Strategies For God's Mission 
Upcoming Events at Allen Temple for the week of Sunday, August 23, 2015 

Join us in worship and study!

Sunday Worship 8:00 am and 11:15 am 
Both worship services live streamed in their entirety on Allen-Temple.org

Sunday School at 10:15am in the Family Life Center

Bible Study
Tuesday Teleconference ~ 7:00 pm  *  Wednesday Youth ~ 6:30 pm
Thursday Daytime with Senior Pastor J. Alfred Smith, Jr. ~ 12 Noon
Thursday Evening with Senior Pastor J. Alfred Smith, Jr. ~ 7:30 pm

For more information, visit Allen-Temple.org

Rev. Dr. Gary V. Simpson 
Senior Pastor, Brooklyn's Concord Baptist Church of Christ
Preaches Sunday, August 23 ~ 8am & 11:15am
 
Allen Temple is honored to welcome our friend Rev. Dr. Gary V. Simpson, Senior Pastor of Brooklyn's historic Concord Baptist Church of Christ, as our special guest preacher on Sunday, August 23 at 8am & 11:15am! Join us in worship on campus or in the Cyber Sanctuary via Livestream @ Allen-Temple.org! 

Pastor Emeritus J. Alfred Smith, Sr. 
Featured in the KineticsLive #BlackChurchSyllabus 
 
Have you heard of the #BlackChurchSyllabus curated by KineticsLive? Our beloved and esteemed Pastor Emeritus J Alfred Smith Sr. has been included in the group of distinguished Black theologians, scholars and preachers who shared their must read books on the Black Church Experience! Add these books to your reading list and enrich your knowledge & appreciation of the #BlackChurch Find all of the #BlackChurchSyllabus suggestions by clicking here to visit the KineticsLive website!

Join Allen Temple and the Evangelism Ministry at the
Ceasefire Oakland Friday Evening Prayer Walks

Allen Temple Family and Friends are invited to join the Evangelism Ministry, our friends at Ceasefire Oakland and our neighbors on Friday Night Prayer Walks in our community  every Friday evening from 6:30pm to 9:30pm in East Oakland to show our love for and to our community and to join together in prayer that the violence ceases. 
 
The 2015 Ceasefire Walk Schedule is:

  

August 28 - At Thy Word - 8915 International Blvd

September 4 - Allen Temple - 8501 International Blvd

September 11 - First Mt. Sinai-1970 86th Avenue

September 18 - Cosmopolitan - 988 85th Avenue

September 25 - At Thy Word - 8915 International Blvd

October 2 - Allen Temple - 8501 International Blvd

October 9 - First Mt. Sinai-1970 86th Avenue

October 16 - Cosmopolitan - 988 85th Avenue

October 23 - At Thy Word - 8915 International Blvd

October 30 - St. Benedict's - 2245 82nd Avenue

 

For more information on Oakland Ceasefire/Lifelines to Healing 

 call (510) 639-1440 or email [email protected] 


Leadership Institute at Allen Temple
Fall Semester Orientation & Registration Event
Monday, August 24 ~ 6:30pm (Pittsburg)
Thursday, August 27 ~ 6:30pm (Richmond)
Saturday, August 29 ~ 9am (Allen Temple)
Now Offering Classes in 3 East Bay Locations!

Earn your Certificate in Christian Ministry at the Leadership Institute at Allen Temple! Classes now offered in 3 locations; Monday evenings with Cohort Leader Rev. Henry L. Perkins at First Baptist Church Pittsburg, on Thursday evenings with Cohort Leader Dr. Alvin Bernstine at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Richmond, and on Saturdays with Chancellor Dr. Brenda Guess at Allen Temple! Attend an orientation or registration session near you! Come out to the Pittsburg Cohort event on Monday, August 24 at 6pm at First Baptist Church, 204 Odessa Ave., Pittsburg, the Richmond Cohort event on Thursday, August 27 at 6:30pm at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Richmond, or to the Oakland main campus event on Saturday, August 29 at 9am at the Allen Temple Family Life Center. Classes begin September 10. For more information, click here to be redirected to the Leadership Institute website or call (510) 544-3362.


Leadership Institute at Allen Temple
Preaching Sermons That Matter Course
Orientation Saturday, August 29 ~ 9am 
Course Begins Saturday, September 12

In a church where the bulk of its time, energy, and resources are committed to the preaching ministry, preaching needs to matter. This course will provide a preaching model that consistently shapes Biblically based, theologically sound, and culturally relevant sermons that matter.

 

This course will be taught by Dr. Alvin Bernstine, Pastor of Richmond's Bethlehem Baptist Church. Pastor Bernstine brings nearly 40 years of preaching experience, over 30 years of pastoral experience, and a wealth of academic and instructional experiences. This course will be designed to assist beginning preachers as well as seasoned preachers who understand and appreciate the wisdom of continuing education. 

  

For more information and to enroll, click here to be redirected to the Leadership Institute website or call (510) 544-3362.


