My Links to Web sites and Blogs

For links on Gender Equality, go to http://www.wherethespiritleads.org

These are my Special Links

T H O R O U G H Y A L I V E (formerly Itinerant Idealist)

"In search of a soul awake" A personal blog by Sarah Clarkson (my niece),

Sarah says this about herself:

Itinerant: i•ten•er•ant noun 1. A person who travels from place to place.

Idealist: i•de•al•ism noun 1. One guided by ideals; especially : one that places ideals before practical considerations.

Simply stated, I am Sarah. I am 23, and currently hail from the dappled foothills of Colorado. I am a writer; a passionate writer who hopes to one day write the sort of novel that chills and kindles and brings an unexpected glory all at once. I am an occasional musician. And having managed to delay college for several years, I am an avid traveler (13 countries and counting). I come from a highly opinionated family who values discussion, good books, strong tea and the thinking up of impossible ventures. The genes run strong. Beauty is my passion; loveliness in life and creativity especially as it is expressed in great literature, in life-giving discussion, art in myriad form, and music, always music. I will do almost anything for a strong cup of coffee or tea and am always ready to enter the buzz of a good discussion. I love God’s green earth; hope someday to live a little closer to it, but for now am always eager for a foray into the mountains or down into the valleys. Life is, to my thought, a feast to be celebrated and a grace to be daily blessed, and my delight is to live it fully with God and the people he has given me to love.

Al Maxey: Reflections, biblical studies done by Al Maxey

Reflections is a continuing series of weekly articles sent out at no cost to a private email list. At present there are several thousand readers worldwide. These Reflections are not for everybody, however. They are designed for those disciples who have a Berean spirit --- who are willing to examine afresh their convictions and practices in light of God's inspired Word. Al is minister of the Cuba Avenue Church of Christ in Alamogordo, New Mexico where he also serves as an elder.

Granbury Church of Christ in Granbury, Texas. Pulpit Minister: John Knox

This is the "local" congregation (if 35 miles is really considered local) where Linda, and I worship. I don't believe you can find a friendlier church anywhere. If you live in or around Hood County or you are planning to visit the Granbury or Glen Rose area, we would love to have you visit with us in the worship and Bible classes and experience what Linda and I have found to be a warm and spirit fill congregation of the Lord's family. If you would like to sit with someone you have at least exchanged emails with, please feel free to email me. We would love to share in the worship with you. We attend the 08:15 am early worship and Bible class that follows the worship.

Kingwood Church of Christ in Kingwood, Texas. Pulpit Minister: open

This is the congregation where our oldest daughter, Shannon, is the Children's Minister. It is one of the friendliest congregations I think I have ever had the pleasure to worship with. We are able to worship with them every seven weeks, Lord willing, when we visit Shannon, David, and River.

Southern Hills Church of Christ in Abilene, TX. Pulpit Minister: Phil Ware

When Linda and I camp at Abilene State Park, this is where you will find us on Sunday Morning.

Whole Heart Ministries based in Monument, Colorado

This is a ministry of my brother, Clay Clarkson, that is dedicated to helping parents home school their children win a Christian atmosphere. They have published numerous books on this subject, and are in demand at home school conferences, seminars, and retreats. Their methods work!

Followers of Chirst in Brantford Ontario Pulpit Minister: Rick Gamble

An independent, nondenominational church which has a long-term lease in a municipally-owned Community Centre in one of the city's most under serviced areas. A very informal, come-as-you-are group of Christians who want to operate, not like an institution, but like a family, in which each member shares privileges and responsibilities in a way that encourages individuality, spirituality, and a sense of belonging. The weekly newsletter is Cross Currents.

added on 09-27-2011

CenterPeace a place to belong, under the direction of Dr. Sally Gary

"The mission of CenterPeace is to provide safe places for men and women who experience same-sex attraction. For some, that safe place may take the form of a support group that grows out of a college or university campus ministry or a church, where we share common struggles and help each other live the lives of holiness that God calls us to."

I had a delightful conversation with Sally the day we met and this is a wonderful work she is overseeing.

The Grace Centered Forum This is a discussion forum on the Grace Centered Magazine web site.

