and Pop music. There are questions, scriptures and exercises for the reader to reflect on how these messages may influence their attitudes and behaviors. Throughout the workbook, the reader is challenged to ask themselves: How do messages in music affect what God's plan is for me, and for the others I love? This book can be used with children, parents, friends, churches or schools. It is designed to be interesting, challenging and fun! May God bless you in the journey to discover God's Melody for YOU!

Natalie A. Francisco, author of Wisdom for Women of Worth and Worship  This is an excellent resource for women who desire to take an introspective look into their past in order to become more productive in their present and future. No stone is left unturned as Pastor Natalie delves through the triumphs and tragedies of her own life in an effort to share with others 52 life lessons based on biblical principles that are key to living an overcoming life in every arena. Meditation exercises are also included at the end of each chapter as well as frequently asked questions from women nationally and internationally who have solicited her advice. Her Spirit-led wisdom and candor in the answers she has provided have already helped a myriad of women. Pastor Natalie's twenty-five years of marriage, motherhood and ministry woven throughout her writings serve as a mentoring memoir from which all women can relate and learn regardless of their age or stage of life.

Dr. Corey L. Brown, author of Emerge: Little by Little God allows problems before He gives you the promise. He permits dilemmas before He takes you to destiny. The Lord allows you to deal with burdens because He wants to prepare you for where you’re headed. The problem is designed to work on your character. The challenge is designed to deal with your weakness. The opposition you are facing isn't meant to hurt you. It’s meant to develop you for your destiny. –from the Introduction

Dr. Frederick D. Haynes, III, author of Healing Our Broken Village Dr. Frederick D. Haynes, III is a passionate leader, captivating orator, educator and activist engaged in fighting against racial injustice; committed to increasing economic and social justice in urban areas; and devoted to transforming the lives of the disenfranchised. For over twenty-five years Dr. Haynes, serving as senior pastor of Friendship-West Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas has innovatively led and grown the ministry from 500 members to over 12,000. His out-of-the-box approach to ministry reaches across generations, class and ethnicities providing a relevant and functional truth that can be applied to everyday life. Dr. Haynes is also the author of Soul Fitness, an inspiring and encouraging daily devotional.

James Henry, author of This is an Emergency Young people in America are suffering from the effects of crime, negative peer pressure, and family dysfunction. Wrong choices are being made. Wrong paths are being taken. Everyday in our communities, guns are fired, drugs are sold, and families are ripped apart. This is a WAKE UP call. America, this is an EMERGENCY. Another day does not have to pass. Another teenager does not have to end up wounded, in jail, or dead. Together we CAN begin to make the changes that we need in our communities.

Dr. Fred L. Hodge Jr., author of The Access Point Have you ever wondered how some of the Bible characters tapped into the supernatural for their lives, how they would be facing tremendous odds and right when it seemed the end was near, here comes a miracle from God? I have heard many try to explain this operation as a sovereign move of God without any participation from the receiver. But as I began to study the word of God, the Holy Spirit revealed to me principles that were followed in each situation that allowed God access that led to supernatural conquest on behalf of the believer. In this book you will find some valuable principles that will illuminate the process behind the working of miracles. The principles of faith always require our obedient participation to create an Access Point for the miraculous in our lives. The Access Point will renew your faith in the supernatural. The Access Point will teach you the principles to use to get a miracle from God. The Access Point will explain to you the order of God for miracles. The Access Point will motivate you to believe God for breakthroughs in your life. Get ready to be elevated into another arena of faith for the supernatural in your life!

Dr. Rudolph W. McKissick, Jr., author of Nuggets by Day and Gems by Night The concept of this book is taken from Spurgeon’s “Morning and Evening.” For each day of the month there is a morning starting “nugget,” which is a simple one line “get me going for the day” thought. For the end of that day, there is a “gem,” which is a more exhaustive thought or insight to think on as you conclude your day.

C. NaTasha Richburg, author of Every Story Has Two Sides Every Story Has Two Sides is a coming of age series of short stories. It illustrates lessons that take place in the life of many characters that touch on, or are a part of, the life of Dallas Davis. The short stories intertwine the complex parent-child, boyfriend-girlfriend and sinner-convert relationships as the reader witnesses the young adult, coming of age experience. Intended to provide lessons for both young adults and parents, Every Story Has Two Sides gives a unique perspective that affords an opportunity for all to think outside of the box. Poetic fluency coupled with scriptural references enhance the out of the box experience where a different perspective of life's situations are exposed to the reader. The book welcomes multigenerational discussions to take place at the table in which God is the conversational centerpiece.

Dr. Larry W. Ellis, author of Sermon Notes Bible study is made easier when we have a place to start! What do I study today? What do I preach or teach next week? In this volume there is a study outline for each week for three years. It can be used both inductively and deductively. The author spent hours mining each text. The outline represents the gist of the message or lesson presented to a live congregation. Outlines cover both Old and New Testament. If desired, full manuscripts and compact discs are available for further study as well as a volume of written sermons. The reader will discover that each lesson holds spiritual treasure on most any subject in Scripture.

