Sharlyne C. Thomas, 2013 Author of the Year (Newsome Awards), is an inspirational speaker and editor who was raised in the Christian faith and has served as an intercessor since 2003. She was given the vision for Sword of the Spirit Ministries in 2005 and has since then walked in her divine purpose to edify the Body of Christ through prayer and exhortation. Sharlyne is fulfilling this calling by distributing her monthly e-newsletters entitled "Take Up Thy Sword" and "Bizzness Nooze," and publishing prayer guides such as "When Heaven Hears Your Prayer," "How Great is Your Faith?" and "P.E.P. (Prayer + Encouragement = Power)." She has been invited to speak and teach at a variety of community and ministry events, and she has been a guest on several radio and TV shows on WOKB 1680AM, Rejoice 1140AM, WPIO 89.3FM, La Magica 1220AM, Joy Gospel Radio, Testify Radio, "Point of View" on the Afrotainment Channel and "Angie BEE Presents." Sharlyne also utilizes her gifts and talents via Spirit of Excellence Writing and Editing Services, contributing articles to magazines such as "Built to Prosper" and "Esdras' Scroll" as well as editing/proofreading various copy for a broad range of writers and organizations nationwide. In addition to serving as the corresponding secretary on the board of directors for Business Women Inspirational Network (2013 Member of the Year), she is also active in the Watchmen on the Wall Prayer Network, an instructor at Destined for Destiny Women's Institute and a speaker with Moms-n-Ministry. Sharlyne's church involvement includes past roles as a new members' teacher, women's ministry group leader and co-facilitator of a single parents' life group. Born and raised in Southern California, she currently lives in Orlando, Florida.