Well, as summer rolls into fall, Brotherhood’s schedule just keeps rolling on. Summer is usually a slow season, but it’s been sizzlin’ hot (figuratively and actually) as God has opened up the doors for added ministry! Brotherhood kicked off August at the Navair Prayer Breakfast where we ministered to military personnel in an office setting. This has become an annual event that we enjoy even though it’s very early in the morning! Dan had the opportunity to share from his heart, as well. Phil had to wait his turn until Saturday…
Then, we rolled into successive weekend concerts in the Central Florida area: a Women’s AGLOW benefit in Winter Park and an Encounter Rally in Mascotte. These are two “opposite of the spectrum” outreaches – one towards women and the other geared to men. We had a wonderful, spirit-filled time in concert in both places and food and fellowship followed. Just before we left Mascotte, a young woman gave her heart to the Lord, praise God! Pray with Brotherhood, that the message delivered in song and word continues to reach out to touch bodies, heal past wounds and draw all men (and women) closer to Him!
Monday, August 23, 2010
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
SUMMER SIZZLE & CD RELEASE
Well, Brotherhood vacation time may be drawing to a close but ministry never stops. Mel and Dan travelled to the deep South and Midwest to “scout the territory”, John is coordinating the PromiseKeepers conference in Orlando and Phil is heading out west… to West Africa! He, along with a team of men, will lead a Men’s God Encounter in Ghana later this month. It is believed that 500 - 1,000 men will gather for this countrywide event. What an awesome experience and rare opportunity He has allowed!!
Discounting the NYC tour, Brotherhood has now officially released our inaugural studio CD, “Sweet Sounds Of Heaven”! On Monday night, we held a CD Release Celebration at a senior dinner. These baby boomers plus have been our biggest supporters and we decided to offer the CD to them first at this concert. We selected certain songs – each members’ favorites plus a few that we ALL just love to sing. It’s apparent that “Roll Away” is the CD hit single! No matter where we go (incl. NYC), that’s the most requested song. It’s loved by young and old alike; even those who favor R&B, hip hop and rock can’t get that song out of their head, praise God!! The CD is now in stock at the church bookstore and will soon be made available online at the Brotherhood blog site along with other inspirational products.
And… although the 4th of July has passed, may we continue to pray for God’s hand of protection on our great nation, our troops fighting for our freedom and for God’s wisdom and guidance for those in office. God bless America now and always!!
Discounting the NYC tour, Brotherhood has now officially released our inaugural studio CD, “Sweet Sounds Of Heaven”! On Monday night, we held a CD Release Celebration at a senior dinner. These baby boomers plus have been our biggest supporters and we decided to offer the CD to them first at this concert. We selected certain songs – each members’ favorites plus a few that we ALL just love to sing. It’s apparent that “Roll Away” is the CD hit single! No matter where we go (incl. NYC), that’s the most requested song. It’s loved by young and old alike; even those who favor R&B, hip hop and rock can’t get that song out of their head, praise God!! The CD is now in stock at the church bookstore and will soon be made available online at the Brotherhood blog site along with other inspirational products.
And… although the 4th of July has passed, may we continue to pray for God’s hand of protection on our great nation, our troops fighting for our freedom and for God’s wisdom and guidance for those in office. God bless America now and always!!
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
TEMPORARY HOME, NEW YORK!
This blog contains a bit of self indulgence but bear with me. “I’ve never been this homesick before” is a line from a Dottie Rambo classic. And, it was quite appropriate as Brotherhood made their way to the big Apple – New York City. You see, it was a homecoming for me. This native Bronxite (NY Yankee turf) had mixed emotions and feelings about going home again. Not only to my hometown but to my home church! It was where I heard about and received Jesus Christ as my savior, “cut my teeth” on gospel music, had extended family and learned to trust Him at all times.
My father passed away when I was just 15 years old and I missed out on father-son things. But I did have good “father figures” in the church (thank God). However, I truly saw faith in action through my mother, Vickie. A prayer warrior, she always had a smile, was willing to help someone in need and cared genuinely about others. Being an only child, Mom managed the household on a tight budget but I never felt I lacked anything. She was also my friend who played games and made me always feel secure. When not doing chores, I would see her reading the Bible, preparing a Sunday school lesson, write cards of encouragement or speak with someone on the phone who had a need. Her strong faith and dependence on our heavenly Father showed me what a Christian should be on a daily basis. I know it’s near Father’s Day but… thanks Mom!