Victor Johnson, author of Keep it Simple Believer This book addresses the formation and progression of the non/new Believer's interpersonal faith in Christ. These meditations on Belief and Faith in Jesus have become keys to overcoming life's situations and securing eternal purity.

Shay Bills, author of Is Your Ghost Holy? Evangelist Shay Bills' book, Is Your Ghost Holy? Eight Principles for Evaluating Your Walk in the Spirit, is a companion and helpful tool in navigating your walk in Christ. In this book, you will find valuable principles to illuminate your path and heighten your faith in the Word. The principles of truth, life, faith, hope and change are all revealed through sound doctrine and by the quickening of the Holy Spirit. Is Your Ghost Holy? will transform your mind. will renew the right spirit within you. will teach you to take the road less traveled. will encourage you to rise up and stand firm on the Word. will make your heart receptive to the leading of the Holy Ghost.  Discover how His Word shatters residue of doubt and uncertainty. Learn how to walk in the power of the Holy Ghost, by applying the Word of God and trusting His promises. His Holy Spirit will awaken and reveal the hidden crevasses of your heart, mind and soul and fill you with His wisdom. Called by some, a spiritual journey, Bills leaves no stone unturned when removing the superficial layers of spirituality. Once read, you will walk boldly and confidently in the knowledge that your inner man is holy, therefore, you are called to holiness, according to Scripture. From uncovering Truth, to understanding your Purpose, you will conclude this book having gained more wisdom, knowledge and power of the Holy Ghost that dwells inside of you.

Harold Carter, author of The Power of God's Negatives Harold Carter, Jr. uniquely takes biblical study, theology, psychology, and spirituality, and blends them with his own style of intellect, hermeneutics, anecdotes, and, interestingly, the usage of many of life's axioms, and develops a fresh perspective on what it means to be obedient to God.  Without being heavy-handed, Carter brings the reader into an appreciation of wanting to please God not so much by doing what God wants, but by being obedient to what God does not want. The likelihood is that this book will find itself among the innovative theological readings that will further shape the "academy" and the faith community in the 21st century.

James Jones, author ofThe Healthy Faith-Building Church A 7-point inspection of a healthy faith-building church in the twenty-first century. Utilizing insights from great leaders such as Rick Warren, Bill Hybels, and John Maxwell, among many others, Pastor James R. Jones, Jr. outlines a clear picture of a twenty-first century, healthy, faith-building church. He uses a seven point inspection paradigm to diagnose problems and propose solutions for churches struggling in their ministry, especially in small and medium size settings.

Pastor Ian M. Taylor, author of The Overcomer's Handbook This book is about overcoming, being victorious, and having good success. It is a collection of inspired Word based confessions, meditations, prayers, and insightful biblical truths. According to 1 John 5:4, every born again believer has overcome the world and is an overcomer. However, the measure of victory you experience will be according to your faith. Faith grows as the Word of God becomes engrafted in your heart. Word based confessions and correct effective biblical meditations will cause your faith to become more effective. Prayer, mixed with humility and the fear of the Lord, has dynamic power to keep your heart sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit. Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty and continuous victory. The prayers in this book will deepen your sensitivity to the Holy Spirit’s leading, and it will provoke a spirit of humility and the fear of the Lord. This book will help you align your thoughts, speech, mental images, attitude, believing, and behaviour to agree with God’s Word. This is more than just a book. It is a companion and a helpful tool for your prayer time, confessions, meditation, Bible study, and Christian witness.

Matthew Smith III, author of Crossing Jordan Reverend Matthew Smith III was born on December 25, 1965 in Birmingham , Alabama . He accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior at age 16, and was baptized soon thereafter. He has been married to his wonderful wife, Rachelle, for over eighteen years, and is the father of three beautiful children and two grand children. Pastor Smith organized Grace Cathedral Community Church of San Leandro in May 2000. After 6 years of labor in the San Leandro vineyard, God moved him to Tracy, CA. to build and re-build the lives of both His people and the lost. The church name was changed to New Covenant Christian Fellowship and is blessed by God to become a sanctuary to the world.

Marva Gordon, author of The Satiable Quest  Rev. Dr. Marva L.Gordon, Ph.D, has been in the ministry since June, 1987. In 1999, she entered a five year training program and, was ordained an Itinerant Elder on August 31,2003. Her ordination took place in The Colorado Conference, of the Fifth Episcopal District, Denver, Colorado. Dr. Gordon received her doctorate degree from St. John's University, Queens, New York in 1983. Dr. Gordon has published over twenty articles in newspapers, journals and books. She has also won writing and speaking awards. She has edited and published three books: Chemical Dependency: Out Of Control (April 1987); A Sharing Of Nursing Interest (1988); and her newest published book, The Satiable Quest: A Guiding Source For Sound Reasoning.