Gospel Light will now publish the popular K.I.D.S. Church Sunday school material
In order to focus more on the books and magazines published by Strang Communications, Stephen and Joy Strang have sold their CharismaLife curriculum in two phases.

The CharismaLife Sunday school curriculum was sold July 1 to One Accord Resources Inc., a consortium of Pentecostal denominations and fellowships that joined forces in 1999 to produce a common Sunday school curriculum that fit their theological distinctives.

In January, the Strangs announced that Ventura, Calif.-based Gospel Light had purchased the publishing rights, customer database and inventory for The Next Generation K.I.D.S. Church products, which has been the most successful part of Strang’s curriculum publishing enterprise. Financial details of the sales were kept confidential.

“Our decision to sell was not an easy one,” said Stephen Strang, CEO of Strang Communications. “In our company’s history, we have never sold any part of our company. But we decided we are trying to focus on too many things. In order to give a greater priority to our book area, which is exploding, and also to focus on our core magazine business, we felt that this was the right strategy to maximize our company’s growth in the future.”

Since 1990, CharismaLife has created a variety of children and youth ministry resources for churches, including Sunday school, CrossTraining, and, most recently, The Next Generation K.I.D.S. Church and The Next Generation Jr. K.I.D.S. Church, an acronym for “Kids in Divine Service.”

Strang’s late father, A. Edward Strang, Ph.D., headed CharismaLife for the first five years of the curriculum-publishing venture until he retired. Through the years, more than 38,000 churches have used CharismaLife products.

Before the acquisition, CharismaLife and One Accord partnered with Standard Publishing to use their HeartShaper and Encounter curricula as the core material for a new Sunday school curriculum, revising the material to be more distinct for the Pentecostal and charismatic churches.

Officials for Gospel Light, which has been selling curriculum since 1933, said purchasing K.I.D.S. Church will enable them to offer churches a broader selection of resources. “While the need to disciple young people is as essential now as it always has been, the changing face of culture and technology demands that we offer ministry tools that connect with today’s ‘sight and sound’ generation,” said Bill Denzel, vice president of publishing and marketing at Gospel Light. “We are thrilled to be able to offer churches this amazing K.I.D.S. Church program.”

Strang said he believes CharismaLife’s mission to see a generation experience a personal relationship with God, empowered by His Spirit, will continue. “I have a lot of respect for Gospel Light,” Strang said. “I’m happy that they’re able to carry on the ministry that my father and I started back in 1990.”
Eric Tiansay

Hal Lindsey Pulls Show From TBN Lineup

Christian broadcaster Hal Lindsey pulled his International Intelligence Briefing (IIB) from Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) in January, claiming the network asked him to stop making negative comments about radical Islam on his show. “I … know your heart for evangelism of the Muslims,” Lindsey wrote in a letter to TBN founders Paul and Jan Crouch. “But I don’t agree with your reasoning that warning about the dangers of ‘radical Islam’ is a hindrance to the Gospel to all Muslims.” Lindsey claims TBN pre-empted IIB, which analyzes current events in light of end-times prophecy, in December in an attempt to censor him. TBN spokesman Colby May said several shows were pre-empted that month for Christmas specials. Noting that Trinity began broadcasting a 24-hour Arabic channel in January 2005, May said the network in December asked all programmers to be careful about how they discuss Islamic terrorism. He said TBN wants to make the gospel accessible in the Muslim world, “and you’re not accessible if you are inartful in the way in which you make the segregation between Islam … and terrorists.” Lindsey planned to air IIB on Daystar and Sky Angel.

Megachurches Name New Senior Pastors

John and Carol Arnott stepped down as senior pastors of Toronto Airport Christian Fellowship, effective Jan. 22. Senior associate pastors Steve and Sandra Long were selected to lead the church, which has been home to the Toronto Blessing revival since 1994. The Arnotts said they planned to focus their attention on Catch the Fire Ministries, a church outreach that oversees thousands of “soaking prayer centers” worldwide. Jan. 22 also marked the installation of Robert A. Schuller, 51, son of Los Angeles pastor Robert H. Schuller, 79, as senior pastor of the Crystal Cathedral. The elder Schuller said he planned to remain chairman of the board of international ministries and stay active in the church, the Los Angeles Times reported. Meanwhile, South Korean pastor David Yonggi Cho said he would not leave the helm of his 750,000 Yoido Full Gospel Church in Seoul. Though he had previously announced plans to retire on his 70th birthday in February 2006, Cho said he would remain in the pastorate until he turns 75, the Korean Times reported. The Jan. 1 announcement sparked a controversy among some Protestant groups who worry that church members deify Cho and that the ministry is too dependent on him for its survival, the Korean Times said.

Southern Baptists Bar Missionaries From Speaking in Tongues

During a Nov. 15 meeting, trustees for the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) International Mission Board (IMB) voted to no longer appoint missionaries who practice a “private prayer language,” widely understood to mean speaking in tongues, the American Baptist Press (ABP) reported. The IMB already bars people who speak in tongues during public worship from serving on the mission field. The new policy also prohibits those who speak in tongues privately. Some observers say the vote was an attempt to undermine the leadership of IMB President Jerry Rankin, who acknowledges having spoken in tongues for many years, ABP reported. IMB spokeswoman Anita Bowden told the news service the new policy was not connected to Rankin, as it does not apply to missionaries appointed before Nov. 15.

Harvest House Libel Action Dismissed

The Court of Appeals of the First District of Texas has dismissed a multimillion-dollar libel lawsuit brought by The Local Church and its publishing arm, Living Stream Ministry (LSM). The suit alleges that Harvest House Publishers defamed The Local Church by including it in its Encyclopedia of Cults and New Religions by John Ankerberg and John Weldon. In its decision, the appeals court said the group’s inclusion in the book with “others who may have committed [immoral, illegal and despicable] … actions does not give rise to a libel claim.” Chris Wilde, spokesman for LSM, which publishes the writings of Watchman Nee, said an appeal would be made to the Texas Supreme Court.

Michael W. Smith to serve on president bush’s service Council

The White House nominated contemporary Christian musician Michael W. Smith to serve a two-year term on the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation. President Bush established the council in 2003 on the first anniversary of the USA Freedom Corps to promote volunteer service. Chaired by former football pro Darrell Green and co-chaired by former senators Bob Dole of Kansas and John Glenn of Ohio, the council includes members from the private and nonprofit sectors, entertainment, sports, education and government. Smith was sworn in Jan. 14.

Cable Companies Offer Family Bundles

Responding to pressure from the Federal Communications Commission amid growing concerns about indecency on TV, the nation’s leading cable providers announced plans to offer family-friendly programming tiers. Beginning the first quarter of this year, Time Warner, Comcast and Cox Communications will offer mostly sex-and-violence-free bundles that include such channels as Disney, CNN Headline News and HGTV, while excluding networks such as FX, Comedy Central and MTV. Time Warner and Comcast bundles include Trinity Broadcasting Network, while Cox will allow local systems to tailor packages to include religious channels.

