At Vatican Financial Trial, Cardinal Becciu Says He Is Not Afraid of the Truth

March 18, 2022

Vatican Scandal — FILE - In this Feb. 9, 2017 file photo, Mons. Giovanni Angelo Becciu presides over an eucharistic liturgy, at the St. John in Latheran Basilica, in Rome. The powerful head of the Vatican's saint-making office, Cardinal Angelo Becciu, has resigned from the post and renounced his rights as a cardinal amid a financial scandal that has reportedly implicated him indirectly. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia, File)

VATICAN CITY (RNS) — With his “head held high,” Cardinal Angelo Becciu testified at the Vatican’s blockbuster financial trial on Thursday (March 17), declaring his innocence against charges of embezzlement, abuse of power and witness tampering with a “clear conscience.”

“I wish to declare here immediately with the strength and transparency of my conscience: I never meant for a euro, or even a cent, that I managed or was aware of, to be subtracted, ill-used or destined for goals that weren’t exclusively institutional,” said Becciu in his opening remarks before being questioned by the Vatican judges.

Becciu was substitute, the Vatican’s equivalent of chief of staff, from 2011 to 2018 and later headed its department overseeing the making of saints. Pope Francis stripped him of his rights as a cardinal — though not his title — in February 2020 after reports tied Becciu to a controversial investment into luxury real estate in London made with a Vatican fund destined for charity known as Peter’s Pence.

Ten individuals, including Becciu, have been accused by Vatican prosecutors of having defrauded the Catholic Church of over $200 million. The former substitute is also charged with mismanaging Catholic and Vatican funds that were allegedly paid to an intelligence consultant named Cecilia Marogna and members of Becciu’s family.

“I confess that it isn’t easy to speak and defend my honor in this place,” Becciu told the judges, adding that he was a victim of “a media massacre without precedent” that portrayed him as “the worst of cardinals” to the entire world.

“I have been described as a corrupt man. Greedy. Disloyal toward the pope. Only concerned with the well-being of my family members,” Becciu said.

According to Vatican prosecutors, the cardinal sent more than $276,000 from the Vatican to a personal account belonging to his brother Antonino Becciu, who runs Spes, a charitable organization in the Diocese of Ozieri in Sardinia.

A Vatican trial of 10 people accused of financial crimes, including Cardinal Angelo Becciu, resumes after a chief judge ordered the prosecution to give the defense more access to evidence and to question defendants who were not given the right to speak earlier, at the Vatican, Nov. 17, 2021. Photo by Vatican Media

A Vatican trial of 10 people accused of financial crimes, including Cardinal Angelo Becciu, at the Vatican, Nov. 17, 2021. Photo by Vatican Media

The first installment, of more than $100,000, was allegedly issued by the cardinal from the funds of the Italian bishop’s conference to his brother’s bank account in 2013. Asked about the transaction by the judges, Becciu said that he sent the money on loan because he “was excited” to contribute to a Spes project that offered work to underprivileged people. He said that while half the loan was paid back, he forgave the rest.

“Before my brother’s charitable work I, as a priest, blush,” Becciu said.

Two more payments were made to Antonino’s bank account, one from a Vatican Secretariat of State account in 2015, amounting to more than $27,000, and another in 2018, of more than $100,000. Becciu explained that it was common practice at the Vatican to make financial contributions to priests or lay individuals who needed help for a good cause.

“There was always trust to begin with,” Becciu said, adding that the 2015 payment was made to support initiatives by the local bishop. The second installment, the cardinal said, was never actually spent. He denied knowing that the bank account belonged to his brother, adding that Spes acted as the operational branch of the Catholic charity Caritas.

Spes loaned more than $143,000 to Becciu’s niece Maria Luisa Zambrano between 2014 and 2015, according to Vatican prosecutors, but Becciu denied being aware of the loan and pointed out that he and Zambrano are not directly related but they “have been friends for a long time.”

Disney Employees and Former Judge Among 108 Arrested in Florida Human Trafficking Sting

Bri Lamm

March 18, 2022

Human Trafficking — Screen grab from Facebook // @PolkCountySheriff

An undercover investigation led to the arrest of more than 100 people Wednesday, including several Disney theme park employees and a retired judge, all charged with crimes related to human trafficking, prostitution, and child predation.

The sting operation, named “Operation March Sadness 2,” was spearheaded by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office in Florida. Spanning six days, the operation was inspired by this month’s NCAA March Madness tournament, in which fans complete brackets predicting the championship.

“We have our own bracket,” Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd said Wednesday. “But instead of brackets of winners, we have brackets of losers.”

Undercover detectives communicated online with the suspects and arranged for a meetup at a location where they were arrested after their arrival.

In a press conference Wednesday, Judd spoke about several suspects who came as a “surprise” to the team behind the “bracket.” Most notably, Judd said, was 66-year-old Daniel Peters, a retired judge from Cook County, Ill., who was arrested for allegedly seeking an escort. After his arrest, Peters told authorities that he had also served as the director of professional regulations for the Cook County Sheriff’s Office.

Others included Xavier Jackson, a 27-year-old lifeguard at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, was charged with three counts of harmful material and one count of unlawful communication for allegedly sending explicit photos to a detective whom he believed was a 14-year-old girl.

Wilakson Fidele, who works at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café in Tomorrowland, and Ralph Leese, who works in information technology, were also arrested for allegedly seeking prostitutes.

Walt Disney World says the three Disney theme park employees have been placed on unpaid leave.

“The arrests of a human trafficker and four child predators alone makes this whole operation worthwhile,” Judd said in a press release. “The online prostitution industry enables traffickers and victimizes those who are being trafficked. Our goal is to identify victims, offer them help, and find and arrest those who are profiting from the exploitation of human beings. Johns fuel the trafficking and victimization. Where there is prostitution, there is exploitation, disease, dysfunction, and broken families.”

Tiffany Nash, a KFC manager with 61 prior criminal charges was allegedly caught bringing a trafficking victim to what she believed was a sexual encounter.

Among the bracket is also Timothy Finley, a 39-year-old handyman, who is charged with traveling to meet a young child, resisting arrest, attempted lewd battery, and transmission of explicit material. Shannon Johnson, a 41-year-old, is charged with traveling to meet a 13-year-old girl, attempted lewd battery, and transmission of explicit material. Jody Rose, 36, is facing 11 felony charges for allegedly sending sexually explicit material to who he believed was a 14-year-old girl, saying, “Don’t tell the cops.”

