Monthly Archives: December 2024

speaker

Helping Pastors’ Messages Reach Beyond Sunday: A New Way to Share Your Teaching

FAITH NEWS SERVICE – Cary, North Carolina– December 23, 2024 – Every pastor knows the feeling: You’ve spent hours in prayer and study, delivered a powerful sermon series that touched lives, and seen God work through His Word. But what about those who need to hear this message beyond your congregation? What about the series on marriage that helped heal relationships, or those teachings on prayer that deepened your church’s spiritual life?

Goodwill Media Services introduces a way for pastors to extend these vital messages through books, while honoring their primary calling to shepherd their flock. The “Sermon2Book“ service thoughtfully preserves your Biblical teaching and pastoral heart in book form, allowing God’s work through your ministry to reach even further.

“I’ve witnessed many a pastor wrestling with how to be a good steward of the messages God had entrusted to us,” shares Carl Dobrowolski, President of Goodwill Media Services. “That’s why we created Sermon2Book service – not just to publish books, but to help pastors share what God has already been doing through their ministry.”

The ministry-focused service includes:

  • Editorial partnership that preserves your teaching style and theological convictions
  • Guidance from fellow ministry leaders who understand pastoral priorities
  • Design that serves your message rather than just selling it
  • Distribution that reaches those who need these teachings most
  • Support that respects your time and pastoral responsibilities

“We’re not asking pastors to exchange their God-given roles to become authors,” Dobrowolski adds. “Rather, we’re helping them share what they’re already faithfully teaching – the messages that have already touched lives in their congregations.”

Since 2003, Goodwill Media Services has walked alongside pastors and ministry leaders, bringing both publishing expertise and a heart for the local & global church. Our team of over 125 years combined experience understands both the practical and spiritual aspects of sharing God’s Word through print.

If you’ve been praying about ways to extend your teaching ministry, we’d welcome a conversation about how God might use your messages to serve the broader church.

About Goodwill Media Services Goodwill Media Services partners with pastors and ministry leaders to share Biblical teaching beyond church walls. We combine publishing experience with a deep respect for pastoral ministry and God’s Word.

Contact Information: Goodwill Media Services Email: goodwillmediaservices@gmail.com Website: goodwillmediaservices.com/whygoodwillmedia/

The Wonder at the Well

Picture book retells the Biblical story of the woman at the well

FAITH NEWS SERVICE – Learning Bible stories from a young age helps children build their faith, provides a foundation for their worldviews, and shows them why those stories are still relevant today. But sharing some of these stories can be difficult when a story includes concepts that can be difficult for children to understand or covers topics they aren’t yet ready for.

One such story, found in John 4:3–43, demonstrates Jesus’s unfailing love and acceptance of His children, a message that is important for believers of all ages to hear.

A new picture book, The Wonder at the Well by Vicky Wedel (Redemption Press), tells the story of the woman at the well in a child-friendly and appropriate way. A woman who has been looked down upon by her fellow Samaritans takes a trip she has made many times before to retrieve water from the well. But when she arrives, she is surprised to find someone else there.

She is even more surprised when this man speaks to her, something other men do not do. The greatest surprise of all comes when He tells her that He is the Messiah! In her excitement to share this news, she leaves her water jar behind, setting an example for how overjoyed we, too, should be when it comes to sharing Jesus with others.   

The provided letter to the readers includes background information that explains the Samaritans’ culture, why the woman was treated this way, and her reactions when she first met Jesus. This explanation highlights just why she was so shocked by Jesus’s unconditional love for her.

The author hopes that readers come away with a strong desire to share about Jesus. She says, “The townspeople’s response to her news of meeting the Messiah … humbled me … I [felt] driven to write her experience in story form for children in hopes others would meet Him as she did and … be compelled to tell others.”

