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ESTHER'S WOMAN ARCHIVES PAGE TWO
 
 
 
 Humble Woman Makes a Difference
 
The Reverend Dr. Mildred Harris
                                                                  By  Theresa Forkins-Phillips
The Reverend Dr. Mildred Harris of Chicago, IL, is among the many people of America who have showed dedication to their community and to their country.  She has been called Mother of Chicago.

The holder of several degrees including two Doctorates, Dr. Mildred Harris is an Ordained Minister, Educator and Pastor. She is the Founder, President and CEO of God First Ministries, Chicago, Illinois, with chapters located in Indiana, Georgia, Ohio and New York. For 20 years this ministry has sponsored the largest Community Breakfast in Chicago, which thousands have attended. God First Ministries is a fascinating and joyous place to visit where you can hear the Word of God in full love and power. 
 
In 1999, Mayor Richard M. Daley appointed DR. Harris, the Commissioner for the Chicago Housing Authority.  With a Plan for Transformation budget of 1.5 billion dollars, she refurbished 57 sitting rooms in CHA Senior Buildings, raising over $200,000,00.
Dr. Harris is the recipient of many awards.  She has received the Dominick's Fresh Spirit Award for Chicago's Leading Women Religious Leaders. In 2005, she received the Thomas Jefferson Awards, and the Mitsubishi Motors Unsung Heroine Award. 
Dr. Harris is listed in Who's Who In The World, as well as sitting on numerous Illinois State Government Boards.

Dr. Harris was present when I became Bishop of Illinois and Midwest Regional Director for Independent Assemblies of God International, the same organization that she is ordained with.

Dr. Harris is a someone who understands the pitfalls of pain and rejection. She has overcome many of her own advertises and, knows how to love the unlovable and keeps loving them. Rev. Dr. Harris is truly a God fearing woman who feels "Praise" is the best gift and she does it well.
 
DR. Harris is one of Chicago's MIGHTY WOMEN
 
 
Hand up for the Poor 
 
                     
photo daysmanpress
                          
DARLENE  MARCUSSON
                        
            LAZARUS HOUSE FOUNDER AND DIRECTOR
"Every day is such a blessing"
Director Darlene Marcusson Of Lazarus House Homeless Shelter 214 Walnut Street, St. Charles, IL. USA
 Click here: How You Can Help.
A heart as big as Heaven and she is surely bring a bit of heaven to the earth!
Her fist supporter was a child, Katie Sunleaf, who asked her friends to NOT bring birthday gifts to her party but to bring donations for the shelter.
Nine years ago a woman had a vision and she went to city hall and a proposed shelter for the local homeless. The council members were in shock .. homeless in St. Charles ... but they came on board and now its a reality... a sad reality at best .. to see so many people in need yet...this woman decided her mission was to help the poor and that she has done with grace prayer and style!
yes she called herself a rebel who needed a cause and i Jesus she has found her calling in Lazarus House shelter in St. Charles. Concealing and sleeping quarters are available meals and love tons of love..Tough love at times but love is the way.
Needs are great at the shelter financial and emotional not just for the guests they have but to see day after day the hurting enter a door with another tale of trauma I'm certain it is hard to bear.
Not one time have I ever heard of a complaint from a volunteer. All you see is love I tell you love and passion toward making life a bit better for the mothers fathers and children who come a knocking!
One parent was so undone by their child that they even dropped him off to teach him a lesson. That young man found a friend in the shelter and is now registering for college HOW MARVELOUS is that?
the stories are endless from helping, income losses home losses, drugs,alchoal, and the much more it is amazing how much is indeed going on in the facility.
Do they need support? oh yes
Financial, Prayer, Emotional. Workers to cook and wash bedding, to sitting with a guest if you want to help I'm sure it is not hard to find a place for you do so.
Christian Values are the primary focus whiter it si by just example or by communication each guest receives the opportunity to find spiritual guidence from teh Almighty. and they ahve the right to refuse it as well, The truth is poverty hits all religions and peoples. Lazarus House is a base for help in time of need. Everyone gets involved I have seen mayors and very influential people lend a helping had for this cause
Christian bands perform at the Arcada Theater for fundraising events. DaysmanPress's "Esther's Woman" is Proud to announce Darleme Marcusson as a true Esther's Woman who in the day of Queen Esther said these words: if I die I die but I will save my people'( Book of Esther Holy Bible)
Call Lazarus House 630-587-2144 
www.lazarushouseonline.com
 
Stop in sit a spell remember it could be you!
 
