News of note
PCUSA congregation hosts
annual world mission conference
The Layman, January 31, 2011
First Presbyterian Church of Gaineville, Ga., continues a more than a decade long tradition of hosting its annual World Mission Conference on Feb. 5-6.
The conference, which is free and open to the public, will feature speakers from a variety of faith-based organizations, as well as a worship service featuring Columbia Theological Seminary President Dr. Steve Hayner.
Organizations participating in the event include:
- Haiti Education Foundation
- Rivers of the World
- The Outreach Foundation’s Alliance for Children Everywhere
- Wycliffe Bible Translators
- Jungle Aviation and Radio Service
- Congo Protestant University Medical School
- Presbyterian Frontier Foundation
- Forman Christian University
- Son Servants
- Solid Rock Missions
According to an article on AccessNorthGa.com, FPC-Gainesville hopes to raise more than $85,000 to support the participating organizations through the conference.
With an opening worship scheduled for 9 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 5, workshop presentations begin at 10 a.m. and conclude at 1 p.m. The event concludes on Sunday, Feb. 6 with a worship service.
Soul Surfer tells inspiring survivor story
The inspirational, true story of Bethany Hamilton, first told in her best-selling autobiography, will be released nationwide as a major motion picture on April 8. “Soul Surfer” highlights the valiant teenager’s faith, determination and family support after she survived a shark attack.
According to a news release, major themes in the film include “touching moments of faith from a family facing tragedy, and inspiring scenes of Bethany learning that God can use her circumstances to help others.”
The PG-rated film features an all-star cast, including Helen Hunt, Dennis Quaid and Carrie Underwood, in her film debut.
A series of special previews began in January for pastors, youth leaders and family ministry advocates. For more information on these screenings visit SoulSurferWave.com.
“Through conversations with pastors and other leaders in the faith community, we know our audience today wants quality films with high production values, well-known talent, and a biblical worldview,” said Rich Peluso, vice president of AFFIRM Films. “Soul Surfer delivers on all points. It is the story of a Christian family facing sudden tragedy … and triumphing through faith. The Hamiltons rely on God in forming their response to Bethany’s new circumstance.”