Christian Education

Introduction: Business by the Book is an eight-week course designed to equip business leaders and entrepreneurs with the knowledge and skills to:

• Integrate biblical principles into daily business practices
• Build and grow a profitable, Christ-centered business
• Develop leadership skills and grow spiritually, becoming more Christ-like in business and entrepreneurship

Mission Statement: Our mission is to support the development of successful, Christ-led businesses and entrepreneurs by providing faith-based guidance and practical business strategies.

History: Founded in 2016 at First Baptist Church of Highland Park by Dr. Karen Alexander and Brother James Silver, Business by the Book was established to help aspiring and seasoned entrepreneurs develop businesses rooted in Christian values. After completing the course, Brother Spurgin Waters and Sister Debra Jackson were asked to join the Business by the Book ministry team.

Services and Activities: We are committed to fostering a community of faith-driven business leaders by supporting church-affiliated and local businesses. Our program includes:

• Weekly Classes – Held on Thursday evenings from 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Eight-week Curriculum – Covering key aspects of business operations from a biblical perspective
• Engaging Coursework – Weekly homework, business case studies, Bible study, and scripture memorization
• Graduation Requirement – Participants must attend at least seven sessions and complete all coursework to receive a Certificate of Completion.
• Class Social – There may be a fellowship opportunity to network and build meaningful connections.

Registration: Registration opens annually in the Fall and Spring of each year. Please check the website for future enrollment opportunities.

Scripture Reference: 1 Chronicles 29:11-12 (NLT) - 11 Yours, O Lord, is the greatness, the power, the glory, the victory, and the majesty. Everything in the heavens and on earth is yours, O Lord, and this is your kingdom. We adore you as the one who is over all things. 12 Wealth and honor come from you alone, for you rule over everything. Power and might are in your hand, and at your discretion people are made great and given strength.

Ministry Contacts: For more information about Business by the Book, contact Debra Jackson or James Silver via the administrative office at (301) 773-6655 E-mail: bbb-ministry@fbhp.org

Introduction: God requires us to be faithful in managing our money. Unfortunately, Christians have often been taught only about giving ten percent of their income. While giving is crucial, Crown Ministries teaches God's principles for managing the remaining ninety percent. Through Crown Ministries, individuals enter a closer relationship with Jesus Christ and discover practical financial guidance from over 2,350 verses in the Bible.

Mission Statement: The mission of Crown Financial Ministries at First Baptist Church of Highland Park is to glorify God by using the gifts, talents, and resources of disciples to develop and enhance their spiritual growth and maturity in Christ.

History: Crown Financial Ministries was introduced to First Baptist Church of Highland Park in 1995, spearheaded by Assistant Pastor Reverend Ronald E. Crawford and a dedicated team. Since then, 1,382 students have completed the program, strengthening marriages, reducing debt, and promoting consistent saving and generous giving. The ministry has extended its reach through radio advertisements and international visits, including a delegation from Japan. The ministry also introduced a teen class and a budget coach team, further expanding its impact.

Services and Activities: Crown Financial Ministries offers classes that meet weekly for two hours, including homework and scripture memorization. The study groups are small, allowing for sharing and relationship building. The ministry has been instrumental in teaching financial management principles to various age groups and other churches.

Class Meeting Schedule:

• Weekly two-hour classes
• Outside preparation homework and weekly scripture memorization
• Study groups of fewer than 10 students

Cost:

• Singles: $30 for workbook materials
• Couples: $50 for workbook materials

Scripture Reference: 1 Chronicles 29: 11-12 (LB) - 11. Everything in the heavens and earth is yours, O Lord, and this is your kingdom. We adore you as being in control of everything.
12. Riches and honor come from you alone, and you are the Ruler of all mankind; your hand controls power and might, and it is at your discretion that men are made great and given strength.

