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Denise Cross

385

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Finalist

Education

Virginia Union University

Master's degree program
2024 - 2026
  • Majors:
    • Bible/Biblical Studies

Loyola University Chicago

Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)
2013 - 2016
  • Majors:
    • Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Law Practice

    • Dream career goals:

      Nabi Nicole Grant Memorial Scholarship
      Throughout my life, faith has been my constant companion, guiding me through various obstacles and challenges. However, none have tested me more profoundly than the moment I found myself at the helm of my family’s church after the passing of our beloved leader, Apostle Sheraine Lathon. This was not just a moment of transition but a spiritual battlefield where faith became my anchor in the midst of a storm. The church, founded by my parents in 1982, had long been a beacon of hope and healing for our community. But after my mother’s passing, we faced an unprecedented split. Many members chose to leave, unable to see a future without her leadership. It felt as if the very foundation of our ministry was crumbling. Yet, amid the chaos and uncertainty, a core group of prophets remained, standing firm in their belief that God’s work in our church was far from finished. This was my moment of truth. As an Apostle, I had to decide whether to step into the role that God had been preparing me for all my life or to allow fear and doubt to dictate my actions. The weight of the decision was immense, and I knew that my next steps would determine the future of our church and its impact on the community. It was in this crucible of leadership that I leaned on my faith like never before. Isaiah 51:12-16 became my lifeline, reminding me that God is my comfort and strength, even in the face of overwhelming challenges. I spent countless hours in prayer, seeking divine guidance and clarity. My prayers were not just for direction but for the courage to trust in God’s plan, even when I couldn’t see the full picture. One of the riskiest decisions I made during this time was to remove the chairs from the sanctuary. To many, it seemed like a reckless move—an unnecessary disruption during an already tumultuous period. But I knew in my spirit that this symbolic act was essential to breaking old patterns and making room for a new season of growth and revival. The backlash was swift, and doubt began to creep in. However, my faith in God’s promise kept me anchored. I believed that He was doing a new thing in our midst, and I had to trust Him, even when it meant stepping out of my comfort zone. In the end, my faith was not misplaced. The decision to remove the chairs, as well as others that followed, led to a renewed sense of peace and unity within the church. Those who stayed with us began to catch the vision that God had placed in my heart. We experienced not only healing and financial breakthroughs but also the birth of new ministries, such as our prayer garden for seniors, which has become a source of hope and strength for many. This journey has taught me that faith is not just about believing in God’s promises when things are going well. It’s about trusting Him when everything around you is falling apart. It’s about having the courage to make bold decisions, even when the path ahead is unclear. And most importantly, it’s about being anchored in the knowledge that God is always with you, guiding you through every challenge. As I continue to lead our church and pursue my Masters of Divinity, I carry with me the lessons I’ve learned from this season of trial and triumph. My faith has sustained and equipped me to be a vessel of God’s grace and power in other’s lives. And for that, I am eternally grateful.