Leadership Institute at Allen Temple
Women, Transition & Depression Course
Orientation Saturday, August 29 ~ 9am 
Course Begins Saturday, September 19

The Leadership Institute at Allen Temple is honored to announce a special Fall semester course, Women, Transition & Depression, taught by Allen Temple's own Dr. Lani Wilson!  Dr. Wilson brings her rich experience as a professor and psychologist to discuss the phenomenon of women, transition & depression by discussing the antecedents of depression as well as possible strategies for identifying its' parameters when we move through new challenges in our lives.  Although depression and self-defeating behavior affect many adults in their lifetimes, American women report more and longer episodes of depression.

This course focuses on women's issues although men have an investment in this work as well and are welcome to enroll in this class.  Through text reading, assignments and in-class discussions, we will discover different strategies for managing and navigating the challenges that accompany transition that come at different points in our lives.  

  

For more information and to enroll, click here to be redirected to the Leadership Institute website or call (510) 544-3362.


Allen Temple Book Club Summer Selection  
Next Discussion Saturday, August 29 ~ 1pm 
 

The Allen Temple Book Club invites everyone to join them in reading their Summer selection, The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle!  Join them for their next discussion on Saturday, August 29 at 1pm in the Family Life Center Library!  New participants warmly welcomed! 


Rev. Rahiel Tesfamariam
Public Theologian/Activist/Writer 
Preaches Sunday, August 30 ~ 8am 
 
Allen Temple is honored to welcome public theologian, social activist and writer Rev. Rahiel Tesfamariam as our special guest preacher on Sunday, August 30 at 8am! Rev. Tesfamariam, who is doing tremendous justice work in response to the murders and atrocities in cities such as Ferguson and New York City, is Founder / Publisher of UrbanCusp.com, a cutting-edge online lifestyle magazine highlighting progressive urban culture, faith, social change and global awareness! Join us in worship on campus or in the Cyber Sanctuary via Livestream @ Allen-Temple.org! 

Alameda County Care Alliance
Caregiver Recognition Celebration & Health Expo
Sunday, August 30 ~ 2pm to 6pm
Glad Tidings Church of God In Christ
27689 Tyrrell Avenue ~ Hayward
 

Allen Temple is honored to be a part of the Alameda County Care Alliance!  On Sunday, August 30 at 2pm, join Senior Pastor J. Alfred Smith, Jr., Min. Derrick Hall and the Allen Temple Music Ministry at our partner church Glad Tidings Church of God in Christ in Hayward as we honor the dedication and support that caregivers provide to our loved ones.  Celebrate caregivers from our communities with an afternoon of activities that include a celebratory dinner, a caregiver appreciation service featuring a keynote address by Senior Pastor J. Alfred Smith, Jr. on advanced illness care, the ministry of music by Min. Derrick Hall and the Allen Temple Music Ministry and recognition of volunteers from the Alameda County Care Alliance Advanced Illness Care Program.  Learn more about your health and caring for those with advanced illness at the health expo. Dinner will be served and the Health Expo will be from 2 to 4pm; a service of celebration will be from 4 to 5pm and a keynote message from 5pm to 6pm. 

  

The Allen Temple Music Ministry will join with the ONE Voice Mass Choir to provide the music. If you have interest in singing in the Mass Choir, contact Min. Derrick Hall via the Music Ministry Office (Sanctuary First Floor) or (510) 544-8924.

 

Celebration activities are free for all guests!  To learn more about the event, please visit accarealliance.org, email [email protected] or call Allen Temple Baptist Church at (510) 544-8910!


Prophetic Justice Ministry & PICO California 
Statewide Action at the Capitol  
Wednesday, September 2 ~ 9am to 4pm
 
Join the Allen Temple Prophetic Justice Ministry and our partners at PICO California and Communities United Coalition in Sacramento at the State Capitol on Wednesday, September 2 from 9am to 4pm for the Statewide Action at the Capitol. This action will demonstrate the urgency for the California Legislature and Governor Brown to take action that will curb racial profiling and demonstrate that Black and Brown lies matter in California as well as improve public safety for everyone. The action also calls for the passage of California Assembly Bill AB 953, which will help eliminate the harmful and unjust practice of racial and identity profiling and improve law enforcement transparency and accountability by promoting equal protection & preventing unreasonable searches and seizure. There will be a public program on the Capitol lawn and delegations will meet with California State Senators. If you plan to attend, transportation, food & materials are based on registration counts; please register today! Click here to be redirected to the PICO California website. For more information, call Rev. Damita Davis-Howard at (510) 639-1444.  

Allen Temple Unity Choir CD Release 
We Give You Praise
Available Starting Sunday, September 6!
 
The Allen Temple Unity Choir is excited to announce that their highly anticipated CD release, " We Give You Praise" will be available starting Sunday, September 6! Be blessed and inspired by the Unity Choir's ministry of music wherever you are! Starting September 6, visit the Family Life Center Lobby after Sunday worship to purchase your copy! 
Men's Retreat 2015
Friday, September 11  thru Sunday, September 13
Redwood Christian Park Boulder Creek
 

Men of all ages are invited to join the United Men of Allen Temple at Men's Retreat 2015, Friday, September 11 through Sunday, September 13 at Redwood Christian Park in Boulder Creek!  Be blessed by a time of sharing, teaching and reflection designed just for you alongside your brothers!  Make new friends and strengthen your bonds!  This year's keynote speaker is Rev. Harry Louis Williams, II, Founder and President of Hood Movement 21.  Fees are $135, $155 and $175 which includes room, board and five meals.  Click here to watch a brief video!  To register or for more information,visit the Courtyard after Sunday worship or contact Bro. Reginald Jones at [email protected] or (510) 406-6234!


