We seem to be experiencing a technical difficulty with the blog's comment feature. Some comments have been posted but are not showing up. And some folks seem to be having a problem using the comments form, unable to post at all.
We're looking into the issues and hope to have them resolved soon.
In the meantime, did I mention we've posted new pictures in the photo gallery?
UPDATE: If you previously posted comments that still do not appear on the site, please try again. Those comments may be forever lost in cyberspace. But, if at first you don't succeed....
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Going Cruisin' (To Alaska, That Is)
If the Lord tarries, I will be privileged to be a part of what I believe will be my 17th or possibly my 18th gospel music cruise. For the past 15 years or so, I have been a featured artist on the annual Victory Voyage cruise to beautiful destinations such as Mexico, Jamaica and The Bahamas. Thankfully, I will continue to be one of the "regulars" on the Victory Voyage cruises.
However, I've been extended an invitation to perform on SonShine Promotions' 7-day gospel music cruise to Alaska, setting sail in August. With almost a child-like anticipation, I am looking forward to this trip because it will be my very first visit to the great state of Alaska.
On all the cruises I've ever been a part of, it has always been a joy to be with family and friends as we share good times, make memories, enjoy the best music in the world, and worship the Lord surrounded by the beauty of His vast creation. This cruise will be no exception, and I want to extend to you a very special invitation to join me for my first visit to Alaska via this cruise event.
I am thrilled to be able to offer you this cruise vacation for a very special low fare of only $999.00.
The regular cost for a 7-day Alaskan cruise usually averages between $1800.00 - $2500.00 and, in some cases, even more. And, generally, port taxes and other government fees are in addition to the cost of the cruise. But your price of $999.00 INCLUDES these fees and taxes, as well as your cabin, meals and all entertainment aboard the ship.
Many cruises generally offer two and three ports of call. THIS cruise includes four ports of call - Skagway, Juneau, Ketchickan and Victoria, BC. This is one cruise experience you'll not want to miss.
Please prayerfully consider taking advantage of this discounted Christian vacation offer, as this low rate is available for a limited time. This cruise is sailing on a Carnival cruise ship, and Carnival has announced that they are raising their summer rates for this Alaskan itinerary before the end of this month, so I am only able to offer you this low fare of $999.00 through March 21.
Please note that you will still be able to book this cruise after March 21. However, the price will increase significantly. (I am told it may go up $400-$500 more, which, coincidentally, is still comparatively inexpensive).
Please read further before you decide you can't afford it. Here's some really good news: You need not pay the entire fare up front. All you need to reserve your stateroom aboard and secure this huge discount is a deposit of only $350.00 per person. That's all! And even better news: the balance does not have to be paid until June 1.
And to make it even easier and more convenient, you may use your Visa, MasterCard or American Express to pay your deposit online or by calling our office.
Don't delay, send your deposit now to take advantage of this special offer.
Please join me for this 7-day gospel music cruise, my first visit to Alaska. It's sure to be a wonderful, unforgettable experience. Don't forget to pack your camera!
Click here for cruise itinerary and online registration!
However, I've been extended an invitation to perform on SonShine Promotions' 7-day gospel music cruise to Alaska, setting sail in August. With almost a child-like anticipation, I am looking forward to this trip because it will be my very first visit to the great state of Alaska.
On all the cruises I've ever been a part of, it has always been a joy to be with family and friends as we share good times, make memories, enjoy the best music in the world, and worship the Lord surrounded by the beauty of His vast creation. This cruise will be no exception, and I want to extend to you a very special invitation to join me for my first visit to Alaska via this cruise event.
I am thrilled to be able to offer you this cruise vacation for a very special low fare of only $999.00.
The regular cost for a 7-day Alaskan cruise usually averages between $1800.00 - $2500.00 and, in some cases, even more. And, generally, port taxes and other government fees are in addition to the cost of the cruise. But your price of $999.00 INCLUDES these fees and taxes, as well as your cabin, meals and all entertainment aboard the ship.
Many cruises generally offer two and three ports of call. THIS cruise includes four ports of call - Skagway, Juneau, Ketchickan and Victoria, BC. This is one cruise experience you'll not want to miss.
Please prayerfully consider taking advantage of this discounted Christian vacation offer, as this low rate is available for a limited time. This cruise is sailing on a Carnival cruise ship, and Carnival has announced that they are raising their summer rates for this Alaskan itinerary before the end of this month, so I am only able to offer you this low fare of $999.00 through March 21.
