The Religion Wire™

Over Two Dozen Walks This Sunday Fight World & Local Hunger

2006-10-12T23:01:46-05:00

- CROP Hunger Walks in 25 Chicago area communities on Oct. 15

Oak Brook, Ill., Oct. 12, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- For over 30 years, the Aurora Area CROP Walk has helped to fight local and international hunger. This Sunday the Aurora walkers will be walking in solidarity with 24 other Chicago area community CROP Hunger Walks.

Free Grace Alliance Prepares for Its First National Conference on Oct. 16-18

2006-10-12T14:06:05-05:00

- Distinguished members and speakers to meet in Dallas, Texas, to proclaim "God's free salvation through faith alone in Christ alone"

Dallas/Ft. Worth, Texas, Oct. 12, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- The first annual Free Grace Alliance National Conference will be held in Irving, Texas, on October 16th-18th at the Radisson DFW South. Meeting to connect and encourage Free Grace leaders throughout the world, the 2006 "Here We Go!" conference will include notable speakers such as Larry Moyer, Dr. Elliott Johnson, Dr. Scott Horrell, Dr. Steven Lewis, Dr. Jay Quine, Dr. Dave Anderson, Dr. Ken Wilson, Jody Dillow, Brian Fisher, Dr. Fred Chay, Dr. Charlie Bing, Phil Congdon and Dr. Earl Radmacher.

Terri Schiavo Case Important to Current Political Issues

2006-10-12T14:01:38-05:00

- Debates reheat as elections draw near

Dallas/Ft. Worth, Texas, Oct. 12, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- The debate between quality of life versus sanctity of life has not died out, although the Terri Schiavo case was decided a little over a year ago. The battle over what was lawful and right still remains. With the November 2006 elections looming, the Schiavo case takes on an even greater importance.

Major Motion Picture “The Nativity Story” Raises Questions “Why the Nativity?” Provides the Answers

2006-10-06T14:38:34-05:00

Carol Stream, Ill., Oct. 6, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- When New Line Cinema releases "The Nativity Story" in 3,000 theaters nationwide on December 1, believers and unbelievers alike will have a chance to reflect on one of the most critical events in Christianity: Gods plan to save the world through a little baby. To best equip individuals, families, and organizations to respond to questions raised by "The Nativity Story" film, Tyndale House Publishers will release Why the Nativity? by theological expert and best-selling author Dr. David Jeremiah on November 1, 2006.

It’s What You Can’t See That Can Hurt You

2006-10-06T14:34:18-05:00

- In his bold new book, Dr. Robert Jeffress lifts the curtain of everyday existence to reveal the invisible but very real war Satan wages against followers of Christ.

Dallas/Ft. Worth, Texas, Oct. 3, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- Today, many Christians are unaware of the meticulous plan that Satan, the prince of darkness, has crafted for their destruction. They assume that the conflicts they experience with others, the temptations that regularly assault them, the depression and illnesses that pull them down and the private doubts they harbor about God are all a natural part of life. As a result, they become "spiritual road kill."

“And the Emmy nomination goes to...”

2006-09-29T15:53:54-05:00

- TLN Receives Eight Chicago/Midwest Emmy Nominations

Aurora, Ill., Sept. 29, 2006 (The Religion Wire ) --The Total Living Network (TLN) received eight Emmy nominations this past week from the Chicago/Midwest chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences.

Here is the list of nominations: ...

City-wide Wi-Fi Network Focus of Oct. 10 Clergy Meeting

2006-09-29T15:46:01-05:00

- ACMN workshop will discuss Auroras new Wi-Fi and the church.

Aurora, Ill., Sept. 28, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- The Aurora Christian Ministry Network(ACMN) and the Total Living Network(TLN) are inviting Aurora and Fox Valley area pastors and Christian leaders to the next ACMN meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 10, 9 a.m., at the TLN headquarters, 2880 Vision Court, Aurora.

The morning meeting's FREE workshop speaker will be Ted Beck, chief technical officer(CTO) for the City of Aurora. Beck's workshop topic will be "What does the coming of city-wide wireless(Wi-Fi) Internet access mean for churches and congregations?" with a Question/Answer time.

Oct. 15 Aurora Area CROP Walk Helps Fight Local/World Hunger

2006-09-28T22:20:49-05:00

* In-Town Route Set for 2006

Aurora, Ill., Sept. 28, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- For over 30 years, the Aurora Area CROP Walk has helped to fight local and international hunger.