With richly detailed illustrations that will delight readers and a biblically accurate storyline that shares a beautiful message, this book is one that can be treasured for years to come.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Vicky J. Wedel is a follower of Christ, a wife, mother, and friend. She loves children and taught kindergarteners at church for twenty-three years. She also loves writing devotions, poems, and children’s books to share what God has taught her. Her hope is to share His message of love, grace, mercy, and relentlessness so they can work all together, even in the messiness of our lives, for the ultimate good of those who embrace Jesus as our Creator, Sustainer, sovereign Savior, and Lord. She wants readers to know that the Lord alone has the power to change hearts and lives, growing in them a desperate dependence and devotion.

For interviews, contact vicky@findingrestinthemess.com

Facebook: Vicky J Wedel

Instagram: Vicky J Wedel (@vickyjwedel) • Instagram photos and videos

Suggested Interview Questions

  1. What drew you to retelling this story in particular?
  2. How do you think children might see this story differently than adults do?
  3. Why do you think this story is still so relevant today?
  4. Did you need to conduct any research before writing this book?
  5. Did you encounter any difficulties when it came to adapting the story for a child audience?
  6. How did you use illustrations to help children understand some of the concepts in this story?
  7. Your picture books always have a thoughtful letter in the back for adults. What inspired you to start adding these letters to each of your books?
  8. What do you most hope younger readers learn from this story?
the revelation mysteries

New release The Revelation Mysteries will help Christians understand end time events

FAITH NEWS SERVICE – Over the past 50 years, the Christian community has been bombarded with new Bible versions at a rate of one translation per year. As early as the 1970s, publishers began feeding the Church’s frenzy for revelation from God’s Word through mass production of new Bible translations.

In the decades that followed, the number of versions pumped into the needle-riddled veins of the Church increased steadily with no end in sight.

While those in the pulpit size up their buffet of Bibles, they can pick and quote their brand of Christianity at will. As a result, our Christian heritage is steadily being eroded; and it may scarcely be recognized 100 years from today when religious leaders stand up and quote a paraphrase of a paraphrase from a paraphrase that was embraced by the Church of our day. Thus, Christianity Lost.

While other world religions appear to hold true to their sacred text, it appears the Christian community is allowing an unseen force to redefine its heritage. Does anyone care to imagine what would happen to the person in a Muslim country who claimed to have written a New Revised Version of the Quran or a person in Israel who attempted to teach from a New International Version of the Torah?

While here is presented two extremes, the Christian Church is at the other end of this spectrum. In that, the body of Christ appears to sit passively by as the Church, their culture, and their heritage are being slowly and methodically redefined.

In the book, The Revelation Mysteries – A Complete Study On End-Time Prophecy, the author expounds on endtime events from an unique biblical perspective. “I want readers to take away from reading my book,” the author says, “a sense of purpose…a redirection of priorities…if you will. I want every reader to understand the Book of Revelation is the only book in the Bible that promises blessings to the reader in both the beginning and the end of the book. I want every reader to experience these blessings.”

The Revelation Mysteries is a one-of-a-kind resource for anyone interested in end-time prophecy.

Once Upon a Time: A Collection of Short Stories for Those Trying to Find Their Way Home, Volume Two

New Release is a Masterful Blend of Storytelling and Soul-Searching to Help Readers Rediscover Hope, Healing, and Home

FAITH NEWS SERVICE – Award-Winning Author Samuel L. Blumenthal Releases “Once Upon a Time: A Collection of Short Stories for Those Trying to Find Their Way Home,” Volume Two Paperback will be available tomorrow December 17, 2024, and ebook free to download for five days.

United States—Monday, December 16, 2024

Once Upon a Time: A Collection of Short Stories for Those Trying to Find Their Way Home, Volume Two by Samuel L. Blumenthal, PhD, invites readers on a transformative journey through the power of story. A retired clinical psychologist with over three decades of experience and an award-winning author, Blumenthal once again uses his deep understanding of the human heart and mind to illuminate timeless gospel truths through unforgettable narratives.

Blumenthal’s stories are more than entertainment—they’re mirrors. “Stories have always been about us, a mirror in which we can see ourselves—our hopes and dreams, but also our greatest dilemmas,” he explains. This second volume continues to offer readers a chance to slow down, reflect, and allow stories to meet them where they are, guiding them toward healing and wholeness.

