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‘Reacher’ Star Alan Ritchson Faces Backlash After Trump Comments
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Ritchson—a devout Christian—discussed his faith and how he sees politics as a corrupting force within Christianity. “I'm a Christian quite simply because of what Jesus calls us to do," Ritchson told THR. "Love other people until death. It doesn't mean we're all to be hung on a cross, but how can I suffer for you? That is a beautiful thing." But Christians have become “ the most vitriolic tribe” the 41-year-old actor added. "It is so antithetical to what Jesus was calling us to be and to do."
(Forbes) READ MORE>>>>>
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Ritchson—a devout Christian—discussed his faith and how he sees politics as a corrupting force within Christianity. “I'm a Christian quite simply because of what Jesus calls us to do," Ritchson told THR. "Love other people until death. It doesn't mean we're all to be hung on a cross, but how can I suffer for you? That is a beautiful thing." But Christians have become “ the most vitriolic tribe” the 41-year-old actor added. "It is so antithetical to what Jesus was calling us to be and to do."
(Forbes) READ MORE>>>>>
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Martin Scorsese's New Jesus Film Is 80 Minutes Long and Aims to ‘Take Away the Negative' Associations With ‘Organized Religion'
While Martin Scorsese is celebrating his latest epic "Killers of the Flower Moon" on the awards circuit, the filmmaker is already teasing what could be his next movie, based on Shūsaku Endō's book "A Life of Jesus." (Endō also wrote "Silence," which Scorsese adapted into the 2016 historical drama starring Andrew Garfield and Adam Driver.)Scorsese revealed in a new interview with The Los Angeles Times that his next religious film will be set mostly in the present day, but, according to the paper, "Scorsese doesn't want to be locked into a certain period, because he wants the film to feel timeless." Plus, he envisions the film will clock in at around 80 minutes, a stark contrast to "Flower Moon's" 206-minute runtime. Per the L.A. Times, the movie will focus on "Jesus' core teachings in a way that explores the principles but doesn't proselytize." (Ethan Shanfeld/MSN 1/8/24) READ MORE>>>>> |
"I'm trying to find a new way to make it more accessible and take away the negative onus of what has been associated with organized religion," Scorsese told the publication. "Right now, ‘religion,' you say that word and everyone is up in arms because it's failed in so many ways. But that doesn't mean necessarily that the initial impulse was wrong. Let's get back. Let's just think about it. You may reject it. But it might make a difference in how you live your life - even in rejecting it. Don't dismiss it offhand. That's all I'm talking about. And I'm saying that as a person who's going to be 81 in a couple of days." |
Roger Waters denied hotel stays in Argentina and Uruguay over antisemitism allegations, report says
RIO DE JANEIRO (AP) — Hotels in Argentina and Uruguay reportedly rejected reservations for Pink Floyd co-founder Roger Waters over accusations of antisemitism leveled at the British singer known for his pro-Palestinian views. Waters was due to stay in Argentina’s capital of Buenos Aires ahead of shows scheduled for Nov. 21-22 as part of his “This is Not a Drill” tour, but the reservations fell through, with hotels citing a lack of availability, the Argentine newspaper Pagina 12 reported. (Associated Press 11/15/23)
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RIO DE JANEIRO (AP) — Hotels in Argentina and Uruguay reportedly rejected reservations for Pink Floyd co-founder Roger Waters over accusations of antisemitism leveled at the British singer known for his pro-Palestinian views. Waters was due to stay in Argentina’s capital of Buenos Aires ahead of shows scheduled for Nov. 21-22 as part of his “This is Not a Drill” tour, but the reservations fell through, with hotels citing a lack of availability, the Argentine newspaper Pagina 12 reported. (Associated Press 11/15/23)
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WHEN TAYLOR SWIFT TOOK ME TO CHURCH
The week after Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour concert movie debuted in theaters, a TikTok video of one particularly enthusiastic audience went viral. As the singer and her backup dancers swayed to the song “Willow” on the screen above them, a group of fans danced in a circle on the theater floor below, waving their illuminated phones in lieu of glowing lanterns. This is “the cultiest thing I’ve ever seen,” the caption read.
As is the case these days with any major cultural moment, the viral video and the few seconds of concert video it captured sparked a public debate. Was the video an example of the cruel cultural phenomenon of recording people without consent and publicly mocking them as “cringe”? Or was it indicative of a disturbing cultural obsession, evidence of the cult of Taylor Swift?
