MOMMA'S & POPPA'S

It's that time of year we honor our mothers and fathers and the list expands to those who are grandparents, aunts, uncles and even great grandparents. How wonderful it is to see large families celebrating these events and to know God's blessing is upon them and their offspring for many generations. I'm sure grannies and gramps now reap the rewards of their efforts through respect and love and honor... and care. Today it's becoming the norm for children to care for their parents who are now living longer than ever - many outlive their children, too!

Our heavenly Father looks down and watches His children all the time. Are you making Him a proud Father? Remember that He loves and cares for you more than your earthly parents can ever express. A children's chorus says it all. "His love is deeper than the ocean and higher than the mountains... And He will see you through the storms of life."

Brotherhood is soon to be proud poppas as our new CD project, "Bridge The Gap", is in the final stages and we can't wait! Thank God for patience and guidance through it all. In April, the GEMS organization held a fund raising dinner, silent auction and concert at the Sanford Civic Center. GEMS endeavors to provide scholarships for teen girl obesity camp (from a Christian perspective), build self esteem, teach nutritional values for a healthy, blessed life. Brotherhood was invited guests at a benefit concert along with other gospel singers providing a variety of gospel music - R&B, southern, country, jazz, contemporary, etc. We had a blast sharing our brand of gospel and became better acquainted with local artists throughout the evening. John wore many hats that night as he MC'd the silent auction and interviewed each vendor. Besides singing, he also has to be sound tech for all the artists - thank God the controls were stationed just off stage! Kathy Webb, a local TV personality, was the special speaker who shared her overweight experience as a teenager and how she overcame with God's help, praise God.

Doors are opening for Brotherhood's unique ministry that has taken them to many venues and denominations. And each member is taking care of other matters. Mel is taking a personal retreat away from the "hustle & bustle" while checking out other gospel groups in NC, Dan is part of an overseas translation team for the Jesus Film and specific Bible book projects (i.e. Luke), Phil is busy tending the flock at his church, conducting Bible studies and working with evangelism teams. John keeps busy with the P&W team, church administration, teaching personal finances through Christ and... music. Besides managing Brotherhood and seeking new material (always), he's working on duets with his wife, Deborah. He enjoys their practices and it's been a blessing to sing with her - another unexpected miracle!

Stay well, be blessed and be a blessing.

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT

I don't know when it began, but it's an old saying that is still used today. No matter what we set our minds to do, there is always the need for constant review and rehearsal to make it "just right". We must remember that His "strength is perfect" so that we are made perfect in Him. Therefore, our mortal lives are being shaped to conform to His image - less of us and more of Him! We will be far better off the more we place our trust in the Lord.

Likewise, Brotherhood is trusting God for direction as we move forward. Along with new material, studio work is in process for our new CD and a return visit to the metro NYC area in September (13-15)!! In March, a blessed, intimate concert at FGBM in Titusville brought us a return visit with some good friends. Someone asked the question, "How did Brotherhood get started?" which gave us the opportunity to recall our beginnings in 2004 and where God has taken us. When I reflect on those years, I am so thankful for ALL the Lord has done and will continue to do. We want others to realize/understand that, despite perceived short comings and inadequacies, God will use their gifts to bring Him glory in various ways. Once that truth is captured, there are no limits or boundaries to what can be accomplished for Christ!

So... lots of time, effort and practice is in store for Brotherhood in the coming months. Thanks to all who submitted song requests, well wishes, encouragement and prayers. Your support is so greatly appreciated as we trust God to provide the finances for these ministry projects and to open "new direction" doors to further the gospel.

We hope to see you "down the road" real soon. Stay well, be blessed and be a blessing.

SWEET FOR THE SWEETS

As January fades into the sunset, we start setting our sites on February. The 2nd month of each year is traditionally the month of "love", when Valentines Day is celebrated around the world. Sweethearts treat their special someone with extra loving care via flowers, candy, dinner and more. Some make it even special by getting engaged, married or renew their vows on February 14th.

What will you do on that day? Above all, let's not forget the Father's undying love for us. We don't circle one day on the calendar to shower Him with love but do so every day. We give praise and honor and worship the King "without ceasing" no matter what our circumstances. Whenever we pray for our food or tell someone about Jesus, we are loving Him. And through it all... He looks down from above and loves every bit of it!!!

As for Brotherhood, we're just getting the New Year started... although quite busy individually. A return visit to Space Coast Assembly was a blessed event that enabled us to see new and familiar faces. That church really loves gospel music and they have some talent themselves. It's fast becoming one our favorite destinations in Florida! The month concluded with a mid-week concert at Church Alive in Winter Springs. A few month ago, our lead singer (Phil) became pastor at that church so his workload and responsibilities have increased. Our schedules finally aligned for this night of great gospel music that shared our unique, eclectic style harmony with the congregation. We had many first timers - those who hadn't heard Brotherhood before. We also had some faithful 'Hood friends who traveled from Titusville to hear us and we appreciated that so much. Again, the mixture of old and new, traditional and original, slow and fast combined into one big pot that ministered to all ages.

Pray for more doors to open for Brotherhood in 2013. Lord willing, we plan a return trip to the New York City area, recording another CD or two, a TV studio broadcast and ministering to more denominational churches. God is good all the time and all the time God is good. May we all choose Christs' prosperity in 2013 for He knows what's best.

