Several months ago we introduced a new song to the congregation, the
response was amazing. The song is still on the "favorites" list for Sunday
mornings. A couple of months after this, several of us saw the new Hillsong DVD
and the writer of this particular song was on stage with an oxygen tank reading
a passage from Isaiah prior to singing the song. We were all deeply moved and
the song took on new meaning for us.
This past week, it was revealed that the author of the song "Healer", Mike Giglielmucci, has faked a terminal illness for the past two years. He had successfully hidden it from his family and friends. It has been a topic of discussion for the past two days, and I found a response on a blog by John Finkfelde, an Australian pastor, that I would like to share.

Russell Evans, Planetshakers Church pastor, issued a statement last night about Michael Guglielmucci, renowned Australian pastor and song writer whose struggle with cancer has been widely chronicled. His song "Healer" has been featured on the latest Hillsong CD & DVD.

Michael Guglielmucci has informed us that he does not suffer from cancer, was never diagnosed with cancer, and has never suffered from the disease. This admission has come as a great shock to everyone including his wife and family who had no knowledge of the matter.

This shocking news has left me dumbfounded.

Michael's deception and betrayal will wreak havoc - unbelievers will mock the church, Christians in the workplace will face increased cynicism, pastors will be less trusted, and the supernatural nature of the gospel will be openly questioned.

So why do pastors lie?

Same reason anyone lies - approval, pride, survival, prestige, and ego.

The difference is that pastors are required to live impeccable (not perfect) lives so that Christ is honoured and people are shepherded securely.

This is an entirely appropriate demand. When leaders ignore it, hell rejoices and breaks loose.

What to do?

First, it's OK to be angry and disappointed.

Second, reject the easy option of projecting Michael's failure onto all and sundry. It's his sin, not mine... or yours.

Third, pray for... yourself, your friends, your church, & the Guglielmucci family. Also, the Planetshakers and Edge churches - it's going to be a tough Sunday for them this weekend.

Well said, John. By the way, I am still singing the dog out of
that song... I love it!