Songwriter a Fraud

[South of I 90]

Michael Guglielmucci wrote and sang the new Hillsong hit song "Healer" on the new Hillsong project. He supposedly had terminal cancer. It turns out it was a fraud.

http://www.news.com.au/adelaidenow/story/0,22606,24212817-5006301,00.html

[South of I 90]

The performance of this song and the testimony was on Youtube with tens of thousands of hits. It has sinced been removed.

[Hoovie]

We have discussed this video here on AFF sometime ago.

I was a believer...



What a sham!

[CC1]

Why in the world do people do these things? I guess there are more psycho people in the world than I ever imagined.

[Hoovie]

Why in the world do people do these things? I guess there are more psycho people in the world than I ever imagined.

$$$$$$$$$$ & Fame

[Praxeas]

Michael Guglielmucci wrote and sang the new Hillsong hit song "Healer" on the new Hillsong project. He supposedly had terminal cancer. It turns out it was a fraud.

http://www.news.com.au/adelaidenow/story/0,22606,24212817-5006301,00.html

Wow...ANOTHER fraud....just glad this one was not a member of our board. ;)

[South of I 90]

This song had over 300,000 hits on Youtube. Also with him being the writer, and the number of CD's Hillsong has sold, he has already made many $ from royalties.

It will be interesting to see how Hillsong and Integrity Music handles this issue. Will they re-issue the cd and DVD without the song.

The DVD includes his testimony and behind the scenes footage of him dealing with the "cancer".

The song was rapidly becoming an anthem for deliverence and healing in churches around the world.

[steve p]

Im very sad tonight,,,,,

[soldoutochrist]

Michael Guglielmucci wrote and sang the new Hillsong hit song "Healer" on the new Hillsong project. He supposedly had terminal cancer. It turns out it was a fraud.

http://www.news.com.au/adelaidenow/story/0,22606,24212817-5006301,00.html

A quick search of the forum turned this up.
http://www.apostolicfriendsforum.com/showthread.php?t=16314
It's sad really, that he'd do something like this. Doesn't change the powerful message of the song, but it does put things in perspective. I wonder if he's actually mentally ill or just getting professional help because it'd be frowned upon if he didn't?

[ManOfWord]

I just received the CD & DVD and was planning on using the song for a special upcoming healing service. I have folks in NLC who have attended Planet Shakers when they were in Australia. I was touched by this "testimony" and am truly saddened by this tragic news.

This signifies a serious deficit in the lives of some of our "heroes." I am truly bummed. May God have mercy on Mike and grant to him the security in Him that he truly craves and needs to be whole!

[Cindy]

So he wrote a song about healing, but had never had the disease he was supposedly healed of?

[South of I 90]

So he wrote a song about healing, but had never had the disease he was supposedly healed of?

He wrote and sang the song on the latest Hillsong CD and DVD.

Here's the lyric:

You hold my every moment
You calm my raging seas
You walk with me through fire
And heal all my disease
I trust in You
I trust in You

I believe You're my Healer
I believe You are all I need
I believe You're my Portion
I believe You're more than enough for me
Jesus You're all I need

Nothing is impossible for You
Nothing is impossible for You
Nothing is impossible for You
You hold my world in Your hands

[Cindy]

I don't know what Hillsong is, but the lyrics are ok.

[ManOfWord]

I don't know what Hillsong is, but the lyrics are ok.

The video is incredible!!! It has him on stage playing his guitar with and oxygen machine behind him and the tube under his nose while he sings. He then gives his testimony on the DVD which is very moving.

So sad it is not true!

[South of I 90]

I don't know what Hillsong is, but the lyrics are ok.

You've probably have heard and sung many songs by http://www.hillsong.com/music/ unless your church only uses the hymnal.

[Cindy]

The video is incredible!!! It has him on stage playing his guitar with and oxygen machine behind him and the tube under his nose while he sings. He then gives his testimony on the DVD which is very moving.

So sad it is not true!

Oh that is sad. Sad and pitiful.

[Hoovie]

The video is incredible!!! It has him on stage playing his guitar with and oxygen machine behind him and the tube under his nose while he sings. He then gives his testimony on the DVD which is very moving.

So sad it is not true!

I won't go so far as to say I wish he had cancer... But yes, incredible props with the O2 on his nose - in one video interview he even feigns weakness...

This is the Music Minister's version of Benny Hinn.

[South of I 90]

It has him on stage playing his guitar with and oxygen machine behind him and the tube under his nose while he sings.

Apparently he was taking in air and blowing it out hot! :tiphat

[HeavenlyOne]

He wrote and sang the song on the latest Hillsong CD and DVD.

Here's the lyric:

You hold my every moment
You calm my raging seas
You walk with me through fire
And heal all my disease
I trust in You
I trust in You

I believe You're my Healer
I believe You are all I need
I believe You're my Portion
I believe You're more than enough for me
Jesus You're all I need

Nothing is impossible for You
Nothing is impossible for You
Nothing is impossible for You
You hold my world in Your hands

I'd never heard this song until this past Sunday, when the church I attended sang it. I liked it. Still do.

[ManOfWord]

Once again, it is amazing what God can do with something someone did maliciously and for the wrong reason. He is still God and will use whatever He wants to accomplish His purposes. :D

[mama bear]

I won't go so far as to say I wish he had cancer... But yes, incredible props with the O2 on his nose - in one video interview he even feigns weakness...

This is the Music Minister's version of Benny Hinn.

So very true.
I'd be afraid I would get cancer now.
I've learned a great lesson.
When I was younger, I would think I didn't feel well enough to go to church, so I'd call and say I wasn't feeling well......well.....I would ALWAYS end up sick! I was a quick learner.

[Sherri]

We do this song at church. I'm sorry to find out the way it came about, but it is an anointed song and we love it.

[steve p]

This songwriter, Todd Bentley, and the likes there of demonstrate one thing; our faith, trust, and hope is built on nothing but Jesus. No church, no organization, no denomination, no pastor, no worship leader, no prophet, etc.
"My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus blood and righteousness"
I pray for those who for whatever reason felt the need to mislead people, whether they are innocent or guilty. It is not my place to judge. God will sort all that out. I am saddened if people are mislead by these people or by ME! Hence, we must always encourage others to trust the ONE who is trustworthy!
Blessings to all!

