Concerning public opinion of NY Congressman Anthony Weiner's adulterous "gross behavior" on line with women and young girls via Twitter (and various Internet social media), the cable TV host said, “the people in the rural areas of this country who are Christian, conservative, culturally – you can say ‘backward’ if you want – they don’t like this stuff.”
-- From "Chris Matthews: If Weiner Stays, Democrats ‘Never Get Leadership Back’ In The House" by Matt Schneider, MEDIAite 6/9/11
Matthews was aware that Weiner’s behavior might not be as big of a deal in his home district of New York, but knew that around the country it played much worse. “If you’re a blue dog Democrat from a conservative culture part of the country . . . your life is getting difficult enough defending the East coast and the left coast Democratic party, they’re too far left,” Matthews said.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Matthews: Weiner in Trouble Because His Behavior Offends 'Culturally Backward' Christian Conservatives" by Geoffrey Dickens, NewsBusters 6/10/11
On Thursday's Hardball, Chris Matthews determined that Democratic Congressman Anthony Weiner could be in danger of being forced out of Congress by Blue Dog Dems who face uphill battles in red states . . .
During a discussion about Weiner's chances of survival, after being caught sending lewd pictures to women via Twitter, the MSNBCer claimed the liberal congressman didn't have to worry about his, according to Matthews, culturally superior constituents in New York - the "56 percent in Brooklyn and Queens" who "can live with this guy." Instead he had to be concerned with his Democratic colleagues fearful about re-election in the "conservative culturally part of the country."
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Episcopalians Go Gay, Some Go Catholic
As a California Episcopal bishop OK'd priests to perform same-sex "weddings," an Episcopal church in Maryland became the first in the U.S. to formally join the Roman Catholic Church.
For background, read Pope Welcomes Christians Leaving Anglicanism over Liberalism
-- From "Episcopal churches open doors wider" by Sue Nowicki, The Modesto Bee 6/11/11
Beginning Sunday, Episcopal priests in the San Joaquin Diocese can "perform blessings of same gender civil marriages, domestic partnerships and relationships which are lifelong committed relationships characterized by fidelity, monogamy" and "holy love."
[Bishop Chester Talton said this will,] "acknowledge the sacredness of that relationship. I think it also says our church is one that is inclusive, that welcomes all, that will embrace all members of God's creation in God's church."
Other faith communities in Modesto, including College Avenue Congregational Church and the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Stanislaus County, have been doing similar ceremonies for the past three decades, their pastors said.
But such blessings are one reason theologically conservative parishes and dioceses in the United States have left the national Episcopal Church and moved to alternative oversight groups within the worldwide Anglican Communion.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "California Anglican Bishop Removes Same-Sex Union Ban" by Daniel Blake, Christian Post Contributor 6/10/11
California currently recognizes domestic partnerships between gay couples as long as one or both of the people involved is 62 or older.
U.S. Episcopal bishops who met in 2009 approved a resolution that in effect granted bishops in states that allow either marriage, civil unions or domestic partnerships, the discretion to offer a blessing.
This week the diocese of San Joaquin said in a statement: “We must also recognize there are same-gender couples in relationships who have not entered in domestic partnerships, perceiving them to be inferior to marriage and who, for various reasons, did not or could not marry during the brief time when same gender marriages were legal.”
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Episcopal church in Bladensburg to convert to Roman Catholicism" by Michelle Boorstein, Washington Post 6/6/11
[St. Luke's,] An Episcopal church in Maryland — including its pastor — has decided to convert to Catholicism, the first in the United States to make the move under new Vatican rules meant to appeal to disaffected Protestants.
Leaders of the church said Monday that they were not leaving the Episcopal Church because of the ordination of gays and women — issues that have bitterly divided the American wing of the Anglican Church and coincided with stepped-up efforts by the Vatican to reach out to Anglicans. Instead, church members said, they were satisfying their longing for a clear religious authority by welcoming the leadership of Pope Benedict XVI.
“In the Episcopal Church, bishops in one place say one thing and in another say another,” explained Patrick Delaney, a lay leader from Mitchellville. “That’s the crux of it. Each bishop has its own kingdom.”
The conversions, which are expected to unfold in the coming months, are a dramatic example of the rapid flux of organized religion in the United States. But the Episcopal Church in particular has been rocked in recent years by bitter departures, with exiles slamming the church for ordaining a gay bishop, and by land disputes around the country costing well into the tens of millions. Seven breakaway Northern Virginia congregations have been in court for more than four years with the Episcopal Church.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Md. Episcopal Church Becomes First to Join Catholic Church" by Katherine T. Phan, Christian Post Reporter 6/7/11
St. Luke's, a small congregation of about 100, will come under the care of the Archdiocese of Washington until an ordinate is established in the United States.
Cardinal Donald Wuerl, who oversees the Catholic Archbishop of Washington, said in a statement that the diocese will "welcome St. Luke parishioners warmly into our family of faith."
Bishop John Bryson Chane of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington has supported St. Luke's decision, allowing the members to worship in their church building under a lease agreement that allows them to purchase it.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Click headlines below to read previous articles:
As Homosexualists Enter, the Sacred Leave Episcopal Church
Liberal 'Churches' Continue to Wither
Who Owns Church Property in ECUSA?
For background, read Pope Welcomes Christians Leaving Anglicanism over Liberalism
-- From "Episcopal churches open doors wider" by Sue Nowicki, The Modesto Bee 6/11/11
Beginning Sunday, Episcopal priests in the San Joaquin Diocese can "perform blessings of same gender civil marriages, domestic partnerships and relationships which are lifelong committed relationships characterized by fidelity, monogamy" and "holy love."
[Bishop Chester Talton said this will,] "acknowledge the sacredness of that relationship. I think it also says our church is one that is inclusive, that welcomes all, that will embrace all members of God's creation in God's church."
Other faith communities in Modesto, including College Avenue Congregational Church and the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Stanislaus County, have been doing similar ceremonies for the past three decades, their pastors said.
But such blessings are one reason theologically conservative parishes and dioceses in the United States have left the national Episcopal Church and moved to alternative oversight groups within the worldwide Anglican Communion.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "California Anglican Bishop Removes Same-Sex Union Ban" by Daniel Blake, Christian Post Contributor 6/10/11
California currently recognizes domestic partnerships between gay couples as long as one or both of the people involved is 62 or older.
U.S. Episcopal bishops who met in 2009 approved a resolution that in effect granted bishops in states that allow either marriage, civil unions or domestic partnerships, the discretion to offer a blessing.
This week the diocese of San Joaquin said in a statement: “We must also recognize there are same-gender couples in relationships who have not entered in domestic partnerships, perceiving them to be inferior to marriage and who, for various reasons, did not or could not marry during the brief time when same gender marriages were legal.”
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Episcopal church in Bladensburg to convert to Roman Catholicism" by Michelle Boorstein, Washington Post 6/6/11
[St. Luke's,] An Episcopal church in Maryland — including its pastor — has decided to convert to Catholicism, the first in the United States to make the move under new Vatican rules meant to appeal to disaffected Protestants.
Leaders of the church said Monday that they were not leaving the Episcopal Church because of the ordination of gays and women — issues that have bitterly divided the American wing of the Anglican Church and coincided with stepped-up efforts by the Vatican to reach out to Anglicans. Instead, church members said, they were satisfying their longing for a clear religious authority by welcoming the leadership of Pope Benedict XVI.
“In the Episcopal Church, bishops in one place say one thing and in another say another,” explained Patrick Delaney, a lay leader from Mitchellville. “That’s the crux of it. Each bishop has its own kingdom.”
The conversions, which are expected to unfold in the coming months, are a dramatic example of the rapid flux of organized religion in the United States. But the Episcopal Church in particular has been rocked in recent years by bitter departures, with exiles slamming the church for ordaining a gay bishop, and by land disputes around the country costing well into the tens of millions. Seven breakaway Northern Virginia congregations have been in court for more than four years with the Episcopal Church.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Md. Episcopal Church Becomes First to Join Catholic Church" by Katherine T. Phan, Christian Post Reporter 6/7/11
St. Luke's, a small congregation of about 100, will come under the care of the Archdiocese of Washington until an ordinate is established in the United States.
Cardinal Donald Wuerl, who oversees the Catholic Archbishop of Washington, said in a statement that the diocese will "welcome St. Luke parishioners warmly into our family of faith."
Bishop John Bryson Chane of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington has supported St. Luke's decision, allowing the members to worship in their church building under a lease agreement that allows them to purchase it.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Click headlines below to read previous articles:
As Homosexualists Enter, the Sacred Leave Episcopal Church
Liberal 'Churches' Continue to Wither
Who Owns Church Property in ECUSA?
Friday, June 10, 2011
Alabama Restricts Abortion on Fetal Pain
The Alabama Legislature has approved legislation to ban abortions at 20 weeks or longer into a pregnancy.
For background, read 'Late-Term' Abortion Redefined: Fetal Pain
UPDATE 6/15/11: Gov. Bentley signs bill
-- From "Alabama Legislature approves bill to ban abortions at 20 weeks into pregnancy" by The Associated Press 6/10/11
The Alabama House voted 70-20 for the bill by Republican Rep. Kerry Rich of Albertville. Rich said the bill bans abortions at 20-weeks because he said studies have shown that the fetus feels pain at that point in the pregnancy. The bill now goes to Gov. Robert Bentley for his signature.
Another abortion bill that defined life as beginning when an egg is fertilized died without coming up for a vote Thursday.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Alabama lawmakers ban abortion after 20 weeks pregnancy" by Peggy Gargis, Reuters 6/10/11
The measure . . . makes no exceptions for cases of rape or incest.
The 20-week abortion ban would make it a felony to perform an abortion after that time unless the woman's pregnancy puts her at risk of death or substantial physical harm.
It also requires physicians to report each abortion to a state database and compile an annual report of abortions.
The new restrictions are similar to ones enacted in Idaho, Indiana, Kansas and Oklahoma earlier this year and a law passed in Nebraska in 2010, said Elizabeth Nash, public policy associate with the Guttmacher Institute, an organization focusing on sexual and reproductive health.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
For background, read 'Late-Term' Abortion Redefined: Fetal Pain
UPDATE 6/15/11: Gov. Bentley signs bill
-- From "Alabama Legislature approves bill to ban abortions at 20 weeks into pregnancy" by The Associated Press 6/10/11
The Alabama House voted 70-20 for the bill by Republican Rep. Kerry Rich of Albertville. Rich said the bill bans abortions at 20-weeks because he said studies have shown that the fetus feels pain at that point in the pregnancy. The bill now goes to Gov. Robert Bentley for his signature.
Another abortion bill that defined life as beginning when an egg is fertilized died without coming up for a vote Thursday.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Alabama lawmakers ban abortion after 20 weeks pregnancy" by Peggy Gargis, Reuters 6/10/11
The measure . . . makes no exceptions for cases of rape or incest.
The 20-week abortion ban would make it a felony to perform an abortion after that time unless the woman's pregnancy puts her at risk of death or substantial physical harm.
It also requires physicians to report each abortion to a state database and compile an annual report of abortions.