(Melodie Roschman/Spectrum Magazine 11/3/23)
Read More>>>>>
The week after Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour concert movie debuted in theaters, a TikTok video of one particularly enthusiastic audience went viral. As the singer and her backup dancers swayed to the song “Willow” on the screen above them, a group of fans danced in a circle on the theater floor below, waving their illuminated phones in lieu of glowing lanterns. This is “the cultiest thing I’ve ever seen,” the caption read.
As is the case these days with any major cultural moment, the viral video and the few seconds of concert video it captured sparked a public debate. Was the video an example of the cruel cultural phenomenon of recording people without consent and publicly mocking them as “cringe”? Or was it indicative of a disturbing cultural obsession, evidence of the cult of Taylor Swift?
(Melodie Roschman/Spectrum Magazine 11/3/23)
Read More>>>>>
Brett McCracken
If there’s one big takeaway from this summer’s hits, it’s that contemporary culture is fragmented and at war—not only with “the other side” but also with itself. Without a solid biblical foundation upon which to build coherent works, a culture is bound to produce discordant spectacles that may strike a chord with certain audience segments, but fail to harmonize meaning in any lasting or universal sense. Into this chaos, Christians should strive to be voices of coherent truth and consistent conviction, creating transcendent works of culture that don’t just play well with one side or the other but that speak gospel truth fearlessly to all sides, come what may. --Brett McCracken; Gospel Coalition; Taylor, Oliver, ‘Barbie,’ ‘Freedom’: Pondering 4 Summer Sensations 9.2.23
Brett McCracken
Honoring sacrifice does makes sense in the context of belief in eternal life, however. If we believe the creedal words “I am not my own” and that there is life beyond this life, then what is it to die? To be cut down in the prime of life in service of some cause (even a questionable cause) may still be undesirable, but it becomes more tolerable, or even honorable. Humans can suppress, but never quite escape, our God-given knowledge that there’s something more than this life. Perhaps that’s why mainstream audiences are so stirred by war movies that depict soldiers in the line of duty, willing to courageously pay the ultimate price. They capture the beautiful valor and “into the fray” grit that comes more naturally when we anchor our lives in truths and hopes beyond this world. --Brett McCracken; Gospel Coalition 5.27.23
When it comes to religion, ‘Are You There, God? It’s Me, Margaret’ was decades ahead of its time
It’s taken more than half a century for Judy Blume’s iconic 1970 novel “Are You There, God? It’s Me, Margaret” to appear on the silver screen. But in many ways, the story’s more apt for a 2023 crowd than it was in the era of Richard Nixon and “The Brady Bunch.” That’s largely because of how it treats religion. Eleven-year-old Margaret was a “none” before that was quite a thing, before we even used the word “none” as shorthand for people with no religious affiliation (Jana Reiss/ Religion News Service 4/26/23)
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It’s taken more than half a century for Judy Blume’s iconic 1970 novel “Are You There, God? It’s Me, Margaret” to appear on the silver screen. But in many ways, the story’s more apt for a 2023 crowd than it was in the era of Richard Nixon and “The Brady Bunch.” That’s largely because of how it treats religion. Eleven-year-old Margaret was a “none” before that was quite a thing, before we even used the word “none” as shorthand for people with no religious affiliation (Jana Reiss/ Religion News Service 4/26/23)
Read More>>>>>
April 24, 2023: Premier Christianity: Beef’s positive portrayal of evangelical Christianity is rare and realistic
Beyond that one church worship scene that went viral on twitter, Netflix’s Beef is a profound morality tale, says Nathanael Smith. Anger can wreck our lives, but God’s amazing grace is always available, no matter how low we fall
Beyond that one church worship scene that went viral on twitter, Netflix’s Beef is a profound morality tale, says Nathanael Smith. Anger can wreck our lives, but God’s amazing grace is always available, no matter how low we fall
Mar 13, 2023: New York Post: Rainn Wilson calls out anti-Christian bias in Hollywood after ‘Last of Us’ episode: I knew he was a ‘villain’
Actor Rainn Wilson criticized the anti-Christian bias in Hollywood on Saturday after the latest example from the HBO series “The Last of Us.”
From his Twitter account, the former “The Office” cast member called out a recent episode of the series for featuring a villainous character using Bible verses in what he suggested was a predictable formula.
