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| Name: | opbabu |
| E-mail address: | ongolebb@yahoo.co.in |
| Comments: | Your web site is very nice. It is so good to find out how wonderfully your ministry is doing. God is miracles God still today and he can do this things today with powerful hands touch and works .And hope that your ministry will continue grow and prosper, and that the Lord will bless you. Thanks .Babu |
| Name: | Harold Cornell |
| E-mail address: | SpeshlGuy@aol.com |
| Comments: | Dear Marsha,
I met you only once several years ago at a concert at Grace Church in Miami Shores, FL. I have never forgotten that inspiring evening and I still listen to the CD's I acquired that night. I have often wondered what has happened in your life since that night. Your son shared one of the CD's I have. I still play (for my personal enjoyment) your song "For Those Tears I Died", which is still one of my favorites. I was playing it again this morning and suddenly wondered what I could find on the internet. What a nice surprise! I found so much material. I know you are very busy, but I would love to hear from you. You probably don't remember me, but Jill was our pastor at the time you were here. You took 2-3 of us into your MH that night to see your new home. Thanks again for the inspiration you have given me and so many others. It's a wonderful work you are doing and I thank God that you have shared with us. May God continue to bless you and your work. |
| Name: | SUSAN MCGUIRE |
| E-mail address: | WAHINE2@SDCCU.NET |
| Comments: | MARSHA, I WAS AT CALVARY CHAPEL WHEN PASTOR CHUCK HAD YOU SING YOUR NEWLY PINNED SONG (FOR THOSE TEARS I DIED) BACK IN 1969. I REMEMBER YOU SITTING ON A FOLDING CHAIR AND DESCRIBING NOT BEING ABLE TO FIND ANYONE TO SHARE WITH THAT NIGHT, AND YOU DISCLOSED THAT YOU WENT TO YOUR ROOM AND THE WORDS TO THIS SONG CAME TO YOU! CONGRATULATIONS ON A VERY SUCCESSFUL AND MEANINGFUL MINISTRY! |
| Name: | Vonnie |
| E-mail address: | hawkeye_misfit@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | I heard you sing in Wichita in the late 80's. I loved your voice, and just came across your website. I cannot believe you were just in my area and I had no idea. Wichita was the first and last time I heard you, and now that I have found your site, be sure I will buying your music and attending your concert next time you are in AZ. |
| Name: | John Kroner |
| E-mail address: | cmaj7@sbcglobal.net |
| Comments: | "For Those Tears I Died" is a wonderful, God-given song. Since it has kind of an evangelical message, I was wondering whether it would be appropriate for a prelude at our church (a mainstream Baptist church that is open, welcoming, and affirming -- not your usual Baptist church). Then I read your story and understood that your song is exactly what we need to hear: your message, your life, your testimony is inspiring. Not many survive the nasty attitudes of the good Christians who feel the need to judge, I see one in your guestbook not too far down. So hang in there girl, we will share your song and your story with our membership. And may God continue to do great things for you. |
| Name: | Chuck Davids |
| E-mail address: | cdmacjack@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | A little while ago I listened to a podcast of an interview you gave on GCN. To be honest I'd never heard of you before, but I had heard the song 'For Those Tears I Died' when I was a teenager in the '70's. I went ahead and bought the 'I Still Have a Dream' album from iTunes and thoroughly enjoyed it! Thank you so much for writing such wonderful spirit-filled music!
God Bless, Chuck |
| Name: | Norm Mitchell |
| E-mail address: | MitNov@aol.com |
| Comments: | We at Union Church of Hinsdale (IL) are looking forward to seeing you at our concert on May 9, 2008 |
| Name: | Ruth Eliz (Anderson) Crites |
| E-mail address: | 7gilbert@telus.net |
| Comments: | Dear Marsha and Cindy
Thank you for you service and love for our God. Your music has blessed me for years. "For those tears I Died" was an anthem for me growing up. But it wasn't until someone sent me as a gift your CD "I Will Not Behave Like Prey" this winter that I ever knew even who wrote it. I only finally trusted God and placed everything to Him this summer, although I've loved Jesus since 5. I spent many years running from myself and even married in an "act of faith". But thank God He never gives up on us. Now I only seek to reach out to others who are afraid to reach out to our Loving Heavenly Father just as we are. Your music and ministry is a blessing so please don't be discouraged that some people will never get it. May God bless you both. |
| Name: | Beverley |
| E-mail address: | steele.speed@blueyonder.co.uk |
| Comments: | Wonderful site. Praise the Lord! |
| Name: | Janet Riddle |
| E-mail address: | jaylriddle@yahoo.com |