Bethsaida Counseling Center and
Allen Temple Recovery & Deliverance Ministry
Quarterly Fireside Chat
Saturday, September 12 ~ 9:30am
 
Allen Temple is honored to be a Mental Health Friendly Congregation! Join us in the Family Life Center for an informative discussion in a safe, supportive & confidential environment on the topics of dual diagnosis, symptoms, treatment, genetic impact, mental health, substance abuse and more presented by Jacquelyn Allen, MA, MFTI, LAADC-CA, Rev. Timothy Downs, M.Div., M-RAS, Mallie Latham, B.A. and Janet Robinson-Bryan, LCSW.  Obtain valuable community resources! This is a free event; space is limited.  RSVP by calling Bethsaida Counseling Center at (510) 544-8945. 
Ushers, Nurses & First Responders Annual Day 
Sunday, September 20 ~ 3pm 
 
Join the Allen Temple Ushers, Nurses & First Responders Ministries on Sunday, September 20 at 3pm as they celebrate their Annual Day! We'll give great praise to God for their faithful ministry through praise, worship, the Word Sung, the grand march, and the Preached Word by our special guest preacher, Rev. Dr. Gregory B. Payton, Senior Pastor of the Greater St. John Missionary Baptist Church of Oakland!

Installation Worship Service for
Allen Temple's Own Rev. Dr. Harold Orr, Jr. 
Sunday, September 20 ~ 3pm
Greater El Bethel Missionary Baptist Church Richmond 
 
The Allen Temple Family gives great praise to God as one of our sons in ministry, the Reverend Dr. Harold Orr, Jr, is installed as Senior Pastor of the Greater El Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in Richmond! The installation worship service will be held Sunday, September 20 at 3pm at Greater El Bethel, 813 Williams Drive in Richmond!

LYFE Young Adult Ministry Toiletry Drive
Now Through September
 

The LYFE Young Adult Ministry is sponsoring a toiletry drive benefiting the For Sisters Only Ministry!  Please bring your toiletry donations to the baskets in the Narthex or Family Life Center Lobby!  We thank you for your generosity! 

Build Your Spiritual Life
Thursday Bible Studies
with Senior Pastor J. Alfred Smith, Jr. 
12 Noon and 7:30pm
Family Life Center Mary Morris Room 
 
Now you have two opportunities on Thursdays to receive in-depth Bible teaching and discussion by Senior Pastor J. Alfred Smith, Jr!   Join Pastor Smith at 12 Noon or 7:30pm in the Family Life Center Mary Morris Room!  Let's dig into and grow in The Word together!
Spiritual Life Ministry      

The mission of the Spiritual Life Ministry of Allen Temple Baptist Church is to provide the spiritual tools necessary to undergird all other Allen Temple ministries thereby fostering and supporting the spiritual formation, spiritual growth and spiritual enrichment of its congregation and community. The Spiritual Life Ministry recognizes that individuals experience spirituality differently. Therefore, its' goal is to offer a variety of means through which one may develop, strengthen, and enhance one's relationship with God.

If you would like more information on one-on-one orientations or spiritual direction, Small Group Sessions, or assistance with any of your Spiritual Life questions, please contact Rev. Ineda Adesanya, Allen Temple Minister of Spiritual Life, at (510) 544-8930 or [email protected]
.
Prayer Room
Family Life Center First Floor Room D-103       

Need a sacred place of solitude where you can connect with our Heavenly Parent and find restoration and renewal for your spirit? The Prayer Room is open to you! Ask a Custodian for entrance!
Enrich and Encourage Your Spirit Wherever You Are!
Meditations and Devotions on Allen-Temple.org! 
 
Did you know that you can enrich and encourage wherever you are by accessing Allen-Temple.org on your smartphone, tablet or computer and access meditations and devotions that will nourish your mind, body and spirit?

Visit Allen-Temple.org and check out weekly updates of:

Round out your experience by obtaining information on Sunday School and Bible Study, where we have classes for all ages!
Prayer Warriors    

The Prayer Warriors meet every Tuesday in the Family Life Center from 11:30 a.m to 12:30 p.m.  Remember the hour and pray with us; the door is always open; if you can't come, join us in prayer wherever you are.
Ministry Information and Opportunities to Serve
Do Good News, Be Good News & Tell Good News! 
Kingdom Dancers Ministry 
Rehearsals Friday Evenings ~ 7pm  

The Allen Temple Kingdom Dancers Ministry welcomes persons age 7 and up who love to express their praise of our Lord through dance to join them!  The Junior Kingdom Dancers are comprised of ages 7 to 11 and the Kingdom Dancers are comprised of ages 12 and up!  Join us at our rehearsal on Monday evenings at 7pm in the Family Life Center Dance Studio!  For more information, contact Sis. Danielle Latimer, Kingdom Dancers Ministry Chairperson, at [email protected]

Join The Ushers Ministry!     

The Ushers Ministry invites all who are interested in serving to join them at their monthly meetings!   Senior Ushers meet on the second Tuesday of each month at 7:00 PM, Y oung Adult Ushers meet on the second Wednesday each month at 6:30 PM, and the  Junior & Youth Ushers meet on the second Saturday each month at 10:00 AM.  For more information, email [email protected].

