gospelmagic4u

Rocky Raccoon

2012-01-04T06:34:00.000-08:00

He has been one of my best buys . . . ever! I first bought Rocky Raccoon over 20 years ago and I am now on Rocky V (yes they do wear out!). Surprisingly though Rocky has not made an appearance at St Andrew's Church since we moved to Abu Dhabi in 2010. (he was seen though on the beach at Fairmont Hotel and has made special appearances at the British Al Khubairat School)

Our Christmas morning service was packed - there was an overflow crowd out in the lobby and the balcony was full. I introduced my wrapped gift and after a momentt of suspense unwrapped it and out popped the Raccoon - cue my usual routine of attacking kids, eating and drinking, being hynotised etc Then once I had the full attention of the congregation (many who are not regualr churchgoers) I explained how Rocky only came to life when he was in my hands. I went onto explain that the gift the baby Jesus brings is life in God. That when we walk with Him and trust in Him and follow His ways that is when we become most fully alive.

There was a real buzz as the congregation moved out and I pray that the seed will have been planted in many a heart . . . all thanks to a furry puppet. Now that is Gospel magic at it's best.

Who is Gospel Magic for?

2011-10-01T11:42:00.000-07:00

All over the world the Church is growing. The greatest need in virtually every church worldwide is for creative teaching to children, youth and young adults. Especially to those who are new to the faith or whom have little contact with the Church.

How to do Gospel Magic is an ebok made not for magicians or 'experts' but written specifically for the thousands of hard pressed teachers who are wondering what they are going to do this weekend in Church for the young people.

Each magic trick is easy, simple, with a great Biblical message and most importantly the young people will learn and remember vital Gospel truths.

So for pastors, priests, youthworkers, Sunday School teachers and anyone involved in evangelism in a post modern society, I invite you to check out my e book on How to do Gospel Magic which you can find at www.gospelemagic.com

Teach the faith in a memorable and inforgettable way.

'Nuff said!

Blessings from the Arabian Gulf.

Linking Rings and the Gospel

2011-08-11T02:17:00.000-07:00

Of all the Linking Rings the Newman set are my favourite. They are flat, handle easily, burnish to a bright and ttractive bronze finish and the key ring is virtually impossible to detect.
I use my Rings in one of three ways.
1) To introduce the subject of illusion. The idea that not everything is as it seems. For example Jesus has been decribed as a greta moral teacher or prophet . . . but he is so much more than that. He seems like a normal human being . . . but there is a secret.
2) With a set of three rings it of course is a great visual aid for the Trinity. The Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit are co-equal, co-eternal and of the same substance.
3) The need for unity between Christians and Churches. Even more so when they are livingin in Islamic countries.

How do you use your Linking Rings?

ribbon and glass penetration

2011-07-23T05:04:00.000-07:00

One of the most baffling and visual effects I use in my shows is the beautiful ribbon penetration through glass. I think I bought mine years ago from International Magic Studios and its trade name was 'Fanplastic'. It always gets a stunned reaction and the patter is powerful. In a non religious context I use this to talk about Harry Houdini who could escape from anything. The sheet of glass is then woven into the frame and it really does look convincing. This is one prop which silences the hecklers and in 20 years of performing I have only had one guy come close to guessing how it works.

The themes of escape, liberation and freedom are of course all very Biblical ones. In the Old Testament it ranges from the people of Israel escaping from Egypt through to the New Testament message of finding freedom from sin in Christ.

I think you can still get this from International Magic Studio or the last I saw it was on the Penguin Magic. com site.

I like this because it is simple to perform, extremely visual (kids and adults are stunned alike), devastatingly fooling and lends itself to a message with a punch.

Check it out

instant gospel magic

2011-06-03T05:50:00.000-07:00

All you need is a coin. Then you are set for performing a gospel magic trick wherever you are and at any time.

You need to know how to do the french drop, which is one of the smoothest ways to make a coin disappear from your hand. You can learn this by googling a video on how to perform the French Drop. (It's amazing what is out there!)

If someone asks me why I am a Christian - or more often - what do I believe. This is what I do.

I take a coin and explain to them that I follow the teachings of Christ. He taught his followers through word and deed that we are called to love God and our neighbours and that through a relationship with Jesus we can know God as our heavenly Father. This is possible because Scripture tells us that Jesus was put to death and his body was placed in a dark tomb. (Place coin in your fingers and perform French Drop). This would have been the end of the Christian story - except for one thing. Gesture towardsyour (empty) hand. When the disciples went to the dark tomb on the third day to get it ready for a proper burial - they found the tomb - empty!! (Open hand to show that the coin has disappeared).

Scripture tells us that on the third day Christ was raised from the dead - although many theories have been posited about how the tomb came to be empty. Themost convincing one still remains the Biblical one. The resurrection of Jesus.

Why do I believe in Jesus today? (reach to your chest with your loaded hand) - it's because Jesus is alive today and I know him - in my heart (produce coin from your 'heart' area of the chest at your finger tips).

This can then open up the discussion on what theories do people believe about the empty tomb and what difference does resurrection make for Christians.

Enjoy.

new purchase

2010-07-30T05:02:00.000-07:00

John Archer is one of the Britian's busiest comedy mentalists and magician.

He has produced a dvd set called Educating Archer which gives a sample of his style. In the first dvd we see him in action and the second dvd presents the workings and secrets of his routine.

My favourite is his routine called Collard. The inspiration for this trick comes from Al Koran's "Medallion". Archer's adaptation of this classic effect involves the presentation of a large stuffed toy (or puppet) which has a collar and name tag around it. The audience are invited to help name the toy and they call out letters and vowels which are duly recorded onto a name certificate.

The conclusion of the routine is that the name on the collar tag hanging around the toy's neck in full view all the time matches the name which the audience has just constructed. Great routine with audience participation and a baffling ending. It also has for me a great Gospel allegory in which we are reminded that God has engraved our names on his palm. I am looking forward to trying this in a church service in the near future.

Escapology and Easter

2010-04-07T10:23:00.000-07:00

On Easter Sunday I whipped out my trusty handcuffs which are sold by Magic Dealers under the name 'Electronic Release'. These are by far the best and most convincing restraints in the business. Yet you are in and out of them within a flash. Even when people can see you escaping they are still baffled as to how you get out because it so fast.

This year I shared the story of a boy in Sunday School class who told the group proudly what Jesus said when he resurrected from the dead. He said "Ta Daa!"

I loved that story and invited the congregation to have a "Ta Da" moment with the resurrected Christ in their lives.

The handcuffs were used to tell the story of how even death can hold Jesus down and that even though he experienced all the worse things that life could throw at him - prejudice, loss, grief, injustice, pain. humiliation, torture and death - Jesus overcame. Death could not hold him (escape from handcuffs) and he gives everyone of us the hope and knowledge that we too can overcome whatever life throws at us.

I love the verse which says that the Spirit who raised Christ from the dead is the same Spirit who lives in us who believe in him. We need to have that Ta Da encounter with the Risen Lord to experience the reality and joy of his presence in us.

The choir who were sat behind me and could see the whole escape are still trying to figure out how I escaped so fast.

Happy Easter!

Magical Sunday School teacher!

2009-12-12T10:25:00.000-08:00

Here's an email I received from a creative Sunday School teacher who is not a magician but wanted to recreate the magic of Mose's travels through the desert. With no training in magical knowledge she did a great job in imagineering how to bring about some special effects.

