Angela Merkel: Deutschlands beliebteste Politikerin feiert Geburtstag

Angela Merkel: Deutschlands beliebteste Politikerin feiert Geburtstag

Von Andreas Klamm


Berlin. Heute vor 55 Jahren erblickte Angela Merkel am 17. Juli 1954 in Hamburg das Licht der Welt. Der Vater der Berufspolitikerin hatte die Hoffnung auf eine neues und anderes Deutschland und wechselte den Wohnort von West-Deutschland nach Ost-Deutschland im Land Brandenburg.



Menschen aus aller Welt gratulieren der beliebten Kanzlerin Angela Merkel zum 55jährigen Geburtstag. Foto: Andreas Klamm

Die Tochter eines Pfarrers erlebte eine Bilder-Buch-Karriere, wie kaum eine andere Frau in Deutschland. Nach erfolgreicher Absolvierung der Oberschule und einem Studium als Physikerin wurde die junge Frau mit politischen Ambitionen von Bundeskanzler a. D. Dr. Helmut Kohl zu Beginn der 90er Jahre nach der Fusion der Deutschen Demokratischen Republik (DDR) und Bundesrepublik Deutschland entdeckt und gefördert.

Angela Merkel wurde Ministerin für Frauen und Jugend und wenig später Bundesministerin für Umwelt.

Nur wenige Jahre im Anschluss an die Entdeckung von Dr. Helmut Kohl wurde im Jahr 2005 Dr. Angela Merkel als erste Bundeskanzlerin und als Frau in eines der höchsten politischen Ämter in Deutschland gewählt.

Bereits im Verlauf dieser Woche gratulierten Staats- und Regierungs-Chefs aus aller Welt der Kanzlerin zum Geburtstag.

Vom amerikanischen Nachrichten-Magazine „Newsweek“ wurde Angela Merkel erst vor wenigen Wochen erneut zur mächtigsten Frau der Welt gewählt.

Die Lebens-Geschichte von Angela Merkel wird von vielen Menschen als persönliche und deutsche Erfolgs-Geschichte bezeichnet.

In Deutschland und in vielen Teilen Europas wird Angela Merkel als die beliebteste Politikerin in Deutschland bezeichnet.

Menschen aus aller Welt gratulieren bei Deutschland´s größter Tageszeit „Bild“ der Kanzlerin.

Wer der Kanzlerin direkt Geburtsgrüße mittels email schicken möchte kann an email:
InternetPost@bundesregierung.de oder mittels der Internet-Präsentation von Angela Merkel bei http://www.angela-merkel.de/page/46.htm Geburtstags- und Segens-Wünsche an die Regierungschefin schreiben.

Former Christian Coalition Leader Launches Grassroots Organization to Activate Christian Conservatives

Former Christian Coalition Leader Launches Grassroots Organization to Activate Christian Conservatives to Oppose Pres. Obama and the Anti-Christian Anti-American Director of His Leadership

MEDIA ADVISORY, July 14 /Standard Newswire/ -- Bishop E.W. Jackson Sr., former spokesperson and a top leader for the Christian Coalition, has launched a new organization - - S.T.A.N.D. [Staying True to America's National Destiny] -- to unify Christians and other conservatives around social and economic issues. However, Bishop Jackson is taking a different approach. "We are mainly interested in impacting the culture," says the Bishop. "Political victories can be reversed, but cultural change is lasting."

Their first major initiative is to make January "AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH". Says Bishop Jackson, "One of the reasons we lack unity in America is that the Judeo-Christian heritage and values which our Founding Fathers bequeathed us are under attack. Our heritage is lied about, suppressed and ignored in the push toward secularism and relativism. It is being done in Universities, public schools and even by President Obama."

STAND's American History Month will celebrate the nobility of American history and our Founders and rebut the lie that America is born of racism, exploitation and capitalistic greed. American History Month will highlight the heroic sacrifice, bold initiative, pioneering spirit, selfless cooperation and faith in God that made America possible. STAND believes that this President is denigrating America's contribution to the world, denying the role of Christianity in our country, and falsely claiming that Islam is a major contributor to America's success. "What history books is the President reading?" asks Jackson.