[Hoovie]

This songwriter, Todd Bentley, and the likes there of demonstrate one thing; our faith, trust, and hope is built on nothing but Jesus. No church, no organization, no denomination, no pastor, no worship leader, no prophet, etc.
"My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus blood and righteousness"
I pray for those who for whatever reason felt the need to mislead people, whether they are innocent or guilty. It is not my place to judge. God will sort all that out. I am saddened if people are mislead by these people or by ME! Hence, we must always encourage others to trust the ONE who is trustworthy!
Blessings to all!

Well said!

[COOPER]

Oh good grief!

[Jack Shephard]

This song had over 300,000 hits on Youtube. Also with him being the writer, and the number of CD's Hillsong has sold, he has already made many $ from royalties.

It will be interesting to see how Hillsong and Integrity Music handles this issue. Will they re-issue the cd and DVD without the song.

The DVD includes his testimony and behind the scenes footage of him dealing with the "cancer".

The song was rapidly becoming an anthem for deliverence and healing in churches around the world.

I wouldn't think that they would re-issue the disc at all. The song is what ministers not the person that does sing the song. It is a great shame about this, however it is still a great song. I played it for my wife who is disabled physically and it really touched her. I say keep the song going get a legal injunction that stops the payment of profits to him and his family because of fraud and let the song speak for its self. Remember Kirk Franklin wrote 'Now Behold the Lamb' one of the greatest songs ever written, IMO, when he was addicted to porn. Thank God he is delievered but let the song speak on its own.

[steve p]

I wouldn't think that they would re-issue the disc at all. The song is what ministers not the person that does sing the song. It is a great shame about this, however it is still a great song. I played it for my wife who is disabled physically and it really touched her. I say keep the song going get a legal injunction that stops the payment of profits to him and his family because of fraud and let the song speak for its self. Remember Kirk Franklin wrote 'Now Behold the Lamb' one of the greatest songs ever written, IMO, when he was addicted to porn. Thank God he is delievered but let the song speak on its own.

amen and amen

[triumphant1]

I wouldn't think that they would re-issue the disc at all. The song is what ministers not the person that does sing the song. It is a great shame about this, however it is still a great song. I played it for my wife who is disabled physically and it really touched her. I say keep the song going get a legal injunction that stops the payment of profits to him and his family because of fraud and let the song speak for its self. Remember Kirk Franklin wrote 'Now Behold the Lamb' one of the greatest songs ever written, IMO, when he was addicted to porn. Thank God he is delievered but let the song speak on its own.

And Hank Williams wrote "I Saw the Light"...a beloved hymn in many churches...while hopelessly addicted to drugs and alcohol and singing in beer joints and honkytonks....

Doesn't make the life or the deception right...but it is possible for a great inspirational song to be written by a scoundrel...the song could even be anointed by God too...

If that song's message is true...then sing on...truth is still truth! Our God is the Healer!!!!!

[South of I 90]

I wouldn't think that they would re-issue the disc at all. The song is what ministers not the person that does sing the song. It is a great shame about this, however it is still a great song. I played it for my wife who is disabled physically and it really touched her. I say keep the song going get a legal injunction that stops the payment of profits to him and his family because of fraud and let the song speak for its self. Remember Kirk Franklin wrote 'Now Behold the Lamb' one of the greatest songs ever written, IMO, when he was addicted to porn. Thank God he is delievered but let the song speak on its own.

Maybe not re-issue the cd , but the dvd is another issue. I would think Hillsong and Integrity would not want the image of him singing with O2 going in his nose plus an approximate 9 minute bonus coverage of his "disease" to continue to be duplicated and distributed.

I just watched the song and the testimony again, and this sickens me!

I don't think the Kirk Franklin analogy applies to this scenario.

[Sandra]

Maybe not re-issue the cd , but the dvd is another issue. I would think Hillsong and Integrity would not want the image of him singing with O2 going in his nose plus an approximate 9 minute bonus coverage of his "disease" to continue to be duplicated and distributed.

I just watched the song and the testimony again, and this sickens me!

I don't think the Kirk Franklin analogy applies to this scenario.

I agree, he never lied about his addiction. The Crabb family sings all the songs their father wrote, he has an addiction with alcohol.

[Jack Shephard]

Maybe not re-issue the cd , but the dvd is another issue. I would think Hillsong and Integrity would not want the image of him singing with O2 going in his nose plus an approximate 9 minute bonus coverage of his "disease" to continue to be duplicated and distributed.

I just watched the song and the testimony again, and this sickens me!

I don't think the Kirk Franklin analogy applies to this scenario.

I am sick about this, it bugs me for sure.

I was using the Kirk thing cause he hid it basically lived a lie, but he came forward with it and made it right. Now Kirk did not 'capitolize' money wise on it that is the biggest difference, but the point I was making is that the song should speak for itself, cause it is anointed.

[South of I 90]

I am sick about this, it bugs me for sure.

I was using the Kirk thing cause he hid it basically lived a lie, but he came forward with it and made it right. Now Kirk did not 'capitolize' money wise on it that is the biggest difference, but the point I was making is that the song should speak for itself, cause it is anointed.

JT, I love this song. It "rocked" my world the first time I heard it. I hope I can get past all of this "stuff" and do it again.

[Cindy]

This songwriter, Todd Bentley, and the likes there of demonstrate one thing; our faith, trust, and hope is built on nothing but Jesus. No church, no organization, no denomination, no pastor, no worship leader, no prophet, etc.
"My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus blood and righteousness"
I pray for those who for whatever reason felt the need to mislead people, whether they are innocent or guilty. It is not my place to judge. God will sort all that out. I am saddened if people are mislead by these people or by ME! Hence, we must always encourage others to trust the ONE who is trustworthy!
Blessings to all!

Preach!

[Timmy]

The Assemblies of God, Australia's largest Pentecostal movement, adopted its new name of Australian Christian Churches in 2007.
Whoa. I hadn't heard that. Trying to distance themselves?

[Timmy]

Why in the world do people do these things? I guess there are more psycho people in the world than I ever imagined.

Yup.

[Jack Shephard]

JT, I love this song. It "rocked" my world the first time I heard it. I hope I can get past all of this "stuff" and do it again.