The Oct. 15 Aurora Area CROP Walk begins at 1:15 p.m. with registration and a rally at Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 115 Oak St., North Aurora. At 2 p.m., the 5K walk will step-off. The walkers will walk an in-town route.

Wayside Cross Ministries Continues Annual Campaign

2006-09-26T16:07:00-05:00

- September Fund Raiser Helps Hurting Individuals and Families

Aurora, Ill., Sept. 22, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- Wayside Cross Ministries(WCM) was founded in April of 1928 and has engaged in an Annual Campaign fund raiser since its beginning. It is the single biggest event dedicated to raising support for the Fox Valley area organization.

This year's campaign started on August 26 with a "Kick Off Event" held at its facilities on 215 E. New York St., in Aurora. The campaign will conclude on Oct. 5 with a "Drop Off Afternoon."

Sept. 21 “Pause & Enrich” Highlights Book on Christianity & Islam

2006-09-08T23:05:48-05:00

- Author Shares Theological Insights at Noontime Event at Aurora's First Presbyterian Church

Aurora, Ill., Sept. 8, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- The Rev. Mateen Elass, senior pastor of Immanuel Presbyterian Church of Warrenville, will discuss his book Understanding the Koran: A Quick Christian Guide to the Muslim Holy Book (June 2004, Zondervan) at First Presbyterian Church's Sept. 21 Pause & Enrich, noon to 1 p.m. FPC is located at 325 E. Downer Place, Aurora.

Fall ACMN Kick-off Meeting on Sept.12

2006-09-06T23:38:59-05:00

- Marcia Z. Nelson, religion writer/author to speak on "Religion & The News"

Aurora, Ill., Sept. 6, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- The Aurora Christian Ministry Network(ACMN) and the Total Living Network(TLN) are inviting Fox Valley and Chicago area pastors and Christian leaders to the next ACMN meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 12, 9 a.m., at the TLN headquarters, 2880 Vision Court, Aurora. The meeting's FREE workshop speaker will be Marcia Z. Nelson, www.marciaznelson.com, religion writer/author and former religion editor of The Beacon News (Aurora). Nelsons workshop topic will be "Religion & The News: preaching with the Bible in one hand & the newspaper in the other" with a Question/Answer time

Sept. 9 Rally Seeks Recruiters for Annual Fall Aurora Area CROP Walk

2006-09-01T22:02:42-05:00

- October Walk Focuses on World and Local Hunger

Aurora, Ill., Sept. 1, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- Aurora area churches, schools, and other interested organizations are encouraged to send representatives to the Sept 9 Aurora Area CROP Walk Recruiters Rally, 9 a.m., at Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 115 Oak St., North Aurora. The morning meeting's focus will be on walker recruitment for the Oct. 15 hunger walk.

Pacific Garden Mission Anticipates Move as It Marks Two Anniversaries -- 129th Anniversary of Mission and 56th Anniversary of “Unshackled!” Broadcast

2006-08-31T15:46:51-05:00

- Doors have been open continuously since September 15, 1877 - - over 47,117consecutive days - - period spanning last 25 presidential administrations

Chicago, Sept. 1, 2006 (The Religion Wire ) -- This September is special for Pacific Garden Mission - - not just for two important anniversaries - - but because it marks one year from the time when the Mission anticipates its move into a new three-story facility. September 15, 2006 marks 129 years since its doors first opened in 1877, and September 23 marks the anniversary of the very first Unshackled! radio broadcast in 1950.

Prayer Seminar Set for Sept. 8 & 9 in Aurora

2006-08-31T15:43:42-05:00

- Dr. John H. Armstrong of ACT 3 Featured Speaker

Aurora, Ill., Aug. 29, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- An interdenominational Prayer Seminar is coming Friday Sept. 8, 7-9 p.m., and Saturday Sept. 9, 9 a.m.-noon, to Auroras First Presbyterian Church, 325 E. Downer Place. The seminar will feature Dr. John H. Armstrong, president of ACT 3, Carol Stream, Ill.