This is my favorite discussion board. The Grace Centered Discussion Forum is a growing, friendly, and caring board where subjects relating to the Restoration Movement churches (mainly churches of Christ but also includes Disciples of Christ, and Independent Christian Churches/churches of Christ) are discussed in a grace-centered and loving environment. You don't have to be a registered member to post but we love it when we get new registered members.

Hallal Music a music ministry under the direction of Key Young.

“Hallal” is a derivative of “halal” one of several Hebrew words used for praise. It means to shine, flash forth light, to praise, to boast and glory. It is a word that defines praise to God with full abandon, loud voice, and great excitement. That pretty well describes the heart of what Hallal Music has been about since its beginning. Their "Day of Praise" is a worship experience and spiritual renewal that will lead you into the presence of the Father.

Some Blogs I Enjoy Reading

I also list some other blogs on my personal blog: Wileys Ways

Thoene's Blog Authors Brock and Bodie Thoene (my favorite historical fiction writers0

Stoned-Campbell Disciple Bobby Valentine (an internet friend and excellent Bible teacher)

Peace of my mind Sally Gary's personal blog

Bible Study Sites for kids and adults

Christian Links for Kids and Teens

This web site is designed and written by Renee Belleville and has an immense number of links to Christian sites designed for kids and teens. There are also links for adults regarding raising their Christian kids. This site will keep a kid or adult entertained for a long period of time chasing out the links and playing some of the games. She has spent a large amount of time collecting high quality links. The site is non-denominational.

Although not specifically a Church of Christ site, this animated site is designed more for adults or teens. It has a large selection of topics and is excellent for some easy study time.

World Bible School

Since the 1950's, WBS has been sending Bible correspondence courses free-of-charge to students around the world. This same material is now available on the Web.

Freedom in Christ Dr. Dallas Burdett.

This site has hundreds Bible study articles and related links. A real treasure of information. Dr. Burdett also writes for Grace Centered Magazine, a web based magazine for members of the Churches of Christ.

On Line Bibles On line Bible's--many versions to choose from.

Spending Time with Jim McGuiggan

Jim is a minister in the Churches of Christ who has published a number of excellent books over the years, I have read many of his books and most of the studies he has published online. Before moving back to his home in Northern Ireland, Jim was a professor at the Sunset School of Preaching for a number of years.

Church of Christ Publications and Events

(includes online publications and printed magazines)

The Christian Chronicle (printed)

A Church of Christ publication that is not biased in any one particular direction that covers the news and events that take place in the broad spectrum of churches of Christ.

New Wineskins Magazine (online)

A Church of Christ magazine published in the US that I highly recommend. Managing Editor: Greg Taylor, Co-editors: Rubel Shelly & Mike Cope. The original Wineskins was purchased on May 1, 2001 by The Zoe Group and is now The New Wineskins Magazine.

The Christian Appeal (printed)

This little magazine is absolutely one of the best magazines around. Although it is a magazine that is directed to the Restoration Movement churches, it is a magazine that will appeal to all Christians, regardless of their denominational orientation. The yearly subscription for this monthly publication is only $7.00 but would be worth the money at twice the price. I highly recommend this magazine!

Heartlight (email)

A great web site run by Phil Ware, Westover Hills Church of Christ pulpit minister. Short articles, electronic greeting cards, music reviews, and much much more.

Edward Fudge (email)

This is the home site of Edward Fudge's GracEmail. Edward serves as an shepherd for the Bering Drive Church of Christ in Houston. He is a well known and published writer in the churches of Christ. Edward and I have corresponded over the years and I am proud to be able to list him on my links page. He is a wonderful Christian and has served as an elder for the Bering Drive Church of Christ in Houston, TX.

Churches of Christ my wife and I have visited when traveling

or have friends who are members

Cuba Avenue Church of Christ in Alamogordo, New Mexico Pulpit Minister: Al Maxey

Bering Drive Church of Christ in Houston, TX Pulpit Minister:

This is an exceptional church that has put into practice the Gal 3:26-28 message. The leadership of the church is an eldership of five men and five women chosen from the membership at large based on the qualities of leadership and pastoral abilities as described in 1 Tim and Titus. Having women serve in this capacity is rare in the churches of Christ and I personally praise them for their desire to be a congregation of the Lord's church that uses everyone regardless of race, gender, and income for the growth of the church of Christ.