Hi Andrew

You inspired me for life!

For kid's klub we did the travel through the desert this afternoon.

To split the sea doesn't require so much skill...next bitter water was fun...(I did a false ceiling (cling wrap) in a rubbermaid plastic jug...filled it with bicarbonade of soda water that I served all the kids ...since we had to add a stick - I added a chop stick that poked a whole & whalla FRESH water!!!)

For manna I did some wafers on a ceiling fan...they even tasted like honey...after I scrapped of the icing... I had someone to switch the plug on...

I hid the hose pipe with an special nozzle in the garden. When I hit it with a stick my helper turned the tap full force - it squirted like 4- 6 m far. I had such a surprised crowd...one was even in tears...the other complained about getting wet - it was so much fun.

All this in order to say to the children that we have an awesome, great, mighty, powerful majestic GOD!!!

PS. Did you ever try cling wrap over an toilet?

2009-09-15T05:59:00.000-07:00

A while ago I received comments that there was nothing in my ebook for pre school children. The truth is I wonder how much Gospel Magic can be used with kids younger than 4 years old. I am determined though to offer some rersources for those who do work with this age group.

Please click below to learn how you can move beyond a glorified baby sitting service to pre-school kids into ministry. All good stuff. it's not magic - it's ministry!

Click Here!

Blessings

Roman Catholic Magic

2009-09-15T05:39:00.000-07:00

Did you know that the label of Gospel Magic and Gospel Magician was first coined back a Roman Catholic priest back in the nineteenth century. St Don Bosco was a Salesian minister who noticed that the Church could not compete with fairs and enterainments. So he pioneered the use of preaching the Christian message using the techniques of fairgound performers. Today he is remembered as the patron saint of Catholic Gospel magicians.

I also discovered that there is an alternative society to the Fellowship of Christian Magicians called the Catholic Magicians Guild. Some had tried to join the FCM but found the theology of FCM too Calvinist!!! Some famous Catholic magicians include Mark Wilson and an American Catholic bishop.

I am learning a lot from the above book. Some of the stuff is very good Biblical teaching and others tend to foucs on stuff more distinctively Catholic. (For example he uses a Card Castle to illustrate the heirarchy of the church with the Pope at the top, though he is careful to top the Pope with the cross to show that Christ is the head of the church).

In short there is little which would be different from what Protestant Gospel magicians would share. Scripture abounds and the whole focus on the book is teaching people the Christian faith.

As an evangelical protestant I am tempted to focus on the things that divide - like the infallibility of the pope (I have yet to meet a Catholic who really belives that), the focus on Mary, the sale of indulgences, the role of the saints and birth control!

This book reminds me of how much there is in common. The focus is on a Trinity who revealed grace and mercy through the cross of Jesus. The structure of the book is on the Catechism of the Catholic church - but a lot of useful tricks and messages that will work in any denomination. I found a generous ecumenical spirit in the book which was gracious and Christlike and I appreciated that very much.

As it is the very first book on Gospel Magic for Catholics it is extremely well done. The description of each trick is clear, illustrations are aplenty, and the message is backed up by Scripture. It is a product to be proud of. I am glad to have it in my library and look forward to using the ideas in it as part of my ministry.

I only wonder which aspect of Calvinism he found in the FCM?

Steve Fearson

2009-09-13T06:05:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you but I am very impatient when it comes to buying things. When I have an idea in my head I want to go and learn about it right away. The internet is a boon in this regard. When it comes to learning about magic and illusion the possibilities are endless.

One of my favourite sites is Download Magic. The reasons why I like this site is that the material is original, simple and applicable to my work as a minister. Steve Fearson is a great teacher and is very funny. I have bought his instant levitation illusion for instance, in which people see you step inside a box and see your feet rise off the ground with no apparent means of support. He tells you how to make his props and his products always leave a smile on my face.

In his writings he mentions his thankfulness to God and his involvement with his church. He comes across as a confident and successful man. He is certainly very creative.

So if you want instant access to novel magic his website is as below:

Click Here!

Some of the best known magicians in the business use his material. All his products are instantly downloadable. Another reason why I enjoy investing in magic from him. No waiting . . . aaaah!

Predicting the future

2009-09-13T05:43:00.000-07:00

Derren Brown has caught the public imagination with his stunt of prediciting the national Lottery numbers in live time. The internet is buzzing with questions on how he did it with several answers being provided.

It begs the question though - Should Gospel magicians or preachers use prediction type tricks to share the Christian message. Some Christians feel that mind reading and the like is beyond the pale and should not be used at all. I disagree.

I use mentalism and prediction tricks all the time. My message at then is usually a confession that I really can't predict the future . . . but I do know someone who has the future in his hands - Jesus Christ. Sometimes that leads to a Biblical message about the amazing fulfillment of prohecies in the Bible.

So where can we go to learn some of these tricks? Of course you can find one or two Gospel magic mind reading tricks at http://www.gospelemagic.com/ but if you really want to get into Mentalism magic at a deeper level then checkout the following website on How to be a Master Mentalist:

Click Here!

Have fun

Learning magic the easy way

2009-09-12T05:44:00.000-07:00

:ots of people usually ask me for a good reference book which they can use on line or simply to download instantly new ideas for tricks. There is just so much good stuff out there to help you get going in magic as a hobby.

Below is a website that will give you a good start. Check it out.

Click Here!

Have fun. As the Fellowship of Christian Magicians would say "Keep the secret - Share the Word"

Gospel Magic in India

2009-09-05T12:09:00.000-07:00

India is an amazing country. Have just spent all of August there and although I did not see any magicians I must have passed literally hundreds of churches as we drove around Kerala. Christians of every denomination rub shoulders along with Muslims and Hindus in one of the visibly religious countries I have ever been in.

St Thomas bought Christianity to Kerala and consequently India can boast to be home to one of the most ancient churches in the world. Awesome!

St Thomas went onto preach throughout the region eventually experiencing martyrdom in Tamil Nadu. It is still tough for Indian Christians today. I met a pastor who reported how his colleague was brutally beaten in front of his family. This happened last month. Yet the Gospel continues to be lived and shared in this most challeging of environments.

To the Indian pastors and ministers out there. God Bless you. Keep preaching and sharing the Living Word . . . Jesus Christ.

Indian Magic

2009-07-28T08:35:00.000-07:00

Off to India next week for a month. On one of my earlier visits I watched an amazing magician on the streets. He did the best cups and balls routine I ever saw. He used a finely turned wand to push the cups over to reveal the balls and his misdirection was sooooo slick and professional. Ireckened this professional magician must have been about seven or eight years old. He had the lisp and the gap between his front teeth. Later I watched this urchin boy ply his trade of magic on others in a park. If he does this for eight hours a day . . . no wonder he's so good.

Magic is very popular in India and goes down a treat in the churches there too. I remember standing on a village wall doing a Rocky Raccoon routine and the whole village came to watch. Have magic wand will travel sounds like a nice motto to me!

M Joan Willis Gospel Visual Aids for Pre-Schoolers

2009-07-11T12:10:00.000-07:00

From time to time I get feedback on the Gospel e Magic Book and sometimes it is not always praise. This is good. I welcome input from those who are thoughtful and want to input ideas that will help others. The main criticism from M Joan is that my book had nothing for children of pre-school age. I must confess I have very little experience of communicating or teaching with this age group. I invited M Joan to make a contribution to the blog and here it is.

