“Bringing Her Home: Commemorating Anne Moody in Southern Public Culture”

My proposal for the 18th Berkshire Conference on the History of Women, Genders and Sexualities (2020)

By Roscoe Barnes III, PhD

Chairman, Anne Moody History Project

Copyright (c) 2019

#AnneMoody
#ComingOfAgeinMississippi

Anne Moody (1940-2015)

Author, Coming of Age in Mississippi
(Photo by Jack Schrier)

I am so happy to report my paper on Anne Moody has been approved for the 18th Berkshire Conference on the History of Women, Genders and Sexualities. The conference is set for May 28-31, 2020, at Johns Hopkins University. My paper is titled, “Bringing Her Home: Commemorating Anne Moody in Southern Public Culture.”

The session at which I will present is titled, “AnneMoody's Coming of Age and Beyond: The Astonishing Influence of an Elusive Civil Rights Activist in the Long Civil Rights Movement.” It was organized by Dr. Leigh Ann Wheeler of Binghamton University.

The proposal for my paper is shown below, followed by my bio.

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Bringing Her Home

Commemorating Anne Moody 

in Southern Public Culture

By Roscoe Barnes III, Ph.D.

Coming of Age in Mississippi (1968) ends with Anne Moody boarding a bus and leaving her home state of Mississippi. For many years, she did not return out of fear for her own life and the lives of her loved ones. Even when her mother became ill in 1976, she was afraid to go home.

Although much is known about the early years of Moody’s life, including her success as an author, little is known about her life beyond her book. Unfortunately, little information or recognition of her legacy can be found even in southwest Mississippi, the place where she grew up.

This paper addresses the issue of commemoration as it relates to Moody’s contributions as a civil rights pioneer—and as a way to welcome her home. Specifically, it discusses the process and strategy for honoring Moody in southwest Mississippi by employing principles of journalism and public history. In addition to civil rights literature and news reports, the study draws on primary source documents and interviews with Moody’s family and acquaintances, to show how a Mississippi prison is spearheading an effective effort to commemorate her.  It shows how the legacy of Moody can be revived, promoted, and preserved through practical ideas and principles found in journalism and public history.

This engagement of Moody presents a new way of looking at her legacy. The approach, which is interdisciplinary in nature, has practical implications relevant not only to Moody and her hometown, but also to other historical figures in communities throughout the United States.

BIO: Roscoe Barnes III is a former newspaper journalist, an independent scholar of Church History, and a correctional chaplain at Wilkinson County Correctional Facility (WCCF) in Woodville, Miss. He is the author of 12 books, including F.F. Bosworth: The Man Behind ‘Christ the Healer’ (Cambridge Scholars Publishing, 2009), Off to War: Franklin Countians in World War II (White Mane Publishing, 1996), and The Guide to Effective Gospel Tract Ministry (Church Growth Institute, 2004). He holds a Ph.D. in Church History from the University of Pretoria, South Africa, and a Master of Arts in Religion from the Lutheran Theological Seminary in Gettysburg, Pa. Barnes is also the chairman of the Anne Moody History Project (AMHP), a community service project of WCCF.

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Want to know MORE about Anne Moody?

Visit here to see the timeline of important

events in her life history!

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For more information:
See the Anne Moody page here. Questions about the Anne Moody History Project may be directed to Roscoe Barnes III, Ph.D. via email at doctorbarnes3@gmail.com or roscoebarnes3@yahoo.com. For updates on Anne Moody history and the on-going work of this community service project, simply follow this blog or follow AMHP on Twitter (@AnneMoodyHP). #ComingOfAgeinMississippi

Billy Graham and The Voice of Healing

Editorial shows his support for post-World War II healing revivalists

By Roscoe Barnes III, PhD
Author, F.F. Bosworth: The Man Behind "Christ the Healer"

Copyright (c) 2019

#FFBosworth
#BillyGraham

Evangelist Billy Graham
The Billy Graham Center

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Reminder: "F.F. Bosworth History" is now on Twitter. Follow @bosworth_fred

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In the June 1951 issue of The Voice of Healing (TVOH), Gordon Lindsay* shared an editorial in which he praised Billy Graham for holding a successful city-wide crusade in Shreveport, La., the city that was home to TVOH headquarters. The same editorial suggested Graham gave his blessing to the ministry of TVOH.

“Billy Graham has just completed a city-wide revival which has had significant proportions in the city of Shreveport,” the writer of the editorial noted. “We have had opportunity to hear him several times and we believe that the meetings have done much good.”

