By P.V. Ariel, published Mar 14, 2008
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Apropos the write-up "Shall the meek inherit the earth" (The Sunday Indian News Weekly New Delhi) made a revealing read. I refute the statements made by R L Francis; He said "60 years ago, we converted from Hinduism to Christianity with the expectation of cast discriminate free existence society. But it was not quite the salvation that was promised."
I was wondering who promised him salvation. Jesus Christ or the Church? If a person changes his religion to another with some expectation and material benefits, no doubt his change is not genuine at all. Jesus Christ never promised his followers a bed of roses; instead it is full of hardships and sufferings. Such situation will show the real color of a genuine Christian. Christ himself suffered a lot, all the while he was on earth. Epistle of Peter writes: "For you have called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps, who committed no sin, nor was any deceit found in His mouth. ( I Peter 2:21-22).
Only a real convert can take this cross. Vatican's dealings with its churches all over the world may be an administrative set up for its smooth functioning. Nobody can question that, as it's their internal matter and if anybody has a problem, they can willingly leave the system. No one can deny the Pope and his community's yeomen service to the society. However at the same time, Pope's or Vatican's interference with other religions is not tolerable. These days he (Pope) pokes his nose unnecessarily to the affairs of other religions by making controversial statements. This is not a good practice to such a reputed religious leader like him.
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Church Must Stick to Religious Affairs
Church Can't Keep Quiet on Serious Matters
By P.V. Ariel, published Mar 15, 2008
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Apropos of the editorial "Times view/Counter view", I fully disagree with your view, of course as you said, ''Church must stick to religious affairs'' at the same time how can they just close their eyes on the increasing number of road accidents in their country?
It is their bounden duty to warn the countrymen or for that matter their members -a major number of citizens in Vatican are Catholics-about the alarming growth of road accidents. A country like Vatican, the religious head has every right to raise their voice in such situation. Your counter view very clearly brought out the seriousness of this issue.
Road accidents stand in third place which is very preventable. Vatican's initiative is very laudable and will definitely help the traffic police; I can't understand the idea behind your bias view. What is wrong in taking an initiative to save the fellow men from such a calamity? Whoever come forward to save their fellow citizen should get a pat at the back, instead here you condemned them out rightly, very sad indeed.
A report says two-thirds of most of the road fatalities were caused by drivers who were angry. In such situation if the warning comes from a religious head it will have a far reaching effect than from a law forcing agency. As your counter view said not only Church all NGOs should follow Vatican's steps in this matter even in our country not in a Catholic way. It will tremendously reduce many fatal deaths on the road. Let us not look such action with a biased or ill- conceived mind. (For your info. I am not a Roman catholic but a believer follower in Christ Jesus).
pvariel@gmail.com
By P.V. Ariel, published Mar 15, 2008
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Apropos of the editorial "Times view/Counter view", I fully disagree with your view, of course as you said, ''Church must stick to religious affairs'' at the same time how can they just close their eyes on the increasing number of road accidents in their country?
It is their bounden duty to warn the countrymen or for that matter their members -a major number of citizens in Vatican are Catholics-about the alarming growth of road accidents. A country like Vatican, the religious head has every right to raise their voice in such situation. Your counter view very clearly brought out the seriousness of this issue.
Road accidents stand in third place which is very preventable. Vatican's initiative is very laudable and will definitely help the traffic police; I can't understand the idea behind your bias view. What is wrong in taking an initiative to save the fellow men from such a calamity? Whoever come forward to save their fellow citizen should get a pat at the back, instead here you condemned them out rightly, very sad indeed.
A report says two-thirds of most of the road fatalities were caused by drivers who were angry. In such situation if the warning comes from a religious head it will have a far reaching effect than from a law forcing agency. As your counter view said not only Church all NGOs should follow Vatican's steps in this matter even in our country not in a Catholic way. It will tremendously reduce many fatal deaths on the road. Let us not look such action with a biased or ill- conceived mind. (For your info. I am not a Roman catholic but a believer follower in Christ Jesus).
pvariel@gmail.com
My Early Experience with My Writings
(A Little Writer is Born)
My Early Experience with my writing carrier. Some pleasant memories of my childhood days and my most valuable moments with my mentor, world renowned evangelist and writer and hymn writer M C Cherian Sir of Madurai. Please read on..
Some of the Web Writers contents at Associatedcontent.com put my memory back to my school days, Yes, it happened when I was in my 6th or 7th grade.
I was an avid reader and whatever comes to hand, I read. Newspapers, weeklies, magazines and books were my favorites. In our village (Valanjavttom, near Thiruvalla) there was a library Called Gandhiji Smaaraka (memorial) Library, I was a regular visitor and borrower of books from this library. I read many of the books novels short stories and poems of many major writers of the Malayalam language.
Malayalam newspaper's Kathukal (letters) column attracted me a lot and I started sending letters to this column. Immediately after sending letters to the newspapers I eagerly wait for the next day's paper to see my letters, but nothing published, again I send nothing published. This continued for days without any result. Days and months passed I could not find any result. I was really frustrated at that but my passion for newspapers and writings did not stop me there, instead with more care I prepared letters and send. One fine morning as usual when I picked up the daily I found my letter printed with my name. I was overjoyed by seeing my name in print that too in one of the major and famous publication called Malayala Manorama. (The largest circulated Malayalam daily in Kerala and also the leading and largest circulated vernacular daily in India).
Though after a good number of rejections, the printed letter made me so happy and it made me to write more. Again I jotted down many things in my note books under the headings short stories, mini stories, poems and prose etc.
About that time I heard about a Christian magazine called "Suviseshakan" (Evangelist) published by a well known evangelist from Madurai (Tamil Nadu State). I thought of sending some of my writings to that magazine and I picked up some of the jottings from my note book and copied it in a paper and send it to the Editor. A week later I received a letter from the editor saying, 'the story which you send is good and will include it in one of the coming issues, but the song is not up to the mark but don't give up, write more ok!! Reading the editor's letter I could not control myself, with joy I jumped up and down. My first story is going to see the light of the day, that too in M E Cherian Sir's Magazine. (A word about M E Cherian, lovingly known or called as M E C or Cherian Sir. (Before becoming an evangelist he was a high school teacher, so most of the known people called him Sir.). Later he become a well known Christian preacher, teacher, song writer and a poet in the Malayalam language. A good number of his Christian melodies are sung by the Malayalee (Keralaites) Christians in their congregations in worships as well as at other occasions all over the world. He published many books on spiritual subjects).
This small but great incident in my life encouraged me much. This made me to write more. Again I send another article, story and a song to Cherian Sir. With in a short span I received his reply saying, 'Your article and story I will publish it in one of the coming issues after a few corrections. It seems you are more talented in writing articles, think on that line and do write more. May God bless." This note of MEC, I read again and again. There was no limit for my happiness.
A few months later I came to know about MEC's arrival to Kumbanad (A Christian convention centre in Kerala) for the annual Brethren Assemblies convention as a preacher. This yearly convention takes place on December last week and goes on to January first week. Every year my parents used to attend these annual conventions. I was so eager to meet Cherian Sir and I expressed this desire to my Dad and he agreed at once. The day came, with my parents I went for the meetings at the centre. We met MEC and my Dad introduced me to Cherian Sir. He recognized the little writer and with much joy he greeted me. I expressed my heartfelt thanks to MEC for his encouragement.
Immediately he took a copy of the current issue of Suviseshakan (January) and handed over to me and said, "one of your articles is published in this issue" then he patted on my shoulder and encouraged me. The loving touch of that famous personality and those joyous moments I can't forget in my life. This was the beginning of my writing life. END
Source:
My Early Experience with my writing carrier. Some pleasant memories of my childhood days and my most valuable moments with my mentor, world renowned evangelist and writer and hymn writer M C Cherian Sir of Madurai. Please read on..
Some of the Web Writers contents at Associatedcontent.com put my memory back to my school days, Yes, it happened when I was in my 6th or 7th grade.
I was an avid reader and whatever comes to hand, I read. Newspapers, weeklies, magazines and books were my favorites. In our village (Valanjavttom, near Thiruvalla) there was a library Called Gandhiji Smaaraka (memorial) Library, I was a regular visitor and borrower of books from this library. I read many of the books novels short stories and poems of many major writers of the Malayalam language.