Please note that you will still be able to book this cruise after March 21. However, the price will increase significantly. (I am told it may go up $400-$500 more, which, coincidentally, is still comparatively inexpensive).
Please read further before you decide you can't afford it. Here's some really good news: You need not pay the entire fare up front. All you need to reserve your stateroom aboard and secure this huge discount is a deposit of only $350.00 per person. That's all! And even better news: the balance does not have to be paid until June 1.
And to make it even easier and more convenient, you may use your Visa, MasterCard or American Express to pay your deposit online or by calling our office.
Don't delay, send your deposit now to take advantage of this special offer.
Please join me for this 7-day gospel music cruise, my first visit to Alaska. It's sure to be a wonderful, unforgettable experience. Don't forget to pack your camera!
Click here for cruise itinerary and online registration!
Going Country! (Country Gospel, That Is)
The first ever Country Gospel Music Fan Fest is coming to Pigeon Forge. Featuring a variety of Christian Country and Country Gospel music, CGM Fan Fest will premier at the Smoky Mountain Convention Center April 29, 2010.
And you ain't gonna believe who they've chosen to emcee the three-day event! And they're going to let me sing, too! So, I'm putting on my western boots and cowboy hat and heading to east Tennessee!
This festival event will showcase a huge variety of the nation's finest artists including The Jeff Treece Band, Allen Frizzell, The Springs, Back Home, Marty Raybon, Barry Wayne, James Payne, Robin Springs, Melanie Walker and dozens more.
In addition to high-energy evening concerts, you'll enjoy the morning worship services, daily matinees, and plenty of southern hospitality as you chat with your favorite artists every afternoon. CGM Fan Fest is sure to deliver a heapin' helpin' of comedy, "down home" entertainment, spiritual refreshing and all the country-flavored gospel music the whole family will appreciate.
Visit http://www.cgmfanfest.com/ for more info!
And you ain't gonna believe who they've chosen to emcee the three-day event! And they're going to let me sing, too! So, I'm putting on my western boots and cowboy hat and heading to east Tennessee!
This festival event will showcase a huge variety of the nation's finest artists including The Jeff Treece Band, Allen Frizzell, The Springs, Back Home, Marty Raybon, Barry Wayne, James Payne, Robin Springs, Melanie Walker and dozens more.
In addition to high-energy evening concerts, you'll enjoy the morning worship services, daily matinees, and plenty of southern hospitality as you chat with your favorite artists every afternoon. CGM Fan Fest is sure to deliver a heapin' helpin' of comedy, "down home" entertainment, spiritual refreshing and all the country-flavored gospel music the whole family will appreciate.
Visit http://www.cgmfanfest.com/ for more info!
Tony Gore & Majesty Among Top 5 Nominees In 2010 SGM Fan Awards
As sponsor for the 6th Annual Southern Gospel Music Fan Awards, Christian Voice Magazine recently announced the top five nominees in 21 categories. (View the complete list of nominees at http://www.sgmfanfair.com/).
Tony, Calvin and I were gratefully surprised to learn that each of us were among those nominees. Tony was named among the top favorite lead singers as voted by gospel music fans, whole Calvin garnered favorite baritone and I was nominated as favorite tenor.
This announcement comes with the news that our latest single, Treasures, has become a top 40 hit. This song debuted on radio from the first recording by the original group in more than ten years.
Gospel music fans warmly embraced Tony Gore & Majesty as a new group in 1993. Since reuniting as the original group on new year's eve in 2004, you have again enthusiastically welcomed us back with your support. We humbly thank you and give all the glory to the Lord, and we look forward to great things ahead. We had no idea when we titled the new album "Dawning Of A New Day" that it would be so accurately describe this moment.
In additon to Treasures, nine other songs to uplift, inspire and encourage are included on "Dawning Of A New Day." (Visit http://www.tonygore.com/ to order your copy today.)
Tony Gore & Majesty will be appaearing once again at SGM FanFair on Friday, May 7. Visit http://www.sgmfanfair.com/ for more info.
Again, on behalf of Tony, Calvin and myself...thank you...we love and appreciate you.
Tony, Calvin and I were gratefully surprised to learn that each of us were among those nominees. Tony was named among the top favorite lead singers as voted by gospel music fans, whole Calvin garnered favorite baritone and I was nominated as favorite tenor.
