For over 10 years, Br. Hook has graced the internet with his website “Freedom’s Ring” and his emailed newsletter by the same name. He brought the bright light of freedom in Christ to countless thousands, and after a life well lived, was called home on June 1, 2007.
Br. Hook is a spiritual hero to me, showing how the internet can be used to minister to those in the Churches of Christ looking for a deeper, truer understanding of scripture, which he did to great effect.
He also made the works of Carl Kecherside and Leroy Garrett available for downloading, helping to publicize the delightful, enriching writings of these men despite the unwillingness of many publishing houses to touch such “controversial” materials. In fact, I believe Br. Ketcherside may be the most gifted writer produced by the Churches of Christ, making Br. Hooks’ rediscovery of his work comparable to Mendelssohn’s rediscovery of Bach.
Br. Hook’s work will live on not only through his writings but also through the writings of these and other men preserved on his web site and–much more importantly–through the many disciples of Jesus who came to a greater, better faith through his work.
Sadly, although we corresponded by email, I never met Br. Hook in person. He’ll be among the first I look up when I’m called home as well.
