Jack Frost Dies

Jack Frost, charismatic author, Bible teacher and founder of Shiloh Place Ministries, died March 5 after a battle with cancer. He was 54.
 
Jack Frost Dies
Jack Frost, charismatic author, Bible teacher and founder of Shiloh Place Ministries, died March 5 after a battle with cancer.
 
Frost was an ordained minister for the Salvation Army in Conway, S.C., from 1984 to 1986 and pastor of evangelism at Evangel Cathedral in Spartanburg, S.C., from 1989 to 1991. He was the author of two books, Experiencing the Father’s Embrace and the recent Spiritual Slavery to Spiritual Sonship, which have touched the hearts of millions throughout the world. He was also an accomplished sea captain. 
 
A funeral service will be held March 7 at 1 p.m. at Christ Community Church, 1500 Highway 501 Business, in Conway. A graveside service will follow at Southeastern Memorial Gardens.
 
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Shiloh Place Ministries, P.O. Box 5, Conway, S.C. 29528. The Frost family and friends express thanks and gratitude to the staff of Mercy Hospice Center in Conway for their support and care.


Christian Teens Fast for the Hungry

Recently, 500,000 young people fasted for 30 hours to raise money and experience a small portion of what the world’s poorest children and families experience on a daily basis.
 
Christian Teens Fast for the Hungry
Recently, 500,000 young people fasted for 30 hours in an effort to experience a small portion of what the world’s poorest children and families experience on a daily basis. During World Vision’s 30 Hour Famine, teens were asked to drink only water and fruit juice and to focus their time on serving the less fortunate by working with food drives, soup kitchens or homeless shelters. The youth were also asked to raise $12 million to help feed the 850 million malnourished citizens of the world, said James Morris of World Vision, a Christian humanitarian organization. “Since 1992, [the] 30 Hour Famine has raised more than $80 million, representing countless saved lives,” said Debbie Diederich, national director for the program. “The 30 Hour Famine has a lasting impact, not just on the children receiving food, care and education, but on participants who view their own potential to affect change very differently afterward.”


Buzz


SPOTLIGHT


Morning Glory


Chris Tomlin’s latest release is See the Morning.


Like the songs of musical pioneers Bill Gaither and Andraé Crouch, those of singer Chris Tomlin are as popular in churches as they are on radio. The writer of 17 top-charting songs recently released a new worship anthem, “Made to Worship,” from his latest project, See the Morning. Tomlin says the album’s title reflects God’s promises that are fulfilled with the dawning of each new day. “There’s something about the morning that awakens the God that never sleeps,” he says. “You see, God does so much during the morning—’weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.’ The Red Sea was parted in the morning. I love that idea that people could see God’s faithfulness through these songs.”


Prayer Point


This month marks the fourth anniversary of the war in Iraq. Although the effort has led to the capture of Saddam Hussein and democratic-style elections, it has cost the lives of more than 3,000 U.S. troops. We encourage you to join us in praying:


  • For God’s wisdom and protection over every security patrol
  • That the troops would have the resources they need and their families’ needs would be met
  • That the insurgency would end and a stable government would be established in Iraq.


    Artist of the Year


    When MSN Music asked the public to vote for its favorite artist of 2006, the winner was a surprising pick—the David Crowder Band. The alternative worship band known for songs such as “Here Is Our King” and”Our Love Is Loud” received more votes than Prince, INXS, Christina Aguilera and Kenny Chesney. “They’ve single-handedly redefined what contemporary Christian music should sound like,” the Web site said. Now working on their 11th album, the band says its goal is “to be a relevant force in our culture, to give hope to those who have left the church and those who have come back.”


    Unsung Heroes


    Armed for Battle


    Ray Hall has spent the last 13 years collecting donated Bibles and wholesome books to send to prison libraries. But the founder of Prison Book Project in Titusville, Fla., recently felt burdened to serve a different group—U.S. Armed Forces locked up in battle overseas. “We set aside these five cases of Bibles for the troops because we concluded it was the right thing to do,” he says.