Having grown up in a Reform Jewish home in the South and coming to faith in Christ in mid-life, Blumenthal’s unique perspective shapes every page. His psychoanalytically-oriented background adds depth and insight, creating stories that resonate with readers on a deeply personal level. Through each narrative, he explores themes of redemption, faith, and the universal longing to find our way home—to God, to love, and to ourselves.

Blumenthal says, “Since the dawn of man, stories have been pregnant with meaning, much of which has gone unnoticed. But if you are willing to slow down and listen more closely, stories will meet you in the very places you need them and guide you home where you will be healthy and whole.”

This book is not just for those of faith but for anyone seeking to understand themselves more fully. Whether grappling with life’s struggles, searching for peace, or yearning for connection, readers will find courage, clarity, and comfort within its pages.

Perfect for book clubs, personal devotion, or anyone who appreciates deeply meaningful storytelling, “Once Upon a Time: Volume Two” promises to inspire, challenge, and uplift its readers.

Samuel L. Blumenthal’s, “Once Upon a Time: Volume Two” paperback available on Tuesday, December 17; and e-book free and available for download on Amazon for 5 days, Tuesday, December 17 through December 21, 2024.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Samuel Blumenthal, PhD, is a retired clinical psychologist who grew up in a Reform Jewish home in Charlotte, North Carolina, where he still resides. The proud father of three grown sons and two daughters-in-law, he has five grandchildren. After coming to faith in Christ at forty-five, he looks for every opportunity to speak and write about the God who pursued him and lovingly carried him back home. He is a 2024 Selah award winner in short story and writes a twice-monthly newsletter on the meaning of story. This is his second published short story collection.

For interviews, contact samblumenthal@icloud.com.

Website: www.samuelblumenthal.com.

ABOUT THE PUBLISHER, REDEMPTION PRESS
Redemption Press is a respected publishing house dedicated to sharing inspirational and spiritually enriching literature with the world. Our commitment to uplifting readers through transformative stories and faith-based content remains unwavering.

For media inquiries or more information, please contact:
360-226-3488

info@Redemption-Press.com
www.redemption-press.com

PREM: An Apostle’s Triumphant Witness for Christ in Nepal

Groundbreaking New Book Shares a Modern Apostle’s Story That Will Ignite Your Faith

FAITH NEWS SERVICE – New Release: “PREM: An Apostle’s Triumphant Witness for Christ in Nepal” will be free to download tomorrow, December 17, 2024

United States—Monday, December 16, 2024

Imagine a story so extraordinary it could be lifted straight from the pages of the Book of Acts.

This is the remarkable journey of Prem Pradhan, a Hindu soldier turned fearless apostle for Christ in Nepal. PREM: An Apostle’s Triumphant Witness for Christ in Nepal, authored by Robert V. Finley and edited by Cynthia H. Finley and Ellen Gray N. Maybank, is a powerful testament to faith, courage, and the transformative power of the Gospel.

A Gurkha in the British Royal Air Force and later a tank regiment commander in the Indian army, Prem’s life took a dramatic turn when he encountered Jesus Christ. With unwavering conviction, he answered the call to share his faith in his homeland of Nepal—a place where converting to Christianity and being baptized was not only forbidden but punishable by imprisonment.

What followed was a life of relentless obedience. Imprisoned for baptizing others, Prem’s time behind bars became a platform for miraculous encounters: confronting demons, healing the sick, and preaching the love of Christ to fellow prisoners. His bold witness played a pivotal role in Nepal’s spiritual awakening, where the Christian population has grown from a handful of believers to over one million today.

This deeply inspiring book captures Prem’s story through intimate interviews, reflections from those he discipled, and firsthand accounts of his unwavering faith. A modern-day apostle’s journey unfolds in PREM, inviting readers to experience the power of God in a new and profound way.

