My Turn

Thank you for such an encouraging article about women in ministry (“Make Way for the Women” by Maureen D. Eha, June). Many times I felt called to ministry and ran into so many obstacles that I pretty much gave up.

When I was in my early 20s, I was asked to share my testimony at a church. When I showed up, the pastor said God told him to give me the service. Well, I had already written a Bible study on the fear of God and I started preaching on that.

The response was overwhelming, with people running up to the front of the church for prayer. It freaked me out. God moved powerfully, but the next day when I shared this with my pastor, he said I shouldn’t have preached! He made me feel as if I had done something dreadfully wrong.

Thankfully today I’m attending a church where the senior pastor, Steve Gray, believes in empowering women. His wife, Kathy, is a dynamic example of a female minister. They mentored me for several years when I was on staff and totally turned my view of ministry around. Now I serve in several volunteer positions and I’m empowered to be all God wants me to be.

My heart goes out to the millions of women who have a passionate desire to minister but have no support. Your article shows it can be done and leaves us without any excuses.
Leilani Haywood
Kansas City, Missouri

Defining True Worship

In your recent article about the David Crowder Band (“It’s a Worship Revolution” by Chad Bonham, July), the writer made an important point that needs to be emphasized. Please don’t call all church music “worship”—it is “worship music.”
Music certainly is one element of worship. But just because there is music does not mean there is true worship. I recall my surprise some time ago when I went to a worship conference and found that it actually was a conference for musicians.
Dick Parvin
Clearwater, Florida

The Gender Factor

I was saddened that those who do not hold to the egalitarian view of women’s roles in the church were slandered as chauvinistic in your recent cover story (“Make Way for the Women” by Maureen D. Eha, June). This is loaded language that does not help the debate. It dismisses those with a different view as having a wrong motivation.

Some Christians believe men and women have role distinctions. I know the women portrayed in the article. They are great women of God. However, to portray one’s opponents as chauvinistic is a bold power assertion that has no place in the argument.
Daniel Juster, director
Tikkun International
Gaithersburg, Maryland

Take a look at the seven women on the cover of Charisma in June. You are praising them as teachers and preachers. Do you really believe the Bible is true? If you do, you do not follow its teaching. The Bible says women should remain in silence and be keepers of the home.
Herman C. Quillin
Fort Blackmore, Virginia

As women who study the Bible and attend weekly Sabbath services, we question the validity of the ministries these women say God called them to. This is diametrically opposed to the scriptural directives Paul wrote to Timothy.

We would like to encourage women everywhere who seek the truth of God’s Word to accept what it says to them. For then and only then can they truly belong to Him.
Annette Scott and Rosa Lathon
Flint, Michigan

There is a subject I want to get on my soapbox about. Too many Christian women are wearing low-cut necklines. Even those in ministry are modeling them.

I love style and well-dressed women, but a plunging neckline is not what I believe Paul had in mind when he said women should dress modestly.

It makes me sick how these women are just copying the world. It grieves me to see Christian women who are leaders yet are poor examples in this area.
Tilly Walz
Huron, South Dakota

Ten and even 20 years ago there were not a lot of men coming to church. Mostly women with small children would come and go to the altar for prayer. Therefore, God raised up women in the church. Then the Promise Keepers movement came along encouraging men to get into the Word and become godly men.

Today, we are struggling in churches with controlling male chauvinists who want more control instead of asking what God wants. The Father does not look at gender. He is releasing more women to rise up and pray and prophesy in church.
Bonnie Olson
via e-mail

Randy and Paula White

It’s interesting that people seem to be overlooking the fact that Paula and Randy White are “media moguls” (“Trouble in Tampa Bay,” Charisma Online, June). They have television shows, tapes and books. Their wealth does not come only from inside the church.

If they didn’t have a church, they would still be extraordinarily wealthy! There are simply some people in this world who will be wealthy.
name withheld

Regarding wealthy church leaders, doesn’t the Bible say we are to live modestly? This is very confusing. God does bless, but it seems a lot of emphasis is placed these days only on financial blessings. I don’t know what to think because there is conflicting teaching using the Scriptures for each viewpoint.
Robyn Mulkins
Duluth, Georgia

Down on Israel

I was disappointed with the June issue of Charisma, which contained a section about travel to Israel. I thought your focus was the Great Commission. Are Christians supposed to supply the tourists that Israel needs to bolster its economy?

Jews, Muslims and all people need the gospel, and it is our responsibility to see that they receive it. You seem concerned that Christ will reject unbelieving Israel, yet you forget the Palestinian believers who are brethren in Christ.