Metropolitan Church of Christ in Carson, CA: Pulpit Minister: Fate Hagood III

Excerpt from their mission statement: "The mission of the metropolitan church of Christ is to help people develop into fully functioning followers of Christ". We have never visited Metropolitan but I know the minister and based on our friendship on-line for the last several years, I look forward to the day that I can visit and worship with the Christians at Metropolitan CoC.

Golf Course Road Church of Christ in Midland, TX: Pulpit Minister: Ronnie White.

This is where we worship when we are in Midland. They are the sponsors of Stream in the Desert.

Richland Hills Church of Christ in Ft. Worth, TX: Pulpit Minister: Rick Atchely

This is a great church. Their membership is around 4000 and are very active in many areas of ministry. We have taken our kids to youth activities at this church during the summer months.

Alta Mesa Church of Christ in Ft. Worth, TX: Pulpit Minister: Danny Sims

A good church in far south Ft. Worth, TX.

Christian Music: a cappella

Hallal Music was founded by Ken Young. It is an a cappella group composed of singers from various areas of the country singing contemporary praise and worship songs. They are the worship team at numerous events including events such as Stream in the Desert, and ACU Bible Lectureship two name just a couple. They are our favorite a cappella group. If you wish to hear them live, I can't think of a better place than at Stream in the Desert 2005 the first weekend of April.

The ZOE Group, Inc. is a not-for-profit Christian a cappella ministry dedicated to worship renewal in the lives of individuals and the churches to which they belong.

The Acappella Company

The Acappella Company was the dream of Keith Lancaster. The Dream cametrue and after 20 years is alive and growing. The Contemporary Christian Music groups represented on this site are Keith Lancaster, Acappella, AVB, Vocal Union, X-Changed, and The Firemen.

This singing group was performing during the 1990's. They sand a cappella and had a unusually tight and very balanced harmony. The group originally began singing while in college with the majority of their songs being written and arranged by members of the group. The group consisted of Chris and Amy Carper, Johnny, Kim, and Jacob Scott. They have placed all of their music online for free download but still have a few CD's left that can be ordered on their web site. This is one of my all time favorite groups!

Scientific Creationism and other Biblical based sites of Interest

The Creation Evidence Museum Glen Rose, Texas. Curator: Dr. Carl Baugh

Dr. Carl Baugh is a friend who has done considerable research into the human footprints found in the Cretaceous limestone formations exposed by the Paluxy River in Glen Rose. They raise the question of whether man is 70 million years old or the dinosaurs lived with man within the Creationist time frame of about 6000 to 10,000 years ago. This is the same formation that the dinosaur tracks at Dinosaur Valley State Park tracks are found in. Interestingly, evolutionary science totally disregards this particular fossil discovery, even though it has known about for about 100 years. The Creation Evidence Museum is located near Dinosaur Valley State Park at Glen Rose, Texas. Dr. Carl Baugh lectures on the 1st Saturday of each month. Plan a family outing and go hear and talk to Dr. Baugh. The Creation Evidence Museum is located near Glen Rose, Texas, about 1 mile from the Dinosaur Valley State Park.

This site is a study that pretty much pins down a lot of historical and biblical facts regarding the birth of Jesus, the Star that led the magi, the date of the birth, the date of the visit of the magi, and the date of the crucifixion. It also touches on the actual date of Herod's death, which is critical in determining Biblical accuracy regarding Jesus' birth. Fredrick Larson has really done his homework in this in depth study. He has a DVD available which I highly recommend purchasing!

The Institute for Creation Research

Founded by Dr. John Morris. This is a good source of information on Scientific Creationism.

Christian Answers

Lot's of info on this site, but not restricted to just Creation Science.

Answers In Genesis

This web site is dedicated to a creationist view of the universe based on scientific evidence that supports the Genesis account of the Creation. The site is associated with the Creation Museum in Cincinnati, under the direction of Ken Hamm.

