Important E-Mail Address Update

On January 1, we will be changing over to a new e-mail system. E-Mail addresses for BLCS that end in either "fidnet.com" or "fidmail.com" will no longer be used. Please use the addresses before:

General BLCS E-Mail Address: registrar@biblical-life.com or regblcs@centurytel.net
Registrar: registrar@biblical-life.com or regblcs@centurytel.net
Dr. Lake - Chancellor: drlake@biblical-life.com or drlake@centurytel.net

After January first, any e-mails addressed to "Fidnet" or "Fidmail" systems will be kicked back.

The Next Step in Your Preparation

By Michael K. Lake, Th.D., D.R.E.

In the last bulletin, I shared about the call to prepare for the ministry and how that a lifestyle of study is a vital part. In this bulletin, I want to address some of the paradigms I hear continually about classroom study verses non-traditional study. To the surprise of many, this discussion will not be about the overall quality of the educational process, per se. Studies conducted by the U.S. Department of Education show that there are no real differences in the educational results of traditionally trained individuals and those that receive their training non-traditionally. The only exception to this rule would be professionals such as medical doctors, etc. Such hands on professions demand residential training.

What I want to discuss are “real world” issues that deal with life in the ministry. I can speak specifically on this issue since our only purpose is to train aspirants of biblical ministry. I have had many tell me that they need “in the classroom” experience, not because they learn more, but because they need that teacher looking over their shoulder and demanding that homework be completed each week. Although all of us have had that low level of personal motivation at one time or another in our lives, it does not work well for those in the ministry. Someone that is truly going to function well in ministry must be:

• Self-Motivated
• Self-Disciplined
• Self-Determined
• Creative
• One with a sense of real dedication.
  

The list could go on and on, but you get the idea. To succeed in ministry, you must stay motivated, disciplined, be creative in your approaches and have the determination to overcome any roadblocks the devil will throw your way. These all can be developed or should I say MUST be developed to complete your education through theological education by extension (TEE) or by whatever other catch phrase they are using in non-traditional education today. You must learn to make study, discipline and creative problem solving a part of your lifestyle, if you are going to succeed in completing your educational journey. The very skills that must be developed to complete your degree will serve you just as well as the knowledge gained in the courses you take throughout your ministry.

Getting Down to the Basics

Step One – You Have Got to Schedule Time to Study.

If you have never used a daily planner, scheduled times or made to-do lists, then you have not been that involved in ministry very long. The more that you have to do, the more necessary proper planning and controlling your time becomes.

“3 Any enterprise is built by wise planning, becomes strong through common sense, and profits wonderfully by keeping abreast of the facts.” Prov 24:3 TLB

Although I am not a big fan of the Living Bible, I think that they really hit the mark with this verse. If your life is going to prosper in what God has called you to do, then wise planning, common sense and keeping up to date is a divine must! Get a DayTimer, Franklin-Covey Planner, PDA – whatever you feel comfortable with and start using it. Plan at least three 90 minute sessions of uninterrupted study per week. Then begin working on keeping those appointments and making the best use of that time. You will find that the doers and shakers in the Kingdom of God, as well as in the business world, will constantly schedule everything. In my own life, I schedule times for morning prayer, morning exercise, times for study, writing and (since I love my wife and being married) special times with her each week. What you do not plan for and MAKE time for, you will seldom ever accomplish. This is a discipline that will serve you for the rest of your life and ministry.

Step Two – Integrate Study Habits into Your Lifestyle

The busier you get in life and ministry, the more you will need to redeem the time that you have for study. As I shared in the last bulletin, once you enter into ministry, you will really begin to study. All the study that you complete in your ministerial preparation is simply the foundation. If we endeavored to develop programs that would prepare you for everything you would face in ministry, you would be in seminary until the age of 70! The purpose of college and seminary is to give you the proper foundation and tools that you will need to use for the rest of your life. So here are some tips for redeeming the time:

1. Audio taped lectures. I cannot stress the power of these enough. It takes time to get the great truths of God deep within our spirit, mind and heart. I was recently listening to another Christian educator that stated for you to retain the information given in a lecture or sermon that you must listen to it at least 12 times. Now I am not saying that you must listen to every BLCS lecture that many times. For the purpose of our courses, I recommend that you listen to each message twice. The first time, just listen through it. Enjoy the teaching and get an overall sense of what is being said. The second time, slow down and take notes. Listen for the things that the Holy Spirit is emphasizing to you. You will be amazed at the revelation knowledge that can be generated in these lectures.

Get creative in your listening times. The wonderful thing about audio tapes, CD and MP3 files is that you can take them with you wherever you go. You can listen to them driving back and forth to work, exercising, doing housework, etc. This is why we have been working day and night to convert all of our lectures to the MP3 format. Devices like the iPod make this so much easier. On my iPod, I have about 1,000 of my favorite songs, around 37 audio books and at least 70 complete teachings from my favorite bible teachers and preachers. I keep it in my briefcase (which is usually within arm’s reach of me at all times) so I can pick it up and begin using it when I have a few moments. There are things that God is doing in my life and in my spirit that must be nurtured. Anointed teachings have always been one of the ways God has used. Could you have believed that you could have all the lectures from an entire college course sitting in your pocket and ready for your benefit at any time? Don’t you think its time that the people of God use these technologies for our benefit?

2. Keep a textbook and highlighters with you all the time. For a minister, books have always been of utmost importance. While Paul was in prison, he asked for his books to be brought to him. (2 Tim 4:13) An under-read minister is ill prepared for what life brings his way (or the life of his congregation). An under-read minister will have congregations that are hyped up every week, but seldom fed! So if you are called to ministry, books and reading will become a vital part of your life for the rest of your life. Might as well get into the habit now.

You should keep the textbook of the current course you are studying with you along with a set of highlighters. (My favorite highlighters are the Zazzle by Zebra. They work the best of any I have tested and a five color pack is available at Wal-Mart or Staples.) When you get a few spare moments, jump into your next chapter. Again, like with the audio lectures, read through the chapter first. Then go back over it again, highlighting important statements or information. If a statement is used by the Holy Spirit to spur another thought or idea, I will usually write it in the margin of the book. This way I can use it later.

Once you have read through the chapter twice, then go to the workbook and answer the questions asked. You will find many times that the statements you highlighted are the same statements the professor found important enough to write questions around.

Step Three – You Have Got to Have a Prayer Life

It is the power of the Holy Spirit and His anointing that will take these studies and transform your life. You have got to stay plugged into God. Every failure in ministry (or in a godly life) can be attributed to a failure in prayer. While you are scheduling time to study, listen to lectures or even time with your wife, remember to schedule time with God. That time breathes life into us and rejuvenates our spirit and soul.

