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Wednesday, April 11, 2007

 

Habitat for Humanity's 'Catholicos Karekin II Work Project' begins

Volunteers to help eradicate poverty housing in Armenia

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Duane Bates
HFHI in the United States
1-229-924-6935, ext. 3079
dbates@habitat.org
www.habitat.org/newsroom

Dominique Schärer
HFHI in Europe/Central Asia
+361-411-2170
dscharer@habitat.org

Gohar Palyan
HFH Armenia
+374 10 55 6114
gpalyan@hfharmenia.org

YEREVAN, Armenia (April 10, 2007) - Paint brushes, trowels and hammers will swing into action this week, as Habitat for Humanity begins to lift 37 families from poverty housing in Armenia.

The second annual Habitat for Humanity "Catholicos Karekin II Work Project" kicks off in Armenia today. Volunteers from around the globe will descend upon Armenia to build homes side by side with homeowner families, local sponsors, volunteers, dignitaries and monks from the Armenian Apostolic Church.

"The Armenian Apostolic Church is delighted to launch this event once again with Habitat for Humanity. It's not only a celebration of people coming together to help families in need, but it's also an important step toward removing the blight of poverty housing in Armenia," says Archbishop Vicken Aykazian of the Armenian Apostolic Church.

During building events around the country from April through October, 37 homes built in partnership with families in need will be completed in Armenia, symbolizing 36 worldwide dioceses, plus the Holy See. His Holiness, Karekin II, Catholicos of all Armenians, is expected to bless the event's official opening at the Etchmiadzin Gevorgyan seminary on April 10.

Churches and individuals are challenged to fully sponsor or to contribute to a home. The Catholicos Project Family Sponsorship Cost (FSC) for 2007 will be $7,360, which is an average for the cost of renovations, half-build homes and new construction.

The first building event kicks off with a volunteer team coming from the United States. The Habitat volunteers will be completing homes that were abandoned and left unfinished after the economic collapse in the early 1990s in Armenia where nearly half of the country still lives in poverty conditions.

The Haroyan family of the Khor Virap village is the first selected among the 37 families. Sahak, 43, and his wife Piruza, 36, are vegetable farmers currently residing in a neighbor's basement with their three children, ages 18, 16 and 14. Economic strife forced the family to live in the basement for seven years, as they have been unable to raise enough funds to complete their own home. Piruza suffers rheumatism in her legs due to the humidity. "If you help us, we will finish and move to our new house by the next winter," Piruza said to a visiting Habitat team.

The Armenian Church signed a historic partnership with Habitat for Humanity in April 2006, aimed to combat poverty housing in Armenia and worldwide. The first "Catholicos Karekin II Work Project" was held in Gavar, Armenia, where a building was renovated in partnership with 24 families, with an additional 13 homes built around the country.

In Michigan in 2005, the Catholicos participated in Habitat's annual home blitz build, the Jimmy Carter Work Project, where he met with President Carter. Following that, the Catholicos gave his blessing for a home-building event to be created and held in Armenia.

Armenia is a country of 3 million nestled in the southern Caucasus. Over the past decade, a devastating earthquake, conflict, the Soviet Union's collapse and a newfound independence have led to economic crisis. Thousands still live in metal "domiks," iron containers used for temporary earthquake relief, which act like refrigerators in the winter and boilers in the summer. Habitat for Humanity Armenia has been working with families in need since 2000 and provided homes in partnership with more than 1,000 people.

For more information about Habitat for Humanity in Armenia, visit:
www.hfharmenia.org.

About Habitat for Humanity International
Habitat for Humanity International is an ecumenical Christian ministry that welcomes to its work all people dedicated to the cause of eliminating poverty housing. Since its founding in Americus, Ga., in 1976, Habitat has built more than 225,000 houses in nearly 100 countries, providing simple, decent and affordable shelter for more than 1 million people. For more information, visit www.habitat.org.

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About Religion Press Release Services
Religion Press Release Services distributes press releases, press advisories, photos and other stories on behalf of religious organizations, denominational offices, think tanks, watchdog groups, advocacy groups, coalitions, foundations, colleges, universities, seminaries, publishers and others.

The organizations and/or individuals who submit materials for distribution by Religion Press Release Services are solely responsible for the facts in and accuracy of their materials. Religion Press Release Services will correct any errors brought to its attention.

Contact Us
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Friday, April 06, 2007

 

Thousands Leave the Largest Church in Illinois to Take Their Ministry to the Streets

In what will be the most ambitious, largest community outreach initiative, Rev. Senator James T. Meeks of Salem Baptist Church of Chicago and members from his 25,000 congregation will head to key neighborhoods across the city for 26 weeks to share and discover the true meaning of servanthood

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 5, 2007
NEWS RELEASE

For more information, please contact:
Tasha Harris, tharris@sbcoc.org
Communications Director
o: 773.371.2338, c:773-701-2732

CHICAGO (April 5, 2007) - Driven by the need to shake up the comfortable, yet unfulfilling routine of “church” and its uninspiring impact on congregations, Reverend Senator James T. Meeks will close the doors of Salem Baptist Church of Chicago, the largest African American church in the state of Illinois, on April 7 so he and members from his 25,000 congregation can head to the streets of Chicago to provide help in areas of greatest need.

Salem will kickoff Vision 2007, a 26-week community outreach initiative on Saturday, April 7 at 9:00 a.m. from the House of Hope, 752 E. 114th Street, Chicago. In what may very will be the most ambitious, largest community outreach initiative organized by a single organization, Vision 2007 will send church members to key communities and institution across the city to engage in 14 various projects that are all designed to build relationships with total strangers, demonstrate compassion and learn the values of giving without expecting anything in return. From April 7 through the end of September, members will designate Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 12 noon as their day of service. Instead of weekly Sunday school, members will engage in Service School where church members will apply their knowledge of the Bible’s command to help, give and serve. Instead of just hearing the Word of God, members will be empowered to “do” the Word.

“Church has become a football game that's never played. Imagine the frustration fans would feel if their favorite football team suits up for the game, goes into the huddle, gives the pre-game interview but never steps on the field to actually play,” said Reverend Senator James T. Meeks, who in addition to being a pastor, is a state senator. "Well that's the current routine of today's church. Members pack the pews, sing worship songs but never go into the streets to help the people God called on us to take care of such as the homeless, the sick, the hungry and the lonely. We're using Vision 2007 as an opportunity to close the church doors so we can go out and meet people right where they are. The people of Chicago can expect us on their block, in the streets, in the hospitals and the shelters. "

Key projects include Adopt-A-Block, which entails groups of six team members who will clean and tend to the needs of residents who reside on the 100 identified blocks in the 60628 zip code (surrounding area of the church). Whether it’s painting, raking leaves, assisting with household chores or providing essential food supplies, the Salem team will be there to accommodate.

