Franklin Graham’s Noi Festival Roma Draws 20,000 Seekers to Christ

Recently, Rome witnessed an extraordinary gathering of faith, as nearly 20,000 people flocked to the historic Palazzo dello Sport for the Noi Festival Roma, Italy’s largest evangelical Christian outreach event ever. This two-day festival, held November 4 and 5, marked a momentous occasion in the heart of Italy’s capital, spreading a message of hope and salvation.

The word “Noi” itself translates to “We” or “Us” in Italian, signifying unity and togetherness. This was the second installment of the Noi Festival, with last year’s event taking place in Milan, where 13,000 attended. The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, the driving force behind these gatherings, proudly announced that the crowd in Rome occupied 18,000 seats within the arena, requiring an outdoor screening for the overflow of eager attendees.

What makes this event truly exceptional is that it united over 800 evangelical churches across Italy for a singular purpose. It’s a testament to the urgency of the times we live in, where spiritual darkness encroaches on every corner. The world is desperate for salvation, and this event responded to the call of the Great Commission in the Bible, which urges believers to spread the message of hope and eternal life.

The Noi Festival Roma featured a powerful message from Franklin Graham, President and CEO of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, and worship that stirred hearts, performed by renowned artists like Michael W. Smith and Kari Jobe. Graham’s message went beyond the rich history, culture and religion that define Rome; he came to share a profound truth—the path to a personal relationship with God is through His Son, Jesus Christ.

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In a world where many may feel insignificant, Graham reminded the thousands assembled that they are cherished in the eyes of God. He declared, “Your life is important to God! He made you, He created you and He loves you. How do we know this? Because the Bible—the Word of God—tells us that God loves us. The Bible says God so loved the world He gave His only Son, and whoever believes in Him will not perish but have everlasting life.”

Just before the Noi Festival, the Italian Senate honored Franklin Graham for his remarkable work with Samaritan’s Purse, the charitable organization he leads. Samaritan’s Purse exemplifies the Christian mission of extending a helping hand in times of crisis and disaster, both physically and spiritually. Since its inception in 1970, this organization has tirelessly served those affected by war, poverty, natural disasters, disease and famine, all while sharing the love of God through Jesus Christ.

In March 2020, Samaritan’s Purse opened a field hospital in the Italian city of Cremona, providing critical medical assistance during a time of great need. Their dedication saved countless lives and was a testament to the love of God in action. This compassionate response from Samaritan’s Purse led the churches in Italy to extend an invitation to Franklin Graham to return and preach. Samaritan’s Purse recently opened a new airlift response center, equipped to serve the world’s most urgent needs.

In times when the world is plunged into spiritual darkness, events like the Noi Festival Roma and organizations like Samaritan’s Purse stand as beacons of hope, following the divine calling of the Great Commission to bring light to a world in desperate need of salvation.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.



Navigating the Spiritual Minefield: Astral Projection and Biblical Caution

Satan is working overtime to permeate society with the deception that the occult, New Age and witchcraft will answer timeless questions about humanity’s spiritual nature.

But Satan is a corrupter, a mimic of what God created. This is especially true when it comes to ways to commune and worship that which is spiritual.

Christians are commanded to worship the Lord and meditate on His Word (Josh. 1:8; Ps. 119:15), but the devil has taken meditation and twisted it into something evil that is forbidden by the Lord.

Author, lecturer and Nephilim specialist L.A. Marzulli discussed with Charisma News in a recent interview the dangers behind the practice of astral projection, and how very real they are.

“Shamans and witch doctors and medicine men, they all go to the same place. They get their power from the second heaven; they get their power from the dragon. It’s an occult technique, and they learn how to use it…we [Christians] are forbidden to do that,” Marzulli explains.

Astral projection is defined as, “an intentional out-of-body experience that assumes the existence of a subtle body, known as the astral body or body of light, through which consciousness can function separately from the physical body and travel throughout the astral plane.”