Darlene is our woman!! last month she was "Esthers Woman" and the article was lost so I rewrote it and gave her 2 months why .. perhaps it was a way for us to remember
blessings to Lazarus House! Sorry Darlene  forgive me!
Theresa
 
GOD GAVE ME STRENGTH
 
  
Laura Tews
                       BY
 Theresa Forkins-Phillips
Tews of Sycamore, Illinois is a 39-year-old single mother of 3.  Divorced in 2002, not knowing if she could survive on her own. Laura decided her life was to be free from an extremely difficult time and go her way with 3 children in tow.

This beauty who has no regrets and says, "God gave me strength and my praying Mom".

Laura did not know if she would have a home, let alone financial help for herself and her children. Yet she depended on no one. She found a job that has enabled her to fulfill one of her most important goals in her life, "to take my kids to Disney World".  "We went, I paid cash and we went in style".  That is quite an achievement!
When I asked her how did you do you have the strength to make it? (Meaning to live on her own)  Her answer was simply, "God of course.  I didn't do it alone.   It was a total leap of faith, all of it."

I then asked her that next question, "How does the word divorcee make you feel?"  She said, "I never thought about it. I feel like a survivor.  I have all my needs met, not all my wants, but my needs are met."

All three children progress well in school.  They are involved in school activities and well rounded.  Of course they are in church, which gives them a faith base to lean on.  "I'll never take them out, they need it."
 
During the length of time to get the divorce, Laura worked in an Art Gallery in St. Charles, Illinois.  While working there, she was met by a man named, Giuseppe Armani, who approached her to do a figurine and title it "Laura".  Why Not?  She is a beauty whose smile will light up any room!

Working very hard at her job, Laura has won many bonuses providing her with the financial means to allow her to buy a duplex and making her a landlord.

Yes, Laura is a mother and a woman of amazing ability with a vision for her life and her children's.

Why, because "God is her Strength!"
Love stayed the course
   
Nancy Magiera
by Theresa Forkins-Phillips 
Nancy Magiera a wife and a mother is founder and president of Chicago Hub Ministries in Chicago Illinois

Her Journey has been one of excitement and struggles but the ride has been wonderful!
Founded in August of 1994 in her home:  The kids were playing, laundry laying on the floor when the doorbell rang.  Seven or eight people were at the door asking her questions about the fact that she had been a visitor to the TORONTO BLESSING. www.tacf.org

"Can you pray for us", Was the question?  Of course she did and a movement began to happen!
Within several weeks a ministry birthed from experience, took place and several people have experienced the much-needed Presence of GOD!

By July 4th (the formal date of beginning) hundreds had been at the Magiera home listening to testimonies and feeling the Presence.  At one point the furniture was placed as far to the wall as possible and the crowd was enormous.  It seems like floors and walls were going to cave in (I was there) due to the wondrous praise and worship.  Finding a place to sit on the floor, we experienced the testimony of a miraculous Jesus who saved and healed people.  Many there were enthralled at the speakers and beautiful love felt there.

BUT life isn't easy if you are going to do something different.  This family who opened up their home to all, who loved without wanting a return and gave without asking for anything were hit and hit hard!  A man in business with Hank (Nancy's Husband) took a wrong turn in the relationship and Nancy and her family were left bankrupt and hungry, and in despair.  Shocked by having a "friend " do such a thing led to turmoil inside the family of Magiera.  Everybody suffered, Mom, Dad and the children.  Wondering if they would have a place to live, for their home was being taken away. The kids had little hope and so did it seem for the general public if one was to look inside.  BUT... somehow the family stayed close to their faith and believed God would help them and He has, the family has a home the kids are OK and mum and dad are up-and living again but it took years!  Not days!