Malayalam newspaper's Kathukal (letters) column attracted me a lot and I started sending letters to this column. Immediately after sending letters to the newspapers I eagerly wait for the next day's paper to see my letters, but nothing published, again I send nothing published. This continued for days without any result. Days and months passed I could not find any result. I was really frustrated at that but my passion for newspapers and writings did not stop me there, instead with more care I prepared letters and send. One fine morning as usual when I picked up the daily I found my letter printed with my name. I was overjoyed by seeing my name in print that too in one of the major and famous publication called Malayala Manorama. (The largest circulated Malayalam daily in Kerala and also the leading and largest circulated vernacular daily in India).
Though after a good number of rejections, the printed letter made me so happy and it made me to write more. Again I jotted down many things in my note books under the headings short stories, mini stories, poems and prose etc.
About that time I heard about a Christian magazine called "Suviseshakan" (Evangelist) published by a well known evangelist from Madurai (Tamil Nadu State). I thought of sending some of my writings to that magazine and I picked up some of the jottings from my note book and copied it in a paper and send it to the Editor. A week later I received a letter from the editor saying, 'the story which you send is good and will include it in one of the coming issues, but the song is not up to the mark but don't give up, write more ok!! Reading the editor's letter I could not control myself, with joy I jumped up and down. My first story is going to see the light of the day, that too in M E Cherian Sir's Magazine. (A word about M E Cherian, lovingly known or called as M E C or Cherian Sir. (Before becoming an evangelist he was a high school teacher, so most of the known people called him Sir.). Later he become a well known Christian preacher, teacher, song writer and a poet in the Malayalam language. A good number of his Christian melodies are sung by the Malayalee (Keralaites) Christians in their congregations in worships as well as at other occasions all over the world. He published many books on spiritual subjects).
This small but great incident in my life encouraged me much. This made me to write more. Again I send another article, story and a song to Cherian Sir. With in a short span I received his reply saying, 'Your article and story I will publish it in one of the coming issues after a few corrections. It seems you are more talented in writing articles, think on that line and do write more. May God bless." This note of MEC, I read again and again. There was no limit for my happiness.
A few months later I came to know about MEC's arrival to Kumbanad (A Christian convention centre in Kerala) for the annual Brethren Assemblies convention as a preacher. This yearly convention takes place on December last week and goes on to January first week. Every year my parents used to attend these annual conventions. I was so eager to meet Cherian Sir and I expressed this desire to my Dad and he agreed at once. The day came, with my parents I went for the meetings at the centre. We met MEC and my Dad introduced me to Cherian Sir. He recognized the little writer and with much joy he greeted me. I expressed my heartfelt thanks to MEC for his encouragement.
Immediately he took a copy of the current issue of Suviseshakan (January) and handed over to me and said, "one of your articles is published in this issue" then he patted on my shoulder and encouraged me. The loving touch of that famous personality and those joyous moments I can't forget in my life. This was the beginning of my writing life. END
Source:
Women Leadership in Christian Churches-
(A Rejoinder to a CP)
By P.V. Ariel, published Mar 22, 2008
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This refers to an interesting article appeared on the pages of AC under the caption, "What Role Can Women Play in Leading Worship? Under the sub head, 'Exploring What the Bible Says About Women in Leadership Roles' by Nicole L.
The writer by quoting the verses from Luke 8:1-3 ("Not long afterward Jesus began a tour of the nearby cities and villages to announce the Good News concerning the Kingdom of God. He took his twelve disciples with him, along with some women he had healed and from whom he had cast out evil spirits. Among them were Mary Magdalene, from whom he had cast out seven demons; Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod's business manager; Susanna; and many others who were contributing from their own resources to support Jesus and his disciples.") Says, "Why would the author take the time to make sure that women were listed, by name, in this particular passage?"
This does not mean that Jesus expected a ministry from women what he expected from men. Of course, Jesus never put forward a second class level to women. Galatians 3:28 is very clear that, "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. In first Peter again we read, "... being heirs together of the grace of life; (I Peter 3:7). No doubt He showed the same level of love and salvation to all. No disparity in it. Jesus did not bar them from singing, praying, witnessing prophesying and a lot of other spiritual activities. But notice that Jesus never select or send a women to the mission field. Instead this was entrusted to His disciples (Matthew 28:19,20). His disciples and all the other apostles too were men. If he expected this ministry from women, He would have definitely selected some women to this ministry.
Apostle Paul, while writing to the Corinthians, wrote, "Let the women keep silent in the churches; for they are not permitted to speak, but let them subject themselves, just as the law also says. (I Cor. 14:34.). He continues in verse 35 "... it is improper ('shame' in KJV), ('disgraceful', marginal meaning in New American Standard Bible) for a woman to speak in Church. Later, while writing to Timothy, he said, "Let women quietly receive instruction with entire submissiveness. But I do not allow woman to teach or exercise authority over man, but to remain quiet (1Timothy 2: 11-12).
A women's position in the church is very obvious from these Bible passages. They are forbidden from teaching in congregations and commanding over men. Ordaining women as clergy or Bishop is purely not scriptural. God's Word cannot be changed according to the age or situations. It never changes or it cannot be changed according to our conveniences, instead, it apples the same for ever. So let the women submit to His Word and restrictions without aspiring for man's portion. They have many other areas of ministry in Christ's kingdom. Let them do that faithfully.
The purpose for which God made the woman was that she might be "an help meet for him." She is neither his master nor his slave. She is part of him, him complement, that which is added to him to make him complete-"An help meet for him" "she will do him good and not evil, all the days of her life." Proverb 31:12)
Woman's Area of Service.
This does not mean that, women are exempted from other Christian services. They are equally important for the smooth functioning of any Church or Assembly.
Here is a fourfold service for women:
1. Homemaking: 1 Timothy 5:14; Timothy 2:3-5 God has ordained the home as the centre of family life. The wife is the homemaker. The older women are instructed to teach the younger women the duties and the art of homemaking-to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, to be discreet, to be chaste, to be keeper of home, to be good, and to be obedient to their own husbands. Surely this is a great and noble task.
2. Kindness, and good works: 1 Timothy 5:10; Rom. 16:1-2' Acts 18:1-3. Besides her duty to her family a Christian woman has many opportunities or serving other relieving the afflicted, doing acts of kindness caring for the servants of the Lord, etc.
3. Private instruction: Acts 18:26 Although it was not permitted to Priscilla to teach in the assembly she was permitted to show hospitality to Appollos when he visited Ephesus, and with her husband Aquila to explain to him in their own home "the way of God more perfectly."
4. Personal Testimony: Philippians 4:3. Paul speaks of those women "which labored with me in the Gospel." Though not permitted to preach in the church, women are permitted to tell in other ways what God has done for them, and thus often to win a soul for the Lord. Let men and women never neglect the opportunities that may arise to witness personally for Christ. END
By P.V. Ariel, published Mar 22, 2008
Published Content: 42 Total Views: 5,091 Favorited By: 78 CPs
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This refers to an interesting article appeared on the pages of AC under the caption, "What Role Can Women Play in Leading Worship? Under the sub head, 'Exploring What the Bible Says About Women in Leadership Roles' by Nicole L.
The writer by quoting the verses from Luke 8:1-3 ("Not long afterward Jesus began a tour of the nearby cities and villages to announce the Good News concerning the Kingdom of God. He took his twelve disciples with him, along with some women he had healed and from whom he had cast out evil spirits. Among them were Mary Magdalene, from whom he had cast out seven demons; Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod's business manager; Susanna; and many others who were contributing from their own resources to support Jesus and his disciples.") Says, "Why would the author take the time to make sure that women were listed, by name, in this particular passage?"
This does not mean that Jesus expected a ministry from women what he expected from men. Of course, Jesus never put forward a second class level to women. Galatians 3:28 is very clear that, "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. In first Peter again we read, "... being heirs together of the grace of life; (I Peter 3:7). No doubt He showed the same level of love and salvation to all. No disparity in it. Jesus did not bar them from singing, praying, witnessing prophesying and a lot of other spiritual activities. But notice that Jesus never select or send a women to the mission field. Instead this was entrusted to His disciples (Matthew 28:19,20). His disciples and all the other apostles too were men. If he expected this ministry from women, He would have definitely selected some women to this ministry.
Apostle Paul, while writing to the Corinthians, wrote, "Let the women keep silent in the churches; for they are not permitted to speak, but let them subject themselves, just as the law also says. (I Cor. 14:34.). He continues in verse 35 "... it is improper ('shame' in KJV), ('disgraceful', marginal meaning in New American Standard Bible) for a woman to speak in Church. Later, while writing to Timothy, he said, "Let women quietly receive instruction with entire submissiveness. But I do not allow woman to teach or exercise authority over man, but to remain quiet (1Timothy 2: 11-12).
