The Virtual Pew News #15, The Golden Compass & Thanksgiving

Verse to ponder:

1st Peter 4:8 - (8) Most important of all, you must sincerely love each other, because love wipes away many sins.

The Virtual Pew News

A lot has been going on in the last few weeks and I am aware that some think The Virtual Pew has either taken a hiatus or is out of commission. Let me assure you, neither is true, in fact, God has been good and a lot of things are happening that will strengthen The Virtual Pew.

The Golden Compass, One Christians Anti-Protest

This is one of the most controversial articles I have done in some time; well it is at least controversial to some. As many may have heard, The Golden Compass is a movie that is based off the series of books written by Philip Pullman. Pullman, a self professed atheist has written what many consider to be an antagonist piece of fantasy for a child which is an atheistic version of The Chronicles of Narnia. In this series of books, children ultimately find a way to kill their God. Many Christians are up in arms about the movie. While some are warning others about the contents of the movie, others are planning protests. I wrote a response piece to the movie with some research and a challenge to all Christians. I have had hundreds of responses, and so far, only 5 individuals who are upset with the article I wrote. I challenge you to read the article at one of two web sites, as both of them have started garnishing comments from readers. If you have heard the hoopla, seen the emails, or read the article, the perspective I take is one you should also be aware of. This movie opens in December and I am grateful that my response has made its way around the globe. I have heard literally from all around the world with several individuals telling me they are responding to the emails they get about this movie, with this article. My prayer is that God will use it and cause at least Christians to think.

Click this link to see the article, as a reminder, a link to the other website here at The Virtual Pew is provided on the MySpace Link. Make sure you visit both links to see, and or leave comments.

My New Move

As many may or may not know, I no longer live in Derby, Kansas. Many are aware of the issues with my son, and our concerns regarding this community. While we love the community, we wanted a house that would allow us to offer something different not only for our son, but our family. I was in the process of interviewing at various locations around the country and there was a possibility that The Virtual Pew would close down or be greatly changed. I wasn’t sure about what would ultimately happen until just recently, (more about that later.) Long story made short, we are in Clearwater, Kansas, a community just to the south of Wichita. My son has gone from being at a school with 2,500 students to one just under 500 students. A huge change and he is already doing nicely. I love our house, an underground house with acreage. We will have the option to look at buying the house with an option, or a flat out purchase after our lease runs out. Right now I am looking forward to a horse, some chickens and the like. The work of The Virtual Pew will actually continue in the Wichita area and around the globe.

Our Income Concerns

Many of our prayers have been answered regarding income concerns for The Virtual Pew. After my last request I got substantial gifts that allowed us to catch up on areas we were behind, including some salary concerns. The ministry needs the giving to continue. We are at the time of year that giving is critical. Bottom line is it costs to provide this ministry. I am also sending out with this an attached copy of our giving brochure. I challenge you to look at that, read it, and give accordingly.

While I have picked up some additional income and am exploring others to help with the ministry needs, it is simple; we still need your support. One of the things that Lord has provided, if you are faithful in giving, is more direct ministry assistance to others, and the possibility that if the giving would continue as it has over the last year, with a slight increase, we may be able to bring on someone at least part time, plus provide the assistance to others. What types of assistance might you be asking?

Over the last year, my salary from The Virtual Pew was around $10,000, that’s it and that includes officiating wrestling, income from donations, announcing football games and so forth. In other words, I had to do outside work which is still ministry related for that money. As you can tell, this isn’t a large income. We also continued to provide ministry to those in need, drug addicts needing help, the homeless needing assistance, or ministry to the wrestling community, especially youth.

Direct expenditures for The Virtual Pew, just in the last month and a half include:
Computer and office expenses - $150
Direct assistance to those in the wrestling community in need of help from food, to USA Cards, to Scholarships - $450 (Note larger than usual because the start of the season)
Gifts to those in need - $750 (Note on this note, this included approximately 25 people directly, and two of those was early Christmas needs, one lady came to me in tears, thanking me for the reality that her family was now going to have Christmas.)
Additional expenses i.e. auto, etc…, - $275

Again, a larger than usual month for expenses, but I am grateful we had the money to provide the needs. Currently The Virtual Pew has a whopping $4 in our bank account. We have the Christmas season approaching and hope to do more beyond what we have already done to assist others.

Hope for the future

As mentioned above, we need you to continue in your support for The Virtual Pew. I have picked up an additional job with a wonderful ministry that will allow me to do several things, provide better for my family, (note this doesn’t take care of The Virtual Pew Ministry needs) plus learn from a wonderful man and ministry that will make my ministry, the ministry of The Virtual Pew, and the work God wants us to do be more effective. While this job is far below what I have made in the past, it will give some stability, plus benefits which will help. Again, some have told me to be careful about sharing this information because they believe it will keep people from giving in the future. I believe in the ability of The Holy Spirit to do his work. He will inspire those that can, and need to give, to give.

On this subject, I am excited to learn from a well established ministry, with a national appeal. I have already been observing the leader of this ministry and the wonderful man of God he is. I am blessed to be around Christians, and once the training process is over, The Virtual Pew will be back to full force. One of the things I am blessed about is that virtually no time from The Virtual Pew will be lost. In fact, there will be times that while working for this organization; I can do Virtual Pew work, whether that is writing, research, counseling and/or more. As we say in the Church; “God is Good!” “All the Time!” More about this ministry, and the work in the future.

A Thanksgiving Experience

I still just consider myself a regular guy, in fact a poor ol’ dumb street kid saved by a wonderful Savior, Jesus Christ. I am amazed at how when I continue to be faithful in the little things, God continues to be faithful in all of the big things. This month is a wonderful example of that.

I have had wonderful experiences with my family. Yesterday was my 28th wedding anniversary. For those who know Mary Jane, you know of the strongest part of my spirit. I have a wonderful wife who has stood behind this ministry for so many years now. I have two wonderful children, a daughter who has excelled beyond my wildest dreams, a son who has a bright future, and extended family, like a wonderful son in law who celebrates his birthday tomorrow on Thanksgiving. A new hope for continued ministry and the reality of being able to learn from a man I greatly admire. Life is good because God is good. What more could I have? What more could I be thankful for? Well, much more, like the wonderful friends who have supported The Virtual Pew and this ministry over the years. There is a future and there is a hope. A future and hope provided for by the blood of a Savior who was so willing to die on the cross.

I am grateful for those who believe in what we have done, are doing, and will be doing in the future. The internet radio shows, The Virtual Pew Live and HJ Live have already been seeing a good response. As those ministries grow we look at additional ministry directly focused over the course of the next year. I know God has a great deal of blessings in store, not just for us, but those who support us, and especially those who need us.

Thanks for all you have done, thanks for all you are doing, and all you will be doing in the future. The Virtual Pew lives because of you, and because of the fact that God is good, all the time!

Click on the following video to see the celebrity version of Thanksgiving, if the video don't appear, just click on the link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7755vuRLJ-Q


Click Here to Go to The Virtual Pew Daily Verse and Read The Bible in a Year Passages

Click here for booking information to have Pastor Mike come speak or perform, from speaking to music or magic, something for all groups.

Click to visit with Pastor Mike regarding any of your needs. He will respond to each request personally, and if need be refer you to one of our other pastors.

Click to visit and join the new group The Virtual Pew, at MySpace. Become a part of a different kind of Christian group, check out the page for more information,all welcome, including those who are not followers of Jesus.

Click to visit the Virtual Pew Website and become a part of that ministry.

Click to subscribe to my blog

Click to visit and join our sister group at MySpace Hollywood Jesus.

