Monthly Archives: August 2026

Jackson County inmates launch initiative to support vulnerable youth and call for stronger community partnerships

FAITH NEWS SERVICE – Jackson County, Michigan — Behind prison walls, a group of incarcerated men at G. Robert Cotton Correctional Facility are working to change lives beyond the razor wire — beginning with currently focusing on children in foster care.

Motivated by the heartbreaking stories shared by mentees who experienced the foster care system firsthand, prisoners affiliated with the Warden’s Forum and the National Lifers of America, Inc. (NLA) Chapter #1024 organized a fundraiser to support children in foster care and the organizations that serve them.

For inmate Kerry Jordan, the initiative became personal after hearing the experiences of young people impacted by instability, trauma, and displacement.

“I have never been in foster care as a child, but I know a lot of people that benefited from this resource,” said Jordan on Sunday afternoon as prisoners gathered to celebrate the success of the initiative. “This is about helping children know that people care about them.”

The fundraiser reflects a growing movement among incarcerated individuals seeking opportunities to positively impact their communities through mentorship, outreach, and service-driven initiatives.

“This donation is not only contributing to providing shelter and a new beginning with someone that cares, it is also making other resources available to these children too,” said Anthony Clay, president of NLA Chapter #1024. “Leaders have to be willing to come together for causes that benefit the community.”

Clay shared that the issue of foster care is deeply personal for him. His oldest daughter was in foster care from the ages of 10 to 18, and her foster parents — her aunt and uncle, both former correctional officers — stepped in during his absence.

“I will always be grateful to them for what they did for my daughter,” Clay said.

Nicole Tomaszewski, Development and Quality Coordinator for Guiding Harbor, expressed appreciation on behalf of the organization and said she was moved by the prisoners’ willingness to give back despite their circumstances.

Under the leadership of G. Robert Cotton Correctional Facility Warden Morrison and Assistant Deputy Warden Matthews, the prisoners said they were finally being given opportunities to contribute positively to the community after years of limited engagement opportunities.

“It was refreshing to have administrators in place that were open-minded and supportive of our positive ideas and initiatives,” said Clay.

The fundraiser was made possible with support from prison administration, including Account Tech/Business Manager, L. Anderson, Hobby Craft Director, R. Marienfeld, and Athletic Director, R. Fairly. The donation totaled $5,000.

Guiding Harbor Staff left to right: Nicole T., Star J., Bianca B., Emily C., Nina S.

While the men acknowledge they do not know how far the contribution will go, they hope it marks the beginning of continued community outreach efforts and stronger partnerships between prisoners and community organizations.

“We hear many stories about children that need support in the community, and we are willing to extend ourselves to help them in any way that we can,” Clay said.

Several of the prisoners involved currently serve as mentors inside the prison and participate in youth-focused outreach efforts aimed at encouraging positive decision-making and accountability.

Jason Armour referenced a previous prisoner-led donation to the Jackson County Food Pantry several months ago, emphasizing that many incarcerated individuals are seeking meaningful opportunities to demonstrate purpose, growth, and community responsibility despite the barriers often created by prison bureaucracy.

Currently, NLA Chapter #1024 is working to develop partnerships with reputable organizations and professionals in the community, recruit volunteers willing to participate in prison-based initiatives, and build a network of leaders, speakers, consultants, and mentors committed to rehabilitation and positive social impact.

CALL TO ACTION

The National Lifers of America, Inc. Chapter #1024 is actively seeking community organizations, educators, counselors, mentors, faith leaders, business professionals, and volunteers interested in partnering to support mentorship, rehabilitation, restorative initiatives, and youth outreach efforts.

Organizations and individuals interested in learning more, collaborating, or volunteering are encouraged to connect with NLA Chapter #1024 to help expand positive opportunities for both incarcerated individuals and the communities they hope to serve.

New Southern Novel Explores Unresolved Bitterness, and the Cost of Forgiveness Download for Free through August 29, 2026

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FAITH NEWS SERVICE – Fresh Baked Lies blends 1960s Mississippi small town spiritual darkness, and one young woman’s struggle to bring the light back through impossible grace.