The Real Gospel

I want to say amen to Steve Hill’s “No More Candy-Coated Gospel” (January). I despise the compromising religious spirit. I am not afraid to speak out against it when I see it. I’ve been accused of being too confrontational, as well as having people say, “That offends me.” I’d rather walk in the fear of the Lord and speak the truth in love.
Jason L. Hoover
Blue Ball, Pennsylvania

Steve Hill is right when he says: “The doctors of the Word, the clergy, are afraid to prescribe the medicine. … They see the disease [sin] but are afraid to treat it.” Actually, some don’t even acknowledge or name the correct diagnosis. Being a nurse, I can tell you that if you don’t get the correct diagnosis and determine the right treatment plan, the illness might progress. We need Romans 10:9-10, confession and repentance working through Jesus.
Laurie Klamer
Martin, Michigan

I wholeheartedly agree with Steve Hill. The church has watered down the gospel in their services.

Why be a charismatic if you’re not going to practice what you believe? We believe the world is dying to see the church rise up in love and the power of God and show them what Jesus died to give them-a victorious, Spirit-filled life!
Revs. David and Michelle White
Costa Mesa, California

The Gospel According to Narnia

In your article on The Chronicles of Narnia (December) you wrote about C.S. Lewis’ love for mythological creatures from his youth, and that he and others would critique his work over drinking beer and smoking pipes. This information alone concerns me about the discernment of Lewis.

In Narnia, dark creatures are on the good side, and creatures of God are on the bad. People involved in New Age and the occult know exactly what these creatures represent, and they laugh at us Christians.
Cathy Chatal
Independence, Ohio

The Chronicles of Narnia was an awesome movie. However it would seem to me a bit difficult for an unbeliever to understand its biblical message, especially if the person has very little exposure to the gospel.

There’s an assumption that most viewers will comprehend the underlying Christian theme in the movie. Sorry, but it’s just not that obvious. But it could serve as a great discussion-starter.
ToshaLyn Jacobs
Brooklyn, New York

Please check out the pagan characters in Narnia. The centaur (half-horse, half-man) is straight out of Greek mythology. C.S. Lewis had a love for Greek and Roman mythology, but the Bible is not a myth.

Children are very easily led away by fantasy. Beware lest you lead one of Jesus’ little ones away from the truth. Don’t be afraid to do some checking yourself.
Kerry Nichols
via e-mail

Returning to Pentecost

Thank you for J. Lee Grady’s column “Don’t Lose Your Edge” (January). I agree wholeheartedly. It’s sad to go to a church where the working of the Holy Spirit is not there 100 percent.

I have been in churches where I have yielded to the Spirit and have been told by man to quiet down. If it wasn’t for others praying for me, I would be defeated and would even have left the faith.
Marie Spinosa
Auburn, New York

I have seen different “moves of the Spirit,” each one emphasized as the latest move of God. Granted, some of them were. However, some of what has been emphasized has resulted in some fellowships not allowing the gifts of the Spirit to operate. They either didn’t want to offend visitors or had multiple services. Jesus always took time to minister to those in need.
Jim Singleton
Ridgeland, Mississippi

I’m a middle-aged, Spirit-filled Christian. I love my church being relevant and up-to-date. However, I too fear that most Pentecostal churches have lost what it takes to win the world, and to keep our own selves nurtured. In our sophisticated churches, we seem to be doing everything right-except allowing the Holy Spirit to move.
Gay Nelson
Greenville, North Carolina

Divorce, pornography and other sins have infiltrated the church. These things would not be as rampant if we were willing to confront and offend. Sin is sin and it needs to be addressed.
Eric Sullivan
Crawfordsville, Indiana

I appreciate J. Lee Grady’s strong stand on recent issues such as Carlton Pearson’s heresy and the trend of charismatic churches toward lukewarmness in their ministries. It takes courage to confront amid the apathy that pervades the church today.
Eleanor Hall
Clarksville, Maryland

War on Christmas

In Stephen Strang’s Final Word column in December, he asked, “Why can’t churches lead the way in celebrating Christmas?” A great surprise to our family when we arrived in this country 10 years ago was to find how few churches even held services on Christmas Day. Our church doors are shut tight on the very day we might be expected to hold services.

What conclusions might our neighbors draw? That food, family and frivolity come first? How might the Lord feel about this? Maybe a start is for churches to reconsider priorities, make a stand, open doors and invite Jesus back into our Christmas Day.
John Graham Joscelyne
Vienna, Virginia

The Truth about Israel

I read John Hagee’s article about Israel (“The Lord Has Chosen Zion,” October).A conflict between Israel and Iran could easily lead to a nuclear holocaust as Iran’s ally, Russia, steps in to support their oil interest in Iran.
Tracy V. Carman
Hurricane, Utah

Letters to the editor reveal a need for teaching about God’s promises to Israel. One reader called it a minor issue, but in reality if someone doesn’t know what the Word says about Israel, they have no hope of accurately understanding end-time events.

The idea that Israel forfeited the land because of Jesus’ death and resurrection shows that the false teaching of replacement theology is alive.
Ruth Petit
Watertown, New York

One reader wrote Charisma and said: “The land of Palestine belongs to God, and He gave it to Israel as long as they obeyed His covenant. When they continued to break covenant and crucified God’s Son, they lost their right to the land.”

This is a very dangerous position to take as it is not supported by Scripture. It also shows our lack of understanding of a covenant in the Middle Eastern culture of Abraham’s time.

In Genesis 15 (the Abrahamic Covenant), verse 12 clearly tells us that Abraham was asleep. Then, God the Father and God the Son (a smoking oven and a flaming torch) passed between the animal pieces. God made the covenant with Himself and made Abraham and his descendants the beneficiaries. This is a foreshadowing of the New Testament covenant.

God cut the covenant with the Son, making the beneficiaries any who would believe that Jesus (Yeshua) was the Israelite Messiah and accept Him. Like Abraham and his descendants, we are also grafted into a covenant with God by accepting Christ. Neither time was man involved; we benefited from the covenant God made with Himself.
M.B. Holland
Athens, Georgia

My Turn

Nowhere in the Word of God does it say that the white man owes Native people an apology (News, December). We may owe each other love and forgiveness, but forgiveness does not hinge on an apology. When we forgive we can be healed, and when we are healed, we can preach healing. Why did God allow all this to happen to Native peoples? What can we do to find Him again, and is there any sin we have not repented of?

Native tribes were fighting and killing each other long before the Europeans and Spanish ever came with their horses and guns. My Bible tells me that when we call on God with repentance, He will hear us and heal our land and us. It says we all are reconciled at the foot of the cross. The blood has never lost its power. It’s all we need for salvation, healing and restoration.

