By Paul Monteith
Can a divine creation be reconciled with scientific fact? This is the question behind Creation or Evolution?, a 45-minute video produced by Ambassador Television Production (formerly the Television Department), and the first of several products that will be available through the church in 1996.
Creation or Evolution? comes with a full-color, 80 page book about human origins and human destiny. It will be offered in a letter to our subscribers (not including members) for $25 in January. Members interested in purchasing the video will find details in an advertisement in the February edition.
Gift offerings such as Creation or Evolution? are mutually beneficial to the church and to those who support its ministry.
Many subscribers ask for recommendations about books, videos, audio tapes and other religious works that would help them in their Christian life and aid their Bible study. By making these items conveniently available, the church fulfills part of its mission statement to nurture those in its fellowship (whether members, magazine subscribers or co-workers).
"Nurturing means more than just educating Christians about the Bible," said Norman Shoaf, publications manager. "The church is here to encourage them and help them in their daily walk with Christ. That could mean inspiring them, comforting them and advising them in times of personal crisis. Many of the products relate to this side of our mission.
"And, we intend to offer products that will be of the highest quality, biblically sound and academically reputable."
To ensure items offered meet these requirements, a product development team has been created. It consists of personnel from the publications area, media promotions and the creative design area--with input from the executive office.
The benefit of offering such products is that they will generate revenue for the church. A tax deductible donation is included in the set price.
The church's new covenant understanding has led it to see that it cannot require tithing as a condition of salvation. Tithes and offerings are now voluntary and the church is relying on the good faith of those it ministers to so it can continue to preach the gospel and serve the spiritual needs of its members.
"The church will always have some materials free of charge, however," Mr. Shoaf said. "We want to continue to minister to people on fixed incomes."
To inspire and comfort, part of our mission
Pat Boone's Israel, O Blessed Israel, a gospel music journey in the Holy Land, will be offered for a donation of $25 in a letter to readers in March (see Dec. 5 WN). An advertisement for the video will appear in the March-April issue.
"Pat Boone is one of the best known and best loved Christian entertainers in the United States and in international areas," Mr. Shoaf said. "In this video he has put together some of the best loved, traditional gospel songs. For a certain segment of our audience this music video will inspire and comfort, which is part of our ministry and mission."
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