A vision formed in the hearts of Alex and Stephen Kendrick as they played with cameras in their backyard in Smyrna, Georgia, has grown into a world-wide movie ministry.
The movies “Flywheel”, “Facing the Giants” and “Fireproof” are the realization of that vision through Sherwood Pictures, the unique filmmaking ministry of Sherwood Baptist Church in Albany, Georgia. The Kendrick brothers, associate pastors at Sherwood, had a lifelong dream to make movies.
The themes and principles framed in lead characters and each storyline are based on the example set, and lessons learned from their father, Larry Kendrick. God is the hero in each film, as He works through people’s lives. The message “ God can overwhelm us with His goodness. When God is at the center, it impacts the rest of your life.”
When they were kids, their neighbor had a Super 8 film camera. "We played with that camera for two or three years until camcorders came out," Alex said. "We created our own entertainment."
Through trial and error, the brothers learned visual angles, editing, and eventually began producing their own short movies. Alex majored in communications at Kennesaw State University. After college, the Kendrick brothers continued making short movies as the leaders of college student and teen ministries. Their productions premiered at Sherwood Baptist Church on makeshift screens of paper tablecloths.
In 2002, Alex read an article citing a study by researcher George Barna that reported- movies have more influence over current society than any church; they are the most effective means of communication to this generation.
Alex proposed the church make a family-friendly movie that could be filmed affordably in Albany. "A huge segment of people love movies but leave theaters disappointed in the profanity, immorality, and messages that trample their family's values and faith," Stephen said. Senior Pastor Michael Catt agreed, and the church created Sherwood Pictures.
Their first movie, “Flywheel“ was filmed on video with a $20,000 budget that came from private contributions. Using an all-volunteer cast of actors, the movie utilized local homes and businesses as sets. The wardrobe department amounted to each actor's own closet. The camera crane, dolly, and steady cam equipment were built with supplies purchased from Home Depot.
Several crises occurred during production, including loss of 30 minutes of edited film. “It became another opportunity to pray”, recalled Alex. “The Lord can make a better movie than we can. We asked the Lord for creativity, and to allow things to happen beyond what we had planned.”
After three weeks of around the clock re-filming, dubbing, and editing, the final completed version of the film was burned to DVD on April 9, 2003, just six hours, 30 minutes before it premiered at their local Carmike Cinemas theater!
The overwhelming response to “Flywheel’ shocked the Kendrick brothers. They are still amazed the movie was ever completed. The movie intended for a community outreach through their local theater has been viewed around the world.
The next two films produced were “Facing the Giants” 2006 and “Fireproof” 2008. These productions were blessed with larger budgets, but as with “Flywheel”, no actors were paid. The talents of cameraman, Bob Scott added to the production quality of these films.
Scott, whose film credits include the “Bourne Ultimatum”, was impressed with the unified effort on set. Everyone gathered to start and end filming each day. “The attitude was ‘do whatever it takes’ to get the movie made. This just doesn’t happen in the movie business. It was great to be at work each day”, said Scott.
“The formula that has worked for us is “seek the Lord first, ask Him to bless it’” said Stephen Kendrick.
“Each film is a testimony that God can use what we give Him, and our sincerity. He will multiply it for His glory. Our desire is to touch the world from Albany”, said Executive Producer and Senior Pastor Michael Catt.- “We want to inspire other churches to find creative ways to reach people with the message that Jesus Christ loves each of them.”
Sherwood Pictures has announced a fourth film: “Courageous“. It will embrace God’s promise to “turn the hearts of fathers to their children, and hearts of children to their fathers.” (Malachi 4:5,6)
“Fireproof” is the story of a firefighter. “Courageous” will focus on four law enforcement officers. Fathers, wrestling with their hopes, their fears, and their faith in Christ. Called to serve and protect, each faces danger on the streets, as well as daily challenges at home.
Sherwood Pictures promises more action in “Courageous“, beyond anything they have previously attempted. The intent is to encourage men, as fathers, to rise up and be actively engaged in the lives of their children. The film will offer a challenge to be .... courageous! http://www.courageousthemovie.com/
Rent each locally, or purchase/ http://www.sherwoodpictures.com/
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Monday, December 28, 2009
Wishing you a Happy New Year !
Hello All,
Just wanted to wish you a Happy New Year. Hope you have a prosperous new year. Have not posted anything since Nov. I suffered a tragic computer crash.
Recently, I saw the movie, "Julie and Julia". I liked the movie. It has inspired me to do more blogging. In the coming year 2010, I am going to attempt a weekly entry, maybe something every couple of days, if I can manage it.
Planning the Brickyard Creek Christian Film Festival for March 20, 2010 at New Hope Foursquare Church in Red Bluff, Ca. I would appreciate your prayers for this venture. Not sure how it will all come together at this point.
If you enjoy reading my blog, I would like to hear from you. Jay jlauriem@att.net
Jay
Just wanted to wish you a Happy New Year. Hope you have a prosperous new year. Have not posted anything since Nov. I suffered a tragic computer crash.
Recently, I saw the movie, "Julie and Julia". I liked the movie. It has inspired me to do more blogging. In the coming year 2010, I am going to attempt a weekly entry, maybe something every couple of days, if I can manage it.
Planning the Brickyard Creek Christian Film Festival for March 20, 2010 at New Hope Foursquare Church in Red Bluff, Ca. I would appreciate your prayers for this venture. Not sure how it will all come together at this point.
If you enjoy reading my blog, I would like to hear from you. Jay jlauriem@att.net
Jay
Wednesday, November 04, 2009
"A Wade In The Creek' Nov. 27th
"A Wade In The Creek" is a special film preview night that will take place at New Hope Foursquare Church on Friday Nov. 27th, from 6 pm-9 pm--the day after Thansgiving.
This will be a promotion and discussion of the Brickyard Creek Christian Film Festival that will be presented on March 20, 2010 at the church.
Preview of films
"Flywheel" from Sherwood Pictures
"The Rainy Day" from Affect Eternity Ministries
"Lost Along The Way" from Quiet No More.
Please visit Brickyard Creek Christian Film Festival on Facebook.
Questions: send an email to jlauriem@att.net
This will be a promotion and discussion of the Brickyard Creek Christian Film Festival that will be presented on March 20, 2010 at the church.
Preview of films
"Flywheel" from Sherwood Pictures
"The Rainy Day" from Affect Eternity Ministries
"Lost Along The Way" from Quiet No More.
Please visit Brickyard Creek Christian Film Festival on Facebook.
Questions: send an email to jlauriem@att.net
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Blog for the Brickyard Creek Christian Film Festival
Brickyard Creek Christian Film Festival blog--news and film updates
www.brickyardcreekchristianfilmfestival.blogspot.com
www.brickyardcreekchristianfilmfestival.blogspot.com
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
A Spiritual Legacy-from shoe store to shoe boxes
When Edward Kimball walked into Samuel Holton’s shoe store on April 21,1855, he probably never imagined his visit would begin a spiritual legacy. The story is evidence that God uses ordinary people who are willing to be used for His glory.
Kimball, a Sunday school teacher of the Congregational Church Boston, Mass, was there to see Dwight, a fellow who attended his weekly class. The eighteen year old young man worked behind the counter in his uncle‘s store.
Kimball recalled the encounter later. “I was determined to speak to Dwight about Christ and about his soul. When I was nearly there, I began to wonder whether I should to go in during business hours. I thought my call might embarrass the boy, and that when I went away the other clerks would ask who I was, and taunt him with my efforts in trying to make him a good boy”.
Kimball passed the shoe store once, then determined to make a dash for it, and have it over at once. Dwight was in the back part of the building wrapping up shoes. Mr. Kimball put
When Edward Kimball walked into Samuel Holton’s shoe store on April 21,1855, he probably never imagined his visit would begin a spiritual legacy. The story is evidence that God uses ordinary people who are willing to be used for His glory.
Kimball, a Sunday school teacher of the Congregational Church Boston, Mass, was there to see Dwight, a fellow who attended his weekly class. The eighteen year old young man worked behind the counter in his uncle‘s store.
Kimball recalled the encounter later. “I was determined to speak to Dwight about Christ and about his soul. When I was nearly there, I began to wonder whether I should to go in during business hours. I thought my call might embarrass the boy, and that when I went away the other clerks would ask who I was, and taunt him with my efforts in trying to make him a good boy”.
Kimball passed the shoe store once, then determined to make a dash for it, and have it over at once. Dwight was in the back part of the building wrapping up shoes. Mr. Kimball put his hand on the young man’s shoulder. Kimball made, what he felt afterwards, was a very weak plea for Christ. “I don't know just what words I used, nor could Mr. Moody tell. I simply told him of Christ's love for him, and the love Christ wanted in return.“ That day in the stockroom, Dwight Lyman Moody gave his life to Christ.
D.L. Moody became one of the greatest evangelists of all time. He preached the gospel of Christ in many countries. Forty years afterwards, when preaching in Boston, Mr. Moody described the effect of his conversion upon his life. “I wish I could do something to lead some of you young men to that same God.”
