Vianney Drama Answers Question: What is a Priest
VANCOUVER, Wash., June 19 /Christian Newswire/ -- The Year of the Priesthood, proclaimed by Pope Benedict XVI, begins today and as a key contribution to the celebration, a new theatrical drama VIANNEY will launch a worldwide tour with a premiere in Houston, Texas. The play focuses on the question, "What is a priest?" and tells the story of St. John Vianney (1786 - 1859) whose exemplary life was so remarkable that the Pope has named him the patron of this jubilee year, and will, at the close of the year, declare him the patron of all the priests of the world. The VIANNEY drama, starring actor and film director Leonardo Defilippis, will appropriately open on August 4, Vianney's feast day, and the 150th anniversary of his death.
The drama couldn't open at a better time. The scandals that have wracked the Catholic Church have damaged the reputation of the priesthood, and have tainted the public's understanding of what it means to be a priest. As a result, Catholics have been hesitant to encourage vocations to the priesthood in their congregations and families. "I think we are ready for a breath of fresh air, a celebration of all the good, faithful priests who give their lives for their flock," says Defilippis.
Francis Cardinal George, President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops who met recently with Defilippis, and has gotten behind the project, agrees. The Year for Priests was proclaimed by the Pope, says Cardinal George, "in order to help all of us revisit what the faith tells us a priest is and to encourage ordained priests in their lives of service and dedication." Defilippis believes that through VIANNEY audiences will be inspired to a deeper holiness and appreciation of the mystery of the priesthood.
Leonardo Defilippis, who not only performs the role of Vianney but also spent two years researching and writing the script, is best known for his direction and starring role in the feature film Thérèse. VIANNEY, his latest production, incorporates lights, sets, costumes and an original musical score and utilizes state-of-the- art multimedia technology, which projects characters and images on screens behind the sole actor on stage.
Support for VIANNEY has come from all quarters, and continues to grow. In addition to Cardinal George, numerous other bishops, rectors of seminaries, vocation directors and individuals across the country have joined the "Vianney Movement," and are using the drama to inspire a new fervor in the Church. The enthusiasm isn't contained nationally, with requests pouring in from as far away as Singapore.
"John Vianney is without doubt one of the greatest shepherds in Church history," states Defilippis. VIANNEY focuses on the Curé of Ars, as he is commonly called, as he begins his life as a priest in 1815, following the chaotic time of secularization and anti-religious sentiment borne of the French Revolution. He perseveres against tremendous resistance, and even violent supernatural attacks. Vianney succeeds not only in reforming the lives of his parishioners, but also in drawing, by his holiness and his ability to read souls, hundreds of thousands of pilgrims to the tiny parish.
"The timing for this priest to enter the world stage is right on," remarks Father James Kelleher, S.O.L.T., President of Our Lady of Corpus Christi College. "We see many parallels to the current culture in which we live today. This is the story that many today, especially young people, are longing for -- a challenge, something to sacrifice their lives for that will make a difference in our world. John Vianney is the saint for all of us. He is a radical and counter-cultural hero in the truest sense."
For more information, call 1-800-683-2998 or visit (Saint Luke Productions www.stlukeproductions.com).
Friday, June 19, 2009
Government Targets Taochuan Christian Church Shaanxi
Government Targets Taochuan Christian Church Shaanxi
SHAANXI, China, June 19 /Christian Newswire/ -- Around midnight on June 14, three house church leaders of the Taochuan Village Christian Church were arrested and given 10 days of detention for engaging in "illegal religious activities." Authorities have arrested the Christians as the latest in a series of actions to shut down their house church, and confiscate the church building. The authorities have targeted the church because the Christians have been advocating for justice for peasants in their village. The three arrested leaders are: Sister Liu, Sister Xu and Brother Huang Sumin.
In 2008, government officials, businessmen and village cadres began colluding to confiscate land to make profits on real estate development. Many peasants lost large tracts of land, and as a result, Taochuan village citizens elected 11 representatives to negotiate and protect the rights of the villagers. Some among the 11 representatives were Christians. In order to get rid of Christian representatives, because the Christians "spoke on fair terms," the government officials targeted Taochuan Christian Church, claiming that the Christians were "engaging in illegal religious activities." The church has owned their current building since December 2008, and the approximately 100 members of the church all contributed to purchase it.
From June 2 to June 4, Huang Sumin and other Christians from Taochuan Christian Church were summoned to the town's police station where they were interrogated and warned. On June 5, a public notice from Luonan County Bureau of Religion was posted at the gate of the church, declaring that Taochuan Village Christian Church had been abolished. To avoid the possible conflicts with authorities during the Sunday worship on June 7, the church members decided to worship at 6 a.m. at the gate of the original gathering site. Though the gathering ended shortly past 7 a.m., a dozen or so officials from the County Bureau of Religion and the police station arrived at Taochuan Village around 8 a.m. Brother Huang Sumin and two sisters were taken to the town's police station for interrogation. The rest of the Christians were threatened that they must not gather again or they would face legal liabilities.
At 5 a.m. on June 14, 2009, Taochuan Village Christian Church again worshipped and prayed at the gate of the original gathering site. The gathering ended at 6:45 a.m. At 7 a.m., five to six police officers arrived at the site of the gathering. For the whole afternoon, the officers talked with the Christians to get information. At around midnight, Brother Huang Sumin, Sister Liu and Sister Xu were forcibly taken by police. They stated, "If we have to go, we go. There's nothing serious if we do it for the sake of the Lord."
The next day, the family members and the church learned the news that they had been placed on a 10- day detention. ChinaAid contacts say the three Christians "are strong and brave members in Christ who submit to God and not to man." However, Brother Huang has a serious problem with high blood pressure and often experiences headaches and dizziness. With this condition, the church members are concerned that he may not be able to endure the imprisonment and torture by the police. The authorities had promised to release Brother Huang, but they reneged.
The Christians of Taochuan Church sent a letter to ChinaAid, requesting that Christians around the world would pray for them, "Brother churches of ours, please pray for us and beg the Lord to lead us. If you are willing, please help us seek an answer from the government and the Public Security Bureau."
Contact the following government authorities in Shaanxi and urge them to release Brother Huang Sumin, Sister Liu and Sister Xu immediately and allow Taochuan Church to worship freely.
Luonan Public Security Bureau of Shaanxi:
Main number: +86-0914-7322159
Office phone numbers: +86-0914-7380416；+86- 0914-7381381；+86-0914-7326515
Public Security Window of Luonan County
Administrative Service Center:
Fax: +96-0914-7382334
ChinaAid grants permission to reproduce photos and/or information for non-fundraising purposes, with the provision that www.ChinaAid.org is credited. Please contact: Katherine@ChinaAid.org with questions or requests for further information.
SHAANXI, China, June 19 /Christian Newswire/ -- Around midnight on June 14, three house church leaders of the Taochuan Village Christian Church were arrested and given 10 days of detention for engaging in "illegal religious activities." Authorities have arrested the Christians as the latest in a series of actions to shut down their house church, and confiscate the church building. The authorities have targeted the church because the Christians have been advocating for justice for peasants in their village. The three arrested leaders are: Sister Liu, Sister Xu and Brother Huang Sumin.
In 2008, government officials, businessmen and village cadres began colluding to confiscate land to make profits on real estate development. Many peasants lost large tracts of land, and as a result, Taochuan village citizens elected 11 representatives to negotiate and protect the rights of the villagers. Some among the 11 representatives were Christians. In order to get rid of Christian representatives, because the Christians "spoke on fair terms," the government officials targeted Taochuan Christian Church, claiming that the Christians were "engaging in illegal religious activities." The church has owned their current building since December 2008, and the approximately 100 members of the church all contributed to purchase it.
From June 2 to June 4, Huang Sumin and other Christians from Taochuan Christian Church were summoned to the town's police station where they were interrogated and warned. On June 5, a public notice from Luonan County Bureau of Religion was posted at the gate of the church, declaring that Taochuan Village Christian Church had been abolished. To avoid the possible conflicts with authorities during the Sunday worship on June 7, the church members decided to worship at 6 a.m. at the gate of the original gathering site. Though the gathering ended shortly past 7 a.m., a dozen or so officials from the County Bureau of Religion and the police station arrived at Taochuan Village around 8 a.m. Brother Huang Sumin and two sisters were taken to the town's police station for interrogation. The rest of the Christians were threatened that they must not gather again or they would face legal liabilities.
At 5 a.m. on June 14, 2009, Taochuan Village Christian Church again worshipped and prayed at the gate of the original gathering site. The gathering ended at 6:45 a.m. At 7 a.m., five to six police officers arrived at the site of the gathering. For the whole afternoon, the officers talked with the Christians to get information. At around midnight, Brother Huang Sumin, Sister Liu and Sister Xu were forcibly taken by police. They stated, "If we have to go, we go. There's nothing serious if we do it for the sake of the Lord."
The next day, the family members and the church learned the news that they had been placed on a 10- day detention. ChinaAid contacts say the three Christians "are strong and brave members in Christ who submit to God and not to man." However, Brother Huang has a serious problem with high blood pressure and often experiences headaches and dizziness. With this condition, the church members are concerned that he may not be able to endure the imprisonment and torture by the police. The authorities had promised to release Brother Huang, but they reneged.
The Christians of Taochuan Church sent a letter to ChinaAid, requesting that Christians around the world would pray for them, "Brother churches of ours, please pray for us and beg the Lord to lead us. If you are willing, please help us seek an answer from the government and the Public Security Bureau."
Contact the following government authorities in Shaanxi and urge them to release Brother Huang Sumin, Sister Liu and Sister Xu immediately and allow Taochuan Church to worship freely.
Luonan Public Security Bureau of Shaanxi:
Main number: +86-0914-7322159
Office phone numbers: +86-0914-7380416；+86- 0914-7381381；+86-0914-7326515
Public Security Window of Luonan County
Administrative Service Center:
Fax: +96-0914-7382334
ChinaAid grants permission to reproduce photos and/or information for non-fundraising purposes, with the provision that www.ChinaAid.org is credited. Please contact: Katherine@ChinaAid.org with questions or requests for further information.
The Year for Priests Opens: A Time for Rediscovering the Beauty and Importance of the Priesthood
The Year for Priests Opens: A Time for Rediscovering the Beauty and Importance of the Priesthood
Commentators Available on Formation, Perspective, Life and Role of Priests
ATLANTA, June 19 /Christian Newswire/ -- Pope Benedict XVI will open the "Year for Priests" today, June 19 in St. Peter's Basilica. "Faithfulness of Christ, faithfulness of priests" is the theme for a year that ends on June 19, 2010 in St. Peter's Square at a World Meeting of Priests. The year also marks the 150th anniversary of the death of St. John Vianney, known as the "Curé of Ars."
According to the Vatican announcement, Pope Benedict stressed that priests need to be "present, identifiable and recognizable -- for their judgment of faith, personal virtues and attire -- in the fields of culture and of charity which have always been at the heart of the Church's mission." The Vatican's intention for the "Year for Priests" is to rebuild strong priestly spiritual identities, noting that "priests are important not only for what they do, but also for who they are."
In a letter to priests, the Holy See stressed that the Church "is proud of her priests, loves them, honors them, admires them and recognizes with gratitude their pastoral work and witness."
The prefect for the Congregation for the Clergy, Cardinal Claudio Hummes, is encouraging local dioceses and parishes to plan events that will "celebrate and show appreciation for priests."
The Maximus Group, the leading Catholic communications company in the United States, has assembled a variety of spokespersons to speak on multiple aspects of the Catholic priesthood. Here is a sampling of available commentators:
· Fr. Richard Gabuzda -- Executive Director of The Institute for Priestly Formation; Fr. Gabuzda can speak on the spirituality of the priest in today's world;
· Dr. Christine Mugridge -- Theologian, social communications expert and editor of Called by Name: The Inspiring Stories of 12 Men Who Became Catholic Priests;
· Deacon James Keating -- Director of Theological Formation for The Institute for Priestly Formation, and author of Resting on the Heart of Christ, a new book that guides seminary theologians in their formation of young priests;
· Jeremy Stanbary -- International performer and Founder of Epiphany Studio Productions; writer, producer and star of Lolek, a popular one-man drama about the young adulthood of Pope John Paul II, focusing on his vocation and call to the priesthood;
· Fr. Michael Najim -- Vocations Director for the Diocese of Providence, Rhode Island and author of Radical Surrender: Letters to Seminarians (Released July 2009);
· Fr. Robert Barron -- Francis Cardinal George Chair of Faith and Culture at the University of St. Mary of the Lake / Mundelein Seminary, and author and founder of Word on Fire Ministries; Fr. Barron can speak on the vow of celibacy and address the controversy it evokes in the culture;
· Dr. Pia de Solenni -- Moral theologian, cultural commentator and expert on women's issues can address the Church's position on women in the priesthood;
· Fr. John Bartunek, LC -- Author of Inside the Passion and The Better Part: A Christ-Centered Resource for Personal Prayer, Fr. John can share his personal call to the priesthood, a call that drew him away from a career as a model and actor.
· Fr. David Toups -- Associate Director of the Secretariat of Clergy at the USCCB, and author of Reclaiming Our Priestly Character (Released January 2008); Fr. Toups can speak to contemporary priestly life in light of a thoughtful review of the crisis surrounding priestly identity in the culture
· Fr. Thomas Berg -- Executive Director of the Westchester Institute for Ethics and the Human Person, Fr. Berg can speak on the modern role of priest in the public square;
· Dr. Art Bennett -- Director of the Alpha Omega Clinics and author of The Temperament God Gave You; is a psychologist who helps priests in their role as counselor to the everyday Catholic facing crisis' relating to morality and sexuality.
Full biographies of these commentators and their topics are available.
For interview requests or additional information, please contact Schicker at 404-610-8871 or Walker at 678-990-9032, both with the Maximus Group.
The Maximus Group, LLC -- The Maximus Group, a Catholic communications agency, first offered this unprecedented service to the media in 2005 at the time of the passing of Pope John Paul II, during the interregnum and papal conclave period that concluded with the election and installation of Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger as Pope Benedict XVI. Media outlets regularly return to Maximus when faced with a need for commentary from a Catholic perspective.
Maximus' mission includes providing cultural commentary from reliable, informed, authentic sources who can provide intelligent and entertaining dialogue on topics relating to faith, value-based issues and the Catholic Church.
Commentators Available on Formation, Perspective, Life and Role of Priests
ATLANTA, June 19 /Christian Newswire/ -- Pope Benedict XVI will open the "Year for Priests" today, June 19 in St. Peter's Basilica. "Faithfulness of Christ, faithfulness of priests" is the theme for a year that ends on June 19, 2010 in St. Peter's Square at a World Meeting of Priests. The year also marks the 150th anniversary of the death of St. John Vianney, known as the "Curé of Ars."
According to the Vatican announcement, Pope Benedict stressed that priests need to be "present, identifiable and recognizable -- for their judgment of faith, personal virtues and attire -- in the fields of culture and of charity which have always been at the heart of the Church's mission." The Vatican's intention for the "Year for Priests" is to rebuild strong priestly spiritual identities, noting that "priests are important not only for what they do, but also for who they are."
In a letter to priests, the Holy See stressed that the Church "is proud of her priests, loves them, honors them, admires them and recognizes with gratitude their pastoral work and witness."
The prefect for the Congregation for the Clergy, Cardinal Claudio Hummes, is encouraging local dioceses and parishes to plan events that will "celebrate and show appreciation for priests."
The Maximus Group, the leading Catholic communications company in the United States, has assembled a variety of spokespersons to speak on multiple aspects of the Catholic priesthood. Here is a sampling of available commentators:
· Fr. Richard Gabuzda -- Executive Director of The Institute for Priestly Formation; Fr. Gabuzda can speak on the spirituality of the priest in today's world;
· Dr. Christine Mugridge -- Theologian, social communications expert and editor of Called by Name: The Inspiring Stories of 12 Men Who Became Catholic Priests;
· Deacon James Keating -- Director of Theological Formation for The Institute for Priestly Formation, and author of Resting on the Heart of Christ, a new book that guides seminary theologians in their formation of young priests;
· Jeremy Stanbary -- International performer and Founder of Epiphany Studio Productions; writer, producer and star of Lolek, a popular one-man drama about the young adulthood of Pope John Paul II, focusing on his vocation and call to the priesthood;
· Fr. Michael Najim -- Vocations Director for the Diocese of Providence, Rhode Island and author of Radical Surrender: Letters to Seminarians (Released July 2009);
· Fr. Robert Barron -- Francis Cardinal George Chair of Faith and Culture at the University of St. Mary of the Lake / Mundelein Seminary, and author and founder of Word on Fire Ministries; Fr. Barron can speak on the vow of celibacy and address the controversy it evokes in the culture;
· Dr. Pia de Solenni -- Moral theologian, cultural commentator and expert on women's issues can address the Church's position on women in the priesthood;
· Fr. John Bartunek, LC -- Author of Inside the Passion and The Better Part: A Christ-Centered Resource for Personal Prayer, Fr. John can share his personal call to the priesthood, a call that drew him away from a career as a model and actor.
· Fr. David Toups -- Associate Director of the Secretariat of Clergy at the USCCB, and author of Reclaiming Our Priestly Character (Released January 2008); Fr. Toups can speak to contemporary priestly life in light of a thoughtful review of the crisis surrounding priestly identity in the culture
· Fr. Thomas Berg -- Executive Director of the Westchester Institute for Ethics and the Human Person, Fr. Berg can speak on the modern role of priest in the public square;
· Dr. Art Bennett -- Director of the Alpha Omega Clinics and author of The Temperament God Gave You; is a psychologist who helps priests in their role as counselor to the everyday Catholic facing crisis' relating to morality and sexuality.
Full biographies of these commentators and their topics are available.
For interview requests or additional information, please contact Schicker at 404-610-8871 or Walker at 678-990-9032, both with the Maximus Group.
The Maximus Group, LLC -- The Maximus Group, a Catholic communications agency, first offered this unprecedented service to the media in 2005 at the time of the passing of Pope John Paul II, during the interregnum and papal conclave period that concluded with the election and installation of Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger as Pope Benedict XVI. Media outlets regularly return to Maximus when faced with a need for commentary from a Catholic perspective.
Maximus' mission includes providing cultural commentary from reliable, informed, authentic sources who can provide intelligent and entertaining dialogue on topics relating to faith, value-based issues and the Catholic Church.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Studenten-Proteste: „Friedliche Besetzung des Landtags erlebt“
Studenten-Proteste: „Friedliche Besetzung des Landtags erlebt“
Augenzeugin Barbara Behrends (SPD) „Besetzung des Abgeordneten-Hauses war nicht vorhersehbar“ - Friedliche Studenten - Uwe Barth (FDP): „Kritik der Studenten berechtigt und legitim“ - Michael Hörter (CDU): „Ziel ist die Abschaffung des demokratischen Gesellschaft-Systems“
Von Andreas Klamm
Berlin / Mainz 18. Juni 2009. Im Rahmen des Bildungs-Streiks 2009 wurde gestern in Mainz bei Demonstrationen das Abgeordnetenhaus des Landtags in Mainz von Schülern, Studenten und weiteren Demonstranten besetzt. Die SPD-Pressesprecherin Barbara Behrends (SPD) wurde Augenzeugin der Ereignisse im Landtag von Rheinland-Pfalz. In einem Telefon-Interview mit dem internationalen Magazin MJB Mission News (ISSN 1999-8414) bestätigte die SPD-Poltikerin: „Ich habe ein friedliche Besetzung des Abgeordneten-Hauses im Landtag von Rheinland-Pfalz erlebt.“
Mit der Besetzung und Sachbeschädigungen im Mainzer Landtag am 17. Juni 2009 wird sich, nach Informationen des CDU-Politikers Michael Hörter, auch der Innenausschuss des rheinland-pfälzischen Parlamentes befassen.
Nach Angaben der Veranstalter befinden sich in dieser Woche (15. bis 19. Juni 2009) bis zu 270.000 Studenten und Schüler in ganz Deutschland im Bildungs-Streik.
„Wir boten den Studenten und Schülerinnen Gespräche. Ich erlebte friedliche Proteste der Studenten.“ bestätigte die SPD-Politikerin und SPD-Pressesprecherin Barbara Behrends in einem Telefon-Interview mit MJB Mission News (ISSN 1999-8414). Foto: SPD
Der Bildungsstreik erlebte mit der befristeten Besetzung des Abgeordneten-Hauses des Landtags von Rheinland-Pfalz in der Stadt Mainz einen Höhepunkt. Die Besetzung des Abgeordneten-Hauses durch Schüler und Studenten, die für eine bessere und gerechtere Bildungs-Politik in ganz Deutschland noch bis 19. Juni 2009 demonstrieren wurde von Politikern unterschiedlicher Parteien sehr unterschiedlich wahrgenommen.
Barbara Behrends, Presse-Sprecherin der SPD-Fraktion im Landtag von Rheinland-Pfalz befand sich zum Zeitpunkt der Besetzung des Abgeordnetenhauses im Landtag im Innern des Abgeordnetenhauses und wurde Augenzeugin der Besetzung durch Schüler und Studenten.
„Etwa 400 bis 500 Menschen verschafften sich mit leichten Druck Zugang zum Abgeordnetenhaus.“, schildert die Politikerin im Telefon-Interview ihre Wahrnehmungen. Zu diesem Zeitpunkt befanden sich nur sehr wenige Abgeordnete im Landtag.
Aus dieser Perspektive betrachtet, erlebte der Landtag von Rheinland-Pfalz vermutlich die größte aktive Zuhörerschaft von Menschen in einem Landtag, die es noch nicht einmal zu den besten Hoch- und Glanz-Zeiten im Landtag von Rheinland-Pfalz bisher gab.