A women's position in the church is very obvious from these Bible passages. They are forbidden from teaching in congregations and commanding over men. Ordaining women as clergy or Bishop is purely not scriptural. God's Word cannot be changed according to the age or situations. It never changes or it cannot be changed according to our conveniences, instead, it apples the same for ever. So let the women submit to His Word and restrictions without aspiring for man's portion. They have many other areas of ministry in Christ's kingdom. Let them do that faithfully.
The purpose for which God made the woman was that she might be "an help meet for him." She is neither his master nor his slave. She is part of him, him complement, that which is added to him to make him complete-"An help meet for him" "she will do him good and not evil, all the days of her life." Proverb 31:12)
Woman's Area of Service.
This does not mean that, women are exempted from other Christian services. They are equally important for the smooth functioning of any Church or Assembly.
Here is a fourfold service for women:
1. Homemaking: 1 Timothy 5:14; Timothy 2:3-5 God has ordained the home as the centre of family life. The wife is the homemaker. The older women are instructed to teach the younger women the duties and the art of homemaking-to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, to be discreet, to be chaste, to be keeper of home, to be good, and to be obedient to their own husbands. Surely this is a great and noble task.
2. Kindness, and good works: 1 Timothy 5:10; Rom. 16:1-2' Acts 18:1-3. Besides her duty to her family a Christian woman has many opportunities or serving other relieving the afflicted, doing acts of kindness caring for the servants of the Lord, etc.
3. Private instruction: Acts 18:26 Although it was not permitted to Priscilla to teach in the assembly she was permitted to show hospitality to Appollos when he visited Ephesus, and with her husband Aquila to explain to him in their own home "the way of God more perfectly."
4. Personal Testimony: Philippians 4:3. Paul speaks of those women "which labored with me in the Gospel." Though not permitted to preach in the church, women are permitted to tell in other ways what God has done for them, and thus often to win a soul for the Lord. Let men and women never neglect the opportunities that may arise to witness personally for Christ. END
Hi All, an Interview with Gentleman Donald Pennington of Texas
By P.V. Ariel, published Mar 26, 2008
Published Content: 43 Total Views: 5,091 Favorited By: 78 CPs
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Dear Co-writers/Readers,
I am so happy to inform you all, about my yet another wonderful experience with a fellow writer in Associated Content. The good promoter, writer and producer, Don Pennigton of Ammarillo, Texas.
Please take a few moments to read a bit more about PV the little writer and his feelings. You can find me in the given link:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/677509/ladies_and_gentlemen_p_v_ariel.html
Let me take this opportunity to express my thanks to Mr. Pennigton for the time and pain he has taken to present my views.
Thank you Don. Keep going. All the Best.
Philip Verghese 'Ariel',
Secunderabad, Andhra Pradesh, India
Published Content: 43 Total Views: 5,091 Favorited By: 78 CPs
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Dear Co-writers/Readers,
I am so happy to inform you all, about my yet another wonderful experience with a fellow writer in Associated Content. The good promoter, writer and producer, Don Pennigton of Ammarillo, Texas.
Please take a few moments to read a bit more about PV the little writer and his feelings. You can find me in the given link:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/677509/ladies_and_gentlemen_p_v_ariel.html
Let me take this opportunity to express my thanks to Mr. Pennigton for the time and pain he has taken to present my views.
Thank you Don. Keep going. All the Best.
Philip Verghese 'Ariel',
Secunderabad, Andhra Pradesh, India
Sorry, a Jumble...In My CP, "A Weekly in 13 Languages: A Unique Happening in the World of Global Media"
(A Small Correction)
This is in reference to my recent write-up here in these pages, A review on The Sunday Indian News Weekly. Under the title: "A Weekly in 13 Languages: A Unique Happening in the World of Global Media".
I am sorry, there is a mix up happened in the second last paragraph. I need to make it clear through this CP.
There is a general tendency in journalism, especially in the print media that the editors always take the First seat (or the "Mukhyasanam") and give the readers a second seat (or the "Ardhasam" (A Half Seat).
Another interesting thing is that every week they publish a special column with a special format and font; this is called "History Mail" here we can read the correspondence done between prominent personalities of the world history.
In short The Sunday Indian Weekly has achieved a lot in the field of journalism in a very short span of time. But there are still miles to go. They must rethink and give some more space to its readers to air their view in a little more elaborate way. By shifting the "history mail" to some other page, that space can accommodate some more reader views. Also the size of the cartoon strip should be increased to a minimum of one forth of the page as the writings in the strips are very difficult to read and sometimes I need to use a magnifying glass.
To make this news magazine little more home friendly, they must include a page for the women and children, then it will be a perfect home friendly magazine. While writing this I am not forgetting the fact that it's a news magazine. Also I am not forgetting the special editions comes out every now and then with more pages and articles for everyone. They have already published many such special issues.
One more encouraging thing to note in connection with the readers is that, every week the weekly offer a prize money of Rs. 3,000.00 to its readers. They offer this honorarium to three best letters of the week. This is continuing since its inception. I am a recipient of this honor four times. This is an encouraging trend by this weekly. Unfortunately many of its counterparts lag behind in such encouragements to its readers.
The only thing I don't like in this weekly is the Astrology column; it's of no importance in this age. I wish this unique weekly a wonderful and revealing reporting ahead. END
PS: I am sorry for the jumble. Thanks for reading.
pvariel@gmail.com
This is in reference to my recent write-up here in these pages, A review on The Sunday Indian News Weekly. Under the title: "A Weekly in 13 Languages: A Unique Happening in the World of Global Media".
I am sorry, there is a mix up happened in the second last paragraph. I need to make it clear through this CP.
There is a general tendency in journalism, especially in the print media that the editors always take the First seat (or the "Mukhyasanam") and give the readers a second seat (or the "Ardhasam" (A Half Seat).
Another interesting thing is that every week they publish a special column with a special format and font; this is called "History Mail" here we can read the correspondence done between prominent personalities of the world history.
In short The Sunday Indian Weekly has achieved a lot in the field of journalism in a very short span of time. But there are still miles to go. They must rethink and give some more space to its readers to air their view in a little more elaborate way. By shifting the "history mail" to some other page, that space can accommodate some more reader views. Also the size of the cartoon strip should be increased to a minimum of one forth of the page as the writings in the strips are very difficult to read and sometimes I need to use a magnifying glass.
To make this news magazine little more home friendly, they must include a page for the women and children, then it will be a perfect home friendly magazine. While writing this I am not forgetting the fact that it's a news magazine. Also I am not forgetting the special editions comes out every now and then with more pages and articles for everyone. They have already published many such special issues.
One more encouraging thing to note in connection with the readers is that, every week the weekly offer a prize money of Rs. 3,000.00 to its readers. They offer this honorarium to three best letters of the week. This is continuing since its inception. I am a recipient of this honor four times. This is an encouraging trend by this weekly. Unfortunately many of its counterparts lag behind in such encouragements to its readers.
The only thing I don't like in this weekly is the Astrology column; it's of no importance in this age. I wish this unique weekly a wonderful and revealing reporting ahead. END
PS: I am sorry for the jumble. Thanks for reading.
pvariel@gmail.com
A Weekly in 13 Languages: A Unique Happening in the World of Global Media. An Arindam Chauddhuri Initiative
By Philip Verghese Ariel
The Sunday Indian news weekly. A unique one in its splendor. A weekly stand apart from its counterparts in its vision and style of reporting. An Arindam Choudhury (An IIPM Professor and a Management Guru) initiative started this weekly on 2nd October 2006 with five language editions-English, Hindi, Bengali, Tamil and Gujarti. Just after completing one year of publication it launched out another 8 Indian language editions namely Malayalam, Urdu, Telugu, Kannada Assamese, Marathi, Oriya and Punjabi.
By the publication of 13 different languages this media group obtained a distinctive position of the world's first publication comes out every week in 13 different languages.
I have been a regular reader of The Sunday Indian (TSI) since its inception. Also a regular contributor to (in English and Malayalam) its letters to the editor column-they call it "DEAR EDITOR". Apart from the editorial, the in-depth columns like 'Musings' by its Economic Affairs editor Prasoon Majumdar, 'Typos' column by the Features Editor Prashanto Banerji and cover features are gems that keep them above all its counterparts. The style of editing and telling the story in the bare minimum space is worth mentioning. In this busy world this is the kind of coverage that readers generally opt for. TSI has achieved a lot in the field of Indian journalism in a short span of time.
