A Monthly Publication of Ceylon Every Home Crusade

www.ceylonehc.org

July

201

4

5 Children are a heritage of the Lord7 From life of crime to Joy in Christ8 Thoughtful consideration is essential for spiritual growth

11 Health page16 The Prosperity Gospel vs. Taking up your Cross

18 The Story Behind KFC

Macedonia Call from Gem Country Ratnapura District3

Dear Ministry Partner,

I am continually amazed at the testimonies we receive from our remote villages where EHC workers have been actively engaged in the distribution of Gods message of peace and salvation. Again and again we hear astounding stories of transformation that began with a simple piece of gospel literature handed by one person to another.

The gospel produces fruit and that fruit produces more fruit - indefinitely. One person whose life is touched by the gospel of Christ can, in turn, affect the lives of hundreds or thousands of people, even in the most difficult and dangerous of circumstances.

This world, including our beloved Sri Lanka, is a troubled place and those of us caught up in ethnic troubles, religious tensions and racial hatred know only too well the bitter pathway and suffering that follow such evil. But even those of us who have not experienced such upheavals still witness the outworking of satanic activity in marital unhappiness, wrecked families, personality breakdowns and many other distressing situations. Even within our churches and amongst our clergy, pastors and workers hurtful tensions can arise that prevent harmonious and happy working relationships.

Our Lord and Master said: Blessed are the peace-makers (Matt 5:9). We as a nation are terribly shaken by the news related to the OHCHR PROBE that is haunting us. We are no more engaged in war and the guns fell silent five years ago. We are peace-lovers and we want reconciliation but we are still haunted.

This period of fear and anxiety will soon pass away.

We all want to live in peace and rightly be called peace-lovers. But to be a peace-maker is another thing altogether. A peace-maker may have to confront the actual wrong and deal with it and this in itself can be a painful process. To be a peace-maker is far more costly than to be just a peace-lover. Facing the real problems and daring to deal with these in a biblical way can be a very costly exercise. The peace-maker pays the price required; the peace-lover enjoys the benefit!.

The GEM district of Ratnapura is inviting us, just like the man from Macedonia, to come there as peace-makers. This district of Ratnapura is known for precious stones such as ruby, blue sapphire and many other varieties of valuable stones. It was said that even King Solomon got down precious stones from here to decorate the temple. This beautiful district is a multi-religious area with different languages and the people have been living there for ages in perfect harmony. Nevertheless, the need of the hour for Ratnapura District is PEACE GIVER- JESUS CHRIST

With your prayer, support and encouragement we want to go there to tell them about the King of Peace - the Peace-Giver, the Lord Jesus Christ. With our feet shod with the preparation of the Gospel of Peace (Rom 12:18) we are to go everywhere declaring the peace that has been made through the blood of His cross

Sam Thevabalasingham

JULY 2014 / DIREC

TION

3

Currently more than 1000 copies of the Sinhala Magazine

is in circulation issued Free of charge! ldka;drfha .,d hk osh oyrd

Any persons, groups of individuals or organizations who are willing to give us the Right Hand of Fellowship to

begin circulation of the English Magazine, Please Contact us on

071 5812121 or Email us at: harpadsch@gmail.com

Those who choose to voluntarily support this work are welcomed as co-workers in this effort to teach the true

Gospel to all peoples.We are a non- denominational

Teaching Ministry.

This Magazine will be to you, like a Shelter from the Wind, a Refuge from the Storm,

Like Streams of Water in the Desert, and the Shadow of a Great Rock in a Thirsty Land.

Volume 1

Dear Ministry Partner,

I am continually amazed at the testimonies we receive from our remote villages where EHC workers have been actively engaged in the distribution of Gods message of peace and salvation. Again and again we hear astounding stories of transformation that began with a simple piece of gospel literature handed by one person to another.

The gospel produces fruit and that fruit produces more fruit - indefinitely. One person whose life is touched by the gospel of Christ can, in turn, affect the lives of hundreds or thousands of people, even in the most difficult and dangerous of circumstances.

This world, including our beloved Sri Lanka, is a troubled place and those of us caught up in ethnic troubles, religious tensions and racial hatred know only too well the bitter pathway and suffering that follow such evil. But even those of us who have not experienced such upheavals still witness the outworking of satanic activity in marital unhappiness, wrecked families, personality breakdowns and many other distressing situations. Even within our churches and amongst our clergy, pastors and workers hurtful tensions can arise that prevent harmonious and happy working relationships.

Our Lord and Master said: Blessed are the peace-makers (Matt 5:9). We as a nation are terribly shaken by the news related to the OHCHR PROBE that is haunting us. We are no more engaged in war and the guns fell silent five years ago. We are peace-lovers and we want reconciliation but we are still haunted.

This period of fear and anxiety will soon pass away.

We all want to live in peace and rightly be called peace-lovers. But to be a peace-maker is another thing altogether. A peace-maker may have to confront the actual wrong and deal with it and this in itself can be a painful process. To be a peace-maker is far more costly than to be just a peace-lover. Facing the real problems and daring to deal with these in a biblical way can be a very costly exercise. The peace-maker pays the price required; the peace-lover enjoys the benefit!.

The GEM district of Ratnapura is inviting us, just like the man from Macedonia, to come there as peace-makers. This district of Ratnapura is known for precious stones such as ruby, blue sapphire and many other varieties of valuable stones. It was said that even King Solomon got down precious stones from here to decorate the temple. This beautiful district is a multi-religious area with different languages and the people have been living there for ages in perfect harmony. Nevertheless, the need of the hour for Ratnapura District is PEACE GIVER- JESUS CHRIST

With your prayer, support and encouragement we want to go there to tell them about the King of Peace - the Peace-Giver, the Lord Jesus Christ. With our feet shod with the preparation of the Gospel of Peace (Rom 12:18) we are to go everywhere declaring the peace that has been made through the blood of His cross

Sam Thevabalasingham

JULY 2014 / DIREC

TION

3

Currently more than 1000 copies of the Sinhala Magazine

is in circulation issued Free of charge! ldka;drfha .,d hk osh oyrd

Any persons, groups of individuals or organizations who are willing to give us the Right Hand of Fellowship to

begin circulation of the English Magazine, Please Contact us on

071 5812121 or Email us at: harpadsch@gmail.com

Those who choose to voluntarily support this work are welcomed as co-workers in this effort to teach the true

Gospel to all peoples.We are a non- denominational

Teaching Ministry.

This Magazine will be to you, like a Shelter from the Wind, a Refuge from the Storm,

Like Streams of Water in the Desert, and the Shadow of a Great Rock in a Thirsty Land.

Volume 1

JULY

201

4D

IREC

TION

/

4

A M o n t h l y P u b l i c a t i o n o f C e y l o n E v e r y H o m e C r u s a d e

Pas. Shanuka Elangasekera

facebook.com/ceylon every home crusade

JULY 2014 / DIREC

TION

5

With deep concern I read the advertisement of Manifest Glory on page 2 of Direction June 2014. The invited speakers at the session during 19-21.6.2014: Randy Clark, Eric Johnson and Tom Jones were instrumental in promoting the Toronto Blessing in 1994. There appears to be a global resurgence of this serious error that caused sever confusion in the Church 20 years ago.

I am deeply worried, but on the other hand this is a time when God is testing the Church in His own deliberate way. The words of Moses should be carefully considered: If a prophet, or one who foretells by dreams, appears among you and announces to you a miraculous sign or wonder, and if the sign or wonder of which he has spoken takes place, and he says, Let us follow other gods (gods you have not known) and let us worship them, you must not listen to the words of that prophet or dreamer. The LORD your God is testing you to find out whether you love him with all your heart and with all your soul. It is the LORD your God you must follow, and him you must revere. Keep his commands and obey him; serve him and hold fast to him (Deut. 13:1-4).

I am not a prophet, merely a student of the Bible. As a student of the Bible I see an increasing trend towards serious spiritual deception that is spreading through out the world. It comes under the guise of miracles, prophesies and esoteric experiences. In the midst of this increasing spiritual confusion I would like to present some simple questions:

Is the Holy Spirit capable of deception?Does the Holy Spirit give new revelation that contradicts Scripture?Do miracles, prophesies and esoteric experiences testify to the presence of

the Holy Spirit?Through my personal experience I have concluded, that the most reliable way

to retain the faith is to walk with Christ in childlike humility and simplicity. I have decided to reject all complex unbiblical explanations, whether philosophical or psychological, that lead me away from following Christ daily.

Samuel Yrjola, Helsinki, Finland

Writing on a personal note, I do not know from where Ken De Joodt gets his information!! I do not know of any true believer in the Lord Jesus who was ...praying for a Sri Lanka win!!. Sure all of us were cheering like mad and hoping like mad. But praying? I dont think so.