| Homepage URL: | http.//thelibrary,org/inlib/lst.cfm |
| Comments: | Thank you, Marsha! |
| Name: | Laurie Baker and Bobbi Smith |
| E-mail address: | alauriebaker@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Hi Marsha,
It was so wonderful to meet you, Naomi, Joanie and Chris yesterday at church. That morning, we prayed we would meet some new friends while visiting your church in CA. Even more surprising was the connection between you, us and Nori Rost. (and thanks for the ride to In 'n Out!) Laurie and Bobbi |
| Name: | Linda cropley |
| E-mail address: | lindacropley@yahoo.com.au |
| Comments: | well i stumbled onto BALM ministries on the internet or onto marsha by accident. How amazing. A christian woman and her partner living as out lesbians. I dont know where to start, but I have come out for the second time after becoming a christian, spent 20 years trying to "change" and rehabilitate to living a "normal" life. Well it didnt work! now here i am tryign to reconciliate being gay and being christian. I am attached to a website called freedom2b.org started by an pormer AOG evangelist who came out as a gay man (eventually). You encourage me that christianity and gay can mix!!! How you do that I dont know. Ever coming to Australia? Would love to hear you share your story, cheers Linda |
| Name: | PRISCILLA ROGERS |
| E-mail address: | PRMM59@YAHOO.COM |
| Comments: | WOULD LIKE TO KNOW MORE ABOUT TRIPS TO HOLY LAND |
| Name: | Chuck |
| E-mail address: | cdmacjack@yahoo.com |
| Name: | Dena Brookman Trobaugh |
| E-mail address: | oldebutgoodie@comcast..net |
| Comments: | Marsha thanks for the beautiful music Dec 7@ Elizabeth Town MCC Your voice seems to get even better each time I here you. I am thankful to God that you didn't just quit when the "church" denied you. God bless you and your spouse for her support she give you. |
| Name: | Bryan |
| E-mail address: | ndecision@gmail.com |
| Comments: | Hi, Marsha! I enjoyed the show you put on at MCC E'town! Thanks for taking a picture with me. I posted it on GCN - gaychristian.net - just like I said I would. I hope you come back to Elizabethtown very soon. "For Those Tears I Died" has become a favorite of mine! God bless you and your ministry! |
| Name: | STACEY WYNN |
| E-mail address: | FREAKDOODLE5220@YAHOO.COM |
| Comments: | I JUST WANTED TO SAY HI AND I AM GLAD TO SEE OTHER CHRISTIAN LESBIANS LIKE ME. I JUST GOT SAVED SUNDAY NIGHT AND THE ONE THING THAT STILL LINGERS IN THE BACK OF MY MIND IS THAT I AM DOING WRONG BY MY SEXUAL ORIENTATION. PLEASE IF YOU KNOW OF ANYTHING THAT I CAN READ AND HOPEFULLY LOOSEN THIS REGRET THAT I HAVE IN MY HEART FOR BEING GAY, PLEASE LET MR KNOW. THANKS, STACEY |
| Name: | Jared Hopkins |
| E-mail address: | jhash01@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | Marsha,
You may not remember me but, I had the pleasure of meeting you years ago. My sister, Deb Hardy, had such a strong friendship with you so long ago. She made my whole family fans of your music and believers in your ministry. As it has now been ten years since Deb has passed I've found myself needing my faith and your music even more. Losing her was like losing both a mother and a father, there has never been anyone that I loved more. I love what you are doing and I can't wait for the day I can take my wife and children to one of your concerts and let them witness the power of what God, you, Cindi, and BALM Ministries is doing in this troublesome world. May God continue to bestow blessings upon you and your family and may he protect you throughout your travels. |
| Name: | Jaye |
| E-mail address: | a.sobers@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | Dear Marsha:
Your song, "For those Tears I Died" is a favourite of my partner. I found the lyrics for her because she kept playing it on the guitar. When I did the research I discovered you were Christian and Lesbian. My partner and I have just committed ourselves to following Christ as Lesbians. Your ministry now is giving us hope and courage to continue being who God made us as. Thanks for standing where others dared and for giving us home to follow Christ inspite of. Jaye & Fee |
| Name: | Kim |
| Comments: | Hi Kim,
This is Pastor John. I handle Marsha's guest book for her. As will be no surprise, I deleted your rude post here. Since you didn't include any contact information I'll reply here. We'll be praying for your judgmental spirit and lack of biblical knowledge. If you wish to understand what the Bible actually says about homosexuality (and about casting stones at others) feel free to write me via http://allfaith.com/contact.html "Whosoever will" means "Whosoever will" Pastor John |
| Name: | Anne L. Andersen |
| E-mail address: | Grateful7@verizon.net |
| Comments: | Finally got around to seeking your song For those Tears I Died on the internet.