Auburndale Police Chief Andy Ray addressed reporters after Judd to thank all parties involved in the successful operation.

“Everybody is involved in this because it’s important and because the victims of human trafficking and the sex business deserve our help and need our help,” Ray said. “We’re happy to be a part of taking people off the street that are dangerous to your kids and the community.”

Why There Is a Shortage of Student Ministers and What Can Be Done About It

Scott Barkley

March 18, 2022

Student Ministers — Photo via Unsplash.com @Jesus Loves Austin

NASHVILLE (BP) – Richard Ross has decades of experience when it comes to student ministry. And today, he’s observing a troubling trend.

“I often hear from churches searching for student pastors,” said Ross, senior professor of student ministry at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. “It would be a joy to provide them with names of potential candidates. But the vast percentage of the time, I have no name to share.

“From my perspective, there are far more churches searching for student pastors than there are leaders available to serve. At any given moment, I expect that the total number of churches with funded positions exceeds the total number of student pastors by several thousand.”

Shane Pruitt speaks to thousands of students and their leaders in his role as National Next Gen director for the North American Mission Board. He agrees with Ross and went so far as to address it in a video in August.

“Almost every week I get phone calls from three to five local churches looking for youth pastors or college pastors,” he said. It’s always followed by asking if there is a shortage.

“I think the easy answer is ‘yes,’” he said.

The subject isn’t relegated to the United States. “Churches are desperate for youth workers. So why can’t they find any?” asked a headline in Premiere Christianity magazine, based in the United Kingdom.

Various reasons arise. They aren’t paid nor appreciated enough. They don’t receive adequate training. They get tired of being asked when they’re going to move up to “real ministry.”

A common one is that there simply aren’t enough in the pipeline.

The church-planting emphasis over the last 12 years or so almost certainly led many young pastors to pursue that avenue who otherwise would have entered student ministry. Ross believes many seasoned student ministers remain in their calling, but in the role of next generation or family pastor. Those titles typically expand responsibilities beyond middle and high school to include children and college students.

“Student pastors entering midlife may see family ministry or next-gen ministry as a better fit for them.” Ross said.

Russell Jackson is family pastor at Holly Creek Baptist Church in Chatsworth, Ga., transitioning to that position two years ago after serving as student pastor. He and others recently responded to questions on the topic in a private Facebook group for the Georgia Student Ministry Network. All gave permission for their comments to be used.

Jackson oversees kindergarten through college ministries at Holly Creek. Teams of volunteers work the children’s and student ministries, with Jackson focusing on collegians.

“Yes, it is a lot of areas to oversee, but I have great help and wonderful families,” he said.

Several factors could lead to student ministers moving to other roles, said Jonathan Brantley, a veteran student minister who has served in Virginia and Georgia.

Salaries can make it difficult to provide for your family, he said, “especially if they are moving into an area where houses are 60 percent more than what the average church member paid 30 years ago.”

Ross agreed. “We need to recognize that student pastors taking on new and even more important roles will need salary support,” he said. “They should not have to change jobs only because they cannot afford braces and trombones for their growing families.”

A perspective that student ministry is the “junior league” can also wear you down, Brantley said.

10 Skills You Need to Be an Exceptional Children’s Ministry Leader

Dale Hudson

March 18, 2022

Do you want to be an exceptional children’s ministry leader? Here are 10 key skills you can work on and grow in that will help you knock it out of the ballpark.

10 Skills You Need to Be an Exceptional Children’s Ministry Leader

1. Skill of Motivation

Motivate people to give their very best. Show them the value they add to the team. Get them excited about the “why” of the ministry.

Lead the way. One of the biggest motivations is the example and passion that you set as a children’s ministry leader. Remember that motivation is caught more than it is taught. Passion inspires passion.

Get motivated yourself first and then you will be able to motivate those around you.

2. Skill of Empathy

Exceptional leadership must have exceptional empathy. Learn to walk in others’ shoes. Lead not just with your head, but with your heart as well. Seek to understand how others feel and show compassion toward them. Seek to understand where people are coming from. Seek to understand where they are in life at the time.

3. Skill of Empowerment

Exceptional children’s ministry leaders have people they are developing and investing in. Exceptional leaders help people grow in their skills. Good leaders are powerful. Exceptional leaders are empowering. Good leaders are stars. Exceptional leaders create stars. They spend more time equipping than doing. They make the people around them better.

4. Skill of Casting Vision

One of the most important skills you can have as a children’s ministry leader is casting vision. If you want to attract exceptional volunteers, then you have to cast an exceptional vision. This includes creating a compelling narrative for what God can do through each person on the team.

5. Skill of Team Building

If there is one skill that comes from an exceptional leader in children’s ministry, this is it. Building volunteer teams. You can have many of these skills, but if you miss this one, you’ll have a tough time being an exceptional leader. Remember…it’s not about what you can do, it’s about what you can do through the team of leaders you build.

If you want to grow in this area, my book The Formula for Building Great Volunteer Teams is a must read.

6. Skill of a Positive Attitude

A positive attitude is part of an exceptional leaders DNA. But let’s dig a little deeper on this. It doesn’t mean you always walk around smiling from ear to ear. It is the ability to recognize that setbacks and problems happen. It’s part of life. It’s being able to then face those circumstances and deal with them in a positive manner.

7. Skill of Time Management

There is a difference between being busy and being productive. Exceptional children’s ministry leaders get a lot done. And it’s not because they have to burn the midnight oil. It’s because they have a strategic plan for how they prioritize their schedule and duties.

If you are looking for help with time management, I can provide you with some great time management tools in my coaching program. You can get more info. about Advance Children’s Ministry Coaching Program at this link.

8. Skill of Listening

Exceptional leaders know how to ask the right questions. They ask questions and they listen. They really listen. Instead of thinking about what his or her response will be once the other person stops talking, they first listen carefully to understand the other person’s viewpoint.

9. Skill of Self-Confidence

Exceptional leaders walk in confidence. They know they can add value to the ministry. They think back to past victories and use that to build upon for future challenges. This doesn’t mean they are arrogant or cocky or a know-it-all. Rather it means you humbly know that God has prepared you for the role He has for you.

10. Skill of Continuous Learning

Exceptional leaders never stop learning. They read. They listen. They attend conferences and workshops. They push themselves out of their comfort zone. They are not “know-it-alls.” The older they get, the more inquisitive they become. They stay curious. They stay teachable so they can remain usable.