The new restrictions are similar to ones enacted in Idaho, Indiana, Kansas and Oklahoma earlier this year and a law passed in Nebraska in 2010, said Elizabeth Nash, public policy associate with the Guttmacher Institute, an organization focusing on sexual and reproductive health.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Thursday, June 09, 2011
Reparations Paid to Homosexuals for Discrimination
Citizens of Cambridge, Massachusetts will be taxed to make payments to same-sex 'married' employees to offset, what local officials consider to be, a federal tax code that discriminates against homosexuals.
UPDATE 7/10/11: City payments to homosexuals begin
-- From "Cambridge to give stipend to same-sex employees" by The Associated Press 6/9/11
The city beginning in July will pay quarterly stipends to city employees in a same-sex marriage who must pay federal taxes on the value of the health benefits their spouse receives from the city.
Federal law requires employers to calculate the value of the benefits received by a same-sex spouse as taxable income to the employee, while health benefits of an opposite-sex spouse are not taxable.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Same-sex stipend may be a first in the US" by Brock Parker, Boston Globe Correspondent 6/9/11
While a number of private employers, such as Google, already offer an additional stipend or payment to same-sex married employees to defray the cost of the federal tax, Cambridge is believed to be the first municipality in the nation to do so, said Sarah Warbelow of the Human Rights Campaign, a national lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender civil-rights organization.
The city, which in 2004 was the first in the nation to offer same-sex marriage licenses, currently provides health insurance benefits to the spouses of 22 city and school department employees who are married to a partner of the same sex, said city personnel director Michael Gardner. The stipend will cost the city an estimated $33,000 per year once it is fully implemented.
The federal tax costs same-sex married families as much as $1,500 to $3,000 a year that those of the opposite sex do not have to pay, officials said.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Also read White House Torpedoed Marriage from Start
UPDATE 7/10/11: City payments to homosexuals begin
-- From "Cambridge to give stipend to same-sex employees" by The Associated Press 6/9/11
The city beginning in July will pay quarterly stipends to city employees in a same-sex marriage who must pay federal taxes on the value of the health benefits their spouse receives from the city.
Federal law requires employers to calculate the value of the benefits received by a same-sex spouse as taxable income to the employee, while health benefits of an opposite-sex spouse are not taxable.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Same-sex stipend may be a first in the US" by Brock Parker, Boston Globe Correspondent 6/9/11
While a number of private employers, such as Google, already offer an additional stipend or payment to same-sex married employees to defray the cost of the federal tax, Cambridge is believed to be the first municipality in the nation to do so, said Sarah Warbelow of the Human Rights Campaign, a national lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender civil-rights organization.
The city, which in 2004 was the first in the nation to offer same-sex marriage licenses, currently provides health insurance benefits to the spouses of 22 city and school department employees who are married to a partner of the same sex, said city personnel director Michael Gardner. The stipend will cost the city an estimated $33,000 per year once it is fully implemented.
The federal tax costs same-sex married families as much as $1,500 to $3,000 a year that those of the opposite sex do not have to pay, officials said.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Also read White House Torpedoed Marriage from Start
Texas Gov. Calls America to Prayer & Fasting
Governor Rick Perry's mega Christian event planned for August 6th in Houston, hosted by the American Family Association, has riled atheists and liberal "christians" alike who worship the "separation of church and state."
UPDATE 7/28/11: Judge Tosses Suit Seeking to Stop Prayer Rally
UPDATE 7/16/11 - Atheists sue over prayer event (video):
-- From "Perry invites governors to prayer rally" by UPI 6/6/11
Texas Gov. Rick Perry, a potential presidential candidate, is inviting fellow governors to a prayer rally sponsored by conservative activists.
On their Web site, organizers of the event, funded by the American Family Association, liken America's situation to Bible times.
"The people were not prepared to face the external threats rising up against them: economic, political and military in nature," they write.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Governor Perry’s call to prayer" posted at Reuters 6/5/11
“There is hope for America… and we will find it on our knees,” Perry says in an invitation to fellow Americans to join him for “a solemn gathering of prayer and fasting” for the country in August in Houston.
“Right now, America is in crisis,” Perry says in a message on The Response web site. “We have been besieged by financial debt, terrorism, and a multitude of natural disasters. As a nation, we must come together, and call upon Jesus to guide us through unprecedented struggles.”
The Mississippi-based American Family Association, a conservative Christian activist group, is footing the bill for the prayer gathering. But it was the governor’s idea.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Perry prayer event generates strong reaction" by Joshunda Sanders, American-Statesman Staff 6/8/11
Critics, including the Texas Freedom Network and the Anti-Defamation League, contend that the event is exclusive to Christians and raise questions about the event's backing by the American Family Association, which has made headlines for anti-gay sentiments. The website describing the event said it is meant to pray for a "historic breakthrough for our country and a renewed sense of moral purpose."
"It is Christian-centered, but the governor invites all people of faith to participate, and in the past has participated in many events hosted by other faith traditions," Catherine Frazier, a spokeswoman for Perry's office, said in an email.
Though The Response is not much of a diversion from Perry's general participation in public prayer, it still has drawn irritation because of the American Family Association affiliation and concerns that the move is more political than religious.
Frazier said that's not the case: "This doesn't have anything to do with politics — the governor believes in the power of prayer and thinks this event is important to unifying our nation, having them come together and seek wisdom and guidance from God in addressing our nation's challenges," she said. "It is an apolitical, nondenominational event."
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Rick Perry’s Controversial Call to Prayer" by Amy Sullivan, Time Magazine 6/8/11
Several groups, including the Interfaith Alliance and the Secular Coalition, have already expressed concern about the “Christians only” nature of the event, as well as Perry’s apparent official endorsement of a sectarian prayer gathering. Pundits have speculated about whether governors will feel pressure to show up to Perry’s prayer-fest or risk being labeled anti-prayer godless secularists. But at least one Republican governor has already made it clear he won’t be attending, which may open the door for others to decline. Although who wouldn’t want to head to Houston in August?
Other governors haven’t yet responded to Perry’s invite, but they may want to think twice about that whole “pray about natural disasters” thing. You may remember that back in April, Perry issued a proclamation for days of prayer for rain in response to a horrific drought the state of Texas has experienced. He’s not the first governor to respond to weather-related difficulties with state-wide prayer. Governors in Georgia and Alabama have done the same at various point over the past few decades.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Perry's Planned Prayer Event Riles Critics" By Stephen Clark, FoxNews.com 6/7/11
Perry will participate in the all-day event that encourages people to bring a Bible and a notebook. Perry has invited every governor in the country to attend, and he is urging them to issue similar proclamations.
"I urge all Americans of faith to pray on that day for the healing of our country, the rebuilding of our communities and the restoration of enduring values as our guiding force," he said.
The Rev. Welton Gaddy, president of Interfaith Alliance, said Perry's call "raises serious concerns about his commitment to the boundaries between religion and government."
The Texas Democratic Party slammed Perry's motives.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
UPDATE 7/28/11: Judge Tosses Suit Seeking to Stop Prayer Rally
UPDATE 7/16/11 - Atheists sue over prayer event (video):
-- From "Perry invites governors to prayer rally" by UPI 6/6/11
Texas Gov. Rick Perry, a potential presidential candidate, is inviting fellow governors to a prayer rally sponsored by conservative activists.
On their Web site, organizers of the event, funded by the American Family Association, liken America's situation to Bible times.
"The people were not prepared to face the external threats rising up against them: economic, political and military in nature," they write.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Governor Perry’s call to prayer" posted at Reuters 6/5/11
“There is hope for America… and we will find it on our knees,” Perry says in an invitation to fellow Americans to join him for “a solemn gathering of prayer and fasting” for the country in August in Houston.
“Right now, America is in crisis,” Perry says in a message on The Response web site. “We have been besieged by financial debt, terrorism, and a multitude of natural disasters. As a nation, we must come together, and call upon Jesus to guide us through unprecedented struggles.”
The Mississippi-based American Family Association, a conservative Christian activist group, is footing the bill for the prayer gathering. But it was the governor’s idea.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Perry prayer event generates strong reaction" by Joshunda Sanders, American-Statesman Staff 6/8/11
Critics, including the Texas Freedom Network and the Anti-Defamation League, contend that the event is exclusive to Christians and raise questions about the event's backing by the American Family Association, which has made headlines for anti-gay sentiments. The website describing the event said it is meant to pray for a "historic breakthrough for our country and a renewed sense of moral purpose."
"It is Christian-centered, but the governor invites all people of faith to participate, and in the past has participated in many events hosted by other faith traditions," Catherine Frazier, a spokeswoman for Perry's office, said in an email.
Though The Response is not much of a diversion from Perry's general participation in public prayer, it still has drawn irritation because of the American Family Association affiliation and concerns that the move is more political than religious.
Frazier said that's not the case: "This doesn't have anything to do with politics — the governor believes in the power of prayer and thinks this event is important to unifying our nation, having them come together and seek wisdom and guidance from God in addressing our nation's challenges," she said. "It is an apolitical, nondenominational event."
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Rick Perry’s Controversial Call to Prayer" by Amy Sullivan, Time Magazine 6/8/11
Several groups, including the Interfaith Alliance and the Secular Coalition, have already expressed concern about the “Christians only” nature of the event, as well as Perry’s apparent official endorsement of a sectarian prayer gathering. Pundits have speculated about whether governors will feel pressure to show up to Perry’s prayer-fest or risk being labeled anti-prayer godless secularists. But at least one Republican governor has already made it clear he won’t be attending, which may open the door for others to decline. Although who wouldn’t want to head to Houston in August?
Other governors haven’t yet responded to Perry’s invite, but they may want to think twice about that whole “pray about natural disasters” thing. You may remember that back in April, Perry issued a proclamation for days of prayer for rain in response to a horrific drought the state of Texas has experienced. He’s not the first governor to respond to weather-related difficulties with state-wide prayer. Governors in Georgia and Alabama have done the same at various point over the past few decades.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Perry's Planned Prayer Event Riles Critics" By Stephen Clark, FoxNews.com 6/7/11
Perry will participate in the all-day event that encourages people to bring a Bible and a notebook. Perry has invited every governor in the country to attend, and he is urging them to issue similar proclamations.
"I urge all Americans of faith to pray on that day for the healing of our country, the rebuilding of our communities and the restoration of enduring values as our guiding force," he said.
The Rev. Welton Gaddy, president of Interfaith Alliance, said Perry's call "raises serious concerns about his commitment to the boundaries between religion and government."
The Texas Democratic Party slammed Perry's motives.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Tuesday, June 07, 2011
Americans Believe in God: Gallup Poll
[T]he vast majority of Americans continue to believe in God. But self-identified liberals, Democrats, Independents, people with post-graduate educations, and Easterners are less likely to say they believe in God than conservatives, Republicans, people without post-graduate educations and Americans from the South, West and Midwest.
-- From "Far-Reaching Faith: Poll Shows 9 out of 10 Americans Believe in God" by Sonia van Gilder Cooke, Time Magazine 6/7/11
America's first colonists were a religious lot. Three-and-a-half centuries later, not much has changed: more than 9 in 10 Americans still say they believe in God, according to a new Gallup poll.
American enthusiasm for the divine has hardly waned since the 1940s, when a whopping 96% confirmed their belief in a monotheistic deity. Still, God's poll numbers have dipped slightly over the past half-century to 92%, with support among certain subgroups slipping below 90%.