M Joan Willis writes the following:

With regards to some of the applications for your trick, the one that comes to mind is the one using the Professor's Nightmare (3 ropes of 3 different sizes). You call it the 3-rope gospel trick. What I do is talk about the love of God and how he loves us all the same and then make the ropes all even. This is quite effective.Think your book has excellent graphics and is extremely well-done. Congratulations.

One 'trick' I particularly like is using three ropes of different colours- about 12" in size each. One end of each rope is a different colour. i.e. green with yellow tip, red with green tip, yellow with red tip. You hold this three ropes in your hand so that for all intensive purposes you have three ropes of three colours. You get the children to form a circle. Talk about God's love. Does he love all the children the same. What about children from Africa? China? Native children, etc. Then you tie the ropes together - using the yellow tip to join with the yellow end, the green tip with the green end and the red tip with the red end. You now have 3 circles which look to the audience that you have a circle of green, red and yellow. You can get the children to choose which circle they want for the children say of other countries. When you have finished chatting with the children you suddenly toss the three circle up in the air and lo and behold you have one big circle (if you do it right!) and you tell them that God loves all the children of the world regardless of where they come from or what colour they are. - this is just a hasty description that I have originated from the set of ropes which are easily obtainable at the magic store, very reasonable and it's very effective.Another thing that I like to do - although not really magic - is to chat with the children and ask them if they have ever made a snowflake (I am sure you did when you were a kid). You show them a square of paper and then fold it to make your snow flake. I fold my paper in half and then in quarters and then once again to form a triangle. At the very centre of the triangel I cut a little hole. If you were to unfold the paper you would see 8 small holes near the very centre. On the fold which is a triangle, I draw an anchor and then cut round it. (I have this done before the presentation but don't show the drawing). When it's unfolded it becomes a lovely snowflake - but don't stop here. You cut out each section of the snowfalke and you have an anchor. On the anchor I print the word 'Jesus' on the stem and at the bottom "God" and give each child one to take home. Explaining that Jesus/God is the anchor for life. This is a very hurried description. Usually I chat about anchors - relating to ships. Actually I probably will use this story tomorrow because being summer we see more boats and often they get anchored for fishing.

Thank you for sharing this M Joan and I wish God's Blessing on your ministry to the children.

tarbell's magic course and gospel magic

2009-07-02T08:56:00.000-07:00

The absolute 'Bible' for magicians is the 8 volume set of the Tarbell Course. While it is dated (especially in the suggested patter), the truth is that there is nothing out there to compare with the comprehensive overview of virtually the entire field of magic and performing. It covers everything from the classics such as the Linking Rings or Egg Bag, through to Children's routines, through to tricks with cards, rope, coins and mentalism - not to mention large scale illusions.

It follows then that if many magicians have cut their teeth on learning the Tarbell course then a Gospel magic book using the same tricks is in order. This has in fact happened (and some time ago). So far the authors have produced a Volume one and two. Come on guys - not far to go now - only six more volumes.

The Spiritual Applications do not give you the secrets of the tricks (you need to have the original Tarbell books for that) - but they do creatively suggest messages which lend themselves to the tricks. Or is that the other way round - tricks that lend themselves to the message? Either way, these contributions to Gospel Magic should be on the shelf of anyone who is really into sharing their faith through illusion.

As the Fellowship of Christian Magicians would say - "Share the Faith! - Keep the Secret!"

Roman Catholics get into Gospel Magic

2009-06-25T09:30:00.000-07:00

I guess you can't keep a good idea to yourself. The latest Gospel Magic book hot off the press is for priests and ministers in the Roman Catholic church. Designed to help young people learn the catechism, there are eighty visual lessons using Gospel magic tricks.

Rather cheekily it claims to be the first Gospel Magic book in print. This is blatantly not true. The works of Duane Laflin, David Ginn, Henry Smith, Keith Wills and one Andrew Thompson all preceded this work. What I am willing to concede is that this is probably a first for the Roman Catholic Church. I have ordered a copy and will write a review when I complete reading it.

In the meantime keep sharing and keep entertaining. I send greetings to the Magician's Apprentice who is currently visiting Cambodia. Hope the kids there get the message and the magic!

Theology and the Gospel Magician

2009-06-15T00:06:00.000-07:00

Theology matters. Good Biblical teaching should be at the core of every Gospel magic performance and this can be easily overlooked by the novelty of medium.

So where do we begin? The Gospel magician should at the very least begin with their own Biblical knowledge. Do you read scripture regularly for yourself? To help you do this there are literally thousands of Bible Reading aids out there ranging from 'Read through the Bible in one year Bible Editions', through to devotional guides such as 'Every Day with Jesus'. Then there are those things specific to our own denomination. I am an Anglican so I use the daily lectionary as my starting point for reading scripture regulalrly and I preach from it every week. Whatever we use - the point is to read scripture regulalrly.

Secondly there are thousands of Christian books which offer commentaries on scripture or highlight themes in scripture. Some of my favourite authors include Philip Yancey, John Stott, John Ortberg, William Barclay, and Rowan Williams.

Thirdly, read Christian journals and magazines for Biblical teaching, knowledge and insight into Christian issues which will relate to your Gospel magic. Christianity Today is a fantastic online resource with many articles which engage with theological issues. Others I read include http://www.churchtimes.co.uk/ which is the Church of England newspaper, and newfrontiers magazine. Again the point is that there are zillions of resources out there to give us a better informed faith. The Gospel Magician should be growing by reading, reading and reading.

A real challenge would be to do some proper study, either through an online course or through a seminary or Bible school. As Gospel magicians we should do everything to make sure that we are informed and accurates in our presentation of the Christian message.

Finally there is the in house publication of the Fellowship of Christian Magicians which include 'Voila' (FCM Europe) and the 'Christian Conjurer' which include well thought our presentations combining Bible teachings and Gospel Magic illusions.

Go for it and get reading.

Teach about the Trinity -- amazing rope trick

2009-06-08T10:19:00.001-07:00

We have just celebrated Trinity Sunday. For all you pastors, priests, ministers and Sunday School teachers out there - the Gospel magician has a definite advantage to teaching about the subject of Trinity in an easy and visual way : )

If you can't beat 'em - join em!

CANDLE TO SILK GOSPEL MAGIC TRICK LESSON

2009-06-08T10:15:00.001-07:00

Nice!!! Simple and Visual magic.

Finding your Voice

2009-04-07T11:53:00.000-07:00

There are a lot of parallels between preaching and performing. We all know instinctively who we listen to with great interest and those who will bore us to death within seconds. I have news for you. . . . it has nothing to do with what you do or say but has everything to do with how you do and communicate. In other words it's your personality that makes the difference.

The biggest killer is that people try to imitate their favourite preacher or magicians and it simply falls flat. God made you you! And that is worth celebrating. You are unique, there is no one else like you and when you stand up and communicate with a crowd people are gonna' connect with you as a person first and foremost. Your magic might be world class but if you are trying to be a cheap copy (or even expensive copy) of someone else then quite simply you are not being you and people will know. I have seen some technically brilliant people both in the magic world and in the pulpit who have all the right moves and the right spiel but they fall flat. Why? Because they don't sound authentic. They are not being true to themselves and believe me we can tell.