Most projects will take place at ten targeted locations in the 60628 zip code, and will rotate over the 26 weeks. Other projects include:
Feed the Hungry: the goal is to distribute food for 5,000 families.
Clothing Drive: will distribute new and gently worn clothing to community residents
Health & Legal Services: this mobile unit will provide health screenings (HIV, diabetes, Blood pressure & cholesterol). Attorneys will also be on hand to provide legal assistance.
Mobile Sunday School: Fun and excitement, mixed with Biblical truths is in store for children when Salem’s ice cream truck hits targeted communities.
Prison Ministry: will conduct worship services and discussion groups at prisons throughout the state.
Shelter Visits: will help with repairs (plumbing, painting) as well as essential supplies
Nursing Home Visits: will conduct Sunday School classes at targeted facilities in place of holding them at church.
Senior Citizen Visits: will conduct Sunday School classes at targeted facilities in place of holding them at church, as well as provide essential supplies.
Sunday Shelter Visits: will conduct Sunday School classes at targeted facilities in place of holding them at church, as well as provide essential toiletries.
Youth Street Projects: Salem’s youth will reach out to community youth in a way they best know how – through shared activities and experiences with their peers
Mentoring Projects: will tutor and provide transitional assistance for 8th graders as they head to high school.
Hospital Visits – in partnership with hospitals across the city, will volunteer their time to help families deal with their medical crisis.
Housing Project- Salem men will build five new homes for first-time homebuyers.
Corner Prayer- individuals will saturate all corners in the 60628 zip code and pray for residents’ needs every Wednesday in the month of June.

For more information or to get involved with Vision 2007, please call 773-371-2300 ext. 400 or send an email to Vision2007@sbcoc.org.


About Salem Baptist Church
Salem Baptist Church of Chicago, under the leadership of the dynamic Reverend Senator James T. Meeks, is the largest African American church in Illinois with over 25,000 members and has been recognized as one of the fastest growing churches in the nation. The church serves as a beacon of peace and hope for countless thousands in Chicago’s Roseland community. With sincere compassion, genuine care and concern for people from all walks and backgrounds, Salem’s faith propels its congregants into action. Salem’s primary’s focus is to provide a spiritual, social and community outreach to serve and help others. For more information about Salem Baptist Church of Chicago, please visit www.sbcoc.org or call 773-371-2300.

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About Religion Press Release Services
Religion Press Release Services distributes press releases, press advisories, photos and other stories on behalf of religious organizations, denominational offices, think tanks, watchdog groups, advocacy groups, coalitions, foundations, colleges, universities, seminaries, publishers and others.

The organizations and/or individuals who submit materials for distribution by Religion Press Release Services are solely responsible for the facts in and accuracy of their materials. Religion Press Release Services will correct any errors brought to its attention.

Contact Us
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Religion News Service, 1101 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20036 (202) 463-8777

 

Religion & Ethics Newsweekly Program Listings for April 6, 2007

A Production of Thirteen/WNET New York

** MEDIA ADVISORY ** MEDIA ADVISORY ** MEDIA ADVISORY **


This week's edition of the PBS newsmagazine program RELIGION & ETHICS NEWSWEEKLY (distributed Friday, April 6 at 5 p.m., check local listings) will feature the following reports:

* Cover Story: "Easter Hope in New Orleans" - Kim Lawton revisits two New Orleans' ministers, profiled last season, for a look at how they're finding new meanings - and messages of hope - in this year's Easter celebration.

* Feature: "Volunteers in Tanzania" - Lucky Severson reports from Tanzania on how volunteers vacationing abroad are helping those in need in some of the world's poorest countries

To request a transcript of these reports, send an e-mail to schultzm@religionethics.org or go to the program Web site at http://www.pbs.org/wnet/religionandethics where the transcript and streaming video of each story will be available after 8:30 p.m. on Friday.

For information, contact:
Mary Schultz
Director of Communications
Religion & Ethics NewsWeekly
202-216-2394
schultzm@religionethics.org


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About Religion Press Release Services
Religion Press Release Services distributes press releases, press advisories, photos and other stories on behalf of religious organizations, denominational offices, think tanks, watchdog groups, advocacy groups, coalitions, foundations, colleges, universities, seminaries, publishers and others.

The organizations and/or individuals who submit materials for distribution by Religion Press Release Services are solely responsible for the facts in and accuracy of their materials. Religion Press Release Services will correct any errors brought to its attention.

Contact Us
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Religion News Service, 1101 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20036 (202) 463-8777

 

Vanderbilt professor writes about child care and spirituality

April 4, 2007
Media contact: Jim Patterson, (615) 322-NEWS
jim.patterson@vanderbilt.edu

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Some search for God in the contemplative routine of a monastery. Bonnie Miller-McLemore found the divine in piles of laundry, the sounds of her sons carousing in a playground and “the stench of a dirty diaper.”

“I would stand there caught in the intimacy of eye-to-eye, face-to-face, body-to-body contact with this small being, overwhelmed by a flow of love toward my sons that somehow did not feel restricted to them,” she writes in her new book In the Midst of Chaos: Caring for Children as Spiritual Practice.

The book is Miller-McLemore’s third about the spiritual potential of parenthood.

“These are not self-help pop psychology books where you finish them and feel worse about yourself because you aren’t the perfect parent,” said Miller-McLemore, the E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Professor of Pastoral Theology at Vanderbilt University Divinity School. “I’m hoping to provide affirmation and release, not pressure.

“I want to help people see the potential for deeper moral commitment and conviction in what they’re already doing.”

Though religious and spiritual searching tend to be associated more with solitude than Little League games and family chores, Miller-McLemore cites Martin Luther’s Protestant Reformation as a “remarkable beginning” to another perspective that feminist theologians have been exploring in recent decades.

“There is some deep ambivalence in traditional Christianity to family life,” she said. “There is a lot of celebrating of celibacy and Jesus exhorting his disciples to leave their families behind.

“But there is also the Jesus who welcomed children, blessed wedding wine and valued family.”

As part of the Reformation, Luther renounced his vow of celibacy, married a former nun and they together raised six children.

Miller-McLemore says Luther wrote of having to “rock the baby, wash its diapers, make its bed, smell its stench, stay up nights ...” He declared the duties as “adorned with divine approval as with the costliest gold and jewels.”

In a perfect world, even adults without biological children share in the duties and personal development of bringing up children, Miller-McLemore said.

“Adults are better and spiritually deeper if they’re in some relationship with children,” she said. “Most religious traditions make the point that you love your family but you don’t stop there. You build on that for the common good or wider community.”

