Vineyard International Publishing

Doing Reconciliation is a comprehensive study (406 pages) about the urgent need to dismantle racism and work for reconciliation in both the church and world. It is about making peace between people, groups and structures, and building an environment of mutual respect, human rights and Shalom (the Hebrew concept for God’s societal harmony, order, blessing and prosperity). The book has come out of Alexander Venter and Trevor Ntlhola’s journey in dealing with their own racism and seeking reconciliation through the 1980s and 1990s in apartheid South Africa, through a community called ŒJohweto) the symbolic reconciliation of Johannesburg and Soweto. They begin with their stories, and then Alexander addresses the apartheid history with its legacy of pain, and our need to deal with it in order to capitalise on the miracle that we have lived through (the 1994 elections).

The main body of the book is a Biblical understanding of racism, reconciliation and transformation, and it presents practical models of how to do one-on-one, group and structural reconciliation. This includes 19 suggested actions and programs for both individuals and churches to bring healing and reconciliation in society. Alexander also gives guidance on how Christians can think about and respond to 4 international social-ethical issues, and 7 more South African based social challenges - the latter are the 7 SACLA giants (the South African Christian Leadership Assembly, that met in July 2003, identified 7 giants that we must defeat in South Africa in order to have ameaningful future together).

Dr Derek Morphew concludes the book with an excellent exposition of Christians and Human Rights, and how we can work to create a societal culture of basic human rights. Although the book comes from the South African context, it clearly addresses a theology and confronts challenges that are internationally applicable, for all churches in all nations. Doing Reconciliation is intended for all who concerned about the church’s integrity and witness in society for those who want to make the world a better place to live in.

	A Church that Changes Lives by Martin Buehlmann This book is an encouragement to all who believe to live their faith openly, honestly and authentically — and share it with others. Martin Buehlmann shares how people have experienced God in their everyday lives – ordinary people who have met the risen Lord and had their world turned upside down. He believes that the Christian community is a force that lives God’s love in the world. The most important question is not about the style of a worship service, the model of church, the structure or even the vision for growth. It is about the life of those who are committed to one another in God’s family and who journey together. Martin shows that the basis of life in a community belonging to Jesus is to make known the rich fullness of God’s provision within his kingdom. The community of Jesus is and remains “outward focused”. It lives not for itself, but for the world. Martin and Georgia Buehlmann lead the Vineyard in Berne as well as the Vineyard movement in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. They are presently involved in planting one church with many meeting places in Berlin – a new expression of the Vineyard. Reviews “My friend Martin Buehlmann has written a book that combines the best of vertical thinking – how we can passionately reach up to God and the best about the horzontal – how we can reach out to our neighbour. He speaks from years of hard-fought experience. Martin is no novice in the world of Christian leadership. He has prophetic insight into the nature of the church as God intended it to be from the beginning.” Steve Sjogren – Founding Pastor, Vineyard Church, Cincinnati “One of the greatest tragedies of all time is the fact that God our Father has been grossly misrepresented, not only throughout history but especially in the present time. He is not the big cop in the sky, or the absent or indifferent father; in fact, he is the most tender, loving and caring person there is. Martin has captured the essence of this as he relates testimonies and teachings of the healing love of Abba Father. It is a must-read message that is sweeping the world.” John Arnott – Senior Pastor, Toronto Airport Christian Fellowship “Martin’s book is a breath of fresh air for me ... so unpretentious and unreligious. He has learnt to reject or ignore the shortcuts to successful church life and he has held out for the real thing. The pages overflow with broken people encountering the love of the Father and the healing that always accompanies that meeting. Martin has a real grasp of the important issues of church life as he’s lived it out and I’m so glad he took the time to write it down so that we could all be blessed. Thanks Martin!” Carol Wimber “This book reconciles worship and the prophetic and a sense of being outward focused to reach the lost for Christ. It advocates true community between Christians and a lifestyle of servanthood, authenticity, passion for Jesus and compassion for people. A book for Christian leaders, church members and new Christians as well. Martin does have a passionate heart for Jesus and a truly compassionate attitude for the church and those who don’t know him yet.” Mike Bickle – Director, International House of Prayer, Kansas City