Faith was played out in front of all who visited HUB meetings.  Faith was so real in this family, you cried with them and worshiped with them.  You felt the pain yet you also had a chance to have something else ... an experience to LOVE, HOPE and JOY.  Throughout the years we have been witness to a Lady who has never relented in her faith she stood the course and kept her belief that people need the LORD!

Nancy Magiera has made lemonade out of lemons and it is a sweet aroma and flavor when you enter a HUB meeting.  Unconditional love is experienced, beautiful worship and speakers from all parts of the world come to HUB which means HIS UNITED BODY.  This is NOT a church; it is a simple ministry of unselfish people who desire just to have more in their lives.  People of all walks of faith come to HUB no denomination is predominant.  All are welcome; scholarships are given at times for those who cant afford to attend.  Meetings are being held at the Holiday Inn Select in Naperville Illinois.

IF you decide to go to a HUB meeting I assure you, be well prepared to enjoy Bountiful worship, laughter, tears and UPLIFTING Messages and unrelenting hope for your own future.  YOU may enter at your own risk, and never come back the same, YOU will be forever changed and wanting to return very quickly!

Thank you Nancy for faithfulness in the battle and allowing us all to grow with you!  Chicago is blessed because of you!

Want to know more about HUB... www.hubministries.org
 STRONG HEART FOR LIFE
  
Giana Ferrari
 
Giana Ferrari 18 aspires to be a spokesperson for American Heart Association.
Her story is incredible and full of emotion. She wants to be there for others who are hurting stating she knows how it feels. This young lady has the Heart many would love to have, she says God is going to use her situation to be a blessing for others.

Upon interviewing her I felt a wonderful Lady in the making deeply devoted to the love she has received from her family. She says GOD has kept her and, probably kept her from having that heart transplant...Yet ... We all pray for a continued and full life.

In her own words
My name is Giana Ferrari and I am eighteen years old.  I was born on October 16th, 1987 with congenital heart defects including Transposition of the Great Arteries and Pulmonary Stenosis.  I was born blue or ‚“cyanotic‚ at birth, because unoxygenated blood was being delivered to my body.  I was also born with a strong heart murmur. (My mom was told at seven months pregnant that
she was having twins due to the murmur.)  Within days of birth, I endured heart surgery that made a small hole in my heart to improve my heart function.   A shunt procedure was then preformed at four months old to help improve blood flow to the lungs to be oxygenated.  At two years old I had a mustard procedure and a balloon septostomy to help widen the area between my right ventricle and my pulmonary circulation.  Over the next few years I had many fainting spells, everyday dizziness and heart palpitations.  Because of increased resting heart rate, I received my first pacemaker at age nine at Chicago Children’s Hospital.  Although my heart rate was stabilized, I sill felt dizzy almost every day and it interfered with my life.  I spent weeks at Rush Hospital, Christ Hospital, Mayo Clinic and St. Mary’s Hospital in Minnesota and Cleveland Clinic in Ohio to find a cure to my problem.  I had dozens of procedures and tests performed including the Tilt Table Test, _Cardiac Catheterization_ (EKGs, EEGs, Halter Monitors and more.  I even went to Pittsburg Children’s Hospital for a Transplant Evaluation.  Luckily, my heart condition was stable enough that I didn't
need to be listed. 
 
At age eleven my cardiologist  informed my parents about a new rate responsive pacemaker.   It had already been approved in Europe by the FDA, but it  was in clinical trials in the USA.  This new pacemaker would help my heart  function immensely, especially when at rest.  I was the first Child to receive Medtronic’s AT500 rate responsive pacemaker at The University of Michigan Children’s Hospital.  The pacemaker helped my condition by adjusting my heart rate to everyday rest and activities.  At age 16 I endured a battery change operation for my AT500 pacemaker.
Although I have been through a lot I feel extremely grateful for everything I have been given.  Without the American Heart Association, I might not be alive.  Without their contributions and advancements to heart research millions of people would suffer, including myself A child that is born right now
with Transposition will be able to live a normal life and have their situation changed by one operation called a switch procedure.  This truly shows how much advancement has been made throughout the past eighteen years. I am happy to say that my condition is stable, but there is no procedure available now to improve my heart function.  Because of this, I will likely need a heart transplant.  Even though I will most likely need further operations, I remain optimistic and I believe that with the help of the American Heart Association and other organizations, my future will be much brighter.  Because of my health history, I want to work in the medical field in the future.  In the fall I am attending Elmhurst College to obtain a bachelors degree in Psychology.  After college I want to further my education to become a Physicians Assistant and specialize in children’s health.  It would be a dream come true helping children who face the challenges brought forth by congenital heart defects much like the ones I possess.
18 aspires to be a spokesperson for American Heart Association.
Her story is incredible and full of emotion. She wants to be there for others who are hurting stating she knows how it feels. This young lady has the Heart many would love to have, she says God is going to use her situation to be a blessing for others.