As a Native American, I say that when we learn to let go of the past, when we stop thinking we are owed something, then we get healed and move on to find our ancestors’ God.
John J. Franklin
Pensacola, Florida

BOOKS

Operation Desert Light
By Brother Andrew and Al Janssen,
Revell, softcover, 297 pages, $14.99.

You’ll feel as if you’re in an action movie when you read along with Brother Andrew and Al Janssen on their daring missions to the Middle East. Since 1955, Brother Andrew, author of God’s Smuggler, and his Open Doors ministry have supplied millions of Bibles and training to churches around the world that are experiencing persecution and discrimination. For the last 15 years Brother Andrew has made expeditions twice a year to seek out Christians in the Middle East, learn about their conditions and needs, and do whatever he could to strengthen them. This book tells the stories of those expeditions. With him, readers will meet the families living among terrorist bombings and snipers and corruption. You’ll see Brother Andrew’s grit when his outreach includes Arabs and Palestinians, even Yasser Arafat. Though written to inspire teen and young adult audiences, Operation Desert Light puts faces and feelings to the Middle East conflict and makes missions an exciting venture to support.
Marsha Gallardo

Sister Freaks
By Rebecca St. James, Warner Faith,
softcover, 320 pages, $16.99.

Compiled by Rebecca St. James, with several contributing authors, Sister Freaks is a 12-week devotional containing stories about women who have chosen to live uprooted and victorious lives for God. From the story of abbess Claire of Assisi to that of Marolda, who, after two abortions and facing a third unwanted pregnancy, received God’s forgiveness and call to ministry, the stories here are relevant and inspiring. Sister Freaks: Stories of Women Who Gave Up Everything for God brings an inventive approach to what is often a cliché area of Christian publishing. Although written more as a teen devotional, the book’s strong gospel message and engaging stories make it a valuable college outreach tool as well.
Sarah J. Cobb

Sex and the Single Soul
By Jack W. Hayford, Regal,
softcover, 160 pages, $9.99.

Father figure and pastor Jack W. Hayford offers warm, straightforward encouragement and challenge in his new book, Sex and the Single Soul: Guarding Your Heart and Mind in a World of Empty Promises. Hayford points out that every “single soul” is individually accountable to God for walking in integrity and purity-married or not. He also offers a fresh viewpoint on single life: “Singleness isn’t second-class-it is the true freedom to pursue what God has for your life now. And now stretches to tomorrow and the day after that until the day someone comes within that embrace, not to separate you from God but to change the nature of your singleness.” This much-needed paradigm shift will comfort singles who encounter the stigma of singleness within the church and within themselves.
Anna Flynn Stewart

Unrelenting Prayer
By Bob Sorge, Oasis House,

softcover, 192 pages, $12.

Bob Sorge has been part of the ministry team at the International House of Prayer of Kansas City since it began its 24/7 nonstop prayer ministry. He lays out the dynamics of what happens when you don’t give up praying in difficult circumstances. Not only will you please God, but if you survive being distracted, tempted and discouraged, you’ll also be changed yourself. Sorge writes: “While we’re still waiting for justice, the intimacy cultivated through unrelenting prayer makes us fruitful even during the wait.” Another payoff is seeing how God will avenge you, with as much as a sevenfold return. He uses the examples of Job; Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist; and Naomi, mother-in-law of Ruth. Some readers may contend with Sorge’s advice on depression and seeking medical help. Still, because he’s a victim of a faulty operation that damaged his voice, Sorge relates to feeling imprisoned by an infirmity. He encourages others to do as he does, and pray relentlessly.

Marsha Gallardo

Behind the Screen
Edited by Spencer Lewerenz and
Barbara Nicolosi, Baker Books,
softcover, 224 pages, $14.99.

In 1999, a group of Christian producers and writers got together and started a nonprofit program called Act One to provide training to Christians who want to make a difference in Hollywood. This valuable organization has provided classes for dozens of people who are now signed to major talent agencies, writing scripts and helping shape modern entertainment. Behind the Screen: Hollywood Insiders on Faith, Film and Culture is a direct result of their work. Written by the faculty of Act One and developed from the program’s curriculum, the book contains a variety of essays from Hollywood insiders and thinkers. Chapters examine the history of Hollywood, filmmakers who are changing the way we view our world and what it takes to survive in the entertainment industry. Contributors include Ralph Winter (X-Men) and Janet Scott Batchler (Batman Forever). This is a valuable resource for anyone who feels called to shape our culture through prayer or personal involvement.

Margaret Feinberg

God Is My Success
By Larry Julian, Warner Faith,

hardcover, 256 pages, $19.99.

Don’t be put off by the simplistic title. You might miss a book worth reading, whether you’re up for some life coaching or just curious about Larry Julian’s Dr. Phil-like advice on living a Christian life. Julian claims people take charge of what they should surrender to God and yet don’t take responsibility for the things for which they’re accountable. We run from pain, for example, but if we embrace it, Julian says, “it clarifies reality and becomes a catalyst for change.” The illustrating stories are dramatic. An advertising agency owner, who lost everything nearly overnight, traded in a controlling spirit for a giving one. Rhonda Anderson went from being a shy stay-at-home mom to co-founder of Creative Memories, with the confidence that she was helping people see God in their lives via unique photo albums. Julian is an executive coach and author of God Is My CEO. He offers a plan that will allow anyone to find his destiny, financial freedom, confidence, peace, and true success if he knows what to surrender and how to take charge.
Marsha Gallardo

Purifying the Prophetic
By R. Loren Sandford, Chosen,
softcover, 208 pages, $12.99.

In view of the proliferation of prophetic ministries, Loren Sandford warns that the Western church is caught up in self-absorption and calls for the cleansing of such ministries through discernment and humility. Sanford discusses his own personal struggles to keep his gifting pure. “The true prophetic word breaks down and builds up. It plucks up the old and plants the new. It gets us ready for the move of God and releases the power to accomplish it.” He is senior pastor of New Song Fellowship in Denver and son of John and Paula Sandford, prominent founders of inner-healing ministry. Alongside his parents he saw multitudes resort to blame instead of hearing the message of repentance and sacrifice. He sees the same tendency today and tackles the “word of faith” and “prosperity” doctrines as distortions and not true Christianity. “Too often they have served the culture of self, rather than the purposes of the kingdom of God.”
Marsha Gallardo

Fiction

HISTORICAL
Storm
By Bill Bright and Jack Cavanaugh, Howard Publishing, 368 pages,
softcover, $12.99.

It’s the late 1800s and the Great Awakening is beginning to wane in America. A young Yale College student comes under attack for his faith. He discovers that a secret society is trying to hinder the revival on campus. This political thriller will remind readers of the power of the Holy Spirit to change both individual lives and an entire nation.

