Word of Faith Times · that would govern the heavenly principalities and thus transform earthly communities where each EKKLESIA was established. The idea of conversion was not merely

Word Of Faith Family Worship Cathedral - page 2

From the heart of the Bishop Let’s be the church 4 Celebrating Faith Anniversary Puzzle 5 WOF Calendar Coming attractions for December 6 Inside the Gates Anniversary greetings from the Media Ministry 7

Longtime WOF members Reflecting on special memories over the past 20 years

9 Say Cheese! WOF Photographers rever-encing God through service to His church

14 Savory Soups and Stews ‘Tis the season for soups that warm the soul 15

8 ‘Twas the night before Jesus A holiday poem about salvation


Word of Faith Times

a publication of the

Word of Faith Family Worship Cathedral’s Media Ministry

Bishop Dale C. Bronner FOUNDER/SENIOR PASTOR

Pastor Christopher Boyd EXECUTIVE PASTOR

PRODUCTION ASSISTANTS Gloria Buchanan Betty Dunham Alice Evans Jerry Griffin Lafayette Hughes Florence Jackson Ruth Maddox Louis Martin Alice McCloudy Ruth Morton Beverly Simmons Maeomi Stembridge Beverly Wicker Peggie Wimby

COPY EDITORS Taffy Fletcher Lillie Hinton Linda Trotter

GRAPHIC ARTIST Bevis Liddelow

STAFF WRITERS Mercedes Douglas

Stephen Hinton Jill Watkins

PHOTOGRAPHERS Lloyd Caldway, Jr.

Edward Guy Gilbert Hunter

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Cathy B. Hope

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Marian C. Barnes

From the heart of the Bishop

Bishop Dale C. Bronner For years the attitude of most Christians has been, “Let’s go to church” or “Let’s have church.” But our purpose is not to merely go to church or to simply have church but to BE the CHURCH! In the New Testament, we see that Jesus called for the formation of the EKKLESIA (Church) in Matthew 16:18. “And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.” (Matthew 16:18) In Greek culture an EKKLESIA was the ruling body that governed the “POLIS” or CITY STATE. So Jesus didn't create a new word but borrowed from a common political word to describe His goal for those who would be His disciples: that they would represent His KING-DOM will on earth with binding and loosing powers that would govern the heavenly principalities and thus transform earthly communities where each EKKLESIA was established. The idea of conversion was not merely meant to fill seats for church growth on Sundays but to nurture dis-ciples who would turn the world order upside down. The EKKLESIA means “the called out ones.” Yes, we are called to go out into all the world and make disci-ples! The success of our churches is not determined by how many we SEAT but by how many we SEND! Since the late 19th century the idea of church as a ruling EKKLESIA has largely been lost and replaced with rescuing sinners from this world and living se-cluded pietistic lives with a goal to make it to heaven. We went from CHANGING THE WORLD to RE-SISTING THE WORLD, from ENGAGING THE WORLD to PROTECTING OURSELVES FROM THE WORLD! But this is totally contrary to the origi-nal Greek meaning of the word EKKLESIA, which means BEING CALLED TO ENGAGE THE WORLD AND GOVERN IT. Church attendance in this nation is high but cultural effectiveness is at an all-time low! If the church is going to recapture its cultural com-mission of discipling nations and having global influ-ence, as found in Genesis 1:28 and Matthew 28:19, it


has to learn the difference between building an EKKLESIA and a mere CONGREGATION THAT AS-SEMBLES together. Today we are dealing with a culture of TOLER-ANCE and RELATIVISM! Our covenant of tolerance basically says, “I won’t tell you what to do as long as you don’t tell me what to do.” Relativism basically says, “You believe what you want as long as it does not affect me!” But we are called to go out into all the world and make disciples of the nations. We cannot ac-complish that in the four walls of our churches. We must go boldly in the name of the Lord with wisdom, grace and truth and proclaim the goodness of God in the earth! Let’s be the CHURCH!