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About Religion Press Release Services
Religion Press Release Services distributes press releases, press advisories, photos and other stories on behalf of religious organizations, denominational offices, think tanks, watchdog groups, advocacy groups, coalitions, foundations, colleges, universities, seminaries, publishers and others.

The organizations and/or individuals who submit materials for distribution by Religion Press Release Services are solely responsible for the facts in and accuracy of their materials. Religion Press Release Services will correct any errors brought to its attention.

Contact Us
To distribute press releases through Religion Press Release Services, contact Claudia Sans at csans@religionnews.com or 202-383-7870. For more information check out our PDF brochure.

Religion News Service, 1101 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20036 (202) 463-8777

Thursday, April 05, 2007

 

Pew Forum Launches Religion & Politics '08

New online resource features survey data, religious biographies and stances on key issues

For Immediate Release
Contact: Burke Olsen, 202-419-4564

WASHINGTON - April 3, 2007 - The Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life today unveiled Religion & Politics '08 - a new online resource that features survey findings and religious biographies for both parties' major presidential candidates.

A unique feature also allows users to compare summaries of the candidates' positions on a dozen values-laden issues, such as abortion, gay marriage and the Iraq war.

"Religion has already become a major issue in news coverage and discussions about the next presidential election," says Pew Forum Director Luis Lugo. "Our goal is to provide up-to-date, reliable and impartial information on religion and the 2008 elections."

To help launch Religion & Politics '08, Pew Forum Senior Fellow John Green analyzes a recent Pew Research Center for the People & the Press survey revealing presidential preferences, at this stage of the campaign, of white evangelical Republicans, white non-Hispanic Catholics and white mainline Protestants.

Religion & Politics '08 debuts with profiles of three Democrats (Hillary Clinton, John Edwards and Barack Obama) and three Republicans (Rudolph Giuliani, John McCain and Mitt Romney). Additional candidate profiles will be forthcoming.

The Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life delivers timely, impartial information to national opinion leaders on issues at the intersection of religion and public affairs; it also serves as a neutral venue for discussion of these matters. The Forum is a project of the Pew Research Center, a nonpartisan "fact tank" that provides information on the issues, attitudes and trends shaping America and the world. For more information, visit www.pewforum.org.


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About Religion Press Release Services
Religion Press Release Services distributes press releases, press advisories, photos and other stories on behalf of religious organizations, denominational offices, think tanks, watchdog groups, advocacy groups, coalitions, foundations, colleges, universities, seminaries, publishers and others.

The organizations and/or individuals who submit materials for distribution by Religion Press Release Services are solely responsible for the facts in and accuracy of their materials. Religion Press Release Services will correct any errors brought to its attention.

Contact Us
To distribute press releases through Religion Press Release Services, contact Claudia Sans at csans@religionnews.com or 202-383-7870. For more information check out our PDF brochure.

Religion News Service, 1101 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20036 (202) 463-8777

 

FAIR Corrects Misinformation from Anti-Mormon DVD

"Search for the Truth" video distorts and fabricates history and teachings

CONTACT:
Scott Gordon
PO Box 491677
Redding, CA 96049
(530) 356-2070
fairpresident@fairlds.org

The Foundation for
Apologetic Information
and Research (FAIR)

Redding, California - April 2, 2007 - The Foundation for Apologetic Information and Research (FAIR) announced today it has made information available online to correct various misrepresentations and fabrications about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormon) that are being propagated through a DVD titled "Jesus Christ/Joseph Smith." Corrections to the video are available at www.josephsmithdvd.org, a web site created by FAIR. Press editors and others are encouraged to review the corrected information when reporting on the video.

Beginning on March 25th, the DVD was distributed primarily to members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) through various organizations including "Concerned Christians" as well as through a coalition website listed as GoodNewsforLDS.org.

"The film unfortunately is highly inaccurate in its portrayals of key Mormon beliefs and practices, and severely distorts Mormon history," stated Scott Gordon, president of FAIR. "It is merely a rehashing of long refuted attacks against the LDS Church, except this time it is being characterized by its producers as a Christian outreach to Mormons."

Most of the videos were left at the doors of LDS homes, while some were left on the windshields of vehicles parked in church lots during Sunday services. DVDs have been distributed in Utah, Idaho, Washington, Texas, New York, Alberta, British Columbia and various other locations.

The Anti-Defamation League (ADL), a watchdog group that monitors hate speech against Jewish and other groups, had previously identified "Concerned Christians" as being "Mormon bashers" when the group similarly distributed an anti-Mormon video "The God Makers." The ADL has denounced this latest anti-Mormon video as well. "It was wrong then, and it's wrong now" (see http://www.adl.org/PresRele/ChJew_31/5013_31.htm).

About FAIR

FAIR, or the Foundation for Apologetic Information and Research, is a tax exempt 501 (C) 3 Corporation staffed by faithful members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints seeking to defend the Mormon Church, its leaders, teachings, and practices from inaccurate or deceitful claims of critics. It operates websites at www.fairlds.org.

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About Religion Press Release Services
Religion Press Release Services distributes press releases, press advisories, photos and other stories on behalf of religious organizations, denominational offices, think tanks, watchdog groups, advocacy groups, coalitions, foundations, colleges, universities, seminaries, publishers and others.

The organizations and/or individuals who submit materials for distribution by Religion Press Release Services are solely responsible for the facts in and accuracy of their materials. Religion Press Release Services will correct any errors brought to its attention.

Contact Us
To distribute press releases through Religion Press Release Services, contact Claudia Sans at csans@religionnews.com or 202-383-7870. For more information check out our PDF brochure.

Religion News Service, 1101 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20036 (202) 463-8777

 

“Christ The Lord: Out Of Egypt” To Shoot In Israel This October

Los Angeles, CA – March 30, 2007 – CHRIST THE LORD: OUT OF EGYPT, the motion picture based on Anne Rice’s best-selling novel about Christ’s early years, will begin shooting in Israel this October. Good News Holdings’ decision to make the film in Israel has the full support of the Israeli government and casting has begun in Israel to find the boy who will play Jesus at the age of 7. A theatrical release is planned for Fall 2008.

The Consul General of Israel in Los Angeles, Ehud Danoch, said: “We are pleased that Good News Holdings chose Israel as the location for the making of this movie. Israel has much to offer filmmakers in general and is obviously the most suitable backdrop for films of a religious nature, specifically films dealing with Christian history.”

David Kirkpatrick, co-founder of Good News Holdings, said “It was always important to Anne Rice that we make every effort to be authentic to the cultural context in which Jesus grew up. We felt the best way to match her exhaustive background research on Jesus’ life and times was by shooting the film in Israel.”