In 1872, while preaching in London, Moody met Frederick Brotherton Meyer, pastor of Priory Street Baptist Church in York. F.B Meyer was impacted by the American evangelist Dwight L. Moody, and introduced him to other churches in England. The two preachers became lifelong friends, conducting several evangelistic meetings on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean.
In Chicago, F. B. Meyer met a young man, John Wilbur Chapman, and quickly became his friend and mentor. As an evangelist, Chapman held several meetings in the city of Chicago.One evening in the Fall of 1886, Billy Sunday, a young baseball player, along with five friends, sat on a corner heckling Salvation Army workers, who were having a street meeting with the help of J. Wilbur Chapman. As Billy Sunday heard the singing, and the Christian testimonies, he became convinced that he was lost and on his way to Hell. That night he went to the Pacific Garden Rescue Mission and trusted Jesus Christ as his Savior.
Later Sunday had held an evangelistic campaign in Charlotte in 1924, resulting in the formation of the Charlotte Businessmen's Club. This group invited Mordecai Ham, a young evangelistic to preach in Charlotte, North Carolina in 1934.
One evening, during the eleven week evangelistic campaign, Billy Graham, an eighteen year old farm boy responded to Ham’s message to confess his sin, and to trust in Jesus Christ for forgiveness and salvation. Today, Billy Graham, as an evangelist is best known for his worldwide evangelistic crusades, as he holds the distinction of preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ to more people than anyone in history.
Today, this spiritual legacy continues in the lives and ministries of Billy Graham’s sons and daughters. They each have chosen to dedicate themselves to sharing their faith in Jesus Christ and His gospel. A message and life passed on to each through the example and prayers of parents-Billy and Ruth Graham.
Their eldest son, Franklin Graham (William Franklin Graham III), after youthful years of carousing, school expulsions and rebellion, in 1974, committed his life to Christ on his knees at age 22, reading the Gospel of John from Bible, while alone in a hotel room in Jerusalem.
Franklin Graham Festivals are presented in countries around the world. Graham emphasizes the need for sinners to repent, and the uniqueness of Christianity as the only true religion.
Today, Franklin Graham wears many hats-husband, father, and CEO of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, and Samaritan’s Purse.
Samaritan’s Purse is a world-wide Christian relief organization. Operation Christmas Child is the largest outreach program of the ministry. Since 1993, over 69 million gift-filled shoe boxes have been donated, and distributed to children sharing God’s love in desperate situations in over 100 countries around the globe.
Let this spiritual legacy and the message of Christ continue with you. Prepare a shoe box filled with gifts for ages 2-14 yrs. Collection dates are Nov. 16-22. 10 am -2pm. Community Baptist Church 598 Round-Up Ave. Red Bluff 530-527-4203
.his hand on the young man’s shoulder. Kimball made, what he felt afterwards, was a very weak plea for Christ. “I don't know just what words I used, nor could Mr. Moody tell. I simply told him of Christ's love for him, and the love Christ wanted in return.“ That day in the stock room, Dwight Lyman Moody gave his life to Christ.
D.L. Moody became one of the greatest evangelists of all time. He preached the gospel of Christ in many countries. Forty years afterwards, when preaching in Boston, Mr. Moody described the effect of his conversion upon his life. “I wish I could do something to lead some of you young men to that same God.”
In 1872, while preaching in London, Moody met Frederick Brotherton Meyer, pastor of Priory Street Baptist Church in York. F.B Meyer was impacted by the American evangelist Dwight L. Moody, and introduced him to other churches in England. The two preachers became lifelong friends, conducting several evangelistic meetings on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean.
In Chicago, F. B. Meyer met a young man, John Wilbur Chapman, and quickly became his friend and mentor. As an evangelist, Chapman held several meetings in the city of Chicago.One evening in the Fall of 1886, Billy Sunday, a young baseball player, along with five friends, sat on a corner heckling Salvation Army workers, who were having a street meeting with the help of J. Wilbur Chapman. As Billy Sunday heard the singing, and the Christian testimonies, he became convinced that he was lost and on his way to Hell. That night he went to the Pacific Garden Rescue Mission and trusted Jesus Christ as his Savior.
Later Sunday had held an evangelistic campaign in Charlotte in 1924, resulting in the formation of the Charlotte Businessmen's Club. This group invited Mordecai Ham, a young evangelistic to preach in Charlotte, North Carolina in 1934.
One evening, during the eleven week evangelistic campaign, Billy Graham, an eighteen year old farm boy responded to Ham’s message to confess his sin, and to trust in Jesus Christ for forgiveness and salvation. Today, Billy Graham, as an evangelist is best known for his worldwide evangelistic crusades, as he holds the distinction of preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ to more people than anyone in history.
Today, this spiritual legacy continues in the lives and ministries of Billy Graham’s sons and daughters. They each have chosen to dedicate themselves to sharing their faith in Jesus Christ and His gospel. A message and life passed on to each through the example and prayers of parents-Billy and Ruth Graham.
Their eldest son, Franklin Graham (William Franklin Graham III), after youthful years of carousing, school expulsions and rebellion, in 1974, committed his life to Christ on his knees at age 22, reading the Gospel of John from Bible, while alone in a hotel room in Jerusalem.
Franklin Graham Festivals are presented in countries around the world. Graham emphasizes the need for sinners to repent, and the uniqueness of Christianity as the only true religion.
Today, Franklin Graham wears many hats-husband, father, and CEO of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, and Samaritan’s Purse.
Samaritan’s Purse is a world-wide Christian relief organization. Operation Christmas Child is the largest outreach program of the ministry. Since 1993, over 69 million gift-filled shoe boxes have been donated, and distributed to children sharing God’s love in desperate situations in over 100 countries around the globe.
Let this spiritual legacy and the message of Christ continue with you. Prepare a shoe box filled with gifts for ages 2-14 yrs. Collection dates are Nov. 16-22. 10 am -2pm. Community Baptist Church 598 Round-Up Ave. Red Bluff 530-527-4203
When Edward Kimball walked into Samuel Holton’s shoe store on April 21,1855, he probably never imagined his visit would begin a spiritual legacy. The story is evidence that God uses ordinary people who are willing to be used for His glory.
Kimball, a Sunday school teacher of the Congregational Church Boston, Mass, was there to see Dwight, a fellow who attended his weekly class. The eighteen year old young man worked behind the counter in his uncle‘s store.
Kimball recalled the encounter later. “I was determined to speak to Dwight about Christ and about his soul. When I was nearly there, I began to wonder whether I should to go in during business hours. I thought my call might embarrass the boy, and that when I went away the other clerks would ask who I was, and taunt him with my efforts in trying to make him a good boy”.
Kimball passed the shoe store once, then determined to make a dash for it, and have it over at once. Dwight was in the back part of the building wrapping up shoes. Mr. Kimball put his hand on the young man’s shoulder. Kimball made, what he felt afterwards, was a very weak plea for Christ. “I don't know just what words I used, nor could Mr. Moody tell. I simply told him of Christ's love for him, and the love Christ wanted in return.“ That in the stock room, Dwight Lyman Moody gave his life to Christ.
D.L. Moody became one of the greatest evangelists of all time. He preached the gospel of Christ in many countries. Forty years afterwards, when preaching in Boston, Mr. Moody described the effect of his conversion upon his life. “I wish I could do something to lead some of you young men to that same God.”
In 1872, while preaching in London, Moody met Frederick Brotherton Meyer, pastor of Priory Street Baptist Church in York. F.B Meyer was impacted by the American evangelist Dwight L. Moody, and introduced him to other churches in England. The two preachers became lifelong friends, conducting several evangelistic meetings on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean.
In Chicago, F. B. Meyer met a young man, John Wilbur Chapman, and quickly became his friend and mentor. As an evangelist, Chapman held several meetings in the city of Chicago.One evening in the Fall of 1886, Billy Sunday, a young baseball player, along with five friends, sat on a corner heckling Salvation Army workers, who were having a street meeting with the help of J. Wilbur Chapman. As Billy Sunday heard the singing, and the Christian testimonies, he became convinced that he was lost and on his way to Hell. That night he went to the Pacific Garden Rescue Mission and trusted Jesus Christ as his Savior.
Later Sunday had held an evangelistic campaign in Charlotte in 1924, resulting in the formation of the Charlotte Businessmen's Club. This group invited Mordecai Ham, a young evangelistic to preach in Charlotte, North Carolina in 1934.
One evening, during the eleven week evangelistic campaign, Billy Graham, an eighteen year old farm boy responded to Ham’s message to confess his sin, and to trust in Jesus Christ for forgiveness and salvation. Today, Billy Graham, as an evangelist is best known for his worldwide evangelistic crusades, as he holds the distinction of preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ to more people than anyone in history.
Today, this spiritual legacy continues in the lives and ministries of Billy Graham’s sons and daughters. They each have chosen to dedicate themselves to sharing their faith in Jesus Christ and His gospel. A message and life passed on to each through the example and prayers of parents-Billy and Ruth Graham.