A Final Thought

We get many questions about on-line studies. Although these work well for completing an MBA for the busy businessman, I am not fully convinced that it is the most conducive medium for training aspirants of ministry. Why? - for the very reasons I have already given. You need the time listening to anointed teachers to produce life transformations and divine impartations. You need time contemplating what is written in the books to stretch your heart and soul so that the Kingdom of God is increased in your life. For the minister, it is more than just the accumulation of knowledge. It is cultivating an environment for spiritual revelation and impartation. Without creating this type of spiritual atmosphere, I am afraid we will produce a generation of ministers that make ministry a business instead of a lifestyle!

A Call to Prepare for Ministrty

by Michael K. Lake, Th.D., D.R.E.

"Study and be eager and do your utmost to present yourself to God approved (tested by trial), a workman who has no cause to be ashamed, correctly analyzing and accurately dividing [rightly handling and skillfully teaching] the Word of Truth." 2 Tim 2:15 AMP

You have felt the leading of the Holy Spirit to start or continue your education for ministry. That is one of the reasons you contacted Biblical Life College & Seminary. You know you must start working on getting that degree, whether it is an undergraduate, graduate or doctoral degree. You know that it is a tool that you need to take you to the next level in ministry.

I want to take a few moments to examine these words of encouragement from the Apostle Paul to Young Minister Timothy. I also want to use them to debunk some of the trends in nontraditional theological education that is not only grieving my spirit, but I believe, the Holy Spirit as well.

First, most scholars agree that 2 Timothy was the last epistle the Apostle Paul ever wrote. Some even believe that he finished it the night before he became a martyr for the sake of the Gospel. Paul was not writing this letter at the beginning of Timothy’s training for ministry. Timothy was already a graduate of Paul’s School of Theology and had ministered with Paul for years. These words serve as a reminder to Timothy (and to us) that a call to ministry is a call to a lifetime of study. I love how the Amplified Bible brings out the shades of meanings in the original Greek text. "Timothy, study, be eager to study, do your utmost in filling yourself with the Word . . ." These words were written to a man that had been mentored by the Apostle Paul. Who could have asked for a better mentor, save Jesus Himself! Yet, at the end of that mentorship, the Apostle says "be eager and do your utmost in your studies."

One of the things that we have missed in becoming so Greco-Roman minded in our Western culture is we believe that when we receive a degree we have arrived. Our words to describe those that gain graduate level degrees in ministry or theology are: scholar, master teacher, and theologian. All of these are high sounding words that place the individual above everyone else. In our Hebraic Heritage, a Jewish scholar is called a "Sage." Sage means a "master learner." When he arrives, if you will, he arrives at a place to really start learning. What a difference!
This Greco-Roman mindset has permeated education, especially nontraditional theological education. Many schools boast of not how much you will learn or how much the courses will transform your life. Rather they boast at how fast they can get their degree on your wall. It is an injustice to all true theological education AND an injustice to all the saints that have gone on before us.

The abuse of life experience credits is rampant in our industry. I do not care how long you have been in ministry, the rule of thumb is a maximum of 30 semester credit hours (SCHS) at the undergraduate level. Anything more than that is cheating you and anyone you minister to. Now, if you have written books and taught extended series (10 sessions or more), those things can be examined and additional credit can be give. There is a difference. Concrete accomplishments are measured, evaluated and converted to credits. These credits are not just looking at a resume. Let me share with you a true story to prove my point:

At BLCS, we offer LECs based on documented ministry, credits for works completed such as books and extended teaching series. We also offer an Experiential Exam. This exam is one big bad bear of an exam to take - 160 essay questions. It is designed to find out what the individual knows and doesn’t know. It also helps us fill in the educational gaps he has. About ten years ago, we had a seasoned minister that was a regional director for a small Pentecostal denomination contacted us. He wanted to complete his undergraduate degree. He presented an impressive looking resume documenting 25 years of ministry with his denomination. He had not written any books or audio taped any extended teaching series. He wanted more than just the 30 SCHS that could be given for his documented ministry. We set up a time for him to take our exam locally under the supervision of a proctor. When I scored his exam, I could not believe my eyes. Out of 160 questions, he only got two correct. He even missed "Who wrote the book of Exodus?" Which is one of the easiest questions on the exam (all lengthy exams should have a freebee or two). After reviewing everything, I designed a 110 SCH program for him. I told him that with his low score that he should not even receive the full 30 SCHS based on his resume. It would be an educational blunder on our part and an injustice to him and anyone he ministered to. I really strove to design a course of study that would enable him to have the wealth of knowledge that someone in his position should really have. I did not hear from him for about three months. One day I receive an envelope from him in the mail. Naturally, I thought it was his enrollment form. "Surely he prayed through and God placed it upon his heart to really get the education that he (and all those he was leading) needed" I thought. To my surprise, all is contained was a photocopy of his brand new Bachelor degree from a well known nontraditional seminary in Florida. As I prayed about it, the Lord reminded me of the fig tree that He had cursed. Why did He curse the fig tree? Because it was presenting itself as something it was not. This man was like a fig tree full of leaves (i.e. a degree certificate hanging on the wall), but no fruit (of a real education) in his life.

The second abuse is open book exams. Come on friends! Even in High School, closed book exams are the standard! Open book exams render the education to an Institute level – not college or seminary. I don’t care what they call the school or who they are accredited by. It is institute level training, plain and simple!

The third abuse is not requiring a Thesis at the Masters level or a Dissertation at the Doctoral level. These are standards with hundreds of years of tradition. The thesis or dissertation is the proof that you have gained the knowledge and competence to receive the degree. When someone tells me they have a doctorate degree, it is not the certificate I want to look at, it is the dissertation. I want to see and read through the documentation of what God has spoken into their lives.

Finally let me answer the question on why you do not want to speed through the process. A valid college or seminary degree should do several things:

1. It should stretch you intellectually and spiritually. Easy courses do nothing for you.

2. There should be spiritual dynamics that transform your life as you go through them. [If the education does not transform you, what are you going to use to transform others with?] This is also the reason we have developed courses with audio lectures. You can listen to them again and again to get them into your heart. That’s were the transformation will take place!

3. The education should build within you the tools you will need for a lifestyle of study and research.

The study and research does not end when you graduate. Your graduation marks a place in your life where you are really ready to begin the research of a lifetime. That’s what Paul was reminding Timothy of. That is what I want to stress. You are beginning an educational journey that will take you the rest of your life to do correctly. You need it. Everyone that you will ever minister to needs you to have it. Don’t get caught up in the worldly idea of rushing to get the degree on your wall. Why not strive to get every once of knowledge, spiritual transformation and research skills possible from the school you are going to study with. Make sure you do not just have the leaves on your tree. Instead, be sure you are loaded down with the fruits of your education.

Are You Ready for 2006?

Are You Ready for 2006?

Prov 24:3 - Any enterprise is built by wise planning, becomes strong through common sense, and profits wonderfully by keeping abreast of the facts. TLB

One of the things that we “Americans” always seem to do is to wait to the last minute for most everything. Some of us learned in High School that we could postpone studying until right before the final exam and then “cram for the exam.” Most manage to graduate – some even with good grades. (But you can’t remember a year later what you studied.) In life, the grade is not what you end up with on a “paper” final exam. It is how you respond to life. Are you really prepared for what 2006 holds?

