2 Manna from Heaven NEWS

I n 2012 and throughout the years God has shown us that He is faithful every day. God loves you and

God will never leave nor forsake you. God has opened up doors that no man can close and closed doors that no man can open. In this year of "Fruitfulness" God is faithful and the Holy Spirit has drawn over 250 people unto Himself this year at Elevation. In September 2012, God directed us to open the doors at the West Campus (Raleigh) for an 8:00 A.M. service and souls have been saved. Because God wants to accomplish purposes that are transformative and everlasting in His people, God established the Elevation Bible Institute. I am excited that our first commencement will be May, 2013.

Elevation continues to be an evangelistic and mission oriented ministry. All who know and have accepted Jesus as their personal Savior must share this message with those they meet. God might have placed a family member, a co-worker, or recreation buddy in your heart. Whoever God is leading you to, you must complete your assignment in winning souls for Him. Don’t worry about having all the “right” things to say. Seek the answers from the word of God. Prepare your testimony so when the

Holy Spirit prompts, you can share how God has changed your life.

God said if He is lifted up, He would draw all men. All we need to do is be obedient and witness about God’s love and His sacrifice

for us all and He’ll handled it from there. Did you take the time to witness this year? Did your life-style draw anyone new to God? Are you planning to increase that number in 2013?

So, I challenge you to: Share God’s Love - Share The Gospel - Be A Witness for Christ, and Watch God work in a supernatural way.

Thank you for your steadfast love for God's people and the His mission. Amazed By His Grace,

Pastor T.L. Carmichael, Sr.

2012 Year of Fruitfulness

255 disciples joined Elevation Baptist Church (EBC)

Launch of 8 A.M. service at EBC West Campus (Raleigh)

Launched a radio broad cast on WPJL 1240 AM, Mon. - Fri. 5:55 P.M. - 6:00 P.M.

EBC West Campus (Raleigh) became an early voting site - 17,000 people voted at this location

Inception of Elevation Bible Institute - The Bible Institute offers a certificate training program that equips students with the biblical foundation to develop the skills needed to prepare them for Christian ministry.

Youth Ministry Summer Camp

College Tours & Campus Outreach

Youth Church (5th Sundays)

Turkey Giveaway (co-sponsor with Walmart)

Reflec ons from the Pastor

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L G … F G … D G !

HEALTH ALERT: Did you know heart disease is the #1 killer for women and men in the US? Elevation’s parishioners observed Red Dress Sunday in February 2012 as a day to raise awareness about the warning signs of heart attack as well as the risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease (i.e. high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, age, smoking, family history, obesity, physical inactivity, etc.). Heart disease doesn't care what color you wear - be aware of heart attack and stroke signs and symptoms. Remember, KNOWLEDGE is key!

In January 2012, Elevation women joined Elder Rebecca Carmichael for HAT DAY. Wearing hats are quite common among African American women. Wearing hats - or crowns - to church and/or other formal events is a sign of respect as well as fashion. Whether coupled with a matching suit, gloves or scarf, or just “sporting” a covering for the head, many women still love to beautify their heads, and they look good doing so!

TURKEY GIVEAWAY — “Neither rain, sleet, snow nor hail” is how the saying goes and so on Saturday, March 31, in the pouring rain, some Elevation members proved just that. Because of Pastor Carmichael’s teachings about evangelism, the EBC family reached out to the community by co-sponsoring a free turkey

giveaway. Disciples loaded turkeys into cars one at a time as motorists drove into the EBC parking lot where hundreds of turkeys, donated by Walmart were distributed. As each recipient received their turkey, they were also invited to attend the Easter celebration on Sunday, April 8. When one recipient

was asked how the giveaway affected her, she stated, “I feel truly blessed after receiving this turkey.” Another recipient said, “this church is truly a blessing to the community, God bless you all.” Although weather conditions weren’t the best, motorists drove away with smiles and grateful hearts.

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2012 Prayer Summit

On Saturday, July 21, Elevation’s Prayer Ministry hosted its annual Prayer Summit. The Praise Team illuminated the atmos-phere with songs of praise and worship. Guest speaker Associate Elder Bobbie Alston from Crossroads Christian Church in Camden, Delaware emphasized the importance of “Bearing Fruit for the King-dom through Prayer.” She referenced John 15:2 -“He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it may be even more fruitful.’’ (NIV) Attendees were told they would bear more fruit by constantly reading the Word of God, praying, surrendering to God, developing Godly relationships, tithing, yielding to the Holy Spirit when He is leading you; praying for the salvation of the lost; and be willing to take a stand on topics like: abortion, same sex marriage, etc.