And, now for Brotherhood’s NYC concert ministry tour! We are bodily tired but spiritually refreshed after a fabulous and miraculous weekend. It was not just gospel music but worship and altar work – just like the old times! We witnessed in the subways and Phil even led 2 men to Christ on the streets outside the Bronx church! We are no longer strangers in a foreign land as New Yorkers (and New Jerseyites) welcomed us with open arms and hearts. And, we consider ourselves an eclectic gospel group as Brotherhood covers the gamut – southern, country, hymns, praise & worship. We just don’t do hard rock, hip hop or rap but do appeal to a broad body of believers.
Brooklyn (Coney Island) got us started Friday night, Saturday took us to Nutley, NJ. Then we had a Sunday doubleheader - AM in the Bronx and PM in Ossining (Westchester). Nearly 400 miles travelled in this local area! But the concert ministries were a blast and a blessing, praise God! Favorites included, “Give It Away”, “He Made A Change”, “Roll Away” and our latest “Jesus Messiah”. Kids, youth and adults enjoyed the candy tosses as we “gave them away”. They all joined in singing worship choruses of “His Name Is Wonderful”, “There’s A Sweet, Sweet Spirit”, “Mansion Over The Hilltop” and Brotherhood’s acappella arrangement of “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus/In The Cross”. Afterwards we had a chance to meet and greet the folks. Some of their comments were, "It was a breath of fresh air", "Can I join you guys and be your sound man?" and "The people were totally blessed and I know that our pastor will have you back again!".
Altar ministry was a major highlight as many came forward to receive salvation, baptism in the Holy Spirit, rededication and healings of all kinds (physical, emotional, etc.). Yes, you can return home and yes Jesus Christ does live and dwell in the “city that doesn’t sleep” and deeply needs Him. We encourage the church of NYC to arise and go forth and prosper. The enemy has no hold on you, so take the city in Jesus name!
Being made honorary citizens, Brotherhood will always keep you in our prayers. We expect to hear great things from the Big Apple in the near future. Remember that this is “our temporary home, it’s not where we belong”. Our home’s in heaven just waiting for you and me!!! Amen.
Remember... be at the Father's House on Father's Day!
My father passed away when I was just 15 years old and I missed out on father-son things. But I did have good “father figures” in the church (thank God). However, I truly saw faith in action through my mother, Vickie. A prayer warrior, she always had a smile, was willing to help someone in need and cared genuinely about others. Being an only child, Mom managed the household on a tight budget but I never felt I lacked anything. She was also my friend who played games and made me always feel secure. When not doing chores, I would see her reading the Bible, preparing a Sunday school lesson, write cards of encouragement or speak with someone on the phone who had a need. Her strong faith and dependence on our heavenly Father showed me what a Christian should be on a daily basis. I know it’s near Father’s Day but… thanks Mom!
And, now for Brotherhood’s NYC concert ministry tour! We are bodily tired but spiritually refreshed after a fabulous and miraculous weekend. It was not just gospel music but worship and altar work – just like the old times! We witnessed in the subways and Phil even led 2 men to Christ on the streets outside the Bronx church! We are no longer strangers in a foreign land as New Yorkers (and New Jerseyites) welcomed us with open arms and hearts. And, we consider ourselves an eclectic gospel group as Brotherhood covers the gamut – southern, country, hymns, praise & worship. We just don’t do hard rock, hip hop or rap but do appeal to a broad body of believers.
Brooklyn (Coney Island) got us started Friday night, Saturday took us to Nutley, NJ. Then we had a Sunday doubleheader - AM in the Bronx and PM in Ossining (Westchester). Nearly 400 miles travelled in this local area! But the concert ministries were a blast and a blessing, praise God! Favorites included, “Give It Away”, “He Made A Change”, “Roll Away” and our latest “Jesus Messiah”. Kids, youth and adults enjoyed the candy tosses as we “gave them away”. They all joined in singing worship choruses of “His Name Is Wonderful”, “There’s A Sweet, Sweet Spirit”, “Mansion Over The Hilltop” and Brotherhood’s acappella arrangement of “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus/In The Cross”. Afterwards we had a chance to meet and greet the folks. Some of their comments were, "It was a breath of fresh air", "Can I join you guys and be your sound man?" and "The people were totally blessed and I know that our pastor will have you back again!".