    In December, Hall received a request for materials from a chaplain’s assistant attached to the Army Chaplain Corps in Kuwait, a stop-off point for some troops en route to Afghanistan and Iraq. Hall initially sent 11 cases with hundreds of books and Bibles packed inside. Then in mid-January he shipped five more cases filled exclusively with premium Bibles donated by Tyndale House. “We hope God will use this material in a way that will be pleasing to Him,” he says. “These Bibles will impact more people than we can imagine.”
    Paul Steven Ghiringhelli


    PEOPLE


    On Mission


    Jenny Berringer has her eye on an eternal goal


    Jenny Barringer runs fast—really fast. In November, the 20-year-old University of Colorado sophomore finished second in the NCAA women’s 6-kilometer finals, was a women’s cross-country athlete of the year finalist and received All American honors. She also was named a track and field All American last spring after a surprise win in the NCAA 3,000-meter women’s steeplechase national championship race.


    Barringer runs fast, but it is a miracle that she runs at all. As a child, she battled and overcame various lung-related diseases, including potentially fatal histoplasmosis. As a teen, tests indicated that she didn’t inhale enough air to run. Persistence, healthy living, and the support of her natural family and her church family (formerly at Calvary Assembly of God in Winter Park, Fla., and now at an independent fellowship in Boulder, Colo.) have kept her going and growing.


    “God uses each of us in different ways and we all have gifts,” Barringer told Charisma. “I have been gifted in running. I am fulfilling His purpose and pleasing Him when I run well.”


    Defining herself as a woman of faith who wants to live a life above reproach, Barringer embraces the responsibility that comes with her platform. “I tell young women I meet that they are incredibly loved and talented regardless of [their situation],” she says. “We have a Savior who loves unfailingly and unconditionally.”
    Barringer volunteers, tutors high school students and signs for the deaf during worship services. Then there is the possibility that she will compete in the Olympics next year.


    Barringer runs fast, but she remains anchored. “At times my character fails me. At times my health fails me. At times my mind fails me,” she says. “But my faith and my God, they never fail me.”
    Steven Lawson


    Evangelism


    Winning Souls


    Businessman issues unusual call for evangelism strategies


    One day while watching television, businessman Donald Mitchell was challenged by an evangelist’s call for Christians to become more effective witnesses. He had accepted Christ as a child and was teaching at a Bible school part time, but the minister’s words haunted him. Then one night the Boston-based management consultant got an idea that has raised a few eyebrows.


    “In the secular world it’s proven to be very, very effective to post [a contest] on the Internet,” Mitchell says. “So I said: Why can’t we do that for God? Why not come up with ways of helping sinners be saved? … It may be a bad way to do it, but it’s the only way I knew how to do it.”


    He developed a Web site, , through which he is calling for entries describing innovative evangelism strategies. The contest will continue through Easter. At that time submissions will be chosen for inclusion in a book on evangelism. But he says the “prize” will be mostly intangible.


    “It mostly has to be from God in the sense of recognition from Him for having done His work. … We’re going to ask people to donate their royalties and whatever profits we earn from the book to help implement these purposes.”


    Since he announced the contest, Mitchell has received a variety of ideas—from a man who says he’s come up with a way to reduce the cost of Christian broadcasting in developing nations to a church that compiled members’ testimonies into a book it distributes as tracts. “If I can facilitate great people coming up with wonderful ideas that are inspired by God,” he says, “I’ll feel very happy to have been part of this.”
    Adrienne S. Gaines


    Generation ‘R’


    Young adults from around the world gathered in Missouri and Georgia for conferences that challenged them to become world-changers for God’s glory.


    In December, megachurch pastor Rick Warren challenged a record 22,500 Urbana 2006 delegates gathered in St. Louis to become a “reformation” generation. “What would happen if just those of us here tonight would say, ‘Jesus, we are Yours’?” Warren asked. “A new spirit of St. Louis would bring about a global transformation! You, ladies and gentleman, are the reformation generation. You must bring it in.”


    The Urbana 2006 event, held Dec. 27-31, coincided with the 200th anniversary of the Haystack Prayer Meeting, historically identified as the beginning of the modern missionary movement. The conference focused on communicating the truth of Jesus and embracing social justice issues. U2’s Bono sent a videotaped message challenging students to help fight AIDS. And to help identify with AIDS patients abroad, delegates one night for dinner ate only a cornmeal-enriched porridge commonly eaten in developing nations. “It does not taste good, but I wanted to experience what [AIDS patients in Africa] do,” says Rebecca Carpenter, 25, a recent graduate of Azusa Pacific University.