Actor Rainn Wilson criticized the anti-Christian bias in Hollywood on Saturday after the latest example from the HBO series “The Last of Us.”
From his Twitter account, the former “The Office” cast member called out a recent episode of the series for featuring a villainous character using Bible verses in what he suggested was a predictable formula.
Feb 22, 2023: Religion Unplugged: ‘Jesus Revolution’: A Well-Intentioned Revival Movie That Struggles To Be Both Inspiring And Truthful
(REVIEW) “Jesus Revolution” is well intentioned, but its storytelling is too weak and its message too dishonest to inspire a true vision on how to start or maintain a Christian revival in the modern world.
(REVIEW) “Jesus Revolution” is well intentioned, but its storytelling is too weak and its message too dishonest to inspire a true vision on how to start or maintain a Christian revival in the modern world.
Feb 4, 2023: Gospel Coalition: Why Falling Religious Attendance Could Be Increasing Deaths of Despair
In 2010, country singer Jason Aldean released a song called “Church Pew or Bar Stool” in which he complains about how he’s stuck in a “church pew or bar stool kind of town.” He says, “There’s only two means of salvation around here that seem to work / Whiskey or the Bible, a shot glass or revival.” That’s a crude dichotomy, but it appears to increasingly be the choice a large number of Americans face. They’ll either find hope from a community of faith or the lonely despair that leads them to self-medicate with alcohol and drugs.
In 2010, country singer Jason Aldean released a song called “Church Pew or Bar Stool” in which he complains about how he’s stuck in a “church pew or bar stool kind of town.” He says, “There’s only two means of salvation around here that seem to work / Whiskey or the Bible, a shot glass or revival.” That’s a crude dichotomy, but it appears to increasingly be the choice a large number of Americans face. They’ll either find hope from a community of faith or the lonely despair that leads them to self-medicate with alcohol and drugs.
Jan 17, 2023: Crosswalk: ‘Where No One Stands Alone’ Lisa Marie Presley Duet with Elvis
More than 40 years after his death, Elvis Presley remains one of the biggest names and most recognizable figures in all of entertainment. Sadly, it was recently announced that his only child, daughter Lisa Marie, had also passed away.
On “Where No One Stands Alone,” Lisa Marie steps up to the mic and joins her famous dad on the tune about loneliness, as the video to the song shows.
More than 40 years after his death, Elvis Presley remains one of the biggest names and most recognizable figures in all of entertainment. Sadly, it was recently announced that his only child, daughter Lisa Marie, had also passed away.
On “Where No One Stands Alone,” Lisa Marie steps up to the mic and joins her famous dad on the tune about loneliness, as the video to the song shows.
Jan 14, 2023: God TV: “RESURRECTION,” THE SEQUEL OF “PASSION OF CHRIST” TO BE THE BIGGEST FILM IN HISTORY
Jim Caviezel, the actor who played Jesus in the Passion of Christ, declared that its sequel, “Resurrection,” will become the biggest film in history. It is set to film this coming spring.
With the filming taking place very soon, many viewers, who have been anticipating the Mel Gibson movie, are very excited about the upcoming film.
Jim Caviezel, the actor who played Jesus in the Passion of Christ, declared that its sequel, “Resurrection,” will become the biggest film in history. It is set to film this coming spring.
With the filming taking place very soon, many viewers, who have been anticipating the Mel Gibson movie, are very excited about the upcoming film.
Dec 28, 2022: Christian Headlines: Danica McKeller Thanks Candace Cameron Bure for Helping Her Find God: 'I Talk to Jesus All the Time'
McKellar, best known for her role as Winnie Cooper on The Wonder Years, was recently a guest on Candace Cameron Bure's new podcast, where she expressed how grateful she is to Bure for helping her find God.
"Candace, I don't wanna brush over the huge, huge impact that you've had on my life this year," McKellar said, according to CBN News. "I don't even know how to call that like friendship; it's more than that. Because of you helping me to find my relationship with God and Jesus, it's been like a revolution in my life. It's been a revelation in my life."
McKellar, best known for her role as Winnie Cooper on The Wonder Years, was recently a guest on Candace Cameron Bure's new podcast, where she expressed how grateful she is to Bure for helping her find God.
"Candace, I don't wanna brush over the huge, huge impact that you've had on my life this year," McKellar said, according to CBN News. "I don't even know how to call that like friendship; it's more than that. Because of you helping me to find my relationship with God and Jesus, it's been like a revolution in my life. It's been a revelation in my life."