This announcement comes with the news that our latest single, Treasures, has become a top 40 hit. This song debuted on radio from the first recording by the original group in more than ten years.
Gospel music fans warmly embraced Tony Gore & Majesty as a new group in 1993. Since reuniting as the original group on new year's eve in 2004, you have again enthusiastically welcomed us back with your support. We humbly thank you and give all the glory to the Lord, and we look forward to great things ahead. We had no idea when we titled the new album "Dawning Of A New Day" that it would be so accurately describe this moment.
In additon to Treasures, nine other songs to uplift, inspire and encourage are included on "Dawning Of A New Day." (Visit http://www.tonygore.com/ to order your copy today.)
Tony Gore & Majesty will be appaearing once again at SGM FanFair on Friday, May 7. Visit http://www.sgmfanfair.com/ for more info.
Again, on behalf of Tony, Calvin and myself...thank you...we love and appreciate you.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Video Clip: A Word From Donnie Swaggart About Anti-Christian Leaders And Islam
WARNING: The video you are about to view contains explicitly strong content of a spiritual nature and may be considered offensive to the lukewarm and backslidden Christian. Biblical guidance suggested. View at your own risk.
In the words of the great Shirley Caesar, "Hold my mule! I'm gonna shout right now!"
In the words of the great Shirley Caesar, "Hold my mule! I'm gonna shout right now!"
Thursday, January 21, 2010
The Silence of the Church (Because "Religion and Politics Don't Mix")
In response to my political views (posted on the right column of this blog), and the posts I've made here about former vice presidential candidate and Alaska Governor Sarah Palin, I mentioned in an earlier post that some folks apparently felt they needed to remind me that "politics and religion don't mix."
I promised I would offer my view on the subject after the Christmas and New Year holidays and explain why I do not agree with that statement.
It's really quite simple.
According to webster.com, the word "politics" is primarily defined as:
the art or science of government; the art or science concerned with guiding or influencing governmental policy; the art or science concerned with winning and holding control over a government.
Webster also defines the word "religion" primarily as:
the service and worship of God or the supernatural; commitment or devotion to religious faith or observance.
Granted, politics or governments differ from one country to another, and there are many different religions that exist in our world.
In some countries, particularly middle eastern nations, their religion IS their government (or vice versa). The two are not separate. In these countries, their religion is the law of the land. So, in a case such as radical Islam, the mixture of politics and man-made religion is nothing but a recipe for death and destruction.
But the idea of pure religion and government being one and the same originates in the earliest of Biblical history. It was God's idea. God gave His ten commandments - His law - to govern the nation of Israel after being freed from Egyptian slavery. There was no political law separate from the religious law. It was one and the same.
And, of course, there were times when even the Israelites strayed from God's law - each wanting to do what was right in their own eyes. We know the moral of that story, and you would think we would have learned something from it by now.
Quite contrary to what secularists and history revisionists are trying to sell us these days, America was indeed founded on Godly principles and our governmental law was formed with religious convictions. Anyone willing to take the time to read both the U.S. Constitution and the Declaration of Independence can see that. It doesn't take a genius.
And those who carelessly spit out the phrase, "separation of church and state" to defend their stance that religion has no place in government are ignorant idiots that are oblivious to factual American history.
Life and liberty are God-given, basic, human rights. And, according to the Bible, there is only one, true religion.
Even Thomas Jefferson, whom a secularist would proudly call his own, is documented to have said, "The God who gave us life gave us liberty. Can the liberties of a nation be secure when we have removed a conviction that these liberties are the gift of God?"
Connecting the dots, then, what true, red-blooded American in his/her right mind, with any sense of sound conscience would NOT want moral, Biblically sound politics guiding and influencing our government that exists for the purpose of protecting the law abiding citizen?
Admittedly, until recently I had never really been a "political" person. That’s not to say I’ve not been concerned or informed; But over the past three years, I’ve come to realize just how extremely important it is to be concerned about the decisions made by government - from the local level to the White House - because these decisions affect all our lives.
That said, it is every American citizen’s duty to stay informed about what’s happening in the world around us, and the right to vote and freedom of speech are not just “rights,” but responsibilities of every Christian American. Our voices must be heard.