    The next week, 23,000 college-age adults convened in Atlanta for Passion 07, held Jan. 1-4. With “Do Something Now” as its theme, the conference challenged attendees to get involved in global efforts that focused on evangelism and social justice. Participants helped raise $700,000, which was to be used to dig wells in Africa, build a freedom center in northern Iraq and translate the New Testament into the language of the Dela and Rikou people of Indonesia, among other projects.
    Steven Lawson


    Charisma Online


    Getting Connected


    As more and more people go online to shop, bank, date and even participate in Bible studies, Charisma magazine is helping Christians connect to God, each other and the world through its Web site, . With its online forums, original columns and breaking news stories, the site helps readers stay abreast of how the Holy Spirit is moving around the world.


    “Thanks for the fellowship over the Net into my kitchen here in the United Kingdom,” one reader wrote. “God be praised.”


    Charisma editor J. Lee Grady continues to challenge the status quo in his column, Fire in My Bones. And online he is joined by associate editor Valerie G. Lowe, who in her Soul Food column addresses racial healing and unity in the body of Christ, and assistant editor Leigh DeVore, who discusses films Christians and families would enjoy.


    In addition, Web editor Felicia Mann offers insight into youth culture through her Cultural Edge column, and assistant news editor Paul Steven Ghiringhelli keeps visitors abreast of developments in Israel and other nations through his column, Middle East Minute.


    And of course, publisher Stephen Strang continues to inform and inspire Christians to affect change in the world around them. Online readers will be able to join in the discussion by reading his blog and giving their feedback.


    Visitors can also read daily devotionals, hear exclusive podcast interviews from ministry leaders and sample some of the latest Christian music. There is also a Christian conference directory that includes needed conference information, driving directions, and hotel and restaurant locators. Ministries can post their conferences free of charge by logging on to



    • FeedBack


    My Turn


    In the article about Ted Haggard’s moral failure, his final comments caused me some concern (News, January). He said he plans to “make the devil pay for what he’s done in me and to my family, New Life Church and the body of Christ as a whole.” His energies seem to be directed at what he’ll do for God when his resurrection from being what he calls a “liar and deceiver” has occurred.


    For 14 years I have led a recovery group for men who have fallen into sexual sin. I find that they oftentimes divert the attention away from the process of repentance that David understood when he cried out in the Old Testament: “Try me Lord and see if there be any wicked way in me” (see Ps. 139:23-24).


    They say to themselves: Once I get back on my feet I’m going to do such and such for the Lord.


    This can be a diversion from experiencing the consequences and restoration that needs to occur in their lives, families and the body of Christ. People who fall into sin need healing in those areas that have been affected by illicit behavior. “Making the devil pay” should not be the priority. The goal of a holy and transparent life will bring glory to the One who has already paid the price!
    Ron Hobelman
    Columbus, Ohio


    God and Your Health


    Thank you for addressing the need for health among Christians (“God’s Secrets for Divine Health” by Dr. Don Colbert, January). For too long we have been stuffing ourselves at the local buffet restaurants after worship services—and suffering from heart problems, high blood pressure and diabetes as a result. The Bible says we must treat the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit.
    Maxine Rogers
    Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania


    I see a new heresy creeping into the church: the inordinate amount of attention given to diet and health. This heresy suggests that if we worship our bodies at the altar of a healthy diet, we’ll never become sick. Like legalism, this altar will never be satisfied with the simple grace of God.


    Consider the apostle Paul’s deprivations while writing the epistles in a rat-infested jail eating the slop his Roman captors gave him. One has to only speculate how much more of a success he would have been had he stayed in Tarsus, daily exercising his body and eating a vegetarian diet. What will be the next fad to sweep the body of Christ?
    Rev. Michael R. Bingham
    LaPorte, Texas


    More on Ted Haggard


    I appreciated J. Lee Grady’s comments about Ted Haggard’s unfortunate moral failure (Fire in My Bones, January). It’s easy to point fingers at folks who are center stage. As discouraging as this situation was, Haggard’s experience taught me that a person is only as accountable as he wants to be. I stand in agreement with you in praying for the Haggard family.
    Lisa DePass
    Pickering, Ontario, Canada


    With regard to Ted Haggard, no one has said very much about the dishonor his failure brought to God’s character and name. I see this as an indictment of the American church. 