The editorial of this weekly is much talked about subject in the Indian media from the week one. The Chief Editor Arindam Choudhury wrote different edits which drew the attention of the Indian administration. The dare devil attitude in his writing is really praiseworthy. With plain and simple words he brought out many of the injustice meted out to the general public, the middle class and the downtrodden of India.
They entered in the arena where most of the Indian media dare to drive in. With much concern and zeal his team brought out many chilling and shocking stories over the months. With plain but strong words they criticized the politicians, administrators and even the judiciary.
Let me quote here some of his editorial titles, "It's Not Democracy Sir, It Is Demonocracy All Around. Hope The New Year Ushers In A Real Change" is an editorial written in response to the Prime Minister's statement: "Despite tremendous diversities, we have emerged as a successful functioning democracy". Another title goes like this: All We Have Successfully Created Is A Spineless Police Force" this is written on the inaction of the police force in many cases, He says, I quote, " Though every time all the fingers point at the khaki (Police Uniform) but the real villains of peace have been the politicians and State governments who have always treated the police force as their personal fiefdom for their self serving interests. "... It is most unfortunate that a profession, which is looked upon with respect in other parts of the world, has been made to become the most vulnerable and disrespected in our country".
Another important edits headline read, "To make India Democratic & Politics De-criminalized, Allow Election Voting Through SMS". This is one of the editorials which received tremendous responses from the readers. The reader's reaction to this piece continued in the following issues. Apart from the usual letter page they published a four page column of letters from the readers.
Few more title on this line are:
1. Mafia Political Parties Have Completely Robbed Indian Democracy of Everything, Including Its Moral Legitimacy!!"
2. "Even After Sixty Years, An Indian Remains Alien In His Own Country!!".
3. "Honorable Minister For Agriculture - Sir, Rather Than Cutting The Subsides From The Midday Meal Scheme, Please Arrest The Existing Corruption In The Public Distribution System!" These Editorial pages can be read online: www.thesundayindian.com click the button below: Arindam Chaudhuri and then click "His article and thoughts"
While launching out the new 8 editions he wrote in its editorial.
"The big issue about this expansion is not the satisfaction with the numbers, in case you are mistaken. I have no fascination with extra editions just for the heck of being different. When we started Business & Economy, we wanted to pick up issues of burning importance, which are marginalized and ignored by mainstream media; issues like the dysfunctional judiciary of India, issues relating to human development in India, issues like the true extent of poverty in India (talking about which is boring and non glamorous in today's media). We wanted to take such issues to the masses in a sharp and incisive manner with pertinent solutions... solutions being our forte, thanks to the intellectual bent of our core group due to its academic association with The Indian Institute of Planning and Management and its Think Tank. As we succeeded in doing that, we also realized that it would be a far bigger challenge to take the same issues in a more easy-to-understand manner to the general masses, instead of just to the Economist reading business community.
The challenge always is in de-intellectualizing matters of public concern and taking them to the public and making them realize the truth in a manner that they feel compelled and motivated to become a part of the process of change themselves. That's why we started The Sunday Indian and it's the same reason we are now in 13 different editions - because we want to reach out to all Indians, regardless of their education, language, caste or level of income. We believe every Indian has the right to a new way of thinking. And that is our mission!". www.thesundayindian.com Editorial head- Lucky 13! It's never happened before in the world of global media " [24/06/2007]
Over the months they carried out this vision through their weekly editions, and they stick to their words by reducing its price to a minimum of Rs.10. which is very much affordable to an average Indian reader. By keeping the minimum price rate they fulfilled the vision reaching out to all level of people in spite of their level of income.
Another important thing to say about this unique publication is that, they respect its reader's views and gives them a prominent place in its pages and three pages are allotted to the readers to air their views. Generally publications give one or maximum two pages to its readers. In most publications this space will be given after the editorial, and some keep them in to the last page or some other corner of the publication, but here in this weekly we can notice a special thing that the readers are given the first priority and are given them the first place and editor took his seat next to them that is a second place.
There is a general tendency in journalism, especially in the print media that the editors always take the First seat (or the Mukhyasanam) and give the readers a second seat (or the ardhasam (A Half Seat). Another interest thing is that every week they publish a special column with a special format and font; this is called "History to go. They must re think and give one there are still miles more page to its readers to air their view in a more elaborate way. By shifting the history mail to some other page, that space can accommodate some more readers views. Also the size of the cartoon strip should be increased to one forth of the page as the writings in the strips are very difficult to read.
The only thing I don't like in this weekly is the Astrology column; it's of no importance in this age. I wish this unique weekly a wonderful and revealing reporting ahead. END
Source: www.thesundayindian.com
www.iipm.com
Chief Editor. Arindam Chaudhury
Editor: A Sandeep
(The writer can be reached at: pvariel@gmail.com)
The Sunday Indian news weekly. A unique one in its splendor. A weekly stand apart from its counterparts in its vision and style of reporting. An Arindam Choudhury (An IIPM Professor and a Management Guru) initiative started this weekly on 2nd October 2006 with five language editions-English, Hindi, Bengali, Tamil and Gujarti. Just after completing one year of publication it launched out another 8 Indian language editions namely Malayalam, Urdu, Telugu, Kannada Assamese, Marathi, Oriya and Punjabi.
By the publication of 13 different languages this media group obtained a distinctive position of the world's first publication comes out every week in 13 different languages.
I have been a regular reader of The Sunday Indian (TSI) since its inception. Also a regular contributor to (in English and Malayalam) its letters to the editor column-they call it "DEAR EDITOR". Apart from the editorial, the in-depth columns like 'Musings' by its Economic Affairs editor Prasoon Majumdar, 'Typos' column by the Features Editor Prashanto Banerji and cover features are gems that keep them above all its counterparts. The style of editing and telling the story in the bare minimum space is worth mentioning. In this busy world this is the kind of coverage that readers generally opt for. TSI has achieved a lot in the field of Indian journalism in a short span of time.
The editorial of this weekly is much talked about subject in the Indian media from the week one. The Chief Editor Arindam Choudhury wrote different edits which drew the attention of the Indian administration. The dare devil attitude in his writing is really praiseworthy. With plain and simple words he brought out many of the injustice meted out to the general public, the middle class and the downtrodden of India.
They entered in the arena where most of the Indian media dare to drive in. With much concern and zeal his team brought out many chilling and shocking stories over the months. With plain but strong words they criticized the politicians, administrators and even the judiciary.
Let me quote here some of his editorial titles, "It's Not Democracy Sir, It Is Demonocracy All Around. Hope The New Year Ushers In A Real Change" is an editorial written in response to the Prime Minister's statement: "Despite tremendous diversities, we have emerged as a successful functioning democracy". Another title goes like this: All We Have Successfully Created Is A Spineless Police Force" this is written on the inaction of the police force in many cases, He says, I quote, " Though every time all the fingers point at the khaki (Police Uniform) but the real villains of peace have been the politicians and State governments who have always treated the police force as their personal fiefdom for their self serving interests. "... It is most unfortunate that a profession, which is looked upon with respect in other parts of the world, has been made to become the most vulnerable and disrespected in our country".
Another important edits headline read, "To make India Democratic & Politics De-criminalized, Allow Election Voting Through SMS". This is one of the editorials which received tremendous responses from the readers. The reader's reaction to this piece continued in the following issues. Apart from the usual letter page they published a four page column of letters from the readers.
Few more title on this line are:
1. Mafia Political Parties Have Completely Robbed Indian Democracy of Everything, Including Its Moral Legitimacy!!"
2. "Even After Sixty Years, An Indian Remains Alien In His Own Country!!".
3. "Honorable Minister For Agriculture - Sir, Rather Than Cutting The Subsides From The Midday Meal Scheme, Please Arrest The Existing Corruption In The Public Distribution System!" These Editorial pages can be read online: www.thesundayindian.com click the button below: Arindam Chaudhuri and then click "His article and thoughts"
While launching out the new 8 editions he wrote in its editorial.
"The big issue about this expansion is not the satisfaction with the numbers, in case you are mistaken. I have no fascination with extra editions just for the heck of being different. When we started Business & Economy, we wanted to pick up issues of burning importance, which are marginalized and ignored by mainstream media; issues like the dysfunctional judiciary of India, issues relating to human development in India, issues like the true extent of poverty in India (talking about which is boring and non glamorous in today's media). We wanted to take such issues to the masses in a sharp and incisive manner with pertinent solutions... solutions being our forte, thanks to the intellectual bent of our core group due to its academic association with The Indian Institute of Planning and Management and its Think Tank. As we succeeded in doing that, we also realized that it would be a far bigger challenge to take the same issues in a more easy-to-understand manner to the general masses, instead of just to the Economist reading business community.