That very statement will make you think that I am prophesying disaster in 2006. Actually I am not. I have found that God cannot really bless most people because they have not prepared themselves for that either! We are unprepared for blessing or challenge. The sad part is that leaves us in a spiritual “limbo” that causes continual discontentment. You can’t buy enough things of this world to cover up the discontent you feel in your heart. The only way to stop it is to prepare spiritually. Here are some ways:

1. Systematic Study of God’s Word

If you are called to ministry then deep, systematic study is NOT something you endure while you are trying to get a degree. You need to learn the habits of study just as much as you need to learn what are in the books and lectures! After you graduate, your need for study will actually increase. When you are in ministry, people will need for you to be informed. They will need for you to have a deep knowledge of the Word of God that can only be developed by years of study – far beyond just getting a degree.

I have found that I study more now than I ever did in college or seminary. While working 12 hour days in administrating the school plus teaching a local discipleship class (as well as having time with my family and wonderful grandchildren), I create the time to read several books a month, listen to about a dozen sermons and several audio books. Notice I said “create” the time. I have learned to become creative in redeeming my time. If I am exercising, I listen to sermons or audio books. If I have a few spare minutes waiting for something, I break out the current book I am reading. I am constantly feeding myself spiritually and intellectually because my family, my disciples and my students need me to. In fact, I need me to as well. Paul reminds us in 2 Timothy 2:15:

“Study and be eager and do your utmost to present yourself to God approved (tested by trial), a workman who has no cause to be ashamed, correctly analyzing and accurately dividing [rightly handling and skillfully teaching] the Word of Truth.” AMP

This was written to Timothy, not while he was in Paul’s School of Theology, but after he had been trained and released into ministry. Paul knew for Timothy to be successful in life and ministry that a continued lifestyle of study was required.

In fact, within our Hebraic heritage, the Rabbis believed that the highest form of worship was study. Why? They knew it was not enough to just worship God by lifting their hands to Him and telling Him how much they loved Him. For them, the greatest love was expressed when they studied to find out how He wanted them to live and then to live life that way. I must say, I agree with the Rabbis of old!

2. A Systematic Prayer Life

I use the word “systematic” because I believe that we need to systematically build prayer into our lifestyle. How much do we spend time seeking the face of the Lord? Notice I said “face” in contrast to “hands.” It is through relationship that we draw spiritual strength from Him. Not in the time we are just asking Him for things. Like Brother Lawrence, we need to learn to practice the presence of God. This includes time alone with Him and purposely building a lifestyle of continual conversations with Him. There needs to be a running dialogue that becomes natural through systematic, purposeful development.

Bringing It All Together

1. If you are already a student with BLCS – pick back up your lessons, roll up your sleeves and get back to work. You need those studies deep down in your spirit. Your family needs for you to have them deep down in your spirit. Anyone that you will ever minister to needs for you to have them deep down into your spirit. That is also why we use audio lectures so much. It helps you get those truths deep down into your spirit. (Do you notice a theme here?) You can listen to them over and over again. Every year I get letters from graduates that went back to our tapes and listened to them again in times of challenge. They brought strength, encouragement and revelation for the situation.

I commission you, in Jesus name, to make study and prayer a lifestyle. May the Holy Spirit aid you in making it a high priority. Whether 2006 holds new challenges, blessings or both – you need to be ready to face them or receive them!

2. If you are looking at enrollment with BLCS – don’t believe the Devil’s lie to put it off till tomorrow. He will see to it that you will always be too busy! He wants you to believe that you do not have time to study and pray as you should. I have the anointing of God upon me right now to tell you that you don’t have time NOT to study and pray. God wants to take you to the next level. That transition is not going to just fall on you out the blue! God wants to build it into your life. God wants to work with you to make it happen. But He can’t do it if you just sit there on your hands hoping that one day it will come.

Now, I am going to tell you something that no other Seminary Presidents will ever tell you. Are you ready? If God has called you to complete your education for ministry – get the catalogs, pray through until you hear from God which school you are to study with and then ENROLL. Don’t look for a spiritual Wal-Mart that will give you the best deal or quickest way to a degree. (Schools that make the studies easy or give quick ways to get that degree on your wall are cheating you and everyone you will ever minister to!) Find the school that God wants you to study with and then do every course they will let you do! Get so deep in the Word that the Devil can’t find you any more! It’s the education and discipline that you learn while going through the process that will enable you for ministry and life. The Devil really doesn’t care what degree you have hanging on your wall, if the knowledge and discipline are not in your heart and life. Get out of the Valley of Indecision and get in the Mountain of Dedication and Commitment! It will change you and empower you for an overcoming life and ministry – in Jesus name!

Tape, CD & MP3 Set Special

Tape & CD Special

Now through the end of December, all tape, CD and MP3 CD set orders for course materials will receive 10% off and free shipping. These orders can be called in, faxed in, mailed in or placed through our on-line store.

If you are mailing or faxing in the orders, subtract 10% of the price of the tape or CD set (Books are not discounted in this special) and subtract the shipping charges.

If you are placing the order on-line, we will subtract the discount and take off shipping before we process your order. This saves us from having to reprogram an entire shopping cart.

Any other items included in the order, such as books, will be given free shipping if included with the tape or CD set order.

Orders must be received by December 31, 2005.

Darcy Kent goes on to be with the Lord

We received this from Dr. Kent today:
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At 4:30 p.m. MST October 28, 2005, the doctors pronounced Darcy Kent as brain dead. It is my opinion that Darcy was with Jesus five days earlier. Rather than sustaining life, the life support systems only prolonged her death. My son Stephan and his two children, Tyler (21) and Sammy (17) have serious choices to make in the coming days. So do I, his three sisters and Darcy’s two sisters and brother. We have found the Grace of God sufficient and His peace made perfect. My prayer is that the presence and peace of God will be so manifested in their lives, that they will be amazed at the calm in the midst of such upheaval. Thank you for your continued prayer support. Your many emails have been a tremendous encouragement to us – particularly me. How comforting it is for us to know that you are interceding on our behalf. Thank you. Love you! - Wilf

Urgent Prayer Request from Dr. Kent

I received this urgent prayer request from Dr. Kent this morning. Let's pray for his family and believe for a full recovery!
===========================
Last evening my daughter-in-law, Darcy Kent (39), my son Stephan’s wife suffered a severe cardiac arrest. She was without a pulse for 15 minutes. She is on life support and the Dr. said that she sustained brain damage. I have never see anyone as devastated as is my son. He lost his mother 18 months ago and now his wife’s life is threatened. He is destitute. I would carry his burden barefooted for him, but this is one load he must. God is able to bring healing to anyone He chooses. We pray that this trial will becomes a powerful testimony and that God will restore her physical and mental capacities. We are prisoners of faith and hope. In the day of my trouble I will call upon thee: for thou wilt answer me – Psalms 86:7 You have been immense source of strength and encouragement to me during my wife’s illness and home going. I come to you for strength once again. - Wilf

Welcoming New Students

We would like to welcome:

• Donald Banks of GA into our Master of Divinity in Hebraic Herigage Studies
• Craig Perkins of OH into the Diploma in Biblical Counseling Program

May God place the anointing of a Bible student upon you and may you glean great life-changing truths from His Word!