Why PREM is a Must-Read

  • An extraordinary faith-building narrative of one man’s unwavering commitment to Christ in the face of persecution.
  • Riveting, real-life stories of miracles, spiritual warfare, and the power of the Gospel.
  • An inside look at the beginnings of Christianity in Nepal.

PREM: An Apostle’s Triumphant Witness for Christ in Nepal is more than just a book—it’s an invitation to experience the power of faith and the impact of one life surrendered to God.

PREM: An Apostle’s Triumphant Witness for Christ in Nepal e-book will be free and available for download on Amazon for 5 days, Tuesday, December 17 through December 21, 2024. PREM is rated highly by those who purchased and reviewed the book. Here’s what just a couple of the reviewers have said:

Thomas Noss

5 Stars A saint’s life and witness, an example for us all to follow

Prem’s life and testimony is equal to other heroes of my faith, such as: Sadhu Sundar Singh, Watchman Nee, and Perpetua. His account of prison life was especially impactful and moving, as was his opinion that God’s church should not go underground to avoid persecution. I pray that we can follow his example when the time comes.

Molinex

5 Stars  An amazing true story of complete commitment to the calling of God

PREM is a deeply moving true story of commitment, surrender, and courage. I bought this book and immediately read it from cover to cover, and I am so GLAD I did! The pages of this incredible account filled me with deep admiration and awe, at Brother Prem’s complete surrender to his Lord, in his life, and at such a great cost. My own intense personal reaction after reading these pages was a feeling of deep unworthiness, as I have never made such a complete surrender to God, as Brother Prem had. Brother Prem’s testimony is nothing short of spiritually heroic. His example calls me to be ever more committed to serving my Lord Jesus Christ with all the treasure, time, and talent He has ever given me. I highly encourage every believer to read PREM, and fully surrender to working for the Kingdom, while there is still time.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Robert V. Finley (1922–2019) was the 1944 intercollegiate boxing champion at the University of Virginia. An evangelist with Youth for Christ and InterVarsity, he preached at US rallies before becoming a missionary evangelist to China, Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Philippines and India between 1948 and 1951. Finley is recognized for leading a paradigm shift in missions during the twentieth century by following the New Testament patterns of reaching foreign visitors with the gospel and strengthening indigenous missions overseas. The founder of International Students, Inc. (ISI) and Christian Aid Mission, he authored thousands of articles and letters, and four other books, including Reformation in Foreign Missions. Robert V. Finley wrote PREM using edited transcriptions of tape recordings of his interviews with Prem Pradhan made over a nine-year period. The two men spent thousands of hours together both in Nepal and while visiting churches in the US and Canada. PREM is being published posthumously by Finley’s widow, Cynthia H. Finley.

For interviews, contact: TheTeam@RobertVFinley.com

Website: www.RobertVFinley.com

ABOUT THE PUBLISHER, REDEMPTION PRESS
Redemption Press is a respected publishing house dedicated to sharing inspirational and spiritually enriching literature with the world. Our commitment to uplifting readers through transformative stories and faith-based content remains unwavering.

For media inquiries or more information, please contact:
360-226-3488

info@Redemption-Press.com
www.redemption-press.com

Lamba’s Journey with Jesus

Little Lamb, Big Journey: New Children’s Book Brings the Gospel to Life through the Eyes of a Curious Lamb

FAITH NEWS SERVICE – United States—Wednesday, December 11, 2024

Just in time for the Christmas season, award-winning author Del Bates introduces “Lamba’s Journey with Jesus”, a heartwarming children’s book that weaves the story of Christ’s birth, ministry, and resurrection through the eyes of an adventurous lamb named Lamba. This captivating tale invites children ages four to eight on a rhyming journey of discovery, faith, and obedience.

An Unforgettable Journey
Lamba, a curious little lamb, dreams of exploring the world beyond his shepherd’s care. One starry night, he strays too far and stumbles upon a miraculous event: the birth of a very special baby, Jesus, whose arrival is celebrated by the angels. This sets the stage for a series of awe-inspiring encounters as Lamba grows up and crosses paths with Jesus during pivotal moments of his ministry, witnessing love, sacrifice, and redemption.