Gilbert, AZ – August 25, 2026 — Selah award-winning author Gloria Fennimore’s debut novel, Fresh Baked Lies (Redemption Press, 2026), transports readers to 1965 Mississippi, where buried secrets, and generations of bitterness have taken root beneath the charm of a small Southern town. Through seventeen-year-old Rosalie Picotee’s story, Fennimore explores what happens when rejection and heartbreak collide with the difficult choice to forgive.

In the fictional town of Grimly, Rosalie knows the pain of being judged for who she is before anyone bothers to know her. When she falls for William Dearie, the son of the town’s most powerful woman, their relationship sets in motion betrayal, manipulation, and the unraveling of secrets that have shaped their families for years. Blending Southern fiction with elements of Christian magical realism, the novel examines how unresolved bitterness can reach across generations, and whether truth and grace can finally break their hold.

For readers carrying wounds from betrayal, rejection, grief, or broken relationships, Fresh Baked Lies offers no easy version of forgiveness. Instead, Rosalie’s journey reflects the complicated reality that forgiving does not erase or excuse what happened; it can, however, keep pain from defining who you are. The story invites readers to consider the possibility that grace can reach deeply wounded places and that redemption remains possible even after profound heartbreak.

Fennimore wrote Fresh Baked Lies to address the unresolved bitterness she witnessed in her own family, and how clinging to unforgiveness can destroy a life. Her hope is that readers come away knowing forgiveness does not make the hurt insignificant, but it can bring freedom and allow grace and truth to have the final word.

Gloria Fennimore’s print copy will be available on August 25, 2026; with the e-book free to download on Amazon for 5 days through August 29, 2026. Early readers are already sharing how much the story has touched them. Here’s what a couple of reviewers have said:

Tillie Anne 5 Stars – Fresh Baked Lies – And Forgiveness
Fresh Baked Lies is such an engaging read! Gloria Fennimore’s writing style drew me in from Act 1, Chapter 1 and kept me turning the pages. Set in a small Southern town filled with secrets, the book follows Rosalie through betrayal and heartbreak as she wrestles with what forgiveness really means. Gloria weaves grace and redemption throughout the story without losing the intrigue that keeps you wanting to know what happens next. It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of forgiveness—a lesson we all need. Highly recommend!

TAWallace 5 Stars – Captivating!
Excellent storytelling! From the beginning, you will be engaged and unable, as well as unwilling, to stop reading. The characters are portrayed in a manner that makes you think of people in your own life; the settings and descriptions have you inhaling the smells and experiencing the emotions. Intrigue with a little mystery, but grace, forgiveness and mercy flow from this tale. I highly recommend!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Selah award-winning author Gloria Fennimore writes emotionally layered Southern fiction that weaves biblical truth into stories of grace, forgiveness, and redemption. Through her writing ministry, she encourages women to live restored lives rooted in truth and grace. Raised in the South and now living in rural Northern Nevada with her husband, Rich, Gloria enjoys gardening, hosting vintage tea parties, and spending time with her blended family.

For interviews, review copies, or speaking inquiries, contact: Gloria Fennimore
Email: gloriafennimore@gmail.com
Website: gloriafennimore.com

The College of Biblical Studies Welcomes Dr. John Mark Reynolds as Vice President of Advancement and Strategic Leadership

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FAITH NEWS SERVICE – The College of Biblical Studies is pleased to announce that Dr. John Mark Reynolds has joined the college as vice president of advancement and strategic leadership.

Dr. Reynolds brings more than three decades of leadership in Christian higher education. He served as president of The Saint Constantine School and as provost of Houston Baptist University. At Biola University, he founded and directed the Torrey Honors Institute, which became a national model for classical Christian higher education.

“Dr. Reynolds brings the rare combination of strategic vision, institutional leadership and a relational approach to advancement,” said Dr. Bill Blocker, president of CBS. “He understands that strategy is how mission becomes priorities, programs and measurable progress. His experience will help CBS make wise decisions today while building the academic strength, relationships and financial sustainability needed for our next season of growth and impact.”