The summit included illustrations of prayer and demonstrated areas in which one could bear fruit in their lives. Those areas emphasized relationships (marriages and singles), children, the church, as well as local and national government. The summit also featured a skit entitled “Jesus and His Disciples.” The day concluded with a luncheon, a time of testimony, and music.

ELEVATION BIBLE INSTITUTE

“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge….” Hosea 4:6 (Ampli ied)

PastorT.L.Carmichael,ledbyavisiongiventohimbytheHolySpirit,appointedacommitteetodeveloptheframeworkfortheElevationBibleInstitute.AsonewhodemonstratesgreatpassionforteachingandstudyingGod’swordthepilotfortheBibleInstitutewaslaunchedonSunday,May6,2012.ItspurposeistospirituallyandintellectuallyequipmenandwomenofGodfortheworkofthechurch,evangelismandthesavingofsouls.Coursesaredesignedtoprovideanin‐depthknowledgeandunderstandingoftheBibleandChristianlifeforthepurposeofservingtheLord.Theprogramoffersthefollowingcoursesforaperiodofsevenweekseach:BibleDoctrine,Hermeneutics,OldTestamentSurvey,NewTestamentSurvey,Christology,Pneumatology,andSpiritualDisciplinesSeminar.AcommencementwilltakeplaceinMay2013,wherestudentswillreceiveacerti icateofcompletionfortheprogram.ForquestionscontactMarionAlstonatbibleinstitute@elevationbaptist.org

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“I KNOW THE TRUTH” - 2012 EASTER MUSICAL Once again the Music and Fine Arts Ministry, under the direc on of Harold Phillips, has produced yet another soul inspiring Easter musical. This year’s musical en tled, “Resurrec ng Hope- I Know the Truth” chronicled the majes c work of Jesus. As in years past Phillips used music to punctua on the moment. However, unlike years past Phillips used characters, dance and song to tell the story of those touched by the works of the Savior in the third person. With each lyric, spoken word, and dance step the work of Christ and His impact on the lives of others was accentuated. The musical opens with the song, “La er Rain.” The song delivers a hope of what had been foretold in the scripture, and the impact of the Holy Spirit on the world.

In a moment of reflec on disciple Simon Peter is introduced to the audience and reflects on the teachings his master Jesus had taught him and his brethren. Simon recalls Jesus’ predica on of His death and resurrec on. In addi on, Simon speaks the climate of the day a er Jesus’ crucifixion and how his fellow disciples hid in fear of losing their lives. Another notable moment in the life of the risen Savior is told through dance. Sisters and close acquaintances of Jesus - Mary and Martha personal loss of their brother Lazarus is brought to by the lyrical works of the Aretha Franklin classic gospel song, “Mary Don’t You Weep.” With every crescendo the members of the Sign of Praise

Dance Ministry brought visual life to the words being sung. The dancers body moments told of the agony and sadness the sisters felt at the loss of their brother. And likewise, their joys are punctuated when Christ raises Lazarus from his grave. Throughout the musical Phillips highlighted other moments that lead to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and the days and moments their a er. From the conflict between the Jewish and Roman leadership, to sun refusing to shine as Christ hung on the cross. Yet, at the close of the musical the EBC singers sang a moving rendi on of Milton Brunson’s, “Jesus Lives.” This brought the audience to their feet as they sang along and rejoiced for the risen Savior!