A Three-Part Story of Love and Hope
Told with delightful rhymes and gentle prose, “Lamba’s Journey with Jesus” takes readers through:

  • The wonder of Christ’s birth in Bethlehem.
  • Jesus’ ministry in Jerusalem, where he reassures Lamba of his return.
  • The joy of the empty tomb, where angels proclaim, “He is risen!”

Children will be enchanted by Lamba’s journey while parents and caregivers will appreciate the timeless message of God’s love, forgiveness, and the importance of obedience.

Perfect for Young Readers and Families
Beautifully written and designed to engage young hearts, “Lamba’s Journey with Jesus” is an ideal addition to family storytime, Sunday school lessons, and holiday gift lists. With its vivid storytelling and relatable character, this book makes the gospel story accessible and memorable for children, sparking meaningful conversations about faith and the true meaning of Christmas.

Del Bates “Lamba’s Journey with Jesus” e-book will be available to download for FREE on Amazon for 5 days, Wednesday, October 11 through October 15, 2024. “Lamba’s Journey with Jesus” is rated highly by those who purchased and reviewed the book. Here’s what just a couple of the reviewers have said:

CRuoho

5 Stars Three Engaging Books
My kids ages 6 and 8 loved this sweet book. The story through the eyes of Lamba is perfect for little ones. My intent was to read one story at a time but the kiddos wanted to read the entire book at once; they didn’t want to stop reading it, It’s definitely one of our favorites.

Jenny See

5 Stars Great book!

This is such a wonderful book. It’s a three part book that teaches kids the story of Jesus, in a fun way with rhyming and beautiful illustrations. This book should be on every kid’s book shelf.

For interviews, contact: Del@delbates.com

Website: www.Delbates.com

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Del Bates is an award-winning author, speaker, and weekly podcaster. Co-president of Treasure Coast Word Weavers, she has published three books, along with numerous stories and poems in various publications. She has worked with children for many years through Community Bible Study. Del and her husband reside in Florida but also enjoy spending quality time with their family in Michigan. You can reach her at DelBates.com and her podcast, Seeds of Hope with Del and Penny, is on Facebook.

mr stork delivering megan

The compelling Mr. Stork Delivering Megan reminds readers that they can achieve anything they put their mind to

FAITH NEWS SERVICE – In September 1996, my then wife was nearly full term, with the pregnancy of our second baby daughter, Loren Mary. My analogy of my wife being pregnant was a knitting needle stuck through an orange, as she was so slim, and the pregnancy bulge was so huge.

Megan, our first daughter, was looking at mummy’s tummy and I imagined her thoughts being “how did I get out of mummy’s tummy?” Megan then came up to me, and with her golden, curly hair, asked, “Daddy where did I come from?”

I replied on the spot, “Prior to your birth Megan, I was holding my right hand up to my right ear with my thumb and little finger sticking out, with my three other fingers clenched tight into the palm of my hand, as I pretended to talk to Mr. Stork on his telephone on his big nest, atop the chimney of a tall building in Belgium, Europe. I said to Mr. Stork that my wife and I were ready for the delivery of our very first baby. We did not know the sex and only wanted a happy, healthy baby  – whatever the sex may be.”

I was in Australia on my own after traveling the world for work and pleasure. The story line is of Mr. Stork picking the brightest soul star in the heavens, which drops into the nappy and becomes Megan. Mr. Stork, having a Google eye view, is the thread of the story, with Mr. Stork informing HRH Queen Elizabeth the Second and all my family and friends around the world, that the baby Megan will arrive at the St John of God Hospital Subiaco in Western Australia, back in June 1991.

Mr. Stork imparts into baby Megan’s spirit the experience of my family and friends’ geography, history and both their interactions with childhood stories, along with mother nature being at her best during the flight to Perth Western Australia.