So, how can we say, then, “politics and religion don’t mix?” Wouldn’t you suppose that the political views of Christians are formed and/or based primarily on Biblical principles and convictions? Or, at least, shouldn’t they be?
To say that "politics and religion don't mix" makes about as much sense as saying "Jesus and the gospel don't mix." (Although, ironically, however, the sad reality is that Jesus nor the gospel exists in some so-called churches any more than Biblical convictions exists in some so-called Christians' political views.)
While the economy is failing, the justice system is failing, and politicians and government leaders are failing us, where is the church?? Is the church also failing? Where is the church that Jesus said the gates of hell could not prevail against, the one that stands for absolute truth and righteousness?
Quite frankly, if the church don’t get political real fast, we’re going to lose this nation.
Some say it’s too late, it’s already a lost cause. Others say there is nothing we can do but pray. And, certainly, prayer still changes things, and the “effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much” (James 5:16b).
However, “faith without works is dead” (James 2:20b).
I realize that Bible prophecy does indeed foretell certain inevitable events that will ultimately take place on this planet as a result of sin and judgment. I also realize the Bible says that, in the last days, some will depart from the faith. Still, that is no reason or excuse for apathy, compromise and complacency. There’s certainly no reason for the church’s deafening silence. We are called to fight the good fight of faith (1st Timothy 6:12a).
In today’s social and political climate, even in the so-called “church” world, it’s very unpopular - and sometimes even dangerous - to voice convictions and conservative opinions that differ from the common secular and liberal world view. But the truth is, if we don’t use our voice, we’ll lose it altogether.
I will continue to pray for our government and those in leadership. Furthermore, however, as a Christian and as an American citizen who loves this country, I have also made a personal commitment to respectfully and prayerfully voice my concerns and convictions to lawmakers and others in leadership, and encourage them to return to the principles of our founding fathers that made this nation so great and prosperous.
Silence is compromise. I will no longer be silent.
As a Christian and as a concerned American citizen, my voice will be heard in prayer. My voice will be heard at the voting booth. My voice will be heard at the White House. My voice will be heard on this blog. My voice will be heard in the pulpit. My voice will be heard as long as there is breath in my body to proclaim the righteousness of God.
Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. (Matthew 5:13,14)
Could YOU stand before almighty God on judgment day and tell Him, "politics and religion don't mix?" Not if you're worth your salt.
The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God. (Psalm 9:17)
-------------------------
Recommended Reading
For more commentary on this topic, read Rev. Michael Bresciani's articles:
Religion and Politics Don’t Mix - A Modern Fairy Tale
So You Don't Think Religion and Politics Make A Good Mix?
And Donnie Swaggart has just posted this commentary, relating the impact of letting our voices be heard:
Another Boston Tea Party
I promised I would offer my view on the subject after the Christmas and New Year holidays and explain why I do not agree with that statement.
It's really quite simple.
According to webster.com, the word "politics" is primarily defined as:
the art or science of government; the art or science concerned with guiding or influencing governmental policy; the art or science concerned with winning and holding control over a government.
Webster also defines the word "religion" primarily as:
the service and worship of God or the supernatural; commitment or devotion to religious faith or observance.
Granted, politics or governments differ from one country to another, and there are many different religions that exist in our world.
In some countries, particularly middle eastern nations, their religion IS their government (or vice versa). The two are not separate. In these countries, their religion is the law of the land. So, in a case such as radical Islam, the mixture of politics and man-made religion is nothing but a recipe for death and destruction.
But the idea of pure religion and government being one and the same originates in the earliest of Biblical history. It was God's idea. God gave His ten commandments - His law - to govern the nation of Israel after being freed from Egyptian slavery. There was no political law separate from the religious law. It was one and the same.
And, of course, there were times when even the Israelites strayed from God's law - each wanting to do what was right in their own eyes. We know the moral of that story, and you would think we would have learned something from it by now.
Quite contrary to what secularists and history revisionists are trying to sell us these days, America was indeed founded on Godly principles and our governmental law was formed with religious convictions. Anyone willing to take the time to read both the U.S. Constitution and the Declaration of Independence can see that. It doesn't take a genius.
And those who carelessly spit out the phrase, "separation of church and state" to defend their stance that religion has no place in government are ignorant idiots that are oblivious to factual American history.
Life and liberty are God-given, basic, human rights. And, according to the Bible, there is only one, true religion.