Barbara Behrends: „Wir haben den Menschen Gespräche angeboten. Die Polizei war sehr zurückhaltend und de-eskalierend. Ein Sprecher mit Megaphon verkündete die Botschaften und politischen Forderungen zum Bildungsstreik 2009 sowie die Sorgen, Ängste, Nöte und Bedürfnisse der Schüler und Studenten. Ich fühlte mich nicht bedroht. Es war ein friedlicher Protest von Schülern und Studenten. Sie können sich vorstellen, die räumlichen Verhältnisse waren bei der Anwesenheit von 400 bis 500 Personen sehr beengt. Die Studenten und Schülerinnen hielten das Abgeordnetenhaus des Landtags von Rheinland-Pfalz für rund 30 Minuten besetzt. Danach zogen die Schüler und Studenten wieder friedlich ab.“
Der hochschul-politsche Sprecher der FDP-Bundestags-Fraktion, Uwe Barth kritisierte die Übergriffe der Gewalt: „Die FDP hatte das grundsätzliche Bestreben des Bildungs-Streiks, eine Verbesserung der Rahmen--Bedingungen an Schulen und Hochschulen herbeizuführen, begrüßt. Viele der Kritik-Punkte geraten aber durch Gewalt in Misskredit. Niemand kann erwarten, dass er als ernsthafter Gesprächs-Partner in Betracht kommt, wenn er zu Mitteln wie Hausfriedensbruch oder Sachbeschädigung greift. Kritik am Bildungs- oder Hochschulsystem ist berechtigt und legitim. Schüler und Studierende erreichen ihr Ziel aber nicht, wenn der Bildungsstreik durch anarchistische Gewalt missbraucht wird.“
Der innenpolitische Sprecher der CDU-Landtagsfraktion, Michael Hörter, übte scharfe Kritik an der Einsatzplanung des Innenministeriums für den angemeldeten „Bildungsstreik 2009 . Auf die Besetzung des Mainzer Abgeordnetenhauses hätte das Ministerium vorbereitet sein müssen. Auf der offiziellen Internetseite wurden solche illegalen Aktionsformen angekündigt. Das Ziel einiger Veranstalter der Demonstration sei die Abschaffung des demokratischen Gesellschaftssystems. Das war auch dem Innenministerium bekannt. Die CDU-Fraktion wird das Thema im Innenausschuss zur Sprache bringen.“
Friedlicher Protest von Schülern und Studenten beim Bildungsstreik in Mainz. Foto: Stefan Benz
Man habe die Demonstration nicht ausschließlich zur Kritik an der Bildungs-Politik genutzt. Links-Autonome hätten den Bildungsstreik 2009 „unterwandert“.
Hinter den den Initiatoren des Studenten- und Schüler-Protests stünden unter anderem linksradikale Organisationen, die vom Verfassungsschutz beobachtet werden, ergänzte der CDU-Politiker.
Dazu gehören beispielsweise die Sozialistische Alternative, Antifaschistische Gruppen auch aus Rheinland-Pfalz, das Internetportal Indymedia wie auch die Rote Hilfe. Diese nutzten die Schüler und Studenten zur Stimmungsmache für ihre, so wörtlich „substanzlose Fundamental-Kritik an Staat und Gesellschaft.“
Als „Höhepunkt“ bezeichnete Michael Hörter das Eindringen ins Abgeordnetenhaus des Mainzer Landtages.
Dieses Szenario habe die Einsatz-Planung wohl nicht berücksichtigt. Die vorgehaltene Zahl der Einsatzkräfte sei zu gering geplant gewesen. Sachbeschädigungen an einer Ausstellung der CDU-Landtagsfraktion zum Thema „20 Jahre friedliche Revolution“ über die Zeit der Wende konnten nicht verhindert werden.
Ausstellungsgegenstände seien entwendet sowie mehrere Bilder durch Schmierereien beschädigt worden.
„Das Eindringen der Demonstranten in ein öffentliches Gebäude ist ein klarer Rechtsbruch, da die öffentliche Sicherheit unmittelbar gefährdet wurde. Dieses Vorgehen ist bedauerlich, denn viele Forderungen der Schüler und Studenten berechtigt sind.“, erklärte Michael Hörter (CDU).
Die SPD-Sprecherin Barbara Behrends wies die scharfe Kritik des CDU-Politikers am Innenminister von Rheinland-Pfalz und der Einsatzleitung zurück: „Die Erstürmung und Besetzung des Abgeordnetenhauses des Landtags von Rheinland-Pfalz sei für die Einsatz-Planung nicht vorher sehbar gewesen. Die etwa 20 Polizisten und Polizistinnen seien nicht in der Lage gewesen permanent rund 400 bis 500 Menschen zu überwachen.“
„Im Abgeordnetenhaus selbst ist etwas Papier hinterlassen worden. Ich erlebte einen friedlichen Protest. Es war nicht bedrohlich. Einige Wände im Landtag sind möglicherweise mit Ölmal-Stiften bemalt worden, Möglicherweise seien in Anbetracht der beengten räumlichen Verhältnisse einige Gegenstände bei einer Ausstellung der CDU-Fraktion auf den Boden gefallen. Soweit ich erfahren konnte, ist nach dem Besuch der Demonstranten eine Schreibmaschine oder Reise-Schreibmaschine, die auf der CDU-Austellung ausgestellt war, verschwunden. Ob die Demonstranten planen die Schreibmaschine zurückzugeben ist mir nicht bekannt. Die Demonstranten hatten lediglich die Tür zum Abgordnetenhaus mit sanften Druck aufgedrückt.“, ergänzte die SPD-Pressesprecherin und Augenzeugin der Eregnisse Barbara Behrends.
Das regionale Aktions-Bündnis zum Bildungs-Streik 2009 in Mainz erklärte auf Anfrage zu den Vorwürfen einer möglichen „Unterwanderung“ durch links-autonome und links-radikale Gruppen: "Das Bildungsstreik-Bündnis hat eine dezentrale Struktur und besteht aus über 100 lokalen Bündnissen. Diese lokalen Bündnisse entscheiden allein, wer und welche Gruppen bei ihnen mitarbeiten. Von Partei-nahen Gruppen über Bündnisse von Schülerinnen und Schülern sowie Gewerkschaften bis zu Gruppen aus dem links-autonomen Strukturen – Menschen aus all diesen Organisationen vereint der Wunsch, das Bildungs-System zu verbessern. Deshalb arbeiten sie zusammen und gerade wegen dieser Diversität der Einstellungen erlangt hierbei keine Gruppe eine überragende Autorität – weder Studierende gegenüber Schüler und Schülerinnen noch autonome Linke gegenüber Fachschaften von Studenten.“
In einer Pressemitteilung teilte das lokale Bildungsstreik-Bündnis mit: „Das Bündnis Bildungsstreik Mainz ist entrüstet über die Vorwürfe von Randale und Gewalt während der gestrigen Demonstration. Schon im Vorfelde wurde von konservativen politischen Gruppierungen versucht, den Bildungsstreik zu diffamieren und zu kriminalisieren, um so von inhaltlichen Forderungen abzulenken. Das Ausbleiben einer legitimen und problembezogenen Debatte bedauern wir sehr.
Indem die rheinland-pfälzische Bildungsministerin Doris Ahnen die Verlesung der bundesweiten Forderungen im Abgeordnetenhaus des Landtags als Ausschreitung bezeichnet, diskreditiert sie vielmehr sich und die aktuelle Bildungspolitik.“
Sonja Prünzel vom Bündnis Bildungsstreik Mainz betont: „Die rege Beteiligung an den Protesten in Mainz zeigt, dass auch in Rheinland-Pfalz akuter Handlungsbedarf im Bildungssystem besteht.
Nach einer Zwischenkundgebung zogen etwa 1000 Demonstrierende zum Abgeordnetenhaus des Landtags und verliehen ihrer kreativen Protest-Form laut und zugleich besonnen in Hof und Foyer Ausdruck. Ohne offizielle polizeiliche Aufforderung wurde das Gebäude und der Hof auf eigene Initiative nach rund einer halben Stunde verlassen. Erfreulich finden wir, dass sich wenigstens einige Abgeordnete einem Gespräch stellten.“
Der Hochschul-politische Sprecher der FDP Uwe Barth sagte: „Ich habe Verständnis, dass junge Menschen für bessere Bildung eintreten, auch wenn ich zahlreiche Forderungen des Bildungsstreiks nicht unterstütze. Ich erwarte im Gegenzug aber auch von den Organisatoren, sich sehr kritisch mit der Durchführung der Aktionswoche auseinander zusetzen. Die Liste der unterstützenden Organisationen ist nämlich lang und zum Teil erschreckend. Ich bin mir sicher, dass zahlreiche Ausschreitungen von gewaltbereiten Organisationen gewollt waren. Damit läuft das eigentliche Ziel der Aktionswoche völlig ins Leere. Die Organisatoren müssen sich dies vorhalten lassen. Die pauschale Kritik an der Aktions-Woche durch Bundesbildungs-Ministerin Annette Schavan ist allerdings wenig hilfreich. “
Der Hochschul-politische Sprecher der SPD Landtags-Fraktion, Dr. Matthias Krell erklärte: „Im Rahmen des bundesweiten Bildungsstreiks haben Studierende gegen Studien-Gebühren demonstriert. Diese Zielsetzung unterstützen wir. Die Garantie eines gebührenfreien Erst-Studiums ist eine grundsätzliche Zielsetzung der rheinland-pfälzischen SPD“.
Zum Bildungsstreik in Rheinland-Pfalz erklärte Daniel Köbler, Landesvorstandssprecher von BÜNDNIS 90/DIE GRÜNEN Rheinland-Pfalz: „Rheinland-Pfalz befindet sich in einer Bildungskrise. Das Land wird seiner bildungspolitischen Verantwortung nicht gerecht und lässt das Bildungssystem sehenden Auges an die Wand fahren. BÜNDNIS 90/DIE GRÜNEN unterstützen angesichts der miserablen Studienbedingungen den Bildungsstreik an Schulen und Hochschulen im Land.
Die Umsetzung der Bachelor- Master-Studiengänge ist eine Katatstrophe. Diese Reform ist ein Parade-Beispiel, dass bloße Struktur-Reformen zum Scheitern verurteilt sind. Die Studien-Bedingungen haben sich durch die Verschulung der Studiengänge und die hohe Arbeitsbelastung der Studierenden viel mehr verschlechtert.“
Die Schüler und Studenten beklagen: „Die derzeitigen Zustände und Entwicklungen im Bildungssystem sind nicht weiter hinnehmbar! Weltweit sind Umstrukturierungen aller Lebensbereiche nicht mehr Gemeinwohl-orientiert, sondern den so genannten Gesetzen des Marktes unterworfen. Seit ein paar Jahren ist auch das Bildungs-System in den Fokus solcher “Reformen” geraten: Bildungs-Gebühren und die Privatisierung treffen uns alle!
Die Finanz- und Wirtschaftskrise zeigt deutlich, dass die Auswirkungen wettbewerbsorientierter Entscheidungs-Kriterien verheerend sind. In vielen Ländern protestieren Menschen dagegen, so beispielsweise. in Mexiko, Spanien, Italien, Frankreich und Griechenland. In diesem internationalen Zusammenhang steht der Bildungsstreik 2009.“
Der anhaltende Protest gegen Studien-Gebühren und Sozial-Abbau in den letzten Jahren habe bei den Verantwortlichen in Medien, Wirtschaft und Politik zu wenig Wirkung gezeigt. Deswegen riefen die Studenten in Deutschland dazu auf, demokratischen Rechte in Form eines bundesweiten Bildungs-Streiks wahrzunehmen.
Im Bildungs-Streik werden pluralistische Aktionsformen, gemeint sind Demonstrationen, Blockaden, Besetzungen stattfinden. Während einer bundesweiten Aktionswoche vom 15. Juni bis 19. Juni 2009 werden die Schülerinnen und Schülern im gesamten Bundesgebiet demonstrieren.
Die Schüler und Studenten suchen das Bündnis mit vielen gesellschaftlichen Gruppen, wie Gewerkschaften und sozialen Bewegungen, die ausdrücklich eingeladen sind, im Bildungs-Streik zu protestieren, denn man sei überall mit der gleichen Politik konfrontiert: An der Hochschule, in den Schulen und im Betrieb.
Ziel des Bildungsstreiks ist es, eine Diskussion zur Zukunft des Bildungs-Systems anzuregen. Des weiteren sollen Möglichkeiten einer fortschrittlichen und emanzipatorischen Bildungs- und Gesellschaft-Politk aufgezeigt und durchgesetzt werden. Dem Einfluss der maßgeblichen politischen und ökonomischen Interessen im Bildungsbereich wollen die Schüler und Studenten Alternativen entgegen setzen.
Die Schüler und Studenten setzen sich unter anderem für folgende Ziele ein: Selbstbestimmtes Lernen und Leben statt starrem Zeitrahmen, Leistungsdruck und Konkurrenzdruck.
Einen freier Bildungszugang und Abschaffung von sämtlichen Bildungs-Gebühren wie Studien-Gebühren, Ausbildungs-Gebühren und Kita-Gebühren, die öffentliche Finanzierung des Bildungssystems ohne Einflussnahme der Wirtschaft unter anderem auf Lehrinhalte, Studien-Strukturen und Stellenvergabe und Demokratisierung und Stärkung der Mit- und Selbstverwaltung in allen Bildungseinrichtungen.
Weitere und ausführliche Informationen zum bundesweiten Bildungs-Streik der Schüler und Studenten in Deutschland sind bei www.bildungsstreik.net zu finden. Informationen zum lokalen Bildungsstreik Bündnis in Mainz sind bei http://bildungsstreikmainz.blogsport.de zu finden.
Augenzeugin Barbara Behrends (SPD) „Besetzung des Abgeordneten-Hauses war nicht vorhersehbar“ - Friedliche Studenten - Uwe Barth (FDP): „Kritik der Studenten berechtigt und legitim“ - Michael Hörter (CDU): „Ziel ist die Abschaffung des demokratischen Gesellschaft-Systems“
Von Andreas Klamm
Berlin / Mainz 18. Juni 2009. Im Rahmen des Bildungs-Streiks 2009 wurde gestern in Mainz bei Demonstrationen das Abgeordnetenhaus des Landtags in Mainz von Schülern, Studenten und weiteren Demonstranten besetzt. Die SPD-Pressesprecherin Barbara Behrends (SPD) wurde Augenzeugin der Ereignisse im Landtag von Rheinland-Pfalz. In einem Telefon-Interview mit dem internationalen Magazin MJB Mission News (ISSN 1999-8414) bestätigte die SPD-Poltikerin: „Ich habe ein friedliche Besetzung des Abgeordneten-Hauses im Landtag von Rheinland-Pfalz erlebt.“
Mit der Besetzung und Sachbeschädigungen im Mainzer Landtag am 17. Juni 2009 wird sich, nach Informationen des CDU-Politikers Michael Hörter, auch der Innenausschuss des rheinland-pfälzischen Parlamentes befassen.
Nach Angaben der Veranstalter befinden sich in dieser Woche (15. bis 19. Juni 2009) bis zu 270.000 Studenten und Schüler in ganz Deutschland im Bildungs-Streik.
„Wir boten den Studenten und Schülerinnen Gespräche. Ich erlebte friedliche Proteste der Studenten.“ bestätigte die SPD-Politikerin und SPD-Pressesprecherin Barbara Behrends in einem Telefon-Interview mit MJB Mission News (ISSN 1999-8414). Foto: SPD
Der Bildungsstreik erlebte mit der befristeten Besetzung des Abgeordneten-Hauses des Landtags von Rheinland-Pfalz in der Stadt Mainz einen Höhepunkt. Die Besetzung des Abgeordneten-Hauses durch Schüler und Studenten, die für eine bessere und gerechtere Bildungs-Politik in ganz Deutschland noch bis 19. Juni 2009 demonstrieren wurde von Politikern unterschiedlicher Parteien sehr unterschiedlich wahrgenommen.
Barbara Behrends, Presse-Sprecherin der SPD-Fraktion im Landtag von Rheinland-Pfalz befand sich zum Zeitpunkt der Besetzung des Abgeordnetenhauses im Landtag im Innern des Abgeordnetenhauses und wurde Augenzeugin der Besetzung durch Schüler und Studenten.
„Etwa 400 bis 500 Menschen verschafften sich mit leichten Druck Zugang zum Abgeordnetenhaus.“, schildert die Politikerin im Telefon-Interview ihre Wahrnehmungen. Zu diesem Zeitpunkt befanden sich nur sehr wenige Abgeordnete im Landtag.
Aus dieser Perspektive betrachtet, erlebte der Landtag von Rheinland-Pfalz vermutlich die größte aktive Zuhörerschaft von Menschen in einem Landtag, die es noch nicht einmal zu den besten Hoch- und Glanz-Zeiten im Landtag von Rheinland-Pfalz bisher gab.
Barbara Behrends: „Wir haben den Menschen Gespräche angeboten. Die Polizei war sehr zurückhaltend und de-eskalierend. Ein Sprecher mit Megaphon verkündete die Botschaften und politischen Forderungen zum Bildungsstreik 2009 sowie die Sorgen, Ängste, Nöte und Bedürfnisse der Schüler und Studenten. Ich fühlte mich nicht bedroht. Es war ein friedlicher Protest von Schülern und Studenten. Sie können sich vorstellen, die räumlichen Verhältnisse waren bei der Anwesenheit von 400 bis 500 Personen sehr beengt. Die Studenten und Schülerinnen hielten das Abgeordnetenhaus des Landtags von Rheinland-Pfalz für rund 30 Minuten besetzt. Danach zogen die Schüler und Studenten wieder friedlich ab.“
Der hochschul-politsche Sprecher der FDP-Bundestags-Fraktion, Uwe Barth kritisierte die Übergriffe der Gewalt: „Die FDP hatte das grundsätzliche Bestreben des Bildungs-Streiks, eine Verbesserung der Rahmen--Bedingungen an Schulen und Hochschulen herbeizuführen, begrüßt. Viele der Kritik-Punkte geraten aber durch Gewalt in Misskredit. Niemand kann erwarten, dass er als ernsthafter Gesprächs-Partner in Betracht kommt, wenn er zu Mitteln wie Hausfriedensbruch oder Sachbeschädigung greift. Kritik am Bildungs- oder Hochschulsystem ist berechtigt und legitim. Schüler und Studierende erreichen ihr Ziel aber nicht, wenn der Bildungsstreik durch anarchistische Gewalt missbraucht wird.“
Der innenpolitische Sprecher der CDU-Landtagsfraktion, Michael Hörter, übte scharfe Kritik an der Einsatzplanung des Innenministeriums für den angemeldeten „Bildungsstreik 2009 . Auf die Besetzung des Mainzer Abgeordnetenhauses hätte das Ministerium vorbereitet sein müssen. Auf der offiziellen Internetseite wurden solche illegalen Aktionsformen angekündigt. Das Ziel einiger Veranstalter der Demonstration sei die Abschaffung des demokratischen Gesellschaftssystems. Das war auch dem Innenministerium bekannt. Die CDU-Fraktion wird das Thema im Innenausschuss zur Sprache bringen.“
Friedlicher Protest von Schülern und Studenten beim Bildungsstreik in Mainz. Foto: Stefan Benz
Man habe die Demonstration nicht ausschließlich zur Kritik an der Bildungs-Politik genutzt. Links-Autonome hätten den Bildungsstreik 2009 „unterwandert“.
Hinter den den Initiatoren des Studenten- und Schüler-Protests stünden unter anderem linksradikale Organisationen, die vom Verfassungsschutz beobachtet werden, ergänzte der CDU-Politiker.
Dazu gehören beispielsweise die Sozialistische Alternative, Antifaschistische Gruppen auch aus Rheinland-Pfalz, das Internetportal Indymedia wie auch die Rote Hilfe. Diese nutzten die Schüler und Studenten zur Stimmungsmache für ihre, so wörtlich „substanzlose Fundamental-Kritik an Staat und Gesellschaft.“
Als „Höhepunkt“ bezeichnete Michael Hörter das Eindringen ins Abgeordnetenhaus des Mainzer Landtages.
Dieses Szenario habe die Einsatz-Planung wohl nicht berücksichtigt. Die vorgehaltene Zahl der Einsatzkräfte sei zu gering geplant gewesen. Sachbeschädigungen an einer Ausstellung der CDU-Landtagsfraktion zum Thema „20 Jahre friedliche Revolution“ über die Zeit der Wende konnten nicht verhindert werden.
Ausstellungsgegenstände seien entwendet sowie mehrere Bilder durch Schmierereien beschädigt worden.
„Das Eindringen der Demonstranten in ein öffentliches Gebäude ist ein klarer Rechtsbruch, da die öffentliche Sicherheit unmittelbar gefährdet wurde. Dieses Vorgehen ist bedauerlich, denn viele Forderungen der Schüler und Studenten berechtigt sind.“, erklärte Michael Hörter (CDU).