Dec 21, 2022: Christian Post: Amy Grant to host gay wedding. Does this honor or dishonor God?
When Amy was on Pride Source, she said, “I know the religious community has not been very welcoming … but with God everybody is welcome. Everybody!”
On Proud Radio she said, “It’s so important to set a welcoming table … you’re loved. Gay. Straight. It doesn’t matter … It doesn’t matter how we behave. It doesn’t matter how we’re wired.”
Amy says, “God simply wants us to love Him and love each other.”
When Amy was on Pride Source, she said, “I know the religious community has not been very welcoming … but with God everybody is welcome. Everybody!”
On Proud Radio she said, “It’s so important to set a welcoming table … you’re loved. Gay. Straight. It doesn’t matter … It doesn’t matter how we behave. It doesn’t matter how we’re wired.”
Amy says, “God simply wants us to love Him and love each other.”
Dec 15, 2022: The Tennessean: Dolly Parton knows her gifts are blessings and uses them to bless others | Opinion
Dolly Parton is one of those rare folks who doesn’t let fame inflate her ego or allow money to empower her unless it is through philanthropy. She understands her gifts are blessings and knows how to use them to bless others.
Dolly Parton is one of those rare folks who doesn’t let fame inflate her ego or allow money to empower her unless it is through philanthropy. She understands her gifts are blessings and knows how to use them to bless others.
Dec 7, 2022: Religion News: Bob Dylan’s new book is a Jewish masterpiece
Forget, for a moment, Dylan’s twisted, complicated, on-again, off-again relationship with Judaism. The book is “Jewish” in its very shape and texture, its very feel, its voice. For each song, Dylan riffs on its meaning — its inner meaning to him — complete with free associations. He then analyzes the song in its original context, with biographical information about the composer and the performer.
So, yes, for each song, there is drash (its inner meaning and often fanciful interpretation) and peshat (what is really going on in it). Dylan has done nothing less than treating these songs, many of them obscure, as modern texts, and has dug deeply into them, in precisely the way that Jews are accustomed to treating our sacred literature.
Forget, for a moment, Dylan’s twisted, complicated, on-again, off-again relationship with Judaism. The book is “Jewish” in its very shape and texture, its very feel, its voice. For each song, Dylan riffs on its meaning — its inner meaning to him — complete with free associations. He then analyzes the song in its original context, with biographical information about the composer and the performer.
So, yes, for each song, there is drash (its inner meaning and often fanciful interpretation) and peshat (what is really going on in it). Dylan has done nothing less than treating these songs, many of them obscure, as modern texts, and has dug deeply into them, in precisely the way that Jews are accustomed to treating our sacred literature.
Nov 30, 2022: Gregs Blog: Johnny Cash: Walking the Line Between Good and Evil
As a Christian for almost 50 years and a pastor for decades, I know that verse well. I also find it interesting that it was chosen for “The Man in Black’s” memorial.
“Let the words of my mouth. . .” That’s ironic, given that nobody had a voice or cadence like Johnny Cash. A touchstone in my life dating back to my childhood, I remember watching Cash perform on television with my grandparents and hearing that deep booming voice—once called “The Voice of America.”
As a Christian for almost 50 years and a pastor for decades, I know that verse well. I also find it interesting that it was chosen for “The Man in Black’s” memorial.
“Let the words of my mouth. . .” That’s ironic, given that nobody had a voice or cadence like Johnny Cash. A touchstone in my life dating back to my childhood, I remember watching Cash perform on television with my grandparents and hearing that deep booming voice—once called “The Voice of America.”
Nov 24, 2022: Evangelical Dark Web: Kanye West Too Based For Tim Pool, Walks Off Set
The faith journey of Kanye West has been a roller coaster to watch. What began as a cautionary tale about the negative pull of Prosperity Gospel preachers, like Joel Osteen and Rich Wilkerson Jr, soon transformed into a dangerous voice against the establishment. Kanye West has taken red pills and blue pills. The blue pills are the Black Hebrew Israelite ideology that Kanye West has articulated. Kanye West did a livestream with Tim Pool of Timcast IRL, last night, and would walk off the set, carrying out a threat he made on the show. Additionally, he also made some profoundly biblical points.