Even Thomas Jefferson, whom a secularist would proudly call his own, is documented to have said, "The God who gave us life gave us liberty. Can the liberties of a nation be secure when we have removed a conviction that these liberties are the gift of God?"
Connecting the dots, then, what true, red-blooded American in his/her right mind, with any sense of sound conscience would NOT want moral, Biblically sound politics guiding and influencing our government that exists for the purpose of protecting the law abiding citizen?
Admittedly, until recently I had never really been a "political" person. That’s not to say I’ve not been concerned or informed; But over the past three years, I’ve come to realize just how extremely important it is to be concerned about the decisions made by government - from the local level to the White House - because these decisions affect all our lives.
That said, it is every American citizen’s duty to stay informed about what’s happening in the world around us, and the right to vote and freedom of speech are not just “rights,” but responsibilities of every Christian American. Our voices must be heard.
So, how can we say, then, “politics and religion don’t mix?” Wouldn’t you suppose that the political views of Christians are formed and/or based primarily on Biblical principles and convictions? Or, at least, shouldn’t they be?
To say that "politics and religion don't mix" makes about as much sense as saying "Jesus and the gospel don't mix." (Although, ironically, however, the sad reality is that Jesus nor the gospel exists in some so-called churches any more than Biblical convictions exists in some so-called Christians' political views.)
While the economy is failing, the justice system is failing, and politicians and government leaders are failing us, where is the church?? Is the church also failing? Where is the church that Jesus said the gates of hell could not prevail against, the one that stands for absolute truth and righteousness?
Quite frankly, if the church don’t get political real fast, we’re going to lose this nation.
Some say it’s too late, it’s already a lost cause. Others say there is nothing we can do but pray. And, certainly, prayer still changes things, and the “effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much” (James 5:16b).
However, “faith without works is dead” (James 2:20b).
I realize that Bible prophecy does indeed foretell certain inevitable events that will ultimately take place on this planet as a result of sin and judgment. I also realize the Bible says that, in the last days, some will depart from the faith. Still, that is no reason or excuse for apathy, compromise and complacency. There’s certainly no reason for the church’s deafening silence. We are called to fight the good fight of faith (1st Timothy 6:12a).
In today’s social and political climate, even in the so-called “church” world, it’s very unpopular - and sometimes even dangerous - to voice convictions and conservative opinions that differ from the common secular and liberal world view. But the truth is, if we don’t use our voice, we’ll lose it altogether.
I will continue to pray for our government and those in leadership. Furthermore, however, as a Christian and as an American citizen who loves this country, I have also made a personal commitment to respectfully and prayerfully voice my concerns and convictions to lawmakers and others in leadership, and encourage them to return to the principles of our founding fathers that made this nation so great and prosperous.
Silence is compromise. I will no longer be silent.
As a Christian and as a concerned American citizen, my voice will be heard in prayer. My voice will be heard at the voting booth. My voice will be heard at the White House. My voice will be heard on this blog. My voice will be heard in the pulpit. My voice will be heard as long as there is breath in my body to proclaim the righteousness of God.
Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. (Matthew 5:13,14)
Could YOU stand before almighty God on judgment day and tell Him, "politics and religion don't mix?" Not if you're worth your salt.
The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God. (Psalm 9:17)
-------------------------
Recommended Reading
For more commentary on this topic, read Rev. Michael Bresciani's articles:
Religion and Politics Don’t Mix - A Modern Fairy Tale
So You Don't Think Religion and Politics Make A Good Mix?
And Donnie Swaggart has just posted this commentary, relating the impact of letting our voices be heard:
Another Boston Tea Party
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Remembering Oral Roberts and B.H. Clendennen
During the final weeks of 2009, four prominent men of God were called to their Heavenly home - B.H Clendennen, Oral Roberts, Roger Barkley, Sr. and Calvin Hunt.
In memory and in honor of each of these men, I wrote a two-page tribute entitled, "Men of God, Heroes of the Faith." The full article will appear in the February issue of Christian Voice Magazine.
While all four of these men are lovingly remembered and highly respected, two in particular had a personal and direct impact on the lives of me and my family.
Dr. Oral Roberts, a legendary evangelist who rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most influential Christian figures of the 20th century, died December 15, 2009 in Newport Beach, California, due to complications from pneumonia. He was 91 years old.