Altar ministry was a major highlight as many came forward to receive salvation, baptism in the Holy Spirit, rededication and healings of all kinds (physical, emotional, etc.). Yes, you can return home and yes Jesus Christ does live and dwell in the “city that doesn’t sleep” and deeply needs Him. We encourage the church of NYC to arise and go forth and prosper. The enemy has no hold on you, so take the city in Jesus name!
Being made honorary citizens, Brotherhood will always keep you in our prayers. We expect to hear great things from the Big Apple in the near future. Remember that this is “our temporary home, it’s not where we belong”. Our home’s in heaven just waiting for you and me!!! Amen.
Remember... be at the Father's House on Father's Day!
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Brotherhood Ministering at Faith Assembly-Orlando
Here's a Brotherhood video recorded 5.26.10 at Faith Assembly in Orlando, FL. Look for their first studio CD release coming this month! - Jim A (Man in the Mirror)
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
GOD WILL TAKE CARE OF YOU
“Be not dismayed whate’er betide, God will take care of you.” This line, from a famous hymn of the church, truly resonates today. As Brotherhood prepares for their NYC tour, Satan tried his best to hinder the ministry. He placed roadblocks, sickness, feelings of despair, tragedy, frustration and any other obstacle he could find.
While Brotherhood has exercised the 3 “Ps” (plan, practice and pray), we’ve encountered several experiences in the past few weeks that we consider a “wake up call”. Johns’ wife narrowly escaped a serious car accident and, miraculously, suffered no injury to herself or the vehicle! Mel’s mother-in-law became gravely ill but, Praise God, she has rallied to a more comfortable & stable condition. And, Phil came home one night to discover his garage door badly damaged and needing major repair/replacement. Finally, a very close brother in Christ lost his daughter-in-law to cancer last week. She was in her early 30’s and left a husband and a 2 year old child.
These are the “storms of life” that make us strong and hold on to Him. Jesus Christ never promised that the road would be easy but He did say, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” We truly thank God for His protection, comfort and reassurance. Satan does not want the gospel message proclaimed but we know the Word of God does not return void. Satan has been defeated and totally failed to dampen Brotherhood’s spirit, desire and excitement to forge ahead. We truly know that God has great things in store for the Big Apple area!
So… as we go, please keep us in your prayers. 1 Peter 2:17
While Brotherhood has exercised the 3 “Ps” (plan, practice and pray), we’ve encountered several experiences in the past few weeks that we consider a “wake up call”. Johns’ wife narrowly escaped a serious car accident and, miraculously, suffered no injury to herself or the vehicle! Mel’s mother-in-law became gravely ill but, Praise God, she has rallied to a more comfortable & stable condition. And, Phil came home one night to discover his garage door badly damaged and needing major repair/replacement. Finally, a very close brother in Christ lost his daughter-in-law to cancer last week. She was in her early 30’s and left a husband and a 2 year old child.
These are the “storms of life” that make us strong and hold on to Him. Jesus Christ never promised that the road would be easy but He did say, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” We truly thank God for His protection, comfort and reassurance. Satan does not want the gospel message proclaimed but we know the Word of God does not return void. Satan has been defeated and totally failed to dampen Brotherhood’s spirit, desire and excitement to forge ahead. We truly know that God has great things in store for the Big Apple area!
So… as we go, please keep us in your prayers. 1 Peter 2:17
Thursday, May 27, 2010
NEWS & VIEWS FROM THE 'HOOD - MAY '10
May is a time when spring leads to the summertime season. April showers bring May flowers and summer thoughts are very cooling and relaxing. Well, it appears that Brotherhood will not have that luxury. We finalized our studio CD for production and had a few ministries added before flying to New York City (June 11-14). Here’s what’s happening…
On Saturday May 22nd, Brotherhood presented an outdoor concert at Ft. Christmas Park for the Sanctuary Church of God holiday picnic. It was quite different but a wonderful experience sharing the gospel with good food and Christian fellowship. Brotherhood dusted off some oldies and treated these fine folks to some old quartet favorites like, “Jesus Is Coming Soon” and “Redemption Draweth Nigh”. They also enjoyed our camp meeting sing-a-long; an up tempo medley of church choruses we all remember well. And being so close to Memorial Day, we also honored the war veterans with patriotic songs and asked them to stand when their branch of service was mentioned.
Our home church was a final destination and a last minute addition. Being quite large and still growing, Faith Assembly has much talent but leans towards the contemporary style of praise & worship. So… for Brotherhood to sing “our” gospel music at mid-week service (5/26) was an unexpected blessing and thrill! The congregation and webcast viewers really enjoyed “Roll Away” from our soon-to-be released CD. We thank God for every opportunity to present His message, especially when we’re able to give back to church friends and family who support us.