The faith journey of Kanye West has been a roller coaster to watch. What began as a cautionary tale about the negative pull of Prosperity Gospel preachers, like Joel Osteen and Rich Wilkerson Jr, soon transformed into a dangerous voice against the establishment. Kanye West has taken red pills and blue pills. The blue pills are the Black Hebrew Israelite ideology that Kanye West has articulated. Kanye West did a livestream with Tim Pool of Timcast IRL, last night, and would walk off the set, carrying out a threat he made on the show. Additionally, he also made some profoundly biblical points.
The Alabama Baptist: MercyMe hopes new album reminds Christians of their purpose, ‘common denominator’
Of the album’s 10 tracks, about half were written during the pandemic.
“It feels like we just stumbled onto a very important record,” Millard told The Alabama Baptist. “It’s perfect timing with an album titled ‘Always Only Jesus’ when we’ve got a divided body of Christ that needs to be reminded of the one common denominator we should all have. And so it was definitely a God thing. It was kind of weird.”
11.12.22
Of the album’s 10 tracks, about half were written during the pandemic.
“It feels like we just stumbled onto a very important record,” Millard told The Alabama Baptist. “It’s perfect timing with an album titled ‘Always Only Jesus’ when we’ve got a divided body of Christ that needs to be reminded of the one common denominator we should all have. And so it was definitely a God thing. It was kind of weird.”
11.12.22
Know Your Meme: Anime Is Satanic, According To Right-wing Influencer Matt Walsh
Walsh appeared to be joking, and he is notably part of a group of conservative online media personalities whose public image is largely defined by sarcasm and humor. He jokingly describes himself as a “theocratic fascist” in his Twitter bio.10.17.22
Walsh appeared to be joking, and he is notably part of a group of conservative online media personalities whose public image is largely defined by sarcasm and humor. He jokingly describes himself as a “theocratic fascist” in his Twitter bio.10.17.22
Aletia: Shia LaBeouf reveals how his mother’s recent death deepened his faith
“Her greatest gift to me was to promote, in her dying, the necessity of a relationship with God. Not an interest, not just a belief, but a relationship built on proof as tangible as a hug. Her last gift to me was the ultimate persuasion for faith. She was a good girl. She was loved by many and known by too few. God bless you, Momma.” -Shia LaBeouf 9.15.22
“Her greatest gift to me was to promote, in her dying, the necessity of a relationship with God. Not an interest, not just a belief, but a relationship built on proof as tangible as a hug. Her last gift to me was the ultimate persuasion for faith. She was a good girl. She was loved by many and known by too few. God bless you, Momma.” -Shia LaBeouf 9.15.22
July 28, 2022: Denison Forum: Amy Grant becomes first contemporary Christian music artist to be named a Kennedy Center honoree
Now she is set to join George Clooney, Gladys Knight, Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Tania León, and U2 as part of the latest class of Kennedy Center honorees.
Grant said of the honor, “Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine ever receiving this prestigious Kennedy Center Honors. I cannot wait to celebrate with my fellow honorees, friends, and family. Thank you for widening the circle to include all of us.”
Now she is set to join George Clooney, Gladys Knight, Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Tania León, and U2 as part of the latest class of Kennedy Center honorees.
Grant said of the honor, “Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine ever receiving this prestigious Kennedy Center Honors. I cannot wait to celebrate with my fellow honorees, friends, and family. Thank you for widening the circle to include all of us.”
May 1, 2022: Christian Post: Christian singer discovered on TikTok makes history, reaches No. 1 on multiple charts
Christian singer Katy Nichole has made history by hitting No. 1 on multiple charts after a TikTok video of her debut single "In Jesus Name (God of Possible)" went viral.
Christian singer Katy Nichole has made history by hitting No. 1 on multiple charts after a TikTok video of her debut single "In Jesus Name (God of Possible)" went viral.
Apr 16, 2022: Aleteia: The “girl in a red coat” from Schindler’s List helps Ukrainian refugees
Oliwia Dąbrowska helps Ukrainian refugees cross the Ukraine-Poland border and is still vociferously against war.
Oliwia Dąbrowska helps Ukrainian refugees cross the Ukraine-Poland border and is still vociferously against war.
Apr 11, 2022: Christianity Daily: Sean Feucht Holds Massive Rally Protesting Disney's Opposition To Florida Parental Rights Bill
"Save the innocence of our kids" is the battle cry of Let Us Worship Founder Sean Feucht who held the "Hold The Line For Our Kids" rally in front of the Walt Disney Studio headquarters in Burbank, California last April 6.
