Building Leaders Who Can Lead and Serve ~ May 16th 2010

by Minister Tanya Merced

WOWgroup Fellowship NY

It was a beautiful day at WOWgroup Fellowship NY. Minister William Merced Jr. and Minister Tanya Merced welcomed family and friends into their home. One of the most amazing things that happened during our meet was that WOWgroup Fellowship NJ and WOWgroup Fellowship NY both collaborated as one unit.

WOWgroup Fellowship NY was expecting 10 people at the meet, but the Lord doubled that number. One of the guest asked me if that was a bad thing? I replied of course not it is an absolute blessing! Truly it was a blessing.

Grace Flows Down

Truly this part of the meeting was very special to me. Let me explain why. First, I decided that although I am a plus-size woman now that I should not let that hinder my worship. Why do I say that? When I was younger and did not serve the Lord I was a dancer. I was not a professional dancer, but new every single street dance, club dance and modern jazz movement there was at the time. I was not a plus-size young girl and so I was very comfortable moving my arms, waist, legs, and every other part that could move to music. Then I met a christian plus-size woman who taught me how to praise dance. Truly I learned that the size didn't matter, but my heart in other words, my true worship was the key factor. I must admit that ministering in dance in front of people still makes me very nervous, but it's not about me. I want to thank Unashamed Outreach Services director Olga Robinson for inspiring me to dance. Thank you Ruthy and Melisa for making me excited about praise dancing again.

If you would like to see the praise dance " Grace Flows Down," Click Here.

Noah's Ark Story

WOWgroup Fellowship NY knows that everyone is accepted into the kingdom of God. Special Needs people are able and capable of sharing the gospel of Christ. Andrew in his unique way blessed our hearts. Although it was difficult to catch up with his speed reading and singing. He showed us that he was a team player.

Building Walls Activity

WOWgroup Fellowship NY gave a mini assignment to each team. Before we began the assignment 2 lovely assistants Briana age 3 and Cami age 5 gave each team a bag filled with wooden blocks. Each team was also given a sheet of paper and markers. The task was to build a wall sturdy enough to resist natural disasters and outside intrusion, however, everytime they heard a train whistle they had to come to a complete halt. The teams soon learned that the whistle was a bit annoying, but what was frustrating was rebuilding the wall everytime an outside force came. Thanks to my assistants who kicked a few planks. After the activity each team chose a speaker to share their experiences.

Building Leaders Who Can Lead and Serve
This message was truly a collobarative team effort. I taught on Nehemiah Chapter 2:17-18 and spoke about the importance about having leaders identify with the people. In order to rebuild or build as a team, a leader must first learn how to guide and inspire. A leader must also motivate others to see the vision. What better way of identifying with a leader who has a servant's heart first.

Then Minister William Merced Jr. spoke about using our giftings and talents to serve and lead the people. Minister William Merced Jr. shared his personal testimony and how he was able to make a difference at his job without speaking about Jesus. You see the presence of the Lord is inside of us and wherever we go we shine.

Dr. Sandrie S. Smith also taught us how Nehemiah created jobs for the community. Nehemiah was a business man and applied biblical principles and succeeded. Dr. Sandrie S. Smith reminded us that our first business is our home and that Nehemiah is a great example of man of God who put a plan of action in place. We were also reminded of God's plan for each one of us.

" For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11