	Crushed with a Tempest by Don McIntosh Crushed with a Tempest examinesthe bewildering phenomenon of depression in the light of Scripture.Grounded in the author’s experience and research, this book examinesboth clinical and spiritual aspects of depression in an attempt to makesense of what often seems – for both depressives and their loved ones –to be sheer madness. Following the example of Job, it points a waythrough the distress of depression to the hope of restoration in Christ. Aformer Pentecostal preacher, Don McIntosh holds a BBA from BakerCollege and is currently undertaking graduate studies in human resourcedevelopment and theology. He lives in El Paso, Texas with his wifePatsy, son Vance and daughter Chloe. Reviews "Over the years I have read many commentaries on the book of Job, and usually came away disappointed. Most of them simply did not reach the core of the book. Don, however, started with a very plausible presupposition – that Job’s trial was conditioned by a depression – and that has made all the difference. I strongly recommend this commentary to all." Dr. Johnson C. Philip President, Trinity School of Apologetics and Theology "Don has integrated his struggle with depression with a fresh look at the book of Job, illuminating both. He shows respect for Job in its biblical context and considerable knowledge of the phenomenon of depression. His grasp of both fields enables him to draw them into his own journey without mere subjectivity. All those who have struggled or struggle with depression, their family and friends and those who love sound biblical truth will find this book most rewarding." Dr. Derek J. Morphew – Director, Vineyard Bible Institute
	Doing Healing by Alexander Venter If you want to be healed, and especially if you want God to use you to heal others, this book is a must-read! Trillions of dollars are spent annually in the health industry, in our daily battle with sickness. In Doing Healing Alexander Venter gives us an awesome vision of God’s healing power by addressing incisively and provocatively the questions of how we understand sickness and healing, how our view of reality affects this understanding, what the Bible says about it, how Jesus healed people, and how he authorised and empowered the church to heal. He then gives a practical “how to” in the six basic dimensions of human sickness: spiritual, psycho-emotional, demonic, physical, relational, death and dying. Reviews I have been teaching on the themes of the kingdom of God, spiritual gifts, healing and deliverance for over twenty years and have always thought of writing a book to provide students with a succinct overview of these biblical themes combined with practical application. Now I don’t have to write it. Alexander Venter has given us that one book that will show people how to continue the ministry of Jesus. Doing Healing is very good scholarship, very thorough and very practical. It is a must-have for all church bookstores and should be required reading for all those hoping to enter into the power aspects of Jesus’ ministry. – Bill Jackson, Academic Dean & Professor, Trinity Learning Com-munity and Teaching Pastor, Inland Vineyard, Corona, California Anyone who dares to embrace the healing ministry of Jesus will battle doubt and discouragement – both within and without. Alexander’s book is a tremendous gift to help us to understand our call to healing, to live in its reality and to freely give it away. It is filled with wisdom,experience and faith and I know that I will literally wear out my copy! – Gary Best, National Team Leader, Vineyard Churches, Canada Readers may differ on some points, but Venter’s kingdom approach happily avoids the extremes of anti supernaturalism and ‘claiming’ all healings. Venter writes with moving compassion and humble transparency,and I have learned from its examples and its spirit some principles valuable for ministry. – Craig Keener, Professor, Eastern Seminary, USA; Biblical Scholar I have found Doing Healing invaluable in the training of my students and in my own ministry of healing. As the distillation of Alexander’s years of work in this field, it is a gift to the church. It is a rare combination of teaching (theology and right thinking are essential to the author), personal companionship (Alexander journeys with the reader by his honest self-revelation), invitation to intimacy (Christ’s invitation to closer relationship is core to understanding healing) and wise coaching (Alexander’s writing comes from years of lived experience and impartation to others). My understanding of healing was sharpened and deepened, my hunger to taste God renewed, and my desire to embody the Spirit’s healing presence strengthened and confirmed. – Dr Vic Graham, Pastoral Theologian, College of the Transfiguration, Grahamstown, South Africa Careful and sound kingdom theology, great storytelling about real, verified healings and life combine to make this a major textbook on healing. I suspect it will become a standard work in many places, for theological formulation and practical training. – Derek Morphew, Director, Vineyard Biblical Institute If you are looking for a comprehensive treatment of the ministry of healing, you will not find a better book than Venter’s Doing Healing. Our church has been involved in praying for the sick for over two decades. Yet even with this experience, I found an extraordinary amount of fresh, helpful material in Venter’s book. Written in an extremely winsome style, Venter thoughtfully examines how we can all partner with Jesus to bring healing to our broken world. Whether you are a veteran in the ministry of healing, or just beginning to explore this subject, Doing Healing is a deep reservoir from which we all can draw wisdom. I’m grateful for this wonderful addition to the literature on healing ministry. – Rich Nathan, Senior Pastor, Columbus Vineyard, teacher and author Alexander Venter’s book on healing, Doing Healing, is a masterpiece, one which I shall carry in our three different Schools of Healing and Impartation. I love the way he teaches through stories, but doesn’t allow the storytelling process to reduce the content to pure testimonies only. There are powerful insights from biblical studies and theology. That is one reason I think it should be considered a masterpiece. Since I too was most