Unsurprisingly, belief in God is lowest among young Americans, liberals, independents, residents of the East Coast and those with postgraduate educations. Also unsurprising: God is still polling well in the Bible Belt and has "nearly universal" support among Republicans and conservatives, according to Gallup.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Most Americans Still Believe in God; Nonbelief Rises" by Audrey Barrick, Christian Post Reporter 6/3/11
While belief in God remains strong in the U.S., the Gallup poll also found that nonbelief has risen from one percent in 1944 to seven percent today.
Notably, those least likely to believe in God are 18- to 29-year-olds. Only 84 percent agreed that they believe in God compared to 94 percent of older Americans.
While the Gallup report noted that belief in God has been relatively constant over the last six decades, it also highlighted that when Americans are given other options (such as universal spirit or higher power) or the ability to express doubts, then the percentage of those certain in their beliefs drops.
A 2010 Gallup poll revealed that 80 percent said they believe in God while 12 percent opted belief in a universal spirit or higher power.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Gallup: Liberals, Democrats, Grad Students, Easterners More Likely to be Atheists" by Terence P. Jeffrey, CNSNews.com 6/6/11
Gallup surveyed 1,018 American adults from May 5-8. It asked 530 of these Americans “Do you believe in God?” and 488 of them “Do you believe in God or a universal spirit?”
Ninety-two percent of the first group said they believed in God, and 91 percent of the second group said they believed in God or a universal spirit.
Seven percent of the first group said they did not believe in God and 8 percent of the second group said they did not believe in God or a universal spirit.
In both groups, only 1 percent said they had no opinion on the matter.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Also read Bible is from God, Say 79% of Americans
-- From "Far-Reaching Faith: Poll Shows 9 out of 10 Americans Believe in God" by Sonia van Gilder Cooke, Time Magazine 6/7/11
America's first colonists were a religious lot. Three-and-a-half centuries later, not much has changed: more than 9 in 10 Americans still say they believe in God, according to a new Gallup poll.
American enthusiasm for the divine has hardly waned since the 1940s, when a whopping 96% confirmed their belief in a monotheistic deity. Still, God's poll numbers have dipped slightly over the past half-century to 92%, with support among certain subgroups slipping below 90%.
Unsurprisingly, belief in God is lowest among young Americans, liberals, independents, residents of the East Coast and those with postgraduate educations. Also unsurprising: God is still polling well in the Bible Belt and has "nearly universal" support among Republicans and conservatives, according to Gallup.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Most Americans Still Believe in God; Nonbelief Rises" by Audrey Barrick, Christian Post Reporter 6/3/11
While belief in God remains strong in the U.S., the Gallup poll also found that nonbelief has risen from one percent in 1944 to seven percent today.
Notably, those least likely to believe in God are 18- to 29-year-olds. Only 84 percent agreed that they believe in God compared to 94 percent of older Americans.
While the Gallup report noted that belief in God has been relatively constant over the last six decades, it also highlighted that when Americans are given other options (such as universal spirit or higher power) or the ability to express doubts, then the percentage of those certain in their beliefs drops.
A 2010 Gallup poll revealed that 80 percent said they believe in God while 12 percent opted belief in a universal spirit or higher power.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Gallup: Liberals, Democrats, Grad Students, Easterners More Likely to be Atheists" by Terence P. Jeffrey, CNSNews.com 6/6/11
Gallup surveyed 1,018 American adults from May 5-8. It asked 530 of these Americans “Do you believe in God?” and 488 of them “Do you believe in God or a universal spirit?”
Ninety-two percent of the first group said they believed in God, and 91 percent of the second group said they believed in God or a universal spirit.
Seven percent of the first group said they did not believe in God and 8 percent of the second group said they did not believe in God or a universal spirit.
In both groups, only 1 percent said they had no opinion on the matter.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Also read Bible is from God, Say 79% of Americans
White House Says Gay Recruitment of Kids Successful
White House Cabinet members Kathleen Sebelius (Health and Human Services) and Arne Duncan (Education) conducted the “Federal LGBT Youth Summit” to congratulate themselves in their efforts to normalize deviant sexual behavior.
UPDATE 8/25/15: Most Kids Now Gay? Poll Shows Indoctrination Works
UPDATE 11/20/14: Obama Top Homosexual Arrested for Anal Sex with Boy
UPDATE 10/17/14: President Obama Pays Pre-teens to Learn Anal Sex in Hawaii
UPDATE 11/24/13: Homosexual Predator, Honored by President Obama, Arrested
UPDATE 8/23/11: Children are Sexual Beings, Says White House - Masturbation OK
UPDATE 7/28/11: Feds Fund Homosexualists' School Training - $1.5-million grant to GLSEN to train teachers to advocate Gay Agenda
UPDATE 7/2/12: Gay Recruitment of Kids: Senators Join Obama
UPDATE 6/10/11: Obama's Health secretary ignores homosexual behavior re: HIV/AIDS
UPDATE 6/9/11: White House Children & Families administrator, David Hansell, says the Obama administration is recruiting “LGBT parents” to adopt children.
UPDATE 6/7/11: Feds bar media access to summit sessions (what are they doing with the kids "behind closed doors?")
-- From "U.S. Department of Education to host LGBT youth summit Monday and Tuesday in Washington, D.C." News release from The White House (posted at Miami Herald) 6/3/11
U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan will give remarks at the Department’s first-ever Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) youth summit at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 7, at the Washington Court Hotel in Washington, D.C. The two-day summit, “Creating and Maintaining Safe and Supportive Environments for LGBT Youth,” will take place Monday-Tuesday, June 6-7. Duncan will highlight the administration’s commitment to ensuring equal access to education for LGBT students as it does for all students. He also will discuss the Department’s Office for Civil Rights recently released guidance on the protection against harassment in an education setting based on gender, which includes gay, lesbian, bi-sexual, and transgender individuals. The guidance, which was sent to schools, colleges and universities in a “Dear Colleague” letter, explains educators’ legal obligations to protect students from harassment based on racial and national origin, gender and disability.
On Monday, June 6, at 8:30 a.m., the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Administrator Pam Hyde will introduce HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, who will give opening remarks. Kevin Jennings, assistant deputy secretary of the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Safe and Drug-Free Schools, will introduce Duncan on Tuesday, June 7.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Obama Administration Youth Summit: Gov’t ‘Has Finally Come Out of the Closet'" By Penny Starr, CNSNews.com 6/6/11
Sebelius congratulated the teens and 20-somethings for attending the summit and said the goal of the summit was to “really tackle the issues facing the LGBT youth in our country.”
Sebelius went on to say a federal interagency taskforce is partnering the Departments of Health and Human Services, Education, Agriculture, Defense, Interior and Justice to come up with strategies and programs to fight bullying.
Sebelius also said the health care law [ObamaCare] signed into law by the Obama administration will encourage health care providers to address the “unique needs” of LGBT patients and will make health care workers “culturally competent” to deal with lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender patients.
She also said the HHS is working with the federal child welfare system to “place LGBT children in loving homes.”
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
UPDATE 6/8/11: Obama Administration pushes "gay clubs" in schools
From "GSA Network gets federal grant to launch 'Safe & Healthy LGBT Youth Project'" posted at Windy City Times (pro-homosexual) 6/6/11
Gay-Straight Alliance Network (GSA Network) is thrilled to announce its new Safe & Healthy LGBT Youth Project, made possible by the organization's first federal grant. The Department of Adolescent and School Health (DASH) at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has awarded GSA Network over $285,000 for this multi-level project, which will increase the capacity of schools and community-based organizations (CBOs) to reach lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youth.
"This grant for the Safe & Healthy LGBT Youth Project will allow GSA Network to bring its successful programming to more communities and young people, helping to ensure that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth across the country have every opportunity to succeed," said House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi. "By providing resources and people ready to help, the GSA Network is building a better tomorrow, filled with the promise of hope, acceptance, and progress for all."
Using its successful model of training and technical assistance, GSA Network will provide capacity-building assistance to schools and CBOs in at least 20 jurisdictions around the country to create safe spaces for LGBT youth, improve their health and educational outcomes, and reduce their risk for educational and health disparities. Activities will include hands-on assistance based on local needs, professional development, ongoing follow-up coaching and technical assistance, provision of materials and resources, and support for policy and advocacy efforts.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Click headlines below to read previous articles:
White House Focus is Now 'Gay Students'
We Recruit Kids for Sexual Deviancy: Gay Activist
Federal Study: Gay Culture is Health Risk
More Than Two Genders, Kindergartners Taught
California Schools Offer 'Gay Curriculum'
“Your federal government has finally come out of the closet in support of LGBT youth. . . . It’s great to see so many young faces out there, all gay and proud.”For background, read Obama, Dems Celebrate Deviant Sex Month and also read Gay Recruitment of Kids: Obama's Czar Legacy as well as Homosexualists to Buy White House, Say Media
-- President Obama's HHS Administrator
UPDATE 8/25/15: Most Kids Now Gay? Poll Shows Indoctrination Works
UPDATE 11/20/14: Obama Top Homosexual Arrested for Anal Sex with Boy
UPDATE 10/17/14: President Obama Pays Pre-teens to Learn Anal Sex in Hawaii
UPDATE 11/24/13: Homosexual Predator, Honored by President Obama, Arrested
UPDATE 8/23/11: Children are Sexual Beings, Says White House - Masturbation OK
UPDATE 7/28/11: Feds Fund Homosexualists' School Training - $1.5-million grant to GLSEN to train teachers to advocate Gay Agenda
UPDATE 7/2/12: Gay Recruitment of Kids: Senators Join Obama
UPDATE 6/10/11: Obama's Health secretary ignores homosexual behavior re: HIV/AIDS
UPDATE 6/9/11: White House Children & Families administrator, David Hansell, says the Obama administration is recruiting “LGBT parents” to adopt children.
UPDATE 6/7/11: Feds bar media access to summit sessions (what are they doing with the kids "behind closed doors?")
-- From "U.S. Department of Education to host LGBT youth summit Monday and Tuesday in Washington, D.C." News release from The White House (posted at Miami Herald) 6/3/11
U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan will give remarks at the Department’s first-ever Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) youth summit at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 7, at the Washington Court Hotel in Washington, D.C. The two-day summit, “Creating and Maintaining Safe and Supportive Environments for LGBT Youth,” will take place Monday-Tuesday, June 6-7. Duncan will highlight the administration’s commitment to ensuring equal access to education for LGBT students as it does for all students. He also will discuss the Department’s Office for Civil Rights recently released guidance on the protection against harassment in an education setting based on gender, which includes gay, lesbian, bi-sexual, and transgender individuals. The guidance, which was sent to schools, colleges and universities in a “Dear Colleague” letter, explains educators’ legal obligations to protect students from harassment based on racial and national origin, gender and disability.
On Monday, June 6, at 8:30 a.m., the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Administrator Pam Hyde will introduce HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, who will give opening remarks. Kevin Jennings, assistant deputy secretary of the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Safe and Drug-Free Schools, will introduce Duncan on Tuesday, June 7.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Obama Administration Youth Summit: Gov’t ‘Has Finally Come Out of the Closet'" By Penny Starr, CNSNews.com 6/6/11
Sebelius congratulated the teens and 20-somethings for attending the summit and said the goal of the summit was to “really tackle the issues facing the LGBT youth in our country.”