SUSPENSE

Imposter
By Davis Bunn, WestBow Press,
hardcover, 300 pages, $19.99.

The son of a politician, FBI agent Matt Kelly sets out to discover his mother’s murderer. Officer Connie Morales, demoted to police deskwork, decides to help Kelly. The clues lead Kelly to his father’s soldier days in Vietnam, which could threaten the elder Kelly’s quest for Senate. Matt and Connie reveal secrets of their own as they search for truth.

YOUTH

Landon Snow and the Shadows of Malus Quidam
By R.K. Mortenson, Barbour Publishing, hardback,
204 pages, $9.97.

In this sequel to the first Landon Snow book, Landon returns to the fantasy world of Wonderland. A war is going on, and he must fight the wicked Malus Quidam to save his sister from Malus’ evil power. This series uses adventure and fantasy to teach spiritual truths.

MUSIC

I Stand for You
By Tree63, Inpop Records.

All the way from South Africa, Tree63 is back with its latest addition to a rich roster of worship albums, I Stand for You. The album is paced with 13 rock ‘n’ roll worship cuts and edgy vocals that make you want to dance. The recording opens with the sugary, upbeat “No Other,” which is filled with contagious guitar riffs and punchy rockish appeal. A handful of songs, including “Treasure,” “King” and “Amazing Grace” are all live concert recordings. The crowd’s energy and applause will put listeners into concert mode. I Stand for You is packed with energy and an unmistakable sense of optimism and hope. It’s a CD you can listen to a dozen times and not grow tired of it.
Margaret Feinberg

The Mission Bell
By Delirious, Sparrow Records.

Delirious, the band from across the pond, is back with its new rock-infused worship album, The Mission Bell. After making a splash in modern worship for more than a decade, the band’s style continues to evolve into something edgier and more passionate than ever before. The album opens with the hopeful, melodic “Stronger” and closes with the softer ballad, “I’ll See You.” Throughout, the recording rings with a loud and clear call to action. “Our God Reigns” raises issues of social justice while “Now Is the Time” serves as a call to be the city on a hill generation. Artist tobyMac joins the cast on a remake of the hymn “On Christ the Solid Rock,” shortened to “Solid Rock.” Overall, the album delivers alternative rock worship that’s worth listening to over and over again.
Margaret Feinberg

The Faith
By Da’ T.R.U.T.H.,
Cross Movement Records.

When gospel artist Kirk Franklin describes a Christian rap CD as “hip-hop at its finest,” it’s worth taking note. As Christian hip-hop has fought to mature, artists have either offered great music with shallow lyrics, or a strong message backed by outdated beats. Some lacked both musicianship and lyrical skill. But with his sophomore release, The Faith, Philadelphia native Da’ T.R.U.T.H. (aka Emmanuel Lambert Jr.) couples grinding hip-hop beats with lyrics that, like other artists affiliated with Cross Movement Ministries, borders on Christian apologetics. Part evangelist and part teacher, Lambert, who holds degrees from Philadelphia Biblical University and the Institute of Jewish Studies, raps as much about the Christian lifestyle as the reality of God and authority of Scripture. A standout cut is “The Portrait (Da Vinci Code Snapshots),” in which T.R.U.T.H. exposes the deception laced within the popular novel that is soon to become a major film. T.R.U.T.H.’s music will keep heads bobbing (especially fans of mainstream rapper Jay Z), but it will also get listeners thinking about the one who is Lord of all-including hip-hop culture.
Adrienne S. Gaines

An Invitation to Worship
By Byron Cage, Gospo Centric.

Artists such as Byron Cage have helped fuel praise and worship’s popularity in the African-American church. Dubbed The Prince of Praise, Cage has released his sophomore Gospo Centric offering, An Invitation to Worship. Cage, the senior minister of church worship and music administration at Ebenezer AME Church in Fort Washington, Md., recorded the project at his old stomping ground, New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Atlanta. Living up to its name, the CD invites the listener to partake in worship, especially on breathtaking ballads such as the title tune, “Invitation,” and “Broken but I’m Healed,” written by noted songwriter V. Michael McKay. The lead single, “I Will Bless the Lord,” and the J. Moss duet, “We Love You,” are upbeat church songs. Favorites include the worshipful “Majesty,” the Thomas Whitfield-penned gem “In Case You’ve Forgotten” and a soulful rendition of Michael W. Smith’s “Breathe.” Cage delivers a stunning project with An Invitation to Worship.
René Williams

Area churches are partnering with police to combat a recent increase in youth violence
A series of deadly gang shootings that culminated in November with the shooting of a 17-year-old boy on the steps of a church while he was attending the funeral of another slain boy has caused black pastors in Toronto to work with police and civic leaders to find effective solutions.

Increasing handgun violence in poor, predominantly black Toronto neighborhoods motivated Orim Meikle, pastor of Rhema Christian Ministries, to start prayer walk outreaches and home visits to the city’s five most violent ghettos in 2004. Hundreds of the church’s members walk and pray en masse through the gang-infested areas during the summer months.

Initially Meikle said his team knocked on residents’ doors and asked how they could help. “Their unanimous answer was jobs: ‘We need jobs,’” Meikle said. “So we got some government grants-for skills training and small-business startups-started training youth on computers, and showed them how to dress, walk and behave during a job interview. If you dress like a gangster, you’ll be treated that way. But if you dress for success, that’s what you’ll get.”

Rhema also opened a transitional home for young men at risk for criminal activity, and the church plans to buy more houses.

Meikle believes dysfunctional families, coupled with the glorification of violence, gratuitous sex and drugs in gangsta rap music, has wrongly influenced some young black males to become gangsters themselves. His 2,000-member church includes four families who have had a child gunned down or stabbed. Many other families live in violent areas where fear of gang threats and shootings are a constant companion.

Omar Hortley, the 21-year-old only child of a single mother, was a member of Rhema until he was killed in a drive-by shooting in 2004. Meikle counseled and comforted Hortley’s mother until she pulled through the shock.

“What do I say that will comfort the mother? It’s very difficult,” Meikle said. “In that tragedy, God brought some good out because she committed her life to Christ.”

Meikle, a 38-year-old father of two who immigrated to Canada from Jamaica in 1975, has swiftly risen to a place of prominence with both police and politicians for his outspoken attitude on black empowerment. “Sometimes we have this attitude that people should just accept us as we are, but we also have a responsibility to lift ourselves up,” he told Charisma. “So we’re not going to take the handout approach, but we’ll come to the table to collaborate with other community members.”

He believes churches must once again become an integral part of the city’s fabric in order for them to work effectively with schools, government agencies, grass-roots organizations and the police. “Functional churches should lead the charge,” he said. “The spiritual component sets the tone for the whole city infrastructure.”