strongly influenced by John Wimber and Francis MacNutt’s books and writings, it is a great privilege to endorse this Doing Healing. Whoever is interested in the ministry of healing should make sure they own this book. I shall include it on our students’ required reading for our Global School of Supernatural Ministry at our headquarters. I shall encourage all my personal interns to read it as soon as it is available. – Randy Clark, Founder of Global Awakening and Apostolic Overseer of the Apostolic Network of Global Awakening, a network of pastors and itinerate ministers I know many Christians who, for all practical purposes, have given up on healing. Healing, for many people, is attached to “Charismatic” Christianity. So much weird stuff has happened in the name of “Charismatic” Christianity that reasonable people have deduced that there is no sensible way to pursue healing through the power of the Spirit as an aspect of the kingdom of God. Thankfully, Alexander Venter’s life, thoughtfulness and practice combine to form a bright light which illumines a way forward – a way that honours God, respects people, is non-manipulative, non-superstitious and wholistic in its approach. I hope Doing Healing revives the healing faith of millions of Christians and thousands of churches. – Todd Hunter, Former Director, Vineyard Churches USA, President, Three is Enough Groups, Church Planter, Anglican Mission in the Americas: West Coast dhFor over twenty years Alexander Venter has been a dear friend, colleague and teacher in Christian ministry. I have heard him on numerous occasions boldly proclaim the availability of the kingdom of God and minister powerfully to those who are sick and wounded. I have constantly been struck by the clarity of his preaching and the effectiveness of his ministry. When it comes to the healing ministry of Jesus Christ, he is both a thoughtful theologian and a committed practitioner. Anyone with a desire to share in Christ’s healing ministry will find this book a treasure house of biblical insight, practical wisdom and warm encouragement. I commend it warmly to both individuals and groups who want to embark on a serious study of this essential ministry of the local congregation. – Trevor Hudson, Methodist minister, author, conference speaker and retreat leader Doing Healing is an absolutely wonderful, life-changing book ... I read a lot of ‘Christian’ books, and honestly yours is the best. You have condensed an encyclopaedia of knowledge into 300 pages - concepts that are at the present-day core of current Christianity, and which are not to be found in print anywhere, making it in my opinion, a landmark publication. It’s going to become essential teaching and reading for every Christian. It has already changed my life, I can’t wait to become more involved in all aspects of ministry. Dr Alexander Vlantis, ENT surgeon, Chinese University, Hong Kong
	Doing Reconciliation by Alexander Venter Doing Reconciliation is a comprehensive study (406 pages) about the urgent need to dismantle racism and work for reconciliation in both the church and world. It is about making peace between people, groups and structures, and building an environment of mutual respect, human rights and Shalom (the Hebrew concept for God’s societal harmony, order, blessing and prosperity). The book has come out of Alexander Venter and Trevor Ntlhola’s journey in dealing with their own racism and seeking reconciliation through the 1980s and 1990s in apartheid South Africa, through a community called ŒJohweto) the symbolic reconciliation of Johannesburg and Soweto. They begin with their stories, and then Alexander addresses the apartheid history with its legacy of pain, and our need to deal with it in order to capitalise on the miracle that we have lived through (the 1994 elections). The main body of the book is a Biblical understanding of racism, reconciliation and transformation, and it presents practical models of how to do one-on-one, group and structural reconciliation. This includes 19 suggested actions and programs for both individuals and churches to bring healing and reconciliation in society. Alexander also gives guidance on how Christians can think about and respond to 4 international social-ethical issues, and 7 more South African based social challenges - the latter are the 7 SACLA giants (the South African Christian Leadership Assembly, that met in July 2003, identified 7 giants that we must defeat in South Africa in order to have ameaningful future together). Dr Derek Morphew concludes the book with an excellent exposition of Christians and Human Rights, and how we can work to create a societal culture of basic human rights. Although the book comes from the South African context, it clearly addresses a theology and confronts challenges that are internationally applicable, for all churches in all nations. Doing Reconciliation is intended for all who concerned about the church’s integrity and witness in society for those who want to make the world a better place to live in. Reviews "Pastor, prophet and peacemaker, Alexander Venter has been working for several decades at doing reconciliation and being a reconciler. This outstanding track record enables him to speak passionately and credibly on this issue. Though birthed and illustrated out of the anguished local context of apartheid and post-apartheid South Africa, this volume, displaying the author’s encyclopaedic grasp of his subject, also speaks globally and universally into all situations where alienation exists and reconciliation is needed. Read it and let God put new love in your heart and motivate you to action." Michael Cassidy Founder and International Team Leader, African Enterprise Co-Chair, SACLA2 "As a white South African, Alexander Venter is among the few charismatic church leaders who have walked side by side with fellow black