Sebelius went on to say a federal interagency taskforce is partnering the Departments of Health and Human Services, Education, Agriculture, Defense, Interior and Justice to come up with strategies and programs to fight bullying.
Sebelius also said the health care law [ObamaCare] signed into law by the Obama administration will encourage health care providers to address the “unique needs” of LGBT patients and will make health care workers “culturally competent” to deal with lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender patients.
She also said the HHS is working with the federal child welfare system to “place LGBT children in loving homes.”
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
UPDATE 6/8/11: Obama Administration pushes "gay clubs" in schools
From "GSA Network gets federal grant to launch 'Safe & Healthy LGBT Youth Project'" posted at Windy City Times (pro-homosexual) 6/6/11
Gay-Straight Alliance Network (GSA Network) is thrilled to announce its new Safe & Healthy LGBT Youth Project, made possible by the organization's first federal grant. The Department of Adolescent and School Health (DASH) at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has awarded GSA Network over $285,000 for this multi-level project, which will increase the capacity of schools and community-based organizations (CBOs) to reach lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youth.
"This grant for the Safe & Healthy LGBT Youth Project will allow GSA Network to bring its successful programming to more communities and young people, helping to ensure that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth across the country have every opportunity to succeed," said House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi. "By providing resources and people ready to help, the GSA Network is building a better tomorrow, filled with the promise of hope, acceptance, and progress for all."
Using its successful model of training and technical assistance, GSA Network will provide capacity-building assistance to schools and CBOs in at least 20 jurisdictions around the country to create safe spaces for LGBT youth, improve their health and educational outcomes, and reduce their risk for educational and health disparities. Activities will include hands-on assistance based on local needs, professional development, ongoing follow-up coaching and technical assistance, provision of materials and resources, and support for policy and advocacy efforts.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Click headlines below to read previous articles:
White House Focus is Now 'Gay Students'
We Recruit Kids for Sexual Deviancy: Gay Activist
Federal Study: Gay Culture is Health Risk
More Than Two Genders, Kindergartners Taught
California Schools Offer 'Gay Curriculum'
Monday, June 06, 2011
Children Suffer from Divorce, Not Bad Marriage
New study shows children of divorce fall behind peers in school and suffer psychologically only AFTER the split, rather than during parents' period of marital conflict.
For background, read Divorce Still Damaging to Children Despite Being More Acceptable
-- From "Children of Divorce Struggle More With Math and Social Skills" by Bonnie Rochman, Healthland 6/2/11
Children of divorce have poorer math and interpersonal social skills than their peers, and they battle anxiety, loneliness, low self-esteem and sadness, according to new research published Thursday in the American Sociological Review.
They have trouble forming and maintaining friendships, expressing their feelings in positive ways, showing sensitivity to others' feelings, comforting other children and getting along with people who are different, according to Hyun Sik Kim, the study's author and a Ph.D. candidate in sociology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Although Kim anticipated finding evidence that children struggle in the “pre-divorce period,” before parents initiate divorce proceedings, the study found otherwise. Rather than reacting to the perceived conflict that leads to moms and dads filing for divorce, children start struggling once the divorce is underway.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Children of Divorce Suffer Academic, Social and Emotional Setbacks" by Drucilla Dyess, HealthNews 6/2/11
According to the study, children of divorce have a greater likelihood of grappling with anxiety, loneliness, low self-esteem, and sadness. What’s worse, the intensification of the negative emotions they endure begins with the dissolution of their parents’ marriage, and these “internalizing problem behaviors” don’t go away.
Dr Kim stated, “This study reveals that these negative impacts do not worsen in the post-divorce stage, although there is no sign that children of divorce catch up with their counterparts either."
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Divorce can hurt kids' math scores, friendships" by Alan Mozes, Shreveport Times 6/5/11
Children may be stressed by an ongoing parental blame game or child custody conflicts. This stress could be compounded by the loss of stability when a child is shuttled between separate households or has to move to another region altogether, thus losing contact with his or her original network of friends.
In fact, Kim observed a dramatic change in family locations, suggesting that children of divorce were more likely to change schools.
Parents' divorce-related depression might also play a role, as could economic strains when family income suddenly drops.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
For background, read Divorce Still Damaging to Children Despite Being More Acceptable
-- From "Children of Divorce Struggle More With Math and Social Skills" by Bonnie Rochman, Healthland 6/2/11
Children of divorce have poorer math and interpersonal social skills than their peers, and they battle anxiety, loneliness, low self-esteem and sadness, according to new research published Thursday in the American Sociological Review.
They have trouble forming and maintaining friendships, expressing their feelings in positive ways, showing sensitivity to others' feelings, comforting other children and getting along with people who are different, according to Hyun Sik Kim, the study's author and a Ph.D. candidate in sociology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Although Kim anticipated finding evidence that children struggle in the “pre-divorce period,” before parents initiate divorce proceedings, the study found otherwise. Rather than reacting to the perceived conflict that leads to moms and dads filing for divorce, children start struggling once the divorce is underway.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Children of Divorce Suffer Academic, Social and Emotional Setbacks" by Drucilla Dyess, HealthNews 6/2/11
According to the study, children of divorce have a greater likelihood of grappling with anxiety, loneliness, low self-esteem, and sadness. What’s worse, the intensification of the negative emotions they endure begins with the dissolution of their parents’ marriage, and these “internalizing problem behaviors” don’t go away.
Dr Kim stated, “This study reveals that these negative impacts do not worsen in the post-divorce stage, although there is no sign that children of divorce catch up with their counterparts either."
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Divorce can hurt kids' math scores, friendships" by Alan Mozes, Shreveport Times 6/5/11
Children may be stressed by an ongoing parental blame game or child custody conflicts. This stress could be compounded by the loss of stability when a child is shuttled between separate households or has to move to another region altogether, thus losing contact with his or her original network of friends.
In fact, Kim observed a dramatic change in family locations, suggesting that children of divorce were more likely to change schools.
Parents' divorce-related depression might also play a role, as could economic strains when family income suddenly drops.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
RINO IL Sen. Kirk for Embryonic Stem Cell Research
As Republican Mark Kirk said in his 2010 campaign to win Barack Obama's former U.S. Senate seat in Illinois, he'll advance a bill making Obama’s endorsement of embryonic stem cell research permanent, so it can’t be meddled with by some future right-wing, pro-life president.
For background, read Embryo Destroyer: Mark Kirk, IL GOP Senate Candidate and also read Obama Wins Ruling: Embryos will be Destroyed
-- From "US Sen. Kirk calls for action on stem cell law" by The Associated Press 6/6/11
A Chicago-based scientist says he's grateful to U.S. Sen. Mark Kirk for siding with legislation that backs stem cell research.
Kirk on Monday called for congressional action to codify an executive order on the research issued by President Barack Obama in 2009.
Dr. John Kessler directs a stem cell research institute at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. He says Kirk is backing legislation that's "absolutely essential for the field" because uncertainty over federal funding discourages young scientists from doing research on stem cells.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "US Sen. Kirk calls for action on stem cell law" by The Associated Press 6/6/11
The Illinois Republican made his remarks Monday at Northwestern University in Chicago where he toured a stem cell research lab and hosted a symposium on the approach to searching for disease cures.
Kirk says if senior Democratic senators choose not to move the legislation in this Congress, he will. He says court challenges to taxpayer-financed stem cell research make legislation necessary.
Opponents object because the cells were obtained from destroyed human embryos.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Kirk for Senate campaign video (April 2010):
For background, read Embryo Destroyer: Mark Kirk, IL GOP Senate Candidate and also read Obama Wins Ruling: Embryos will be Destroyed
-- From "US Sen. Kirk calls for action on stem cell law" by The Associated Press 6/6/11
A Chicago-based scientist says he's grateful to U.S. Sen. Mark Kirk for siding with legislation that backs stem cell research.
Kirk on Monday called for congressional action to codify an executive order on the research issued by President Barack Obama in 2009.
Dr. John Kessler directs a stem cell research institute at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. He says Kirk is backing legislation that's "absolutely essential for the field" because uncertainty over federal funding discourages young scientists from doing research on stem cells.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "US Sen. Kirk calls for action on stem cell law" by The Associated Press 6/6/11
The Illinois Republican made his remarks Monday at Northwestern University in Chicago where he toured a stem cell research lab and hosted a symposium on the approach to searching for disease cures.
Kirk says if senior Democratic senators choose not to move the legislation in this Congress, he will. He says court challenges to taxpayer-financed stem cell research make legislation necessary.
Opponents object because the cells were obtained from destroyed human embryos.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Kirk for Senate campaign video (April 2010):
Fed. Study: Gay Culture is Health Risk
The federal government has issued conclusive evidence that recruitment of children into the homosexual subculture is hazardous to their health.
One of the first and largest national studies of the behaviors of American high school students finds that those who identify as gay, lesbian or bisexual are more likely than their heterosexual peers to take unhealthy risks.
The data comes from the national Youth Risk Behavior Surveys conducted over the past decade in Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Vermont and Wisconsin and in six large urban school districts -- Boston, Chicago, Milwaukee, New York City, San Diego and San Francisco.
The CDC found that gay or lesbian students' had higher prevalence rates for seven of the 10 health risk categories -- violence, attempted suicide, smoking, drinking, other drug use, risky sexual behaviors and weight management issues. Findings were similar for bisexual students, the agency said.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "CDC study: Gay, bisexual teens do riskier things" by Mike Stobbe, Medical Writer, Associated Press 6/6/11
Based on anonymous surveys of 156,000 high school students, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study is the largest by the government to look at sexual orientation and behavior in teens. It echoes similar findings in some smaller studies.
The surveys are from 2001 through 2009.
The results are not considered nationally representative, but the research is larger and more geographically diverse than past studies. Kann presented the findings at a first-ever Department of Education summit for lesbian, gay and bisexual youth in Washington.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
"Sexual minority students, particularly gay, lesbian, and bisexual students and students who had sexual contact with both sexes, are more likely to engage in health-risk behaviors than other students."-- From "More Risky Behaviors Among Gay, Bisexual High School Students: CDC" by HealthDay News 6/6/11
-- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
One of the first and largest national studies of the behaviors of American high school students finds that those who identify as gay, lesbian or bisexual are more likely than their heterosexual peers to take unhealthy risks.
The data comes from the national Youth Risk Behavior Surveys conducted over the past decade in Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Vermont and Wisconsin and in six large urban school districts -- Boston, Chicago, Milwaukee, New York City, San Diego and San Francisco.
The CDC found that gay or lesbian students' had higher prevalence rates for seven of the 10 health risk categories -- violence, attempted suicide, smoking, drinking, other drug use, risky sexual behaviors and weight management issues. Findings were similar for bisexual students, the agency said.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "CDC study: Gay, bisexual teens do riskier things" by Mike Stobbe, Medical Writer, Associated Press 6/6/11
Based on anonymous surveys of 156,000 high school students, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study is the largest by the government to look at sexual orientation and behavior in teens. It echoes similar findings in some smaller studies.
The surveys are from 2001 through 2009.
The results are not considered nationally representative, but the research is larger and more geographically diverse than past studies. Kann presented the findings at a first-ever Department of Education summit for lesbian, gay and bisexual youth in Washington.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Sunday, June 05, 2011
Tennessee Urges Posting of Ten Commandments
The state House of Representatives unanimously passed a resolution that outlines America's Judeo-Christian founding, and that calls for Ten Commandment displays at all county courthouses.