I agree. It floored me. Maybe I can get past it. I have been through so much the past few years that this song really spoke to me alot and to hear this bites me in the shorts. But God is supreme and still the King so that is what I hold to. Still the message of the song rings true.

[Timmy]

What is the "discernment" I keep hearing about? :tease

[Jack Shephard]

You know the thing that makes me the sickest about this is in the video I watched on YouTube had the interview with him and I remember that he said that day he was "so sck" that he almost didn't sing but he got the strength to sing and how that was a God moment and such....what a joke! This makes me ill!!!!!!!

[South of I 90]

You know the thing that makes me the sickest about this is in the video I watched on YouTube had the interview with him and I remember that he said that day he was "so sck" that he almost didn't sing but he got the strength to sing and how that was a God moment and such....what a joke! This makes me ill!!!!!!!

I agree; I pulled out the dvd and watched the song and the bonus footage about the song this morning.

I'm not sure how to describe my emotions.

[MissBrattified]

The performance of this song and the testimony was on Youtube with tens of thousands of hits. It has sinced been removed.

Here's one of the song with no testimony, but it shows him wearing the cannula.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JLbjqcG4OT4

[Jack Shephard]

I agree; I pulled out the dvd and watched the song and the bonus footage about the song this morning.

I'm not sure how to describe my emotions.

Exactly my feelings too

[South of I 90]

Here's one of the song with no testimony, but it shows him wearing the cannula.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JLbjqcG4OT4


The "official" links on YouTube posted by Integrity had over 300,000 hits before it was removed.

[HeavenlyOne]

So, how did it come about that he wasn't terminal or even sick?

[HeavenlyOne]

It's also amazing that a terminally ill man needing to wear O2 can sing and stand while playing an instrument for over 7 minutes!!!

Had I seen that video, I could have warned you all that something wasn't right...LOL!

[MissBrattified]

The "official" links on YouTube posted by Integrity had over 300,000 hits before it was removed.

I'm not disputing your word that it was removed. :) Just providing a bread crumb for those who like to see what you're talking about. :coffee2

[South of I 90]

I'm not disputing your word that it was removed. :) Just providing a bread crumb for those who like to see what you're talking about. :coffee2

I didn't intend for it to come across that way.

Keep the crumbs coming.:thumbsup

[ManOfWord]

It's also amazing that a terminally ill man needing to wear O2 can sing and stand while playing an instrument for over 7 minutes!!!

Had I seen that video, I could have warned you all that something wasn't right...LOL!

When you're believing that the anointing of God came upon him, as he claimed, it is not hard to look beyond it and believe that God was doing something great. :D

[HeavenlyOne]

When you're believing that the anointing of God came upon him, as he claimed, it is not hard to look beyond it and believe that God was doing something great. :D

Well, I suppose that's true enough.

But I'm carnal minded!!

:tease

[Jack Shephard]

When you're believing that the anointing of God came upon him, as he claimed, it is not hard to look beyond it and believe that God was doing something great. :D

I agree I have seem the anointing hit and things change shape.

[steve p]

Suppose.....God allowed this to happen....to see how we would react to it....I dont know how theologically correct that is....im no theologian...but...just suppose...God thought..."I wana see how my children will react and to whom they will turn to when they find out about this" ...Just a thought....

[Jack Shephard]

Suppose.....God allowed this to happen....to see how we would react to it....I dont know how theologically correct that is....im no theologian...but...just suppose...God thought..."I wana see how my children will react and to whom they will turn to when they find out about this" ...Just a thought....

Probably happens more than we realize, IMO

[South of I 90]

Here's the latest news on this sad situation.

Disgraced pastor Michael Guglielmucci a porn addict



Disgraced pastor a severe porn addict, dad says
'Addicted' to porn since the age of 12
Dad says son made full confession about porn

http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/common/imagedata/0,,6214245,00.jpg Confession ... the father of disgraced pastor Michael Guglielmucci has revealed his son has been addicted to pornography since the age of 12.


THE father of disgraced pastor Michael Guglielmucci has revealed his son has been addicted to pornography since the age of 12. Danny Guglielmucci – whose high-profile preacher son last week week admitted his two-year battle with cancer was fake – said the "severe addiction to pornography" was part of a bizarre double life his son had been leading.

Mr Guglielmucci, who established Edge Church International, an Assemblies of God church in Adelaide, said Melbourne-based Michael had made a full confession to his family about his past, including revelations about the 16-year porn obsession and the lies over his supposed battle with terminal illness.

In an exclusive interview with Adelaide's Sunday Mail this week, Mr Guglielmucci also revealed: HIS son has been suffering "mystery illnesses" since the age of 12.

DOCTORS gave his parents the option of admitting him to a psychiatric ward for assessment as a child over the ongoing "illnesses", but they refused.
THE family's "absolute shock" at discovering Michael was not terminally ill.

Mr Guglielmucci said he and wife Sharonne – who founded Edge Church International with him – were struggling to comprehend what their son had done.
They are expected to address the church's Adelaide congregation today to explain his actions.

"When (Michael) rang me last Tuesday, I was on my way to New Zealand," Mr Guglielmucci said. "He said, 'Dad you've got to come and see me'. "I said to my wife, 'Maybe the doctors have told him he's only got a few weeks to live'. "So we cancelled everything and jumped on the plane and went to see him in Melbourne, and that's when he told us the story. "We were just in absolute shock and we still are. We haven't had time to get our head around it. He said, 'I don't have cancer. I've had two lives that I've lived'.

"His wife (Amanda), who has been with him for seven years, found out the day before we did and she's had no idea. "Michael has had a severe addiction to pornography. The addiction to pornography started when he was 12. "It's horrendous because we don't have that sort of stuff around. He was raised in a Christian home; we've never brought that stuff into our home."

Michael Guglielmucci was one of Australia's highest-profile Christian preachers, inspiring hundreds of thousands around the world as he performed his hit song Healer with an oxygen tube in his nose. He was a pastor with Planetshakers, a Christian youth movement that began in Adelaide and has grown into an international ministry.
But that all came crashing down this week when his deception became public. Mr Guglielmucci said his son finally confessed after the guilt of his lies and addiction became overwhelming. "He lived the two lives and he would get sick as a result of the guilt," he said. "He was feeling like he was letting God down, letting his family down, his church, his friends. "He's been living this for so long, feeling like he's had these two lives and now he's the one that's come out in the open. He confessed it, he didn't get caught.

