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Guest Column: Ohio clergymen shepherd community with faith-based evidence

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The Bible is coming to life beyond belief in the heartland of the Buckeye State.  Clergymen from Richland County, Ohio are reclaiming the nexus between church and state and proving they  are the juggernaut that can bring social change to their region.

Reverend El Akuchie (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

Like night and day, this former “belt buckle of the Rust Belt” is now on the brink of becoming a new loop of the Bible Belt.

This report supplies ample evidence of pastors working in tandem, making an eternal difference in culture.  This account  also documents tangible blessings that followed hand in hand after Biblical obedience. One of the most profound instances of this divine momentum includes a timely signature clergy collaboration calling for resistance to a federal government which  hit below the belt…

Local clergy “Johnny on the spot”….

Bountiful August rains in the midst of a five-month drought in 2016 came at just the right time.  This rainfall had a ripple effect,  bringing an unusual abundance of milk and honey, and propelling a robust harvest.  Despite being the second hottest August on record, milk productivity countywide increased 43 percent from the previous August.  Meanwhile,   swarms abounded for a bee population still stinging from the colony collapse disorder, with one prominent beekeeper declaring the summer of 2016 as “the best bee season in a decade.” 

“Showers of blessing” became new buzzwords to come out of  a sticky situation.  In spite of the drought, one farmer exclaimed “In seventy-four years of farming, I have never had eighty bushels of soybeans an acre like I did in 2016!”  Another farmer  proudly boasted of having five cuts of hay that year…. but that’s not all. 

This extraordinary turn of events occurred one month after clergy drew national attention for challenging the Washington D.C. establishment. Leading clergymen from over one hundred congregations across Richland County sent a letter to local and state school officials calling for civil disobedience  to the Obama restroom mandate. 

Clergy at 2018 Religious Freedom Proclamation (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

Citing the mandate jeopardized  privacy and safety of women and children, these ministers took a bold stand when many were afraid to challenge a hostile federal government.  Interestingly,  fifty years prior, the county seat Mansfield drew headlines addressing the same issue of public restroom safety when the city permanently closed down and buried underground public restrooms  on the city square to stop lewd behavior.

This same month also saw a sudden exodus of witchcraft with  two out of the three area psychic stores closing.  Legislative efforts to attack religious freedoms were also averted.  And  despite an infant mortality rate nearly twice the national average, no cases of premature infant deaths were recorded.   Last but not least, the clergy’s milestone moment saw no traffic mortalities during the same summer vacation month. 

According to the ancient promises described in Deuteronomy 28, simple obedience by pastors became a pivot point to  set these wheels of blessing in motion; one act of faith can change a nation.

Repealing the clergy gag order….          

When addressing public issues of morality, clergy have the right of way.  2 Chronicles 26 shows Azariah the High Priest and eighty other courageous priests confronting the prideful King Uzziah when he challenged Biblical authority.  In this case, taking the moral high ground did not involve neutrality, it involved championing truth by confronting authority.

Christ regularly confronted politicians.  Lively debates are recorded between Christ and  the Sanhedrin over issues like paying taxes, food requirements, health care on the Sabbath, and commerce inside the temple.  Consequently, when Moses confronted Pharoh over slavery,  their confrontation impacted the agriculture, public health,  transportation, and weather patterns of a national superpower.  These encounters became defining moments.

Clergy hold press conference opposing casinos in 2007. (Photo by Ruthie Akuchie)

Walking in faith leads to charters of faith….

Throughout recent times, Richland County clergy have taken well-timed Biblical stands that have helped define the faith community while simultaneously providing a mechanism to hold community leaders accountable. 

That following year, eight of the nine mayors throughout the county gave pornography awareness proclamations.  Also, police shut down a human trafficking brothel in response to a crime tip given by fourteen area pastors.  Just one month after clergy sparked this investigation, another brothel by the same name was closed in Lancaster, Ohio.

After the U.S. Supreme Court redefined marriage in 2015, leading clergymen from 66 congregations publicly called Richland County to a day of prayer and fasting.  The clergy statement defined immorality Scripturally, took ownership over the community’s sins, and also cited two redemptive case studies of community turnarounds that ensued after each society repented.

Alluding to this crime tip by the clergy, the Mansfield Police Chief in 2018 stated: “we have had unprecedented church involvement for several years.  They have been very supportive and have helped uplift the community and helped get involved in solving crime…they have done great things.”


Ministers call for countywide day of prayer and repentance in 2015. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

This is a powerful statement reinforced by the fact that Mansfield has had three consecutive years of declining crime.    Consequently, in 2017, several law enforcement agencies have placarded “In GOD We Trust” on all their squad vehicles, a stark contrast  to one generation earlier when area law enforcement  were enlisting the services of a California psychic to solve crime. 

In response, local veteran realtors stated that the turnaround was “unheard of,” and that they had never seen a real estate market like it before.  Suddenly, properties in Richland County became sought after and no longer forsaken; not bad for a county that led the state in foreclosures the previous two years!  As a result of the upswing, the Clerk of Courts one year later commented that “foreclosures are down significantly.  It’s a huge drop, and I’m not completely sure why.” 

While New Age benefited from abandoned buildings as haunts, clergy are taking ownership of their community and the future is becoming more certain: no man’s land is becoming Promised Land. 

“In retrospect, some say it (unexplained boom) was the voice of the LORD thundering His approval when the news first broke. I call it GOD restoring thunder back to the pulpit.”

Reverend El Akuchie

Speaking of sorcery, police found marijuana growing on a church roof thirty years ago; but in 2017, clergy led a grassroots effort against local legalization efforts, with 70 pastors sending a policy letter to local government calling for prohibition of medical marijuana.  The City of Mansfield, and several villages and townships followed the clergy’s lead prohibiting the dispensing and cultivation of the drug, due to its adverse health effects, affiliation with crime, and inevitable illegal diversion.   In fact, the Director of Economic Development pointed to the clergy letter as the “death note” which killed a nearby Ontario City marijuana facility proposal. 

Pastors became the talk of the town in 2016 when policymakers were actively considering a local syringe exchange program.  Subsequently, a letter written five years prior by 72 area clergy opposing donations to a syringe exchange injected fear and closed the matter from going any further.

This same year the clergy opposed needle exchanges, seven pastors armed with drug treatment ministries confronted the County Fair Board, calling for the cancellation of a fair beer garden.  The clergy caused a stir in the community, demonstrating that the beer garden did not meet its revenue goals and brought a bottleneck to security.  The very same night the pastors presented their concerns to the board, a mysterious fireball was spotted and made landfall inside county limits. Five government agencies responded to the explosive scene but the incident remains an enigma.  For the pastors, these trailblazers that night became the stewards of the mysteries of GOD.  No coincidence.

No such word as “coincidence” in Hebrew….

In January 2017, clergy from over one hundred congregations in North-Central Ohio sent an apology letter to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the position the Obama Administration took in not blocking United Nations Resolution 2334.  This anti-Semitic resolution called Israel’s sovereignty of the Promised Land “an international crime.” 

Ten days after the apology letter was sent by the Ohio clergymen, a massive natural gas pipeline was approved for construction thru north central Ohio after the project was held up by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.  The Rover Pipeline Project is more than twice the size of the controversial Keystone Pipeline.  With its approval, the 713 mile pipeline brought an economic rebound with hundreds of thousands of dollars to the stagnated local economy at a time when energy projects often go contested. 

Participating clergy in the open letter to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu from 2017. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

According to Department of Agriculture numbers, the spring turkey harvest in Richland County saw a dramatic increase from the prior year, whitetail deer harvested was the best in four years, and the cow herd in Richland County, which is estimated in late winter, was measured at its largest size in over thirty years, which is utterly amazing!

The astounding blessings the area experienced from the apology letter aftermath provoked forty-two area clergymen to also request the County Treasurer to invest taxpayer dollars in Israeli bonds.

The day the County Treasurer announced the county government would invest nearly $200,000 in Israeli bonds, was the same meeting that half a million dollars in unexpected revenue was announced to alleviate a budget shortfall!  This clergy apology letter had a snowball effect and sends shivers down your spine to think that the Blessings of Abraham still can impact our generation today.

Almost half a year after these astounding blessings made international news, the Deputy Speaker of the Israeli Knesset visited North Central Ohio in the autumn of 2018 to thank the area for its support of the Zion State.  The visit provoked one Israeli journalist to write an article entitled: “Does Rural Ohio Lead the World in Love of Israel?”