I attended a concert by the Children of the Day in Brooklyn, NY at Calvary in the about 1974 or so. I purchased the record you sold that day. I had it transferred to two cassettes. I am still playing it today in my car. All of the songs on there have been such a blessing, especially the above. Delighted to get the chance to tell you after all these years. Now at 77 years young, I expect that cassette to be played at my funeral as my last witness to friends and family. In His Name, Anne Andersen |
| Name: | Carolyn and Jean |
| E-mail address: | adamswoodard@msn.com |
| Comments: | Enjoyed seeing you at General Conference in Scotsdale! Hope to see you again soon. Much love! Carolyn and Jean |
| Name: | Bro.Adrian Stanley |
| E-mail address: | Kajun232000@yaoo.com |
| Comments: | Holy Greetings ,though I am not familiar with this specific ministry yet. i look forward to teh fellowship with other saints of like precious faith |
| Name: | Tom McDonald |
| E-mail address: | oddfellow69@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | It is so good to find Marsha's web page again. I look forward to checking back on here to fine out when she is going to be in a city near me. I have loved listening to your music for years. I have met you several times and actually was privileged to work with one of your music writers at one time. The late Rev. Ken Caton. I really miss his insight and friendship. Kepp the faith and hope to have you back in OKC sometime soon. |
| Name: | charlotte |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.reachingbeyond.net |
| Comments: | Be blessed in all that you do for the Lord. |
| Name: | Richard Scott |
| E-mail address: | sdbear50@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | I have been a big fan for over 10 years now! Have to check your tour schedule to see if you will be appearing in or around Tucson, AZ. Would always catch your performances when I lived in San Diego when you were at MCC San Diego or Christ's New Creation Church (Rev. Donna). Have most of your CD's. Any new ones?
God Bless, Richard |
| Name: | kristie & becky |
| E-mail address: | motherkristina@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | we have just come across the/your balm ministries and happily wish to sign in and were happy to find other lesbians who love god also. |
| Name: | phillip neal |
| E-mail address: | figbranch@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | I am gay but I did not realize that to just recently I have been hideing out in regerlar chruchs thinking I was man but I finding out I have been fooling myself all thease years now Iam out of the cloest and 59yrs. old. And all by myself is there books that will help or online chruch that will help me out and still stay gay the femine side of me strong and thing is I don`t have any interest in being a male.
your friend phillip [From Pastor John: Philip, you mail is bouncing. I hope you will return and read this reply: Hi Phillip, I'm Pastor John, Marsha's guest book manager. Marsha is ministering in Argentina right now, so I thought I'd respond. You are not alone and, as you obviously know, God loves you. Marsha ministers with many denominations and groups and is a long time member of the Universal Fellowship of Metropolitan Community Churches (UFMCC: which is the world's largest GLBT org). You might be interested in visiting their website: http://www.mccchurch.org Marsha's e-group is at: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/balmministries Marsha's Blog: http://blog.360.yahoo.com/balmmusic Marsha's website: http://www.balmministries.net/ I also manage two e-groups for GLBT Christians: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Gay_Christian_Prayer for prayer http://groups.yahoo.com/group/glbtchristians for friendly discussions If I can be of any help don't hesitate to write, May God richly bless and keep you, ~Pastor John] |
| Name: | Angel |
| Comments: | Marsha, it was so good to find your website. You make no mention of being an RN in here, but that is how I met you in 1990 or 1991 when you were working night shift at *** Hospital in ********. I had been admitted with pain and FUO. You calmed me down, got my IV started when no one else could since I was so dehydrated and prayed with me. I told you that what comforted me was "For Those Tears I Died" and you told me you had written and recorded it. What a God-incidence. The next night you brought me a couple of tapes, one with that song on. I played those over and over for the 2 weeks I was there while undergoing some ugly surgery and job loss in the process. You continued to come back each night you worked to visit and pray with me. I haven't forgotten that to this very day. I am entering that same hospital for bariatric surgery on */*/07. At least this time it is planned, unlike the last time. This time, I will be listening to one of your albums with "Tears" on it since I purchased an iPod to take with me since you won't be there this time. I will hold you and BALM in my prayers and when I get back to work, I will make a donation to your wondrous work! Praise God for you. Blessings, "Angel" |
| Name: | Christi |
| E-mail address: | christij31201@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | I saw you yesterday at Open Door, and your music and message were really meaningful to me. Sometimes I wonder what good I'm doing with my kids where I teach, if I'm doing any good, and many times I wish I could stop trying. Your song--the new one--really touched me. I sat there listening and understanding that I am reaching them. Even the times when I have had bad days or worse--they are able to see my love for them even when I feel broken. This is how God is using me, even if I don't always understand how or why. Your music helped fill a need in me yesterday. Thank you! |
| Name: | Mona |
| E-mail address: | MonaMe@centurytel.net |
| Comments: | Marsha, I saw you in concert today at my church, Open Door. I sat by you the first part of church and you shook my hand.I just wanted to say you touched my heart with your song and testimony.I was so excited to see a Lesbian Christian role model. Thanks for allowing God to use you to minister to others. God bless you and family. Mona |
| Name: | Doug |
| E-mail address: | douglasspohn@hotmail.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.thegetbackband.com |
| Comments: | Marsha -- wow, this is a mind blower for me! (but not really)