CHRIST THE LORD: OUT OF EGYPT tells the story of Jesus Christ at age seven as he and his family depart Egypt to return home to Nazareth. Told from his childhood perspective, it movingly celebrates the character and strength of the young Jesus as he grows into his religious identity. Its many highlights include Jesus coming to terms with the circumstances of His birth in Bethlehem and his growing realization of his calling. Set in a turbulent era against the backdrop of Roman domination, the story brings to life day to day Jewish life during the era of Second Temple Judaism. From the beauty of worship in the largest temple of the ancient world to the regular prayers and readings of Jewish family life, Rice’s research included the latest publications in archaeology, geography and social history, as well as intense biblical study.

Good News Holdings is planning to announce a director, key casting and production hires as well as the theatrical distributor in coming months.

Los Angeles-based Good News Holdings is a multimedia studio specializing in the development and distribution of Spiritainment.

Publicity Contact:
Good News Holdings
Martin Blythe
mblythe@socal.rr.com
TEL 818.906.2448

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About Religion Press Release Services
Religion Press Release Services distributes press releases, press advisories, photos and other stories on behalf of religious organizations, denominational offices, think tanks, watchdog groups, advocacy groups, coalitions, foundations, colleges, universities, seminaries, publishers and others.

The organizations and/or individuals who submit materials for distribution by Religion Press Release Services are solely responsible for the facts in and accuracy of their materials. Religion Press Release Services will correct any errors brought to its attention.

Contact Us
To distribute press releases through Religion Press Release Services, contact Claudia Sans at csans@religionnews.com or 202-383-7870. For more information check out our PDF brochure.

Religion News Service, 1101 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20036 (202) 463-8777

 

Matt Lanter Signs As Dudleytown Lead For Good News Holdings

First ever Christian teen horror film to shoot in Connecticut this May

Publicity Contact:
Good News Holdings
Martin Blythe
mblythe@socal.rr.com
TEL 818.906.2448

Los Angeles, CA – March 30, 2007 – Matt Lanter (Commander-in-Chief) signs on today to star as the lead in Good News Holdings’ horror/thriller DUDLEYTOWN, due out theatrically this Fall. Lanter is also known for his recurring roles in Heroes and Shark and recently finished production in the starring role of Will Farmer in MGM’s feature film War Games 2: The Dead Code.

In DUDLEYTOWN, Lanter -- as Bodie Ingelvie-- leads a small band of teenagers into the heart of the legendary forest in Dudleytown, Connecticut. The movie is being directed by Greg Michael and produced by Dave Steward II at Good News Holdings, a privately held multimedia company.

Dudleytown is a legendary historic 1000 acre hamlet located near Cornwall, Connecticut. The demonologists who first wrote about the legendary Amityville Horror have written extensively about the Dudleytown legend: ghosts, demonic possessions, madness, suicide and life-threatening skin diseases. These occurrences largely have been attributed to a 400-year-old satanic curse effectuated by King Henry VIII on the heirs of Edmund Dudley, whose sons left England and founded the township in Connecticut.

“The characters in Bodie Ingelvie’s journals are compelling and unforgettable,” says David Kirkpatrick, co-founder of Good News Holdings. “The young characters are struggling with self-excoriation (or cutting), addiction to internet porn, violence, self-esteem and trying to find their place in the world. Bodie Ingelvie emerges as a true hero for a thirsty world.”

“The Journals were so ground breaking in what we call the New Horror genre that they captured the attention of Thomas Nelson,” says Good News partner Thom Black.

The first of the three journals from Bodie Ingelvie is in bookstores this July, from Thomas Nelson, Inc., the sixth largest publisher in the world. In addition, Realbuzz Studios will publish a line of graphic novels, focusing on the back-stories of several of the characters featured in the journals due out this Christmas.

A major youth initiative will take place in the fall of 2007 involving as many as 10,000 youth leaders that will actually feature the books and clips from the upcoming movie as tools to educate and inform teenagers.

Mitch Smelkinson of Stone, Meyer, Genow, Smelkinson and Binder brokered the deal on behalf of Matt Lanter, who is repped by Abrams Artists Agency and managed by Faras Rabadi of Emerald Talent Group.

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About Religion Press Release Services
Religion Press Release Services distributes press releases, press advisories, photos and other stories on behalf of religious organizations, denominational offices, think tanks, watchdog groups, advocacy groups, coalitions, foundations, colleges, universities, seminaries, publishers and others.

The organizations and/or individuals who submit materials for distribution by Religion Press Release Services are solely responsible for the facts in and accuracy of their materials. Religion Press Release Services will correct any errors brought to its attention.

Contact Us
To distribute press releases through Religion Press Release Services, contact Claudia Sans at csans@religionnews.com or 202-383-7870. For more information check out our PDF brochure.

Religion News Service, 1101 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20036 (202) 463-8777

 

FREE Stained Glass Sourcebook Available Now!

Sourcebook 2007, a publication of The Stained Glass Association of America (SGAA), is now available in an enhanced edition on CD-ROM and available as a download from www.stainedglass.org.

The Sourcebook was created for architects, churches, liturgical consultants and others who commission, maintain or work with stained glass. In the new enhanced CD format, we have been able to include even more information to assist you in learning about beauty of architectural stained glass and the studios that produce it.

The CD features articles about the types of stained glass, selecting and working with stained glass craftspeople, stained glass repair and restoration, the programs of and membership in the SGAA, and an all-new article on the spirituality of stained glass. Full color pages of portfolio advertising by Accredited Members of the SGAA illustrate the breadth of the architectural stained glass arts.

Sourcebook 2007 is free to any church, institution or architect. To request yours, call (800) 438.9581 or email: headquarters@sgaaonline.com. The Sourcebook can also be found on our web site at www.stainedglass.org.

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About Religion Press Release Services
Religion Press Release Services distributes press releases, press advisories, photos and other stories on behalf of religious organizations, denominational offices, think tanks, watchdog groups, advocacy groups, coalitions, foundations, colleges, universities, seminaries, publishers and others.

The organizations and/or individuals who submit materials for distribution by Religion Press Release Services are solely responsible for the facts in and accuracy of their materials. Religion Press Release Services will correct any errors brought to its attention.

Contact Us
To distribute press releases through Religion Press Release Services, contact Claudia Sans at csans@religionnews.com or 202-383-7870. For more information check out our PDF brochure.

Religion News Service, 1101 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20036 (202) 463-8777

 

Prison Ministry Helps To Reverse The Effects Of Mom’s Mistakes

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact:
Dr. David Schuringa
President and CEO
Crossroad Bible Institute
Phone: 1-800-668-2450
Fax: 616-530-1302
rachelle@crossroadbible.org
www.crossroadbible.org

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. March 29, 2007—On May 13th America will celebrate the positive impact mothers have on the lives of their children. Moms of little tots will plaster their refrigerators with scribbled creations while mothers of adult children will find their mailboxes and answering machines filled with messages of love and appreciation. None dispute that the nurture, training, influence and love of mothers can catapult a person into a healthy and successful life.