Their eldest son, Franklin Graham (William Franklin Graham III), after youthful years of carousing, school expulsions and rebellion, in 1974, committed his life to Christ on his knees at age 22, reading the Gospel of John from Bible, while alone in a hotel room in Jerusalem.
Franklin Graham Festivals are presented in countries around the world. Graham emphasizes the need for sinners to represent, and the uniqueness of Christianity as the only true religion.
Today, Franklin Graham wears many hats-husband, father, and CEO of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, and Samaritan’s Purse.
Samaritan’s Purse is a world-wide Christian relief organization. Operation Christmas Child is the largest outreach program of the ministry. Since 1993, over 69 million gift-filled shoe boxes have been donated, and distributed to children sharing God’s love in desperate situations in over 100 countries around the globe.
Let this spiritual legacy and the message of Christ continue with you. Prepare a shoe box filled with gifts for ages 2-14 yrs. Collection dates are Nov. 16-22. 10 am -2pm. Community Baptist Church 598 Round-Up Ave. Red Bluff 530-527-4203
.
Kimball, a Sunday school teacher of the Congregational Church Boston, Mass, was there to see Dwight, a fellow who attended his weekly class. The eighteen year old young man worked behind the counter in his uncle‘s store.
Kimball recalled the encounter later. “I was determined to speak to Dwight about Christ and about his soul. When I was nearly there, I began to wonder whether I should to go in during business hours. I thought my call might embarrass the boy, and that when I went away the other clerks would ask who I was, and taunt him with my efforts in trying to make him a good boy”.
Kimball passed the shoe store once, then determined to make a dash for it, and have it over at once. Dwight was in the back part of the building wrapping up shoes. Mr. Kimball put
When Edward Kimball walked into Samuel Holton’s shoe store on April 21,1855, he probably never imagined his visit would begin a spiritual legacy. The story is evidence that God uses ordinary people who are willing to be used for His glory.
Kimball, a Sunday school teacher of the Congregational Church Boston, Mass, was there to see Dwight, a fellow who attended his weekly class. The eighteen year old young man worked behind the counter in his uncle‘s store.
Kimball recalled the encounter later. “I was determined to speak to Dwight about Christ and about his soul. When I was nearly there, I began to wonder whether I should to go in during business hours. I thought my call might embarrass the boy, and that when I went away the other clerks would ask who I was, and taunt him with my efforts in trying to make him a good boy”.
Kimball passed the shoe store once, then determined to make a dash for it, and have it over at once. Dwight was in the back part of the building wrapping up shoes. Mr. Kimball put his hand on the young man’s shoulder. Kimball made, what he felt afterwards, was a very weak plea for Christ. “I don't know just what words I used, nor could Mr. Moody tell. I simply told him of Christ's love for him, and the love Christ wanted in return.“ That day in the stockroom, Dwight Lyman Moody gave his life to Christ.
D.L. Moody became one of the greatest evangelists of all time. He preached the gospel of Christ in many countries. Forty years afterwards, when preaching in Boston, Mr. Moody described the effect of his conversion upon his life. “I wish I could do something to lead some of you young men to that same God.”
In 1872, while preaching in London, Moody met Frederick Brotherton Meyer, pastor of Priory Street Baptist Church in York. F.B Meyer was impacted by the American evangelist Dwight L. Moody, and introduced him to other churches in England. The two preachers became lifelong friends, conducting several evangelistic meetings on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean.
In Chicago, F. B. Meyer met a young man, John Wilbur Chapman, and quickly became his friend and mentor. As an evangelist, Chapman held several meetings in the city of Chicago.One evening in the Fall of 1886, Billy Sunday, a young baseball player, along with five friends, sat on a corner heckling Salvation Army workers, who were having a street meeting with the help of J. Wilbur Chapman. As Billy Sunday heard the singing, and the Christian testimonies, he became convinced that he was lost and on his way to Hell. That night he went to the Pacific Garden Rescue Mission and trusted Jesus Christ as his Savior.
Later Sunday had held an evangelistic campaign in Charlotte in 1924, resulting in the formation of the Charlotte Businessmen's Club. This group invited Mordecai Ham, a young evangelistic to preach in Charlotte, North Carolina in 1934.
One evening, during the eleven week evangelistic campaign, Billy Graham, an eighteen year old farm boy responded to Ham’s message to confess his sin, and to trust in Jesus Christ for forgiveness and salvation. Today, Billy Graham, as an evangelist is best known for his worldwide evangelistic crusades, as he holds the distinction of preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ to more people than anyone in history.
Today, this spiritual legacy continues in the lives and ministries of Billy Graham’s sons and daughters. They each have chosen to dedicate themselves to sharing their faith in Jesus Christ and His gospel. A message and life passed on to each through the example and prayers of parents-Billy and Ruth Graham.
Their eldest son, Franklin Graham (William Franklin Graham III), after youthful years of carousing, school expulsions and rebellion, in 1974, committed his life to Christ on his knees at age 22, reading the Gospel of John from Bible, while alone in a hotel room in Jerusalem.
Franklin Graham Festivals are presented in countries around the world. Graham emphasizes the need for sinners to repent, and the uniqueness of Christianity as the only true religion.
Today, Franklin Graham wears many hats-husband, father, and CEO of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, and Samaritan’s Purse.
Samaritan’s Purse is a world-wide Christian relief organization. Operation Christmas Child is the largest outreach program of the ministry. Since 1993, over 69 million gift-filled shoe boxes have been donated, and distributed to children sharing God’s love in desperate situations in over 100 countries around the globe.
Let this spiritual legacy and the message of Christ continue with you. Prepare a shoe box filled with gifts for ages 2-14 yrs. Collection dates are Nov. 16-22. 10 am -2pm. Community Baptist Church 598 Round-Up Ave. Red Bluff 530-527-4203
.his hand on the young man’s shoulder. Kimball made, what he felt afterwards, was a very weak plea for Christ. “I don't know just what words I used, nor could Mr. Moody tell. I simply told him of Christ's love for him, and the love Christ wanted in return.“ That day in the stock room, Dwight Lyman Moody gave his life to Christ.
D.L. Moody became one of the greatest evangelists of all time. He preached the gospel of Christ in many countries. Forty years afterwards, when preaching in Boston, Mr. Moody described the effect of his conversion upon his life. “I wish I could do something to lead some of you young men to that same God.”
In 1872, while preaching in London, Moody met Frederick Brotherton Meyer, pastor of Priory Street Baptist Church in York. F.B Meyer was impacted by the American evangelist Dwight L. Moody, and introduced him to other churches in England. The two preachers became lifelong friends, conducting several evangelistic meetings on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean.
In Chicago, F. B. Meyer met a young man, John Wilbur Chapman, and quickly became his friend and mentor. As an evangelist, Chapman held several meetings in the city of Chicago.One evening in the Fall of 1886, Billy Sunday, a young baseball player, along with five friends, sat on a corner heckling Salvation Army workers, who were having a street meeting with the help of J. Wilbur Chapman. As Billy Sunday heard the singing, and the Christian testimonies, he became convinced that he was lost and on his way to Hell. That night he went to the Pacific Garden Rescue Mission and trusted Jesus Christ as his Savior.
Later Sunday had held an evangelistic campaign in Charlotte in 1924, resulting in the formation of the Charlotte Businessmen's Club. This group invited Mordecai Ham, a young evangelistic to preach in Charlotte, North Carolina in 1934.
One evening, during the eleven week evangelistic campaign, Billy Graham, an eighteen year old farm boy responded to Ham’s message to confess his sin, and to trust in Jesus Christ for forgiveness and salvation. Today, Billy Graham, as an evangelist is best known for his worldwide evangelistic crusades, as he holds the distinction of preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ to more people than anyone in history.
Today, this spiritual legacy continues in the lives and ministries of Billy Graham’s sons and daughters. They each have chosen to dedicate themselves to sharing their faith in Jesus Christ and His gospel. A message and life passed on to each through the example and prayers of parents-Billy and Ruth Graham.
Their eldest son, Franklin Graham (William Franklin Graham III), after youthful years of carousing, school expulsions and rebellion, in 1974, committed his life to Christ on his knees at age 22, reading the Gospel of John from Bible, while alone in a hotel room in Jerusalem.
Franklin Graham Festivals are presented in countries around the world. Graham emphasizes the need for sinners to repent, and the uniqueness of Christianity as the only true religion.
Today, Franklin Graham wears many hats-husband, father, and CEO of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, and Samaritan’s Purse.
Samaritan’s Purse is a world-wide Christian relief organization. Operation Christmas Child is the largest outreach program of the ministry. Since 1993, over 69 million gift-filled shoe boxes have been donated, and distributed to children sharing God’s love in desperate situations in over 100 countries around the globe.