For me, writing Mr. Stork Delivering Megan was a huge challenge, with my chronic dyslexia, and past lack of self-confidence. Being a very determined and motivated person from those struggles in my youth, I wanted to impart into the reader, whether a child or an adult, that you can achieve anything you put your mind to, and in the process, telling the nay sayers to go and run!

The Holy Spirit was really challenging my soul, not only initially to tell the story for children, but also for adults, to impart my life experiences and for Jesus Christ to come into my life at age 46 on 23rd July 2000, after previously being a confessed agnostic. Having not gone to church or ever studied the KJV Holy Bible, I guess that is why it took me 28 years to write the story!

I have only now realised through writing Mr. Stork Delivering Megan that my mother was so right in saying, “Philip is Intelligent, he just cannot grasp reading and writing!”

Mr. Stork Delivering Megan, published by Ark House, is now available globally.

men reading

Urgent: A Spiritual Crisis – Millions of Souls Hang in the Balance

FAITH NEWS SERVICE – Cary, North Carolina – In the vast, spiritually parched landscapes of the majority world, a devastating spiritual famine is spreading. Equipping Pastors Worldwide (EPW) is sounding the alarm: our global Christian community faces an unprecedented crisis that threatens to leave millions of believers spiritually malnourished and vulnerable.

Every single day, over 50,000 people open their hearts to Christ—yet these precious new believers are starving for spiritual guidance. The heart-wrenching reality is brutally simple: in regions rocked by poverty, persecution, and profound spiritual darkness, there is just one trained pastor for every 450,000 believers. This is not just a statistic—it’s a catastrophic spiritual emergency.

“We are witnessing a spiritual battlefield where countless souls are at risk,” warns David Holdt, Head of Training at EPW. “Without proper theological training and resources, local pastors cannot effectively combat the spiritual warfare surrounding their communities. Each untrained pastor represents hundreds, even thousands, of believers left exposed and unshepherded.”

EPW’s mission is no longer just a ministry—it’s a lifeline. By distributing over one million Christian books in 40+ languages and implementing a revolutionary six-step training program, we are not merely supporting pastors—we are arming spiritual warriors who will transform entire communities.

Your Urgent Action is Needed Now:

  • Donate Immediately: Every dollar you contribute is a direct intervention in spiritual warfare
  • Spread the Word: Help us rally the global church to this critical mission

The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few.
The spiritual future of entire regions hangs in the balance. With your support, EPW can equip pastors to become beacons of hope, lighting the way through darkness, poverty, and spiritual oppression.

Join us on December 7 at 1:00pm Eastern Time for a live Webinar with Dave Holdt, Chief Advancement Officer at EPW, as he shares firsthand life-changing experiences how EPW are transforming the global spiritual landscape, one pastor at a time.

Click Here To Access the Eventbrite Link

For more information or to make an immediate impact, visit epworldwide.org.

If you want more information or wish to speak to an EPW representative, please contact Carl Dobrowolski goodwillmediaservices@gmail.com. 

About Equipping Pastors Worldwide: We are not just a ministry. We are transforming the global spiritual landscape, one pastor at a time.

Difficult to Conceive

New Book, “Difficult to Conceive” Offers Comfort, Hope, and a Godly Path Through Infertility

FAITH NEWS SERVICE – United States—Monday, December 2, 2024

“Difficult to Conceive” will be free for five days to download starting tomorrow, December 3, 2024

Angela Mackey’s new release, “Difficult to Conceive: A Godly Perspective for the Road Ahead,” is a lifeline for anyone navigating the heartache of infertility. With raw vulnerability and unwavering faith, Mackey offers readers a unique blend of heartfelt personal testimony and biblical wisdom to help couples process their pain and find spiritual renewal in the midst of their journey.

Infertility affects millions of couples, yet many feel isolated and misunderstood in their struggle. Angela, who has experienced the devastating loss of two pregnancies and her ability to conceive naturally, opens her heart to those walking this difficult road. “Difficult to Conceive” serves as a comforting companion for women and couples, offering practical tools and biblical truths to navigate the deeply personal issues surrounding infertility.