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95th

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Cele

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weekend of celebra on and reflec on. While much of the world spent me reminiscing

about the na on’s 9-11 tragedy, Eleva on disciples and guests gathered at Lake Wheeler Park to celebrate Eleva on’s 95th church anniversary. On Saturday, members of the community joined Eleva on disciples for an outdoor, carnival-like se ng with pony rides, face pain ng, horse shoes, music, pu -pu golf, basketball, hotdogs and more. At the conclusion of a fun-filled day, Pastor and Elder Carmichael invited all to join them for worship on Sunday, commemora ng the annual church anniversary as well as the one-year anniversary of the East Campus opening. The celebra on con nued on Sunday. Pastor Carmichael reminded parishioners that “Just imagine a year ago today, we stood on this hallowed ground and blessed God for the manifesta on of the Vision.” Later he introduced guest speaker, Apostle Norbert Simmons, Pastor at Deeper Life Ministries, Goldsboro, North Carolina. Apostle Simmons’ sermon en tled,

“God Specializes” referenced 1 Peter 5:7, Cas ng all your care upon him; for he careth for you. During his sermon, Apostle Simmons reminded parishioners that God will take care of each one’s situa on; just give it to Him and He will turn it around. Simmons reassured all that God will fix every situa on so cast your cares on the specialist [Jesus Christ].

Later that evening, Eleva on hosted its 6th Evening of Hope service featuring Faith Bap st Church in Knightdale. Addi onally, military, law enforcement, along with fire and rescue personnel, were honored for their day-to-day service and for the bravery demonstrated during the 9-11 event. Pastor Carmichael requested each first responder come to the altar and covered them (and their families) with a prayer of protec on.

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...Just Like God Said On Sunday, March 11, Eleva on disciples celebrated Pastor T.L. Carmichael Sr.’s 14th Pastoral Anniversary. The celebra on opened with several musical selec ons from Gospel Recording Ar st Brian Courtney Wilson and a liturgical dance ministered by Eleva on’s Praise Dancers. Prophetess Janet Floyd of Monroe, Louisiana served as the guest speaker. She started off by asking the congrega on to turn to their neighbors and say: “If shou ng makes you nervous and praise makes you mad then you’re in the wrong pew.” Prophetess Floyd, who is no stranger to Eleva on, set the atmosphere with melodic praise immediately following with a morning message en tled “Des ny – It’s Gonna Happen Just Like God Said” referencing Genesis 28: 15. She said that des ny is the inevitable occurrence of events, the unstoppable order of things and the thing that has to happen. She stated that God will give believers a word in the light so one won’t be afraid in the dark. She further noted when one praises God, He is obligated to deliver and one should never confuse the source with the resource. Floyd summoned Pastor Carmichael, his ministers and deacons to

come to the stage where she instructed them to li him, symbolizing their support of the man of God and the vision of the house. While they were obedient to her direc on, she spoke the same to the congrega on. She wanted believers to remember God is the source and He honors His word. One might ask who is Pastor T.L. Carmichael, Sr.? He is truly an anointed man of God. He is sincere in his convic ons to the works and word of God. He is a wonderful husband, son, father, grandfather and father-in-law. He is a great mentor, a man of integrity, honor and faith and one who EBC is proud to have as their shepherd.

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“In order to have faith you have to have a need,” Carmichael said. She went on to say one must believe it before it’s done and one must always believe it in the name of Jesus, referencing Mark 11:24 and Psalm 125:1. She stated, “we will always be tested but we must remain steadfast and have great faith,” referencing Matthew 21:21, Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done. Referring to Matthew’s gospel, Elder Carmichael highlighted Chapter 15, describing a mother’s faith. In verse 25, the Canaanite woman begs the Master to help her – to heal her daughter. This mother was desperate. She worshipped him and cried out, In Jesus Name. Her faith was being tested, but she persevered. In verse 28, she read God’s response to her faith, O woman, great is thy faith and that hour, she (the daughter) was made whole (healed). The scripture demonstrates when one exercises their faith and believe with their whole hearts,

it does what we cannot see or do.” She continued by saying we must get rid of our toxic thoughts. Put away those thoughts of negativity and replace them with I can do all things type of thinking.

On Sunday, May 13 First Lady, Elder Rebecca Carmichael delivered an awesome message entitled, “Faith: Never Give Up.” She referenced several scriptures: Matthew 15:28; 2 Timothy 1:5-7; Hebrews 11:6; Romans 10:17, and Proverbs 3:5-6. She began her message by saying, “all that we do is by faith -

“all that we do is by faith - it does what we cannot see or do.” Elder Rebecca Carmichael

Mother’s Day

eal House wives of the Bible R

is a spiritual focus for women of the church to grow in God’s word, make lasting friendships, and to become strengthened in their daily walk with Christ. The 2012 Women’s Word Study focused on a deeper under-standing of the study Real Housewives of the Bible (RHOB). Throughout the series, the women learned how God used women in the Bible (i.e. Dorcas, the Shunammite woman, Rachael, Hannah etc.)