It is time to get off this prophetic kick. Our first responsibility is to fellow believers (both Jewish and gentile) and not to unbelieving Israel.
W. Herbert Woolley
Cantonment, Florida

Is Israel the “Holy Land,” or is it just plain dirt that Jesus told His disciples to shake off their sandals? If Jesus were ministering on the earth today, He would turn over the tables of Christian leaders who are making so much money hawking the very thing He said to leave behind. So much is spent for the welfare of the Jews, but almost nothing is spent to spread the gospel of salvation.

Many people are led to believe that they can be blessed only if they make a trip to the Holy Land. The poor and the rest of us who are left behind have only Jesus.
Curt Vieselmeyer
Boise, Idaho

There is no way that I as a Christian could support President Bush’s Roadmap to Peace. He was lying when he said giving Gaza to the Palestinians would make them more peaceful. It has only placed more Israelis in danger.

Bush is dangerously naive, and Condoleezza Rice should refuse to be his secretary of state. I applaud Colin Powell for refusing to be part of his war or diplomacy.
Evelyn Harrington
Kokomo, Indiana

Condoleezza’s Problem

How does one explain the “quiet faith” of Condoleezza Rice and her longtime membership in the Council on Foreign Relations (“The Faith of Condoleezza Rice” by Leslie Montgomery, June). The goal of the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) is an atheistic, one-world government.

You cannot serve two masters. Either Rice is a deceived Christian or she knows exactly what her membership in the CFR requires of her.
Bob Nesbit
Owatonna, Minnesota

Where Does Obama Stand?

In response to Final Word by Stephen Strang, April, I agree we can’t say Barack Obama is Muslim just because his father was. But we do need to be careful not to assume someone is a Christian just because they say they are. We can’t judge their souls, but we can check their fruit. Where do our prospective leaders stand on abortion, gay marriage and other issues? Being a Christian isn’t just a title; it’s a lifestyle choice.
Becky King
Ashland, Illinois

Hurricane Warning

Fire in My Bones (J. Lee Grady, July) was very timely. He mentioned that he loves the new worship bands on the scene but that he had been having some unusual times of intimacy with God while singing from an old Baptist hymnal he has owned since childhood. I can relate because of the lyrics in my memory bank from years of singing from the hymnal.
Myra Buffkin
Merritt Island, Florida

Angelic Encounters
By James W. and Michal Ann Goll,
Charisma House, softcover, 224 pages, $14.99.

For James and Michal Ann Goll, who are active in prophetic ministry and intercession, angels are as alive and real as human beings. In Angelic Encounters: Engaging Help From Heaven, they discuss the nature of angels, their role as God’s messengers and their types—archangels and cherubim among them—revealing angels’ rankings in God’s kingdom. Though the book is based on the Scriptures and offers perspectives from church leaders throughout history, the authors also report on angel sightings from around the world and share their own encounters. Michal Ann recounts intense visits she had from angels during one nine-week period. Urging readers to be wary of evil spirits, the authors provide nine scriptural tests to determine if an angel is sent by God. One chapter discussing the work of angels in the nation of Israel will be of interest to pro-Israel Christians. Seeing the human-angel connection as a partnership, the authors provide biblically based teaching on angelic encounters but with a personal touch. Readers curious about the supernatural will find much to ponder in Angelic Encounters.
Christine D. Johnson

BOOKS

After the Fall
By Donald Hilliard,
Destiny Image Publishers,
softcover, 396 pages, $15.99.

With grace and compassion, Donald Hilliard issues a wake-up call to the modern church in After the Fall: Resurrecting Your Life From Shame, Disgrace, and Guilt. By offering candid, biblical advice, the longtime pastor reaches out to those seeking freedom from the crippling power of shame and guilt. Examining the biblical account of historical figures such as King David and the apostle Peter, Hilliard shows how disobedience to God’s law leads to moral failures so shameful that the temptation is to look for someone else to blame. But he advises readers to take personal responsibility and stop making excuses for their sins or they could doom themselves to life as “professional victims.” Hilliard assures readers that God’s forgiveness is sufficient for all, if they come to Him in sincere repentance. Senior pastor of Cathedral International in Plainfield, N.J., and a visiting lecturer at Wheaton College, Hilliard draws on 30 years of pastoral ministry to proclaim this timely message of repentance and forgiveness.
David Rogers

Girl Soldier
By Faith J.H. McDonnell and Grace Akallo,
Chosen, softcover, 240 pages, $13.99.