Die SPD-Sprecherin Barbara Behrends wies die scharfe Kritik des CDU-Politikers am Innenminister von Rheinland-Pfalz und der Einsatzleitung zurück: „Die Erstürmung und Besetzung des Abgeordnetenhauses des Landtags von Rheinland-Pfalz sei für die Einsatz-Planung nicht vorher sehbar gewesen. Die etwa 20 Polizisten und Polizistinnen seien nicht in der Lage gewesen permanent rund 400 bis 500 Menschen zu überwachen.“
„Im Abgeordnetenhaus selbst ist etwas Papier hinterlassen worden. Ich erlebte einen friedlichen Protest. Es war nicht bedrohlich. Einige Wände im Landtag sind möglicherweise mit Ölmal-Stiften bemalt worden, Möglicherweise seien in Anbetracht der beengten räumlichen Verhältnisse einige Gegenstände bei einer Ausstellung der CDU-Fraktion auf den Boden gefallen. Soweit ich erfahren konnte, ist nach dem Besuch der Demonstranten eine Schreibmaschine oder Reise-Schreibmaschine, die auf der CDU-Austellung ausgestellt war, verschwunden. Ob die Demonstranten planen die Schreibmaschine zurückzugeben ist mir nicht bekannt. Die Demonstranten hatten lediglich die Tür zum Abgordnetenhaus mit sanften Druck aufgedrückt.“, ergänzte die SPD-Pressesprecherin und Augenzeugin der Eregnisse Barbara Behrends.
Das regionale Aktions-Bündnis zum Bildungs-Streik 2009 in Mainz erklärte auf Anfrage zu den Vorwürfen einer möglichen „Unterwanderung“ durch links-autonome und links-radikale Gruppen: "Das Bildungsstreik-Bündnis hat eine dezentrale Struktur und besteht aus über 100 lokalen Bündnissen. Diese lokalen Bündnisse entscheiden allein, wer und welche Gruppen bei ihnen mitarbeiten. Von Partei-nahen Gruppen über Bündnisse von Schülerinnen und Schülern sowie Gewerkschaften bis zu Gruppen aus dem links-autonomen Strukturen – Menschen aus all diesen Organisationen vereint der Wunsch, das Bildungs-System zu verbessern. Deshalb arbeiten sie zusammen und gerade wegen dieser Diversität der Einstellungen erlangt hierbei keine Gruppe eine überragende Autorität – weder Studierende gegenüber Schüler und Schülerinnen noch autonome Linke gegenüber Fachschaften von Studenten.“
In einer Pressemitteilung teilte das lokale Bildungsstreik-Bündnis mit: „Das Bündnis Bildungsstreik Mainz ist entrüstet über die Vorwürfe von Randale und Gewalt während der gestrigen Demonstration. Schon im Vorfelde wurde von konservativen politischen Gruppierungen versucht, den Bildungsstreik zu diffamieren und zu kriminalisieren, um so von inhaltlichen Forderungen abzulenken. Das Ausbleiben einer legitimen und problembezogenen Debatte bedauern wir sehr.
Indem die rheinland-pfälzische Bildungsministerin Doris Ahnen die Verlesung der bundesweiten Forderungen im Abgeordnetenhaus des Landtags als Ausschreitung bezeichnet, diskreditiert sie vielmehr sich und die aktuelle Bildungspolitik.“
Sonja Prünzel vom Bündnis Bildungsstreik Mainz betont: „Die rege Beteiligung an den Protesten in Mainz zeigt, dass auch in Rheinland-Pfalz akuter Handlungsbedarf im Bildungssystem besteht.
Nach einer Zwischenkundgebung zogen etwa 1000 Demonstrierende zum Abgeordnetenhaus des Landtags und verliehen ihrer kreativen Protest-Form laut und zugleich besonnen in Hof und Foyer Ausdruck. Ohne offizielle polizeiliche Aufforderung wurde das Gebäude und der Hof auf eigene Initiative nach rund einer halben Stunde verlassen. Erfreulich finden wir, dass sich wenigstens einige Abgeordnete einem Gespräch stellten.“
Der Hochschul-politische Sprecher der FDP Uwe Barth sagte: „Ich habe Verständnis, dass junge Menschen für bessere Bildung eintreten, auch wenn ich zahlreiche Forderungen des Bildungsstreiks nicht unterstütze. Ich erwarte im Gegenzug aber auch von den Organisatoren, sich sehr kritisch mit der Durchführung der Aktionswoche auseinander zusetzen. Die Liste der unterstützenden Organisationen ist nämlich lang und zum Teil erschreckend. Ich bin mir sicher, dass zahlreiche Ausschreitungen von gewaltbereiten Organisationen gewollt waren. Damit läuft das eigentliche Ziel der Aktionswoche völlig ins Leere. Die Organisatoren müssen sich dies vorhalten lassen. Die pauschale Kritik an der Aktions-Woche durch Bundesbildungs-Ministerin Annette Schavan ist allerdings wenig hilfreich. “
Der Hochschul-politische Sprecher der SPD Landtags-Fraktion, Dr. Matthias Krell erklärte: „Im Rahmen des bundesweiten Bildungsstreiks haben Studierende gegen Studien-Gebühren demonstriert. Diese Zielsetzung unterstützen wir. Die Garantie eines gebührenfreien Erst-Studiums ist eine grundsätzliche Zielsetzung der rheinland-pfälzischen SPD“.
Zum Bildungsstreik in Rheinland-Pfalz erklärte Daniel Köbler, Landesvorstandssprecher von BÜNDNIS 90/DIE GRÜNEN Rheinland-Pfalz: „Rheinland-Pfalz befindet sich in einer Bildungskrise. Das Land wird seiner bildungspolitischen Verantwortung nicht gerecht und lässt das Bildungssystem sehenden Auges an die Wand fahren. BÜNDNIS 90/DIE GRÜNEN unterstützen angesichts der miserablen Studienbedingungen den Bildungsstreik an Schulen und Hochschulen im Land.
Die Umsetzung der Bachelor- Master-Studiengänge ist eine Katatstrophe. Diese Reform ist ein Parade-Beispiel, dass bloße Struktur-Reformen zum Scheitern verurteilt sind. Die Studien-Bedingungen haben sich durch die Verschulung der Studiengänge und die hohe Arbeitsbelastung der Studierenden viel mehr verschlechtert.“
Die Schüler und Studenten beklagen: „Die derzeitigen Zustände und Entwicklungen im Bildungssystem sind nicht weiter hinnehmbar! Weltweit sind Umstrukturierungen aller Lebensbereiche nicht mehr Gemeinwohl-orientiert, sondern den so genannten Gesetzen des Marktes unterworfen. Seit ein paar Jahren ist auch das Bildungs-System in den Fokus solcher “Reformen” geraten: Bildungs-Gebühren und die Privatisierung treffen uns alle!
Die Finanz- und Wirtschaftskrise zeigt deutlich, dass die Auswirkungen wettbewerbsorientierter Entscheidungs-Kriterien verheerend sind. In vielen Ländern protestieren Menschen dagegen, so beispielsweise. in Mexiko, Spanien, Italien, Frankreich und Griechenland. In diesem internationalen Zusammenhang steht der Bildungsstreik 2009.“
Der anhaltende Protest gegen Studien-Gebühren und Sozial-Abbau in den letzten Jahren habe bei den Verantwortlichen in Medien, Wirtschaft und Politik zu wenig Wirkung gezeigt. Deswegen riefen die Studenten in Deutschland dazu auf, demokratischen Rechte in Form eines bundesweiten Bildungs-Streiks wahrzunehmen.
Im Bildungs-Streik werden pluralistische Aktionsformen, gemeint sind Demonstrationen, Blockaden, Besetzungen stattfinden. Während einer bundesweiten Aktionswoche vom 15. Juni bis 19. Juni 2009 werden die Schülerinnen und Schülern im gesamten Bundesgebiet demonstrieren.
Die Schüler und Studenten suchen das Bündnis mit vielen gesellschaftlichen Gruppen, wie Gewerkschaften und sozialen Bewegungen, die ausdrücklich eingeladen sind, im Bildungs-Streik zu protestieren, denn man sei überall mit der gleichen Politik konfrontiert: An der Hochschule, in den Schulen und im Betrieb.
Ziel des Bildungsstreiks ist es, eine Diskussion zur Zukunft des Bildungs-Systems anzuregen. Des weiteren sollen Möglichkeiten einer fortschrittlichen und emanzipatorischen Bildungs- und Gesellschaft-Politk aufgezeigt und durchgesetzt werden. Dem Einfluss der maßgeblichen politischen und ökonomischen Interessen im Bildungsbereich wollen die Schüler und Studenten Alternativen entgegen setzen.
Die Schüler und Studenten setzen sich unter anderem für folgende Ziele ein: Selbstbestimmtes Lernen und Leben statt starrem Zeitrahmen, Leistungsdruck und Konkurrenzdruck.
Einen freier Bildungszugang und Abschaffung von sämtlichen Bildungs-Gebühren wie Studien-Gebühren, Ausbildungs-Gebühren und Kita-Gebühren, die öffentliche Finanzierung des Bildungssystems ohne Einflussnahme der Wirtschaft unter anderem auf Lehrinhalte, Studien-Strukturen und Stellenvergabe und Demokratisierung und Stärkung der Mit- und Selbstverwaltung in allen Bildungseinrichtungen.
Weitere und ausführliche Informationen zum bundesweiten Bildungs-Streik der Schüler und Studenten in Deutschland sind bei www.bildungsstreik.net zu finden. Informationen zum lokalen Bildungsstreik Bündnis in Mainz sind bei http://bildungsstreikmainz.blogsport.de zu finden.
Studenten-Proteste: Schüler und Studenten stürmten Abgeordneten-Haus im Landtag
Studenten-Proteste: Schüler und Studenten stürmten Abgeordneten-Haus im Landtag
Michael Hörter (CDU): „Ziel ist die Abschaffung des demokratischen Gesellschaft-Systems“ - Hochschul-politischer Sprecher hat Verständnis für Schüler und Studenten - Kritik am Bildungs- und Hochschul-System ist berechtigt
Von Andreas Klamm
Berlin / Mainz 18. Juni 2009. Im Rahmen des Bildungs-Streiks 2009 wurde gestern in Mainz bei Demonstrationen das Abgeordnetenhaus des Landtags in Mainz von Schülern, Studenten und weiteren Demonstranten gestürmt. Mit der Erstürmung und Sachbeschädigungen im Mainzer Landtag am 17. Juni 2009 wird sich, nach Informationen des CDU-Politikers Michael Hörter, auch der Innenausschuss des rheinland-pfälzischen Parlamentes befassen.
Nach Angaben der Veranstalter befinden sich in dieser Woche (15. bis 19. Juni 2009) bis zu 100.000 Studenten und Schüler in ganz Deutschland im Bildungs-Streik.
Am 17. Juni 2009, dem Tag der früher als „Tag der deutschen Einheit“ gefeiert wurde, soll es in mehreren Bundesländern zu gewalttätigen Ausschreitungen im Rahmen des Bildungs-Streiks gekommen sein.
Der hochschul-politsche Sprecher der FDP-Bundestags-Fraktion, Uwe Barth kritisierte die Übergriffe der Gewalt: „Die FDP hatte das grundsätzliche Bestreben des Bildungs-Streiks, eine Verbesserung der Rahmen-Bedingungen an Schulen und Hochschulen herbeizuführen, begrüßt. Viele der Kritik-Punkte geraten aber durch Gewalt in Misskredit. Niemand kann erwarten, dass er als ernsthafter Gesprächs-Partner in Betracht kommt, wenn er zu Mitteln wie Hausfriedensbruch oder Sachbeschädigung greift. Kritik am Bildungs- oder Hochschulsystem ist berechtigt und legitim. Schüler und Studierende erreichen ihr Ziel aber nicht, wenn der Bildungsstreik durch anarchistische Gewalt missbraucht wird.“
In mehreren Städten kam es am 17. Juni bei Demonstrationen von Schülern, Studenten und Menschen in Deutschland zu Zwischenfällen. In Mainz wurde das Abgeordnetenhaus des rheinland-pfälzischen Landtags gestürmt und erhebliche Schäden angerichtet. Dabei wurde auch eine Ausstellung zur Wende in der DDR beschädigt.
Der innenpolitische Sprecher der CDU-Landtagsfraktion, Michael Hörter, übt scharfe Kritik an der Einsatzplanung des Innenministeriums für den angemeldeten „Bildungsstreik 2009 . Auf die Besetzung des Mainzer Abgeordnetenhauses hätte das Ministerium vorbereitet sein müssen. Auf der offiziellen Internetseite wurden solche illegalen Aktionsformen angekündigt. Das Ziel einiger Veranstalter der Demonstration sei die Abschaffung des demokratischen Gesellschaftssystems. Das war auch dem Innenministerium bekannt. Die CDU-Fraktion wird das Thema im Innenausschuss zur Sprache bringen.“
Man habe die Demonstration nicht ausschließlich zur Kritik an der Bildungs-Politik genutzt. Links-Autonome hätten den Bildungsstreik 2009 „unterwandert“.
Hinter den den Initiatoren des Studenten- und Schüler-Protests stünden unter anderem linksradikale Organisationen, die vom Verfassungsschutz beobachtet werden, ergänzte der CDU-Politiker.
Dazu gehören beispielsweise die Sozialistische Alternative, Antifaschistische Gruppen auch aus Rheinland-Pfalz, das Internetportal Indymedia wie auch die Rote Hilfe. Diese nutzten die Schüler und Studenten zur Stimmungsmache für ihre, so wörtlich „substanzlose Fundamental-Kritik an Staat und Gesellschaft.“
Als „Höhepunkt“ bezeichnete Michael Hörter das Eindringen ins Abgeordnetenhaus des Mainzer Landtages.
Dieses Szenario habe die Einsatz-Planung wohl nicht berücksichtigt. Die vorgehaltene Zahl der Einsatzkräfte sei zu gering geplant gewesen. Sachbeschädigungen an einer Ausstellung der CDU-Landtagsfraktion zum Thema „20 Jahre friedliche Revolution“ über die Zeit der Wende konnten nicht verhindert werden.
Ausstellungsgegenstände wurden entwendet sowie mehrere Bilder durch Schmierereien beschädigt.
„Das Eindringen der Demonstranten in ein öffentliches Gebäude ist ein klarer Rechtsbruch, da die öffentliche Sicherheit unmittelbar gefährdet wurde. Dieses Vorgehen ist bedauerlich,
denn viele Forderungen der Schüler und Studenten berechtigt sind.“, erklärte Michael Hörter (CDU).
Der FDP-Politiker Uwe Barth kritisierte für die Erstürmung des Abgeordneten-Hauses könne kein Mensch Verständnis haben und das könne keiner rechtfertigen.
Die pauschale Kritik an der Aktions-Woche durch Bundesbildungs-Ministerin Annette Schavan ist allerdings wenig hilfreich.
Uwe Barth ergänzte: „Ich habe Verständnis, dass junge Menschen für bessere Bildung eintreten, auch wenn ich zahlreiche Forderungen des Bildungsstreiks nicht unterstütze. Ich erwarte im Gegenzug aber auch von den Organisatoren, sich sehr kritisch mit der Durchführung der Aktionswoche auseinander zusetzen. Die Liste der unterstützenden Organisationen ist nämlich lang und zum Teil erschreckend. Ich bin mir sicher, dass zahlreiche Ausschreitungen von gewaltbereiten Organisationen gewollt waren. Damit läuft das eigentliche Ziel der Aktionswoche völlig ins Leere. Die Organisatoren müssen sich dies vorhalten lassen.“
Die Schüler und Studenten beklagen: „Die derzeitigen Zustände und Entwicklungen im Bildungssystem sind nicht weiter hinnehmbar! Weltweit sind Umstrukturierungen aller Lebensbereiche nicht mehr Gemeinwohl-orientiert, sondern den so genannten Gesetzen des Marktes unterworfen. Seit ein paar Jahren ist auch das Bildungs-System in den Fokus solcher “Reformen” geraten: Bildungs-Gebühren und die Privatisierung treffen uns alle!
Die Finanz- und Wirtschaftskrise zeigt deutlich, dass die Auswirkungen wettbewerbsorientierter Entscheidungs-Kriterien verheerend sind. In vielen Ländern protestieren Menschen dagegen, so beispielsweise. in Mexiko, Spanien, Italien, Frankreich und Griechenland. In diesem internationalen Zusammenhang steht der Bildungsstreik 2009.“
Der anhaltende Protest gegen Studien-Gebühren und Sozial-Abbau in den letzten Jahren habe bei den Verantwortlichen in Medien, Wirtschaft und Politik zu wenig Wirkung gezeigt. Deswegen riefen die Studenten in Deutschland dazu auf, demokratischen Rechte in Form eines bundesweiten Bildungs-Streiks wahrzunehmen.
Im Bildungs-Streik werden pluralistische Aktionsformen, gemeint sind Demonstrationen, Blockaden, Besetzungen stattfinden. Während einer bundesweiten Aktionswoche vom 15. Juni bis 19. Juni 2009 werden die Schülerinnen und Schülern im gesamten Bundesgebiet demonstrieren.
Die Schüler und Studenten suchen das Bündnis mit vielen gesellschaftlichen Gruppen, wie Gewerkschaften und sozialen Bewegungen, die ausdrücklich eingeladen sind, im Bildungs-Streik zu protestieren, denn man sei überall mit der gleichen Politik konfrontiert: An der Hochschule, in den Schulen und im Betrieb.
Ziel des Bildungsstreiks ist es, eine Diskussion zur Zukunft des Bildungs-Systems anzuregen. Des weiteren sollen Möglichkeiten einer fortschrittlichen und emanzipatorischen Bildungs- und Gesellschaft-Politk aufgezeigt und durchgesetzt werden. Dem Einfluss der maßgeblichen politischen und ökonomischen Interessen im Bildungsbereich wollen die Schüler und Studenten Alternativen entgegen setzen.
Die Schüler und Studenten setzen sich unter anderem für folgende Ziele ein: Selbstbestimmtes Lernen und Leben statt starrem Zeitrahmen, Leistungsdruck und Konkurrenzdruck.
Einen freier Bildungszugang und Abschaffung von sämtlichen Bildungs-Gebühren wie Studien-Gebühren, Ausbildungs-Gebühren und Kita-Gebühren, die öffentliche Finanzierung des Bildungssystems ohne Einflussnahme der Wirtschaft unter anderem auf Lehrinhalte, Studien-Strukturen und Stellenvergabe und Demokratisierung und Stärkung der Mit- und Selbstverwaltung in allen Bildungseinrichtungen.
Weitere und ausführliche Informationen zum bundesweiten Bildungs-Streik der Schüler und Studenten in Deutschland sind bei www.bildungsstreik.net zu finden.
Michael Hörter (CDU): „Ziel ist die Abschaffung des demokratischen Gesellschaft-Systems“ - Hochschul-politischer Sprecher hat Verständnis für Schüler und Studenten - Kritik am Bildungs- und Hochschul-System ist berechtigt
Von Andreas Klamm
Berlin / Mainz 18. Juni 2009. Im Rahmen des Bildungs-Streiks 2009 wurde gestern in Mainz bei Demonstrationen das Abgeordnetenhaus des Landtags in Mainz von Schülern, Studenten und weiteren Demonstranten gestürmt. Mit der Erstürmung und Sachbeschädigungen im Mainzer Landtag am 17. Juni 2009 wird sich, nach Informationen des CDU-Politikers Michael Hörter, auch der Innenausschuss des rheinland-pfälzischen Parlamentes befassen.
Nach Angaben der Veranstalter befinden sich in dieser Woche (15. bis 19. Juni 2009) bis zu 100.000 Studenten und Schüler in ganz Deutschland im Bildungs-Streik.
Am 17. Juni 2009, dem Tag der früher als „Tag der deutschen Einheit“ gefeiert wurde, soll es in mehreren Bundesländern zu gewalttätigen Ausschreitungen im Rahmen des Bildungs-Streiks gekommen sein.
Der hochschul-politsche Sprecher der FDP-Bundestags-Fraktion, Uwe Barth kritisierte die Übergriffe der Gewalt: „Die FDP hatte das grundsätzliche Bestreben des Bildungs-Streiks, eine Verbesserung der Rahmen-Bedingungen an Schulen und Hochschulen herbeizuführen, begrüßt. Viele der Kritik-Punkte geraten aber durch Gewalt in Misskredit. Niemand kann erwarten, dass er als ernsthafter Gesprächs-Partner in Betracht kommt, wenn er zu Mitteln wie Hausfriedensbruch oder Sachbeschädigung greift. Kritik am Bildungs- oder Hochschulsystem ist berechtigt und legitim. Schüler und Studierende erreichen ihr Ziel aber nicht, wenn der Bildungsstreik durch anarchistische Gewalt missbraucht wird.“
In mehreren Städten kam es am 17. Juni bei Demonstrationen von Schülern, Studenten und Menschen in Deutschland zu Zwischenfällen. In Mainz wurde das Abgeordnetenhaus des rheinland-pfälzischen Landtags gestürmt und erhebliche Schäden angerichtet. Dabei wurde auch eine Ausstellung zur Wende in der DDR beschädigt.
Der innenpolitische Sprecher der CDU-Landtagsfraktion, Michael Hörter, übt scharfe Kritik an der Einsatzplanung des Innenministeriums für den angemeldeten „Bildungsstreik 2009 . Auf die Besetzung des Mainzer Abgeordnetenhauses hätte das Ministerium vorbereitet sein müssen. Auf der offiziellen Internetseite wurden solche illegalen Aktionsformen angekündigt. Das Ziel einiger Veranstalter der Demonstration sei die Abschaffung des demokratischen Gesellschaftssystems. Das war auch dem Innenministerium bekannt. Die CDU-Fraktion wird das Thema im Innenausschuss zur Sprache bringen.“
Man habe die Demonstration nicht ausschließlich zur Kritik an der Bildungs-Politik genutzt. Links-Autonome hätten den Bildungsstreik 2009 „unterwandert“.
Hinter den den Initiatoren des Studenten- und Schüler-Protests stünden unter anderem linksradikale Organisationen, die vom Verfassungsschutz beobachtet werden, ergänzte der CDU-Politiker.
