LifeWay Joins 'Operation Freedom Bell' Effort to Minister to Soldiers
LifeWay Christian Resources, one of the world's largest providers of Christian products and services, has joined an effort to bring hope, encouragement and Bibles to U.S. soldiers who are serving overseas.
Operation Freedom Bell and Indelible Creative Group announced last week its exclusive partnership with the Nashville-based non-profit organization, which started selling solid-brass Freedom Bells on Friday as part of the effort to reach thousands of American soldiers.
"LifeWay Christian Stores is pleased to be a part of Operation Freedom Bell," expressed Bill Nielsen, Merchandise VP at LifeWay Christian Stores, in a statement.
Get Our Latest News for FREE
"Our vision is that 'as God works through us, we will help people and churches know Jesus Christ and seek His Kingdom by providing biblical solutions that spiritually transform individuals and cultures,'" he added. "OFB helps us do this as it provides men and women who are serving to protect our country with the word of God."
The purchase of each solid-brass Freedom Bell for 10 dollars provides an American soldier with a "Thank you to our American Heroes" New Testament with Psalms and Proverbs. When a Freedom Bell is purchased, both the consumer and the solider will also receive video downloads from Lt. Col. Oliver North, author of the novel American Heroes: In the Fight Against Radical Islam, and popular speaker Beth Moore, along with an MP3 single from Indelible recording artist Travis Cottrell's latest Christmas CD release Ring The Bells.
"At the same time, thousands of people who purchase a Freedom Bell will be reminded to pray for these 'heroes' every time they hear the bell ring," added Nielsen.
Bells may be purchased and Bibles sent online through operationfreedombell.org, as well as through LifeWay Christian stores and additional ministry outlets.
Prayer postings are currently pouring into the OFB website and can be read online at the Operation Freedom Bell's prayer wall. The website also includes forums to hear directly from soldiers.
"How exciting for us that so many people are already using the prayer wall to personally and specifically pray for our Hero's serving…it is very humbling," commented Jeff Sheets, founding partner of the ministry e3 Partners.
Other ministries, churches and non-profits are also being encouraged to join the cause by helping to spread the word.
"The brass bell, engraved with 'Let Freedom Ring,' is a beautiful reminder to stand in the gap and pray for our American heroes," says Lt. Col. North, whose message of encouragement is included in the American Heroes Bible.
Bells ordered online began shipping on Nov. 15. Delivery takes up to 7-10 days.