One of the most important lessons I ever learned in preaching and in ministry is that God speaks through our personality. The quote I remember is truth through personality. Of course your doctrine and message matters but that easily be squandered by being fake. If you are a serious, straight kind of person - then be serious and straight in your public communication (look at Obama - he is who he is).

If you are funny and quirky - be funny and quirky. It simply does not work for a serious guy(or gal) to be funny when they are not. It's not how God uses us.

In short you need to know yourself and find your voice (as Geoffrey Durham puts it).

Happy preaching and magicing!!

Picto Transpo

2009-01-04T10:59:00.000-08:00

This is a fantastic trick and routine devised by Gene Anderson. Check out his website at www.geneanderson.com. For me the key theme of this trick is substitution or a transposition which is of course one of the main themes of the cross of Christ.

Check it out. Although it is expensive you can get it made if you follow the directions from his excellent Semi Pro lecture notes.

Picto Transpo

EFFECT: The performer draws a humorous caricature of a spectator and the spectator draws one of the performer. Each signs his/her name on the back of the picture frames and they are openly placed into envelopes held by the artists. To make it clear that nothing has happened (yet), the performer removes his frame from his envelope and shows both his drawing and his signature. He replaces his frame in the envelope, and with a magic word the pictures change places. He immediately withdraws her drawing from his envelope, while she withdraws his from hers. The routine is entertaining throughout and baffling at the finish. Click here for reviews and testimonials.The drawings can be individualized and are easily adapted for holidays or special events. I find it's a particularly nice effect for a male performer to use involving a female spectator: it's novel, non-threatening, funny and ends with strong magic. In my show it is always in second position and the first time I involve somebody from the audience. The reason is it establishes how I treat guests on stage: with dignity and respect. That doesn't mean we don't have fun together, but not at their expense. The routine is both fun and a fooler, and it subtly establishes the norms of conduct for both my audience assistants and me.THE PROPS look like normal articles - not special magic apparatus - and something you could probably buy at any office supply store. In reality this is an updated slate effect, and my original version used posterboard in picture frames. I performed the posterboard version for almost 30 years. Many magicians who saw me lecture or perform inquired about using dry erase whiteboards, but dry erase materials have technical and performance limitations. with white board cleaner. The result is a much superior product.

Christian Magician's Society

2008-11-13T01:58:00.000-08:00

Fellowship of Christian Magicians

There is a well established worldwide orgainisation called Fellowship of Christian Magicians. They are committed to promoting th Christian message through the use of performing arts. I first heard about this group in the UK when a Church Army evangelist called Captain Tony Maidment first introduced me to the concept of using magic as a tool for sharing the Gospel. They have annual conferences, a magazine and are a genuinely fun group of people to hang out with and learn new things. Past presidents include Henry Smith, Paul Morley and the much missed late Pete McCahon.

You can find more free Christian Resources at their website. www.fcmuk.org/freebies.htm
These range from free gospel magic downloads to advice on prop maintenance.The USA is home to the orignal Fellowship of Christian Magicians and they are huge. They have several chapters around the country and hold regional conferences.

One of my favourite magicians to watch is Duanne Laflin who is a true professional. Along with his wife he presents stunning and colurful magic. He has a passion for sharing Christ and his collection of books take pride of place on my shelf.

If you are looking to grown and learn in your hobby of using magic tricks to share your faith. Then this society is a great place to start and continue.Blessings

Geoffrey Durham and the Art of Preaching

2008-07-31T06:17:00.000-07:00

I recently visited the Wolverhampton Circle of Magicians. The guest speaker that evening was Geoffrey Durham. He is a highly successful British magician whose career has spanned several decades in television and theatre. He was a compelling speaker and addressed the issue of how to communicate with an audience. Along the way he illustrated his talk with the multiplying Martini Bottles, an excellent rope routine, the biggest hydrostatic glass trick I have ever seen (he had it custom made by finding a glass blower - now that's a sign of a real professional!)

He also presented and explained his Himber ring routine which is fantastic. The thought and attention to detail was a real lesson in planning and care. All these effects though were to illustrate his Seven keys (or principles) to presenting an effective magic show. His emphasis throughout was that it is the personality of the performer which is paramount not the trick which is performed.

As Geoffrey Durham continued to expound his seven principles it really struck me that his principles would equally be effective in improving the communication of preachers. Someone once said that preaching is communicating the Word of God through personality. While I would not steal his talk point by point (You can get his excellent book Professional Secrets for a more detailed discussion of his ideas), I think it is worth exploring some of his ideas in the context of improving the preaching of sermons. As Geoffrey Durham used magic tricks to highlight his principles so I will use Gospel magic tricks for the same purpose. This will be the subject of my next seven blogs. So watch this space.

Derren Brown and Gospel Magic

2008-07-06T04:21:00.000-07:00

One ministry I think Christian magicians have is to be a witness to other magicians.

Unfortunately we often give a bad witness when we do give poor quality performances. However we do move in the same circles as other magicians and this is a fantastic privilege. When I worked with other professional magicians in Dubai I met some amazingly talented people. They came from all over the world and it was an awesome privilege to work alongside alongside with entertainers from India, Argentine, Chile, Pakistan and Iran!

Almost inevitable the subject of religion comes up when we are 'resting' between shows and it has proved a reminder to me that although I am dealing with some of the most cynical people in the world when it comes to believing in miracles - these magicians share the same desire as I do in trying to make sense of the world we live in.

Recently I read Derren Brown's book "Tricks of the Mind". It is an excellent read but troubling for me as Derren ( a famous and successful television magician and mentalist) makes no secret of his sceptism of all things religious. Derren is an incredible performer. His television programmes blow the mind and he is very, very good at what he does. As an entertainer his style is compelling, convincing and sometimes outrageous.

In his book, he describes how he converted from Evangelical Christianity to scientific atheism and goes on to express his pity for those who believe in the Biblical accounts of Jesus. His encounters with various Christians and churches are described and it made me cringe - and sadly I can understand his aversion to some forms of religion.

It's not just Christianity he pans though, at the end of the book he aggressively denounces the whole Spiritist movement and exposes the guillible victims of seances and charlatans who seek to contact the dead.

Derren was clearly influenced by the work of Richard Dawkins and refers to him throughout. Dawkins is an unrelenting Biological Determinist from Oxford University who sees the concept of God as a rather sad means to enable humans to justify their existence and make sense of the world. Derren constantly approves of science as the only measuring stick for truth.

My response to his book as a Christian reader is this:

"Derren I am sorry for the graceless way in which some Christians have treated you and for the experience of manipulation you so clearly described in some church services.

But science as the only measure of truth is a seriously limited way of understanding and living life. The whole premise of science is that it seeks to observes visible data and discover the principles which govern our universe. (If our universe is just a random accident - where did these universal scientific principles come from I wonder?) There are some things which science can never measure. For example; it cannot measure my love for my wife and children. The scientific method cannot prove if yesterday ever happened! God cannot be put in a test tube.

Scientific evidence for me builds a convincing case for the existence of a personal creator God and it is interesting to see more and more the number of sceptic scientists coming to that conclusion. A great book to read Derren would be The Case for a Creator by the journalist Lee Strobel. "

As for Gospel magic - it is simply a visual aid for me to teach those who have grown up in a visual culture the astouding reality that 'Truth' is a person - Jesus Christ.

God Bless you Derren Brown.