The writer went on to say that Graham was clear and fearless in his preaching. He called for repentance as he gave “a sharp rebuke to Modernism, lukewarm churches, and false cults, which have denied the necessity of the New Birth and the need of Christ as Saviour,” the editorial explained. Graham, it noted, warned people about the need for repentance and the reality of hell.

“There is no doubt that God has raised him up to do an important work among the long-established churches, and we should pray for him,” the writer suggested. “In his success, he gives God all the glory, and shows a most humble spirit.”

At the time of the crusade, Graham would have been 32. That was two years after the pivotal point in his life when his ministry was promoted by newspaper publisher William Randoph Hearst. It is said that Hearst ordered his papers to “puff Graham,” a directive that made the young preacher an instant, nationally-known celebrity. Despite his new found celebrity status, Graham still appeared to be humble, something for which he was known throughout his life.

Although Graham, a Southern Baptist, was known for preaching clear evangelistic sermons, he was not a cessationist. He held to Evangelical theology, but he believed in divine miracles and healing. He was a friend of Oral Roberts and highly respected by many Pentecostals. In April 1967, Oral Roberts University welcomed him to dedicate its campus.

Graham wrote about miracles and healing in his book, The Holy Spirit: Activating God's Power in Your Life (Thomas Nelson, 2000). In one section, he noted:

And today when the gospel is proclaimed on the frontiers of the Christian faith that approximate the first century situation, miracles still sometimes accompany the advance of the gospel. As indicated by both the prophets Hosea and Joel, as we approach the end of the age we may expect miracles to increase.

Graham was obviously ecumenical. However, his fellowship with Pentecostals and healing revivalists might suggest he had a sincere belief in the active, working power of the Holy Spirit. His support for TVOH was noted in the closing paragraph of the magazine's editorial:

Incidentally, may we say, that when conversing with Billy Graham, he commended most highly the editing of The Voice of Healing, and sent his best wishes to all of our brethren whom God is using in world-wide revival. We were humbly grateful for the kind words of Billy Graham for whose opinion we have high regard.

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* It is highly possible the editorial was written by Gordon Lindsay, who served as editor-in-chief for the magazine.

The full editorial can be read below. Take a look.

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The Voice of Healing (June 1951)

EDITORIAL

Billy Graham in Shreveport

Billy Graham has just completed a city-wide revival which has had significant proportions in the city of Shreveport. We have had opportunity to hear him several times and we believe that the meetings have done much good. Graham has presented a clear-cut message of repentance, that is a sharp rebuke to Modernism, lukewarm churches, and false cults, which have denied the necessity of the New Birth and the need of Christ as Saviour. He has warned the people fearlessly, that without repentance, hell is a certainty for the sinner. There is no doubt that God has raised him up to do an important work among the long-established churches, and we should pray for him. In his success, he gives God all the glory, and shows a most humble spirit.

The denominational churches are learning very rapidly the power of united effort. These churches see the value of union campaigns that make whole cities God-conscious. They are working to get the most out of such meetings. Their attitude is a rebuke to men of small vision who have opposed union meetings. For it has been the healing revival that has paved the way for mass revivals all over the world. Five years ago, denominational circles spurned city-wide campaigns, and said that the “Billy Sunday days” were gone forever. Four years ago when the editors of The Voice of Healing organized the first city-wide union campaigns there were no other mass revivals of significant proportions occurring anywhere in America. It was the healing revival that brought out the vast crowds of people, which has prepared the way for great union efforts all over the world.

We are thankful that the majority of godly men are not only in favor, but rejoice with exceeding joy in this Divine visitation. We have only pity for those few who are so limited in their spiritual vision that they opposed them. World-wide revival is shaking nations and islands for God, but it is a curious fact that a man totally blind cannot see the noon-day sun any better than the shadows of midnight. But no matter, most of the leaders in progressive churches see it and they are for it, and are thankful. The tide of God is moving. It is time for the Gospel ship to move out with the full tide of Divine mercy, so graciously manifested. God’s people are moving out. Hallelujah!

Incidentally, may we say, that when conversing with Billy Graham, he commended most highly the editing of The Voice of Healing, and sent his best wishes to all of our brethren whom God is using in world-wide revival. We were humbly grateful for the kind words of Billy Graham for whose opinion we have high regard.

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Further reading:

"F.F. Bosworth and Billy Graham: How They Both Found Favor in the Pages of the Press." See here.

"T.L. Osborn's Mention of Billy Graham: Ideas Presented for Success in Ministry." See here.
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Note: My book, F.F. Bosworth: The Man Behind "Christ the Healer," can be purchased here with a 25% discount. Use the discount code: bosworth25.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Want to know more

about F.F. Bosworth?

