Four home, one to go: Texas missionaries’ quintuplets improving after premature arrival in Dallas

By JAMES RAGLAND

Staff Writer

jragland@dallasnews.com

Published: 23 November 2012 09:53 PM 

They’re getting by with a lot of help from their friends.
That’s how Carrie and Gavin Jones sum up their life since the missionaries’ quintuplets were born more than three months ago at UT Southwestern Medical Center.
“It’s been quite a road,” Carrie Jones said this week as she prepared to bring the fourth of the premature newborns home from the hospital. “But God has been very faithful.”
The infants, born on Aug. 9, are not out of the woods yet, doctors say. But all the babies are gaining weight and steadily overcoming issues commonly associated with preemies, including respiratory and digestive problems.
They weighed 1 pound, 12 ounces to 2 pounds at birth. But now, the smallest quintuplet, Grace, weighs 7 pounds, and the biggest, Will, tops the scale at 10 pounds, 6 ounces.
Only one, Seth, remains hospitalized in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Children’s Medical Center Dallas, where his persistent breathing troubles are being treated. He now weighs 8 pounds, 3 ounces.
“He’s doing a ton better,” Carrie Jones said, “but it’s still a long row to hoe.”
The quintuplets were among the first born in the U.S. this year and the first ever at St. Paul University Hospital, a part of UT Southwestern. The medical team quickly grew close to the Jones family.
“The nurses have bonded with them,” said Dr. Gary Burgess, medical director of St. Paul’s neonatal ICU. “It’s been great.”
Charting the progress of the quintuplets has been “a wonderful experiment,” too, Burgess said.
“I think they’re doing very well,” he said.

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Revival Hits Los Angeles Like Tidal Wave with Evangelist Verna Linzey Sunday Night

PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 26, 2012 /Christian Newswire/ -- A daughter of the Azusa Street Revival and Mission, 93-year-old evangelist, Dr. Verna Linzey, preached on the baptism with the Holy Spirit at another revival and mission in Los Angeles called Global Covenant Church, where a new move of the Holy Spirit erupted. An awakening occurred and five Filipinos and Americans burst into speaking in tongues as the Holy Spirit moved and gave them utterance while Verna Linzey was ministering on the stage. The mission is pastored by a Japanese woman, Rev. Alice Tanaka.
Photo: 93-year-old Evangelist Verna Linzey ministering in Los Angeles mission Sunday
This was the third time the mission invited Rev. Linzey to speak. The services are characterized by a lack of structure an earnest quest for an encounter with the Holy Spirit as those who arrive at any hour seek the Holy Spirit. The services go on for up to 3 hours as they wait on the Spirit.
Tonight, Verna Linzey did not characterize Pentecostal poverty of 100 years ago. Instead, wearing a lavish white dress, as characteristic of other prominent female television evangelists Amie Semple McPherson and Kathryn Kuhlman, with rhinestones around the collar and cuffs and matching ear rings, and flaming red hair like that of Lucille Ball who was involved in the Charismatic Movement, Verna Linzey epitomized the glitz and glamour of well-to-do modern Pentecostals. Verna herself came from notoriety out of Coffeyville, Kansas, the state giving rise to the Pentecostal Movement. Her uncle William Hall was a prominent doctor and businessman laying the foundation of the future of Coffeyville.
The revival tonight was sparsely attended by about 30 people a-thirst for an intimate spiritual encounter with God. Pentecostal outpourings are characterized by the unpredictable. Historically, these are the kinds of spiritual climates where spiritual sparks are ignited by a combination of humility, openness to the Holy Spirit, and leaving time constraints outside the church door upon entering. "This is a new beginning," said Rev. Tanaka.
Verna Linzey, one of Pentecostalism's leading television evangelists and writers on glossolalia, is a tremendous contributor to the Pentecostal Movement. She authored the widely-read book "The Baptism with the Holy Spirit," "Spirit Baptism: Understanding Pentecostal Theology," and is co-editor of "Baptism in the Spirit" with her son Evangelist Jim Linzey.