Don Meredith, chairman of the Greater Toronto Area Faith Alliance and pastor of Grace Christian Life Centre, echoes that sentiment. Meredith, a 41-year-old father of two teenagers, detected the gang problem back in 2002 and, along with 24 other pastors, followed up by visiting the city’s police chief for answers.

That effort resulted in the formation of the Faith Alliance, an interfaith coalition representing 40 churches. Today Meredith spends much of his time networking with politicians, police and social agencies to find holistic solutions to curb violent crime in poor neighborhoods.

The group has put forth several solutions that have proved effective, such as the mingling of police officers and youth to play after-school basketball in the church gymnasiums of high-crime neighborhoods. Rhema is a participating church.

Meredith’s conviction that there often is a lack of parental involvement in Toronto’s urban communities compelled him last year to visit Rev. Eugene Rivers, a Boston minister who created the National TenPoint Leadership Foundation-named for the 10 tenets the document says are necessary for neighborhood transformation.

“Meredith and I met, and we said there are lessons to be learned here, and it’s got a spiritual dimension. The root component of the problem is fatherlessness,” said Rivers, who grew up in poor, violent neighborhoods in Boston, Philadelphia, and Chicago and eventually attended Harvard.

In 1988, Rivers established the Azusa Christian Community in one of Boston’s most dangerous neighborhoods. The house where he lived with his wife and children was shot at twice and burglarized six times. The purpose, he said, was to live on the same level as the street youth so they’d feel safe enough to trust his group’s motives.

“The way you raise a child is by going to where he lives,” Rivers told Charisma. “The black churches need to put men on the street to live with the troubled youth.”
Although Azusa Christian Community was launched in 1988, Rivers said area churches wouldn’t pay any attention to their efforts until 1992 when a young man was shot during a funeral just as the 17-year-old was in Toronto.

“The first churches to pay attention and come on board were the high-steepled ones-the Episcopalians and the Presbyterians,” Rivers said. “Now our coalition has 47 churches of almost every denomination who work in close conjunction with the police, social and community services.”

Rivers’ efforts helped reduce Boston’s homicide count by more than 80 percent between 1990 and 2000. His plan has since been implemented in cities worldwide.
Josie Newman in Toronto

The much-anticipated Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe raked in a whopping $65 million domestically at the box office, securing its place in best-opening-weekend history at No. 23. But more important than Walden Media and Disney’s collective payoff is how the film’s underlying message ranked in the hearts of moviegoers.

Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd in Torrance, Calif., rented out two showings opening weekend. Members were encouraged to bring along unsaved friends. A fellowship night commenced directly after the movie, where both kids and adults created ice cream sundaes and played Narnia-themed trivia games with prize giveaways.

“We sent out 10,000 postcard invitations, gave away Narnia-themed booklets and sold over 400 tickets,” said pastor Bob Rognlien, who preached a Narnia-themed series that began Christmas Eve. “We wanted to make a connection with people so that they’d come back for the series.”

Pastor Bruce Cadle transformed his New Hope Church in Melbourne, Fla. , into the fantasy world of Narnia, complete with wardrobe and falling snow. “The response was just incredible,” Cadle told Charisma. “We saw a 50-person increase in one week. Almost all of them said they’d be back and would bring visitors.”

Many pastors got their creative inspiration and materials from Narnia Sneak Peak Events organized by the Mission America Coalition. The group’s goal was to encourage church leaders “to consider the fantastic ministry opportunity” provided by the film. In cooperation with Outreach magazine, Mission America held events in 150 cities nationwide.

“We were so blessed by their personal support,” said René Bogue, service coordinator at New Life Foursquare Church in Canby, Ore. “This was a good wake-up call. Many people did not know the story was a Christian allegory.”

Mission America’s outreach ideas included organizing book giveaways, forming Narnia-themed reading groups, buying out entire theaters and having children act out scenes from the story. Pastor Dave Johnson of Kalamazoo Community Church in Michigan said his church sold out almost 400 tickets in less than an hour. “We were pretty impressed by the reaction,” he said.

The positive response prompted them to purchase 400 more tickets, which also sold out. Members and guests received gift bags filled with Turkish Delight and a copy of Knowing Aslan, which explores the parallels between Aslan’s character and the character of Jesus.

Just weeks after the film released, Mission America was getting feedback from churches that hosted Narnia outreach events. Deacon Godsey of Trinity Church in Omaha, Neb., said 40 people accepted Christ after a showing. “And 20 others rededicated their lives,” he said. “I’m convinced we might encourage members to send thank-you letters to Disney for making the movie.”
Danielle LoCicero

Jesus and Narnia

I’m thankful that something as high quality and intellectually stimulating as The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe has caught my grandsons’ attention (“The Gospel According to Narnia” by Steve Rabey, December). I’m glad I can take them to a movie that causes them to think about salvation and gives them a chance to follow up with a discussion.
via e-mail
Entebbe, Uganda

It is awesome that something good such as The Chronicles of Narnia has come out of Disney. This film is a great tool to reach younger kids. It helps us explain what Jesus did for us.
via e-mail
Riverside, New Jersey

God may be using Hollywood. But I saw a report on CNN about how The Chronicles of Narnia is being marketed to churches. A Disney representative was asked if he thought C.S. Lewis wrote the Narnia book as a religious story. He said no, and he said Disney did not create this to be a religious film. Disney is only concerned about making money.
name withheld

Let’s Keep Celebrating

Stephen Strang’s “The War on Christmas” (December) was right on! I understand why many Christians feel Christmas celebrations have become materialistic. However, things such as Christmas trees and celebrating certain days are neither good nor evil in themselves; what matters is the way they are used. Let’s use Christmas celebrations to honor God.
Glen Beyeler
Sun City, Arizona

A Virtuous Lady

Thanks for your article on Nicole C. Mullen (“She’s Just Everyday People” by Chad Bonham, November). Talk about a woman who is really beautiful on the inside! Your article could not have been more timely, when the world and even the church are busy talking about total body makeover. She is a role model for young Christian women today.
Chijindu Nworgu
Baltimore, Maryland

Nicole C. Mullen is one of my favorite Christian artists. I listen to her music several times a week. I thought her voice was beautiful, but when I read the article, I was able to see that she is beautiful inside and out. We need more people like her in the world.
Jasmina Cotton
Raleigh, North Carolina

Pushing Beyond the Past

The article “Press Toward the Mark” by Judy Jacobs (December) really spoke truth into my life. I am planning to get married next month and I am still struggling with past sins. I obviously do not want to take any of these sins into my marriage. The Holy Spirit spoke to me and told me that I must “press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus” (Phil 3:13). The Lord also told me Judy was correct in everything she said. God wants me to clean up my life, forget about my past and look to Him.
name withheld
Winona Lake, Indiana

More on Farrakhan

I salute Kimberly Daniels for her bold article “Don’t be Fooled by Farrakhan” (November). Islam is encroaching relentlessly on Christianity largely because Christians have with open arms and mostly ignorance welcomed the enemies of Jesus instead of introducing them to Christ as Savior.
Katie Thomas
Kanab, Utah

Though many of the things [Farrakhan] says are true, we must not be blinded to his true colors. The “appearance” of godliness is only a disguise. The agenda has, and always will be, to establish Islam as the religion of the black man and to worship only Allah as god.
Michael Henderson
Los Angeles, California

I was a little saddened by Kimberly Daniels’ article. Though African-Americans do face injustices in America today, rather than focusing on how unfair things are-for example, that white people get away with crime and black people are punished-we should focus on the fact that no one should be committing crime at all.