STAND considers Obama to be symptomatic of the ideological and anti-Christian bias in the teaching of American history. Bishop Jackson asks, "How many people know that one of our war cries during the Revolutionary War was 'No King but Jesus'? Precious few, and apparently not the President."

STAND is also opposing Obama's healthcare reform, which it calls "a veiled government takeover of healthcare." Bishop Jackson argues, "If the government takes over healthcare, everything will be rationed except abortion. The conscience objection will be eliminated, and abortion will increase like a plague upon the land." STAND wants to end abortion in America. It is also against Cap & Trade as "an insane burden" on an already crippled economy. Its members are contacting their Senators to make their sentiments known on these issues.

Judicial Watch Raises Ethics Concerns about Judge Sotomayor

Judicial Watch Raises Ethics Concerns about Judge Sotomayor

Prejudicial Statements, Discriminatory Affiliation and Improper Political Activities In Violation of Judicial Code of Conduct

WASHINGTON, July 8 /Standard Newswire/ -- Judicial Watch, the public interest group that investigates and prosecutes government corruption, announced today that it sent a letter of complaint on July 7 to Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Patrick Leahy (D-VT) and Ranking Member Jeff Sessions (R-AL) expressing concern that Supreme Court nominee Judge Sonia Sotomayor has repeatedly violated the Judicial Code of Conduct through her statements and behavior and is therefore unfit to serve on the High Court.

According to the letter signed by Judicial Watch President Tom Fitton:

"I write to you out of concern that out-of-court statements and activity by Judge Sonia Sotomayor violate various provisions of the Code of Conduct for United States Judges ("Code of Conduct"). In fact, Judge Sotomayor may be in violation of the Code of Conduct as a result of the following:

· Repeated prejudicial and racist comments.

· Recent membership in an organization that practices "invidious discrimination" based on sex.

· Improper political activity.

The Judicial Code of Conduct notes that the duty to "act in a manner that promotes public confidence in the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary applies to all the judge's activities, including the discharge of the judge's adjudicative and administrative responsibilities. The duty to be respectful includes the responsibility to avoid comment or behavior that could reasonably be interpreted as harassment, prejudice or bias."

Judge Sotomayor's statements and activities, Judicial Watch contends, have repeatedly violated this and other canons of the Code of Conduct. Among the evidence presented by Judicial Watch to support its contention:

Sotomayor's Prejudiced and Racist Comments: During an October 2001 speech at the University of California Berkeley, Sotomayor said the following: "I would hope that a wise Latina woman with the richness of her experiences would more often than not reach a better conclusion than a white male who hasn't lived that life." Judge Sotomayor has also promoted the idea that "gender and national origins" of judges "may and will make a difference in our judging."

Sotomayor's Membership in an Organization That Practices "Invidious Discrimination" Based on Sex: According to Canon 2 (c) of the Judicial Code of Conduct: "A judge should not hold membership in any organization that practices invidious discrimination on the basis of race, sex, religion, or national origin." Judge Sotomayor recently resigned her membership from the Belizean Grove, a private organization consisting entirely of professional women that claims to represent the counterweight to the "elite old boys' network." In her recent Senate questionnaire Judge Sotomayor wrote the following with respect to her organizational affiliations: "None of the above organizations, other than the Belizean Grove, discriminates on the basis of race, sex, religion, or national origin." Judge Sotomayor stated that the group does not "invidiously" discriminate but the evidence seems otherwise.

Sotomayor's Improper Political Activity: On April 17, 2009, Judge Sotomayor made a political speech to the Black, Latino, Asian Pacific American Law Alumni Association. Among the statements made by Judge Sotomayor during that speech: "The wide coalition of groups that joined forces to elect America's first Afro- American President was awe inspiring in both the passion the members of the coalition exhibited in their efforts and the discipline they showed in the execution of their goals... Our challenge as lawyers and court related professionals and staff, as citizens of the world is to keep the spirit of the common joy we shared on November 4 alive in our everyday existence."

Canon 5 of the Code of Conduct plainly states that "A judge should refrain from political activity," and that a judge should not "publicly endorse or oppose a candidate for public office."