-- From "Resolution affirms government 'rooted in belief in Almighty God'" by Drew Zahn © 2011 World Net Daily 6/4/11
Rep. Todd Watson, author of the resolution, explains in its text, "It is imperative that these revered tablets continue to grace our public buildings, as reminders to this generation and the next of the vital role the Ten Commandments and its Author have played in shaping our great republic."
Coupled with the more than 90 percent of Tennessee counties that have already adopted similar resolutions acknowledging the historical significance of the Ten Commandments, H.R. 107 marks a bold fusillade in the ongoing battle over America's Christian heritage, particularly in the arena of constitutional law.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
House Resolution 107 includes the following statements:
WHEREAS, the underpinnings of our system of government are rooted in a steadfast belief in Almighty God and the conviction that all morality, justice, and unalienable rights derive from his gracious hand; and . . .
WHEREAS, the Founders’ desire to publicly acknowledge God as the source of America’s strength and direction is reflected in many of our founding documents and practices, from the Mayflower Compact and the Declaration of Independence to the National Motto and Thanksgiving Day celebrations; and . . .
WHEREAS, throughout America’s rich history, both the citizenry and their elected officials alike have deeply respected the Ten Commandments, its profound influence on the formation of American legal thought, and its fundamental place in the history of law and government as a whole . . .
To read the entire bill, CLICK HERE.
-- From "Resolution affirms government 'rooted in belief in Almighty God'" by Drew Zahn © 2011 World Net Daily 6/4/11
Rep. Todd Watson, author of the resolution, explains in its text, "It is imperative that these revered tablets continue to grace our public buildings, as reminders to this generation and the next of the vital role the Ten Commandments and its Author have played in shaping our great republic."
Coupled with the more than 90 percent of Tennessee counties that have already adopted similar resolutions acknowledging the historical significance of the Ten Commandments, H.R. 107 marks a bold fusillade in the ongoing battle over America's Christian heritage, particularly in the arena of constitutional law.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
House Resolution 107 includes the following statements:
WHEREAS, the underpinnings of our system of government are rooted in a steadfast belief in Almighty God and the conviction that all morality, justice, and unalienable rights derive from his gracious hand; and . . .
WHEREAS, the Founders’ desire to publicly acknowledge God as the source of America’s strength and direction is reflected in many of our founding documents and practices, from the Mayflower Compact and the Declaration of Independence to the National Motto and Thanksgiving Day celebrations; and . . .
WHEREAS, throughout America’s rich history, both the citizenry and their elected officials alike have deeply respected the Ten Commandments, its profound influence on the formation of American legal thought, and its fundamental place in the history of law and government as a whole . . .
To read the entire bill, CLICK HERE.
Jesus' Name Heard at School, Atheists Sue
The Freedom From Religion Foundation sent a letter addressed to Giles County Director of Schools Tee Jackson after it received a complaint from parents that a prayer containing the phrase “Jesus Christ” was recited at a May 20 graduation ceremony at Pulaski Elementary [Tennessee].
-- From "Organization Complains About School Prayer" posted at WSMV-TV4 (Nashville, TN) 5/27/11
The letter said the concern is on behalf of residents who complained. It asks the school district to disallow prayer at other planned graduation ceremonies.
The Freedom From Religion Foundation has filed similar complaints over school prayer in other cities across the United States.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Prayer at Giles Co. school event draws criticism" by Chris Graham, Columbia Daily Herald 6/1/11
Bill Holt, principal at Pulaski Elementary, confirmed Tuesday he had also received a letter from the organization. He said he invited Robert Hatfield, a minister at East Hill Church of Christ in Pulaski, to lead the graduation in an invocation. In past years, ministers from different denominations have prayed at the event, Holt said.
“It saddens me that America has come to this point that you can’t have a little kindergarten program and say a prayer,” said Holt, who has been an educator for 44 years. “We’re not trying to push religion on anybody.”
But the Madison, Wis.-based Freedom From Religion Foundation, an association of athiests and agnostics, states in its letter the prayer at the graduation ceremony was unconstitutional, citing past U.S. Supreme Court rulings. The prayer lasted two minutes and ended with “in the name of Jesus Christ,” according to the letter.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
-- From "Organization Complains About School Prayer" posted at WSMV-TV4 (Nashville, TN) 5/27/11
The letter said the concern is on behalf of residents who complained. It asks the school district to disallow prayer at other planned graduation ceremonies.
The Freedom From Religion Foundation has filed similar complaints over school prayer in other cities across the United States.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Prayer at Giles Co. school event draws criticism" by Chris Graham, Columbia Daily Herald 6/1/11
Bill Holt, principal at Pulaski Elementary, confirmed Tuesday he had also received a letter from the organization. He said he invited Robert Hatfield, a minister at East Hill Church of Christ in Pulaski, to lead the graduation in an invocation. In past years, ministers from different denominations have prayed at the event, Holt said.
“It saddens me that America has come to this point that you can’t have a little kindergarten program and say a prayer,” said Holt, who has been an educator for 44 years. “We’re not trying to push religion on anybody.”
But the Madison, Wis.-based Freedom From Religion Foundation, an association of athiests and agnostics, states in its letter the prayer at the graduation ceremony was unconstitutional, citing past U.S. Supreme Court rulings. The prayer lasted two minutes and ended with “in the name of Jesus Christ,” according to the letter.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Pope: Gay Agenda & Abortion Dooms Society
Pope Benedict XVI, addressing hundreds of thousands in Croatia, warned that Europe is doomed if Christians do not reject secularization, but rather uphold the 'Christian family' and oppose abortion and euthanasia.
For background, read Pope Calls Secularized, Anti-Christian Europe to God and also read Pope's Words Accentuate the Christian Challenge in Society
UPDATE 1/20/12: The Pope, and Obama's War on Christianity
-- From "Europe doomed if conscience isn’t rediscovered, Pope says" posted at EWTN News/CNA 6/4/11
“If, in keeping with the prevailing modern idea, conscience is reduced to the subjective field to which religion and morality have been banished, then the crisis of the West has no remedy and Europe is destined to collapse in on itself,” the Pope told a gathering of members from Croatia’s civil society in the capital of Zagreb on June 4.
“If, on the other hand, conscience is rediscovered as the place in which to listen to truth and good, the place of responsibility before God and before fellow human beings – in other words, the bulwark against all forms of tyranny – then there is hope for the future.”
This forming of consciences rooted in faith and reason is where “the Church makes her most specific and valuable contribution to society,” said the Pope, stressing that this formation should begin in the home, the parish and the school.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Stop disintegration of the family in Europe: Pope" by Philip Pullella, Reuters 6/5/11
Pope Benedict warned on Sunday that the traditional family in Europe was "disintegrating" under the weight of secularization and called for laws to help couples cope with the costs of having and educating children.
"Unfortunately, we are forced to acknowledge the spread of a secularization which leads to the exclusion of God from life and the increasing disintegration of the family, especially in Europe," he said in his sermon on the edge of the capital.
The sermon reflected the Vatican's belief that the Catholic Church in Europe is under assault by some national governments and European institutions over issues such as gay marriage, abortion, religious education and the use of Christian religious symbols in public places.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Pope denounces 'disintegration' of Europe families" by Nicole Winfield, Associated Press 6/5/11
. . . while Croatia is nearly 90 percent Catholic, it allows some legal rights for same-sex couples and, thanks to leftover communist-era legislation, permits abortion up to 10 weeks after conception and thereafter with the consent of a special commission of doctors. Elsewhere in Europe, including in Italy, marriages are on the decline as more and more people choose to just live together.
He urged parents to affirm the inviolability of life from conception to natural death — Vatican-speak for opposition to abortion, saying "Dear families, rejoice in fatherhood and motherhood!" He also urged them to back legislation that supports families "in the task of giving birth to children and educating them."
"We want our children to continue to call their parents 'mamma' and 'papa' because that's their natural names," he told the applauding crowd. "Children have the right to publicly state that a 'father' and a 'mother' gave them life," he said, adding that the church also had the right to demand the government reverse its abortion law.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Also read Pope: Societies drifting into a "desert of godlessness"
For background, read Pope Calls Secularized, Anti-Christian Europe to God and also read Pope's Words Accentuate the Christian Challenge in Society
UPDATE 1/20/12: The Pope, and Obama's War on Christianity
-- From "Europe doomed if conscience isn’t rediscovered, Pope says" posted at EWTN News/CNA 6/4/11
“If, in keeping with the prevailing modern idea, conscience is reduced to the subjective field to which religion and morality have been banished, then the crisis of the West has no remedy and Europe is destined to collapse in on itself,” the Pope told a gathering of members from Croatia’s civil society in the capital of Zagreb on June 4.
“If, on the other hand, conscience is rediscovered as the place in which to listen to truth and good, the place of responsibility before God and before fellow human beings – in other words, the bulwark against all forms of tyranny – then there is hope for the future.”
This forming of consciences rooted in faith and reason is where “the Church makes her most specific and valuable contribution to society,” said the Pope, stressing that this formation should begin in the home, the parish and the school.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Stop disintegration of the family in Europe: Pope" by Philip Pullella, Reuters 6/5/11
Pope Benedict warned on Sunday that the traditional family in Europe was "disintegrating" under the weight of secularization and called for laws to help couples cope with the costs of having and educating children.
"Unfortunately, we are forced to acknowledge the spread of a secularization which leads to the exclusion of God from life and the increasing disintegration of the family, especially in Europe," he said in his sermon on the edge of the capital.
The sermon reflected the Vatican's belief that the Catholic Church in Europe is under assault by some national governments and European institutions over issues such as gay marriage, abortion, religious education and the use of Christian religious symbols in public places.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Pope denounces 'disintegration' of Europe families" by Nicole Winfield, Associated Press 6/5/11
. . . while Croatia is nearly 90 percent Catholic, it allows some legal rights for same-sex couples and, thanks to leftover communist-era legislation, permits abortion up to 10 weeks after conception and thereafter with the consent of a special commission of doctors. Elsewhere in Europe, including in Italy, marriages are on the decline as more and more people choose to just live together.
He urged parents to affirm the inviolability of life from conception to natural death — Vatican-speak for opposition to abortion, saying "Dear families, rejoice in fatherhood and motherhood!" He also urged them to back legislation that supports families "in the task of giving birth to children and educating them."
"We want our children to continue to call their parents 'mamma' and 'papa' because that's their natural names," he told the applauding crowd. "Children have the right to publicly state that a 'father' and a 'mother' gave them life," he said, adding that the church also had the right to demand the government reverse its abortion law.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Also read Pope: Societies drifting into a "desert of godlessness"
Saturday, June 04, 2011
Renegade Methodist Clergy for Same-sex 'Marriage'
Scores of United Methodist clergy of Minnesota signed a statement in defiance of the denomination's Book of Discipline pledging to perform homosexual "marriages;" such action could result in being defrocked.
Read related previous article: D.C. Homosexualist 'Pastor' Dares Methodist Church to Defrock Her
UPDATE 6/26/11: 100 Methodist pastors in New England pledge to "marry" homosexuals
-- From "40 United Methodist Clergy Pledge To Marry Gay Couples" by Jim Maurice, AM 1240 WJON (St. Cloud, MN) 6/2/11
Reverend Bruce Robbins of the Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church in Minneapolis read the statement yesterday (Wednesday) afternoon. He said he initially had about a dozen of his colleagues sign the statement, by last night that number had grown to 40. The statement was a voluntary action and not a part of the annual conference.