The war in Uganda has raged for two decades and for nearly that long Joseph Kony’s rebel force has attacked Acholi villages, filling his army with children abducted in the raids. The children—now as many as 50,000—undergo a systematic program of mind control and starvation as they are turned into killers and abductors themselves, perpetuating a hideous cycle. Grace Akallo, who joined with Faith J.H. McDonnell to tell her story, was one of the young girls kidnapped. Despite having to endure unimaginable torture, being left for dead and buried, she survived and remained strong in her faith. In Girl Soldier: A Story of Hope for Northern Uganda’s Children, Akallo shows how God provides hope in the midst of despair. The fight of Akallo, now a college student in the U.S., is to involve the world in helping return peace to the people of northern Uganda. Interspersed with the history and current events of the African country, the book’s well-written, first-person narrative tells a story that is hard to ignore. Readers will find most helpful the information provided for those who desire to aid the Ugandan people.
Sandra Furlong

Right People, Right Place, Right Plan
By Jentezen Franklin, Whitaker House,
hardcover, 208 pages, $19.99.

In Right People, Right Place, Right Plan: Discerning the Voice of God, megachurch pastor Jentezen Franklin discusses how believers can learn to hear God’s voice, even in the middle of day-to-day busyness. Franklin challenges readers to fulfill their unique God-given destiny by tapping into God’s heart and mind through the internal compass of the Holy Spirit. Injecting fresh perspectives on scriptural illustrations about hearing from God, Franklin believes that “when you ask God for a miracle, He will always give you a set of instructions—a plan.” He focuses on wisely choosing relationships that will bring out the best in an individual and equally emphasizes learning to pursue God- opportunities, not just good options. A few chapters of Right People, Right Place, Right Plan project a primarily charismatic perspective, though the practical tips the author shares will aid any Christian trying to develop spiritual discernment. Readers at major life crossroads, including those in job transitions, engaged couples and struggling parents, will find Franklin’s insights particularly helpful.
Leann Weiss

MUSIC

Before the Daylight’s Shot
By Ashley Cleveland, 204 Records.

Before the Daylight’s Shot, Ashley Cleveland’s seventh release, is once again a powerful project from an awesome artist. Her voice is soulful, driven, raw and beautiful, naturally complementing her graceful, compelling writing style. Deeply personal, sometimes poignant lyrics craft songs of faith, love, longing and introspection. Cleveland is a clever wordsmith with an explosive yet tender singing style. Before the Daylight’s Shot is a collection of great rock ‘n’ roll and soulful ballads that share the artist’s ups and downs, her desires and her mature faith. Stellar examples are: “Satisfied With Drowning,” a plea for loved ones to lay down those things that hinder them from a better life, “Deeper Walk,” a personal testimony of Cleveland’s deep faith in God and “Twilight Hour,” an upbeat love song. Also included are covers of Leon Russell’s “Roll Away the Stone” and Stevie Wonder’s “Higher Ground.” This album is a powerful expression of a life lived with passion, frailty and a sincere relationship with Jesus. Cleveland is one of the few great singer-songwriters who writes thought-provoking lyrics and then vocally masters the emotion of the song. Before the Daylight’s Shot is the work of a great artist in her prime.
Debbie Gibboney

For Zion’s Sake, I Will Not Be Silent
By various artists, Galilee of the Nations.

This moving album and companion DVD single tell a story, as one track builds on another with prayers of repentance, remembrance, and a commitment not to be silent for the sake of Israel and the Jewish people. The centerpiece song is “The Forgotten People,” which is featured on the companion DVD. The title refers to the 6 million Jews murdered during the Holocaust and those who “forgot” them. The song opens with chilling audio clips of Adolf Hitler, and includes prayers of repentance (in German and English). The stirring DVD includes footage from Dachau. “Never Again!” is a moving call to the church not to be silent. The album manages not to be condemning or overbearing—only challenging. At a time when anti-Semitism is at its highest since World War II, lyrics such as, “Everyday people who ignored the news / Indifferent people sitting in the pews,” challenge the church not to be silent again.
Diana Scimone

I Cry Holy
By Dennis Jernigan, Shepherd’s Heart Music.

Singer-songwriter Dennis Jernigan, writer of chart-topping songs such as “You Are My All in All” and “We Will Worship the Lamb of Glory,” delivers his latest collection of praise songs on his new project, I Cry Holy. The CD features a mix of tempos and sounds, including the world-music flavor of “Beautiful,” the Caribbean-flavored “I Will Sing,” the jazz-influenced “Our God Is Mighty” and the pop rock of the proclamation “I Want to Be Free.” Jernigan shines brightest on piano-worship ballads such as “See the Lamb” and “You Are My King,” as well as the love song “I’ve Waited a Lifetime,” particularly because the simplicity lends itself more to a timeless quality, while synthesized instrumentation oftentimes sounds dated. Jernigan sings with fervency on I Cry Holy, and as his personal testimony verifies, he sings from experience about the life-changing power of the cross. Musically, this album will inspire his longtime listeners but probably won’t broaden his listener base much.
Dewayne Hamby

Manifesto
By Pocket Full of Rocks, Myrrh Records.