    In our current condition, we have no hope of influencing our cities or the nation with the gospel. Only a radical church will bring about holy upheaval in an ungodly society.
    name withheld


    I live in New England, where witchcraft is alive and covens target ministry leaders. I suggest the real message from Ted Haggard’s fall is that we need to be on our knees, praying for our pastors. We should be begging God for forgiveness for not giving back in prayer what has been given to us by our leaders.
    Margaret Ashton
    West Haven, Vermont


    The church teaches that homosexuals are an abomination and that God has nothing to do with them. How do you reconcile this teaching with the fact that Ted Haggard struggled with homosexuality and God knew this for decades? God still blessed him.


    God blessed this man with a church that grew from a few people to 14,000. He favored Haggard by making him head of the National Association of Evangelicals. How do you explain all the blessings God gave to this man who struggled with this sin?
    name withheld
    Albuquerque, New Mexico


    I was upset that Colorado sex therapist Doug Weiss said he advocates that pastors submit to annual polygraph tests to prove they are not in immorality (News, January). What we should do for pastors is pray and lift them up to Jesus. I believe good Christian counseling from the Word of God is the best thing.


    If Weiss believes a polygraph is the answer and not God, then why not give one to all doctors, teachers, baby sitters and day care workers? When will people get God’s Word and put their trust in Him? I know it works because it was the Word, not a polygraph, that changed my life.
    Nathen Shivel
    Buckeye, Arizona


    As a believer increases in spiritual authority, so does his sensitivity to sin and vulnerability. He becomes a more critical target, and the enemy gets more aggressive.


    Therefore, it is necessary for him to put in place safety measures such as accountability, communication and intercession. As for Ted Haggard’s “fall from grace,” I believe he is embracing God’s awesome grace more than ever. He has the right heart to finish this course.
    Chris Nelson
    Colorado Springs, Colorado


    Although I found Ted Haggard’s willingness to “come clean” honorable, his last comment was unsettling. He said, “I’ll make the devil pay for what he’s done in me.” Is he absolving himself of all responsibility and blaming the devil? It sounded as if he were saying, “The devil made me do it.”
    Mari An Nyce
    Weatherford, Oklahoma


    As the news unfolded about Ted Haggard, my biggest lament was how long it would take for the Christian community to throw pastor Haggard in front of the bus.
    It has to grieve the heart of the Father to see how “worldly” we are in our response to sin. Instead of destroying our wounded, the church must do as Galatians 6:1 says: “You who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted.” This is one of those opportunities to reveal the difference Christ makes in our lives.
    David Scott
    Stockbridge, Georgia


    Let’s Be Soul-Winners


    In his column, Stephen Strang listed important things for the church to address in the new year (Final Word, January). I believe it would have been stronger if you had added the additional goal of becoming effective soul-winners.


    I believe our only hope of saving this disintegrating culture is to have a genuine revival with literally millions coming face to face with Jesus. Please use your considerable influence to help us stay on that track.
    Bill Newby
    Lee’s Summit, Missouri


    Five Stars for The Nativity


    The film The Nativity Story was great. It possessed an authenticity seldom seen in movies that are based on the Bible. There seems to be a growing interest in reaching the market with Christ-centered films. It was wonderful to see a story about the birth of Jesus on the big screen.
    J. Williamson
    Denton, Texas


    Thank you for telling the Charisma audience about The Nativity Story (“The Passion of the Christ Child” by Joel Kilpatrick, December). The movie beautifully portrayed our Savior’s humble beginnings. The shame and fear of Mary’s situation, the oppression in the land of Roman occupation, and Joseph’s commitment to his call all became real to me. I applaud the makers of this remarkable film.
    Mary Veach
    Bartlesville, Oklahoma


    No More Politics


    Count me in as another Charisma reader who wishes Christian publications, ministers, churches and others would refrain from endorsing political parties and candidates (Final Word, October). As a man of deep religious faith and a military veteran, I vote for political candidates whose voting records reflect my morals and values.


    Issues that matter to me include protecting human rights, civil liberties and religious freedom, and preventing poverty, homelessness, hunger and more. I resent those who claim that people of faith or military veterans must vote a certain way.


    I pray before I vote, and I always check out all the issues and policies of each candidate before I make my decision. I don’t want anyone telling this man of faith how to vote. God doesn’t endorse political parties or candidates. He wants us to pray before we do.
    Michael D. Dowdy
    Rolal, Missouri



    Vibes

    New books by Chuck Ripha, Ed Young and Pete Greig
    Plus Music by Michelle Tumes, Liz McComb and Michael Olson
    Reconciliation Blues
    By Edward Gilbreath, InterVarsity Press, hardcover, 207 pages, $20.