Penn And Teller Cups And Balls

2008-06-11T05:42:00.001-07:00

Every magician needs to learn at least one routine with the cups and balls. Penn and Teller do a master class in this. Even when they explain the routine it is so effective you still end up being fooled! Not Gospel Magic - but these guys are original and show the level of skill which we should all aspire to in the magic world. Enjoy!

Kids Thought: Where's Jesus

2008-06-11T05:25:00.001-07:00

More Terry Owen magic using silks. Simple, visual and memorable.

If you cannot be heard . . .

2008-05-27T11:45:00.001-07:00

I was in Doha recently and was asked to do some magical entertainment for a society ball in the evening. It was in a top flight hotel - really posh. A huge banquet hall was used and over 300 guests in all their finery were sat around the room around 30+ tables.

My first problem was that the stage was in the middle of the room surrounded on all sides by the audience. It felt a little bit like being in a boxing ring . . .

I went dizzy turning around to make sure the audience on all sides could see what I was doing at any one time.

Worse though was that the organisers of the event having splashed out huge money on the entertainers stinted by not getting a decent sound system.

It was terrible. Nothing could be heard. The MC squawked helplessly, the guest ambassador's speech was completely ignored and it killed my act stone dead. The sound engineer was either incapable of fixing the system or simply did not care. So for twenty agonising minutes I was exposed to a room full of people who could not understand a word I said. Although the magic was visual and people who were interested could understand the effects, it simply was not enough. There was no connection with the audience on an emotional level.

If you cannot be heard . . . you might as well not say anything.

The light show dancer who followed my act had it even worse. The sound engineer refused to play her music (which she had rehearsed to for over a month) and played music which had no rhythm or beat. She was so upset afterwards she nearly cried. Our entertainment agent was furious.

Ahhhhh! . . . Life in the real world outside church eh! . Come back my beloved congregation . . . all is forgiven!

The only redeeming feature of the night for me was the requirement to do table hopping magic - and with thirty plus tables I had my work cut out for me. It did assuage my guilt that I was earning the fat fee I was getting paid. At least at the table I got to talk with the people, and there was a connection and the magic was appreciated.

The moral of the story - invest in a decent sound system. If you have something worth saying - make sure you are heard.

It especially seem to me that churches stint on the pa systems too and this is a tragedy. We have something worth sharing.

Keeping the main thing the main thing!

2008-05-17T10:06:00.000-07:00

There is a temptation when you are preaching to be struck by a brilliant visual aid or a story which you know will grip the congregation's attention and then you try to fit a Bible message around it.

Instead of presenting a message from Scripture, the congregation gets a story or an illustration with Scripture bolted on to justify its use. That temptation is especially there when we use exciting visual aids like optical illusions or tricks.

To avoid that temptation we must first prepare our message from the Bible and then look to illustrations that can serve the purpose of illustrating the message. Never choose a trick first and then decide what message will go with it.

If you want see what that looks like then I refer you to http://www.gospelemagic.com/. The download-able ebook on How to Do Gospel Magic gives you ten Biblical messages which are illustrated with the tricks.

Enjoy

Entertaining the Guides and Brownies

2008-05-15T09:58:00.000-07:00

Last week the Guides and Brownies celebrated their 21st anniversary in Kuwait. Part of the promise made by these girls in the presence of their parents and leaders is to be obedient and to serve God.

I was invited to come and do a magic show and touch on the theme of serving God. However I was told that as the girls come from various faith backgrounds or none and that I was in a country were Christians are not allowed to speak in public of their faith, I could only refer to God in the most general terms!

My goal then was to have these girls laughing and having a great time enjoying fun magic. The first testimony to them is that their local chaplain (and most of them knew me as their local priest) loves life and loves children. This to me is being Christ-like. Christ loved life in all of its fullness and calls us to live life to the full too.

I used Needle Thru Balloon, Topsy Turvy Bottles, Silver Sceptre and a DovePan routine baking lots of Toffee sweets!

I used my juggling talk to bring in the God element. (See my post on Juggling for God).

The best bit is talking to the parents afterwards and making links and invitations with and from the church.

Hope yo are enjoying living life in all its fullness.

Blessings

How long does it take to be a magician?

2008-04-27T12:20:00.000-07:00

Rob Butcher came to Kuwait 18 months ago and started learning magic tricks.

Not only has he learned them but is now performing in various places and is getting more and more experience under his belt with shows ranging from private parties, churches through to society gatherings.

He has just set up his first commercial magic website. Check out www.magiciansapprentice.com
Rob is a committed Christian and sees the potential for using magic tricks to get the Word out.

No messing around, Rob is keen and really gone for it.

Good on you Rob and I hope the gigs will roll in.

Blessings

Free Gospel magic downloads

2008-04-27T12:07:00.000-07:00

There is a really cool site for all magicians and ministers who are wanting free gospel magic downloads. Check out http://gospelmagic.childrensministry.org/gospel-magic.htm

There is absolutely loads of stuff here.

I recently performed a commerical visa card trick in the church - (no I was not asking the congregation to give money by direct debit - though come to think of it that is not a bad idea!!!) I was tying in my enthusiasm for magic with I Peter 3.13 who tells us to be zealous (ie; fanatic) about doing good works. I asked my congregation what they were fanatic about and went on to talk about the seccret of learning to be a fanatic for Jesus. 1 Peter 3:15 says "But in your hearts, set Christ apart as Lord."

It was an all age service but it was the adults who really memorised the above verse and took part fully in the magic.

Blessings

Juggling for God

2008-04-15T12:42:00.000-07:00

I remember a school assembly where the kids told a story of a wandering clown who wanted to offer something to God. in the end he discovered that his gift of juggling was what gave God pleasure and others too! it was a really cheesy play - but I still remember it.

Juggling is a fun and visual performance art that lends itself to attracting listeners. It requires a lot more practice and skill than your average magic trick though.

I sometimes show people a "Learn to Juggle" book and then skim read it it in front of the congregation and proudly announce that because I have read the instructions f the book I am a qualified juggler!

This statement is often challenged. I am asked to prove that I am a juggler by showing that I can put the instructions into practice. So I go through the instructions again and start with one ball (pausing at the end of some simple one ball tricks as if I have finished thus prompting the audience to demand more evidence!). Finally I am juggling away with three balls. While I am still juggling I quote James 1.4. "Do not be just hearers of the Word only but be doers of the word."

This leads onto a discussion or presentation of what James was talking about.

It's a great lesson and illustration and people remember it.

Have fun

Kids Thought: Drawing Billy

2008-04-04T23:59:00.001-07:00

Terry Owen recently contacted me to correct an earlier posting. His devotions are not presented in church as such but tht these are a series of one minute devotions which goes out on television to an audience of millions. Thanks Terry. What a brilliant concept and what an incredible audience. May God open other doors in other tv stations as well.

Just goes to show the appeal of Gospel Magic.

Puppets and the Gospel

2008-04-01T23:09:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I did a puppet Gospel magic show!!! This was before an audience of over 100 Indian children who are part of the Church of South India. They were doing a holiday club called Kingdom of the Son. The theme was based on the jungle and wildanimals featured large in the decor and in the singing!

So in keeping to the theme I introduced my Daisy Duck, a card picking mechanical duck sometime marketed as Dippy Duck, Rocky Raccoon and a monkey arm puppet.

After a lot of playing around with a Lexicon pack of cards, I then introduce Daisy Duck by saying she is going to pick a card with the letter on it chosen by a member of the audience. Daisy then pulls out a card which has all the letters of the alphabet on it!!!

