Strategies For God's Mission 
Upcoming Events at Allen Temple for the week of Sunday, July 26, 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 * 10:15am

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

Job Opening at Allen Temple ~ Operations Manager 
Deadline To Apply: Friday, July 31
 

Allen Temple is seeking candidates for the position of Operations Manager. A detailed description of this position is available now at our Job Information Center; click here to be redirected to the Job Info Center. If interested in the position, please submit a cover letter and resume to [email protected]. Only electronic submissions will be accepted. Please submit all materials by Friday, July 31, 2015. Thank you and God bless

Women's Mission Society 
62nd Annual International Tea 
Sunday, July 26 ~ 3pm
 

The Allen Temple Women's Mission Society cordially invites everyone to their 62nd Annual International Tea, "A Time to Serve," on Sunday, July 26 at 3:00pm! Enjoy an afternoon filled with praise, worship, celebration, fellowship and fine international dining! We will begin in the Sanctuary with a celebration of praise and worship, highlight our special projects, and hear & receive from on high through the ministry of music of the Allen Temple Men's Chorus and our special keynote speaker, Pastor Emeritus J. Alfred Smith, Sr! Immediately following the program, please join us in the Family Life Center Auditorium for our Signature Banquet of International Cuisine where you may partake in and enjoy a variety of dishes and desserts from various countries and cultures! There is no charge to enjoy the banquet! We look forward to enjoying the afternoon with you!


Children's & Youth Vacation Bible School
Monday, July 27 through Friday, July 31
8am to 1pm
 

Young people between the ages of 4 and 18 are invited to participate in Vacation Bible School in the Family Life Center, where they will enjoy a day of Bible lessons, fun and friends! Lunch and snack provided. Young people can check in starting at 7:45am; four year olds must be toilet trained to participate. For more information and to pre-register your young person, visit the Courtyard after Sunday worship. You may also register your young person on-site (parent/guardian must be present to register/drop off)!


Are You The Parent, Guardian or Caregiver 
Of A Child 6 Months to Five Years of Age?  
The Nursery Ministry Is Preparing to Serve You!
Would You Help Us By Answering Five Questions? 
 

The Nursery Ministry serves children between the ages of 6 months to five years of age, and is scheduled to reopen in Fall 2015!   So that we may serve our youngest members and guests as well as their parents, guardians and caregivers, would you be so kind as to take five minutes to answer five short questions? Click here to be redirected to the survey which will provide us with the necessary information to ensure that the Nursery is open at the service times that best fit your schedule as well as to have information of the ages of the children we will serve.  Thank you for your time in answering these questions!  We look forward to serving you and providing you with more details on the Nursery as it becomes available! 

Body and Soul Exercise & Wellness Class
Monday Evening Summer Walking Meetups

The Body and Spirit Exercise and Wellness Class invites everyone to join us for our Third Annual Summer Walking Meetup! People of all ages and fitness levels are invited to join us for 6 weeks of evening power walking around some of the most beautiful parks in our area! Come out and walk for health and companionship! Bring water, join us for a 10 to 15 minute warm up and then walk with us! We walk each Monday evening at 6:30pm! Our walking schedule is as follows:

  • Monday, July 27 - Martin Luther King, Jr. Shoreline Park - 7001 Edgewater Dr., Oakland (From Hegenberger Road, turn right on Pardee, then left on Swan Way, then turn right into the park for access to the parking lot and then the trails)
  • Monday, August 3 - Lake Merritt Bandstand - Lakeside Park, Oakland (Meet at the Gazebo/Bandstand. Park on Grand Avenue close to Harrison Street or pay at park entrance and park by Gazebo/Bandstand near Fairyland)

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

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:

  

July 31 - St. Benedict's - 2245 - 82nd Avenue

August 7 - Allen Temple - 8501 International Blvd

August 14 -  First Mt. Sinai-1970 86th Avenue

August 21 -  Cosmopolitan - 988 85th Avenue

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]


Praise Dance Ministry Worship Experience
Rescued, Released, Forgiven
Sunday, August 9 ~ 3pm
 

The Praise Dance Ministry presents "Rescued, Released, Forgiven," a worship experience of the creative arts with master of ceremonies Minister Leon Scoggins of Providence Baptist Church!  

 

The Ministry also seeks volunteers for the concert. If you are a strong supporter of the arts or are blessed with leadership skills, please contact Ministry Director Andrea Spearman at [email protected]


August Spiritual Life Retreat Opportunity
From The Spiritual Life Ministry
Summer Retreats To Nourish and Encourage Your Spirit 
 

Allen Temple's Minister of Spiritual Life, Rev. Ineda Adesanya, is excited to share a Spiritual Life retreat opportunity with Allen Temple Family and Friends!