Meanwhile, Bishop Sally Dyck says the statement itself does not break church rules. However, she says the church discipline does forbid same-sex marriage, and clergy who perform them could lose their conference membership, or clergy credentials. Robbins says that won’t stop him from performing the ceremonies.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "40 Methodist clergy members support gay marriage" by Rose French, Minneapolis Star Tribune 6/2/11
"Groups have been meeting who want to challenge parts of the United Methodist polity with which we disagree -- that which relates to the lesbian, gay, transgender, and bisexual community and Christian marriage," said the Rev. Bruce Robbins, who serves at Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church in Minneapolis.
"With the possibility of a constitutional amendment in the state of Minnesota [defining marriage as limited to heterosexual couples], this seems important."
About 900 voting members -- half of whom are clergy and half laypeople -- attend the annual conference, which this year meets from Wednesday to Friday. About 75,000 members worship in 365 United Methodist churches statewide.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "70 Methodist Clergy Agree to Wed Gay Couples" by Elena Garcia, Christian Post Reporter 6/3/11
The United Methodist Church holds that homosexual practice is incompatible with Christian teaching. The denomination affirmed its stance at its latest legislative meeting in 2008 despite calls by some to change the body’s constitution.
In 2009, UMC’s top court also ruled that clergy, active and retired, cannot perform same-sex marriages or civil unions. The ruling came after more than 80 retired clergy from northern California said they would conduct same-sex marriage ceremonies on behalf of clergy who cannot perform them.
Under the 2008 Book of Discipline, same-sex unions are not to be conducted by United Methodist ministers or in its churches. Clergy who are convicted of officiating a homosexual union would face revocation of conference membership or clergy credentials.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Also read Allah Worshiped in Virginia Methodist Church
Read related previous article: D.C. Homosexualist 'Pastor' Dares Methodist Church to Defrock Her
UPDATE 6/26/11: 100 Methodist pastors in New England pledge to "marry" homosexuals
-- From "40 United Methodist Clergy Pledge To Marry Gay Couples" by Jim Maurice, AM 1240 WJON (St. Cloud, MN) 6/2/11
Reverend Bruce Robbins of the Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church in Minneapolis read the statement yesterday (Wednesday) afternoon. He said he initially had about a dozen of his colleagues sign the statement, by last night that number had grown to 40. The statement was a voluntary action and not a part of the annual conference.
Meanwhile, Bishop Sally Dyck says the statement itself does not break church rules. However, she says the church discipline does forbid same-sex marriage, and clergy who perform them could lose their conference membership, or clergy credentials. Robbins says that won’t stop him from performing the ceremonies.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "40 Methodist clergy members support gay marriage" by Rose French, Minneapolis Star Tribune 6/2/11
"Groups have been meeting who want to challenge parts of the United Methodist polity with which we disagree -- that which relates to the lesbian, gay, transgender, and bisexual community and Christian marriage," said the Rev. Bruce Robbins, who serves at Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church in Minneapolis.
"With the possibility of a constitutional amendment in the state of Minnesota [defining marriage as limited to heterosexual couples], this seems important."
About 900 voting members -- half of whom are clergy and half laypeople -- attend the annual conference, which this year meets from Wednesday to Friday. About 75,000 members worship in 365 United Methodist churches statewide.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "70 Methodist Clergy Agree to Wed Gay Couples" by Elena Garcia, Christian Post Reporter 6/3/11
The United Methodist Church holds that homosexual practice is incompatible with Christian teaching. The denomination affirmed its stance at its latest legislative meeting in 2008 despite calls by some to change the body’s constitution.
In 2009, UMC’s top court also ruled that clergy, active and retired, cannot perform same-sex marriages or civil unions. The ruling came after more than 80 retired clergy from northern California said they would conduct same-sex marriage ceremonies on behalf of clergy who cannot perform them.
Under the 2008 Book of Discipline, same-sex unions are not to be conducted by United Methodist ministers or in its churches. Clergy who are convicted of officiating a homosexual union would face revocation of conference membership or clergy credentials.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Also read Allah Worshiped in Virginia Methodist Church
Presidential Candidates Address Christian America
Candidates are addressing the Americans who will elect the next president at the Faith and Freedom Coalition conference in Washington D.C. Although the speeches focus on Culture War issues, the mainstream media prefers to cover the fiscal aspects.
For background, read Pres. Candidates: Abortion & Marriage Top Issues and also read Media Prepare Anti-Christian Campaign for 2012 as well as Huckabee: Christian Issues Nation's Top Priority
UPDATE 6/8/11: Liberal media hope GOP pro-life advocacy backfires
UPDATE 6/5/11: Liberal journalist sleeps through most of conference
-- From "Republicans court evangelicals at faith conference" by Steve Holland, Reuters 6/3/11
Many political speakers at the Faith and Freedom Coalition emphasized jobs, debt and deficits on the day the Labor Department reported the unemployment rate rose to 9.1 percent in May.
In contrast to some previous presidential campaigns, social issues like gay marriage and abortion have not been prominent topics for Republicans hopefuls seeking to replace President Barack Obama in next year's election.
The weakness of the U.S. economy has triggered a debate within the Republican Party about whether conservatives should call a "truce" on social questions.
The idea is that Republicans would have a better chance at victory in 2012 if they rally around economic issues.
While the economy dominated, there was still plenty of talk about social issues, and the crowd gathered in a hotel ballroom saved their loudest applause for those speakers who brought up these issues.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Reuters Misleads on Pro-Life Issues at Christian Conference" by Steven Ertelt, LifeNews.com 6/3/11
The international news service Reuters mislead its readers today in a news article covering speeches to the Faith and Freedom Conference today. The article falsely claimed speakers at the conference put social issues like abortion on the back seat.
Reuters reporter Steve Holland erroneously claimed, “Christian conservatives looking to put a Republican in the White House heard a lot about the economy on Friday in a sign that their social issues may take a back seat in 2012.”
Holland apparently never listened to the conference . . .
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "GOP presidential hopefuls make their case to religious right, but money matters big emphasis" by The Associated Press 6/4/11
A gathering of religious conservatives drew nearly all the GOP presidential hopefuls to a single stage . . .
The Faith and Freedom Coalition’s two-day conference proved that the religious right still plays a major role in the nominating process, even if it’s less organized than during the Christian Coalition’s heyday and economic issues are dominating the early campaign.
They also paid tribute to religious conservatives who often place abortion, gay marriage and other social issues ahead of questions such as taxes and spending.
The Republican contenders who seem to be making the most direct appeals to evangelical voters are former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty, Rep. Michele Bachmann of Minnesota, former Pennsylvania Sen. Rick Santorum and former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, who didn’t attend but sent a video message.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
For background, read Pres. Candidates: Abortion & Marriage Top Issues and also read Media Prepare Anti-Christian Campaign for 2012 as well as Huckabee: Christian Issues Nation's Top Priority
UPDATE 6/8/11: Liberal media hope GOP pro-life advocacy backfires
UPDATE 6/5/11: Liberal journalist sleeps through most of conference
-- From "Republicans court evangelicals at faith conference" by Steve Holland, Reuters 6/3/11
Many political speakers at the Faith and Freedom Coalition emphasized jobs, debt and deficits on the day the Labor Department reported the unemployment rate rose to 9.1 percent in May.
In contrast to some previous presidential campaigns, social issues like gay marriage and abortion have not been prominent topics for Republicans hopefuls seeking to replace President Barack Obama in next year's election.
The weakness of the U.S. economy has triggered a debate within the Republican Party about whether conservatives should call a "truce" on social questions.
The idea is that Republicans would have a better chance at victory in 2012 if they rally around economic issues.
While the economy dominated, there was still plenty of talk about social issues, and the crowd gathered in a hotel ballroom saved their loudest applause for those speakers who brought up these issues.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Reuters Misleads on Pro-Life Issues at Christian Conference" by Steven Ertelt, LifeNews.com 6/3/11
The international news service Reuters mislead its readers today in a news article covering speeches to the Faith and Freedom Conference today. The article falsely claimed speakers at the conference put social issues like abortion on the back seat.
Reuters reporter Steve Holland erroneously claimed, “Christian conservatives looking to put a Republican in the White House heard a lot about the economy on Friday in a sign that their social issues may take a back seat in 2012.”
Holland apparently never listened to the conference . . .
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "GOP presidential hopefuls make their case to religious right, but money matters big emphasis" by The Associated Press 6/4/11
A gathering of religious conservatives drew nearly all the GOP presidential hopefuls to a single stage . . .
The Faith and Freedom Coalition’s two-day conference proved that the religious right still plays a major role in the nominating process, even if it’s less organized than during the Christian Coalition’s heyday and economic issues are dominating the early campaign.
They also paid tribute to religious conservatives who often place abortion, gay marriage and other social issues ahead of questions such as taxes and spending.
The Republican contenders who seem to be making the most direct appeals to evangelical voters are former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty, Rep. Michele Bachmann of Minnesota, former Pennsylvania Sen. Rick Santorum and former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, who didn’t attend but sent a video message.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Friday, June 03, 2011
Americans Say Abortion is Wrong, Dems Don't
Yet another poll, this one by pro-abortion National Public Radio, shows that most Americans believe abortion is wrong, including two-thirds of younger adults. Meanwhile, a Democrat pollster claims Americans are tired of hearing about abortion.
For background, read Pro-life Trends Continue in American Opinion: Poll and also read the linked series of previous polls
-- From "NPR Poll: 59% of Americans Say Having an Abortion is Wrong" by Steven Ertelt, LifeNews.com 6/3/11
NPR asked “do you personally believe having an abortion is wrong” and 59.3 percent of Americans polled said yes compared with just 40.7 percent who said no. The youngest age category of those polled, under 35, gave the most pro-life responses with 65.5 percent saying that having an abortion is wrong.
The NPR survey also asked, “Would you like to see abortion laws in this country made…more strict; less strict; remain the same?” The survey found 45.9% wanted the laws more strict while 54.1 percent wanted the laws to stay the same. The results make it clear that some Americans believe abortion laws are more strict than they are currently — as the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision made it so abortion is essentially available at any point in pregnancy for any reason. As was the case with other questions, those under 35 gave the most pro-life response — with 54.6 percent wanting to make abortion laws more strict.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "More Good Polling Results, this time from NPR" by Dave Andrusko, National Right to Life 6/3/11
31.6% [under age 35] said abortion should be illegal in most cases and another 25.5% said abortion should be illegal in all cases—a total of a 57.1%.
[The survey asked,] “Say someone buys private health insurance using government assistance to help pay for it. Do you think insurance sold that way should or should not be allowed to include coverage for abortions?”
A whopping 58% said no, it shouldn’t (64.% of those under 35) to only 42% who said yes.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Poll: Public tired of abortion debate" by Kate Nocera, Politico 6/2/11
Americans are growing tired of the abortion debate and want to move on to a broader discussion about reproductive health, a new survey by a Democratic polling firm finds.
The poll, conducted by Lake Partners, found that Americans feel Congress has focused too much on abortion and not enough on things like preventive care, reproductive health and expanding access to birth control.
