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Outbreak revivial in Lakeland, FL

Talking with a couple of friends at the National Day of Prayer, I learned of an evangelical/charismatic revival that continues to pick up speed in Lakeland, Florida. As best I can tell, it started at Ignited Church, with a visit from Canadian-born, international charismatic preacher Todd Bentley. Internet sources report that people are coming from all over the world to take part. At least one person from the Tupelo area, the Rev. Anthony Hatch, pastor of New Life Church, plans to go. Rev. Hatch said that he would call with updates. I make no judgements about this event, because, frankly, what little I know about it I’ve gleaned from friends and the internet. However, I do find it newsworthy. Those curious can judge for themselves at www.revivallakeland.org

Peace,

Galen

Updates from Rev. Andy Ray at UM Conference, Fort Worth

The Rev. Andy Ray, pastor of First United Methodist Church in Tupelo, has been good enough to send updates from the United Methodist Conference. Wherever possible, I have posted his exact words.

Wednesday, GC 2008, Fort Worth

Today was a day United Methodists put into practice John Wesley’s “Three
Simple Rules” to: 1. Do no harm. 2. Do Good. 3.  Stay in love with God.

It was a difficult day as the issues of sexuality was the primary focus for
the day and night. It was not a day of winners and losers but staying
faithful to scripture, tradition, reason and experience.  These have guided
Methodists since the beginning.  At the end of a long day the current stance
found in the present Discipline stating that while all persons are of sacred
worth, we do not condone the practice of homosexuality.  This will continue
to preclude a self-avowed practicing homosexual from becoming eligible for
ordination for ministry.
The Central Conference delegates from Africa, Europe and the Philippines
continue to let their voices be heard. These descendants of American
missionaries have grown in numbers and maturity.  Now are reminding the
American church why we should stay faithful.

National Day of Prayer

I enjoyed covering both the morning and noon events for the National Day of Prayer. The NDOP was created by a joint act of Congress in 1952 and signed into law by President Harry Truman.

At the morning event, I talked with Sandy Porter from St. James Catholic Church in Tupelo. About the National Day of prayer, she said, “This is something I can do. I don’t have power or prestige but I can pray for those who do.”

Tupelo Mayor Ed Neelly was also at both events. He said that even though the country is experiencing war and economic difficulties, this is still a “land of prosperity.”

At the noon event I talked with Ken Kellerman of St. Luke United Methodist Church in Tupelo. He said, “This is the right place for a Christian to be, today.”

The Rev. Mark Kuiper, pastor of Lawndale Presbyterian Church helped lead prayer at the noon event. He prayed for a “clear direction” for city and national officials.

Some of the pictures in this slide show I took; Todd Sherman, Daily Journal photographer, took the good ones.

I’m off to the Kentucky Derby. Enjoy!

Galen

National Day of Prayer in Tupelo slide show