July/August 2015

JULY/AUGUST 2015 • VOL 2, No. 4A BI-MONTHLY NEWS MAGAZINE OFSAINT MARK BAPTIST CHURCHYouthontheGrowOUTSTANDINGYOUTHSocial SOCIALAdvocacyADVOCACYFindingaJUSTCAUSE

JULY/AUGUST 2015CONTENTS20YOUTH ON THE GROWCelebrating Achievementsof our Outstanding Youth6LOVE IN ACTIONMission Teams Spread Lovearound the world8SOCIAL ADVOCACYFinding a Just CauseHow to Get Involved in the CommunityALSO IN THIS ISSUE:Pastor’s Heart 3Loving Outwardly 4Loving Inwardly 12Loving Our Present 16Loving Our Future 18Let’s Celebrate 462 // GROWTH CONNECTIONS

PASTOR’SHEARTSaint Mark Family and Friends,Glory be to God as we approach the recognition of our third year as pastorand people. God continues to show Himself mighty through this ministryand I am blessed to serve as pastor at Saint Mark. We have reached somemajor milestones, not just in the construction of the Children and Youth Center, but inthe lives of individuals as well. The testimonies that you continue to share with me abouthow the Love Epidemic is touching your life are encouraging and uplifting. Please keepsharing.Our series focus for the month of August is Becoming Barnabas. It is my prayer thatyou and I grow in humility and service to one another by becoming genuineencouragers. Loving outwardly truly involves giving our all forthe benefit of others. In this issue you will see ways that membersof our church are stepping outside of their comfort zones to meet theneeds of strangers through missions trips.One of our members shares the importance of social advocacyand encourages us to become active to improve life in our localcommunity. By getting involved in our schools, in government, and inour neighborhoods, we can directly impact the lives of those around us.Be sure to share your testimonies of your involvement in the communityby email and social media. Remember the church cannot consider itselfspiritual if it is not also social.We also feature some gifted and talented young people in this issue. We needto continue to step up and help shape a better and brighter future for our youthand this community by letting our voices be heard. We can sit around and talkabout change, but until we become a part of the process of change our talking isin vain. Let’s all find more ways that we can be the light God hascalled us to be so that others might be led to a closer relationshipwith Jesus.With All Christian Sincerity,Phillip L. Pointer, Sr.JULY/AUGUST 2015 // 3

OUTWARDLYEncouraging members to becomeregularly involved in communityservice through volunteerism andadvocating for social justice

LOVING OUTWARDLYMORE THAN$268,000in savingsfor parentsThe 2015 Back to School HealthFair was a great success. This yearwe served 517 children, savingparents more than $268,000 inhealth care costs. Our team of nearly300 volunteers, including UAMS medicalstudents, provided excellent service anddirection for attendees.participants from their Zero line of products asa healthier alternative to regular drinks.Arvest Bank, Goddess Products,and Walgreens also helped tomake the event possible. A bigthank you goes out to all thosewho participated!New to the list of partners thisyear was Coca Cola, whichprovided refreshments toJULY/AUGUST 2015 // 5

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LoveinACTIONMission Teams Take Love Epidemic to Streets of New York, HaitiNEW YORKBy Brodes C. PerryIn July, the young adults of SaintMark had the opportunity to doservant evangelism on the streetsof New York City. Our goal wasto be salt and light and handsand feet as we shared God’slove and granola bars. Whoknew something that simple wouldopen the door to share Chris andpray for and encourage people as weencountered them each day of our7-day experience.I was so grateful to serve with the Journey Church in NYC. Even thougha free granola bar wasn’t much, many people were touched and thankfulfor the gesture. Many people were hesitant to accept them because it’suncommon to receive something free. I let them know I care about peopleand that God loves them too. I did experience some negative reactionsand some rejected me, however I was able to still be positive and share mysmile. My most touching moment was with a woman living on the streetshared with me some challenges she faced. During our conversation shetold me that she wanted to pray but didn’t know what to say, so immediatelyI asked her would she like me to pray for her. She welcomed it with joy. Thiswas a humbling experience.~ Amanda MillerBy Wanda McGeeIn June fourteen missionaries traveled to Pignon,Haiti with a mission to renovate a playground andpresent a women’s conference. The Fruit of the Spiritwas the subject for the three-day conference attended by147 women. The team also delivered purses collected bythe Saint Mark Women’s Ministry to those in attendance.HAITIThe other focus of the trip, the playground renovation,required sand and rocks to be trucked in and spreadin the hot sun. The team worked together to make theschool playground a place of brightness and fun for thekids. Several gallons of paint were used to brighten theplayground equipment. Also at the school the teachersupply closet was cleaned and reorganized.

