Daring jewel thief ‘Murf the Surf’ to headline Legacy of the Cross fundraiser at Midway Baptist

Jack R. ‘Murf the Surf’ Murphy

Jack R. ‘Murf the Surf’ Murphy

During the “Jewel Heist of the Century,” the Star of India – the largest star sapphire in the world — and 26 other precious gems had been taken in the night. Who would dare?

Jack ‘Murf the Surf’ Murphy — infamous jewel thief, surfing champion, musician, author, artist, playboy, who spent 21 years in maximum security prisons — will share his tale of the crime that inspired a movie starring Robert Conrad and Donna Mills about living in the underworld fast lane, at a fundraiser March 29 at Midway Baptist Church.

Now a world-renowned prison evangelist, speaking throughout the country and 16 foreign nations including Israel and Russia, Jack Murphy tells the story of his journey and greatest miracle experience, a life changing encounter with Jesus Christ.

Murphy, as one who was saved by Jesus Christ in prison, has dedicated the last 29 years ministering to the incarcerated. His long-time partner in ministry, now local resident and fellow ex-convict Michael Hamm, and Tryon businessman Steve Collie, recently founded Legacy of the Cross. The three men together currently compose Legacy’s board of directors.

Michael and Steve routinely visit inmates in the Polk County and Rutherford County jails, bringing them a message of hope for a new life. Legacy of the Cross also strives to offer a hand up to those coming out of jail who seek that new life, and help in reconciliation with their families.

Come and listen to the heart of a triumphant champion of redemption and hope as he shares his story on Tuesday, March 29 at 6:30 p.m., Midway Baptist Church, Hwy. 108 in Columbus at a fundraiser for the ministry.

The church will provide dinner for free and ask that those attending make a donation to Legacy of the Cross. If you would like to attend, please RSVP to legacyofthecross@gmail.com or by text to 828-231-9319. Only 250 seats are available. First come first serve, so confirm your attendance soon.

-Submitted by Steve Collie

SportsPlus

Community

Polk County Planning Board approves minor subdivisions, mobile home park

Campobello

Spartanburg District One presented four-phase proposal plan 

Community

RRHS hosts Healthy Heart Screening event in honor of Heart Health Awareness Month

Campobello

Denim & Diamond Scholarship Pageant takes place at Landrum High School

Community

“History of the Saluda Grade” to be presented at Landrum Library

Columbus

Thermal Belt Outreach highlights programs, updates to food pantry

Arts

February concert at FENCE to feature Myron Hyman

Community

Donor helps Polk Middle add second scoreboard to gym

Community

Multi-vehicle accident shuts down I-26 Wednesday morning

Community

Debris removal, repairs continue in Polk County four months after Helene

News

GIRLS BASKETBALL: Polk tops East Rutherford, secures outright league title

Community

Champions for Wildlife share lessons on black bears with local students

Community

Local student places fifth at Tractor Driving State Finals

Community

Friends of Agriculture breakfast set for February 19

News

Ring season returns as Polk celebrates second state volleyball title

Community

Sunny View man hospitalized after pit bull attack

Arts

PCEC students take part in Public Art and Design Challenge

Columbus

Foothills Humane Society to host “Mystery Mutt Match”

News

Championship moment: Polk ends title drought in romp past Chase

Campobello

Deadly accident on Highway 9 under investigation

Community

Guiding Reins, Brights Creek to host event for first responders

News

Polk delivers Senior Night victory, topping Chase

Community

Bowl For Kids’ Sake returns on March 8

Community

Red wolf pelt helps kids learn