Upon interviewing her I felt a wonderful Lady in the making deeply devoted to the love she has received from her family. She says GOD has kept her and, probably kept her from having that heart transplant...Yet ... We all pray for a continued and full life.

In her own words
My name is Giana Ferrari and I am eighteen years old.  I was born on October 16th, 1987 with congenital heart defects including Transposition of the Great Arteries and Pulmonary Stenosis.  I was born blue or ‚“cyanotic‚ at birth, because unoxygenated blood was being delivered to my body.  I was also born with a strong heart murmur. (My mom was told at seven months pregnant that
she was having twins due to the murmur.)  Within days of birth, I endured heart surgery that made a small hole in my heart to improve my heart function.   A shunt procedure was then preformed at four months old to help improve blood flow to the lungs to be oxygenated.  At two years old I had a mustard procedure and a balloon septostomy to help widen the area between my right ventricle and my pulmonary circulation.  Over the next few years I had many fainting spells, everyday dizziness and heart palpitations.  Because of increased resting heart rate, I received my first pacemaker at age nine at Chicago Children’s Hospital.  Although my heart rate was stabilized, I sill felt dizzy almost every day and it interfered with my life.  I spent weeks at Rush Hospital, Christ Hospital, Mayo Clinic and St. Mary’s Hospital in Minnesota and Cleveland Clinic in Ohio to find a cure to my problem.  I had dozens of procedures and tests performed including the Tilt Table Test, _Cardiac Catheterization_ (EKGs, EEGs, Halter Monitors and more.  I even went to Pittsburg Children’s Hospital for a Transplant Evaluation.  Luckily, my heart condition was stable enough that I didn't
need to be listed. 
 
At age eleven my cardiologist  informed my parents about a new rate responsive pacemaker.   It had already been approved in Europe by the FDA, but it  was in clinical trials in the USA.  This new pacemaker would help my heart  function immensely, especially when at rest.  I was the first Child to receive Medtronic’s AT500 rate responsive pacemaker at The University of Michigan Children’s Hospital.  The pacemaker helped my condition by adjusting my heart rate to everyday rest and activities.  At age 16 I endured a battery change operation for my AT500 pacemaker.
Although I have been through a lot I feel extremely grateful for everything I have been given.  Without the American Heart Association, I might not be alive.  Without their contributions and advancements to heart research millions of people would suffer, including myself A child that is born right now
with Transposition will be able to live a normal life and have their situation changed by one operation called a switch procedure.  This truly shows how much advancement has been made throughout the past eighteen years. I am happy to say that my condition is stable, but there is no procedure available now to improve my heart function.  Because of this, I will likely need a heart transplant.  Even though I will most likely need further operations, I remain optimistic and I believe that with the help of the American Heart Association and other organizations, my future will be much brighter.  Because of my health history, I want to work in the medical field in the future.  In the fall I am attending Elmhurst College to obtain a bachelors degree in Psychology.  After college I want to further my education to become a Physicians Assistant and specialize in children’s health.  It would be a dream come true helping children who face the challenges brought forth by congenital heart defects much like the ones I possess.
Compassionate Woman

 

 
  Laura Cavanagh
Never, in my wildest dreams, did I ever imagine I’d be a publisher of a woman's newspaper or any media publication for that matter.