New Website Launched for the National Chaplains Association

We just completed work on a new domain and website for the National Chaplains Association. The new site is:

http://www.nca-hq.org

Let us know what you think!

Update on Dr. Varvel and the National Chaplains Association

About 90 days ago, Dr. Varvel and his wonderful wife, Mary Ellen, stopped by our offices for a few days. One of the reasons for the visit was to brainstorm on ways that his office and mine could better serve the NCA chaplains.

In the course of our conversation, I found that Dr. Varvel was suffering from cataracts and had been putting off having surgery. Since my mother had this done several years ago, I was able to encourage him that it was no big deal and to have it done as soon as possible. [There is just too much to do in the Kingdom of God to let something like cataracts slow you down!]

About a month ago, Dr. Varvel kind of fell off the correspondence radar. I had a hunch that he was taking care of his eye problem. I received word this morning that he just had surgery on his second eye and all went well. They are hoping that he will have great vision without the need for glasses (keep this in your prayers) and he should start catching up with his e-mails and letters shortly.

I appreciate the prayers all of you have given for Dr. Varvel and your patience in his unusual delay in responding to your e-mails and letters. Things should be back to normal or even better than normal very shortly!

Interesting news about Katrina, Our President & the Press

I received this e-mail from one of our students and I thought it was interesting enough to pass it along to you.

=========================
Closer scrutiny reveals the lies surrounding Katrina evacuation and recovery
Thought this was interesting.... Lee Hood.

By Linda Prussen-Razzano
web posted September 5, 2005

Having lived on Long Island for most of my life, I weathered only the most minor effects of hurricanes. Typically, their devastating strength drained along the coastline as they churned northwards. When I was a child, my father comforted me through Hurricane Belle; not by holding me and telling me everything would be alright, but by his activity in securing our house, his purchase of supplies and preparations, and his explanations of hurricanes and their threats.

While the storm whipped overhead, my piqued curiosity prompted me to ask about all different kinds of natural disasters. We passed the time discussing typhoons, tornadoes, earthquakes, and floods. I never thought I would use this information, but I did; twice.

At 19, my passenger and I found ourselves caught in the only flash flood in the history of Long Island. What started as a heavy rain became an overwhelming downpour within minutes. Not unlike the City of New Orleans, the patch of road on which I traveled was nestled in a natural funnel. In the space of minutes, we experienced more rain in that small bit of road alongside Eisenhower Park than all of Long Island had received in a year. With traffic surrounding me, I had not choice but to inch forward to the overpass that would take me to higher ground. Just moments before my car cleared the water now pouring in under my doors, the engine stalled, and my Monte Carlo sank back down the embankment, eventually to be completely submerged.

We had to wait until the water rose inside the car and the pressure stabilized before we could get out.

The gas pumps at the corner station began bubbling up, turning the water so black you couldn’t see your hand just two inches under the surface. An elderly man, trapped in his car, didn’t want to leave. Plodding through chest deep water, my passenger and I managed to get his door open and help him slog back to safety.

Everyone caught in that mess experienced a loss, but it is nothing compared to Katrina.

The second time I used my father’s sage advice came when I moved to Texas. In the bottom tip of the tornado belt, I knew what to do when the sky turned an ominous shade of green, the clouds started rotating above my head, and where to seek shelter to maximize my potential for living. It was in those few moments, when the doors and windows rattled and I imagined that my new house would be reduced to kindling around me, that all my priorities changed…forever.

The folks in Louisiana and Mississippi experienced wide scale devastation during Katrina. New Orleans, and other parts of the coast, experienced a second, even more devastating blow from the horrible flooding. One is bad enough, but both? It’s a catastrophe beyond comprehension, and our fellow Americans need our compassion, our generosity, and our understanding as they rebuild their entire lives.

We should be coming together, as we did after other catastrophic events in the last decade, to help and heal.

Sadly, that is not the case.

What I find astonishing is the almost immediate response from Bush Bashers to blame everything that happened, from the actual hurricane itself, to the anarchy that quickly erupted, on the President and his administration. When they do so, they not only distort the truth, they outright lie to the public, and they are doing so daily through any media venue that will give them the opportunity.

Lie #1: President Bush doesn’t care about the people of New Orleans.

This outrageous lie is thoroughly debunked by the fact that it was President Bush who pushed for a mandatory evacuation of New Orleans.(1) Governor Blanco issued only a voluntary evacuation order, but admitted that she received a call from the President on August 27, 2005, urging her to make it a mandatory one. He wanted as many people as possible out of the path of the storm.

So much for the President not caring.

Despite the fact that New Orlean’s own Emergency Response Guidelines call for a mandatory evacuation of the City if a strike by a Category 3 Hurricane is projected, with 72 hours advance notice to all residents, Mayor Nagin didn’t order a mandatory evaluation until Sunday. Further, he only did so after Max Maxfield, the National Hurricane Director, called Nagin at his home to plead that he empty the City. (2)

Why did Nagin wait so long? He was worried about the legalities. If people want to affix blame, perhaps they can look at lawyers.

How ironic, that The Drudge Report (3) and Free Republic (4) have pictures of dozens of New Orleans’ submerged and now useless school buses, buses that could have been used to transport residents out of the City prior to the storm, bring in supplies after the storm, and help evacuees escape the flooding. Meanwhile, Governor Blanco issued a request to the State of Louisiana to provide her with buses from local school districts.

According to a Washington Post report on Sunday, September 4, “Shortly before midnight Friday, the Bush administration sent her a proposed legal memorandum asking her to request a federal takeover of the evacuation of New Orleans, a source within the state's emergency operations center said Saturday.”

Bush’s offer to have the federal government aid in the evacuation was rejected. (5)

Lie #2: The Bush Administration was slow in coordinating help.

Mike Brown, Under Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security for Emergency Response and Preparedness, received the order from President Bush on August 27, two full days before the storm hit the region, to prepare for Katrina disaster relief. (6) The President also declared the entire region under a State of Emergency, so that FEMA could coordinate efforts at the request of the Governors. (7) Under the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, the Federal Government and FEMA are not allowed to interfere with local operations unless they are authorized by state and local leaders.

Blanco did not authorize this until September 1, 2005.

Further, according to an Association Press report on August 30, “The federal government began rushing baby formula, communications equipment, generators, water and ice into hard-hit areas of Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama, along with doctors, nurses and first-aid supplies. The U.S. Defense Department sent experts to help with search-and-rescue operations.” (8) FEMA was there and helping, in the capacity that was allowed by local officials, but could not swing into full gear until after Blanco gave them permission.