to change the course of human history and whose struggles to live with faith

and courage are not unlike their own. The participants studied women who had admirable character and experienced the joy of the Lord. The kick-off session occurred in January 2012 at Panera

Bread, on Capital Blvd., Raleigh, NC, where the attendees reviewed the

life of Anna, who was an old prophetess and a widow of the tribe of Asher. Unlike other widows, Anna

chose to remain single and to allow her faith and love for God to fulfill any voids

in her life. Anna fasted and prayed daily with a continual determination to spread the news of the coming Savior. The 2012 study series showed the women of today what lasting and influential power the Bible housewives had through their actions.

Some of these actions were seen in a more direct way while others [housewives] had an indirect approach. Despite their actions, they have left their mark on biblical history

and their stories will be told forever.

Manna from Heaven NEWS 9

WOMEN’S RETREAT “FRUITFULNESS”

God assembled a dynamic group of speakers and leaders to bring forth a word specifically for those [women] who journeyed to the Founders Inn & Spa, in Virginia Beach, Virginia on Friday and Saturday, September 21 and 22. The weekend proved to be a splendid success, with intimate time with the Lord, renewed spirits, and new relationships with other sisters in Christ with whom one might not have known prior. From the moment the ladies reached the beautiful Inn until the time to return home, there was such an atmosphere of love and sharing.

Immediately following lunch on Friday, Dr. Celeste Owens set the stage with a message chosen from John 15:16. In accordance with the retreat theme, she stated “fruitfulness” is of God and we emulate Him. She further described other words synonymous to the word: flourish, increase, and grow (in the Lord). She highlighted three principles of fruitfulness: 1) Abide in Him – do God’s will. Don’t just focus on the tangible successes; 2) Love one another. When referencing Galatians 5:22, she emphasized “love” is the first fruit mentioned. It certainly is not of coincidence; and 3) One must labor and do so with humility. According to Matthew 25:23, the Master rewarded the servants who doubled their talents and was quite pleased with them; however, the one who did nothing with his talent was condemned. Dr. Owens’ point was in order to produce fruit, one must plant the seed and water it until its time of harvest.

Dr. Jacqueline Hicks blended the spiritual and physical aspects of health. Her session, “Our Body is the Temple of God” talked about the importance of exercise, portion control, routine screenings, and other women’s health issues. Matthew 4:4 (NIV) references food for the soul, “It is written: Man shall not eat bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of God. She concluded with a reminder that one’s body is God’s temple, so it should be loved, nourished, and protected. She admonished the women to be careful with God’s temple - be careful: where it goes; what it does; what it ponders; and how it reacts.

Ms. Michelle Crawford, continued the flow with a session entitled, “Walking Beyond Your Image to Step Into Your Divine Destiny.” Ms. Crawford began her talk with a fashion show highlighting models wearing recreational, formal, business, and casual attire and asked the women in the audience how they saw themselves and what do they project? She talked about three types of images and some associated scriptures: 1) Personal Image (Genesis 1:27); 2) Spiritual Image (Matthew 5:16); and 3) Conversational Image (Proverbs 18:21). She concluded her message stating that one’s divine destiny is entangled with God’s plan for the Body of Christ, so walk in it!

Dr. Bonnie Hunter closed the first day of the retreat with a mighty word: Fruitfulness” – You’ve Been Anointed to Produce. She referenced Genesis 1: 26-29 and John 15:7-8, 16. Dr. Hunter told the women to ‘check your fruit’ because God has to prune you to get the glory. By doing so, He is building one’s character. She further stated God shows us the end, not the beginning; He only gives us a glimpse of the future because some wouldn't be able to handle every-thing that was shown (at one time). She encouraged the women to bear more fruit by digging deeper into the word, reaching out to others, and abiding in God regardless of the hard times. She closed by instructing all to go to another level - prepare one’s self for the change that God will impart.