The challenge always is in de-intellectualizing matters of public concern and taking them to the public and making them realize the truth in a manner that they feel compelled and motivated to become a part of the process of change themselves. That's why we started The Sunday Indian and it's the same reason we are now in 13 different editions - because we want to reach out to all Indians, regardless of their education, language, caste or level of income. We believe every Indian has the right to a new way of thinking. And that is our mission!". www.thesundayindian.com Editorial head- Lucky 13! It's never happened before in the world of global media " [24/06/2007]
Over the months they carried out this vision through their weekly editions, and they stick to their words by reducing its price to a minimum of Rs.10. which is very much affordable to an average Indian reader. By keeping the minimum price rate they fulfilled the vision reaching out to all level of people in spite of their level of income.
Another important thing to say about this unique publication is that, they respect its reader's views and gives them a prominent place in its pages and three pages are allotted to the readers to air their views. Generally publications give one or maximum two pages to its readers. In most publications this space will be given after the editorial, and some keep them in to the last page or some other corner of the publication, but here in this weekly we can notice a special thing that the readers are given the first priority and are given them the first place and editor took his seat next to them that is a second place.
There is a general tendency in journalism, especially in the print media that the editors always take the First seat (or the Mukhyasanam) and give the readers a second seat (or the ardhasam (A Half Seat). Another interest thing is that every week they publish a special column with a special format and font; this is called "History to go. They must re think and give one there are still miles more page to its readers to air their view in a more elaborate way. By shifting the history mail to some other page, that space can accommodate some more readers views. Also the size of the cartoon strip should be increased to one forth of the page as the writings in the strips are very difficult to read.
The only thing I don't like in this weekly is the Astrology column; it's of no importance in this age. I wish this unique weekly a wonderful and revealing reporting ahead. END
Source: www.thesundayindian.com
www.iipm.com
Chief Editor. Arindam Chaudhury
Editor: A Sandeep
(The writer can be reached at: pvariel@gmail.com)
The Hindu Newspaper - Played a Vital Role in My Writing Life
An encounter with a Newspaper
By Philip Verghese Ariel
I was an avid reader of newspapers since my childhood especially in the Malayalam language (My Mother tongue). At the age of 12 onwards I used to read English newspapers and magazines which I collected from my elder sister who was a Staff Nurse working in Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh. Whenever she visits home town on vacation she used to bring some English news papers and magazines for me. The Hindu, The Express, Readers Digest and the Illustrated Weekly of India are some among them.
After giving those newspapers and weeklies she used to tell me, "Read these loudly and carefully, though you may not understand it initially don't give up, read, read and read. She said one more thing read the Bible regularly in Malayalam and in English. Take one verse from the English Bible and then read the same verse from the Malayalam Bible." This suggestion I followed very religiously from that time on. And the slogan of 'Read, Read, and Read' implanted in my mind and I took that very seriously and started reading all kinds of things and the Bible.
Here one more thing I wanted to mention is that my grandmother (mother's mother) too was a voracious reader of the Bible. I had a vague memory of this, later I heard from my mother about her mother's reading habit. My mother too is a serious reader of the Bible. You can read more about my reading habits here in this link: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/668383/my_early_experience_with_my_writings.html
By the way let me say a word about our big family. We are five brothers and two sisters. Four of us (brothers) were at home with our parents, rest of the three one elder brother and two elder sisters were away from home and was staying outside the state on employment).
In my village at that time English papers were not common. My father was an employee of a sugar factory (Travancore Sugars and Chemicals Ltd), later it was known as Pamba River Factory; initially this was fully managed by British officials. My father studied up to high school and was able to converse in English with some of these English officers. This made him to have a close acquaintance with those people. My father worked as a carpenter and quite often he need to visit these officers' houses as part of his job. Knowing my keen interest in reading, my Dad while returning home most of the time borrow and brings some English newspapers and magazines from those officers' houses.
So this way I was acquainted with the Hindu newspaper since my childhood. I think this was the only English newspaper we get in our village on those days. At the age of 12 onwards I used to read this paper and note down some hard words especially from its editorial pages in my notebook.
In the year 1976 when I was doing my journalism course in Rajendraprasd Institute of communication and Management (Bhavan's college, Hyderabad) our principal, Freedom fighter late Mr. V.H. Desai suggested us to read the Hindu newspaper especially its editorials. Though he was a regular reporter and contributor to some other newspapers and magazines he suggested us to refer this newspaper and its editorials. From that time onwards it was my regular practice to read its editorial carefully. I too started following my principal's footsteps and started telling others about this paper and its credentials. Few of my relatives and friends are now shifted to this national newspaper.
At present I am working as an Associate Editor of an English bi-monthly, also contribute to the publications in English and in Malayalam. Now I am a regular contributor to different publications in print and online media. Many of my write-ups fetched prizes and many of them published in special page columns.
The Hindu newspaper or its style of telling the story (journalism) played a vital role in my life, especially in my writing experience.
Let me take this opportunity to thank its editorial team for the relentless service they render to the society and the readers day in and day out.
(The writer can be reached at: pvariel@gmail.com)
By Philip Verghese Ariel
I was an avid reader of newspapers since my childhood especially in the Malayalam language (My Mother tongue). At the age of 12 onwards I used to read English newspapers and magazines which I collected from my elder sister who was a Staff Nurse working in Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh. Whenever she visits home town on vacation she used to bring some English news papers and magazines for me. The Hindu, The Express, Readers Digest and the Illustrated Weekly of India are some among them.
After giving those newspapers and weeklies she used to tell me, "Read these loudly and carefully, though you may not understand it initially don't give up, read, read and read. She said one more thing read the Bible regularly in Malayalam and in English. Take one verse from the English Bible and then read the same verse from the Malayalam Bible." This suggestion I followed very religiously from that time on. And the slogan of 'Read, Read, and Read' implanted in my mind and I took that very seriously and started reading all kinds of things and the Bible.
Here one more thing I wanted to mention is that my grandmother (mother's mother) too was a voracious reader of the Bible. I had a vague memory of this, later I heard from my mother about her mother's reading habit. My mother too is a serious reader of the Bible. You can read more about my reading habits here in this link: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/668383/my_early_experience_with_my_writings.html
By the way let me say a word about our big family. We are five brothers and two sisters. Four of us (brothers) were at home with our parents, rest of the three one elder brother and two elder sisters were away from home and was staying outside the state on employment).
In my village at that time English papers were not common. My father was an employee of a sugar factory (Travancore Sugars and Chemicals Ltd), later it was known as Pamba River Factory; initially this was fully managed by British officials. My father studied up to high school and was able to converse in English with some of these English officers. This made him to have a close acquaintance with those people. My father worked as a carpenter and quite often he need to visit these officers' houses as part of his job. Knowing my keen interest in reading, my Dad while returning home most of the time borrow and brings some English newspapers and magazines from those officers' houses.
So this way I was acquainted with the Hindu newspaper since my childhood. I think this was the only English newspaper we get in our village on those days. At the age of 12 onwards I used to read this paper and note down some hard words especially from its editorial pages in my notebook.
In the year 1976 when I was doing my journalism course in Rajendraprasd Institute of communication and Management (Bhavan's college, Hyderabad) our principal, Freedom fighter late Mr. V.H. Desai suggested us to read the Hindu newspaper especially its editorials. Though he was a regular reporter and contributor to some other newspapers and magazines he suggested us to refer this newspaper and its editorials. From that time onwards it was my regular practice to read its editorial carefully. I too started following my principal's footsteps and started telling others about this paper and its credentials. Few of my relatives and friends are now shifted to this national newspaper.
At present I am working as an Associate Editor of an English bi-monthly, also contribute to the publications in English and in Malayalam. Now I am a regular contributor to different publications in print and online media. Many of my write-ups fetched prizes and many of them published in special page columns.
The Hindu newspaper or its style of telling the story (journalism) played a vital role in my life, especially in my writing experience.
Let me take this opportunity to thank its editorial team for the relentless service they render to the society and the readers day in and day out.
(The writer can be reached at: pvariel@gmail.com)
An Incredible Adventure by Faith
By Philip Verghese 'Ariel'
A Book Written by Theodore H. Epp (Founder 'Back to the Bible Ministries')
This is a revision of the book "Adventuring by Faith", written by Theodore H Epp, the founder of Back to the Bible, first published in 1952 and updated in 1964 and 1974 and reprinted in 1984 and 2003.