Its ironic that he uses double exclamation marks, because the comment is truly flabbergasting, to put it mildly. I do not think anyone would waste the wonderful privilege of prayer for something so inconsequential, from a Christian view point, when there are much greater issues faced by the people of this country that need the constant storming of heaven.

He then goes on to designate our brave captain, Angelo Matthews, the hero from and of my home-town Alwis Town, Wattala, who is a confessed, staunch, unapologetic, Roman Catholic, ...a strong believer in Jesus Christ... I do not know what Mr. De Joodt means by that, but I do know that Angelo and his very friendly family, subscribe to all of Catholic dogma as do many a faithful Catholic in our neighbourhood and in the world-at-large. Direction has a responsibility to be careful of what they print and thereby give credibility to, in their magazine, because it impacts the Kingdom of God!!

Ajit Perera

JULY

201

4D

IREC

TION

/

4

A M o n t h l y P u b l i c a t i o n o f C e y l o n E v e r y H o m e C r u s a d e

Pas. Shanuka Elangasekera

facebook.com/ceylon every home crusade

JULY 2014 / DIREC

TION

5

With deep concern I read the advertisement of Manifest Glory on page 2 of Direction June 2014. The invited speakers at the session during 19-21.6.2014: Randy Clark, Eric Johnson and Tom Jones were instrumental in promoting the Toronto Blessing in 1994. There appears to be a global resurgence of this serious error that caused sever confusion in the Church 20 years ago.

I am deeply worried, but on the other hand this is a time when God is testing the Church in His own deliberate way. The words of Moses should be carefully considered: If a prophet, or one who foretells by dreams, appears among you and announces to you a miraculous sign or wonder, and if the sign or wonder of which he has spoken takes place, and he says, Let us follow other gods (gods you have not known) and let us worship them, you must not listen to the words of that prophet or dreamer. The LORD your God is testing you to find out whether you love him with all your heart and with all your soul. It is the LORD your God you must follow, and him you must revere. Keep his commands and obey him; serve him and hold fast to him (Deut. 13:1-4).

I am not a prophet, merely a student of the Bible. As a student of the Bible I see an increasing trend towards serious spiritual deception that is spreading through out the world. It comes under the guise of miracles, prophesies and esoteric experiences. In the midst of this increasing spiritual confusion I would like to present some simple questions:

Is the Holy Spirit capable of deception?Does the Holy Spirit give new revelation that contradicts Scripture?Do miracles, prophesies and esoteric experiences testify to the presence of

the Holy Spirit?Through my personal experience I have concluded, that the most reliable way

to retain the faith is to walk with Christ in childlike humility and simplicity. I have decided to reject all complex unbiblical explanations, whether philosophical or psychological, that lead me away from following Christ daily.

Samuel Yrjola, Helsinki, Finland

Writing on a personal note, I do not know from where Ken De Joodt gets his information!! I do not know of any true believer in the Lord Jesus who was ...praying for a Sri Lanka win!!. Sure all of us were cheering like mad and hoping like mad. But praying? I dont think so.

Its ironic that he uses double exclamation marks, because the comment is truly flabbergasting, to put it mildly. I do not think anyone would waste the wonderful privilege of prayer for something so inconsequential, from a Christian view point, when there are much greater issues faced by the people of this country that need the constant storming of heaven.

He then goes on to designate our brave captain, Angelo Matthews, the hero from and of my home-town Alwis Town, Wattala, who is a confessed, staunch, unapologetic, Roman Catholic, ...a strong believer in Jesus Christ... I do not know what Mr. De Joodt means by that, but I do know that Angelo and his very friendly family, subscribe to all of Catholic dogma as do many a faithful Catholic in our neighbourhood and in the world-at-large. Direction has a responsibility to be careful of what they print and thereby give credibility to, in their magazine, because it impacts the Kingdom of God!!

Ajit Perera

JULY

201

4D

IREC

TION

/

6

organ Gegera is an encouragement to all who Mmeet him. He is always

quick to offer a wide grin, a strong handshake, and a full, hearty laugh to every stranger he meets. This is a guy who has complete joy in His Lord!

No one would guess the background of Morgan Gegera on their first meeting. In fact, people are very surprised when they hear the real story of how he came into the EHC family.

Morgan grew up in not just a dysfunctional family, but an abusive one as well. His father had four wives, was sexually abusive, and was responsible for the death of his mother. With no family, no home, and no money, Morgan was left on the streets to fend for himself.

Morgan (red shirt, just right of center) pictured with some of the EHC Samoa team.

I began to commit crimes on the street for income, he explains. One day a friend and I stopped a man who was going door to door with

literature. We attacked him right there on the street! We stripped him of his clothes, wallet, watch, and shoes. While we did this, I couldnt help but notice the joy on this mans face. I wondered why he would act so happy while he was being robbed.

Morgan asked the man who he was and learned that he was an EHC pioneer missionary from Fiji who had come to tell all the people in the neighborhood about Jesus.

Before I could stop myself, Morgan says, I broke down in tears at the sight of this humble man. I ordered my friend to return all of the mans belongings. When the pioneer missionary explained Gods plan of salvation to me, I suddenly understood his joy. I gave my life to Christ that very moment and have had His joy ever since! Today, Im gladly serving the Lord with Every Home for Christ. He has blessed me with a family of my own and put me in a leadership position for the work of EHC in three Pacific island nations. His name be praised!

JULY 2014 / DIREC

TION

7

Morgan GegeraEHC Samoa National Director

JULY

201

4D

IREC

TION

/

6

organ Gegera is an encouragement to all who Mmeet him. He is always

quick to offer a wide grin, a strong handshake, and a full, hearty laugh to every stranger he meets. This is a guy who has complete joy in His Lord!

No one would guess the background of Morgan Gegera on their first meeting. In fact, people are very surprised when they hear the real story of how he came into the EHC family.

Morgan grew up in not just a dysfunctional family, but an abusive one as well. His father had four wives, was sexually abusive, and was responsible for the death of his mother. With no family, no home, and no money, Morgan was left on the streets to fend for himself.

Morgan (red shirt, just right of center) pictured with some of the EHC Samoa team.

I began to commit crimes on the street for income, he explains. One day a friend and I stopped a man who was going door to door with

literature. We attacked him right there on the street! We stripped him of his clothes, wallet, watch, and shoes. While we did this, I couldnt help but notice the joy on this mans face. I wondered why he would act so happy while he was being robbed.

Morgan asked the man who he was and learned that he was an EHC pioneer missionary from Fiji who had come to tell all the people in the neighborhood about Jesus.

Before I could stop myself, Morgan says, I broke down in tears at the sight of this humble man. I ordered my friend to return all of the mans belongings. When the pioneer missionary explained Gods plan of salvation to me, I suddenly understood his joy. I gave my life to Christ that very moment and have had His joy ever since! Today, Im gladly serving the Lord with Every Home for Christ. He has blessed me with a family of my own and put me in a leadership position for the work of EHC in three Pacific island nations. His name be praised!

JULY 2014 / DIREC

TION

7

Morgan GegeraEHC Samoa National Director

JULY

201

4D

IREC

TION

/

JULY 2014 / DIREC

TION

8 9

The Greek word for false prophet is pseudoprophetes. Pseudo literally means to lie or cheat. Prophetes literally means a person who is moved by the Spirit of God to solemnly declare what he has received by inspiration concerning Gods plan of salvation and future action.

According to the New Testament, prophets in the Church were moved by the Holy Spirit to instruct, comfort, encourage, rebuke and convict their hearers and readers. A false prophet is a person who lies and cheats while claiming to speak in the name of the Spirit of God. In other words the false prophet gives misleading information, disturbs and discourages Christians. Instead of rebuking and convicting wrong doers he condones and even approves their actions.

Jesus does not define a false prophet merely by what the prophet says. The first definition of a false prophet concerns actions and lifestyles. A false prophet is compared to a ferocious wolf that is hunting for prey to pitilessly kill and devour, while masquerading as a sheep. It is important to remember that the false prophet does not care about what happens to those who follow him or her.

The second definition of a false prophet concerns the fruit that results from the actions and words of the false prophet. Jesus uses four different plants to make his point clear. Grapes and figs have nutritious and medicinal qualities that are beneficial for a healthy life. Thornbushes and thistles are referred to as bad plants since they produce bad fruit. The berries of these plants have a stimulant that produces a temporary ecstatic feeling, but they are mildly poisonous and cause

nausea. Consumed in excess they cause paralysis and finally death. The objective of the false prophet is to produce emotionally and spiritually harmful experiences that finally result in spiritual death.

Luke gives a new angle to the words of Jesus on the subject of good and bad plants: No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thornbushes, or grapes from briers. The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks (Luke 6:43-45).

In this passage the emphasis in on spoken words. It is the responsibility of the listener to decide what fruit he or she decides to consume that is, what words he or she decides to listen and obey.