Marzulli, along with former satanists, witches and occult users such as now-evangelist John Ramirez, have all shared that astral projection is very real and they were able to accomplish this practice while they were under satanic influence.

“People with familiar spirits sometimes will astral project and my previous incarnation in the new age, I did astral project. Some people also call it lucid dreaming,” shares Marzulli.

“It’s very pleasurable, because you’re flying. And you’re flying through rooms and walls, and everything else, because we’re spirit, soul and body. And what leaves is your spirit. But that’s not supposed to happen,” he continues.

Being taken by the Lord, however, explains Marzulli, is a distinctly different and holy event.

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“Now if God takes us out and shows us something, that’s a whole different deal. I’ve been taken twice. But I was fully awake. I wasn’t asleep and I wasn’t trying to do anything,” says Marzulli.

Marzulli shares that when he was still a baby Christian, the Lord took him and gave him a vision reminiscent to Revelation 19, with Jesus depicted as the rider on a white horse, flanked by the armies of heaven. After the vision, Marzulli was back and astonished at what had just happened.

“And then I’m back. And I’m going like, what was that? That’s when the Lord takes us and does something. I’m not initiating. I’m looking for it. It’s a gift,” Marzulli shares.

The warped versions of God’s granting visions and dreams have deceived many and allowed demonic oppression to enter their lives.

Warnings throughout the Bible were given to steer God’s people away from these practices because the Lord finds them abominable (Lev. 19:31; Deut. 18; 2 Kings 21:6; and many others).

With biblical discernment and wisdom however, believers will be able to avoid these counterfeit practices that seek to twist the gifts of God and lead His people into spiritual bondage.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.



Navigating Religious Crossroads: A Pastor’s Journey from Catholicism to Christ

In a world filled with many religious beliefs and practices, the journey of faith can take various routes.

One such journey is that of Pastor Mike Shreve, who transitioned from being a devout Catholic to a dedicated Christian. In sharing his story, Pastor Shreve offers not a condemnation of the Catholic faith, but a loving and compassionate message for Catholics to find a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. His story is a testament to the importance of personal encounters with the Lord and a desire to follow Scriptural teachings.

Warm Memories of Catholic Upbringing

Pastor Shreve’s background is deeply rooted in the Catholic faith, with warm memories of growing up in a Catholic family. He recalls his grandmother’s unwavering devotion to her faith, praying the Rosary daily and expressing her hope of rising with Jesus. Shreve’s own early experiences included serving as an altar boy and being influenced by priests who exuded Christ-like character. These early encounters with Catholicism had a positive impact on his life, as they kept him sheltered from many of the challenges present in the public school system.

The Quest for Biblical Authenticity

Despite these fond memories, Pastor Shreve’s journey led him to explore the Bible for himself, a practice he believes many Catholics overlook. As he delved into Scripture, he began to notice disparities between the Catholic teachings he’d received and what the Bible conveyed about authentic Christianity. His pursuit of the truth led him to a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ.

Understanding the True Nature of the Church

One significant point of distinction that Pastor Shreve raises is the definition of the church. In Catholic doctrine, the church is viewed as the sole repository of truth, excluding all other denominations from being part of the “true church.” With over 1.36 billion members, Catholicism is the largest segment of Christianity worldwide. However, Pastor Shreve emphasizes that there are two aspects to the concept of the church: the professing church and the possessing church. The professing church includes all who acknowledge the historical existence of Jesus, His death and Resurrection, while the possessing church consists of those who have a personal, authentic relationship with God. Pastor Shreve’s testimony places importance on the latter, emphasizing the need for a personal relationship with Christ.

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Challenging the Doctrine of Infant Baptism

A significant point of divergence between Catholicism and Pastor Shreve’s perspective is the practice of infant baptism. Catholic doctrine teaches that infant baptism results in regeneration, receiving the Holy Spirit, eternal life, membership in the church and the removal of original sin. However, Pastor Shreve contends that true biblical baptism requires repentance and a conscious choice to follow Jesus, making infant baptism biblically unfounded.