For what it’s worth, according to media reports, a loud unexplained boom was heard over Richland County the same day the local newspaper first published the story on the Israeli-clergy apology letter.  Power Company officials and emergency responders were scratching their heads trying to determine the source of this strange phenomenon.  In retrospect, some say it was the voice of the LORD thundering His approval when the news first broke.  I call it GOD restoring thunder back to the pulpit.

To review the referenced footnotes from this article, please click here.

Reverend El Akuchie is Executive Director of the Richland Community Prayer Network, founded in 1998 and based in Mansfield, Ohio

Congregation supports schools and police for Hannukah

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ONTARIO — Lights shone brightly this week along the Lincoln Highway as the area’s second public menorah lighting occurred at Sar Shalom Center for the observance of the eight-day festival of Hanukah. 

Rabbi William Hallbrook lighting the menorah. (Submitted photo)

The holiday is a celebration of an improbable military victory by the Jewish people in 165 BC and a celebration of the Jewish Temple’s miraculous rededication where a one day’s supply of sacred oil supernaturally lasted eight days.

According to Rabbi William Hallbrook, “Hanukah is about making a strong statement by standing for our community and being a light for the world to see.”

To practice what was preached, the rabbi’s congregation donated one hundred-twenty framed posters to Ontario Schools depicting the national motto: “In GOD we trust” and the state motto: “With GOD all things are possible.”

The posters were presented during the menorah lighting ceremony to Ontario School Board Member Heidi Zimmerman who represented the school district. 

Accompanying the posters, was a packet the congregation provided including background information on a 2006 Ohio law allowing school districts to display the donated posters in classrooms.

Also in the packet was an article discussing 2007 University of British Columbia research finding that “merely thinking about GOD can prompt positive and generous behaviors,” something the congregation hopes to bring to the school district.

” We know in the end, light will ultimately prevail over the darkness.”

Rabbi William Hallbrook
Sar Shalom Center

Speaking of giving, the congregation also recognized local men and women in uniform who sacrificially protect the community daily.  Pizzas were given on behalf of the congregation to the second-shift police officers and dispatchers in commemoration of Hanukah.  

During the ceremony, Hallbrook went on to say that the center candle in the menorah is called the “shamash” candle.

“The shamash candle is the servant candle and it is larger than the other candles.  Scripture tells us that the greatest is the one who serves.  If we really want to be called great in the Kingdom, we must be servant lights in a dark world.”

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in John Twelve, “Believe in the light while you have the light, so that you may become children of light”

See related article:

Mansfield has first public menorah lighting

Area clergy team up to distribute Thanksgiving turkeys

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MANSFIELD — As families face challenges staying together, two clergy took the opportunity to make a difference during the Thanksgiving season.  Each pastor gave out twenty-five free turkeys to the community, one pastor from the north side of town, the other from the south side.

(From L to R) Reverend Mark Cobb and Reverend Randy Raynes (Submitted photo)

“This is the first time we have partnered together in community outreach” said Reverend Randy Raynes of Mansfield Fellowship Baptist, located at 424 South Main Street.

“It is amazing how relational equity occurs when you have a common mission.”

Reverend Mark Cobb is stepping into a new role as senior pastor of Providence Baptist, located at 112 West Sixth Street.  Cobb will officially become the new pastor at a special commissioning service on December 1st at 3:30 PM.   

Cobb is also owner of The Blessed and Anointed Barbershop at 15 East Third Street.

“We have a giving community,” says Cobb.  “While society has a general apathy for others, in Mansfield we give back to the community and help those in need,”


“Our hope is that these turkeys we are giving will bring families together to the dinner table.  There needs to be face to face family time, thanking GOD for the blessings He has given us. ”

Reverend Mark CObb, Providence Baptist

“Our hope is that these turkeys we are giving will bring families together to the dinner table.  There needs to be face to face family time, thanking GOD for the blessings He has given us.  Family time is vital and missing in our culture.”

According to Raynes, “One family in our neighborhood recently lost a mother to a tragic illness.  They don’t go to church, but we wanted to give them a Thanksgiving turkey to bless them.  We want to stand with them in this season of loss and let them know they are not alone.”

Both pastors believe that the GOD who keeps families together is greater than the cultural forces trying to separate.

Raynes adds, “The Pilgrims came to America to have religious freedom.  This is a great opportunity (giving free turkeys) to exercise our religious freedoms during the Thanksgiving season.”

Former Israeli mayor visits Ontario & shares miraculous account (VIDEO)

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ONTARIO — David Rubin, founder of the Shiloh Israel Children’s Fund and former Shiloh Mayor recently spoke at Sar Shalom Center in Ontario.  Rubin is the second dignitary to visit Ontario this fall.  Last month, the Deputy Speaker of the Israeli Knesset spoke at an event in commemoration of the seventieth anniversary of the rebirth of Israel.

“In 1997 a delegation of area clergy travelled to the Biblical heartland of Judea and Samaria and brought a “key to Shiloh, Ohio” to officials in Shiloh, Israel,” says Rabbi William Hallbrook who hosted the event. “Shiloh is believed to be over three thousand years old and was where the Ark and Tabernacle were once located.”

Under the leadership of Mayor Tim Wireman, the nearby Village of Shiloh established a sister-city relationship with Shiloh, Israel.  Rubin became Shiloh, Israel’s Mayor just after the sister-city partnership ensued. 

Although Ontario Mayor Randy Hutchinson could not attend the service, he did send a letter welcoming Rubin.  “I want to take time to express my warm greetings to you,” the letter said. “On behalf of the City of Ontario, I want to thank you for your visit and to let you know that you are welcome in our city.”

Hutchinson mentioned the recent Pittsburgh synagogue shooting and how victims of both domestic and international terrorism “need help more than ever.” Both Rubin and his infant son survived a terrorist attack in 2001.  During the Second Intifada, Rubin was driving his son home from Jerusalem when without warning, Rubin’s car was ambushed by Palestinian terrorists shooting their AK-47 rifles.

“I was in a dire situation: I was shot, blood was spilling out of my leg, and the car was dead. On top of that, my three year old son was in the backseat. Before the attack, I was a skeptic about personal miracle stories, but when the car suddenly started on its own after several tries, I knew that we were lifted up on GOD’s wings to get us to an ambulance.”

“It is my hope that your visit to Ontario, Ohio will be a memorable one and that many strong friendships will result. On behalf of the City, I want to thank you for your visit and and to let you know that you are welcome in our city.”

Ontario Mayor Randy Hutchinson

Rubin and his son both sped away and eventually made it to the hospital; both had been shot.

“The doctor came to me and told me that the head of media relations for the hospital wished to speak with me. The head of media relations told me that reporters from all over Israel were amassed right outside the ward and wanted to interview me since I was the one thousandth terror victim to be treated at that particular hospital in a year and a half,” Rubin recounts.

“He said he would protect my privacy if I so choose but he wanted to give me the choice to talk to them if I wanted. I had known too many victims in our neighborhood, especially teenagers who had been murdered by the terrorists.  So I said bring them in here and I will talk to them.”

Rubin is now a frequent commentator on Fox News and Newsmax TV and has written several books, including his most recent book: “Trump and the Jews.”

Rabbi William Hallbrook’s congregation hosted former Shiloh, Israel Mayor David Rubin. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

“I was saved by a series of miracles. I was shot in my left leg, allowing me to still drive. The bullet that hit my son missed his brain stem by one millimeter. My son couldn’t lift himself up and he had total memory loss, but his memory returned a few weeks later. Forty-nine bullet holes were in the car. When we took the car in to get it fixed, the mechanic told me that he couldn’t start the car at all. The fact that we were able to start it was a miracle.”

One of the darkest moments of Rubin’s life has since then helped save the lives of thousands of children from all over Israel. “After trying to help our small child overcome the trauma of the ordeal, I heard ‘the call’ that I was to help other children like my son.  What the terrorists intended for evil, GOD turned into good,” Rubin declares.  “If they (terrorists) are trying to destroy our homeland, then I was convinced I was going to help rebuild our future- our children.”

Rubin started the Shiloh Israel Children’s Fund which since then has helped thousands of children cope with trauma caused by terrorism. Since its inception 14 years ago, Shiloh has brought relief and closure to victims of terror through its therapy center.

“I felt then, and I still feel it now, that I have a story to tell,“ Rubin shares. “ I have experienced the trauma of terrorism. I feel like I now have a duty to help others.”

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in Genesis Fifty, “As for you, you meant evil against me, but GOD meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.”