    This could be one of the most powerful books you will read this year, one that explores a delicate topic without being so offensive or unreasonable that few will listen. Nor should the subtitle, A Black Evangelical’s Inside View of White Christianity, steer white readers away in the belief that it’s intended for African-Americans. In fact, whites compose the leading audience for Reconciliation Blues. As author Edward Gilbreath adeptly points out, believers like himself are often shunted aside or ignored in the white-dominated evangelical subculture. That such slights stem from innate blind spots or insensitivity rather than overt racism doesn’t make them any easier to accept. A former editor at New Man magazine and now editor of Today’s Christian, Gilbreath issues a plaintive and yet hopeful reminder that although progress toward a reconciled multiracial society has occurred, many steps remain to be taken. There are several chapters worth noting: his sympathetic portrayal of a flawed and yet inspiring Jesse Jackson, an exploration of the mistaken habit of equating one’s political views with authentic faith, and the need to include Native Americans and Asians in the reconciliation conversation. The book includes a study guide that will make for fruitful—and hopefully challenging—discussions.
    Ken Walker


    BOOKS


    God Out of the Box
    By Chuck Ripka, Charisma House, hardcover, 224 pages, $.
    Making his living as a businessman, Chuck Ripka learned that obeying the voice of God afforded him the opportunity to make a difference in his customers’ lives. While working in furniture sales, he was able to put away his fear of mixing ministry and business, realizing it was still possible to get his commission and evangelize. Today, his commitment to exercising his faith in the workplace has paid great dividends, to which he testifies in God Out of the Box. Having emerged from a poor family and an addictive lifestyle, Ripka learned to obey God in little things. Through the years he watched God provide, and eventually he became senior vice president of Riverview Community Bank, a Minnesota institution with assets worth $140 million known as “the Christian bank” because of its commitment to biblical values. In God Out of the Box, Ripka offers personal anecdotes that show how God can powerfully influence the marketplace for His kingdom. To inspire others who need to know God can use them, he ends each simply written, faith-building chapter with one of the biblically based principles he has adopted along his spiritual journey.

    Christine D. Johnson


    God on Mute
    By Pete Greig, Regal Books, hardcover, 304 pages, $.
    Pete Greig, founder of the international 24-7 Prayer movement, reflects on one of the most soul-wrenching experiences of the Christian faith—unanswered prayer. Prompted to write after his wife, Samie, was diagnosed with a brain tumor from which she nearly died, Greig admits in the book’s introduction that prayer “doesn’t always seem to work, and it’s not easy to be honest about this.” During dry seasons, God seems absent, silent, even nonexistent. Greig points the reader to biblical books such as Lamentations and Job, and to Christ’s agony, abandonment, death and resurrection for hope. Drawing on real-life examples and wisdom from a wide assortment of people, including rabbi Harold Kushner, Martin Luther King Jr. and rock group .’s Michael Stipe, God on Mute offers an intensely personal and passionate treatment of unanswered questions and prayers. It is a thoughtful and deeply moving book by a church leader who still believes in prayer, even in the wake of one of his most difficult trials of faith. A discussion guide is included.
    C. Brian Smith


    Outrageous, Contagious Joy
    By Ed Young, Berkley Praise, hardcover, 256 pages, $.
    In Outrageous, Contagious Joy: Five Big Questions to Help You Discover One Great Life, Ed Young, TV and radio personality and pastor of a Dallas megachurch, appeals to readers who think they are missing something in life. With enthusiasm, the author guides his readers to consider five foundational questions, starting with “Does God want you to be happy?” and ending with “What are you working for?” He asserts that happiness is a myth and a poor substitute for what God really intended—joy. Sidebars offer examples, mainly of contemporary men and women who tell of how they began to experience joy. Stop and Think sections encourage readers to apply each chapter’s major truths. Young brings not only energy to his topic but also meaningful, biblically based content. Honest about the process of finding joy, he writes that it does not come automatically with salvation but must be cultivated. The book concludes with a prayer leading readers into relationship with Jesus as their source of true joy.
    Christine D. Johnson