Now for those that do not know, make sure you check out the numerous articles and blogs by checking out the archives. If visiting The Virtual Pew or MySpace they are archived on the left hand side of the page. Scroll down to where you see newer or older listed under archives and then click there. There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free e-book pre edit version of The Keystone Kid at mike@thevirtualpew.com

You can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and on the front page down on the left side you sill see our store. Your purchase provides needed funds to The Virtual Pew. If you do not see something to purchase you can click on the search engine, (do not put anything in the search box at this time). You will be taken to Amazon where you can search for anything you desire. Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

Now I get asked this quite often, Can we repost your blogs or articles? The short answer to that is, what an honor that you would ask, and by all means, spread the word.

Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew

P.O. Box 17731

Wichita, KS 67217

Click on the following links to learn more about The Virtual Pew
Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew
The Virtual Pew Blog
Personal Furches Web Site
Mike Furches MySpace Page
Mike Furches MySpace Blog
Hollywood Jesus
Reviews With Mike
The Virtual Pew Sermons
The Virtual Pew News
MySpace Hollywood Jesus Group
MySpace The Virtual Pew Group
The Virtual Pew Live Radio Web Page
To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed

Phone Number to Call During The Virtual Pew Live Show, (Please never call prior to the start of the show) - (646) 716-8587

Phone Number to Call During The HJ Live Show, (Please never call prior to the start of the show) - (646) 716-8853

To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed - http://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds/thevirtualpew

To Subscribe to HJ Live Live Feed – http://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds/hollywoodjesus

The Virtual Pew News #14, Update, Radio, Be in a Movie and More.

I recently did a video tribute to Big Brother 8. I know many have likely seen the television show but I have been pleasantly surprised at the response the tribute video has gotten from various Christian groups, and Big Brother fans. The video is a subtle attempt to simply show people that Jesus loves all people, even people like the Donatos, the family who won Big Brother 8 USA this year. You can check out the video at the following url: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=64Q5lV7EJlo The video is also at God Tube and MySpace Videos. It has been listed on various Big Brother groups around the country, thankfully by many who are Big Brother fans. Stay tuned through the end of the video, it actually has footage and a comment after the credits.

Additional big news is the radio program to air on Wednesday, September 19, at 5 PM EST, 4 PM CST, 3 PM MST, and 2 PM PST. The program will have me discussing Christianity with two Atheists, Dr. Jack Alkon, and Scott Gallan. It will be an attempt for those of faith to learn from Atheists as to why they believe they do. I have already received hundreds of comments and emails about this show which will air nationally at www.blogtalkradio.com/thevirtualpew For those that can’t listen live, you will be able to listen to the archives. The radio program is developing quite nicely with hundreds of listeners each week and the program growing from week to week. Some of the upcoming guests are rather astonishing from Sigmund Brouwer who coauthored the book Fuse of Armageddon with Hank Hanegraaff to Creston Mapes popular top selling Christian author of various books including Full Tilt, and Dark Star. Listen in weekly, and if unable to listen live check out the archives. Currently the archives include filmmakers The Brothers Williamson makers of the upcoming documentary Rebellion of Thought, and Benny Logos of Benny Logos and the Verses talking about his Scripture music.

The Virtual Pew has also started as of recent Daily Bible Verses and A Daily Passage that will assist in people reading through their Bible in a year. We are using the Contemporary English Version for that since so many of our visitors have little or no knowledge of Bible translations. The CEV allows people to read in a style they can understand. So far the response to that from Hollywood Jesus, The Virtual Pew, and MySpace has been very positive. Hopefully as people go through their readings they will be able to ask questions and I along with Pastor Dave and others will try to answer the questions people bring up. You can see these readings by going to http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and clicking on the message forums. The daily readings are listed under the Bible Study forums. While there, bookmark the page and sign up to be a member of The Virtual Pew. We can always use new members and we value the input from all that contribute.

I continue to do ministry with individuals and on line. I continue to need bookings to speak in various churches, locations and so forth. Truth is, money is very tight but I keep on keeping on. Without your contributions we can’t continue the ministry we do. From counseling on line to in person, to assisting and helping individuals who are in need of various ministry, whether help with drug addictions, or simply someone who is not currently walking with God. Those needs and requests continue to come in on a daily basis, and without your help, it wouldn’t be possible. As of recent, in the last 3 months, less than $1,000 has come in. Almost $600 of that came from speaking engagements. I still have bills and expenses, and I still need your help. I ask you to look at this as an extension of ministry, even a mission ministry if you will. There is no shortage of need, but I assure you, a shortage of funds unless God’s people are obedient and support ministries like this. Simply put, we need your help, and we need your help now. No gift is too small and you can give on line or via mail.

If giving on line click this link: http://www.furches.org/donations/index.html

If giving via mail, make check payable to The Virtual Pew and mail to the following address:

The Virtual Pew
P.O. Box 17731
Wichita KS, 67217

A side note for those who may be interested. I have a friend who is a movie maker, a quite good movie maker at that named Jimi Petulla. Jimi made the film Reversal that some of you may be aware of. He has asked for my assistance in the following way:

I wanted to get you help if possible. I am doing a new documentary, it’s called:
"The New World Order Survival Guide” How to Stop the Enemies of America from destroying our country, freedom, and values.

We are looking to interview a BIG NAME Christian whose appearance in our film will catch the interest of hundreds of thousands of Christians. We were thinking of someone like Jack Van Impe, or Pat Robertson but they might be too big to get.

The Christian guest would have to believe of course in The New World Order, the destruction of our borders, etc.

If anyone fits the criteria and is interested in appearing in this film, let me know ASAP so I can pass along the information to Jimi. I am not endorsing the movie, or even the concept, but passing along the information to those on my list who may be interested, or know of someone who is.

Thanks for reading, listen in to The Virtual Pew live, and thanks for supporting this ministry both in prayer and finance.



Click Here to Go to The Virtual Pew Daily Verse and Read The Bible in a Year Passages

Click here for booking information to have Pastor Mike come speak or perform, from speaking to music or magic, something for all groups.

Click to visit with Pastor Mike regarding any of your needs. He will respond to each request personally, and if need be refer you to one of our other pastors.

Click to visit and join the new group The Virtual Pew, at MySpace. Become a part of a different kind of Christian group, check out the page for more information,all welcome, including those who are not followers of Jesus.

Click to visit the Virtual Pew Website and become a part of that ministry. Click to subscribe to my blog

Click to visit and join our sister group at MySpace Hollywood Jesus.

Now for those that do not know, make sure you check out the numerous articles and blogs by checking out the archives. If visiting The Virtual Pew or MySpace they are archived on the left hand side of the page. Scroll down to where you see newer or older listed under archives and then click there. There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free e-book pre edit version of The Keystone Kid at mike@thevirtualpew.com

You can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and on the front page down on the left side you sill see our store. Your purchase provides needed funds to The Virtual Pew. If you do not see something to purchase you can click on the search engine, (do not put anything in the search box at this time). You will be taken to Amazon where you can search for anything you desire. Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

Now I get asked this quite often, Can we repost your blogs or articles? The short answer to that is, what an honor that you would ask, and by all means, spread the word.

Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew
P.O. Box 17731
Wichita, KS 67217

Click on the following links to learn more about The Virtual Pew

Donations to The Virtual Pew
The Virtual Pew
The Virtual Pew Blog
Personal Furches Web Site
Mike Furches MySpace Page
Mike Furches MySpace Blog
Hollywood Jesus
Reviews With Mike
The Virtual Pew Sermons
The Virtual Pew News
MySpace Hollywood Jesus Group
MySpace The Virtual Pew Group
The Virtual Pew Live Radio Web Page
To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed

Phone Number to Call During the Show, (Please never call prior to the start of the show) - (646) 716-8587

The Virtual Pew News #13, Time To Step On A Few Toes and The Virtual Pew Live Radio Program

As many have noticed I have sent out regular emails regarding The Virtual Pew but it has been a while since I sent out a newsletter, with that said. Welcome to The Virtual Pew News #13.
Let me be clear right off the bat, we need your financial help. A number of individuals have promised to help, we are grateful, but we really need it. We have not received any contributions from anyone in 8 weeks. We are down to the last $125 between my checking and savings account and The Virtual Pew account. It has been tough but we are plugging along.

I am so grateful for the help we have received but some made promises and we need them to come through. Some have promised a great deal in the area of helping with this ministry, such as advocating on our behalf in church and business circles. For some, those promises occurred almost a year and a half a go, and reoccurred several times. There are even churches we have ministered and given services at that cost us a great deal in driving to and from and taking care of ourselves that never gave any reimbursement despite promising to give. I have for years given services away and will continue to do so, but if you make a promise to help, please follow through. I really believe some need to hear that when they refuse to do what they said they were going to do, at that point, you become exactly the type of church and organization that turn people away from the Gospel and message of Jesus. How can you expect others to respect you, when you do not honor your word? I have to admit, the largest contributor to this ministry in the last year is an Athiest, for those who call themselves a Christian, or follower of Christ, that should be embarrassing. This individual has indicated to me though, the only Christian ministry they give to is The Virtual Pew because they know we do what we say we will do.

Now I know that is blunt and straightforward. There are several in the situation mentioned above, some churches where I saw people get saved, and others dedicate their life to Christ. There are organizations I have promoted and been a part of for years, been honest and straightforward with, yet they have turned their back on those they are called to serve. Many of those know who they are. As I spend hours upon hours, visiting with, and ministering to a family who has a dying family member, having to pay for gas, not being able to eat or feed my family who may be with me at the hospital, I am a firm believer that calling it like it is, is important. For those who have made promises, your empty words have an impact. I want to be careful here, I'm not talking about those who we have been honored to serve, I am talking about those within the church, and within church organizations who have promised help, and not followed through. Of course anyone who has been helped that can contribute and support what we do, to those I say, Thank You!

Now on the flip side, God is good, and I still know He is going to meet our needs. I know some will see this, and find it in their heart and spirit to support our ministry. A ministry still growing, and doing the things we said we would do.

God is good, and continues to provide, it is sometimes though for our family who has made sacrifice. I just found out today, we are going to be able to short sell our house in Oklahoma and a closing date has been set. What does this mean? Our house in Oklahoma, our dream house we saved and planned for, has had a cash offer made on it while it was in foreclosure and a couple has been approved for the sale. While the house is in foreclosure, we won’t owe any more money on it. Unfortunately, we lost all of the investment we had in the house, approximately $30,000 in equity. We are not complaining, we knew when we made a commitment to ministry, we gave our word to do the ministry God caled us to. We also know when losing this type of investment, when seeing your kids do without, and when having those who are Christians break their word and not be honest, it isn’t always easy.

Not being easy don’t mean it isn’t worth it, and I guess that is part of what I would like to leave today. I could be more blunt about some things and have heard a lot lately about how people shouldn’t complain. I agree with, but it is tricky ground, one has to be careful that they don't imply they don’t care. I will openly state, if you are hurting, if things aren’t right, complain to me, let me know how you feel. Why do I say this? Because I care enough about the souls we are honored to serve to want to be there to help and benefit as we can. While some may accept the everything is wonderful even though I broke my leg mentality, this is a ministry where I hope people know we are real, we are real enough to share the good times as well as the times that suck. I believe this is one of the reasons so many contact us and value what we provide. I know this ministry reaches out to those who have been hurt by the church. It has an impact and a desire to help bring people back to a right, open, and honest relationship with Christ. May we be more like Jesus, and less like the version of Christianity that drives so many away, even the organizations that pretend to take on this popular concept of being different than the traditional church.

Now as to some of the things going on. For those that don’t know, we have ventured into an internet radio program. We are testing one more time, Tuesday, August 14 at 4:00 PM Central before starting our regular programming on Wednesday August 15 at 4:00 PM Central. We will be on weekly for 1 hour and will eventually move to additional days as well as the regular 4:00 PM CTZ slot. Plans are in place to eventually start a Hollywood Jesus Program (within the month) and a regular Wrestling Talk With Mike program, within the next month and a half. These programs will have a dramatic impact and will allow us to have an even broader and more effective ministry.

We continue to hear from individuals on a daily basis, we have established additional methods of contact to provide assistance with these individuals. We can now Instant Message with MySpace members, Yahoo Instant Messenger and MSN Instant Messanger. On the Yahoo Instant Messenger we can receive phone calls into our computer, and make phone calls for 1 cent a minute. We also have a long distance service via our land line where we can make unlimited long distance calls within the United States for no additional charge.

The Virtual Pew Live is a on line radio program that individuals from around the world can listen and call into. We can have upwards of 5 people on the line at any given time. If using Skype of Yahoo services calls into the program will cost approximately 1 cent per minute. If using the chat room at The Virtual Pew Live or an IM services those contacts are free. Those services have already provided invaluable to many needing assistance from The Virtual Pew.

The Virtual Pew continues to minister to The Lost, The Last, and The Least, we continue to move forward having a dramatic impact on the lives of many often neglected and forgotten about, we continue to do this despite the financial difficulty we face. We are working to improve that situation, including doing things like this particular newsletter, and putting together a promotional packet, which costs us approximately $150, that we will take to local churches and denominational organizations to get speaking opportunities. Hopefully many doors will open and we can share our story, and the hope offered by Christ.

Regarding the talk radio program. This is a ministry which will be different. While we will play music on occasion, we want first and foremost to be a place where we can minister to those needing ministry. I have already heard from dozens of people who are grateful this program is being offered. One recently asked, how do we do more? My response is, it isn’t so much doing more, as it is doing what we do more effectively so we can minister to more who need it.

In closing, regarding the program The Virtual Pew Live, we need guests, and we need music with permission to use for bumper and programming. Copyright issues are important so beware of that. We also need better production material. I am really in need of an additional $150 for the phone which would give us a higher quality. I have downloaded some studio software but need better, we will get by with what we have for now. We need guests, and you don’t have to be famous to be a guest, although that don’t hurt. We just want guests who understand what The Virtual Pew is all about, and can share their stories. We simply want to touch people and help them understand that Christ loves them. If you can help share that in a non threatening and loving way, we would love to have you on our program. Of course being interested in the things we do whether agreeing or not would also make interesting programming. It doesn't end there though, I am going to be discussing with a few atheists friends of mine about being on the program.

Please, as a closing note, don’t take this newsletter wrong. I don’t want it to sound like a complaining, upset newsletter. But truth is, if those saying they were going to help, who are Christian, had done what they said they would do, there wouldn’t be a need for this newsletter. I continue to ask, for those that can, we need your support. For those that can’t I understand, I want people to know, this ministry is available whether you can donate or not. I really want it to be like a Pauline ministry, I am open to speaking, sharing, or whatever to get funds to help this ministry along. I thrive at and enjoy those opportunities, many have come through and it is appreciated. I firmly believe that what we do for the dollar is hardly matched by any ministry around. Then again, maybe I am just passionate about what we do, and know from talking to the people I have that we have had a positive impact on the lives of so many.