"To deal with the guilt he would pour himself into doing good work. He's touched the lives of young people all over the world. Now they are all affected by this. "He hasn't done this for any reasons that have been portrayed that he's a fraud.

"It was either keep pretending or come out with the truth and tell everything. He's come out with everything but now we've got the consequences of it all."We have to accept it. We're hoping to share with our congregation how it all started and how it got where it is. "We understand people's anger, we understand their questioning.
"There's so many questions. "An addiction like this is not going to be fixed overnight. You can't have a 16-year problem and fix it in a week."

Mr Guglielmucci said his son was undergoing psychiatric assessment with Adelaide doctors. "They have said to me that he is very ill. They are assessing where reality stopped and fantasy kicked in and what's caused all this," he said. "The doctor believes that at times Michael was totally convinced that he had this sickness."

Mr Guglielmucci said his son had a long history of "mystery illnesses", starting in childhood. "When he was about 12 he did vomit all the time, he'd get really really sick," he said. "He was in the Adelaide Children's Hospital for seven weeks at one stage; he didn't eat and we thought we were going to lose him. "They took out his appendix, thinking that it might be that, but they realised that it wasn't. "They gave us the option of putting him in a psychiatric ward to see if there was something psychological but we felt uncomfortable with that at the time. "We signed him out from hospital and then he would go a few months and then he would get sick again.
"We'd always take him to hospital; we'd always do the proper thing but they couldn't get to the bottom of it until now."

Mr Guglielmucci said he and his wife were in "absolute shock" to discover their son was not terminally ill. "We have watched our son go through what we thought was cancer," he said. "My wife and I, over the past two years, have watched him vomit in buckets, having nosebleeds, and even his hair fell out in clumps at one stage. "Every time we saw him, we saw symptoms. He stayed with us for a while where we had to put a special air-conditioner in one of the rooms because he would heat up so much in the middle of winter. "He had this cold air-conditioner blowing on him to try to keep the heat down. As a professional minister I've stood in front of my congregation and cried and said to pray for my son.

"I've travelled the world asking people to pray for him. Can you imagine what a horrible thing it would be if I was playing a game? "To be honest, I ask myself as a father, 'What did I miss, what did I not do? What could I have done better?' "

Mr Guglielmucci said Michael's wife was "getting really good counselling".
"She's not made any decision at this point," he said. "It's happened so quickly. There's so many questions."

[Sherri]

This reminds me..........there was a young guy at JCM in the 70's who told everyone that he had cancer and was not expected to live. This was a few years after I graduated there. The staff and all the kids were fasting and praying like crazy. The guy got all kinds of attention. Only when the chorale sang at a district camp that summer and met his parents did everyone find out that the whole story was made up! The Bible college staff was floored (although the extra praying sure didn't hurt anyone at JCM!!!).

I just think it was all very sad. The boy just wanted a lot of attention, I guess and he got it. It seemed to all stem from an insecurity problem.

[Scott Hutchinson]

This is sad,but what if he really gets cancer what would go through this fellow's mind then ?
This reminds of me a story,when I was younger it was kind of popular to wear glasses,that looked real like glasses,but where really fake glasses.
Being younger and foolish I bought a pair and wore them.
A minister asked me did I wear glasses of course I replied no.
He told me what if God caused you to wear glasses ? Needless to say I quit wearing those fake glasses.

[ManOfWord]

I know a lot of people are going to be angry over this and I admit that I fight the same feelings. He had me, just like his family, hook line & sinker! But it sounds the like the enemy had him that way as well. He certainly needs our prayers for him and his family and for his complete deliverance!

May the hand of the Lord be upon Mike for good and for deliverance! :D

[steve p]

I know a lot of people are going to be angry over this and I admit that I fight the same feelings. He had me, just like his family, hook line & sinker! But it sounds the like the enemy had him that way as well. He certainly needs our prayers for him and his family and for his complete deliverance!

May the hand of the Lord be upon Mike for good and for deliverance! :D

Im in agreement with your prayer!!! May God truely heal this man!

[aegsm76]

Where was the spiritual discernment? Seems as though this guy has pulled a Borat on a lot of people.

[Scott Hutchinson]

Where was the spiritual discernment? Seems as though this guy has pulled a Borat on a lot of people.

I agree without sounding harsh it looks like someone could have heard that still small voice talk to them about this.

[CC1]

This reminds me..........there was a young guy at JCM in the 70's who told everyone that he had cancer and was not expected to live. This was a few years after I graduated there. The staff and all the kids were fasting and praying like crazy. The guy got all kinds of attention. Only when the chorale sang at a district camp that summer and met his parents did everyone find out that the whole story was made up! The Bible college staff was floored (although the extra praying sure didn't hurt anyone at JCM!!!).

I just think it was all very sad. The boy just wanted a lot of attention, I guess and he got it. It seemed to all stem from an insecurity problem.

I was there and lived it. I even remembe the guys last name. I think he was motiviated by the attention he got from the pretty girls becausse of his "cancer".

He was not a handsome guy but all of the pretty girls fawned all over him and of course he got attention from everybody.

They all thought he was so brave that he would only let them drive him to the building where his supposed Dr. Appointments were downtown but would not let anybody go in with him. He said that he wanted to be brave and face it like a man. Ha!

The ironic thing was that the lie got so big and I think he go so uptight knowing that at some point it was going to come unraveled that he actually lost weight during this time which added to the realism of his con.

Since his dad was a UPC pastor (from Texas if I remember correctly) he was just simply quietly sent home and it was all swept under the rug as much as possible. I would not be surprised to find out he is pastoring today. If anybody knows what happened to him PM me.

Around this same time my brand new very expensive Bible disappered from the table everybody put their things on when going into the cafeteria. Many months later I got called into a deans office and on his desk was a pile of letters, money, clothes, etc that a pyscho girl from Ohio had been stealing. I was told she had stolen my Bible and hidden it in the engine compartment of the College van and they were going to retrieve it as soon as the van got back and they did. She was kicked out of school and the funny thing is that a few months later that summer I helped man the JCM booth at the Ohio Campmeeting and this girl came up to me and the other guy and acted as if nothing had ever happened. How she got caught was she was pyscho enough to steal her roomates clothes and then just cut the sleeves off and tried to claim it was her own.