The great thing about each of these skills is they can be learned. As you’ve read through these, stop and think about it for awhile. Which of these do you need to grow in? Which of these are hindering you from being an exceptional leader?

Don’t be satisfied with being an average children’s ministry leader. Strive to be an exceptional leader. We are living in a time in history when we need exceptional leaders. We are facing exceptional challenges that can only be overcome by exceptional leaders who are empowered by God to be the person for such a time as this.

This article originally appeared here.

The Importance of NOT Equating ‘Painful’ With ‘Difficult’ in Leadership

Eric Geiger

March 18, 2022

Just because a decision is painful does not mean that the decision is difficult.

A person on your team displays a lack of moral integrity. Indeed, it will indeed be painful to act and remove the person from the team, but the decision is not. It is clear.
Someone you work alongside consistently displays a negative attitude that harms the joy of the team. A confrontational conversation will likely be painful but deciding if it is best to have the conversation is not difficult. You know it is best and necessary.
The person you work for has a blind spot that you are convinced is hurting your effectiveness, their effectiveness, and the organization’s effectiveness. Bringing up the issue in a private meeting with your leader could be painful but it should not be difficult.
A person who is on the team you lead continues to drop some balls in communication or execution. Leaders know that the longer a problem is left unaddressed, the larger the problem tends to grow. Offering correction will be painful, as you don’t want to hurt the person’s morale. Or perhaps you struggle confronting, and even the thought of confronting is painful. But whether to address or not address the situation is not difficult as you know you need to have the conversation.

Yes, all of those conversations and decisions may be painful. But the decision to have them, as a general rule, is not difficult. It is the right thing, the wise thing, the prudent thing. Here are three reasons why it is paramount to not equate “painful” and “difficult” when making decisions as a leader.

If you equate “painful” with “difficult,” you run the risk of delaying a decision because you love comfort. You can fool yourself into thinking a decision or conversation can be delayed because it is “difficult” and challenging when in reality it is only “painful.” The decision is clear but you delay because it is painful.
If you equate “painful” with “difficult,” you risk over-thinking and over-evaluating what is simple and obvious. When you spend too much emotional and mental energy on what is already obvious, you have less energy to deploy towards the truly difficult challenges.
If you equate “painful” with “difficult,” you lose credibility as a leader. When others know the right decision, because it is supremely clear, and you fail to act because it is “painful,” you lose credibility.

Some leadership theorists say leadership is about change. Others say leadership is about solving problems. Either view means leadership will include painful seasons because solving problems and leading change will inevitably, at times, mean painful decisions and painful communication with people we love. Often those decisions and those conversations are clear and simple (not difficult), but that does not mean they are not painful.

This article originally appeared here and is used by permission.

Question: Is Your Church Founded on Strong Theology?

Chuck Lawless

March 18, 2022

In the model of a healthy church I mentioned in yesterday’s post (seen in the diagram above from my book, Discipled Warriors), I argue that a strong theological foundation is non-negotiable for a healthy church. To build that foundation, though, takes intentionality. Here are some questions to ask about your church regarding this topic:

Does your church emphasize the importance of theology? I realize that’s a simplistic first question, but that’s the point. If you don’t know for certain that your church emphasizes the significance of theology, they likely do not.
Has your church taught you how to understand and interpret the Bible? Raising up disciples means helping them understand basic Bible hermeneutics so they can apply what the Word teaches. Folks who don’t know how to interpret the Word sometimes develop strange beliefs.
Does your church have regularly-scheduled classes or emphases that focus on building a theological foundation? I’m thinking sermon series, small group studies, churchwide doctrinal studies, discipleship classes, and even university and seminary classes offered in conjunction with our local churches. There are a lot of options if theology matters to us.
Do your church leaders talk in detail about your church’s doctrinal statement in the church’s membership class? Members who join without ever hearing that doctrinal fidelity matters to your church might conclude that it really doesn’t. Those who do learn what your church believes will, on the other hand, have to decide whether they are on board. That’s not a bad thing.
How much attention does your church give to helping children and youth develop a strong theology? One of my PhD graduates at Southeastern Seminary has written and illustrated children’s theology books (see the set here), and he reminded me of the responsibility of parents and churches to train the next generations theologically. Our kids and teens face so many issues today that we must not neglect this responsibility.
Does/do your pastor(s) point out theological truths as they preach the Word? I trust they do, but I’ve seen many pastors miss opportunities to teach theology from the pulpit. The preaching event may, in fact, be the opportunity to influence the greatest number of people in one setting.
Does your church include theological questions when interviewing prospective pastors/elders? Deacons? How about small group leaders? Potential new members? Most churches I know ask questions of the first two groups, but not necessarily the second two groups. Those latter omissions can become problematic in the long run.
Do your church leaders talk much about the relationship between what we believe and what we do? Good theology should lead to right living. I appreciate how one pastor describes theology: “It is not an exercise in head-scratching puzzles, but a discipline that should lead to heart-stirring emotions, which in turn leads to worshipful obedience in every area of life.”

Again, how do you evaluate your church in this area?

This article originally appeared here and is used by permission.

20 Bible Verses About Being Thankful for Blessings

Jarrid Wilson

March 18, 2022

A church overflowing with thanks and gratitude is very attractive to first-time visitors. Here are 20 Bible verses about being thankful for blessings that will help you structure an effective outreach-oriented church.

In the Bible, God calls us to be thankful again and again. These 20 Bible verses about being thankful for blessings will help us give giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

20 Bible Verses About Being Thankful for Blessings

1. 1 Thessalonians 5:18

Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

2. Psalm 107:1

Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!

3. Ephesians 5:20

Giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

4. Colossians 3:15-17

And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

5. James 1:17

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.

6. Philippians 4:6

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

7. 2 Corinthians 9:15

Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift!

8. Psalm 106:1

Praise the Lord! Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!

9. Psalm 105:1

Oh give thanks to the Lord; call upon his name; make known his deeds among the peoples!

Church Graduation Program Ideas: 5 Ways to Celebrate Grads

Youth Ministrycom

March 17, 2022

How does your church and youth ministry celebrate graduates? We have a celebration Sunday for our high school ministry, and it’s always a hit. Here are a few church graduation program ideas you can try!