Blessings, keep in touch, and thanks for being as much like Jesus as possible. Now I have added some other valuable buttons to this that will show up regarding the programming including a button and link to the radio program. Even if you can’t listen live, you can go in and listen to the archives from the program, including the test programs that are currently up. If you want to give, the address is listed below, or you can always click on any of the photographs or donation link below to give online with a check or credit card.

Thanks again, and blessings to you.

Mike

The Great Philosopher Hank Hill comments on Church. If you see the video below, just double click on it, if it don't appear, just click on the link.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QtI2pa2m5cg




Click here for booking information to have Pastor Mike come speak or perform, from speaking to music or magic, something for all groups.

Click to visit with Pastor Mike regarding any of your needs. He will respond to each request personally, and if need be refer you to one of our other pastors.

Click to visit and join the new group The Virtual Pew, at MySpace. Become a part of a different kind of Christian group, check out the page for more information, all welcome, including those who are not followers of Jesus.

Click to visit the Virtual Pew Website and become a part of that ministry.

Click to subscribe to my blog

Click to visit and join our sister group at MySpace Hollywood Jesus.

Now for those that do not know, make sure you check out the numerous articles and blogs by checking out the archives. If visiting The Virtual Pew or MySpace they are archived on the left hand side of the page. Scroll down to where you see newer or older listed under archives and then click there. There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives.

You can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and on the front page down on the left side you sill see our store. Your purchase provides needed funds to The Virtual Pew. If you do not see something to purchase you can click on the search engine, (do not put anything in the search box at this time). You will be taken to Amazon where you can search for anything you desire. Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

Now I get asked this quite often, Can we repost your blogs or articles? The short answer to that is, what an honor that you would ask, and by all means, spread the word.

Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew
P.O. Box 17731
Wichita, KS 67217

Click on the following links to learn more about The Virtual Pew

Donations to The Virtual Pew
The Virtual Pew
The Virtual Pew Blog
Personal Furches Web Site
Mike Furches MySpace Page
Mike Furches MySpace Blog
Hollywood Jesus
Reviews With Mike
The Virtual Pew Sermons
The Virtual Pew News
MySpace Hollywood Jesus Group
MySpace The Virtual Pew Group
The Virtual Pew Live Radio Web Page
To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed





Media Player linking directly to The Virtual Pew Live, (if not on air, will play last broadcast program)



Phone Number to Call During the Show, (Please never call prior to the start of the show) - (646) 716-8587

The Virtual Pew News #12 A Note From Mary Jane

Hi! My name is Mary Jane Furches and I am the wife of Virtual Pew’s Mike Furches. I don’t get on and write often, but I do keep up with all that is going on with The Virtual Pew ministry. As a matter of fact, I have been more involved this summer in trying to get Mike booked into various places to speak and share. I am the “behind the scenes” person so to speak.

I am writing this letter to give you a report and up-date of The Virtual Pew’s ministry and fill you in on some of the needs we have. If you have been actively involved in reading Mike’s daily blogs and participating in discussions, you should know that Mike does not solicit support often. As a matter of fact, it is something he really doesn’t like to do. That’s why I am the one writing this letter, at my own suggestion, may I add.

The Virtual Pew is continually ministering to people from all walks of life. Mike stays busy writing daily blogs, responding to messages he receives, and answering questions people have. For example, just the other day he was exchanging messages with one of our soldiers in Iraq while they were under attack! The following are some responses he received just yesterday after people read his blog.

“Can I tell you something? I am sometimes afraid to put my beliefs out there...afraid of being judged...and my friend Darinda aka In turth there is Love...she said whatever God puts on your heart is what he wants us to do and not to be ashamed of what we believe or of him before no man...so I go ahead and allow him to lead me and I want to thank you for "getting me" and what I am saying on your blog!"

“I hope you know that you are not alone -- there are others of us that believe as you do. For a long time, I thought I was a "freak of nature" because my beliefs, my personal knowledge, of God didn't jive with what I was being told in my local church. It's because of what I was told and how I was treated for being "unique" that led to my disdain for modern organized religion. Church folks didn't want "individuals", they wanted "clones". That's why I think that your Virtual Pew ministry is so important -- there's others like me and you."

Sometimes ministry moves from the computer to phone conversations. Mike has spoken on several occasions with people contemplating suicide. Through his counseling, they did not follow-through with those feelings. Other conversations may center on family problems and relationships. It’s really amazing how God is using technology to reach people and even more is the fact that many times the daily blog reaches someone for whom that little message is just what they needed!

The bottom line is that this ministry needs some financial support to keep it going. Mike and I do not like having to ask for monetary support, but there comes a time when we really need it to keep this ministry going. Some of the expenses we have monthly are the internet bill, which is $34.95 and our phone bill. We did switch to unlimited long distance on our land-based phone because Mike’s cell phone is pre-paid card and all the calls he was receiving out-weighed the number of minutes available. When we did the figuring, it was cheaper to go unlimited long distance, which also helps with trying to get bookings. This increased our phone bill by $25.00 more monthly. He will still keep the cell for emergencies when he is on the road. He has been invited to speak at the Mennonite Church USA National Convention in San Jose, CA on July 6. While there is no monetary compensation for this trip, he is hoping to make valuable contacts for future speaking engagements. We are hoping that we can “break even” on this trip next week. He also has a web page which is being designed and will be completed in the near future and that cost will be a minimum of $200.00. There was also recently $300 which was provided to needy wrestlers in the form of Wrestling Scholarships and help provided others who have various needs at times. This ministry is Mike’s main source of income. Every penny that comes in to The Virtual Pew goes into this ministry and his support.

We would appreciate any financial support you could send and would enjoy opportunities for ministry in your area. Mike is not limited to speaking in churches. He speaks in various other venues: prisons, jails, rescue missions, homeless shelters, local mental health associations, drug rehab centers, and others as well as being a motivational speaker at corporations and conferences. While living in Tulsa, he was the #1 speaker for the United Way fundraising campaign.

For more information go to http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ . Thanks so much for your continued support and prayers for the ministry that is taking place!

If you are willing to help support this ministry you can contribute via credit card or check on line at the following link: http://www.furches.org/donations/index.html

You can also mail donations to:
The Virtual Pew
P.O. Box 17731
Wichita KS 67217

Thanks and God Bless,

Mary Jane

Now while I realize many may not read the following because it is routine, or may not have checked out the links in the past, I ask you to check them out now. See for yourself the work the ministry of The Virtual Pew is doing. Then after review, tell me that it isn’t deserving of the support and prayers we ask for.

Sometimes we feel like One Tin Soldier. With a little bit of help we can all accomplish great things, we know The Virtual Pew can as well, in fact we already have. The following video illustrates how we can overcome great difficulties.

If you see the video double click on it, if you don't just click the link provided.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jgfIEKj3dRw


Click here for booking information to have Pastor Mike come speak or perform, from speaking to music or magic, something for all groups.

Click to visit with Pastor Mike regarding any of your needs. He will respond to each request personally, and if need be refer you to one of our other pastors.

Click to visit and join the new group The Virtual Pew, at MySpace. Become a part of a different kind of Christian group, check out the page for more information, all welcome, including those who are not followers of Jesus.

Click to visit the Virtual Pew Website and become a part of that ministry.

Click to subscribe to my blog

Click to visit and join our sister group at MySpace Hollywood Jesus.

Now for those that do not know, make sure you check out the numerous articles and blogs by checking out the archives. If visiting The Virtual Pew or MySpace they are archived on the left hand side of the page. Scroll down to where you see newer or older listed under archives and then click there. There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives.