[Sherri]

I was there and lived it. I even remembe the guys last name. I think he was motiviated by the attention he got from the pretty girls becausse of his "cancer".

He was not a handsome guy but all of the pretty girls fawned all over him and of course he got attention from everybody.

They all thought he was so brave that he would only let them drive him to the building where his supposed Dr. Appointments were downtown but would not let anybody go in with him. He said that he wanted to be brave and face it like a man. Ha!

The ironic thing was that the lie got so big and I think he go so uptight knowing that at some point it was going to come unraveled that he actually lost weight during this time which added to the realism of his con.

Since his dad was a UPC pastor (from Texas if I remember correctly) he was just simply quietly sent home and it was all swept under the rug as much as possible. I would not be surprised to find out he is pastoring today. If anybody knows what happened to him PM me.

Around this same time my brand new very expensive Bible disappered from the table everybody put their things on when going into the cafeteria. Many months later I got called into a deans office and on his desk was a pile of letters, money, clothes, etc that a pyscho girl from Ohio had been stealing. I was told she had stolen my Bible and hidden it in the engine compartment of the College van and they were going to retrieve it as soon as the van got back and they did. She was kicked out of school and the funny thing is that a few months later that summer I helped man the JCM booth at the Ohio Campmeeting and this girl came up to me and the other guy and acted as if nothing had ever happened. How she got caught was she was pyscho enough to steal her roomates clothes and then just cut the sleeves off and tried to claim it was her own.

I remember the guy's first name, so we could put it together and google him!! I had already graduated, but Eddie was there (of course, since he was in your class!). It was the most bizarre thing, but it did get some JCM kids praying so there was a little good that came from it.:tease

[MikeinAR]

Mr Guglielmucci said he and his wife were in "absolute shock" to discover their son was not terminally ill. "We have watched our son go through what we thought was cancer," he said. "My wife and I, over the past two years, have watched him vomit in buckets, having nosebleeds, and even his hair fell out in clumps at one stage.

This part floored me. Is it possible for a hypochondriac to actually fool his/her own body? I've talked about this with some people in the medical field and some people believe it is and some say it's not possible.

I guess maybe the guy had his own supply of hair removal cream or somesuch around. Sounds like this man needs TRUE healing tonight for the problems he's facing. He deserves everything that his actions have brought, but that song's truth is available to him.

[Cindy]

Mr Guglielmucci said he and his wife were in "absolute shock" to discover their son was not terminally ill. "We have watched our son go through what we thought was cancer," he said. "My wife and I, over the past two years, have watched him vomit in buckets, having nosebleeds, and even his hair fell out in clumps at one stage.

This part floored me. Is it possible for a hypochondriac to actually fool his/her own body? I've talked about this with some people in the medical field and some people believe it is and some say it's not possible.

I guess maybe the guy had his own supply of hair removal cream or somesuch around. Sounds like this man needs TRUE healing tonight for the problems he's facing. He deserves everything that his actions have brought, but that song's truth is available to him.

There are some other reasons that people suffer hair loss. As far as I know having cancer doesn't cause hair loss but some treatments do.

[MikeinAR]

There are some other reasons that people suffer hair loss. As far as I know having cancer doesn't cause hair loss but some treatments do.

Good point Cn. I'm not sure what the story was but unless he was on some form of chemo or radiation, I guess his hair wouldn't have been affected.

[Cindy]

Good point Cn. I'm not sure what the story was but unless he was on some form of chemo or radiation, I guess his hair wouldn't have been affected.

I believe stress can cause lots of different symptoms too. And hair loss may be one of them.

[GraceAmazing]

And to think I was going to sing this song tomorrow...not sure now...that is so sad tho because it's a GREAT song!

How did his family miss this???? This is just a bizarre story all the way around. I'm not sure what to think exactly....

Praying for him tho, it sounds like he needs it right now! I wonder why his family did not get him treatment earlier in life.

[Cindy]

And to think I was going to sing this song tomorrow...not sure now...that is so sad tho because it's a GREAT song!

How did his family miss this???? This is just a bizarre story all the way around. I'm not sure what to think exactly....

Praying for him tho, it sounds like he needs it right now! I wonder why his family did not get him treatment earlier in life.

I understand your hesitating to sing the song.

There did seem to be a few clues in his life. I guess the stigma of mental illness causes a lot of people to overlook things. They seem to focus more on the porn addiction than his mysterious mental issues.

[GraceAmazing]

There did seem to be a few clues in his life. I guess the stigma of mental illness causes a lot of people to overlook things. They seem to focus more on the porn addiction than his mysterious mental issues.

I would agree with that statement; however, because they chose to overlook things they now have a MUCH bigger problem to deal with. I would agree that they're trying to blame it on the porn addiction. I wonder if they blame ALL of his behavior on that addiction? I think there's much more to this story...

[Timmy]

I thought I had hypochondria. Turned out, it was just in my head. :toofunny

[Jermyn Davidson]

I would agree with that statement; however, because they chose to overlook things they now have a MUCH bigger problem to deal with. I would agree that they're trying to blame it on the porn addiction. I wonder if they blame ALL of his behavior on that addiction? I think there's much more to this story...


Oh there is, for sure-- but I hope we never find out. Hopefully, the whole family can move on and deal with everything in the privacy of Godly counsel.

He touched thousands, if not millions of lives through this song and his fake testimony. He may have been faking the cancer, but I believe that he had a whole lot of sincerity in his actions.

I believe when he ministered to folks personally, he meant it. When he sang that song, he meant it.

You know, I am glad he does not have cancer.

[ManOfWord]

I think when he was singing/penning the song that he was crying out for healing in the midst of the dark cave he was living in. I am NOT justifying his fraud or anything. I just see a broken individual who needs the message of the song God gave him.

Once again, it just goes to prove that God does indeed, use people whose lives are in a mess and does receive glory from it. However, because of the brokenness of this man's life, it will have negative implications, not only for his family but for other in the body of Christ.

Thus it behooves us as leaders to practice saying, NO to sin when it seeks to dominate our lives. To the minister who says that never happens to them, I say they a liar. Sin seeks to dominate all of our lives, especially ministers.

May God have mercy on this man and his family and grant them beauty for ashes! :D

[GraceAmazing]

I think when he was singing/penning the song that he was crying out for healing in the midst of the dark cave he was living in.


