HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Utilizing the theme, Our Votes Matter, a coalition of organizations is launching a nationwide Voter Empowerment Drive to encourage civic participation through nonpartisan voter registration, education, and engagement in preparation for the 2026 U.S. midterm elections.

The initiative, a collaboration of the Bradford-Brooks-Cleveland Leadership Center at Oakwood University, Breath of Life Television Ministries, the Conscience & Justice Council, Message magazine, and the Office of Regional Conference Ministries, begins July 4 and continues through Election Day, Nov. 3.

Rooted in the commitment to religious liberty and freedom of conscience, this initiative encourages informed civic participation while respecting every individual’s right to make voting decisions according to personal conviction. Organizers emphasize that the campaign is strictly nonpartisan and does not endorse political parties or candidates.

“The gospel is compromised when the church remains silent on voter suppression,” said Edward Woods III, chairperson  of the Conscience & Justice Council. “We are encouraging every eligible voter to research the issues and candidates, vote according to the dictates of their conscience, and make a plan to participate because our votes matter.”

The coalition’s effort is built around three objectives:

• Register to vote or verify voter registration status.
• Educate voters on issues and ballot information from the local to the national level.
• Plan and Vote by developing and carrying out a personal voting plan.

Throughout July and August, participating churches will focus on voter registration and registration verification. September and October will emphasize voter education and individual voting plans, culminating in voter mobilization leading up to Election Day in November.

The coalition is encouraging  churches, schools, health-care institutions, and community organizations to incorporate voter empowerment into existing ministries and outreach events—such as Vacation  Bible School, health expos, food distributions, block parties, and other community service initiatives. Simple voter engagement stations can help eligible voters verify their registration, locate polling places, access nonpartisan election information, and develop a voting plan.

To support local efforts, the coalition recommends VOTE411.org, the League of Women Voters’ nonpartisan voter information resource. Beginning in July, monthly training sessions will equip church leaders and volunteers to use the platform and implement voter empowerment activities in their communities.

Churches interested in participating or receiving training and resources may contact info@cjcouncil.org.

About the Coalition

The National Voter Empowerment Drive represents  a collaborative effort of the Bradford-Brooks-Cleveland Leadership Center at Oakwood University, Breath of Life Television Ministries, the Conscience & Justice Council, Message magazine, and the Office of Regional Conference Ministries. Together, these organizations seek to strengthen civic engagement by equipping communities with trusted, nonpartisan resources that encourage informed participation in the democratic process while honoring religious liberty, freedom of conscience, and voter privacy.

Media Contact

Edward Woods III
Chairperson, Conscience & Justice Council
Email:  info@cjcouncil.org

Web: www.cjcouncil.org

Editor’s Note: Richard Smallwood, (1948-2025) is being remembered by musicians and mourners alike Saturday at the First Baptist Church of Glenarden, International in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. Smallwood’s classically influenced gospel standards such as “Center of My Joy,” “I Love the Lord” and “Healing,” live on in the repertoire of the Black church. His closely personal, spiritual anthem “Total Praise” is just one of more than 125 recorded songs from more than 16 albums.  Grammy nominations, Dove and Stellar Awards, recognized his glorious and soaring scores, but this intensely intimate praise will continue to inspire and transform in the hands of those he mentored.

Jason Max Ferdinand, Conductor

I count myself profoundly blessed to have served on the musical staff of Metropolitan Baptist Church, then located at 12th and R Streets in the nation’s capital. The Rev. Dr. H. Beecher Hicks Jr.—one of the most celebrated preachers of our time—was our pastor, and the incomparable Rev. Nolan Williams served as Minister of Music. My years there were an extraordinary school of learning in music ministry, a season of growth and refinement that was truly unparalleled.

Each December, Metropolitan would present the gospel version of Handel’s Messiah, followed the very next week by the original Messiah. Distinguished conductors from across the country—and from around the world—were invited to lead these sacred offerings. In 2006, Nolan entrusted me with the honor of conducting the presentation. A few days later, I received a message that I will cherish forever:

“Young man, I was not able to be there in person, but I want you to know that I saw the recording. I thoroughly enjoyed the presentation, and you, my friend, are a conductor for real.”

Those words came from Richard Smallwood.