Dazu gehören beispielsweise die Sozialistische Alternative, Antifaschistische Gruppen auch aus Rheinland-Pfalz, das Internetportal Indymedia wie auch die Rote Hilfe. Diese nutzten die Schüler und Studenten zur Stimmungsmache für ihre, so wörtlich „substanzlose Fundamental-Kritik an Staat und Gesellschaft.“
Als „Höhepunkt“ bezeichnete Michael Hörter das Eindringen ins Abgeordnetenhaus des Mainzer Landtages.
Dieses Szenario habe die Einsatz-Planung wohl nicht berücksichtigt. Die vorgehaltene Zahl der Einsatzkräfte sei zu gering geplant gewesen. Sachbeschädigungen an einer Ausstellung der CDU-Landtagsfraktion zum Thema „20 Jahre friedliche Revolution“ über die Zeit der Wende konnten nicht verhindert werden.
Ausstellungsgegenstände wurden entwendet sowie mehrere Bilder durch Schmierereien beschädigt.
„Das Eindringen der Demonstranten in ein öffentliches Gebäude ist ein klarer Rechtsbruch, da die öffentliche Sicherheit unmittelbar gefährdet wurde. Dieses Vorgehen ist bedauerlich,
denn viele Forderungen der Schüler und Studenten berechtigt sind.“, erklärte Michael Hörter (CDU).
Der FDP-Politiker Uwe Barth kritisierte für die Erstürmung des Abgeordneten-Hauses könne kein Mensch Verständnis haben und das könne keiner rechtfertigen.
Die pauschale Kritik an der Aktions-Woche durch Bundesbildungs-Ministerin Annette Schavan ist allerdings wenig hilfreich.
Uwe Barth ergänzte: „Ich habe Verständnis, dass junge Menschen für bessere Bildung eintreten, auch wenn ich zahlreiche Forderungen des Bildungsstreiks nicht unterstütze. Ich erwarte im Gegenzug aber auch von den Organisatoren, sich sehr kritisch mit der Durchführung der Aktionswoche auseinander zusetzen. Die Liste der unterstützenden Organisationen ist nämlich lang und zum Teil erschreckend. Ich bin mir sicher, dass zahlreiche Ausschreitungen von gewaltbereiten Organisationen gewollt waren. Damit läuft das eigentliche Ziel der Aktionswoche völlig ins Leere. Die Organisatoren müssen sich dies vorhalten lassen.“
Die Schüler und Studenten beklagen: „Die derzeitigen Zustände und Entwicklungen im Bildungssystem sind nicht weiter hinnehmbar! Weltweit sind Umstrukturierungen aller Lebensbereiche nicht mehr Gemeinwohl-orientiert, sondern den so genannten Gesetzen des Marktes unterworfen. Seit ein paar Jahren ist auch das Bildungs-System in den Fokus solcher “Reformen” geraten: Bildungs-Gebühren und die Privatisierung treffen uns alle!
Die Finanz- und Wirtschaftskrise zeigt deutlich, dass die Auswirkungen wettbewerbsorientierter Entscheidungs-Kriterien verheerend sind. In vielen Ländern protestieren Menschen dagegen, so beispielsweise. in Mexiko, Spanien, Italien, Frankreich und Griechenland. In diesem internationalen Zusammenhang steht der Bildungsstreik 2009.“
Der anhaltende Protest gegen Studien-Gebühren und Sozial-Abbau in den letzten Jahren habe bei den Verantwortlichen in Medien, Wirtschaft und Politik zu wenig Wirkung gezeigt. Deswegen riefen die Studenten in Deutschland dazu auf, demokratischen Rechte in Form eines bundesweiten Bildungs-Streiks wahrzunehmen.
Im Bildungs-Streik werden pluralistische Aktionsformen, gemeint sind Demonstrationen, Blockaden, Besetzungen stattfinden. Während einer bundesweiten Aktionswoche vom 15. Juni bis 19. Juni 2009 werden die Schülerinnen und Schülern im gesamten Bundesgebiet demonstrieren.
Die Schüler und Studenten suchen das Bündnis mit vielen gesellschaftlichen Gruppen, wie Gewerkschaften und sozialen Bewegungen, die ausdrücklich eingeladen sind, im Bildungs-Streik zu protestieren, denn man sei überall mit der gleichen Politik konfrontiert: An der Hochschule, in den Schulen und im Betrieb.
Ziel des Bildungsstreiks ist es, eine Diskussion zur Zukunft des Bildungs-Systems anzuregen. Des weiteren sollen Möglichkeiten einer fortschrittlichen und emanzipatorischen Bildungs- und Gesellschaft-Politk aufgezeigt und durchgesetzt werden. Dem Einfluss der maßgeblichen politischen und ökonomischen Interessen im Bildungsbereich wollen die Schüler und Studenten Alternativen entgegen setzen.
Die Schüler und Studenten setzen sich unter anderem für folgende Ziele ein: Selbstbestimmtes Lernen und Leben statt starrem Zeitrahmen, Leistungsdruck und Konkurrenzdruck.
Einen freier Bildungszugang und Abschaffung von sämtlichen Bildungs-Gebühren wie Studien-Gebühren, Ausbildungs-Gebühren und Kita-Gebühren, die öffentliche Finanzierung des Bildungssystems ohne Einflussnahme der Wirtschaft unter anderem auf Lehrinhalte, Studien-Strukturen und Stellenvergabe und Demokratisierung und Stärkung der Mit- und Selbstverwaltung in allen Bildungseinrichtungen.
Weitere und ausführliche Informationen zum bundesweiten Bildungs-Streik der Schüler und Studenten in Deutschland sind bei www.bildungsstreik.net zu finden.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Studenten-Proteste in Deutschland: Ausschreitungen beim Bildungsstreik
Studenten-Proteste in Deutschland: Ausschreitungen beim Bildungsstreik
Hochschul-politischer Sprecher hat Verständnis für Schüler und Studenten - „Studenten und Schüler sollten ihre Ziele nicht durch gewalttätige Übergriffe gefährden“ - Kritik am Bildungs- und Hochschul-System ist berechtigt
Von Andreas Klamm
Berlin. 18. Juni 2009. Nach Angaben der Veranstalter befinden sich in dieser Woche (15. bis 19. Juni 2009) bis zu 100.000 Studenten und Schüler in ganz Deutschland im Bildungs-Streik.
Am 17. Juni 2009, dem Tag der früher als „Tag der deutschen Einheit“ gefeiert wurde, soll es in mehreren Bundesländern zu gewalttätigen Ausschreitungen im Rahmen des Bildungs-Streiks gekommen sein. Der hochschul-politsche Sprecher der FDP-Bundestags-Fraktion, Uwe Barth kritisierte die Übergriffe der Gewalt: „Die FDP hatte das grundsätzliche Bestreben des Bildungs-Streiks, eine Verbesserung der Rahmen--Bedingungen an Schulen und Hochschulen herbeizuführen, begrüßt. Viele der Kritik-Punkte geraten aber durch Gewalt in Misskredit. Niemand kann erwarten, dass er als ernsthafter Gesprächs-Partner in Betracht kommt, wenn er zu Mitteln wie Hausfriedensbruch oder Sachbeschädigung greift. Kritik am Bildungs- oder Hochschulsystem ist berechtigt und legitim. Schüler und Studierende erreichen ihr Ziel aber nicht, wenn der Bildungsstreik durch anarchistische Gewalt missbraucht wird.“
In mehreren Städten kam es am 17. Juni bei Demonstrationen von Schülern, Studenten und Menschen in Deutschland zu Zwischenfällen. In Mainz wurde das Abgeordnetenhaus des rheinland-pfälzischen Landtags gestürmt und erhebliche Schäden angerichtet. Dabei wurde auch eine Ausstellung zur Wende in der DDR beschädigt.
Das könne keiner rechtfertigen und kein Mensch könne dafür Verständnis haben, kritisierte der FDP-Politiker.
Die pauschale Kritik an der Aktions-Woche durch Bundesbildungs-Ministerin Annette Schavan ist allerdings wenig hilfreich.
Uwe Barth ergänzte: „Ich habe Verständnis, dass junge Menschen für bessere Bildung eintreten, auch wenn ich zahlreiche Forderungen des Bildungsstreiks nicht unterstütze. Ich erwarte im Gegenzug aber auch von den Organisatoren, sich sehr kritisch mit der Durchführung der Aktionswoche auseinander zusetzen. Die Liste der unterstützenden Organisationen ist nämlich lang und zum Teil erschreckend. Ich bin mir sicher, dass zahlreiche Ausschreitungen von gewaltbereiten Organisationen gewollt waren. Damit läuft das eigentliche Ziel der Aktionswoche völlig ins Leere. Die Organisatoren müssen sich dies vorhalten lassen.“
Die Schüler und Studenten beklagen: „Die derzeitigen Zustände und Entwicklungen im Bildungssystem sind nicht weiter hinnehmbar! Weltweit sind Umstrukturierungen aller Lebensbereiche nicht mehr Gemeinwohl-orientiert, sondern den so genannten Gesetzen des Marktes unterworfen. Seit ein paar Jahren ist auch das Bildungs-System in den Fokus solcher “Reformen” geraten: Bildungs-Gebühren und die Privatisierung treffen uns alle!
Die Finanz- und Wirtschaftskrise zeigt deutlich, dass die Auswirkungen wettbewerbsorientierter Entscheidungs-Kriterien verheerend sind. In vielen Ländern protestieren Menschen dagegen, so beispielsweise. in Mexiko, Spanien, Italien, Frankreich und Griechenland. In diesem internationalen Zusammenhang steht der Bildungsstreik 2009.“
Der anhaltende Protest gegen Studien-Gebühren und Sozial-Abbau in den letzten Jahren habe bei den Verantwortlichen in Medien, Wirtschaft und Politik zu wenig Wirkung gezeigt. Deswegen riefen die Studenten in Deutschland dazu auf, demokratischen Rechte in Form eines bundesweiten Bildungs-Streiks wahrzunehmen.
Im Bildungs-Streik werden pluralistische Aktionsformen, gemeint sind Demonstrationen, Blockaden, Besetzungen stattfinden. Während einer bundesweiten Aktionswoche vom 15. Juni bis 19. Juni 2009 werden die Schülerinnen und Schülern im gesamten Bundesgebiet demonstrieren.
Die Schüler und Studenten suchen das Bündnis mit vielen gesellschaftlichen Gruppen, wie Gewerkschaften und sozialen Bewegungen, die ausdrücklich eingeladen sind, im Bildungs-Streik zu protestieren, denn man sei überall mit der gleichen Politik konfrontiert: An der Hochschule, in den Schulen und im Betrieb.
Ziel des Bildungsstreiks ist es, eine Diskussion zur Zukunft des Bildungs-Systems anzuregen. Des weiteren sollen Möglichkeiten einer fortschrittlichen und emanzipatorischen Bildungs- und Gesellschaft-Politk aufgezeigt und durchgesetzt werden. Dem Einfluss der maßgeblichen politischen und ökonomischen Interessen im Bildungsbereich wollen die Schüler und Studenten Alternativen entgegen setzen.
Die Schüler und Studenten setzen sich unter anderem für folgende Ziele ein: Selbstbestimmtes Lernen und Leben statt starrem Zeitrahmen, Leistungsdruck und Konkurrenzdruck.
Einen freier Bildungszugang und Abschaffung von sämtlichen Bildungs-Gebühren wie Studien-Gebühren, Ausbildungs-Gebühren und Kita-Gebühren, die öffentliche Finanzierung des Bildungssystems ohne Einflussnahme der Wirtschaft unter anderem auf Lehrinhalte, Studien-Strukturen und Stellenvergabe und Demokratisierung und Stärkung der Mit- und Selbstverwaltung in allen Bildungseinrichtungen.
Schüler und Studenten beklagen zudem die massiven und Gewalt-erfüllen Einsätze der Polizei gegen Schüler und Studenten in mehreren Städten in Deutschland.
Weitere und ausführliche Informationen zum bundesweiten Bildungs-Streik der Schüler und Studenten in Deutschland sind bei www.bildungsstreik.net zu finden.
Am 17. Juni 1953 wurden bei Aufständen gegen das totalitäre Regime in der Deutschen Demokratischen Republik (DDR) mehr als 100 Menschen durch Polizei und das Militär getötet. Rund 6.000 Menschen wurden verhaftet. Der Tag ging als Arbeiter-Aufstand oder als als Volks-Aufstand bezeichnet, in die Geschichte von Deutschland ein. Die Proteste im Jahr 1953 wurden von Schülern, Studenten und auch mehreren christlichen Gruppen unterstützt. Bereits damals wollten sich eine Vielzahl von Menschen gegen eine massive staatliche Repression (Unterdrückung) wehren. Im Osten Deutschlands wurde das Kriegsrecht ausgerufen und der Aufstand der Studenten, Menschen, Arbeitern und Bürger mit zum Teil brutalster militärischer Gewalt niedergeschlagen.
Hochschul-politischer Sprecher hat Verständnis für Schüler und Studenten - „Studenten und Schüler sollten ihre Ziele nicht durch gewalttätige Übergriffe gefährden“ - Kritik am Bildungs- und Hochschul-System ist berechtigt
Von Andreas Klamm
Berlin. 18. Juni 2009. Nach Angaben der Veranstalter befinden sich in dieser Woche (15. bis 19. Juni 2009) bis zu 100.000 Studenten und Schüler in ganz Deutschland im Bildungs-Streik.
Am 17. Juni 2009, dem Tag der früher als „Tag der deutschen Einheit“ gefeiert wurde, soll es in mehreren Bundesländern zu gewalttätigen Ausschreitungen im Rahmen des Bildungs-Streiks gekommen sein. Der hochschul-politsche Sprecher der FDP-Bundestags-Fraktion, Uwe Barth kritisierte die Übergriffe der Gewalt: „Die FDP hatte das grundsätzliche Bestreben des Bildungs-Streiks, eine Verbesserung der Rahmen--Bedingungen an Schulen und Hochschulen herbeizuführen, begrüßt. Viele der Kritik-Punkte geraten aber durch Gewalt in Misskredit. Niemand kann erwarten, dass er als ernsthafter Gesprächs-Partner in Betracht kommt, wenn er zu Mitteln wie Hausfriedensbruch oder Sachbeschädigung greift. Kritik am Bildungs- oder Hochschulsystem ist berechtigt und legitim. Schüler und Studierende erreichen ihr Ziel aber nicht, wenn der Bildungsstreik durch anarchistische Gewalt missbraucht wird.“
In mehreren Städten kam es am 17. Juni bei Demonstrationen von Schülern, Studenten und Menschen in Deutschland zu Zwischenfällen. In Mainz wurde das Abgeordnetenhaus des rheinland-pfälzischen Landtags gestürmt und erhebliche Schäden angerichtet. Dabei wurde auch eine Ausstellung zur Wende in der DDR beschädigt.
Das könne keiner rechtfertigen und kein Mensch könne dafür Verständnis haben, kritisierte der FDP-Politiker.
Die pauschale Kritik an der Aktions-Woche durch Bundesbildungs-Ministerin Annette Schavan ist allerdings wenig hilfreich.
Uwe Barth ergänzte: „Ich habe Verständnis, dass junge Menschen für bessere Bildung eintreten, auch wenn ich zahlreiche Forderungen des Bildungsstreiks nicht unterstütze. Ich erwarte im Gegenzug aber auch von den Organisatoren, sich sehr kritisch mit der Durchführung der Aktionswoche auseinander zusetzen. Die Liste der unterstützenden Organisationen ist nämlich lang und zum Teil erschreckend. Ich bin mir sicher, dass zahlreiche Ausschreitungen von gewaltbereiten Organisationen gewollt waren. Damit läuft das eigentliche Ziel der Aktionswoche völlig ins Leere. Die Organisatoren müssen sich dies vorhalten lassen.“
Die Schüler und Studenten beklagen: „Die derzeitigen Zustände und Entwicklungen im Bildungssystem sind nicht weiter hinnehmbar! Weltweit sind Umstrukturierungen aller Lebensbereiche nicht mehr Gemeinwohl-orientiert, sondern den so genannten Gesetzen des Marktes unterworfen. Seit ein paar Jahren ist auch das Bildungs-System in den Fokus solcher “Reformen” geraten: Bildungs-Gebühren und die Privatisierung treffen uns alle!
Die Finanz- und Wirtschaftskrise zeigt deutlich, dass die Auswirkungen wettbewerbsorientierter Entscheidungs-Kriterien verheerend sind. In vielen Ländern protestieren Menschen dagegen, so beispielsweise. in Mexiko, Spanien, Italien, Frankreich und Griechenland. In diesem internationalen Zusammenhang steht der Bildungsstreik 2009.“
Der anhaltende Protest gegen Studien-Gebühren und Sozial-Abbau in den letzten Jahren habe bei den Verantwortlichen in Medien, Wirtschaft und Politik zu wenig Wirkung gezeigt. Deswegen riefen die Studenten in Deutschland dazu auf, demokratischen Rechte in Form eines bundesweiten Bildungs-Streiks wahrzunehmen.
Im Bildungs-Streik werden pluralistische Aktionsformen, gemeint sind Demonstrationen, Blockaden, Besetzungen stattfinden. Während einer bundesweiten Aktionswoche vom 15. Juni bis 19. Juni 2009 werden die Schülerinnen und Schülern im gesamten Bundesgebiet demonstrieren.
Die Schüler und Studenten suchen das Bündnis mit vielen gesellschaftlichen Gruppen, wie Gewerkschaften und sozialen Bewegungen, die ausdrücklich eingeladen sind, im Bildungs-Streik zu protestieren, denn man sei überall mit der gleichen Politik konfrontiert: An der Hochschule, in den Schulen und im Betrieb.
Ziel des Bildungsstreiks ist es, eine Diskussion zur Zukunft des Bildungs-Systems anzuregen. Des weiteren sollen Möglichkeiten einer fortschrittlichen und emanzipatorischen Bildungs- und Gesellschaft-Politk aufgezeigt und durchgesetzt werden. Dem Einfluss der maßgeblichen politischen und ökonomischen Interessen im Bildungsbereich wollen die Schüler und Studenten Alternativen entgegen setzen.
Die Schüler und Studenten setzen sich unter anderem für folgende Ziele ein: Selbstbestimmtes Lernen und Leben statt starrem Zeitrahmen, Leistungsdruck und Konkurrenzdruck.
Einen freier Bildungszugang und Abschaffung von sämtlichen Bildungs-Gebühren wie Studien-Gebühren, Ausbildungs-Gebühren und Kita-Gebühren, die öffentliche Finanzierung des Bildungssystems ohne Einflussnahme der Wirtschaft unter anderem auf Lehrinhalte, Studien-Strukturen und Stellenvergabe und Demokratisierung und Stärkung der Mit- und Selbstverwaltung in allen Bildungseinrichtungen.
Schüler und Studenten beklagen zudem die massiven und Gewalt-erfüllen Einsätze der Polizei gegen Schüler und Studenten in mehreren Städten in Deutschland.
Weitere und ausführliche Informationen zum bundesweiten Bildungs-Streik der Schüler und Studenten in Deutschland sind bei www.bildungsstreik.net zu finden.
Am 17. Juni 1953 wurden bei Aufständen gegen das totalitäre Regime in der Deutschen Demokratischen Republik (DDR) mehr als 100 Menschen durch Polizei und das Militär getötet. Rund 6.000 Menschen wurden verhaftet. Der Tag ging als Arbeiter-Aufstand oder als als Volks-Aufstand bezeichnet, in die Geschichte von Deutschland ein. Die Proteste im Jahr 1953 wurden von Schülern, Studenten und auch mehreren christlichen Gruppen unterstützt. Bereits damals wollten sich eine Vielzahl von Menschen gegen eine massive staatliche Repression (Unterdrückung) wehren. Im Osten Deutschlands wurde das Kriegsrecht ausgerufen und der Aufstand der Studenten, Menschen, Arbeitern und Bürger mit zum Teil brutalster militärischer Gewalt niedergeschlagen.
RPTS Systematics Professor Dr. Richard C. Gamble Releases Biblical Theology with P & R Publishing
RPTS Systematics Professor Dr. Richard C. Gamble Releases Biblical Theology with P & R Publishing
PITTSBURGH, June 17 /Christian Newswire/ -- P & R Publishing has just released the first of a three-volume Biblical theology entitled The Whole Counsel of God by Dr. Richard C. Gamble, a world-renowned Calvin scholar who returned to his hometown of Pittsburgh in 2005 to serve as professor of systematic theology at the Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary (RPTS: see www.rpts.edu).
"Nothing comparable in scope has been done in the last hundred years within the circles of Reformed orthodoxy," said Dr. John M. Frame, professor of systematic theology and philosophy at Reformed Theological Seminary, Orlando.
Gamble's first volume just released, entitled God's Mighty Acts in the Old Testament, unveils Old Testament theology within the organic, progressive, and historical development of the Bible. Topics thoroughly span the canon, days of creation, faith and reason, covenants, the Ten Commandments, Old Testament ecclesiology, the nature of God, justification, and Old Testament apologetics. The 894- page hardback is available at select seminary bookstores and online through P & R Publishing, Amazon.com, and Barnes & Noble (retail, $39.99).
"This is a major work," said Ian Thompson, vice- president of marketing at P & R Publishing. "We have had systematic theologies in one volume that don't quite cover enough ground, or with the quirks of the writer still in place, but we haven't had a modern, accessible systematic theology that includes a Biblical and historical approach. Richard Gamble is known as an inspiring communicator to generations of pastors and here his skills are much in evidence."