Lie #3: The Bush Administration did nothing to control the anarchy.

The local and state governments have control over law enforcement activities in their state, and such activities could only be coordinated through the federal government with their permission. It was not until terrible reports of rapes and violence, videos of looting, and reports of shoots being fired at rescue workers did Governor Blanco relinquish any claim of control on an out-of-control city.

An August 31, 2005 Fox News Report reveals, “The looting prompted authorities to send more than 70 additional officers and an armed personnel carrier into the city. One police officer was shot in the head by a looter but was expected to recover, authorities said. Blanco said she will ask President Bush for military troops to help keep looting under control.” (9) Almost immediately thereafter, FEMA, the military, and the Bush Administration began to restore order.

Further, on September 2, 2005, the Bush administration “sought unified control over all local police and state National Guard units reporting to the governor. Louisiana officials rejected the request after talks throughout the night, concerned that such a move would be comparable to a federal declaration of martial law.” (10)

Lie #4: The Bush Administration did nothing to prevent the flooding.

Predictions of wide spread devastation have been known since Hurricane Camille in 1969. Despite these, it was local officials who reportedly appropriated funds designated for levee improvements towards such necessary purchases as a casino, hotel, and other projects.

Amazing, isn’t it?

From the carnage inside the Superdome, to the massacre of the truth on television, this is a sad time for all of America.

Just don’t forget who helped all this to happen….because despite what the media wants you to believe, it wasn’t President Bush.

Linda Prussen-Razzano is frequent contributor to Enter Stage Right and a number of other online magazines.

Footnotes:

1. Associated Press, “Mandatory Evacuation Ordered for New Orleans,” August 28, 2005, 10:48 a.m. CT.

2. Knight Ridder Newspapers, “National Hurricane Director had to call Nagin at home Saturday night to plead: "Get people out..." by Marc Caputo, David Ovalle, and Erika Bolstad, August 28, 2005

3. www.drudgereport.com

4. www.freerepublic.com

5. Washington Post, “Many Evacuated, but Thousands Still Waiting, White House Shifts Blame to State and Local Officials,” Manuel Roig-Franzia and Spencer Hsu, Washington Post Staff Writers, Sunday, September 4, 2005; Page A01

6. FEMA Press Release, “Emergency Aid Authorized For Katrina Emergency Response In LA” August 27, 2005

7. Associated Press, “Bush Declares Emergency in Louisiana,” August 27, 2005

8. Associated Press, “Federal Government sent emergency supplies to Louisiana as early as Tuesday,” August 30, 2005

9. Fox News.com, “It’s Not Safe In New Orleans,” August 31, 2005

10. Washington Post, Ibid

Several Thoughts about the Disaster in the South

Each morning and evening I watch the news weeping and in prayer for all those touched by this hurricane. I know that some are dismayed at how long it has taken for the Federal government to get moving on this. We need to look at two things here:

1. The best I can figure, at least 40% of the National Guard and Reservists are overseas fighting the war against terrorism. The percentage may be even higher. To say that they are already stretched beyond their limits is an understatement. We need to pray for our officials and the troops on the ground that they can move swiftly and under the anointing of the Holy Spirit to get their jobs done.
2. We need to understand the magnitude of this disaster. It covers several states. One small area is easy to provide aid, but over three states are almost impossible. Again, we need to pray for wisdom beyond human understanding. Almighty God needs to give His wisdom to our officials on what to do.

There is also a spirit of anarchy loose in New Orleans. Who in their right minds will shoot at rescue crews that are only trying to save lives. It has delayed the evacuation of the sick in several hospitals to the place were many have died waiting for transport. Then we add to the mix gangs of armed men roaming the streets, robbing the victims and reports of raping the women. Body of Christ, it is time we hit our knees and bound up this spirit. It will make the job so much easier on the troops trying to restore order if we do.

If you have a denomination that has the support mechanism in place to offer relief, pray about making a contribution. For those independent ministers, I want to pass along an e-mail I received from Dr. John Looper at the Restoration Fellowship International. If you feel impressed by the Holy Spirit to give through RFI to help the needy over the long haul, here would be a great place:

====================================
Dear Pastors, Ministers, Associates & Friends of RFI:

You are probably like me, as you watch the largest natural disaster
in United States history unfolding in the Gulf Coast region, it's hard
to sleep at night as your heart brakes for the suffering and the dying.
The immense magnitude of this disaster has overwhelmed our gover-
mental structures, agencies and people.

I have already been receiving calls from various places, as to when
and how the RFI association should respond with a unified Home Missions
faith based relief effort to this incomprehensible disaster.

Since this will be a long process, requiring months of relief and emergency
assistance efforts by our nation and by faith based ministries (such as RFI),
I propose that we encourage all of the RFI congregations and associates to
begin to raise and set aside money resources for Home Missions relief efforts.

I also propose, that as soon as the government agencies and first responders
do their initial work over the next few weeks to gain control of the situation and
to determine how faith based ministries can best respond to the enormous
continuing needs, that we collectively come up with a plan of action involving
both volunteers and monetary donations to help our brothers and sisters and
fellow citizens in the Gulf Coast region.

Please give this your heartfelt consideration and respond to me with
your thoughts and suggestions on this urgent matter.

"God bless America. Let Your grace, mercy and compassion rest upon us."
This is my intercessory prayer!

Your friend and servant,

Dr. John Looper
Executive Director

=====================================
Here is their contact information:

Restoration Fellowship Int.
P.O. Box 5822
Cleveland, TN 37320-5822
E-Mail: Jlo2357327@aol.com
Phone: 423/479-4249
Fax: 423/479-4282

Welcome New BLCS Student

We would like to welcome Jerry Cox of GA into our Master of Theological Studies Program. Welcome to the student family of Biblical Life!

New 2005-2006 BLCS Catalog Available

New 2005-2006 catalog now available. You can download it in PDF format at:
http://www.biblical-life.com/Cat_Down_Req.htm

Prayer Request

We received this prayer request from Dr. John Fryters and our campus in Prince Albert, Canada:

=======================
Could you please pray for Cory Havanka, husband of Brenda Havanka, a relatively new student of CHAKAM/BLCS ?

Cory in his mid thirties and his doctors have found a fair size tumor in his neck and throat. It has been given him breathing problems. They have now scheduled various tests (CAT scans, biopsies, etc...).

He has asked for prayer.

Could we please inform the student body and other sources if possible ? Thank you so much.

We are only going to believe good reports. Jesus is our Healer!!!

John

================================

Let's keep Cory in prayer. Jesus still heals and delivers today!

Tape Special Extended

We have had several reports that there were problems with our on-line shopping cart for students trying to order tapes. We have been tweaking the site - trying to figure out what is causing the glitch. Because of this, we are extending the tape special of $10.00 per tape set used in our programs and free shipping until the end of August. Here are some additional changes:

This will be extended to all orders mailed in or faxed into our offices. Simply write "August Tape Special" on the form before mailing or faxing it in.