The poll was commissioned by the National Family Planning and Reproductive Health Association, an organization that represents family planning administrators and clinicians, and the Communications Consortium Media Center, a public interest media center that works with nonprofits.
The debate over family planning earlier this year could have broader implications for politicians, the poll finds. Four in 10 Americans said they would be less likely to vote for a member of Congress who votes to defund groups like Planned Parenthood.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Poll: Americans are tired of abortion debate" by Ashley Lopez, Florida Independent 6/3/11
. . . subjects in the survery were asked if they agreed with the following statement:
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
For background, read Pro-life Trends Continue in American Opinion: Poll and also read the linked series of previous polls
-- From "NPR Poll: 59% of Americans Say Having an Abortion is Wrong" by Steven Ertelt, LifeNews.com 6/3/11
NPR asked “do you personally believe having an abortion is wrong” and 59.3 percent of Americans polled said yes compared with just 40.7 percent who said no. The youngest age category of those polled, under 35, gave the most pro-life responses with 65.5 percent saying that having an abortion is wrong.
The NPR survey also asked, “Would you like to see abortion laws in this country made…more strict; less strict; remain the same?” The survey found 45.9% wanted the laws more strict while 54.1 percent wanted the laws to stay the same. The results make it clear that some Americans believe abortion laws are more strict than they are currently — as the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision made it so abortion is essentially available at any point in pregnancy for any reason. As was the case with other questions, those under 35 gave the most pro-life response — with 54.6 percent wanting to make abortion laws more strict.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "More Good Polling Results, this time from NPR" by Dave Andrusko, National Right to Life 6/3/11
31.6% [under age 35] said abortion should be illegal in most cases and another 25.5% said abortion should be illegal in all cases—a total of a 57.1%.
[The survey asked,] “Say someone buys private health insurance using government assistance to help pay for it. Do you think insurance sold that way should or should not be allowed to include coverage for abortions?”
A whopping 58% said no, it shouldn’t (64.% of those under 35) to only 42% who said yes.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Poll: Public tired of abortion debate" by Kate Nocera, Politico 6/2/11
Americans are growing tired of the abortion debate and want to move on to a broader discussion about reproductive health, a new survey by a Democratic polling firm finds.
The poll, conducted by Lake Partners, found that Americans feel Congress has focused too much on abortion and not enough on things like preventive care, reproductive health and expanding access to birth control.
The poll was commissioned by the National Family Planning and Reproductive Health Association, an organization that represents family planning administrators and clinicians, and the Communications Consortium Media Center, a public interest media center that works with nonprofits.
The debate over family planning earlier this year could have broader implications for politicians, the poll finds. Four in 10 Americans said they would be less likely to vote for a member of Congress who votes to defund groups like Planned Parenthood.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Poll: Americans are tired of abortion debate" by Ashley Lopez, Florida Independent 6/3/11
. . . subjects in the survery were asked if they agreed with the following statement:
While the current political debate focuses too much on abortion, there is a much broader discussion that needs to happen around reproductive health. We may have different opinions about abortion, so rather than continuing to argue about this one issue, our elected officials should focus on the broader context like providing greater access to birth control, teaching comprehensive sex education and improving maternal health and childbirth outcomes. These are issues that will allow us to come together.Seventy-nine percent of adults agreed with the statement, with 49 percent agreeing “strongly.”
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Thursday, June 02, 2011
Obama, Dems Celebrate Deviant Sex Month
The Obama administration and the Democrat party have declared June "gay pride month" and have launched the nation's first homosexual White House webpage to advance the Gay Agenda.
For background, read Homosexualists to Buy White House, Say Media and also read Gay Recruitment of Kids: Obama's Czar Legacy
UPDATE 6/1/14 - ObamaNation: Alters of Worship to Sexual Deviancy
UPDATE 6/27/12: Pentagon Celebrates Sexual Deviancy Down Below (end of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell")
-- From "Democratic National Committee Chair Debbie Wasserman Schultz recognizes LGBT Pride Month" by Steve Rothaus, Miami Herald 6/1/11
U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz of Weston, the new chairwoman of the Democratic National Committee, has joined President Barack Obama in recognizing LGBT Pride Month.
DNC Chair Debbie Wasserman Schultz released the following statement . . .
“This June, I join together with LGBT Americans across this country in recognizing PRIDE Month. That means celebrating the enormous strides that LGBT Americans have taken toward equality, but it also means rededicating ourselves to guaranteeing that all Americans – no matter their sexual orientation – are looked upon as fully equal in the eyes of the law.
“Thanks to the hard work of President Obama and LGBT activists across the country, we are now closer than ever to that goal. The outdated and discriminatory policy known as ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ has been repealed. The President has directed the Department of Justice to stop defending DOMA in court and declared it unconstitutional.”
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Obama Declares June Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride Month" by Wes Barrett, Fox News 5/31/11
The president Tuesday signed a proclamation recognizing lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender month.
"The story of America's Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) community is the story of our fathers and sons, our mothers and daughters, and our friends and neighbors who continue the task of making our country a more perfect Union," the proclamation said.
"Since taking office, my Administration has made significant progress towards achieving equality for LGBT Americans," the proclamation said. "Last December, I was proud to sign the repeal of the discriminatory "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy... My Administration has also taken steps to eliminate discrimination against LGBT Americans in Federal housing programs and to give LGBT Americans the right to visit their loved ones in the hospital."
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "White House launches LGBT website" by Lauren Westerfield, LGBT Weekly 6/2/11
The Obama Administration has unveiled a new website providing resources for LGBT Americans and highlighting President Obama’s accomplishments and initiatives on behalf of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community. Dubbed “Winning the Future,” the site constitutes the first LGBT-oriented constituency webpage in the nation’s history.
“Wining the Future” also includes links to a blog and to President Obama and other administrative officials’ video messages for the It Gets Better anti-bullying and suicide prevention campaign.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Also read (from 2010): Obama Proclaims Homosexual Celebration Month
For background, read Homosexualists to Buy White House, Say Media and also read Gay Recruitment of Kids: Obama's Czar Legacy
UPDATE 6/1/14 - ObamaNation: Alters of Worship to Sexual Deviancy
UPDATE 6/27/12: Pentagon Celebrates Sexual Deviancy Down Below (end of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell")
-- From "Democratic National Committee Chair Debbie Wasserman Schultz recognizes LGBT Pride Month" by Steve Rothaus, Miami Herald 6/1/11
U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz of Weston, the new chairwoman of the Democratic National Committee, has joined President Barack Obama in recognizing LGBT Pride Month.
DNC Chair Debbie Wasserman Schultz released the following statement . . .
“This June, I join together with LGBT Americans across this country in recognizing PRIDE Month. That means celebrating the enormous strides that LGBT Americans have taken toward equality, but it also means rededicating ourselves to guaranteeing that all Americans – no matter their sexual orientation – are looked upon as fully equal in the eyes of the law.
“Thanks to the hard work of President Obama and LGBT activists across the country, we are now closer than ever to that goal. The outdated and discriminatory policy known as ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ has been repealed. The President has directed the Department of Justice to stop defending DOMA in court and declared it unconstitutional.”
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Obama Declares June Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride Month" by Wes Barrett, Fox News 5/31/11
The president Tuesday signed a proclamation recognizing lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender month.
"The story of America's Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) community is the story of our fathers and sons, our mothers and daughters, and our friends and neighbors who continue the task of making our country a more perfect Union," the proclamation said.
"Since taking office, my Administration has made significant progress towards achieving equality for LGBT Americans," the proclamation said. "Last December, I was proud to sign the repeal of the discriminatory "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy... My Administration has also taken steps to eliminate discrimination against LGBT Americans in Federal housing programs and to give LGBT Americans the right to visit their loved ones in the hospital."
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "White House launches LGBT website" by Lauren Westerfield, LGBT Weekly 6/2/11
The Obama Administration has unveiled a new website providing resources for LGBT Americans and highlighting President Obama’s accomplishments and initiatives on behalf of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community. Dubbed “Winning the Future,” the site constitutes the first LGBT-oriented constituency webpage in the nation’s history.
“Wining the Future” also includes links to a blog and to President Obama and other administrative officials’ video messages for the It Gets Better anti-bullying and suicide prevention campaign.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Also read (from 2010): Obama Proclaims Homosexual Celebration Month
Unwed Mothers in Poorer Health: Study
Unwed mothers face poorer health at midlife than do women who have children after marriage, according to a new nationwide study, which appears in the June 2011 issue of the American Sociological Review.For background, read No Marriage in Most U.S. Households: Census and also read Liberalism Causes Poverty in America: Study
-- From "Single Moms Entering Midlife May Lead to Public Health Crisis" American Sociological Association posted at Newswise 5/26/11
This is the first U.S. study to document long-term negative health consequences for unwed mothers, and it has major implications for our society, said Kristi Williams, lead author of the study and associate professor of sociology at Ohio State University.
About 40 percent of all births in the United States now occur to unmarried women, compared to less than 10 percent in 1960, Williams said. That suggests there will soon be a population boom in the United States of single mothers suffering middle-aged health problems.
Moreover, the study suggests that later marriage does not generally help reverse the negative health consequences of having a first birth outside of marriage. This calls into question the value of government efforts to promote marriage, among low-income, single mothers, at least in terms of their consequences for these women’s health.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Price of Unwed Births Far Greater than the Hospital Bills" posted at The Heritage Foundation 5/25/11
. . . “women who unintentionally get pregnant are more likely to be low-income” and thus “are more likely to be eligible for government-financed medical care.” The Brookings report also notes that the majority (57 percent) of these births are to women who are unmarried: one of the greatest predictors of child poverty in the United States today. The strong link between unwed childbearing and poverty creates little wonder that the majority of births to unmarried women are financed by Medicaid.
However, the costs don’t stop at birth. In fact, it’s only the beginning. As Heritage Foundation analyst Robert Rector asserts, “Once the taxpayer has paid for the childbirth, aid to the [low-income, single] mother and child will generally continue through a wide variety of programs for years to come.”
In fact, roughly 75 percent of all families on welfare are single-parent families. With the number of unwed births skyrocketing over the last five decades (more than 40 percent of births in the United States today are to single moms), the cost of federal welfare has mushroomed. Currently, Washington operates more than 70 welfare programs at a cost edging toward $1 trillion annually.
Yet poverty and government dependence aren’t the only problems connected to single-parent families. Children raised without fathers are at greater risk for a host of negative outcomes, such as poorer social and emotional behavior, delinquency, and lower academic outcomes.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Also read Babies Cost Gov't Too Much, Say Abortionists as well as Abortion Rate Soars for Gov't-Dependent Americans
Obama Forces Planned Parenthood on Indiana
The Obama administration is again demonstrating it's "death over life" dedication to abortion by forcing Indiana citizens to fund Planned Parenthood by blocking the defunding law enacted by Indiana's duly elected legislature and governor.
For background, read Indiana Squeezes Obama in Abortion Battle via Medicaid and also read about many states following Indiana's lead
UPDATE 6/21/11: Planned Parenthood Shutting Down in Indiana & Minnesota
UPDATE 6/16/11: Obama Justice Dept. joins Planned Parenthood in court
-- From "Obama team blocks Indiana's efforts to cut Planned Parenthood funding" by David Jackson, USA TODAY 6/2/11
The administration's Department of Health and Human Services said Wednesday it would prohibit Indiana from carrying out a new state law that cuts off money to Planned Parenthood clinics that serve women on Medicaid; the law targets abortion services provided by Planned Parenthood.