The final definition of a false prophet is he or she is called an evildoer and is rejected by Jesus.

Throughout the history of the Church the most effective method used by Satan to deceive Christians is through false prophets.

What are the choices that a Christian should make?

1. Do not overemphasize sentimentality Sentimentality and pleasant emotions have become the main objective of many churches. Apostle Paul in his farewell letter to Timothy emphasises the following Christian values:

a. sincere faith which is different from mere sentimental faith.

b. power, love and sound judgement spiritual growth requires the combination of the power of the

Holy Spirit expressed in love, where the deciding factor between success and failure is sound judgement.

c. a readiness to suffer for the gospel the power of God is seldom expressed through the sentimental filling of emotional needs.

d. a determination to hold on to sound doctrine which differs from unscriptural sentimentality. (2 Tim. 1:1-14).

The greatest danger in sentimental Christianity is its claim, that the main purpose of the gospel is to meet the emotional needs of individual church members. Taken to the extreme, Christ is merely the supplier of good feelings. A totally foolish idea.

2. Reject the idea of a human controlled Holy Spirit

One of the favourite ideas expressed by false prophets is that they have been given authority to control the activity of the Holy Spirit in various situations. This is absurd. Jesus did not transfer his divine authority to his followers. He said, All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age (Matt. 28:18-20).

Jesus has absolute divine authority and he gives limited authority to the servants of his Church to perform limited tasks, that fulfill the collective purpose of the Church. Nobody can claim unlimited personal spiritual authority, nor can anybody transfer spiritual authority to another person.

The inherent danger of the false prophets teaching on authority is that

they use their erroneous claim of authority to subject gullible Christians into slavelike obedience to themselves. The promoters of the 1990s Toronto laughter movement claimed, that those who opposed their experience oriented manifestations were actually opposing the Holy Spirit. Thoughtful consideration of New Testament teaching would have shown that the Holy Spirit was not even present in the biassed and unhealthy manifestations.

Thoughtful consideration is a gift from God, and should not be ignored.

For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and sound judgement (2 Tim 1:7).

Christians should treat with caution all those who would limit thoughtful consideration.

In conclusionA very important detail in the

parable of the two builders has gone unnoticed by many Christians. Every Christian is personally responsible on how they build their lives. While it is true that pastors and teachers in the Church have a responsibility before God on how they instruct, the individual Christian is primarily responsible on what kind of instruction he or she follows.

Jesus said to them: Watch out that no one deceives you. Many will come in my name, claiming, I am he, and will deceive many (Mark 13:5,6). The Greek word blepete (watch out) is in the imperative mood which expresses a command. Jesus does not or suggest or recommend, he commands. Anyone who choses to live foolishly or recklessly, and follows deceivers, will have to face the consequences of disobedience.

Thoughtful consideration is essential!

Thoughtful consideration is essential for spiritual growthBy Rev. Samuel Yrjola

The Bible contains several definitions for wisdom and foolishness. Reading through these definitions can be very useful, if a Christian is concerned about his or her personal spiritual growth.

Apostle Matthew recorded a series of Jesus teachings concerning issues essential for spiritual growth in a collection of teachings known as The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew chapters 5-7).

Jesus ended his teaching with a parable of two builders. One builder was wise and the other was foolish. Jesus did not say that one builder was knowledgeable and the other ignorant. Both had equal amount of knowledge, since both heard Jesus teaching. Apparently both houses were built to the same standards, but the main difference was the amount of thoughtful consideration given to the foundation. The foundation for Christian living is acting according to the Word of God (Matt. 7:24-27).

According to Jesus previous parable, the wise builder thoughtfully considers the actions and words of false prophets (Matt. 7:15-23).

JULY

201

4D

IREC

TION

/

JULY 2014 / DIREC

TION

8 9

The Greek word for false prophet is pseudoprophetes. Pseudo literally means to lie or cheat. Prophetes literally means a person who is moved by the Spirit of God to solemnly declare what he has received by inspiration concerning Gods plan of salvation and future action.

According to the New Testament, prophets in the Church were moved by the Holy Spirit to instruct, comfort, encourage, rebuke and convict their hearers and readers. A false prophet is a person who lies and cheats while claiming to speak in the name of the Spirit of God. In other words the false prophet gives misleading information, disturbs and discourages Christians. Instead of rebuking and convicting wrong doers he condones and even approves their actions.

Jesus does not define a false prophet merely by what the prophet says. The first definition of a false prophet concerns actions and lifestyles. A false prophet is compared to a ferocious wolf that is hunting for prey to pitilessly kill and devour, while masquerading as a sheep. It is important to remember that the false prophet does not care about what happens to those who follow him or her.

The second definition of a false prophet concerns the fruit that results from the actions and words of the false prophet. Jesus uses four different plants to make his point clear. Grapes and figs have nutritious and medicinal qualities that are beneficial for a healthy life. Thornbushes and thistles are referred to as bad plants since they produce bad fruit. The berries of these plants have a stimulant that produces a temporary ecstatic feeling, but they are mildly poisonous and cause

nausea. Consumed in excess they cause paralysis and finally death. The objective of the false prophet is to produce emotionally and spiritually harmful experiences that finally result in spiritual death.

Luke gives a new angle to the words of Jesus on the subject of good and bad plants: No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thornbushes, or grapes from briers. The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks (Luke 6:43-45).

In this passage the emphasis in on spoken words. It is the responsibility of the listener to decide what fruit he or she decides to consume that is, what words he or she decides to listen and obey.

The final definition of a false prophet is he or she is called an evildoer and is rejected by Jesus.

Throughout the history of the Church the most effective method used by Satan to deceive Christians is through false prophets.

What are the choices that a Christian should make?

1. Do not overemphasize sentimentality Sentimentality and pleasant emotions have become the main objective of many churches. Apostle Paul in his farewell letter to Timothy emphasises the following Christian values:

a. sincere faith which is different from mere sentimental faith.

b. power, love and sound judgement spiritual growth requires the combination of the power of the

Holy Spirit expressed in love, where the deciding factor between success and failure is sound judgement.

c. a readiness to suffer for the gospel the power of God is seldom expressed through the sentimental filling of emotional needs.

d. a determination to hold on to sound doctrine which differs from unscriptural sentimentality. (2 Tim. 1:1-14).

The greatest danger in sentimental Christianity is its claim, that the main purpose of the gospel is to meet the emotional needs of individual church members. Taken to the extreme, Christ is merely the supplier of good feelings. A totally foolish idea.

2. Reject the idea of a human controlled Holy Spirit

One of the favourite ideas expressed by false prophets is that they have been given authority to control the activity of the Holy Spirit in various situations. This is absurd. Jesus did not transfer his divine authority to his followers. He said, All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age (Matt. 28:18-20).

Jesus has absolute divine authority and he gives limited authority to the servants of his Church to perform limited tasks, that fulfill the collective purpose of the Church. Nobody can claim unlimited personal spiritual authority, nor can anybody transfer spiritual authority to another person.

The inherent danger of the false prophets teaching on authority is that

they use their erroneous claim of authority to subject gullible Christians into slavelike obedience to themselves. The promoters of the 1990s Toronto laughter movement claimed, that those who opposed their experience oriented manifestations were actually opposing the Holy Spirit. Thoughtful consideration of New Testament teaching would have shown that the Holy Spirit was not even present in the biassed and unhealthy manifestations.

Thoughtful consideration is a gift from God, and should not be ignored.

For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and sound judgement (2 Tim 1:7).

Christians should treat with caution all those who would limit thoughtful consideration.

In conclusionA very important detail in the

parable of the two builders has gone unnoticed by many Christians. Every Christian is personally responsible on how they build their lives. While it is true that pastors and teachers in the Church have a responsibility before God on how they instruct, the individual Christian is primarily responsible on what kind of instruction he or she follows.

Jesus said to them: Watch out that no one deceives you. Many will come in my name, claiming, I am he, and will deceive many (Mark 13:5,6). The Greek word blepete (watch out) is in the imperative mood which expresses a command. Jesus does not or suggest or recommend, he commands. Anyone who choses to live foolishly or recklessly, and follows deceivers, will have to face the consequences of disobedience.

Thoughtful consideration is essential!

Thoughtful consideration is essential for spiritual growthBy Rev. Samuel Yrjola

The Bible contains several definitions for wisdom and foolishness. Reading through these definitions can be very useful, if a Christian is concerned about his or her personal spiritual growth.

Apostle Matthew recorded a series of Jesus teachings concerning issues essential for spiritual growth in a collection of teachings known as The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew chapters 5-7).

Jesus ended his teaching with a parable of two builders. One builder was wise and the other was foolish. Jesus did not say that one builder was knowledgeable and the other ignorant. Both had equal amount of knowledge, since both heard Jesus teaching. Apparently both houses were built to the same standards, but the main difference was the amount of thoughtful consideration given to the foundation. The foundation for Christian living is acting according to the Word of God (Matt. 7:24-27).