Follow the Bosworth Matters blog!

Start here:

ffbosworth.strikingly.com

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

For more information:
Visit the F.F. Bosworth page here. Questions about the research and commentary on F.F. Bosworth may be directed to Roscoe Barnes III, Ph.D., via email at doctorbarnes3@gmail.com or roscoebarnes3@yahoo.com. For updates on F.F. Bosworth history, simply follow this blog or @bosworth_fred and @Roscoebarnes3 on Twitter. #ChristTheHealer #BosworthMention #BosworthMatters

Ghost hunters investigate Franklin County's Old Jail

"This is when I spent the night as a reporter with local ghost hunters in a 'haunted' jail in Chambersburg, Pa."

By ROSCOE BARNES III
Staff writer
PUBLIC OPINION, Chambersburg, Pa.
October 2009

Franklin County Old Jail
Chambersburg, Pa.

In a dark dusty room in the dungeon of the old Franklin County Jail, Jim Wyrick called out to something he could not see.

“What’s your name, spirit?” he asked.

A robotic voice answered through his Ovilus, a hand-held paranormal device, and said, “Thaddeaus.”

“What year is it?” asked Wyrick.

“90,” the entity responded.

“1890?” Wyrick asked.

No response.

Wyrick, who lives in Chambersburg, is a local ghost hunter who travels the country to investigate hauntings, spirits, and paranormal phenomena. He and two of his team members, Dave Haynie and Chris Gaimari, both of York, spent the night at the old jail Thursday to conduct a study.

Psychic and retired FBI agent

Their work was preceded by a tour and spirited talks given by Athena Varounis, retired Fcomagent, and Deborah M. Heinecker, psychic, of Vesuvius Investigative Consultants. As partners, the two women work cold cases, homicides, missing persons, arsons, corporate issues, paranormal phenomena and ghosts.

“I’m just a conduit,” said Heinecker. “When I do anything, I ask God to tell me what he wants me to know. That’s when things start flowing. I don’t have any gifts. I don’t have any power.”

According to her website, Heinecker made national news in the summer of 1991 when she assisted the Montgomery County, Maryland, Police Department in finding their missing canine.

Before then, Heinecker had been a businesswoman, with a background in accounting and computers.

“Although Deborah had requested anonymity, the media announced that a ‘psychic’ had found the missing canine,” her website states. “An article in The Washington Post brought hundreds of telephone calls and letters requesting her assistance in everything from missing persons cases to lost property.”

Heinecker “picked up” a number of things while visiting the old jail. Sometime ago, when she was down in the basement, she found it hard to enter one of the rooms. Later, when she found the strength to enter, she felt overcome with sadness. She saw a black man in shackles, who was very distraught. She imagined he had been a runaway slave who was caught and thrown into jail.

Wyrick capturing voices

Early Friday morning, a little past midnight, Wyrick entered the same room and tapped into the energy. He asked questions and received answers through an Ovilus, a hand-held paranormal device that take the Electro Magnetic Force and converts it into speech patterns. The sound is robotic.

Wyrick and his team use electronic digital recorders to pick up extra voice phenomena. Wyrick said they didn’t have a “real dramatic night,” although they did capture a few voices.

When he visited Cell 18, where a suicide had taken place, Wyrick said he heard a clear voice that said, “I’m Frank.” A historian is doing research to identify the person, he said.

“There was nothing really dramatic that took place,” he said. “The thing that seemed to be most effective was to go into a cell and be quiet all by yourself, and become one with the cell.”

Throughout the night, Wyrick used his divining rods which reportedly picked up energy and led him to an area that was known as Dead Man’s Walk.

Wyrick and his crew packed up at 5:30 and went to the John Brown House. They made recordings and will take a couple of weeks to review the data. On a personal level, Wyrick said he was disappointed that the entity with whom he communicated did not establish dialogue with him.

Heinecker's physic abilities

Whereas Wyrick and his team used technology to capture data from the various entities, Heinecker picks it up through her physic abilities. So far she has worked with 54 murder cases. In each of the cases, she came up with information that was helpful to the police, she said.

There was a time, a few years ago, when she could not walk into a computer room without the computers malfunctioning, she said.

When Heinecker and Varounis are working a case, Varounis will go to the scene first to gather background. She doesn’t share this with Heinecker, who likes to work with a clean slate.

“I don’t want to know anything about the case,” she said. “The entities seem to like me. I’m respectful.”