Through her own story of loss and spiritual renewal, Angela provides signposts for others seeking to rediscover peace and purpose in God amid their pain.

Infused with warmth and empathy, “Difficult to Conceive” is more than a book—it’s a conversation with a trusted friend who understands the unique challenges of infertility. Rooted in Scripture and deeply personal, this book illuminates the path from grief to hope, pointing readers toward healing and a deeper relationship with God.

Angela’s voice is tender yet bold, honest yet uplifting, making “Difficult to Conceive” a must-read for anyone searching for answers, comfort, or a renewed perspective in their infertility journey.

Angela Mackey’s  “Difficult to Conceive” will be free and available for download on Amazon for 5 days, Tuesday, December 3 through December 7, 2024. “Difficult to Conceive” is rated five stars by those who purchased and reviewed the book. Here’s what just a couple of the reviewers have said:

Emily Watson

5 Stars Practical Resource
As a Christian who has struggled with infertility, I could identify with stories the author was sharing and I greatly appreciate the practicality of the resource – giving me ideas and tools to stay encouraged and focused on what matters most. This was an easy read that I would recommend to others.

Cole Stanton

5 Stars Wow!

This book is incredibly well written! Difficult to conceived has helped me to see how God walks with us and wants to bear our burdens with us. I would definitely recommend!

For interviews, contact angela@rethinkingmythinking.com

Website: www.rethinkingmythinking.com

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Angela Mackey has a master’s in biblical and theological studies and is a Maxwell certified speaker and trainer, registered nurse, and longtime Sunday school teacher. She has written for Encouragement Café and the MOM Initiative, she contributed to Overwhelmed: 31 Devotions for Moms and God with Us: Immanuel. You can connect with her at www.rethinkingmythinking.com. She lives in the Arkansas River Valley with her husband, three kids (two born through IVF treatments), and three dogs. She loves University of Kansas basketball, crafting, reading, and encouraging others so they can live transformed lives.

A Beautiful War: Finding Hope in the Darkest Moments

Finding Light in the Darkness: New Book “A Beautiful War” Offers Hope and Healing for Those Battling Depression

FAITH NEWS SERVICE – United States—Monday, December 2, 2024

“A Beautiful War” e-book will be free for five days to download starting tomorrow, December 3, 2024

In her raw and inspiring new book, “A Beautiful War: Finding Hope in the Darkest Moments,” Amanda L. Scarborough opens up about her deeply personal battle with postpartum depression, offering a message of hope to anyone who has faced the suffocating grip of mental health struggles.

In this brave memoir, Amanda shares how the birth of her son, a moment of anticipated joy, spiraled into a nightmare of isolation, fear, and despair. “For me, the darkness that postpartum depression held was all-consuming and terrifying,” she recounts. “It was an ugly, shameful place that kept me isolated and fearful—a place so brutal that I felt as though I would forever be stuck in a pit of hell with no way of escape.”

Through vividly told moments of heartbreak and breakthrough, Amanda reveals the turning point that changed her life: a moment of God’s mercy where “the dark veil that shielded reality was violently torn away.” With the support of loved ones, faith, and professional help, Amanda found her way to healing, offering readers an authentic and deeply relatable account of recovery.

“A Beautiful War” is more than a story of survival; it’s a declaration of victory. For anyone wrestling with depression—whether postpartum or otherwise—this book is a testament that light can penetrate even the darkest of seasons. Amanda’s unflinching honesty and unwavering faith shine through every page, inviting readers to experience the hope and healing found in surrendering their fears, guilt, and shame to Jesus.

“A Beautiful War” is not only a lifeline for those in the trenches of depression but also an invaluable resource for loved ones seeking to understand and support those who are struggling. Its powerful message reminds us all that love, faith, and hope can overcome even the fiercest battles.

