Exponential Conference Explores Biblical Generosity
Generous Giving and Crown Financial Ministries are offering a one-day gathering for pastors and church leaders to learn how to Preach, Teach, Celebrate and Apply the message of biblical generosity in their congregations.

Exponential '06 will be held September 19, 2006 at Gateway Community Church in Southlake, TX. Speakers for the day include Randy Alcorn, author of The Treasure Principle, and Joe Stowell, Teaching Pastor at Harvest Bible Chapel in Chicago. To learn more about the conference or to register, go to: www.crown.org.

Credit Card Debt Mounting
An estimated 115 million Americans carry credit card debt, totaling $2.16 billion in outstanding consumer debt--or $9,000 per household. On average, consumers have 13 credit obligations, nine of which are likely credit cards. An estimated 14% of people's income is used toward paying debt. Source: May 2006 Black Enterprise magazine.

Da Vinci Code Confirms Prior Beliefs
A survey by The Barna Group shows that among the tens of millions of people who have read the bestselling book The Da Vinci Code, the book has influenced their thinking. But it has not necessarily changed their religious views, as much as it has confirmed what they already believed prior to reading the book.

The long-awaited movie adaptation of the book was released last month amidst considerable controversy and counter-marketing efforts by Christian groups. To find out more about the impact of the book and the likely popularity and impact of the movie, go to the Barna Report.