SOCIALADVOCACY:a process by anindividual or groupwhich aims toinfluence decisionswithin political,economic, andsocial systemsand institutions.

Social SOCIAL Ad ADFindingaJUSTCAUSEBailey Perkins, 25, is a native ofOklahoma who has resided in LittleRock for almost a year. She conductsresearch analysis as a policyadvocate for Arkansas Advocatesfor Children and Families. Her workaffects moderate to low incomefamilies in the state of Arkansas.Perkins was chosen and placed inArkansas by The Center on Budgetand Priorities in Washington D. C.,which selects five individuals annuallyto receive a two-year fellowship inorganizations across the nation. Asa member of Saint Mark, Perkinsis active in the Sanctuary Choir.We sat down with her to betterunderstand social advocacy and howSaint Mark members can get activeand Love Outwardly.By Roline ThomasQ: What is social advocacy?A: Social advocacy is using your voice topromote an issue or idea that you believe in;something you believe will make a differencenot only for yourself but for other peoplearound you. Social advocacy is having anunderstanding of how you want to see theworld, knowing who is able to make thosechanges, continuing to push for them.Q: Who or what influenced yourinvolvement and helped foster apassion for social advocacy?A: I grew up with my mother andgrandmother who fought hard to ensure wehad opportunities. I went through struggles,and I saw other people go through strugglesthat I thought were not fair. I’ve always beentold if you don’t like it change it. My goal isto spread opportunities to other folks.Q: What does social advocacylook like?A: There are so many ways that socialadvocacy can present itself. It can be in theform of going to the state capitol and talking“It takes peoplestanding togetherto make the changeyou want happen.”to your legislator. It could be in the form ofmaking a Facebook status about a particularissue that is affecting you and sharing thatwith your family and friends. It could be inthe form of signing a petition. It takes peoplestanding together to make the changeyou want happen. The greatest example[currently] is the Black Lives Mattermovement.Q: You mentioned social mediato bring awareness. Is there a risein advocacy on social media andhow effective do you believe it is?10 // GROWTH CONNECTIONS

vocacy: VOCACY:A: Social media is just a tool. It is animportant tool, but it does not replacetraditional activism. It’s important to takeadvocacy a step further like contactingyour state legislator, schools, and talking toothers. It takes a lot more than Facebook tobring about change. Facebook has to leadto other actions.Q: How do you know whichgroups are effective and whichare being a distraction?A: You’ll know by the results that happen.Over time you will know that a certain groupis not reaching its goals and not drivingany change. Are you reading about thesegroups in the news? Who is talking aboutthese groups? The level of influence is alsoa way you can determine the effectivenessof these groups.Q: How can the church getinvolved?A: One of my biggest concerns is thatthe black church is not as involved insocial and policy change as it once was.The church, at one time, was the placeto organize and develop strategies andeven as a place of protection, nourishmentand shelter. Today, political engagementin the black church has become limitedto voter registration drives and invitingpolitical candidates to worship servicewhich are still important things, but I wouldlike to see members of the church take astand and lead the way in pushing policiesand social changes that bring fairness andopportunities for everyone. Some of theissues today are still as critical as they wereduring the civil rights movement. We are stillhaving conversations about voters’ rights.If we don’t get involved we will start turningback history and move in the direction wedon’t want to go. We have so far to go on somany issues that affect people every day.Bottom Line: We have not arrived!Get involved in social advocacy.BAILEYPERKINS’IDEAS FOR YOUNG ADVOCATESYouth involvement in social issues is high right now. Protests, such as Black Lives Matter, are youth driven. Andwhile there are many critical issues, I want to highlight four issues that are important for young people to care aboutright now:DIVERSITY AND REPRESENTATION: The voicesof women, millennials, and people of color are still missing in policydecisions. The biggest reason is that many from those groups aren’tsitting at “the table.” We need more women, people of color, andpeople under the age of 35 participating on local or state boards,commissions, and running for positions of influence.CRIMINAL AND JUVENILE JUSTICE: Studiesshow that African American children are overpoliced andunderprotected in and out of school. Black males are suspendedthree times more often than their white counterparts and black girlsfive times more often. The more time a student spends out of school,the higher the risk becomes of falling behind or dropping out. Thisall filters into the criminal justice system where black people are overrepresented.AFFORDABLE HIGHER EDUCATION: Studentloan debt is burdening 40 million Americans, especially low andmoderate income families of color. On average, students owe$30,000 in loans. Many students don’t leave their college witha degree or some don’t make enough after graduation to cover theamount they owe in loans. This debt keeps them from doing things likesaving for retirement or a rainy day, buying a home, or getting married.It keeps people from being able to start businesses. So, it’s vital thatyoung people take a stand and share their stories to legislators so thatthey can make college truly affordable.THE ENVIRONMENT: Young Americans must beginthinking about the future of our planet. We are contaminating ourair and water, damaging the earth, and making some of our naturalresources and wildlife extinct. Young people have to be the voice forsustainability.JULY/AUGUST 2015 // 11