Heinecker said that whether she visits the scene of a crime or the police station, she allows herself to feel where the person got shot or was beaten.

On one occasion she had pain in her side for three days. The pain was related to someone who had been injured in the side, Varounis said.

“When I get a nausous feeling in a certain spot, someone has died there,” Heinecker said.

She believes that all people leave an “energy stamp” that can be seen or detected by someone who is sensitive or psychic. In her own case, she picks up smells, sounds, images and words.

Once when she visited an old house in Waynesboro , she kept hearing the buzzing sound of bees. Nobody else could hear it. She learned later that the man who had lived there was a bee keeper.

Three types of hauntings

According to Anthony Lawson of Pennsylvania Paranormal Investigations, there are three types of hauntings. The first is called residual. It’s when you see the same ghost or hear the same sound over and over, like a recording that continues to repeat itself.

It’s a case where the entities may not know that they are dead, he said.

The second type of haunting is known as intelligent, he said: “The spirit knows it is dead and it tries to make contact with you. This is every ghost hunter’s dream.”

Lawson, who volunteers for the historical society, said he wasn’t sure about the name for the third type of haunting. He said it usually involves a spirit at an old home that begins activity when the home is remodeled or torn down: “They don’t come out to scare people, but they might be disturbed by the activity. Actually, they might be afraid of (the living).”

Varounis and Heinecker were assisted by Michael J. Albert, preservation specialist for Historic Preservation Services, Chambersburg .

After their presentation, the women signed copies of their books. Varounis is the author of Franklin County Ghosts (Schiffer Publishing, 2009), and Heinecker is the author of The Reluctant Psychic (Xlibris, 2000).

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Information on the Franklin County Historical Society- Kittochtinny is available at http://pafch.tripod.com. For details on Vesuvius Investigative Consultants, visit http://www.vesuvius-investigations.com

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Roscoe Barnes III can be reached at 262-4762 or rbarnes@publicopinionnews.com.

Todd Bentley, F.F. Bosworth, and the Downside of Some Revival Meetings

By Roscoe Barnes III, PhD

Author, F.F. Bosworth: The Man Behind "Christ the Healer"
Copyright (c) 2019

#FFBosworth
#ToddBentley

Todd Bentley

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Reminder: "F.F. Bosworth History" is now on Twitter. Follow @bosworth_fred

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If there's one thing that church history teaches us, it is the sobering fact that revival meetings, no matter how riveting or exciting, do not always end in the way they begin. Some, as seen in the life history of F.F. Bosworth, have ended in scandal, church splits, and lasting shame. 

This point, which is supported by numerous examples, is what came to mind when I read about another scandal involving Todd Bentley. According to an Aug. 26, 2019 article in the Christian Post, Bentley has been accused of ‘perverse sexual addiction’ and preying on interns. Bentley, who is no stranger to controversy, has claimed to have a healing ministry along with special revelations directly from Heaven. He also boasted of having interviewed the Apostle Paul. In 2008, he was the focus of discussions during revival meetings in Lakeland, Florida.

Bentley's Revival and Scandal

Columnist J. Lee Grady, former editor of Charisma Magazine, wrote several articles that were critical of Bentley and his revival meetings. He noted the moral failure of the evangelist as well as his strange doctrine and outlandish ministry claims and practices. In his article, “What I Hope We Learned from the Lakeland Revival,” Grady wrote the following:

It has been four months since Canadian evangelist Todd Bentley fled the scene of Florida’s Lakeland Revival amid rumors of a moral failure. When Bentley vanished in August, the crowds thinned, God TV stopped broadcasting services, the meetings eventually shut down and Bentley’s worship leader took the popular music of the revival on the road.

Meanwhile, many people were left scratching their heads. Some were angry with Bentley for leaving his wife. Some were confused because their faith had been energized during the six-month long experience. Many charismatic ministry leaders defended the revival, saying that it was never supposed to focus on a man. Others blamed Bentley’s critics for the revival’s demise.

Whether the Lakeland Revival was legit is up for debate. Followers of Bentley would likely say it was a move of God. However, critics would strongly disagree. Bentley and others touted the meetings as a supernatural movement of the Holy Spirit. They suggested it was “the beginning of a worldwide healing revival” according to Grady in his May 28, 2008 article, “An Appeal for Unity in a Divisive Season.” Even so, Grady acknowledged everyone in the Pentecostal/charismatic community did not agree with Bentley’s claims. “Some say this is the last end-time revival while others maintain it is a demonic counterfeit,” Grady wrote. “Cult-watchers and anti-heresy bloggers post Bentley’s comments on YouTube as evidence of a theological scandal. Revival advocates respond by posting documented evidence of healings. It all begins to resemble a childish competition.”