Richard soon became a dear mentor and friend. He was witty, deeply inspiring, and utterly genuine—you always felt his heart. He spoke candidly about life’s challenges, about the long and often difficult road of gospel music finding acceptance in academic spaces, and he never failed to encourage the next generation. As a young musician, I studied his compositions and marveled at his piano solos on recordings. What many may not realize is that this was how he played during worship—every single time. When Richard arrived for service, the rest of us on staff would smile and say, “Alright everyone, class is in session.”

Richard was a master of service music. One need only visit YouTube to witness how, with nothing more than his hands on the keys, he could shift the entire atmosphere of a worship service. It was nothing short of miraculous—holy, even. To experience it in person was surreal.

The photo here was taken at Takoma Park Seventh-day Adventist Church. The Aeolians were on tour, and I had mentioned the program to him. Given his demanding schedule, I truly did not expect him to attend. He said he would try, as he was between trips. And yet, when I walked out to begin the program, there he was—front and center. Richard also came to Oakwood to be part of the Aeolian Alumni Weekend concert during my time there, another gift I will forever treasure.

I will miss him more than words can fully express. My heart had already begun to ache when he could no longer respond to texts or calls. Even knowing this day was coming did not make it any easier. The loss still feels heavy, still feels unreal.

Dear Rich—as I always called him—I am clearing my schedule so that I can honor you properly, front and center, just as you so often showed up for me. “’Twill be sweet when we meet over on the other side.”
With tears and with gratitude,
Your mentee,
Jason Max Ferdinand

Anika Anderson, Soprano

I remember hearing Richard Smallwood’s music as a little girl at the home of our family friends on a Sabbath afternoon. It was such a new sound it stuck with me.

Over the years I have had the opportunity to have many encounters with Richard Smallwood and his singers. In elementary school I sang in a group called Promises and we were invited to sing on a program honoring him at Bibleway [Church]. He and his mother were present.

My parents sang back up on a local cable show hosted by Wintley Phipps called Heartsongs and [Smallwood] was a special guest artist, and I was able to

meet him as a pre-teen. I sang under his direction as an Oakwood Aeolian (and yes, they let us have drums for that concert at the church back then), I was asked by Darin Atwater to sing the solo to “We Worship You” with Soulful Symphony at the Meyerhoff in Baltimore, originally recorded by one of my greatest soprano influences, Janice Chandler Etème, on “The Journey”Live in New York” album and that invitation which led to many more.

Richard Smallwood was always gracious and encouraging. His musical influence has touched so many and I’m grateful to have the privilege of being in such close proximity so many times.

Everybody’s Church Choir Under the Direction of Cleveland T. Wilson to Retire.

After 50 years of spirit-filled gospel music in the Tennessee Valley and throughout the U.S., The Inspirational Choir, under the direction of Cleveland “Murphy” Wilson, will sing their last note on February 22, 2025.

Known for their signature sound, unique arrangements to well-known songs, and the director’s infectious, exuberant directing, The Inspirational Choir has cemented its legacy in the hearts of people in Huntsville, Alabama and the surrounding areas. In addition to singing every 4th Saturday for church service, the choir was known for their worship-filled performances at Big Spring Jam, Panoply, WEUP Black Arts Festival, The Festival of Spirituals, “I Love America,” and various other churches and events throughout the valley.

During its 50-year tenure, the choir has shared stages with renowned singers like Darryl Coley, Shirley Caesar, Larnelle Harris, and many others. In 1989, the choir was featured on the Kenny Rogers album “Something Inside So Strong,” providing rousing background vocals for the title track, and received a Gold Record for 500,000 units sold.

The weekend will include a “Friday Night Sing-a-long” on February 21, during which the audience is invited to sing with the choir as they hear hilarious and heartfelt stories about the choir’s triumphant wins, heartbreaking losses, and testimonies of God’s grace.
The following morning, at 11:30 a.m., the choir will engage in worship service for their final “4th Sabbath.” Then, that evening, the choir will give its final concert while celebrating its director for his 50 years of dedication, sacrifice, and perseverance.

Throughout the weekend, a “50 for 50” love offering will be collected, and all the proceeds will go to the Cleveland T. Wilson Conductor Scholarship at Oakwood University.

“Let My People Vote!”