12 // GROWTH CONNECTIONSINWARDLYMaking sure every memberknows they are valuableand cared for

Focusing onyour financial growthFOR INDIVIDUALSA five-week offering of classesproviding information on topicsincluding budgeting, investments,retirement, estate planning andmore.FOR BUSINESSESThe five-week business componentproviding business lessons inmarketing your business, findingfunding for your business and manyother business topics.COST: FREEA great way togrow in ChristA series of classes designed toteach Christians how to live theireveryday lives in ways that arepleasing and acceptable to Godand become mature disciples ofChrist who devote our heartsand souls to God. Learn how tomake Christ the center of your life,through studying the Bible andmemorizing and obeying scripture.You will also learn about TheGreat Commission and how toshare the Gospel of Jesus Christwith others.COST: $10 per bookIn-depth topical studyof God’s WordTHEOLOGYLearn about the nature of Godand His relation to the world.APOLOGETICSLearn how to defend your faith inconversation with others.REVELATIONNew to the curriculum this yearfor those interested in an in depthstudy of the end times is theRevelation course.COST: $50 + booksJULY/AUGUST 2015 // 13

WomenRemindedofGod’s loveSAN ANTONIO TRIP REFRESHINGBy Deborah WoodsThe 2015 Saint Mark Women’s Retreatwas held in the beautiful city of SanAntonio, Texas. Women gatheredtogether for worship and fellowshipfocused on the theme “LavishlyLoved by God.”Linda Wilson did an excellent job ofserving as our Worship Leader. Herheartfelt devotions set the atmospherefor each session. Mary Porter and StarWicker reminded the ladies in the Fridayevening session that God’s love for us is“Love Overboard.” The ladies weregiven heart-shaped cards and askedto tape them to their backs so that wecould all write expressions of love andappreciation to each other.Our Saturday morning session, “Throughthe Eyes of Love,” was conducted byRoShone Kelly and myself. The ladiesworked in groups to complete exercisescentered around our love theme. Eachperson was given a pair of 3D glassesand a 3D portrait and challenged todescribe their view with and without theglasses. They were encouraged to seethat God loves us past the surface. Heloves us in a deeper and richer way thanwe can see and understand with naturaleyes.The weekend was a wonderfultime of renewal, refreshment andretail therapy.14 // GROWTH CONNECTIONS

LOVINGINWARDLYNEW MEMBERSIn June and July 2015 we welcomed 67 membersto the Saint Mark church family.BCDEFHSharmaine BaileyEmiko BostonAnaya BoykinsRobert C. BrownGordon CallawayLatasha CallawayChristopher CarterBrian Cole Jr.Chastity CollinsChristal ConwayValencia CorrothersAlice DedmonJasmine EstellAlandra FallonKennedy FallonJoy FlukerDakeya HabershamJonathan HabershamKenya HatchBrandon HoustonLameeka HowardJackson HughesTosheba HughesDianne HynesJLMNJasper JacksonVictoria JeffersonAngel JohnsonCarol JonesFred JonesRyan JonesShirley JonesTyra C. JonesJames JuarezShalisca LoudermilkChristopher LoweMarkayla LoweJeanvie MbaniDeddrick McElroyAriel McFaddenMeredith MeltonCornell MitchellStephanie MitchellAndrea MooreJaylon MooreLarry MooreLaShondra NewsomLakeisha NolenAshley NunerleyOPRSTWLoreen OrageKendre Owens-HarperLeAnn PerkinsYvonne RawlinsLatina RobinsonMarshaylah RhodesKody RidoutHoward Sanders, Jr.Judy SandersLeaundra SandersBrianna ShacklefordPrincella SmithAmber SwopesRegina ThomasLysander TrambleKarmella WhiteVernon WileyKenneth L. WilliamsRyan WilliamsJULY/AUGUST 2015 // 15

OUR PRESENTHelping the men of Saint Markbecome godly leaders in the home,church and our community