Aurora Church Celebrates “Love Aurora Sunday”

2006-08-14T17:38:46-05:00

- Special Potluck & Ministry Event at First Presbyterian Church on August 20

Aurora, Ill., Aug. 14, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- "Celebrate Our Heritage: Build Our Future" is the theme this year at First Presbyterian Church's(FPC) annual "Love Aurora Sunday. "

On Sunday, Aug. 20, the church will host a special noontime(12:30-2 p.m.) potluck at the Harkness Family Center, 60 S. Fourth St., that will feature food... from Swedish meatballs to Mexican tacos... and all other kinds of ethnic foods.

Elegant Set of Collectible Medallions Support Christian Television Ministry

2006-08-08T16:49:22-05:00

"The Apostles' Call" Commemorative Medallion Set Commissioned by Total Living Network

Aurora, Ill., Aug. 8, 2006 (The Religion Wire ) -- Total Living Network(TLN) announces the one-of-a-kind "The Apostles' Call" 12 coin collection. The medallions celebrate Gods Call to: Faith, Forgiveness, Truth, Service, Evangelism, Prayer, Courage, Transformation, Devotion, Hope, Joy and Commitment.

First Presbyterian Church Names Director of Community Ministry

2006-08-02T15:41:30-05:00

 Church Expands Ministry with New Position

Aurora, Ill., Aug. 2, 2006 (The Religion Wire) Bethany Dudley has been named the director of community ministry at Auroras First Presbyterian Church(FPC). On June 1, she assumed her duties in this newly created outreach position at the 850-member church.

Chicago Company to Make Wizard World Debut

2006-08-02T15:38:21-05:00

UMI will be exhibiting their new Guardian Line at the
Wizard World Chicago Convention August 3-6 at the
Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL

Prepare to Witness the Dawn
of a Comic Book Revolution!

The joining of two publishing superpowers promises to create a new concept
in comic book development that appeals to more young readers than ever before.

Chicago, July 26, 2006 (The Religion Wire) UMI (Urban Ministries, Inc), the largest independent African American media firm providing positive content for the urban market, announces one of the biggest launches in comics history for the young multicultural audienceThe Guardian Line. This series is the superbly styled result of the combined resources of UMI and creator of The Guardian Line Michael Davis.

You Can Run, But You Can’t Hide

2006-07-26T21:31:20-05:00

 In Furious Pursuit, authors Tim King and Frank Martin reveal the secret to why God will never let you go

Dallas/Ft. Worth, Texas, July 26 2006 (The Religion Wire) You are not defined by what youve done. You are defined by Who pursues you, says Tim King, co-author of Furious Pursuit: Why God Will Never Let You Go. This passionate new release from WaterBrook Press instantly connects with the desperation of thousands of believers and answers the honest heart cry few Christians would dare to vocalize. Im sick of chasing after God. Why doesnt He chase after me for a while?

Wayside Center’s First-Ever Bike-a-thon Set for July 22

2006-07-12T11:35:58-05:00

- Ride begins in Carpentersville at Main Street Bicycles

Elgin, Ill., July 11, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- The Wayside Center of Elgin will benefit from its first-ever Wayside Ride 2006 on Saturday, July 22. The entry fee is $20/person for this new bike-a-thon event. The ride is sponsored by Main Street Bicycles, 52 W. Main St., Carpentersville, (847) 783-0362. Check-in from 8-10 a.m. for the 5 and 17 mile north course. And check-in at 9 a.m. for a 35 mile south course.

Wayside Center Set to Unveil New Facility Serving Elgin’s Homeless and Hungry

2006-07-12T11:29:56-05:00

- Grand Opening Set for July 15

Elgin, Ill., July 7, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- The Elgin Wayside Center, the doorway of opportunity to the homeless and hurting, is excited to announce the Grand Opening of its spacious, added facility Saturday, July 15, 2006 at 441 E. Dundee Avenue in Elgin. The additional 6,300 sq. ft. facility replaces the previous 1,200 sq. ft. facility and will offer numerous services and expanded programs, including goal achievement, job training, life application training, counseling, and education.

July 31 – August 4 Summer Bible School Offers “Bethlehem Village”

2006-07-01T22:32:46-05:00

- Auroras First Presbyterian Church Offers Children 5-Day Program

Aurora, Ill., July 1, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- Holy Land Adventure: Bethlehem Village is the theme of the (Monday - Friday) July 31 - August 4 Summer Bible School to be hosted by First Presbyterian Church of Aurora, from 9:00 a.m. to noon.