Let this spiritual legacy and the message of Christ continue with you. Prepare a shoe box filled with gifts for ages 2-14 yrs. Collection dates are Nov. 16-22. 10 am -2pm. Community Baptist Church 598 Round-Up Ave. Red Bluff 530-527-4203
When Edward Kimball walked into Samuel Holton’s shoe store on April 21,1855, he probably never imagined his visit would begin a spiritual legacy. The story is evidence that God uses ordinary people who are willing to be used for His glory.
Kimball, a Sunday school teacher of the Congregational Church Boston, Mass, was there to see Dwight, a fellow who attended his weekly class. The eighteen year old young man worked behind the counter in his uncle‘s store.
Kimball recalled the encounter later. “I was determined to speak to Dwight about Christ and about his soul. When I was nearly there, I began to wonder whether I should to go in during business hours. I thought my call might embarrass the boy, and that when I went away the other clerks would ask who I was, and taunt him with my efforts in trying to make him a good boy”.
Kimball passed the shoe store once, then determined to make a dash for it, and have it over at once. Dwight was in the back part of the building wrapping up shoes. Mr. Kimball put his hand on the young man’s shoulder. Kimball made, what he felt afterwards, was a very weak plea for Christ. “I don't know just what words I used, nor could Mr. Moody tell. I simply told him of Christ's love for him, and the love Christ wanted in return.“ That in the stock room, Dwight Lyman Moody gave his life to Christ.
D.L. Moody became one of the greatest evangelists of all time. He preached the gospel of Christ in many countries. Forty years afterwards, when preaching in Boston, Mr. Moody described the effect of his conversion upon his life. “I wish I could do something to lead some of you young men to that same God.”
In 1872, while preaching in London, Moody met Frederick Brotherton Meyer, pastor of Priory Street Baptist Church in York. F.B Meyer was impacted by the American evangelist Dwight L. Moody, and introduced him to other churches in England. The two preachers became lifelong friends, conducting several evangelistic meetings on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean.
In Chicago, F. B. Meyer met a young man, John Wilbur Chapman, and quickly became his friend and mentor. As an evangelist, Chapman held several meetings in the city of Chicago.One evening in the Fall of 1886, Billy Sunday, a young baseball player, along with five friends, sat on a corner heckling Salvation Army workers, who were having a street meeting with the help of J. Wilbur Chapman. As Billy Sunday heard the singing, and the Christian testimonies, he became convinced that he was lost and on his way to Hell. That night he went to the Pacific Garden Rescue Mission and trusted Jesus Christ as his Savior.
Later Sunday had held an evangelistic campaign in Charlotte in 1924, resulting in the formation of the Charlotte Businessmen's Club. This group invited Mordecai Ham, a young evangelistic to preach in Charlotte, North Carolina in 1934.
One evening, during the eleven week evangelistic campaign, Billy Graham, an eighteen year old farm boy responded to Ham’s message to confess his sin, and to trust in Jesus Christ for forgiveness and salvation. Today, Billy Graham, as an evangelist is best known for his worldwide evangelistic crusades, as he holds the distinction of preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ to more people than anyone in history.
Today, this spiritual legacy continues in the lives and ministries of Billy Graham’s sons and daughters. They each have chosen to dedicate themselves to sharing their faith in Jesus Christ and His gospel. A message and life passed on to each through the example and prayers of parents-Billy and Ruth Graham.
Their eldest son, Franklin Graham (William Franklin Graham III), after youthful years of carousing, school expulsions and rebellion, in 1974, committed his life to Christ on his knees at age 22, reading the Gospel of John from Bible, while alone in a hotel room in Jerusalem.
Franklin Graham Festivals are presented in countries around the world. Graham emphasizes the need for sinners to represent, and the uniqueness of Christianity as the only true religion.
Today, Franklin Graham wears many hats-husband, father, and CEO of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, and Samaritan’s Purse.
Samaritan’s Purse is a world-wide Christian relief organization. Operation Christmas Child is the largest outreach program of the ministry. Since 1993, over 69 million gift-filled shoe boxes have been donated, and distributed to children sharing God’s love in desperate situations in over 100 countries around the globe.
Let this spiritual legacy and the message of Christ continue with you. Prepare a shoe box filled with gifts for ages 2-14 yrs. Collection dates are Nov. 16-22. 10 am -2pm. Community Baptist Church 598 Round-Up Ave. Red Bluff 530-527-4203
.
October 2009 and beyond.......
I am looking forward to the remaining months of 2009, and into next year. There are many activities to be involved in, and contribute to, from now to the end of the year, especially during our Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations. There are a variety of happenings to mention.
But first, I want to share that my family and I spent our Labor Day weekend at Joshua Fest, an annual three-day Christian music festival at the Plumas District Fairground in Quincy. After a one year hiatus, the festival returned this year better than ever. Let it be known, far and wide, that Joshua Fest is on for next year! I encourage all youth leaders to make plans to take a bunch of kids to the event next year. Visit http://www.joshuafest.net/
I am pleased to say that our fair city of Red Bluff was well represented at the music festival by several dedicated volunteers. Rick and Melanie Lytle arrived in Quincy early in the week to help with set up for the event. Throughout the festival, the couple assisted in the management of the AIR1.com Main Stage. They moved sound equipment, and handled many last minute details for a smooth transition between music groups. After the last band performed late on the final night, Rick and Melanie helped with the “tear down”. Working through the night, into the next day, the Lytles were among the last to leave the grounds.
Matt and Tonya Tatro, Rich and Gretchen Davidson, Larry and Chaunda Jensen were among a group of 15 volunteers from Bethel Assembly of God who served with the “around the clock” security team. Many thanks to all who gave of their time to serve at this wonderful event.-Joshua Fest’09
The memories of the festival are still fresh in my mind. I think of the Biblical patriarch-Joshua. Who, at a crossroad in his life and culture, he determined, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord!” (Joshua 24:15) May that be my resolve and yours, in all the decisions we make.
We are now in October, with less than three months until we start writing 2010 to indicate the current year. If you’re like me, you’re asking, “Where did the days go?”.
October has been designated “Pastor Appreciation Month”. I hope each church congregation will honor their pastor in some way, during this month, and during the other 11 months of the year. Please include your pastor’s family in all the celebration. Cook their favorite meal, buy that thing everyone knows they need, landscape their yard, or have their vehicles serviced. Be creative in your blessing to each of them.
If your church, or one you frequently visit, is planning a kid’s ministry activity for Oct. 31st, as a safe alternative to neighborhood “trick or treat” tours through the busy streets-
please support the ministry activity. Don’t wait to be asked-jump in to volunteer, especially, if you’re taking your kids there. Be part of the event’s success. Prepare a snack, roam the parking lot, help with clean-up, etc.
If you love to sing, you can join the Masterworks chorale, and orchestra lead by Pastor Mark Franklin. The chorale is open to all singers in high school and beyond. Auditions are not required to join the other 60-plus voices in song. Weekly rehearsals are Monday, 6:45-8:30 p.m. at the Red Bluff Presbyterian Church at Hickory and Jefferson Streets.
The chorale has a concert coming up Sunday, November 8th at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church. They will perform the Solemn Mass in A by Cesar Franck.
In December, the chorale and orchestra will present the ‘Messiah” by George F. Handel. at the First Church of God, This annual performance is a local Christmas tradition Jackson and Luther Rd. Be there, to stand and sing, “Hallelujah!“
At some date, before the end of the year, the Masterworks Chorale will be singing in the vespers chapel at the New Clairvaux Abby in Vina. (The chapel acoustics are incredible!)
November 16-23, is shoe box Collections Week for the Operation Christmas Child project of Samaritan’s Purse. Our local drop-off location will be Community Baptist Church at 598 Round-Up Ave. Red Bluff. Pam Price is the collection coordinator. For information as to how to prepare a shoe box gift visit http://www.samaritanspurse.org/
Make plans now to be a bell ringer for the Salvation Army in December. Call Major Frank Severs, and fill his food pantry to the brim. 527-8530 Donate coats, and other items for “Recycle the Warmth” hosted by Bethel Assembly in partnership with the Salvation Army.
Looking on to March 2010, New Hope Foursquare Church will present the Brickyard Creek Christian Film Festival. The purpose will be to provide a unique venue for viewing short films produced by Christian filmmakers. More information is posted at
www.lifeandtimesofjay.blogspot.com
But first, I want to share that my family and I spent our Labor Day weekend at Joshua Fest, an annual three-day Christian music festival at the Plumas District Fairground in Quincy. After a one year hiatus, the festival returned this year better than ever. Let it be known, far and wide, that Joshua Fest is on for next year! I encourage all youth leaders to make plans to take a bunch of kids to the event next year. Visit http://www.joshuafest.net/
I am pleased to say that our fair city of Red Bluff was well represented at the music festival by several dedicated volunteers. Rick and Melanie Lytle arrived in Quincy early in the week to help with set up for the event. Throughout the festival, the couple assisted in the management of the AIR1.com Main Stage. They moved sound equipment, and handled many last minute details for a smooth transition between music groups. After the last band performed late on the final night, Rick and Melanie helped with the “tear down”. Working through the night, into the next day, the Lytles were among the last to leave the grounds.