I couldn't agree with this statement more. I am a songwriter and more often than not I write about myself...so usually between every line of a song is the "real" story!

I woke up today and listened to this song and really it is a great song! It's a song that will minister to almost everyone at one stage or another in their life. I'm just saddened that he went to the extremes that he did...

[GraceAmazing]

Oh there is, for sure-- but I hope we never find out. Hopefully, the whole family can move on and deal with everything in the privacy of Godly counsel.

He touched thousands, if not millions of lives through this song and his fake testimony. He may have been faking the cancer, but I believe that he had a whole lot of sincerity in his actions.

I believe when he ministered to folks personally, he meant it. When he sang that song, he meant it.

You know, I am glad he does not have cancer.

Yes, I agree...I hope we never find out! And I too am glad he does not have cancer and I'll take it a step further...I pray he NEVER gets it!!! I'm not so sure I agree that he had sincerity in his actions, but I do think I understand the point.:nod

[Sherri]

I couldn't agree with this statement more. I am a songwriter and more often than not I write about myself...so usually between every line of a song is the "real" story!

I woke up today and listened to this song and really it is a great song! It's a song that will minister to almost everyone at one stage or another in their life. I'm just saddened that he went to the extremes that he did...
Sing that song with your heart and let God move. It's still an anointed song!!

[GraceAmazing]

Sing that song with your heart and let God move. It's still an anointed song!!

I did today and did God move!!!! It was awesome! I'm so glad I decided to go ahead and sing it! It was worth it!

[TRFrance]

I don't mean to be harsh toward this guy, and I actually like the song.... but I have to speak frankly here:

It's interesting that a song that's been such a blessing can come out of the soul of someone who's such a liar and a fraud.

Just the same way, someone who is a liar and fraud can preach a message that also "blesses" many people. I say this because there seem to be so many (on this forum and elsewhere) who have continually made the argument that:

A.... so-and-so is obviously saved/used by God, because they've written such beautiful Christian songs... and/or
B.... if so-and-so weren't saved how could they preach such "powerful" and "blessed" messages?

I think sometimes too many folks (even some self-described "apostolics") seem to mistake talent for anointing; to me, such a mindset is unfortunate, and just opens one up to possible spiritual deception down the road.

[Cindy]

I think when he was singing/penning the song that he was crying out for healing in the midst of the dark cave he was living in. I am NOT justifying his fraud or anything. I just see a broken individual who needs the message of the song God gave him.

Once again, it just goes to prove that God does indeed, use people whose lives are in a mess and does receive glory from it. However, because of the brokenness of this man's life, it will have negative implications, not only for his family but for other in the body of Christ.

Thus it behooves us as leaders to practice saying, NO to sin when it seeks to dominate our lives. To the minister who says that never happens to them, I say they a liar. Sin seeks to dominate all of our lives, especially ministers.

May God have mercy on this man and his family and grant them beauty for ashes! :D


Amen MOW, there but for the grace of God go you or I.

[crakjak]

Suppose.....God allowed this to happen....to see how we would react to it....I dont know how theologically correct that is....im no theologian...but...just suppose...God thought..."I wana see how my children will react and to whom they will turn to when they find out about this" ...Just a thought....

We are all a flawed people. Some folks sins go before them to the judgment (the setting of things right) others come behind them to the judgment.

May this exposure change this man's heart, and the fire that burns the wood, hay and stubble remove all that is unlike his God.

We sang this song this morning, glad I was not distracted with this knowledge, God can use even one's dishonest attempt to glorify Him!!!

[crakjak]

I think when he was singing/penning the song that he was crying out for healing in the midst of the dark cave he was living in. I am NOT justifying his fraud or anything. I just see a broken individual who needs the message of the song God gave him.

Once again, it just goes to prove that God does indeed, use people whose lives are in a mess and does receive glory from it. However, because of the brokenness of this man's life, it will have negative implications, not only for his family but for other in the body of Christ.

Thus it behooves us as leaders to practice saying, NO to sin when it seeks to dominate our lives. To the minister who says that never happens to them, I say they a liar. Sin seeks to dominate all of our lives, especially ministers.

May God have mercy on this man and his family and grant them beauty for ashes! :D

Amen, to a Godly response to flawed humanity.

[ManOfWord]

I don't mean to be harsh toward this guy, and I actually like the song.... but I have to speak frankly here:

It's interesting that a song that's been such a blessing can come out of the soul of someone who's such a liar and a fraud.

Just the same way, someone who is a liar and fraud can preach a message that also "blesses" many people. I say this because there seem to be so many (on this forum and elsewhere) who have continually made the argument that:

A.... so-and-so is obviously saved/used by God, because they've written such beautiful Christian songs... and/or
B.... if so-and-so weren't saved how could they preach such "powerful" and "blessed" messages?

I think sometimes too many folks (even some self-described "apostolics") seem to mistake talent for anointing; to me, such a mindset is unfortunate, and just opens one up to possible spiritual deception down the road.

Salvation has nothing to do with the anointing. God will cause His anointing to be upon whomever He chooses for whatever purpose He chooses. The person doesn't have to be saved or even in a right relationship with God. God anoints for the purpose, primarily, of touching those who need the message, in word, song or whatever.

These things happened to Mike because of decision he made. At any time he could have stopped and asked for help. He didn't. He chose to try to handle it himself and destruction has followed. I can imagine him desperately wanting deliverance and promising God over and over that he would stop only to let the flesh reign instead of Jesus. I don't think for a moment, that he was malicious or had some grand plan to get rich or to deceive people. I do believe that he felt trapped and and unable to get free. That is what the enemy does to us. God loves him so much that He allowed all of this to come to light to set Mike free!

It is so sad that it had to come to this, but Jesus comes to the rescue of broken vessels when they cry to Him. May Mike and his family cry out to the Healer! :D

I have folks in our church who know Mike (they've been to Planet Shakers) and they are devastated like everyone else. Sorry, I'm fresh out of stones to cast. Please don't bother loaning me any of yours.

[Cindy]

Salvation has nothing to do with the anointing. God will cause His anointing to be upon whomever He chooses for whatever purpose He chooses. The person doesn't have to be saved or even in a right relationship with God. God anoints for the purpose, primarily, of touching those who need the message, in word, song or whatever.

