The good old days of music worth listening to & enjoy – By Charles Schokman Connie Francis Songs Early Years Collection Connie Francis Collection Connie Francis A Legend in Concert USA Connie Francis, who was at one time the world’s biggest-selling female artist, has died at the age of 87. The musician, whose hits included Stupid Cupid and Who’s Sorry Now, had recently enjoyed a resurgence after her 1962 song Pretty Little Baby went viral on TikTok. Francis had recently been treated for pelvic pain caused by a fracture. During her stay in hospital, she was diagnosed with pneumonia and died on Wednesday night, the president of her record label, Ron Roberts, told BBC News. Roberts had previously announced the star’s death on “with a heavy heart and extreme sadness. “I know that Connie would approve that her fans are among the first to learn of this sad news,” he added. The ...
Loving Others Through Prayer – By Charles Schokman “I don’t know where I’d be today if my mom hadn’t prayed for me. I don’t think I’d even be alive,” my friend Rahim related. He was a former addict who’d spent time in prison for drug distribution. Over coffee one day, he shared the difference his mother’s prayers had made in his life. “Even when I disappointed her so badly, she kept loving me with her prayers. I was in a lot of trouble, but if she hadn’t prayed for me, I know it would have been worse.” The Old Testament account of Samuel tells another story of someone who showed faithfulness to God and others through prayer. On the day Saul was coronated as king at Gilgal, the prophet Samuel was also disappointed. The people had placed their faith and hope for their future in a monarchy instead of in ...
A TRUE STORY (Courtesy of NewLife Magazine) – By Charles Schokman Uncharted Ministries is a Christian nonprofit organisation dedicated to reaching unreached populations, particularly Jews and Muslims in the Middle East and other regions, with the message of Jesus Christ. Here is a testimony from the Founder Tom Doyle By Erik Ouimette In Middle East From the big cities of Cairo, Alexandria and Luxor, to the hundreds of small villages up and down the Nile River, Uncharted’s Egypt team shares the Gospel with Muslims and a growing number of secular Egyptians. As the population struggles with rampant inflation, a stagnant economy, increased drug addiction and a dysfunctional political system, many hearts are open to hear about faith in Jesus Christ as an answer to their earthly and spiritual issues. It is legal to be a Christian in Egypt only if you were born into a Christian family. Every Egyptian has their religious ...
Jul 16, 2025
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Articles, Charles Schokman
Tagged A TRUE STORY (Courtesy of NewLife Magazine), Charles Schokman
FOR ANIMAL LOVERS – By Charles Schokman Milly my furry daughter Kira my furry G’ daughter Will My Dog Be in Heaven? Many Christians, especially those who have loved and lost a pet might wonder: will our animals be in Heaven? While Scripture doesn’t offer a direct answer, it does provide clues that help us consider this heartfelt question. God’s Care for Creation The Bible makes it clear that God loves and cares for all His creation, including animals: In the Garden of Eden, God created a perfect environment where humans and animals coexisted in harmony (Genesis 1–2). Animals were part of the “very good” creation in God’s world (Genesis 1:31). Matthew 10:29 reminds us that not even a sparrow falls to the ground without God’s knowledge. And Psalm 36:6 declares, “You save humans and animals alike, O Lord.” This care suggests that animals are valuable to God, for they ...
PASSING BY There is a lady sweet and kind – By Charles Schokman It was in the early fifties at the age of twenty-one I used to ride my bicycle from Dematagoda all the way to Bambalapitiya to visit friends living down Lorensz Rd. It was quite a distance but worth the ride. Down that street lived Maureen Hingert and whenever she saw me pass her home, she never failed to greet me with a smile or say hello. She, though a mere stranger was happy to make her acquaintance with me. This kind gesture of hers and endearing ways left a lasting mark in my life. These greetings were short lived as in 1955 she was crowned Miss Ceylon and subsequently selected as a contestant in the 1955 Miss Universe pageant to finish as the second runner-up at this event. Thereafter, she decided to live in the States. Sadly, on the ...