It grieves me that black men are profiled and regarded with suspicion based only on the color of their skin. But the claim that “prisons have replaced plantations in America as a place of bondage for the black man” grieved me as well.
Glenda Grant
Thomaston, Georgia

As a born-again black male who is in prison, I believe that as a people we have in fact lost our way. Our focus has been distorted, and our views have caused many of us to shift blame for a lot of situations from ourselves to others. In other words, “God has been taken out of the equation.”

I believe Mrs. Daniels was right in stating that we must set our faces in prayer against Farrakhan’s idolatry because we are in a spiritual war. And yes, he is a devil! However, that devil is not a white American.
Anthony D. Clark Sr.
West Liberty, Kentucky

Fire in My Bones

You go, J. Lee Grady! Keep up the good work telling the church like it is (“We Need Tough Love,” December). Somebody has to keep the church on the straight and narrow. Thank you for being that someone.
Clyde Clymer
Amsterdam, New York

The column “We Need Tough Love” is right on. It referred mostly to Carlton Pearson’s slide into heresy, but doctrinal error is becoming so common among well-known preachers, teachers, evangelists and so on, that it’s truly a sign of the last days.
M. Galbreath
Star City, Indiana

I always enjoy reading J. Lee Grady’s column. It doesn’t cater to church politics. I am weary of church leaders compromising biblical truth for the sake of unity.
name withheld

J. Lee Grady feels the need to label Bishop Carlton Pearson a heretic. Jesus was labeled a blasphemer because He included sinners, and now Mr. Grady labels Pearson a heretic because he proclaims that God includes all sinners in salvation. Then Grady wonders why others have not jumped on his bandwagon of condemnation.
Kevin Cawley
Jackson, Missouri

My husband and I have been called to separate from a lot of ministries because we saw the wives having plastic surgery, experienced gossip among leaders and observed extravagant lifestyles. We’ve challenged our church to bring back a spirit of holiness in our personal walks with God.
Rev. Eric and Michelle Hensley
Orange, California

The message “We Need Tough Love” by J. Lee Grady should be preached from every pulpit. “’Love your brother’ does not mean ‘Always be nice.’” I wholeheartedly agree that we must confront. Too often I have seen those in authority shy away from confrontation, and their negligence leads only to greater shame, sorrow and pain.
L. Mabry
Maple Grove, Minnesota

I agree with Lee Grady when he says we need to “defend the faith from those who pervert it” and suspect that Bishop Carlton Pearson is promoting a false gospel. However, a Web banner that says “God is not a Christian” is not enough evidence to indict a person. There is a legitimate challenge to the exclusivist, conservative Christian culture that needs to be considered.
Scott Schmitt
Winter Park, Florida

I agree with most of what editor J. Lee Grady said in his column “The Devil Is Religious” (October). However, his suggestion that Pokémon and Harry Potter were not part of the devil’s ploy surprised me. I can’t help but refer to Scriptures that clearly call witchcraft sin.
LaVonya Goodwin
Omaha, Nebraska

My Turn

Charisma’s article on The Chronicles of Narnia nearly sold me on the idea that the movie was good fare for my grandchildren. I agree with the perception that there is a captivating message in the movie. But to promote this “mythical tale” as Christian seems unsound when major elements of the story do not line up with basic Christian tenets.

I do not agree that it is the same gospel found in the holy Scriptures. If nothing else is realized from a comparison of Narnia’s gospel and the biblical gospel, we should have discernment about the breath of God, the Holy Spirit. Christian teaching does not associate the “breath of God” with a lion.

Narnia supports the idea that the glory of an incorruptible God can be changed into an image of a four-footed beast. That an animal can bring life with its breath, even in a fabricated tale, has creepy notions. To imply that this is Christian spirituality gives me a chill.
Diane Valentine
Bloomington, Illinois

BOOKS

The Glory of Living
By Myles Munroe, Destiny Image,
Softcover, 176 pages, $13.99.

Once again Myles Munroe delivers a powerful message on how to discover and achieve your purpose. In his latest book, The Glory of Living: Keys to Releasing Your Personal Glory, Munroe addresses ways to find your purpose in life and discover your personal “glory.” He says that every living thing possesses its own glory and exists to manifest that glory-meaning that we release our full potential by the work we do and by our personal holiness. Munroe’s book is a page-turner, and he exemplifies a wealth of knowledge about his subject. This is a must-read for anyone who is searching for the inspiration to accomplish his personal, God-given dreams.
Tracee N. Mason

In His Image
By Kenneth Ulmer, Whitaker House,
hardcover, 224 pages, $19.99.

In this excellent study, we discover that “as God becomes more visible to us He also becomes more visible in us.” To help us experience this truth, Kenneth Ulmer discusses the various names and attributes of God while examining some of His key “physical” attributes. Examining such distinct features as the hand of God, the heart of God and the face of God, Ulmer brings readers closer to understanding that God resides in our hearts as a caring Father. Ulmer explains that “God wants to be within our grasp” and will use what’s familiar to us to help us better understand His ways. Ulmer notes that revelation, recognition, relationship and reflection help accomplish this process.
J. James Estrada

Revolution
By George Barna, Tyndale House,
Hardcover, 160 pages, $17.99.

According to demographer George Barna, there are more than 20 million souls spread across America, whom he calls “Revolutionaries,” demanding an authentic relationship with Jesus regardless of where it may be found. Labeling himself one of these counterculturalists, Barna lays out a strong case for his view that the traditional church is anemic. Whether he is measured by giving, servanthood, spiritual accountability or practicing faith in daily life, the “average” church member, Barna says, bears little evidence of Christ-likeness. In defense of traditional congregations, Barna says they cannot be roundly condemned for members’ failure to embrace scriptural commands and live for Christ. Still, this book is likely to stir a national dialogue and force millions to re-examine their Christian walk.
KEN WALKER

A Field Guide for Evangelical Christians
By Jews for Jesus,
Purple Pomegranate Productions,
softcover, 198 pages, $10.