Gamble contributed to the Handbook for Calvin's Institutes, one publication of a multi-volume commemorative series produced by Calvin500, an organization coordinating the Quincentenary celebration of the birth of John Calvin June 30 to July 10 in Geneva, Switzerland, for which he also will lecture.
To interview Dr. Gamble, please call Grant Van Leuven at 412-731-8690, Ext. 108.
Founded in 1810, RPTS is the fifth oldest seminary in the nation, and will celebrate its bicentennial in 2010. It offers a conservative, classic Reformed theological education for students coming from the Pittsburgh area and around the world to study the Bible and prepare for the pastorate. Fully accredited, RPTS grants degrees in Master of Divinity, Master of Theological Studies, and a Doctor of Divinity -- all with the option of a concentration in Biblical counseling; it also offers programs for a Diploma in Theology, and certificates in Missionary Training and Servant of the Church.
PITTSBURGH, June 17 /Christian Newswire/ -- P & R Publishing has just released the first of a three-volume Biblical theology entitled The Whole Counsel of God by Dr. Richard C. Gamble, a world-renowned Calvin scholar who returned to his hometown of Pittsburgh in 2005 to serve as professor of systematic theology at the Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary (RPTS: see www.rpts.edu).
"Nothing comparable in scope has been done in the last hundred years within the circles of Reformed orthodoxy," said Dr. John M. Frame, professor of systematic theology and philosophy at Reformed Theological Seminary, Orlando.
Gamble's first volume just released, entitled God's Mighty Acts in the Old Testament, unveils Old Testament theology within the organic, progressive, and historical development of the Bible. Topics thoroughly span the canon, days of creation, faith and reason, covenants, the Ten Commandments, Old Testament ecclesiology, the nature of God, justification, and Old Testament apologetics. The 894- page hardback is available at select seminary bookstores and online through P & R Publishing, Amazon.com, and Barnes & Noble (retail, $39.99).
"This is a major work," said Ian Thompson, vice- president of marketing at P & R Publishing. "We have had systematic theologies in one volume that don't quite cover enough ground, or with the quirks of the writer still in place, but we haven't had a modern, accessible systematic theology that includes a Biblical and historical approach. Richard Gamble is known as an inspiring communicator to generations of pastors and here his skills are much in evidence."
Gamble contributed to the Handbook for Calvin's Institutes, one publication of a multi-volume commemorative series produced by Calvin500, an organization coordinating the Quincentenary celebration of the birth of John Calvin June 30 to July 10 in Geneva, Switzerland, for which he also will lecture.
To interview Dr. Gamble, please call Grant Van Leuven at 412-731-8690, Ext. 108.
Founded in 1810, RPTS is the fifth oldest seminary in the nation, and will celebrate its bicentennial in 2010. It offers a conservative, classic Reformed theological education for students coming from the Pittsburgh area and around the world to study the Bible and prepare for the pastorate. Fully accredited, RPTS grants degrees in Master of Divinity, Master of Theological Studies, and a Doctor of Divinity -- all with the option of a concentration in Biblical counseling; it also offers programs for a Diploma in Theology, and certificates in Missionary Training and Servant of the Church.
Special Report on Judge Sotomayor from Judicial Watch
Special Report on Judge Sotomayor from Judicial Watch
Judicial Watch Releases Special Report on Judge Sotomayor's Connection to the Puerto Rican Legal Defense and Education Fund
Sotomayor Served as the "Top Policy Maker" on the Board of Directors of the Leftist PRLDEF for 12 Years
WASHINGTON, June 17 /Standard Newswire/ -- Judicial Watch, the public interest group that investigates and prosecutes government corruption, today released a new special report on Supreme Court Nominee Judge Sonia Sotomayor and her connection to the leftist Puerto Rican Legal Defense and Education Fund (PRLDEF). Sotomayor served as the "top policy maker" on the PRLDEF's Board of Directors for twelve years, 1980- 1992, until she became a federal judge.
According to the Special Report: "The PRLDEF bills itself as an organization that provides legal services to the Latino community. However, the organization's activities reflect a commitment to the worst aspects of liberal judicial activism: identity politics, race baiting, and ethnic favoritism."
The following is a partial list of the PRLDEF's activities during Judge Sotomayor's tenure as described in Judicial Watch's Special Report:
· In 1990, the PRLDF attacked then-New York Mayor David Dinkins after the mayor labeled three Puerto Rican "nationalists" who shot five members of Congress in 1954 "assassins." The radicals were members of a violent Puerto Rican terrorist group FALN (Fuerzas Armadas de Liberación Nacional). The PRLDF said the mayor's comments "lacked sensitivity." Reuben Franco, President of the PRLDF said: "[Mayor Dinkins] doesn't recognize that to many people in Puerto Rico, these are fighters for freedom and justice..."
· In 1988, the Puerto Rican Legal Defense Fund engaged in a battle with the New York City Police Department over its "racist" promotion exam, ultimately presiding over a radical redesign to allow more minorities to achieve a passing grade. According to The New York Times: "The new test, a four-part exam prepared with the help of an expert designated by the Puerto Rican Legal Defense Fund... involved changes in format, including the addition of open-book questions and a video portion."
· In 1981, the PRLDEF filed a complaint against Elizabeth, New Jersey Mayor Thomas Dunn following a City Hall directive requiring staff to speak English while on the job. In 1990, the organization also opposed a law to require merchants to post an English sign in the storefront explaining the nature of business.
· In a March 1981 memo to the directors of the PRLDEF, Sotomayor and two colleagues argued against the death penalty because it is, "associated with evident racism in our society" and because it "creates inhuman psychological burdens for the offender." The memo, which Sotomayor initially failed to turn over to the Senate Judiciary Committee, argued that the PRLDEF should oppose the restoration of the death penalty in New York State.
· In 1981, the PRLDEF applauded a decision by a federal judge forced teachers at an Ann Arbor Michigan elementary school to undergo "consciousness raising" about a dialect spoken by young black children called "Black English." The training program cost taxpayers $44,000.
During her 12-year tenure, according to one former staff lawyer, "Sonia [Sotomayor] displayed an increasing amount of leadership on the board." The New York Times, meanwhile, characterized Sotomayor as the "top policy maker" on the PRLDEF Board of Directors, who "was an involved and ardent supporter of [the PRLDEF's] various legal efforts during her time with the group."
"In Judge Sotomayor, Obama offers the personal embodiment of his liberal judicial activist philosophy that places 'empathy' above the rule of law. Judge Sotomayor's leadership positions with the PRLDEF suggest she is more than willing to advance a liberal, race-based agenda through the court system. And for this Judge Sotomayor owes an explanation to the American people," stated Judicial Watch President Tom Fitton.
Visit www.JudicialWatch.org to read Judicial Watch's Special Report on Judge Sotomayor and the PRLDEF.
Judicial Watch Releases Special Report on Judge Sotomayor's Connection to the Puerto Rican Legal Defense and Education Fund
Sotomayor Served as the "Top Policy Maker" on the Board of Directors of the Leftist PRLDEF for 12 Years
WASHINGTON, June 17 /Standard Newswire/ -- Judicial Watch, the public interest group that investigates and prosecutes government corruption, today released a new special report on Supreme Court Nominee Judge Sonia Sotomayor and her connection to the leftist Puerto Rican Legal Defense and Education Fund (PRLDEF). Sotomayor served as the "top policy maker" on the PRLDEF's Board of Directors for twelve years, 1980- 1992, until she became a federal judge.
According to the Special Report: "The PRLDEF bills itself as an organization that provides legal services to the Latino community. However, the organization's activities reflect a commitment to the worst aspects of liberal judicial activism: identity politics, race baiting, and ethnic favoritism."
The following is a partial list of the PRLDEF's activities during Judge Sotomayor's tenure as described in Judicial Watch's Special Report:
· In 1990, the PRLDF attacked then-New York Mayor David Dinkins after the mayor labeled three Puerto Rican "nationalists" who shot five members of Congress in 1954 "assassins." The radicals were members of a violent Puerto Rican terrorist group FALN (Fuerzas Armadas de Liberación Nacional). The PRLDF said the mayor's comments "lacked sensitivity." Reuben Franco, President of the PRLDF said: "[Mayor Dinkins] doesn't recognize that to many people in Puerto Rico, these are fighters for freedom and justice..."
· In 1988, the Puerto Rican Legal Defense Fund engaged in a battle with the New York City Police Department over its "racist" promotion exam, ultimately presiding over a radical redesign to allow more minorities to achieve a passing grade. According to The New York Times: "The new test, a four-part exam prepared with the help of an expert designated by the Puerto Rican Legal Defense Fund... involved changes in format, including the addition of open-book questions and a video portion."
· In 1981, the PRLDEF filed a complaint against Elizabeth, New Jersey Mayor Thomas Dunn following a City Hall directive requiring staff to speak English while on the job. In 1990, the organization also opposed a law to require merchants to post an English sign in the storefront explaining the nature of business.
· In a March 1981 memo to the directors of the PRLDEF, Sotomayor and two colleagues argued against the death penalty because it is, "associated with evident racism in our society" and because it "creates inhuman psychological burdens for the offender." The memo, which Sotomayor initially failed to turn over to the Senate Judiciary Committee, argued that the PRLDEF should oppose the restoration of the death penalty in New York State.
· In 1981, the PRLDEF applauded a decision by a federal judge forced teachers at an Ann Arbor Michigan elementary school to undergo "consciousness raising" about a dialect spoken by young black children called "Black English." The training program cost taxpayers $44,000.
During her 12-year tenure, according to one former staff lawyer, "Sonia [Sotomayor] displayed an increasing amount of leadership on the board." The New York Times, meanwhile, characterized Sotomayor as the "top policy maker" on the PRLDEF Board of Directors, who "was an involved and ardent supporter of [the PRLDEF's] various legal efforts during her time with the group."
"In Judge Sotomayor, Obama offers the personal embodiment of his liberal judicial activist philosophy that places 'empathy' above the rule of law. Judge Sotomayor's leadership positions with the PRLDEF suggest she is more than willing to advance a liberal, race-based agenda through the court system. And for this Judge Sotomayor owes an explanation to the American people," stated Judicial Watch President Tom Fitton.
Visit www.JudicialWatch.org to read Judicial Watch's Special Report on Judge Sotomayor and the PRLDEF.
Pro-life Leader Slams Proposed State-Sponsored Sexualization of Latin American Children
Pro-life Leader Slams Proposed State-Sponsored Sexualization of Latin American Children
FRONT ROYAL, VA, June 17 /Christian Newswire/ -- Fr. Thomas J. Euteneuer, president of Human Life International, today castigated members of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) following reports of the organization's declaration earlier this month calling for "comprehensive sexuality education starting in early childhood."
As reported by LifeSiteNews, the ECOSOC's meeting in Jamaica yielded a resolution declaring that: "Scientific evidence demonstrates that comprehensive sexuality education, including HIV/STI prevention methods -- such as the correct and consistent use of male and female condoms...neither accelerates sexual debut, nor increases the frequency of sexual relations."
"This is absolute nonsense! We know from almost every study on the topic that this is the exact opposite of the truth," said Fr. Euteneuer. "Condom promotion has not stopped HIV in the developing world. And propagandizing young children about a value-neutral approach to sex, and telling them that they'll be safe if they use condoms is exactly how you get them to start practicing sex before marriage."
"This outrage is perpetrated by pagans forcing their hedonistic values on the families of the only Catholic continent in the world. It is a violation of sovereignty of nations and of the rights of parents to teach their kids on these delicate matters," said Fr. Euteneuer.
Fr. Euteneuer pointed out that the 1995 Vatican document, The Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality, condemns this form of sex education and manipulation.
"The innocence of children is too precious of a gift to throw away in deference to government and its coercive modern amorality," said Fr. Euteneuer.
"Parents, teachers, and all people of good will, let's tell them to get their grubby hands off our kids!"
Human Life International: Creating effective opposition to the culture of death around the world. Founded in 1981, HLI is the world's largest pro-life organization and has affiliates in over 87 countries on six continents.
FRONT ROYAL, VA, June 17 /Christian Newswire/ -- Fr. Thomas J. Euteneuer, president of Human Life International, today castigated members of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) following reports of the organization's declaration earlier this month calling for "comprehensive sexuality education starting in early childhood."
As reported by LifeSiteNews, the ECOSOC's meeting in Jamaica yielded a resolution declaring that: "Scientific evidence demonstrates that comprehensive sexuality education, including HIV/STI prevention methods -- such as the correct and consistent use of male and female condoms...neither accelerates sexual debut, nor increases the frequency of sexual relations."
"This is absolute nonsense! We know from almost every study on the topic that this is the exact opposite of the truth," said Fr. Euteneuer. "Condom promotion has not stopped HIV in the developing world. And propagandizing young children about a value-neutral approach to sex, and telling them that they'll be safe if they use condoms is exactly how you get them to start practicing sex before marriage."
"This outrage is perpetrated by pagans forcing their hedonistic values on the families of the only Catholic continent in the world. It is a violation of sovereignty of nations and of the rights of parents to teach their kids on these delicate matters," said Fr. Euteneuer.
Fr. Euteneuer pointed out that the 1995 Vatican document, The Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality, condemns this form of sex education and manipulation.
"The innocence of children is too precious of a gift to throw away in deference to government and its coercive modern amorality," said Fr. Euteneuer.
"Parents, teachers, and all people of good will, let's tell them to get their grubby hands off our kids!"
Human Life International: Creating effective opposition to the culture of death around the world. Founded in 1981, HLI is the world's largest pro-life organization and has affiliates in over 87 countries on six continents.
Pro-life Groups will Hold Prayer Vigils, Memorial Outside Tiller's Closed Abortion Clinic
Pro-life Groups will Hold Prayer Vigils, Memorial Outside Tiller's Closed Abortion Clinic
"It's time for the healing process to begin."
WICHITA, Kans., June 17 /Christian Newswire/ -- There will be a series of prayer and memorial events held in Wichita, Kansas, on Friday and Saturday, June 19-20, to pray for healing and an end to abortion-related violence. Pro-life groups sponsoring this event, known as "A Time for Healing...A Time for Life" are Operation Rescue, the Washington DC based Christian Defense Coalition, and Living Word Outreach of Wichita.
Rev. Patrick Mahoney of the Christian Defense Coalition, who helped lead the 1991 "Summer of Mercy" protests in Wichita, will head the events, which include a Friday evening prayer vigil, a Saturday walk across Wichita down Kellogg Ave. to pray for peace and healing, and a memorial service at Tiller's former abortion clinic where hundreds of flowers will be placed to honor the pre-born babies who died there. Prayers for the Tiller family will be offered by members of the clergy.
Rev. Mahoney has conducted similar outreaches in Northern Ireland, Iraq, and China to stop violence and human rights abuses.
EVENT SCHEDULE:
Friday, June 19, at 7:30 P.M.
Prayer vigil at Living Word Outreach,
3033 S. Hillside Ave., Wichita.
Saturday, June 20, at 8:00 A.M.
Gather at Living Word Outreach Church.
Group will walk along the entire length of Kellogg Ave. covering the boundaries of Wichita from west to east.
Saturday, June 20, at 12:00 Noon.
Prayer vigil and memorial service at Women's Health Care Services,
5107 East Kellogg Ave., Wichita.
Prayer walk will continue after the memorial.
Saturday, June 20 at 7:30 P.M.
Prayer vigil at Living Word Outreach.
"We encourage the pro-life community, including the community's pastors, to join us in earnest prayers to the cessation of violence, both inside and outside the womb, and to memorialize those who have tragically lost their lives," said Troy Newman. "This is a time to come together in unity to pray and reflect on the precious gift of life, and to thank God that pre-born babies are currently safe in this community. It's time for the healing process to begin."
About Operation Rescue®
Operation Rescue is one of the leading pro-life Christian activist organizations in the nation. Operation Rescue recently made headlines when it bought and closed an abortion clinic in Wichita, Kansas and has become the voice of the pro-life activist movement in America. Its activities are on the cutting edge of the abortion issue, taking direct action to restore legal personhood to the pre-born and stop abortion in obedience to biblical mandates.
"It's time for the healing process to begin."
WICHITA, Kans., June 17 /Christian Newswire/ -- There will be a series of prayer and memorial events held in Wichita, Kansas, on Friday and Saturday, June 19-20, to pray for healing and an end to abortion-related violence. Pro-life groups sponsoring this event, known as "A Time for Healing...A Time for Life" are Operation Rescue, the Washington DC based Christian Defense Coalition, and Living Word Outreach of Wichita.
Rev. Patrick Mahoney of the Christian Defense Coalition, who helped lead the 1991 "Summer of Mercy" protests in Wichita, will head the events, which include a Friday evening prayer vigil, a Saturday walk across Wichita down Kellogg Ave. to pray for peace and healing, and a memorial service at Tiller's former abortion clinic where hundreds of flowers will be placed to honor the pre-born babies who died there. Prayers for the Tiller family will be offered by members of the clergy.
Rev. Mahoney has conducted similar outreaches in Northern Ireland, Iraq, and China to stop violence and human rights abuses.
EVENT SCHEDULE:
Friday, June 19, at 7:30 P.M.
Prayer vigil at Living Word Outreach,
3033 S. Hillside Ave., Wichita.
Saturday, June 20, at 8:00 A.M.
Gather at Living Word Outreach Church.
Group will walk along the entire length of Kellogg Ave. covering the boundaries of Wichita from west to east.
Saturday, June 20, at 12:00 Noon.
Prayer vigil and memorial service at Women's Health Care Services,
5107 East Kellogg Ave., Wichita.
Prayer walk will continue after the memorial.
Saturday, June 20 at 7:30 P.M.
Prayer vigil at Living Word Outreach.
"We encourage the pro-life community, including the community's pastors, to join us in earnest prayers to the cessation of violence, both inside and outside the womb, and to memorialize those who have tragically lost their lives," said Troy Newman. "This is a time to come together in unity to pray and reflect on the precious gift of life, and to thank God that pre-born babies are currently safe in this community. It's time for the healing process to begin."
About Operation Rescue®
Operation Rescue is one of the leading pro-life Christian activist organizations in the nation. Operation Rescue recently made headlines when it bought and closed an abortion clinic in Wichita, Kansas and has become the voice of the pro-life activist movement in America. Its activities are on the cutting edge of the abortion issue, taking direct action to restore legal personhood to the pre-born and stop abortion in obedience to biblical mandates.
Medimmune Will Use Moral Sources for Swine Flu
Medimmune Will Use Moral Sources for Swine Flu
Update on our press release June 16, 2009: New Swine Flu Vaccine Produced in Moral Cell Culture
MURFREESBORO, Tenn., June 17 /Christian Newswire/ -- For nearly ten years watchdog organization Children of God for Life has alerted the public on existing and new vaccines and medical products under development using aborted fetal material, and to encourage the pharmaceutical industry to pursue moral avenues of research.
So when Medimmune signed license agreements with Crucell NV for aborted fetal PER C6 cell line in 2002 for flu vaccine production, Children of God for Life immediately alerted the public and wrote to then CEO John Mott, asking him to reconsider that decision.
They never received a response.
When Medimmune Public Relations representative Karen Lancaster contacted Children of God for Life on June 17, 2009, the news was a surprising relief.
"Medimmune has shifted their focus from PER C6 for swine flu cell culture," announced Ms. Vinnedge. "Short term, they will continue using chick embryo as they do in all their regular flu vaccines. Long term, they will use MDCK (Madin-Darby Canine Kidney) for cell culture production."
Ms. Lancaster explained that they changed direction to MDCK a long and well-established cell line. When FDA meetings last fall focused specifically on the MDCK cell line as a viable cell substrate for flu vaccine production, it was an easy decision for Medimmune.
To date, PER C6 has not been used successfully in any US vaccines. In November 2007, Merck halted trials of its HIV vaccine using the cell line.
MDCK was originally used in the early 1970's for a moral version of the rubella vaccine.
It is uncertain whether Medimmune will use PER C6 in the future.
Update on our press release June 16, 2009: New Swine Flu Vaccine Produced in Moral Cell Culture
MURFREESBORO, Tenn., June 17 /Christian Newswire/ -- For nearly ten years watchdog organization Children of God for Life has alerted the public on existing and new vaccines and medical products under development using aborted fetal material, and to encourage the pharmaceutical industry to pursue moral avenues of research.
So when Medimmune signed license agreements with Crucell NV for aborted fetal PER C6 cell line in 2002 for flu vaccine production, Children of God for Life immediately alerted the public and wrote to then CEO John Mott, asking him to reconsider that decision.
They never received a response.
When Medimmune Public Relations representative Karen Lancaster contacted Children of God for Life on June 17, 2009, the news was a surprising relief.
"Medimmune has shifted their focus from PER C6 for swine flu cell culture," announced Ms. Vinnedge. "Short term, they will continue using chick embryo as they do in all their regular flu vaccines. Long term, they will use MDCK (Madin-Darby Canine Kidney) for cell culture production."
Ms. Lancaster explained that they changed direction to MDCK a long and well-established cell line. When FDA meetings last fall focused specifically on the MDCK cell line as a viable cell substrate for flu vaccine production, it was an easy decision for Medimmune.
To date, PER C6 has not been used successfully in any US vaccines. In November 2007, Merck halted trials of its HIV vaccine using the cell line.
MDCK was originally used in the early 1970's for a moral version of the rubella vaccine.
It is uncertain whether Medimmune will use PER C6 in the future.
