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Baptist Message

"Helping Louisiana Baptists Impact the World For Christ"

OCC celebrates 30 years of giving hope of Jesus to children at Christmas

By Brian Blackwell, Baptist Message staff writer PINEVILLE, La. (LBM) – Louisiana Baptists will have the opportunity to join thousands across the world to share the ultimate gift to children in other countries during the 30th anniversary of Operation Christmas Child. Formed in 1993 by Samaritan’s Purse, OCC allows churches and individuals to bring gift-filled shoeboxes to relay stations across the country that are then processed and shipped to local partners around the world with a means of reaching out to children in their communities with the good news of Jesus Christ. National Collection Week is Nov. 13-20. Though the gifts are simple [small toys, hygiene items and school supplies] they still bring a smile to children who may be affected by war, poverty, natural disaster, famine, and disease. Mary Deen, an OCC regional spokesperson in Louisiana and a member of Journey Church, Pineville, told the Baptist Message the effort provides an opportunity for Christ followers to demonstrate God’s love in a tangible way to children who may not receive any other gift. “Operation Christmas Child is one of the most effective evangelistic ministries,” she said. “According to our statistics released last month, because of our … [Read more...]

‘Big Fish’ production by TLC has even bigger meaning

By Carmen Taffi, Wildcats Media PINEVILLE, La. (Wildcats Media) – Art imitates life in Theatre Louisiana Christian’s second show of the season, “Big Fish,” which opens Nov. 2. “Big Fish,” a musical by Andrew Lippa and John August, is based on a 1988 novel by Daniel Wallace. The musical takes the audience on a journey through Edward Bloom’s life, as he is battling cancer. Before he dies, Edward wants to share all his stories, dreams and experiences with his son. The audience is introduced to all the people Edward has crossed paths with who have ultimately changed his life. Tabitha Huffman, director of “Big Fish” and professor of theatre, found out recently her lifelong friend Tisha Falcon Lehfeldt is also battling cancer. Fehfeldt is battling for her life with a rare type of cancer and has mentored thousands of people. One of the reasons so many know Tisha is that along with teaching about Jesus Christ on church stages, she is an adored radio personality on the big Christian radio station in Honolulu. Ironically enough, this station is called “The Fish FM.” Her afternoon show is called “The Joyride.” “When my musical director Enrico Cannella and I chose to do this musical six months ago, I had no idea my … [Read more...]