Jews for Jesus has created a field guide for evangelicals to navigate the Messianic movement. To clear up confusion and correct false assumptions about the nature of the organizations within the movement, the book makes a distinction between Messianic congregations, missionary outreach organizations, educational institutions and friends-of-Israel groups. Readers will be enlightened about some of the history, as well as the purpose and function of these groups, and also encouraged to use discernment to figure out which ones are biblical and open to Jewish evangelism and which ones are not. Many evangelical Christians, in their zeal to show love and support to Jews or the nation of Israel, have actually supported groups that restrict evangelism or have unscriptural doctrines and practices. This guide is a valuable tool for Jewish Christians and those who want to understand the Jewish roots of Christianity.
DEBORAH L. DELK

MUSIC

Wherever You Are
By Third Day, Essential Records.

Third Day’s Wherever You Are carries a theme of hope on each song-a move that makes the album feel complete rather than predictable. Lead singer Mac Powell says, “Wherever you are … whatever you’re going through, God is ready to meet you right there.” This message helps listeners relate to the singable, all-out rock tracks “I Can Feel It” and “Tunnel”; strong ballads such as “Communion” and “Cry Out to Jesus”; and fun, up-beat tracks such as “Keep On Shinin’.” Some artists trade their music’s original edge for polished studio production after a few successful albums, but the music on Wherever You Are sounds both professional and honest to the band’s trademark guitar-driven sound. Creating an album with good music and a positive, Christ-centered message from start to finish, Third Day has succeeded once again.
MATT FEHRMANN

Ana Laura
By Ana Laura, Reunion Records.

Nineteen-year-old Ana Laura’s self-titled debut is a collection of vocals-based, adult-contemporary and pop songs. Her voice is rich and compelling, certain to draw comparisons to counterparts Jaci Velasquez and Rachael Lampa. She excels in the mellow musical territory, with songs such as “If You Ever Fall,” the ballad “Completely,” the worshipful “Abide in Me” and the cover of Celine Dion’s “Because You Loved Me.” The soft rock of “Don’t Run Away” and the grand pop of “Sometimes I Fall” also show she can easily deliver the more contemporary song. Ana Laura’s skilled vocal ability mixed with a good collection of songs make this debut a noteworthy release. Hers is a voice to listen for in years to come.
DEWAYNE HAMBY

All the Earth
By Parachute Band,
Integrity Music.

New Zealand’s Parachute Band recorded its first live project before a crowd of nearly 25,000 at the annual Parachute Festival. The subsequent album, All the Earth, captures the event’s worshipful atmosphere along with the band’s signature sound. The CD incorporates ballads such as “Complete” and adult-contemporary sounds such as “Shout” and “To Live Is Christ.” Other highlights include the pop-rock “Amazing,” the solemn “High Above,” the captivating reverent “Lord of the Heavens” and the traditional-worship title track. Because of an invasion of rock in the worship genre, the band’s sound falls squarely into the mid-tempo territory of current CD releases but manages to make its mark with memorable songs and varying lead vocalists.
DEWAYNE HAMBY

MOVIES

End of the Spear
Every Tribe Entertainment,
PG-13, opens Jan. 20.

A project seven years in the making, End of the Spear commemorates the 50th anniversary of the martyrdom of five U.S. missionaries. Nate Saint, Jim Elliott, Ed McCully, Pete Fleming and Roger Youderian were killed in the eastern rainforests of Ecuador in 1956 by the Waodani tribe, who before their exposure to the gospel were the most violent society ever documented by anthropologists.

The film tells the story with a focus on Steve Saint, one of the slain missionary’s sons, and his father’s killer. It shows the events that lead to Saint’s reconciling with the killer in 1994 and subsequently moving with his family to live and minister among the Waodani for 16 months.

End of the Spear is not overtly evangelistic. Rather, it is a story of courage, redemption, reconciliation and forgiveness.

Although the story is raw at some points because of the once-violent nature of the tribe (spearings and machete slayings), humor is also woven throughout. Whether it is through scenes of the missionaries joking with one another or witty one-liners, the movie evokes the humanness of these slain heroes and the Waodani tribespeople.

Chad Allen (as Nate Saint and Steve Saint); Chase Ellison (Steve Saint as a child); Louie Leonardo (Mincayani); Jack Guzman (Kimo); and Christina Souza (Dayumae) bring forth a provoking performance that will move audiences to tears. The intense sequences of violence and some nudity earned the film a PG-13 rating, but there is no profanity or explicitness.

Moviegoers might feel fatigued keeping up with the rapidly paced subtitles that translate the Emberra dialect (the language of the Panamanian tribe who portrayed the Waodani). In addition, trying to remember the names of the Waodani, how each was related and what vendettas they held against one another could easily confuse some viewers.

Overall, these details do not detract from the plot and message of the film. End of the Spear will challenge moviegoers to live out their faith with boldness, courage, and conviction and with eternity in view.

Also releasing is Steve Saint’s chronicle of his return to the jungles of Ecuador. His book End of the Spear (Tyndale House) is an update to Elisabeth Elliot’s Through Gates of Splendor.
LORIE G. MUNIZZI

Fiction – THRILLER

Showdown
By Ted Dekker, WestBow Press,
hardcover, 375 pages, $22.99.

Preacher Marsuvees Black comes to Paradise, Colo., offering hope and grace-but at a high price. Will anyone stand up to his charisma and charm? Meanwhile, 37 orphan children who have been raised apart from a sinful world and taught the benefits of selfless living face evil’s lure. Can their faith save Paradise?

ROMANCE

Pink
By Marilynn Griffith, Revell,
softcover, 320 pages, $12.99.

Raya Joseph and her fashion-business partners collaborate on a million-dollar wedding dress-for the woman who stole Raya’s fiance. Will the project save their fledgling company? The first volume in the Shades of Style series combines multicultural characters with heartache, drama, humor and romance.

SUSPENSE

The Witness
By Dee Henderson,
Tyndale House,
Softcover, 378 pages, $13.99.

For eight years Amy Griffin’s two sisters believed she had been murdered. A witness to a killing, Amy had chosen to live in hiding to protect her family. Now she must come back, an act that puts all the sisters in danger. Is their faith strong enough to carry them through the dangers ahead?

Christian publishers, broadcasters and civil liberties groups have come out in support of Harvest House Publishers in its fight to have a multimillion-dollar libel action thrown out of court.

More than 20 companies and organizations were involved in filing or supporting “friend of the court” briefs backing Harvest House against the Local Church movement and its publishing arm, Living Stream Ministry (LSM). The briefs-submitted in October to the Court of Appeals for the First District of Texas in Houston by The Rutherford Institute, The Inspirational Network, the Pacific Justice Institute and the National Religious Broadcasters-argued that a ruling against Harvest House would threaten press freedoms under the First Amendment.

Among those named as interested parties in the actions were Moody Publishers, Kregel Publishers, Gospel Light/Regal Books, Rose Publishing and the USA Radio Network. The appeals court also heard oral arguments over Harvest House’s appeal of an earlier rejection of an application for summary dismissal of the lawsuit. A decision is expected soon.