CHRISTMAS IS SOON HERE

December is the time for people to start scurrying around and planning for the holiday season. They plan & prepare for gift exchange, parties, family gatherings, food, drink and jolly/happy times. Why does everyone seem so much happier when December comes? Why can't that joy continue into January, February and throughout the entire year? What makes the difference in the life of a Christian is the fact that Christmas means the promise fulfilled. The Savior of the world would come to provide the way for all mankind. Someone who would come in the flesh, understand our sufferings and shortcomings... and love us anyway!!

Brotherhood has kept their schedule lean this month but it's truly been on God's timetable. Our concert at Space Coast Assembly (Titusville) was wonderful on many levels. The gospel in song was enthusiastically received through gospel classics and new southern gospel material. Our doo-wop song "Jesus You're So Wonderful" was a crowd favorite and they sang along with many others including "Mansion Over The Hilltop". It felt like revival as most of the congregation came forward for altar prayer. The pastor even requested a repeat of "The Blood Will Never Lose Its' Power" as we concluded the evening. We made many new friends and will return in January for a seniors event, praise God. The Christmas celebration at Winter Park AGLOW was terrific, too! Brotherhood was reacquainted with pastors, church leaders and friends. In addition to our concert, there were carol singing, praise dancers, solos, duets and a special Christmas message before lunchtime. Brotherhood was able to introduce a few new ones that will be incorporated into our program such as "The Lighthouse", "I'm Raised" and "Saved By Grace".

Have blessed Christmas and a wonderful New Year in Christ!

TIME FOR THANKSGIVING

It's quite appropriate for the harvest and Thanksgiving to arrive in the fall. As the seasons change, it's a time for new beginnings - a time of transition. It’s a time to gather the bounty after months of tilling the soil, planting the seeds and nurturing with water. These are the rewards of laborious days in the fields worked by hard working people.

And what about our spiritual labors? Do we feel our prayers aren't answered as quickly as we expect? Always be thankful to God for He does all things well and in His own time. The closer we get to Him, the better we can understand His will. Patience is a virtue that everyone should strive to possess and our prayers do not fall on deaf ears. Our God knows the "how" and "where" and "when" the petitions of His children are to be answered. But remember, thank God daily for who He is and not for what He can do for you.

Brotherhood continually gives thanks our heavenly Father for what He allows us to do. And that's to sing His praises, to encourage believers and bring the lost unto the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. That is our mission.

Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing!

THE WORD OF GOD STANDS FOREVER

You're familiar with that saying, "the more things change the more they stay the same". The world we live in is ever changing to make life easier and more efficient. However, nothing can alter or change our relationship with the Lord. From everlasting to everlasting, He is God and that's it! He doesn't change, He doesn't sleep, He doesn't take a vacation and He doesn't forsake His children.

As for Brotherhood, we are "chomping at the bit" to get our fall ministry in full swing. However, we are patiently waiting on God's direction. Not easy - but necessary to follow in His will. We had a wonderful September opportunity to minister in song at a local church. Brotherhood was just part of the service but we're confident, by the congregation's response, to return for a full blown concert soon! We immediately felt God's presence as the people entered into worship without hesitation, praise God! Having all the wives present was an extra special treat, too! That's a rare occasion and we appreciate them so much.

With Dan & Mel out of town, Phil's busy with evangelism (he loves it!) and John & his wife had a blessed vacation drive back home to NYC and surrounding areas. The time spent together on the road was just as enjoyable as their NY stay. He is also working on new material for Brotherhood - more great songs are on the way! On a special senior night dedicated to old time gospel music, John served as song leader. Choosing old hymnal favorites, the crowd had a grand old time singing at the top of their lungs! To spice it up, John went around and poked the mike in front of many to catch their singing ability. Good voices everyone!

You're now caught up and we pray you are inspired to do something for Him today. Remember that "little is much when God is in it".

Be blessed and be a blessing!

THE ANGST & BLESSINGS OF AUGUST

I'll be on vacation for awhile and wanted to send this out ASAP. The dog days of summer are over (I think) and looking forward to a blessed fall season. The Bible says, "don't look to the left or the right; just keep your focus straight ahead." We should always press towards the mark of the high calling of God. What is that calling? Well, first, it's being part of God's big family through salvation. And then, it's how can you serve God. If you're not sure, why not ask Him for help and guidance? If we love the Father we surely must desire to do whatever we can with the gifts He gives. It could be a prayer warrior, a caring shoulder, a neighbor's help, a listening ear, an elder, a teacher or... a minister (you never know).

Brotherhood has been called to minister in song but that's not for everybody. We enjoy sharing God's loving message to whomever regardless of age, culture, etc. We had wonderful, new concert experiences in August that God prepared. Wide spread announcements (incl. TV) fanned the flame as we held concerts at Upsala Presbyterian (Sanford) and the Full Gospel Businessmen's (FGBM) dinner meeting in Titusville. Had a surprise visit by my good friend, Max Pickering from The Pickerings. This family gospel group has been singing for a LONG time. Like Max has said - "longer and older than asphalt!"

There was a great response from people who truly enjoy good gospel music - old and new. They had no problem joining in as they knew many of the songs. God moved in a very special way at FGBM as we had individual prayer at the conclusion. Clyde was a gentleman who had severe shoulder problems with little movement. Phil sensed in his spirit that God was touching Clyde. A few days later, Clyde called to report he was healed as arm movement had returned - praise God!! Being able to reach into new territories always has unknown/ untold rewards and blessings. We look forward to what else God has in store for us - we'll just wait and see!

Be blessed and be a blessing!