Healthy Temple Tips 

From The Health Education Ministry

August is National Immunization Month

 

We all need shots (also called vaccinations or immunizations) to help protect us from serious diseases. Shots can prevent serious diseases like the flu, measles, and pneumonia. It's important to know which shots you need and when to get them.

Everyone age 6 months and older needs to get a flu vaccine every year. Other shots work best when they are given at certain ages.  If you have a child age 6 or younger, find out which shots your child needs.  Find out which shots adults and teenagers need.


 

Talk to your doctor or nurse to make sure that everyone in your family gets the shots they need. To learn more, visit your doctor/health provider.  The recommended immunization schedule is designed to protect infants and children early in life, when they are most vulnerable and before they are exposed to potentially life-threatening diseases.


 

Check the schedule for the age or age range when each vaccine or series of shots is recommended. Or create a personalized schedule that shows the recommended dates for your child. If your child has missed any shots, work with your child's doctor to determine vaccination dates for the missed or skipped vaccines. See the doctor with any questions.


 

For more information, click here to be redirected to the Centers for Disease Control website to download an informative PDF!

 

Become a Shopping Tour Leader

With Allen Temple Health & Social Services, Cooking Matters at the Store, Share our Strength
and the No Kid Hungry Campaign

 

Congratulations to Allen Temple Health & Social Services for the recent award from Cooking Matters/Share our Strength to lead Shopping Tours at our Local Grocery Stores.  We are recruiting committed volunteers to assist families and learn to Teach families how to:

  • Reading food labels
  • Comparing unit prices
  • Finding whole grain foods
  • Identifying three ways to purchase produce
Throughout the East Bay, families on a tight budget report that the cost of healthy groceries is their biggest barrier to making healthy meals at home. Food skills, like smart shopping, can help overcome that barrier. Cooking Matters at the Store is a free program of the No Kid Hungry campaign that empowers families to stretch their food budgets so their children get healthy meals at home.  As a tour leader you will be empowering families to eat healthy on a budget.  Training will be provided.  If you are interested in being one of our Tour Leaders, please contact James Arrington at [email protected] or 510-544-8908!  
Alameda County Care Alliance
Serving Those With Advanced Illness and their Caregivers 
 

The Alameda County Care Alliance, of which Allen Temple is the founding partner, is honored to announce that enrollment is open for all individuals with an advanced illness and their caregivers! This program is designed to provide assistance to individuals with advanced illnesses and their caregivers in reaching resources that are available in Alameda County. Please contact our Community Care Navigator, Sis. Jennifer Shelton, at [email protected] or (510) 544-8910 for more information and to enroll today! 


Join the Evangelism & Streets Disciples Ministries
Street Ministry Second & Fourth Saturdays
Help us provide bag lunches to our sisters & brothers!
 
The Evangelism Team and the Streets Disciples Ministry go out two times each month for street ministry.  Would you like to join us?  We would love to see you. We meet on 2nd and 4th Saturdays at 12 Noon in the Family Life Center Library for prayer before hitting the streets. If you are unable to join us in person, would you be interested in contributing bag lunches for us to hand out to the men, women and children on the streets?  The lunches must be filled with love from the Heart of Christ; suggestions for items are a sandwich, chips, a cookie and water.  If you are interested in joining us in either of these ministries, please contact Sister Mattie Johnson at (510) 459-0425 or [email protected], Rev. Donald Miller or Brother Ben Darden. 
Evangelism Ministry   

The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise. - Proverbs 11:20

 

Do your family members, your neighbors and your co-workers know you as a Christian who is willing to share the Good News of Jesus Christ?

 

Do you know it is every Christian's mission to go into the world and win souls to Christ?

 

Christians of all ages are invited to join the Evangelism Ministry in our Soul Winning efforts!

 

And behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. - Revelation 22:12 

  • We meet every second and fourth Saturday at the Church at 12 Noon for Evangelism Training and to go to various locations in Oakland to share the Good News of Jesus Christ and the good news of Allen Temple Baptist Church to a lost and seeking world.
  • The Evangelism Team is in partnership with Ceasefire, and has teamed up with Operation Ceasefire Oakland to prayer walk every Friday evening from 6:30pm to 9:30pm in East Oakland to stop the violence. The 2015 Ceasefire Walk Schedule is:

August 28 - At Thy Word - 8915 International Blvd

September 4 - Allen Temple - 8501 International Blvd

September 11 - First Mt. Sinai-1970 86th Avenue

September 18 - Cosmopolitan - 988 85th Avenue

September 25 - At Thy Word - 8915 International Blvd

October 2 - Allen Temple - 8501 International Blvd

October 9 - First Mt. Sinai-1970 86th Avenue

October 16 - Cosmopolitan - 988 85th Avenue

October 23 - At Thy Word - 8915 International Blvd

October 30 - St. Benedict's - 2245 82nd Avenue


The Evangelism Ministry is in partnership with Soldiers Against Violence Everywhere (S.A.V.E. Outreach) of True Vine Ministries to bring a voice of concern to the City of Oakland about the sinful murders occurring here. We meet at their selected location every Saturday at 11:00am and leave at or about 12 Noon.