ACROSS 2. WOF guest artist who wrote “Let the Praise Begin" 4. Bishop's first book, “Get A _____” 6. WOF musical guest who reminds us to “Smile” 8. Beloved WOF deacon 9. WOF guest comedian known for his prank radio phone calls 11. WOF guest who is the Bishop of The ______ House 14. There are two of these ministers on the pastoral staff 16. Bronner twins attend mother's college alma mater 17. Like the song, WOF is located “Down by the _________” 18. Popular WOF CD entitled "______ Happen" 19. There are three of these ladies on the WOF staff 20. Operation ______ - “Pray Until Something Happens”

DOWN 1. Name of WOF Dance Ministry - Tribe of _______ 3. Bishop's first church assignment Mount _______ 4. Pastor of Word of Faith Love Center 5. Children's ministry of scripture and song ________ of Light 7. Dale Bronner II attends father's college alma mater 10. WOF guest vocalist who sings with her brother 12. Pastor of Word of Faith Light of Joy 13. Bishop's childhood church 15. WOF guest Vickie Winans' hit song “Shake Yourself ____” 19. Pastor of Congregational Care Rev. ______ Williams 21. Pastor of Evangelism Rev. _______________

Celebrating Faith

Anniversary Puzzle

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Steve Harvey

20TH CHURCH ANNIVERSARY Georgia International Convention Center

THE SCROLL SCREENING 7:00 P.M. in the Sanctuary

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Christmas

10:00 A.M. Worship Service Only

NEW YEAR’S EVE SERVICES 7:00 P.M. and 10:00 P.M.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT With Adlan Cruz

SPECIAL GUESTS Dr. A.R. Bernard & William McDowell


From the Media Ministry


...and all through the house Not a creature was praying, not one in the house. Their Bibles were lain on the shelf without care In hope that Jesus would not come there. The children were dressing to crawl into bed. Not once ever kneeling or bowing a head. And mom in her rocker with baby on her lap Was watching the Late Show while I took a nap. When out of the East there arose such a clatter. I sprang to my feet to see what was the matter. Away to the window I flew like a flash Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash!

When what to my wondering eyes should appear But angels proclaiming that Jesus was here. With a light like the sun sending forth a bright ray I knew in a moment this must be The Day! The light of His face made me cover my head It was Jesus! Returning like He had said. And though I possessed worldy wisdom and wealth, I cried when I saw Him in spite of myself. In the Book of Life which He held in His hand Was written the name of every saved man. He spoke not a word as He searched for my name, When He said, “It’s not here” my head hung in shame. The people whose names has been written with love He gathered to take to His Father above. With those who were ready He rose without a sound While all the rest were left standing around. I fell to my knees, but it was too late, I had waited too long and thus sealed my fate. I stood and I cried as they rose out of sight, Oh, if only I had been ready tonight! In the words of this poem the meaning is clear, The coming of Jesus is drawing near. There’s only one life and when comes that last call We’ll find that the Bible was true for us all.

‘Twas the night before Jesus Came ...

Memories…Longtime Word of Faith members

reflect on the early years.



C Congratulations Word of Faith Cathedral on 20 wonderful, glorious years! As a product of Word of Faith, my fondest memory was in 1993 when I heard a sermon from Bishop Bronner entitled, “Turning Points.” That day was unequivocally a turning point in my life. A prophetic word was spoken that turned my heart from engineering to ministry. Today, I am a pastor because of that prophetic word. Thank you Bishop Bronner for allowing the Lord to speak prophetically through you. We honor and love you!

Rev. Reginald Garmon, D.Min. - Senior Pastor

Word of Faith Love Center M My most memorable event at WOF occurred twenty years ago when I first became a member. I had been going through a spiritual drought at my previous church where I had served for over fifteen years. After experiencing an anointed ser-vice, I decided to return to my previous church and submit my resignation from the many boards and ministries on which I held leadership positions. The spirit to join Word of Faith was heavy on me, but I sat through the invitation to membership. Bishop prayed and received the members that Sunday and was about to give the benediction when the Holy Spirit spoke to him and said, “No, not yet.” Bishop held up service and said that there is ONE MORE YOUNG MAN! He then gave an account of everything that I was going through and announced that I was waiting to recommit my life, later. He yielded to the Holy Spirit and said the Lord said “TODAY!” I got up, came forward, and joined! Bishop laid hands on me, prophesied over my life. PRAISE GOD, MY LIFE HAS NEVER BEEN THE SAME!