LOVINGOUR PRESENTPhoto Credit: Oak Cliff Bible FellowshipBy Eric WalkerInspiring take-awaysFROMDallas TripThe entire experience for the men of Saint Markwho journeyed to the No More Excuses Men’sConference in Dallas in July was phenomenal. Itwas awesome seeing multiple generations of men comingtogether for a common purpose, to worship God. Theconference was inspiring and enlightening. At the same timewe were able to relax and enjoy the entertainment — KirkFranklin was hilarious.Former NFL Player and Coach Mike Singletary discussed hisdifficult upbringing and emphasized that the love of God wasthe sustaining force in his life that ultimately led to his success.Twin entrepreneurs The Benham Brothers’ made apresentation that really energized the crowd. They said no topotentially earning millions of dollars from a reality TV show tostand by their belief in Christ and his teachings. It had to havebeen a difficult decision when the world pressures you to acceptand normalize situations that are counter to the Word of God.The Benhams’ ability to stand for their beliefs andpractice Christian love is something all men shouldstrive for. It was a moving presentation. Dr. Tony Evansclosed the conference by inspiring us all to be better men forour families and communities.JULY/AUGUST 2015 // 17

18 // GROWTH CONNECTIONSOUR FUTUREHelping our children developspiritually and educationally throughthe new Children and Youth Center

We enter the third month ofconstruction with major progresson the project.FOUNDATION WORK:The construction crews have completed the ten footwide footings and a one foot wide diaghram wall, orD-wall, that will be the main support for the structure.Now the crews will begin work on the remainder ofthe foundation for the Children and Youth Center.DEMO WORK:The old breezeway from the Worship Center to theFamily Life Center and outer storage unit were torndown to construct the new atrium.In addition, all utilities have been rerouted. In thecoming days look to see concrete slabs poured andsteel work to begin.More photos are available in the MySaintMarksection of SMARK.ORG.JULY/AUGUST 2015 // 19

YouthontheGrowcelebrating youth who are excellingin academics, arts & entertainment,leadership, social/community service,and sportsOUTSTANDI

ecognizing the gifts andtalents of our young peopleis never hard.We askedmembers tonominate youthto highlight inthis issue of Growth Connections.As students prepare to head backto school in the fall, not only are wecelebrating these students and theirachievements and pursuits, butwe hope to provide inspiration forothers to become better learners,better givers and better servers.Two were selected in each categoryas finalists, but all who werenominated have earned a moment inthe spotlight. Here are the Youth onthe Grow for 2015.Photos taken at Little Rock Central High School and War Memorial Stadium.NG OUTSTANDING YOUTH

KENNEDYLeverettBy Teddi JohnsonKennedy Leverett has set a high bar. Academically, allof her numbers are high: 4.0 grade point average anda score of 30 on the ACT.According to her father Judge Mark Leverett,Kennedy is an extraordinary child in many respects;however, unless someone else told you, it would notbe known. She is not one to toot her own horn. Amember of the 2016 graduating class of Little RockChristian Academy, Kennedy challenges herself withan academically rigorous schedule.“At an early age, I developed a love for animals,” saysKennedy. “Ever since I can remember, I’ve desired tobecome a veterinarian after college, and this motivatesme to perform in my academics the way I do. I hope togo to veterinary school after earning my degree andactually open my own clinic.” To pursue her goal she isconsidering several schools such as Duke, WashingtonUniversity, Princeton, and University of Chicago.Her advice to high school students is to prioritize andstay organized so you don’t fall behind.“Kennedy is not only an academic leader. She is afollower of the Lord Jesus Christ, a faithful friend, anda wonderful daughter,” shared her father.ACADEMICS

ACADEMICSJAIRAPorterBy Teddi JohnsonJaira Porter is motivated. When asked where hermotivation comes from she replied, “I am motivatedbecause I need scholarships to go out of state, and Iwant to go out of the state for school.”As a rising junior at Pulaski Academy, she boasts a3.9 grade point average and excels in honors classessuch as Spanish and Chemistry. Jaira also earnedthe highest medal in Algebra 2 for the 2014-2015academic year. A member of the 2017 graduatingclass, she aspires to be a Chemical Engineer aftergraduating from college.At school she is entering her third year on the seniorhigh Pom Squad, is a member of the National BetaClub, National Honor Society, Diversity Club, SpanishClub, Culinary Club, and Fellowship of ChristianAthletes. At church she is a member of Female Rites ofPassage and Expressions Dance Ministry.She advises younger girls to “study before the tests,read a lot of books, and don’t let one bad gradedetermine your outcome for the rest of the school year.”Jaira Porter has high aspirations and she is motivatedto reach them.