These things happened to Mike because of decision he made. At any time he could have stopped and asked for help. He didn't. He chose to try to handle it himself and destruction has followed. I can imagine him desperately wanting deliverance and promising God over and over that he would stop only to let the flesh reign instead of Jesus. I don't think for a moment, that he was malicious or had some grand plan to get rich or to deceive people. I do believe that he felt trapped and and unable to get free. That is what the enemy does to us. God loves him so much that He allowed all of this to come to light to set Mike free!

It is so sad that it had to come to this, but Jesus comes to the rescue of broken vessels when they cry to Him. May Mike and his family cry out to the Healer! :D

I have folks in our church who know Mike (they've been to Planet Shakers) and they are devastated like everyone else. Sorry, I'm fresh out of stones to cast. Please don't bother loaning me any of yours.

I have done that very thing myself, and it is terrifying when you are trapped by your own fears. But God is gracious and merciful. I am praying for this man and his family, that God will not just heal him but make him whole.

[TRFrance]

Salvation has nothing to do with the anointing. God will cause His anointing to be upon whomever He chooses for whatever purpose He chooses. The person doesn't have to be saved or even in a right relationship with God. God anoints for the purpose, primarily, of touching those who need the message, in word, song or whatever.

These things happened to Mike because of decision he made. At any time he could have stopped and asked for help. He didn't. He chose to try to handle it himself and destruction has followed. I can imagine him desperately wanting deliverance and promising God over and over that he would stop only to let the flesh reign instead of Jesus. I don't think for a moment, that he was malicious or had some grand plan to get rich or to deceive people. I do believe that he felt trapped and and unable to get free. That is what the enemy does to us. God loves him so much that He allowed all of this to come to light to set Mike free!

It is so sad that it had to come to this, but Jesus comes to the rescue of broken vessels when they cry to Him. May Mike and his family cry out to the Healer! :D

I have folks in our church who know Mike (they've been to Planet Shakers) and they are devastated like everyone else. Sorry, I'm fresh out of stones to cast. Please don't bother loaning me any of yours.

No one is casting stones at the man.

I don't even know why you even bothered to respond to what I posted, because what you've just said is mostly irrelevant to the point I was making. (You seem to have a habit of doing that, I must say.)

So once again, you shift into "I'm-more-merciful-than-you" mode; it's become a little predictable coming from you, and frankly, it's also become a bit tiresome.

I know little about the man, and have only heard the song a few times, and I did say I liked the song, and it's been a blessing to many. That said, my point was much larger than this one man. If you bothered to read and understand what my post was about, maybe you'd see it was not about "casting stones" at Michael. Whether you wish to admit it or not, clearly the man was not right with God. The man did perpetrate a financial and emotional fraud against thousands of people who trusted him. That's a fact, and that shouldn't be glossed over. That's not "casting stones", thats just a basic observation --- but [U]that was not even the point of my post. I would re-state what the point I was making, but something tells me it wouldn't make much of a difference. You seem to see what you want to see anyway.

[Jermyn Davidson]

I don't mean to be harsh toward this guy, and I actually like the song.... but I have to speak frankly here:

It's interesting that a song that's been such a blessing can come out of the soul of someone who's such a liar and a fraud.




I am reminded of a guy named Parham, Charles Parham?? Or maybe I've got his name wrong. Is it historical fact that this man, used by the Lord, had an attraction for other men and even children?

[MikeinAR]

Salvation has nothing to do with the anointing. God will cause His anointing to be upon whomever He chooses for whatever purpose He chooses. The person doesn't have to be saved or even in a right relationship with God. God anoints for the purpose, primarily, of touching those who need the message, in word, song or whatever.

MOW, would you explain your opinion a little more on this. I'm curious as to your line of thinking on this. I'm not attacking it or endorsing it. I'm pretty much in the middle, but not sure I believe that completely.

I'm not certain that an unsaved person can bear the true annointing of God. A donkey carried a message once and that's what most people point too, but is it really possible for an unsaved person who isn't endued with His Holy Spirit to be annointed.

I think it's an interesting subject and I'd like to hear more from your viewpoint on this.

[TRFrance]

I am reminded of a guy named Parham, Charles Parham?? Or maybe I've got his name wrong. Is it historical fact that this man, used by the Lord, had an attraction for other men and even children?
Never heard that one.

I do know some considered him to be racist, but I don't know anything about allegations of homosexuality and/or pedophilia.

[tv1a]

One of the best gospel songs of all time was authored by a drunk who died in the back seat of car as a result of an overdose of pills.

I Saw the Light ranks up there with Amazing Grace as one the best gospel songs ever. Penned by the greatest songwriter ever, Hank Williams.

Salvation has nothing to do with the anointing. God will cause His anointing to be upon whomever He chooses for whatever purpose He chooses. The person doesn't have to be saved or even in a right relationship with God. God anoints for the purpose, primarily, of touching those who need the message, in word, song or whatever.

These things happened to Mike because of decision he made. At any time he could have stopped and asked for help. He didn't. He chose to try to handle it himself and destruction has followed. I can imagine him desperately wanting deliverance and promising God over and over that he would stop only to let the flesh reign instead of Jesus. I don't think for a moment, that he was malicious or had some grand plan to get rich or to deceive people. I do believe that he felt trapped and and unable to get free. That is what the enemy does to us. God loves him so much that He allowed all of this to come to light to set Mike free!

It is so sad that it had to come to this, but Jesus comes to the rescue of broken vessels when they cry to Him. May Mike and his family cry out to the Healer! :D

I have folks in our church who know Mike (they've been to Planet Shakers) and they are devastated like everyone else. Sorry, I'm fresh out of stones to cast. Please don't bother loaning me any of yours.

[ManOfWord]

No one is casting stones at the man.

I don't even know why you even bothered to respond to what I posted, because what you've just said is mostly irrelevant to the point I was making. (You seem to have a habit of doing that, I must say.)

So once again, you [unnecessarily] shift into "I'm-more-merciful-than-you" mode; it's become a little predictable coming from you, and frankly, it's also become a bit tiresome.