Whatever one chooses to believe about Bentley and his revival meeting, the fact is, after all of the hoopla, shouting, and media attention, the meetings ended in disaster, leaving a trail of shocking scandals that made national headlines. As noted earlier, these meetings do not always end in the way they begin.

Bosworth's Revival and Church Split

Bentley is not alone as a revivalist who led fervent meetings that resulted in some type of scandal or harm to the church. During the early part of the 20th century, F. F. Bosworth led revival meetings in Dallas, Texas that lasted about 10 years. His meetings attracted some of the biggest names in the Pentecostal movement. Evangelist Maria Woodworth-Etter came to Bosworth’s church in 1912 and preached for five to six months. Bosworth, an able writer and promoter, regularly sent press reports about the meetings to newspapers and Christian magazines. Thousands of people from across the United States came to the meetings. Yet, after nearly 10 years, the meetings ended with a church split over the issue of evidential tongues. I addressed this matter in my doctoral thesis, F.F. BOSWORTH: A Historical Analysis of the InfluentialFactors in His Life and Ministry (University of Pretoria, 2009):

When Bosworth began his church-planting work in Dallas, the church was initially affiliated with C&MA (King 2006). However, it later became part of the AG (King 2006; Loftis 1992). Despite his success and growing reputation, Bosworth faced a crisis involving a doctrinal issue that resulted in his resignation from the AG (Sumrall 1995:4; Riss 1988). The AG believed that speaking in tongues was the initial sign that a believer had been baptized in the Holy Spirit. Bosworth, however, disagreed and felt compelled to leave the denomination (Bosworth 1918b). The church he pastored eventually split over the controversy (Loftis 1992:10). “After pastoring the church for a number of years, Bro. Bosworth and Bro. Birdsall resigned in April, 1918, because they had accepted the Christian and Missionary Alliance teachings” (Loftis 1992:10). The split was due in part to personal attacks by a fellow minister. According to Sumrall: He received several letters from other ministers saying that he “had no right” to hold credentials with the Assemblies of God because of his nonbelief in evidential tongues. One minister split Bosworth’s church and intentionally misrepresented him to the General Council of the denomination and to his congregation. Through all this, Bosworth’s spirit still remained sweet and loving (Sumrall 1995:43).

Over the past few years, it appears that Bentley’s life style has been anything but holy and exemplary. Unfortunately, based on news reports (including content on social media), his life has presented a pattern of disturbing images and claims that include immoral behavior and extra biblical revelations. I once blogged about him quoting F.F. Bosworth on the topic of healing. While he is apparently acquainted with Bosworth’s book, Christ the Healer, it may prove helpful if he would also read about Bosworth’s integrity, true revival, and all the things that can go wrong when people are misled – and sacrifice truth -- in revival meetings.

Further Reading:

Barnes III, Roscoe. F.F. BOSWORTH: A Historical Analysis of the Influential Factors in His Life and Ministry (University of Pretoria, 2009). See here.

King, Paul L. Genuine Gold: The Cautiously Charismatic Story of the Early Christian and Missionary Alliance  (Word & Spirit Press, 2006).

Loftis, Carrie W. First Assembly of God Dallas: A History of First Assembly of God- Dallas, Texas, 1912- 1992 (First Assembly of God, 1992).

Riss, R.M. 1988. Bosworth, Fred Francis, in Burgess, S M. & McGee, G B (eds) & Alexander, P H (assoc. ed), 1988. Dictionary of Pentecostal and Charismatic Movements. (Regency Reference Library, 1988).

Sumrall, Lester. Pioneers of Faith (Harrison House, 1995).

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Note: My book, F.F. Bosworth: The Man Behind "Christ the Healer," can be purchased here with a 25% discount. Use the discount code: bosworth25.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Want to know more

about F.F. Bosworth?

Follow the Bosworth Matters blog!

Start here:

ffbosworth.strikingly.com

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

For more information:
Visit the F.F. Bosworth page here. Questions about the research and commentary on F.F. Bosworth may be directed to Roscoe Barnes III, Ph.D., via email at doctorbarnes3@gmail.com or roscoebarnes3@yahoo.com. For updates on F.F. Bosworth history, simply follow this blog or @bosworth_fred and @Roscoebarnes3 on Twitter. #ChristTheHealer #BosworthMention #BosworthMatters

ON THIS DAY (October 19): Healing of War Veteran John W. Sproul Featured in Pittsburgh Newspaper

Miracle said to have occurred in revival meetings of the Bosworth Brothers

By Roscoe Barnes III, PhD
Author, F.F. Bosworth: The Man Behind "Christ the Healer"
Copyright (c) 2019

#FFBosworth
#JohnWSproul
#OnThisDay

On October 19, 1921, the healing testimony of War Veteran John W. Sproul appeared on page 3 of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Sproul testified to being healed in a revival meeting in Sheraden that was held by F.F. Bosworth and his brother, B.B.