believers struggling to make sense of evangelical faith in a troubled and polarised situation. His treatment of racism, reconciliation and transformation combines sensitivity with theological rigor. In doing this, he has displayed a pastoral and prophetic courage which gives the Christian community a powerful tool for a rediscipling in a post-apartheid South Africa. The church will benefit greatly from this work, both in South Africa and other parts of the world where the wounds of racism and ethnicity abound." Moss Ntlha General Secretary The Evangelical Alliance of South Africa "Alexander Venter is one of those rare people who cannot make peace with an unacceptable situation. They want to grasp it because they have been grasped by Christ. Reconciliation with God has to manifest itself in a reconciled community and must have an impact on a society engaged in suicidal conflict. If not, it is sham. May countless people be touched, enlightened and motivated by this book." Klaus Nürnberger Professor Emeritus "In the Vineyard we have been strong on mercy, average on development, and weak on justice. In this statement, Alexander sums up the reason why this book was commissioned and why it is so essential to us as a movement." Costa Mitchell National Director Association of Vineyard Churches, South Africa
	Flying, I Saw A Swan by Jan Bernard Struik God gave us his love letter of hundreds of pages,through which he speaks to all people through all the ages - often in a small, still voice. He also speaks to us in what we see and hear in our daily lives; sometimes spectacularly, often so simply that we could miss it if we did not pay attention. Jan Bernard shares how he began to hear God more than ever - for himself and others - during visits to the island of Blidö in Sweden to teach and minister at the Discipleship Training School, Levande Stenar. During his first visit God directed him concerning which lessons to teach, how they should follow on from each other, gave him specific direction for times of ministry to the students building on the teachings, and specific revelations for the students. In his following twelve visits to Blidö, God let himself be heard anew in a completely different way. The students became involved and began to hear God themselves, starting on the adventure that is shared in this book by asking several questions: How do I hear from God? What do I hear? What does it mean? How do I apply it? How do I evaluate it? Flying, I Saw a Swan is the result of that process, including Jan Bernard’s own story, his insights and reflections on the process of hearing God and the biblical foundation that undergirds it. Jan Bernard Struik is the senior pastor of Utrecht Vineyard, national director of Vineyard in Benelux and national coordinator for Poland and the Baltic States. Flying, I Saw a Swan is Jan Bernard’s first book.
	I Still Have More Questions Than Answers by Matt Hyam Matt Hyam is the senior pastor of the Southampton Vineyard. Over recent years his journey has involved a process of rethinking many of his basic assumptions about the Christian life that he previously took for granted. His new understanding has had a significant impact on his lifestyle and the way he leads the congregation. I Still Have More Questions Than Answers is Matt’s attempt to document the process and its implications. While his intention is not to be controversial or confrontational, he believes that there are several fundamental questions about the church and discipleship that need to be addressed if believers are to fulfill their biblical mandate in this new millennium. Matt recognises that these are not easy questions, but challenges his readers to ask them and embrace their own journey of discovery with God. Reviews "If you are wondering what is happening with young Christian leaders and value honest reflection over spin or self-promotion euphemistically called “marketing” then I Still Have More Questions Than Answers is spot on. Matt candidly displays the scrapbook of his journey to follow Jesus and “do church” in a way that make sense for current culture. It is an enjoyable and enlightening read." Todd Hunter Director, Allelon Church Planting Former National Director, Vineyard USA
	Intimacy In Marriage by Costa Mitchell A practical guide to intimacy in marriage is undergirded by the firm belief that “love is a skill that can be learnt”. Journey with the author through the adventure of building a marriage characterized by oneness, intimacy, romance, creativity and fun! This readable, practical guide addresses the ongoing challenge of marriage.It is written with the conviction that unfulfilling marriages can be restored to their full potential.
	Learning To Suffer Well by Peter Fitch A way forward for those desiring serious Christian growth in both wisdom and discipleship. Prepared as either an interactive daily devotional for individuals or as the basis of a small group course, this material integrates wisdom from early church history with concepts popularised in contemporary church renewal. Along with study questions, prayer exercises and practical assignments, it offers training in Christian life from both Protestant Reformers and Catholic Saints. It especially blends together the strengths of the Evangelical and Charismatic movements within modern Christianity, particularly as each relates to the theme of suffering. Learning to Suffer well is designed to help Christians form mature attitudes toward life. It teaches believers in Jesus to be open to both the power that God gives to pray effectively in difficult circumstances, and to the patience that He gives in order to endure difficulties that last. Recognising that everyone faces hardships of one sort or another, it prepares people to rise above their circumstances. In the final analysis, it is really about “Learning to Live Well”.