View the video below of the testimony of David Rubin’s encounter with terrorists as Mayor of Shiloh, Israel and his miraculous escape.

Related articles:

Israel Deputy Speaker thanks North Central Ohio for support (SLIDESHOW)(VIDEO)
Clergy stand for Israel brings rebound to North Central Ohio
Community observes Holocaust Remembrance Day

City of Shelby proclaims porn awareness week

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SHELBY — Mayor Steve Schag has proclaimed the first week of November in Shelby as “Pornography Awareness Week.” He presented the proclamation to several clergy during a recent City Council meeting.

“Three quarters of the folks I see with marriage issues have pornography issues,” says Reverend Kevin Evans of Ganges Liberty Baptist, located at 1248 Ganges East Road.  Evans has been a pastor for 34 years and also serves as a counselor for Come to the Well Counseling. 

Shelby Mayor Steve Schag at press conference dedicating fire station. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

The proclamation claims that the pornography industry annually makes more money off of addicts than the National Football League, the National Basketball Association, and Major League Baseball combined.  Due to excessive social costs, seven states have officially declared pornography a dangerous epidemic and a public health crisis. 

According to Pastor Evans, “The dysfunction pornography brings to individuals is profoundly devastating. The lives of those surrounded by the person with pornography addiction also suffer.  As a result, the building block of society-the family, is torn apart and poverty eventually knocks on the door.”  

“Do I believe that we have a public health crisis regarding pornography? Yes I do,” says Reverend Walter Keib of Shelby First Baptist at 185 South Gamble Street.  “Statistics show that rape rates are highest where laws governing pornography are least restrictive.  As a husband of forty-eight years, I have seen people in the church delivered from this heinous addiction.”

” Something has drastically gone awry when society censors religious content but approves pornographic content. On the whole, churches across this nation have allowed heaven to be censored by hell. “

Reverend Kevin Evans, Ganges lIBERTY BAPTIST

Both pastors believe the “Porn Pandemic” has contributed to the denigration of women, to human trafficking, and to violence against women and children.

Corporate giants like McDonalds, Starbucks and Hilton Hotels now block pornography from their WiFi networks and video on demand in response to public requests. This past year the sex ads website backpage.com was shut down by federal authorities.

According to the proclamation, Pornography Awareness Week started when one Pennsylvania woman heard a sermon against pornography in 1987 and decided to mobilize citizens and churches in her community to combat the pornography industry.  Locally the City of Shelby first recognized the week in 2016.

Girls Next Door was Shelby-area strip club shut down in 2008 after the outcry of the Richland Community Family Coalition and citizens following high profile crime incident. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

“Do we have the fortitude to stamp out this scourge that is destroying our families and wreaking havoc on our society?” asks Evans.  “Something has drastically gone awry when society censors religious content but approves pornographic content. On the whole, churches across this nation have allowed heaven to be censored by hell.”

Pastor Keib, points out “I remember in 2008 when a strip club one mile away from our church was shut down.  It wasn’t until our community said “enough,” that the club shut down.  Most certainly, the pornography industry metastasizes when good people remain silent.” 

Ten municipalities and thirteen townships inside Richland County passed restrictive laws in 2009-2010 regulating businesses selling pornography that not only provides state indemnification for local governments in the event of litigation, but also include restrictions thru zoning, licensing, isolation distances, and hours of operation.

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in First Thessalonians, “For this is the will of GOD, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality; that each one of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honor, not in the passion of lust like the Gentiles who do not know GOD;”

Related article:

Clergy tip assists police in closing clandestine brothel

Richland County Commissioners recognizes Clergy Appreciation Month

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MANSFIELD — The Richland County Board of Commissioners recently proclaimed October 2018 as “Clergy Appreciation Month,” encouraging citizens of Richland County Ohio to show their appreciation and support for the clergy whose efforts help make  the community a better place to live.

Established in 1992, Clergy Appreciation Month recognizes pastors, missionaries and religious workers, and was first observed in North Central Ohio in 2017.

The proclamation was presented to Reverend Jody Odom and Reverend Bruce Philippi, and describes religion and morality as ”indispensable supports to political prosperity.” The Commissioners also noted clergy efforts in leading the community to prayer and preventing social vices from influencing society.

Speaking of influencing society, there is no question Pastor Philippi’s congregation at Journey Life Center makes the community a priority.

Located outside Shelby at 2578 State Route 39, the fellowship participates in a drug rehabilitation ministry called “Project One” that sends clients to rehab facilities for several months and helps them find employment as they transition back into society. The church also operates a monthly food bank that feeds hundreds of people.  In addition, members do “acts of kindness” several times a year at county events to have a tangible impact by showing the love of GOD.

Presently, outreaches for youth and senior adults are taking place in a five-thousand square foot church in Crestline that was recently donated to Journey Life.  Where Journey Life Center leaves off, Pastor Jody Odom’s Ambassadors for Christ Church picks up. 

Ambassadors for Christ conducts weekly Bible outreach classes at Harmony House homeless shelter.  Reverend Odom also serves as a chaplain in area county jails. This past summer Pastor Odom had a second book on marriage published entitled “I’m Fit to Handle my Marriage, Now Bring It.”   Pastor Odom says that the companion book “gives insight on how to handle a spouse with love and how to cover your spouse in prayer.” 

When visiting Ambassador for Christ Sunday services at 152 Cline Avenue, occasionally Pastor Odom can be seen painting on a canvas while preaching his sermons. According to Pastor Odom, “Life is a gift, living is an art form, and I connect art with the Bible.” 

“In my thirty-six years as lead pastor, I have never seen a time where people are expecting MORE from pastors than ever while CONTRIBUTING LESS to the church and its ministries.”

PASTOR BRUCE PHILIPPI

Both Pastor Philippi and Pastor Odom agree that discipleship and mentorship is vital to develop leaders for the next generation.  

“When I was a young man, one role model that made a real impression on me was Bishop Norman Wagner,” says Reverend Odom reminiscing. “I knew him for sixteen years and he always had a passion for GOD and to disciple other leaders.  Bishop Wagner was a real statesman for his community.”

Pastor Philippi, who led efforts to bring the “March for Jesus” movement in Mansfield in the early 1990’s, is a chairman of a Sabbatical Support Team for his denomination which encompasses two hundred and forty churches.  According to Philippi, “In my thirty-six years as lead pastor, I have never seen a time where people are expecting MORE from pastors than ever while CONTRIBUTING LESS to the church and its ministries. Without a doubt I have seen an increase in ministry stress and burnout.” 

Both Odom and Philippi agree wholeheartedly that there are many great clergy who shepherd Richland County and that now is a good time to recognize their efforts.

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in the Book of Hebrews, “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account.”

Related articles:

82 local pastors oppose state casino gambling issue
103 Ohio clergy send apology letter to Israeli Prime Minister

Israel Deputy Speaker thanks North Central Ohio for support (SLIDESHOW)(VIDEO)

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ONTARIO — This past weekend Sar Shalom Center hosted a “Stand with Israel” assembly sponsored by the Richland Community Prayer Network and the Israeli Leadership Institute (ILI).  One of five scheduled events in the state, the gathering celebrated the seventieth anniversary of the rebirth of Israel and raised funds to support the ILI based in Sderot, Israel. 

ILI Founder & President Mr. Eeki Elner told the two hundred attendees: “I travel extensively throughout the States and I have never seen anyone like Ohio, more specifically, North Central Ohio, who loves Israel more.”

The Stand for Israel event was held at Sar Shalom Center in Ontario. The event raised $7,000.(Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

Keynote speaker for the event was the Deputy Speaker of the Israeli Knesset, Mr. Hilik Bar. 

According to the Deputy Speaker, “Ohio is truly the greatest friend to Israel in the United States, no doubt about it.  Ohio is an emerging force in support of Israel’s future.”

Recent examples of the strong friendship between the area and the Jewish state include a clergy letter sent by leading clergymen from over one hundred congregations supporting Israel’s sovereignty over its land, and the county acquisition of Israeli bonds by the County Treasurer at the request of the clergy. 

“I travel extensively throughout the States and I have never seen anyone like Ohio, more specifically, North Central Ohio, who loves Israel more.”

Eeki Elner, Founder of Israel Leadership Institute.

Besides area religious leaders publicly showing strong support for the relocation of the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem, the Ohio Legislature is considering a resolution making Ohio the first state to recognize Jerusalem as capital of Israel. 