Christian Newswire

New Movie from Producers of '180'

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 26, 2012 /Christian Newswire/ -- Ray Comfort, the producer of the award-winning "180" has made a new movie that is simply called "Genius." Comfort said, "After '180' was viewed by millions, we kept being asked if we were going to make something similar. I wasn't too enthusiastic because I didn't think we could top it. But now that we have finished "Genius," I think it will be much bigger, because of the unique subject matter."
"Genius" gives insight into the life of John Lennon, and according to Ken Mansfield (the ex-U.S. Apple manager for the Beatles) "[It] will open your eyes." Reviewers of the pre-release are giving it two thumbs up. Best-selling author, Randy Alcorn, said it is "Fast-paced, thought-provoking and compelling." World Net Daily's Joseph Farah responded with, "You have outdone yourself!" while Ted Baehr of Movieguide called it "An entertaining and challenging insight...watch and wonder."
Comfort, added that he was amazed to discover that the Beatles aren't simply a rock group from a by-gone era, but that they are appealing to a new generation. "They have sold more than 2,303,500,000 record albums, and in June of 2012 they hit number one on iTunes." Many believe that John Lennon was a musical genius, "But" Comfort noted, "'Genius' goes deeper than just looking at the brilliance of the murdered singer. It reveals the chilling reality that we are surrounded by people who would kill for money." It will be released on December 7th to coincide with the Dec 8th anniversary of John Lennon's death. The one-minute trailer can be seen on youtu.be/ZW2lhWfa28g

Christian Newswire

'12 Gifts of Christmas' Cinematic Event Celebrates Christmas with Song, Stories and Comedy

NCM® Fathom Events, 12 Gifts and New Life Present Holiday Celebration in Select Movie Theaters Nationwide on Tuesday, Dec. 11

CENTENNIAL, Colo., Nov. 26, 2012 /Christian Newswire/ -- This holiday season NCM® Fathom Events, 12 Gifts and New Life bring the meaning, the magic and the music of Christmas to life with "12 Gifts of Christmas," a one-night cinematic event on Tuesday, Dec. 11 at 7:30 p.m. local time. Hosted by Lisa Whelchel of CBS' "Survivor: Philippines" and "The Facts of Life," the event features special musical performances from Grammy® award-winning artists Steven Curtis Chapman and Laura Story as well as personal and inspirational stories from speakers Patsy Clairmont, Luci Swindoll, Marilyn Meberg, Mary Beth Chapman and comedienne Anita Renfroe. Illusionist Harris III will also demonstrate the magic of Christmas, taking audiences on a magical journey as he transforms the setting into a holiday wonderland. The event is pre-recorded live from the 12 Gifts of Christmas Tour stops in St. Louis and Tulsa, Okla. on Dec. 1 and 2, respectively.
Tickets for "12 Gifts of Christmas" are available at participating theater box offices and online at www.FathomEvents.com. For a complete list of theater locations and prices, visit the NCM Fathom Events website (theaters and participants are subject to change). The event will be broadcast to nearly 600 select movie theaters across the country through NCM's exclusive Digital Broadcast Network.
"The '12 Gifts of Christmas' tour is truly going to be a fun and faith-filled event for the whole family," said Whelchel. "I will be hosting this evening and my hope is that it will launch the festivities of your holiday and ground them in the celebration of the birth of Christ. Gather your whole family and enjoy the show."
Presented by NCM Fathom Events, 12 Gifts and New Life, "12 Gifts of Christmas" uniquely tells the story of Christmas in a variety of ways while entertaining, teaching and engaging the entire family, from toddlers to grandparents. Audiences will leave this special in-theater event feeling inspired and reminded of the true meaning of Christmas and all of its incredible gifts.
"'12 Gifts of Christmas' will bring families together in movie theaters across the country as they celebrate the Christmas season," said Shelly Maxwell, executive vice president of NCM Fathom Events. "Story-tellers, award-winning musicians, a comic sensation and a master illusionist help bring the wonder of the season to life during this special event."
12 Gifts launches its first tour on Nov. 29 in Omaha, Neb. with "12 Gifts of Christmas." The 12-city tour will continue through Dec. 16 with stops in Atlanta, Denver, Wichita, Kan., Baltimore and Greensboro, N.C.

Christian Newswire

Ohio Senate puts end to 'heartbeat' abortion bill - Washington Times

Ohio Senate puts end to 'heartbeat' abortion bill - Washington Times

Faith Organizations to Apply for Permit to Set Up 'Live Nativity Display' in Santa Monica's Palisades Park

SANTA MONICA, Calif., Nov. 28, 2012 /Christian Newswire/ -- Recently Santa Monica and the U. S. District Federal Court banned Nativity Scenes and all "unattended displays" in Palisades Park.

However, there are no prohibitions on "Live Nativity Displays."