The Exclusive Priesthood and Mediatorial Role

Pastor Shreve also questions the concept of an exclusive priesthood in Catholicism. In the Catholic faith, only priests can administer sacraments and perform religious rituals. This emphasis on a mediatorial priesthood from birth to death fosters a sense of dependency on the church for salvation and forgiveness. Contrary to this, the Bible teaches that all believers are priests, able to approach God directly for forgiveness and reconciliation through Jesus Christ.

Rethinking the Notion of Saints

Another topic of discussion is the veneration of saints within Catholicism. While Catholic doctrine canonizes specific saints who are believed to have miraculous powers, Pastor Shreve argues that all believers are saints, having been sanctified, made holy and set apart by God through salvation. Therefore, he questions the need to intercede with saints and emphasizes that true believers have Jesus and the Holy Spirit as intercessors.

Contemplating the Doctrine of Purgatory

The Catholic doctrine of purgatory, a temporary realm of suffering where individuals are purged of their sins, is another subject of scrutiny. Pastor Shreve asserts that belief in purgatory undermines the sufficiency of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, as it implies that individuals must atone for their sins through suffering.

Reaffirming the Foundation of Faith

In sharing his journey from Catholicism to Christianity, Pastor Mike Shreve extends a hand of understanding and love to those in the Catholic faith. His aim is not to criticize but to encourage Catholics to explore a deeper, personal relationship with Jesus Christ by seeking biblical authenticity and a clearer understanding of Christian doctrine. His message is an invitation to embark on a faith journey that prioritizes faith in Christ over religious tradition.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.



When the Holy Spirit Fell on New York City

Not today, Satan.

Many major cities in America have seen substantial decline in recent years, New York City being one of them.

Yet the same way the Lord allows His children to go through seasons of trial, He then lifts them up in renewal at the end of that season.

New York City may be seeing the end to its most recent season of trial.

As fentanyl addiction, crime and skyrocketing cost of living plague the Big Apple, none of those things were able to stop the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Monday, Nov. 6.

Hosted by Pastor Mike Signorelli of V1 Church, located in NYC, the event listed as a night of worship in the continuing saga of “The Domino Revival” saw thousands take part in communal worship, evangelism and prayer.

The encore presentation of “The Domino Revival” will be in theatres on Monday, Nov. 13 according to Fathom Events.

Joining Signorelli at the event were fellow revivalists and deliverance ministers Pastor Greg Locke, Apostle Alexander Pagani, Jenny Weaver and many others who were in attendance.

An event and outpouring like this is exactly what the Great Physician ordered for a hurting city and struggling populace.

The worship ranged from rock-centric hits to praise-sounding classics, all of which had the massive crowd in attendance raising their hands to glorify God.

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“Tonight, we lead them all into the baptism of the Holy Spirit. The streets of NYC were filled with the sound of believers speaking in tongues. Then we commissioned them to disperse and evangelize. Thousands of people are terrorizing the devil right now,” Signorelli posted on X (formerly Twitter).

“Hail Hail Lion of Judah, Let the Lion ROAR! Last night thousands in NYC Times Square and untold thousands globally lifted high the name of Jesus! Afterward, people took [to] the streets praying for people, sharing the gospel & casting out demons,” posted Pastor Malachi O’Brien who was in attendance.

It is easy to get caught up in waves of negativity, fear and hopelessness with the news cycle and what is happening in the world today, but God has something great in store for His people in the coming days.

Remember, amid the apostasy, decline in morality and values, persecution, struggles and wars, Jesus wins in the end, and we are seeing the amazing moves of God in the middle of the storm right now.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.



Standing with Rabbi Jonathan Cahn: A Response to Rolling Stone’s Anti-Semitic Attack


In recent years, Rolling Stone magazine has taken a sharp turn into anti-Christian, anti-biblical and anti-God territory, and its current piece attacking Rabbi Jonathan Cahn serves as a stark reminder of this concerning trend.