As I looked around at the peoples’ faces, it made me think of how different yet wonderfully made we all are! We’re like that Japanese artwork, origami, in the Father’s hands. Just think of how He takes a simple piece of paper (dust of the earth) and makes a beautiful form (our human body). And, by His grace and mercy, He uses situations to brings us to Him and then continues to shape us into His image! And God uses the twists and turns in our lives to make us more like His Son. I suggest you read Romans 8:29!!
More to come…
On Saturday May 22nd, Brotherhood presented an outdoor concert at Ft. Christmas Park for the Sanctuary Church of God holiday picnic. It was quite different but a wonderful experience sharing the gospel with good food and Christian fellowship. Brotherhood dusted off some oldies and treated these fine folks to some old quartet favorites like, “Jesus Is Coming Soon” and “Redemption Draweth Nigh”. They also enjoyed our camp meeting sing-a-long; an up tempo medley of church choruses we all remember well. And being so close to Memorial Day, we also honored the war veterans with patriotic songs and asked them to stand when their branch of service was mentioned.
Our home church was a final destination and a last minute addition. Being quite large and still growing, Faith Assembly has much talent but leans towards the contemporary style of praise & worship. So… for Brotherhood to sing “our” gospel music at mid-week service (5/26) was an unexpected blessing and thrill! The congregation and webcast viewers really enjoyed “Roll Away” from our soon-to-be released CD. We thank God for every opportunity to present His message, especially when we’re able to give back to church friends and family who support us.
As I looked around at the peoples’ faces, it made me think of how different yet wonderfully made we all are! We’re like that Japanese artwork, origami, in the Father’s hands. Just think of how He takes a simple piece of paper (dust of the earth) and makes a beautiful form (our human body). And, by His grace and mercy, He uses situations to brings us to Him and then continues to shape us into His image! And God uses the twists and turns in our lives to make us more like His Son. I suggest you read Romans 8:29!!
More to come…
Monday, May 3, 2010
TOWN & COUNTRY TIME
On Saturday, May 1st, Brotherhood was pleased to be part of a unique men's praise breakfast. Besides good fellowship and food prepared by the men's cooking crew, this brought together two opposite music styles to glorify the Father! We partnered with fellow church friend, Glenn Moore who's a rap artist reaching into the urban community. Glenn heard Brotherhood at an Encounter and desired to minister with us.
Brotherhood opened with a praise & worship set which included a medley of "old school" favorites and current contemporary praise songs ("How Great Is Our God" and "Jesus Messiah"). After breakfast, we shared our fast-paced gospel mini-concert that had the men clapping, finger snapping and on their feet praising God. After a brief break, Glenn Moore broke into his rap and hip-hop set. It's not my favorite muisc genre but, wow, was it good! The message came forth so strong and had the men jumping, shouting and strutting while having their ears opened to hear His Word.
Glenn also shared a message on men making the difference in the workplace. One central truth pointed towards the individual man ensuring his "work place" (heart) was right first. We cannot venture out if we're not right within - good, good, stuff! Afterwards, a few men came forward to receive Christ into their lives!!
We serve an awesome God - only He could make the sounds of Brotherhood & Glenn work out! Our minds could not conceive that thought. Continue to pray for both ministry outreaches. We plan on some more of these "joint ventures" and other out-of-the-box possibilities (video and song collaboration). You never, ever, know...
Brotherhood opened with a praise & worship set which included a medley of "old school" favorites and current contemporary praise songs ("How Great Is Our God" and "Jesus Messiah"). After breakfast, we shared our fast-paced gospel mini-concert that had the men clapping, finger snapping and on their feet praising God. After a brief break, Glenn Moore broke into his rap and hip-hop set. It's not my favorite muisc genre but, wow, was it good! The message came forth so strong and had the men jumping, shouting and strutting while having their ears opened to hear His Word.
Glenn also shared a message on men making the difference in the workplace. One central truth pointed towards the individual man ensuring his "work place" (heart) was right first. We cannot venture out if we're not right within - good, good, stuff! Afterwards, a few men came forward to receive Christ into their lives!!
We serve an awesome God - only He could make the sounds of Brotherhood & Glenn work out! Our minds could not conceive that thought. Continue to pray for both ministry outreaches. We plan on some more of these "joint ventures" and other out-of-the-box possibilities (video and song collaboration). You never, ever, know...
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