 

For more information, please contact the Evangelism Ministry at (510) 544-8910

Ladies of all ages are invited to join
The Women's Mission Society!

The Women's Mission Society invites and warmly welcomes ladies of all ages to join them in sisterhood and service!  Are you seeking to share your faith in growth and development?  Join us in sharing your time, talent and gifts by supporting mission causes that advance our local, national and international communities!  Please join us at our general meeting on the second Saturday of each month from 10:00am to 12 Noon in the J. Alfred Smith, Sr. Fellowship Hall!
Visit the Allen Temple Multimedia Store!

The Allen Temple Multimedia Store is open after Sunday worship services in the J. Alfred Smith, Sr. Fellowship Hall and also accessible via our website!  Feed your spirit during the week by purchasing CDs and DVDs of worship services and special events.  The store now accepts debit and credit cards for your purchasing convenience!
Visit the Allen Temple Bookstore!

The Allen Temple Bookstore is open between Sunday worship services (10:15am to 11:15am) in Family Life Center Lobby (Room D-111)!  Purchase Bibles, books and other novelty items
Join The Worship Projection Ministry Team!
 
The Worship Projection Ministry is seeking persons of all ages to join the team! Team members are asked to serve one Sunday per month and will use the computer to project images & video on the Sanctuary screens during worship. Basic computer experience needed; training provided. Contact Rev. Charlotte Williams, Minister & Director of Communications, at [email protected] or (510) 544-8980.

 

The Streets Disciples Ministry Needs You!
 
The Streets Disciples Ministry needs you! There are many ways you can help!

 

If your heart is drawn to helping our sisters who are 'the lost sheep' on International Blvd. and beyond come and join the Streets Disciples! You are wanted and needed! "When nothing else could help the Love of Jesus, lifted me!"  Has His love lifted you?  Then please share it with your sisters who also need to know His love and His transforming power. The Team meets on the second Saturday of each month at 2 pm in the Family Life Center Ray Collins Conference Room.  Our 'For Sisters Only' (FSO) gathering is on the 4th Saturday of each month in the J. Alfred Smith, Sr. Fellowship Hall. If you are interested in volunteering to meet, greet, and serve our marginalized sisters please join us. Volunteers meet at 4:30 for preparation. Those we serve come at 6 pm. Everyone can help as the strength of this ministry is undergirded with your prayers! For more information, please contact Sis. Mattie Johnson at 510-459-0425!
Give A Cold Cup Of Water
A Sub Ministry of The Streets Disciples

"Give a Cup of Cold Water" (Mark 9:41) is a new segment of The Streets Disciples ministry.  Please join us in this 'silent' ministry.  What do you have to do? Simply GIVE in the Name of Jesus to the disenfranchised...the homeless, the destitute, a lonely child, a crying woman, etc.  Many of you are already doing this! When you buy your morning coffee, buy an extra one and simply give it to someone. Give a blanket, a 'care' bag, a bottle of water, fresh fruit, wet wipes, etc.  Whatever the Lord lays on your heart. If you wish to sign up with us, visit our ministry table in the Courtyard or Family Life Center Lobby after Sunday worship.  Will you make this weekly commitment with us? Jesus will be pleased.

Junior Deacons Ministry
Second Friday Evenings at 6:30pm
J. Alfred Smith, Sr. Fellowship Hall


Train up a child in the way he should go:
 and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
Proverbs 22:6 (NIV)
   

The Junior Deacons Ministry is a sub ministry of the Allen Temple Baptist Church Deacon Ministry. Our purpose is to spiritually grow boys into men through Fellowship, Bible Study, and a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. The Junior Deacons Ministry is holistic; we are concerned about the whole person, and look to enhance educational growth, social relationships, and community involvement through participation in Sunday church services, monthly meetings, and periodic field trips to cultural events, sporting events, museums, and other venues.

 

We encourage all families with boys and young men between the ages of 8 - 18 to join the Junior Deacons Ministry.  The Allen Temple Junior Deacons meets on the second Friday of each month at 6:30pm in the J. Alfred Smith, Sr. Fellowship Hall. If you have any questions, please contact Deacon Bill Morse at [email protected] or Deacon Rob Buckner at [email protected].

 

Be Blessed! We look forward to your participation!

Allen Temple Cub Scout Troop 409
Monday Evenings at 6:30pm
Wildy-Carpenter Hall


Allen Temple's Cub Scout Pack 409 welcomes boys who are incoming first through fifth graders who like to go camping, skiing, hiking, swimming, football, basketball, fun and more to join! The Cub Scout Pack meets at the Allen Temple Wildy-Carpenter Hall on Monday evenings at 6:30pm. For more information, contact Cubmaster Don Smith at [email protected].

 
Praise Dance Ministry
Friday Evenings 
Children's Meeting - 6pm
Youth & Young Adults - 8pm
Family Life Center Dance Studio

Do you like to praise God through movement?  The Allen Temple Praise Dance Ministry invites you to come join us in class Fridays from 6pm to 7:30pm (Children 11 and under), and 8pm to 9pm (Youth and Young Adults) in the Family Life Center's Dance Studio.   The ministry meets on Monday evenings from 6pm to 7:30pm.  As a ministry, we worship through movement, we learn different dance techniques, we minister through dance, and most importantly, WE HAVE FUN!  For more information, contact Sis. Andrea Spearman at [email protected]!