Mr. Bar credits the Bible for giving the nation of Israel the spark of hope it needed to pursue its rebirth after two thousand years of being in exile.  When Israel announced the establishment of the new Jewish state in 1948, it was attacked by seven neighboring Arab nations but defeated the coalition despite a small military where only half of the troops had guns.  

Pictured: Reverend El Akuchie, Deputy Speaker Hilik Bar, Amie & Benjamin Mutti (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

As second in charge of the one hundred-twenty member Israeli parliament, MK Bar meets with many diplomats across the Middle East and says he asks Israel’s enemies one question: “Do you want to live in the Middle East next to us or instead of us?  Because if you want to live in the Middle East next to us, the Nation of Israel has an obligation to find a route to have peace with you.  But if you want to live in the Middle East instead of us, Israel will take every measure to protect its people.”

The day before arriving in Ohio, the Deputy Speaker was in Guatemala speaking to five hundred clergy. 

Nine clergy along with County Commissioners Darrell Banks and Marilyn John, Judge Ron Spon, Magistrate Andrea Clark, School Board Member Martin Gottschling, retired Judge James DeWeese, and retired State Senator Dick Schafrath attended the commemoration.

The Stand for Israel event celebrated the 70th anniversary of the rebirth of Israel. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

Deputy Speaker Bar invited those in attendance to visit Israel saying they had an open door to the Knesset. “On behalf of the Knesset, I want to thank you for having this celebration to support Israel and thank you for demonstrating your love and your commitment to the Nation of Israel,” said Bar. “I am honored to call you my friends. Just come on in. ”

In 2015, MK Bar visited the Ohio Statehouse to support legislation opposing boycotts of Israel. After addressing a joint session of the Legislature, he received the “Key to the State of Ohio,” an honor that has previously been bestowed upon former President George W. Bush, former Israeli President Shimon Peres, and U.S. Senator John McCain.

Ohio became the fourteenth state in the nation to pass an Anti-Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) Act.

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in Isaiah 66, “Who has ever seen things like this? Can a land be born in a day or a nation be brought forth in a moment? Yet no sooner is Zion in labor than she gives birth to her children.”

View the slideshow from the Stand for Israel event hosting Israeli Knesset Deputy Speaker on October 6th, 2018. Photos courtesy of Frontlines Ohio.

  • Rabbi William Hallbrook hosted the Stand for Israel event. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Eeki Elner, Founder of the Israeli Leadership Institute. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Attenders arrive early to get seats at Sar Shalom Center in Ontario. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Hilik Bar pictured with County Commissioner Marilyn John and her husband Kevin John. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Stand with Israel event was held at Ontario Sar Shalom Center. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Mr. Bar credits the Bible for giving the nation of Israel the spark of hope it needed. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Rabbi William Hallbrook was one of the area clergy supporting the relocation of the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Stand with Israel event was held at Ontario Sar Shalom Center. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Orville Pastor Jerry O’Brien pictured with Hilik Bar. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Amie Mutti discusses support of Israel. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Stand with Israel event was held at Ontario Sar Shalom Center. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Eeki Elner, who resides in Sderot, Israel, describes relationship between Ohio & Israel. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Mr. Hilik Bar, is second in charge of the Israeli legislative body. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Benjamin Mutti gives history of local efforts to support Israel. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Deputy Speaker Bar says it makes sense for Jews and Christians to worship in the same house. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Stand with Israel event celebrated the 70th anniversary of the rebirth of Israel. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Area clergy pictured with Deputy Speaker of the Israel Knesset. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

View the video below produced by Sar Shalom Center of the “Stand for Israel” event on October 6th, 2018. (Duration 71 min.)

Related articles:

Clergy sound off on Trump’s historic Jerusalem recognition declaration (VIDEO)
40 clergy see immediate returns after Richland County invests in Israeli bonds (VIDEO)
103 Ohio clergy send apology letter to Israeli Prime Minister

Israeli Deputy Speaker coming to Ontario October 6th

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On Saturday, Oct. 6 at 7 p.m., the Deputy Speaker of the Israeli Knesset will be speaking at the Sar Shalom Center in Ontario.

The public is welcome to come to the newly-opened center at 2510 West Fourth Street to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the rebirth of the Nation of Israel.

Deputy Speaker Hilik Bar

The event is sponsored by the Israeli Leadership Institute of North America and the Richland Community Prayer Network (RCPN), which is also celebrating its 20th year of existence. The keynote speaker, Hilik Bar, will be the highest ranking official ever to come to the area. In 2002, Benjamin Netanyahu spoke in Ashland at the Ashbrook Center but was not an elected official at the time. 

According to the Executive Director of the Israeli Leadership Institute (ILI), Mr. Eeki Elner, “Knesset Member Hilik Bar will be in Ohio for one week to strengthen ties between the faith community in Ohio and Israel.”

Elner, who is based in Sderot, Israel, says that Bar’s visit to North Central Ohio is, “due to the strong Pro-Israeli clergy coalition there.”

Mr. Eeki Elner (Photo courtesy of Israeli Leadership Council)

In January 2017, RCPN enlisted the support of leading clergymen from over one hundred congregations throughout North Central Ohio for a clergy letter to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu. The correspondence apologized for the anti-Semitic position the U.S. Federal government took in not opposing the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2334.

Suffice to say, U. N. Resolution 2334 was passed the day before Hanukah in 2016 and opposed Israel’s sovereignty over East Jerusalem, Judea, and Samaria, calling it “a flagrant violation of international law.”

RCPN Coordinator Reverend El Akuchie explained that the clergy letter “Not only atoned for past local citizen support in 2005 of an Israeli withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, it also helped facilitate reconciliation between North Central Ohio and Israel and most importantly, reconciliation between North Central Ohio and GOD. “

The season following the letter, the Ohio clergy observed blessings of “Biblical proportion” in the area.

Rev. El Akuchie (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

“Ten days after the letter was sent, the billion-dollar Rover natural gas pipeline got federal approval to begin construction bringing money to local landowners and replenishing a local economy ranked tenth worst in the country.”

Akuchie asserts that the significant increases in the spring turkey harvest the whitetail deer harvest, and the largest cattle herd in thirty years “can be correlated to standing with Israel.”

“What also caught international attention was forty local clergy responding to these blessings by requesting the County Treasurer invest in Israeli bonds. As a result, Richland County changed a 25-year-old investment policy to include international investments, allowing for the purchase of between $100,000 to $200,000 worth of Israeli bonds.


“The same day the purchase was announced, the County Commissioner Board was informed that nearly half a million dollars of unexpected revenue was coming in to alleviate a budget shortfall which is breathtaking,”

Reverend El Akuchie

“The same day the purchase was announced, the County Commissioner Board was informed that nearly half a million dollars of unexpected revenue was coming in to alleviate a budget shortfall which is breathtaking,” says Akuchie smiling.

For a government entity, the State of Ohio is listed as the largest holder of Israeli bonds in the world and Elner optimistically reports that Ohio and Israel are “becoming closer and closer as evidence of the growing trade volume between the two states.”

Sar Shalom Center, location of the upcoming Stand for Israel event.
(Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

It is no small matter that as a gift from the Ohio Speaker of the House in 2015, Hilik Bar was given the “Keys to the State of Ohio.” Bar is only the fourth person to ever receive such an honor.

“Hilik is focused on bringing the two peoples together” says Elner.

Colorado expert offers local lecture on dangers of marijuana (VIDEO)

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MANSFIELD — Recently local employers heard compelling evidence on the long term negative impacts of marijuana on the workforce in a session offered by the Mansfield Area Chamber of Commerce.

Jo McGuire
Five Minutes of Courage

Keynote speaker of the forum, Jo McGuire, possesses a strong resume, serving as a voice for drug free workplaces on the Colorado Governor’s Task Force.    She travels extensively conducting seminars to policymakers around the nation and President and CEO of “Five Minutes of Courage.“

In the presentation, McGuire discussed a study from the Journal of Legal Medicine which found that more industrial accidents, more injuries, and more job absenteeism were associated with the medicinal use of marijuana in the workplace.

“In the drug culture we have today, a good game plan can include random drug testing and zero tolerance.  This approach can be the difference on whether a company is in the red or in the black, “McGuire says.

To pass muster in the legal realm, she encourages employers to update their drug policies by replacing references of “impairment” with the term “under the influence.” 

Her presentation cited a study by Employer’s Insurance in 2015, where only twenty-percent of small-business owners said they would allow an employee with a medical marijuana prescription to use the drug while at work. 