	Passport (Out of Stock) by Tim Davidson Passport is a ten-week guide designed to help a new follower of Christ learn from and with a more experienced Christian. The very word disciple implies one who learns from another –often in community. There were no "self-taught" disciples of Jesus. Passport provides daily Bible readings and spiritual exercises to help new believers grow in intimacy with God and meaningful kingdom service. Tim Davidson and his wife, author Sheila Davidson, live in Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada. They helped establish Saint John Vineyard and served there from 1992–2006. Their children, Emily and Martin, are both in university. Tim studied at Acadia University and Acadia Divinity College. More recently he is giving time to teaching and music ministry through his recording studio, Ripple Effect Music. Reviews "Tim Davidson’s Passport is a fantastic resource in helping new believers establish spiritual disciplines and moving passive believers to become passionate in their faith. We have used it effectively both in one-on-one mentoring as well as in small group settings. What a great equipping tool for the harvest that is before us!" Larry and Karen Levy Vineyard Regional Team Leaders Atlantic Canada. Lead Pastors Halifax Metro Vineyard "We have been using a prototype of Tim’s Passport with all the new Christians in our church. The diversity of people from all kinds of backgrounds and needs who have been able to use Passport effectively has been remarkable. For us in the Vineyard this tool has been a reliable beginning point with our people walking with God. The stories and explanations Tim uses fit with people in a post-modern world" Rik and Cathy Berry pastors at Valley Gate Vineyard Kentville Nova Scotia
	Preparing For Revival by Richard Mayberry Revival has always been preceded by earnest intercession and unrelenting hunger among Christians for God to come in power. Preparing for Revival encourages the church to take up this challenge through the means of passionate prayer and intimacy with God. The historical account of past revivals will ignite the heart of the reader to see the same happen in our day. Its devotional nature seeks to draw us into intimacy with Jesus which is the necessary tinder for revival.
	Presence Powered Living by Frank DeCenso Jesus’ intimate friendship with the Father and the power He received from the Holy Spirit enabled Him to reach people with an immense variety of needs, in an incredible number of ways. Through His life He revealed that the Father desires all Christians to pursue an intimate, relational partnership with God resulting in this world being powerfully and radically reached with the Good News. Presence Powered Living shows how to pursue intimacy and partnership with God so we all can make a maximum impact for His kingdom in today’s culturally diverse world. Reviews “Frank DeCenso writes, ‘There are lists of gifts in the New Testament but “spectatorship” is not in any of them.’ His book, Presence Powered Living is an invitation to love God and live for Him more completely. Frank’s joy in his relationship with God is inspiring and motivating, and he includes practical ideas about how to grow. His faith is contagious.” Dr. Peter Fitch – Dean of Ministry Studies, St. Stephen’s University, New Brunswick “In this book, Presence Powered Living, Frank DeCenso, Jr. has given a great gift to Christians who seek a deeper walk with God. Drawing from his own rich experiences of a lifetime devoted to the service of the Kingdom, he has given to the world a devotional book of depth and beauty. This well written book is full of well chosen scriptures as well as pointed quotations from the great devotional writers of times past. The sections describing his personal spiritual pilgrimage add a sense of authenticity and reality to the book. The appendices for personal or group reflection at the end of the book will serve as a useful study and prayer guide that will bless the readers. I am certain that Presence Powered Living will take its place as a wonderful spiritual resource for all who read it.” Dr. Vinson Synan – Dean Emeritus of the School of Divinity, Regent University, Virginia Beach, Virginia “I have been in ministry for thirty-seven years, and I know first-hand the revolutionary power of the approach to Christianity that puts front and center the cultivation of intimacy with a tender God and learning to live with power out of that ongoing Presence. Frank DeCenso has captured the essence of the journey as well as anyone I know. Presence Powered Living is teaming with insight and practical guidance for a life of supernatural presence and power. I encourage churches to require this book to be read and studied carefully by their congregants. I gladly recommend it.” Dr. J.P. Moreland – Distinguished Professor of Talbot School of Theology. Author of Kingdom Triangle (Zondervan). “I want to thank Mr. DeCenso for dealing so well with a very important topic. So much of American Christianity is overly influenced by an academic knowledge-orientation that it is refreshing to see him take us back to the basics – relationship and intimacy with Jesus. Unfortunately, the relational factors that are the core of our faith are often inundated by the information and knowledge that our training institutions and pulpits specialize in. Springing from his own personal experience of being rescued from that fallacy, Mr. DeCenso refocuses us Scripturally and practically on