However, as thousands of people behind bars know first-hand, the wrong choices of a mother can create enormous obstacles in the life of a child. Compared to 2 out of 1,000 people in the general public, 1 out of 4 behind bars suffer from Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS). Because their mothers drank while pregnant, these people have obvious physical characteristics of the disease, and/or mental disability.

As research on this topic continues, more connections can be made between pregnant mothers drinking and their children ending up in jail. In addition to those who possess the physical and mental symptoms of FAS, thousands more behind bars suffer from the social, emotional and developmental effects of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) or Fetal Alcohol Effects (FAE). Recent research reports that over 50% of people in prison may have some form of FAS, and Dr. David Schuringa, president of international prison ministry Crossroad Bible Institute, estimates that this figure may be as high as 80% for repeat offenders.

The symptoms of FASD and FAE include behavioral problems, emotional immaturity, poor abstract thinking skills, inability to foresee consequences and communication deficiencies. It is not hard to imagine that many children born with these diseases end up struggling through school, unable to hold a job, brushing with the law and eventually behind bars.

Crossroad Bible Institute, a non-profit organization reaching people in prison with faith-based reentry education, seeks to help these sufferers of FAS and its related diseases. CBI’s program links imprisoned people with caring mentors who correct their lessons and respond with letters of encouragement. Through consistently completing CBI’s courses, students slowly develop the skills required for successful reentry. Rather than continuing to repeat the destructive patterns of their disease, CBI students with FAS, FASD or FAE are equipped for successful integration into society. With curriculum that encourages the development of spiritual disciplines and practical skills, CBI is reaching out to the sufferers of a mother’s poor judgment or ignorance with the truth of the Bible.

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About Religion Press Release Services
Religion Press Release Services distributes press releases, press advisories, photos and other stories on behalf of religious organizations, denominational offices, think tanks, watchdog groups, advocacy groups, coalitions, foundations, colleges, universities, seminaries, publishers and others.

The organizations and/or individuals who submit materials for distribution by Religion Press Release Services are solely responsible for the facts in and accuracy of their materials. Religion Press Release Services will correct any errors brought to its attention.

Contact Us
To distribute press releases through Religion Press Release Services, contact Claudia Sans at csans@religionnews.com or 202-383-7870. For more information check out our PDF brochure.

Religion News Service, 1101 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20036 (202) 463-8777

 

7 Ways To Get People Involved In Your Church

Reach People and Help Them Grow with Online Ministry Tools

Media Contact:
Lauren Hunter Public Relations
(916) 838-2184
lauren@laurenhunter.net

MEMPHIS, TN, March XX, 2007— To reach people and help them grow, you have to get them involved. But the more events that you have, the more potential there is for confusion and frustration, for your staff and your members and visitors. The right system and processes will significantly reduce the time it takes your staff to manage events, registrations, volunteers, etc. The result is more time spent in ministry instead of administration. Here are 7 ways that your church can get more people involved:

1. MAKE YOUR EVENT CALENDAR OPEN TO COMMUNITY
One survey found that 70% of church website visitors were seeking event information. Show the latest event information on your site, instantly and automatically updated to reflect any changes. Each department or ministry should have its own calendar, making it easy for people to find information that matches their interests.

2. USE EVENT TICKETS ONLINE & ON-SITE
People expect convenience everywhere they go. Offer the convenience of ordering tickets to concerts, Christmas programs, Easter services, and more by offering online tickets for church events right on your website. Give your staff the ability to use the same system to take ticket orders in your lobby. Provide the flexibility of paying online with credit cards or virtual checks. Allow online purchasers to print e-tickets, request them by mail, or pick them up at will-call.

3. REACH THEM WITH E-MAIL
Why make people come to your website to get information? Send them an e-mail each week with the exact event information they are interested in. Give each subscriber a list of upcoming events that match personal interests (youth, sports, music, etc.).

4. REGISTER FOR YOUR EVENTS ANYTIME, ANYWHERE
Give people the convenience of anytime, anywhere event registration through your website for Bible studies, Retreats, Youth Trips, or any events. Regardless of ministry, people can visit your website anytime day or night and let you know what events they’ll be attending, making it possible to get more accurate numbers for head counts and future planning. You can even take registration fees online.

5. CUSTOMIZE YOUR COMMUNICATIONS
Let visitors to your site subscribe to your e-newsletter, choosing to receive only information from the ministries that interest them. Automatically send a personalized e-newsletter to each subscriber every week that includes news for each selected department, plus a personalized list of events based on their interests. After the messages are sent, determine which information and events attract the most interest by viewing reports showing which recipients opened their message and which links they clicked.

6. USE RESERVED SEAT TICKETS AS AN OUTREACH TOOL
Tickets can be a powerful tool for outreach; however, a general admission ticket is anonymous. A reserved seat creates a deeper commitment – the person knows that the seat will be empty if he or she does not attend. Reserved seating also eliminates the hassles of finding a seat or meeting a friend.

7. MAKE GIVING CONVENIENT
Some people have jobs or other commitments that keep them from attending church regularly. Let contributors set up and manage their giving through your church website. Enable each person to have total control of his or own giving. Automatically send an e-mail reminder before each contribution is made.

*Tim Whitehorn is the founder and CEO of ServiceU Corporation. Serving churches since 1999, ServiceU (www.serviceu.com) is the leader in online event management software used by churches, schools, ministries and all types of nonprofit organizations. ServiceU’s product line includes three core products: EventU provides a way to easily manage event scheduling and registration; TransactU allows organizations to accept online payments and donations; TicketU is a solution for online ticketing and box office management. For more information, email info@serviceu.com or call 1-888-638-7439.

*To reprint article, contact Lauren Hunter at lauren@laurenhunter.net.

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Religion News Service Unveils New Columnist Lineup

Contact: Kevin Eckstrom, Editor
Kevin.eckstrom@religionnews.com
(202) 383-7864

WASHINGTON (April 1, 2007) - Religion News Service (RNS) is proud to announce its new lineup of regular columnists to offer insightful, provocative and illuminating views into the role of religion in American life.

The new columnists include Phyllis Zagano, Cathleen Falsani and Dick Staub. They will join popular RNS columnists Tom Ehrich and Rabbi A. James Rudin.

"We wanted to diversify our columnist lineup, so we scoured the country to find some of the most creative and thought-provoking writers for our subscribers," said RNS Editor Kevin Eckstrom. "Each of them brings a fresh perspective on the intersection of faith, culture and spirituality in contemporary American life."