Amanda Scarborough’s  “A Beautiful War” e-book will be free and available for download on Amazon for 5 days, Tuesday, December 3 through December 7, 2024. “A Beautiful War” is rated five stars by those who purchased and reviewed the book. Here’s what just a couple of the reviewers have said:

Des Politz

5 Stars Courageous Story Telling
I so admire the courage it took to pen this story. A beautiful portrait of being delivered from darkness into the marvelous light of freedom and healing. This is one to grab if you feel alone or beyond rescue. Not only a story of hope, but Amanda also shares practical things that helped along the way. Also a wonderful resource to grab and share with someone who may be struggling with anxiety, shame or postpartum depression. Don’t miss this one!!

Emily

5 Stars WOW!

WOW! Everyone do yourself a favor & read this book!! It was one of the MOST powerful books i’ve read in a while! Such a great testimony of Jesus’ love!! But Jesus!!

For interviews, contact: amanda@amandalscarborough.com

Website: www.amandalscarborough.com

Instagram: amanda.l.scarborough

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Debut author Amanda Scarborough was adopted at three days of age and grew up an only child on a farm in southwest Louisiana. At age twenty-two, she married her husband, Jeff, and became an instant mom to his two daughters, and later the couple had two sons together. They own Scarorough’s Salon & Day spa and Freedom Pharmacy, and Jeff is a contractor and a developer. Amanda loves decorating for fall and Christmas and, as a tradition, always does so on October 31. Aside from being obsessed with French bulldogs, she loves to read, play softball, and spend as much time as she can outdoors.

broken bread ministries

Breaking Traditions with Broken Bread Ministries

FAITH NEWS SERVICE – Columbia, SC – In the heart of a city known for its Gamecocks, Broken Bread Ministries has redefined worship with a “ministry without walls.” Founded amidst the COVID-19 pandemic on July 27, 2021, this virtual community connects believers every Wednesday at 8 PM EST via Zoom, allowing them to worship, pray, and study the Bible together online.

Beyond a traditional service, Broken Bread emphasizes community engagement, fostering a safe, interactive environment where members can ask questions, discuss scripture, and receive godly counsel.

In addition to its weekly gatherings, Broken Bread Ministries supports charitable efforts with a unique twist: each year, the ministry selects three charities for hands-on and financial support. This year’s chosen causes reflect the ministry’s commitment to impacting both local and global communities, with 40% of voluntary membership fees directed to these organizations. The 2025 beneficiaries are:

  1. National Federation of the Blind, Columbia, SC Chapter – Advocating for policies that promote accessibility and equal opportunities for visually impaired individuals, this chapter works to create inclusive environments in workplaces, schools, and communities, ensuring that visually impaired children have access to educational resources.
  2. Frontline Response, Atlanta, GA – Since 2010, this organization has empowered nearly 1,500 victims to escape sex trafficking and helped over 1,000 people transition out of homelessness. Frontline Response also provides preventive programs for underserved youth across Metro Atlanta, helping them navigate challenges and build brighter futures.
  3. Open Arms Foundation, Eswatini, Southern Africa – Dedicated to supporting vulnerable children through faith, community, and learning, this foundation addresses the critical needs of children in Eswatini. Minister D’tra Gary of Broken Bread Ministries, who recently visited, highlighted their efforts, saying, “Pastor Brenda’s work with Open Arms Foundation is truly a testament to faith in action. They’re not only nourishing children spiritually but also ensuring families don’t suffer from hunger. Our ministry is committed to helping them raise funds for a much-needed well, which will provide clean water and support sustainable food resources.”

Minister Gary added, “We may be a small ministry, but our faith is big. We believe that even our smallest contributions can have a lasting impact, especially for those in need.”

If you would like to support Broken Bread Ministries’ fundraising efforts for the well in Eswatini, or help us support the National Federation of the Blind (Columbia, SC Chapter) and Frontline Response in Atlanta, or if you’re interested in joining a virtual service, please visit www.brokenbreadministries.com.

For media inquiries, please contact:
D’tra Gary
Email: info@brokenbreadministries.com
Phone: (404) 834-1664