Dr. Nichelle Early opened the Saturday session with a word taken from John 15:16 and Galatians 5:22-23, which affirmed the previous speaker’s remarks. Her unique message, however, focused on three spiritual seasons necessary to produce the seed. She stated the seed is to fulfill one’s assignment which is to produce fruit. The seasons are: 1) DO Season - means to take action...pray...read the word...work at church and take care of yourself. 2) DEW Season - means spend time with God and cultivate your seed. Ask the Holy Spirit to saturate you. 3) DUE Season - means God signals earth that the underground is soon to spring forth - something is about to break forth because the conditions are favorable and necessary.

The Saturday afternoon session concluded with a panel format resembling the stage of the CBS TV show, “The View.” Several highly charged, thought provoking and real-life questions were posed to the esteemed panelists, where the conversations proved to be both affirming and liberating. After lunch, the women boarded the buses to share how the week-end had truly been a time to get away, relax in a spa-like atmosphere and get into God’s presence. The retreat evaluations reflected awesome speakers who spoke to one’s spiritual and physical needs, as well as the desire to continue “The View” type discussions once returning home to Elevation.

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~ On Saturday, March 24, more than 50 Elevation Youth grades K thru 12 and their parents attended a SAFE DRIVING forum held at EBC West Campus. The guest speaker, Trooper Jimmy Edwards of the North Carolina Highway Patrol and a member of Elevation, talked with the youth about safe driving and the consequences of any actions taken by them while operating a motor vehicle. Edwards informed the youth that first time young drivers have a tendency to get into more accidents because they lack driving experience. Trooper Edwards showed a slide presentation of accidents that have happened due to not wearing seatbelts, texting while driving, bad weather conditions and speeding. He noted that head injuries are the most frequent causes of fatal injuries. One specific slide entitled “Don’t be a HOST to distractions” summed it up precisely: Hear what's happening around you; Observe scenery, weather, destination markers and traffic; Socialize with passengers while driving but maintain eye contact on the road and; Touch radio, cell phones, food and maps “BUT DON’T LINGER.” Also in attendance was an officer from the Raleigh Police Department and McGruff the Crime Dog, who assisted with the presentation and answered questions about crime and juvenile delinquency prevention. The forum concluded with a pizza luncheon for all attendees and their parents.

On Sunday, March 18, the R.A.G.E. Conference commenced with Minister Joshua Carmichael. His energized message, “A Sound Mind,” focused on 2 Timothy 1:7. He equated the sound mind to a pure, peaceful and converted mind. He reminded the youth (and adults) that one’s mind is the start of one’s emo ons, and when distracted, it affects the spirit. He con nued by saying that one must keep their heart and mind on God and be consistent with one’s prayers. “An cipate an a ack from the enemy,” Carmichael said, as even Christ was a acked; however, he encouraged all by referencing 2 Corinthians 2:11, Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices. (KJV) Carmichael told parishioners to speak to that situa on and claim victory. He concluded by reminding all to meditate on God’s word, referencing Psalm 1:2, But his delight is in the law of the L ; and in his law doth he meditate day and night, and to seek God’s peace, referencing 2 Thessalonians 3:16, Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all. (KJV)

On Wednesday, March 21, the conference con nued with Minister Jamaal Lee, from Ohio. His sermon, en tled: “Truth Follows Change,” referenced Ezekiel 37:1-14. During his message, he shared about his trip to North Carolina and his experience with the rental car’s GPS. During his travel, he had encountered several obstacles along the way; therefore, me became a factor. He was concerned about arriving late so despite the instruc ons of the GPS, he decided to take some short cuts. Well, needless to say, they didn’t provide any greater outcomes. His point was to follow the route as instructed. His message to the congrega on made the same point: Following God, as directed! He asked the ques on: “Why do we make it so hard? God’s plan is simple, IF we just follow it! Later he men oned the true marks of a Chris an are con nuance and repentance. One must con nue on their journey with God and repent as o en as needed. He closed with three points: 1) We are not as good as we think, meaning we’re all a work in progress; 2) God came down from

the cross for us – He suffered our pain so we might have the gi of eternal life; and 3) We should die to those things that are fleshly and keep us from salva on. He closed by saying we don’t want to miss out on God by not following the proper course. Read God’s word daily, pray and seek Him in all our ways. By doing so, we’ll reach our des na on right on me.