You can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and on the front page down on the left side you sill see our store. Your purchase provides needed funds to The Virtual Pew. If you do not see something to purchase you can click on the search engine, (do not put anything in the search box at this time). You will be taken to Amazon where you can search for anything you desire. Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

Now I get asked this quite often, Can we repost your blogs or articles? The short answer to that is, what an honor that you would ask, and by all means, spread the word.


Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew

P.O. Box 17731

Wichita, KS 67217

Click on the following links to learn more about The Virtual Pew

Donations to The Virtual Pew
The Virtual Pew
The Virtual Pew Blog
Personal Furches Web Site
Mike Furches MySpace Page
Mike Furches MySpace Blog
Hollywood Jesus
Reviews With Mike
The Virtual Pew Sermons
The Virtual Pew News
MySpace Hollywood Jesus Group
MySpace The Virtual Pew Group

Summer Speaking Tour

The Virtual Pew
P.O. Box 177731
Wichita KS 67217
316-788-1961
316-258-3952
mike@thevirtualpew.com
May 23, 2007

To whom it may concern:
I am writing this brief letter to let you know I am currently booking presentation dates. I am also attaching brochures that describe the ministry I have been a part of over the last few years. I could go into a lot of detail but thought it best to include some quotes from places I have ministered at in the past. You can also find out much more about me from visiting my two web sites, http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and http://www.furches.org/ I am also going to include various links that describes much more about the incredible ministry God has placed me in. To be brief, God has blessed me to have contributed to three books, been interviewed in such publications as Christianity Today, published in various many other magazines as well as appearing on national television and radio programs. I am read by millions each week and have collaborated with such individuals as David Bruce from Hollywood Jesus, and George Barna from the Barna Group in the development of The Virtual Pew.

Hopefully my passion and love for Jesus Christ, as well as my commitment to serving others comes across. I am certain that with a little research you will see that the ministry I do is unique.

There are several areas of ministry I could recommend, including Faith in Film, Using Your Culture To Discover Spiritual Truth, to The Story of Anthony, an autobiographical story that involves drugs, physical and sexual abuse, as well as homelessness and gangs. God has used each of these unique presentations among others to reach people across the world. You can visit the following link to learn more about some of the presentations and costs,
http://www.thevirtualpew.com/bookmike.html I will state, I am very open to booking dates in situations where groups can not afford the rates. I also love doing special services when in an area to places such as homeless shelters, jails and so forth. Again, after a little review you will see the unique qualities I have been given from God to minister in these types of situations.
Now a few words from others:

“We recently had Mike do his Faith in Film presentation, and to say the least it was incredible. I will say this without hesitation, if you have the chance to have him in your area, and don’t you have made an incredible mistake.”

“I first became aware of Mike Furches by his ministry and reviews with Hollywood Jesus. When having the opportunity to have him at our church we jumped at it. I can’t say how effective he was in providing the needs of our church. God Bless him.”

“One of the best we ever had at our school, we look forward to having him back in the future.”

“Mike Furches is truly one of America’s good guys, I would recommend him with no hesitation.”

"Mike speaks from the heart and relates his experiences with poise and humor."

"I love this guy. The things this blessed soul has seen, experienced and endured have worked a depth and sensitivity into him, such that I can't imagine anyone who would not be profoundly touched and moved by the Lord through Mike Furches. He is living, moving, breathing irrefutable proof that earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal."

"During my professional association with Mike, he has demonstrated tremendous leadership characteristics with special gifts in communications and motivation. Perhaps his best characteristic, though, is his strong commitment to ethics and morality."

"Thank you very much for speaking at the United Way Key Club reception. It was our pleasure to meet you and learn about 'Anthony'. We appreciate what you are giving back to our community in Tulsa. We need you. Thanks again."

“Mike Furches has always been on the forefront of ministry. What he is doing now with The Virtual Pew is nothing short of outstanding. There is no doubt that he is providing ministry to hundreds of thousands who wouldn’t have known about Jesus otherwise.”

“I am just a regular person that met Mike Furches through The Virtual Pew and MySpace. I can’t tell you how effective his ministry has been in helping me in my relationship with Christ. While there are many who despise Christianity, I can’t help but think that more would follow Jesus if more people like Mike Furches existed.”

Hopefully the above can give a small indication of the work that God has done through me and this ministry. I am grateful that he has had me cross paths with people like Mickey Jones, Billy Bob Thornton, Sky Lopez, and Rob Zombie over the course of the last few years. To me, to know that The Virtual Pew is having an impact on these movers and shakers in the world of entertainment says something about the power of God. I still consider myself just a poor ol street kid who God happened to touch and bless.

I would really love to minister in your area. Please contact me if interested. I would also challenge you to review the links provided below as well as read some of the materials published over the last year. You can simply google my name, or visit the links. I look forward to hearing back from you.

Here are the links I was speaking of:

Click to visit with Pastor Mike regarding any of your needs. He will respond to each request personally, and if need be refer you to one of our other pastors.

Click to visit and join the new group The Virtual Pew, at MySpace. Become a part of a different kind of Christian group, check out the page for more information, all welcome, including those who are not followers of Jesus.

Click to visit the Virtual Pew Website and become a part of that ministry.

Click to subscribe to my blog

Click to visit and join our sister group at MySpace Hollywood Jesus.

Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

Personal Furches Web Site

Mike Furches MySpace Page

Mike Furches MySpace Blog

Hollywood Jesus

Reviews With Mike

The Virtual Pew Sermons

The Virtual Pew News

MySpace Hollywood Jesus Group

MySpace The Virtual Pew Group

Thanks again for your consideration and my prayer is that God will open doors that will touch souls.

Sincerely

Mike Furches

P.S. The following include the dates I am in various locations. I would love to book one of those dates in your area.

6/10 – Looking for Dates in North West Kansas, North East Colorado, South West Nebraska
6/11 - Looking for Dates in North West Kansas, North East Colorado, South West Nebraska
6/12 - Looking for Dates in North West Kansas, North East Colorado, South West Nebraska
6/13 – Looking for Dates in North West Kansas, North East Colorado, South West Nebraska
6/14 - Looking for Dates in North West Kansas, North East Colorado, South West Nebraska
6/15 - Looking for Dates in North West Kansas, North East Colorado, South West Nebraska
6/16 – Looking for Dates in North West Kansas, North East Colorado, South West Nebraska
6/21 – Looking for Dates in North East Kansas, North West Missouri, Southern Iowa
6/22 – Looking for Dates in North East Kansas, North West Missouri, Southern Iowa
6/23 – Looking for Dates in North East Kansas, North West Missouri, Southern Iowa
6/24 – Looking for Dates in North East Kansas, North West Missouri, Southern Iowa
6/25 – Looking for Dates in North East Kansas, North West Missouri, Southern Iowa
6/26 – Looking for Dates in Oklahoma
6/27 – Looking for Dates in Oklahoma
6/28 – Looking for Dates in Oklahoma
6/29 – Looking for Dates in Oklahoma
6/30 – Departure for California
6/30 - Arrive in Bakersfield. (evening date possible)
7/1 – Bakersfield California, Heritage Bible Church
7/2 – Looking for Dates in Central California
7/ 3 – Looking for Dates in Central California
7/ 4 – Looking for Dates in Central California
7/ 5 – Looking for Dates in Central California
7/6 – San Jose California MCUSA International Conference (evening dates in San Jose area possible)
7/7 – Looking for Dates in Central California
7/8 – Looking for Dates in Central California
7/9– Return to Wichita.
7/14 – Looking for Dates in Kansas
7/15 – Looking for Dates in Topeka KS
7/16 – Looking for Dates Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota.
7/17 – Looking for Dates Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota.
7/18 – Looking for Dates Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota.
7/19 – Looking for Dates Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota.
7/20 – Looking for Dates Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota.
7/21 – Looking for Dates Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota.
7/22 – Looking for Dates Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota.
7/23 – Looking for Dates Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota.
7/24 – Looking for Dates Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota.
7/25 – Looking for Dates Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota.
7/26 – Looking for Dates Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota.
7/27 – Looking for Dates Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota.
7/28 – Looking for Dates Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota.
7/29 – Looking for Dates Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota.
7/30 – Looking for Dates - Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota.
7/31 – Looking for Dates Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota.
8/1 – Looking for Dates Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota.
8/2 – Looking for Dates Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota.
8/3 – Looking for Dates Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota.
8/4 – Looking for Dates Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota.
8/5 – Looking for Dates Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota.