The article not only misrepresents Cahn’s message, but also reveals a broader issue of bias and prejudice against those who hold a biblical worldview. It is crucial to shed light on the anti-Semitic undertones within the article. Cahn answered Rolling Stone’s article demonstrating each off-base point.

The Israel Hamas End Time Mystery

The supposed controversy surrounding Rabbi Cahn’s recent video, “The Israel-Hamas End-Time Mystery,” centers on a brief segment where he expresses compassion and sympathy for Israel and the Jewish people in light of their ongoing struggles. In his message, he highlights the significance of Jesus (Yeshua) as the Prince of Peace, emphasizing that true peace can be found in Him. Rolling Stone decided to use this call to salvation to claim Cahn blamed Jews for the Hamas terror attack, all because they have not accepted Jesus as the Messiah.

Misrepresentation and Anti-Semitic Overtones

Rolling Stone’s headline, “MAGA Messianic Rabbi Blames Hamas Violence on Israeli Indifference to Jesus,” blatantly distorts Cahn’s words and intentions. This misrepresentation is not only factually incorrect but also laced with anti-Semitic undertones. By suggesting that Rabbi Cahn blames Hamas violence on Israeli indifference to Jesus, the article falsely accuses him of demonizing the Jewish people, which he has never done. Spoiler alert: Rabbi Jonathan Cahn is in fact Jewish and expresses how much he deeply loves his people.

The Labeling of “MAGA”

The article’s very first word, “MAGA,” is a loaded term designed to pigeonhole Rabbi Cahn and tarnish his message. The left hates Donald Trump, and will try to disparage his base of followers in any way they can. Cahn teaches about the Word of God and the importance of Jesus as the Messiah, which is inherently Christian and rooted in biblical truth. Associating him with “MAGA” is an attempt to marginalize his views and delegitimize his faith, simply because Rabbi Cahn prayed with Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago. Cahn states there is only one way for America to rise up and be the great nation she once was: repent and turn back to her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

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The True Message of Rabbi Jonathan Cahn

Rabbi Cahn’s message in his video “The Israel-Hamas End-Time Mystery” centers around the essential belief in Jesus as the Messiah and the importance of returning to biblical values. His concern for the Jewish people’s peace and salvation is a reflection of genuine compassion and not an accusation against them.

The Controversial “Stubborn” Insertion

The article goes further by adding the word “stubborn” to Cahn’s message, a deliberate insertion that carries anti-Semitic connotations. Accusing the Jewish people of being “stubborn” has been used in historical anti-Semitic rhetoric, and it is unacceptable to imply such a characterization in this context. Not to mention, Cahn never even used the word. Instead, Rolling Stone inserted it and made it appear as though it was Cahn was the calling Israelis stubborn, which is false.

Messianic Jews and Jewish Tradition

The article also wrongly implies that Messianic Jews are selling their faith aggressively, and are more charismatic Christian than Jew. This mischaracterization belittles the faith of Jewish believers who embrace Jesus as the Messiah while still maintaining their Jewish traditions. This is a natural expression of their faith and should not be distorted or disparaged.

Rolling Stone’s article on Rabbi Jonathan Cahn is a clear example of how media outlets can distort the truth to promote a harmful agenda. We must support Cahn, who continues to preach the message of salvation and compassion for Israel and the Jewish people, while opposing those who seek to undermine the message and the biblical values he represents. Our faith calls us to love our neighbors and stand for the truth, and that includes standing with Rabbi Jonathan Cahn in the face of such baseless attacks.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.



Prophetic Puzzle Unfolding: Gog and Magog in Today’s World

In a world filled with turmoil and uncertainty, Steven Khoury, the pastor of The First Baptist Church in Bethlehem, ministers to his congregation in the heart of the West Bank, a region marked by complexity and conflict. Despite the challenges, he remains resolute in his faith, believing that the Bible’s prophecies about the end times are manifesting in our world today.