Tom Ehrich will continue his popular weekly column every Tuesday. Phyllis Zagano and Cathleen Falsani will alternate on Wednesdays, and Dick Staub and Rabbi Rudin will alternate on Thursdays.

Tom Ehrich is a writer, church consultant and Episcopal priest in Durham, N.C. He is the author of "Just Wondering, Jesus: 100 Questions People Want to Ask," and the founder of the Church Wellness Project. His Web site is www.morningwalkmedia.com.

Phyllis Zagano is senior research associate-in-residence at Hofstra University on Long Island. She is the author of several books in Catholic studies, including the award-winning "Holy Saturday: An Argument for the Restoration of the Female Diaconate in the Catholic Church." One of her first RNS columns landed her a spot on Fox's "The O'Reilly Factor."

Cathleen Falsani is the award-winning columnist for the Chicago Sun-Times. Her book, "The God Factor: Inside the Spiritual Lives of Public People," was published in 2006. Cathleen was the 2005 Supple Religion Writer of the Year by the Religion Newswriters Association. Her upcoming book is "Sin Boldly: A Field Guide for Grace." Her "The Dude Abides" blog can be read at http://falsani.blogspot.com.

Dick Staub is an award-winning broadcaster, writer, and speaker whose work focuses on the intersection of faith and culture. He is the host of The Kindlings Muse, (www.thekindlings.com) and is author of "The Culturally Savvy Christian: A Manifesto for Deepening Faith and Enriching Popular Culture in an Age of Christianity-Lite," "Christian Wisdom of the Jedi Masters" and "Too Christian, Too Pagan."

Rabbi A. James Rudin is the senior interreligious adviser for the American Jewish Committee and author of "The Baptizing of America: The Religious Right's Plans for the Rest of Us." He is also a visiting professor of religion at Saint Leo University in Saint Leo, Fla.


Religion News Service is the only secular wire service focused exclusively on religion, ethics, spirituality and moral issues. A large worldwide network of correspondents, stringers and columnists delivers syndicated news and opinion daily to more than 100 major daily newspapers, including The Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post, The New York Times and USA Today. In addition to such media organizations as Time magazine, Newsweek, National Public Radio and PBS, hundreds of award-winning magazines, broadcasters, religious publications and Web sites subscribe to the service.

RNS also provides a photo service with thousands of current and stock photos and graphics. RNS is part of Newhouse News Service, which is owned by Advance Publications Inc.

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Religion Press Release Services distributes press releases, press advisories, photos and other stories on behalf of religious organizations, denominational offices, think tanks, watchdog groups, advocacy groups, coalitions, foundations, colleges, universities, seminaries, publishers and others.

The organizations and/or individuals who submit materials for distribution by Religion Press Release Services are solely responsible for the facts in and accuracy of their materials. Religion Press Release Services will correct any errors brought to its attention.

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Amor Ministries is voted one of the Best Christian Places to Work of 2007

March 27, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Alon Banks, Director of Development, alonb@amor.org, 619.247.4828

Palm Springs, CA – March 15, 2007 – Amor Ministries was announced as a finalist for the Best Christian Places to Work of 2007 at the Christian Management Association Conference in Palm Springs, California.

Amor Ministries, founded in 1980 by Scott and Gayla Congdon, is a non-profit organization that works in the border cities of Mexico. Amor strives to provide education and mission experiences that change people, eradicate spiritual and physical poverty, and impact the future of the church. This happens through a number of different programs, which support the families in Mexico, including house building, a back-to-school program, house sponsorship opportunities, and a food bank.

The Best Christian Workplaces Institute (BCWI) conducted a survey involving more than 11,000 employees in 93 organizations across the United States to identify great workplaces with a Christian mission and/or values. In addition to the 5th annual awards ceremony held at the CMA Conference in Palm Springs, CA, the top 40 survey finalists will be listed on ChristianityToday.com.

Based on the survey, the Best Christian Places to Work in the United States are characterized by leadership teams that demonstrate integrity and compassion for their employees. One employee from Amor Ministries states “Amor Ministries has incredible leadership. Our CEO sets the tone and it is very clear that it carries down to all the departments. My supervisor is continually encouraging me and looking for ways they can incorporate my strengths on a daily basis. In addition, the culture is like a family with complete honesty, love, and tons of fun! This is an incredible place to work and I consider it a privilege to be able to come to this place every day.”

These survey results exemplify Amor Ministries as demonstrating high levels of employee engagement. Al Lopus, President of BCWI states, “This engagement translates into growing performance outcomes positively benefiting the quality of our global society. Further research indicates five unique drivers of employee engagement: 1) commitment for learning, 2) culture of character, 3) competence of management, 4) climate for action, and 5) fair total compensation. Leaders in these workplaces are engaging their people by enabling personal growth and building responsive and adaptable organizations while meeting their employees’ expectations for character, competence and transparency.”

“It is a thrill and an honor to have Amor Ministries recognized as one of the top Christian places to work! We strive to empower our employees to be highly successful, and I am incredibly proud of each individual that works to make Amor an exciting, dedicated, and fun place to serve,” shares co-founder and CEO, Scott Congdon.

Amor Ministries Website : http://www.amor.org/

Christianity Today website: http://ChristianityToday.com/ctmag/

To schedule an interview on this press release, contact Alon Banks at (619) 247.4828.

For more information about the survey log on to http://www.bcwinstitute.com or contact Al Lopus, (206) 230-8111 or alopus@bcwinstitute.com.

# # #

Best Christian Workplaces Institute’s purpose is to serve faith-based organizations by creating processes of discovery, facilitating organizational and leadership alignment, and encouraging practices that build healthy, effective workplaces.

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Religion Press Release Services distributes press releases, press advisories, photos and other stories on behalf of religious organizations, denominational offices, think tanks, watchdog groups, advocacy groups, coalitions, foundations, colleges, universities, seminaries, publishers and others.

The organizations and/or individuals who submit materials for distribution by Religion Press Release Services are solely responsible for the facts in and accuracy of their materials. Religion Press Release Services will correct any errors brought to its attention.

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Film Premiere Attracts Major League Baseball’s Biggest Stars

“Champions of Faith: Baseball” Showcases the Intersection of America’s Favorite Pastime and Deep Faith

FOR INFORMATION CONTACT: (678) 990-9032;
Lisa Wheeler Ext. 102, c: (404) 519-1987, lwheeler@maximusmg.com;
Ashley Walker Ext. 109, c: (404) 791-9725, awalker@maximusmg.com

Phoenix, AZ March 26, 2007 – The Arizona Desert set the stage Sunday night for the World Premiere of a breathtaking new film featuring the biggest stars in Major League Baseball. Champions of Faith: Baseball is a stunning sports special which depicts America’s favorite pastime as a metaphor for life.