"Judge Sotomayor seems to be in violation of the ethical guidelines that governs the conduct of judges. Frankly, this apparent misconduct ought to give the Judiciary Committee and the full Senate further reason to reject her nomination for the High Court," stated Judicial Watch President Tom Fitton.

Visit www.JudicialWatch.org to read Judicial Watch's letter to Senators Leahy and Sessions in its entirety.

Christian Author Shares How Getting a Husband Starts with Thinking Like a Wife

Christian Author Shares How Getting a Husband Starts with Thinking Like a Wife

PHILADELPHIA, July 15 /Christian Newswire/ -- Ironically, the very thing keeping most single women from getting a man to pop the question is the fact that they're "single" women.

That is to say, the fact that they're thinking like single women, as opposed to their married counterparts, according to Christine Pembleton in her debut book Lord, I'm Ready to be a Wife (Josephine Communications, June 2009).

"The 'single woman' is someone who has her own purpose--like a career or ministry--and it's something that she can do by herself," said Pembleton, who took her wedding vows nearly four years ago. "She doesn't really have time for a relationship and, if she does, it's not her priority because she's so wrapped up in doing her own thing."

Pembleton said she's not knocking women for pursuing their professional and personal goals. In fact, Pembleton--who is a minister, Internet radio talk show host, and an IT industry professional-- encourages it. However, she is convinced that inflexibility and overly unilateral thinking has prevented many potentially fabulous wives and mothers from catching the eye of Mr. Right.

"The problem with the 'single woman' is that she is not willing to let go of her thing to focus on our thing," she said. "Working on 'our' thing is precisely what marriage is all about. So single women sometimes make it hard for men to see them as wife material."

Lord, I'm Ready to be a Wife challenges unmarried women to examine the reasons why they want to be married, the attributes of a wife, what they should be looking for in a potential mate, and even a few long-held traditions and rules about dating, such as the ever-popular "list."

"This book will help the single woman get out of her own way, so that the right man--a good, godly man-- will recognize her as his wife when he sees her," said Pembleton. "It will definitely equip and empower every woman to be the very best that God has created her to be, while she waits for the man who will make her his queen."

For media interviews, book signings, or engagements, contact Genikwa R. Williams at 888- 390-0226, Ext. 3 or media@readytobeawife.com.

Grand Canyon University Adds Masters Program Christian Studies Added to Growing Liberal Arts Curriculum

Grand Canyon University Adds Masters Program Christian Studies Added to Growing Liberal Arts Curriculum

PHOENIX, July 15 /Christian Newswire/ -- To help professionals who are pursuing a higher calling, Grand Canyon University (GCU) is introducing a master of arts degree in Christian studies to enhance communications, leadership and organizational skills that are essential building blocks for a strong ministry.

"With our Christian foundation and advanced online curricula, we're the ideal institution for those who are in Christian outreach to take their ministry to the next level," said GCU Dean of College of Liberal Arts Lisa St. Louis. "A masters program enables us to offer our students - many whom are working professionals located throughout the country - a way to do this through strong online curricula."

GCU has a well-established undergraduate program in Christian studies, and incorporates Christian principles into many of its other degree programs. The University's course offerings in youth, urban and intercultural ministry are relevant to the real-world challenges faced by pastors and other Christian community leaders today.

"Many of our students have been asking for a master's level program in Christian studies, and with our rich history the advanced program is a natural progression for us," St. Louis said.

GCU's Master of Arts in Christian Studies will utilize biblical studies as the foundation, and an understanding of theology, philosophy and Christian history as the framework for communicating Christ to various audiences. Students will build their communications, leadership and organizational skills in order to enhance their ministry. The degree will be offered as an online program beginning with the fall 2009 semester.

About Grand Canyon University
Founded in 1949, Grand Canyon University is a traditional regionally accredited, private, Christian university offering campus-based and online bachelor's and master's degree programs through the Ken Blanchard College of Business, College of Education, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, and College of Liberal Arts. As an NCAA-competitive university, GCU offers more sports programs than any other higher education institution in Arizona. The Phoenix-based school is ranked as having one of the top online education programs by OEDb (Online Education Database). GCU emphasizes individual attention for both traditional undergraduate students as well as the working professional. For more information visit www.gcu.edu.