Here we are… In the thralls of the 2024 Election Season, choosing who will lead our Country, Harris or Trump? In this ever-changing hyperbolic political landscape, there has been a voice crying in the urban wilderness, “Let My People Vote!” So rang the voice and T-Shirt of one of today’s most recognized and 100 influential persons (as reported by TIME magazine in 2019) by the name of Desmond Meade. Desmond Meade is a voting rights advocate and Executive Director of Florida Rights Restoration Coalition. Message Magazine had a chance to chat with him on their podcast. That proved to be timely and riveting, right before the 2024 United States Presidential election.

Desmond Meade shared his story of doubt to overcoming all the odds that were not in his favor of being locked up, on drugs and experiencing a life without Hope. But through God’s timing and intervention, Desmond not only overcame the stereotypes and challenges, but he thrived and formulated a plan that included victory as chair of Floridians for a Fair Democracy, Meade led a successful effort to pass Florida Amendment 4. A 2018 state initiative that restored voting rights to over 1.4 million Florida voters with previous felony convictions.

But the journey wasn’t easy for Meade. He stated that before he had these victories, he found himself standing on the railroad tracks, waiting for a moving train to come by and throw himself in front of him, as he contemplated suicide. But God had a greater plan in store for him. From incarceration to education and graduating from law school. Meade has seen God work in his life and the lives of other’s. Message has the story.

“The Forge” Highlights Discipleship and Mentorship

It is my profound pleasure to have another opportunity to interview a wonderful and engaging couple, Cameron and B.J. Arnett. Thank you for allowing our readers to enjoy a sit down moment and chat with the dynamic duo, the Arnetts.

Cameron & B.J.: It is our pleasure and privilge as well Dan. Thank you Message Magazine for sharing the latest chapter of our story.

Smith: So, let me just jump right into it. The movie “The Forge,” is blowing up…taking off…fantastically be-ing received by the many millions of individuals that are flocking to see it in theaters. You all are some of the primary lead actors in the movie.

Cameron: Wow Dan, I don’t know about all of that (laughing) but Praise God we hear that it is being well-received by the viewing audience.

B.J.: Yes we are hearing that a lot of individuals are liking the realism of the movie as it relates to the youth.

Smith: The Kendrick Brothers, who filmed “Fireproof,” “War Room,” “Facing the Giants” and a whole host of faith-based films, wrote, produced, and directed this movie as well?

Cameron: Yes, they are really gifted with their productions.

B.J.: Definitely God is with them.

Smith:How did you feel about the authenticity of the story being told from a white writer’s perspective, portraying a story of a black family with all of their specific family and cultural dynamics?

B.J.: Well we read the script and it was telling a story that any one could relate or connect with.

Cameron: Yeah, we all know, heard of or experienced even (someone in our own family) who had these issues with respecting authority, not having a good outlook on your own future plans, or just being influenced by the wrong set of friends. And not having a positive role model in the household.

B.J.: But this movie addressed all of these issues facing many of our typical American families no matter what ethnicity, race, or culture that you are from. That’s why we loved the script so much.

Smith: So did you see yourself as the character of Isaiah Wright, played by Aspen Kennedy, when you were younger?

Cameron: Absolutely! When I was young and trying to figure things out I was definitely like Isaiah at times.

B.J.: That is why “The Forge” focused so much on community and shared responsibility in helping our young black men. It definitely takes a village… a godly village to raise a child.

Smith: Yes, I was really impressed with the message of community awareness and discipleship. It wasn’t preachy either.

Cameron: The Kendrick Brothers have a way of making movies that are relatable and relevant to the times that we are now living in. Still showing God’s love and His involvement in the world in which He created is a real talent that they seemed to have harnessed for such a time as this.

Smith: Do you believe that there has been a void in movie making that speaks to Christians today?

B.J.: I do, with all of the mega million-dollar block-buster budget movies that Hollywood is making now they even see the need for great simple life changing movies that the family can relate to and identify with. There is a wave of new great faith-based content movies coming out. People still like a good story and there are no greater stories than what’s in the Bible and what God is doing in someone’s life.

Smith: I totally agree. So, what’s in the future for the Arnett family?

Cameron: Well, we still run our non-profit organization called Christ Over Career (COC), which is a global movement calling the Church back to Leadership of Jesus Christ, placing Him and keeping Him at the helm. I’m also in other productions and projects.

Smith: Mrs. Arnett or as you like to be called B.J., what about you?

B.J.: I have just been appointed Chair of the Fashion and Art Department at Clark Atlanta University. I am still acting and also Cameron Arnett’s manager.