This is an incredible life journey (story) of Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Epp.( Founder of Back to the Bible ministries), How they ventured by faith in the ministry of Back to the Bible. It was really an amazing journey. The last two chapters "Faith Defined" and "Faith Acts," of this little book of history give the biblical basis of faith.
Epp's missionary parent's firm faith in God strengthened him to proceed further in His mission. His parents were missionaries working among the Hopi Indian tribals in Arizona. His father's experience and faith in the mission field encouraged and strengthened him to be in the faith.
Several missionary societies had worked among these tribals for about 10 to 20 years without any results. In the 1900s his parents and another missionary couple were sent to this field. They worked several years in the same field. The task seems hopeless again and the mission board decided to wind up. But his parents and other missionary couple took a firm decision to continue in the field without the support of the board. This decision they informed the mission board and in return the board praised God for their firm faith in the living God and they consented to continue the work.
Shortly after that the chief of the Indian tribals accepted Christ as his personal savior and Lord. Later many others follow suit. Within a short period they started a small gathering of 60 believers. This incident made a deep impression on the life of Theodore Epp and his firm belief in the living God who answers prayer of those who exercise simple faith..
This book encourages and strengthens the readers too to walk with God in difficult times as they walked in their missionary journey. Its contents give the readers a special vigor and vision to walk with God even in difficult times. The 128 page book's first chapter begins with "The Practice of Faith"
Here is a worth mentioning incident from his life story, after the biblical graduation they began active service in the pastorate. But the offering at the church was so meager that they could not meet both ends. So he needed an additional income and joined in a harvest field better known as the WPA. (Works Progress Administration). Later they got an opportunity to buy a small gasoline station, but the required cash was not there. But he went ached in faith and God fulfilled their desire in a miraculous way, in a short period he could spend full time in ministry. This wonderful incident narrated in chapter 4 of this book.
The Story began in Lincoln, Nebraska, in 1939 A young man, driven by a vision, walked into the office of a radio station manager.
He spoke boldly: "We noted that you have every thing on your broadcasts that the people want except something for the heart. We have that and would like the opportunity of presenting it to the people."
In the short discussion that followed, the manager agreed. "And who will finance the program?" He asked.
"For the past twelve years we have been working in co-operation with a partner who has taken the responsibility of all our financial needs."
"Oh, and who is your partner?"
"God is our Partner."
Theodore H.Epp had just 65 dollars when he made the first broadcast for Back to the Bible on May 1, 1939. That was several years ago. And during those years his Partner has supplied everything.
The ministry of Back to the Bible has now grown to worldwide proportions, with 12 branch offices, broadcasts in several languages, with the printing and annual distribution of more than eight million pieces of Christian literature, assistance in missions' projects and the support of several hundreds of missionaries, correspondence schools and counseling ministries.
Late Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Epp. and their amazing walk of faith in the God of the Bible to make the vision and ministry of Back to the Bible a reality. As a result of their obedience to the call of God, today every hour of the day Back to the Bible is heard some where around the world.
Now the International President Dr. Woodrow Kroll (A senior Bible Teacher and a renowned writer of more than 50 books) is continuing the mantle which Theodore H Epp initiated years back.
Dr. Kroll joined Back to the Bible in August 1990 as general Director and Bible Teacher. In between a brief period-from1981 to 1989- Warren W Wiersbe (former Bible teacher of Moody Church in Chicago, Illinois served as a leader to this Lincoln based ministry. Since 1990 Dr. Kroll is serving as a principal speaker on the ministry's daily worldwide broadcast on radio and television, which has grown to a listener ship of millions around the world. It has offices in twelve different countries in 25 different languages. Its main radio program can be heard from Radio Sri Lanka in the morning hours (IST 7.00).
More information can be obtained from the following sites:
www.backtothebible.org or en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Back_to_the_Bible - 24k under sub caption: Woodrow M. Kroll
This book is a must read to all Christian believers, especially the one who are in His business.
Copies can be obtained from: The Good News Broadcasting Society, P O Box No. 2002; H P O; Secunderabad - 500003, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Or log on to www.backtothebible.org or www.backtothebibleindia.org
(The writer is working as an 'Associate Editor'-Confident Living Magazine-of Back to the Bible India- He can be reached at: pvariel@gmail.com
A Book Written by Theodore H. Epp (Founder 'Back to the Bible Ministries')
This is a revision of the book "Adventuring by Faith", written by Theodore H Epp, the founder of Back to the Bible, first published in 1952 and updated in 1964 and 1974 and reprinted in 1984 and 2003.
This is an incredible life journey (story) of Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Epp.( Founder of Back to the Bible ministries), How they ventured by faith in the ministry of Back to the Bible. It was really an amazing journey. The last two chapters "Faith Defined" and "Faith Acts," of this little book of history give the biblical basis of faith.
Epp's missionary parent's firm faith in God strengthened him to proceed further in His mission. His parents were missionaries working among the Hopi Indian tribals in Arizona. His father's experience and faith in the mission field encouraged and strengthened him to be in the faith.
Several missionary societies had worked among these tribals for about 10 to 20 years without any results. In the 1900s his parents and another missionary couple were sent to this field. They worked several years in the same field. The task seems hopeless again and the mission board decided to wind up. But his parents and other missionary couple took a firm decision to continue in the field without the support of the board. This decision they informed the mission board and in return the board praised God for their firm faith in the living God and they consented to continue the work.
Shortly after that the chief of the Indian tribals accepted Christ as his personal savior and Lord. Later many others follow suit. Within a short period they started a small gathering of 60 believers. This incident made a deep impression on the life of Theodore Epp and his firm belief in the living God who answers prayer of those who exercise simple faith..
This book encourages and strengthens the readers too to walk with God in difficult times as they walked in their missionary journey. Its contents give the readers a special vigor and vision to walk with God even in difficult times. The 128 page book's first chapter begins with "The Practice of Faith"
Here is a worth mentioning incident from his life story, after the biblical graduation they began active service in the pastorate. But the offering at the church was so meager that they could not meet both ends. So he needed an additional income and joined in a harvest field better known as the WPA. (Works Progress Administration). Later they got an opportunity to buy a small gasoline station, but the required cash was not there. But he went ached in faith and God fulfilled their desire in a miraculous way, in a short period he could spend full time in ministry. This wonderful incident narrated in chapter 4 of this book.
The Story began in Lincoln, Nebraska, in 1939 A young man, driven by a vision, walked into the office of a radio station manager.
He spoke boldly: "We noted that you have every thing on your broadcasts that the people want except something for the heart. We have that and would like the opportunity of presenting it to the people."
In the short discussion that followed, the manager agreed. "And who will finance the program?" He asked.
"For the past twelve years we have been working in co-operation with a partner who has taken the responsibility of all our financial needs."
"Oh, and who is your partner?"
"God is our Partner."
Theodore H.Epp had just 65 dollars when he made the first broadcast for Back to the Bible on May 1, 1939. That was several years ago. And during those years his Partner has supplied everything.
The ministry of Back to the Bible has now grown to worldwide proportions, with 12 branch offices, broadcasts in several languages, with the printing and annual distribution of more than eight million pieces of Christian literature, assistance in missions' projects and the support of several hundreds of missionaries, correspondence schools and counseling ministries.
Late Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Epp. and their amazing walk of faith in the God of the Bible to make the vision and ministry of Back to the Bible a reality. As a result of their obedience to the call of God, today every hour of the day Back to the Bible is heard some where around the world.
Now the International President Dr. Woodrow Kroll (A senior Bible Teacher and a renowned writer of more than 50 books) is continuing the mantle which Theodore H Epp initiated years back.
Dr. Kroll joined Back to the Bible in August 1990 as general Director and Bible Teacher. In between a brief period-from1981 to 1989- Warren W Wiersbe (former Bible teacher of Moody Church in Chicago, Illinois served as a leader to this Lincoln based ministry. Since 1990 Dr. Kroll is serving as a principal speaker on the ministry's daily worldwide broadcast on radio and television, which has grown to a listener ship of millions around the world. It has offices in twelve different countries in 25 different languages. Its main radio program can be heard from Radio Sri Lanka in the morning hours (IST 7.00).
More information can be obtained from the following sites:
www.backtothebible.org or en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Back_to_the_Bible - 24k under sub caption: Woodrow M. Kroll
This book is a must read to all Christian believers, especially the one who are in His business.