the most important thing. Warning: this book could change your life. I hope and pray so.” Dr. Charles Kraft – Sun-Hee Kwak Professor of Anthropology and Intercultural Communication, Fuller Seminary. Author of Christianity With Power, Confronting Powerless Christianity, and I Give You Authority. “In his book, Presence Powered Living, Frank DeCenso reminds us that intimacy with God is the ultimate purpose for our lives. Frank’s insights will awaken a deeper longing for God within your heart, as he invites you to not only enjoy God but also partner with Him in the work of His Kingdom.” S. J. Hill – Bible teacher and author of Enjoying God and Burning Desire. “Frank DeCenso has written a gem of a book that exposes the heart of an empowered life. We live day-by-day out of our abiding relationship with Christ as we walk through his world in the routines and when facing the challenges of life. Also, he demonstrates that our ministry to others flows from an uninterrupted relationship with Christ. We all need to be confronted with these basics no matter how long we have been a Christ-follower or how much theological education we have received.” Dr. Eddie Gibbs – Senior Professor of Church Growth, Fuller Seminary. Author of Church Next, Leadership Next: Changing Leaders in a Changing Culture, and Emerging Churches. “A timely word for an urgent need. With sound scholarship and well-paced readability, Frank DeCenso masterfully unpacks what you need to know about caring for your soul. Every reader will learn from his spiritual insights and will have their personal relationship with God deepened beyond what they thought possible.” Andy Meade – Pastor, Vineyard Community Church, Virginia Beach, Virginia
	Repairing Broken Churches by Maurice Irvin This is Dr Maurice R. Irvin’s direct and personal account of lessons that he has learned from the work in which he has been involved for the past ten years – healing churches that are in crisis. With great compassion and insight, he gives systematic and practical guidance on how to restore a church that has lost its direction or that is in need of renewal. The book starts with an examination of the causes of conflict, offering an understanding of how to deal with conflict within a church and how to avoid it. Then the focus moves to the steps that can be taken to move on from the failures of the past and re-establish the firm foundations that a church requires to achieve the spiritual prosperity that will fully enable it to do the work that the Lord has called it to. Dr Maurice R. Irvin lives in Lexington, Kentucky with his wife of 55 years. They had four children. Their two daughters are grown with families of their own. Their two sons are deceased. His 55 years of active Christian ministry have included 42 years in various pastorates and 13 years as editor of Alliance Life magazine. He has been an adjunct professor at several colleges and seminaries and has had extensive ministries in churches, conferences and conventions all over the world. He is the author of four books and many, many magazine articles. He has a PhD in English Literature from Case Western Reserve University. Reviews “There are hundreds of men with 30 plus years in the pastorate who can provide stability for a church in transition, but there are very few pastors who have the Biblical wisdom and leadership acumen to bring reconciliation to a church in deep crisis. Maurice, you are one of the few. You have a proven track record in restoring hope to conflicted churches and health to wounded people.” Jim Van Yperen, Executive Director of Metanoia Ministries “Pastor, once you came to our church, we began to change and I could feel the church family reuniting. I am so grateful to God for sending you to us. Your teachings really convicted me and forced me to grow closer to the Lord. That enabled me to see His love and find out who I am and what my role is as a youth at our church.” Marieke Dyk, teenager “Dear Pastor, when you came, our church was in spiritual trouble and financial difficulty. It was the kind of situation when one felt that there was no light at the end of the tunnel. The following year was best illustrated by that artist who, during one of our prayer meetings, showed us a picture. On one side she showed our church split down the middle. On the other side she showed our church completely restored. God has given you a very special gift of bringing healing to hurting churches and helping them to prosper spiritually. My wife and I feel very blessed that we were able to worship under your ministry. Your book will be very helpful to church leaders at every level, not only to help them recognise and correct problems but to take preventive measures to nip them in the bud.” Dr Mrugendra I. Mehta, surgeon “When you came to our church, we were experiencing some serious problems. You came with the spirit of ‘I’ll come if I can be of help, and I’ll stay as long as you need me.’ That was music to our ears. We saw a complete reliance on the Holy Spirit. You were a shepherd to our elders and leaders. You were a gifted preacher to us all, and your preaching led people to godly commitments.” Barbara Boyd, retired staff member, Intervarsity Christian Fellowship “Pastor Irvin, our sovereign Lord used you so greatly through your gracious and mature leadership to restore the testimony and witness of our church. Despite our struggles within, we all believed that God always had better plans for our church – and indeed He did! You, in our time of need, became God’s man for the special people of our church. You were a present-day Moses, Joshua or, better yet, one akin to that Old Testament saint who came to her royal position in a grave time when, as recently was the case for us, God’s people faced deep spiritual and directional needs.” Dr Bruce Bunner, retired Partner, KPMG, Member of the Board of Directors of Campus Crusade for Christ International “Dr Irvin, your ability to call people’s attention to the truth of God’s Word and then to lead in application in areas of forgiveness, reconciliation, restoration and redirection has been used by God to birth hope and health in a people who have always loved the Lord but had lost their way. This congregation, once so divided, now, with a new senior pastor on board, is poised to make a very significant contribution to its area as well as to the entire world. Your experience in healing divided churches, as well as your very direct and loving way of confronting sin, caused people willingly to come under the spiritual authority of your ministry. You worked hard to rebuild a team of leaders who could stand together in the truth, lead and protect a congregation from error and sin. This leadership team, with you, charted a new vision for the church that the church family embraced as its own.” Dr Ves A. Sheely, District Superintendent of NEDA, The Evangelical Free Church of America “When you came to our church, you restored our faith and confidence in senior pastoral leadership. You stepped into a vacuum and filled it with the lordship of Jesus Christ. But Pastor Irvin, this is not about you as it is about how you allowed the Lord to work through you. He brought healing, restoration, joy and glory to Himself through you and your wife.” Mr Edward Nanno, President, C.N.Y. Glassblock Co. “You were God’s servant to help a large but deeply hurt church (not of their doing) to know complete restoration to the Lord, to the community, and to the body of Christ. In the several years since, this church is enjoying its most significant period of ministry.” Rev. David J. Phillips, Northeastern District Superintendent, Christian and Missionary Alliance “Your ministry to our church certainly set a path for us, and with the implementation of the ministry teams we are seeing good things happen. With our new senior pastor now in place, we feel that the Lord has given us a pastor who will lead us for years to come.” Mr Robert Sparks, Executive Director, Richland County Child Support Enforcement Agency
	The Central Event by Ed Piorek Five years after writing his best selling The Father Loves You, Ed Piorek takes a deeper look at the Father’s love in his life. His recent victory over cancer revealed the Father’s compassion for him as never before. He shares the lessons learned about living a life that depends on, rests in and ministers out of the power of the Father’s love. Filled with authentic testimonies from the lives of a wide spectrum of people, The Central Event offers many points of connection with the central event of love. As you read these pages, may you sense the Father’s loving presence drawing near to you. Whatever your past experience or present circumstance, may you center your life anew in his love. Reviews "After two thousand years, the church is still working out its most basic doctrine, the doctrine of God the Father. Ed makes an important contribution to this in his most recent book, The Central Event. He knows the Father’s love and enables us to know that love better too through his writing." Ken Blue Author of Authority to Heal and Healing Spiritual Abuse "The Central Event is not only a “must read” for any of us wanting to go deeper in the things of God, it is one to be studied and meditated on regularly as you would with a devotional. Ed Piorek is one of the foremost teachers on the subject of experiencing the love of God. The chapter on contemplative prayer addresses the most urgent need of the Western church. Ed’s insights have changed my life. This book will change yours." John Arnott Senior Pastor Toronto Airport Christian Fellowship
	The Father Loves You by Ed Piorek In this book, Ed Piorek tells how he found his own yearning for love satisfied in the loving arms of his Father in heaven. Through poignant testimonies and practical biblical teaching, Ed extends an invitation to follow the footsteps of Jesus into the presence of the Father and experience the fullness of His love. Ed Piorek grew up in the surfing culture of Southern California. He found Jesus as his Savior in the late 1960’s at the beginning of the Jesus Movement. He entered ministry as a youth pastor and eventually began a Vineyard Christian Fellowship in his hometown of San Clemente. Ed traveled extensively with John Wimber and Vineyard Ministries International. He taught on a wide range of subjects such as healing, deliverance and prayer. In 1989 he began to conduct seminars on the Fatherhood of God. Since then over 100,000 people have attended his conferences. In recent years Ed has been a featured speaker at the Toronto Airport Christian Fellowship. He has traveled with John and Carol Arnott conducting Father Loves You Conferences in various parts of the world. His message of the Father’s love continues to spread today through his seminars, books, CD and DVDs. Ed is now the Pastor Emeritus at Vineyard Community Church in Laguna Niguel, California. He lives in San Clemente with his wife Janet. They have three sons living nearby. He is still surfing.
