Tori Kelly (credit: Benjo Arwas)

It is such an honor to be able to join Cory on this new version of one of the most powerful worship songs of this generation. —Tori Kelly

REDDING, Calif. (PRWEB)
January 10, 2020

GRAMMY®-winning pop superstar Tori Kelly joins GRAMMY®-nominated Bethel Music singer/songwriter Cory Asbury for a brand-new recording of Asbury’s 2018 genre-defying megahit, “Reckless Love.” Now available on streaming platforms, the reimagined rendition coincides with the release of Asbury’s Charisma House devotional, “Reckless Love: A 40-Day Journey Into the Overwhelming, Never-Ending Love of God.”

The new track opens with a simple acoustic guitar, putting Kelly’s soulful vocal centerstage on the first verse. Produced by LaeL (Number One Gun, kalley), the rhythmic, organic track gradually builds through Asbury’s second verse, ultimately showcasing the duo’s rich harmonies over a climactic chorus.

“Tori and I have met a few times at different awards shows, and I also connected with her husband, André, a while back over social media,” Asbury explains of the new recording’s genesis. “He told me they loved my album and were really impacted by ‘Reckless Love.’ When we were brainstorming ways to reimagine the song, we decided to rerecord it with someone we really admire. I’m a massive fan of Tori’s talent and her name came up quickly. I reached out to André and he said she would love to do it, and she absolutely destroyed the vocal!”

“Getting to be a part of this beautiful song is so special for me. I have been a big fan of Cory’s music for a while and I have seen how his music has impacted people,” Kelly told Billboard.com. “I personally have had many experiences where I have cried tears of overwhelming joy while listening to ‘Reckless Love’ and it has filled my heart with a sense of gratitude. It is such an honor to be able to join Cory on this new version of one of the most powerful worship songs of this generation.”

The duet marks Asbury’s return to the spotlight following a year-long sabbatical. His original recording of “Reckless Love,” which serves as the title-track of Asbury’s 2018 Bethel Music solo debut, quickly became one of the biggest hits in Christian music history. Written by Asbury, along with Caleb Culver and Ran Jackson, the single spent a total of 18 weeks at #1 on Christian radio charts. “Reckless Love” was also nominated for a 2019 GRAMMY® Award for Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song and took home Song of the Year and Worship Song of the Year trophies at the 49th Annual GMA Dove Awards in 2018. Embraced around the world, “Reckless Love” was recently named Billboard’s #4 Christian song of the decade and has garnered more than 144 million combined streams on Spotify and Apple Music.

“When I reflect on ‘Reckless Love’ in the context of my past year—being totally off the road and just focusing on being with my family—I hear God say, ‘You’re not behind,’” adds Asbury, who continues to serve as a worship pastor at Kalamazoo, Michigan’s Radiant Church. “Walking away from all the success the song brought might have looked like a stupid decision, but He tells us to evaluate our lives by His thoughts and His Word—that’s all that matters. For all of us, I hope hearing Him speak amidst the anxieties we face in our workplaces will correct a lot of the accusations we feel on a daily basis.”

About Bethel Music:

Bethel Music is an 11-time Dove Award-winning and GRAMMY®-nominated Christian worship ministry formed as an extension of Bethel Church in Redding, California. Beginning in 2001, Bethel Music has grown from a local church music ministry to a global outreach comprising a collective of songwriters, artists and musicians. In 2019, Billboard named Bethel Music among the top record labels in Christian music.

To date Bethel Music has released 14 corporate worship albums, seven of which reached Billboard’s Top Christian Albums chart, each carrying a unique expression of worship to inspire and unite the global church. Along with the label’s 11 Dove awards, “This is Amazing Grace” was named ASCAP’s Christian Music Song of the Year in 2015, with Cory Asbury’s “Reckless Love” earning the same honor in 2019. “Reckless Love” was also nominated for a 2019 GRAMMY® Award and was Billboard’s fourth most popular Christian song of the decade.

In addition to touring and ministering globally, Bethel Music hosts the annual “Heaven Come Conference”; a one-week worship conference, WorshipU, held on the campus of Bethel Church; and songwriting retreats in a personal setting with experienced writers. WorshipU, Bethel Music’s online school of worship, offers ongoing teaching and training programs at worshipu.com.

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One of the many paintings by artist Suzanne Zoole that will be on display at Kanuga’s Chapel of the Transfiguration, February 13-April 15.

“Churches have historically served as spaces for expression through the visual arts. Kanuga is honored to host this exhibit for Western North Carolina during Lent, a time of reflection for the community,” said Michael R. Sullivan, President of Kanuga.

HENDERSONVILLE, N.C. (PRWEB)
January 08, 2020

This winter, Kanuga’s Chapel of the Transfiguration is proud to serve as the location for Reliquaries: Paintings for Lent by Suzanne Zoole. The pieces will be on exhibit February 13-April 15 with an opening reception from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. on February 13.