'Apostles of Comedy Movie' World Premieres on GMC June 19 & 20
'Apostles of Comedy Movie' World Premieres on GMC June 19 & 20
"The Apostles" Come to GMC: "Apostles of Comedy Movie" World Premieres on GMC June 19 & 20 at 10:00 P.M. ET/PT
ATLANTA, June 17 /Christian Newswire/ -- Gospel Music Channel (GMC) ( www.gospelmusicchannel.com) will present the world television premiere of the film that captured the unique talents and lives of four comedians working the clean comedy circuit. Apostles of Comedy: The Movie will have a double-header world premiere on GMC, Friday, June 19 & Saturday, June 20 @ 10:00 p.m. ET/PT both nights.
Apostles of Comedy: The Movie has been called "not just a comedy movie - but an experience." A film for the whole family, Apostles of Comedy: The Movie explores the lives of four award-winning comedians -- Jeff Allen, Brad Stine, Ron Pearson and Anthony Griffith. While their comedy is showcased at length, the comedians are shown at home with their families, as well as in unrehearsed conversations with each other behind-the-scenes, in documentary fashion. Each comedian has a unique background and style of comedy, yet they are all family-friendly in their approach, keeping their comedy free of raw language or crude themes, but without losing their edge.
"We chose comedians who specifically do comedy that appeals to all ages, something that the whole family could sit down and enjoy together," says Executive Producer Lenny Sisselman, who has worked with performers such as Jay Leno, Jerry Seinfeld and Tim Allen. Sisselman teamed up with Emmy-nominated producer Mitchell Galin whose credits include Sci-Fi's Emmy award winning miniseries Dune; CBS' miniseries A Season in Purgatory; ABC's Stephen King's The Langoliers, among others.
"We wanted to produce something that was counter- culture; something that would not only be funny, but move people emotionally," says Jeff Allen, who has been seen on Showtime, Comedy Central, VH1, HBO, among others. Allen starred in a sitcom pilot on PAX- TV entitled "Happy Wife, Happy Life," and authored the book My Life as a Bystander. Brad Stine, known for his edgy social commentary, has been featured on CNN, Fox News, MTV, New Yorker Magazine, as well as Evening at the Improv. Emmy-Award winner Anthony Griffith has been a frequent guest on The Tonight Show as well as HBO, Comedy Central, and The Bernie Mac Show. Ron Pearson has made a name for himself appearing on various television sitcoms such as Malcolm & Eddie, The Drew Carey Show, That 70s Show, The George Lopez Show, among others.
Following the huge success of Apostles of Comedy: The Movie, these four family-friendly, nationally-known Christian comedians toured the nation together, performing live. For more info visit www.apostlesofcomedy.com/.
Gospel Music Channel is the fastest-growing network in television and can be seen in 45 million homes on various cable systems around the country, on DIRECTV on channel 338 and on Verizon FiOS on channel 224.
"The Apostles" Come to GMC: "Apostles of Comedy Movie" World Premieres on GMC June 19 & 20 at 10:00 P.M. ET/PT
ATLANTA, June 17 /Christian Newswire/ -- Gospel Music Channel (GMC) ( www.gospelmusicchannel.com) will present the world television premiere of the film that captured the unique talents and lives of four comedians working the clean comedy circuit. Apostles of Comedy: The Movie will have a double-header world premiere on GMC, Friday, June 19 & Saturday, June 20 @ 10:00 p.m. ET/PT both nights.
Apostles of Comedy: The Movie has been called "not just a comedy movie - but an experience." A film for the whole family, Apostles of Comedy: The Movie explores the lives of four award-winning comedians -- Jeff Allen, Brad Stine, Ron Pearson and Anthony Griffith. While their comedy is showcased at length, the comedians are shown at home with their families, as well as in unrehearsed conversations with each other behind-the-scenes, in documentary fashion. Each comedian has a unique background and style of comedy, yet they are all family-friendly in their approach, keeping their comedy free of raw language or crude themes, but without losing their edge.
"We chose comedians who specifically do comedy that appeals to all ages, something that the whole family could sit down and enjoy together," says Executive Producer Lenny Sisselman, who has worked with performers such as Jay Leno, Jerry Seinfeld and Tim Allen. Sisselman teamed up with Emmy-nominated producer Mitchell Galin whose credits include Sci-Fi's Emmy award winning miniseries Dune; CBS' miniseries A Season in Purgatory; ABC's Stephen King's The Langoliers, among others.
"We wanted to produce something that was counter- culture; something that would not only be funny, but move people emotionally," says Jeff Allen, who has been seen on Showtime, Comedy Central, VH1, HBO, among others. Allen starred in a sitcom pilot on PAX- TV entitled "Happy Wife, Happy Life," and authored the book My Life as a Bystander. Brad Stine, known for his edgy social commentary, has been featured on CNN, Fox News, MTV, New Yorker Magazine, as well as Evening at the Improv. Emmy-Award winner Anthony Griffith has been a frequent guest on The Tonight Show as well as HBO, Comedy Central, and The Bernie Mac Show. Ron Pearson has made a name for himself appearing on various television sitcoms such as Malcolm & Eddie, The Drew Carey Show, That 70s Show, The George Lopez Show, among others.
Following the huge success of Apostles of Comedy: The Movie, these four family-friendly, nationally-known Christian comedians toured the nation together, performing live. For more info visit www.apostlesofcomedy.com/.
Gospel Music Channel is the fastest-growing network in television and can be seen in 45 million homes on various cable systems around the country, on DIRECTV on channel 338 and on Verizon FiOS on channel 224.
Don't Give Up Hope, Says Pro-Family Leader: Launches Free pdf Textbook Teaching How to Re-Build Family-Centered Culture
Redeem The Rainbow. Photo: Christian Newswire
Don't Give Up Hope, Says Pro-Family Leader: Launches Free pdf Textbook Teaching How to Re-Build Family-Centered Culture
MEDIA ADVISORY, June 17 /Christian Newswire/ -- Dr. Scott Lively is an attorney, pastor and international consultant on family issues with more than twenty years of ministry opposing the "gay" political agenda around the world.
For the past ten years, while lecturing and consulting on pro-family strategies in more than 30 countries, Dr. Lively has been writing the world's first textbook that teaches pro-family advocates how to defeat the homosexual agenda and reestablish family-centered culture in their respective nations.
Today, Dr. Lively released the book, "Redeeming the Rainbow: A Christian Response to the 'Gay' Agenda" on the Internet as a free resource in pdf format.
"This is my free gift to the international pro-family movement," said Lively. "Everything I've learned in twenty years on the front lines of the 'culture war' is in this book. I want pro-family people to have free access to these insights, analysis and strategies so that they will know that there is still hope for re-building family- centered culture, and how they can achieve that goal.
"I have devoted thousands of hours of work and all of the skills and training I have acquired through my career to produce the most straightforward, concise and easy-to-understand guidance that I can," he added. "I've boiled it down to under 250 pages, addressing every significant aspect of the conflict between Christian and 'gay' social goals. My only restriction on the use of this book is that it may not be offered for sale, but must be given away freely. I offer whatever value it may have as a sacrifice to the Lord."
"Redeeming the Rainbow" is available for download online in the Resources section of www.defendthefamily.com, specifically www.defendthefamily.com/_docs/resources/1889235. pdf
It can also be requested by e-mail to sdllaw@gmail.com
Pro-family activists are urged to make full use of this resource, and to send copies of this notice to all of their lists. Tax-deductible donations will be accepted at the website to help underwrite Dr. Lively's ministry.
Henan House Church Raided; Six Christians Receive Administrative Detention
Henan House Church Raided; Six Christians Receive Administrative Detention
HENAN, China, June 17 /Christian Newswire/ -- On June 14, government officials raided Rock (Panshi) House Church in Zhengzhou city, Henan province, and arrested six believers, including Pastor Dou Shaowen, and his wife Feng Lu. The six arrested were later sentenced to15 days of administrative detention with a fine.
The Christians were raided by a number of officials from the State Security Bureau, Public Security Bureau, Religious Affairs Bureau and the Anti-Riot Squad during their Sunday worship service. The officials declared the service an "illegal gathering." All Sunday school teachers were required to register their IDs and the other church members were dispersed by force. Twenty-four hours later, on June 15, the families of the six Christians who were arrested received administrative detention notices from the Public Security Bureau and were required to pay a fine. The same day, Pastor Dou's home was searched by the PSB, resulting in the confiscation of his computer.
Contact the authorities at the Jing Ba Lu Branch PSB office in Zhengzhou City and ask for the immediate release of the six Christians. The contact number for Jing Ba Lu Branch PSB office is +86-37163931313.
ChinaAid grants permission to reproduce photos and/or information for non-fundraising purposes, with the provision that www.ChinaAid.org is credited. Please contact: Katherine@ChinaAid.org with questions or requests for further information.
HENAN, China, June 17 /Christian Newswire/ -- On June 14, government officials raided Rock (Panshi) House Church in Zhengzhou city, Henan province, and arrested six believers, including Pastor Dou Shaowen, and his wife Feng Lu. The six arrested were later sentenced to15 days of administrative detention with a fine.
The Christians were raided by a number of officials from the State Security Bureau, Public Security Bureau, Religious Affairs Bureau and the Anti-Riot Squad during their Sunday worship service. The officials declared the service an "illegal gathering." All Sunday school teachers were required to register their IDs and the other church members were dispersed by force. Twenty-four hours later, on June 15, the families of the six Christians who were arrested received administrative detention notices from the Public Security Bureau and were required to pay a fine. The same day, Pastor Dou's home was searched by the PSB, resulting in the confiscation of his computer.
Contact the authorities at the Jing Ba Lu Branch PSB office in Zhengzhou City and ask for the immediate release of the six Christians. The contact number for Jing Ba Lu Branch PSB office is +86-37163931313.
ChinaAid grants permission to reproduce photos and/or information for non-fundraising purposes, with the provision that www.ChinaAid.org is credited. Please contact: Katherine@ChinaAid.org with questions or requests for further information.
Advocates International Joins Many in the International Community Urging Peru to End the Violence against its Indigenous People and Return to the Nego
Advocates International Joins Many in the International Community Urging Peru to End the Violence against its Indigenous People and Return to the Negotiating Table
WASHINGTON, June 17 /Christian Newswire/ -- Advocates International expressed its concern in a letter today to the President of Peru, Mr. Alan Garcia about the recent attack on indigenous protestors at the "Curva del Diablo" near Bagua on June 5, 2009, resulting in the deaths of at least twenty police and fifty protestors as well as the wounding of over a hundred indigenous civilians, including young children. Peruvian Law Professor Nina Balmaceda, Advocates' Latin American advisor, said: "we are deeply concerned and working to stop the reported use of unprovoked, excessive and unnecessary violence against civilians by armed Peruvian police. We are also concerned about the danger for further abuses of human rights portended by the Government's decision to declare a State of Emergency on Saturday, May 9, 2009. We are also concerned about the large number of wounded who still need medical attention as well as those civilians who have been imprisoned, often in military barracks where access to civilian medical care and support is limited and no guarantees for their human rights exist." Advocates' letter respectfully asks President Garcia and the Peruvian Parliament to:
1. Refrain immediately from using force on peaceful indigenous demonstrators and to respect the fundamental rights of the individuals who have been imprisoned.
2. Ensure that all those wounded in the confrontation receive timely medical attention.
3. Uphold the constitutionally guaranteed rights of indigenous peoples to self-determination, to their ancestral territories, and to prior consultation and consent over any policies and activities that affect them, including the fair settlement of their communal and private land claims and title disputes impacted by the natural resource concessions the government has granted or is currently negotiating to the detriment of the indigenous people who may have a claim to or a communal interest in these lands.
4. Suspend the State of Emergency and curfew in effect, and withdraw the special military forces that have been deployed in the conflict zone, and proactively seek a peaceful dialogue with the Amazonian communities to resolve this conflict.
5. Revoke the ten legislative decrees which undermine indigenous rights and endanger reserved forest spaces.
6. Repeal the decrees that permit police and military to fire freely on protestors while protecting government forces from subsequent persecution regardless of the unprovoked, excessive or unnecessary nature of the government's use of force.
7. Preserve and provide public access to all evidence pertaining to this conflict and see that a thorough, nonpartisan independent investigation takes place concerning the recent acts of violence, including tortures and kidnappings of Amazonian leaders, and ensure that the intellectual authors of the massacre are brought to justice.
Advocates President, Sam Ericsson, said: "It is our hope that the Peruvian government will relent from attacking its own people and renew a period in the history of Peru where the respect for the fundamental rights of all citizens is upheld, and the protection of fragile ecosystems is prioritized."
Next week, Advocates International will be assisting a delegation from Peru visit with interested members of Congress and the Obama administration regarding the recent violence and what can be peacefully done to reconcile the parties differences over land and natural resource development in Peru's Amazonas and Loreto Districts.
Click her to download an English and Spanish version of Advocates International's June 17, 2009 Letter to Peruvian President, Alan Garcia, with copies to the Peruvian Prime Minister, Yehude Simon, and the United States Ambassador to Peru, The Honorable P. Michael McKinley.
Advocates International is an international organization of attorneys in over 150 nations, including the United States, who seek to do justice with compassion, including through its Peace &Reconciliation Global Task Force, working to foster forgiveness and restoration of relations within individuals, families, communities and nations.
WASHINGTON, June 17 /Christian Newswire/ -- Advocates International expressed its concern in a letter today to the President of Peru, Mr. Alan Garcia about the recent attack on indigenous protestors at the "Curva del Diablo" near Bagua on June 5, 2009, resulting in the deaths of at least twenty police and fifty protestors as well as the wounding of over a hundred indigenous civilians, including young children. Peruvian Law Professor Nina Balmaceda, Advocates' Latin American advisor, said: "we are deeply concerned and working to stop the reported use of unprovoked, excessive and unnecessary violence against civilians by armed Peruvian police. We are also concerned about the danger for further abuses of human rights portended by the Government's decision to declare a State of Emergency on Saturday, May 9, 2009. We are also concerned about the large number of wounded who still need medical attention as well as those civilians who have been imprisoned, often in military barracks where access to civilian medical care and support is limited and no guarantees for their human rights exist." Advocates' letter respectfully asks President Garcia and the Peruvian Parliament to:
1. Refrain immediately from using force on peaceful indigenous demonstrators and to respect the fundamental rights of the individuals who have been imprisoned.
2. Ensure that all those wounded in the confrontation receive timely medical attention.
3. Uphold the constitutionally guaranteed rights of indigenous peoples to self-determination, to their ancestral territories, and to prior consultation and consent over any policies and activities that affect them, including the fair settlement of their communal and private land claims and title disputes impacted by the natural resource concessions the government has granted or is currently negotiating to the detriment of the indigenous people who may have a claim to or a communal interest in these lands.
4. Suspend the State of Emergency and curfew in effect, and withdraw the special military forces that have been deployed in the conflict zone, and proactively seek a peaceful dialogue with the Amazonian communities to resolve this conflict.
5. Revoke the ten legislative decrees which undermine indigenous rights and endanger reserved forest spaces.
6. Repeal the decrees that permit police and military to fire freely on protestors while protecting government forces from subsequent persecution regardless of the unprovoked, excessive or unnecessary nature of the government's use of force.
7. Preserve and provide public access to all evidence pertaining to this conflict and see that a thorough, nonpartisan independent investigation takes place concerning the recent acts of violence, including tortures and kidnappings of Amazonian leaders, and ensure that the intellectual authors of the massacre are brought to justice.
Advocates President, Sam Ericsson, said: "It is our hope that the Peruvian government will relent from attacking its own people and renew a period in the history of Peru where the respect for the fundamental rights of all citizens is upheld, and the protection of fragile ecosystems is prioritized."
Next week, Advocates International will be assisting a delegation from Peru visit with interested members of Congress and the Obama administration regarding the recent violence and what can be peacefully done to reconcile the parties differences over land and natural resource development in Peru's Amazonas and Loreto Districts.
Click her to download an English and Spanish version of Advocates International's June 17, 2009 Letter to Peruvian President, Alan Garcia, with copies to the Peruvian Prime Minister, Yehude Simon, and the United States Ambassador to Peru, The Honorable P. Michael McKinley.
Advocates International is an international organization of attorneys in over 150 nations, including the United States, who seek to do justice with compassion, including through its Peace &Reconciliation Global Task Force, working to foster forgiveness and restoration of relations within individuals, families, communities and nations.
Don Feder to Discuss Pro-Obama Media Coverage on Savage Nation
Don Feder to Discuss Pro-Obama Media Coverage on Savage Nation
WASHINGTON, June 17 /Christian Newswire/ -- Michael Savage, one of the top 3 most popular radio talk show hosts in America, will be interviewing Boycott The New York Times (www.boycottnyt.com) editor Don Feder this evening on his highly rated show, The Savage Nation. They will be discussing the media's role in helping to elect President Obama and support his agenda.
On his June 15th show, Savage asked, If a plurality of Americans are conservative, why is there a "neo- Marxist in the White House" who's successfully implementing a socialist agenda? The answer, he said, is because we have a "neo-Marxist media." He pointed to a recent Gallup poll showing that 40% of Americans call themselves conservative, while only 21% describe themselves as liberal.
Feder agrees with Savage, writing in a column posted today, "This isn't name-calling but an accurate assessment of what might be called a partnership in crime -- Barack Obama and the mainstream media." He adds that "Barack Obama is a creation of a leftist media ... especially The New York Times."
"Until conservatives acknowledge the fact that The New York Times and company are at war with basic American values -- and begin fighting back -- a nation with a conservative plurality will continue on a course charted by a neo-Marxist president," he concluded.
About Boycott The New York Times:
A project of Accuracy In Media (AIM), Boycott The New York Times is the first website to call for a general boycott of America's most biased news outlet. The site provides contact information for The Times and its top advertisers, and an online petition that readers can sign to protest its liberal bias. For more information, go to www.boycottnyt.com and www.aim.org.
About Don Feder:
Don Feder is the editor of Boycott The New York Times. A former Boston Herald editorial writer and syndicated political columnist, Feder has appeared on "The O'Reilly Factor," "Hannity and Colmes," "Politically Incorrect," "The 700 Club," "Focus On The Family," "Fox & Friends" and "The Savage Nation." His columns have been read on the air by Rush Limbaugh and Dr. Laura.
To arrange an interview with Don Feder, contact Sarah Schaerr Norton at (202) 364-4401 ext. 107 or sarah.schaerr@aim.org.
WASHINGTON, June 17 /Christian Newswire/ -- Michael Savage, one of the top 3 most popular radio talk show hosts in America, will be interviewing Boycott The New York Times (www.boycottnyt.com) editor Don Feder this evening on his highly rated show, The Savage Nation. They will be discussing the media's role in helping to elect President Obama and support his agenda.
On his June 15th show, Savage asked, If a plurality of Americans are conservative, why is there a "neo- Marxist in the White House" who's successfully implementing a socialist agenda? The answer, he said, is because we have a "neo-Marxist media." He pointed to a recent Gallup poll showing that 40% of Americans call themselves conservative, while only 21% describe themselves as liberal.
Feder agrees with Savage, writing in a column posted today, "This isn't name-calling but an accurate assessment of what might be called a partnership in crime -- Barack Obama and the mainstream media." He adds that "Barack Obama is a creation of a leftist media ... especially The New York Times."
"Until conservatives acknowledge the fact that The New York Times and company are at war with basic American values -- and begin fighting back -- a nation with a conservative plurality will continue on a course charted by a neo-Marxist president," he concluded.
About Boycott The New York Times:
A project of Accuracy In Media (AIM), Boycott The New York Times is the first website to call for a general boycott of America's most biased news outlet. The site provides contact information for The Times and its top advertisers, and an online petition that readers can sign to protest its liberal bias. For more information, go to www.boycottnyt.com and www.aim.org.
About Don Feder:
Don Feder is the editor of Boycott The New York Times. A former Boston Herald editorial writer and syndicated political columnist, Feder has appeared on "The O'Reilly Factor," "Hannity and Colmes," "Politically Incorrect," "The 700 Club," "Focus On The Family," "Fox & Friends" and "The Savage Nation." His columns have been read on the air by Rush Limbaugh and Dr. Laura.
To arrange an interview with Don Feder, contact Sarah Schaerr Norton at (202) 364-4401 ext. 107 or sarah.schaerr@aim.org.
Beijing Church Website Forcibly Shut Down by Government
Beijing Church Website Forcibly Shut Down by Government
BEIJING, China, June 17 /Christian Newswire/ -- ChinaAid recently learned that the Websites Surveillance Section of Beijing Municipal Public Security Bureau forcibly shut down the website of Shouwang Christian Church of Beijing at 10:45 a.m. on April 13, 2009. The only explanation the church has received from the related agent is that government authorities concluded that the website was the "website of an illegal Christian organization," and demanded that the agent shut it down.
Shouwang Christian Church members say that government authorities have never concluded that their house church is an illegal organization. Though Shouwang Christian Church pre-paid for a year of service, the website was shut down without prior notice or an official written explanation. The website was registered by an individual, and was used mainly by the house church members to communicate with each other regarding daily activities and information about the church.
Shouwang Christian Church plans to continue to press government officials for an official explanation regarding the reason that their website was shut down. The church requests that Christians around the world pray for their rights to be upheld and that their website will be restored.
Read a letter from Shouwang Christian Church of Beijing to Christians around the world.
Send the Christians at Shouwang Christian Church an encouraging note of support. Send to:
Beijing Shouwang House Church
Suite 8B1, 8th Floor
Huajie Plaza, No.13 Dazhongsi
Haidian District
Beijing 100098 China
ChinaAid grants permission to reproduce photos and/or information for non-fundraising purposes, with the provision that www.ChinaAid.org is credited. Please contact: Katherine@ChinaAid.org with questions or requests for further information.