Smith: Wow, God is definitely increasing the Arnett’s territory. When I saw the movie, I was impressed that there was a pastor there who took his church’s youth to the movie for service and had a discussion on discipling. They prayed over each other and for the success of the movie in the lobby after the movie was over. What is the take away you all would like Message readers to have regarding this movie?

B.J.: God has a plan for each of our lives, we just need to keep Him in the front of all of our plans.

Cameron: I would say, it is never too late to make a new start in your life; as long as you have God you are never a failure! Start mentoring youth and you will not be disappointed. That’s the ultimate giving back. Mentorship is discipleship.

DANIEL SMITH, is a contributing writer for Message Magazine.

God’s Gifting Never Gets Old As told to Philip McGuire Wesley

Maurette Brown Clark, renowned gospel music artist and minister of music, is known for her hits “Angels Watching Over You” with Richard Smallwood, “Just Want to Praise You,” “It Ain’t Over,” “Sovereign God,” and now number one Billboard ranking song “I See Good.” She continues to write, produce and collaborate with other artists to bring the gospel of Jesus Christ to thousands of people worldwide. Yet, as well-known as she is, we found her to be perennially relatable, approachable, and open to sharing her anointed story. 

“So, my dad could sing. 

My mother told him, ‘I’ll marry you if you teach our children to sing’ and he did just that. What started out as a forcibly, against-our-will-situation, who knew that it would turn into my life’s vocation? 

We had a little group: my dad, the four of us. My sister played the piano and my brother played the drums. I played the piano a little later because I was taking piano lessons and we just, we sang. 

When I was real little, we’d sing a lot. Like, any church we walked into, they would be like, “Oh, we see Deacon Brown with the children. Y’all want them to sing?” We’d be like, “No” — we didn’t even want to be here in church. Then my dad would go walking up and we were like, oh gosh. 

I really didn’t know then that this is what I’d be doing, but you do what you are given to do. All through my formative years I would join the chorus because I knew how to sing. I would join the band because I played an instrument.

It carried on to when I left for college. I came down to Maryland and asked myself, “What do I do here? I don’t know anybody. Oh, there’s a gospel choir, this is what I’ll do,” never knowing that this is what I was created to do.

Moment for Mission

The light went off in my head after I graduated from college. I was working, had a boyfriend, had a car, had a great church home. I was like, this is great; life is good. But I still had a hole in my heart, a hole in my soul. So, I just prayed and asked God, ‘What is it? I’ve done everything that I’m supposed to do to this point. What am I supposed to do now?’

I prayed and He answered. He said, “you got to tell people about Me. Since I saved you, go tell people about me.” And the best way I knew to do that was through my voice.

At my very first concert, Donnie McClurkin came, and Daniel Winans was there. Everybody from my little job came, so it was like a whole row of people that looked out of place in Northeast, D.C. It was packed, like, the church was packed. 

My family came from New York cause they were like, “we know you can sing. We know you’re anointed, and we love you, but a concert?”

 And God used that for me to embark on what I literally do now. I haven’t changed how I present.

He has just enlarged my territory. Of course, He’s enlarged my capacity. He’s enlarged my gift, but the intent is still the same. The same way that I want something to pierce people’s hearts, it’s the same way I present the gospel, Jesus Christ.

Living Witness

If God could find me in my mess, in my junk, in my indecision, in my here-one-day-doing-something-else-the-next-day, if He could find me, and choose me, and use me, and continue to do that, He can find and choose anybody. That’s how I try to present Jesus Christ to people.

He’s not reserved for some people. He’s for everybody. And the gifts that He gives you, He wants you to use them, whatever the gift is. He can take it, and He can do exceedingly, abundantly above all that we can ask or think.

So, whatever it is He has gifted you to do,  I’m a living witness that has not forgotten. When He told me to go, I went, and He’s blessed every step of the way.

And so that never gets old to me, and that never gets where I’m like, “Oh God, I feel like a square peg trying to fit [into] a round, church hole.”

The way He gives it to me, that’s what I do

This article is part of our 2024 May/June Issue
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Join us for another episode of “What’s the Message?” where Message editor, Carmela Monk Crawford, interviews Pastor Dwain Esmond. They discuss Ellen G. White and what she meant for the movement that became the Seventh-day Adventist Church and the intersection of the church, politics and the freedom of the enslaved people in early American history.