Straight Talk on Life: Kathleen Kennedy Townsend's Manipulative Mendacity

Straight Talk on Life: Kathleen Kennedy Townsend's Manipulative Mendacity

OPINION, July 15 /Christian Newswire/ -- The following is submitted by Judie Brown, president of American Life League:

When I was growing up, one of the things my parents taught me, by example and instruction, was never to move off the goal, regardless of how many distractions might come in the course of a given day. I really paid attention to that, so I used to practice music four hours daily and get my homework completed before I ever thought about going out to play or eating a snack. Those are lessons I carry with me today, and when I read something like the commentary Kathleen Kennedy Townsend just wrote, I wish that she had been taught the same lesson on focus. She clearly lacks it!

In her Newsweek "web exclusive" titled "Without a doubt: Why Barack Obama represents American Catholics better than the pope does," www.newsweek.com/id/205961 she propounds a theory that should put every practicing American Catholic at odds with her impudent thinking. She is not only misguided, but intentionally deceptive.

She tells the reader that while it is clear that Obama and the pope disagree on "reproductive freedoms and homosexuality," the "Catholics back home won't care because they know Obama's on their side. In fact, Obama's agenda is closer to their views than even the pope's."

"Reproductive freedoms," for those unfamiliar with the culture of death's propaganda, is a code phrase for abortion on demand, sex instruction in schools, birth control for kids, and all manner of bizarre propositions that help the purveyors of smut to define the human person as an animal incapable of self-control. One need only read a single comment from Planned Parenthood's founder, Margaret Sanger, to get a whiff of where Kennedy Townsend is headed: www.catholiceducation.org/articles/sexuality/ se0057.html

"Through sex, mankind may attain the great spiritual illumination which will transform the world, which will light up the only path to an earthly paradise. So must we necessarily and inevitably conceive of sex- expression."

The proponents of this warped thinking, which places the human being on the same plane as your pet dog or cat, have several goals that Kennedy Townsend does not mention. She is dedicated to discrediting the pope, so she does not address the full-fledged Obama agenda.

One can easily tell that her thought process has little to do with Catholic identity and, in fact, is contrary to all that is Catholic. There is no other explanation for her inane claim that President Obama is somehow more in tune with American Catholics than the pope who is, after all, the Vicar of Christ on earth.

In her attempt to discredit the papacy, Kennedy Townsend gives us her interpretation of the Holy Father's magnificent new encyclical letter, Caritas in Veritate. www.zenit.org/article-26386?l=english. Of course, she wants her readers to believe that the encyclical is all about giving "moral credence" to Obama's "progressive politics" when, in fact, the encyclical's message is something else entirely. As the Holy Father states repeatedly, the proper understanding and appreciation of the human person's dignity and extraordinary value are foundational to the proper approach to economic and social life.

Without respect for the human person, it is impossible to bring about a just society, and in a just society, there is no room for heinous crimes such as abortion. This is the underlying theme of the entire encyclical, which Kennedy Townsend apparently overlooked entirely.

From there, it doesn't take long for Kennedy Townsend to throw down the gauntlet and verbally crucify the Holy Father, as she extols the Kennedy family's hierarchy of values: the radical feminist version of women's equality, militant homosexual activists' "cry for justice," contraception for one and all, and, of course, abortion.

In this diatribe, Kennedy Townsend's distortion of the truth inherent in Catholic teaching on these matters clearly reflects her personal malice. She misrepresents the intentions that have been foundational to the teaching of Popes Paul VI, John Paul II and Benedict XVI, and demeans and sullies the reputations of all three.

Her comments on these popes are nothing short of scurrilous. I am positive that she writes in this manner to justify her personal lack of faith in the one true Church and do all she can to lead others astray. She also aims to garner support from other "Obama-ites" who agree with her discombobulated view of what it means to be a Catholic.

