The Osgood File (CBS Radio Network): 10/13/99

            The black belt minister teaches both Christianity and martial arts.
            Rod Brayfindley was sent to McKinleyville, CA by the United
            Methodist Church to start the Church of the Joyful Healer. As an
            avid practitioner of karate, he was disappointed that his new
            community lacked a dojo (a martial arts school). So, in addition to
            starting a new Methodist church, Brayfindley founded a separate dojo
            where he could teach and practice his martial arts.
            Brayfindley, a black belt, believes karate and its philosophy can be
            useful in preaching the Gospel. During Sunday sermons in front of
            the congregation, he’ll often use karate moves to illustrate a point
            from the Bible. For example, in an effort to resolve issues with an
            opponent in karate, students 'strike' instead of running away from
            the problem. He teaches his Congregation to confront their problems,
            instead of running away. Brayfindley preaches the power of the Lord
            provides the confidence to face any challenge.
            Today there are 80 members in the church and 20 members in the dojo.
            Brayfindley didn't expect that the dojo would be a useful place to
            do out reach for his church and the church a place to recruit karate
            students. Yet that's exactly what's happened. Karate students have
            become interested in his church and he's found new students by
            connecting martial arts to Christianity at church.
            While some say it's contradictory to be a Christian and practice
            karate expert, Brayfindley disagrees. He says martial arts roots in
            Buddhism provide lessons on how to live a healthy spiritual life
            based on peace. According to the minister, the Bible offers the same
            teachings.