Local Church congregations and LSM took Harvest House to court in 2001, seeking more than $100 million on the grounds they were libeled by their inclusion in the 1999 John Ankerberg and John Weldon book Encyclopedia of Cults and New Religions, which Harvest House published. Founded in China in the 1920s by Watchman Nee and later brought to the U.S. by Nee’s disciple, Witness Lee, the Local Church claims 25,000 members in 300 churches nationwide and more than 250,000 members in 3,000 churches internationally.

Though cult-watchers have long said LSM has never sufficiently distanced itself from questionable teachings on topics such as the Trinity or the nature of the church, it was accepted into the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association in 2002.

In its submission, The Rutherford Institute argued that “nothing in the book singled out the Local Church as promoting or engaging in behavior that the book attributed to some sects or cults or individuals.” The appeals court’s decision that the action should go to trial threatened the “vigor” of public discussion on religion “and raised a danger that the press will censor itself because [of] … uncertainty” over First Amendment protections, the brief added.

LSM and the Local Church said in a statement that the Rutherford brief “mischaracterizes the nature of the conflict.” The case “is not just about the freedom of speech or the right to publish,” it said. The case was “about abuse” of First Amendment rights, “not about freedom.”

LSM spokesman Chris Wilde added that freedom to publish under the First Amendment was abused “when someone can make false charges of criminal and abhorrent behavior without bearing any responsibility to substantiate them. The brief seems to argue for unrestricted freedom, without responsibility. That’s an unusual position for Christians to take these days.”
Andy Butcher

The founder of Atlanta’s Cathedral of the Holy Spirit has stepped down from leading international network
Bishop Earl Paulk Jr. resigned from his position as archbishop of the International Communion of Charismatic Churches (ICCC) after leaders of the Georgia-based organization asked him to step down in October. When ICCC leaders met again a month later they elected a new leader and voted to cut all ties with Paulk.

The abrupt move came on the heels of a lawsuit filed against Paulk in August. In the suit, former parishioner Mona Brewer alleged that Paulk, pastor of Cathedral of the Holy Spirit in Atlanta, coerced her to have sex with him and others-including visiting charismatic preachers.

Brewer and her husband, Bobby, with whom she filed the suit, served on the staff of the cathedral. She claims that around 1989 Paulk began requiring her to have sex with him, “other members of the church community [and] leaders of other churches as well as his family members, sometimes with other individuals observing the sexual acts,” the lawsuit said.

Brewer admits that she should not have consented to the alleged demands, but she said Paulk manipulated her into thinking her salvation depended on her engaging in the sex acts. Paulk has denied the accusations repeatedly, and he countersued the Brewers shortly after the lawsuit was filed. He later retracted the litigation.

Accusations of sexual misconduct have hounded Paulk since he was accused of committing adultery in 1960. In 1992 a church member went public with claims that she was pressured into having a sexual relationship with Paulk’s brother, Don Paulk, who served as senior pastor. He admitted to an affair and resigned but was reinstated three weeks later.

The same year several women alleged that a church staff member sexually harassed them during counseling sessions. Another female staff member claimed in 1993 that she had a sexual relationship with Earl Paulk Jr.

In 2001, a female church member filed a lawsuit claiming the bishop sexually molested her when she was a child and later when she was a teenager. That suit was settled out of court in 2003.

The cathedral-known for its racial diversity, creative arts programs and massive, neo-Gothic sanctuary-continued its ministry, although in 1992 membership dropped by half, from 12,000 to 6,000. Paulk denied wrongdoing and refused to grant media interviews, but he continued to oversee the ICCC, which he had led since 1982.

Previously, most area pastors kept quiet about the scandal, and national Christian leaders didn’t get involved in what they viewed as a local problem. No church court investigated the charges, largely because Paulk’s ministry has been independent of denominational accountability since he left the Church of God (Cleveland, Tenn.) more than 40 years ago.

But new ICCC presiding bishop David Huskins, 39, says the days of loose accountability in his organization are over. “What the charismatic world needs today is someone to take responsibility,” Huskins told Charisma.

Huskins could not comment on specific allegations of sexual misconduct by Paulk or other cathedral staff members. But he said the ICCC has tightened its bylaws and released a strongly worded statement that holds its members to high standards of morality and theological integrity.

“We do not condone beliefs that allow for immorality or sexual impurity,” Huskins said. ICCC leaders also made it clear in their Nov. 17 meeting that Carlton Pearson, the prominent Pentecostal bishop who recently became an avowed Universalist, is no longer affiliated with the ICCC.

The ICCC elected Margaret Idahosa, widow of Nigerian church leader Benson Idahosa, as vice president. She was so adamant about breaking ties with Paulk, Huskins said, that she threatened to pull all her African churches out of Paulk’s network if the group did not take a strong stand against him.

The ICCC works in 29 countries and represents hundreds of congregations. Paulk served as archbishop of the group, but ICCC leaders voted in November to discontinue the use of that title.

“We do not find that term to be scriptural,” said Huskins, who will use the less authoritarian title of presiding bishop.

In early November, a group of Atlanta-area pastors issued a statement of apology for alleged abuses of power at Paulk’s church. Bradley White, 49, pastor of City Harvest Worship Center, and Johnny Enlow, 46, pastor of Daystar International Christian Fellowship, are two of the ministers rallying Atlanta pastors around the statement. Posted on the Internet at www.christianswhocare.net, it apologizes to women who were “betrayed, victimized, abused and wounded by sexually inappropriate actions.”

Enlow said he speaks for a growing number of pastors who are signing the statement. “Christian leaders who see unrighteousness done in the name of Christ simply cannot sit back and say nothing,” he said.

Huskins admits that the ICCC or some other church body should have looked into the charges against Paulk and the cathedral years ago when accusations first surfaced. Now, he says, “it certainly will be played out in the legal system.”

The Brewers’ lawsuit is currently moving forward in Dekalb County Superior Court, and dozens of witnesses are going through a deposition process. Bobby Brewer told Charisma in October that he and his wife filed the suit “to give victims a voice.”
Among the dozens of people required to appear in court for depositions in the case are two of Paulk’s daughters, Beth Bonner and Joy Owens, and numerous other Paulk family members.

At the same time relatives were being deposed for the trial, Paulk, 78, was battling cancer. He was admitted to an Atlanta-area hospital for surgery to remove his bladder and prostate along with part of his colon.

Huskins said he viewed Paulk as a spiritual father for many years and now must face a wide range of emotions. “I’m angry. I’m grieving. I’m challenged by my own lack of discernment,” he said. “But it is time for new leadership.”

Acknowledging a “dangerous trend of independence in the charismatic movement,” the new ICCC leader believes Spirit-filled churches must be more intentional about confronting unbiblical behavior in its leaders. Huskins added: “We have no choice but to deal with sin in our midst.”
J. Lee Grady