A sentence in Sheila Carpenter's inaugural book says that people can memorize the Christian creed by heart but, "if they don't practice what they preach, then it's all in vain."
Carpenter, who wrote "The Christian Walk," practices what she preaches, according to those who know the North Royalton resident.
Local author Sheila Carpenter has promoted her first book in several cities across the U.S. and is now writing her second work. Her Web site is www.drsheilacarpenter.com. Sun photo by Jim Votava.
Lashonda Moncrief said Carpenter, who has a doctorate in theocentric psychology, helped her son and her through some tough times.
"The first thing she would say to me before a session is, have you been praying," said the Cleveland resident. "She stands behind what she believes and what she teaches — standing before the throne of God. It lets me know I can trust and believe what she is telling me. She has gotten us through some very, very hard times."
Carpenter's book deals with being a Christian in a world that often challenges that way of life. She explains how Christians of all ages and backgrounds can develop a more Christ-like character through prayer, fasting and faith.
She wrote the book to awaken those who do things simply because they are "traditions," especially when it involves religion.
"Stop doing things out of tradition. Start doing them for yourself. Learn God. Know him for yourself. Try to find your own answers," said Carpenter, who provides psychological counseling services to inner-city youth and adolescents.
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