He was revered as an evangelist, prophet, and modern-day apostle of the healing ministry. He was also a radio and TV minister, author, educator and innovator who built a worldwide ministry, accredited university, and medical school.
Granville Oral Roberts was born into poverty in Bebee, Oklahoma. Inspired by his own healing of tuberculosis and stuttering at 17, he began his career in the ministry. While pastoring churches and preaching at revivals around the country, he studied at Oklahoma Baptist University and Phillips (OK) University.
In 1947, he founded Oral Roberts Evangelistic Association (OREA) and began conducting crusades across America and around the world, attracting crowds of thousands - many who were sick and dying, and in search of healing.
As a young boy, my dad had a hole in his heart that caused many complications and placed limitations on his physical activity. At an Oral Roberts crusade, Roberts prayed for my dad and he was healed. It was a moment he's never forgotten.
In 1958, Roberts founded the Abundant Life Prayer Group to address the around-the-clock needs of those suffering and requesting prayer. Answering God’s call to build an institute of higher learning, he founded Oral Roberts University in 1963, where he served as school president until 1993, when he became chancellor.
In 1981, Roberts founded the City of Faith Medical and Research Center, merging the healing power of medicine and prayer. The facility closed after eight years, leaving a lasting impact on the understanding by many medical professionals of the importance of treating the whole person - body, mind and spirit.
Although he was referred to as a “faith healer,” Oral Roberts often refuted the term, saying, “God heals. I don’t.”
Rev. B.H. Clendennen became highly regarded as a “true soldier of the cross” and was affectionately referred to as “The General.” His reputation as such a spiritual leader was largely due to his style of straight forward preaching and uncompromising commitment to the truth of pure, Biblical doctrine - never embracing what has become known as the so called “social gospel” and the “prosperity gospel.”
Bertram Hamilton Clendennen was born in Lytton Springs, Texas, to a large, poor family. One year after graduating high school, he joined the U.S. Marines where he served during World War II.
Clendennen surrendered his life fully to Jesus Christ in 1949, at the age of 27. Answering the call to preach in 1953, he spent three years in successful evangelism before he became the founding pastor of Victory Temple in Beaumont, Texas in 1956.
Thirty-five years later, Rev. Clendennen resigned his pastoral ministry to enter into full-time missions. As part of his missions efforts, he founded the School of Christ in 1992 - a work that is now ongoing in more than 100 countries around the world and continues to grow.
As a conservative Pentecostal preacher, Rev. Clendennen became an international speaker, author, radio and TV minister. His ministry spanned the globe for more than 55 years with integrity untainted by the media.
Until his last breath on this earth, he fought the good fight of faith.
In memory and in honor of each of these men, I wrote a two-page tribute entitled, "Men of God, Heroes of the Faith." The full article will appear in the February issue of Christian Voice Magazine.
While all four of these men are lovingly remembered and highly respected, two in particular had a personal and direct impact on the lives of me and my family.
Dr. Oral Roberts, a legendary evangelist who rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most influential Christian figures of the 20th century, died December 15, 2009 in Newport Beach, California, due to complications from pneumonia. He was 91 years old.
He was revered as an evangelist, prophet, and modern-day apostle of the healing ministry. He was also a radio and TV minister, author, educator and innovator who built a worldwide ministry, accredited university, and medical school.
Granville Oral Roberts was born into poverty in Bebee, Oklahoma. Inspired by his own healing of tuberculosis and stuttering at 17, he began his career in the ministry. While pastoring churches and preaching at revivals around the country, he studied at Oklahoma Baptist University and Phillips (OK) University.
In 1947, he founded Oral Roberts Evangelistic Association (OREA) and began conducting crusades across America and around the world, attracting crowds of thousands - many who were sick and dying, and in search of healing.
As a young boy, my dad had a hole in his heart that caused many complications and placed limitations on his physical activity. At an Oral Roberts crusade, Roberts prayed for my dad and he was healed. It was a moment he's never forgotten.
In 1958, Roberts founded the Abundant Life Prayer Group to address the around-the-clock needs of those suffering and requesting prayer. Answering God’s call to build an institute of higher learning, he founded Oral Roberts University in 1963, where he served as school president until 1993, when he became chancellor.
In 1981, Roberts founded the City of Faith Medical and Research Center, merging the healing power of medicine and prayer. The facility closed after eight years, leaving a lasting impact on the understanding by many medical professionals of the importance of treating the whole person - body, mind and spirit.
