Getting to Know Those with Autism Brings a Fresh Perspective

  Do you know what autism is? Calvary Christian Academy Bible teacher Johnny Crank came face to face with autism 8 years ago when his son, Max, was diagnosed with autism.  After adopting triplets, Crank and his wife Jamie knew their task would be challenging, for they were already parents of triplets (Max included). From the beginning, they noticed a difference in Max’s behavior. At age three, his verbal communication spiraled down.  When he turned four, the diagnosis did not hit Crank nor his wife with surprise. rather it was a relief. With the diagnosis, Max’s behavior was better understood. […]

-Read More


Race for Faith: A Dream turned into a Reality

  “And let us run with endurance the race that God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from start to finish” (Hebrews 12:1-2, NLT). Fourteen years ago, Cindy Martel, took these words into action and started the Race for Faith 5K Run, Walk and 10K Challenge. This annual event available to all ages raises money and awareness to local charities. Nevertheless, as Martel put it, “it’s never been about the money raised; it has always been about that one person who needs to hear God loves you and […]

-Read More


Fort Lauderdale Christmas Pageant Will Honor American Heroes

From camels and new-born babies to flying angels, pyrotechnics and more, First Baptist Fort Lauderdale’s annual Christmas production has wowed thousands for more than 30 years. The Fort Lauderdale Christmas Pageant rises to the caliber and mastery of Broadway shows but with a different foundation. What makes this renowned event so special? Some may say the magic is in the scenery, while others can argue the actors hold the pageant to its high standards. One thing is certain. “When you have welcomed 40,000 people a year for 33 years, the impact is undeniable, as the real message of Christmas is […]

-Read More


Thanksgiving: The Legacy of an Unlikely Hero

Almost four centuries have passed since America celebrated its first Thanksgiving, a day where two distinct groups of people — the Pilgrims and the Native American Indians — put aside their differences and celebrated the Pilgrims’ first corn harvest. As I have begun to learn more about its origins, the story behind the first Thanksgiving seems to be one of an unlikely hero who was able to bridge cultural differences and save a people group from starvation. In some ways there are even lessons for our generation. Fast forward to today and we celebrate Thanksgiving as a day when friends […]

-Read More


Halloween: Balancing Truth and Cultural Relevance

  Halloween is viewed by some as a time of celebration and a day to get free candy, others see it as day to get free or unrestrained access to the spiritual realm. Halloween highlights the themes of death, darkness, fear and even hell, themes directly opposed to Christ’s teachings, for He highlights life, light, peace, truth and heaven. So should Christians participate in this holiday? Is it too much to let your children watch Halloween movies or dress them up as monsters? Should you participate in parties or not celebrate Halloween altogether? According to History.com, “Halloween is thought to […]

-Read More


Students to Meet in Prayer during See You at the Pole

On Wednesday, September 28 at 7 a.m., students all around the globe will gather at their flagpoles to pray for their school, friends, families, churches and communities. Whether students attend public school, private school or home school, See You at the Pole (SYATP) is a day committed to global unity in Christ and prayer for this generation. This year students are also “being challenged to find new and unique ways, places and times to pray throughout Global Week of Student Prayer— Sunday, September 25 through Saturday, October 1.” Prayer is not the only way to talk to God; many students […]

-Read More