According to Jesus previous parable, the wise builder thoughtfully considers the actions and words of false prophets (Matt. 7:15-23).

JULY

201

4D

IREC

TION

/

10

POPE FRANCIS IN JERUSALEM

ope Francis made a whirlwind trip through the West Bank and PJerusalem this weekend, meeting

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, Israeli President Shimon Peres and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He entered the Dome of the Rock mosque and left a wreath at the grave of Theodore Herzl, the founder of Zionism, pushing for peace and reconciliation while speaking against any form of violence in the name of God.

The 77-year-old Pope from Buenos Aires, Argentina, has served in the papacy for just over a year and is known for his big heart rather than his thoroughly orthodox views. Hes considered a strict conservative on social matters, rejecting the ordination of women, abortion and gay marriage, but he has embraced people of other religions with ecumenical warmth, befriending members of the Jewish and Muslim communities in Argentina. He once declared that even good atheists who followed their consciences might go to Heaven, because Jesus blood covered the sins of the world a statement that raised some controversy.

The Jerusalem Post noted in 2013 that this Pope might be less theologically critical of Jews than of Protestants, since Christianity has its roots in Judaism. In 2005, Bergoglio was the first public personality to sign a petition for justice in the AMIA Jewish community center bombing case, the editorial noted. He also was one of the signatories on a document called 85 victims, 85 signatures as part of the bombings 11th anniversary. In June 2010, he visited the rebuilt AMIA building to talk with Jewish leaders.

His warm relationship with rabbis in his home country was reflected in his visit to Jerusalem over the weekend. He laid a wreath in the Hall of Remembrance at Yad Vashem, Jerusalems best-known Holocaust Memorial, declaring Never again, Lord, never again! He listened to the stories of six Holocaust survivors as they described what happened to them and their friends and families. He expressed horror at the devastation of the Holocaust, quoting Genesis 3:9, In this place, this memorial of the Shoah, we hear Gods question echo once more: Adam, where are you? Here, before the boundless tragedy of the Holocaust, That

cry Where are you? echoes like a faint voice in an unfathomable abyss.

His condemnation of the Holocaust went into the guest book at Yad Vashem, where he also wrote, With shame for the fact that man made himself the owner of evil; with shame that man made himself into God and sacrificed his brothers. Never again!! Never again!! Francis. 5.26.2014.

Pope Francis often describes the Jews as his older brothers, in the Faith. He visited the Western Wall, the location closest to the Temple Mount where Jews can legally pray, and he pushed a written copy of the Our Father into a crack in the wall, along with the multitude of other prayers placed there. He even honored the grave of Theodor Herzl, the founder of Zionism.

He praised Israeli President Shimon Peres as a good and wise man who had worked toward peace and reconciliation with the Palestinians, even planting an olive tree at the home of Peres. However, the Popes warmth toward the Jews did not include a rebuke of the Jews hostile neighbors. When in Bethlehem, he expressed frustration with the failure of the peace process and compassion toward the Palestinians because of the wall that Israel had built around the West Bank town. The Pope invited both Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Peres to soon visit the Vatican to pray for peace. Both leaders accepted the invitation.

Pope Francis also prayed at the Dome of the Rock, the Muslim shrine that dominates the Temple Mount. He called the Grand Mufti of Jerusalem and other Muslim leaders, dear brothers, saying,

May we respect and love one another as brothers and sisters! May we learn to understand the suffering of others! May no one abuse the name of God through violence!

Lest the Pope misunderstand Israels predicament in the Middle East, Prime Minister Netanyahu asked the pontiff to make a small detour and visit the terrorism memorial, including the part dedicated to those hit in the 1994 Buenos Aires bombing. He urged Francis to understand that Israels wall was built to protect people from the ongoing Palestinian terror. The rabbi at the Western Wall also offered Francis a 1400-year-old map of the area, in which the map-maker wrote Solomans Tabernacle on the Temple Mount.

We all know how urgent the need for peace is, the Pope said during his visit, not only for Israel but also for the entire region. May efforts and energies be increasingly directed to the pursuit of a just and lasting solution to the conflicts that have caused so much suffering.

As promised in Zechariah 12:23, Jerusalem has continued to be a cup of trembling and a burdensome stone for the nations of the world. There are many other disputed locations on the planet Earth Kashmir, Tibet, Taiwan and yet no conflict over any other land is as constantly in the public eye as that of Israel. We are to pray for the peace of Jerusalem (Psalm 122:6) and yet we know that true peace will not come until the Prince of Peace brings it. In the meanwhile, despite the best efforts of every world leader, civil and religious, the conflict continues.

POPE FRANCIS IN JERUSALEM

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POPE FRANCIS IN JERUSALEM

ope Francis made a whirlwind trip through the West Bank and PJerusalem this weekend, meeting

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, Israeli President Shimon Peres and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He entered the Dome of the Rock mosque and left a wreath at the grave of Theodore Herzl, the founder of Zionism, pushing for peace and reconciliation while speaking against any form of violence in the name of God.

The 77-year-old Pope from Buenos Aires, Argentina, has served in the papacy for just over a year and is known for his big heart rather than his thoroughly orthodox views. Hes considered a strict conservative on social matters, rejecting the ordination of women, abortion and gay marriage, but he has embraced people of other religions with ecumenical warmth, befriending members of the Jewish and Muslim communities in Argentina. He once declared that even good atheists who followed their consciences might go to Heaven, because Jesus blood covered the sins of the world a statement that raised some controversy.

The Jerusalem Post noted in 2013 that this Pope might be less theologically critical of Jews than of Protestants, since Christianity has its roots in Judaism. In 2005, Bergoglio was the first public personality to sign a petition for justice in the AMIA Jewish community center bombing case, the editorial noted. He also was one of the signatories on a document called 85 victims, 85 signatures as part of the bombings 11th anniversary. In June 2010, he visited the rebuilt AMIA building to talk with Jewish leaders.

His warm relationship with rabbis in his home country was reflected in his visit to Jerusalem over the weekend. He laid a wreath in the Hall of Remembrance at Yad Vashem, Jerusalems best-known Holocaust Memorial, declaring Never again, Lord, never again! He listened to the stories of six Holocaust survivors as they described what happened to them and their friends and families. He expressed horror at the devastation of the Holocaust, quoting Genesis 3:9, In this place, this memorial of the Shoah, we hear Gods question echo once more: Adam, where are you? Here, before the boundless tragedy of the Holocaust, That

cry Where are you? echoes like a faint voice in an unfathomable abyss.

His condemnation of the Holocaust went into the guest book at Yad Vashem, where he also wrote, With shame for the fact that man made himself the owner of evil; with shame that man made himself into God and sacrificed his brothers. Never again!! Never again!! Francis. 5.26.2014.

Pope Francis often describes the Jews as his older brothers, in the Faith. He visited the Western Wall, the location closest to the Temple Mount where Jews can legally pray, and he pushed a written copy of the Our Father into a crack in the wall, along with the multitude of other prayers placed there. He even honored the grave of Theodor Herzl, the founder of Zionism.

He praised Israeli President Shimon Peres as a good and wise man who had worked toward peace and reconciliation with the Palestinians, even planting an olive tree at the home of Peres. However, the Popes warmth toward the Jews did not include a rebuke of the Jews hostile neighbors. When in Bethlehem, he expressed frustration with the failure of the peace process and compassion toward the Palestinians because of the wall that Israel had built around the West Bank town. The Pope invited both Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Peres to soon visit the Vatican to pray for peace. Both leaders accepted the invitation.

Pope Francis also prayed at the Dome of the Rock, the Muslim shrine that dominates the Temple Mount. He called the Grand Mufti of Jerusalem and other Muslim leaders, dear brothers, saying,

May we respect and love one another as brothers and sisters! May we learn to understand the suffering of others! May no one abuse the name of God through violence!

Lest the Pope misunderstand Israels predicament in the Middle East, Prime Minister Netanyahu asked the pontiff to make a small detour and visit the terrorism memorial, including the part dedicated to those hit in the 1994 Buenos Aires bombing. He urged Francis to understand that Israels wall was built to protect people from the ongoing Palestinian terror. The rabbi at the Western Wall also offered Francis a 1400-year-old map of the area, in which the map-maker wrote Solomans Tabernacle on the Temple Mount.

We all know how urgent the need for peace is, the Pope said during his visit, not only for Israel but also for the entire region. May efforts and energies be increasingly directed to the pursuit of a just and lasting solution to the conflicts that have caused so much suffering.

