September 15, 2018 “Hands in Ministry” at McGee Chapel Missionary Baptist Church presented their 10th Deaf Awareness Day. The purpose of Deaf Awareness Day is to increase awareness of deaf issues, people, and culture. Activities and events throughout Deaf Awareness Day are meant to encourage individuals to come together as a community to understand that being deaf or hard of hearing is not a handicap or disability. The event’s purpose was to show we are all capable and intelligent individuals that have multiple ways in which we communicate with each other.
Coordinated Vernita Jones, who has recently been acknowledged by Mayor Sylvester Turner for her work with the deaf community in the City of Houston, the event gathers a diverse crowd with artist and performers from all backgrounds. Vernita herself preformed several songs with various groups including a duo with her daughter Charnita Bynum and a quartet with daughter and grandsons Prince and Dylan Bynum and directed “Hands in Ministry” with several selections. “Sign Language has allowed me to appreciate the significance of communication access and providing a service to the Deaf community that I plan to provide as an interpreter in the future,”. “When churches make the effort to include Deaf people and their families, they also begin to better recognize others who are experiencing a loss of hearing in their current community old and young”. “Without these services members miss out what is being communicated, and slowly drift away from church altogether. Many older members are experiencing loss of family members and others who would normally communicate with them and the church is a great place find a surrogate family that openly embraces deaf culture”.
Vernita, Charnita, Prince, and Dylan Jones
The event has been growing steadily in its 10 years and gathered participants from seven different churches around the Houston area and multiple hearing and deaf performers from all over the state. The performances selections varied from country songs and rap trap gospel, to traditional hymns and dramatic readings while signing of Christian poetry. The large room at Mc Gee Chapel quickly filled by the start of the event with the crowd able to watch the hands of the performers from the large screen above making every seat a good seat.
Hands In Ministry
Faith Humphrey, the president of Hands in Ministry emotionally opened with “Deaf people are too often overlooked and or marginalized, not only as Christians but as decent humans this cannot be the way.” “Often in churches we tend to be forgotten because we’re a small number, but here at McGee Chapel, I do feel included. Events like this help to show the deaf community there is a place for us.”
Krystal Lux, who came with The Fort Bend Church closed with “The scriptures are many that speak to hospitality, my favorite being Romans 12:13, which reads, “Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.”
For more information about Deaf Worship Services or future events contact the church at 281-493-1884
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October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