Major League Baseball champions Mike Piazza, Jeff Suppan and Mike Sweeney attended the debut screening that unveiled an All-Star line-up of baseball greats speaking frankly about how their faith has shaped their Major League Baseball careers. The 60-minute movie tells the story of faith-in-baseball like no other film ever made.

Designated Hitter for the Oakland A’s and twelve-time All-Star Mike Piazza was visibly moved. “This is not just a sports film,” Piazza said. “It’s a work of art.” Shot in breathtaking hi-definition video and set to a rousing musical score, the soundtrack features Grammy-award winning band Third Day and legendary recording artist Bob Dylan. Champions of Faith: Baseball serves to humanize some of the most celebrated and accomplished ballplayers of our time and restore the "sports hero" to its proper place in American culture.

Champions of Faith: Baseball provides an emotionally powerful, action-packed glimpse into what makes a baseball player -- and a human being -- great. Featured in the film are some two-dozen leading players, managers and coaches who speak frankly about family, sacrifice, leadership, humility and the many virtues and spiritual lessons they have learned from the game.

Mike Sweeney, Captain of the Kansas City Royals and five-time All-Star was overwhelmed by the story told in Champions of Faith - Baseball. “Champions of Faith is a treasure that will inspire others for generations. I have never, in my entire life, been more proud to be part of a fraternity or cast of men like this,” said Sweeney.

Tom Allen, President and Editor-in-Chief of Catholic Exchange, saw great potential in a film featuring baseball and faith. Working with John Morales, veteran sports broadcaster, its full potential as a film with broad appeal across the Christian world and the secular mainstream was realized. "Making Champions of Faith has been one of the most challenging and exhilarating experiences of my life,” says Allen who served as the film’s producer and director. “It’s my hope that the film touches every household in America the way it has already touched mine."

Champions of Faith: Baseball will be available on DVD next month in both English and Spanish subtitle formats just after Opening Day of the Major League Baseball Season. Visit www.ChampionsofFaith.com for a complete list of the players, managers and coaches who participated in the project.

To schedule an interview with one of the Major League Players, Allen or Morales, please contact Wheeler or Walker at (678) 990-9032. High-Resolution images from the screening are available for media outlets as well as “B” roll and video-interviews with players.

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Religion Press Release Services distributes press releases, press advisories, photos and other stories on behalf of religious organizations, denominational offices, think tanks, watchdog groups, advocacy groups, coalitions, foundations, colleges, universities, seminaries, publishers and others.

The organizations and/or individuals who submit materials for distribution by Religion Press Release Services are solely responsible for the facts in and accuracy of their materials. Religion Press Release Services will correct any errors brought to its attention.

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Orientale Lumen IX West Conference in San Diego, CA June 25 - 28, 2007

Press Release

Date: March 26, 2007
Contact: Jack Figel (703) 691-8862
President
Eastern Christian Publications

For Immediate Release

Fairfax VA: The Orientale Lumen Conferences will be held in four different cities around the world this coming year. These ecumenical conferences focus on the Christian East and are open to the public, for both lay persons and clergy. The well known presenters come from four main religious groups: Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, Eastern Catholic and Oriental Orthodox. These conferences encourage ecumenical dialogue (discussion of the similarities and differences among the groups) on a specific theme through presentations and discussions. The conferences include a variety of prayer services, from a wide range of Church traditions. In this way, the conferences provide a learning experience and intellectual discussion, as well as a unique spiritual experience.

The goals, then, of the Orientale Lumen Conferences are to:
-- educate and promote information about the Eastern Christian Churches, their traditions, liturgy, spirituality, monasticism, theology, and more
-- provide an unofficial forum for ecumenical dialogue at the "grass roots" level among lay persons and clergy, as well as include senior Church officials and theologians who normally participate in official dialogues.

Orientale Lumen XI West will be held in San Diego, CA June 25 - 28, 2007, at the beautiful University of San Diego Campus overlooking Mission Bay. The theme of this year's conference will be "Icons - Expressions of Our Faith". Icons represent the stories, people, and events of the church, and guide the spiritual thought and experience for many people. They are found in all human activity, and are helpful visual guides for each person, sometimes differently for each person. They can be touchstones of beauty and inspiration, used with many caring and devoted purposes for all of us. The speakers will discuss the conference theme from the perspectives of their own traditions.

The distinguished speakers and guests are from around the world:

Metropolitan Nicholas of Amissos, Carpatho-Russian Orthodox Church, Johnstown, PA, USA
Bishop Kallistos of Diokleia, Oxford, United Kingdom, (by recorded video from Constantinople)
Archimandrite Robert Taft, SJ, Pontifical Oriental Institute, Rome, Italy
Father Mark Morozowich, The Catholic University of America, Washington, DC, USA
Prof. Richard Schneider, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Metropolitan Gerasimos, Greek Orthodox Church of North America, San Francisco, CA, USA
Father Thomas Loya, Annunciation Byzantine Catholic Church, Chicago, IL, USA

The moderator will be Rev. Msgr. George Dobes, US Navy Chaplain Corps, Retired, Washington, DC, USA.

Each speaker will give a plenary session followed by a panel discussion and questions from the audience. All of the papers presented will be published and provided to the attendees in a Proceedings book after the conference. A variety of liturgical services will be conducted during the conference to provide an opportunity for attendees to pray together for Church unity. Opening and closing remarks will also be made by various Church leaders in attendance.

Church leaders, lay persons, monastics, clergy and students are all welcome and invited to participate. These conferences have been appreciated and discussed all across the world, and have been mentioned in meetings among the religious leaders in the Vatican, the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, the Greek Catholic Patriarchate of Antioch, and many others.

The Pope's visit to Istanbul in November, 2006, as well as the official dialogue of Catholic and Orthodox Churches that was held in September, 2006, demonstrate the improved relations among the Christian Churches. The Orientale Lumen conferences function in an unofficial capacity parallel to those official discussions. They are unique because of the extensive participation of lay persons, and because of the involvement of Eastern Catholics -- a small minority within the Catholic Church, and who are rarely represented at other dialogue meetings.

The OL XI West Conference is one of the four OL Conferences held this year. It follows the EuroEast Conference II which will be held May 7 - 10, 2007 in Istanbul, and the OL XI East Conference held in Washington, DC. Both OL Conference XI East and West will have the theme of "Icons - Expressions of Our Faith".

The fourth Orientale Lumen Conference this year will be in Melbourne, Australia, on September 26 - 29, 2007. The theme will be "The Life in Christ."