According to press reports, Sproul had lost his voice about three years earlier following a gas attack on the battlefields of France. A number of doctors, including specialists, examined him and treated him, but no one succeeded in helping him. Some described his case as hopeless. When Sproul received prayer in the meeting held by the Bosworth Brothers, his voice returned.

Sproul began testifying in many places. In addition to a government building before elected officials, he shared the platform with F.F. Bosworth. He later began preaching as an evangelist. Unfortunately, he also landed in trouble with the law. In 1930, he was found guilty on three counts of passing bad checks. He had "victimized a crippled admirer to the extent of $3,000," according to press reports.

Sproul's testimony, as featured in the newspaper, can be read below.

Evangelist John W. Sproul

#OTD #ThisDayInHistory #ThisDayInFFBosworthHistory #ChurchHistory #PublicHistory #Pentecostal #AssembliesOfGod #ORU #CFNI #Evangelicals #DivineHealing #Revival

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Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Wednesday, Oct. 19, 1921
Page 3

WAR VETERAN REGAINS SPEECH
AFTER FAITH CURE AT REVIVAL

Loud Voice of Whispering
Service Man Startles City Hall Group

SPECIALISTS BAFFLED

City officials and employees of City Hall yesterday paused in their practical, everyday routine to turn their minds for a few minutes to the mystery of divine power.

John W. Sproul of 836 Cherokee Street was a victim of a gas attack on the battlefields of France nearly three years ago. As a result he suffered the loss of his voice. Army physicians were unable to give relief and finally discharged him, declaring his voice hopelessly lost. Sproul was examined by a number of Pittsburgh specialists, who acknowledged their inability to help him. He also visited specialists in other cities without avail.

The World War veteran had a number of friends in the city government. For months he was accustomed to visit them daily. Frequently he visited in the office of Ben L. Anderson, the Mayor's secretary. He could speak only in the slightest whisper, and to make out his words it was necessary to turn an ear close to him. That was the case when he was in City Hall Monday.

Hearty Greeting Startled.

"Hello, boys," was his hearty greeting when he entered the office yesterday. Those gathered there were astounded. Scant attention had been given Hutch Liggett, a city chauffeur, who had avowed that when passing Sproul's home in the morning he had been greeted by a cheery "Halloo" that nearly ended in the wreck of a city automobile.

"Faith did it," Sproul declared. He told how he had gone on Monday to the evangelistic service in Sheraden being conducted by the Bosworth Brothers.

"I heard Sunday about the meetings and decided to attend," he said. "I was one of the first to respond when an appeal was made to those seeking a cure through faith. After praying for a few minutes the evangelist asked me if I had faith and I replied that I had. He then told me to say, " Praise God." It was a struggle, but suddenly my voice came and I uttered the words in a loud voice."

Officials Wondering.

He was congratulated right and left yesterday in the City-County Building. Many persons rejoiced with him on his evident happiness and went away wondering. Not a few grew thoughtful at the unquestioned demonstration and expressed their wonder at it.

More than 80 men and women, including an infant in arms, sought the help of Fred Francis Bosworth, the evangelist, last night in Sheraden, to cure them of their afflictions. Sproul was a speaker at the service.

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Reminder: "F.F. Bosworth History" is now on Twitter. Follow @bosworth_fred

-------------------------

Note: My book, F.F. Bosworth: The Man Behind "Christ the Healer," can be purchased here with a 25% discount. Use the discount code: bosworth25.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Want to know more

about F.F. Bosworth?

Follow the Bosworth Matters blog!