Photo: The Live Nativity Display in front of the Supreme Court from a past project

The group plans to hold a news conference to discuss their plans on Thursday, November 29 at 2:00 P.M.

The news conference will be in front of Santa Monica City Hall which is located at 1685 Main Street.

The goal of the organizations is to ensure that a Nativity Scene continues to be displayed in Palisades Park after nearly 60 continuous years as well as embracing religious freedom, the First Amendment and the message of Christmas.

The "Live Nativity Display" campaign is being led by the Christian Defense Coalition and Faith and Action which are both based in Washington, D.C. along with local Southern California Christians and pastors.

The effort is being sponsored by "The Nativity Project" which encourages the faith community to display Nativity Scenes in public places across America.

They will be conducting a "Live Nativity Display" in front of the United States Capitol Building and Supreme Court next as well is in New York City in front of the FOX News Studios.

Rev. Patrick J. Mahoney, Director of the Christian Defense Coalition, states;

"Sadly, we are seeing an erosion of expressions of faith in the public square. This is especially true during the Christmas Season. We must be constantly reminded that the Constitution promises freedom 'of' religion not freedom 'from' religion.

"After nearly 60 continuous years, it is critical that a Nativity Scene remain in Palisades Park. We must continue to fight for religious freedom and the First Amendment as well as embracing the powerful message of Christmas which is; 'Peace on Earth. Goodwill toward man.'

"We believe that this 'Live Nativity Display' meets all the requirements of the Santa Monica City Council and the Federal Court."

Jeff White, Youth Pastor of Lake Gregory Community Church, adds;

"As a youth pastor, I often teach the importance of religious freedom and the need to see those freedoms are protected.

"By setting up this 'Live Nativity Display' in Palisades Park, we ensure for future generations the right for everyone to express their faith traditions in the public square free from government intimidation or harassment."

For more information or interviews call: Rev. Patrick Mahoney at 540.538.4741

Christian Newswire

CEO Goes to the Extreme to Rescue Children

ATLANTA, Nov. 28, 2012 /Christian Newswire/ -- Extreme Rescuer, the first ever docu-reality series capturing the rescue of children, will premiere December 2 on television media outlets nationwide. Legacy Worldwide, the creative agency behind the project, made the highly anticipated announcement today.

The news arrives in the wake of a life changing business trip for the company's CEO and recognized leader in marketing and development for a number of the globe's most prominent non-profits, Damon Davis. He said that the vision for Extreme Rescuer was first sparked while filming a documentary with Dikembe Mutombo featuring his hand in building the first modern hospital in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Biamba Marie Mutombo Hospital.

"I went with the mindset that I was going to film the documentary, get in and get out," said Davis. "Instead, I found myself rolling up my sleeves and getting involved in a real life rescue." During filming, the Legacy Team encountered Jean Simone, an orphan at a local home for abandoned children who had been badly burned and crippled. His wounds were still open and he had been making brooms to make money to eat. Davis recognized the extreme situation and said that Mutombo plainly stated, "This is why we are here."

"There we were, filming a documentary on a hospital, spending all this money on production and we were surrounded by children who couldn't afford medical care," Davis says. "If you want surgery, you have to bring your own medicine, your own scalpel and by the way, your own doctor," he says describing the standard medical offering for the region. "Oftentimes if they can't afford to pay the bill, families are left with no resolve and the child dies."

Davis and his crew extended their stay and worked with Mutombo to identify a doctor and funded the child's surgery. Jean Simone is now walking and living a normal life.

Following what the team now calls their first rescue was a pivotal meeting between Davis and Carlos Vargas, founder of Hope of Life in Guatemala, an organization that rescues more than 1,000 babies every year. Vargas explained that the cause is too great a feat and the government is doing everything they can but there are some extreme locations and situations that the Vargas can't get to alone and would require help. Davis and his team felt called to the effort.

Davis assembled a team for the mission, calling them Extreme Rescuers and began a dual effort to deliver a force on the ground in Guatemala and develop a team back at home to drive it.

"We knew that Extreme Rescuer would be our first major campaign but needed a parent company for future projects with the same end goals," says the initiative's Marketing Coordinator, Brittani O'Donoghue. "This is when Love Universal was born. The company functions as an umbrella for continued humanitarian efforts."

"No one is doing this," says Davis. "I am the child of four generations of pastors but I am not called to preach. I am called to serve those who do -- to help them expand and reach their goals, but every man must find his own purpose. I am fortunate enough to have time to allocate to my own passion. To get out into the field and fight for the babies who are unable to fight for themselves."