Welcome New BLCS Student

We would like to welcome Lee Embrey of Oxford, MS to our Master of Divinity Program. We are excited to have you as a part of the BLCS Student Family! May God anoint you with the anointing of a Bible Student as you begin your program!

Welcome New IEN Campus

We would like to welcome Agape Bible Institute to the BLCS International Educational Network. This new campus is under the capable leadership of Dr. Daniel L. Brown in Alexandria, VA. May God use ABI to effectively train His people for powerful ministry!

Welcome to the evergrowing BLCS family of campuses worldwide!

Welcome New IEN Campus in Japan!

We would like to welcome Bibleway Life Development Institute (Japan) as a new campus under our International Educational Network. Bibleway is under the capable leadership of:

• Calvin B. Gardner Sr. - President
• John P. Craig - Dean
• Alicia McQueen - Registrar

Please keep this new work in your prayers! We know that God will use this new campus to train many for ministry in Japan!

Welcome new BLCS Student

We would like to extend a warm welcome to Gale Giandelone of Louisiana into our Associate of Biblical Counseling Program. We are so glad to have you as the newest member of the growing BLCS Student Body. May God use this program to equip you to heal the hurting all around you!

Welcome New BLCS Student

We would like to welcome Matthew Fiduccia of New York into our Master of Divinity Program. May God use this program to fully prepare you for the ministry He has called you to. Welcome to the BLCS Student Family!

Dr. Kent Publishes New Book to Give Hope in the Times of Loss

Dr. Wilf Kent publishes new book.

As many of you know, Dr. Donna Kent passed away last year after a struggle with cancer. As Dr. Kent worked his way through the grief process, God began to birth in him some wonderful truths to help others through their journey of grief. His new book "Comfort in Times of Grief: A Love Story and the Struggles of Faith" is a timely, heartwarming book that will give comfort and hope to call that read it. This book is a wonderful resource to counselors, pastors and those that have lost loved ones.

You can order his book at the following link:
http://www.xulonpress.com/bookstore/titles/1594678790.htm

Rev. John W. Duggan is one of our ministers with the United Full Gospel Churches (UFGC). We received word that he has been deployed to Iraq with the 127th Infantry as a Reservist. He believes with all of his heart that he will not only be serving our country as a soldier, but can make a real difference for the LORD is the lives of the U.S. soldiers there. Please join with us in praying for him that God would protect him and use him greatly during this tour of duty. 

BLCS Course Tape Sale!

BLCS Tape Special

Attention BLCS Students! July is Audio Tape Lecture Month. All tape sets for our courses are on sale. All tape orders received through our web store will receive:

• $10.00 off the regular price.

• Free Priority Mail Shipping (in the U.S. only)

Simply go to the website and place your order. Once we receive the order in our offices, we will take off $10.00 from the price and take off any shipping charges. (This saves us from having to reprogram our entire shopping cart). We will then e-mail you back with the adjusted price before shipping out your order.

Offer ends July 29

http://www.biblical-life.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc

Congratulations to Our June Graduates

Congratulations to these fine students that graduated this June:

• Timothy De Vine - Diploma in Biblical Counseling
• Aleshal McIntyre - Diploma in Biblical Studies
• Eric Acosta - Diploma in Biblical Studies
• Johnette González - Diploma in Biblical Studies
• Ernesto Vazquez - Diploma in Biblical Studies
• Clifford Knight - Associate of Biblical Studies
• Evelyn Ramos - Associate of Biblical Studies
• Jesusa Cajigas - Diploma in Biblical Studies
• Eva Alice Martinez - Diploma in Biblical Studies
• Gwendolyn Medlin-Lindsay - Diploma in Biblical Studies
• Marie A. Mike - Diploma in Biblical Studies
• Sharon Nisbett - Diploma in Biblical Studies
• Yolanda Rivera - Diploma in Biblical Studies
• Lizanne Espina - Associate of Biblical Studies
• Janette Tirado - Associate of Biblical Studies
• Margaret Vinson Walker - Associate of Biblical Studies
• Sonia M. Armstrong - Graduate of Biblical Studies
• Jose Cruz - Graduate of Biblical Studies
• Judith Cruz - Graduate of Biblical Studies
• Olive Rose Higgins - Graduate of Biblical Studies
• Gloria Olmo - Graduate of Biblical Studies
• John Amandwaah - Bachelor of Biblical Studies
• Cecilia Ortiz - Bachelor of Biblical Studies
• Winsome Dariah - Diploma in Biblical Studies
• Jacqueline Massey-Greene - Diploma in Biblical Studies
• Venton Forbes - Diploma in Biblical Studies
• Kennedy Martin - Diploma in Biblical Studies
• Donna Massiello - Diploma in Biblical Studies
• Sandra Whitt-McKinney - Associate of Biblical Studies
• Michael Morawski - Graduate of Biblical Studies
• Lynda Costen - Bachelor of Biblical Studies
• Monica Cedeno - Associate of Biblical Studies
• Lara Davis - Associate of Biblical Studies
• Edith Martin - Associate of Biblical Studies
• Lillette Snagg - Associate of Biblical Studies
• Thelma Ranger - Diploma in Biblical Studies
• Bernice Ford - Associate of Biblical Studies
• Mamie J. Gallaher - Associate of Biblical Studies
• Yvonne D. Gallaher - Associate of Biblical Studies

New Enrollments for June

We would like to welcome these new students in the month of June:

Robert Harvey

• Diploma in Hebraic Heritage Studies

Timothy DeVine

• Associate of Biblical Counseling

Earnestine Diaz

• Master of Biblical Counseling

Connie Higginbotham

• Double Diploma in Biblical Studies & Biblical Counseling

Javon Ruff

• Diploma in Biblical Studies

Don't Waste Another Summer Tuition Special has been Expanded

This Summer you would invest in the most important thing in your life - the ministry that God has called you to! Now is a great time to enroll at BLCS and make your Summer count for God! Now extended and expanded with even better discounts!

1. Using Plan B (Monthly Payment Plan) - We will make your first monthly payment.

2. Using Plan C (Full Tuition with Enrollment)

• Undergraduate & MTS Programs: 35% off

• 45 - 60 SCH Masters & Doctoral Programs: 35% off

• Master of Divinity Programs: 40% off

Here’s how it works.

If you are enrolling using Plan B, just fill out the application and mail it in with your $75.00 down payment. Once your enrollment has been processed, BLCS will make your first payment.

If you are enrolling using Plan C, fill out the application and deduct your discount off the total tuition. Here is an example:

Example:

Master of Divinity in Biblical Counseling

• Enrollment Fee: $50.00

• Tuition (90 SCHS x $62.00) : $5,580.00

• 40% Discount for paying full tuition with enrollment: -$2,232.00 (This is YOUR SAVINGS)

• Adjusted Tuition + Enrollment Fee: $ $3,310.00

It’s that simple! Your enrollment must be received by August 30, 2005 to qualify! This is the best savings ever offered by BLCS. It doesn't get any better than this!