Restoration Movement information sites

The term Restoration Movement as become an identifying name related to a group of churches that grew out of the Alexander Campbell and Barton W. Stone ideal of turning back to only the Bible, and having unity among Christians of all denominations. That goal by Campbell and Stone was basically a reformation effort aimed at restoring unity among all Christians rather than re-establishing a church that had gone out of existence. The term Restoration Movement came out of an erroneous view (in my opinion) that the 1st Century Church of Christ went out of existence after the 1st Century for 1700 years and was then re-establish or restored in the early 1800's. I don't agree with that view of church history although I totally agree with Campbell's and Stone's views of unity and numerous doctrines or understanding of Scripture. The term Restoration Movement is now associated with several church groups that came out of the Stone-Campbell movement which include The Church of Christ (a cappella), The Christian Church/disciples of Christ, and the independent Christian Church (also know under the lesser used names the Christian Church/Church of Christ and Church of Christ instrumental). In the Churches of Christ, there are sub-groups that include mainline, progressive, Old Paths, non-institutional, grace-centered, one-cup, non-Sunday School, and several others. A new sub-group is presently developing in the Church of Christ which will probably be classified as gender equal churches. These Churches of Christ will eventually include women in all levels of church work on an equal basis with men. This issue will eventually become the main issue in the Church of Christ as we re-evaluate our present views regarding gender. Most other issues, including the predominate issues presently of instrumental music, baptism, Communion, and homosexuality will become secondary or even dead issue compared to the gender issue. My family's heritage is in the main line and the more progressive/grace oriented churches, and if you have read my Where the Spirit Leads web page, you know we are strong supporters of gender equality in the Churches of Christ. The following sites all relate to the Stone-Campbell churches. These sites are extremely valuable sites for anyone wanting historical information regarding the churches that were an outgrowth of the movement that Alexander Campbell and Barton W. Stone started. The Churches of Christ, in particular, have an extremely interesting history and were a major factor in "Restoration Movement" ideals.

Restoration Movement

Probably the best and most complete collection of manuscripts, history, and information on the Web about the Restoration Movement. Has many manuscripts by Alexander Campbell, Barton W. Stone, David Lipscomb, and others. Also includes an online version of Alexander Campbell's "The Living Oracles" New Testament, which is considered the original modern translation and the predecessor of the RSV. Very interesting site worth the visit.

Unity in Diversity

A collection of writings by W. Carl Ketcherside in the Mission Messenger, and some of his books that are now online.

Misc Interesting Links

Family Dynamics Institute Joe Beam - chairmen and founder.

FDI partners with churches, equipping them with state-of-the-art tools and techniques for powerful marriage and family ministry. Whether you're looking for a program to strengthen your own marriage or parenting skills, or want to use the powerful principles and techniques to help others, Family Dynamics can help you and your congregation. Joe writes on-line articles for GC Magazine.

21st Century Christian, Inc.

Book Store with emphasis on Church of Christ material.

Excellent full line Christian book store.

HOWARD PUBLISHING

A Church of Christ based publisher and online book store.

Another large list of Church of Christ links.

Material by Olan Hicks

Source of study material on numerous subjects, especially Christian divorce.

Christian Classics Ethereal Library

Source of classic Christian writings on-line.

Promise Keepers

an important web site for Christian husbands and fathers.

Christian Music Artists List

an online list of Christian singers and groups.

Liberty Counsel

Want to find out more about the on-going fight for religious freedom? This is the place to visit. Contains an up-to-date listing and explanations of all on-going court battles between the government and the Christian community for religious freedom. If you have a religious freedom issue, this site will be a valuable resource to you.

The Church of Christ.org

This site has directories, discussions lists, etc. and is maintained by Silbano Garcia.

Jewish Virtual Library - Homepage

Good source Jewish writings

Torah Fax in CyberSpace

Source of daily study of the Torah.

Yeshuat Yisrael

A Messianic Jewish congregation in Nashville, TN. This is a fascinating site with loads of useful info for all Christians.

Zola Levitt Presents

Zola Levitt's ministry is based out of Dallas, TX and has a TV show. He passed from this life several years ago but his work goes on under the guidance of his son. He has written short books on a number of subjects that clarify how the first century Jewish Christians would have seen various issues. They are very informative and contain a lot of useful info regarding Jewish practices, beliefs, and customs from that time in history.

Gates to Jewish Heritage Welcome!

Another Jewish religion site that I have found interesting.

Abilene Christian University

The university that all three of my daughters graduated from.

American Radio Relay League

The ARRL web site. Up to date info for American Amateur Radio Operators

National Rifle Association

NRA web site. Up to date info on legislation, happenings, etc.

online practice exams

web radar updated every 30 minutes apx.

Weather chasers, etc.

Last Updated 08/30/2010 by Wiley Clarkson