After the laughter died down I then got Daisy to read my mind and think of a word. She then spelt out the word SIN. I then introduced my monkey who went onto be very naughty and disobedient in helping me to make a large hanky by magic from three little ones ( I use a changebag with this routine). His efforts result in disaster because he does not follow my instructions. This illustrated the nature of sin. Sin is when we think we know best how to live our lives and ignore the instructions of our maker.

Finally I introduced Rocky Raccoon who demonstrated to us what God did to overcome sin. At the end of my routine with Rocky I have him placed on a table a long way from me and I highlight the gap between us. When Rocky fails to cross the gap by himself by jumping into my arms, I then cross the gap myself to pick up Rocky and give him a big cuddle. I point out that this is what God did for us. He crossed the gap caused by our sin in the person of Jesus with the express purpose of showing us how much he loves us.

I closed the show by making a balloon camel and offering him as a gift to a child explaining that God offers us the gift of forgiveness and friendship through Jesus. All we need to do to recieve it is to say thank you and take it.

The kids were great fun and there was a real buzz in the church. I just loved entertaining and teaching these kids.

Blessings

Download magic videos

2008-03-26T12:49:00.000-07:00

Savvy businessman and performer, Steve Fearson has posted his own favourite collection of You Tube videos. While his stuff is not Gospel Magic as such, Steve is a man of faith who really believes in doing things well. He is a fast learner and a good teacher. (I know 'cos I use some of his stuff).

So why not take up his invitation to Click this with all your might:

http://www.downloadmagic.com/video

Hope you enjoy

Happy Easter

2008-03-24T01:32:00.001-07:00

Last night at our Easter celebration I decided to introduce our congregation to the Square Circle.

I introduced my sermon with the challenge that they had to believe two impossible things before the night was out!

The first thing they had to believe was that it is possible to turn a metal cicle into a metal square. Here I displayed the square circle illusion and on the count of three turned the metal circle into a metal square.

"See" I say "It is possible to turn a metal circle into a metal square!"

Then the second thing I asked them to belive was that dead men can walk again. . .

I went on to look at the theories explaining the empty tomb of Jesus Christ. These theories account for the empty tomb by insisting the body of Jesus was taken by grave robbers, or Romans, or the Jewish authorities . . . or the disciples themselves.

Then we looked at the Swoon theory beloved by those who live in the Islamic world.

This led to a final possible explanation for the empty tomb. That God raised Jesus back to life.

Alleluia! Christ is Risen!

Happy Easter

Laflin Magic

2008-03-19T12:17:00.000-07:00

Christian magicians often get a bad rap for being sloppy and unprofessional in their performances. This often comes about through the use of magic tricks by ministers who focus more on the message rather than presenting a professional polished trick. Sadly the poor execution of a trick can undermine a message.

The scripture says "whatever we do - do as though it was for the LORD with all our hearts".

One dynamic couple who certainly live up to this piece of Biblical advice is Duane Laflin and his wife. I saw their act in the UK a few years ago and they were soooo good. I still remember not just the excellent magic but their inspiring messages too.

Check them out at www.christianillusionist.com

Blessings

Card Magic With A Message

2008-03-12T16:09:00.003-07:00

It is actually quite unusual to find card tricks with a Gospel message. This is one which I think is quite well done. What do you think?

Kids Thought: Laser Box

2008-03-12T15:30:00.001-07:00

Pastor Owens does a series of short but effective Gospel magic rountines in his church. I think they are well done and can imagine that they would be received well by members of his church.

Some people thoug do complain that this style of teaching is too entertainment orientated. I think anyone who communciates the Gospel in a way which grabs people's attention is a winner. (See my freedownload book at www.gospelemagic.com for more on this subject)

Enjoy

Making People Laugh

2008-03-04T04:32:00.000-08:00

If you want to make people laugh till they fall over then with out doubt you will need The Vanishing Bandana Trick. It is easy and practically self working. The humour lies in you (the performer) slavishly following the instructions played on a cassete tape.

I performed this at a Welsh St David's party in Kuwait on Saturday March 1st and it had a great reception. Although I have never used this as a Gospel illustration, I think to get a group of people (many who do not go to church) realise that their local vicar can make them laugh sick is just as powerful as being impeccable in your manners and Christian humanitarian concerns.

I know some Christians are uncomfortable with their minister being a bit of a comedian, but I am pretty sure that Our LORD was quite capable of some serious humour too. I still chuckle over his ""Take the log out of your own eye before removing the speck from your brother's eye!" How funny is that!

Unfortunately the Yellow Bandana trick seems quite hard to get hold of. I bought mine from Penguin Magic but they seem to be perpetually sold out (always a good sign of a winning routine!) Good luck finding one.

Here's one I wrote earlier!

2008-02-26T07:07:00.000-08:00

This is where the spark for the ebook came from. In 2001 Grove books publishers (an Anglican Theology publishing house) invited me to submit a proposal for a Gospel Magic book. this has now been expanded in ebook form. Check out How To Do Gospel Magic at www.gospelemagic.com You can also order the orginal copy at Grove books.

Enjoy

John Louis performs an intense gospel illusion.

2008-02-26T07:02:00.001-08:00

One useful skill is to work with modelling balloons. There are so many ways which you can use them as simple visual aids for the Gospel. I use modelling balloons as gifts to give away freely, for making animals and using them as part of a story and even a complete retelling of Jonah and the Whale. I think I better get these ideas together in another ebook. This youtube video shows a fun and wacky stunt with a balloon. It's not magic but it sure is memorable. Enjoy.

another Gospel magic Blog

2008-02-20T04:43:00.000-08:00

Hey!

I've just discovered another blog devoted to Gospel magic. Check out http://miraclemanshow.spaces.live.com

His latest posting is quite moving and is dedicated to a young Christian minister who was also using his gifts as a magician for the LORD.

Blessings to you Tom

Chinese New Year

2008-02-16T02:10:00.000-08:00

Well, this is a first for me! I was invited to share the Christian message for group of Chinese at the New Year party very recently. They are celebrating the new lunar year of the Rat.

Clearly that was an invitation to use my rat trap - (mentioned in the last post) as a challenge to the chinese to trust God with the their New Year and my Rocky Raccon puppet made it's first ever appearance as Rocky the Rat!!

(A good magic show should always seek to contextualise to the occasion!)

The Chinese Linking Rings also perhaps inevitably made their appearance. I explained to the Chinese that their nation have invented one of the world's oldest illusions and went on to demonstrate the Rings. Illusions is a familiar metaphor in Chinese philosophy and some of the more Eastern forms of spirituality urges their believers to see all life as an illusion.

I went on to challenge that philosophy by pointing to a God who created our world as reality and who intends us to enjoy his created order in all of its fullness. I then shared my personal testimony with a handcuff escape and talked of how God helped me to be set free from my sin and freed me to be myself.

The this is where Rocky the Rat appears and goes through his routine of eating, drinking and sleeping. He is just a puppet though and is empty on the inside. Surely there is more to life than eating, drinking and sleeping. (The Chinese are an incredibly hardworking people and eating, drinking and sleeping really does describe their lives) . I introduced them to the Augustnian concept of a God shaped hole in each person and how we ask God to come and fill it with the presence of His Holy Spirit.