Another presenter, Tony Coder,  was appointed to the Ohio Medical Marijuana Advisory Committee, and provides insight to the rule making process for marijuana in Ohio.  He told employers at the morning session that while levels “THC” allowed in the Ohio Medical Marijuana program are high, these are the requirements that the Ohio Legislature mandated.

Jo McGuire speaking to local Chamber of Commerce. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

“The marijuana of the 1960’s had THC levels (the primary intoxicant in marijuana) between 2-3 %.   Ohio law allows 70% THC levels for edibles and 35% THC for pills.  And marijuana in Ohio cannot be smoked, but it can be vaped.”

The committee member admitted the program is in conflict with federal law with marijuana seeds crossing state borders for implementation of the program.   Just recently the Ohio Department of Commerce came under fire from state officials for hiring a medical marijuana program consultant who had a felony drug conviction on his criminal record. 

During the session, concerns were raised about the difficulty in discerning the difference between nicotine vaping and marijuana vaping.  Also discussed was that statistic that 1 in 3 workers cheat on their drug tests.

According to McGuire, when Colorado legalized marijuana, emergency room visits went thru the roof  with a 800% increase.  Traffic deaths with drivers testing positive for “marijuana-only” increased by 75%.  Tent cities also surfaced in Colorado since unemployed people are unable to pass their drug tests and obtain jobs. 

When the smoke cleared, two thirds of the communities in Colorado have opted out of allowing marijuana dispensaries in their jurisdictions due to public health and safety concerns.      

“Where has the drug-friendly culture gotten us? One major testing company showed the greatest increase in use of all illicit drugs by U.S. employees in twelve years based on its laboratory testing.  When the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics crunched their numbers, they found in 2016 drug and alcohol related deaths in the workplace soared by a staggering 30 percent in a single year. “

Jo McGuire
Five Minutes of Courage

“Where has the drug-friendly culture gotten us? “ asks McGuire.  “One major testing company showed the greatest increase in use of all illicit drugs by U.S. employees in twelve years based on its laboratory testing.  When the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics crunched their numbers, they found in 2016 drug and alcohol related deaths in the workplace soared by a staggering 30 percent in a single year. “

One medical study in the workplace discussed included airplane pilots exposed to THC-based Cannabis. Twenty-four hours after smoking one joint with Cannabis, pilots had difficulty in aligning with and landing on runway, pilots had increased vertical and lateral deviation from required flight path ,pilots had lateral deviation on approach to land, pilots had significant increase in distance from center of runway on touchdown, and one pilot landed off the runway entirely.   A notable observation was that the participating pilots were not aware of any impairment. 

“When the industry says that marijuana can be regulated, it is all a bunch of smoke and mirrors,” says McGuire.

“The chemical composition of marijuana is unstable.  You can find different THC levels of plants in the same warehouse, and blue/red light technology can bring rapid growth.  So when employees inside a cultivation operation housing thousands of plants, breaks a single branch off, they can easily clone the branch and start their own clandestine operation.”

In 2016, an Obama Administration study reported that Cannabis cannot be downgraded to Schedule 2.  The Drug Enforcement Administration Chief took into consideration conclusions by the Food and Drug Administration that marijuana has “no currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States,” and “remains highly vulnerable to abuse as the most commonly used illicit drug across the nation.  This decision is based on whether marijuana, as determined by the FDA, is a safe and effective medicine,” Chief Chuck Rosenberg said, “and it is not.”

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in First Peter, “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”

View the video below from “Five Minutes of Courage” discussing the adverse effects of marijuana in the workplace.

Richland County recognizes Global Forgiveness Day with pastor brothers

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MANSFIELD — Richland County Commissioners recently recognized July 7th as “Global Forgiveness Day” with local clergy.   Global Forgiveness Day was birthed in Canada in 1994 by the Christian Embassy of Christ’s Ambassadors as people began to identify with the need to forgive and be forgiven.

(Pictured L to R) Reverend Jay Hill, Commissioner Marilyn John, and Reverend Larry Hill (Submitted photo)

In the proclamation, the Commissioners cited a Mayo Clinic Staff report that stated forgiveness can lead to: healthier relationships, improved mental health, fewer symptoms of depression, a stronger immune system, and better self-esteem.

Reverend Larry Hill of Bethel Freewill Baptist has seen firsthand how forgiveness can change the health condition of a person. 

“We had a woman in our congregation who went to the hospital physically sick because of her bitterness towards a man who had abused her daughter.   She was naturally angry towards this man, but once she forgave him in her heart, she left the hospital with a clean bill of health.  Clearly forgiveness set this woman free.”

The proclamation also stated that due to anti-social behavior, the United States has the highest number of lawyers per capita with one lawyer for every 300 people.

Reverend Jay Hill of Paradise Free Will Baptist believes what the Bible says about forgiving your brother. “Ephesians 4:32 instructs as to ‘Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ, God forgave you.’  Today in our culture we see family feuds leading to lawsuit and divorce as a result of bitterness of the heart.  Forgiveness really ought to play a bigger part in our life.”

Interestingly, the first recorded court summons in Richland County history took place between two brothers with an axe to grind. Justice of the Peace Andrew Cofinberry cited his very own brother George for chopping wood on the Sabbath.

Both area pastors happen to be brothers and the two reminisced on their childhood upbringing.

“The two of us were closest in age so we had our quarrels; in the heat of the moment we would duke it out,” says Jay laughing.   “Dad would line us up, make us forgive each other and hug each other.  Then Dad would share with Larry and I the story of his brother who was murdered as a teenager and how Dad regretted his fights with his brother before his death.”

“Growing up, these stories created a special bond between Jay and myself.  Our dad’s brother was gone.  Dad told us how he had to ultimately forgive his brother’s murderer with the help of the Holy Spirit.”

Reverend Larry HIll
Bethel Freewill Baptist

Larry observes, “Growing up, these stories created a special bond between Jay and myself.  Our dad’s brother was gone.  Dad told us how he had to ultimately forgive his brother’s murderer with the help of the Holy Spirit.”

In addition, the proclamation also cited  a study finding  that forgiveness not only restored positive thoughts, feelings, and behaviors toward the offending party, but the benefits of forgiveness also brought positive behaviors toward others.   

Located at 1400 Paradise View, Reverend Jay Hill’s church has outgrown its existing facility.    The congregation has a Vacation Bible School, an outreach to the homeless on the square, and also participates in the Starfish Project for those fighting substance abuse. 

Reverend Larry Hill calls his position at Bethel Freewill Baptist at 3983 North Main Street “a dream come true,” serving five years as the Lead Pastor of the church he grew up in.  His fellowship just finished a Vacation Bible School and provides transportation services.

Speaking of dreams come true, both ministers agree that a bitter feud between Founding Fathers and subsequent reconciliation account adds special meaning to Global Forgiveness Day on July 7th. 

John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, who co-labored together during the U.S. Revolution, became fierce political rivals which troubled Dr. Benjamin Rush, a close friend of both Adams and Jefferson.  Dr. Rush had a dream about the two which he wrote down on October 17, 1809, and sent to John Adams.

The amazing accuracy and future fulfillment of several parts of Dr. Rush’s dream are astonishing. As described in his letter, Adams and Jefferson did again become close friends, and did indeed share correspondences over several years as described in the dream.  Interestingly, seventeen years after Rush’s dream, Jefferson and Adams did “sink into the grave nearly at the same time” as the two men died within three hours of each other on the same day: July 4th, 1826 – the fiftieth anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. 

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in Matthew Six, “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your Heavenly Father will also forgive you.”

Guest Column: Marijuana will bring chronic headaches to community

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There are many alternatives for people to go to treat pain. Quite frankly, I do not want our community to go to pot.

The public has been told by the proponents of the medical marijuana industry that the addition of a cultivation facility in the Ontario area will provide more jobs and lower rates of Opioid overdose.

But what these same salesmen did not tell us is that according to a study of the states with legalized medical marijuana from 1999-2014, the National Institute of Health not only found lower rates of opioid overdose, they also found higher rates of recreational marijuana use and increased potency of illegal marijuana.

While 4Front Ventures distanced itself from recreational marijuana in last week’s public hearing, the company did contribute $28,500 to help Massachusetts legalize recreational marijuana in 2016.

Unfortunately state lawmakers ignored the will of the people in 2015, where Ohioans defeated a ballot measure to legalize both recreational and medical uses of marijuana by a resounding 65- to 34-percent margin. Instead the lawmakers legalized the so-called medical use of marijuana because of biased polls.