"Save the innocence of our kids" is the battle cry of Let Us Worship Founder Sean Feucht who held the "Hold The Line For Our Kids" rally in front of the Walt Disney Studio headquarters in Burbank, California last April 6.
April 1, 2022: Relevant Magazine: Here’s Your First Look at Patton Oswalt as Chuck Colson in ‘Gaslit’
Patton Oswalt is Chuck Colson in a new image from Gaslit, Starz’ limited series about the Watergate scandal. The show stars Julia Roberts, Dan Stevens, Betty Gilpin and Oswalt in the story of the defenders, zealots, insiders and whistleblowers inside the Nixon administration who oversaw the fall of a political regime, and is based on Leon Neyfakh’s excellent Slow Burn podcast.
Patton Oswalt is Chuck Colson in a new image from Gaslit, Starz’ limited series about the Watergate scandal. The show stars Julia Roberts, Dan Stevens, Betty Gilpin and Oswalt in the story of the defenders, zealots, insiders and whistleblowers inside the Nixon administration who oversaw the fall of a political regime, and is based on Leon Neyfakh’s excellent Slow Burn podcast.
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Feb 7, 2022: Crosswalk: Stephen Colbert Talks Faith, Heaven: That's 'How to Be a Christian in the Public Square,' Tim Keller Says
Saying "death is not defeat," comedian and talk show host Stephen Colbert delivered a monologue about his Catholic faith last week that sparked a viral video and drew applause from a few prominent evangelicals. |
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Feb 4, 2022: Film Chat: The Chosen — a sneak peek at the script for Season 3
Season 1 began with a flashback to Mary Magdalene’s childhood. Season 2 began with a flash-forward to the writing of John’s gospel. And now we know how Season 3 of The Chosen — the popular streaming series about Jesus and his followers — will begin.
Season 1 began with a flashback to Mary Magdalene’s childhood. Season 2 began with a flash-forward to the writing of John’s gospel. And now we know how Season 3 of The Chosen — the popular streaming series about Jesus and his followers — will begin.
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“The American church has overall mimicked celebrity culture rather than challenged it.” -- Katelyn Beaty; Celebrities For Jesus |
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“Johnny Cash: The Redemption of an American Icon,” is a new documentary telling the story of how the legendary musician known as “The Man in Black” found the light of Jesus Christ.
The film releases next week as a special Fathom Event showing in theaters Monday through Wednesday (Dec. 5-7).
It is directed by Ben Smallbone, brother of award-winning musical duo ‘for KING & COUNTRY” and CCM artist Rebecca St. James.
The project uses a combination of archive footage and recordings of Cash, along with interviews with his friends, family members, fellow country musicians and evangelical leaders. --Johnny Cash documentary tells faith journey of Man in Black 12.1.22
The film releases next week as a special Fathom Event showing in theaters Monday through Wednesday (Dec. 5-7).
It is directed by Ben Smallbone, brother of award-winning musical duo ‘for KING & COUNTRY” and CCM artist Rebecca St. James.
The project uses a combination of archive footage and recordings of Cash, along with interviews with his friends, family members, fellow country musicians and evangelical leaders. --Johnny Cash documentary tells faith journey of Man in Black 12.1.22
Apr 29. 2022: The story of Father Stuart Long is one of mistakes, sacrifice, heartbreak, forgiveness, and on top of it all, persistence. Based on a true story, the Mark Wahlberg-produced Father Stu describes the surprisingly heartwarming (and heart-wrenching) life of the boxer-turned-priest as he navigates his broken family life, the loss of his career, the eventual failing of his body, and the astonishing development of his relationship with God. It serves as a reminder that everyone is not who they seem to be, and even moreso, to never underestimate a person’s ability to change for the better...............Father Stu has its flaws but, in the end, I found it to be an inspiring story about perseverance, self-sacrifice, and prejudice. As he said to the rector, the Church didn’t want to give him a chance because they were afraid he would succeed – and what would that say about the Church, a boxer with a criminal record becoming a role model? The Church should be more concerned with doing good than with its P.R, and this movie is a poignant reminder of the human flaws all of us carry. Likewise, the lesson of the story is powerful; everyone, no matter their past, has the capacity for good and to be a warrior for Christ. -Grant Allesandro; The Torch
Unlike much other entertainment that teases or criticizes Christianity, “The Righteous Gemstones” doesn’t suggest religion is the root of all evil. It’s instead clearly aligned with the biblical truth: “The love of money is a root of all kinds of evils” (1 Timothy 6:10). The Gemstones’ faith — where it isn’t diluted by greed or another kind of selfishness — is often the only thing that’s really saving them.