5 Awesome Church Graduation Program Ideas

1. The Board

I’m not looking for new ideas; I’m looking for great ideas. This year I’m doing a “College Destinations” board. I saw it here on our blog a few years ago. It’s currently in process and shaping up to be a great addition to our Graduation Sunday.

2. The Gift

I still have the Bible I received from my church when I graduated. It’s a great gift, but I’ve found that most churchgoing students already have a Bible…probably three or more. Instead, we buy the Graduation Bundle from SYM. Practical and affordable! And if kids need a Bible, we just give them one. Click here to check out some options.

3. The Celebration

We host a continental brunch (breakfasty/pastry snack foods) for all our students and the families of our senior class. This does cost us a little. But you can keep costs down by asking underclassmen (i.e., their parents) to bring the food.

4. The Visuals

I open the celebration with a premade/purchased graduation video. Here are a few to preview. Later in the program we show a second video, a slideshow of seniors we create with Animoto. We ask our seniors to provide 3 photos: a baby picture, an image from late elementary or junior high, and a senior photo.

Each student gets a few seconds of screen time. We display their photos, name, and the school they’re graduating from.

We also ask seniors to fill out a questionnaire with future goals, college, career, dreams, etc. Then we make a small booklet to give out to all attendees. We make it in Microsoft Publisher and print it in house.

Resurrection Scavenger Hunt: Embark on a Fun Easter Event

ChildrensMinistry.com

March 17, 2022

Try this unique, meaningful Resurrection scavenger hunt with families. They’ll have a blast while learning the true point of Easter.

Easter is the perfect time to celebrate Jesus’ love with families in your church and community. Thanks to Jesus our Savior, we have so much to celebrate and be joyful for! This holy season is also a wonderful opportunity to maximize families’ understanding of Jesus’ death and resurrection.

A Resurrection scavenger hunt with a purpose is a perfect source of fun and adventure. Plus, it helps guide families into discovering more about Jesus’ life-changing actions and love.

Plan the Resurrection Scavenger Hunt

Long before your scavenger hunters arrive, begin with the following steps:

1. Pray about the event.

Ask God to bring families to your hunt, even those who might not attend your church. Also ask God to prepare your community’s heart to welcome the friendly strangers who end up on their doorstep. Pray for families to have fun, enjoy their time together, and truly learn more about Jesus’ sacrifice and resurrection.

2. Plan it.

Determine what supplies you’ll need to make the hunt successful. Then set your search location, and decide whether you’ll need additional volunteers to travel along with families.

3. Get the word out.

Invite families to the Resurrection scavenger hunt over several weeks’ time. Be sure to cover these bases:

Make an announcement during worship and place one in the church bulletin.
Create fliers to distribute.
Encourage families to invite a neighbor or friend.

The Resurrection Scavenger Hunt Begins

In this one- to two-hour Resurrection scavenger hunt, you’ll send families or teams hunting together in your neighborhood or other location. They’ll be seeking out clues to the truth about Easter. The goal is for teams to have tons of fun—while learning about and discussing the amazing truth of Jesus’ deep, abiding love for us.

Start by clearly defining the hunt area beforehand for families. You might consider including a map of the neighborhood if you plan to have people search your surrounding area. Have families or teams stay together for safety. Distribute a scavenger hunt list, a Bible, and about 20 “Thanks for Playing” cards to each team.

To play, teams must bring back each item listed or a photo of the entire team posing with the item to prove they found it. Teams have to find each item by going door-to-door and asking. The item can’t already be in your team’s possession (such as a team member’s cellphone clock for the watch or clock item). Whenever a team leaves a location after asking for an item, have them leave a “Thanks for Playing” card in appreciation. Ensure at least one adult is with each team at all times.

Let’s Play!

Distribute the Resurrection scavenger hunt list to each team. Remind them to read the rules before starting. Each time teams locate an item, they must read the Scripture and talk through the discussion question together before moving on.

Remind everyone where your finish point will be and at what time the search is over. If teams finish early, they can go to the finish point early.

Treasures Found

Once teams gather at the finish point location, invite them to show off their findings and recap how each item ties into different Easter events. Congratulate everyone on a search well done.

Provide refreshments, and encourage families to discuss the following as they eat:

What’s one thing new you learned about Easter during this experience?
If you could tell a friend just one thing about Easter, what would you say?
What was your favorite part of our Resurrection scavenger hunt, and why?

Close in a team prayer, thanking God for his amazing grace.

Looking for even more great ideas for Easter? Check out all these Easter posts.

This article about a Resurrection scavenger hunt originally appeared here.

Liberty University Student With Voice Deeper Than Johnny Cash Advances on American Idol

Jesse T. Jackson

March 17, 2022

Luke Taylor American Idol — (L) Katy Perry (R) Luke Taylor. Screengrab via YouTube @American Idol

Luke Taylor, a Commercial Music major at Liberty University, is one of the newest recipients of “American Idol’s” coveted golden tickets, which sends a vocalist on to the next round of the competition.

The Liberty University student shocked the judges with his extremely deep baritone voice as soon as he walked on the set and responded with, “nothing much, how are you,” after he was greeted by the “American Idol” celebrities.

After the judges remarked that his voice sounded like famous actor James Earl Jones, the 20-year-old Taylor sang Johnny Cash’s “Ring of Fire” for the panel.

“I went from being four foot eleven and singing alto to being six foot one and singing below bass,” Taylor explained as he described the transformation he went through his junior year of high school.

“American Idol” host Ryan Seacrest told Taylor that he should be making money doing movie trailer voice-over’s right before he auditioned. After hearing Taylor speak, the judges agreed with Seacrest.

While singing “Ring of Fire,” judge Lionel Richie told the other two judges, Luke Bryan and Katy Perry, that Taylor sings “lower than Cash.”

Bryan interrupted Taylor’s audition a minute into him singing, telling him he’s going to Hollywood. He then asked Taylor if he’d sing “Frosty the Snowman” for him.

“Well, listen, son. You’re going to Hollywood—I don’t care if I’ve got to cut an arm off” to make it happen, Bryan told him. Taylor then obliged Bryan and sang the children’s Christmas song.

“We don’t want you to be a novelty Christmas song singer,” Bryan told Taylor. “But voices like you have, there’s always a place for it.”

Richie said, “If you pick the right songs, you’d be an ‘Oh my gosh’” type of singer.”