Matt and Tonya Tatro, Rich and Gretchen Davidson, Larry and Chaunda Jensen were among a group of 15 volunteers from Bethel Assembly of God who served with the “around the clock” security team. Many thanks to all who gave of their time to serve at this wonderful event.-Joshua Fest’09
The memories of the festival are still fresh in my mind. I think of the Biblical patriarch-Joshua. Who, at a crossroad in his life and culture, he determined, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord!” (Joshua 24:15) May that be my resolve and yours, in all the decisions we make.
We are now in October, with less than three months until we start writing 2010 to indicate the current year. If you’re like me, you’re asking, “Where did the days go?”.
October has been designated “Pastor Appreciation Month”. I hope each church congregation will honor their pastor in some way, during this month, and during the other 11 months of the year. Please include your pastor’s family in all the celebration. Cook their favorite meal, buy that thing everyone knows they need, landscape their yard, or have their vehicles serviced. Be creative in your blessing to each of them.
If your church, or one you frequently visit, is planning a kid’s ministry activity for Oct. 31st, as a safe alternative to neighborhood “trick or treat” tours through the busy streets-
please support the ministry activity. Don’t wait to be asked-jump in to volunteer, especially, if you’re taking your kids there. Be part of the event’s success. Prepare a snack, roam the parking lot, help with clean-up, etc.
If you love to sing, you can join the Masterworks chorale, and orchestra lead by Pastor Mark Franklin. The chorale is open to all singers in high school and beyond. Auditions are not required to join the other 60-plus voices in song. Weekly rehearsals are Monday, 6:45-8:30 p.m. at the Red Bluff Presbyterian Church at Hickory and Jefferson Streets.
The chorale has a concert coming up Sunday, November 8th at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church. They will perform the Solemn Mass in A by Cesar Franck.
In December, the chorale and orchestra will present the ‘Messiah” by George F. Handel. at the First Church of God, This annual performance is a local Christmas tradition Jackson and Luther Rd. Be there, to stand and sing, “Hallelujah!“
At some date, before the end of the year, the Masterworks Chorale will be singing in the vespers chapel at the New Clairvaux Abby in Vina. (The chapel acoustics are incredible!)
November 16-23, is shoe box Collections Week for the Operation Christmas Child project of Samaritan’s Purse. Our local drop-off location will be Community Baptist Church at 598 Round-Up Ave. Red Bluff. Pam Price is the collection coordinator. For information as to how to prepare a shoe box gift visit http://www.samaritanspurse.org/
Make plans now to be a bell ringer for the Salvation Army in December. Call Major Frank Severs, and fill his food pantry to the brim. 527-8530 Donate coats, and other items for “Recycle the Warmth” hosted by Bethel Assembly in partnership with the Salvation Army.
Looking on to March 2010, New Hope Foursquare Church will present the Brickyard Creek Christian Film Festival. The purpose will be to provide a unique venue for viewing short films produced by Christian filmmakers. More information is posted at
www.lifeandtimesofjay.blogspot.com
Monday, September 21, 2009
Update-Brickyard Creek Christian Film Festival
Today has been an exciting day. I received a favorable reply from BIOLA University in LA (Bible Institute Of Los Angeles). March 20, 2010, I hope to feature many films produced by BIOLA students at the first annual Brickyard Creek Christian film festival. I have seen the trailers from a couple of films produced in BIOLA students-we are in for a terrific weekend of film viewing.
My hope is that others will be encouraged to produce quality Christian films. Hallelujah !!
My hope is that others will be encouraged to produce quality Christian films. Hallelujah !!
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Brickyard Creek Christian Film Festival -March 2010
Red Bluff, Ca.
The Brickyard Christian Film Festival is in the works for March 2010 at New Hope Foursquare Church. Christian Film-Creators-professional, future-professional, high school and college, are welcome to send films. Short and longer films -drama, comedy, action films, etc. Animated films would be neat too.
This festival will not be a competition, but a celebration of the art of producing Christian films. Depending on the number, and length of films selected it is our desire to present a two day event.
I have received email responses from a number of film creators-we are in for a fabulous weekend. There is a lot of excellent work being done out there !
I am interested in viewing festival winners, and any film you think should have won.
The Brickyard Christian Festival will have no entry submission fees, and we will not be charging admission. I hope to secure sponsorship from local businesses, and snacks, and soda during the event.
The purpose of the Brickyard Christian Film Festival is to create a unique annual venue here to draw individuals to the Lord Jesus Christ, and the ministry of His Church. Looking forward to hearing from many and display your work that glorifies the Lord Jesus Christ. jlauriem@att.net
If you are a filmmaker looking to link with others in film production, fellowship and assistance go to www.christianfilmmakers.org
The Brickyard Christian Film Festival is in the works for March 2010 at New Hope Foursquare Church. Christian Film-Creators-professional, future-professional, high school and college, are welcome to send films. Short and longer films -drama, comedy, action films, etc. Animated films would be neat too.
This festival will not be a competition, but a celebration of the art of producing Christian films. Depending on the number, and length of films selected it is our desire to present a two day event.
I have received email responses from a number of film creators-we are in for a fabulous weekend. There is a lot of excellent work being done out there !
I am interested in viewing festival winners, and any film you think should have won.
The Brickyard Christian Festival will have no entry submission fees, and we will not be charging admission. I hope to secure sponsorship from local businesses, and snacks, and soda during the event.
The purpose of the Brickyard Christian Film Festival is to create a unique annual venue here to draw individuals to the Lord Jesus Christ, and the ministry of His Church. Looking forward to hearing from many and display your work that glorifies the Lord Jesus Christ. jlauriem@att.net
If you are a filmmaker looking to link with others in film production, fellowship and assistance go to www.christianfilmmakers.org
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Steve's Bible Study
Every Saturday morning, 7:30 a.m., at The Feedbag Grill on S. Main St. in Red Bluff, you can find a small group that meets for a study of the Bible. Several groups use the restaurant’s room off to the side each week-including another Bible study group that meets at 7:30 a.m. each Tuesday morning.
I am rather partial to the Saturday morning study group that is lead by my older brother, Stephen. My work schedule does not allow me to be there regularly. When I can attend, I am always greeted with friendly, familiar faces, an interesting Bible study session, and plenty of hot coffee poured by Betty.
Then, there is Steve-with his overloaded tote bag, equipped with copies of multiple versions of the Bible, commentaries, expository dictionary, lexicon, maps, Bible encyclopedia-and his notebooks. Ah, yes, the notebooks! Over the years, Steve has filled 20 spiral-bound college rule notebooks with handwritten notations, recording the treasures he has discovered and mined from the pages of the Holy Bible. One can tell that Steve aims to give a thorough presentation. The man comes prepared!
In earlier days, Steve was involved in leading three separate study sessions on various days each week, focusing on a different book of the Bible with each group.
My brother, Steve has a really laid-back teaching style, but there is no question that he is passionate about communicating the truth of God’s Word in a practical way. His method is to cross-reference and carefully compare Bible passages. There is also ample opportunity for discussion too.
Steve works the graveyard shift at our local Raley’s Store. Each Saturday morning, after a night of work, Steve faithfully sets off toward The Feedbag Grill, a few blocks away. Leading this weekly study speaks to me of his diligence, and dedication to God’s Word, and his deep concern for those who attend.
Steve is on a personal, verse by verse trek through the scriptures. This is a Bible study with a history! His “journey” started with Genesis 1:1 back in 1983. What began as a Thursday night, after-work Bible study, at the request of employees at Francisco's Mexican Restaurant, has continued for nearly three decades. Back in the day, Steve was a cook and I washed dishes.
Steve, with his wife Laura, and daughter Ashley, enjoy fellowship at Bethel Assembly of God in Red Bluff.
Steve’s Bible study session is an informal “come as you are” meeting, where everyone is welcome. Some need to leave early in the hour, as others arrive later. Some stay afterward, to eat breakfast. (I like the “Trail Boss”.) While others head off to do their list of Saturday morning projects. Either way, a Bible study is a great way to start the day.
The location of his Bible study session, and the participants have changed with time, but Steve has stayed with it, sharing gained insight each week- chapter by chapter.
I recently discovered a newspaper article I had written some years ago about Steve’s Bible study for the North State edition of the Christian Times. In April 2000, Steve concluded a reading of the Old Testament book of Joshua.
Paul, the Apostle gave an invitation to his student Timothy, which recorded in the New Testament. It reads “Study to show yourself approved unto God, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15.) Please consider this also, a personal invitation from me to you.
As we approach the middle of 2009, Steve is currently studying the Old Testament book of 2 Samuel. So, make your way to The Feedbag Grill early some Saturday morning around 7:30 a.m. Grab a cup of coffee, open your Bible, and enjoy!
I am rather partial to the Saturday morning study group that is lead by my older brother, Stephen. My work schedule does not allow me to be there regularly. When I can attend, I am always greeted with friendly, familiar faces, an interesting Bible study session, and plenty of hot coffee poured by Betty.