Ministry Contacts: For more information on Crown Financial Ministries, contact the Crown Financial Ministries Coordinators for First Baptist Church of Highland Park, Brother Tony and Sister Rowena Perez, via the Church Office at (301) 773-6655 or via e-mail: crown@fbhp.org

Introduction of Ministry: It is imperative that you understand that dfree® is not a program but a Financial Freedom Movement wholly committed to liberating African Americans from the bondage of Financial Slavery to consumer debt (credit cards, loans, etc.) and the far-reaching negative realities of Financial behaviors.

Mission Statement: dfree® is a transformational, lifestyle movement that promotes financial freedom through values-based principles and practical approaches to financial management. Only you can decide to change and escape financial slavery through the power of God!

History: dfree® began at First Baptist Church in Somerset, New Jersey in 2005 and was featured in a 90-minute CNN documentary “Almighty Debt '' in October 2010 and February 2011. dfree® is an enterprise that creates solutions for individuals and organizations pursuing financial freedom and economic self-sufficiency. The dfree® strategy begins with the elimination of debt and addresses the root causes of chronic indebtedness. dfree® stands for freedom from debt, delinquency and deficits and freedom to make deposits to savings, earn dividends and possess deeds that represent ownership. The priority audience and market for dfree® is African Americans reached primarily through churches.

Services & Activities: This twelve-week course is designed to teach the principles of being dfree® (debt, delinquencies, deficit free). It will also enhance your personal relationship with God in that you will have daily fellowship with him as you study His word for homework, including mastering a weekly memory verse. This is the first time this class is being offered at the FBCHP. (If you have taken Crown, you will still be blessed with this class as it speaks directly to freedom from debt).

Registration: Registration is currently closed.dfree - A Financial Freedom Movement

Scripture Reference: Proverbs 22:7(NLT) - Just as the rich rule the poor, so the borrower is servant to the lender.

DFREE Leader: Brother James Silver

Ministry Contacts: For more information on Dfree ministries contact Brother James Silver through the Church Office at (301) 773-6655. E-mail: dfree@fbhp.org.

Introduction of Ministry: The Discipleship Ministry at First Baptist Church of Highland Park is founded on the vision of the Navigators Church Ministry: The 2:7 Series, which is a course in personal discipleship designed to strengthen your walk with God. This ministry focuses on small group intensive Bible study, developing meaningful quiet time, prayer, scripture memorization, personal testimonies, and evangelism by sharing the gospel. Separate groups for men and women, led by facilitators, offer intimate settings to address gender-specific issues and struggles.

Watch Disciple Ministry Video

Mission Statement: In continuing the fulfillment of The First Baptist Church of Highland Park’s commitment to our Lord’s Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20), the Navigators 2:7 Discipleship Series is based on Colossians 2:7, “Rooted and built up in Him, and established in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.”

It was founded with these three purposes:

• To raise up faithful men and women who will be able to teach others. 2 Timothy 2:2
• To present every believer perfect in Christ. Colossians 1:28-29
• To prepare each believer for his personal mission field. Acts 1:8

History: The Discipleship Ministry was initiated by Pastor James J. McCord, with members attending the Navigators Leadership Training Conference in 1991. The first Men’s Discipleship class graduated in 1993, leading to the ministry's expansion to include women. Under the leadership of Deacons Vivian Hill and Noline Neal, the ministry grew significantly, creating supportive material and a Facilitators Training Workshop. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the ministry adapted to virtual classes using Zoom, allowing continued growth and outreach.

To date,1,023 individuals have graduated from the Discipleship Training Program, many of whom have moved into leadership positions within the church.

Curriculum: The Navigators Series, which consists of three 11-week training courses.

• Growing Strong in God’s Family
• Deepening Your Roots in God’s Family
• Bearing Fruit in God’s Family

These three books focus on The Growing Disciple and the look is more “inward” where students are focused on evangelism and ministering to others.

Registration:

Scripture Reference: Colossians 2:7 (NLT) - Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.