As promised in Zechariah 12:23, Jerusalem has continued to be a cup of trembling and a burdensome stone for the nations of the world. There are many other disputed locations on the planet Earth Kashmir, Tibet, Taiwan and yet no conflict over any other land is as constantly in the public eye as that of Israel. We are to pray for the peace of Jerusalem (Psalm 122:6) and yet we know that true peace will not come until the Prince of Peace brings it. In the meanwhile, despite the best efforts of every world leader, civil and religious, the conflict continues.

POPE FRANCIS IN JERUSALEM

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An authentic Christian embrace of the Muslim community

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An authentic Christian embrace of the Muslim community

Arise lift up the lad and hold him with your hand for I will make him a great nation (Genesis 21:18)

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An authentic Christian embrace of the Muslim community

Arise lift up the lad and hold him with your hand for I will make him a great nation (Genesis 21:18)

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SAMUEL PAUL & CINDY PAUL VISIT SRI LANKASamuel and Cindy of Bangaluru , India paid a visit to Sri Lanka. During their stay in Sri Lanka both of them separately taught a modular course for Year lll and Year ll classes respectively at SAIT (South Asia Institute of Theology). Samuel is a staff member at SAIACS, Bangalore and Cindy is computer science teacher in a private school in Bangalore. They both assist in the work of caring for a small congregation in Robertsonpet, Kolar Gold Field.

ETERNAL LOVE CONCERTSinhala Christian Music CD by Rev.Pusparajah was released on the occasion when Mrs.Manel Pusparajah was felicitated for her 30 years of Christian education. Ven.Devapriya de Silva and Rev.Rohitha de Silva were guests of honour at this function.

CENTENARY CELEBRATIONAssemblies of God will hold its Centenary Celebration on Saturday the 5th July 2014 from 4.00 p.m to 5.30 pm at the Havelock Sports Club Grounds. AG in Sri Lanka is among the most senior of the national churches of the World Assemblies of God Fellowship.

ANNUAL WHITSUN DAYChristu Sevak Ashram, Kiran, Batticaloa District as usual observed the Feast of Pentecost on Sunday the 8th June with a full day program with Worship and Holy Communion at 7.00 a.m as a mark of Christian Unity.

BICENTENARY THANKSGIVING SERVICEA service of Thanksgiving to celebrate the bicentenary of the Methodist Church was held on June 29, 2014 at 3.00 pm at the Cathedral of Christ the Living Saviour, Colombo. A large number of Christians from all churches and denominations together with clergy, pastors and evangelists participated in this important service to mark the 200 years of existence and Christian witness of the Methodist Church in Sri Lanka. To reach this milepost, much sacrifice made by missionaries and national who made decision to follow the Way and establish Christian presence and witness. During these 200 years of history this church established many service oriented institutions such as schools, hospitals, orphanages, homes for the aged and otherwise able children and adults. The contribution of this church to Sri lankan people immeasurable not forgetting the national political leaders, civil servants, medical doctors, lawyers,Theologians, Clergy and educationalists of different discipline.

INDIAN EVANGELIST VISITS SRI LANKAPastor/Evangelist Binnu Johnson of Coiambatore spent 3 weeks from June 7 -29 in Sri Lanka visiting churches in different places and ministered among people. His visit was sponsored by Every Home Crusade.

TENTH ANNUAL CONCERTVoices In Praise Choir (VIP Choir)Presented its 10th Anniversary Concert on 1st June 2014 at the Auditorium, of the Institute of Hotel, Colombo-3 under the theme " I'll Walk With God".This choir was formed in 2004 and the first concert was held at Christ Church, Galle Face. The life wire behind the formation of those choir was Wilson Gnanadass (former journalist at Sunday Leader) presently an Anglican clergy candidate following Theological studies at Theological College of Lanka, Pilimatalawa. He is the second son late Rev. Paul Gnanadass and Mrs. Gnanadass.

RBC MINISTRIES BIBLE TEACHING 2014 Courageous Leadership Insights from the life of Nehemiah on July 2014, 24 & 25 at 5.30-7.30 pm at the Kollupitiya Methodist Church Speaker: Dr. Ajith Fernando. Dr. Fernando Director in Youth For Christ Sri Lanka in June 2011 after being its National Director for 35 years. He is known internationally as a skillful Biblical expositor. Dr. Fernando is the author of 15 books and his books are available in 20 languages. Dr. Ajith Fernando is married to Nelun and they have two married children. He now spends much of his time counseling and teaching Christian leaders and pastors.

PROF. ROLAND KLEGERProf.Kleger spent 3 weeks in Sri Lanka visiting and lecturing in Bible Colleges and Seminaries. He taught modular courses at Lanka Bible College Graduate School, Baldeus Theological College, Trincomalee, Eastern Theological College- Batticaloa and South Asia Institute of Theology, Norton Bridge. This assignment was sponsored by Swiss Alliance Mission.

PENTECOST 2014 Empowered to LoveChristians from all churches and denominations joyfully united in celebration of His presence at the Cathedral of Christ the Living Saviour on 14th June from 9.00 am to keep the Feast of Pentecost, call went out from the Inter-Church Fellowship to all Christian churches and denomination. The response was amazing and coming together for the Feast of Pentecost was an annual event which is being appreciated by all participants.

NEW PUBLICATIONA book under the title " DIVINE ORDER-UNVEILED" authored by Pastor Joseph Oliver Morel is an addition to thought provoking and inspirational publication of Sri Lankan authors. Roy S.Kapunan- Senior Minister -Blessed Hope Family Fellowship, Victoria, Australia in his Foreword says: "This book is not for the faint hearted, for what he has written is not only timely but one that will truly revolutionize and challenge every serious leaner of the Word of God."

THE ANNUAL MEETING The Ceylon Bible Society held its 202nd Annual Meeting on Friday the 27th June in their Auditorium at 293, Galle Road, Colombo-3. As usual a large number of members, clergy of different churches participated. Ms.Lakshani Fernando- General Secretary of CBS presented the annual progress report of the work related to distribution God's Word through out Sri Lanka.

CANANN INT'L FELLOWSHIP34th Anniversary of this ministry was observed with a Thanksgiving Service recently. During the last 34 years this ministry has made a rapid growth in Sri Lanka and many other countries around the world. Rev. Dr. Albert Jeyanayagam is the Founder/President of this ministry.

COLOMBO YMCA COMMEMORATIONA service of Thanksgiving to commemorate 132 years of work and service of Colombo YMCA was held on June 24th 2014 at Cathedral of the Living Saviour, Colombo 7

REVIVAL MEETINGSA three day revival meetings held from June 6-8, 2014 from 5.30 pm at Vihara-mahadevi Open Air Stadium. These meetings were sponsored and organized by the Sound of Salvation Full Gospel Church. A large number of people from different churches and denominations participated. Bro. Augustine Jebakumar of GEMS, Bihar, India ministered God's Word. Bro. Wesley Maxwell who accompanied him to Colombo led worship and singing part of the service with a local choir consists of 50 plus young people mainly from Sound of Salvation, Church.

MID-YEAR GOSPEL OUTREACH PROGRAMMEEHC sponsored and organized mid-year outreach campaign will be held from August

nd th 22 to 30 2014 in Ratnapura District. Student pastors from both SAIT (South Asia Institute of Theology) and ETC (Eastern Theological College) together with volunteers from local churches will participate in this programme.

Total number of Homes: 160,000 Population: 1,082,000 Dates: August 22-30, 2014 No. of Student Pastors: 80 Volunteers: 40 Capital Town: Ratnapura Two other big towns: Balangoda & Kuruwita. ESTIMATED COST: Rs 1,200,000/- (This will cover the cost of printing of Gospel booklets, travel, food, lodging and incidental expenses)

BFAM TRAINING IN INDIADuring a 10 day mission in India, Bro.V.P.Satyendra invited to conduct 4 BFAM training programmes in Coiambatore, Robertsonpet in KGF. Rev.Dr.Manovah Nicholson President/Director of Moriah Mission extended an invitation to conduct a day programme at Moriah Centre in KGF. Pastor J.Jayaseelan Founder/President of HOMSA India coordinated Bro.Satyendra's 10 days mission in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka State.

GLOBAL OUTREACH DAYOn the 14th June, 2014 Global Outreach Day was observed tthrough out the world. A total of 15 million Christians participated in Global Outreach Day programme in 2013 sharing and witnessing to non-Christian people. Number of people participated on June 14th 2014 is being tabulated and it is expected reach 20 million Christians from all churches and different denomination around the world.

ARCHBISHOP OF CANTERBURY VISITS CHENNAIArchbishop of Canterbury His Grace The Most Rev. Justin Welby and Mrs. Welby paid a visit to Chennai, Tamil Nadu from June 2nd and 3rd 2014. They were hosted for a Breakfast on 2nd June by Rt. Rev. Samuel Gunasekeran-Arch bishop of Anglican Church of Church of South India. and Mrs. Gunasekeran. On 3rd June The Most Rev. Justin Welby address the heads of churches including CSI Bishops and other dignitaries in Chennai.