Don't waste another Summer. Make it count for God!

Back from Summer Break

June was filled with graduations and then . . . Vacation. :-) Now that I am back in the office, I will begin updating the BLOG site within a few days. Thanks for your patience as I answer a ton of e-mails, letters and grading. The vacation was great, but now its time to roll up my sleeves and get back to work!

Humansville Church Looking for New Pastor

We received a phone call this week from the Secretary of the Humansville Full Gospel Church that they are looking for a new pastor. Humansville is a small Missouri town with a population of about 1,000. This small church has an attendance of around 75 on Sunday morning. If you are interested, contact:

Billie Willcutt
Humansville Full Gospel Church
PO Box 62
Humansville MO 65674-0062

New Test Drive Special

New Test Drive Special: All Test Drives ordered received from May 26 through June 30th will be given a discount of $25.00! Once an order is received from the website, we will take deduct the $25.00 discount before processing your order.

Test Drive Offering Expansion Completed!

We have expanded the BLCS Test Drive from 2 courses to 17 courses that are available at the Undergraduate and Graduate levels. Now prospective students have a greater sampling of the life-changing materials at BLCS. To view all the new courses offered in the Test Drive Program, use the URL below:

http://www.biblical-life.com/BLCStestdrive.htm

Experience for yourself the BLCS difference!

Dr. Lake Coming to Portland, OR

Priesthood of the Believer Seminar - August 12 & 13. In this two day seminar you will discover:

• What is the basis for the priesthood of the believer?
• What are our duties?
• What is the resonance of God's voice in the earth?
• What is the double-stream?
• How can I created an atmosphere of God's peace (Shalom) around me?
• How can I fulfill God's plan for my life and my family?
• Is there a balance of grace and works in the life of a believer?
• And much more - all from a Hebraic point of view!

Location:
The Church Without Walls
Pastor Clyde Lewis
906 NE Ainsworth
Portland OR 97211
For times, call: 503-228-1078
Or e-mail: tcww100@hotmail.com

Where’s The Feedback?

Last week we asked if there were any modules our student body would like to see added to the list of those under development. To date, we have only received one suggestion. That can mean one of two things: (1) Our offerings are so perfect that there is no room for improvement, or (2) None of our students read that part of the eJournal. [We did hear from many non-BLCS students in the US and six other countries that love the articles and messages we are posting!] Help us improve our programs and make them better with solid, thoughtful feedback! You can help us help you and others.

E-mail your suggestions to: bfeedbac@fidmail.com

The Expanding of the Test Drive Materials

Over the next two weeks, we will be expanding the BLCS Test Drive Materials to include:

• BBL 208/508The Christ-Centered Life

• CSN 307/807 The Exciting Christian Marriage

• CSN 203/603 Frankly Speaking

• BBL 311/511 The Well-Organized Ministry

• THE 402/802 The Well-Defined Philosophy

• CSN 204 Fundamentals of Pastoral Counseling

• NTS 100 New Testament Survey

• OTS 100 Old Testament Survey

• BBL 100/500 The Life of Faith

• BBL 309/509 The Priesthood of the Believer

• BBL 103/503 Spiritual Warfare I

• BBL 312/512 Spiritual Warfare 2

• BBL 417/517 The Prophetic Ministry

• BBL 414/514 Ministry Leadership 1

• BBL 206/506 Fruit of the Spirit

These special test drive courses include the cost of tuition and all materials need to complete the program. There will be two prices for each module: (1) Undergraduate and (2) Graduate. These modules are available to those wanting to take one module at a time (Plan A), want to see if BLCS and nontraditional education is right for them before they enroll, or graduates who would like to take a particular module to enhance their ministry.

We should have these added to our website by the end of next week. If you have any questions about them, you can e-mail our Registrar at regblcs@fidnet.com .

http://www.biblical-life.com/BLCStestdrive.htm

The Sabbath – Lecture Three Now Posted

I have uploaded lecture three of “The Sabbath – A Biblical Investigation” to our website in MP3 format. There will be a delay of a few days before we post the chapter in pdf format. While teaching the session, the Holy Spirit began to move strongly with prophetic insights. I am working hard to update the written chapter to include those new insights. They will be a really blessing to everyone!

http://www.biblical-life.com/swrc/

Dr. Stockton will be missed by all of our students worldwide. We look forward to seeing him soon in Glory! 

Feedback From Our Student Body

We are currently making plans for course development for 2005 – 2006. We currently have planned the following new courses:

• The Power of Personal Leadership
• Spiritual Warfare III (from a Hebraic Mindset)
• Volunteer Prison Chaplain (for our National Chaplains Institute)

If there are other subjects that you would like to see developed, please let us know! E-Mail me at bfeedbac@fidmail.com . I will take your suggestions to our Course Development Committee. Your suggestions count and will help us improve the quality of our courses!

The Next Chapter of “The Sabbath – A Biblical Investigation” Has Been Posted

I have posted the fourth chapter in the new book “The Sabbath – a Biblical Investigation.” Since there are graphics, as well as Greek and Hebrew used in this work, I am posting them in Adobe Acrobat to insure they maintain their formatting.

I have also modified the MP3 recordings of the lectures from 128 kbps to 80 kbps. The sound quality has not been affected much by the change. The good news is that it reduced the size of the files from 75 meg to around 40 meg each. The second lecture is now available.

I would love feedback from our student body on this series. [Send your comments to: bfeedbac@fidmail.com ] I am also planning a new series on “The Power of Personal Leadership” that will begin in July. If response is good from this series, I will consider posting the one on leadership as well.

http://www.biblical-life.com/swrc/index.htm

A Great Man of God Goes On To Be With The Lord

Dr. Curtis O. Stockton, one of our great professors of Biblical Counseling went to be with the Lord on May 7. Dr. Stockton has had heart trouble for many years. Just a few weeks before he passed away he had bypass surgery. His recovery seemed to be going well. While recuperating at home, he simply sat down in his easy chair and went on to be with the Lord.

We ask all of our students and graduates to keep his family in your prayers.

Cheaper Software for Students

One of the perks of being in College or Seminary is that many software vendors offer discounts on their programs to students (you just need to know where to look). One of the top retail computer companies in America, Computer Discount Warehouse (CDW) offers a complete line of "academic" versions of software for students. They have set up a special page on their site for BLCS students. Our students will be able to access academic pricing on hundreds of software packages from Microsoft, Adobe and many others. The URL to enter this site is below:

http://www.cdwg.com/bcs

An Update on the Sabbath Writings

I have posted updated editions of the Introduction and Chapters 1-2. You will also find Chapter 3 now on the website. Would anyone be interested in the audio lectures? I taught the Intro - Chapter 3 this past week. I can upload it to the site in mp3 format. It is about a 70 meg file. If there is enough interest, I would be more than happy to do upload the audio lectures each week.

http://biblical-life.com/swrc/index.htm

Welcome Scott Kimball

We would like to welcome Scott Kimball of Neenah into a Custom Bachelor of Biblical Studies Program. It is our prayer that God will anoint you with the anointing of a Bible student to dig deep within His Holy Word. Welcome to our evergrowing student family - worldwide!