“Clothes Line Art Gallery” Honors Artists

2006-06-16T16:21:12-05:00

- Festival Art Contest Announces Winners

Aurora, Ill., June 16, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- Today, the fourteenth annual Celebrate Our Children Festival announced the winners of its new "Clothes Line Art Gallery" contest.

Mayor of Batavia Proclaims Sunday June 11 as Children's Day

2006-06-11T16:44:52-05:00

- Suburban Chicago Mayor Urges Citizens to Further the Cause of Hope to Children

Batavia, Ill., June 11, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- Today, Mayor Jeffery D. Schielke of Batavia issued a proclamation declaring June 11, 2006 as "Children's Day." He stresses that "all citizens of Batavia should unite in aiding to further the cause of hope for our children." And the community should give "faith, hope, and love to our children" on this special day. You may read the proclamation at www.nationalchildrensday.us.

Children's Day Coming This Sunday June 11

2006-06-07T12:37:29-05:00

- Day to Honor Kids Dates to the Late 1800s

Batavia, Ill., June 7, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- The "Chase's 2006 Calendar of Events" notes "Children's Sunday. June 11. Traditionally the second Sunday in June is observed as Children's Sunday in many Christian churches."

Mr. Nicky Sings New Song to Promote June 11 as Children's Day

2006-05-31T00:37:46-05:00

- Kid's Song "I Love Being A Kid" Offered as a FREE Download

Chicago, May 30, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- Children's singer/songwriter Mr. Nicky has written a new song to promote Children's Day titled "I Love Being A Kid." A FREE MP3 download is available at www.nationalchildrensday.us and at iTunes.

Lyle E. Schaller to Speak to Local Christian Leaders on June 13

2006-05-28T00:09:43-05:00

- Church Expert to Give FREE Worship at Clergy/Ministry Meeting at TLN

Aurora, Ill., May 27, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- Fox Valley and Chicago area clergy/ministry leaders are invited to the next meeting of the Aurora Christian Ministry Network (ACMN) scheduled for Thursday, June 13, 9 a.m., at Total Living Network (TLN), 2880 Vision Ct., Aurora, with Lyle E. Schaller. Schaller, a church growth expert and author, will speak at a FREE workshop on the topic,"The Consequences of Competition" with a Question/Answer time.

Florida Mega-Church Raises Most Money Ever

2006-05-28T00:06:34-05:00

Dallas, May 25, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- Partnering with RSI Church Stewardship Group, Calvary Chapel in Ft. Lauderdale has received pledges totaling $105 million, believed to be the largest amount ever raised by a U.S. church.

San Francisco’s TLN Affiliate receives NRB Award

2006-05-25T00:22:01-05:00

- KTLN in San Francisco has been named Full Power Television Station of the Year by National Religious Broadcasters for the second time.

San Francisco, May 24, 2006 (The Religion Wire ) --To win the award, KTLN had to display innovative and creative programming through its daily schedule as well as "be a force for the Gospel in its coverage of local religious events, issues and stories," said Gina Ebhardt, NRB membership director.

Cody Clausen is TLN’s 2006 “Inspiration Sensation” Winner

2006-05-25T00:15:48-05:00

- St. Charles(Ill.) Teen Wins a Record Contract and More

Aurora, Ill., May 24, 2006 (The Religion Wire ) -- Singing at the meeting of the U.S. Conference of Mayors in Las Vegas, on June 4, and at other high-profile venues, plus the signing of a one-year recording contract are some of the rewards for 18 year-old St. Charles(Ill.) resident Cody Clausen. Clausen is the 2006 winner of "Inspiration Sensation," a national televised Christian reality show on the Total Living Network (TLN). The 2006 runner up was 24 year-old Amie Weethee of Bradley, Ill.

14th Annual Celebrate Our Children Festival Coming June 10th

2006-05-25T00:11:05-05:00

- Mr. Nicky to Debut Children's Day Song at Annual FREE Kid's Event

Aurora, Ill., May 24, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- The fourteeenth annual Celebrate Our Children Festivalis scheduled for Saturday, June 11, noon to 6 p.m. at Aurora's McCarty Park, East Galena Boulevard at Fourth Street.

Live a Life You Love!