Copies can be obtained from: The Good News Broadcasting Society, P O Box No. 2002; H P O; Secunderabad - 500003, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Or log on to www.backtothebible.org or www.backtothebibleindia.org
(The writer is working as an 'Associate Editor'-Confident Living Magazine-of Back to the Bible India- He can be reached at: pvariel@gmail.com
Astrology: A Christian Perspective
The uncertainties among people are increasing day by day. Things are fast changing; today's man or thing is not there tomorrow. A kind of fear is griped among people and they wander here and there to find a solution to this. People are frustrated by the day to day incidents and in their search they ultimately approach the so called soothsayers or astrologers to find a solution to this. This becomes an order of the day in the modern society. The soothsayers take advantage of this and are making hay while their clients are basking in glory. As a result every day a new one sprouts somewhere in the country.
It is very unfortunate to note that in India the politicians and the film personalities are the bunch of people who always in search of these soothsayers. In recent times this trend is spreading among the Indian cricketers' community and the television program producers and its anchors. What a shame and pathetic condition this is.?
The sad fact is that most of their predictions do not hit the bull's eye. One cannot understand still the mad rush towards these soothsayers. In the Indian political scenario the ministers, M Ps (Members of Parliament) and M L As (Members of Legislature Assembly), are on the run after these astrologers. Each of them have appointed or selected soothsayers for their functions and auspicious occasions.
The only exception to this in the Indian political history is Mrs. Indira Gandhi, the former Prime Minister of India. She wrote in a letter to one of her close friends, Dr. M S Shastri of Bangalore, "...I have always tried to avoid astrologers; I do not believe in astrology and have refused to ask questions about the future even when pressed"
One thing is sure that our politicians and celebrities are addicted to this kind of superstitions. It seems like its diluted in their blood and with that they are fooling their fans too. It looks like it is very difficult to weed out from their system
The famous Indian writer, Khushwant Singh (a stalwart in the Indian Journalism) the former Editor of famous English weekly, "The illustrated Weekly of India", said in an interview, "Due to some problem the astrology columnist of the weekly left the organization and the column stopped abruptly. The readers started enquiring about it. I don't want to displease the readers and I started compiling the column myself. I selected some previous issues astrology column and reshuffled it and arranged it for the week with a pen name. This was very much appreciated by the poor readers".
This is what is happening in many of the publications in the name of this column called 'Astrology'. The gullible readers eagerly wait to read this waste. How sad it is? Print and visual media is on a neck to neck race on this issue of knowing the future and telling the future. They run columns for daily, weekly, monthly and yearly forecasts for their readers.
The sad part is that, if we take a keen look into these soothsayers' predictions 99% of them never fulfilled or happened as they predicted. Still the people are in search of these people and their predictions.
A CHRISTIAN PERSPECTIVE
The point here is about the Christian flocks: Even among some of the so called Christians there are a good number of people who are after such people. They seek the guidance of astrologers, tarot readers and other soothsayers to know their future. For their children's education, marriage and other family auspicious occasion's dates etc they consult these astrologers. They eagerly look at the daily and weekly astrology columns in newspapers and weeklies. Some eagerly watch for the daily broadcasts through TV.
These so called Christians must take note that they are going after the old nature, a kind of idol worship. They are forgetting the fact that God is the one who controls everything and He is the one who decide about the future and every creator is in His hands. They just forget this great truth and running after the creators of this world.
Here is a warning to such people!!! In the book of Isaiah chapter 47 we read this: depending on the astrologers, the star gazers and monthly prognosticators Babylon took proud in itself and said in thy heart, I am and non else beside me. But alas God challenges them to save themselves. But they could not save themselves or even others. God warns the Babylonians about the consequences of their deeds. God challenges them to save by the stars and star gazers could not.
God created the sun moon and stars to give light to the world. But alas people depend on them to know their future, what a pathetic state. It cannot save itself nor can't save others; indeed it faces the wrath of God. Isaiah chapter 13:10 says, "For the stars of heaven and their constellations will not flash forth their light; the sun will be dark when it rises and the moon will not shed its light." The word of God very clearly urge to the people to call upon the wonder working creator of this universe, stars like the seven stars and Orion (Amos 5:8)
A child of God is controlled and guided by the spirit of God, not the creations of this world. Creations should seek the face of the creator, not the stars, sun, moon or any other living or non-living things.
The Holy Bible: The God's special revelation in written form. There are a number of books revered as sacred, but God has given only one book that is the BIBLE. Its unique authority is affirmed from cover to cover. Therefore, occult knowledge like astrology, tarot cards reading etc are off limit and should not influence a real Christian.
Therefore, occult means of knowledge (like astrology, tarot cards etc.) are off limits and unnecessary for the Christian. Isaiah emphasis us to use God's written Word as the standard to judge spiritual truth claims:
"Bind up the testimony, Seal up the law among my disciples.. When men tell you to consult mediums and spiritists who whisper and mutter, should not a people inquire of their God? Why consult the dead on behalf of the living? To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to THIS WORD they have no light of dawn. (Isaiah 8:16,19-20). (NIV)
The Bible gives us a basis for assured knowledge of God. The apostle Peter even ranked it as more valuable than eye-witness evidence! "We have the PROPHETIC WORD CONFIRMED, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts"(2 Peter 1:14-19).
Let me close this by quoting a verse from Deuteronomy:
There shall not be found among you any one that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, or that useth divination, or an observer of times, or an enhanter, or a witch, or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a necromancer. For all that do these things are an abomination unto the LORD: and because of these abominations the LORD thy God doth drive them out from before thee. Deut. 18:10-12. (KJV) End.pvariel@gmail.com
It is very unfortunate to note that in India the politicians and the film personalities are the bunch of people who always in search of these soothsayers. In recent times this trend is spreading among the Indian cricketers' community and the television program producers and its anchors. What a shame and pathetic condition this is.?
The sad fact is that most of their predictions do not hit the bull's eye. One cannot understand still the mad rush towards these soothsayers. In the Indian political scenario the ministers, M Ps (Members of Parliament) and M L As (Members of Legislature Assembly), are on the run after these astrologers. Each of them have appointed or selected soothsayers for their functions and auspicious occasions.
The only exception to this in the Indian political history is Mrs. Indira Gandhi, the former Prime Minister of India. She wrote in a letter to one of her close friends, Dr. M S Shastri of Bangalore, "...I have always tried to avoid astrologers; I do not believe in astrology and have refused to ask questions about the future even when pressed"
One thing is sure that our politicians and celebrities are addicted to this kind of superstitions. It seems like its diluted in their blood and with that they are fooling their fans too. It looks like it is very difficult to weed out from their system
The famous Indian writer, Khushwant Singh (a stalwart in the Indian Journalism) the former Editor of famous English weekly, "The illustrated Weekly of India", said in an interview, "Due to some problem the astrology columnist of the weekly left the organization and the column stopped abruptly. The readers started enquiring about it. I don't want to displease the readers and I started compiling the column myself. I selected some previous issues astrology column and reshuffled it and arranged it for the week with a pen name. This was very much appreciated by the poor readers".
This is what is happening in many of the publications in the name of this column called 'Astrology'. The gullible readers eagerly wait to read this waste. How sad it is? Print and visual media is on a neck to neck race on this issue of knowing the future and telling the future. They run columns for daily, weekly, monthly and yearly forecasts for their readers.
The sad part is that, if we take a keen look into these soothsayers' predictions 99% of them never fulfilled or happened as they predicted. Still the people are in search of these people and their predictions.
A CHRISTIAN PERSPECTIVE
The point here is about the Christian flocks: Even among some of the so called Christians there are a good number of people who are after such people. They seek the guidance of astrologers, tarot readers and other soothsayers to know their future. For their children's education, marriage and other family auspicious occasion's dates etc they consult these astrologers. They eagerly look at the daily and weekly astrology columns in newspapers and weeklies. Some eagerly watch for the daily broadcasts through TV.
These so called Christians must take note that they are going after the old nature, a kind of idol worship. They are forgetting the fact that God is the one who controls everything and He is the one who decide about the future and every creator is in His hands. They just forget this great truth and running after the creators of this world.
Here is a warning to such people!!! In the book of Isaiah chapter 47 we read this: depending on the astrologers, the star gazers and monthly prognosticators Babylon took proud in itself and said in thy heart, I am and non else beside me. But alas God challenges them to save themselves. But they could not save themselves or even others. God warns the Babylonians about the consequences of their deeds. God challenges them to save by the stars and star gazers could not.