  • Sunday, August 9 through Friday, August 14, the annual Companions on the Way Retreat will be held at the Zephyr Hills Conference Center in Zephyr Hills, Nevada!  Click here to download a PDF with more information and registration details!

To discuss this retreat as well as available scholarships, contact Rev. Ineda Adesanya at (510) 544-8930 or [email protected]


38th Annual Holistic Health Fair
Saturday, August 15 ~ 10am to 3pm
 

The Allen Temple Health Education Ministry invites people of all ages to enjoy a wealth of free services and activities at our 38th Annual Holistic Health Fair, Good News People - Our Health Matters on Saturday, August 15 from 10am to 3pm on the Allen Temple Baptist Church campus!  This year's Health Fair will offer health screenings (blood pressure, breast, cholesterol, dental, diabetes, eye, hearing, HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis C, foot, and prostate), and physicals for back to school and sports activities. Participants will be able to receive health education and legal advice, as well as free food, clothes, haircuts, raffles, and music.  Volunteers of all skill levels joyfully welcomed! For more information or to sign up as a volunteer, email [email protected]!


Blood Drive at the 
38th Annual Holistic Health Fair
In Partnership with Blood Centers of the Pacific
Saturday, August 15 ~ 10am to 2:30pm
 

Did you know that more than 41,000 blood donations are needed every day? The Allen Temple Health Education Ministry invites people 17 and above (16 year olds with parental consent) to give the gift of life at our Annual Blood Drive at the Holistic Health Fair in partnership with Blood Centers of the Pacific!  Each donor will receive a t-shirt as well as a Hornblower Cruises and Events coupon valued at Fifty Dollars towards a Brunch or Dinner Cruise for Two! Pre-registration highly recommended; click here to be redirected to the Blood Centers of the Pacific website.  Click on donate blood and use donor code ATBC. More information on the donation process is also available at that location!


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
Fall Semester Orientation & Registration Events
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 us 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, caregiver appreciation service, keynote speaker on advanced illness care 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. 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!


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! 


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!


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 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! 
Donations Needed for the
Backpack & School Supplies Giveaway
at the Holistic Health Fair  
 
We are collecting backpacks and school supplies to give to the young people in our community at the 38th Annual Holistic Health Fair on Saturday, August 16!  Would you be able to donate? For more information and to arrange your donation, you may email us at [email protected] or visit our table in the Family Life Center Lobby or Courtyard after Sunday worship starting Sunday, July 19! We thank you for your assistance in ensuring that our community's young people start the school year with the necessary school supplies!
Join the 2015 Holistic Health Fair Team!
Friday, August 15 & Saturday, August 16 
 
The 38th Annual Holistic Health Fair will be held Saturday, August 16, and we need you to join our crew! People of all ages and skill levels are needed for set up, tear down, and to greet and assist our guests in all capacities on the day before (Friday, August 15) and on the day of the fair (Saturday, August 16)!  Would you be able to assist us in serving our friends, neighbors and guests?  Please email us at [email protected] with the subject "Health Fair Volunteer" and include your name, telephone number and email address.  Or, visit our table in the Family Life Center Lobby or Courtyard after Sunday worship starting Sunday, July 19! We thank you for your assistance in helping to make this year's Health Fair the best ever!
Join the 2015 Vacation Bible School Team!
Monday, July 27 through Friday, August 31 
 
Vacation Bible School 2015 will be held Monday, July 27 through Friday, August 31, and we need your help to make it the best ever! People of all ages and skill levels are needed to serve as teachers, greeters, registration table workers, cooks, servers and funmeisters!  For more information and to sign up, contact Dea. Leslie Allison at (510) 569-7195 or Sis. Delois Deloney at (510) 568-3231. 

Healthy Temple Tips from the Health Education Ministry

Arthritis Awareness Month  

 

The mission of the Allen Temple Health Education Ministry is to educate, inform and empower our community on health matters! This month we are focusing on arthritis.

  

What is Arthritis?

 

Arthritis is very common but is not well understood. Actually, "arthritis" is not a single disease; it is an informal way of referring to joint pain or joint disease. There are more than 100 different types of arthritis and related conditions. People of all ages, sexes and races can and do have arthritis, and it is the leading cause of disability in America. Nearly 53 million adults and 300,000 children have some type of arthritis. It is most common among women and occurs more frequently as people get older.