Then, there is Steve-with his overloaded tote bag, equipped with copies of multiple versions of the Bible, commentaries, expository dictionary, lexicon, maps, Bible encyclopedia-and his notebooks. Ah, yes, the notebooks! Over the years, Steve has filled 20 spiral-bound college rule notebooks with handwritten notations, recording the treasures he has discovered and mined from the pages of the Holy Bible. One can tell that Steve aims to give a thorough presentation. The man comes prepared!
In earlier days, Steve was involved in leading three separate study sessions on various days each week, focusing on a different book of the Bible with each group.
My brother, Steve has a really laid-back teaching style, but there is no question that he is passionate about communicating the truth of God’s Word in a practical way. His method is to cross-reference and carefully compare Bible passages. There is also ample opportunity for discussion too.
Steve works the graveyard shift at our local Raley’s Store. Each Saturday morning, after a night of work, Steve faithfully sets off toward The Feedbag Grill, a few blocks away. Leading this weekly study speaks to me of his diligence, and dedication to God’s Word, and his deep concern for those who attend.
Steve is on a personal, verse by verse trek through the scriptures. This is a Bible study with a history! His “journey” started with Genesis 1:1 back in 1983. What began as a Thursday night, after-work Bible study, at the request of employees at Francisco's Mexican Restaurant, has continued for nearly three decades. Back in the day, Steve was a cook and I washed dishes.
Steve, with his wife Laura, and daughter Ashley, enjoy fellowship at Bethel Assembly of God in Red Bluff.
Steve’s Bible study session is an informal “come as you are” meeting, where everyone is welcome. Some need to leave early in the hour, as others arrive later. Some stay afterward, to eat breakfast. (I like the “Trail Boss”.) While others head off to do their list of Saturday morning projects. Either way, a Bible study is a great way to start the day.
The location of his Bible study session, and the participants have changed with time, but Steve has stayed with it, sharing gained insight each week- chapter by chapter.
I recently discovered a newspaper article I had written some years ago about Steve’s Bible study for the North State edition of the Christian Times. In April 2000, Steve concluded a reading of the Old Testament book of Joshua.
Paul, the Apostle gave an invitation to his student Timothy, which recorded in the New Testament. It reads “Study to show yourself approved unto God, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15.) Please consider this also, a personal invitation from me to you.
As we approach the middle of 2009, Steve is currently studying the Old Testament book of 2 Samuel. So, make your way to The Feedbag Grill early some Saturday morning around 7:30 a.m. Grab a cup of coffee, open your Bible, and enjoy!
Thursday, May 21, 2009
My Son for the World
This is a fictional story, but one that illustrates a great spiritual truth. jay
Just imagine this....
The day is over, you are driving home. You tune in your radio. You hear a little blurb about a little village in India where some villagers have died suddenly, strangely, of a flu that has never been seen before. It's not influenza, but three or four fellows are dead, and it's kind of interesting, and they're sending some doctors over there to investigate it. You don't think much about it, but on Sunday, coming home from church, you hear another radio spot. Only they say it's not three villagers, it's 30,000 villagers in the back hills of this particular area of India, and it's on TV that night. CNN runs a little blurb; people are heading there from the disease center in Atlanta because this disease strain has never been seen before.
By Monday morning when you get up, it's the lead story. For it's not just India; it's Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, and before you know it, you're hearing this story everywhere and they have coined it now as "the mystery flu". The President has made some comment that he and everyone are praying and hoping that all will go well over there. But everyone is wondering, "How are we going to contain it?"
That's when the President of France makes an announcement that shocks Europe. He is closing their borders. No flights from India, Pakistan, or any of the countries where this thing has been seen. And that's why that night you are watching a little bit of CNN before going to bed. Your jaw hits your chest when a weeping woman is translated from a French news program into English: "There's a man lying in a hospital in Paris dying of the mystery flu." It has come to Europe. Panic strikes. As best they can tell, once you get it, you have it for a week and you don't know it. Then you have four days of unbelievable symptoms. And then you die.
Britain closes it's borders, but it's too late. South Hampton, Liverpool, North Hampton, and it's Tuesday morning when the President of the United States makes the following announcement "Due to a national security risk, all flights to and from Europe and Asia have been canceled. If your loved ones are overseas, I'm sorry. They cannot come back until we find a cure for this thing."
Within four days our nation has been plunged into an unbelievable fear. People are selling little masks for your face. People are talking about what if it comes to this country, and preachers on Tuesday are saying, "It's the scourge of God."
It's Wednesday night and you are at a church prayer meeting when somebody runs in from the parking lot and says, "Turn on a radio, turn on a radio." And while the church listens to a little transistor radio with a microphone stuck up to it, the announcement is made. "Two women are lying in a Long Island hospital dying from the mystery flu." Within hours it seems, this thing just sweeps across the country. People are working around the clock trying to find an antidote. Nothing is working. California. Oregon. Arizona. Florida. Massachusetts. It's as though it's just sweeping in from the borders.
Then, all of a sudden the news comes out. The code has been broken. A cure can be found. A vaccine can be made. It's going to take the blood of somebody who hasn't been infected, and so, sure enough, all through the Midwest, through all those channels of emergency broadcasting, everyone is asked to do one simple thing "Go to your downtown hospital and have your blood type taken. That's all we ask of you. And when you hear the sirens go off in your neighborhood, please make your way quickly, quietly, and safely to the hospitals."
Sure enough, when you and your family get down there late on that Friday night, there is a long line, and they've got nurses and doctors coming out and pricking fingers and taking blood and putting labels on it. Your wife and your kids are out there, and they take your blood type and they say, "Wait here in the parking lot and if we call your name, you can be dismissed and go home."
You stand around scared with your neighbors, wondering what in the world is going on, and if this is the end of the world. Suddenly a young man comes running out of the hospital screaming. He's yelling a name and waving a clipboard.
What? He yells it again! And your son tugs on your jacket and says, "Daddy, that's me."
Before you know it, they have grabbed your boy. "Wait a minute, hold it!" And they say, "It's okay, his blood is clean. His blood is pure. We want to make sure he doesn't have the disease. We think he has got the right type."
Five tense minutes later, out come the doctors and nurses, crying and hugging one another - some are even laughing. It's the first time you have seen anybody laugh in a week, and an old doctor walks up to you and says, "Thank you, sir. Your son's blood type is perfect. It's clean, it is pure, and we can make the vaccine."
As the word begins to spread all across that parking lot full of folks, people are screaming and praying and laughing and crying. But then the gray-haired doctor pulls you and you wife aside and says, "May we see you for a moment? We didn't realize that the donor would be a minor and we need . . . we need you to sign a consent form." You begin to sign and then you see that the number of pints of blood to be taken is empty. "H-h-h-how many pints?" And that is when the old doctor's smile fades and he says, "We had no idea it would be a little child. We weren't prepared. We need it all!"
" But -but..."
"You don't understand. We are talking about the world here. Please sign. We - we need it all - we need it all!"
"But can't you give him a transfusion?"
"If we had clean blood we would. Can you sign? Would you sign?"
In numb silence you do. Then they say, "Would you like to have a moment with him before we begin?"
Can you walk back? Can you walk back to that room where he sits on a table saying, "Daddy? Mommy? What's going on?" Can you take his hands and say, "Son, your mommy and I love you, and we would never ever let anything happen to you that didn't just have to be. Do you understand that?" And when that old doctor comes back in and says, "I'm sorry, we've - we've got to get started. People all over the world are dying."
Can you leave? Can you walk out while he is saying, "Dad? Mom? Dad? Why - why have you forsaken me?" And then next week, when they have the ceremony to honor your son, and some folks sleep through it, and some folks don't even come because they go to the lake, and some folks come with a pretentious smile and just pretend to care. Would you want to jump up and say, "My Son Died! Don't You Care?" Is that what He wants to say? "My Son Died. Don't You Know How Much I Care?
"Father, seeing it from your eyes breaks our hearts. Maybe now we can begin to comprehend the great love you have for us. Amen."
Author Unknown but a Special Thanks to Doris E. Howie
A Story that Needs No Further Comments..
Father, thank you for your unspeakable gift.. Your Son. Thank you for paying such a great price that we might be saved. There could be no greater price paid and you did it for us. Our words fail.. But we want you to know our gratitude and our humbleness before the glory of your love and compassion for us.. Thank you, O' Lord, thank you.
This was copied from a church website without permission:
Orange Hills Assembly • 2910 N. Santiago Blvd., Orange, CA 92867 • 714.974.7333
I will remove it, if contacted by the ministry. No harm intented, as I liked the content posted above.
Just imagine this....
The day is over, you are driving home. You tune in your radio. You hear a little blurb about a little village in India where some villagers have died suddenly, strangely, of a flu that has never been seen before. It's not influenza, but three or four fellows are dead, and it's kind of interesting, and they're sending some doctors over there to investigate it. You don't think much about it, but on Sunday, coming home from church, you hear another radio spot. Only they say it's not three villagers, it's 30,000 villagers in the back hills of this particular area of India, and it's on TV that night. CNN runs a little blurb; people are heading there from the disease center in Atlanta because this disease strain has never been seen before.