Amid the recent upheaval triggered by events like Hamas’ attack on Israel, Khoury’s life in Bethlehem is far from ordinary. He admits that the role of a Christian pastor in this tumultuous region is both a joy and a source of overwhelming anxiety. “There’s never a dull moment,” he quips to CBN Digital, acknowledging the ever-present tension.

The Hamas attack on Oct. 7 and the subsequent turmoil have brought shock and hardship to the region. Beyond the emotional toll, roadblocks have disrupted travel, and food supplies to supermarkets have dwindled.

“In the last 23 days, traveling has been limited almost… to a stop,” Khoury reports. “No food has been transported to supermarkets and beyond. While the situation has improved somewhat in the last week, supermarket shelves initially ran low due to the lack of food transportation.”

During despair and fear, Khoury’s ministry takes center stage. His teachings emphasize the power of love, even for one’s enemies. “We teach our people to love those who persecute them, to reach out to those who are different, regardless of who they are,” he explains, “and to be the light and salt of the Earth.”

The region’s history has always been marked by palpable tensions, but in the current climate, the unrest has escalated to new heights.

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Khoury, like countless Christians worldwide, observes the unfolding events in Israel and ponders their eschatological significance. With experience in preaching about the end times, he draws attention to recent developments that are aligned with biblical prophecies.

It’s interesting to note that Hamas’ leaders recently convened in Moscow, raising questions about the nature of their discussions. Khoury references an Old Testament prophecy concerning Gog and Magog, as described by the Prophet Ezekiel in chapters 38 and 39. These Scriptures prophesy that Israel will be attacked by a host of nations bent on her destruction.

Many Christian leaders interpret Magog as Russia, with Persia (modern-day Iran) counted among the nations aligned with Magog. Given Iran’s connections with Hamas, these present-day dynamics are undoubtedly noteworthy, particularly in light of reports about Hamas leaders visiting Russia.

Khoury raises a thought-provoking question: “Could the ongoing events be the early stages of the prophetic passages in Ezekiel 36, 37, 38 and 39 coming to life? I think it’s very possible, as many wars today are led through proxy conflicts.”

While Khoury remains cautious, acknowledging that the current chaos may subside and calm could be restored, the prevailing situation has him deeply contemplating the unfolding of biblical prophecies.

In these times of uncertainty and upheaval, many find solace in the Word of God. The Bible offers guidance and assurance that God remains in control, and His divine plan will ultimately prevail. While the world grapples with challenges, people of faith can take comfort in their beliefs and the anticipation of Jesus’ return.

The end times may bring uncertainty, but they also bring the promise of a glorious future when Jesus returns to establish His eternal kingdom. As we navigate these turbulent times, let us cling to our faith and eagerly await the fulfillment of God’s promises. In a world full of questions, the enduring hope of Jesus’ return remains a source of joy and encouragement for believers.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.



Times Square to Witness Historic Mass Deliverance and Revival

New York City’s Times Square will erupt in praise and worship at 6 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 6th.

Led by Pastor Mike Signorelli of V1 Church in New York City, the event will feature fellow revivalists and deliverance ministers Greg Locke, Alexander Pagani, Jenny Weaver and many others.

The exciting event comes on the heels of the successful debut of Signorelli’s film “The Domino Revival” on Tuesday, Oct. 24th. The film now is set for an encore presentation in theatres Nov. 13.

According to Fathom Events, “The Domino Revival takes moviegoers on an extraordinary journey with Mike Signorelli and a group of revivalists during a pivotal period in our nation’s history. As society’s fascination with the supernatural intensifies, this film unveils the awe-inspiring power of Jesus Christ. Through compelling gospel preaching, documented miracles, triumph over despair and liberation from demons, The Domino Revival captures the essence of spiritual hunger and delivers a profound cinematic experience.”

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.



Pastor Ditches Traditional Pulpit for YouTube Ministry

In a rapidly changing world, where traditional church attendance is on the decline, Gavin Ortlund, senior pastor of the 100-member First Baptist Church of Ojai in California, has made a bold decision. He’s leaving the pulpit to embrace full-time ministry through his Truth Unites channel on YouTube, where he’s already touched the lives of millions with his theological depth and biblical insights.