In his new role, Dr. Reynolds will spearhead the advancement of the college, strengthen its relationships with ministry partners, and contribute to expanding academic opportunities. He will assist in aligning the college’s mission, programs, and resources, while also developing the financial strength necessary to enhance its impact.

“Serving as a president and provost taught me that advancement and strategic leadership cannot be separated,” Dr. Reynolds said. “A sustainable future requires a clear vision and trusted relationships with people who believe in the mission. I look forward to helping CBS discern where God is leading, then inviting donors, educators and partners to help make that future possible.”

For 50 years, CBS has educated and equipped diverse Christian leaders to impact the world for Christ. Dr. Reynolds’ leadership will help provide the vision, relationships and resources needed to continue transforming lives for generations to come.

About the College of Biblical Studies
The College of Biblical Studies proudly celebrates 50 years of God’s faithfulness and transformative impact through educating and equipping diverse Christian leaders to impact the world for Christ. With campuses in Houston and Indianapolis, as well as online, CBS offers accredited, biblically grounded degree programs, including programs taught in Spanish. Since 1976, CBS has prepared more than 40,000 students to serve in ministry, the marketplace and their communities. Through CBS Global Campus, the college also offers vocational training that equips students to be as market-ready as they are ministry-advanced.

News Release Contact: Melinda Merillat Public Relations & Corporate Communications Melinda@mmerillat.com

New Memoir Helps Grieving Hearts Find God’s Presence in the Details of Loss

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FAITH NEWS SERVICE – Gilbert, AZ — 19 August, 2026 — What if the very moments that break your heart are the ones where God is most present?

In her new memoir, The Big Picture: Eyes to See Beyond Despair (Redemption Press, 2026), author Kasey Burnett invites readers to discover hope, comfort, and redemption in the midst of deep grief.

Born out of the devastating loss of her daughter, Burnett shares her honest and faith-filled journey through sorrow and the surprising ways God revealed His nearness—through Scripture, creation, and everyday moments that spoke of His love. With tenderness and authenticity, she reminds readers that even when life feels shattered, God is still in the details, redeeming what is broken and revealing His glory in the midst of pain.

Through heartfelt storytelling and biblical reflection, The Big Picture helps readers

recognize God’s presence in the smallest details of their story
find comfort and meaning in the midst of sorrow
see how faith and grief can coexist in a life anchored to hope
discover the eternal perspective that transforms loss into anticipation
trust that God is redeeming every chapter—even the hardest ones

“Grief doesn’t go anywhere,” says Burnett. “But it begins to mean something once you see how God is present in it. That’s where healing begins.”

The Big Picture is available through Redemption Press, Amazon, and other major retailers.

About the Author

Kasey Burnett is a storyteller, wife, and mother whose life was reshaped by the sudden loss of her daughter, Megan. In that deep sorrow, she discovered more of God’s nearness and the tender ways He brings comfort, restoration, and redemption to even the hardest stories.

In The Big Picture, Kasey shares her journey through grief and hope, inviting readers to notice how God threads mercy and beauty through pain. Drawing from Scripture, her daughter’s journals, and her work with GriefShare groups, she offers an honest, compassionate perspective that points toward renewed faith and quiet peace.

A lifelong creative, Kasey enjoys Bible study, dogs, puzzles, and handmade projects. She lives in the Carolinas with her husband.

For interviews, review copies, or speaking inquiries, contact:
Kasey Burnett
Email: kaseyburnettwriter@gmail.com
Facebook: facebook.com/KaseyBurnettWriter
Instagram: @kaseyburnettwriter

Made On Purpose: A profile of faith, nature, identity, and the gentle power of being made on purpose

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FAITH NEWS SERVICE – Emma Ewer grew up between the redearth wilds of Lightning Ridge and the coastlines of the Central Coast — landscapes that became, in her words, “Scripture in motion.” Diagnosed with ADHD at five and later with Autism, and having lost both parents young, Emma often felt out of place indoors and among peers.

Outdoors was different. Trees became her first listeners. The lake and ocean became her first teachers. Nature was where she felt God most clearly — steady, gentle, intentional.