By Monday morning when you get up, it's the lead story. For it's not just India; it's Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, and before you know it, you're hearing this story everywhere and they have coined it now as "the mystery flu". The President has made some comment that he and everyone are praying and hoping that all will go well over there. But everyone is wondering, "How are we going to contain it?"
That's when the President of France makes an announcement that shocks Europe. He is closing their borders. No flights from India, Pakistan, or any of the countries where this thing has been seen. And that's why that night you are watching a little bit of CNN before going to bed. Your jaw hits your chest when a weeping woman is translated from a French news program into English: "There's a man lying in a hospital in Paris dying of the mystery flu." It has come to Europe. Panic strikes. As best they can tell, once you get it, you have it for a week and you don't know it. Then you have four days of unbelievable symptoms. And then you die.
Britain closes it's borders, but it's too late. South Hampton, Liverpool, North Hampton, and it's Tuesday morning when the President of the United States makes the following announcement "Due to a national security risk, all flights to and from Europe and Asia have been canceled. If your loved ones are overseas, I'm sorry. They cannot come back until we find a cure for this thing."
Within four days our nation has been plunged into an unbelievable fear. People are selling little masks for your face. People are talking about what if it comes to this country, and preachers on Tuesday are saying, "It's the scourge of God."
It's Wednesday night and you are at a church prayer meeting when somebody runs in from the parking lot and says, "Turn on a radio, turn on a radio." And while the church listens to a little transistor radio with a microphone stuck up to it, the announcement is made. "Two women are lying in a Long Island hospital dying from the mystery flu." Within hours it seems, this thing just sweeps across the country. People are working around the clock trying to find an antidote. Nothing is working. California. Oregon. Arizona. Florida. Massachusetts. It's as though it's just sweeping in from the borders.
Then, all of a sudden the news comes out. The code has been broken. A cure can be found. A vaccine can be made. It's going to take the blood of somebody who hasn't been infected, and so, sure enough, all through the Midwest, through all those channels of emergency broadcasting, everyone is asked to do one simple thing "Go to your downtown hospital and have your blood type taken. That's all we ask of you. And when you hear the sirens go off in your neighborhood, please make your way quickly, quietly, and safely to the hospitals."
Sure enough, when you and your family get down there late on that Friday night, there is a long line, and they've got nurses and doctors coming out and pricking fingers and taking blood and putting labels on it. Your wife and your kids are out there, and they take your blood type and they say, "Wait here in the parking lot and if we call your name, you can be dismissed and go home."
You stand around scared with your neighbors, wondering what in the world is going on, and if this is the end of the world. Suddenly a young man comes running out of the hospital screaming. He's yelling a name and waving a clipboard.
What? He yells it again! And your son tugs on your jacket and says, "Daddy, that's me."
Before you know it, they have grabbed your boy. "Wait a minute, hold it!" And they say, "It's okay, his blood is clean. His blood is pure. We want to make sure he doesn't have the disease. We think he has got the right type."
Five tense minutes later, out come the doctors and nurses, crying and hugging one another - some are even laughing. It's the first time you have seen anybody laugh in a week, and an old doctor walks up to you and says, "Thank you, sir. Your son's blood type is perfect. It's clean, it is pure, and we can make the vaccine."
As the word begins to spread all across that parking lot full of folks, people are screaming and praying and laughing and crying. But then the gray-haired doctor pulls you and you wife aside and says, "May we see you for a moment? We didn't realize that the donor would be a minor and we need . . . we need you to sign a consent form." You begin to sign and then you see that the number of pints of blood to be taken is empty. "H-h-h-how many pints?" And that is when the old doctor's smile fades and he says, "We had no idea it would be a little child. We weren't prepared. We need it all!"
" But -but..."
"You don't understand. We are talking about the world here. Please sign. We - we need it all - we need it all!"
"But can't you give him a transfusion?"
"If we had clean blood we would. Can you sign? Would you sign?"
In numb silence you do. Then they say, "Would you like to have a moment with him before we begin?"
Can you walk back? Can you walk back to that room where he sits on a table saying, "Daddy? Mommy? What's going on?" Can you take his hands and say, "Son, your mommy and I love you, and we would never ever let anything happen to you that didn't just have to be. Do you understand that?" And when that old doctor comes back in and says, "I'm sorry, we've - we've got to get started. People all over the world are dying."
Can you leave? Can you walk out while he is saying, "Dad? Mom? Dad? Why - why have you forsaken me?" And then next week, when they have the ceremony to honor your son, and some folks sleep through it, and some folks don't even come because they go to the lake, and some folks come with a pretentious smile and just pretend to care. Would you want to jump up and say, "My Son Died! Don't You Care?" Is that what He wants to say? "My Son Died. Don't You Know How Much I Care?
"Father, seeing it from your eyes breaks our hearts. Maybe now we can begin to comprehend the great love you have for us. Amen."
Author Unknown but a Special Thanks to Doris E. Howie
A Story that Needs No Further Comments..
Father, thank you for your unspeakable gift.. Your Son. Thank you for paying such a great price that we might be saved. There could be no greater price paid and you did it for us. Our words fail.. But we want you to know our gratitude and our humbleness before the glory of your love and compassion for us.. Thank you, O' Lord, thank you.
This was copied from a church website without permission:
Orange Hills Assembly • 2910 N. Santiago Blvd., Orange, CA 92867 • 714.974.7333
I will remove it, if contacted by the ministry. No harm intented, as I liked the content posted above.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Brickyard Creek Christian Film Festival-
I am looking for Christian Films to feature at a film festival here in Red Bluff, Ca. This is not a film competition, but an opportunity to display your work in an outreach setting.
If you are a film producer, or a film student, and have made film that you would like to have shown here, please reply to jlauriem@att.net Thank you.
If you are a film producer, or a film student, and have made film that you would like to have shown here, please reply to jlauriem@att.net Thank you.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
"The Cross" film scheduled for Anderson, Ca. Friday April 24th.
The Cross" movie will open on Friday April 24th at the Prime Cinemas in Anderson, Ca at the Factory Outlet stores complex.
It is important to note that the attendance number at the movie's opening day will determine how long it will be shown. In my recent conversation I had with Arthur Blessitt by phone, he made it clear that "The Cross" is an evangelistic movie. In his words "This is not a ' faith-based, read-between-the-lines' production." "It is a 'Jesus movie' that lifts up the cross".
"The Cross" movie premiere was at the Gauman's/Mann's Chinese Theater in Hollywood on March 24th, 2008. Back on May 18, 1927 the theater opened its doors for the first time with the premiere of Cecil B. DeMille's film The King of Kings. Before the showing, owner Sid Grauman read passages of scripture from the four Gospels. The poster for the film displayed actor H.B. Warner carrying a cross.
After 82 years, the cross returned to Hollywood this year with a red carpet welcome. The poster picture for the "The Cross" is a snapshot of Arthur Blessitt walking with the cross. The photo was taken by American hunters in the Darien Gap, a thick stretch of jungle between Columbia and Panama in Central America.
The film has the potential of making as greater personal impact than "The Passion of the Christ" by Mel Gibson. According to Matthew Barnett of Angelus Temple/The Dream Center ministry-Los Angeles, Ca. -"The Cross" is the best evangelistic movie that has ever been made."
Please forward this to all you can. This is the perfect opportunity for each Christian to take the unsaved and the luke-warm to this movie. My prayer is that all who see the film will be touched by the Holy Spirit, and will commit their lives to Christ- that they will "glory in the cross".
http://www.thecrossmovie.com/ http://www.8x.com/ -check these sites as more theater dates will be added later
http://www.blessitt.com -The Official site of Arthur Blessitt
I have posted a recent article about the "The Cross" under my God Talk postings on this site.
It is important to note that the attendance number at the movie's opening day will determine how long it will be shown. In my recent conversation I had with Arthur Blessitt by phone, he made it clear that "The Cross" is an evangelistic movie. In his words "This is not a ' faith-based, read-between-the-lines' production." "It is a 'Jesus movie' that lifts up the cross".
"The Cross" movie premiere was at the Gauman's/Mann's Chinese Theater in Hollywood on March 24th, 2008. Back on May 18, 1927 the theater opened its doors for the first time with the premiere of Cecil B. DeMille's film The King of Kings. Before the showing, owner Sid Grauman read passages of scripture from the four Gospels. The poster for the film displayed actor H.B. Warner carrying a cross.
After 82 years, the cross returned to Hollywood this year with a red carpet welcome. The poster picture for the "The Cross" is a snapshot of Arthur Blessitt walking with the cross. The photo was taken by American hunters in the Darien Gap, a thick stretch of jungle between Columbia and Panama in Central America.
The film has the potential of making as greater personal impact than "The Passion of the Christ" by Mel Gibson. According to Matthew Barnett of Angelus Temple/The Dream Center ministry-Los Angeles, Ca. -"The Cross" is the best evangelistic movie that has ever been made."
