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- OFFICIAL ZONDERVAN PRESS RELEASE - Religion gets a Remix in Un.Orthodox "Tommy Kyllonen is one of the new breed of young pastors in the reformation generation. Un.orthodox will be a source of inspiration as you read about his passion to lead the church and influence a culture for God's glory." -Rick Warren, Pastor Saddleback Church Grand Rapids, Mich., Feb. 2007 – Combining church with hip-hop may sound unorthodox, but to Tommy Kyllonen, aka Urban D, it’s a cultural imperative for reaching today’s generation. Kyllonen is the Pastor of Tampa-based Crossover Church, recently named one of America’s most innovative churches by Outreach magazine for its unique cross-generational ministry to the hip-hop culture. Kyllonen is also a hip-hop artist and will be simultaneously releasing his fifth album with his book of the same name. |
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In his debut book, Un.orthodox (May ’07), Kyllonen shows how to create an environment where hip-hop can be a platform to reach the unchurched generation, as well as a ministry tool to connect with youth and young adults already in the church. He equips church leaders and parents with an understanding to engage a culture that is often portrayed negatively in the media. “Hip-hop isn’t just a music genre as many people believe; it’s also dance, art, poetry, film, style, and much more,” Kyllonen explains. “Hip-hop is a lifestyle and state of mind that millions of people connect with. It’s a pipeline to younger generations and all ethnic groups across the planet.” Kyllonen shows what a hip-hop targeted ministry can look like in worship, outreach, evangelism, service and discipleship. Un.orthodox also offers unique perspectives on the history, current state, and future of the hip-hop movement. Kyllonen believes hip-hop is in serious need of spiritual reformation and wants to help a culture that is reaching out for God. “I love the church, and I love hip-hop, but even more I love the message of Jesus Christ. It’s exciting to see people from my culture and all cultures find Christ, and my hope is that this book opens people’s hearts and minds to hip-hop, its impact on culture and its importance as a God-given tool for ministry,” Kyllonen added. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Zondervan is the leading Christian communications company in the world. Zondervan produces Bibles, books, new media products, and children’s products from its Zonderkidz group. Visit Zondervan on the Web at www.zondervan.com |
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