Start here:

ffbosworth.strikingly.com

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

For more information:
Visit the F.F. Bosworth page here. Questions about the research and commentary on F.F. Bosworth may be directed to Roscoe Barnes III, Ph.D., via email at doctorbarnes3@gmail.com or roscoebarnes3@yahoo.com. For updates on F.F. Bosworth history, simply follow this blog or @bosworth_fred and @Roscoebarnes3 on Twitter. #ChristTheHealer #BosworthMention #BosworthMatters

More Images from September 2019 event Featuring Joan Trumpauer Mulholland

She and her son, Loki Mulholland, came to southwest Mississippi to visit Wilkinson County High School and Wilkinson County Correctional Facility

Photos by Dr. Roger Anastasio

#AnneMoody

#JoanTrumpauerMulholland

Featured here are additional images from our mid-September 2019 event featuring Joan Trumpauer Mulholland and her son, Loki Mulholland. The image of the iconic Woolworth’s sit-in that I’m holding was drawn by one of our inmates. When Ms. Joan saw it earlier this year, she said she wanted to meet the man who drew the image.

In addition to Ms. Joan, I’m featured here with the Rev. Dr. Ed King, MDOC Commissioner Pelicia Hall (top photo), and Mississippi State Rep. Angela Cockerham (bottom photo), who presented Ms. Joan with a proclamation. It was truly a great day.

#JoanTrumpauerMulholland #AnneMoody #ComingOfAgeinMississippi #FreedomRider #CivilRights #Mississippi #BlackHistory #WomensHistory #TougalooCollege #HBCU

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Want to know MORE about Anne Moody?

Visit here to see the timeline of important

events in her life history!

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

For more information:
See the Anne Moody page here. Questions about the Anne Moody History Project may be directed to Roscoe Barnes III, Ph.D. via email at doctorbarnes3@gmail.com or roscoebarnes3@yahoo.com. For updates on Anne Moody history and the on-going work of this community service project, simply follow this blog or follow AMHP on Twitter (@AnneMoodyHP). #ComingOfAgeinMississippi

Pic of Dr. Roscoe Barnes III at Work

Photo of Dr. Roscoe Barnes III at work as correctional chaplain, writer, and independent scholar of church history. Photo by Branton Lewis. It was taken in early 2019 in Woodville, Miss.

F.F. Bosworth Mentioned in Dr. Daniel C. King’s article, ‘Healing En Masse’

The article appears in Spiritus: ORU Journal of Theology

By Roscoe Barnes III, PhD

Author, F.F. Bosworth: The Man Behind "Christ the Healer"
Copyright (c) 2019

#FFBosworth
#RWSchambach

Like any researcher or academic, I am always happy to see my work cited in the literature. Earlier today I learned that my research on F.F. Bosworth is cited in the current issue of Spiritus: ORU Journal of Theology. My book, F.F. Bosworth: The Man Behind "Christ the Healer" (Cambridge Scholars Publishing, 2009), is mentioned in Dr. Daniel C. King's article, "Healing En Masse: Examining the Unique Contribution of the Spirit-Empowered Movement to the Practice of Mass Evangelism." See notes on pages 313-314.

As suggested by the title of the article, the references to Bosworth are related to what he shared with T.L. Osborn, who popularized the ministry practice of praying for the sick “en masse.” Bosworth, as I pointed out in my book and other writings, was the person who introduced Osborn to the concept of praying for the masses at one time. It’s a delight to see that my writing on this topic has been noticed not only by King, but other writers as well. The genesis of my work on this topic appeared in the article, “F.F. Bosworth in South Africa: A Historical Analysis of His Later Ministry and Healing Methodology,” which was published in the Africa Journal of Pentecostal Studies, December 2007). I encourage you to check it out.

You can read the current issue of Spiritus: ORU Journal of Theology by visiting here. 

#ChristTheHealer #BosworthMatters #Pentecostal #ORU #ChurchHistory #PublicHistory #CFNI #DivineHealing #TLOsborn #HealingEnMasse #BosworthMention

Related articles:

"F.F. Bosworth Mentioned in T.L. Osborn Biography: Book Recounts Origin of 'Mass Miracle' Concept." See here.

“F.F. Bosworth in South Africa: A Historical Analysis of His Later Ministry and Healing Methodology.” See here.

"F.F. Bosworth’s Endorsement of T.L. Osborn’s Most Famous Book: Letter of Support Appeared in Healing the Sick and Casting Out Devils." See here.

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Reminder: "F.F. Bosworth History" is now on Twitter. Follow @bosworth_fred

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Note: My book, F.F. Bosworth: The Man Behind "Christ the Healer," can be purchased here with a 25% discount. Use the discount code: bosworth25.

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Want to know more

about F.F. Bosworth?

Follow the Bosworth Matters blog!