She describes those early years as a long winter. But she came to believe God was planting seeds beneath the surface the whole time, echoing Isaiah 61:3’s promise of beauty for ashes — the idea that God doesn’t waste pain but transforms it into something new.

Her neurodivergence became part of that transformation, too. Emma doesn’t see ADHD and Autism as flaws, but as part of the Imago Dei — evidence that God forms every mind with intention, the way no two trees or rivers grow the same.

That conviction is the seed of Made On Purpose. Emma wrote it out of a simple, hard-won belief: identity isn’t something children have to earn — it’s something they receive, from a God who made them on purpose.

The book is faith-explicit, written with pastoral warmth and poetic clarity, and has been reviewed by speech therapists, occupational therapists, and psychologists for its emotional safety and developmental appropriateness.

Emma wrote it for a specific moment — one where children and families are navigating anxiety, disconnection, and cultural noise about who they’re supposed to be.

Made On Purpose is meant as a countervoice to that noise: gentle, steady, and rooted in the same truth that carried her through her own winter. Readers describe it like stepping onto a familiar trail — each page a steadying breath, each truth a landmark reminding them they aren’t lost.

As Psalm 19:1 puts it: “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands.” Just as landscapes are shaped by God’s hands, Emma believes, so are we — and Made On Purpose is her attempt to hand that reminder to the next generation.

Made On Purpose, published by Ark House, is now available globally.

James R. Dunne Unveils Vision for “EDEN,” Calling for Equal Human Value, $20 Hourly Compensation and a Tax-Free Economy

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FAITH NEWS SERVICE – Religious and economic proposal calls for justice among nations, restoration of Earth to EDEN and a new standard for valuing human labor

SLIDELL, Louisiana — August 4, 2026 — James R. Dunne, who identifies himself as the “Servant of the ONE TRUE GOD, Isaiah 53-on,” is announcing a religious, economic and social vision he calls EDEN.

Dunne’s proposal combines his religious beliefs with an economic system centered on equal human value, a universal $20-per-hour standard for human labor, elimination of taxes and greater recognition of the finite time people give up when they work.

“Every human life has the same exact value,” Dunne said. “When a person gives their time to labor, they are giving away part of their life. That time has value.”

$20 PER HOUR AS A UNIVERSAL STANDARD

At the center of Dunne’s economic proposal is a universal compensation standard of $20 per hour for human labor. Based on a 40-hour workweek, that would equal $20 per hour, $800 per week and $38,400 per year. Over 50 years of full-time work, the cumulative amount would be $1.92 million.

Dunne says these figures illustrate the cumulative value of the time individuals contribute over decades of employment. His proposal seeks to establish human time, rather than occupation, status or wealth, as a fundamental measure of labor’s value.

A TAX-FREE ECONOMIC MODEL

Dunne also calls for eliminating taxes, arguing that individuals should retain the money they earn rather than surrendering a portion of their income through taxation.

Dunne says the EDEN framework would seek to place human dignity, economic fairness, personal freedom and responsibility at the center of public life for future generations and families.

WORK, TIME AND FAMILY

A central element of Dunne’s proposal is the relationship between employment and personal time.

He argues that work involves more than exchanging labor for money because workers also exchange finite hours of their lives. Those hours, he says, could otherwise be spent with spouses, children, parents, friends and other loved ones.

Dunne therefore wants the value of human time to play a greater role in discussions about wages, employment and economic policy.

A RELIGIOUS VISION FOR EDEN

Dunne’s economic proposals are part of a larger religious vision. He identifies himself as the “Servant of the ONE TRUE GOD, Isaiah 53-on,” and says he is calling his Israelites home.

He is also calling for construction of what he describes as the ONE TRUE GOD’s “3rd and Final Temple,” which he believes would provide the rightful place for the return of the ARK.

Dunne describes the Temple, the ARK and the restoration of Earth to EDEN as interconnected elements of his religious vision. He says he would ultimately be known as “Lord Almighty, Adam” and describes himself as the “KING of the human race.”