    MUSIC


    Michelle Tumes
    By Michelle Tumes, Levantar Music.
    Michelle Tumes has returned after a four-year hiatus. Although her debut release was packed with a classical-New Age pop flavor, the artist’s sound evolved to a more determined pop sound in later years. However, her latest release is a return to her roots, with classically minded, ethereal worship and her own distinctive vocals. Highlights include the orchestral “Break Through,” the solemn “Gypsy Heart” and “Introit,” which paints a portrait of divine dependence. The grand “Domine” is a creative mixture of an orchestral atmosphere with pop sensibilities. The piano ballad “Hold on to Jesus” delivers a message of encouragement through tough times. Fans will be thrilled to see this talented artist return with a collection of elegant tunes.
    Dewayne Hamby


    Soul, Peace & Love Volume 1
    By Liz McComb, Sunnyside Records.
    Renowned gospel vocalist Liz McComb’s latest project mixes urban gospel with jazz, Caribbean, funk and hip-hop to deliver strong messages about peace, social troubles, inspiration and relationships. Highlights include the opener “Oh, When the Saints,” which blends rap breaks into the familiar gospel tune; the funky “You Ain’t Christian Enough”; a contemporary version of the spiritual “Can’t Nobody Know My Trouble” and the a cappella soul of “By the Rivers of Babylon.” “God Made a Miracle” features familiar, foot-stompin’ traditional gospel, and the tender gospel ballad “Peacemakers” features a female choir. This is an excellent release, showcasing McComb’s captivating gospel vocals and timely inspirational messages on an eclectic musical backdrop.
    Dewayne Hamby


    Where Fear and Faith Collide
    By Michael Olson, Rocketown Records.
    Michael Olson’s second Rocketown Records release, Where Fear and Faith Collide, offers a lavish musical backdrop with messages of praise and encouragement where the singer’s impressive vocal skills effortlessly soar. Even as it delivers a modern sound, the disc prompts a recollection both vocally and lyrically of the days when big-voiced male vocalists such as Michael English and Greg Long dominated the Christian music scene. The subdued “On the Third Day” is a song of resurrection, and “Our First Love” delivers a challenge about losing faith. “Fear and Faith” is a rousing power ballad, and “Tell Me Again,” with guest vocalist Sara Groves, is an acoustic reminder of God’s faithfulness. Unquestionably on par with the aforementioned big-voiced male vocalists, Olson is an impressive talent. This album, with its messages of encouragement and praise, will inspire and impress listeners.
    Dewayne Hamby


    Adam Cunningham
    By Adam Cunningham,
    Trackstar Recordworks.
    Worship leader Adam Cunningham releases his self-titled debut on Trackstar Recordworks. With deep, country-tinged vocals and melodies that are sure to evoke comparisons to Mark Hall (Casting Crowns), Steven Curtis Chapman and even mainstream country artists such as Toby Keith, the singer delivers 13 new songs focusing on praise, evangelism and Christian living. “Don’t Let Go” sends a strong message of encouragement for holding to faith. “One Angel” is a country-tinged tribute to Cunningham’s daughter. The tempo-varying warning “Motion Sickness” focuses on hypocrisy, and the ballad “Like I’m the Only One” offers earnest praise for a personal God. Though the project steers a little too close to Casting Crowns, the introduction of 13 fresh new songs and two country detours will help distinguish Cunningham’s debut for listeners.
    Dewayne Hamby


    7 days
    By Deitrick Haddon, Verity Records.
    Deitrick Haddon is regarded as one of gospel’s most intriguing artists, producing soulful, uplifting sounds for more than 10 years. This latest release is the most defining project of his career. Along with famed R&B producers Tim Kelley and Bob Robinson (Destiny’s Child, Boyz II Men), Haddon is presented at his best with music that is mainstream but a message that is spiritual. The 15 tracks range from such danceable grooves as “Don’t Go,” “So Good to Be in Love” and “Clap Your Hands” to the heartfelt “Through It All” and likely crossover hit “I’m the One.” Haddon also voices his concern for the nation on the thought-provoking “Heaven Knows.” With its innovative urban sound, 7 Days will likely appeal to mainstream and Christian audiences.
    Twanna Powell


    FICTION


    CONTEMPORARY


    Quaker Summer
    By Lisa Samson, WestBow Press, softcover, 320 pages, $.
    Heather Curridge has a good life—a family, a nice home, even an SUV. But she’s starting to feel that there has to be more to life—and not just more stuff. A car accident brings her in contact with a nun and a Quaker spinster. These ladies’ simple lives help Heather realize that the key to a more fulfilling life is giving more of herself.


