Hollywood Christian Celebrity, April Weeden-Washington is Honored

On the 10^th of July 2011, Christian supporters filled the prestigious Celebrity Centre with praise, testimony, appreciation, dance, song and love while honoring chosen Christian Celebrities in the entertainment industry. Bishop Naomi McCowan along with The Universal Deliverance Church, Inc. of Valdosta, Georgia, as part of their annual "Eagles Conference," presented this glorious event. Bishop McCowan stated, "I decided [that] it was time to reach out to some of the celebrities who are Christians and many times are forgotten and not considered a part of the Christian community."

Celebrity Stuntwoman/Actress/Singer/Philanthropist, April Weeden-Washington, accepted her award as one of the Christian celebrity honorees. Teary-eyed, April spoke from the heart as she accepted, a part of her gift, an amazing sketched portrait [artist Sheba Lee] of herself. "I believe the Lord wanted me as a little girl to be in the entertainment field to make a difference not just for myself but for others," stated April. She is an icon for women, specifically women of color, in the stunt community appearing in over 400 feature films and television shows. Her philanthropic efforts include, The Joy Foundation, which is a mentorship program in which allowed April to assist young women and men for over 15 years. She is a dedicated member of New Christ Memorial Church under the direction of world renowned Pastors Andre' and Sandra Crouch. Additional Christian Celebrity honorees included Actress/Recording Artist [Bob Dylan and Michael Jackson] Carol Dennis [Broadway feature, "The Color Purple," "Once on This Island," and "Purlie"]. Actress/Singer/American Idol Vocal Coach Peggi Blue [The original cast of "The Wiz," "Your Arms [are] Too Short To Box with God," "Star Search Winner], and Actor Dorien Wilson, known as Professor Ogilvee [sitcom The Parkers] who starred in "Dream On," "Goode Behavior," "The Steve Harvey Show," and now, a one man show coming soon.

Actress/Singer Theresa Ford was one of the masterminds behind coordinating such a joyous, memorable celebration. Host of the event, Actress/Singer/Author Ellia English [Jamie Foxx Show] kept the energy in the room vibrant with her smile and charisma. Exceptional Dancer/Actress Renda Pettis, danced an unforgettable performance to gospel song, "Holy Spirit." The multi-talented McCowan family presented this ceremony with entertainment and powerful messages that left many smiling, laughing, and praising during and after the event. Actress/ Singer Theresa Ford, Singer Patricia McCowan (both daughters of Bishop McCowan), Kevin Ford (Theresa's son), and Singer Jessica Smith sent every person in that room on a ride full of rejoice!

*Sources April Weeden- Washington and Theresa Ford*