RODTAVIOUSWattsBy Angela NewkirkRodtavious Watts embodies the spirit of theatricalexcellence in every sense of the word. Hisaccomplishments on stage are a direct reflection of hishard work off stage.This incredible thespian has created quite a name forhimself. Parkview Magnet High School served as hislaunching pad to propel him into an impressive earlycareer in arts and theatre. It is an honor to receiverecognition from your own peers as he was named“best actor” by his 2015 graduating class and hasbeen featured in many school performances such as“Dracula,” “Arkansas Adventures,” “Tales from theCrypt” and “Murder Mystery.”He landed his first professional role in “The Shape ofThings” by Neil La Bute set to debut in September atThe Weekend Theatre in Little Rock. Rodtavious willplay the role of Philip, while beginning his freshmansemester at the University of Central Arkansas.All things are possible to those who believe and hisdetermination may one day find him cementing hisname with his own star on the Hollywood Walk ofFame.Rodtavious wants to encourage others to “keep ondreaming. There will be people who discourage you,but you must remember those who say they can andthose who say they can’t are both right.”ARTS & ENT.ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

JAYLALeeBy Angela NewkirkJayla Lee grips a can of spray paint that dispenses anaerosol mist of many liquid particles. Much like the widerange impact of the spary paint, her interests run thegamet in the area of arts and entertainment. It is thatarray of talent that sets her apart from others.Jayla’s passion is evident in all of her endeavors. Herexhilaration is birthed from a desire to succeed. Shedetermines to achieve whatever she sets her mind to.Jayla has worked with nationall-recognized fashiondesigner Korto Momolu as a design assistant forseveral years. Momolu is also the local Out-LoudArtistry coordinator for which Jayla dances. Jaylaserves as director for her dance team, the Young Stars.Jayla rates dance at the top of her list of talents andeverything else is an even second. She unreservedlyowns up to unique abilities that include painting,drawing, sewing, dancing, singing and playing thepiano. This extensive list does not define who she is,but describes what she is capable of doing. She desiresto become a fashion designer upon graduating fromParkview High School.She cautions others to never give up and to look forthe silver linings in the clouds. Additionally, she ispassionate about helping others. In the words of apopular song, ”her gifts look good on her.”ARTS & ENT.ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

LEADERSHIPMICAHBernardBy Teddi JohnsonMicah Bernard is a leader, but she says it was notalways that way. She notes that at one time it was nota big deal.“I stayed in the background, but decided this year towalk through the doors that God opens. I took a leapof faith and ran for vice-president of my senior classeven though I knew it was against the odds. Therewere a number of people competing for this office, butI persevered and won. Then, I went to Girls’ State andwon the office of Lieutenant Governor. There wereover 800 girls there.”Even before she realized she had them, others sawand admired Micah’s leadership skills. Her mother,Miriam Bernard, says Micah’s teachers raved abouthow she doesn’t mind taking risks and putting herselfon the line for her classmates during group projects. Atchurch, her Rites of Passage leaders also speak highlyabout how she helps explain to other participants whatGod expects from young women and how they are todisplay those qualities.She aspires to continue to use her aptitude to lead inschool, in church, in everything.Her advice to other young ladies is this: “Follow yourheart in everything because God is our heart.”

LEADERSHIPLAURENKingBy Teddi JohnsonWhether it is at school, at church, in extracurricularactivities such as dance and Girl Scouts, or in thecommunity, Lauren King leads in everything she does.This outstanding young woman, who is a junior at LittleRock Central High School, is maintaining a 3.5 G.P.Ain her rigorous coursework, is an active participantin Arkansas Commitment, is co-captain of Central’scheerleaders and was one of the few chosen to representCentral at the Hugh O’Bryan Youth Leadership Seminarthis past June at Henderson State University. Lauren alsoserves on the Youth Leadership Team at Saint Mark andvolunteers at Baptist Health Springhill.When asked about her motivation to operate in herleadership skills, she said, “I feel it is great to use my skillsbecause I am able to help develop others, and I like toattend leadership conferences because they leave me withnew ideas for leading.”In addition to all these accolades, Lauren has earned bothher Bronze and Silver Award in Girl Scout Troop 6659and is currently working toward her Gold Award — thehighest award in Girl Scouting.Her future plans are to attend UCLA to study medicine,become a pediatrician and establish her own practice. Shehas her eyes on medical leadership and community service.King’s advice to those younger than her: “Take whatyou have and make it better; then take a step and makethat better. Use what you have and give back to thecommunity.”