There's a political context to all this: Planned Parenthood is a major contributor to Democrats. Also, while Indiana is normally considered a Republican state, Obama carried it in 2008, and would dearly love to do so again next year.
Rep. Marlin Stutzman, R-Ind., said the administration should not be telling any state that "it cannot administer its own programs."
"Health and Human Services should respect the will of Hoosiers who simply ask that their tax dollars do not subsidize an entity that maintains an abortion clinic," Stutzman said.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "CMS Administrator Don Berwick: Indiana can’t defund Planned Parenthood" by Sarah Kliff, Politico 6/1/11
Indiana plans to defy an Obama administration letter and continue barring Planned Parenthood from receiving federal funding — a move that, if continued, could cost the state more than $4 billion in Medicaid funds.
[Federal] CMS Administrator Don Berwick notified Indiana Wednesday that its plan to bar the state Medicaid agency from contracting with abortion providers is illegal. If it does so, Indiana could stand to lose all federal funding of its Medicaid program, an administration source tells POLITICO.
“Medicaid programs may not exclude qualified health care providers from providing services that are funded under the program because of a provider's scope of practice,” Berwick wrote in the letter.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "U.S. government says Indiana cannot deny Medicaid funds to Planned Parenthood" By Eric Bradner, Evansville Courier & Press 6/1/11
Indiana’s measure affects 34 facilities, 28 of which are operated by Planned Parenthood of Indiana. Those facilities are located in 21 counties. A total of four of Planned Parenthood’s Indiana clinics perform abortions.
According to the [Indiana Governor] Daniels administration, there are 800 other health care providers that take Medicaid patients in those counties.
“I commissioned a careful review of access to services across the state and can confirm that all non-abortion services, whether family planning or basic women’s health, will remain readily available in every one of our 92 counties,” Daniels said then.
“Any organization affected by this provision can resume receiving taxpayer dollars immediately by ceasing or separating its operations that perform abortions.”
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Feds to Indiana: New legislation violates Medicaid rules" by Heather Gillersand, Indianapolis Star 6/1/11
State Rep. Eric Turner, R-Cicero, who helped lead the effort in the legislature to defund Planned Parenthood, was disappointed.
"We believe we represented the public's opinion on this, and we'll see what happens," he said. "It's another example of the federal government trying to tell states what to do. I think states are very capable of deciding their own fate and running their own ship."
Anti-abortion activists challenged the Obama administration's interpretation of federal Medicaid policy, saying they think states do have authority to defund Planned Parenthood, and called the letter a strong-arm tactic.
"We're not surprised by it," said Indiana Right to Life Legislative Director Sue Swayze. "This is the most pro-abortion president we've ever had. It almost feels like they're bullying the state of Indiana over the wishes of our legislative branch."
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
For background, read Indiana Squeezes Obama in Abortion Battle via Medicaid and also read about many states following Indiana's lead
UPDATE 6/21/11: Planned Parenthood Shutting Down in Indiana & Minnesota
UPDATE 6/16/11: Obama Justice Dept. joins Planned Parenthood in court
-- From "Obama team blocks Indiana's efforts to cut Planned Parenthood funding" by David Jackson, USA TODAY 6/2/11
The administration's Department of Health and Human Services said Wednesday it would prohibit Indiana from carrying out a new state law that cuts off money to Planned Parenthood clinics that serve women on Medicaid; the law targets abortion services provided by Planned Parenthood.
There's a political context to all this: Planned Parenthood is a major contributor to Democrats. Also, while Indiana is normally considered a Republican state, Obama carried it in 2008, and would dearly love to do so again next year.
Rep. Marlin Stutzman, R-Ind., said the administration should not be telling any state that "it cannot administer its own programs."
"Health and Human Services should respect the will of Hoosiers who simply ask that their tax dollars do not subsidize an entity that maintains an abortion clinic," Stutzman said.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "CMS Administrator Don Berwick: Indiana can’t defund Planned Parenthood" by Sarah Kliff, Politico 6/1/11
Indiana plans to defy an Obama administration letter and continue barring Planned Parenthood from receiving federal funding — a move that, if continued, could cost the state more than $4 billion in Medicaid funds.
[Federal] CMS Administrator Don Berwick notified Indiana Wednesday that its plan to bar the state Medicaid agency from contracting with abortion providers is illegal. If it does so, Indiana could stand to lose all federal funding of its Medicaid program, an administration source tells POLITICO.
“Medicaid programs may not exclude qualified health care providers from providing services that are funded under the program because of a provider's scope of practice,” Berwick wrote in the letter.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "U.S. government says Indiana cannot deny Medicaid funds to Planned Parenthood" By Eric Bradner, Evansville Courier & Press 6/1/11
Indiana’s measure affects 34 facilities, 28 of which are operated by Planned Parenthood of Indiana. Those facilities are located in 21 counties. A total of four of Planned Parenthood’s Indiana clinics perform abortions.
According to the [Indiana Governor] Daniels administration, there are 800 other health care providers that take Medicaid patients in those counties.
“I commissioned a careful review of access to services across the state and can confirm that all non-abortion services, whether family planning or basic women’s health, will remain readily available in every one of our 92 counties,” Daniels said then.
“Any organization affected by this provision can resume receiving taxpayer dollars immediately by ceasing or separating its operations that perform abortions.”
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Feds to Indiana: New legislation violates Medicaid rules" by Heather Gillersand, Indianapolis Star 6/1/11
State Rep. Eric Turner, R-Cicero, who helped lead the effort in the legislature to defund Planned Parenthood, was disappointed.
"We believe we represented the public's opinion on this, and we'll see what happens," he said. "It's another example of the federal government trying to tell states what to do. I think states are very capable of deciding their own fate and running their own ship."
Anti-abortion activists challenged the Obama administration's interpretation of federal Medicaid policy, saying they think states do have authority to defund Planned Parenthood, and called the letter a strong-arm tactic.
"We're not surprised by it," said Indiana Right to Life Legislative Director Sue Swayze. "This is the most pro-abortion president we've ever had. It almost feels like they're bullying the state of Indiana over the wishes of our legislative branch."
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Wednesday, June 01, 2011
Gay Guy as Prom Queen: School, Media Love It
Everyone is celebrating a Blacksburg High School, Virginia senior who has announced that he is a homosexual -- including voting him to be the first male prom queen.
In a related story, Two New York Boys Named Prom 'King & Queen'
-- From "Guy is crownded prom queen at VA high school" by Holly Pietrzak, WDBJ-TV7 Reporter 6/1/11
Jake Boyer was senior class secretary, a choir member, editor of his school's literary magazine, and now prom queen.
"This was as much a social experiment as it was a fun thing to do," explained Boyer.
He kept [his homosexuality] a secret for a year, but his friends and family were immediately accepting. So, it wasn't a surprise when friends urged him to run for high school prom queen.
Boyer dressed in drag as performer Lady Gaga.
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
In a related story, Two New York Boys Named Prom 'King & Queen'
-- From "Guy is crownded prom queen at VA high school" by Holly Pietrzak, WDBJ-TV7 Reporter 6/1/11
Jake Boyer was senior class secretary, a choir member, editor of his school's literary magazine, and now prom queen.
"This was as much a social experiment as it was a fun thing to do," explained Boyer.
He kept [his homosexuality] a secret for a year, but his friends and family were immediately accepting. So, it wasn't a surprise when friends urged him to run for high school prom queen.
Boyer dressed in drag as performer Lady Gaga.
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
Judge Violates First Amendment - Bans Student Prayer
A federal judge in South Texas has ordered all students at graduation ceremonies to not use words such as "amen" or "God bless you." The school had previously planned a "prayer-free" commencement event, but atheists sued fearing students might pray of their own volition.
For background, read Lawsuit to End Prayer at Texas Graduation
UPDATE 6/3/11: Prayer restored - federal appeals court overrules activist judge
UPDATE 6/2/11: School appeals; Texas attorney general says ruling “is contrary to the Constitution (and) contrary to law.”
-- From "Prayers removed from Texas public school graduation" by Jim Forsyth, Reuters 5/31/11
District Judge Fred Biery ruled that using those words would make it sound like Castroville's Medina Valley High School is "sponsoring a religion."
[Chris Martinez, assistant superintendent, said] "Our entire school system is set up on following the rules, and we are going to do that."
"But this is one parent's opinion of what we are doing. We don't believe we have done anything wrong."
Christa and Danny Schultz, who describe themselves as agnostics, sued the district, claiming that their son might not participate in the graduation set for Saturday if he were forced to participate in religious activities.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Prayer outlawed from local high school graduation ceremony" by, Melissa Garcia, WOAI TV-4 San Antonio 5/31/11
. . . district officials say a state statute allows students to express their faith freely. And they've been doing so at graduation ceremonies and elsewhere for 50 years.
"We do not believe, as a school district, that we have done anything wrong," commented Chris Martinez, Assistant Superintendent for Medina Valley Independent School District. "Traditionally, our students have spoken religious language. They have used their own personal testimonies... Nonetheless, it is not under our guidance. We don't direct them or script them in what to say. It is their freedom of expression."
Per the judge's ruling, student speakers at Saturday's graduation at Medina Valley High School will still be able to speak about their personal faith. They will not, however, be allowed to ask the crowd to stand and bow their heads in prayer, or use phrases like "Amen" or "God bless you."
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
UPDATE 7/2/11: Valedictorian Angela Hildenbrand interview on Fox News:
For background, read Lawsuit to End Prayer at Texas Graduation
UPDATE 6/3/11: Prayer restored - federal appeals court overrules activist judge
UPDATE 6/2/11: School appeals; Texas attorney general says ruling “is contrary to the Constitution (and) contrary to law.”
-- From "Prayers removed from Texas public school graduation" by Jim Forsyth, Reuters 5/31/11
District Judge Fred Biery ruled that using those words would make it sound like Castroville's Medina Valley High School is "sponsoring a religion."
[Chris Martinez, assistant superintendent, said] "Our entire school system is set up on following the rules, and we are going to do that."
"But this is one parent's opinion of what we are doing. We don't believe we have done anything wrong."
Christa and Danny Schultz, who describe themselves as agnostics, sued the district, claiming that their son might not participate in the graduation set for Saturday if he were forced to participate in religious activities.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Prayer outlawed from local high school graduation ceremony" by, Melissa Garcia, WOAI TV-4 San Antonio 5/31/11
. . . district officials say a state statute allows students to express their faith freely. And they've been doing so at graduation ceremonies and elsewhere for 50 years.
"We do not believe, as a school district, that we have done anything wrong," commented Chris Martinez, Assistant Superintendent for Medina Valley Independent School District. "Traditionally, our students have spoken religious language. They have used their own personal testimonies... Nonetheless, it is not under our guidance. We don't direct them or script them in what to say. It is their freedom of expression."
Per the judge's ruling, student speakers at Saturday's graduation at Medina Valley High School will still be able to speak about their personal faith. They will not, however, be allowed to ask the crowd to stand and bow their heads in prayer, or use phrases like "Amen" or "God bless you."
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
UPDATE 7/2/11: Valedictorian Angela Hildenbrand interview on Fox News:
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