The Virtual Pew News #11 Goodbye House, Hello Ministry

A lot has been going on as of late and I thought it about time for another newsletter from The Virtual Pew. This one will be a little more personal than some in the past.

First off, a lot in the area of ministry has been going on. Over the last three days for example ministry has included the following:

Daily contact to no less than 10 people with ministry needs. Just yesterday for example here is a listing of what I did.

I responded to 20 emails requesting specific areas of ministry, ranging from an abusive marriage, to an individual who recently went through a divorce and is being criticized by a church and minister. One of the spouses in this family was involved in pornography. I actually get around 2 requests for advice a day from someone where pornography has been an issue.

I also responded to two individuals who are not Christians, who have been hurt by Christianity, and at the same time, while they have been outspoken against Christianity in the past, as a result of the ministry with The Virtual Pew, they are now at the place where they are considering Christianity as an option.

I started and managed the new group at MySpace, The Virtual Pew. This group, in less than a week is now approaching 400 members and has daily posts and comments that are ranging from discussion on Homosexuality to The Appropriateness of Pro Wrestling. This group is still growing and it has amazed me at the ministry and responses I have seen both posted on the forum, and those sent directly to me. For those wanting to visit the group you can click here: http://groups.myspace.com/hollywoodjesus

I also worked locally with a family having some serious marital issues. I don’t know where the church is when people need it sometimes. People who are supposed to care but let individuals, marriages, and children fall through the cracks. What is so bad in this situation, is that after seeking help from others involved in the church. This couple finally turned to me. I am doing what I can, but it is difficult, it is difficult because the family has apparently already separated and contacting them is not easy. I will try again today to do what I can. I continue to wonder what could have been done if those contacted early on had actually responded to this couples cry for help.

I finally had business cards made yesterday. I know it seems like a little thing but I assure you, something I have been having to find time for, for some time.

I posted the article, I Found Jesus At The Taco Bell, regarding an experience I had after church on Sunday. It is amazing at how God gives me stories. I think he gives us all stories, it is just that some of us have to open up our ears and listen. That particular story had thousands of hits yesterday. I received email from Africa, London, and hundreds of responses in the states. It was the 9th most viewed blog in the Religion and Philosophy category at MySpace yesterday out of hundreds if not thousands of blogs.

You think the day was busy? All of the above happened pretty much in the afternoon as the morning was busy spent on two other areas. First I was online speaking with a dear friend serving our Country in Iraq. I won’t go into any more detail here than to say he stated to me yesterday that yesterday was the first time he was able to express some of the issues he is dealing with. I will tell you, if you aren’t praying for our young men and women serving our country, you should.

That wasn’t my only interaction with soldiers in Iraq though. Another dear friend contacted me regarding some serious issues that had occurred at home. The issues are so serious that he is getting an emergency return to the United States and will be home within hopefully the next 4 or 5 days. I will say it is serious, and between being on the phone with him, and interacting with local authorities I was reminded in a special way that my morning was a morning where the Iraq war was having a dramatic impact on my day because of the association I and The Virtual Pew has with numerous soldiers in Iraq. Truth is, for both of these individuals, there are no services state side to help with their issues. I know that if there are issues like this for these two soldiers, there are likely thousands more who don’t have the help they need.

That was the day just yesterday, a couple of things that normally are addressed weren’t addressed yesterday. I normally have daily interactions where I am offering help to individuals having issues due to drug usage or abuse. Neither did I have any financial issues addressed from folks. Normally these are daily occurrences, but were silent from yesterdays activities.

Now a report on finances; I have good news and bad news and at the discouragement of some I am mentioning it anyway. Last month, April, we met our monthly financial needs. So far this month, and in fact the last 3 weeks we have had no income or donations come in. There is always that concern, but always the knowledge that God will speak to the hearts of some to help meet the needs of this ministry. Last month it was a church who realized the positive things this ministry is providing and they made a donation to help meet the needs for the month. Between that and the donations of around 10 others we were able to get the needs met. Of course that don’t mean the needs will be met for the next few months so I again, ask you to prayerfully consider ways you can support this ministry.

Upcoming activities:

A lot of things are going on. I just announced this morning that The Virtual Pew, as a part of the ministry we have to the wrestling community will be making 3 scholarships available for needy wrestlers within the Kansas Wrestling community. Those individual applicants will turn in essays describing their need, as well as the benefits they believe comes from being involved in the sport of wrestling. An independent group of judges will determine the winners of this. We will provide scholarships for summer wrestling activities to persons in need in the amounts of $150, $100, and $50.

I am also planning on doing a presentation this week at a festival in Wichita called Posipalooza. This event held at the College Hill United Methodist Church at 2930, E. Fisrt Street will feature speaking presentations and music. I will be speaking in the morning on Faith In Film, Using Culture to Discover Spiritual Truths from 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM. I will then assist my wife Mary Jane and Son In Law, Brett Prothro in performing a concert at approximately 12:00 PM. We will perform for approximately 30 minutes. Then that night I will be conducting a Faith In Film Group here at the house.

We have started a Faith In Film Group that is meeting 2-3 times monthly. In this group we are discussing various themes involving the arts. This week we look at our first feature length film, a documentary, The Yellow Brick Road. The meetings have been lasting approximately 3 hours, start at 6:00 PM and this weekend we will be having a cookout. Those coming and wanting to eat will need to bring their own food, and we will do a pot-luck style of meal. We have had as few as 3 and as many as 12 at these meetings. We continue to pray that God will use them and they will grow. So far the response has been great. For those living in the the Wichita area the address is 400 S. Georgie Avenue, Derby Kansas, directly off of Highway 15, behind the bowling alley, at the corner of Sunnydale and Georgie Avenue.

I am also scheduling my summer speaking tour. I will be speaking at The Mennonite Church USA International Conference in early July in San Jose California. I am scheduling speaking engagements on the west coast and California for the last week of June, first week of July. I will also be speaking in the Midwest and Northern Plains for the remainder of July. I am looking at August at trying to hit up some ministry locations in the Southeast or other areas. I am really praying at this point about doing some on hands ministry during this time. Anyone wanting or desiring something of this sort, or living in one of the above areas who is willing to help find locations of ministry, please contact me. I am also planning on spending 2 weeks this year at the Walnut Valley Music Festival in Winfield Kansas. Last year was so effective and the response has been so positive that we are going to try and be there for a longer period of time this year. This is also a time where I receive some strength and refreshment.