I remember you and COD from back in the early Calvary days 1970-1972. It was then that I and a batch of friends would drive 40 miles to Calvary several times a week to hear Chuck, Frisbee, your band and the other awesome bands there. My girlfriend at the time (my wife now) was a room mate of your sister at a Calvary camp. She even dated Jeff Smith for awhile. As I write this right now, a friend is attending the Calvary Big Tent reunion in Costa Mesa. Yesterday, he emailed me, saying that COD was singing. I told my wife last night this and she said "I don't think that's possible, Marsha is probably banned". Needless to say, this led to a discussion where she filled me in on you. So, today, I checked out your website, and here I am. So, why is this a mind blower for me? Cuz, it's such a blast from the frickin' past! And why isn't this a total mind blower for me? Cuz, I've been dealing with the gay lifestyle by proxy - through others - for the past 25 years. I attended a graduate school (CSULB) that had an emphasis in human sexuality, my brother came out in 1982 (died in 2006/alcoholism), I worked intimately with two Lesbians for 7 years and we became the best of friends (still are!), and I have lived in a very pro-Lesbian town, Olympia WA since 1987. I bring all this up to say that I probably view homosexuality differently than most, if not all, of my Christian friends - even my wife. To me, it's not a black and white issue... and I honestly don't know God's stand on it. It's not an issue for me. Not sure why, it just isn't. My personal experiences with my many good Lesbian friends doesn't allow me think any differently. In conclusion, let me say that your website brought a smile to my face ~ and some peace to my soul. Thanks Marsha, Doug |
| Name: | Debra Little |
| E-mail address: | alleycat9300@sbcglobal.net |
| Homepage URL: | http://dsl.sbc.yahoo.com/ |
| Comments: | Hey Marsha,
I am intrigued by your ministry and by the fact that you stand tall and proud for God, in spite of the opposition you receive as a Christian lesbian. I have been out for almost a year and a half now and am trying to find Christian music written by and for lesbians. It is music that speaks to my soul. Get's me where I live. Thank you for your inspiring faith and minestry. Deb |
| Name: | Kathy |
| E-mail address: | katoooshka@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Marsha, I am Sooo sorry to hear that the folk at CCCM are being such 'butts'. Makes me cry and want to slap somebody. This is terrible that they would have the audacity to sing your songs but leave you out! Yayyy Peggy! I'm so glad God put you on her heart. You are in my prayers, both for the finances, the comfort and I am praying for the day that Papa Chuck repents and begs you to sing. In the meantime, know how privileged we all feel that you sing for US!
Hugs, Kathy |
| Name: | Noel & Cassandra |
| E-mail address: | web2tones@juno.com |
| Comments: | I Marsha, you may not remember us both, you performed at out church Grace MCC(Paster Jill) any way,just writing to say hi. don't know when we will beable to go to a performence of your, you see Cassandra is still driving a truck. and I am on the road with her. WE are so happy for you that things are going so well, we will keep you and your partner in our prayers. love in Crist.
Noel and Cassandra |
| Name: | Amy |
| E-mail address: | amylscott@sbcglobal.net |
| Homepage URL: | http:// |
| Comments: | It is so inspiring to hear such a beautiful voice. I have not heard of you before running across this website. I will look to purchase a CD. I am a member of a very small affirming church in Indianapolis. We are growing so fast and we all come from a place where we were not welcomed to worship due to our sexuality. My partner is now in the process of becoming ordained and praying for God's will in our lives with her ministry. She has a fabulous voice and has not been using it much due to the shunning we have felt. Your courage is inspiring. If you would, I would like for you to add us to your links. WWW.rpifellowship.com and my church is www.indynewhope.com When I found this church and group of people I realized I had found "home". Thanks for your love for God and your music.
Amy |
| Name: | Abron Melchizedek |
| E-mail address: | abronmelchizedek@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | Hi, Marsha,Cindy
It is so good to be on-line agen. I got back on back on Pray Team. OUT AND IN CHRIST LOVE ONE LOVE ALL LOVE GOD Abron Melchizedek |
| Name: | ~A worker for Jesus~ |
| E-mail address: | One of God's Messengers |
| Homepage URL: | http://In Heaven helping God=) |
| Comments: | Hi, this is a wonderful and beautiful website.=) I am a little confused about what God says in Romans Chapter 1 Verses 24 through 32. Can someone here read it and tell me what God is saying in it? Does the message apply to all of us living today?
Is it ok to be gay or bi or does God want us to be straight? What does God's Word say? Also, if any of us are gay or bi, should we continue in this lifstyle or pray for God to deliver us from this sin and to help us? Does anyone think that God can deliver someone from being gay or bi? Does anyone know if God does this type of deliverance? I am a Christian and I came across this site. Alot of you are very knowledgeable in this area by reading your comments, so I thought that I would simply ask.=) Have a blessed day and I will bookmark this site. I will check back from time to time to see if my questions were answered.=) Sincerely, A worker for Jesus=) {From Pastor John: Hi, Romans 1 is not about homosexuality. I have an in depth study of these at http://allfaith.com/Grace/romans1.html If you have further question on this subject you can ask me via this website: http://www.allexperts.com/expert.cgi?m=1&catID=3233&expID=73320 or visit: http://allfaith.com/contact.html Let me know when you have read this and what you think. |
| Name: | Dave Rolph |
| E-mail address: | daverolph@calvarychapel.com |
| Comments: | Hi Marsha. I just stumbled on your website while looking for something else, but it reminded me of how much I miss you and love you. You will always be a special friend. God bless you. |
| Name: | Sue & Manley Birks |
| E-mail address: | sueb@nefcom.net |
| Comments: | Sorry we couldn't be with you at Sanitn Luke's MCC on Nov.26. I did get us to the Sunday service. Manley has Parkinson and dementia. Hard for me to get around with him with his walker.Every one so go to help me with him. I'm trying to get him in the N.H. in next few days. My health is not good either. He will be 80 and me 78 next month.