Nonetheless, just because our state legislature legalized medical marijuana, it does not mean that a patient is out of harm’s way. A report this Spring found that one in three approved new drugs by the Food and Drug Administration have unexpected and sometimes life threatening side effects or complications.


“Medical marijuana is being used for over 20 different health conditions. Strikingly, a review of more than 10,700 scientific studies conducted by the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine found verifiable benefits for only two disorders — chronic pain and the nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. “

Benjamin Mutti
Richland Community family coalition

Medical marijuana is being used for over 20 different health conditions. Strikingly, a review of more than 10,700 scientific studies conducted by the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine found verifiable benefits for only two disorders — chronic pain and the nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy.

Researchers in this review found strong support for the drug’s effectiveness in studies based on patients’ self-reported symptoms. But interestingly when the committee considered only studies based on physician reports, the evidence of any benefit nearly disappeared.

For what it’s worth, when the Sheriff, METRICH Commander, County Prosecutor, School Superintendent, and leading clergymen from seventy congregations throughout Richland County all oppose medical marijuana coming to Richland County, that should say something. Subsequently, both our state lawmakers opposed the legalization of medical marijuana and townships across Richland County have begun prohibiting medical marijuana.

After Loudonville Village Council voted to support medical marijuana without asking for input from the public, it drew the ire of citizens and Ashland County pastors with nearly one hundred letters sent opposing the Cannabis measure.

While a smoke signal emanates from Washington DC lobbyists ordering local and state governments to decriminalize marijuana, an authentic grassroots effort is coming from local authorities ignoring the cue. Columbus appears to have given in, but for our area, it may just be ….. close, but no cigar.

Benjamin Mutti, is spokesman for the Richland Community Family Coalition and a faith-based advocate for the advancement of Family values in culture.

108 North central Ohio clergy send letter to resist judicial tyranny (SLIDESHOW)(VIDEO)

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MANSFIELD — Faith leaders across North Central Ohio held a press conference at the Richland County Courthouse calling for a restoration of religious freedom and an end to judicial tyranny.  Standing outside the very courthouse where a poster with the words of the Ten Commandments was ordered taken down by a federal judge in 2001, five pastors stood together on Friday with a ninety pound depiction of the Ten Commandments on prominent display.

Clergymen representing 108 congregations released a open letter sent to Ohio Congressional members and state lawmakers sounding the alarm over federal court injunctions that silence voters and judicial prejudice directed against citizens of faith.


Picture of Reverend Aaron Rose and son Kaleb Rose (Photo by Bud Motter)

Reverend J.C. Church, Leading Pastor of Victory in Truth Ministries and a Director with the Family Research Council asked, “Why have a Legislature when one elected judge can strike down any law that does not fit his political agenda?  Unaccountable judges in the Federal court system have suppressed the voices of freedom in our nation- starting with people of religious conviction. Judicial supremacy has ultimately created a culture of dictatorship.”

The clergy letter boldly declared “Absent of any constitutionality, these 600 unelected bureaucrats are silencing voters by establishing their own court opinions as law of the land, and micromanaging public policy against the will of the governed. “

One example the clergy letter cited was a recent case in March 2018 when unelected Federal Court Judge Timothy Black struck down an Ohio law passed by eighty-four elected state officials prohibiting abortion of unborn babies with Down syndrome.  Black stated that the court opinion Roe v. Wade was actually the law of the land and could not be rescinded.


“No one told us these things because they are not the science of Down syndrome, but they are the truth of Down syndrome.  Today, I stand not just for my son but for the voiceless who may never be given a chance to breathe air.  Our quality of life as a family has increased ten-fold because of our son.  I would not change one thing about my son Kaleb.”

Pastor aaron rose, fusion community church

The clergy pointed out that Black should have recused himself since he was a former Director of Planned Parenthood, writing “We do not excuse Judge Black’s conflict of interest, and we believe Judge Black’s politically-biased arguments justifying the taking of life are unbecoming for a federal judge and hold no merit.”

Reverend Aaron Rose of Fusion Community Church called Timothy Black’s opinion “a gross overreach of the judiciary, coming from somebody with obvious political bias.” Rose shared how he and his wife have raised their ten year old son Kaleb who was diagnosed with Down syndrome. 

“After Kaleb was born, geneticists said our baby would have diminished quality of life and that we would grieve our child as if losing our son; I was shell-shocked that those were the first words that exited his mouth.

“My son will be eleven years old this Christmas and he is a healthy child.  He is here today because he is normal- he will do anything to miss school.  Kaleb sings almost every morning at the top of his lungs.  He hugs you when you are sad and he hugs when you are happy.  His favorite gift to receive is potato chips and Hershey chocolate.  This is what we would have missed if Kaleb had not entered this world.”

Clergy press conference defending sanctity of life. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

Rose went on to say, “No one told us these things because they are not the science of Down syndrome, but they are the truth of Down syndrome.  Today, I stand not just for my son but for the voiceless who may never be given a chance to breathe air.  Our quality of life as a family has increased ten-fold because of our son.  I would not change one thing about my son Kaleb.”

As the clergymen publicly read the correspondence, Reverend John Bouquet of Bethel Baptist, Reverend DeWayne Smith of Main Street Methodist, and Reverend El Akuchie of the Richland Community Prayer Network quoted Bible verses from Psalms 94:20-22 about wicked rulers devising evil by law and Isaiah 1.26 regarding the restoration of righteous judges.

The clergy believe that reliance on the Ten Commandments as a social compact for a multicultural nation can unify the country and reduce the need for a federal judiciary. 

Several dignitaries attending the press conference included Judge James DeWeese, County Commissioner Marilyn John, Chief Civil Assistant County Prosecutor Andrew Keller and Tammie Puff, Regional Director representing Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine.

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in Isaiah Chapter 49, “I will contend with those who contend with you, and your children I will save.”

View a slideshow from the clergy press conference at the Richland County Courthouse.

  • Pastor John Bouquet speaking. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Clergy press conference defending sanctity of life. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Clergy press conference defending sanctity of life. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Pastor Aaron Rose speaks with his son at this side. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Clergy press conference defending sanctity of life. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Pastor DeWayne Smith speaking (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Clergy press conference defending sanctity of life. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Pastor John Bouquet with Pastor DeWayne Smith in background. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)


See related article:

Commissioner Board turns down clergy resolution to defund Planned Parenthood (VIDEO)

2018 National Day of Prayer: Water pours but faith reigns (VIDEO)

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Clergy prayer for local Law Enforcement. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

MANSFIELD — While Richland County’s first dry spell last week brought fire watch alerts and valuable time for farmers to plant seed, National Day of Prayer organizers were caught off guard Thursday when isolated storms dumped rain leading to a change in location from the outdoor Central Park Gazebo to the friendly confines of First English Lutheran.

To Reverend El Akuchie, Coordinator with the Richland Community Prayer Network, every cloud has a silver lining.   Reflecting on the heavy rain, Akuchie quoted from Hosea 6:3: “If we press on to know the LORD, He will come to us like the spring rain.”

Senior Josh Johnson, who serves as sound technician with Mansfield Christian’s Image Choir helped lead the transition team from outdoors to indoors.  Johnson commented, “I have been a part of IMAGE Choir participating in the National Day of Prayer for four years.  Every year I feel the presence of the Holy Spirit and this was the best yet!”

Directed by Heidi Zentz, IMAGE Choir generated electricity for the 150 who attended the noonday prayer event, providing a number of inspirational songs like “Cornerstone,” and “You Deserve the Glory.”  Music artists Chloe Reel and Tenor Caleb Hignite both sang solos and Nicolas Kelley provided piano accompaniment. 

According to keynote speaker Reverend Doug Abner, during his community’s breakthrough against drug addiction, hundreds of students at his county’s high school for seven consecutive years would have prayer and worship every day for the first fifteen minutes of the school day.

Mansfield Christian School’s IMAGE Choir led worship at the National Day of Prayer Service. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

Abner now has a ministry called the “Appalachian Centre for Transformation” that goes around the nation sharing the story of Manchester, Kentucky.

“Desperate prayer led to desperate actions,” said Abner who saw his community go from “Painkiller Capital of America,” to City of Hope.  “God chose a place you would least expect that was poor to demonstrate His power.”

According to Abner, the turning point was when twenty-percent of the county turned out for a march against drugs during cold and rainy weather on May 2, 2004 to take a stand. 


“I believe that Richland County, Ohio is a national model for clergy and community leaders coming together for the betterment of their community.  If revival can happen in Clay County, Kentucky, it could surely happen in Richland County, Ohio.”