Although Perry was impressed with Taylor’s voice, she wasn’t quite sure how much he’d be able to offer the show. ”I think it’s cool,” she said. “But if you don’t give us those other notes, it’s just one gimmick. I’m worried that it’s just going to be funny, but not seriously able to compete.”

While two of “American Idol’s” judges, Bryant and Richie both gave Taylor a “Yes,” which moves him into the Hollywood portion of the show, Perry told the college student, “I like you a lot. I want to hear Christmas songs forever from you,” but shared with him she believes it’s an impractical idea that he’d be crowned the winner of the show.

Taylor has nearly 3 million followers on TikTok who have given him close to 40 million likes for his videos that mostly feature his singing.

“I’ve never known much about life or what I’m supposed to do with life, but I feel like God presenting this beautiful gift to me is really just a sign that no matter what happens, through the ups and downs,” Taylor told Liberty University, “He gave this opportunity to me so I could glorify Him and so that I could share music with the world. This is a really, really cool opportunity.”

NBA Star Bismack Biyombo To Donate Entire $1.3 Million Salary To Build a Hospital

Dale Chamberlain

March 17, 2022

NBA star Bismack Biyombo has pledged to donate the entirety of his 2021-2022 salary in order to build a hospital in his home country of Democratic Republic of the Congo. The hospital will be built through his foundation, and Biyombo, who is 29 and plays for the Phoenix Suns, will personally contribute $1.3 million.

Biyombo’s decision is inspired both by his faith and his relationship with his late father, François Biyombo, who died last August.

Speaking about his time playing in Yemen before he was drafted in the NBA, Biyombo had emphasized the importance of his faith in his life, telling Hoops Hype, “You know, there were difficulties because of my religious beliefs. I’m a Christian.”

Now that Biyombo has found success in the U.S., he wants to leverage it to the benefit of his home country. As Biyombo’s father battled medical issues, Biyombo had taken him to receive better treatment in Europe, due to a lack of high quality medical care in the Congo.

“One thing that really sticks out in my mind is that every day I go to the hospital back home to take care of [my dad], I was always asking myself, ‘What about these people that can’t take their family members out,’” Biyombo said in a video announcing the project.

Following his father’s death, Biyombo almost opted not to return to the NBA for another season. However, when he made the decision that he would, he wanted to “find something that would motivate” him.

“I wanted to make this year about my dad, because my dad spent most of his life making his life about me, my brothers, my sisters, and servicing people,” Biyombo said.

Biyombo said that he wants to build a hospital in the Congo to “give hope to the hopeless” and for those who do not have the resources to take their family members to find better treatment outside the country.

“I want to be able to give them better conditions, so that they can somewhat have hope that their loved ones will be able to leave [the hospital] and see another day,” Biyombo said.

Saying that his father’s death has motivated him to do more to improve the lives of the people in his home country, Biyombo said, “I’ve seen how people try to survive daily in the Congo. I thought we were doing enough by refurbishing hospitals and clinics, but I think it’s time that we go a little bigger and build something that will service people, hopefully, for generations.”

Biyombo is wearing the number 18 this season to honor his dad’s birthday, June 18. The new hospital in Congo will also bear François Biyombo’s name.

Watch Biyombo’s announcement of the project below.

‘More and More Discipleship’—Ben Roethlisberger Buys Farmhouse for Father-Son Retreats

Stephanie Martin

March 17, 2022

After 18 seasons as quarterback of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Ben Roethlisberger is moving forward with retirement plans that include “more and more discipleship.” Last week, the NFL great revealed details about those plans when he spoke at the Ignite Men’s Conference and on the “Sports Spectrum” podcast.

Roethlisberger, a two-time Super Bowl champion, played his final football game in January. Afterward, he said, “I’m going to do everything I can to be the best husband and father I can be, and try and expand God’s Kingdom.” Now the former QB, who turned 40 earlier this month, shares how he’ll help other men be their best too.

Ben Roethlisberger: People Need Father Figures

Expanding God’s Kingdom can mean a lot of things and can lead in many directions, Roethlisberger tells “Sports Spectrum.” The variety of discipleship options adds excitement to living for Jesus, he says. Now he can spend more time helping his children learn about their faith and meeting with young players to share his experiences.

Plus, Roethlisberger recently bought farm property just one mile from his family’s house. The plan, he says, is to turn that land into a father-son retreat that builds and strengthens family connections. Features will include hiking trails, 12 horses, fishing, fruit trees, chickens, and honeybees, he says, so dads and sons of all ages can spend time together outside.

Two things often missing in today’s society, says Roethlisberger, are father figures and outdoor experiences. “People need to get back outside and understand the beauty that God created,” says the athlete, who calls himself a “huge outdoorsman.”

The 100-year-old farmhouse that Roethlisberger’s wife, Ashley, is remodeling will be available for a variety of uses, he says. He’s also building a house on that property for his own parents, with whom he’s very close.

Big Ben’s Foundation Now Has a Family Focus

Previously, the Ben Roethlisberger Foundation helped police and fire departments obtain service dogs for their K-9 units. Last week, the former QB, nicknamed “Big Ben,” announced that the foundation will transition to become the Roethlisberger Family Foundation, with an emphasis on connecting families.

Roethlisberger, who grew up in a Christian home and was baptized as an infant, decided to get rebaptized several years ago to show his kids and “the world…that I’m living for Jesus.” Although his three children have been dedicated, they haven’t yet been baptized, he says, because that’s their decision to make.

‘Never Happened’: Former Christianity Today Editor in Chief Denies Sexual Harassment Allegations

Dale Chamberlain

March 17, 2022

Mark Galli — Photo by Árni Svanur Daníelsson (via Unsplash); logo courtesy of Christianity Today

Earlier this week, Christianity Today reported that it had failed to properly respond to allegations of sexual harassment against two former employees, one of whom was former editor in chief Mark Galli.

On the same day, CT president, CEO, and current editor in chief Tim Dalrymple also published an editorial explaining that CT had hired Guidepost Solutions to conduct an independent investigation and invited CT news editor Daniel Silliman to report on the matter, as CT would do were a similar situation occurring at a different organization. Members of CT’s executive team did not review the news article prior to its publishing.

Galli has now responded to CT’s report regarding the allegations that he sexually harassed numerous female employees at CT with an article of his own.

Citing his 30 year tenure at CT, Galli said that he was not surprised that he “sometimes said or did things that made other men or women uncomfortable, confused, or hurt,” adding that he has always sought to “apologize and bring reconciliation to the relationship.”