You all been in our prayers. We been married 58 years. Sue and Manley Birks |
| Name: | sussi |
| E-mail address: | sussjen@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Dear Marsha
I got to hear you in concert for the first time Dec 3, 2006 (last night) and I am still hearing your voice in my ear. I am so new to all of this Christian stuff :-), and had never cared to listen to Christian music before, but I must say your music sure did speak to me where I am right now. My partner and I, of 16 yrs joined First Coast MCC a year ago and we now own 3 Christian CD's and 2 of them are your music and the 3rd is "Songs of Praise from a strange land" and I can see they are going to be played alot. You are an awesome, beautiful inspiring woman truly God Blessed and you obviously have the support of an awesome warm heart beside you in your wife Cindy. Her story is,I'm sure , also inspiring all kinds of people and may you both be abundantly blessed with all you need and desire for yourselves and your ministry. I / we will continue to check your website, and hope to see you in concert again soon. Huge Hugs from Sussi & Mona |
| Name: | Geraldine M. Langford |
| E-mail address: | GatorGeri@aol.com |
| Comments: | Dear Ms. Stevens,
I got to hear your music tonight live and in person for the first time and unfortunately only one song...but, it was one on my very favorites, "O'Holy Night." Very sweetly done. I did purchase a couple of your CD's and I look forward to hearing your blessings again another day. God bless you and yours, Sincerely Geri Langford |
| Name: | Lonnie Crenshaw |
| E-mail address: | lcrenshaw@seedcomm.com |
| Comments: | Dear Marsha,
May god bless you and Cindy! I was saved in 1973 while in the Air force and within two months I bought “The Everlasting Living Jesus Music Concert”. I fell in love with your band "Children of the Day" and over the years bought every album as soon as it reached the bookstores. Thirty some years later I still have every one though I have not played them in years. Several of the songs you guys did, plays in my head fairly often even to this day. I googled each of the band members out of curiosity last week and found the “Marsha tears” story, and your site…. I was only a little shocked. Life is long and has many turns. As a conservative Christian, a heterosexual and at least a partial homophobe, I have viewed the liberal churches that allow gay clergy as a really bad sign of the times we live in. I have always automatically linked “Gay” and “Lesbian” with “porn” and the darker side of my own struggles as a Christian…. But I am confident that you are a Christian and a servant of the Most High God. And over the years you have reached out one hand to the Lord and with the other (Two Hands) you have brought many friends to Christ who are rejected by the conservative church. Marsha, I cannot say that I agree completely with all your claims but I am taking a closer look on account of you. The devil who hates every human on this planet is delighted to encourage the rejection and exclusion of a large segment of the population as morally condemned by God. The accuser of (those who would be) the brethren uses any means at his disposal to discourage those who might trust in the Blood of Christ. You can’t separate yourself from whom or what you are and yet you still find yourself in the love and acceptance of Jesus Christ. And you have refused to pretend at a very high cost. I went to the Maranantha Music site and was surprised to find not a single reference to you or the Children of the Day band. I was reminded of the 1956 movie “ The Ten Commandments” where, after Moses refused to renounce his bloodline as a Hebrew slave he was exiled and Pharaoh said “Stricken…… Stricken….. The name Moses will be stricken from every reference…the name Moses will never be uttered again…. Well if the Moses timeline fits here,… You have less than five years before you are Sent back to bring your people out.!! Marsha, I love you and though I have never sought out the gay community, I will certainly want to see you in concert if you are in the Winston-Salem North Carolina area. Please let me know. In Christ, Lonnie Crenshaw |
| Name: | Marguerite(Mac) |
| E-mail address: | mackat2@earthlink.net |
| Homepage URL: | http://praisegodpoetry.com |
| Comments: | I've been having computer problems the last couple of months. Hopefully, everything will be fixed, and I will be able to do my onw site better. I'll be in touch soon. |
| Name: | Eric Dale Eubanks |
| E-mail address: | ericeubanks@comcast.net |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.myspace.com/ur_lord |
| Comments: | Hi, Marsha.