Reverend Doug Abner, Appalachian Centre for Transformation

“I believe that Richland County, Ohio is a national model for clergy and community leaders coming together for the betterment of their community.  If revival can happen in Clay County, Kentucky, it could surely happen in Richland County, Ohio.”

Throughout the county-wide observance, local clergy led prayer for government and society.

Rev. Henry Bradley of New Community Temple COGIC led a prayer of repentance, and Rev. James Hill of Paradise Freewill Baptist facilitated prayer for elected officials in attendance along with clergy from twenty local congregations.   

Rev. William Crank of Cornerstone Freewill Baptist also prayed for national and state government, Rev. David Howell of Power House Worship Center interceded for schools and churches, and Akuchie prayed for protection for the law enforcement.

Elected officials attending 2018 National Day of Prayer line up for prayer.
(Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

Elected officials attending included:  State Representative Mark Romanchuk, Commissioners Marilyn John and Tony Vero, Mayors Timothy Theaker and Randy Hutchinson, Sheriff Steve Sheldon, Prosecutor Gary Bishop, Law Director, John Spon, City Council Garnetta Pender, and Trustee Bob Entennman.

According to Pastor Hill, “this gathering will not be soon forgotten.  To see our political and spiritual leaders come together for the same cause was remarkable.  The sky is the limit on what GOD can do in our community!”

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in Ephesians Four, “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”

View video of 2018 National Day of Prayer keynote speaker Doug Abner.

Guest Column: Remembering 6 million Jews lost during the Holocaust

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Voices were hushed, lights were low. The normal environment of Sar Shalom Messianic Congregation is one filled with the sounds of chatter, bursts of laughter and the occasional squeals from children. But this was not a normal evening. Tonight the congregation was recognizing the more than 6 million lives that were taken during the holocaust.

Richland County Commissioner Marilyn John presented a proclamation recognizing Holocaust Remembrance Day, observed on April 12, 2018. The proclamation spoke of the ties of Ohio and Israel, both past and present, and that “both Israel and the United States are prosperous nations comprised of immigrants, with representative democratic forms of government, and share exceptional histories.”

Amie Mutti (Photo submitted)

Elder Steve McEllhatten shared the timeline of events that led up to the holocaust and the religious persecution that became the societal norm. “Because they refused to conform to the cultural norms in the secular and other religious practices of the countries in which they lived, they became easy targets for those wanting someone to blame for all things that were not going well. They were blamed for everything from the black plague in Europe, to the financial depression, and even for being ‘Christ killers.’ They were looked at as being inferior to the so-called Aryan race,” he said. 

He encouraged all to never forget and to continue to observe this important date. He also encouraged prayer for Israel and Jerusalem, to stand and advocate for Israel, including buying Israeli-made products and speak out against discrimination and anti-Semitism. McEllhatten shared a quote that was displayed at Yad Vashem in Jerusalem that touched him on his most recent trip to Israel: “Forgetfulness leads to exile while remembrance is the secret of redemption,” Baal Shem Tov.

Congregants also watched a video detailing the heroic efforts of Master Sergeant Roddie Edmonds of Knoxville, Tennessee, who served in the US Army during World War II. Edmonds was the highest ranking officer amongst the prisoners at a German POW camp. The German guards announced the Jewish soldiers must report the following morning. Recognizing the danger, Edmonds ordered all of his men, Jews and non-Jews, to stand together. Upon seeing all the soldiers together, a German commander questioned how many of the soldiers were Jews. Edmonds famously replied “We are all Jews.” Those brave words saved the lives of the hundreds of Jews under his command that day.

“We are all Jews.”

Master sergeant Roddie Edmonds

Rabbi William Hallbrook invited Shoshanna (Susan) Ricer Walker to speak to those in attendance. Ricer Walker shared how many of her family members were murdered in the holocaust, to the point of near annihilation. She was also delighted to share how her family has rebounded, and she added that 15 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren are now thriving in the Ricer family tree.

Rabbi William offered some closing thoughts, “Many here in this room have family that were lost in the Holocaust, and we want to question why. We must know God is sovereign. There is hope. There is joy in the Messiah.”

He recounted a story of two brothers that were walking, one brother reached down and grabbed a bible off a corpse. He later read that bible and came to believe in Messiah. His brother, too, became a believer. Rabbi William lead a prayer referred to as the Mourner’s Kaddish. He reminded everyone the Kaddish prayer is for living, and that it is a positive prayer of hope. One of the lines include the hopeful prayer “May God’s majesty be revealed in the days of our lifetime and the life of all Israel … speedily, imminently, to which we say Amen.”

Lexington resident Amie Mutti is a wife, mother of three boys and student at Yeshiva Shuvu.

Message of hope for National Day of Prayer set for May 3rd (VIDEO)

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MANSFIELD — On Thursday, May 3rd the countywide National Day of Prayer observance will be taking place between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the Central Park Gazebo in downtown Mansfield.  Sponsored by the Richland Community Prayer Network, the corporate gathering will have Scott Saunders of 90.7 WVMC as a moderator and include music from Mansfield Christian’s youth choir IMAGE, directed by Ms. Heidi Zentz.

According to the National Day of Prayer (NDOP) Task Force, there were at least 30,000 NDOP events across the nation last year, including one event held in the U.S. Capitol Building for the first time. The Task Force’s stated mission is to “mobilize the nation to unified public prayer and to see spiritual awakening come to America.”

Retired pastor Doug Abner tells the story of community-wide revival in Manchester, KY. (Photo courtesy of Doug Abner)

Speaking of spiritual awakening, the keynote speaker at this year’s assembly will be Reverend Doug Abner of Manchester, Kentucky. Between 2002-2010, Abner saw his community transform from the “painkiller capital of America” to Manchester: the City of Hope, changing every aspect of our society from top to bottom.

Prior to the community turnaround, Clay County, Kentucky was regularly listed in the top 10 poorest counties in America and was between a rock and a hard place, with 40 percent of the population in the county growing marijuana.  According to police, one drug house in one month drew more customers than four fast food chain restaurants combined. The community had an uphill battle to survive. 

When overdose deaths were occurring every week, Doug Abner helped lead a march against drugs, collaborating with sixty-two other pastors. After this tipping point, key cartels were incarcerated and eventually became valuable informants for the FBI.

As a result, a divine dragnet ensued, ensnaring key government officials for bribery and voter fraud, and bringing down the administrations of the Mayor, Councilmen, District Court Judge, 911 Director and Election Commissioner in the largest corruption case in state history.  One of the indicted officials later admitted in federal court, that the pastor involvement with police and the march against drugs had concerned him.

With the gravy train derailed, new leadership took over and drug dealers either got saved or busted. After the march, drug arrests were off the charts in Manchester and the county saw a dramatic dip in the number of narcotic painkillers prescribed by doctors.

Abner points out at that time church attendance and baptisms in the region skyrocketed. A Jesus-based drug detox center also moved in to fix lives and became a resume builder for compassionate business owners to consider when giving second chances to employ former addicts. 

People from all over the world began coming to Manchester to hear the story of redemption. Other communities began having marches of their own. One State Court of Appeals Judge stated that “the answered prayer in Clay County has been nothing short of a social exorcism.”

But that’s not all. Abner commented that Manchester’s quantum leap also included an ecological turnaround on the land where the water supply rebounded and the land became more hospitable to deer, elk, turkey, fish, and black bear after a century-long absence. 

Several years ago, Mansfield was impacted by this same Manchester story and area churches held their own march against drugs named “Project Turn Around.”  The area had just been profiled by ABC News “Nightline” and Oprah Winfrey as a hotbed for heroin. 

After the local march in 2007, Richland County experienced a season where newfound awareness on the problem of drug addiction took place, where an increase in citizen involvement in the public arena was observed, where increased drug testing in public institutions occurred, and when a dramatic decline in violent crime occurred, the lowest in 17 years.

Abner’s remarkable story is featured in a documentary entitled “An Appalachian Dawn” by the Sentinel Group.View the video trailer below of the documentary “An Appalachian Dawn” produced by the Sentinel Group on Manchester, Kentucky.

Ontario Mayor Proclaims Problem Gambling Awareness Month

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ONTARIO–Last week Mayor Randy Hutchinson proclaimed the month of March as “Problem Gambling Awareness Month” for the citizens of Ontario.  Be that as it may, two million adults in the United States meet the diagnostic criteria for gambling disorder in a given year.