Darrell Hayes


O Our first visit to the church occurred in the summer of 1992. We had seen this preacher on cable who was really teaching the word with clarity and under-standing. We remember back then when we entered the sanctuary for the first time there were only enough members to fill about a third of the center pews. There were also ropes being used to close off the remaining pews. The thing that really impressed us was how prompt and orderly the service was, and also how welcome we felt to be in attendance. After this initial visit we knew that this was where the Lord was leading us to worship. One of our most memorable events occurred during one of the first watch-night services held at the church, when just before midnight everyone joined hands and formed a prayer circle to bring in the new year. Maurice and Selena Peoples and son Maurice II

I I have awesome memories of how God be-gan to use Dale Bronner, a teenager in a classroom with five other students witnessing about the indwelling of God’s Holy Spirit. His audience increased at a Southwest High School assembly with 1,500 students and staff. Later, Dale Bronner became Rev. Dale Bronner, pastor of Word of Faith Family Worship Center in East Point, Georgia. To-day, Bishop Dale C. Bronner is the pastor of Word of Faith Family Worship Cathedral with a congregation of 20,000 plus. I’m de-lighted because I am a chartered member and ordained minister of Word of Faith. I have

been able to be a part of sowing seed, watering and to see God get the increase. I rejoice be-cause I witness God’s church being built on prayer, love and the Word. To God be the glory. We welcome everyone to the family of God through faith in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I love you all, Rev. Edna Dillard


I It is indeed an honor to extend a warm congratula-tions to Bishop Dale C. and Dr. Nina Bronner, and my Word of Faith Family on this 20th anniversary celebration. I have 12 years of fond foundational memories that has and will continue to sustain me for the rest of my life. Word of Faith is where I learned the true principles of leadership and the re-sponsibility one has when they accept the role. It was indeed a pleasure and privilege to serve as the Hostess Ministry Founding Chair. It enabled me to interact and to be impacted by so many. I am so ap-preciative of all the lessons I learned, love I re-ceived, and the support given. Keep moving, Keep growing, and Keep inspiring. The Sky and Beyond Is The Limit! With All My Love, Deborah C. Hardnett

B Best wishes to Bishop Bronner for the 20 years he has faithfully taught the word of God! My WOF membership goes back to 1995 and during much of the time since then, I have been actively involved in the Resource Ministry, formerly known as the Tape Ministry. This ministry is one that has been a tremendous blessing to me, in that the “Word” on tape, CD, etc. truly reaches the lost and teaches the found! One of the most sought after recordings over the years is one entitled “Things Happen.” It came out in November 1997 and continues to be in demand today. I am still very excited to be a part of this ministry knowing that many lives will be touched and transformed as a result of our work. Happy Anniversary and thank you Bishop for feeding us all with sound biblical instruction.

Michael Dickerson


O One day in particular stands out as the most profound. It was a winter ice storm in 1996. The storm came on a Saturday night. On Sunday morning the condition of the streets was almost impassable. We lived near the church and along with some other members and we all braved the weather to see the condition of the church grounds and building. The driveway was iced over, power was out in the area, some trees were down and limbs were in the path leading to the church. Then Pastor Bronner was called and informed of the circum-stances. His response was, “Can you all get some can-dles and a generator? I will be there soon!” We did our best and followed the Pastor’s request. The eleven o’clock service started on time with twenty five or thirty members in attendance. We had praise and wor-ship and the message. What a blessed moment in time! Deacon Johnnie & Beverly Simmons