BEIJING, China, June 17 /Christian Newswire/ -- ChinaAid recently learned that the Websites Surveillance Section of Beijing Municipal Public Security Bureau forcibly shut down the website of Shouwang Christian Church of Beijing at 10:45 a.m. on April 13, 2009. The only explanation the church has received from the related agent is that government authorities concluded that the website was the "website of an illegal Christian organization," and demanded that the agent shut it down.
Shouwang Christian Church members say that government authorities have never concluded that their house church is an illegal organization. Though Shouwang Christian Church pre-paid for a year of service, the website was shut down without prior notice or an official written explanation. The website was registered by an individual, and was used mainly by the house church members to communicate with each other regarding daily activities and information about the church.
Shouwang Christian Church plans to continue to press government officials for an official explanation regarding the reason that their website was shut down. The church requests that Christians around the world pray for their rights to be upheld and that their website will be restored.
Read a letter from Shouwang Christian Church of Beijing to Christians around the world.
Send the Christians at Shouwang Christian Church an encouraging note of support. Send to:
Beijing Shouwang House Church
Suite 8B1, 8th Floor
Huajie Plaza, No.13 Dazhongsi
Haidian District
Beijing 100098 China
ChinaAid grants permission to reproduce photos and/or information for non-fundraising purposes, with the provision that www.ChinaAid.org is credited. Please contact: Katherine@ChinaAid.org with questions or requests for further information.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
OC-Based Church Says Greenest Church Building is the One that is Never Built
OC-Based Church Says Greenest Church Building is the One that is Never Built
ORANGE COUNTY, Calif., June 16 /Christian Newswire/ -- Like many companies and households, churches throughout the United States are going green--reusing building materials and using energy-efficient light bulbs--in an effort to care for God's creation. But one OC-based church has found a way to be even greener.
When The Well, once a traditional Southern Baptist Church in Orange County, left its building in 2005 to become a community of house churches, they did not do it for environmental reasons. However, Ken Eastburn, pastor of The Well, does believe this model allows the Church to be good stewards of its resources and of the environment.
"People attend house-church gatherings closer to their homes, so they cut down significantly on miles traveled. And because we have no dedicated building, our carbon footprint is fairly minimal," says Eastburn.
And the experts agree. In a May 19 article on BuildingForMinistry.com, Steven P. Fridsma writes, "The greenest building material is the one you never have to use."
That theory sits well with Eastburn, who notes: "While we moved to meeting in homes because that is where God led us, the fact that The Well is being a good steward of God's creation is an added bonus to being a community of house churches."
The Well continues to actively learn what it means to be a church body without a building and encourages other churches and individuals to explore with them on their blog: www.leavethebuildingblog.com. From going green to maximizing resources, blog participants can dialog about a variety of church and faith-related topics aimed at maximizing the effectiveness of the Church and its members.
ORANGE COUNTY, Calif., June 16 /Christian Newswire/ -- Like many companies and households, churches throughout the United States are going green--reusing building materials and using energy-efficient light bulbs--in an effort to care for God's creation. But one OC-based church has found a way to be even greener.
When The Well, once a traditional Southern Baptist Church in Orange County, left its building in 2005 to become a community of house churches, they did not do it for environmental reasons. However, Ken Eastburn, pastor of The Well, does believe this model allows the Church to be good stewards of its resources and of the environment.
"People attend house-church gatherings closer to their homes, so they cut down significantly on miles traveled. And because we have no dedicated building, our carbon footprint is fairly minimal," says Eastburn.
And the experts agree. In a May 19 article on BuildingForMinistry.com, Steven P. Fridsma writes, "The greenest building material is the one you never have to use."
That theory sits well with Eastburn, who notes: "While we moved to meeting in homes because that is where God led us, the fact that The Well is being a good steward of God's creation is an added bonus to being a community of house churches."
The Well continues to actively learn what it means to be a church body without a building and encourages other churches and individuals to explore with them on their blog: www.leavethebuildingblog.com. From going green to maximizing resources, blog participants can dialog about a variety of church and faith-related topics aimed at maximizing the effectiveness of the Church and its members.
Missions Agency Opens Discussion About Spreading the Gospel in Monotheistic and Polytheistic Cultures
Missions Agency Opens Discussion About Spreading the Gospel in Monotheistic and Polytheistic Cultures
MEDIA ADVISORY, June 16 /Christian Newswire/ -- Is it easier to spread the gospel in cultures that believe in one god or in many gods? One missions agency thinks other Christians know the answer.
World Gospel Mission, a missionary-sending agency based in Marion, Indiana, is opening up the discussion at www.unsolvedministries.blogspot.com to talk about how monotheistic and polytheistic cultures respond to the gospel.
"We want to help people think about some of the deeper issues of missions," said Tim Rickel, Vice President of Development. "This one--whether people who believe in one god or in many gods affects evangelism--can have a huge impact on the way we share Jesus with them."
Polytheistic religions include Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, Shintoism, and tribal religions in Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Beliefs that are considered monotheistic are Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. As an international missions agency, WGM ministers to people from many religious backgrounds around the world.
"So what does this mean for the average Christian? Well, it's a global world we live in. I think it's good for the church to think through these issues, because you never know when you might be able to talk to a Hindu or a Muslim about Jesus," said Rickel.
Join the conversation about reaching out to people from monotheistic or polytheistic religions at www.unsolvedministries.blogspot.com.
About World Gospel Mission
World Gospel Mission disciples believers to become missions-active Christians. As an interdenominational missionary organization, WGM partners with individuals, small groups, college groups, and churches to intentionally address the physical and spiritual needs of individuals and communities. Learn more at www.wgm.org.
Rachel Elwood, Media Relations
World Gospel Mission
(765) 671-7255
mediarelations@wgm.org
www.wgm.org
MEDIA ADVISORY, June 16 /Christian Newswire/ -- Is it easier to spread the gospel in cultures that believe in one god or in many gods? One missions agency thinks other Christians know the answer.
World Gospel Mission, a missionary-sending agency based in Marion, Indiana, is opening up the discussion at www.unsolvedministries.blogspot.com to talk about how monotheistic and polytheistic cultures respond to the gospel.
"We want to help people think about some of the deeper issues of missions," said Tim Rickel, Vice President of Development. "This one--whether people who believe in one god or in many gods affects evangelism--can have a huge impact on the way we share Jesus with them."
Polytheistic religions include Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, Shintoism, and tribal religions in Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Beliefs that are considered monotheistic are Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. As an international missions agency, WGM ministers to people from many religious backgrounds around the world.
"So what does this mean for the average Christian? Well, it's a global world we live in. I think it's good for the church to think through these issues, because you never know when you might be able to talk to a Hindu or a Muslim about Jesus," said Rickel.
Join the conversation about reaching out to people from monotheistic or polytheistic religions at www.unsolvedministries.blogspot.com.
About World Gospel Mission
World Gospel Mission disciples believers to become missions-active Christians. As an interdenominational missionary organization, WGM partners with individuals, small groups, college groups, and churches to intentionally address the physical and spiritual needs of individuals and communities. Learn more at www.wgm.org.
Rachel Elwood, Media Relations
World Gospel Mission
(765) 671-7255
mediarelations@wgm.org
www.wgm.org
Announcing the 2009 Best Christian Workplaces in the US and Canada
Announcing the 2009 Best Christian Workplaces in the US and Canada
MEDIA ADVISORY, June 16 /Christian Newswire/ -- The survey, administered by the Best Christian Workplaces Institute (BCWI), involved 13,254 employees in 140 organizations across North America to identify great workplaces with a Christian mission and/or values.
The 2009 Certified Best Christian Workplaces in the US include:
Alliance Defense Fund
Amor Ministries
Apartment Life
Appalachian Bible College
Aspen Group
Bethany Learning Center
Bethel University
Bethesda Christian School
Briarcrest Christian School
Calvary Chapel Christian School
CedarCreek Church
Children at Heart Ministries
Christ's Church of the Valley
Christian Heritage Academy
The City Mission
Coalition for Christian Outreach
Community Bible Church
Concordia Publishing House
CRISTA Ministries
Crossroads
Delaware County Christian School
DeMoss Group, Inc.
Denver Rescue Mission
English Language Institute/China
Evangel University
Evangelical Christian Credit Union
Evangelical Christian School
Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability
Evansville Christian School
Faithbridge Church
The Friends of Israel
God's World Publications, Inc.
Heartland Community Church
Howard Books
Indian Rocks Christian School
Indiana Wesleyan
InterVarsity Press
Joni and Friends
Kensington Community Church
Lakeland Christian School
LifeChurch.tv
Light of Life Ministries, Inc.
Lincoln Christian College and Seminary
Long Beach Rescue Mission
Mennonite Brethren Foundation
MOPS International
New Mission Systems International
Olivet Nazarene University
Open Doors with Brother Andrew
Ouachita Christian School
Partners International
Phoenix Seminary
The Pittsburgh Project
Samaritan Ministries International
Southland Christian Church
Tacoma Rescue Mission
Tyndale House Publishers
Water Street Rescue Mission
Westlake Christian Academy
Wheaton Academy
Whittier Christian High School
World Harvest Mission
The 2009 Recognized Best Christian Workplaces in Canada include:
Bethany Community Church
Beulah Alliance Church
Bill Prankard Evangelistic Association
Canadian Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches
Centre Street Church
Emmanuel Bible College
Focus on the Family (Canada)
Linden Christian School
Medeba
Partners International Canada
Power to Change
Waterloo Mennonite Brethren
In order to be Certified (US)/Recognized (Canada) as a Best Christian Workplace, organizations must complete the Best Christian Workplaces Institute Employee Engagement survey and meet predetermined standards of excellence. The survey covers such issues as: job satisfaction, organizational commitment, Christian witness, supervisory effectiveness, work satisfaction, personal growth and development, management effectiveness, customer/supporter satisfaction, teamwork, communications and pay and benefits. Employees answer more than 50 questions addressing these topics, rating each statement as either 1 (strongly disagree), 2 (disagree), 3 (neutral), 4 (agree) or 5 (strongly agree).
The Best Christian Workplaces Institute has surveyed more than 80,000 employees across North America in the past eight years. BCWI is a research based organizational and human resources consulting firm based on Mercer Island, Washington. The Canadian workplace survey was sponsored by the Canadian Council of Christian Charities.
"No one can deny that Christian organizations are feeling the effects of the nation's worry over the economy. Although we believe that Christian organizations should do all they can to pay competitively, our survey shows that there are other factors even more influential in making your employees feel blessed by their work, including work being a place of community," says Lopus. "The Best Christian Workplaces survey consistently reveals that Christian employees appreciate God-glorifying relationships shaped by the fruit of the Spirit."
MEDIA ADVISORY, June 16 /Christian Newswire/ -- The survey, administered by the Best Christian Workplaces Institute (BCWI), involved 13,254 employees in 140 organizations across North America to identify great workplaces with a Christian mission and/or values.
The 2009 Certified Best Christian Workplaces in the US include:
Alliance Defense Fund
Amor Ministries
Apartment Life
Appalachian Bible College
Aspen Group
Bethany Learning Center
Bethel University
Bethesda Christian School
Briarcrest Christian School
Calvary Chapel Christian School
CedarCreek Church
Children at Heart Ministries
Christ's Church of the Valley
Christian Heritage Academy
The City Mission
Coalition for Christian Outreach
Community Bible Church
Concordia Publishing House
CRISTA Ministries
Crossroads
Delaware County Christian School
DeMoss Group, Inc.
Denver Rescue Mission
English Language Institute/China
Evangel University
Evangelical Christian Credit Union
Evangelical Christian School
Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability
Evansville Christian School
Faithbridge Church
The Friends of Israel
God's World Publications, Inc.
Heartland Community Church
Howard Books
Indian Rocks Christian School
Indiana Wesleyan
InterVarsity Press
Joni and Friends
Kensington Community Church
Lakeland Christian School
LifeChurch.tv
Light of Life Ministries, Inc.
Lincoln Christian College and Seminary
Long Beach Rescue Mission
Mennonite Brethren Foundation
MOPS International
New Mission Systems International
Olivet Nazarene University
Open Doors with Brother Andrew
Ouachita Christian School
Partners International
Phoenix Seminary
The Pittsburgh Project
Samaritan Ministries International
Southland Christian Church
Tacoma Rescue Mission
Tyndale House Publishers
Water Street Rescue Mission
Westlake Christian Academy
Wheaton Academy
Whittier Christian High School
World Harvest Mission
The 2009 Recognized Best Christian Workplaces in Canada include:
Bethany Community Church
Beulah Alliance Church
Bill Prankard Evangelistic Association
Canadian Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches
Centre Street Church
Emmanuel Bible College
Focus on the Family (Canada)
Linden Christian School
Medeba
Partners International Canada
Power to Change
Waterloo Mennonite Brethren
In order to be Certified (US)/Recognized (Canada) as a Best Christian Workplace, organizations must complete the Best Christian Workplaces Institute Employee Engagement survey and meet predetermined standards of excellence. The survey covers such issues as: job satisfaction, organizational commitment, Christian witness, supervisory effectiveness, work satisfaction, personal growth and development, management effectiveness, customer/supporter satisfaction, teamwork, communications and pay and benefits. Employees answer more than 50 questions addressing these topics, rating each statement as either 1 (strongly disagree), 2 (disagree), 3 (neutral), 4 (agree) or 5 (strongly agree).
The Best Christian Workplaces Institute has surveyed more than 80,000 employees across North America in the past eight years. BCWI is a research based organizational and human resources consulting firm based on Mercer Island, Washington. The Canadian workplace survey was sponsored by the Canadian Council of Christian Charities.
"No one can deny that Christian organizations are feeling the effects of the nation's worry over the economy. Although we believe that Christian organizations should do all they can to pay competitively, our survey shows that there are other factors even more influential in making your employees feel blessed by their work, including work being a place of community," says Lopus. "The Best Christian Workplaces survey consistently reveals that Christian employees appreciate God-glorifying relationships shaped by the fruit of the Spirit."
Abortionist Killed: National News -- Abortionist Kills Woman: Ignored
Abortionist Killed: National News -- Abortionist Kills Woman: Ignored
HYANNIS, Mass., June 16 /Christian Newswire/ -- Abortionist George Tiller's death brought an outpouring of national media headlines and Congressional condolences to his family by a resolution approved by the US House. Laura Hope Smith's death at the hands of an abortionist was and continues to be ignored and her mother's effort to bring it to the attention of her senator was stonewalled.
"Where was the press when my daughter Laura died at the hands of an abortionist?" asks Eileen Smith, Laura's mother. A media search shows mostly news reports from nonprofit organizations, religious news and other alternative media.
Laura's death was mentioned 10 months later in one major publication, The Boston Globe, when the abortionist was indicted for manslaughter. It was 6 weeks before her local paper, The Cape Cod Times, mentioned Laura's death, although it sought out her mother for a two-hour interview just 2 days after Laura's death. Smith says the local newspaper rationalized delaying a report on Laura's death so it could corroborate it with an autopsy report.
"Since when has news been postponed in lieu of reporting facts except in the abortion deaths of the mothers?" asks Smith. "I have to believe that it is only because the media's bias toward abortion determines what makes news," she said.
"If Laura had died falling off a bike or in a car accident it would have been in the paper the next day," she said. "My daughter walked into that abortion facility healthy and she left dead," Smith said.
Smith believes Tiller's death is another senseless killing in the history of abortion, adding to the 50 million untimely deaths of unborn babies, including the 60,000 viable babies aborted by Tiller. "His death is a tragedy, but so are all the lives that were taken by him and the lives of over 400 women who have died as a result of an abortion," said Smith.
The abortionist was indicted by a grand jury for manslaughter in the death of Laura, following an investigation by local police and the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine. The District Attorney found the abortionist's conduct to be "willful, wanton, and reckless" because he sedated Laura with level three drugs without any means of cardiac monitoring or blood pressure cuff; had no assistant who could administer sedation, monitor the patient, or assist in resuscitating her; and, "failed to timely initiate a call to 911." The board also alleged that the abortionist made false statements.
"I call on the media to report deaths like Laura's," said Smith. "If Tiller's death merits national news, so does a death at the hands of an abortionist," she added. Eileen Smith is available for interviews.
HYANNIS, Mass., June 16 /Christian Newswire/ -- Abortionist George Tiller's death brought an outpouring of national media headlines and Congressional condolences to his family by a resolution approved by the US House. Laura Hope Smith's death at the hands of an abortionist was and continues to be ignored and her mother's effort to bring it to the attention of her senator was stonewalled.
"Where was the press when my daughter Laura died at the hands of an abortionist?" asks Eileen Smith, Laura's mother. A media search shows mostly news reports from nonprofit organizations, religious news and other alternative media.
Laura's death was mentioned 10 months later in one major publication, The Boston Globe, when the abortionist was indicted for manslaughter. It was 6 weeks before her local paper, The Cape Cod Times, mentioned Laura's death, although it sought out her mother for a two-hour interview just 2 days after Laura's death. Smith says the local newspaper rationalized delaying a report on Laura's death so it could corroborate it with an autopsy report.
"Since when has news been postponed in lieu of reporting facts except in the abortion deaths of the mothers?" asks Smith. "I have to believe that it is only because the media's bias toward abortion determines what makes news," she said.
"If Laura had died falling off a bike or in a car accident it would have been in the paper the next day," she said. "My daughter walked into that abortion facility healthy and she left dead," Smith said.
Smith believes Tiller's death is another senseless killing in the history of abortion, adding to the 50 million untimely deaths of unborn babies, including the 60,000 viable babies aborted by Tiller. "His death is a tragedy, but so are all the lives that were taken by him and the lives of over 400 women who have died as a result of an abortion," said Smith.
The abortionist was indicted by a grand jury for manslaughter in the death of Laura, following an investigation by local police and the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine. The District Attorney found the abortionist's conduct to be "willful, wanton, and reckless" because he sedated Laura with level three drugs without any means of cardiac monitoring or blood pressure cuff; had no assistant who could administer sedation, monitor the patient, or assist in resuscitating her; and, "failed to timely initiate a call to 911." The board also alleged that the abortionist made false statements.
"I call on the media to report deaths like Laura's," said Smith. "If Tiller's death merits national news, so does a death at the hands of an abortionist," she added. Eileen Smith is available for interviews.
Tiller's Abortion Web Site Recovered Again: Pro-life Groups Urged to Copy Entire Site for Their Records and Use
Tiller's Abortion Web Site Recovered Again: Pro-life Groups Urged to Copy Entire Site for Their Records and Use
Link to Site: www.OverturnRoe.com
WASHINGTON, June 16 /Christian Newswire/ -- Tiller's website contents are available for download as well as instructions on how to duplicate his website for beginners.
Randall Terry, Founder of Operation Rescue states:
"Tiller's site is a dark and vile treasure chest of evil - hiding the insidious reality of child-killing, and what Tiller himself actually did.
"We have labored extensively to recover it and post it - again - and we urge all pro-life leaders and activists to copy the entire site to use as they see fit.
"We expect someone in the computer world to scuttle this site, but if enough of us copy and display it, his demonic deeds will be available for all to see until we are victorious in our mission to crush legalized child- killing under foot."
Link to Site: www.OverturnRoe.com
WASHINGTON, June 16 /Christian Newswire/ -- Tiller's website contents are available for download as well as instructions on how to duplicate his website for beginners.
Randall Terry, Founder of Operation Rescue states:
"Tiller's site is a dark and vile treasure chest of evil - hiding the insidious reality of child-killing, and what Tiller himself actually did.
"We have labored extensively to recover it and post it - again - and we urge all pro-life leaders and activists to copy the entire site to use as they see fit.
"We expect someone in the computer world to scuttle this site, but if enough of us copy and display it, his demonic deeds will be available for all to see until we are victorious in our mission to crush legalized child- killing under foot."
New Swine Flu Vaccine Produced in Moral Cell Culture
New Swine Flu Vaccine Produced in Moral Cell Culture
MURFREESBORO, Tenn., June 16 /Christian Newswire/ -- Children of God for Life announced today that a new swine flu vaccine produced by Swiss-based pharmaceutical giant, Novartis, is made using ethical cell lines. The vaccine, which was hailed last week by the Associated Press as the first to be produced in cell culture rather than the traditional chick embryo method, uses MDCK (Madin-Darby Canine Kidney) cells.
Novartis said that over 30 countries have requested their vaccine supply, including the US Department of HHS who placed a $289 million dollar order with the company last month.
"This is great news for families worldwide," stated Debi Vinnedge, Children of God for Life's Executive Director. "Other companies such as Sanofi Pasteur and Medimmune are using aborted fetal cell line PER C6 as their cell culture. Concerned families who may not have otherwise used the swine flu vaccine will now have a moral choice!"
While chick embryo is still an option for manufacturing, cell culture is more desirable since it would speed production time for the vaccines considerably. The news release by Novartis last week came only days after the World Health Organization had declared a swine flu pandemic.
Vinnedge noted that there are other companies not far behind Novartis that are also using moral sources for their cell cultures. Novavax is using insect cell lines, Baxter is using Vero cell lines and Protein Science is using caterpillar cell lines.
"There is simply no reason to use aborted fetal cell lines," Vinnedge noted. "We are deeply grateful that Novartis technology is the frontrunner!"
"And it's high time that some of these other pharmaceutical companies start listening to the public demand," she added.
MURFREESBORO, Tenn., June 16 /Christian Newswire/ -- Children of God for Life announced today that a new swine flu vaccine produced by Swiss-based pharmaceutical giant, Novartis, is made using ethical cell lines. The vaccine, which was hailed last week by the Associated Press as the first to be produced in cell culture rather than the traditional chick embryo method, uses MDCK (Madin-Darby Canine Kidney) cells.