SAMUELCrawfordBy Shaun WileyBeing able to talk the talk and walk the walk is a gooddescription of Samuel Crawford. Samuel is an 11thgrader at eStem Public Charter School . Currently,he maintains high honors in the classroom, while alsodisplaying his skills throughout the community and onthe basketball court.Since 2008, Samuel has been a UAMS ScienceDiscovery program participant. He has also participatedin a homeless feeding initiative and assisted in lunchsetup and delivery for Our House. Additionally,Samuel has served as a page for the Arkansas Houseof Representatives, participated in the ArkansasMentoring and Networking Association FutureScholars, and volunteered for the Little Rock Mayor’sYouth Council projects. Samuel serves as a leadershipparticipant in the 100 Black Men of Greater LittleRock and Empowering Males to Build Opportunitiesfor Developing Independence.Even though he misses hanging out with friends attimes, Samuel believes not serving is not an option. Thebenefits outweigh the costs. “I love the feeling I get afterknowing I’ve done something positive,” Samuel says.Samuel wants other youth to know a small act of servicecan have big results. “Whatever you can do to help inyour community, do it!”COMMUNITYSOCIAL SERVICE

COMMUNITYSOCIAL SERVICEMAKYNZIWatson-WilliamsBy Shaun WileyMakynzi Watson-Williams, an 11th grader at ParkviewHigh School, is all about making a difference inside andoutside of the classroom. She is a straight A student andcontributes many hours to community service organizationsaround central Arkansas.Makynzi has served as a member of the North Little RockMayor’s Youth Council since 2013. As a member of thisorganization, she helps feed the homeless at the SalvationArmy, participates in fundraisers for the ArkansasRice Depot, and raises vegetables to benefit the lessfortunate. Additionally, Makynzi volunteers at the NorthRidge Nursing Home and enjoys interacting with theresidents there. She said the best thing about serving hercommunity is “the response I get back from the people I’mhelping. It makes me feel good.”The positive response that Makynzi receives has inspiredher to start her own charity called Cans for Kids. Thecharity will seek to partner with the North Little RockMayor’s Youth Council and Parkview High School’sStudent Council to identify needy children. All canscollected will be turned in for money and given to thosechildren identified. Makynzi hopes the charity will startcollecting cans for the upcoming holiday season. Herultimate goal is to be able to collect year-round andprovide for needy children.She tells others who want to serve: “Volunteering is easier todo if you connect through a group because you will find morevolunteer opportunities. You can reach more people.”

KAMRONBrasfieldBy Roline ThomasKamron Brasfield demonstrates the characteristicsof an outstanding youth at school, church and on thebasketball court.Kamron is a junior at Episcopal Collegiate Schoolwhere he is a member of the Boys Varsity BasketballTeam and Yearbook Club. He completed the academicschool year with a 3.0 grade point average andcontributed to winning the 3A state championship withthe boy’s varsity team. Kamron also helps to coach thegirl’s football team.Kamron’s summer was very eventful as he lead oneof Arkansas’ best 16U/10th Grade AAU BasketballTeams to multiple 1st place tournament finishes inregional and national competition. He has also beenhighlighted twice on Future150.com, a nationalgrassroots basketball recruiting site.SPORTSKamron is a member of Saint Mark’s Youth LeadershipTeam which helps plan programs and events. He is alsoa member of Male Rites of Passage and volunteers inthe Media Ministry when he is not participating in teenchurch.“My motivation comes from my desire to be successfulin life. I strive daily to please God, my parents, andmy younger siblings. I want to help my peers come toChrist, obtain good grades and be respectful of others.I want to live my life as a road map for my siblings to oneday can follow.

SPORTSK.J.HillBy Teddi JohnsonWhat drives him is to one day play in the NFL. His recordsays he is on his way. His accolades tell what needs to beknown about the champion in Reneard “KJ”Hill.K.J. has excelled tremendously in high school athletics.The proof is shown in the following honors he has receivedin football as a standout wide receiver: Arkansas DemocratGazette All-Arkansas Preps Male Athlete of the Year,Little Rock Touchdown Club recognition for ArkansasDemocrat Gazette’s 7A Offensive Player of the Year, andHooten’s 7A Offensive Player of the Year.His talent has not only been noted locally, but he has alsowon awards on a national stage. In Nike’s “The Opening”SPARQ Competition he was chosen as the 2015 ArmyBowl All-American Wide Receiver. Out of 21,000overall competitors he ranked in the top ten performances.K.J. was ranked by ESPN as the #18 wide receiver andthe #208 overall prospect in the nation. He also helped tolead North Little Rock High School to the 2014 and 2015state basketball championships.K.J.’s advice for younger athletes: “Hard work is thekey. Talent is not enough; you have to perfect your craftbecause someone is always trying to be better than you.”He has accepted a four-year scholarship to OhioState University in Columbus, Ohio, and is enrolledas a freshman. He seeks to earn a degree in SportsManagement.