“Churches have historically served as spaces for expression through the visual arts. Art opens us to thoughts and experiences too deep for words. Kanuga is honored to host this exhibit for Western North Carolina during Lent, a time of reflection for the community,” said Michael R. Sullivan, President of Kanuga.

The exhibit features 12 paintings of reliquaries—ornate and embellished boxes which are traditionally created to hold and protect religious relics. The paintings are displayed within the chapel’s transept. In front of the altar is a special piece constructed by the Suzanne’s brother, Roger Amidon. A blacksmith and seasoned craftsman, Roger rendered his version of a reliquary to be a part of this exhibition.

Suzanne’s paintings are images of reliquaries on sheets of masonite. “I thought the unrefined aspect of masonite would make a nice contrast to the gold embellishment that is associated with the fine craftsmanship of the reliquary,” said Suzanne. “I have used acrylic paints throughout with some touches of collage.”

Images on the sides of traditional reliquaries usually portray stories from the Bible. Suzanne chose to select stories from the New Testament. “I illustrated various stories beginning with Jesus’s miracles and ending with a parable,” said Suzanne. “To complete the paintings, I added a background of design and flowers to balance the colors and composition.”

The exhibit is a departure from Suzanne’s usual styles of icon painting and modern art. “Icon painting is a very meditative experience, while modern art is very creative,” said Suzanne. “Creating pieces for this exhibit was the best of both worlds. It was a combination of meditation and creativity.”

“Zoole’s paintings are inviting, expressive, and fresh interpretations of a classical form. I know that our community will appreciate sitting with them during this important time of year,” said Michael.

For more information about the art exhibit or Kanuga, please contact Melissa McGowan, Marketing Director, at mmcgowan@kanuga.org or 828-692-9136, ext. 2822.

Affiliated with the Episcopal Church since 1928, Kanuga is a 1,400-acre conference, retreat and camp center in the Blue Ridge Mountains near Hendersonville, N.C. For more information, visit http://www.kanuga.org or call 828-692-9136.

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Kanuga in Hendersonville, NC, hosts Elevate: Creation Care and Environmental Justice Conference, March 13-15.

“The Elevate Conference is a call to Episcopalians and other faith communities to take action. As people of faith, we were created to be intimately involved and caring over creation in a relational and loving way,” says Richmond Jones, Kanuga’s Director of Formation Programs.

HENDERSONVILLE, N.C. (PRWEB)
January 07, 2020

This spring, Kanuga hosts Elevate: Creation Care and Environmental Justice Conference from March 13 to March 15. Surrounded by the majestic beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the conference is designed for those eager to honor their roles as stewards of creation.

“The Elevate Conference is a call to Episcopalians and other faith communities to take action in the environmental movement. As people of faith, we were created to be intimately involved and caring over creation in a relational and loving way,” says Richmond Jones, Kanuga’s Director of Formation Programs.    

The event is hosted in collaboration with The Episcopal Church Task Force for Care of Creation and Environmental Racism, Sewanee School of Theology, Episcopal Public Policy Network (EPPN), Episcopal Relief & Development, Episcopal Diocese of Western North Carolina, and Episcopal Office of Government Relations.

Featured presenters include Rev. Melanie Mullen, the Episcopal Church’s Director of Reconciliation, Justice & Creation Care; Michele L. Roberts, Coming Clean Inc. Director of Outreach and Co-Coordinator of the Environmental Justice Health Alliance; and Dr. Andrew Thompson, assistant professor of theological ethics, director of the Sewanee Ministry Collaborative, and director of the Alternative Clergy Training at Sewanee (ACTS) Program.

The conference offers participants a chance to interact with experts involved in environmental justice and creation care. The event includes panel discussions, worship services, nature hikes, group forums, and volunteer opportunities. Sessions are designed to equip guests with the tools necessary to positively impact their church and community.

The Elevate Conference was created as a way to respond to current issues affecting communities around the world. “Environmental issues like climate change and land use are absolutely urgent matters for people of faith today,” says Andrew R. H. Thompson, Ph.D., director of the Sewanee Ministry Collaborative and director of the Alternative Clergy Training at Sewanee (ACTS) Program. “They are intimately connected to other issues of vital concern for faith communities such as racism, poverty, and social justice. That’s why Kanuga’s Elevate: Creation Care and Environmental Justice conference is so timely and important.”

Cost for the conference starts $440 with lodging and meals at Kanuga included; commuter rates are also available. For more information and reservations, visit https://www.kanuga.org

For more information about the conference or Kanuga, please contact Melissa McGowan, Marketing Director, at mmcgowan@kanuga.org or 828-692-9136, ext. 2822.

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Book Cover

Touching on topics such as mental illness, gang involvement and mass shootings, this influential story is a compelling piece on how poignant moments in one’s life can leave behind a tremendous impact.

