Siloam: Keepers of the Spring

After many years, a long-forgotten spring is discovered by a little boy, near the Oregon coast town of Safety Harbor. The indigenous people to whom it originally belonged, and who still live nearby, believe the waters of the spring have healing power. It was once used by their ancestors for such, until it was taken from them by white settlers, who eventually abandoned the area as the spring dried up. Now, in the present time, miracles are reported by those who visit the newly emergent spring. But, there are dark forces that want to claim ownership of the spring in order to control its access, prevent its use for spiritual healing, and who are willing to destroy anyone who gets in the way of their agenda. The people of the larger Safety Harbor community, and their indigenous neighbors, are challenged to put themselves on the line, to risk their lives, if necessary, in order to preserve this gift that has been restored in their lifetimes. The story is filled with colorful characters and high drama, as a spiritual struggle unfolds before our eyes that will inspire all of us to take risks for that which is of ultimate spiritual significance.

Chuck Cooper, a graduate of Claremont School of Theology (1978), served three Christian Traditions during his active ministry. He has lived in Oregon for thirty years and has a special affinity for his adopted state's coastline and beaches. His passion is for the spiritual well-being of those who are marginalized or alienated from the church as institution. He lives in Wilsonville, Oregon with his wife, Patty, and their two dogs, Bugsie and Murphy. This is his first novel. He is, currently, working on his second novel.