Ministry Contacts: Co-Directors: Deacon Russell Crawford, Jr. and Deacon Lestine Graves

Assistant Co-Director: Sister Deborah Crabbe

For more information, contact the Church Office at (301) 773-6655 or via e-mail at discipleship@fbhp.org

Elevation Career Network hosted by First Baptist Church of Highland Park

Introduction: The Elevation Career Network at First Baptist Church of Highland Park is dedicated to preparing, supporting, and advancing individuals in their career endeavors. "With faith the size of a mustard seed, you will succeed!"

Mission Statement: The purpose of the Elevation Career Network Ministry is to educate the FBHP community with skills that assist in obtaining viable employment, provide support throughout the job search process, increase workforce opportunities, and promote entrepreneurship. The ultimate goal is to empower and enrich the lives of the FBHP community through training, coaching, and services from experts.

History: The Elevation Career Network Ministry began as a resource for members searching for jobs following the COVID-19 pandemic. The Elevation Team is composed of members experienced in leadership, career coaching, professional development, training, employment services, benefit navigation, and technology.

Services and Activities:

• Vacancy Announcements
• Career Coaching
• Referral Services

Trainings and Skills Development Sessions:

• Job Search
• Interview Presentation
• Resume Building (including federal government)
• Professional Development
• Entrepreneurship/Franchising
• Website Development
• Computers 101
• Financial Management
• Life Skills Application
• Professional Networking
• Public Relations
• Marketing

Additional Employment Services:

• Career Coaching
• Resume Assistance
• Interview Preparation
• Interview Clothes

Zoom Meeting Information:

• Meeting ID: 958 8644 0105
• Password: 962945

Scripture Reference: Jeremiah 29:11 (NLT) - 11 For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.

Network Coaches:

Renee Johnson: A seasoned HR professional with over 20 years of experience across various human capital disciplines.

Tami Hill Thomas: An award-winning government and human services advisor, international corporate trainer, certified executive coach, and law enforcement chaplain.

Veronica “Roni” Price: A Senior Contracting Officer and Supervisor in the Federal Government with 19 years of Federal Service.

William “Will” Brownlee: Network Trainer, Certified Federal Job Search Trainer, and Certified Federal Career Coach.

Marian Williams: Human Services Consultant with over 25 years of experience in Special Education and Social Services.

Tonja Palmer: Founder and former CEO of the Hannah Johnson Community Development Corporation.

Omar M. Boulware: Congressional Relations Officer at the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Ministry Contacts: For more information about Elevation Career Network Ministry, contact Rev. Tami Hill Thomas via the Church Administrative Office at (301) 773-6655 or send an email to revtthomas@fbhp.org or elevation-employment@fbhp.org

Disclosure: Neither First Baptist Church of Highland Park nor the Elevation Career Network Coaches are held liable for the outcomes of your personal journey. We are a resource and support for what YOU choose as your next steps in life.

Introduction: Join us for in-depth Bible study at our Sunday Biblical Institute, offering classes on various topics and books of the Bible.

Throughout God’s Word, our Bible, God provides examples of how we are to go about doing our work for Him. Our love for God inspires us to give our very best to Him at all times. Let us always look to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, the power of the Holy Spirit for strength and guidance in carrying forth his work to “reach, teach, win, nurture and hold God’s children.” The Bible is taught so that we may learn of God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit; that all may be saved; that the body of Christ may grow, and that the building of the Kingdom of God continues until Jesus returns.

Mission Statement: The mission of the Sunday Bible Institute is to teach the BIBLE, God’s Word. Its ministry for First Baptist Church of Highland Park follows God’s commandment to teach the Gospel, the Truth, to every living creature, so that they may hear and believe and live in obedience to the will of God in every relationship.

The current ministry of the Sunday Biblical Institute includes the united and cooperative work of several supportive ministries which helps to promote the ministry’s growth and foundation. These ministries include the Transportation Ministry, Security Ministry, the AWANA and JAM Ministry, and the Family Film Video Ministry. The object of each ministry follows our primary mission specifically to reach, teach, win, nurture, train, and hold God’s children; that all may be saved, to come to know the love of Jesus Christ, and to know
Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior.