Start here:

ffbosworth.strikingly.com

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For more information:
Visit the F.F. Bosworth page here. Questions about the research and commentary on F.F. Bosworth may be directed to Roscoe Barnes III, Ph.D., via email at doctorbarnes3@gmail.com or roscoebarnes3@yahoo.com. For updates on F.F. Bosworth history, simply follow this blog or @bosworth_fred and @Roscoebarnes3 on Twitter. #ChristTheHealer #BosworthMention #BosworthMatters

R.W. Schambach, F.F. Bosworth, and the Reported Closings of Schools for the Deaf

By Roscoe Barnes III, PhD
Author, F.F. Bosworth: The Man Behind "Christ the Healer"
Copyright (c) 2019

#FFBosworth
#RWSchambach

Evangelist R.W. Schambach
(1926 - 2012)

It appears that F.F. Bosworth (1877-1958) is not the only evangelist whose healing ministry is said to have closed a school for the deaf.

According to Donna Schambach, a school for the deaf once closed during the ministry of her father, Robert William ("R.W.") Schambach (1926-2012). She mentioned the event in a Facebook post dated Nov. 21, 2012. She wrote: "Everyone from the hotel bellman to the farmer with the monkey, told me they remembered Dad's crusade there 30 years prior ... an entire deaf school was put out of business in one night!"

She said the incident occurred in St. Kitts, the island nation, and not Australia.

In a reply to her post, I asked for more information: "Thanks for sharing this, Donna! The only other evangelist I heard of closing a school for the death was F.F. Bosworth in Chicago in the late 1920s. I would love to know more about this case you mentioned. Perhaps you can share it in an upcoming newsletter? Or your blog?"

She replied: "I'll have to dig it out of old audios or Power Magazines ... see what I can do ... I was so amazed at how 30 years later the locals were still talking about that miracle meeting."

Robert Schambach, a protege of Evangelist A.A. Allen (1911-1970), was a famous revivalist known for his powerful, dynamic preaching and his ministry of healing and deliverance. His radio program was heard daily throughout the United States. He might be remembered as one of the last of the great tent preachers. 

Robert was the author of such books as Power of Faith for Today's Christian (Power Publications, 1996), Miracles: Eyewitness to the Miraculous (Harrison House Publishers, 1993), You Can't Beat God Givin' (Harrison House Publishers, 1994), The Violent Take It by Force (Schambach Revivals, 2000), Schambach's When You Wonder Why (Power Publications, 1996), How to Heal the Sick, Cast Out Devils and Still Go to Hell (R.W. Schambach, 1976).

The report by Donna, while obviously rare, is certainly inspiring, especially to Pentecostals and those who embrace divine healing. However, without any details, eyewitnesses or convincing evidence of the miraculous healings, one is left to accept the report by faith. That said, it should be noted that this post is not meant to be critical of Donna or of her report, and neither is it an expression of doubt about her claim. Rather, it is simply a note about the similarities that her story shares with a case involving Bosworth -- and my desire to know more about the incident.

Who knows? Perhaps Donna or some researcher will have the opportunity in the near future to dig up and disclose more details about the reported healings.

Interestingly, what is said here about Robert Schambach can also be said of Bosworth, whose ministry led to the closing of a school for the death in the 1920s in Chicago, according to David J. du Plessis. He mentioned the school in the April 1958 issue of World-Wide Revival. He wrote:

Fred Bosworth received a lot of publicity in the Chicago Daily News and other metropolitan newspapers when a large number of students who were attending a school for the death were miraculously healed, their healings causing the school to close.

Du Plessis' claim, which was made in a tribute to Bosworth, should not be taken at face value. Instead, it should be investigated so that unanswered questions can be answered. At least one historian (who shall remain nameless in this post) has expressed doubts about the closing of the school. He argues the claim is false and is not supported by any evidence.

More research is needed in both of the aforementioned cases.

For more information on R.W. Schambach, visit the Schambach Foundation website here or here: https://www.schambachfoundation.org/partners.

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Reminder: "F.F. Bosworth History" is now on Twitter. Follow @bosworth_fred

 -------------------------

Note: My book, F.F. Bosworth: The Man Behind "Christ the Healer," can be purchased here with a 25% discount. Use the discount code: bosworth25.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Want to know more

about F.F. Bosworth?

Follow the Bosworth Matters blog!

Start here:

ffbosworth.strikingly.com

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

For more information:
Visit the F.F. Bosworth page here. Questions about the research and commentary on F.F. Bosworth may be directed to Roscoe Barnes III, Ph.D., via email at doctorbarnes3@gmail.com or roscoebarnes3@yahoo.com. For updates on F.F. Bosworth history, simply follow this blog or @bosworth_fred and @Roscoebarnes3 on Twitter. #ChristTheHealer #BosworthMention #BosworthMatters