 

Common arthritis joint symptoms include swelling, pain, stiffness and decreased range of motion. Symptoms may come and go. They can be mild, moderate or severe. They may stay about the same for years, but may progress or get worse over time. Severe arthritis can result in chronic pain, inability to do daily activities and make it difficult to walk or climb stairs. Arthritis can cause permanent joint changes. These changes may be visible, such as knobby finger joints, but often the damage can only be seen on X-ray. Some types of arthritis also affect the heart, eyes, lungs, kidneys and skin as well as the joints.

 

How to Prevent Arthritis

 

The fact is, there is no sure way to prevent arthritis. But you can help to prevent, that is, reduce your risk, and delay the potential onset of certain types of arthritis. If you have healthy joints right now, do all you can now to maintain mobility and function and avoid the pain and disability associated with arthritis.  There are risk factors that are not modifiable. That means there is nothing you can do about them. Being female and having a family history of arthritis (genetic profile) are two examples of factors that make people more likely - but not certain -- to get some types of arthritis.

 

In contrast, some risk factors are considered to be modifiable. They are the behaviors and circumstances that can be changed in order to reduce risk, delay onset or altogether prevent arthritis. Here are just a few examples arthritis and related diseases and associated modifiable risk factors:

  • Osteoarthritis - Maintain a healthy weight
  • Rheumatoid arthritis - Do not smoke
  • Gout - Eat a healthful diet, low in sugar, alcohol and purines

In some cases, preventing a prior incident can significantly reduce the risk of arthritis. Avoiding sports injuries through proper equipment, adequate training and safe play can prevent ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tears that may lead to osteoarthritis in a few years or several decades later.

 

Right now, because scientists don't fully understand the causes or mechanisms behind these diseases, true prevention seems to be impossible. However, there is real hope that someday some or all types of arthritis and related conditions can be prevented. The breakthroughs may be closer than they seem. Consider this: Many types of arthritis are thought to result from a combination of genetic predisposition and an environmental trigger, such as a virus or toxin. Discovery of the trigger for a type of arthritis may be the key to its prevention, even in someone with genetic risk.

 

As the rate of discoveries is accelerated by the Arthritis Foundation, scientific program the search for preventions -- and cures, too - may soon become reality.

 

For more information and resources, visit the Arthritis Foundation.  
 

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!  
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. 
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] for more information and to enroll today! 


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:

  July 24: At Thy Word - 8915 International Blvd

July 31 - St. Benedict's - 2245 - 82nd Avenue

August 7 - Allen Temple - 8501 International Blvd

August 14 -  First Mt. Sinai-1970 86th Avenue

August 21 -  Cosmopolitan - 988 85th Avenue

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!
Short Term Mission Opportunity
with American Baptist Churches in South Dakota 
August 1 through 9 
 

American Baptist Churches of the Central Pacific Coast are partnering with the American Baptist Churches of Nebraska and the Dakotas to sponsor the ABC Emergency Services Center in the Black Hills of South Dakota during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally during the first week of August.  Click here to download a PDF packet which explains this opportunity.  If you are planning to participate and would like to travel to and from Sturgis with others from our region please contact our Executive Minister, Steve Bils, at [email protected].


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.

 

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.

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!
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].

 
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!

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.

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! 
Join The Young Adult Ushers Ministry!     

The Young Adult Usher Ministry invites all Young Adults who are interested in serving to join them at their monthly meetings on the second Wednesday of each month at 6:30pm in the Sanctuary!  For more information, email [email protected].
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 You Can Use
Community Events, Services and Information  
Susan G. Komen Foundation
Inaugural Celebration of Circle of Promise Day
Saturday, August 1 ~ 10am to 12:30pm
at Allen Temple

The Susan G. Komen Foundation announces their Circle of Promise California Initiative, an Innovative Approach to Address Disparities Among African American Women!  Join the Circle of Promise at Allen Temple on Saturday, August 1 for their inaugural celebration, which will focus on breast health promotion and driving behavior change at the individual, community, and system level as well as greater health equity and a significant Improvement in breast cancer outcomes for

African American women across the state and empower African American Women to move throughout the continuum of care.  RSVP to [email protected]

 

American Baptist Women of the West
Personal Development & Leadership Retreat
Friday August 7 & Saturday August 8
Christ The King Retreat Center
Citrus Heights

The American Baptist Women of the West announces their 2015 Personal Development and Leadership Retreat Friday August 7 and Saturday August 8 at Christ The King Retreat Center in Citrus Heights!  This year's inspirational speaker is Rev. Valentine Royal, American Baptist Churches pastor and inductee into the Morehouse College of Preachers!  The retreat includes workshops, inspirational messages, worship, Bible studies, prayer walks, communion, meals and more!  Download a PDF containing registration and other information! For more information, contact Rev. Charlotte Myers at [email protected]!

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!  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

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!