Nevertheless, while Galli expressed regret about his offenses, he also said that he “never in 30 years ever approached a women with the intent of sexually harassing, intimidating, or ‘hitting’ on her. Never.”

Some have been quick to point out that sexual harassment is not defined by the intent of the harasser but by whether the victim in the situation had cause to feel harassed.

However, as it pertains to the specific allegations against him, which came to light by way of Silliman’s interviews with more than two dozen current and former CT employees, Galli denied that those specific incidents ever occurred.

“Just three examples among many,” Galli wrote. “It is said that I lingered over a woman’s bra clip and that my hand got caught in her bra. Never happened. It is said that I ‘felt up’ a woman. Never happened. It is said that I said aloud that I like to watch women golfers bend over. Never said it.”

“So amidst the stories in which I can see I genuinely offended or confused some women, there were allegations that just mystify me,” Galli went on to write. When ChurchLeaders asked Galli why he believes allegations have been made against him that he claims to be false, Galli replied, “It’s not for me to speculate on the motives of others, especially those whose names I don’t know.”

While the independent Guidepost Solutions assessment did not speak to the specific instances of harassment, it did establish that Galli engaged in “inappropriate behavior toward women” on multiple occasions and toward multiple employees. According to Silliman’s reporting, Galli’s harassment spanned years.

Cardinal Calls for Vatican Reprimand Over Sexuality Remarks

Nicole Winfield

March 17, 2022

ROME (AP) — Cardinal George Pell has called for the Vatican’s doctrine office to intervene and reprimand two leading European Catholic churchmen who called for changes in Catholic teaching on sexuality and homosexuality.

Pell, who was convicted and then acquitted of sex abuse charges in his native Australia, said he understood the secular pressures in Germany were forcing debate about homosexuality and other hot-button issues in the church. But in an interview with KTV, the German Catholic television agency, Pell said the church cannot follow “the changing dictats of contemporary secular culture” and must stay true to its faith.

Pell was referring to recent comments about sexuality by Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich of Luxembourg, the president of the Commission of the Bishops’ Conferences of the European Union, and the head of the German bishops’ conference that have arisen as part of the German Church’s “synodal path” of debate and dialogue with the laity.

Hollerich has said he believes the current church teaching on homosexuality is “no longer correct,” and not based on science. In an interview with the German news agency KNA, he called for a “fundamental revision of the doctrine,” noting that Francis’ own outreach to gays could pave the way for a change.

Separately, the head of the German bishops’ conference, Bishop Georg Baetzing, told the German magazine Bunte that Catholic teaching needs to change vis-a-vis sexuality and pre-marital sex since no one follows it. Asked if same-sex relationships were permissible, the German prelate replied: “Yes, it’s OK if it’s done in fidelity and responsibility. It doesn’t affect the relationship with God.”

He also indicated he favored abolishing priestly celibacy and ordaining women — two things the Vatican has flatly rejected but have been endorsed in the German synodal process.

Pell, who was the Vatican’s top finance minister before he left in 2017 to stand trial in Australia, called for the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith to intervene and pronounce judgement on the “wholesale and explicit rejection” of the church’s teachings on homosexuality and monogamous marriage, in an unusual dressing down of a fellow cardinal and bishop.

“The Catholic Church is not a loose federation where different national synods or gatherings and prominent leaders are able to reject essential elements of the apostolic tradition and remain undisturbed,” a statement summarizing Pell’s points said. “This must not become a normal and tolerated situation.”

The Vatican has not commented on either statement though it has expressed concern about the German synodal process.

This article originally appeared on APNews.com.

Pope Francis and Patriarch Kirill Discuss Ukraine War for First Time

Claire Giangrave

March 17, 2022

VATICAN CITY (RNS) — Pope Francis and Orthodox Patriarch Kirill of Moscow spoke via video on Wednesday (March 16) to address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and joint efforts to promote peace and provide aid to the Ukrainian people.

“The discussions focused on the war in Ukraine and the role Christians and their pastors can have in doing everything possible for peace to prevail,” said a statement by Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni.

Pope Francis also thanked the Russian patriarch for attending the meeting, which he said proved commitment of the two churches to achieving a cease-fire and peace in Ukraine.

“The church must not use the language of politics but the language of Jesus,” Francis said in agreement with Kirill, according to the Vatican statement. “We are pastors of the same people who believe in God, in the Holy Trinity, in the Holy Mother of God. For this reason, we must unite in our efforts of promoting peace, helping those who suffer, finding the roads to peace to stop the fighting,” the pope added.

Pope Francis announced he will be consecrating both Russia and Ukraine to the Immaculate Heart of Mary on March 25.

“Those who pay the price of war are the people, the Russian soldiers and the people who are bombed and killed,” the pope said during the videoconference with Kirill, underlining the importance of the negotiations currently underway between Russia and Ukraine.

“As pastors we have the duty to stay close and help all the people who suffer because of the war,” Francis said. While he observed that in the past both churches spoke of “holy wars” and “just wars,” he went on to insist that “today we can’t talk this way.”

“The Christian conscience on the importance of peace has developed,” Francis said.

The Vatican statement said both Kirill and Francis agreed churches have a duty to “strengthen peace and justice.” Pope Francis spoke on behalf of the children, women and many victims of war.

“War is always unjust. Because who pays are the people of God,” Francis said.

Kirill “cordially greeted” the pope during the conversation, which featured a “detailed discussion” on the situation in Ukraine, according to the official website of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. Pope Francis and Kirill discussed the actions their churches might undertake to address the humanitarian consequences of the conflict, the statement read.

Study: Christians, Jews and Muslims Encounter Workplace Discrimination Differently

Alejandra Molina

March 17, 2022

(RNS) — Christians, Jews and Muslims encounter workplace discrimination, but they experience it differently, according to a new report by Rice University’s Religion and Public Life Program.

While Muslims and Jews say they’ve felt targeted by anti-Islamic and antisemitic rhetoric, it’s most often in the context of being seen as part of a larger group, they said in the study. Whereas evangelical Christians say they more often feel singled out when taking an individual stand based on their moral views, the report found.

Rachel Schneider, one of the report’s authors, said they learned that people often experienced workplace discrimination in the form of microaggressions — such as stereotyping and othering — not just in the hiring, firing and promotion process.

“It was these everyday practices and behaviors in the workplace that was really surprising to learn more about how they’ve manifested,” said Schneider, a postdoctoral research fellow in the Religion and Public Life Program.