Class Meeting Times: Sunday Biblical Institute regular classes are held each Sunday morning from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. in the James McCord Education Building and the church Sanctuary. Refer to the SBI Directory for specific classes and classrooms.

SBI Leaders:

• Rev. Shelia R. Dent, SBI Superintendent
• Associate Minister Torren Cooper, SBI Assistant Superintendent

Scriptural Reference: Jesus commissioned His Disciples to:

Matthew 28:19-20 (NLT) -
19 “Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. 20 Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

• Registration
• Agreement Signatures
• Volunteer Form

Introduction: The tutorial ministry supports the educational development of students from grades 3 - 12. Our objectives are to:

• Establish a good working relationship with the students.
• Improve students' thinking and listening skills.
• Encourage students to have respect for God, themselves, and other people.
• Establish rules of conduct and encourage good behavior.
• Motivate students to organize materials and develop good study habits.

Mission Statement: Our mission as "Bible Believing, Christ-Centered, and Spirit Led" tutors is to help our children improve their performance in Grammar, Reading, Writing, and Mathematics.

We strive to help the students develop skills to problem solve, think independently, improve their grades and test scores, build self-confidence and self-esteem and always acknowledge the Creator, God.

Activities and Services: Tutorial sessions convene in the James McCord Education Building on Tuesday for Grammar, Reading, and Writing (GRW) and Thursday for Mathematics from 7:00 PM to 8:15 PM.

The weekly tutorial session includes:

• Grammar, Reading, and Writing sessions: Word review, reading, and writing drills.
• Mathematics sessions: Multiplication drills and math problems.
• Focus on critical components that lack proficiency.
• Assist with homework and test preparation.

Each session begins and ends with a prayer. (GRW) and Thursday for Mathematics from 7:00 PM to 8:15 PM.

Registration:

There is a one-time non-refundable fee for the year: $25 for members and $40 for non-members. Payment is due by the first day of attendance to a session.

Websites to Assist with Learning:

• Reading and Language Arts, Grades 1-6: PBS Kids
• Elementary to Intermediate grade levels: UVic Continuing Studies
• All grade levels: Lewis & Clark College, ESL Home
• Mathematics, Grades 1-6: A+ Math, All Math
• Mathematics, Grades 7-12: Math Forum, Math Made Easy, Kuta Software

Educational Resources:

• Intern Opportunities at Bloomberg: Bloomberg Internships
• Pre-College Programs at University of Maryland: UMD Pre-College Programs
• Princeton University Journalism Summer Program: Princeton SJP
• Coca-Cola Scholarship: Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation

Scripture References:

• Psalms 31:23: (NLT) - Love the Lord, all you godly ones! For the Lord protects those who are loyal to him, but he harshly punishes the arrogant.
• Proverbs 3:6-7: (NLT) - Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. 7 Don’t be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the Lord and turn away from evil.
• Proverbs 1:7: (NLT) - Fear of the Lord is the foundation of true knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.

Tutorial Leaders:

• Denise Sanders: Chairperson
• Rose Adams: Assistant Chairperson

3rd - 6th Grammar, Reading & Writing / 3rd & 4th Mathematics

• Joyce Brooks - Team Leader
• Jennifer Jones
• Ernestine Pierce
• Janice Raynor - Team Leader
• Charles Shoultz

5th & 6th Mathematics / 7th & 8th Mathematics

• Zachary Hawkins - Team Leader
• Nina Turner
• Artisha R. Polk - Team Leader
• Joseph Copeland

7th - 12th Grammar, Reading & Writing / 9th - 12th Mathematics

• Kyle Schooler - Team Leader
• Carmen Solomon-Fears
• Charles Davis
• Vernon Gordon - Team Leader
• Denise Sanders

Ministry Contacts: For more information about the Tutorial program, call the Church Office at (301) 773-6655.

E-mail: tutorial@fbhp.org