Betty D. Gadling Fine Arts Academy
Fine Arts Instruction for Children & Adults


The Betty D. Gadling Fine Arts Academy offers instruction in reeds, brass, guitar, voice, percussion, strings, music theory, piano and dance for children and adults!  Classes held on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays!  For more information and to enroll, call (510) 544-8924!

Persons With Disabilities Ministry   

Come join us at the Persons with Disabilities Ministry as we strive every month to make Allen Temple Baptist Church accessible to everyone!  We want to ensure that the sanctuary is accessible and accommodates people with disabilities, educate our faith-based community partners and friends about the disability community, and encourage the congregation to recognize people for their abilities rather than their disabilities.  We also want to ensure that qualified individuals with disabilities are afforded an equal opportunity to participate in and benefit from worship services, events and programs, as well as develop awareness on how to interact and assist people with disabilities.   Your input on these subjects will be much welcomed.   We meet on the fourth Monday of each month from 6pm to 8pm in Family Life Center Room D-104.

Join The Church Library Team!  

Are you seeking a place to serve?  The Church Library Committee is seeking committed workers for the Family Life Center Library!  Our goal is to make our library the study center for the church! 

 
Staff is needed to keep the library operating.  At the present time, we are not open as often as we need to be.  Whether you have library skills or simply a willing spirit, we welcome you!  Come praise God by using your talents with us!  Contact Sister Eva Turner at (510) 597-0113.
News From The Mother of Peace Orphanage!

Be informed and updated by the latest newsletter from the Mother of Peace Orphanage! Be informed and inspired by their latest newsletter! 
News You Can Use
Community Events, Services and Information  
African Mission Outreach Foundation
Annual Gala Fundraiser & Luncheon
Sunday, August 25 ~ 3pm
Mills Grove Christian Church Oakland

Join the African Mission Outreach Foundation for an afternoon including a delicious lunch, song, spoken word, and inspiration at their annual fundraiser at Mills Grove Christian Church, 5410 Fleming Avenue in Oakland! Allen Temple's own Rev. Loretta Moody, President of the Women's Mission Society, will bring the keynote address!


 

Over the years, the AMOF has helped to support calls to missionary work in Liberia; appropriated funds for medical supplies to the Liberia Mission School and Village Clinic; raising funds to assist in land purchases for Nigeria Village Ministries; raised funds for Orta Evangelical Bible mission in Liberia; provided support to Somalia Relief Efforts; Asian Ministry Team; supported the Guest Family Language Missionaries to West Africa; American Red Cross; and Congress of National Black Churches, Inc. AMOF supports education and community here at home with financial contributions in the form of scholarships by sponsoring youth trips to South Africa from the local East Oakland community, and each year a single mother and her family in the Adopt a Family program.  Tickets For more information and to purchase tickets (your donation is tax-deductible), please contact Sis. Yvonne Lawrence at (510) 568-8211, Sis. Gay Rich at (510) 225-8199, or Sis. Priscilla Johnson at (510) 459-7589!  

Athletic Ministry Open Gym
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday Evenings

Young athletes are invited to join the Athletic Ministry for Open Gym in the Family Life Center on Monday evenings from 7pm to 8:30pm, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings from 6pm to 8:30pm!    

Oakland Serves Mentoring Opportunity
Mentor an Oakland High School Student  

The Oakland Unified School District and the Oakland Mayor's Office in cooperation with Oakland Serves are developing a new mentoring program for 2015-16. Students at risk of dropping out will receive five hours per week of paid employment as well as training in job skills linked to three hours per week of one-on-one mentoring help with their school work.

 

To learn more about and sign up to mentor a student, click here to download a PDF or click here to be redirected to the Oakland Serves website.

 

Oakland Parks & Recreation Youth Explorers
Accepting Applications  

Oakland Parks & Recreation is accepting applications for its' Youth Explorer program. This program trains youth, ages 13 to 17, for leadership positions within children's recreation, business and community activism. Participants will also learn how to apply for jobs, including resume writing and applying for jobs using online application platforms such as NEOGOV. Since the program needs to be self-sufficient, participants will also learn business tactics to raise funds. This program is ongoing and youth can apply to participate at any time. Please contact any recreation center for an application. For more information, please contact Michelle Doppelt, Recreation Supervisor, at (510) 482-7831.

Prostate Health Education Network   
PHEN Walk 2015   
A Virtual Walk Against Prostate Cancer
Now Through September 18 

The Prostate Health Education Network is sponsoring PHEN Walk 2015 through September 18, a virtual walk to raise Prostate Cancer awareness. The objectives are:

  • To raise the national level of prostate cancer awareness
  • To increase federal government funding for prostate cancer research, education and awareness
  • To initiate a public review of the scientific evidence and process used by the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force for its' Grade D Recommendation for prostate cancer tests, and to protect the medical benefits for patients' access to prosthetic urological devices
  • To increase the visibility, participation and support for PHEN's "Rally Against Prostate Cancer" initiatives 

To learn more and to sign up, visit PHEN's website 

Tuesdays and Thursdays are Enrollment Days
At The Enrollment HUB at Allen Temple!