The report, “How Religious Discrimination Is Perceived in the Workplace: Expanding the View,” draws its research from Rice University’s “Faith at Work: An Empirical Study,” which included a survey of more than 11,000 people. Additionally, researchers conducted in-depth interviews with nearly 200 of those who were surveyed, including 159 Christians, 13 Jews, 10 Muslims and 12 nonreligious people. The research was funded by the Lilly Endowment.

A large proportion of Muslim (63%) and Jewish (52%) participants reported religious discrimination compared with other religious groups.

Perceptions of religious discrimination varied within Christian subgroups, with evangelical Protestants the most likely to report experiencing religious discrimination (36%), whereas roughly 20% of Catholics and mainline Protestants each reported religious discrimination, according to the report. About a quarter of other Christian/other Protestants say the same (24%).

Among nonreligious participants, 27% perceived religious discrimination in the workplace.

Through in-depth interviews, Jewish and Muslim participants described verbal microaggressions tied to antisemitic and anti-Islamic stereotypes.

One white Jewish woman working in social services in Indiana detailed co-workers using a common antisemitic trope, saying she was “good at bookkeeping and keeping track of money.” In another example, a white Jewish man who works in information technology in Florida described hearing comments such as “Well, Jews run all the banks.”

Similarly, Muslims described Islamophobic sentiment in the workplace.

An Asian Muslim man who is an engineer in New York mentioned colleagues expressing anti-Muslim views along the lines of “Muslims are extremists,” although he didn’t consider this to be discrimination or directed at him explicitly, according to the report.

In a more extreme example, a white Muslim woman working in sales at a construction company in Louisiana said she was “harassed” when she converted to Islam. She was “ridiculed” after deciding to cover her head and dress more modestly. Signs were put up in the office, with one reading “I tried to see your point of view, but your point of view is stupid.”

Schneider said Muslims and Jewish people didn’t feel they could take advantage of religious accommodations in the workplace, such as access to prayer rooms, because they would have their co-workers “looking at them a certain way.” Researchers found Jewish and Muslim women “concealed or downplayed their religious identity in the workplace to preempt discrimination.”

Muslims and Jews also felt like they were treated as foreign or exotic. “People didn’t really know how to act around them,” Schneider said.

Christians, particularly those who are evangelical, reported that verbal microaggressions often took the form of specific name-calling.

Extreme Poverty Grows by 97 Million Globally in COVID-19, New Report Says

Diana Chandler

March 17, 2022

BALTIMORE, Md. (BP) – At least 97 million more people have fallen into extreme poverty globally since the COVID-19 pandemic began two years ago, World Relief said in a study released March 15 on the second anniversary of the declaration of the pandemic.

Setbacks during the COVID-19 pandemic have reversed about three or four years of progress in the fight against global hunger, with the worst outcomes seen in the poorest countries and among women and children, World Relief said in its report.

“COVID-19 has hit the world’s most vulnerable … in ways that are really ferocious and in a level of devastation that we’ve not seen in our lifetime,” World Relief President and CEO Myal Greene said in releasing the report. “As a report the pandemic has resulted in one of the greatest humanitarian issues in recorded history.

“It’s the first time in my lifetime, really, that we’ve seen a rise globally in the number of people living in extreme poverty. So this is really a devastating and heartbreaking issue that we face.”

World Relief compiled its report using data and findings from various sources including the United Nations, the World Health Organization and other groups. No numbers specific to the U.S. are included in the report.

“Pockets of the United States have experienced tremendous pain and setbacks because of COVID-19. As we have seen in both the United States and abroad, those living in vulnerability have suffered significantly from the social and economic consequences of the pandemic,” Greene said. “In this report, it’s our desire to share that story with people in western countries about how our global neighbors have suffered during the pandemic.”

At least 265 million people are facing “acute food insecurity” globally, with numbers increasing in at least 20 African countries, World Relief said. Direst outcomes were seen in Gabon, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Malawi, Uganda, Zambia, Mali and Madagascar.

Southern Baptists’ compassion ministry, Send Relief, has seen similar effects from the pandemic, a Send Relief spokesperson told Baptist Press, including an escalation in food security and health issues.

In the last two years, Send Relief has participated in 593 ministry projects, served 1.5 million people, saw 5,259 churches serve their communities and provided more than 2 million meals.

“Not only across North America but around the world, we have seen the devastating impacts of COVID on families and communities,” said Send Relief President Bryant Wright. “Send Relief’s response has been focused on ensuring people in need have enough food and basic resources to get them through the crisis. The needs have been great, but it has been encouraging to see how churches and individual Christians have worked together with us to help serve the many people who have been struggling, feeling isolated and without hope.”

World Relief referenced UNICEF’s finding that the pandemic created the biggest crisis for children in UNICEF’s 75-year history. Also noted was The Lancet Report’s finding that the number of children orphaned due to COVID-19 related deaths rose to 5.2 million in a seven-month period ending Oct. 31, 2021, increasing the number of orphans by 90 percent worldwide.

Women suffered more poverty and domestic abuse.

20 Awesome Things J.C. Ryle Said About Prayer

Andrew Hess

March 17, 2022

20 Awesome Things J.C. Ryle Said About Prayer

“The only way to be really happy, in such a world as this is to be ever casting all our cares on God.”

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“He loves me best who loves me in his prayers.”

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“Nothing seems to be too great, too hard, or too difficult for prayer to do. It has obtained things that seemed impossible and out of reach. It has won victories over fire, air, earth, and water. Prayer opened the Red Sea. Prayer brought water from the rock and bread from heaven. Prayer made the sun stand still. Prayer brought fire from the sky on Elijah’s sacrifice … Prayer has healed the sick. Prayer has raised the dead. Prayer has procured the conversion of souls.”

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“Above all, we should cultivate the habit of expecting answers to our prayers.”

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“Fear not because your prayer is stammering, your words feeble, and your language poor. Jesus can understand you.”

Small Groups: Putting COVID Behind Us

Allen White

March 17, 2022

The last two years have been unprecedented, unbelievable, devastating, incredible. (Pretend this is the Amplified version of this blog. You pick the word!) Now, as the last holdouts for Coronavirus mandates, Oregon, Washington, and others, are planning to reduce their restrictions, it’s time to put COVID behind us and move forward as a church. But, moving forward is not the same as returning to life as it was in 2019. Here are some things you should expect.