We're acquainted somewhat; I'm the Evil Toady at The Rock MCC in Chattanooga -- the skinny guy who's pathologically protective of his pastor's printer. I've just recently returned from UFMCC regional conference in Ft. Lauderdale, and I'm suddenly aware of how wide your influence in so many of our lives truly is -- met Ms. Cozine and heard her sing beautifully, met wonderful people from your Florida home church, and had recently spent time on a couple of visits with Justin R. and Fred Francis... A lot of my younger friends I've met through theatre, etc. are straight kids, one of whom has come to Christ through knowing me [which is a humbling thing -- as I don't think I had much to do with it except being a loving friend]. Several of them have been moved by the music at The Rock, including the concert Justin and Fred gave. I've played music of yours for them as well, and tears flowed. They are not bothered in the least by my sexuality. Or Justin's or Fred's. Or yours. These are kids [20s - but in my 40s everybody under 30 is a kid! Is that normal?] from harsh backgrounds, cultures that should make them the most judgmental. But they see Christ in us, feel the Spirit in us and moving through us. And they have really wanted to let me know how the music of you and "your children" from UpBeat blesses them, and has helped them to understand NOT how gay people could be Christian -- that is not even relevant to them -- the music has ministered because it helps them to know and to feel Christ. I just wanted to tell you that. So much of the time any of us within MCC and other welcoming or affirming congregations and ministries seem to be always having to deliver a variation on "Bible and [Homo]sexuality 101". What is causing my heart to soar with these kids is that they are simply hungry for the love of Christ, and WE are the place where they're finding that. Your work has been instrumental in leading them on that path, Marsha. I've recently baffled myself by setting up a MySpace account, because some of my theatre friends were there, and to contact them -- well, I got tired of their saying "Oh, you can reach me on MySpace". Coming to this game rather late, I discovered the joy of blogging. I find the same dynamic here. Relative strangers, most of them straight, multicultural, men and women, have somehow begun to read my blogs -- informal sermons, really -- and this really wonderful and diverse group is being moved by them, growing from them. None of whom care that I'm openly gay. Marsha, we're part of a blessed generation, no matter what struggles have come in the last three or so decades -- no matter what struggles are to come. God is doing something mighty, and the walls are beginning to come down. Which is what I, and I suspect you too, have been praying for. I wanted to thank you for the inspiration you give, for the gifts you share and the gifts you nurture, and to let you know that you and UpBeat {and your family, etc.} are constantly in my prayers. With thanksgiving. With jubilant hope in Christ, ERIC DALE EUBANKS lay delegate*, The Rock MCC http://www.therockmcc.org My Blog URL http://blog.myspace.com/ur_lord [*Etc. -- Praise Team, occasional teacher,occasional preacher, choir, multimedia creation and running, etc.] |
| Name: | MJ Stephens |
| E-mail address: | mjstephens@numail.org |
| Comments: | Hey old friend! So glad to see you're still out there "belting 'em out!" You came to my mind during my prayers today and I thought I'd check out where you are these days. If you've ever through Atlanta give me a buzz and I'll take you and Cindy to dinner! |
| Name: | LYN |
| E-mail address: | BLYNW1255@YAHOO.COM |
| Name: | Gloria Daniel |
| E-mail address: | nolaglo69sbcglobal.net |
| Comments: | Isaw you in phoenix in oct of 05. now Iam in Ohio are you plaining any vists here?
{Note from Pastor John: Thanks for writing. I've just changed the heading of Marsha's DreamBook to include this information. Thanks for asking!) |
| Name: | Kevin Stokes |
| E-mail address: | 62sparky2001@earthlink.net |
| Comments: | Marsha, I'm so very glad you are still busy doing what you do best. You may not remember me, we met in Austin, Tx in 1994. You and Cindy spent some time with me and my roommate Lance Payne while you visited Austin for a concert at MCCA. I still fondly remember your bathtub concert :-) I have recently gotten back involved with MCCA and have found that they don't seem to remember you {they're loss- I assure you!) I am in the process of getting them familiar with your music (again). To be fair- pastor Ken Martin remembers you-but the congregation doesn't! How soon they forget! I want you to know that I will never forget what you did for me while you were in town.{you reminded me that God loves us All and that is all that matters} I just found your website {just got hooked up online last month} and didn't see a listing for your original cds. Is it still possible to get new versions of "The Best Is Yet To Come,& I Still Have A Dream" ? I want to share them with the choral staff and choir and can't part with my "signed" copies. I would also like to hear you sing "in person" if you could find your way to Austin,Texas again real soon! Also, have you heard anything from the HeartSong gang {any news would be great to hear} I'm happy that you two got "married" and the family pics were great to see. Happy Birthday -mine is coming up also (24th)and I plan on sharing your music with a friend from the choir on my b-day! Keep up the good work! I really enjoyed your response to Dollie-it was so very refreshing to read. Thanks again for all you do. Your friend in Christ. Kevin Stokes |
| Name: | Sandie Hendrix |
| E-mail address: | Sandiewithanie142@Yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Marsha, I just read All the entries in your last guestbook and I am encouraged by the many lives you have touched. I still start every New Year, whether alone or with a significant other, with your music. A few minutes before midnight I get prepared for my date with Jesus. At the stroke of midnight, by candle light, the music starts with Can't We Find a Way, then I share communion with Jesus to the Communion Song and end with You Will Find Me and end feeling encouraged to go through The Open Door. To me it's the greatest way to begin a new year. Maybe someone would like to try that, especially if they have no current partner. I know you have a birthday coming up in a couple weeks as do I so Happy Birthday a little early.Thank you for life giving words put to music. Sandie |
| Name: | Verlin Byers |
| E-mail address: | vvb1969@msn.com |
| Comments: | Marsha's music and ministry has special significance for me and has been instrumental in bringing healing in my life. I remember singing "For Those Tears I Died" with my siblings and parents in front of our church congregation when I was a child of 5 or 6. Shortly thereafter my parents and oldest brother died in a car accident. Marsha's song came back to me time and again as I dealt with and mourned their passing. Years later after coming our as a gay man I met Marsha at an Evangelicals Concerned conference. I was delighted to learn that the author of the song that brought tears to my eyes every time I heard it was a lesbian. Words cannot adequately describe the joy and blessing I continue to experience as I listen to and support Marsha's music ministry and maintain occasional correspondence with her. I thank God for Marsha, Cindy, and BALM. |
| Name: | Dollie Polston |
| E-mail address: | dolliepolston@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | I heard someone sing "For Those Tears I Died" last week for the first time. I thought it was a beautiful song. I decided to search the net to find the words to the song. I found your web site and my heart broke into a million pieces.