2006-05-19T22:53:04-05:00

- Motivational speaker Natasha Munson provides women with techniques for taking action to change their financial, spiritual and emotional lives for the better

Dallas/Ft. Worth, Texas, May 19, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- Life is too short to not speak the truth. This belief is what keeps Natasha Munson going as she endeavors to empower the community one life at a time with the lessons she's learned through personal tragedy and triumph. In Spiritual Lessons for My Sisters: How to Get Over the Drama and Live Your Best Life! (Hyperion, May 2006), Natasha offers strategies to help women remove themselves from the drama, issues, obstacles, negative people, bad environments and fears that are holding them back from creating the life they have always wanted.

Running for His Life

2006-05-19T22:47:09-05:00

- From amid the ashes and charred bones of his murdered friends, Burundi runner Gilbert Tuhabonye recounts, in This Voice in My Heart, how he pulled his burning body free from the carnage to run his most important race -- the race for his own life

Dallas/Ft. Worth, Texas, May 19, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- Twelve years ago, Gilbert Tuhabonye lay buried beneath a pile of the hacked and burning bodies of his beloved friends, classmates and teachers. The centuries-old battle between the Hutu and Tutsi tribes, spurred by the government-sponsored ethnic genocide of neighboring Rwanda, had come to Gilbert's school. In This Voice in My Heart: A Genocide Survivor's Story of Escape, Faith and Forgiveness (Amistad, 2006), Gilbert, an inspirational speaker and a well-known and beloved member of the world-wide running community, tells the harrowing tale of his courageous escape from the horrific inferno of the Burundi massacre.

TLN Releases DVD Documentary, Hosted by Bill Kurtis

2006-05-19T00:57:18-05:00

"Acts of Mercy" - witness the extreme makeovers onboard the floating hospital ship.

Aurora, Ill., May 18, 2006 (The Religion Wire ) -- Total Living Network releases a new DVD titled "Acts of Mercy," a documentary hosted by the well known TV host, journalist and producer, Bill Kurtis. This DVD introduces real life extreme makeovers on the Anastasis ship in Monrovia, Liberia. The DVD will be available May 30th in Christian bookstores, Christian web-sites, and directly from TLN for $19.95.

New Novel Tells Real Story: Adultery Rips Families Apart

2006-05-18T22:11:24-05:00

- In his debut book, Dallas attorney and author James David Jordan explores the often overlooked, real life consequences of infidelity

Dallas/Ft. Worth, Texas, May 18, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- For those looking for a few hours of entertainment from the big screen, or in front of the tube, it's almost impossible to escape the countless storylines revolving around the increasingly pervasive and tolerated theme of--adultery. Invoking emotions of excitement, passion and liberation, Hollywood generally portrays infidelity as glamorous and fulfilling, with relatively few major consequences.

Media Advisory: Dr. Gary Burge to Review “The Da Vinci Code” at May 18 “Pause & Enrich”

2006-05-17T13:42:49-05:00

- Wheaton College NT Professor to Offer Critique of Popular Book

Aurora, Ill., May 17, 2006 (The Religion Wire ) -- Dr. Gary Burge, New Testament professor, Wheaton College, will discuss and critique Dan Brown's The Da Vinci Code at First Presbyterian Church's May 18 Pause & Enrich, noon to 1 p.m. FPC is located at 325 E. Downer Place, Aurora.

Dr. Burge will offer the audience a biblical/historical overview, as well as recommendations of relevant books on the matter.

Open Letter: The Need for Children’s Day

2006-05-12T22:01:12-05:00

Batavia, Ill., May 12, 2006 (The Religion Wire ) --

What's Children's Day? A forgotten holiday. Today, only a few churches, denominations, and individuals celebrate the day. But still, in the United States, observations of Children's Day, the second Sunday in June, predate both Mother's and Father's Day. This day dates from the 1880s and earlier. By law, Massachusetts has a statue mandating a proclamation. Recently, the Illinois House passed a resolution proclaiming the day.

Illinois House Passes Resolution Promoting June 11 as Children's Day

2006-05-07T21:09:48-05:00

- A spark for a national movement

Springfield, Ill., May 4, 2006 (The Religion Wire ) -- On Wednesday, May 3, 2006, the Illinois House passed a resolution declaring June 11, 2006 (the second Sunday in June) as Children's Day. The chief legislative sponsor of HR1158 was State Rep. Linda Chapa LaVia, D-Aurora.