The Sabbath - A Biblical Investigation

I have begun working on a new book entitled "The Sabbath: A Biblical Investigation." I have posted the Introduction and the first two chapters at the URL below. I am hoping to add at least one new chapter each week. I would appreciate comments for our student body.

http://biblical-life.com/swrc/index.htm#The_Sabbath_-_A_Biblical_Investigation

Great Savings on an Entry Level Notebook Computer

I received a phone call today from our representative at CDW (Computer Discount Warehouse). They are having a great sale on an entry level Toshiba notebook computer. ($799.99) He thought it would be great for our many budget conscious students. The link for the CDW sist is below:

http://www.cdwg.com/shop/products/default.aspx?EDC=760394

If you have any questions, here is Robert's information. CDW is working hard to service BLCS and our student body.

Robert DeBartolo
CDW - Higher Education Account Manager
230 N. Milwaukee Ave
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Phone: 847-968-9388 · Fax: 847-968-1388
Toll Fee: 866-723-1719
E-Mail: robedeb@cdwg.com

Welcome New BLCS Student

We would like to welcome Regina Orange of Portland into the Diploma in Biblical Counseling Program. She is one of many coming from Pastor Clyde Lewis' Church. We hope to soon have a campus established in his Church as well. May God continue to move and bless in Portland!

Welcome New BLCS Student

We would like to warmly welcome Sky Sin of Hong Kong into our Diploma in Hebraic Heritage Studies. Sky is one of many new students in Hong Kong. May God richly bless her and prepare her to fulfill her calling in Him!

Welcome New BLCS Student

We would like to welcome John Coats of Philadelphia into our Master of Divinity Program. Welcome to the growing BLCS Student Family!

NCI Chaplain Certification Level 2 Now In Development

Our National Chaplains Institute is hard at work at completing level 2 certification for chaplains through the National Chaplains Association. Level 2 certification will focus on Volunteer Prison Chaplains and will have four modules:

• Volunteer Prison Chaplain
• Psychology of Biblical Counseling
• Spiritual Warfare 1
• Prison Chaplain Practicum

We hope to have this new program completed by June 1. Level 1 certification will be required before this new program can be taken.

ABLE - Canada Office Now Open

We are pleased to anounce that the Association of Biblical Life Educators (ABLE) now has a division in Canada. This office is operated by our colleage, Dr. John Fryters and serves all of the ABLE members in Canada. For our students and friends in Canada, you will find the ABLE-Canada website at http://www.worldoutreach.ca/ABLE/index.htm

New four tape series by Dr. Lake on the Biblical concepts of health and healing. For more information on this exciting series, go to our Biblical Life On-line Store.

Welcome New BLCS Student

We would like to welcome Jaazer Graig into our Bachelor of Biblical Counseling degree program! Welcome to the BLCS Student Family!

Congratulations to a New BLCS Graduate

We would like to extend a warm congratulations to Roma Kottke of North Pole, Alaska for completing the Master of Christian Education degree with a GPA of 3.93! Roma worked long and hard on this difficult graduate level program. Awesome job!

Congratulations to a New BLCS Graduate

We would like to extend a whole-hearted congratulations to Rebecca Ann Kruit for successfully completing the Diploma in Biblical Counseling with a GPA of 3.84! Rebecca is showing the makings of a great Biblical Counseling. She has already committed to completing her full Bachelor degree in Biblical Counseling with BLCS. May the Lord use her to bring healing and restoration to many.

Welcome New BLCS Student

We would like to welcome Pearlie M. Golden into the Diploma in Hebraic Heritage Studies Program. Welcome to the BLCS Student Family!

Congratulations New BLCS Graduate

Congratulations to Mark Shaw for completing the Associate in Biblical Studies degree with a GPA of 3.88. Mark will receive his degree with the honors of Magna Cum Laude! Great job, Mark!

Welcome New BLCS Student

We would like to welcome Judy Bannerman into the Diploma in Hebraic Heritage Studies! May God equip you fully for the ministry He has called you to.

Welcome New BLCS Students

We would like to welcome these new students into the following programs:

• Rodrich Reeves, Sr. - Diploma in Biblical Studies
• Dale R. Baker - Master of Divinity in Biblical Counseling
• John M. Stone - Doctor of Theological Studies
• Lauren R. Godfrey - Bachelor of Biblical Studies
• Clyde Lewis - Diploma in Hebraic Heritage Studies
• Karen L. Henry - Master of Divinity
• Bernice James - Diploma in Biblical Studies
• Ryan E. Newby - Diploma in Biblical Studies
• Ronald A. Constantine - Diploma in Biblical Studies
• Larende' Plummer - Diploma in Biblical Counseling

May the Holy Spirit continue to guide you and give you the anointing of a Bible student as you drive into your studies with BLCS!

Welcome New ABLE Member

04/01/2005 The Association of Biblical Life Educators (ABLE) would like to welcome Pastor Ruth W. Smith, BBC as our newest certified member (Biblical Life Educator). Pastor Ruth is currently in the Master of Biblical Counseling Program with BLCS. She works with her husband, Archbishop Jimmy Smith at Light of the World Christian Tabernacle International in Decatur, GA. May God anoint her to reach out in the love and power of God to heal the hurting people in her area!

Congratulations - New Graduate

04/01/2005 - Aleshal McIntyre completed the first-year Diploma in Biblical Studies Program today with a GPA of 3.80. Awesome job, Aleshal We are all proud of you!

Poster for Dr. Fryters' Peru Mission Trip

This poster will be distributed through Peru for his mission trip. Please keep his missionary staff in prayer - that God would use them and protect them!
Dr. Fyters' Seminar in Peru

Prayer Support for Dr. Fyters' Seminars in Peru

One of our new International Professors, Dr. John Fryters, will be conducting "Schools on Healing" for fourteen days throughout Peru. We ask that all of our students would keep this missionary/educational journey in your prayers.

Dr. Fryters will be taking students from CHAKAM School of the Bible with him on this journey. CHAKAM is a member of our International Education Network. These schools will be conducted from April 1 - 14.

Your prayer support will make a real difference!

Getting the BLCS BLOG Started

The concept of "blogging" is new to me. I am sure that there will be a learning curve for all involved. It is my hope to use this BLOG to complish the following:

• To use it as a forum to keep our student body and graduates worldwide information about events with BLCS.
• To use the BLOG as a catalyst for biblical thinking and biblical living.
• To give us all freedom to theologically think "out loud" and for us all to ponder and then respond lovingly, even when some concepts make take us out of our traditional norms.

I need to stress that this area is for use by BLCS students, graduates and friends. We are looking for the development of "biblical" lifestyles and a more accurate way to "live" our Christian faith. It is not to be used to debate or promote alternative lifestyles.