PASADENA, Calif. (PRWEB)
January 06, 2020

Charles R. Myles II, a pastor and motivational speaker, details his journey from troubled youth to a passionate believer in Christ in his powerful memoir, “Wounded Soul: Death Lived Inside Me.” In this new book, Charles paints a clear picture of a past that sent him to a dark place as a young man and how he overcame it to begin his healing journey. Written with the intent to help others, Charles’ relatable story will touch the hearts of readers of all faiths and backgrounds.

In addition to his open and honest narrative about the pain he felt in his life, each chapter includes reflection questions that will allow readers to think about their own wellbeing. With each passing chapter, Charles emphasizes the importance of not only addressing symptoms but reaching down to the root of the problems to address the true hurt within the soul.

Touching on topics such as mental illness, gang involvement and mass shootings, this influential story is a compelling piece on how poignant moments in one’s life can leave behind a tremendous impact.

“I found Charles’ raw honesty of how he dealt with many issues in his life, both good and bad, to be very relatable to my life,” said an Amazon reviewer. “This book and the stories contained within are universal to the human experience and can be a learning (and healing) lesson for anyone.”

By understanding the author’s love for the Lord, passion for a better future and bravery in sharing his story, readers will feel inspired by “Wounded Soul: Death Lived Inside Me” and encouraged to move beyond the past and live within the fullness of the present. To learn more, please visit https://www.charlesmyles.com.

“Wounded Soul: Death Lived Inside Me”

By Charles R. Myles II

ISBN: 978-1-6847-0831-4 (sc); ISBN: 978-1-6847-0831-1 (hc); ISBN: 978-1-6847-0830-7 (e)

Available through Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Lulu

About the author

Charles R. Myles II is a husband, father, pastor, teacher, motivational speaker, and author. Charles has devoted his life to Christ and is a co-founding pastor with his wife Myhisha Myles of Harvest Village Ministries Family Church in Pasadena, California. Passionately written and faithful to his moving story, “Wounded Soul: Death Lived Inside Me” is Charles’ first published work. It is his hope his work brings encouragement to people who have been hurting and hiding pain within themselves for years.    

For Review Copies & Interview Requests Contact:    

LAVIDGE – Phoenix    

Courtney Vasquez

cvasquez@lavidge.com, 480-998-2600

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MEADVILLE, Pa. (PRWEB)
January 06, 2020

“Insights from the Soul”: a touching book of insightful poems bearing values of spirituality and empathy in life that brings wisdom to all. “Insights from the Soul” is the creation of published author Shahidah Qaiyim, a mother of ten, grandmother of twenty-five, and great-grandmother of fifteen who is also a motivational speaker, poet, writer, and commentator.

Qaiyim shares, “‘Insights from the Soul’ is a small compilation of Shahidah Qaiyim’s writings over the years. This book encourages the reader to think about their daily decisions; to put faith in God, not man; and to treat your neighbor, family, and others just a little bit better. When Shahidah decided to publish her third book, she did so because she realized that the world is in need of more honesty, positive energy, and more words of wisdom. At age eighty-four, she has decided to share her gift from God with as many people as possible; and this book is full of wisdom, love, and honesty.”

Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Shahidah Qaiyim’s new book blessed readers with wisdom and inspiration as they delve through and learn from the virtues ingrained in each poem.

This book will surely captivate the hearts of individuals and instill in them lessons on love, understanding, and honesty that bring grace in life.

View the synopsis of “Insights from the Soul” on YouTube.

Consumers can purchase “Insights from the Soul” at traditional brick-and-mortar bookstores or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or inquiries about “Insights from the Soul,” contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919.

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MEADVILLE, Pa. (PRWEB)
January 06, 2020

“Word of the Day: From 1 and 2 Timothy”: a brilliant tool for meditation that brings one the Word of God that will shower hope and guidance in life, is the creation of published author Sherol L. Southerland, an ordained minister, educator, mentor, and consultant. She is a doctoral student in educational psychology at VCU, owner of Southerland Education Consulting, LLC, and a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. As an educator and minister of the Gospel, she is passionate about teaching and strives to encourage and empower people to be their best authentic self.

Southerland shares, “Do you need encouragement, affirmation, direction, and even correction? Do you need a word from God? If you’re honest, the answer to both of those questions is YES. The word of God is alive and has much to say to guide us in this life. If you’re holding this devotional in your hands, you’re just pages away from getting the encouragement, affirmation, direction, and correction you need to not just survive in life, but to thrive in life. I encourage you to invest in yourself by taking a few minutes each day to read and meditate on the Word of the Day and how it applies to your life. You’re worth the investment. I pray that you will be encouraged, convicted, empowered, and determined to go all out for God and let your light shine for Christ as you run this Christian race.”

Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Sherol L. Southerland’s new book is a faith-strengthening read that helps one reflect on their life and be driven to act and grow on their purpose-filled Christian journey.

View a synopsis of “Word of the Day: From 1 and 2 Timothy” on YouTube.

Consumers can purchase “Word of the Day: From 1 and 2 Timothy” at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or inquiries about “Word of the Day: From 1 and 2 Timothy,” contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919.

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