Dr. Gary Burge to Review “The Da Vinci Code” at May 18 “Pause & Enrich”

2006-05-07T21:03:05-05:00

- Wheaton College NT Professor to Offer Critique of Popular Book

Aurora, Ill., May 4, 2006 (The Religion Wire ) -- Dr. Gary Burge, New Testament professor, Wheaton College, will discuss and critique Dan Brown's The Da Vinci Code at First Presbyterian Church's May 18 Pause & Enrich, noon to 1 p.m. FPC is located at 325 E. Downer Place, Aurora.

Entrée Kitchen Offers Unique Mother’s Day Gift

2006-05-07T20:59:01-05:00

- Meals For Mom

Winfield, Ill., May 3, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- As a Christian company, we understand the importance of families sharing meal time together. At Entrée Kitchen, you prepare family-sized meals using our recipes, ingredients and packaging. Simply take these ready-to-cook entrées home to store in your freezer for convenient meals throughout the month.

Dr. Ray Pritchard to Speak at May 9 ACMN Meeting

2006-05-07T20:53:36-05:00

- Next Pastors/Christian Leaders Meeting at TLN Features Noted Author/Speaker

Aurora, Ill., May 2, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- The Aurora Christian Ministry Network(ACMN) and the Total Living Network(TLN) are inviting Fox Valley and Chicago area pastors and Christian leaders to the next ACMN meeting on Tuesday, May 9, 9 a.m., at the TLN headquarters, 2880 Vision Court, Aurora. The meeting's FREE workshop speaker will be Dr. Ray Pritchard, president of Keep Believing Ministries, Tupelo, Miss. Pritchard's workshop topic will be "Lessons Learned Along the Way." Those in attendance will receive a free printed copy of the message. Refreshments will be served.

Wayside Cross Bowlathon Set For June 25

2006-05-07T20:48:37-05:00

- Bowling at Parkside Lanes, Aurora

Aurora, Ill., May 2, 2006 (The Religion Wire) --The Master's Touch Ministry of Wayside Cross Ministries in Aurora will benefit from its first ever Bowlathon on Sunday, June 25 at Parkside Lanes in Aurora. More than 150 bowlers are expected to participate in two games of bowling, pizza, refreshments, and a raffle, beginning at 2 p.m.

Gospel Music Legend Andraé Crouch to Appear Live On TLN’s “Inspiration Sensation”

2006-05-01T22:37:17-05:00

- Also appearing with his twin sister Sandra on Saturday, May 6, 8 p.m. CDT

Aurora, Ill., May 1, 2006 (The Religion Wire ) -- Gospel music legend Andraé Crouch and his twin sister Sandra will appear on the Saturday, May 6, edition of "Inspiration Sensation," which airs live on Total Living Network(TLN) at 8 p.m. CDT.

“National Debate: The Da Vinci Code” Coming to TLN

2006-04-21T00:17:21-05:00

Live 90-Minute Telecast with Expert Guests - May 10 , 8 p.m. CDT

Aurora, Ill., April 20, 2006 (The Religion Wire ) -- Many daytime TV viewers remember with relish, when TV host Phil Donahue brought together a New Orleans pastor and atheist Madalyn Murray O'Hare for national televised debates on religion. The audience loved it. Well the climate is ready for another great national religious debate. And it all centers on Dan Brown's bestseller book "The Da Vinci Code" and the book's upcoming movie and the controversy surrounding it and the role of Jesus, Mary, and church history.

A live debate with a live audience along with live calls are all part of Total Living Network's (TLN) May 10, 8 p.m. CDT, "National Debate: The Da Vinci Code." The 90-minute program will present both sides of this explosive controversy, Featured in-studio guests include: renowned author Josh McDowell, professor Scot McKnight from North Park University, art historian Doug Adams and Mary Magdalene expert Margaret Starbird. The program's host and moderator is TLN President Jerry Rose.

Wayside’s Hope Chest Plans Remodeling Sale

2006-04-21T00:13:33-05:00

- Sale April 24 to May 3

Aurora, Ill., April 20, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- It's time for a little spring cleaning at Wayside Cross Ministries.

The Hope Chest, the resale shop that financially supports the ministry in downtown Aurora, will hold a remodeling sale later this month before a major renovation forces the store to close for more than a week. The temporary closure will end with a grand re-opening sale in mid-May.

The remodeling sale will start April 24 and run through May 3. The event will offer big savings on items like clothing, furniture and small electronics, as Wayside must clear out its inventory before the renovation. The Hope Chest store will close May 4, when work will start on a new floor, paint job, general rearrangement of the store and cleaning out of the warehouse.