God created the sun moon and stars to give light to the world. But alas people depend on them to know their future, what a pathetic state. It cannot save itself nor can't save others; indeed it faces the wrath of God. Isaiah chapter 13:10 says, "For the stars of heaven and their constellations will not flash forth their light; the sun will be dark when it rises and the moon will not shed its light." The word of God very clearly urge to the people to call upon the wonder working creator of this universe, stars like the seven stars and Orion (Amos 5:8)
A child of God is controlled and guided by the spirit of God, not the creations of this world. Creations should seek the face of the creator, not the stars, sun, moon or any other living or non-living things.
The Holy Bible: The God's special revelation in written form. There are a number of books revered as sacred, but God has given only one book that is the BIBLE. Its unique authority is affirmed from cover to cover. Therefore, occult knowledge like astrology, tarot cards reading etc are off limit and should not influence a real Christian.
Therefore, occult means of knowledge (like astrology, tarot cards etc.) are off limits and unnecessary for the Christian. Isaiah emphasis us to use God's written Word as the standard to judge spiritual truth claims:
"Bind up the testimony, Seal up the law among my disciples.. When men tell you to consult mediums and spiritists who whisper and mutter, should not a people inquire of their God? Why consult the dead on behalf of the living? To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to THIS WORD they have no light of dawn. (Isaiah 8:16,19-20). (NIV)
The Bible gives us a basis for assured knowledge of God. The apostle Peter even ranked it as more valuable than eye-witness evidence! "We have the PROPHETIC WORD CONFIRMED, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts"(2 Peter 1:14-19).
Let me close this by quoting a verse from Deuteronomy:
There shall not be found among you any one that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, or that useth divination, or an observer of times, or an enhanter, or a witch, or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a necromancer. For all that do these things are an abomination unto the LORD: and because of these abominations the LORD thy God doth drive them out from before thee. Deut. 18:10-12. (KJV) End.pvariel@gmail.com
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Let's Not Despise the Word of God
By Philip Verghese ‘Ariel’
We live in a world, which is subject to changes. Every moment changes are taking place. What we see now disappears the next moment. Those who are in high places today are unceremoniously removed from there tomorrow. But in this transitory world, there remains one thing immovable. That is the Holy Bible, which we possess. But to our own shame and sorrow, we see almost everywhere an increasing tendency to belittle this priceless treasure-The BibleThis book contains the gracious words of Lord Jesus Christ; we should meditate it day and night. The first Psalm begins with the word ''Blessed''. One godly man had described it as an introduction to Psalms, which he called God's hymnbook. Whenever we hear the word ''Blessed'' the thought that comes immediately to our mind is of ''person who is perfect and self sufficient, having all things and is in need of nothing''. But in the Holy writ, this word is used in an entirely different connotation (context). It is used in relation to the word of God. In the Psalms and the gospels the word" blessed" with the same context is recorded several times. It is further clarified in Revelation 1:3. Many Old Testament saints, from Abraham are called "blessed" in the Holy Scriptures. But we, the believers are a congregation of blessed men and women, who are elevated to the height and pinnacle of it. Yea, we are a blessed people. This truth was made clear by the apostle Paul, while writing to the Ephesians (1:3; 2:7). A picture of our highly exalted position today can be viewed there.
The entire joy of the blessed man in Psalm 1 is centered in the law of the Lord. He rejoices in God's word as a man who happened to find a great booty (Psalm 119:162). It is a matter of great importance for us to know what the source and object of our joy is. Is it in the pleasures of the world? If so, it is only momentary. It is a joyful experience to find delight in God and His Word day and night. Such a man is compared to "a tree by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth its fruit in the right season; its leaf also shall not wither". The benefits we receive from a tree are many. It has been estimated that a palm tree is useful to man in more than 250 things. It is also estimated that an ordinary tree inhales approximately 14000 liters of carbon dioxide, and exhales double the quantity of oxygen for human survival. Just as a tree renders selfless service, a godly man is obliged also to serve selflessly. Let us labor without any desire for benefits; God is the rewarder. The root of such shall be established in the word of God. They receive nourishment from it for growth and maturity. That will also cause blessings to many. Let us receive strength by being rooted in Christ and His word, like the tree planted by the riverside. Those who are not so shall disappear like the chaff driven away by the wind (1:4). Their way leads to destruction. We will reflect the divine nature by our constant communion with the word of God. Separation from the world is inevitable to receive blessings from God. At the same time, without their co-operation our lives will be miserable, as long as we are in the world. However, it is absolutely possible for us to live a life without absorbing the impurities of this world. How bitter were the consequences of being carried away into the world for Peter. He reached a stage where he had to deny his beloved Master. Peter who "followed afar off", ended up sitting with them to warm himself. To be carried away into the world is a gradual process. Another example before us is Lot. He was attracted to this world by its greenery, and ended up most miserably. Believers should keep themselves away from the world. What is meant by "the world"? Whatever comes, as an obstruction between God and us is the "world." It may differ from to person. To some, it may be their fortune, job, children, and family relationships and so on. In a world subject to changes, many storms and waves may lash against the boat of our lives. If the Lord is in the boat, we have no reason to fear. Let us grant priority to the Lord and His words. Let's not despise it. Let us make sure that the Lord is in the boat. May the Lord help us. END
(The writer is a freelance writer based at Secunderabad, He can be reached at:pvariel@gmail.com)
We live in a world, which is subject to changes. Every moment changes are taking place. What we see now disappears the next moment. Those who are in high places today are unceremoniously removed from there tomorrow. But in this transitory world, there remains one thing immovable. That is the Holy Bible, which we possess. But to our own shame and sorrow, we see almost everywhere an increasing tendency to belittle this priceless treasure-The BibleThis book contains the gracious words of Lord Jesus Christ; we should meditate it day and night. The first Psalm begins with the word ''Blessed''. One godly man had described it as an introduction to Psalms, which he called God's hymnbook. Whenever we hear the word ''Blessed'' the thought that comes immediately to our mind is of ''person who is perfect and self sufficient, having all things and is in need of nothing''. But in the Holy writ, this word is used in an entirely different connotation (context). It is used in relation to the word of God. In the Psalms and the gospels the word" blessed" with the same context is recorded several times. It is further clarified in Revelation 1:3. Many Old Testament saints, from Abraham are called "blessed" in the Holy Scriptures. But we, the believers are a congregation of blessed men and women, who are elevated to the height and pinnacle of it. Yea, we are a blessed people. This truth was made clear by the apostle Paul, while writing to the Ephesians (1:3; 2:7). A picture of our highly exalted position today can be viewed there.
The entire joy of the blessed man in Psalm 1 is centered in the law of the Lord. He rejoices in God's word as a man who happened to find a great booty (Psalm 119:162). It is a matter of great importance for us to know what the source and object of our joy is. Is it in the pleasures of the world? If so, it is only momentary. It is a joyful experience to find delight in God and His Word day and night. Such a man is compared to "a tree by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth its fruit in the right season; its leaf also shall not wither". The benefits we receive from a tree are many. It has been estimated that a palm tree is useful to man in more than 250 things. It is also estimated that an ordinary tree inhales approximately 14000 liters of carbon dioxide, and exhales double the quantity of oxygen for human survival. Just as a tree renders selfless service, a godly man is obliged also to serve selflessly. Let us labor without any desire for benefits; God is the rewarder. The root of such shall be established in the word of God. They receive nourishment from it for growth and maturity. That will also cause blessings to many. Let us receive strength by being rooted in Christ and His word, like the tree planted by the riverside. Those who are not so shall disappear like the chaff driven away by the wind (1:4). Their way leads to destruction. We will reflect the divine nature by our constant communion with the word of God. Separation from the world is inevitable to receive blessings from God. At the same time, without their co-operation our lives will be miserable, as long as we are in the world. However, it is absolutely possible for us to live a life without absorbing the impurities of this world. How bitter were the consequences of being carried away into the world for Peter. He reached a stage where he had to deny his beloved Master. Peter who "followed afar off", ended up sitting with them to warm himself. To be carried away into the world is a gradual process. Another example before us is Lot. He was attracted to this world by its greenery, and ended up most miserably. Believers should keep themselves away from the world. What is meant by "the world"? Whatever comes, as an obstruction between God and us is the "world." It may differ from to person. To some, it may be their fortune, job, children, and family relationships and so on. In a world subject to changes, many storms and waves may lash against the boat of our lives. If the Lord is in the boat, we have no reason to fear. Let us grant priority to the Lord and His words. Let's not despise it. Let us make sure that the Lord is in the boat. May the Lord help us. END
(The writer is a freelance writer based at Secunderabad, He can be reached at:pvariel@gmail.com)
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