Why the TLC?
by Pastor Don Bartow

Led of the Lord
I definitely feel the Lord led me to secure the facility for the Total Living Center. He revealed to me the vision of pulling together many ministries and many individuals to present to the world the message of wholeness. 

Long Time Interest
Anyone who has known me for any length of time is aware of the fact that I have been intensely interested in proclaiming the message of healing. Believing in and teaching about healing has been a long time "burn" in my spirit. It is a true calling of God for me. The TLC facility enhances this calling and extends throughout the land the ministry concerning healing for our day. 

Why A Facility
The answer to why a facility is very simple for me. It is needed for me to keep my sacred vow unto the Lord. In 1959, I heard myself say, "Lord, I will conduct healing services until the day I die, even if I have to do it from a wheelchair." I said this when I was so ill I felt I would soon be in a wheelchair. My chronic condition was worsening. Yet, I knew the Gospel revealed Jesus as Healer. I felt constrained to proclaim this truth until my dying day. Now, many years since 1959, I cannot break this vow unto the Lord. With Him as my Helper, I will hold healing services as long as I am physically able to do so. 

Purpose
The prime purpose of the Total Living Center is to vigorously, intentionally, and continuously proclaim the message of healing and wholeness. The weekly Tuesday Night Healing Service is the very hub of all the activities of the TLC. It also serves as the headquarters of the Spiritual Healing Ministry which through the conferences writings, mailings, etc. reaches all fifty states and several other countries. 

Not A Church, but THE Church
Though not a church in the local sense, the TLC is the body of Christ in action. We are THE Church. We seek to blend with the outreach and ministry of the church at large. All activities at the TLC are ecumenical, community focused, as well as Spirit-led and empowered. Upon my retirement from Westminster, I ended my career of pastoral ministry. I no longer officiate at weddings, funerals, or baptisms. Through our ministries, we continue seeking to bring people closer and into relationship with the one true living God through His Son, Jesus Christ, and the power of the Holy Spirit.

The Scriptures and the  TLC
The TLC is a great adventure of faith. It takes the effort, prayers, and support of many people. I do not hesitate to encourage individuals to join in this venture as the Lord inspires each one. The Lord plainly told me to use the method prescribed by His Son to secure and to maintain the TLC. That is ,"Ask, and it shall be given you, seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you." Matthew 7:7 Therefore, I ask, I seek, and I knock to secure faithful support in prayer and gifts for the TLC as the headquarters of the Spiritual Healing Ministry. 

The Future
My desire is that the TLC become a model place for teaching and healing. I believe that through this center we can teach, train, encourage and strengthen others to go back to their homes, communities and churches to liveout and practice healing ministry to the whole person. - I emphasize healing because Jesus' ministry was one of healing. - I emphasize healing because this is God's calling to me. - And, I emphasize healing, because I believe it is the central ministry of the church. 

Your Part
My prayer is that you will be a part of proclaiming and practicing the ministry and message of wholeness given to us by the Lord Jesus.