YOUTH MORE ON YOUTH THE ON THE GROWSiera Love, 10Briahna Willis, 15Kiara Richardson, 18 Devhan Nelson, 15Breana Hicks, 14 Kennedy Hicks, 12 Jadyn Hicks, 9 Olivia Parks, 16Erica-Grace Holmes, 9 Brooke Smith, 7Stephanie Washington, 16SOCIAL SERVICEJoseph Hardy, 17Tyranni Hubbard, 14LEADERSHIPACADEMICSACADEMICSARTS & ENT.LEADERSHIPACADEMICSACADEMICSACADEMICSACADEMICSACADEMICSSPORTSLEADERSHIPARTS & ENT.ARTS & ENT.Taylor Colquit, 17Charles Thomas III, 11

YouthSummerTrips BROADENHorizonsKAA Camp LifechangingOur Saint Mark Youth attendedKids Across America (KAA) andwere absolutely blown away by theawesome experience!KAA is an impactful youth summercamp held in Branson, Missouri thatseeks to meet the need “to buildChristian leaders by encouraging,equipping, and empowering urban youthand their mentors through camping andeducation.” Youth Pastor Justin Bilsonattended the camp and believes this tripwas “one of the greatest investmentsthat we have made this year.”Blair King, an eager KAA camper,said, “While at Kids Across America,I chose to ring the bell which meantthat I was giving my life to Christ. Afterseeing the presentation on how Jesuswas crucified, It made me want to sharethe Word of God with my friends and Ihope they give their life to Christ, too!It feels great!”Youth LeadersExposed to Big AppleThis summer the Saint Mark YouthMinistry was blessed to take theyouth leadership team to New YorkCity. The goal of this trip was toexpose them to the sights and soundsof the Big Apple. While in NYC,the group took a tour of the Statue ofLiberty, the 9/11 Memorial and theRockfeller building. They also wentto see the exciting and thrilling “BlueMan Group” Broadway show.There were many fun momentson this trip, but the highlight wason Friday, July 24th when fourof our students recommitted theirlives to Christ during the MISFITyouth service at Christ Tabernaclein Brooklyn, NY. Our studentswere able to see youth of differentethnicities and backgroundsworshipping God together. This tripproved to be a great time of fun andrefreshing for our students!Dorsey ConventionGreat ExperienceThe National Convention of GospelChoirs and Choruses, more commonlyknown as “The Dorsey Convention”for the Gospel music writer ThomasA. Dorsey, was held in August inJacksonville, Florida. Fourteenmembers of our Chosen GenerationChoir attended this great experience.The Conference is a week-long sessionof learning new music and buildingnew friendships and lasting memories,all while strengthening ministryskills. Featured at the conference werenationallyk n o w npreachersand gospelartists.Several of our youth were alsopriviledged to be resident backgroundsingers for many of the nationally knownartists during this convention. All of ouryouth and young adults participatedin the choir concert and representedSaint Mark and our music ministry withgreat skill and ability. We have so muchto be proud of!JULY/AUGUST 2015 // 43

TESTIMONIESLIFE EXPERIENCEshapes a compassionate heartDevelyn (Dee) Lewis, a member of Saint Mark, has had along relationship with the Dorcas House. It is a relationshipthat grew from her experience as a child. Her mom was in anabusive relationship when she was young. Develyn says that ifit had not been for family, that she knows it would have beenplaces like the Dorcas House that would have assisted herand her mom when they decided to leave the abusive situation.Because of her compassion for people in those situations, sheoften donates to the Dorcas House and invites others to joinwith her efforts.Last year she had a birthday party and she asked her friendsto donate school supplies instead of buying her a gift. This yearshe has been asked by others if they can attend the party andhelp with the worthy cause.Recently, Dee got a call from a complete stranger. The ladyidentified herself and told Dee that the Dorcas House hadreferred her. The lady told Dee her story of addiction to drugs,and having no family support and no place to live. She alsoshared that she was pregnant. Dee called Pastor Hersey andfrom there they have helped the young lady in several ways.They assisted her in finding a place to live and helped her getdonations of items for her new baby to help her get on her feet.Dee has been keeping in close contact in hopes that she will beable to help the young lady get a job soon.Knowing Dee personally, and knowing why she is so passionateabout the Dorcas House, sharing her story was an amazingfeat in itself. Sharing personal stories of abuse are always hard.Her openness to share really shows that her life was impactedfor the good despite such a negative experience in her earlyyears. She is truly expressing God’s love in the lives of those atthe Dorcas House.LaShaun WileySENDYOUR#loveepidemicTESTIMONIESloveepidemic@smark.org44 // GROWTH CONNECTIONS