On Sunday, March 25, the conference concluded with an explosive performance by musical group F.O.C.U.S. (Followers Of Christ U ering Salva on) accompanied by EBC’s Community Choir. Following the performance, parishioners heard a very moving and anointed word from Youth Pastor Jus n Bilson, of Greater Mt. Calvary Holy Church in Washington, DC. His message, “Don’t Let Me Die,” referenced 2 Kings 4:18-21, wherein the Shunammite woman went to see the man of God because her son had died. The parable shows how desperate the mother was for her son to live again.

During his message, he con nued to show the correla on between today’s distressed youth and the son who had died a er complaining about his head. He spoke of a genera on on a verge of disaster and admonished the congrega on to pay a en on to the symptoms of our children’s issues and then be willing to fight for them. “Figh ng takes skill and determina on but most of all it takes a spiritually sound person,” Bilson said. His last point was to wait for the release, meaning once the prayers have gone forth, be s ll and watch God move. As described in the fourth chapter of 2 Kings, the boy was revived because Elisha poured his spirit into the young boy. Today, adults (parents and caregivers) must stretch beyond themselves in order to give life to our youth. Pastor Bilson concluded his sermon with a powerful demonstra on of love and support between parents and their children. He told the parents that God has their backs and for the children, their parents have their backs. What an awesome way to end the conference!

Manna from Heaven NEWS 11

2012 EBC Scholarship Recipients: Robyn Alston, Nicole Chantal Cannon, Steven C. Crutchfield, Taylor Gray, and Cameron Redd

2012 Graduates: Student: Robyn Alston School: Knightdale High School Plans: East Carolina University, Major in Biology Student: Nicole Chantal Cannon School: Knightdale High School Plans: Wake Tech Community College for Nursing Will transfer to East Carolina University Student: Steven Crutchfield School: West Johnston High School Plans: University of North Carolina – Charlotte Major in Architecture Student: Taylor Gray School: Wake Forest Roseville High School Plans: Campbell University Major in Biology on a pre-med track Student: Kenneth Gregg School: South East Raleigh High School Plans: Wake Tech Community College Student: Diamondnesha House School: Garner High School Plans: North Carolina Central University Student: Najee Johnson School: Knightdale High School Plans: US Navy Student: Adryanna Mone't Messier School: Wakefield High School Plans: Campbell University Major in Environmental Science Student: Cameron B. Redd School: Garner Magnet High School Plans: Catawba Valley Community College Student: JaVante' Walker School: Sanderson High School Plans: United States Army Signal Support System Specialist Student: Cameron Ross Wiley School: Knightdale High School Plans: Ohio State University

2012

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12 Manna from Heaven NEWS

Whether one excelled in math, science, the arts and/or an aspiring athlete, Eleva on’s Youth Ministry recognized youth from kindergarten to high school for their quarterly achievements. Parents stood proudly as their children’s names were called, acknowledging their efforts in pursing academic excellence and athle c for tude. The youth ministry presented the honorees with cer ficates and Zaxby’s of Knightdale presented them with complimentary meal cards.

On Friday, March 9, VCU College choir (pictured on right) and Sunday, March 18, NCSU College choir (pictured on le ) ministered in song.

C C EBC

Lions, gers and bears, oh my! Eleva on’s youth visited the Asheboro Zoo on June 16, and enjoyed the animals in their natural habitats.

C E ’ Y A

Make a Joyful Noise! On July 14, fi een middle and high schoolers enjoyed a fun-filled day at Kings Dominion and concluded the day with the Joy Fest Concert featuring Fred Hammond, Mary Mary, and Ty Tribet.

Manna from Heaven NEWS 13

WAKE COUNTY HOLIDAY CHEER 2012 - The Gi of Giving! Each year, Wake County Human Services enlist help from community sponsors, like businesses, service clubs, and faith groups to provide Christmas gi s for children (and seniors) in need. Holiday Cheer recipe- ents are not allowed to self-refer; instead, they are recommended by a case manager or social worker and must meet certain income criteria. This year the program had need of sponsors for families in rural areas. Con nuing with the theme of evangelism, Eleva on disciples (and ministries) answered the call to par cipate and thus adopted eight families, providing 23 children from the Knightdale, Zebulon and Wendell areas, with an abundance of toys, supplies, clothes and other items from their wish lists. All of the recipients expressed their hear elt gra tude for the love shown to them during the “season of giving.” Pastor and Elder Carmichael, along with the planning commi ee, were present on December 17 when the families came to pick up their gi s. One mom said, “I didn’t think I would have Christmas for my children…. then, I got the call. Thank you so much for blessing my children for Christmas.”