Don’t Expect Everyone to Rush Back.

Churches that’ve been fully open for more than a year are seeing 50% in in-person worship. Your people fall into one of three categories: Cautious, Comfortable, or Curious. The cautious are still not sure they want to take the risk. While COVID numbers are falling, new variants are lurking around the globe. Maybe they’re concerned about their health or a loved one’s health. They will probably continue to stay away for a while. Many comparisons have been made between this pandemic and the Spanish Influenza of 1918-1919. Do you know when the Spanish Influenza completely disappeared? It lasted until 1951 when it was replaced by Bird Flu. (Sorry for that bit of bad news.)

Some of your people are comfortable. It’s just more convenient to stay home in their pajamas to watch the worship service while they’re eating brunch. Bad habits have formed. Think of a health club membership. Health clubs survive on people paying their monthly dues but never showing up. They intend to show up, but they just have trouble getting there. The same is true for your congregation.

If your weekend service is largely built on programming, here’s the rub – people can equally access programming at home. So, why don’t you just cancel your online stream? Because they will switch over to someone else’s online stream. Your weekend service has to be more than programming. They might have come for programming initially, but they will come back for community. It’s time to rethink your Sunday morning. No one is going to start attending in-person again just because they are “supposed to.” Those folks are already attending in person.

The third group who’ve been watching online are the curious. They’ve enjoyed watching the service without anyone watching them. This is the group to pay attention to when they show up in-person. They aren’t a “first time guest.” They’ve been watching online for weeks to months. When they show up, they are ready for next steps. A pastor told me recently that someone showed up for the first time in-person, made a profession of faith, attended their Growth Track, and joined a small group – all in one day! When they show up, be ready to engage with them.

Don’t Expect Volunteer Roles to Fill Immediately.

During the pandemic, people divested themselves of everything – going to the office, attending worship services, going to school, volunteering their time, shopping for groceries, going out to dinner, and everything else. Why go somewhere when it can be brought to you? Why live in San Francisco with its high taxes, when you can telecommute from Miami and pay no state income tax at all? Why go out to a movie, when you can Netflix and chill at home? The world has changed.

Many churches who have been open for a while have struggled to offer additional worship services because they just don’t have the help they need in children’s ministry. Some of the workers left. Some of the workers continue to stay home. Some went somewhere else. Others were just burned out. Much energy and effort will be required to rebuild this. You should count on those who are already gathered in-person to help before you expect folks to show up and reengage immediately. Lead the folks you have.

Expect People to be Gone.

The Spanish Influenza of 1918-1919 was followed by the Roaring 20’s. (Hey, we’re in the 20’s). Two significant things happened after 1919. First, the Spanish Influenza was never mentioned again. People put it completely behind them and didn’t talk about it anymore. Second, people were gone. They traveled extensively both nationally and internationally. They had been cooped up for too long. They had been limited for too long. Now, they were gone.

5 Enemies of the Soul That Hurt Your Church

Dan Reiland

March 17, 2022

It’s easy to get so consumed with solving the problems in the church that we miss slaying the enemies of the church.

Problems come in a wide variety from things such as developing effective strategy in a time when the future is so uncertain to financial pressure and complexity of hiring staff. They involve factors like understanding culture, how to lead the online church, and both ideological and theological differences. You get the picture.

Here’s how it works.

As leaders, it’s part of our job to see and solve problems, so we understandably invest a great deal of time in that process.

The pressure to solve problems in the church requires so much focus that we have little energy left to conquer the enemies of the soul.

That leaves room for these quiet destroyers to do significant damage.

These enemies of the soul tend to run underneath many of the practical problems we face and, in fact, are often the cause, or at least the aggravation of our problems.

Learning to see them quickly and take the time to address them is vital to the health and progress of your church.

The good news is that we can:

Get honest about their existence.
The human mind is powerful and can create amazingly intricate rationalizations for attitudes and behaviors that do not please God or build up the body of Christ. So the first step is to get honest about them.

Allow growth to overcome guilt.
When we do get honest about the enemies of the soul, guilt can prevent us from taking the action steps to growth. It’s important to allow growth to win over guilt.

Learn and practice the spiritual remedy.
There is a spiritual remedy to each of these enemies of the soul.

5 Enemies of the Soul That Hurt You and the Church:

1. Divisiveness

Division is a mortal enemy of the church and is birthed in the souls of individuals, not the organization.

There are numerous causes of division, from not getting our way and the desire for control to various levels of immaturity.

Division can appear in your church at two levels.

The result of an honest disagreement but lacking resolution.
A spirit of divisiveness that seeks to divide and get its own way.

The second of the two is rare, though it does exist.

Spiritual passion can often result in honest disagreement, but it doesn’t need to result in sacrificing the overall mission.

The spiritual remedy to divisiveness is a spirit of commitment to unity. (Ephesians 4:3-4)

10 Skills You Need to Be an Exceptional Children’s Ministry Leader

1. Skill of Motivation

2. Skill of Empathy

3. Skill of Empowerment

4. Skill of Casting Vision

5. Skill of Team Building

6. Skill of a Positive Attitude

7. Skill of Time Management

8. Skill of Listening

9. Skill of Self-Confidence

10. Skill of Continuous Learning

20 Bible Verses About Being Thankful for Blessings

5 Awesome Church Graduation Program Ideas

1. The Board

2. The Gift

3. The Celebration

4. The Visuals

Plan the Resurrection Scavenger Hunt

1. Pray about the event.

2. Plan it.

3. Get the word out.

The Resurrection Scavenger Hunt Begins

Let’s Play!

Treasures Found

Ben Roethlisberger: People Need Father Figures

Big Ben’s Foundation Now Has a Family Focus

“The only way to be really happy, in such a world as this is to be ever casting all our cares on God.”

✦✦✦✦

“He loves me best who loves me in his prayers.”

✦✦✦✦

✦✦✦✦

“Above all, we should cultivate the habit of expecting answers to our prayers.”

✦✦✦✦

“Fear not because your prayer is stammering, your words feeble, and your language poor. Jesus can understand you.”

Don’t Expect Everyone to Rush Back.

Don’t Expect Volunteer Roles to Fill Immediately.

Expect People to be Gone.

5 Enemies of the Soul That Hurt You and the Church:

1. Divisiveness

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“The only way to be really happy, in such a world as this is to be ever casting all our cares on God.”