OTHERS SHAREtestimonies of acts of kindnessPAYING IT FORWARDGRATEFUL HEARTSGod has blessed me in some miraculous ways!My Love Epidemic Testimony is how much Ilove my Saint Mark Family. You have steppedin in so many ways from assistance with my billsto helping with Christmas for my daughter andI. I’m so thankful. Even with me being unemployed,losing my job at Target after three yearsthere and being a single parent, the Lord hasbeen in the blessing business here. The PrisonMinisty has also been a great blessing to us.Thank you for your love and support. Being onthe Ambassador Ministry, I have met an awesomeand Wloving group of people! I Love MySaint Mark Family! Keep me and my daughterin your prayers. Thanks!Winta and Imani BrooksHELP FROM A FRIENDA good friend of mine that is also a memberof Saint Mark paid for a hotel room for me,my husband and my son to stay in for a wedding.We needed the room mainly for my sonbecause even though he was about 13 years oldhe could not stay at home in our neighborhood(which is a high crime neighborhood). So out oflove, she wouldn’t take no for an answer and shewouldn’t let me repay her ... but maybe I couldpay it forward and spread the Love Epidemic ...this is my goal.~anonymousJULY/AUGUST 2015 // 45

LET’S CELEBRATETINA SHELTONEarns First-Degree Black Belt StatusTina Shelton earned her First-Degree Black Belt inTaekwondo in June. She joins her daughter, Kiera,who earned her black belt in October 2014. They havetrained for more than two years to accomplish thesemilestones. Tina is the Arkansas State Champion in sixdifferent categories for her age group. She was the2014 District Champion in Sparring.CIERRA KELLYCrowned Miss Dansarts 2015Cierra Nicole Kelly, fifth year dance student at TheCenter for the Dansarts under the direction of C.Michael Tidwell, was crowned “Miss Dansarts 2015,”at the annual dance recital held in June. She wasawarded a full tuition dance scholarship for the 2015-2016 school year.DESTINY BUCKNERSelected for Scholars ProgramDestiny Buckner, an 8th grader, was one of only twentystudents from around the state selected to attend the2015 UALR Engineers Scholars Program, a one-weekintensive studies program. They built robots, remotecontrol cars, and other projects. Students needed a 3.7GPA or above, and Destiny maintains a 4.0.ZOE HOLLANDElected Officer for Regional UshersZoe Holland was elected Assistant Junior Director forthe Southern Regional Area of Church Ushers. Zoe hasserved with the church junior ushers for three years.LET’SCELEBRATEYOU!Send your achievements to zlherts@smark.org with a photo by September 22ndto be included in the next issue of Growth Connections.GROWTHCONNECTIONSis a bi-monthly news magazineof the Saint Mark Baptist Church,Little Rock, AR.This publication is producedthrough the Media & MarketingDivision of our church.eNews Team: Rodney Armstrong,Patrice Bax, Natasha Brown, BrandiDoan, Terrie Ellington, Jerry Hall,Tammy Harrell, Danielle Haynes,Jennice Haynes, Zeornee’ Herts,Teddi Johnson, Anthony Moore,Angela Newkirk, Keya Pointer,Roline Thomas, Corey Wiley,LaShaun Wiley.Celebrations: Submit jpg photosand information to zlherts@smark.orgAdvertising: Rates and sizes areavailable upon request.For more information or tovolunteer, contact Zeornee’ Herts,zlherts@smark.org, or at 663-3955ext. 230.46 // GROWTH CONNECTIONS

ArvEsT BANK PrESEnTS:THE DOLLArs MAKING sENsECOMMUNITY ENrICHMENT PrOGrAMCOMMITTED TO COMMUNITY• Do you want to learn more about managing your credit?• Does buying a home seem like an impossibility for you?• Are you having a hard time saving money or getting ajumpstart on your way to financial security?If you answered yes to any of these questions, you should learn more aboutArvest Bank’s Economic Empowerment Workshop series. Steps to homeownership,credit management and repair, and tips to wealth creation are all available for you.To learn more about Arvest Bank’s community efforts through theDollars Making Sense Community Enrichment Program, visit us atarvestgivesback.com.Member FDIC

WAYS TOCONNECTWe encourage you to stay in touch with usthrough our social media channels and atSMARK.ORG.@saintmarklr@plpointer5722 West 12th Street Little Rock, Arkansas 72204501.663.3955501.663.4924