Do you or your family need healthcare or have healthcare questions?  Visit The Enrollment HUB at Allen Temple!  We're open Tuesdays from 9am to 1pm and the first and third Thursdays from 2pm to 4pm! The Enrollment HUB is a center for enrollment into various health coverage and food programs such as Covered California, Medi-Cal, HealthPAC, and CalFresh. But most importantly, it's a place where community members can receive information, education, and support to navigate through the process of enrolling into and accessing health care.  For each household member you wish to include on your application, please bring a social security card or proof of citizenship/lawful presence in the US, driver's license or photo ID.  Have questions?  Call the Enrollment HUB office at (510) 544-8975!   

Family Life Center Computer Lab

The Allen Temple Computer Lab is open for people of all ages Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday from 9am to 2pm in Family Life Center Room C-124!  Training and assistance available.

Mercy Brown Bag Food Assistance for Seniors

The Mercy Brown Bag program provides food to eligible Alameda County residents 60 years of age and above twice per month (second and fourth Fridays) for a $10 annual contribution. If you are interested in signing up or would like to sponsor a senior, please contact Krista at (510) 534-8540, ext. 369 or Mother Brown at (510) 638-4085.

Early Oakland Children's Care & Education Services

Early Oakland is a campaign to help you find early care & education services and free or low cost, quality preschool programs in Oakland with safe learning environments that help build positive relationships and serve nutritional food. Visit earlyoakland.org or call Oakland Headstart at (510) 238-4165, Oakland Unified School District at (510) 273-1590, The Unity Council at (510) 535-6102, or Bananas at (510) 658-0381.

Champions for Change
Network for a Healthy California

Watch an important video by our valued community partner, Champions for Change/Network for a Healthy California, with footage from Allen Temple and our neighborhood!  In this video, members of the Allen Temple family and Allen Temple Health and Social Services (ATHSSM) discuss food justice and its' impact on our bodies and chronic diseases.

Featured in this video are Senior Pastor J. Alfred Smith, Jr., Rev. Dr. Eunice Shaw (Past Director, ATHSSM), Sis. Gloria Cox-Crowell (Executive Director of ATHSSM), and Bro. James Arrington (Allen Temple Case Manager).  
Oakland Public Library
Second Start Adult Literacy Program

The Oakland Public Library Second Start Program offers a confidential setting in which adults with low skill levels are able to get a "second start" at learning, for free. Adult students meet on-to-one with volunteer tutors. They can also participate in the computer learning lab and in family literacy programming if they are parents or have children in their lives. Small learning groups focusing on reading, spelling, math, and book discussions are also available to adult literacy students enrolled in the program!   For more information, visit the Second Start Adult Literacy Program website.

Books for Your Mind and Spirit
Order The Latest Book by
Pastor Emeritus J. Alfred Smith, Sr. 
Sounding The Trumpet:
How Churches Can Answer God's Call To Justice 
Co-Authored with Rev. Dr. Brooks Berndt

Embodied Spirits:  
Stories of Spiritual Directors of Color
Featuring Allen Temple's Own Minister of Spiritual Life Rev. Ineda Adesanya

Embodied Spirits: Stories of Spiritual Directors of Color, a solid addition to the Morehouse collection for spiritual directors, is the first book addressing the concerns and issues of people of color in spiritual direction and has a wide ecumenical appeal.  Allen Temple's own Rev. Ineda Adesanya, Minister of Spiritual Life, is the author of Chapter Seven.  Embodied Spirits is an anthology published by Christian Publishing, Inc. (aka Morehouse Publishing). 

  

"These essays speak of how we have incorporated our contemplative practices into our family life; our urban, non-religious background; how we have been nurtured in struggles for health and life through our contemplative prayer practices and our courage to survive and even thrive in the midst of dire circumstances. We speak of the unfolding bridge between faith and culture; our conflicts with an Interspiritual journey with a Christian foundation; our sexuality; our journey to healing and authenticity; and how we are taking this practice that began in the first centuries of the church with the desert mothers and fathers to the present and into the future with spiritual direction through the Internet across the world."  

- from the Introduction

Teaching in the Flatlands: 
A Three Decade Odyssey in Title 1 Schools
By Allen Temple's Own Sister Helen Sullivan

Allen Temple's own Sister Helen Sullivan has released a powerful, inspiring memoir, Teaching in the Flatlands: A Three Decade Odyssey in Title 1 Schools.  Sister Sullivan had the joy of teaching over five thousand students in the California public schools over the course of thirty years.   Sister Sullivan, who received a Master's Degree in School Supervision and Administration from California State University and is designated as a Master Teacher and Supervising Teacher to aspiring new teachers, shares a vivid picture of the real challenges in education that persist despite government reforms-and of the victories, big and small that dedicated professionals win everyday on behalf of their students and the beleaguered communities in which they work.  
 
The book shares her experience of teaching in a "flatland school"-schools located in east and west Oakland, California, with hardly any views of the hills or mountains that make the surrounding areas famously beautiful. But the name has another meaning as well. Flatland schools are schools with flat test scores-low-achieving schools, dangerous schools. In this poignant, powerful memoir, she shares her journey from new teacher to a seasoned veteran tasked with teaching others how to reach kids where they are. And in her case, the kids are in communities where violence is a reality and receiving a high school diploma isn't a foregone conclusion.