The Rat Trap illusion goes onto challenge the listeners that this requires a great deal of trust. We need to trust God in His Word and to respond to the message and work of Jesus Christ. As my volunteer trusted me by putting his face in a powerful springloaded trap, the same kind of trust is needed to step out in faith and follow Christ.

It was a fun evening. Lots of laughter and I felt the Spirit of God touch and move people's hearts through the messgae of the magic - or is that the magic of the message?

Happy New Year!

Blessings

Rat Trap Illusion

2008-02-05T09:55:00.000-08:00

I have been travelling this last week. Went to the beautiful island of Cyprus. One night I did a comedy magic session for about a hundred conference delegates. The audience were brilliant and very responsive. The highlight of the evening was persuading a VIP to place his nose in a vicious rat trap in order to set off the powerful blade.

If you have not seen this effective but simple stunt it looks extremely dangerous. Most magicians use specialist props for their dangerous illusions ranging from guillotines, to powersaws going through thin boxes. The problem with this is that though they look great, the audience knows that most households do not have a guillotine lying around. They suspect the equipment is gaffed and so the tension in the performance is minimal.

A rat trap though is a familiar item. It is larger version of a mouse trap. When demostrated before an audience the blade is pulled up and the trigger switch is inserted into the bait plate. I demonstrate the force of the blade by seting the trap off with a plastic teaspoon. The teaspoon is shattered into several pieces by the smash of the powerful spring loaded blade. the audience gasps and it is genuinely scary.

It's when a volunteer is bought out and you set the trap up again that the danger really kicks in. My guest in Cyprus was quite certain that there was no way I was going to damage a VIP, but the fear in his eyes was priceless. He watched all my moves carefully and could not see how he was going to avoid the trap going off in his face. The audience loved it and the tension and the comedy maxed out leading to a perfect climate to the show.

Want to know what happens with the rat trap? Check out the e-book How to do Gospel Magic for instructions at www.gospelemagic.com

Enjoy

Kids Thought: Trading Places

2008-01-21T23:43:00.001-08:00

This is a sweet and short presentation using the Peanut Butter and Jelly Illusion. I dedicate this clip to Rob Butcher who I know is looking for this. Hey Rob this is what you can do with it when you find one.

Blessings

Andy

David Ginn Magic #15: Table Cloth Stunt

2008-01-21T04:21:00.001-08:00

I just love this stunt for sheer entertainment value and having a live rabbit on the table is just so cool. For simple, entertaining and fun magic for young people. David Ginn is your man!

Blessings

free downloads

2008-01-19T11:39:00.000-08:00

Steve Fearson is a name to conjure with. He writes in a down to earth and fun way. Although his stuff is not specifically Gospel orientated, he is a Christian and is incredibly creative. His magical inventions have been and are being used by some of the top names in the entertainment business. He has been quite influential to me in that he inspired me to write my own stuff and go online. Thanks Steve!

On his commercial website www.emagicsupplies.com he says that for every order of his products $1 will go to charity. For his free download books which are all excellent check out www.downloadmagic.com

What a great guy!

Blessings

Gospel Magic and Harry Potter

2008-01-13T05:37:00.000-08:00

Christianity Today is one of America's most widely read Christian journals. Here is a clip from a review of Gove Books publication. Gospel Magic. Using Magic Tricks as Visual Aids written by Andrew Thompson aka revq8.

Let Harry Potter Conjure Up 'Gospel Magic', Says Christian Magician
Andrew Thompson and others agree that some Christians have a false understanding of what Harry Potter is about.
Cedric Pulford posted 12/01/2001 12:00AM
Related articles and links 1 of 2

Hogwarts and Quidditch and Platform 9 3/4 at Kings Cross Station—all part of the make-believe world of the Harry Potter books—have the enthusiastic support of Christian magician Andrew Thompson, who thinks that such "fantasy magic" opens children's imagination to the wonders of the world.
It is an approach he follows in his own work combining membership of the Fellowship of Christian Magicians and an Anglican parish ministry in Derby, central England. Conjuring tricks, he says, are "an unbeatable way to teach the Gospel" to adults and children alike.
"Conjuring is on the same level as telling a story or showing a movie. There's nothing a Christian could feel tainted by," he says.
In his performances, he makes clear the difference between Gospel miracles and 21st-century conjuring tricks. He refuses to copy some secular magicians who perform such tricks as walking on water or changing water into wine.
Thompson has no time for fellow evangelicals who worry that the Harry Potter books glamorize the occult. The critics are being "silly," he said. "Children aren't daft. They know what is reality and what is fiction."
He has shared some of his magic secrets in Gospel Magic, published by Grove Books, which has also published Philip Plyming's Harry Potter and the Meaning of Life

Magic Trick: Turn $2 into $1 Million - Multiply Money

2008-01-13T05:03:00.001-08:00

I just love tricks with money. It happens right under people's noses and if you borrow their money they are committed to seeing your performance out due to the anxiety of making sure they get their money back. Again another great way of learning new illusions.

Enjoy

Great Magic Websites

2008-01-06T11:43:00.000-08:00

One of my favourite free magic ezines is www.magicweek.co.uk This is a UK based news magazines which includes loads of online adverts for magic shops. Some of these do have a small section dealing with Gospel Magic.

A completely different website is www.magiccafe.com this has an excellent forum site and they have two sections wholly devoted to Gospel Magic and Good News. There is a section inviting members of the fellowship of Christian Magicians to chat as well. Check it out and sign up.

Another website where I have bought lots of stuff from over the year as been www.penguinmagic.com Although this is not a gospel magic place, they do offer really good teaching videos with tricks which lend themselves to sharing the Gospel. I also think they are one of the more competitively priced shops too.

www.tricksfortruth.com is a Gospel Magic shop ad I have to say they are great value for money. Catering specifically for the evangelist and church worker they know that we do not have big bucks to spend and so price accordingly.

Have fun and as the Christian Fellowship of Magicians say Share the Faith but keep the Secret.

Blessings

Fellowship of Christian Magicians

2008-01-05T03:39:00.000-08:00

There is a well established worldwide orgainisation called Fellowship of Christian Magicians. They are committed to promoting th Christian message through the use of performing arts. I first heard about this group in the UK when a Church Army evangelist called Captain Tony Maidment first introduced me to the concept of using magic as a tool for sharing the Gospel. They have annual conferences, a magazine and are a genuinely fun group of people to hang out with and learn new things. Past presidents include Henry Smith, Paul Morley and the much missed late Pete McCahon.

You can find more free Christian Resources at their website. www.fcmuk.org/freebies.htm

These range from free gospel magic downloads to advice on prop maintenance.

The USA is home to the orignal Fellowship of Christian Magicians and they are huge. They have several chapters around the country and hold regional conferences. One of my favourite magicians to watch is Duanne Laflin who is a true professional. Along with his wife he presents stunning and colurful magic. He has a passion for sharing Christ and his collection of books take pride of place on my shelf.

If you are looking to grown and learn in your hobby of using magic tricks to share your faith. Then this society is a great place to start and continue.

Blessings

Magic for Children

2008-01-04T23:07:00.000-08:00

One of the best kids performers in the USA is David Ginn. He is also a committed Christian. His books and tricks are excellent and he writes extensively on performing for children. Among his works are items on Gospel Magic.

What is really helpful is that he puts his stuff on ebay. This is a genuine opportunity to get great bargains for your ministry. So check out Ginn Magic. His website address is in the list near this window.