Davis says he has discovered that there are many organizations doing great work around the globe. However, for many reasons these groups aren't able to get to extreme locations and conditions. "My goal is to assemble more teams like the one in Guatemala to join these organizations with the same vision," he said.

The team touched ground September 23.

"We had no script. We really didn't have much planning. We didn't know what we were going to experience and the very night of our arrival, we received the first call," said Davis.

In the following days the Extreme Rescuers would successfully rescue nine children. The team says that the success was bittersweet, leaving them with an eye-opening experience followed by the onset of sleepless nights.

"I had never been that close to death and actually be in a position to do something about it," said Davis, describing the rescue of a twenty-pound 3-year-old. "She was so passed the point of starvation, that life as we know it had left her body. Her arms were hanging by her side. She was skin and bone and I could see her heart beating in her chest. She could barely lift her head and was in so much pain, she could barely even cry."

Briana Thomas, one of the volunteers that joined Davis in Guatemala said that the experience was haunting. "When we lost one of the babies during the rescue, all I could think of was the possibilities if we had been there sooner," she said. "Mothers are forced to pick who gets to eat each day. These babies were in so much agony. I kept wondering how long they had been gasping for air."

The entire Extreme Rescuer team agreed that the trip was just the beginning. Cody Scoggins, a 37-year-old former SWAT and law enforcement officer said, "While flying home, I couldn't stop thinking about all the kids we didn't save. We have to go back. The need is so great."

Davis said before the team returned home, plans and coordination for the docu-reality series began taking shape. He said the entire company was moved by the testimonies and supportive of the initiative that appeared to actualize over night.

When the raw footage reached the corporate offices, O'Donoghue said she was immediately taken with the mission.

"I've watched my own son die in my arms. I gave him CPR in my home and had medicine and an ambulance that reached us within minutes," she said. "I had access to an ER and medical bills that I could pay. I had the right food, the right medicine, vitamins and clothing. I had the help of caregivers and it was still a mess. These people don't have any of that."

Extreme Rescuer focuses on a three-part mission: Save a Life. Sustain a Life. Transform a Life. Once the show premieres, viewers will have the opportunity to call in, text or visit www.extremerescuer.com to donate or learn more about becoming a Rescuer. There is a range of different levels of donation from monthly pledges to opportunities to join an actual rescue.

The 30-member Legacy team brings 40 years of experience to the table within the advertising, marketing and broadcasting services sector. The team says the project came naturally and married with their passion for humanitarianism, birthed a mission dedicated to help give a voice to those in need through the power of media.

"Our team was visibly impacted to the core," said O'Donoghue. "We know the marketing business. We have the resources the get the word into homes. We passionately believe that if we build awareness and give people the opportunity to help, they will."

The Extreme Rescuer team says the future of the show and project will hinge on developing partnerships with major humanitarian organizations, corporate sponsors and public donations.

When asked why a white-collar CEO would want to halt business to begin such a huge endeavor, Davis said, "I have fed children. I have been involved in the programs that provided clothing and medical care. I have sat in the soup lines, but nothing drove deeper or affected me more than a baby that is hanging onto the last breath of life."

About Extreme Rescuer:
Extreme Rescuer is a humanitarian movement, dedicated to rescuing impoverished and oppressed children. The docu-reality broadcast follows a team to remote locations and captures the efforts and stories. As a subsidiary campaign under its parent company, Love Universal, the project seeks to join hands with humanitarian communities and organizations to help rescue and improve the lives of children and families in extreme locations and circumstances.

About Love Universal:
Love Universal is a non-profit humanitarian organization dedicated to providing assistance and aid to children and their families worldwide. Established in 2012, the organization's boundless mission includes a global reach into communities seeking support regardless of location, race, faith or economic status. Love Universal focuses on partnerships in both the private and public sector as well as with other humanitarian efforts to ensure the safety and future lives of children.

About Legacy Worldwide, LLC.:
Headquartered in Atlanta, GA, Legacy Worldwide offers high quality advertising and media buying services to ministries and non-profit organizations whose mission is to reach the world with a message of hope and to bring about change in the lives of people, globally, through the power of a vast array of multi-media vehicles. Legacy Worldwide continues a 34-year commitment to aiding in the growth and productivity of ministries and non-profit organizations. For more information, visit www.legacyworldwide.com.

Christian Newswire