SUNDAY CHOICE – I Don’t Worry About Tomorrow – by Charles Schokman I Don’t Worry About Tomorrow The phrase “I Don’t Worry About Tomorrow (Jesus Is With Me)” encapsulates a sentiment of trust and reliance on God’s presence and guidance, particularly in the face of future uncertainties. It draws inspiration from Matthew 6:34, where Jesus advises against worrying about the future, emphasizing that each day has its own troubles. This perspective suggests that focusing on the present and trusting in God’s care for the future brings peace and allows one to navigate life’s challenges with greater confidence. Here’s a more detailed explanation:- Matthew 6:34: This verse, part of the Sermon on the Mount, explicitly tells believers not to worry about tomorrow, as each day’s challenges are enough to handle. Trust in God’s Provision: The phrase implies a belief that God has a plan and will provide for needs, both present and future. ...
IN MEMORIAM ‘In memory of our fur baby Trixie who passed away ten years ago’ – SO GOD MADE A DOG – By Charles Schokman The phrase “So God made a dog” is a popular sentiment used to express the special bond between humans and dogs, often highlighting their loyalty, companionship, and unconditional love. It’s a phrase that resonates with many dog owners and reflects the belief that dogs were created as special companions for humans. Here’s why the phrase is so meaningful: Loyalty and Companionship: Dogs are known for their unwavering loyalty and their ability to form deep bonds with their human companions. Unconditional Love: Dogs offer love and affection without judgment, making them a source of comfort and joy. Reflection of God’s Love: Some see dogs as a reflection of God’s love, highlighting their ability to bring joy and comfort to people’s lives. Comfort and Support: Dogs provide emotional support ...
Jul 8, 2025
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Articles, Charles Schokman
Tagged dogs, God’s love, So God Made a Dog, unconditional love
SUNDAY CHOICE – COME HOLY SPIRIT – By Charles Schokman Image Source : woolwich Image Source : youtube The phrase “Come Holy Spirit, I need You” is a prayerful invocation, expressing a desire for the presence and influence of the Holy Spirit in one’s life. It’s a plea for guidance, strength, and empowerment, often associated with a desire for spiritual renewal and a deeper connection with God. Here’s a more detailed explanation: The Holy Spirit: In Christianity, the Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity, alongside God the Father and God the Son (Jesus Christ). He is often described as the divine presence and power of God active in the world and in believers’ lives. The Prayer: The prayer “Come Holy Spirit, I need you” is an invitation for the Holy Spirit to manifest His presence, power, and influence in the individual’s life. It’s a recognition that one cannot live a fulfilling Christian life ...
Jun 28, 2025
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Articles, Charles Schokman
Tagged Charles Schokman, Christianity, COME HOLY SPIRIT, SUNDAY CHOICE, The prayer, what is Holy Spirit
SUNDAY CHOICE – He will hold me fast- By Charles Schokman Image Source : nissangharti Image Source : quotefancy.com “He will hold me fast” is a phrase, often found in hymns and scripture, that expresses the idea of God’s unwavering faithfulness and security in the face of life’s challenges and doubts. It signifies that God’s love and power will sustain and protect believers, preventing them from falling away from their faith. A Song of Assurance: “He Will Hold Me Fast” “He Will Hold Me Fast” reflects on the wonderful truth that God watches over and sustains our faith. Scripture is clear about this saving grace: We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain-Hebrews 6:19 To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy—to the only God our Saviour be glory, ...
Jun 21, 2025
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Articles, Charles Schokman
Tagged Charles Schokman, God’s love, He will hold me fast, SUNDAY CHOICE
SUNDAY CHOICE – PATHS OF TIME – By Charles Schokman Image Source : facebook PATHS OF TIME—Through all the changing scenes of life. Life is filled with various changes, some significant and some subtle, that can impact our emotional, mental, and physical well-being. These changes, whether expected or unexpected, can be challenging to navigate and require adaptation. It’s important to understand that change is a natural part of life and can bring both opportunities and challenges. There is a silence that comes with the years, and it is not made only of the absence of noise, but of the smooth transition between what we were and what we become. At 60, you begin to feel the subtlety of distancing. The room that once pulsated with your ideas now seems full of voices that no longer ask for your opinion. It is not a rejection; it is the rhythm of life. It is when ...
