Book cover ignites criticism

PASADENA, Calif.--The cover design of a book by the executive editor of The Plain Truth, the magazine of the Worldwide Church of God, drew criticism from a WCG member in May because it depicts flames consuming a picture of WCG founder Herbert W. Armstrong. Zondervan, the Christian publishing house, plans to release The Liberation of the Worldwide Church of God: The Remarkable Story of a Cult's Journey From Deception to Truth, by Michael Feazell, in August.

John Brian Heath of Greensboro, N.C., urges Church of God members to write to Zondervan in protest. Mr. Heath, who agrees with the WCG's doctrinal changes, says the book cover can easily be misinterpreted.

"Regardless of any symbolic or artistic intent, using a cover such as this shows a lack of consideration for the Armstrong family, as well as for Mr. Armstrong's closest associates."