    HISTORICAL


    The Miracle
    By Gilbert Morris, Zondervan, softcover, 352 pages, $.
    In book three of the Singing River series Lanie Freeman, 17, is now raising her four younger siblings without her parents. A business venture could be what keeps the family together, or it might break them apart. Unexpected crises arise that rock the family’s faith and could destroy Lanie’s dream of finding love.


    SUSPENSE


    The Watchers
    By Mark Andrew Olsen, Bethany House Publishers, hardcover, 419 pages, $.
    Abby Sherman has a terminal illness. After posting descriptions of her heavenly visions online, she garners lots of attention—good and bad. Dylan Hatfield has been hired to kill Abby. After he meets his target, he begins to rethink his mission. This supernatural thriller takes readers on a globe-trotting adventure.


    NEW ON DVD


    The Passion of the Christ

    FoxFaith
    $
    The Passion of the Christ depicts the last 12 hours of Christ’s life from the Garden of Gethsemane to Calvary. This two-disc Definitive Edition includes the theatrical release; Passion Re-Cut, a less violent version of the original film; commentaries with Mel Gibson, John Debney (composer) and others; a segment on the making of the film; deleted scenes; galleries; and more. This film is rated R for violence.


    The Waltons
    Warner Home Video Inc.
    $
    The Waltons: The Complete Fourth Season, which aired from September 11, 1975 to March 4, 1976, is now available on DVD. Ellen Corby (Esther) and Michael Learned (Olivia) won Emmy Awards for their roles during this season. This five-disc set includes episodes about John-Boy being hired as a scriptwriter, Mary Ellen starting nursing school, a house fire and more. Continue to be inspired as this large, close-knit family faces the challenges of the late 1930s with grace and perseverance.


    Bibleman
    Thomas Nelson Inc.
    $
    The Bibleman Powersource series offers another film just for kids ages 6-10. In Tuning Out the Unholy Hero, the WBIG TV network bigwig is out to make kids think “What’s Bad Is Good.” This villain is trying to block the spreading of the gospel. Of course Bibleman won’t stand for it, and he sets out to defeat this unholy hero.



    Christian Drama Series to Debut

    '7th Street Theater', a weekly, 30-minute show that looks behind the scenes of a fictitious stage play will air March 3, at 11 p.m. EST.
     
    Christian Drama Series to Debut
    On Saturday, Trinity Broadcasting Network will launch; the Christian drama series '7th Street Theater', a 30-minute show; that looks behind the scenes of a fictitious stage play. “I want to change the face of television,” said series producer Dave Christiano. “For decades, the major networks have had dramatic programs in prime time, and the day has finally come for a distinctly Christian drama series to be there as well.” While the actors are not well-known, Christiano said they give award-winning performances. “After people watch a few episodes and get to know [the actors], I think they’ll really appreciate the talent and personalities of each,” Christiano said. “This is a really special cast.” The series will debut on March 3 at 11 p.m. EST. The first 24 episodes have been produced and will be available on DVD in April.


    Pentecostal Growth Challenging Catholic Traditions

    Catholic leaders in Asia met earlier this month to outline implementation of certain practices common in charismatic churches.
     
    Pentecostal Growth Challenging Catholic Traditions
    Catholic clergy and lay leaders recently met in Manila, Philippines, to discuss ecumenism in the Asian church. One key subject during the seminar titled “The Search for Christian Unity: Where We Stand Today” was the rapid growth of Pentecostalism in Asia and its affect on the Roman Catholic Church. “Since the appearance of the phenomenon of Pentecostalism in Asia, profound changes, both positive and negative, have been taking place within the churches,” the Archdiocese of Manila said in a statement released at the conclusion of the seminar. The Catholic Church is urging its priests to implement various Pentecostal practices into their historically solemn services. “Indeed, there are very attractive elements in Pentecostalism: their joyful and spontaneous worship; the intimate, friendly nature of their community life; and the opportunity for all believers to contribute their talents and charisms for the spiritual benefit of all,” the statement said. “These are factors in drawing Christians from other churches into the Pentecostal fold.” In response to Pentecostalism, the archdiocese has outlined positive attributes from charismatic and Pentecostal churches and is encouraging Asian Catholic churches to implement them. The document also cautions against the negative trends within the Pentecostal movement, particularly its perceived emphasis on wealth and health, and worship services being entertainment-orientated rather than focused on helping congregants encounter Christ. —Felicia Mann


    U.S. Becoming Immigrant Pastors’ Mission Field

    Immigrant pastors are moving to the United States to bring unity to the American church the Assemblies of God (AG) said. Photo: Scott Temple AG spokesman.
     