According to the proclamation, problem gambling signs include gambling that: disrupts sleep and diet, is a coping method for anxiety, changes personality, and/or brings self-destructive thoughts. 

Pictured L to R: Les Farley, Russell Stanford, and Randy Hutchinson.
(Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

The proclamation cites a National Council on Problem Gambling report stating social costs of problem gambling are $7 billion per year in the United States from criminal incarcerations, bankruptcies and addictions.

The Reverend Les Farley of My Father’s House has seen first-hand the effects problem gambling.

“In my secular vocation, I had an employee spend her entire check on bingo every week.  At one point, she was living without electricity and heat since she could not pay her bills.  She was also spending her husbands’ paycheck on her addiction before they ended up foreclosing on their home.”

Pastor Les Farley
(Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

“The Bible declares in 1Timothy 6:10 that the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil.  When people love money, all their priorities are turned upside down.  Their addiction leads to behavior they normally would not act on.”

Speaking of behavior, the latest Ohio Casino Control Commission publication reported the four state casino locations recorded at least 750 arrests over the twelve month period onsite; the prior year was 817 arrests.  Strangely enough, crime incidents in surrounding neighborhoods were not included in the state report.     

Consequently, the proclamation also pointed out that the percentage of Ohioans deemed “problem gamblers” has doubled since the implementation of racinos and casinos five years ago.  Furthermore, the prevalence of problem and pathological gamblers roughly doubles within fifty miles of a casino.

According to Reverend Russell Stanford of All Believers in Christ Church, “In my opinion, making something legal such as alcohol, cigarettes, or gambling does not negate our responsibility to make the public aware of the harmful side effects of this addiction, but rather it should enhance our responsibility.”

Ultimately, problem and pathological gamblers are between 3 and 4 times more likely to be arrested and between 2 and 7 times more likely to use illegal drugs, binge drink, and smoke.

“I do not gamble,” says Reverend Stanford whose congregation meets at 1650 South Main Street in Mansfield.

Pastor Russell Stanford
(Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

“My mom taught us as kids to stay away from gambling.  Not everything that glitters is gold. The Bible is clear that it does not bode well for those who gain riches speedily.  No one serves two masters-you cannot serve both GOD and money.”

Both clergy agree that problem gambling addiction in households can have a domino effect:  families losing can cause businesses to lose when families are unable to afford going out to restaurants and buying new clothes.  Paying bills for property taxes, public utilities and levies for government entities can go unpaid.

All things considered, a 2016 study by the National Endowment of Financial Education, revealed a staggering seventy-percent of lottery winners end up going bankrupt within several years!  

The Reverend Farley, whose congregation meets at 1780 West Fourth Street in Ontario, believes that the local government should keep in mind that the gambling industry does not create wealth; it only causes wealth change hands. 


“We have to remember that the focus of the gambling industry is to expand its take by acquiring other people’s money.  Las Vegas was built by people who lost, not by people who won.”

Reverend Les Farley, My Father’s House

“Some policy makers can’t make heads or tails about the local effects of gambling.  As a stakeholder in my community, I support economic interests that bring out the best in people, not the worst. We have to remember that the focus of the gambling industry is to expand its take by acquiring other people’s money.  Las Vegas was built by people who lost, not by people who won.” 

“I hate to upset the applecart,” says Reverend Stanford tongue in cheek.  “I think it is significant that despite its gambling industry that was legalized in 1978, Atlantic City still has trouble sustaining even a single grocery store.” 

Historically speaking, in a 2009 survey on gambling attitudes conducted of eighty-three leading pastors throughout Richland County, one hundred percent of the pastors stated their opposition to gambling would not change if casinos were legalized.  Eighty-three percent stated they had an unfavorable view of bingo and legal forms of gaming done by churches as means of charity.

Clergy were “all in” on October 16, 2008 when leading pastors from eighty-two congregations throughout Richland County held a press conference at the Mansfield City Hall Courtyard speaking against the implementation of state casinos.

Currently gambling has expanded, but when a jackpot is hit today, like a thief in the night, the tables are quickly turned for winners and fortunes more times than not vanish into thin air.  And sadly, families find the cards stacked against them grappling with problem gambling addiction.   

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in First Timothy Six, “The love of money is the root of all evil.”

See related article:

82 local pastors oppose state casino gambling issue

Clergy stand for Israel brings rebound to North Central Ohio

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MANSFIELD — In January of 2017, Ohio clergy from over one-hundred congregations in North-Central Ohio sent an apology letter to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the position the Obama Administration took in not defending Israel.

The clergy were critical of the Obama Administration which allowed U.N. Resolution 2334 to pass, calling Israel’s sovereignty of the Promised Land “an international crime.” 

Pictured: clergy participating in the apology letter to Israel.
(Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

According to Reverend El Akuchie, Executive Director for the Richland Community Prayer Network and one of the co-signors of the clergy letter, he believes weeks following the Biblical stand, tangible effects from the clergy collaboration could be seen in the area.

“Things began happening in our area in the Spring of 2017 after the clergy letter was sent to the Israeli Prime Minister. Our economy began rebounding and the land started producing blessings,” says Reverend Akuchie.

Ten days following the apology letter sent by the clergymen, the Rover Pipeline Project received approval for construction thru the North Central Ohio region. The project had been held up by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission for some time.  The massive natural gas pipeline is more than twice the size of the controversial Keystone Pipeline. 


“The day the County Treasurer announced that the Richland County would invest in Israeli bonds, was the same meeting that half a million dollars in unexpected revenue was reportedly discovered to alleviate a budget shortfall! “

Reverend El Akuchie, Richland Community Prayer Network

With its approval, the 713 mile pipeline will bring hundreds of thousands of dollars of revenue to the stagnated local economy at a time when energy projects often go contested.  

“According to Department of Agriculture numbers, the 2017 spring turkey harvest in Richland County saw a dramatic twenty-four percent increase from last year, whitetail deer harvested was the best in four years, and the cow herd in Richland County, which is estimated in late winter, is now at its largest number in over thirty years, which is utterly amazing!”

Maple syrup in the Spring of 2017 also saw an increase in production in gallons produced.

In Spring of 2017, local activists show their support of Israel in Bellville, Ohio.
(Photo courtesy of Neal Costick)

Akuchie points out that there is no such thing in Hebrew as the word “coincidence.” The blessings the area experienced from the apology letter aftermath provoked forty-two area clergymen to also request the County Treasurer to invest taxpayer dollars in Israeli bonds.

“The day the County Treasurer announced Richland County would invest in Israeli bonds, was the same meeting that half a million dollars in unexpected revenue was reportedly discovered to alleviate a budget shortfall!  This clergy apology letter had a snowball effect and sends shivers down your spine to think that the Blessing of Abraham still impacts our generation …..even today.”

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in Genesis Twelve, “I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed thru you.”

Related articles:

103 Ohio clergy send apology letter to Israeli Prime Minister
40 clergy see immediate returns after Richland County invests in Israeli bonds (VIDEO)

The Bottom Line:

“I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” Genesis 12:2-3

Mansfield-area ministers get a seat at the table with Mayor Theaker

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MANSFIELD — This week more than thirty local ministers from the “Brown Bag Luncheon Group,” met with Mansfield mayor Tim Theaker to strike up a conversation about the community.

Mayor Timothy Theaker meets with area clergy at recent luncheon (Submitted photo)

“We scheduled a time to meet with the city administration to learn what specific needs there are,” said Reverend Kim Maurer. “Our police department and safety services have a full plate so we want to find ways we can serve them. Our men and women in uniform are so vital to the well-being of this community.”

Maurer, a retired pastor who serves as the communications facilitator for the clergy group, believes that the faith community has an important piece of the puzzle that the community needs. 


“As stakeholders, we are thankful that Mayor Theaker recognizes that the faith community should also have a seat at the table regarding discussions pertaining to the corporate vision for our community,”

Reverend Kim Maurer

“As stakeholders, we are thankful that Mayor Theaker recognizes that the faith community should also have a seat at the table regarding discussions pertaining to the corporate vision for our community,” Maurer said.

Last autumn, Theaker gave a proclamation for “Clergy Appreciation Month,” recognizing the important role that chaplains and clergy play within society.

Composed of evangelical pastors from different denominations, the Brown Bag group meets monthly for informal lunch gathering and traces its origins as far back to 1992. 

The catered luncheon was funded by Greg Boyce of the Modern Woodmen of America with extra lunches going to the 911 police dispatch.

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in Luke Fourteen, “Blessed is everyone who will eat bread in the Kingdom of GOD.”

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