J N F

Eleva on’s Job Net Ministry presented its first Job Seekers Forum on April 28. This event a racted numerous a endees and provided them with resources and ps which strategically make one’s job search efforts more effec ve in securing a new job. The forum offered three workshops: 1) “Interview Prepara on,” presented by Josephine S th, SPHR; HR Professional; 2) “Resume Wri ng,” presented by Barbara Porch, Recruiter; and 3) “The Benefits of Staffing Agencies,” presented by Tonia Allen, Recruiter. Following the workshops, Nancy Borst, Recruiter and Career Management Consultant presented a session on “Hiring Trends in Today’s Labor Market Economy.”

As a result of this event, a endees signed-up for future Job Net ministry mee ngs and others requested addi onal coaching. Subsequently, two a endees secured posi ons in the Public Rela ons field; addi onally, one secured a new posi on as a Machine Operator at PRA, and another a endee secured a posi on as an Assistant Director of Public Rela ons at Bowie State University at Maryland. The forum was quite beneficial to all who a ended.

The Footprints of History! On May 10, Eleva on’s Senior Ministry departed for an overnight trip to Washington, DC. In prepara on for the day-long tours, Ms. Sabrina Tucker facilitated a break out session on Thursday evening for all a endees regard-ing African American history and historical events. On May 11, a endees were joined by Pastor and Elder Carmichael for a viewing of the Mar n Luther King Jr. and Vietnam Memorials, and Lincoln and Franklin Delano Roosevelt Monuments. It was me for many to reflect on the history of this great na on and those who made a difference by giving their lives. “What an awesome experience….this is like a walk down memory lane,” said one of the par cipants. Although some had visited the capital sites before, all were astonished by the stone carved Mar n Luther King Jr. Memorial, and remembered the man who stood for jus ce and equality. A er a day of explora on and lunch, a endees boarded the bus and traveled back to Raleigh with lots of stories and pictures to share.

“New Beginnings” Service 2012

The doors of Elevation Baptist Church East Campus opened at 10:00 p.m. on December 31, 2012 as the people came in to hear a word to encourage them for 2013. Pastor Carmichael spoke on “God’s Plan …God’s Purpose…The Promise” referencing Jeremiah 29:11 and John 17:22. Pastor brought forth an electrically charged message. He informed the congregation that God’s Plan is to: Love us; Perform his word for us; Fulfill our prayer request; Position us to be a blessing; and, For us to seek God so that we can reap His promises. As time transitioned from old (2012) to new (2013) Pastor declared that when we trust God enough we can expect to win, for believers are victorious in HIM.

MANNA FROM HEAVEN NEWSLETTER COMMITTEE:

CONTRIBUTORS Marion Alston Veronica Bryant Angie Hendricks Brian Johnson Elaine Reid Sonya Reid Rahee Sullivan Yolanda McMillan

EDITORIAL TEAM Marion Alston Angie Hendricks Brian Johnson Sonya Reid

PHOTOGRAPHERS Angie Hendricks Jay Thomas Teresa Richardson LC Ulmer Karen Braxton (photography assistant)

Our ministry would like to acknowledge the invaluable help of all servant leaders for their contributions to this 2012 edition. We also want to thank our readers and encourage all to share the awesome activities and events with others.

We desire to bless the community with this evangelistic tool. A copy of this edition can be found on the church's website: www.elevationbaptist.org

Worship Service at EBC West (Raleigh, NC) Sunday Mornings at 8:00 A.M.

Worship Service at EBC East (Knightdale, NC) Sunday Mornings at 10:00 A.M.

Naviga on Classes & Sunday School at EBC East Sunday Mornings from 9:00 A.M.- 9:45 A.M.

Word Empowerment at EBC West Wednesdays at 12:00 Noon & 7:00 P.M.

Intercessory Prayer at EBC West Thursdays at 12:00 Noon

One house of worship with two loca ons

Eleva on Bap st Church (East) 5271 EBC Village Way Knightdale, NC 27545

(919) 231-6418

Eleva on Bap st Church (West) 4729 New Bern Avenue

Raleigh, NC 27610 (919) 231-6418

Visit us at www.elevationbaptist.org