Although he was referred to as a “faith healer,” Oral Roberts often refuted the term, saying, “God heals. I don’t.”
Rev. B.H. Clendennen became highly regarded as a “true soldier of the cross” and was affectionately referred to as “The General.” His reputation as such a spiritual leader was largely due to his style of straight forward preaching and uncompromising commitment to the truth of pure, Biblical doctrine - never embracing what has become known as the so called “social gospel” and the “prosperity gospel.”
Bertram Hamilton Clendennen was born in Lytton Springs, Texas, to a large, poor family. One year after graduating high school, he joined the U.S. Marines where he served during World War II.
Clendennen surrendered his life fully to Jesus Christ in 1949, at the age of 27. Answering the call to preach in 1953, he spent three years in successful evangelism before he became the founding pastor of Victory Temple in Beaumont, Texas in 1956.
Thirty-five years later, Rev. Clendennen resigned his pastoral ministry to enter into full-time missions. As part of his missions efforts, he founded the School of Christ in 1992 - a work that is now ongoing in more than 100 countries around the world and continues to grow.
As a conservative Pentecostal preacher, Rev. Clendennen became an international speaker, author, radio and TV minister. His ministry spanned the globe for more than 55 years with integrity untainted by the media.
Until his last breath on this earth, he fought the good fight of faith.
To My Country Gospel / Christian Country Friends
One More Miracle was released to radio several months ago as the first single from my new CD, "God Is My Refuge."
The song never made it to any of the Southern Gospel music charts (at least, not to my knowledge). However, the song is doing well on Christian Country and Country Gospel radio stations. I have recently been made aware that One More Miracle has charted at #59 in CVM's Country Gospel Top 100, being published in February.
This is a pleasant surprise, for which I am sincerely grateful!
To the radio stations who are playing the song and to the listeners who've supported it, thank you, from the bottom of my heart. This is indeed an honor and a great encouragement to me.
The song never made it to any of the Southern Gospel music charts (at least, not to my knowledge). However, the song is doing well on Christian Country and Country Gospel radio stations. I have recently been made aware that One More Miracle has charted at #59 in CVM's Country Gospel Top 100, being published in February.
This is a pleasant surprise, for which I am sincerely grateful!
To the radio stations who are playing the song and to the listeners who've supported it, thank you, from the bottom of my heart. This is indeed an honor and a great encouragement to me.
Gospel Music Alert: SGM Fan Award Nominations Begin
The SGM Fan Awards are voted upon by Gospel music fans, and given each year at the SGM FanFair in Pigeon Forge, TN. It's a great way to express our appreciation for Southern Gospel music, and it's a lot of fun!
The first ballots have opened and now's your chance to nominate your favorites in a variety of categories. Just click here and select the "Fan Awards" link in the navigation menu at the top of the page to submit your nominations...I did! The nomination period ends January 31st, so don't delay!
The first ballots have opened and now's your chance to nominate your favorites in a variety of categories. Just click here and select the "Fan Awards" link in the navigation menu at the top of the page to submit your nominations...I did! The nomination period ends January 31st, so don't delay!
FOX Has A New Face, New Voice
To my delight - and the delight of many other conservative Americans - FOX News announced Monday that Sarah Palin, former Alaska governor and 2008 Republican vice presidential candidate, will join the cable news channel as a regular commentator.
FOX said that, according to the multiyear deal, Palin will offer political commentary and analysis on the cable channel, as well as FOX's Web site, radio network and business cable channel. She also will host occasional episodes of FOX News' "Real American Stories," a series debuting this year that the network said will feature true inspirational stories about Americans who have overcome adversity.
Palin made her debut on Tuesday's "The Factor" with Bill O'Reilly. For those who missed it, here's the debut interview in its entirety, courtesy of FOX News and foxnews.com.
FOX said that, according to the multiyear deal, Palin will offer political commentary and analysis on the cable channel, as well as FOX's Web site, radio network and business cable channel. She also will host occasional episodes of FOX News' "Real American Stories," a series debuting this year that the network said will feature true inspirational stories about Americans who have overcome adversity.
Palin made her debut on Tuesday's "The Factor" with Bill O'Reilly. For those who missed it, here's the debut interview in its entirety, courtesy of FOX News and foxnews.com.
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