EMPOWERED TO LOVE Celebration of Pentecost 2014 was an occasion kept by Christians from all churches and denominations joyfully in the spirit of UNITY on 14th June at the Cathedral of Christ the Living Saviour under the theme "Empowered to Love".

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SAMUEL PAUL & CINDY PAUL VISIT SRI LANKASamuel and Cindy of Bangaluru , India paid a visit to Sri Lanka. During their stay in Sri Lanka both of them separately taught a modular course for Year lll and Year ll classes respectively at SAIT (South Asia Institute of Theology). Samuel is a staff member at SAIACS, Bangalore and Cindy is computer science teacher in a private school in Bangalore. They both assist in the work of caring for a small congregation in Robertsonpet, Kolar Gold Field.

ETERNAL LOVE CONCERTSinhala Christian Music CD by Rev.Pusparajah was released on the occasion when Mrs.Manel Pusparajah was felicitated for her 30 years of Christian education. Ven.Devapriya de Silva and Rev.Rohitha de Silva were guests of honour at this function.

CENTENARY CELEBRATIONAssemblies of God will hold its Centenary Celebration on Saturday the 5th July 2014 from 4.00 p.m to 5.30 pm at the Havelock Sports Club Grounds. AG in Sri Lanka is among the most senior of the national churches of the World Assemblies of God Fellowship.

ANNUAL WHITSUN DAYChristu Sevak Ashram, Kiran, Batticaloa District as usual observed the Feast of Pentecost on Sunday the 8th June with a full day program with Worship and Holy Communion at 7.00 a.m as a mark of Christian Unity.

BICENTENARY THANKSGIVING SERVICEA service of Thanksgiving to celebrate the bicentenary of the Methodist Church was held on June 29, 2014 at 3.00 pm at the Cathedral of Christ the Living Saviour, Colombo. A large number of Christians from all churches and denominations together with clergy, pastors and evangelists participated in this important service to mark the 200 years of existence and Christian witness of the Methodist Church in Sri Lanka. To reach this milepost, much sacrifice made by missionaries and national who made decision to follow the Way and establish Christian presence and witness. During these 200 years of history this church established many service oriented institutions such as schools, hospitals, orphanages, homes for the aged and otherwise able children and adults. The contribution of this church to Sri lankan people immeasurable not forgetting the national political leaders, civil servants, medical doctors, lawyers,Theologians, Clergy and educationalists of different discipline.

INDIAN EVANGELIST VISITS SRI LANKAPastor/Evangelist Binnu Johnson of Coiambatore spent 3 weeks from June 7 -29 in Sri Lanka visiting churches in different places and ministered among people. His visit was sponsored by Every Home Crusade.

TENTH ANNUAL CONCERTVoices In Praise Choir (VIP Choir)Presented its 10th Anniversary Concert on 1st June 2014 at the Auditorium, of the Institute of Hotel, Colombo-3 under the theme " I'll Walk With God".This choir was formed in 2004 and the first concert was held at Christ Church, Galle Face. The life wire behind the formation of those choir was Wilson Gnanadass (former journalist at Sunday Leader) presently an Anglican clergy candidate following Theological studies at Theological College of Lanka, Pilimatalawa. He is the second son late Rev. Paul Gnanadass and Mrs. Gnanadass.

RBC MINISTRIES BIBLE TEACHING 2014 Courageous Leadership Insights from the life of Nehemiah on July 2014, 24 & 25 at 5.30-7.30 pm at the Kollupitiya Methodist Church Speaker: Dr. Ajith Fernando. Dr. Fernando Director in Youth For Christ Sri Lanka in June 2011 after being its National Director for 35 years. He is known internationally as a skillful Biblical expositor. Dr. Fernando is the author of 15 books and his books are available in 20 languages. Dr. Ajith Fernando is married to Nelun and they have two married children. He now spends much of his time counseling and teaching Christian leaders and pastors.

PROF. ROLAND KLEGERProf.Kleger spent 3 weeks in Sri Lanka visiting and lecturing in Bible Colleges and Seminaries. He taught modular courses at Lanka Bible College Graduate School, Baldeus Theological College, Trincomalee, Eastern Theological College- Batticaloa and South Asia Institute of Theology, Norton Bridge. This assignment was sponsored by Swiss Alliance Mission.

PENTECOST 2014 Empowered to LoveChristians from all churches and denominations joyfully united in celebration of His presence at the Cathedral of Christ the Living Saviour on 14th June from 9.00 am to keep the Feast of Pentecost, call went out from the Inter-Church Fellowship to all Christian churches and denomination. The response was amazing and coming together for the Feast of Pentecost was an annual event which is being appreciated by all participants.

NEW PUBLICATIONA book under the title " DIVINE ORDER-UNVEILED" authored by Pastor Joseph Oliver Morel is an addition to thought provoking and inspirational publication of Sri Lankan authors. Roy S.Kapunan- Senior Minister -Blessed Hope Family Fellowship, Victoria, Australia in his Foreword says: "This book is not for the faint hearted, for what he has written is not only timely but one that will truly revolutionize and challenge every serious leaner of the Word of God."

THE ANNUAL MEETING The Ceylon Bible Society held its 202nd Annual Meeting on Friday the 27th June in their Auditorium at 293, Galle Road, Colombo-3. As usual a large number of members, clergy of different churches participated. Ms.Lakshani Fernando- General Secretary of CBS presented the annual progress report of the work related to distribution God's Word through out Sri Lanka.

CANANN INT'L FELLOWSHIP34th Anniversary of this ministry was observed with a Thanksgiving Service recently. During the last 34 years this ministry has made a rapid growth in Sri Lanka and many other countries around the world. Rev. Dr. Albert Jeyanayagam is the Founder/President of this ministry.

COLOMBO YMCA COMMEMORATIONA service of Thanksgiving to commemorate 132 years of work and service of Colombo YMCA was held on June 24th 2014 at Cathedral of the Living Saviour, Colombo 7

REVIVAL MEETINGSA three day revival meetings held from June 6-8, 2014 from 5.30 pm at Vihara-mahadevi Open Air Stadium. These meetings were sponsored and organized by the Sound of Salvation Full Gospel Church. A large number of people from different churches and denominations participated. Bro. Augustine Jebakumar of GEMS, Bihar, India ministered God's Word. Bro. Wesley Maxwell who accompanied him to Colombo led worship and singing part of the service with a local choir consists of 50 plus young people mainly from Sound of Salvation, Church.

MID-YEAR GOSPEL OUTREACH PROGRAMMEEHC sponsored and organized mid-year outreach campaign will be held from August

nd th 22 to 30 2014 in Ratnapura District. Student pastors from both SAIT (South Asia Institute of Theology) and ETC (Eastern Theological College) together with volunteers from local churches will participate in this programme.

Total number of Homes: 160,000 Population: 1,082,000 Dates: August 22-30, 2014 No. of Student Pastors: 80 Volunteers: 40 Capital Town: Ratnapura Two other big towns: Balangoda & Kuruwita. ESTIMATED COST: Rs 1,200,000/- (This will cover the cost of printing of Gospel booklets, travel, food, lodging and incidental expenses)

BFAM TRAINING IN INDIADuring a 10 day mission in India, Bro.V.P.Satyendra invited to conduct 4 BFAM training programmes in Coiambatore, Robertsonpet in KGF. Rev.Dr.Manovah Nicholson President/Director of Moriah Mission extended an invitation to conduct a day programme at Moriah Centre in KGF. Pastor J.Jayaseelan Founder/President of HOMSA India coordinated Bro.Satyendra's 10 days mission in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka State.

GLOBAL OUTREACH DAYOn the 14th June, 2014 Global Outreach Day was observed tthrough out the world. A total of 15 million Christians participated in Global Outreach Day programme in 2013 sharing and witnessing to non-Christian people. Number of people participated on June 14th 2014 is being tabulated and it is expected reach 20 million Christians from all churches and different denomination around the world.

ARCHBISHOP OF CANTERBURY VISITS CHENNAIArchbishop of Canterbury His Grace The Most Rev. Justin Welby and Mrs. Welby paid a visit to Chennai, Tamil Nadu from June 2nd and 3rd 2014. They were hosted for a Breakfast on 2nd June by Rt. Rev. Samuel Gunasekeran-Arch bishop of Anglican Church of Church of South India. and Mrs. Gunasekeran. On 3rd June The Most Rev. Justin Welby address the heads of churches including CSI Bishops and other dignitaries in Chennai.

EMPOWERED TO LOVE Celebration of Pentecost 2014 was an occasion kept by Christians from all churches and denominations joyfully in the spirit of UNITY on 14th June at the Cathedral of Christ the Living Saviour under the theme "Empowered to Love".

By Howard Green

Taking Up Your CrossThe Prosperity Gospelvs.