Following the band’s self-titled Myrrh Records debut, Pocket Full of Rocks returns with a new modern worship experience, blending pop-rock sensibilities with passionate lyrics and vocals, and as a result making praise music creative and accessible outside church environments. Melodic-rock anthem “Who Is This King?” delivers spiritual intensity while showcasing a polished musical landscape. Similarly, the low-key “Water (There Is None Like You),” a straight-ahead praise track, is destined for radio success. Also of interest are the jazzy piano praise of “Take Me There,” the simple challenge of “Worst of Us” and the heart-rending “Heal,” which prays for God’s healing intervention. “My Everything” serves up its own manifesto, declaring “You’re my everything, Lord,” dismissing all the things that compete for God’s sovereignty. Manifesto showcases Pocket Full of Rocks’ talent for bringing solid songs to the table and creating individualistic musical moments, staying accessible and creative at the same time.
Dewayne Hamby

Journey
By Richard Smallwood, Verity/Zomba Gospel.

It has been six years since gospel legend and Grammy Award-winner Richard Smallwood has released an album. His newest release, Journey: Live in New York, proves it was worth the wait. Journey is a stellar two-disc set featuring classics as well as new songs from Smallwood. It also features some of today’s best gospel artists, including Kim Burrell on the title track, the Hawkins Family on “We’ve Come Too Far,” and the original Richard Smallwood Singers on the soulful renditions of “Holy Holy” and “He Won’t Leave You.” Two of R&B’s best are also showcased on this album: Kelly Price on the encouraging “Morning Breaking” and the amazing Chaka Khan on “Precious Is Your Name.” Undoubtedly, the standout track is “I’ll Trust You,” featuring the melodic voices of Vision, Smallwood’s choir. Journey: Live in New York has already gained major radio airplay and can be considered one of Smallwood’s best musical efforts to date.
Twanna Powell-Green

Fiction

Clear Blue Sky
By F.P. Lione, Revell, softcover, 352 pages, $17.99.

It’s September 2001 and New York is buzzing with festivals and crowds. Police officer Tony Cavalucci wonders if the overtime is worth the hassle. His family is giving him a hard time about his faith and his fiancee. As Tony helps in the rescue effort after the Sept. 11 attack on the city, he learns to appreciate family, life and faith anew.

CONTEMPORARY

My Soul to Keep
By Davis Bunn, Bethany House, softcover, 400 pages, $13.99.

Brent Stark is a rising star until an accident leads to prison time. But he becomes a Christian in prison, and after his release a Christian businessman approaches him about a filmmaking venture. They and their crew are in for the challenge of their lives as some in Hollywood are determined to see this production fail.

ADVENTURE

My Hands Came Away Red
By Lisa McKay, Moody Publishers, softcover, 320 pages, $12.99.

Cori, 18, is searching for direction. She decides that a church-building trip to Indonesia will help her escape her complicated love life. But trouble is brewing on a nearby island, and soon the hostility comes to her. The church is burned, and the pastor and villagers are killed. Now six teenagers are running for their lives in the mountains with only the pastor’s son guiding them.

New On DVD

THE ULTIMATE GIFT
Fox Home Entertainment,
$27.98.
When Red Stevens (James Garner) dies, grandson Jason Stevens expects a huge inheritance. Instead, Red has left him a video message explaining that Jason must complete 12 tasks in order to have a chance to receive any money. During the process Jason learns what is most important in life. This film is rated PG.

DA’ T.R.U.T.H. & FRIENDS LIVE
Cross Movement Records,
$19.98.
Enjoy a close-up look at Impact2006, a hip-hop worship experience with performances by Da’T.R.U.T.H., Tye Tribbett, Trip Lee and others. Also included is a documentary featuring a chat with BET host Gerard Henry and Da’T.R.U.T.H., as well as commentary from Kirk Franklin, Donnie McClurkin and others.

ASTRONAUT FARMER
Warner Bros.,
$19.95.
Charles Farmer wanted to be an astronaut. Circumstances changed his plans but not his dream of going to space. He and his son have built a spaceship in their barn. Farmer is determined to launch it even though the government tries to stop him. This story is about family, hope and the courage to dream. Rated PG.