Then I started to look through your guestbook and saw how slanted the viewpoint was. And I just wanted to cry. The going opinion is that God made you that way and it is OK to be gay. I just can't understand where this opinion comes from. I have searched the scriptures over and over and cannot find one scripture where God says it's OK for a man to sleep with a man, or a woman to sleep with a woman. I have found 3 scriptures that directly says that God finds that kind of behavior to be an "abomination". Those scriptures are: Leviticus 18:22 Leviticus 20:13 and Romans 1:24-28. Please don't misunderstand me. I do not hate you. I do not even dislike you. But I can't say that what you are doing is right. I agree that no one should be thrown away. And everyone should be treated with love. That is exactly what Jesus did. He treated everyone the same with love. But he also told them the truth. When Jesus asked the disciples who he (Jesus) was, Peter jumped up and said, "thou art the messiah, the son of the living God". Then Jesus blessed him for his answer. Then a few moments later Jesus is telling the disciples of his forth-coming death. Peter rebukes Jesus for saying this and tells him it will never happen. Jesus says to Peter, "Get thee behind me, Satan. Thou art and offense unto me;" (Matthew 16:13-23) The point I am trying to make is that Jesus always told the truth, even when it hurt. Should I do any less? Please read the scriptures I mention above. As I have said, I do not know of any scriptures where God says that homosexual behavior is acceptable. But if you can show me where the bible says it is acceptable I will be glad to read it. Please email this information to me, I would be grateful. God's Loving and Faithful Servant, Dollie [For Marsha's reply to this e-mail, please visit http://www.allfaith.com/BALM/1.html Thanks and may God bless.] |
| Name: | kim boyd |
| E-mail address: | coolkim994@comcast.net |
| Comments: | OMG, i am so amazed that someone that loves God and Jesus, are a lesbian!!! so am i>>>>interesting story, briefly, was saved at 22, was married for almost 25 years, husband was having affairs(but he was a Christian also), raised my sons in a very fundamental Christian home, at 43 my husband left me...was a broken woman, have been alone for 10 years....but i have more liberty and freedom in my life than i ever did, since, i have become comfortable in who i am as a queer christian at the age of 52, have only been out for less than 2 years...would love to be on your mail and look forward to seeing you in the future...God bless you, like the woman at the well, cast the first stone jesus said....love you girls.....kim
[For Marsha's reply to this e-mail, please visit http://www.allfaith.com/BALM/1.html Thanks and may God bless.] |
| Name: | Geri Dore |
| E-mail address: | tiggerpooh@cogeco.ca |
| Comments: | Hi Marsha,
I don't know if you remember me but I was active in the MCC, Eglise de St. Esprit, in Lafayette, La. When Rev. Bev Stephenson was pastor. You came and did a show for us in freezing rain. You sang a song that will be sung at my wedding this fall, "Born for You". I have finally met someone who compliments me and loves me for me. Her name is Cathy Graham. We have 3 young children and we met in a chat room on pogo.com over three years ago. We are tieing the knot on September 9, 2006 on Lake Huron at 6pm in evening. I want to say thank you for the beautiful songs that you wrote and sang for all of us Christians. If you are ever in Canada, please look me up. I'm in Sarnia, On. listed under C. Graham. I would also like to buy some CD's. Please direct me. Thanks and God Blesses You Always, Geri |
| Name: | Julie A Gossett |
| E-mail address: | tappingdiva@insight.rr.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dolls_4me/?yguid=269666634 |
| Comments: | Marsha and cindy you are the best! :)I love your music !Its the only music I listen too! When Im down and sad I turn on your music and sing along and soon Im feeling better! Good luck in all you do! Love ya ! Julie Gossett MCC columbus Ohio:) |
| Name: | Lori Guin |
| E-mail address: | lkguin@msn.com |
| Comments: | Dear Marsha and Cindy,
I have been praying in regards to Brother Gather and company. I cannot imagine the hurt you must feel in all of this but please know this: 1. You are a leader in God's army and have blessed straight and gay people all over the world. 2. We all fall short of God's glory and that's why God has given us each other, to pick us up on the not so nice days. 3. God honors those who honor Him. Continue fighting the good fight of faith. I don't think you can possibly know what positive effects you have had and are having on God's people. 