Now on a personal level:

We don’t know for certain, but it looks like we are certainly loosing our house in Oklahoma. How we are loosing it we don’t know. To say the least we are heartbroken over this, the primary problem if you can call it a problem, is that we were forgiving of several “Christians” who lived in the house and did not pay the rent. In fact, over the last three years that amount came out to costing us around $10,000. We simply got too far behind on our payments, even with the help from our former church. We have been blessed for the last 9 months to have a wonderful family living in the house who has paid their rent on time every month. They are interested in buying the house and we are trying to do a fast track sell to this family. We sent out the paperwork yesterday, but will have to send a sale contract to them within 2 days. We either have to have the loan assumed by this family, or pay $4,300 by the 15th of this month, and then pay $1,300 a month thereafter for approximately 1 year when the mortgage payment will go back down. We currently rent the house for $830 a month. While we could afford a monthly payment of $1030 a month, as long as we have good renters, we can’t afford the $1,300 a month, and frankly only have about $1,200 of the $4,300. The house is appraised right at $120,000 and our buy out is $98,000. To be honest, it don’t look good on saving the house, our prayer is that if we can’t save it, that our current renters will be approved to assume the loan. We trust God, and know God will continue to take care of us, but sometimes it is hard.

Also on a personal note, we have been having some issues at home. I won’t go much into that other than to ask your prayers. Bottom line our son was wrongfully accused of some things this last school year. He did one stupid thing, we know, but after he was accused of that one thing, he became a target for two other areas. I know for a fact that on those the school was wrong as I was with him when another student gave him a gift. It was later determined that gift was stolen, my son didn’t know it and within 24 hours of finding out it was stolen he was returning it to the school. I won’t go into any more detail other than to say he was suspended for 15 days from school. Again, I was present during the one event, and after seeking legal counsel, we know our son didn’t do anything wrong, but was still punished. Those 15 days and other factors added to some serious stress in our home. It is likely our son will have to go to summer school as a result of the activity and punishment. There are other factors there that have affected our family, bottom line though, it hasn’t been easy. We had a long sit down the other night and spoke about the importance of staying in the Word, staying in prayer, and seeking fellowship with other Christians. I am again playing in the worship band at church, and am encouraging Mary Jane to become active in a women’s Bible study in the area. Nathan is attending Youth Group on Wednesday nights and we have started the process. I have also made the commitment that I will work harder to make sure that work stops at 5:00 and that the remainder of the day is family time and we do things together.

Well that is a lot of what has been happening since the last newsletter. There is no doubt that God is using The Virtual Pew. There is no doubt that needed ministry is taking place. There is no doubt that without The Virtual Pew, there are people who would be struggling more than you and/or I would ever know. For those who have supported us and this ministry in the past, thanks you have no idea how much we appreciate all of your love, for those who haven’t that is okay, but stay in prayer as to when you can or if you should.

Click to visit with Pastor Mike regarding any of your needs. He will respond to each request personally, and if need be refer you to one of our other pastors.

Click to visit and join the new group The Virtual Pew, at MySpace. Become a part of a different kind of Christian group, check out the page for more information, all welcome, including those who are not followers of Jesus.

Click to visit the Virtual Pew Website and become a part of that ministry.

Click to subscribe to my blogClick to visit and join our sister group at MySpace Hollywood Jesus.
Now for those that do not know, make sure you check out the numerous articles and blogs by checking out the archives. If visiting The Virtual Pew or MySpace they are archived on the left hand side of the page. Scroll down to where you see newer or older listed under archives and then click there. There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives.

You can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and on the front page down on the left side you sill see our store. Your purchase provides needed funds to The Virtual Pew. If you do not see something to purchase you can click on the search engine, (do not put anything in the search box at this time). You will be taken to Amazon where you can search for anything you desire. Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew

P.O. Box 17731

Wichita, KS 67217

Click on the following links to learn more about The Virtual Pew.(Please note that the links for The Virtual Pew blogs have been going through some changes and the url’s have changed.)

Donations to The Virtual Pew
The Virtual Pew
The Virtual Pew Blog
Personal Furches Web Site
Mike Furches MySpace Page
Mike Furches MySpace Blog
Hollywood Jesus
Reviews With Mike
The Virtual Pew Sermons
The Virtual Pew News
MySpace Hollywood Jesus Group
MySpace The Virtual Pew Group

The Virtual Pew News #10 Meetings Starting in Wichita Area

News from The Virtual Pew

The last month has been busy and active. A lot could be said but for those that didn’t know, The Wichita Eagle did an extensive story on The Virtual Pew which garnished a lot of recognition and response. To see that story here:

Cyber church
Pastor Mike Furches' The Virtual Pew aims to draw people into discussions about spirituality.
BY JOE RODRIGUEZ
The Wichita Eagle

Pastor Mike Furches wants to help make better followers of Christ by using the power of the Internet. Furches, of Derby, is pastor of an online church called The Virtual Pew, found at www.thevirtualpew.com. There, people can participate in faith-based forum discussions, download MP3 files to listen to Furches' weekly sermons and chat with people about spirituality. He said the Web site attracts about 55,000 visitors each week.

Furches launched The Virtual Pew, which is not affiliated with a church or a denomination, last May. He said he was seeking to reach people and talk about spirituality on a stage where thousands of people build relationships daily -- the Internet.

"I don't know any other way to explain it," he said, "but I felt in my heart that God was saying, 'there's people that need this type of ministry.' "

A mission to reach out

Furches said the mission of the Web site, launched about a year ago, is twofold:

One, it serves as a private and nonintimidating way to reach people who are disconnected with church, he said.

Two, it helps people grow in their faith and spirituality by giving them a popular way to connect with others -- on the Web.

What The Virtual Pew is not meant to be -- and Furches said he makes this clear to those who visit the site -- is a replacement for people's churches.

"The truth of it is, for some, it is," he said.

"But the intent is to, for those who can, plug them back into a community church."

Before launching the online church, Furches served for more than four years as pastor of a southwest Wichita church, United at the Cross.

He said the church was small -- it had about 65 members -- and closed last year, primarily due to financial reasons.

"To me, the bottom line is with small inner-city churches, it's really tough to make it financially," he said.

While Furches enjoyed interacting with the church members and preaching, he did not see himself fitting the role of a "traditional pastor."

"Traditional pastors, contemporary pastors are more administrators than they are pastors," he said.

So he wanted to focus on a different type of ministry.

Furches has a strong interest in the Internet. Since the mid-1990s, he's reviewed movies for an online site, hollywoodjesus.com, a Web site that examines pop culture from a spiritual perspective.

'A source of fellowship'

Kelly DeBardelaben came to know Furches through his reviews on hollywoodjesus.com. After learning about his online church, she began to visit it regularly.

Through The Virtual Pew, she has made many friends whom she communicates with about religion and other issues.

"I look for the same things at The Virtual Pew as I do in my physical church," said DeBardelaben, who lives in Colorado Springs.

"It's a source of fellowship. I just see it as another tool for fellowship and getting to know people and getting to know God."

Colby Reddin, a regular visitor of The Virtual Pew, said it's Furches' messages that keep him coming back to the Web site.

"I like how Mike uses his own personal experiences and past experiences to help enlighten people as to what Christians should do and how Christians should live," he said.

A ministry, not business

Nationwide, there are about 200 Web sites similar to The Virtual Pew, according to Pastor Dick Helms of the Wellsville, N.Y.-based ChristRing Ministries.

ChristRing has an online missions church, Cyber-Church.com, which Helms called the oldest online ministry in the United States.

Helms said such online churches are experiencing slow growth.

"There for a while, there were an awful lot of them out there," he said. But many sites have gone away, he said.

"People think they're going to make money on it, and they find out they're not going to," Helms said. "You're not going to make money, so it's got to be a ministry."

That's exactly what Furches is calling his Web site.

"The way I'm made up," he said, "I knew that God had called me to something different, more of an individual ministry."

And he said he's not in it to make money.

The budget calls for him to make $300 a week. There are links on the Web site where people can contribute financially. But usually, he said, any money that comes in is paid out for bills and to help others seeking assistance.