Not that it’s necessary to learn something from the Gemstones, strange examples as they are. It feels like more than enough to laugh at their unending antics and occasionally raunchy Bible-based humor. -HBO’s The Righteous Gemstones.” 2.11.22
Not that it’s necessary to learn something from the Gemstones, strange examples as they are. It feels like more than enough to laugh at their unending antics and occasionally raunchy Bible-based humor. -HBO’s The Righteous Gemstones.” 2.11.22
"Denzel (Washington) said to me a few minutes ago, at your highest moment, be careful, that's when the devil comes for you." -Will Smith after slapping Chris Rock at the Academy Awards last night. 3.28.22
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Feb 2, 2022: Relevant: Remember When Rich Mullins Said Hanging an American Flag in Church Was ‘Offensive?’
Rich Mullins was in the Contemporary Christian Music scene, but he was never really of it. Despite timeless CCM hits like “Hold Me Jesus,” “If I Stand” and, of course, “Awesome God,” the late singer/songwriter held the industry at arm’s length and the feeling appeared occasionally mutual. |
"I think a lot of my songs are really political. I think nobody gets it, but it’s hard for me to divide up my politics and my religious convictions. There’s something offensive to me about having an American flag in a church building. When the CIA pretended to be missionaries and caused trouble in Chile so that all missionaries were kicked out, I think that makes the United States the enemy of the kingdom of God. I think a government that requires 18-year-old boys to register for the draft is anti-life." --Rich Mullins (October 21, 1955 – September 19, 1997) |
"It was an extraordinary time, and I have to say, Hollywood gets a bad rap. I think there's a lot of good people there and a lot of good people doing good work. While shooting 'Touched by an Angel' it was unusual perhaps for a Hollywood set that we would gather hands before those scenes and we would pray — pray that there would be less of us and there would be more of God, and that there would be an opportunity through the camera that the Holy Spirit could move through the camera and touch people's hearts." -Roma Downey
"Touched By an Angel" taught about God from a monolithic viewpoint where there was God...but far less common for anyone to mention Jesus Christ or any suggestion of salvation through Him and Him alone. Downey's efforts are largeley new ageist. -ZR
"Touched By an Angel" taught about God from a monolithic viewpoint where there was God...but far less common for anyone to mention Jesus Christ or any suggestion of salvation through Him and Him alone. Downey's efforts are largeley new ageist. -ZR
Aug 8, 2018
Where No One Stands Alone celebrates the power and passion of Elvis Presley’s gospel recordings. Produced by Joel Weinshanker, Lisa Marie Presley and Andy Childs, Where No One Stands Alone introduces newly-recorded instrumentation, rare alternate vocals from Elvis, and backing vocal contributions from music legends who'd performed on-stage and/or in-the-studio with Elvis such as, Darlene Love; Cissy Houston; Terry Blackwood, Armond Morales and Jim Murray of The Imperials; and Bill Baize, Ed Hill, Donnie Sumner and Larry Strickland of The Stamps Quartet. Hundreds of hours of went into the transferring, upgrading, and enhancing of the original multi track vocals resulting in the richest, most vibrant Elvis vocals on these tracks that have ever been released.
2017
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Aug 21, 2017: Vision Christian Media: Alice Cooper On Dedicating His Life To Christ
It may come as a shock to many who have a pre-conceived notion on what a Christian should look like, but rocker Alice Cooper is a dedicated Bible believing follower of Christ. The famous rocker whose shows were called ‘satanic’ says his performances, while shocking, couldn’t be further from the truth. “There was nothing satanic about what we did at all,” Cooper explained. “It was pure 1930s RKO horror movie and comedy put together. But you have to remember, every time we got banned somewhere, ticket sales went crazy.” |
Alice dedicated his life back to the Lord in the 1980’s but has always remained publically quiet about his faith, until recently. He finally opened up about his love for Christ to interviewer DC Beacon. Cooper was actually brought up in a Christian home but while he believed in God, he was not committed to living a life of faith. “I grew up in a Christian household,” Cooper said in the below video interview. “My dad was a pastor, and he was an evangelist for 25 years. I used to go up and do missionary work with him with the Apaches in Arizona. My grandfather was a pastor for 75 years, so I grew up in a Christian home.” |
June 9, 2017: Orange County Register: Pastor Greg Laurie’s new book tells of how actor Steve McQueen became a Christian right before his death
Harvest Ministries’ Pastor Greg Laurie authored the book “Steve McQueen: The Salvation of an American Icon.” The book is based on Laurie’s cross-country drive in his 1968 Highland Green Ford Mustang 390 GT through Malibu, Hollywood, the Midwest and New York tracing McQueen’s life, relationships, career and spiritual journey. The iconic muscle car was the vehicle McQueen drove in his film “Bullitt.”