I know little about the man, and have only heard the song a few times, and I did say I liked the song, and it's been a blessing to many. That said, my point was much larger than this one man. If you bothered to read and understand what my post was about, maybe you'd see it was not about "casting stones" at Michael. Whether you wish to admit it or not, clearly the man was not right with God. That's not "casting stones", thats just a basic observation --- but that was not even the point of my post. I would re-state what the point I was making, but something tells me it wouldn't make much of a difference. You seem to see what you want to see anyway.

I guess you took that a little personal, huh? Typical. Sorry, it wasn't meant that way. You have a right to your opinions, wrong as they may be, but I don't tire of them. They are as valuable as anyone else's. I have admitted he wasn't right with God, however, I was on target with my assessment:

In September in 2006, Mike had an accident and went to hospital. It was at this time, because of his torment of living a double life, Mike thought he could escape the pain by creating a diversion from his addiction to adult pornography, so he created the cancer scenario.

The pain of this addiction was so deep that he started something he couldn't stop and proceeded on a downward spiral that led to him experiencing pain and suffering that resulted in constant vomiting and many other symptoms of a genuine sufferer.

Sharonne and I witnessed these episodes and pained and wept over his suffering. Michael wrote the song Healer because he wanted God to set him free from his addiction but hid it behind the lie of a fabricated illness.

Read the rest of the article here:


http://www.news.com.au/adelaidenow/story/0,22606,24233308-5006301,00.htm

[Jermyn Davidson]

Jesus,
Deliver this man from the clutches of pornography. You know our frame as men. You know how satan desires to destroy everything good you have given us. I know the pain of such an addiction. I pray that you heal him completely, just as I know You are healing me completely. Thank you for being a GOD that heals and restores. When our addictions bring us to the cusp of utter destruction, You are the GOD that SAVES!

Lord Jesus, thank you for your mercy.

In Jesus Name, amen.

[South of I 90]

Read the rest of the article here:


http://www.news.com.au/adelaidenow/story/0,22606,24233308-5006301,00.htm

Just read the statement from the Michaels father........................so sad.

I pray for this family, Michael and everyone involved.

[ManOfWord]

MOW, would you explain your opinion a little more on this. I'm curious as to your line of thinking on this. I'm not attacking it or endorsing it. I'm pretty much in the middle, but not sure I believe that completely.

I'm not certain that an unsaved person can bear the true annointing of God. A donkey carried a message once and that's what most people point too, but is it really possible for an unsaved person who isn't endued with His Holy Spirit to be annointed.

I think it's an interesting subject and I'd like to hear more from your viewpoint on this.


OK, here is my take: God is sovereign. He can and do whatever He desires and His word gives us the boundaries in which He will work. The Bible is replete with people who had SERIOUS character flaws and God used them anyway. God using a person is NO certification of their right standing with Him. Shockamoo, or an outward blessing in a church service is no certification of right standing with God either.

The anointing is NOT dependent upon salvation. It is totally dependent upon performing His will for His purposes. Someone certainly CAN be anointed of God for a purpose and not even be saved. The anointing does not reside with them, I don't think, but God can impart it whenever He desires. I believe that God anoints leaders and people all over the world for His glory and to accomplish His purposes for His people. He could anoint a business man to be successful for His purposes and man not even be saved.

I also believe TR touched upon an important point as well when he said that some confuse anointing with talent. I believe that can be true as well and sometimes it is difficult to tell the difference. However, since James states that every good and perfect gift comes from God, ALL talent is from Him and is an anointing to some degree, from my point of view.

For instance, I had lunch with a VERY influential communist while in China and God has used him to protect an illegal church/Bible school that I recently taught at. I believe that God has anointed him for that purpose. I had the privilege of praying for him at our lunch and he is an atheist at this point. He received my prayer well and even said, "Amen" at its conclusion.

So that is why I say that anointing has nothing to do with salvation. We can't earn it, pray enough for it, do enough good works for it etc. However, I believe it does take those things to partner with God. God is the Giver for His purposes and is more concerned with those being blessed through whomever He anoints than He is the one who is anointed by Him, IMO. :D

[MikeinAR]

OK, here is my take: God is sovereign. He can and do whatever He desires and His word gives us the boundaries in which He will work. The Bible is replete with people who had SERIOUS character flaws and God used them anyway. God using a person is NO certification of their right standing with Him. Shockamoo, or an outward blessing in a church service is no certification of right standing with God either.

I competely agree with all of this. He used, David, Sampson, Saul who became Paul and the cursing fisherman Peter. I also agree that a person can be directed by God for his purposes without his endorsement of that person. He's sovereign and can use his creation for his purposes.

The anointing is NOT dependent upon salvation. It is totally dependent upon performing His will for His purposes. Someone certainly CAN be anointed of God for a purpose and not even be saved. The anointing does not reside with them, I don't think, but God can impart it whenever He desires. I believe that God anoints leaders and people all over the world for His glory and to accomplish His purposes for His people. He could anoint a business man to be successful for His purposes and man not even be saved.

I think here is where I disagree. Every New Testament use of someone being anointed is when the individual is in right relationship with God. (2 Corinthians 1:21, 1John 2:20,27, Hebrews 1:9) If you take that word back to the Greek to it's base word according to Strong, it's the enduing of power to Christian believers. I agree that people can be directed and used for a sovereign purpose at a sovereign time but not necessarily be annointed, IMO. From what I can find, anointing wasn't a gift or attritube of the unGodly.

I also believe TR touched upon an important point as well when he said that some confuse anointing with talent. I believe that can be true as well and sometimes it is difficult to tell the difference. However, since James states that every good and perfect gift comes from God, ALL talent is from Him and is an anointing to some degree, from my point of view.

No disagreements here. Talent is God imparted many times and the individual freely chooses to use that talent as they see fit. Talent can be used by an unsaved person in a gospel setting and stir and move people (ala Hank Williams "I saw the Light") or Elvis' gospel tunes. Withouth question, talent can be and often is mistaken for the anointing, IMO.:D

It's interesting to think about and discuss. I enjoy your posts because you make the wheels in my head turn most of the time which is a good thing.

[ManOfWord]

It's interesting to think about and discuss. I enjoy your posts because you make the wheels in my head turn most of the time which is a good thing.

Thank you for your kind words! I think on the anointing discussion, that it ma come down to semantics. I may call God using a sinner for His purposes anointing and others may not be comfortable with that term. Either way, God still uses whomever for whatever He desires to accomplish. :D