Today's turtle run showcases The Greater Allen A.M.E. Cathedral of New York. This is my favorite hiding place, where I can go to get away from it all, relax and enjoy some "me time with God." The Cathedral history is pretty cool, it was founded in 1834 after an incident that transpired in 1787. (You can read all about The Allen Legacy here.)

There are over one hundred programs and groups to choose from in the Allen directory and if you ever stopped by to take a peek you would discover that the future direction of the Cathedral is a very interesting dynamic and fluid. It is centered around empowering people, building communities and changing lives in positive ways. Like AR, if you don't see a group that needs to be there, you can simply contact them and start the group yourself. The members actually keep the membership very busy and if you have a talent you wish to bring to the community, you are always encouraged to do so. The Cathedral keeps their facilities available for members to use 7 days a week so once in a while I enjoy stopping by around lunch time to enjoy some peace and quiet. When I need to be alone with God, or hang out with some godly company, there is always an opportunity to do so at Allen. I really appreciate that and find when things are getting tough, going back to basics is always the key for me, so I pray a lot and try to start over if it is at all feasible. Things have been pretty tough lately, and I am struggling just like everyone else does with a lot of issues, so I decided today I would share what works for me. (e.g. God, turtle runs and ice cream... and I will be going for ice cream as soon as I post this post! LOL)

Allen Cathedral also habitually invites some of the most amazing speakers I have ever seen. Coupled with their sponsorship of fabulous retreats, shopping sprees, historical tours, missionary work and a spectrum of workshops, it's impossible not to want to come there and see what's going on. They go out of their way to make visitors feel welcome and at home. (e.g. I was a visitor once, invited by Audrey H. Lipford, Esq and after being exposed to such a rich environment I decided to stay.) They know how to make discovering a Biblical truth relevant and enjoyable. Just try one of their business workshops and see. You'll be surprised at what you will walk out with. The volunteerism of the congregation is inspiring and they really know how to mentor and network among the 20K+ members.

BTW, their Cathedral Bible Institute has an "Articulation Agreement" with the Nyack College of New York, and "is seeking accreditation with the New York State Education Department, the Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools and the Accrediting Commission International of Schools, Colleges and Theological Seminaries." Before I go, I do have one last little trivia question to ask of you:

Did you know that the organization is headed by a retired United States Congressman? How cool is that?

The Honorable Reverend Floyd H. Flake, D.Min., U.S. Congressman, Retired and The Reverend M. Elaine Flake, D.Min. are just awesome! They really take the time to get to know what's going on in the community and are quick to step in and lend a helping hand when ever they can. They also teach upon how biblical home ownership really is, so Realtors like me absolutely love being blessed by them.

I am praying and believing for a turn around in this current market. How about you? ;-)

Here is some eye candy from my turtle run. Enjoy!