“Lifespring Festival 2006” Planned for May 5

2006-04-18T23:44:37-05:00

- Evening Features Pacific Garden Mission Men's Choir and Aurora Studio Chorale

Aurora, Ill., April 18, 2006 (The Religion Wire) -- The public is invited to join Lifespring Ministry (division of Wayside Cross Ministries) for an energizing evening of music and ministry at Lifespring Festival 2006 on Friday, May 5, 7 p.m., Prisco Community Center, 150 W. Illinois Ave., Aurora.

Looking Back at the Timeless Christian Allegory, “Pilgrim’s Progress”

2006-04-18T23:36:04-05:00

- Hear Pastor Andrew Gerhart Discuss the Spiritual Classic at First Presbyterian Churchs April 27 Pause & Enrich

Aurora, Ill., April 17, 2006 (The Religion Wire ) -- It came before C.S. Lewis and his writings, it was a 17th century bestseller and has been translated into over 100 languages. Hear the Rev. Andrew H. Gerhart review and discuss John Bunyan's "Pilgrim's Progress" at First Presbyterian Church's Pause and Enrich on Thursday, April 27, noon. FPC is located at 325 E. Downer Place, Aurora.

New book: Easter Relic, the Turin Shroud, Defiled

2006-04-11T12:39:32-05:00

- The Turnin Shroud was wrongly condemned, and violate, says new book.

Hong Kong, April 11, 2006 (The Religion Wire ) -- As incredible as it may seem, the linen sheet known as the Shroud of Turin is quite possibly the actual "fine linen" purchased by Joseph of Arimethea for the burial of Christ. The body and blood images on the Shroud are graphic reminders of the suffering Christ endured during His torture and crucifixion. And most importantly, they may be direct evidence of these events.

In a most unfortunate and ironic parallel to the Passion, this relic of huge potential importance to mankind was itself also defiled through the incompetence, self-serving and arrogance of the authorities. The role of Pilate was played by the Archbishop of Turin, who blundered and was pressured into a grievous decision, while the Sanhedrin is seen in his clique of advisers who pursued their own glory and in so doing caused irreparable harm. Not only was the Shroud widely (and wrongly) condemned as a medieval forgery, but it also suffered irrevocable damage due to a disastrous, unnecessary "restoration."

First Presbyterian Church Offers Special Holy Week Opportunities

2006-04-07T13:17:32-05:00

- Morning Breakfasts, Living Last Supper, and Special Easter Services

Aurora, Ill., April 7, 2006 (The Religion Wire ) -- To celebrate Holy Week and the resurrection of Jesus, First Presbyterian Church of Aurora, 325 E. Downer Place, is offering the Fox Valley community several opportunities for fellowship and worship.

2005 “Inspiration Sensation” Winner Holding CD Release Party

2006-04-03T00:33:34-05:00

- Party Sunday for Stephanie Goldsmith at Rockfords St. Paul COGIC

Rockford, Ill., April 2, 2006 (The Religion Wire ) -- There will be a CD Release Party on behalf of Stephanie Goldsmith, 2005 Inspiration Sensation Winner on Sunday, April 9, 2006 at 5:00 p.m., at St. Paul COGIC, 1001 Bishop J. Washington Ave., (formerly Wigton Ave.), Rockford, Ill. The CD features two songs: "So Good to Know" and "You Are."

First Presbyterian Church Offers Morning Holy Week Series

2006-04-01T00:40:33-05:00

- Looking at the Life of Jesus

Aurora, Ill., March 31, 2006 (The Religion Wire ) -- The Rev. Mateen Elass, senior pastor of Immanuel Presbyterian Church of Warrenville, will be the featured speaker at the morning Holy Week Series at First Presbyterian Church, 325 E. Downer Place, Aurora. The daily morning gatherings (6:30 a.m. & 9:00 a.m.) will look at the life of Jesus.

Outline of daily Holy Week topics is as follows:

Holy Monday, April 10 -- "The Claims of Jesus"
Holy Tuesday, April 11 -- "The Love of Jesus"
Holy Wednesday, April 12 -- "The Demands of Jesus"
Maundy Thursday, April 13 -- "The Mission of Jesus"

The 4-day morning gatherings also feature a complimentary continental breakfast.

Highland Resident is Finalist in TLN’s “Inspiration Sensation”

2006-03-20T15:22:55-05:00