Harvest Ministries’ Pastor Greg Laurie authored the book “Steve McQueen: The Salvation of an American Icon.” The book is based on Laurie’s cross-country drive in his 1968 Highland Green Ford Mustang 390 GT through Malibu, Hollywood, the Midwest and New York tracing McQueen’s life, relationships, career and spiritual journey. The iconic muscle car was the vehicle McQueen drove in his film “Bullitt.”
Roma Downey
| ​Roma Downey (born 6 May 1960) is an Irish actress and Emmy nominated producer from Northern Ireland. She played kind-hearted angel Monica on the American TV series Touched by an Angel, alongside Della Reese; they remained close friends after the series. Downey received two Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for her role on the show. Downey is an ambassador for Operation Smile. She is an author of three books for children and producer of the children's series, Little Angels. She was the executive producer of the television miniseries The Bible on the History channel, in which she also played the role of Mary. Downey and her husband Mark Burnett produced the movie version of the series, Son of God, which was released on February 28, 2014, and was distributed by 20th Century Fox. Its sequel, A.D.: The Bible Continues, premiered on NBC Easter Sunday, April 5, 2015 |
She has the voice of an angel – an Irish angel that is. Actress Roma Downey grew to fame on the TV series “Touched by an Angel,” telling millions of viewers each week that “There is a God, that He loves you, and wants to be a part of your life.” It’s a message that’s now embedded in her work with husband/producer Mark Burnett. Their mini-series on The Bible a few years ago became a surprise hit; a surprise to the secular world of Hollywood elites that is, not to Roma and Mark. Their latest offering is on the cornerstone of Christianity, The Resurrection. It’s a film that would have been released in theaters, but because of the pandemic it could not be. -Fox News Radio 2.6.22
Writing for CNN, Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Roma Downey and Mark Burnett make their plea in light of the massacre of Christian college students in Kenya and ongoing threats against Christians elsewhere.
They say: "We are calling upon Christians to also reflect upon the crucifixion, beheading, stoning, enforced slavery, sexual abuse, human trafficking, harassment, bombing and displacement of hundreds of thousands of Christians -- and others -- whose faith alone has made them a target of religious extremists."
They mention persecution in countries such as Iraq, Syria, Libya, Pakistan, India, Egypt, Kenya and Nigeria. -Ruth Giedhill; Christian Today; 4.8.15
They say: "We are calling upon Christians to also reflect upon the crucifixion, beheading, stoning, enforced slavery, sexual abuse, human trafficking, harassment, bombing and displacement of hundreds of thousands of Christians -- and others -- whose faith alone has made them a target of religious extremists."
They mention persecution in countries such as Iraq, Syria, Libya, Pakistan, India, Egypt, Kenya and Nigeria. -Ruth Giedhill; Christian Today; 4.8.15
"It was an extraordinary time, and I have to say, Hollywood gets a bad rap. I think there's a lot of good people there and a lot of good people doing good work. While shooting 'Touched by an Angel' it was unusual perhaps for a Hollywood set that we would gather hands before those scenes and we would pray — pray that there would be less of us and there would be more of God, and that there would be an opportunity through the camera that the Holy Spirit could move through the camera and touch people's hearts." -Roma Downey
"Touched By an Angel" taught about God from a monolithic viewpoint where there was God...but far less common for anyone to mention Jesus Christ or any suggestion of salvation through Him and Him alone. Downey's efforts are largeley new ageist. -ZR
"Touched By an Angel" taught about God from a monolithic viewpoint where there was God...but far less common for anyone to mention Jesus Christ or any suggestion of salvation through Him and Him alone. Downey's efforts are largeley new ageist. -ZR