Dunne’s stated vision includes distinct roles for Israelites and Gentiles within EDEN, which he presents as a restored society organized around justice, human dignity and worship of the ONE TRUE GOD.

A CALL FOR JUSTICE

Dunne says his broader objective is to establish what he considers a more just system for humanity, in which economic position, occupation and wealth do not determine the inherent value assigned to a person’s life.

“I am here to bring Justice to every Nation on EDEN,” Dunne said. “I believe every human being should be recognized as having the same exact value.”

Dunne is inviting journalists, researchers, religious leaders, economists and members of the public to examine his proposals and engage in discussion about human value, work, taxation, economic equality, religion and the future of society.

ABOUT JAMES R. DUNNE

James R. Dunne identifies himself as the “Servant of the ONE TRUE GOD, Isaiah 53-on.” He describes his public mission as a call for the restoration of Earth to EDEN and the creation of a society based on justice, equal human value and economic equality.

His proposals include a universal $20-per-hour standard for human labor, elimination of taxation and a broader vision for reorganizing society around the value of human time and life.

MEDIA CONTACT
James R. Dunne
Email: jamesd91846@gmail.com
Website: jamesreturntoeden.com

From Abandoned Baby to a Life Transformed: Out of the Cold Will Restore Your Faith in the Power of Redemption

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FAITH NEWS SERVICE – Some stories inspire. Others leave an unforgettable mark on your heart. Out of the Cold by Liisa Grace is one of those rare books.

This extraordinary true story follows an unimaginable journey that begins with abandonment and heartbreak. Born in Finland, Liisa was abandoned as an infant, became an orphan, and was eventually adopted by a family in Australia. But the promise of a new beginning soon gave way to years of devastating trauma, abuse, rejection, addiction and homelessness.

By her teenage years, she was surviving on the streets, trapped in a world of violence, fear and despair. Her life seemed destined to become another tragic statistic.

Yet this is not a story about defeat.

It is the story of a God who refused to let go. In the darkest moments of her life, Liisa encountered an unexpected act of kindness that led her to discover the transforming love of Jesus Christ. What followed was not an instant escape from pain, but a remarkable journey of healing, forgiveness and restoration that continues to inspire everyone who hears her story.

Written with remarkable honesty, humility and courage, Out of the Cold invites readers into the deepest wounds of a life marked by suffering before revealing the extraordinary hope that emerged from the ashes. It is an authentic account of redemption that refuses to offer easy answers, instead pointing to the faithful God who patiently restores broken lives.

More than a memoir, Out of the Cold speaks directly to those who have ever felt abandoned, forgotten, ashamed or beyond saving. It offers hope to survivors of trauma, abuse and loss while reminding every reader that no past is too broken for God’s grace.

Liisa says she wrote the book because she felt called to share what God had done in her life.

“I wanted to tell a story of hope, healing and transformation. My life began with abandonment, loss and childhood trauma, but through God’s love and grace I discovered that my past did not have to define my future. My prayer is that readers will know they are deeply loved and that no story is beyond redemption.”

Readers will not simply witness an incredible survival story—they will encounter a powerful testimony of resilience, faith and the life-changing power of God’s love. Along the way they will gain a deeper understanding of the lifelong impact of trauma, the importance of compassion, and the reality that healing is possible, even after the deepest wounds.

Early readers have described Out of the Cold as both heartbreaking and profoundly hopeful.

“Liisa’s story is one of raw honesty, unimaginable pain and breathtaking redemption. With remarkable courage, she invites us into the darkest corners of her past before pointing us toward the light that changed everything. This book is not just a testimony of survival, but of divine transformation—a story that will move you deeply and remind you that no life is ever too broken for hope.”

At its heart, Out of the Cold proclaims one of the greatest truths of the Christian faith: no life is beyond redemption, no past beyond forgiveness, and no heart too cold for the transforming love of Christ.

For anyone searching for hope, healing or proof that God still changes lives, Out of the Cold is a book that will challenge, encourage and remain with you long after you have turned the final page. Out of the Cold, published by Ark House, is now globally available.

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