The Virtual Pew does not have nonprofit status, as churches do. Furches said that's because he wants to be able to speak out on government issues without concerns about whether he is violating the nonprofit status.

Furches said his wife, Mary Jane, who works as a middle school teacher in Derby, is the main financial supporter for the family.

An uncertain future

Comparing his pastoral experiences at a physical church vs. the online church, Furches said there is little that he misses.

"I miss the weekly discipline of having to prepare something different to speak, I enjoy speaking," he said. "that's about the only thing I miss."

He said he still interacts frequently with people from his church in Wichita. He still gets to counsel people and talk with people face-to-face.

But he's convinced that many relationships are made today through the Internet. He's convinced that offering a spiritual tool such as The Virtual Pew can help bring people back to the church.

His goal is to build the online church over the next three years to where he can have two full-time staff positions and a part-time position.

But he admits he's not sure what will happen.

"How big we get, what we do? I don't look that far ahead," he said. "What I would hope is we can get to a place where we can touch a soul."

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Reach Joe Rodriguez at 316-268-6644 or jrodriguez@wichitaeagle.com.


A Big Thank You

I must also send out a big thank you to those supporting The Virtual Pew over the last month. There was an unexpected cost of attending and speaking at a funeral some distance from Wichita. I made it known that funds were low and that we needed help in order to be of service at this funeral. Within 3 hours $300 came in and those gifts made it possible to attend this funeral and be of service to this family. Thank you for your support. For those that don’t know this ministry is entirely dependant on gifts from individuals and assistance that comes in via speaking or writing ministry. All support is appreciated and needed. I draw at most a salary of $300 per week as mentioned in the article, truth be known, it has been several months since that amount has come in. For example, so far this month, my salary has only been $480 for the entire month. You don’t have to be great in math to realize that don’t come out to $300 per week.

The Virtual Pew Face To Face With Faith in Film

This week is an exciting time for me and for those in the Wichita area who have expressed some interest in The Virtual Pew. This week, starting March 31 we are going to be starting a Faith in Film series.

The Faith in Film series will meet between 2 and 3 times each month and will operate in a small group format. We will gather together in homes to start, and then take part in discussing and looking at how we can identify faith and spiritual issues in contemporary culture. The Bible says in Mark 4:33, 34, “He never taught them anything without first telling them stories.” The following is information that can be used for the Faith in Film Series. You can also contact me to obtain a flyer print out for the series.

What Is The Faith In Film Series? It is a Small Group with a focus on discussing spiritual truths that exist in the arts, not just film. We realize all truth comes from God and God’s truths are often spoken about in culture. Jesus used parables to teach spiritual truths. The Bible states, “He never taught them anything without first telling them stories.” Mark 4:33, 34. Movies, books, television, and music are the most popular form of storytelling today; using these media we will look for ways to deepen our faith as well as finding ways to share spiritual truths with the unchurched.

Your Facilitator: Mike Furches has been using the arts to share culturally relevant truths with those in the church, and unchurched for over 15 years. Recognized as one of the leaders across the country in this field he is adequately prepared to present this in a small group setting. Mike currently writes for one of the most visited review web sites in the world, Hollywood Jesus. He also facilitates and operates an online community of faith called The Virtual Pew.

What will we do? We will watch all kinds of movies, television shows, and listen to all kinds of music. The focus will be on popular arts within the non Christian sector. Some of these will be ‘R’ Rated and will include discussion while at times looking at adult themes.

Who can come? Anyone and everyone that is age appropriate. This is a great opportunity to invite unchurched friends or those who are open to these types of themes. Small children should not attend for obvious reasons. Media that has more of an adult theme will be announced in advance.

How often will we meet? 2 – 3 times a month. A calendar of meeting times will be made available. You can also access information about the events through www.thevirtualpew.com and via making contact. You may also email regarding a schedule of events to mike@thevirtualpew.com

Please Note, No Small Children as Adult Themes are Covered.

Bring Movie Snacks and Refreshments.
Arrive Early for Choice Seats, Might bring a cushion for floor seats.

400 S. Georgie, Derby Kansas (Behind the Bowling Alley on Hwy 15)
For More Information Call: 316-788-1961 or -258-3952

We will watch the program and then discuss Spiritual Themes

Anyone wanting to donate to help with the costs of the Faith in Film series is welcome to do so. With the costs of refreshments, DVD’s and so forth there is some costs involved. Of course anyone is welcome to come but space is limited. As the group grows we will look for additional venues to host the event. We do expect that some of the Spring and Summer events to be hosted outside and shown via projection units to accommodate the group.

This group is being held in conjunction with small group activities with Mosaic Church but anyone and everyone is welcome.

For the first series we will look at an episode of The X-Files, Season 3, episode 11, titled Revelations. We will also discuss this episode via the internet at www.thevirtualpew.com and the Hollywood Jesus MySpace Group, http://groups.myspace.com/hollywoodjesus

While discussion is encouraged the week after the viewing of the Faith in Film series showing, discussion can take place at anytime thereafter on the particular showing.

Please note that the week prior to the show date, the show or music will be announced so those on line can obtain the film, music, or other media and watch it and actively participate in the on line discussion. I will also post notes from the discussion on line after the initial meeting. Dates for Faith & Film follow:

Music Video of Faith with Scully from the X-Files

March 31 – The X-Files Season 3 Episode 11 - Revelations

April 14 - TBA
April 21 - TBA

May 5 - TBA
May 19 - TBA
May 26 - TBA

June 9 - TBA
June 16 - TBA
June 23 - TBA

July 14 – TBA

Closing

There is a lot more going on and I would encourage you to check out the links and see all of the articles and so forth. I continue to be involved in providing daily counseling via internet and phone with individuals all over the world. God continues to bless this ministry and I appreciate all of those who have been a part of it. We will soon be celebrating our first year of ministry; some didn’t think God would do what he has done over that time. I am amazed and know that the future is bright for ministry. God is touching people; thankfully he is using us among many others to accomplish his purpose.

For those that can contribute financially, thank you, we need it. For those who can’t we appreciate the prayers. Remember any small prayer, or any small financial gift adds up. Blessings to you until next time, and remember, if in the Wichita area, get in touch and become a part of The Virtual Pew Faith in Film Series group. It would be great to see you face to face.

Now for those that do not know, make sure you check out the numerous articles and blogs by checking out the archives. If visiting The Virtual Pew or MySpace they are archived on the left hand side of the page. Scroll down to where you see newer or older listed under archives and then click there. There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives.

You can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and on the front page down on the left side you sill see our store. Your purchase provides needed funds to The Virtual Pew. If you do not see something to purchase you can click on the search engine, (do not put anything in the search box at this time). You will be taken to Amazon where you can search for anything you desire. Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew

P.O. Box 17731

Wichita, KS 67217

Click on the following links to learn more about The Virtual Pew.(Please note that the links for The Virtual Pew blogs have been going through some changes and the url’s have changed.)

Donations to The Virtual Pew
The Virtual Pew
The Virtual Pew Blog
Personal Furches Web Site
Mike Furches MySpace Page
Mike Furches MySpace Blog
Hollywood Jesus
Reviews With Mike
The Virtual Pew Sermons
The Virtual Pew News
MySpace Hollywood Jesus Group

This Just In, Many know of our support for the ministry in Lahore Pakistan. I just spoke with Minister Boby today and his brother Naveed is struggeling with cancer. Naveed is 22 years old and has been sick since 2002. He is now at home in a great deal of pain and the financial struggles for the family continues to mount. Anyone wanting to help in prayer and/or financial with this family is encouraged to do so.