Novartis said that over 30 countries have requested their vaccine supply, including the US Department of HHS who placed a $289 million dollar order with the company last month.
"This is great news for families worldwide," stated Debi Vinnedge, Children of God for Life's Executive Director. "Other companies such as Sanofi Pasteur and Medimmune are using aborted fetal cell line PER C6 as their cell culture. Concerned families who may not have otherwise used the swine flu vaccine will now have a moral choice!"
While chick embryo is still an option for manufacturing, cell culture is more desirable since it would speed production time for the vaccines considerably. The news release by Novartis last week came only days after the World Health Organization had declared a swine flu pandemic.
Vinnedge noted that there are other companies not far behind Novartis that are also using moral sources for their cell cultures. Novavax is using insect cell lines, Baxter is using Vero cell lines and Protein Science is using caterpillar cell lines.
"There is simply no reason to use aborted fetal cell lines," Vinnedge noted. "We are deeply grateful that Novartis technology is the frontrunner!"
"And it's high time that some of these other pharmaceutical companies start listening to the public demand," she added.
Zahl der Beschäftigten im verarbeitenden Gewerbe ist gesunken
Zahl der Beschäftigten im verarbeitenden Gewerbe ist gesunken
Von Andreas Klamm
Wiesbaden. Die Zahl der beschäftigten Menschen im verarbeitenden Gewerbe hat im April um 1,7 Prozent abgenommen. Das teilte das Statistische Bundesamt in Wiesbaden mit. Ende April 2009 waren in den Betrieben des Verarbeitenden Gewerbes mit 50 und mehr Beschäftigten in Deutschland 5,1 Millionen Personen tätig.
Das waren rund 86 000 Personen oder 1,7% weniger als im April 2008. Der Rückgang der Zahl der Beschäftigung setzt sich damit fort.
Die Zahl der im April 2009 geleisteten Arbeitsstunden nahm im Vergleich zum entsprechenden Vorjahresmonat um 16,8% auf 612 Millionen ab. Dabei ist zu berücksichtigen, dass es im Berichtsmonat 20 Arbeitstage gab und somit 2 weniger als im Vergleich zum Vorjahresmonat. Die Entgelte (Bruttolohn- und Bruttogehaltsumme) lagen bei 17,1 Milliarden Euro; das waren 7,9% weniger als im April 2008.
Im Vergleich der Beschäftigtenzahl in den von der Größe her wichtigsten Wirtschaftszweige, wiesen nur noch die Bereiche Herstellung von Nahrungs- und Futtermitteln (+ 1,9%) und der Maschinenbau (+ 0,1%) eine positive Entwicklung gegenüber April 2008 auf. Die Wirtschaftszweige Herstellung von elektrischen Ausrüstungen (- 1,1%), Herstellung von Kraftwagen und Kraftwagenteilen (- 2,4%), Herstellung von Metallerzeugnissen (- 2,5%) und Herstellung von Gummi- und Kunststoffwaren (- 3,0%) hatten jeweils einen Beschäftigtenrückgang zu verzeichnen.
Wirtschaftsminister Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg (CSU), soll verschiedenen Medien-Berichten zufolge, davor gewarnt haben, dass die Zahl der Menschen ohne Erwerbs-Einkiommen auf 4,6 Millionen Menschen noch in diesem Jahr ansteigen könne.
Von Andreas Klamm
Wiesbaden. Die Zahl der beschäftigten Menschen im verarbeitenden Gewerbe hat im April um 1,7 Prozent abgenommen. Das teilte das Statistische Bundesamt in Wiesbaden mit. Ende April 2009 waren in den Betrieben des Verarbeitenden Gewerbes mit 50 und mehr Beschäftigten in Deutschland 5,1 Millionen Personen tätig.
Das waren rund 86 000 Personen oder 1,7% weniger als im April 2008. Der Rückgang der Zahl der Beschäftigung setzt sich damit fort.
Die Zahl der im April 2009 geleisteten Arbeitsstunden nahm im Vergleich zum entsprechenden Vorjahresmonat um 16,8% auf 612 Millionen ab. Dabei ist zu berücksichtigen, dass es im Berichtsmonat 20 Arbeitstage gab und somit 2 weniger als im Vergleich zum Vorjahresmonat. Die Entgelte (Bruttolohn- und Bruttogehaltsumme) lagen bei 17,1 Milliarden Euro; das waren 7,9% weniger als im April 2008.
Im Vergleich der Beschäftigtenzahl in den von der Größe her wichtigsten Wirtschaftszweige, wiesen nur noch die Bereiche Herstellung von Nahrungs- und Futtermitteln (+ 1,9%) und der Maschinenbau (+ 0,1%) eine positive Entwicklung gegenüber April 2008 auf. Die Wirtschaftszweige Herstellung von elektrischen Ausrüstungen (- 1,1%), Herstellung von Kraftwagen und Kraftwagenteilen (- 2,4%), Herstellung von Metallerzeugnissen (- 2,5%) und Herstellung von Gummi- und Kunststoffwaren (- 3,0%) hatten jeweils einen Beschäftigtenrückgang zu verzeichnen.
Wirtschaftsminister Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg (CSU), soll verschiedenen Medien-Berichten zufolge, davor gewarnt haben, dass die Zahl der Menschen ohne Erwerbs-Einkiommen auf 4,6 Millionen Menschen noch in diesem Jahr ansteigen könne.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Sarah Palin Is Right: It is Time for Women to Stand Up to Say 'Enough'
Sarah Palin Is Right: It is Time for Women to Stand Up to Say 'Enough'
MEDIA ADVISORY, June 15 /Christian Newswire/ -- Enough is enough! Women, especially mothers and grandmothers, must fight against what has become almost automatic insult through the media, talk show hosts such as David Letterman, and others. Such insults are so commonplace it is not uncommon for even very young ladies to casually accept them, and sadly, even to refer to each other in degrading feminine terms. Too often, it is women who shoot ourselves in the foot, opposing each other on issues such as modesty, contraception, and abortion.
Sexual slurs are the result of a contraceptive mentality that in reality has only retarded masculine maturity, ironically emasculating men rather than demanding of them virtues that produce good fathers and husbands. Consider near epidemic addiction to pornography among single and married men as an example.
Slurs against femininity are part of the much broader assault on women due to widespread rejection of the prophetic wisdom of Pope Paul VI in his encyclical Humanae Vitae, wherein he predicted the impoverishment of women through contraception and abortion.
As the women of a nation go, so goes the nation is an old adage indicating that it is the power of woman that restores, safeguards, protects and enriches culture.
It is crucial now that women, regardless of religious affiliation, step up to apply feminine genius to uphold the universal wisdom of natural law. It is at the hands of women that either gender can hope to reclaim both self-respect and mutual respect that not only can, but will heal the culture to defeat anti-life forces that threaten at every turn.
The Leaven is a personal Christian charitable non- profit organization, founded by Alton and Juliana Davis in gratitude for healing from contraceptive abortion which they experienced in the early 1970's due to ignorance of emotional and psychological effects of abortifacient contraception. They offer their personal testimony as a powerful force to inform and then to begin the healing process for others who may have used contraception and consequently may experience the need for healing in their marriage and family life.
Contraception hurts women, and in so doing it hurts all of society, every man, woman, and child.
MEDIA ADVISORY, June 15 /Christian Newswire/ -- Enough is enough! Women, especially mothers and grandmothers, must fight against what has become almost automatic insult through the media, talk show hosts such as David Letterman, and others. Such insults are so commonplace it is not uncommon for even very young ladies to casually accept them, and sadly, even to refer to each other in degrading feminine terms. Too often, it is women who shoot ourselves in the foot, opposing each other on issues such as modesty, contraception, and abortion.
Sexual slurs are the result of a contraceptive mentality that in reality has only retarded masculine maturity, ironically emasculating men rather than demanding of them virtues that produce good fathers and husbands. Consider near epidemic addiction to pornography among single and married men as an example.
Slurs against femininity are part of the much broader assault on women due to widespread rejection of the prophetic wisdom of Pope Paul VI in his encyclical Humanae Vitae, wherein he predicted the impoverishment of women through contraception and abortion.
As the women of a nation go, so goes the nation is an old adage indicating that it is the power of woman that restores, safeguards, protects and enriches culture.
It is crucial now that women, regardless of religious affiliation, step up to apply feminine genius to uphold the universal wisdom of natural law. It is at the hands of women that either gender can hope to reclaim both self-respect and mutual respect that not only can, but will heal the culture to defeat anti-life forces that threaten at every turn.
The Leaven is a personal Christian charitable non- profit organization, founded by Alton and Juliana Davis in gratitude for healing from contraceptive abortion which they experienced in the early 1970's due to ignorance of emotional and psychological effects of abortifacient contraception. They offer their personal testimony as a powerful force to inform and then to begin the healing process for others who may have used contraception and consequently may experience the need for healing in their marriage and family life.
Contraception hurts women, and in so doing it hurts all of society, every man, woman, and child.
Sarah Palin Is Right: It is Time for Women to Stand Up to Say 'Enough'
Sarah Palin Is Right: It is Time for Women to Stand Up to Say 'Enough'
MEDIA ADVISORY, June 15 /Christian Newswire/ -- Enough is enough! Women, especially mothers and grandmothers, must fight against what has become almost automatic insult through the media, talk show hosts such as David Letterman, and others. Such insults are so commonplace it is not uncommon for even very young ladies to casually accept them, and sadly, even to refer to each other in degrading feminine terms. Too often, it is women who shoot ourselves in the foot, opposing each other on issues such as modesty, contraception, and abortion.
Sexual slurs are the result of a contraceptive mentality that in reality has only retarded masculine maturity, ironically emasculating men rather than demanding of them virtues that produce good fathers and husbands. Consider near epidemic addiction to pornography among single and married men as an example.
Slurs against femininity are part of the much broader assault on women due to widespread rejection of the prophetic wisdom of Pope Paul VI in his encyclical Humanae Vitae, wherein he predicted the impoverishment of women through contraception and abortion.
As the women of a nation go, so goes the nation is an old adage indicating that it is the power of woman that restores, safeguards, protects and enriches culture.
It is crucial now that women, regardless of religious affiliation, step up to apply feminine genius to uphold the universal wisdom of natural law. It is at the hands of women that either gender can hope to reclaim both self-respect and mutual respect that not only can, but will heal the culture to defeat anti-life forces that threaten at every turn.
The Leaven is a personal Christian charitable non- profit organization, founded by Alton and Juliana Davis in gratitude for healing from contraceptive abortion which they experienced in the early 1970's due to ignorance of emotional and psychological effects of abortifacient contraception. They offer their personal testimony as a powerful force to inform and then to begin the healing process for others who may have used contraception and consequently may experience the need for healing in their marriage and family life.
Contraception hurts women, and in so doing it hurts all of society, every man, woman, and child.
MEDIA ADVISORY, June 15 /Christian Newswire/ -- Enough is enough! Women, especially mothers and grandmothers, must fight against what has become almost automatic insult through the media, talk show hosts such as David Letterman, and others. Such insults are so commonplace it is not uncommon for even very young ladies to casually accept them, and sadly, even to refer to each other in degrading feminine terms. Too often, it is women who shoot ourselves in the foot, opposing each other on issues such as modesty, contraception, and abortion.
Sexual slurs are the result of a contraceptive mentality that in reality has only retarded masculine maturity, ironically emasculating men rather than demanding of them virtues that produce good fathers and husbands. Consider near epidemic addiction to pornography among single and married men as an example.
Slurs against femininity are part of the much broader assault on women due to widespread rejection of the prophetic wisdom of Pope Paul VI in his encyclical Humanae Vitae, wherein he predicted the impoverishment of women through contraception and abortion.
As the women of a nation go, so goes the nation is an old adage indicating that it is the power of woman that restores, safeguards, protects and enriches culture.
It is crucial now that women, regardless of religious affiliation, step up to apply feminine genius to uphold the universal wisdom of natural law. It is at the hands of women that either gender can hope to reclaim both self-respect and mutual respect that not only can, but will heal the culture to defeat anti-life forces that threaten at every turn.
The Leaven is a personal Christian charitable non- profit organization, founded by Alton and Juliana Davis in gratitude for healing from contraceptive abortion which they experienced in the early 1970's due to ignorance of emotional and psychological effects of abortifacient contraception. They offer their personal testimony as a powerful force to inform and then to begin the healing process for others who may have used contraception and consequently may experience the need for healing in their marriage and family life.
Contraception hurts women, and in so doing it hurts all of society, every man, woman, and child.
21 Human Rights Attorneys Experience Government Crackdown
21 Human Rights Attorneys Experience Government Crackdown
BEIJING, June 15 /Christian Newswire/ -- The Chinese government has launched a major crackdown against human rights attorneys, canceling or refusing to renew the licenses of at least 21 attorneys who have challenged the Communist government's abuse of Chinese citizens. Many of the attorneys have been working closely with ChinaAid's legal defense efforts for religious freedom cases.
"These human rights lawyers should be rewarded for their brave active efforts in promoting rule of law and advancing citizens' civil and human rights according to both the international standard and China's own Constitution, " said Bob Fu, president of ChinaAid. "Ironically, the rights of the rights attorneys are now in jeopardy."
Three leading lawyers have called ChinaAid expressing their concern and requesting ChinaAid to solicit the help of the international community. This is an unusual request from human rights attorneys who, in the past, have tried to walk a fine line within the framework of Chinese law. One lawyer told ChinaAid, 'The Chinese government already broke the bottom line by forcing our lawyers to fight to survive to earn a living."
ChinaAid has received reports of human rights attorneys who have been recently kidnapped, beaten, and tortured by officials for practicing normal legal defense work.
Gao Zhisheng is a Christian human rights attorney who was last seen on February 4, being hauled away by Chinese officials. To date, the Chinese government has continually refused to release information regarding Gao's whereabouts or condition. Gao, himself, accurately predicted that every human rights lawyer in China would eventually become a human rights case.
ChinaAid notes that at the same time international pressure is being applied, particularly from the U.S. government, regarding Gao's kidnapping, and the Chinese government has replied with an official denial of knowledge about his situation, behind the scenes, the government has responded with a crackdown on those attorneys following in Gao's steps, who have been interacting with the U.S.
Bob Fu stated, "The crackdown against the human rights attorneys simply shows how much progress in the Chinese government human rights record has been made, since the bloody massacre in Tiananmen Square 20 years ago. We call upon the Chinese authorities to restore the licenses of these 21 attorneys."
Contact the Chinese embassy and urge that they immediately restore the licenses of the attorneys, and end their harassment and abuse:
Ambassador Zhou Wenzhong
3505 International Place, NW, Washington, D.C. 20008
Tel: (202) 495-2000
Fax: (202) 588-9760
Contact your members of Congress and ask that they appeal to the Chinese government on behalf of the 21 attorneys. Visit www.house.gov/ and www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators _cfm.cfm
View the names of the 21 attorneys whose licenses have been suspended by the government.
ChinaAid grants permission to reproduce photos and/or information for non-fundraising purposes, with the provision that www.ChinaAid.org is credited. Please contact: Katherine@ChinaAid.org with questions or requests for further information.
BEIJING, June 15 /Christian Newswire/ -- The Chinese government has launched a major crackdown against human rights attorneys, canceling or refusing to renew the licenses of at least 21 attorneys who have challenged the Communist government's abuse of Chinese citizens. Many of the attorneys have been working closely with ChinaAid's legal defense efforts for religious freedom cases.
"These human rights lawyers should be rewarded for their brave active efforts in promoting rule of law and advancing citizens' civil and human rights according to both the international standard and China's own Constitution, " said Bob Fu, president of ChinaAid. "Ironically, the rights of the rights attorneys are now in jeopardy."
Three leading lawyers have called ChinaAid expressing their concern and requesting ChinaAid to solicit the help of the international community. This is an unusual request from human rights attorneys who, in the past, have tried to walk a fine line within the framework of Chinese law. One lawyer told ChinaAid, 'The Chinese government already broke the bottom line by forcing our lawyers to fight to survive to earn a living."
ChinaAid has received reports of human rights attorneys who have been recently kidnapped, beaten, and tortured by officials for practicing normal legal defense work.
Gao Zhisheng is a Christian human rights attorney who was last seen on February 4, being hauled away by Chinese officials. To date, the Chinese government has continually refused to release information regarding Gao's whereabouts or condition. Gao, himself, accurately predicted that every human rights lawyer in China would eventually become a human rights case.
ChinaAid notes that at the same time international pressure is being applied, particularly from the U.S. government, regarding Gao's kidnapping, and the Chinese government has replied with an official denial of knowledge about his situation, behind the scenes, the government has responded with a crackdown on those attorneys following in Gao's steps, who have been interacting with the U.S.
Bob Fu stated, "The crackdown against the human rights attorneys simply shows how much progress in the Chinese government human rights record has been made, since the bloody massacre in Tiananmen Square 20 years ago. We call upon the Chinese authorities to restore the licenses of these 21 attorneys."
Contact the Chinese embassy and urge that they immediately restore the licenses of the attorneys, and end their harassment and abuse:
Ambassador Zhou Wenzhong
3505 International Place, NW, Washington, D.C. 20008
Tel: (202) 495-2000
Fax: (202) 588-9760
Contact your members of Congress and ask that they appeal to the Chinese government on behalf of the 21 attorneys. Visit www.house.gov/ and www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators _cfm.cfm
View the names of the 21 attorneys whose licenses have been suspended by the government.
ChinaAid grants permission to reproduce photos and/or information for non-fundraising purposes, with the provision that www.ChinaAid.org is credited. Please contact: Katherine@ChinaAid.org with questions or requests for further information.
Taking Faith to Work
Taking Faith to Work
ENUMCLAW, Wash., June 15 /Christian Newswire/ -- As Christians we devote our lives to serving God. The bulk of our days, however, are spent not in prayer, worship, or church, but at work. Devotion to Christ does not erase our need to earn a living. "God created work," Chip Rick's Holiness Today article* points out. "Before the Fall, He gave Adam the job of tending the Garden of Eden and caring for the animals. Work became much more difficult after the Fall, but people continued to work, providing for their families, building cities and empires." Still, as natural and God-given as work is, this huge chunk of our lives continues to be a source of stress and conflict. Can we follow God's call in an ordinary 8-to-5 job? Are faith and work really connected or should we see them as separate aspects of our lives?
To author Richard Bouch, faith and work are very much connected. In his new book "The Faith-Work Window: Why Work Matters to Christianity in a Fallen World" he hopes to show that "personal ministry, mission and spiritual growth all benefit from understanding the faith-work relationship." He sees the nexus between faith and work as inherently interesting and always current yet often overlooked in churches. "Working is one of the biggest parts of life in the fallen world. It has a massive impact on social structures, self-perception, life choices, and on faith itself." Bouch also sees work as a topic that the Gospel takes very seriously.
Bouch calls "The Faith-Work Window" a "semi- academic" book written for thoughtful Christians. With quotes by great Christian thinkers like Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Martin Luther, and Pope John Paul II he draws from a variety of perspectives. Still he seeks to reach a wide variety of readers, from pastors to lay people showing that it is possible to glorify God in our work life. As one Anglican Priest said, "'The Faith-Work Window' arrives at a time when a comprehensive discussion concerning the integration of work and Christian personhood is long overdue . . . few have plowed its depths as does Dr. Bouch."
For more information, a review copy or to schedule an interview, please contact Abigail Davidson by phone at 360-802-9758, email at abigail@winepressgroup.com, or by fax at 360-802- 9992. To order visit www.winepressbooks.com or call 877-421-7323.
*"Taking Salt to the Water Cooler," Chip Rick, www.nph.com.
ENUMCLAW, Wash., June 15 /Christian Newswire/ -- As Christians we devote our lives to serving God. The bulk of our days, however, are spent not in prayer, worship, or church, but at work. Devotion to Christ does not erase our need to earn a living. "God created work," Chip Rick's Holiness Today article* points out. "Before the Fall, He gave Adam the job of tending the Garden of Eden and caring for the animals. Work became much more difficult after the Fall, but people continued to work, providing for their families, building cities and empires." Still, as natural and God-given as work is, this huge chunk of our lives continues to be a source of stress and conflict. Can we follow God's call in an ordinary 8-to-5 job? Are faith and work really connected or should we see them as separate aspects of our lives?
To author Richard Bouch, faith and work are very much connected. In his new book "The Faith-Work Window: Why Work Matters to Christianity in a Fallen World" he hopes to show that "personal ministry, mission and spiritual growth all benefit from understanding the faith-work relationship." He sees the nexus between faith and work as inherently interesting and always current yet often overlooked in churches. "Working is one of the biggest parts of life in the fallen world. It has a massive impact on social structures, self-perception, life choices, and on faith itself." Bouch also sees work as a topic that the Gospel takes very seriously.
Bouch calls "The Faith-Work Window" a "semi- academic" book written for thoughtful Christians. With quotes by great Christian thinkers like Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Martin Luther, and Pope John Paul II he draws from a variety of perspectives. Still he seeks to reach a wide variety of readers, from pastors to lay people showing that it is possible to glorify God in our work life. As one Anglican Priest said, "'The Faith-Work Window' arrives at a time when a comprehensive discussion concerning the integration of work and Christian personhood is long overdue . . . few have plowed its depths as does Dr. Bouch."
For more information, a review copy or to schedule an interview, please contact Abigail Davidson by phone at 360-802-9758, email at abigail@winepressgroup.com, or by fax at 360-802- 9992. To order visit www.winepressbooks.com or call 877-421-7323.
*"Taking Salt to the Water Cooler," Chip Rick, www.nph.com.
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