4. Bottom line is our job is to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit. Remember Jesus said, My peace I leave with you. I am a firm believer when things start running too smooth, I must not be doing something right. The Devil roams through the land using his people and some of God's people through deciet. I have come to peace with my being a lesbian a few years ago. I fought tooth and nail not to be a lesbian. I stayed drunk over 20 years. Then one night I just couldn't stand it anymore and I heard the Lord tell me "Who are you to think I have created you in error. I created you and I know you well. You are special and strong because you will face religious leaders who will say I hate you. God gave me the grace to be me and I have fought to get to this point in my life that no one is going to tell me I am not made in the likeness of God. I am so blessed to be in a group of people God knows will make a difference in this world. And that my friend, you have and will continue to do. So please do not get discouraged. Remember in the Wizard of Oz where the Tin Man says it's not how much you love but how much you are loved by others. Thanks for the inspiration. |
| Name: | Agu Maga |
| E-mail address: | agu@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | i dey hiaooooooooooooooooooooooooo |
| Name: | Sheri Anne |
| E-mail address: | TeaSetLady1956 |
| Comments: | Hi Marsha, I a product of Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa and Pastor Chuck. I went there in the 70's and 80's. I have been a born again christian since 1975. I also had a life changing operation in Thailand in 2001. I am a TS woman now. My late husband never knew what I used to be. He died in November of 2005. He said I was the best wife he ever had. I miss him so much. I had a brain tumor temoved two months ago and I have terminal cancer now. I know Jesus loves me but my up bringing and Chuck's teaching still haunts me. I ask you and everyone to pray for me and send encouragement to me. I just printed your song "For those Tears I Died". That song makes me weep. I am going to play it on my guitar forever. Anyone who reads this and has anything to say can E-mail me at anytime. I still believe strongly as I believed in the 70's. I fought this for years. I believe that Psalm 139 is mine from Him. I don't believe that God made a mistake when I was born no more as the baby born with a cleft pallet. You just perform the surgery needed to give the person a quality life. I just want to be normal!! Why can't I just be normal. I was just re-united with one of my sons from my past life. I can't please everyone. My father never wants to see me again. Sorry I just had to vent.
God bless you all, Sheri Anne Elgin-Sanderson |
| Name: | Mark drennen |
| E-mail address: | mdren760@yahoo.com |
| Name: | Rachel Cumberledge |
| E-mail address: | Marshafan_1@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | OH EMM GEE! I Hope You Remember Me Other Wise I will Feel Very Sad!
THats Me! Well I Went To Church This Morning And The Pianist Started Playing For Those Tears I Died And I Stood Up And Started Singing !!!!! I Am Awesomw ! HEck YESSSS! Rachel [Note, The website link has been removed due to content and the e-mail link is not valid.] |
| Name: | Dea |
| E-mail address: | attorneyrose@gmail.com |
| Comments: | Hi Marsha & Cindy,
Saw you two yesterday at 2nd Pres. (3/12) Your singing and testimony was beautiful, touching, inspiring . . . I can't even think of enough words to describe how uplifted I felt. Played your CD this morning going to work and felt sooo close to God through your songs. What a gift you're giving the world. All I can say is "thank you." |
| Name: | Devin Robinson |
| E-mail address: | info@sweetmusic.ca |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.sweetmusic.ca |
| Comments: | I came across your site while surfing the net. I am very impressed. I have just started walking in this ministry myself and find it very rewarding. If you can please come and visit me @ www.sweetmusic.ca and hear what God is doing in Atlantic Canada.
Thank you Devin |
| Name: | serg |
| E-mail address: | culiga@yandex.ru |
| Comments: | hello |
| Name: | Dick Forsythe |
| E-mail address: | Dickiluv@msn.com |
| Comments: | Marsha and I have known one another for several years and it is always a joy to be in attendance at one of her concerts. We in Long Beach love you, Marsha. Keep up the good work and continue to be blessed. I love you.
Dick |
| Name: | Mary Martinez |
| E-mail address: | powerofgodsluv@yahoo.com |
| Name: | Miriam Stallfort |
| E-mail address: | care@holycrossmcc.com |
| Comments: | Ms Marsha;
Do you put your CD's in church gift shops? We would like to carry your tapes. Thank you, Miriam F Stallfort, Care Minister, Holy Cross MCC, Pensacola, Fl |
| Name: | Mary Beth Holewinski |
| E-mail address: | ForeverYoungMBH@aol.com |
| Comments: | Rev Julia Seward is leaving St.Luke'sMCC and she is a great fan of yours I know it is the last minute if you did not have nothing booked for Sunday,,,Tomorrow,,,,,I know it the last minute it..If you are busy I understand we just found out the other day she way leaving the church. Then I remember How much she really love having you to our church, and I want bring you back before she left. So she could enjoy you one more time befor she left the church.Thank You 904-803-1832 |