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.

San Antonio, Texas–After wrestling with the thorny issue of church finances for the last two General Assemblies, the General Council of the Church of God, meeting this week in San Antonio, took definitive action in an attempt to resolve the issue.

Wednesday Service Celebrates Church Planting

By Jonathan Martin, special correspondent

Celebrating the past but embracing a missional future, the Wednesday night General Assembly service focused on church planting. With guest music from Jason Crabb, the worship experience featured Michael Knight, the director of the National Office of Church Planting, who highlighted the stories of planters from diverse contexts on the “mission field” of North America.

A book that highlights the message of Christ will be distributed to journalists and athletes during the upcoming 2008 Olympics in Beijing.

8.8.08 will signal the start of the long-awaited 2008 Beijing Olympic Games on Friday with the elaborate opening ceremonies.

The Chinese consider eight a lucky number because in Cantonese it sounds like the word for “get rich” or “prosper.”

By Steve Strang, publisher, Charisma magazine

August 5 is a special day for me. Thirty-three years ago the first issue of Charisma magazine rolled off the press. It was our August/September 1975 issue. Thurlow Spurr was on the cover. It had 32 pages and sold for 50 cents.

Members of the General Council of the Church of God have finished nominating leaders for departments at the International Offices. By the close of the Tuesday afternoon business session, the Council had selected all the executive and department leaders slated to be nominated.