    U.S. Becoming Immigrant Pastors’ Mission Field

    For centuries American-born pastors have gone outside the United States to spread the gospel through missions. The Assemblies of God (AG) news service reports that immigrant pastors now are moving to the U.S. to serve as missionaries. “Just as the Assemblies of God has sent missionaries to every part of the world, the Spirit is calling people from every part of the world to come to this great mission field,” said Scott Temple, AG director of Intercultural Ministries. The news service reported that many immigrant pastors are coming to America to minister to other immigrants who have moved to the U.S. to escape persecution or to seek economic opportunity. The pastors also hope to bring unity in the American church. “In the U.S. I noticed that churches were either black, white, Hispanic or Asian,” said Steven Siaji, who moved from Kenya and is currently a pastor in San Antonio. “America has taken the gospel to other nations for many years, but here the races have stayed separate. It’s about time we change.” The AG news service said most of the missionary pastors are coming from unexpected nations such as Tonga, Germany, Brazil and South Korea. “We need each other,” Siaji said. “Our differences are gifts God has made available to us.”



    Chinese Government Reports More Believers in China Than Expected

    The number of Christians in China have more than doubled since 2005.
     
    Chinese Government Reports More Believers in China Than Expected
    For many years, Christian organizations have reported that the Chinese are rapidly converting to Christianity, despite government restrictions on religious freedom. A recent Chinese government-sponsored survey on religious beliefs lends credence to claims, reporting a larger number of Chinese Christians than previously thought. Although the poll estimates are lower than the 80 million to 130 million Christians that Chinese ministries claim, the poll reported 40 million Christians in China, more than double 2005’s official figure of 16 million. Conducted by professors from East China Normal University in Shanghai, the poll found 300 million religious adherents in China overall, three times the government’s previous estimate. About 200 million were Buddhists, Taoists or worshipers of traditional gods, the BBC reported. Christianity and Catholicism, which were tracked separately, and Islam were China’s other leading religions. Some researchers say the poll’s findings may be a sign that the Chinese are searching for new values to replace the nation’s communist ideology, the Washington Post reported. “More Chinese feel unstable and harassed by the rootless lives they lead now,” Liu Zhongyu, a philosophy professor who helped organize the survey, told the Post. “People don’t trust each other anymore. They are looking for something to anchor their lives in.”


    Video Series Documents Muslim Supernatural Conversions

    More than Dreams chronicles Muslims who miraculously have had dreams and visions of Christ and were converted.
     
    Video Series Documents Muslim Supernatural Conversions
    A video series that re-enacts the testimonies of Muslims who came to salvation after miraculously having dreams and visions of Jesus is being used as a ministry tool to evangelize the Islamic world. Most of the subjects in the five-disc More Than Dreams series had no previous knowledge of Christ when they came to faith and were living in Muslim countries where conversion to Christianity often brings a death sentence. The series’ producers, who asked to remain anonymous, said all the subjects had been seeking to know God when they dreamed about Christ. The first DVD in the series focuses on Khalil, once a radical Egyptian terrorist who despised Christians and Jews and tirelessly tried to disprove the Bible to no avail. After Jesus appeared to him in a dream, he gave his life to Christ, and he says he’s never been the same. The film creators hope testimonies such as Khalil’s will lead other Muslims to salvation. They are partnering with ministries to distribute 10 million copies. To date, the series has aired on Arabic satellite television and was given to thousands who attended the Germany 2006 World Cup games, at which teams from Saudi Arabia and Tunisia competed. Producers also distributed videos to travelers taking the ferry between North Africa and southern Europe. The series has been released in Arabic, Indonesian, Hausa, Farsi and Turkish—all languages spoken in Muslim communities. The producers hope to soon offer the video in five more languages, including English. Some of the videos explain how to accept Christ, provide instruction for Christian discipleship and offer an electronic Bible.