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By Howard Green

Taking Up Your CrossThe Prosperity Gospelvs.

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Reverend Albert Kang

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WANTED SECRETARY - PART TIMEIMMEDIATE VACANCY

For JSM Office, Oasis Ministry Centre and Personal Assistant to the National Director.

Work Hours: Monday to Friday; mornings, 3 hours Monthly Remuneration Negotiable

At least 1 Reference Essential

Ideal candidate will be Spirit-filled, pleasant, people-oriented, computer-literate &

possess excellent communication skills.

Please Contact: Mr. Ajith Mendis15/4, Alfred House Gardens, Colombo 03

Tel: 0112584733 (H), 0112555925 (Direct), 0113030854 (CDMA mobile)

For Retreats, Residential Conferences, Church Camps and Days programmeLocated in a village atmosphere 20 Km from Colombo and 2 Km from Borella Athurugiriya main road8 Rooms, Large DormitoryHall and Dining

For further details contact: Manager: +94 772069652 Email: arunodhaya@nccsl.org or National Christian Council of Sri Lanka 368/6, BauddhalokaMawatha, Colombo 7 Tel: +94 112671723

andAWAKE ARISE!ASTOUNDING, DRAMATIC DISASTERS

WILL OVERTAKE US VERY SOON!!

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Memorial GiftLegacies of Love for the Advancement of God's Kingdom

Gift FromMr. Loganathan Family

PlaceBatticaloa

In memory of K.Nallathamby - Father

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WANTED SECRETARY - PART TIMEIMMEDIATE VACANCY

For JSM Office, Oasis Ministry Centre and Personal Assistant to the National Director.

Work Hours: Monday to Friday; mornings, 3 hours Monthly Remuneration Negotiable

At least 1 Reference Essential

Ideal candidate will be Spirit-filled, pleasant, people-oriented, computer-literate &

possess excellent communication skills.

Please Contact: Mr. Ajith Mendis15/4, Alfred House Gardens, Colombo 03

Tel: 0112584733 (H), 0112555925 (Direct), 0113030854 (CDMA mobile)

For Retreats, Residential Conferences, Church Camps and Days programmeLocated in a village atmosphere 20 Km from Colombo and 2 Km from Borella Athurugiriya main road8 Rooms, Large DormitoryHall and Dining

For further details contact: Manager: +94 772069652 Email: arunodhaya@nccsl.org or National Christian Council of Sri Lanka 368/6, BauddhalokaMawatha, Colombo 7 Tel: +94 112671723

andAWAKE ARISE!ASTOUNDING, DRAMATIC DISASTERS

WILL OVERTAKE US VERY SOON!!

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Memorial GiftLegacies of Love for the Advancement of God's Kingdom

Gift FromMr. Loganathan Family

PlaceBatticaloa

In memory of K.Nallathamby - Father

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Afour day residential training programme was held from April 30 - May 3 at Thalaimannar when 30 men and women participated

During the four days first of the four series namely "Corner Stone" - a total of 13 lessons were taught and discussed. All these 13 lessons were based on Reconciled Relationship and how Jesus reconciled God with man illustrated by using parables and stories in the Bible.

An important feature in this programme is opportunity given to participants to involve themselves in discussion and interaction with one another.

The next 3 series will be The Foundation, (Abide in Christ) ; The Walls (Abundant Life) and The Roof (Essential Truth)

Bro. P. Sathyendra visits places and conducts these programmes to encourage the Body of Christ and help make disciples and nurture them to grow as true witnesses for the Lord. (You may check: www.iBFAM.org)

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Afour day residential training programme was held from April 30 - May 3 at Thalaimannar when 30 men and women participated

During the four days first of the four series namely "Corner Stone" - a total of 13 lessons were taught and discussed. All these 13 lessons were based on Reconciled Relationship and how Jesus reconciled God with man illustrated by using parables and stories in the Bible.

An important feature in this programme is opportunity given to participants to involve themselves in discussion and interaction with one another.

The next 3 series will be The Foundation, (Abide in Christ) ; The Walls (Abundant Life) and The Roof (Essential Truth)

Bro. P. Sathyendra visits places and conducts these programmes to encourage the Body of Christ and help make disciples and nurture them to grow as true witnesses for the Lord. (You may check: www.iBFAM.org)

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PARTNERMother seeks a qualified professional born again partner for lawyer daughter born in 1974 height 5 3" working as head of Legal in a Reputed Company. Please Contact: M20140701 C/o Direction.

A well educated professionally qualified Christian son age below 30 years is sought by Sinhala Christian parents from Colombo for their only child fair and pretty age 24, height 54". She was educated in a leading school in Colombo and currently reading for her final year degree in Business Management at NSBA and partly qualified in CIMA. She is currently employed in a reputed firm in Colombo. Please send in your family details along with recent photograph to marinapremawardena@gmail.com

Christian mixed Sinhala Tamil, parents living in Colombo suburbs seek suitable partner, professionally qualified and employed in a reputed firm or bank, for their daughter 28 years 54" studied at Ladies College, graduated in Business administration and employed at a reputed firm in Colombo. If interested reply with details edward_d56@hotmail.com

Christian parents seek educated, employed, well mannered, committed Christian partner, 30 years or above for their slim, fair, kind daughter employed and holding a degree. Email: christianpartner85@gmail. com

Anglican, Ceylon Tamil, tang colour, 27 years, 62", ACCA, working as a manager in an international firm looking for an educated bride above 56" in height below 25 years with Christian values. Please Contact: groom051226@gmail.com

Christian, God fearing , Academically and professionally qualified, pretty and fair, divorcee age 28 years old daughter with one child, seeks a God loving , God fearing, educated partner. Reply with family details to shiromi.sp82@gmail.com

Christian partner sought for daughter 47 years, height 5-2", employed in a well established Bank in Colombo. Please email: rstgrace@gmail.com

Christian partner sought for son 41 years, height 5-7",employed in a reputed Bank in UAE. Please email: victoryglory2014@gmail.com

Gampaha Born again Christian Parents seek a God fearing partner for their 27 year old daughter, 5'2 just passed out as a Dentist. Seek a Doctor, Engineer or partner of a similar profession. Please Contact: Email: geraldwijeyekoon@yahoo.com

LAND FOR SALE Mount Lavinia 10 perches land side. 5 minutes walk to Mount Junction 15 minutes walk to St. Thomas' College. Please Contact: 0112736314

AN ANNEX AVAILABLE for a lady between Kohuwela and Nugegoda Junction. No parking facility. For Details: 0772330606

JULY

DIR

ECTIO

N /

2

014

24

The torrential rain which was recently experienced in most parts of the island has affected 104,476 persons and caused death and destruction in 11 districts; namely, Kegalle, Ratnapura, Kalutara, Colombo, Gampaha, Matara, Galle, Kurunegala, Puttalam, NuwaraEliya and Kandy.

The inclement weather conditions caused floods and earth slips and have displaced many families in the low lying areas forcing the residents to seek shelter in temporary camps. More than 400 Christian families living in these areas too have been affected by this situation. The NCEASL is engaged in providing relief for congregations affected by the floods in the Ratnapura and the Kalutara districts. Each relief pack is worth SLR 1,300 and contains rice, dhal, tea leaves, milk powder, soya meat, toothpaste, soap, sugar, biscuits, matches and candles. If you would like to sponsor a relief pack or donate the above items, please contact Mahesh Perera on 011 5511358/9 or email: info.missions@nceasl.org

Flood Relief: Let us Help YouReach Out to Them

Helper, ministry companion wanted. Salary negotiable.

Full / Part time. 0771087310Jail for unregistered gatherings in Kazakhstan under proposed new lawKazakhstan, May 21, 2014: Those who lead or take part in religious gatherings without state permission in Kazakhstan could be jailed under a new criminal code that is advancing through the countrys parliament. The offences, which are currently punished by fines, could see leaders imprisoned for up to 60 days and participants for up to days.

BJP revelry turns violent, communities clash in BijapurKarnataka, May 27, 2014: A BJP sponsored revelry took an ugly turn yesterday in Karnatakas Bijapur district, resulting in clashes between party supporters and members of the Muslim community. According to the police, over a dozen people sustained injuries, and an unconfirmed report claims that at least one man has succumbed to the clash.

HJS organizes campaign to ban loudspeakers in mosques in ThaneMumbai, May 28, 2014: It is only a week that Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) won the Lok Sabha election but the saffron organizations have already started to suppress the minorities living in the country. When there are reports of riots like situations created by saffron party supporters in Mangalore, Meerut and Ahmedabad there are incidences.