O Our fondest memories of Word of Faith are the moments from serving in various ministries being exposed to the diversity of the Body of Christ. Those opportunities of servitude shaped and impacted our lives during the roaring nineties of Word of Faith. We can never forget the powerful Healing Service conducted by Bishop in which the following service a bird flew through the sanctuary. This watering hole afforded us salvation, baptism, matrimony, ordination, and the launching of Word of Faith Light of Joy Church. Word of Faith has served as the most important developmental element in our life by leading us to a relationship with Jesus the Christ and teaching us leadership skills. However, we will never forget the historic moment when Moses (Bishop) led us across Riverside from the Tabernacle to the Cathedral. It was like leaving the wilderness going to the Promise Land. This is an awesome place to worship. Congratulations, my Kingdom Family on twenty years of changing the world. Pastor Frank & Miriam Salters Word of Faith Light of Joy


Lloyd Caldway, Jr.

Gilbert Hunter Edward Guy

say cheese! Word of Faith Photographers

D uring this 20th anniversary of the church, the Media Ministry would like to give special

thanks and appreciation to our official WOF photographers. Lloyd, Edward and Gilbert have captured the essence of the ministry, the spirit of it’s leaders and congregation over the years. We look forward to working with all of them in the future!


with Chef Hairston

Shrimp and Crab Bisque

2 Cans Condensed Cream of Shrimp Soup 2 Cups Heavy Cream** 2 Ounces White Wine (preferably Chardonnay) 1 Pound Large Cooked Shrimp (Diced) 8 Ounces Lump Crab Meat 1 Tablespoon Garlic Powder 1 Tablespoon Grated Parmesan Cheese Dash Kosher or Sea Salt Dash Coarse Ground Black Pepper

Combine soup, cream, white wine and ½ of the diced shrimp in a blender. Blend ingredients on low setting until achieving a semi-smooth consistency. Pour mixture in a large sauce pan and add remaining shrimp, crab meat, garlic powder, parmesan cheese, salt and black pepper. Cook over medium heat for 5-6 minutes (do not allow to boil). Makes about 5-6 servings.

**For anyone who is lactose intolerant, you may substitute Lactaid brand or soy milk for heavy cream in this recipe.

Cuban Black Bean Soup

∼ 1 medium chopped onion ∼ 4 cloves minced garlic ∼ 1 tablespoon ground cumin ∼ 2 tablespoon canola oil ∼ 3 16oz cans black beans ∼ 1 14oz can chicken broth ∼ 1 16oz jar chunky salsa (mild-hot depending on taste

preference) ∼ 1/2 cup sour cream

Cook and stir onion, garlic and cumin in oil over medium heat in large saucepan for about 3 minutes. Place 1 can of the beans and half of the broth in a blender or food processor and blend until pureed. Add to ingredients in saucepan. Repeat with second can of beans and remaining broth. Add remaining can of beans and salsa to saucepan mixture; mix well. Bring to a boil on medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low; simmer 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Ladle soup into serving bowls. Top each serving with about a tablespoon of sour cream. Delicioso!!!

Congratulations Bishop Dale C. Bronner and

Word of Faith Family Worship Cathedral

ANSWERS:

Across: 2. Hammond; 4. Grip; 6. Franklin; 8. Lofton; 9. Smiley; 11. Potters; 14: Charles; 16. Spelman; 17. Riverside; 18. Things; 19: Jane; 20. PUSH Down: 1. Judah; 3. Olive; 4. Garmon; 5. Voices; 7. Morehouse; 10. CeCe; 12. Salters; 13: WheatStreet; 15. Loose; 19. John; 21. Blackshear

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1. Bishop Dale C. Bronner 2. Dr. A. R. Bernard 3. Chester Barnes 4. Danielle Smith 5. Mother Robbie Bronner 6. Jocelyn Hairston 7. Dr. Nina Bronner 8. Rev. Reginald Garmon 9. Dr. Hubert Cobb and Mother

Dorothy Cobb 10. Marsetta Ray 11. James Richardson 12. Deacon Robert Lofton 13. Mother Emma Rowland 14. Derrick and Nakeisha Myers

COVER IDENTIFICATION KEY

Congratulations

Documents

Word of Faith Times · that would govern the heavenly principalities and thus transform earthly communities where each EKKLESIA was established. The idea of conversion was not merely