The Orientale Lumen Conferences have been meeting annually since 1997 in Washington, DC and other locations around the world. Primarily sponsored by the Society of Saint John Chrysostom and Eastern Christian Publications, other co-sponsors include the Halki School of Orthodox Theology in Constantinople, the Pontifical Oriental Institute in Rome, the Catholic University of America in Washington, DC, and the University of San Diego, in San Diego, CA.

Registration details are available on the website: www.olconference.com.

Contact:
Jack Figel
Orientale Lumen Conferences
PO Box 192
Fairfax, VA 22038-0192
(703) 691-8862
info@olconference.com

For further information:
Society of Saint John Chrysostom: www.ssjc.org
Eastern Christian Publications: www.ecpubs.com
The Catholic University of America: www.cua.edu
The University of San Diego: www.sandiego.edu

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The organizations and/or individuals who submit materials for distribution by Religion Press Release Services are solely responsible for the facts in and accuracy of their materials. Religion Press Release Services will correct any errors brought to its attention.

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The Life Of Meaning: Reflections On Faith, Doubt, And Repairing The World

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Kelly Hughes
kelly@dechanthughes.com
312-280-8126

Ruth Weiner
ruth@sevenstories.com
212-226-8760

“This is a feast of ideas and insights, a banquet of hard-won wisdom to which you can return time and again when your heart yearns for inspiration and your intellect for illumination.”
—Bill Moyers

“This is a rich feast of accumulated wisdom.”
—Publishers Weekly, starred review

The Life of Meaning
REFLECTIONS ON FAITH, DOUBT, AND REPAIRING THE WORLD

Bob Abernethy and William Bole
And the contributors to PBS’
Religion & Ethics Newsweekly


“This rich, meaningful book is, literally, an answer to your prayers or, if you prefer, a fascinating journey through the labyrinth of questions we all have about life, faith, God, choices and doubts…. Bob Abernethy and William Bole have done us all a great favor with this collection….”
—Tom Brokaw, from the Foreword


Extraordinary people will say extraordinary things, especially when it is Bob Abernethy and his team at PBS’s Religion and Ethics NewsWeekly doing the asking. The Life of Meaning (Seven Stories Press, April 28, 2007) presents 59 extraordinary contributors speaking candidly about their search for meaning in their own personal lives, their experience of God, and for some, the struggle to reconcile faith and doubt. They include Jimmy Carter, Francis Collins, The Dalai Lama, Robert Franklin, Irving Greenberg, Seyyed Hossein Nasr, Harold Kushner, Anne Lamott, Madeleine L’Engle, Thomas Lynch, Martin Marty, Mark Noll, Rachel Remen, Marilynne Robinson, Barbara Brown Taylor, Studs Terkel, Thich Nhat Hanh, Phyllis Tickle, Desmond Tutu, Jean Vanier, Marianne Williamson and many others.

Be it Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s simple description of a presence like a warm fire, or Reverend William Sloane Coffin affirming that “the glory of God [is] a human being fully alive,” whether it is Eileen Durkin’s view that “grace is everywhere,” or Rabbi Irving Greenberg seeking a system of belief that can withstand the violence of the contemporary world, the voices in The Life of Meaning describe the ways in which individual leaps of faith can repair the world—and ourselves.

Religion & Ethics NewsWeekly, which Bob Abernethy conceived for PBS in 1997 and anchors, has been described as “the best spot on the television landscape to take in the broad view of the spiritual dimension of American life . . .” by the Christian Science Monitor. “Finally,” wrote the San Francisco Chronicle, “something intelligent on TV about religion.” In The Life of Meaning, the core ideas of the program are collected for the first time in book form.

Before launching the series, Bob Abernethy served as a correspondent for NBC News for more than four decades, reporting from Washington, Los Angeles, London, and Moscow. He lives in Washington, D.C. William Bole’s articles have appeared in the Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, and Commonweal magazine. A research fellow of the Woodstock Theological Center at Georgetown University and an editorial consultant at Boston College, he lives in Andover, Massachusetts.


The Life of Meaning
Reflections on Faith, Doubt, and Repairing the World
Seven Stories Press
April 28, 2007
$29.95 / Hardcover / 6.75 X 9.25
ISBN-13: 978-1-58322-758-9

For further information, contact:

Kelly Hughes, 312-280-8126 or kelly@dechanthughes.com
Ruth Weiner, 212-226-8760 or ruth@sevenstories.com




Praise for The Life of Meaning:


“A noted theologian (Paul Tillich) has said that religion is a search for the truth about our relationship with God and our fellow human beings. This book will help us in that search."
—Jimmy Carter


“Some books—almost all books, in fact—are for reading. Only occasionally is there that stately book which is so substantial and yet so open and present, that it is for being with. This is a book for being with.... The Life of Meaning is more infused with wisdom than any I have seen in many, many a year."
—Phyllis Tickle


“Many of us have been commenting much about a spiritual hunger at work beyond the walls of organized religion. In assembling these probing reflections on life and meaning Bob Abernethy and William Bole have prepared a marvelous feast for the hungry.”
—Richard J. Mouw, President, Fuller Theological Seminary


“If you want to know how a wide and divergent array of thoughtful Americans understand and practice their religious faith, no other one book can tell you more than this collection of honest and often powerfully moving reflections.”
—Peter Steinfels, Co-director, Fordham Center on Religion and Culture and religion columnist for the New York Times

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About Religion Press Release Services
Religion Press Release Services distributes press releases, press advisories, photos and other stories on behalf of religious organizations, denominational offices, think tanks, watchdog groups, advocacy groups, coalitions, foundations, colleges, universities, seminaries, publishers and others.

The organizations and/or individuals who submit materials for distribution by Religion Press Release Services are solely responsible for the facts in and accuracy of their materials. Religion Press Release Services will correct any errors brought to its attention.

Contact Us
To distribute press releases through Religion Press Release Services, contact Claudia Sans at csans@religionnews.com or 202-383-7870. For more information check out our PDF brochure.

Religion News Service, 1101 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20036 (202) 463-8777

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About Religion Press Release Services
Religion Press Release Services distributes press releases, press advisories, photos and other stories on behalf of religious organizations, denominational offices, think tanks, watchdog groups, advocacy groups, coalitions, foundations, colleges, universities, seminaries, publishers and others. The organizations and/or individuals who submit materials for distribution by Religion Press Release Services are solely responsible for the facts in and accuracy of their materials. Religion Press Release Services will correct any errors brought to its attention.

Contact Us
To distribute press releases through Religion Press Release Services, contact Claudia Sans at csans@religionnews.com or 202-383-7870. For more information check out our PDF brochure.

Religion News Service, 1101 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20036 (202) 463-8777

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