Syrian Christians urge Pope to work for peace, help them go homeSyria, May 26, 2014: Syrian Christians who fled a village near the border with Turkey after it was captured by Islamist rebels say they refuse to leave the country and urged Pope Francis to pray for them and help them return home. In March, rebels including fighters from the al Qaeda-linked Nusra Front captured the majority-Armenian

Pastor beaten and returned to prison in IranIran, May 28, 2014: Imprisoned pastor Saeed Abedini has been beaten and forcibly returned to jail from hospital in Iran, while another prisoner, Vahid Hakkani, has ended his hunger strike. Saeed had spent two months in hospital, recovering from injuries sustained in past beatings. The Iranian-American pastors transfer back to Rajai Shahr prison.

Sudan woman Meriam Ibrahims new baby daughter photos emerge, brings joy despite looming death sentence

Sudan, May 29, 2014: First photos of the baby daughter of the Sudanese woman sentenced to death for marrying a Christian man emerged this week. Meriam Ibrahim delivered baby Maya in the Omdurman Federal Womens Prison in North Khartoum on May 27. Ibrahim is to be hanged when her daughter is two years old.

More than an education

A few years ago our teachers and staff in the india Love anuppampattu school and community development programme wanted to bring the whole community together, to not just empower the children, but to empower the whole family. While this has always been our hope in this area, we were excited to learn that the teachers themselves had begun Health Awareness training in the village. Each month the women in the community come to the school and listen to both the adults and their own children as they present them with valuable health information. This information includes eating a healthy diet, sanitation practices and road safety. They tackle topics such as overcoming addiction, identifying cancer and avoiding

pollution Just to name a few topics covered!

Each month close t o50 women attend, mostly the poor, uneducated parents of our school children, and leave with a sense of empowerment as they have gained valuable knowledge they otherwise would not have known. Our teachers have not asked for additional resources for this and are grateful for the opportunity they have to help others.

As you give a gift or sponsor a child in the India Love Anuppampattu Community Development programme, know, that your gifts and sponsorship are far-reaching from educating a child, to the raising of health awareness for mothers and also vocational training for the unemployed.

VACANCIES For Lady Christian Inmates. All required facilities available, salary negotiable. Contact. The secretary, St. Paul Church, 10, Deva Vidya Kandy. Telephone No.081-4933309/081-2204050 Email: Stpulskandy @wow.lk.

JULY 2014 / DIREC

TION

25

PARTNERMother seeks a qualified professional born again partner for lawyer daughter born in 1974 height 5 3" working as head of Legal in a Reputed Company. Please Contact: M20140701 C/o Direction.

A well educated professionally qualified Christian son age below 30 years is sought by Sinhala Christian parents from Colombo for their only child fair and pretty age 24, height 54". She was educated in a leading school in Colombo and currently reading for her final year degree in Business Management at NSBA and partly qualified in CIMA. She is currently employed in a reputed firm in Colombo. Please send in your family details along with recent photograph to marinapremawardena@gmail.com

Christian mixed Sinhala Tamil, parents living in Colombo suburbs seek suitable partner, professionally qualified and employed in a reputed firm or bank, for their daughter 28 years 54" studied at Ladies College, graduated in Business administration and employed at a reputed firm in Colombo. If interested reply with details edward_d56@hotmail.com

Christian parents seek educated, employed, well mannered, committed Christian partner, 30 years or above for their slim, fair, kind daughter employed and holding a degree. Email: christianpartner85@gmail. com

Anglican, Ceylon Tamil, tang colour, 27 years, 62", ACCA, working as a manager in an international firm looking for an educated bride above 56" in height below 25 years with Christian values. Please Contact: groom051226@gmail.com

Christian, God fearing , Academically and professionally qualified, pretty and fair, divorcee age 28 years old daughter with one child, seeks a God loving , God fearing, educated partner. Reply with family details to shiromi.sp82@gmail.com

Christian partner sought for daughter 47 years, height 5-2", employed in a well established Bank in Colombo. Please email: rstgrace@gmail.com

Christian partner sought for son 41 years, height 5-7",employed in a reputed Bank in UAE. Please email: victoryglory2014@gmail.com

Gampaha Born again Christian Parents seek a God fearing partner for their 27 year old daughter, 5'2 just passed out as a Dentist. Seek a Doctor, Engineer or partner of a similar profession. Please Contact: Email: geraldwijeyekoon@yahoo.com

LAND FOR SALE Mount Lavinia 10 perches land side. 5 minutes walk to Mount Junction 15 minutes walk to St. Thomas' College. Please Contact: 0112736314

AN ANNEX AVAILABLE for a lady between Kohuwela and Nugegoda Junction. No parking facility. For Details: 0772330606

JULY

DIR

ECTIO

N /

2

014

24

The torrential rain which was recently experienced in most parts of the island has affected 104,476 persons and caused death and destruction in 11 districts; namely, Kegalle, Ratnapura, Kalutara, Colombo, Gampaha, Matara, Galle, Kurunegala, Puttalam, NuwaraEliya and Kandy.

The inclement weather conditions caused floods and earth slips and have displaced many families in the low lying areas forcing the residents to seek shelter in temporary camps. More than 400 Christian families living in these areas too have been affected by this situation. The NCEASL is engaged in providing relief for congregations affected by the floods in the Ratnapura and the Kalutara districts. Each relief pack is worth SLR 1,300 and contains rice, dhal, tea leaves, milk powder, soya meat, toothpaste, soap, sugar, biscuits, matches and candles. If you would like to sponsor a relief pack or donate the above items, please contact Mahesh Perera on 011 5511358/9 or email: info.missions@nceasl.org

Flood Relief: Let us Help YouReach Out to Them

Helper, ministry companion wanted. Salary negotiable.

Full / Part time. 0771087310Jail for unregistered gatherings in Kazakhstan under proposed new lawKazakhstan, May 21, 2014: Those who lead or take part in religious gatherings without state permission in Kazakhstan could be jailed under a new criminal code that is advancing through the countrys parliament. The offences, which are currently punished by fines, could see leaders imprisoned for up to 60 days and participants for up to days.

BJP revelry turns violent, communities clash in BijapurKarnataka, May 27, 2014: A BJP sponsored revelry took an ugly turn yesterday in Karnatakas Bijapur district, resulting in clashes between party supporters and members of the Muslim community. According to the police, over a dozen people sustained injuries, and an unconfirmed report claims that at least one man has succumbed to the clash.

HJS organizes campaign to ban loudspeakers in mosques in ThaneMumbai, May 28, 2014: It is only a week that Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) won the Lok Sabha election but the saffron organizations have already started to suppress the minorities living in the country. When there are reports of riots like situations created by saffron party supporters in Mangalore, Meerut and Ahmedabad there are incidences.

Syrian Christians urge Pope to work for peace, help them go homeSyria, May 26, 2014: Syrian Christians who fled a village near the border with Turkey after it was captured by Islamist rebels say they refuse to leave the country and urged Pope Francis to pray for them and help them return home. In March, rebels including fighters from the al Qaeda-linked Nusra Front captured the majority-Armenian

Pastor beaten and returned to prison in IranIran, May 28, 2014: Imprisoned pastor Saeed Abedini has been beaten and forcibly returned to jail from hospital in Iran, while another prisoner, Vahid Hakkani, has ended his hunger strike. Saeed had spent two months in hospital, recovering from injuries sustained in past beatings. The Iranian-American pastors transfer back to Rajai Shahr prison.

Sudan woman Meriam Ibrahims new baby daughter photos emerge, brings joy despite looming death sentence

Sudan, May 29, 2014: First photos of the baby daughter of the Sudanese woman sentenced to death for marrying a Christian man emerged this week. Meriam Ibrahim delivered baby Maya in the Omdurman Federal Womens Prison in North Khartoum on May 27. Ibrahim is to be hanged when her daughter is two years old.

More than an education

A few years ago our teachers and staff in the india Love anuppampattu school and community development programme wanted to bring the whole community together, to not just empower the children, but to empower the whole family. While this has always been our hope in this area, we were excited to learn that the teachers themselves had begun Health Awareness training in the village. Each month the women in the community come to the school and listen to both the adults and their own children as they present them with valuable health information. This information includes eating a healthy diet, sanitation practices and road safety. They tackle topics such as overcoming addiction, identifying cancer and avoiding

pollution Just to name a few topics covered!

Each month close t o50 women attend, mostly the poor, uneducated parents of our school children, and leave with a sense of empowerment as they have gained valuable knowledge they otherwise would not have known. Our teachers have not asked for additional resources for this and are grateful for the opportunity they have to help others.

As you give a gift or sponsor a child in the India Love Anuppampattu Community Development programme, know, that your gifts and sponsorship are far-reaching from educating a child, to the raising of health awareness for mothers and also vocational training for the unemployed.

VACANCIES For Lady Christian Inmates. All required facilities available, salary negotiable. Contact. The secretary, St. Paul Church, 10, Deva Vidya Kandy. Telephone No.081-4933309/081-2204050 Email: Stpulskandy @wow.lk.