Several weeks ago, Make-A-Wish Foundation contacted Operation Compassion about fulfilling a wish for Marisa Monbrod whose leukemia was in remission. All Marisa wanted to do was help people whose lives were caught in poverty and despair.

In this week’s issue, TIME’s David Van Biema profiles Rick Warren, the founding pastor of one of the country’s largest churches and the host of the upcoming “civil forum,” which will feature the two presumptive Presidential nominees on August 16. Also in the issue, John McCain and Barack Obama write about their own views of faith, and a new TIME poll shows that 70% of white Evangelical voters support McCain. (p. 37)

By J. Lee Grady

It was not supposed to end like this.

Evangelist Todd Bentley had heralded the Lakeland revival as the greatest Pentecostal outpouring since Azusa Street. From his stage in a gigantic tent in Florida, Bentley preached to thousands, bringing many of them to the stage for prayer.

San Antonio, Texas–Delegates witnessed the closing service of the 72nd Church of God International General Assembly as new Presiding Bishop Raymond Culpepper was installed and challenged delegates to “ask largely” of God, themselves and others, and laying out a theme of “Going Forward Together in These Changing Times.”

By Lindsey Calhoun

From the flow of adrenaline and nerves to the excitement and relief, participating in Teen Talent is always an exhilarating experience. The build up of high energy and anticipation from months of preparation guarantee you will be greeted with a spirited crowd and a memorable performance when you attend Teen Talent, this year staged in the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center.

By Cameron Fisher

The path of ministry traveled by Raymond F. Culpepper has been filled with joy and happiness, as well as challenges and struggles. As the son of a former assistant general overseer, the new general overseer has a keen sense of appreciation and knowledge, as well as a rich heritage in the Church of God.

The American Bible Society and the Gospel Music Association (GMA) announced the winners of the first American Bible Society Scripture Song Awards during the GMA 34th Annual Music in the Rockies held this week in Estes Park, Colorado.

John McCain’s campaign ad “The One” has generated a lot of buzz regarding the “Left Behind Series.” Political commentators are comparing McCain’s portrayal of competitor Barack Obama with the blockbuster apocalyptic series’ depiction of the antichrist.