Full of heartbreak, triumphs, and the real challenges that face teachers across the country today, Teaching in the Flatlands shows people outside the world of education just how much energy, emotion, and time goes into educating the youth of America. By illuminating complicated and often contradictory education policies and introducing students whose entire life trajectories were changed by a good teacher, Sullivan proves just how difficult-and how critically important-it is to staff the nation's schools with the kind of teachers they so desperately need.
To purchase Teaching in the Flatlands, click here to be redirected to Amazon.com, or, contact Sis. Sullivan at [email protected]Click here to be redirected to her website, afrateach.net
Rising Up From The Blood:
A Legacy Reclaimed - A Bridge Forward
By Allen Temple's Own Sarah Washington O'Neal Rush
The Great Granddaughter of Booker T. Washington

Solid Rock Book Publishing has published Rising Up From The Blood: A Legacy Reclaimed - A Bridge Forward - The Autobiography Of Sarah Washington O'Neal Rush, The Great-Granddaughter of Booker T. Washington by Sarah Washington O'Neal Rush, with Yvonne Rose, and a forward by Tony Rose, NAACP Image Award Winner for Outstanding Literature, and Publisher of Amber Books. 
 
Although there had been hints throughout her childhood that she had a special calling from her ancestors it would be years before a bridge between her deprivation and her calling were revealed. Sarah's great-grandfather, Booker T. Washington, was the inspiration for this book. He was born a slave on a plantation in Virginia and became an advisor to United States Presidents. He was the founder of the Tuskegee Institute, today known as Tuskegee University, and became the most influential world-renowned black leader and educator of his time. 
 
This is the brilliantly told story about a young woman's struggle to reclaim her legacy. Many years had passed and Sarah knew nothing about the true meaning of her heritage; but finally everything came full circle when she realized the power of her legacy. Sarah had an epiphany when she visited Tuskegee University for the first time. For Sarah, the veil of ignorance was lifted that day. Shortly thereafter, she became clear about her purpose and began to embark upon her intended journey in life. For decades, as a child, a teen and a young adult, Sarah struggled with many insecurities brought upon her by unstable living circumstances; and she carried those insecurities into adulthood. Little did she know that the time spent falling and failing could only serve as a stepping stone to a future that would help her own children and grandchildren, and the numerous youth that she would encounter. 
 
In Rising Up From The Blood: A Legacy Reclaimed - A Bridge Forward, Sarah states that her journey was by no means easy, but it has led to a place that she could have only arrived at with the trials she overcame along the way. It also allowed her to have genuine compassion for the underprivileged, while affording her the wherewithal to empower those who were within earshot to do something about their circumstances. Where Sarah is today is remarkably different from where she started. Each chapter of the book includes lessons learned and solutions. Sarah states: "By understanding more about my great-grandfather, I learned if I get down in the trenches with others and help to pull them out, I am much more effective than if I tell them how to get out. As one saying goes, 'People don't care how much you know, until they know how much you care.'"

  

Akiti the Hunter
The First African Action Superhero
By Allen Temple's Own
Sister Denise Mobolaji Ajayi-Williams  
 
Akiti the Hunter is a riveting and exciting tale that will leave you at the edge of your seat page by page. With amazing and colorful illustrations and a heartfelt message, this book is sure to warm your heart and lead the mind to a world of imagination. Witness the power of his magical dust that can transform you into any animal in the kingdom of the forest, and experience his lyrical song that is bound to uplift and empower the young reader. Take a journey with us as we explore the world of Akiti the Hunter, the first African Action Superhero !
 
"As a mother, I have a passion and desire to make the world my children grow up a little more positive.   I want to empower the next generation to be great and believe in themselves like I believe in them." states Denise Mobolaji Ajayi-Williams, Author of Akiti the Hunter.  As a mother and founder of Working Moms in 20s Organizations, Denise Ajayi-Williams is the author behind Akiti the Hunter. With hopes of a positive impression, Ajayi-Williams believe everyone should view themselves as heroic no matter their place of origin. Her mission is to rewrite history one page at a time and this time, be the authors of our own legacy. Ajayi-Williams open a new channel to influence viewers around the world. For more information on Denise Mobolaji Ajayi-Williams, visit her organization website at workingmomin20s.com
Rags to Real Estate:
One Woman's Journey to Empowerment 
by Allen Temple's Own Deacon Denise Smith 
Visit the Allen Temple Bookstore
 
While still in high school, Denise landed an internship at a finance company and a deep interest in the real estate business was born. Through grit and sheer will, Denise Smith carved out a path that led to the top of the mountain and by the time she was 30 years old, she owned a million dollars worth of real estate. In Rags to Real Estate: One Woman's Journey to Empowerment, her first book, Denise Smith shares how her vision became reality. She shares lived insights on romance, relationships, and spirituality. At the book's conclusion, the reader will understand that everything is possible if one only believes in themselves and has motivation. My life is about encouraging young people to believe in themselves. What traits you want in someone else, develop in yourself. Don't strive to marry a millionaire, strive to become your own millionaire. It's been a long time coming; I'm excited to be able to share my journey. My hope is to inspire, motivate and empower someone to dream big dreams. Build on what you love to do and plan to work at it!