Please forward this to all you can. This is the perfect opportunity for each Christian to take the unsaved and the luke-warm to this movie. My prayer is that all who see the film will be touched by the Holy Spirit, and will commit their lives to Christ- that they will "glory in the cross".
http://www.thecrossmovie.com/ http://www.8x.com/ -check these sites as more theater dates will be added later
http://www.blessitt.com -The Official site of Arthur Blessitt
I have posted a recent article about the "The Cross" under my God Talk postings on this site.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
ARTHUR BLESSITT-ONE MAN, ONE CROSS, ONE MISSION
Arthur Blessitt is on a continuing mission. His 38 years of carrying a cross are chronicled in his book, “The Cross”. “The Cross”, a feature film will open in theaters on March 27th.
CNN News and Time Magazine have reported Arthur’s travels. The Guinness Book of World Records verified thousands of miles walked, but only heaven has recorded countless names of those who have committed their lives to Jesus Christ along his trek around the world.
In the 1960’s, he was known to the Hell’s Angels, Black Panthers, hippies, and flower children of Hollywood, Ca, as the Minister of Sunset Strip.
At age 68, Arthur Blessitt does not suffer with ailments, soreness, or foot problems. He has never gotten sick from anything he has eaten or drank on his journey. He does however, bare physical marks from his mission. His right forearm has a scar from a guard dog attack at the border of Israel and Egypt. Baring the cross’s weight on his back over many miles has shaped the scapula bone of his right shoulder.
In his journal, Arthur recalls how the Lord Jesus spoke to him in 1969. “I want you to take the cross onto the roadsides and streets to identify My message with the common man. I am sending you to the world to bear witness of My life and My love, proclaiming My peace”.
Dottie Rambo’s gospel song “I will Glory in the Cross” was inspired by Arthur’s message and travels.
Starting Christmas Day 1969, Blessitt has carried a cross on every continent through 315 countries and major island groups-a total of 38,102 miles-including Antarctica. That distance is equal to 1 ½ times around the circumference of the equator, or over 76 million footsteps as of Aug.8, 2008.
Arthur Blessitt has spoken with several world leaders and individuals of every social and economic group. He has survived 52 wars, firing squads, beatings, and deadly jungles. His calling has been confirmed in his ability to gain access to take a cross to the world’s most unreachable of places.
In 1979, he walked through the Darien Gap of Central America. Few experienced outdoorsmen have made it through the stretch of treacherous jungle connecting Panama and Columbia. Arthur Blessitt made it through lugging a 12 ft., 45 lb., wooden cross!
In 1982, he marched alone through five fighting armies in West Beirut, Lebanon in order to pray with Yassir Arafat. This entire walk was captured live by CNN reporter Peter Arnet. One thing I find striking in Arthur’s story is the role his family had in shaping his destiny. When Arthur was age 7 yrs., an evangelist preached during a revival meeting under a brush arbor. The evangelist invited all for a prayer of commitment to Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sin and salvation. Arthur wanted to respond, but his mother held him back saying he was too young.
On the drive home, Arthur kept pleading, until his father turned the car around. Standing under a single light, Arthur surrendered his life to Jesus as the evangelist knelt beside him in the dirt.
Arthur’s family nurtured him as he responded to the message of Jesus Christ . At age 15, Arthur publicly declared his calling to preach the gospel. He learned then, that his father and grandfather, each at age 15, had both felt God’s call to preach. But, they did not go.
Arthur’s father prayed that Arthur receive a double blessing making up for what he himself did not do.
Arthur told his grandfather “Grandpa, You've got to pray for me three times as much, because daddy didn't preach either!"
Arthur Blessitt’s journey around the world is truly a fascinating story. The story of his early days, and what put him “out on the road” is equally incredible.
My prayer is: that parents pray with and for their children, encouraging them in beginning steps of faith in Christ-even if children do not seem to comprehend everything taught. I applaud children’s ministry workers in the spiritual battlefield for young hearts. There are crucial pivot points of decision, and tender moments of openness to God that may not come again.
God rewards faith; He builds on knowledge and understanding directed to Him.
It is chilling to think what could have happened on that night Arthur wanted to commit himself to Christ. If his father had not turned the truck around to go back, would Arthur have remained open to the God’s call? Would he have continued to pursue God then, or waited until he was older? Or rejected God because he was “too young”, or felt unworthy to be accepted?
Arthur’s father did turn the truck around! Lives have been forever changed worldwide.
Share Arthur Blessitt’s story from his Media Library link. Go see “The Cross” movie. http://www.blessitt.com/
CNN News and Time Magazine have reported Arthur’s travels. The Guinness Book of World Records verified thousands of miles walked, but only heaven has recorded countless names of those who have committed their lives to Jesus Christ along his trek around the world.
In the 1960’s, he was known to the Hell’s Angels, Black Panthers, hippies, and flower children of Hollywood, Ca, as the Minister of Sunset Strip.
At age 68, Arthur Blessitt does not suffer with ailments, soreness, or foot problems. He has never gotten sick from anything he has eaten or drank on his journey. He does however, bare physical marks from his mission. His right forearm has a scar from a guard dog attack at the border of Israel and Egypt. Baring the cross’s weight on his back over many miles has shaped the scapula bone of his right shoulder.
In his journal, Arthur recalls how the Lord Jesus spoke to him in 1969. “I want you to take the cross onto the roadsides and streets to identify My message with the common man. I am sending you to the world to bear witness of My life and My love, proclaiming My peace”.
Dottie Rambo’s gospel song “I will Glory in the Cross” was inspired by Arthur’s message and travels.
Starting Christmas Day 1969, Blessitt has carried a cross on every continent through 315 countries and major island groups-a total of 38,102 miles-including Antarctica. That distance is equal to 1 ½ times around the circumference of the equator, or over 76 million footsteps as of Aug.8, 2008.
Arthur Blessitt has spoken with several world leaders and individuals of every social and economic group. He has survived 52 wars, firing squads, beatings, and deadly jungles. His calling has been confirmed in his ability to gain access to take a cross to the world’s most unreachable of places.
In 1979, he walked through the Darien Gap of Central America. Few experienced outdoorsmen have made it through the stretch of treacherous jungle connecting Panama and Columbia. Arthur Blessitt made it through lugging a 12 ft., 45 lb., wooden cross!
In 1982, he marched alone through five fighting armies in West Beirut, Lebanon in order to pray with Yassir Arafat. This entire walk was captured live by CNN reporter Peter Arnet. One thing I find striking in Arthur’s story is the role his family had in shaping his destiny. When Arthur was age 7 yrs., an evangelist preached during a revival meeting under a brush arbor. The evangelist invited all for a prayer of commitment to Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sin and salvation. Arthur wanted to respond, but his mother held him back saying he was too young.
On the drive home, Arthur kept pleading, until his father turned the car around. Standing under a single light, Arthur surrendered his life to Jesus as the evangelist knelt beside him in the dirt.
Arthur’s family nurtured him as he responded to the message of Jesus Christ . At age 15, Arthur publicly declared his calling to preach the gospel. He learned then, that his father and grandfather, each at age 15, had both felt God’s call to preach. But, they did not go.
Arthur’s father prayed that Arthur receive a double blessing making up for what he himself did not do.
Arthur told his grandfather “Grandpa, You've got to pray for me three times as much, because daddy didn't preach either!"
Arthur Blessitt’s journey around the world is truly a fascinating story. The story of his early days, and what put him “out on the road” is equally incredible.
My prayer is: that parents pray with and for their children, encouraging them in beginning steps of faith in Christ-even if children do not seem to comprehend everything taught. I applaud children’s ministry workers in the spiritual battlefield for young hearts. There are crucial pivot points of decision, and tender moments of openness to God that may not come again.
God rewards faith; He builds on knowledge and understanding directed to Him.
It is chilling to think what could have happened on that night Arthur wanted to commit himself to Christ. If his father had not turned the truck around to go back, would Arthur have remained open to the God’s call? Would he have continued to pursue God then, or waited until he was older? Or rejected God because he was “too young”, or felt unworthy to be accepted?
Arthur’s father did turn the truck around! Lives have been forever changed worldwide.
Share Arthur Blessitt’s story from his Media Library link. Go see “The Cross” movie. http://www.blessitt.com/
Friday, January 02, 2009
Highway Missionaries-A ministry vision
In this year of 2009, I would like to step forward in a ministry called "Highway Misssionaries". The purpose would be to share the love of Jesus Christ through word and deed, as we assist motorists who travel the stretch of Interstate 5 -between Anderson, Ca. and Willows, Ca. The goal would be to provide needed resources, ie. fuel, a meal, repair, or lodging to those who are stranded because of difficulty on the freeway.
My prayer is, that in time, we can establish contacts with ministries within the region, and develop relationships with the California Highway Patrol, and towing services for opportunities to minister.
My prayer is, that in time, we can establish contacts with ministries within the region, and develop relationships with the California Highway Patrol, and towing services for opportunities to minister.
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