Have fun

Christian Magic Tricks

2008-01-04T23:04:00.001-08:00

Here are some more gospel magic tricks from the same guys. This is a brilliant way of learning. They are really keen to share their knowledge for the sake of the Gospel. Enjoy.

cool Christian magic trick

2008-01-03T09:01:00.001-08:00

This guy has gone even further to promote Gospel magic. Check out his videos and his website at www.magicforjesus.com
Blessings

Having fun

2008-01-01T09:28:00.000-08:00

Last week I went to two dinner parties. One was with a group of mainland Chinese expatriates who live and work in Kuwait. The other party was at the home of a high ranking British military officer and his colleagues.

At both parties I performed close up magic. At both parties they knew I was a priest and at both parties their reaction to the magic was the same. They screamed and shouted and could not believe their eyes. The magic was the topic of conversation for the evening and it was brilliant fun.

What did I do. I performed close up magic using paddles. in particular I enjoy using Hot rod and Jumping Gems. For my money these are among the most effective close up magic effects in the market. They are not expensive to buy and after you have mastered the basic move you are in business.

The best thing about these parties is that it opened the door for people to relax and get to know me better. The ice was broken and they got past my role as a priest and got to know me as a person. Their defences were down and this led to honest and deeper questions about my faith and beliefs.

They know now that I am a regular guy who likes to have fun, but they also know who I believe and why.

Have fun.

Resources for Christian Workers

2008-01-01T09:10:00.000-08:00

Every pastor, priest, youthworker, children's minister speak in churches and Sunday schools and youth clubs every week. The challenge is to find new resources and messages that will impact their listeners. Over the years I have learned that nothing impacts people as visually as Gospel Magic. It is visual, exciting, and fun!! It also allows you to preach and communicate the Gospel message in a way which connects with people both inside and outside the church.

So I am on a mission to share this brilliant way of sharing the Gospel by letting you know about webistes which talk about and promote Gospel Magic.

I am planning on writing some more free downloads for my website http://www.gospelemagic.com/ so watch this space.

Magic is a rewarding hobby in its own right. So I would encourage you to learn all kinds of tricks from all sorts of sources. In my blog you will find references to websites and books which are not related to Gospel Magic. They are helpful and will enable you to become a better performer.

Hope you find it helpful

christmas magic

2007-12-27T10:56:00.000-08:00

I went to a brilliant pantomime in Kuwait where they performed a spoof magic show. One of the items was a mind reading trick in which a member of the audience is asked if they know which word the magician had previously written down on a piece of paper before the show began. When the volunteer replies "No" the magician screamed "Correct!" and pulls out the paper to show that he had written the word "No".

I used this to begin my sermon in order to talk about how God planned the Christmas story in advance. This led onto the use of the Magician's Choice in which 5 numbered envelopes containing a different response and understanding of Christmas. held by different people around the world. I got a line of children out to hold each envelope in front of them with each number clearly visible to the audience.

I asked a volunteer to choose an envelope (he chose the one I wanted him to pick by applying the Magician's Choice technique - Tis was envelope number 2). Envelope number 2 had a picture of the baby Jesus in it. The other envelopes had pictures of a Santa, a Christmas Tree, a pile of gift wrapped presents and a Christmas Turkey. All these pictures were revealed from the different envelopes with comments on how they represent for many people the only meaning of Christmas. Then I highlighted the choice of Envelope 2 "chosen" by the volunteer which contained the real meaning of Christmas.

It was great fun and made for a fifteen minute sermon. The great thing about this technique is that you can adapt it for any season or occasion.

Blessings

No Proselytizing Please!

2007-12-06T02:06:00.000-08:00

I can hardly pronounce the title of this blog! However when you are working in Christian ministry in the Middle East, it is vital to understand the boundaries allowed by your host countries. The law in most of the Islamic countries in this region states very clearly that you cannot share the Christian faith with Muslims in the public arena and describes this prohibited activity as proselytizing. It is worth noting though that the legal definition of proselytization under Islamic law does not correspond with what Christians understand as evangelism. Islamic law describes proselytising as wilfully seeking to corrupt, manipulate, deceive or coerce someone into changing their faith. It also adds that the indiscriminate mass distribution of literature or other media which criticizes Islam or promotes Christianity over Islam is forbidden.

Clearly there is a huge gulf in what Christians see as normal evangelism which is sharing the Christian faith in the context of friendships and gossiping the Good News. There is no brain washing involved or deception. There is no attempt to undermine the religion of Islam, rather we simply talk about Jesus and what he means to us. Incidentally there is nothing in there which prohibits the use of Gospel Magic unless of course, the use of deception is raised!

when Gospel Magic goes wrong

2007-11-27T05:29:00.000-08:00

Working as a Gospel magician in the Middle East can have its challenges. One is the heat of the savage summers can really mess up your props. Glues melt, plastic warps and before you know it you are ambushed in the middle of a magic show or presentation by faulty props.

My most memorable faux pas occurred in Egypt when I was performing a Drink in News routine where you pour water into a folded newspaper and then turn the newspaper upside down over a volunteer's head. The trick is that the water has disappeared completely and does not come out of the paper (thanks to a special plastic bag which is glued inside the paper). On this occasion though, the sun had melted the glue that held the bag and before my eyes and the entire audience of an Egyptian church the bag slid out on top of my volunteer and burst - drenching her and ruining her dress with a sticky mixture of glue and water!

Another time I was using one of the Axtell drawing boards and the heat had warped the mechanism which allowed a drawn face to become animated. I had to improvise and do something completely non magical.

What are your stories of Gospel Magic going wrong?

theology of gospel magic

2007-11-17T09:15:00.000-08:00

For a direct link to a free down book on the Theology of Gospel Magic. Click

http://www.gospelemagic.com/gmtheology.pdf

This deals with a Biblical approach to presenting Gospel Magic which may be helpful to those of you who are under pressure to come up with a hermeneutic for why you are using Gospel Magic in your ministry.

Hope it is helpful

Blessings

revq8

great free downloads on gospel magic here

2007-11-17T09:10:00.000-08:00

Dear All

One great site for those of you who are into children or youth ministry is www.kidology.org

They have loads of sections and resources including a newsletter. But for you Gospel magicians out there, there is a section with free down loadable gospel magic tricks which you can check out without having to sign up to anything. Check it out.

Blessings

magic in Arabia

2007-11-13T10:16:00.000-08:00

The whole experiment of blogging is new to me and I am learning fast as to why people use it for marketing and conveying information. I live in Kuwait where blogging is very popular. It is used as a way of communicating views and opinions on local politics and religion which can get a bit scary as there are certain taboos which are illegal.

One area in the Islamic world which can be misunderstood is the entertainment form called magic. Witchcraft, sorcery and black magic are illegal in the Middle East and you can actually go to jail on the charge of sorcery. In fact in Saudi Arabia someone was excuted last week on the charge of witchcraft. So for you magical entertainers who do card tricks and sleight of hand - you have been warned.

See freedownload on http://www.gospelemagic.com/ all about origins on Gospel magic.

Free downloads

2007-11-13T09:53:00.000-08:00

The most widely used word in search engines seems to be the word free. This is a great marketing tool and I find it is the top word used in locating my website on Gospel magic. See www.gospelemagic.com

There is a free downloadable ebook on why Christians can use Gospel magic as a tool for preaching and teaching the Christian message. Watch out for more downloads soon.