Tag: Church

INTERNATIONAL: Pastor T.D. Jakes Receives Medical Attention After Sermon

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AMY TURNER

Pastor Bishop T.D. Jakes experienced a “slight health incident” while delivering a sermon on Sunday at The Potter’s House, his megachurch.

The 67-year-old religious leader was seen pausing and shaking during his hour-long message, prompting several individuals to approach him on stage. Social media footage captured the moment.

The church posted a statement on X saying, “During today’s service, Bishop T.D. Jakes experienced a slight health incident and received immediate medical attention following his powerful hour long message. Bishop Jakes is stable and under the care of medical professionals. The entire Potter’s House family is grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support from the community.”

The Potter’s House, founded by Jakes in 1996 and boasting over 30,000 members, expressed gratitude for the community’s support and prayers.

Jakes, who is also an author, film producer, and was a speaker at President Barack Obama’s 2009 inauguration, leads a non-denominational church with campuses in Texas and Colorado.

INTERNATIONAL: Nigeria’s Oldest Catholic Priest Dies at Age 104

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JEFF TURNER

The Catholic Diocese of Auchi in Nigeria announced the death of Right Reverend Monsignor Thomas Oleghe, who passed away on November 24, 2024. At 104 years of age, Msgr. Oleghe held the distinction of being Nigeria’s most senior Catholic priest.

Bishop Gabriel Dunia of the Auchi Diocese confirmed that Msgr. Oleghe died in the early hours of Sunday morning at 2:30 a.m. The Diocese plans to hold funeral services for the late priest on Wednesday, November 27, 2024.

The announcement came through an official statement from the Diocese of Auchi, located in Nigeria’s Edo State. Bishop Dunia shared the news with the Catholic community through both formal channels and social media.

The Diocese of Auchi made preparations to honour Msgr. Oleghe’s life through a funeral service, acknowledging his lengthy service to the Catholic Church in Nigeria.

This news marks a significant moment for the Catholic community in Nigeria, as Msgr. Oleghe’s age and position made him a notable figure in the country’s religious history.

INTERNATIONAL: Deliberate Fires at United Methodist Churches in Pennsylvania

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JEFF TURNER

(Photo courtesy Woodycrest United Methodist Church)

Two fires that occurred this fall at United Methodist churches in Centre County, Pennsylvania, were set deliberately, according to a U.S. federal agency. On Friday, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), part of the U.S. Justice Department, confirmed that both incidents are being investigated as acts of arson. The agency is collaborating with police in Patton Township and Pennsylvania State Police on the investigation.

Details about the fires remain limited due to the ongoing inquiry, and Patton Township Police have not provide a statement..

The first fire happened at Woodycrest United Methodist Church in Patton Township, Pennsylvania. The fire, which broke out on September 14, caused serious damage to the sanctuary. The building was heavily affected by fire, smoke, and water damage, leading to its closure. A firefighter from Alpha Fire Co. received minor injuries to his hand and was treated at a local hospital. No one was inside the church when the fire began. Woodycrest, which was constructed in 1936 and has about 50 members, is now seeking donations to aid in the rebuilding process.

Pastor Renee Ford emphasized on the church’s website that despite the destruction of the physical building, the community remains strong. “We always say the church is not a building; the church is the people,” Ford stated, highlighting that the congregation’s work will continue despite the loss.

The second incident occurred in October at the former Fillmore United Methodist Church. The building, which had not been used as a church for several years and was functioning as a recreation centre, suffered a partial roof collapse. Investigators suspect arson since the fire seemed to have started outside the building. There were no injuries, and the building was empty at the time of the fire.

Authorities have not confirmed if the two fires are related.

Woodycrest United Methodist Church has established a Church Restoration Fund to collect financial contributions. The donations will go towards expenses not covered by insurance during the rebuilding process. The church is also requesting prayers and seeking volunteers to help with recovery efforts. Specific needs for volunteers will be updated on the church’s website as the restoration progresses.

Shane Dunlap Takes Lead in “Why Wouldn’t I Run,” Showcasing Lee Park Worship’s Unique Sound

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JEFF TURNER

Shane Dunlap, the leader of Lee Park Worship, has taken the helm on the group’s breakout song, Why Wouldn’t I Run. Known for his rich voice and dynamic stage presence, Dunlap’s role in this song marks a significant moment in the growing success of the worship collective.

Lee Park Worship, described as “a collection of many different backgrounds, generations, and musical influences who have come together as one to sing praises to our Lord,” has made waves with their unique blend of modern worship and traditional church music. The group embraces both today’s contemporary sound while staying true to the roots of the church, providing a fresh yet familiar worship experience.

While Why Wouldn’t I Run has garnered attention for its powerful message and moving melody, Dunlap is quick to point out that it’s not just his vocals driving the song’s success. He emphasizes the crucial role of fellow worship team member, Karlie Russell, who adds a special element to the piece.

“Carly just does such a great job. Her voice just fits it perfectly,” says Dunlap. “We wrote it for her. I was, when we went in there, I wanted to write a song for her.”

The song not only showcases Russell’s vocal talent but was specifically crafted with her in mind. Dunlap recalls playing a recording of her voice during the writing process, which helped shape the direction of the song.

“I played them her voice and something that she had done. And that’s what happened. It just came out. It’s pretty cool how that happened and how it’s become what it is,” Dunlap reflects.

Russell’s “special touch” is something that cannot be replicated, according to Dunlap. Her distinctive voice elevates the track and adds an emotional depth that resonates with listeners. “Nobody can sing it like Carly,” he adds, solidifying her unique contribution to Why Wouldn’t I Run.

The song has not only become a signature piece for Lee Park Worship but also showcases the collaborative nature of the group. With Dunlap’s powerful leadership and Russell’s stunning vocals, Why Wouldn’t I Run embodies the collective’s mission to blend diverse musical backgrounds and influences into a harmonious expression of faith.

As Lee Park Worship continues to rise, their approach to merging the familiar with fresh, new sounds—while celebrating the individual gifts of each member—sets them apart in today’s worship music scene. And with songs like Why Wouldn’t I Run, it’s clear that Shane Dunlap and the group are just getting started.

Police in the U.S. say vandal has targeted churches in the same Colorado community since November

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JEFF TURNER

Police in the U.S. are looking for a man caught on surveillance video who they say is responsible for vandalism at churches in the Lakewood, Colorado area.

Some congregations say their church buildings have targeted by the man multiple times since February, but police in Colorado say the first reports came in February 2021. Congregations who have filed reports include the Self Realization Church, St Paul’s Community Church, Lakewood United Methodist Church, Lakewood First Church, and New Life in Christ Church.

Police have not released a possible motive behind the vandalism.