Hello, my name is Laura Cavanagh and I am the owner of the Tri-County Woman's Newspapers better known as the Suburban Woman. I am married to my soul mate and have been blessed with one child named Johnny. I am a working Mom who plays the balancing game of trying to do it all and keep God as my #1 priority and plan time for my family and friends. It’s not always easy but with Intention and Attention, it can be done and I know most of you do a fine job at the balancing act! 

About five years ago God barged into my life, uninvited and totally unexpected.  I resisted and ignored Him. I had every excuse to not check out church and No way would I consider listening to worship and praise music.  God had a plan for me.

Eventually, I got curious and got over my resistance.  I began to seek Him & I found Him with my whole heart. Life changing? Yes, most definitely. God is all-consuming and awesome!  I think back to my past and I am in awe of why or how God chose me to be a child of His.  I now know we are all His children and he loves us each perfectly.

What does this have to do with being the publisher of the Suburban Woman Newspapers?  Everything, including my vision and compassion for people through Jesus Christ.  Being a Christian is a full-time job as well as being a business owner, manager and publisher of the Suburban Woman.  The mix has been interesting.

Throughout the past years I have seen Christ work through me and allow me to use the Suburban Woman for many things but most recently, God is seen more and more in the Suburban Woman. Sometimes very subtlety and other times boldly. I am excited to share his Word and his saving grace. If God can use the Suburban Woman Newspaper to save just one person then I have served a purpose for Christ.

Four years ago, my husband, Tom and I began a new journey.  We started a women's publication.  We had no idea what publishing a newspaper was all about?  We were not graphic artists or newspaper distributors.  We were clueless to what we were walking into. Probably a blessing, because had we known what we know now, we would never have pursued this endeavor. 

Fortunately Tom and I have many common interests.  We are both Christians and live with honesty, integrity and the gift of encouragement and hard work.  As we walk with God, we are able to grow our relationship with him and run our business as the Bible teaches.  We are far from perfect, and will never be, but the more time we spend in the Word the more we can pour the truth into everything we do, including running our company.

Throughout life people look for answers in every form of therapy, books, audio/visual and self-help.  How great would it be if even a small percentage simply opened up the Bible where answers are found and life-changing words are read and memorized?

Galatians 5:22 NIV is a great verse that I remember daily to work to my fullest potential in a way pleasing to God.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.  Against such things there is no law.

I thank you for taking a moment to read this editorial.  If you would like to learn more about the Suburban Woman Newspaper please visit our website ~ www.tri-countywomanspapers.com

The Suburban Woman of the Northwest Suburbs, Kane County and DuPage County are locally found in Illinois at Dominick's Food Store, Jewel Grocery Store, Meijers, Walmart, Sam's Club & Hollywood Video. My email address is Lauracavanagh@comcast.net

God Bless
One Night With the King by Tommy Tenny by Theresa Forkins-Phillips
 
One Night With the King by Tommy Tenny 
 story by Theresa Forkins-Phillips
coming soon the story of Esther the movie  check back in a day or two and be surprised! I had the glorious experience today to view part of the film to be released on 13 October GO SEE IT  and be amazed at the impact one woman had on the world, her people and all eternity.
The costumes were authentic so much so, that they were made with real gold thread and real jewels. The sets were from the REAL PALACES of INDIA and the story makes you thankful that YOU HAVE MET HIM!! 
Esther did not bow to the evil in the land she was willing to perish for her faith and the people .. a lesson we all need to learn from!
To see this film will change your life .. Several Illinois Pastors and Indiana Pastors were on hand to view the  preview of the FILM ... ONE NIGHT WITH THE KING!!This film was 3 years in the making .. Matt and Lori Crouch of Los Angles Calif. were on hand with Tommy Tenny and his precious wife Jeannine who has written a  song titled ONE NIGHT CAN CHANGE ANYTHING!! ( I pray it makes the cut into the film)
Several of us pastors we holding back tears as we watched in gratitude that a story has come to life.
To be like Esther to be willing to die for the sake of what you believe in .. how many of us are willing to do that?
We have an example of GOODNESS maximus here in this film Read the Book in the BIBLE and see for yorself  it shows GODS love and grace but it also shows much more than that.. it shows HIS salvation to those who will not fear and call upon HIM.