With over 3.6 million views and more than 40,000 subscribers, Ortlund’s online ministry has become a powerful platform to share the gospel and provide spiritual guidance. He believes YouTube offers incredible opportunities for spreading the message of Christ far and wide.

“YouTube is such a strategic place for ministry; the opportunities are just unbelievable,” Ortlund declared in a recent YouTube announcement.

Ortlund acknowledges the significant shift in religious engagement in the United States. “We’re going through the greatest season of religious decline in our nation’s history,” he shared. “About 40 million people have stopped going to church. And then those who don’t have any religious affiliation, which is a little different demographic, interestingly, has spiked to over 30%. Thirty years ago, it was only 5%. It’s just this massive sea change, and especially in the younger generation, there are so many people leaving their faith.”

Through Truth Unites, a ministry that “exists to promote gospel assurance through theological depth,” Ortlund is on a mission to reach those who have walked away from traditional church settings. He’s passionate about re-centering, reconstructing, revitalizing and re-stabilizing faith in those who have questioned or lost it.

Moving to Tennessee with his wife and five children, Ortlund’s ministry will operate under Renewal Ministries, led by his parents. He will also serve as a resident theologian at Emmanuel Church in the Nashville area.

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Ortlund expressed that his decision is driven by a desire to focus on his true passions. “It’s been a busy three years,” he shared. “Over the last year or so, it’s ratcheted up to one level further of busyness. This change allows me to focus a little bit more and not feel like I’m doing five different things all at once.”

With more time on his hands, Ortlund plans to write books on subjects like the sacraments and existentialism, all while accepting speaking engagements related to his online ministry. He hopes to answer questions, address pressing issues and meet the spiritual needs of a changing world.

While Ortlund’s transition is a significant step, it raises an important question: is this the way many preachers are moving toward a digital platform instead of a traditional church? Does this digital approach align with what the Bible says about communing together?

As believers, we must contemplate the implications of this shift and seek guidance from the Word of God. The Bible emphasizes the importance of gathering together for worship and fellowship, as stated in Hebrews 10:24-25: “And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much more as you see the Day approaching.”

While Ortlund’s journey is undoubtedly impactful, it sparks a discussion about the balance between digital ministry and the biblical call to gather and fellowship. It’s a conversation worth having, especially in a world where the ways of worship are rapidly evolving.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.



Landmark Victory: Christian Student Wins $150,000 in Lawsuit Over Forced Hindu Rituals

An Illinois Circuit Court recently made a major ruling in favor of a young Christian student, Mariyah Green, who was compelled to participate in Hindu rituals, even though it went against her Christian faith.

This ruling, which awarded Mariyah $150,000 in damages and legal fees, was a result of her First Amendment rights being violated by the Board of Education of the city of Chicago and the David Lynch Foundation.

For Mariyah and her fellow students at Bogan High School, this violation occurred through a program known as “Quiet Time,” which included Hindu practices like transcendental meditation. As part of this program, students were required to engage in a Puja initiation rite, during which they recited statements acknowledging the power of various Hindu deities and were invited to channel these powers.

What makes this situation especially concerning is that students who chose not to participate in “Quiet Time” were threatened with potential negative impacts on their grades and disqualification from graduation ceremonies. Mariyah was even told that her basketball eligibility would be jeopardized if she refused to partake in the program.

The Bible speaks clearly about the dangers of practicing divination and involving oneself in occult rituals. Deuteronomy 18:10-12 says, “There must not be found among you anyone who makes his son or his daughter pass through the fire, or who uses divination, or uses witchcraft, or an interpreter of omens, or a sorcerer, or one who casts spells, or a spiritualist, or an occultist, or a necromancer. For all that do these things are an abomination to the Lord, and because of these abominations the Lord your God will drive them out from before you.”

