Welcome

Dear Friend,

Welcome to the inaugural edition of our newsletter! This publication is dedicated to equipping and uplifting you in every area of life. In this first issue, we’re excited to share a carefully curated mix of upcoming events and practical tips that span from the table to everyday life.

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our new service during Fourth Fridays, beginning May 23, 2025—a special time to praise, worship, and seek God together. Alongside this exciting new chapter, you’ll find guidance on cultivating everyday habits—from Esther’s Etiquette Corner to Danie’s inspirational 30-second reflections—as well as essential information on knowing and protecting your rights.

Join us as we explore these diverse topics, celebrate community milestones, and embrace new opportunities to grow together. Welcome aboard, and thank you for being part of our journey. Let’s keep moving forward with purpose this year, trusting God to guide us at every step.

Blessings,

Bishop Joseph F. Simon
Senior Pastor, Elmwood Avenue Church of God

UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS

Rhode Island Small Business Week Empowerment Summit
Tuesday, May 6, 8:30 – 5 p.m.
Crowne Plaza Hotel, 801 Greenwich Avenue, Warwick, RI

Launch of Fourth Fridays
Friday, May 23, 2025, 7 – 9 p.m.
Elmwood Church of God, 297 Elmwood Avenue, Providence, RI

FAITH, FORTITUDE, AND FLOURISHING: A ROADMAP FOR SUCCESS

From the dawn of human history, communities have strived to develop welcoming and promising environments that foster holistic progress and well-being. Early on, people realized that achieving this goal would be difficult without methodical, conscious, and strategic planning. This led to the practice of convening assemblies to discuss, plan, and deliberate on societal matters, ensuring structured development and dispute resolution.

Ancient Greek and Roman societies held councils and forums where new and complex ideas were debated. Similarly, the Israelites would gather around their elders or convene assemblies to address communal concerns. All these practices were part of a continuous pursuit of improving living conditions.

Even today, this pursuit continues, albeit with different methods, but driven by the same motivations and an even greater sense of determination. This is the foundation upon which this newsletter has been created.

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DON’T FAKE IT UNTIL YOU MAKE IT: PRACTICE IT UNTIL YOU BECOME IT

Table manners are an important aspect of social etiquette since they can make mealtimes more enjoyable for everyone. It is never too early to begin teaching children proper table etiquette, as this can help them feel confident and at ease in social circumstances. Teaching children proper table manners is an important part of their upbringing that can benefit their social and personal development. Table Manners are the norms we follow when we eat, such as properly utilizing utensils, not talking with food in one’s mouth, and not reaching across the table. Good manners are considered polite and contribute to a pleasant dining experience.

Rev. DANIE’S 30 SECOND REFLECTION

That was the first statement Jesus made from the cross. His very first statement was not about himself but about others. What a selfless example we have in Jesus. Read Luke 23:34 for more insight.

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

Everyone in the U.S.—no matter their immigration status—has rights under the Constitution. ILRC’s red cards show real-life examples of how these rights work, like when ICE agents visit a home. The cards aren’t meant to give you personal legal advice. If you have questions about your situation, you should talk to a trusted legal service provider. For more information, you can also watch a video from the National Homelessness Law Center and the National Immigration Law Center.

Text “pray” to 1-888-845-5557 to receive devotional messages and receive the newsletter in your inbox.