	Through The Looking Glass by Bonnie Colberg "Everything has a moral, if only you can find it." - Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland In a most unexpected turn of life’s events, God sent me on a complex journey of self-discovery. It was an adventure, a treasure hunt, with God as the Mapmaker. As He taught me how to look for His moral in ordinary circumstances, He began to open up treasures of knowledge that He had hidden in me, even though I was unaware of them. This book is not a “how to” find God instruction manual. It is simply my attempt to share the journey God has allowed me to take to come home to His presence. It’s a journey filled with bumps in the road, detours, fender benders and head-on collisions. It’s a story of how God has used everyday life lessons of His truth to lead His hard-headed, stubborn servant. My prayer is that others may learn from my journey and benefit from my experiences. Reviews "Bonnie tells her story without blunting the hard edges, and that makes it very valuable for anyone who finds there are parts of her that didn’t suddenly become holy and whole the moment she entered into a personal relationship with Jesus." Cindy Nicholson Assistant Pastor, Vineyard Evanston Coordinator, National Church Planting Task Force, Vineyard USA "I laughed. I cried. Most of all, I was challenged to crack open my own heart again ... Through the Looking Glass is a must read for any man (yes, man!) or woman who desires a deeper walk with God." Dianne Leman Co-Pastor of Vineyard Church of East Central Illinois Co-Regional Overseer Midwest Region of Vineyard USA "If you are stuck trying to do it all by being the perfect wife, perfect mom and perfect pastor’s wife, you need to read this book. It’s the difference between a self-imposed prison and the great adventure God is calling you to." Randy Knutson Church Resource Ministries, Palm Springs, CA "In Through the Looking Glass, Bonnie Colberg has the guts to tell us how she really feels about her life. And what a life! It is rich with melody, original analogies, entertaining drama, and mostly a strong declaration of God’s everlasting love. It is not just her writing I enjoy, which is delightful, but the feeling, the experience, of reading about her desperate and at times hilarious journey; as if cozying up to a warm fire with a trusted friend listening to her Alice-In-Wonderland tales of heartache, success, fear and romance. In the end it is about how she discovers her center of gravity, her spiritual poise. If you are denying/enduring/loving your golden years of life, you will readily identify with Bonnie’s rebellious passion as she fights to find her balance... and wish you had read it when you were in your 20’s. For women in your 20’s, put yourself on the fast track to wholeness with God and yourself. Read the book. With a friend." Jane Huckaby Vice President of Programs, Open Doors, Santa Ana, CA Review by Jim Miller, pastor, Vineyard Church, Nacogdoches (jim.miller@netdot.com). Don’t you love it when a book actually exceeds your expectations?That’s what I found in Bonnie Colberg’s remarkable little book,“Through the Looking Glass: The Journey of a Natural Blonde to KnowGod.” Truth, they say, is where you find it. And when you find itin great literature, that’s a plus. Full-time mom, pastor’s wife andnow, it turns out, exceptional writer, Bonnie Colberg, has found truth,lots of it, in one of the most familiar of all fables, Alice’sAdventures in Wonderland, and offers up some extraordinary insightsfrom Alice’s point of view. Once again we meet the White Rabbit and Mad Hatter, fall into the deepwell and stumble upon the empty orange marmalade jar, encounter theCheshire Cat and sit at the “stupidest tea party” ever. We are withAlice again but this time on a spiritual quest with significantparallels with the author’s story. Colberg gives us snapshots ofherself as a rebellious teenager, the wife and partner of a churchplanter, her struggles with despair and depression, balancing a lowself-mage with a fierce drive for competitiveness. She grew updisguised as two people, the actual one (the person she really was) andan illusory one (the one she should be). Like Alice, she was “hardlyenough to make one respectable person.” The author’s openness is refreshing. When she reminds us of Alicechasing the White Rabbit she sees a comparison to Adam and Eve’s ownserpent-inflamed rabbit-chasing distraction with temptation, then herown self-deluded diversions of trying to hide her imperfections behinda pretense of flawlessness and justifying her shortcomings by comparingherself to others or blaming others for her own inadequacies. Shewrites, in chapter 8, “Eve blamed the serpent; Adam blamed Eve and God.We blame the Devil, Eve, Adam, our parents, our friends, our neighbors,the store clerk and God . . . Whenever tough times came – and therewere many – my first response was, let’s ditch the ministry thing. Wearen’t making a difference anyway. Look at how they treat us. Divorcestill happens. People still get sick and die. Relationships remainbroken. No matter how hard we pray, life still sucks.” Well, Iunderstand that. And so has anyone who has ever taken service to othersas serious business. In this frank disclosure of her secret struggles, set against Alice’sjourney through Wonderland, I actually caught glimpses of myself,especially in chapter 18 when there came a single week where Bonniesurrendered to her need for help. After spilling her life to acounselor, she then began to open up to her husband, Thor. “We cried,we laughed, we played tennis and we talked and talked and talked,” shewrites. “But most of all, we reconnected with our true selves and witheach other.” And, in their talks, they finally confronted the“over-busyness” of their lives that had subtly detoured them from whatshould have been a true priority: each other. She writes: “The mostprofound thing Thor said all week sent an electric shock through me. Hesaid, ‘Do you really think I get satisfaction from the church? No! Youare the most important thing in my life.’” Bonnie Colberg has taught me (again) that people are what are important, not agendas - not even ministries.