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Mariyah’s attorney, John Mauck, emphasized the profound conflict between her Christian faith and the forced participation in Hindu rituals. He stated, “Mariyah Green’s Christian faith and her dedication to Jesus Christ makes the worship of others, such as these idols, unthinkable.” This echoes the biblical teaching that we are to have no other gods before the one true God.

The “Quiet Time” program, developed by the David Lynch Foundation for Consciousness-Based Education and World Peace in conjunction with the University of Chicago, was found to contain religious content, which had already been removed from public schools elsewhere due to constitutional violations. The violation of Mariyah’s religious rights was evident, and the court rightfully recognized the critical constitutional issues at stake.

The Bible teaches in 2 Corinthians 6:14: “Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with unrighteousness? What communion has light with darkness?” Forcing Christian students to participate in rituals that contradict their faith is a clear example of being “unequally yoked.”

Mariyah’s victory in this case highlights the importance of defending one’s faith and religious rights. She expressed her gratitude for the legal system’s support in upholding her rights and preventing further harm from forced participation in Hindu rituals.

This case serves as a reminder of the spiritual dangers that can arise when children are compelled to engage in practices that conflict with their Christian faith. It is crucial for parents to be aware of the occult practices permeating society, especially when it comes to their children. As the Bible instructs in Proverbs 22:6: “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” We must ensure that children are nurtured in their faith, not forced into practices that go against it.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.



IHOPKC Announces Path Forward Amid Allegations

At the 11:00 a.m. CST service on Sunday, Nov. 4, Executive Director of International House of Prayer-Kansas City Stuart Greaves announced the path forward for IHOPKC and its congregants.

During this trying time for the church and organization, 24-hour prayer and worship will continue unabated as IHOPKC continues to carry out the Great Commission.

Greaves assured all listening that it is IHOPKC’s goal to look after the people first, not the organization.

“The thing that is on my mind in terms of working through this process with our leadership team, is you as a people,” Greaves solemnly told the congregation.

“We’re not mostly thinking about the organization,” he continued. “Jesus didn’t die for an organization, Jesus died for living stones, for living souls, for human beings.”

Greaves laid out for members of the congregation—which is enduring much pain, fear and confusion amid the sexual abuse allegations made against its founding leader, Mike Bickle—what lies ahead for them in the coming days.

Dr. Michael L. Brown was on hand to deliver the sermon, and Greaves said Brown will also advise the leadership team at IHOPKC.

Bickle and the IHOPKC leadership agreed that while the investigation is continuing, he will be on a social media blackout and an indefinite leave of absence from the ministry.

Greaves and the leadership explained that they will take the time necessary and allow the proper steps to be taken to arrive at the truth, while ensuring care and consideration for the women who have come forward with these allegations.

“We are committed to walking this out in patience, and the deliberations,” he explained. “Not based on pressure, but based upon the fear of the Lord and patience and deliberation. At the end of the day, as shepherds, that is who we answer before; we answer before the Lord.”

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In addition, Greaves explained that they have received “a mix of artificial deadlines and ultimatums” that have not helped in the search for the truth of the matter.

In response to the allegations themselves, Greaves said there is one allegation from 26 years ago that has “some credibility.” Greaves added that there are several other allegations about which the truth is extremely difficult to ascertain, due to how long ago some of them are alleged to have happened, the fact that others were made anonymously and others were made via third parties.

Several women have come forward and publicly refuted the allegations, saying they never gave permission for their names to be used by the accusing group of former leaders and instead denounced the group that made these allegations in their name.

In their journey to see truth and justice come to light, and take these matters as seriously as an organization is capable of, Greaves announced the hiring of an outside law firm, Stinson LLP, to conduct an in-depth investigation.

“We are starting first with this step to help initially assess the situations, but plan to continue to pursue the truth with integrity, guided by care for the alleged victims, the IHOPKC family and the Bickle family,” Greaves said.

In the meantime, IHOPKC leadership asks for prayer and patience during this difficult time for its extended family and those directly affected by these allegations.

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James Lasher is staff writer for Charisma Media.