Kennedy Townsend is obviously a Catholic dissenter, and this is perhaps why she claims that Pope Benedict XVI, like his predecessors, is "part of this culture that silences dissent." She is wrong on this point as well. If she were correct, Father John Jenkins, the University of Notre Dame's president who proudly hosted President Obama as a commencement speaker, http://president.nd.edu/about-the-office/presidents- biography would have been silenced; Father John Paris, SJ, http://catholicexchange.com/2007/12/17/91865/ who approves of euthanizing people, would have been silenced; and I could go on and on with similar examples. But rather than doing so, just read my book Saving Those Damned Catholics: A Defense of Catholic Teaching. http://americanlifeleague.stores.yahoo.net/ sathdacasbo.html I have already sent an autographed copy of it to Kennedy Townsend.

I have to tell you that Judie Brown is not the only one disgusted with the Kennedy Townsend's impudence. Deal Hudson, no stranger to controversy himself, has aired his disdain as well. In his commentary on her tirade, he wrote, http://insidecatholic.com/Joomla/index.php? option=com_content&task=view&id=6438&Itemid=80

Townsend's argument is this: Obama promotes contraception, therefore his "agenda is closer to their views than even the pope's." OK, fair enough, but the answer to Townsend is "so what?"

Does this mean that the Church and its Holy Father should henceforth change its teaching on contraception and embrace Obama as an agent of "change" within the Church? No, it means the opposite: The Church should do a better job of teaching and evangelization so that the pervasive dissent on issues like contraception and gay marriage is effectively addressed.

Church leadership needs to wake up and realize the impact of the Obama presidency on the parish, the chancery, and even the Vatican. This game of footsy Catholic leaders are playing with Obama is empowering Catholic dissenters like Kathleen Kennedy Townsend.

Hudson is correct. Either the opinions of deluded "Catholic" public figures such as Kennedy Townsend will become commonplace, or fundamental Catholic moral teaching will be forcefully placed in the forefront of the political landscape by the very men called to that vocation: the U.S. bishops.

And that brings me to my final comment on Kennedy Townsend's manipulative mendacity: Where are the bishops? Where are the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops bureaucrats in charge of giving Catholic bishops the daily news and writing statements for them to issue when someone attacks the pope as Kennedy Townsend has? Where is the bishops' collegiality when the very truth upon which the Catholic Church stands is being verbally assaulted by a renegade rabble-rouser?

Maybe nobody's there at the USCCB office anymore. If not, call me! I will be happy to come and volunteer!

Sonia Sotomayor and Abortion: Pro-life Protests at Supreme Court and Elsewhere

Sonia Sotomayor and Abortion: Pro-life Protests at Supreme Court and Elsewhere against Sotomayor July 11-14. Catholics Beg D.C. Archbishop Wuerl to Withhold Communion from Catholic Senators who Vote for Sotomayor

Protests will include "Sotomayor lookalike," with a grim reaper sickle; child coffins with "dead children" inside, and more.

(Full schedule below.)

WASHINGTON, July 11 /Christian Newswire/ -- The following is submitted by Randal Terry:

Schedule of events:

1) Saturday, July 11, 5:00 P.M., St. Matthews Cathedral

Vigil outside of St. Matthew's Cathedral, (1725 Rhode Island Ave NW Washington, DC 20036 Washington D.C.) pleading with Archbishop Wuerl to withhold communion from Catholic Senators who vote to confirm Sotomayor.

We will be joined by Norma McCorvey, the former "Jane Roe" of Roe vs. Wade.

2) Sunday, July 12 Vigils, St. Matthew's Cathedral.

Mass Times: 8:30, 10:00, 11:30, 1:00.

3) Supreme Court Protest. Sunday, July 12, 2:30 P.M.

Rally in front of the U.S. Supreme Court, calling on pro- life Senators to filibuster Sotomayor.

4) July 13-15, daily protests in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee.

Each day will have a different theme.

On Monday, a Sotomayor look alike will parade around with a "Sickle of Death," showing Sotomayor's support of the slaughter of unborn children. There will also be child coffins holding "dead babies."

Randall Terry States:

"We are tired of Senators using unborn babies to seduce pro-lifers before elections - taking pro-lifers' volunteer labor, money, and votes - only to cast us and the babies aside like an embarrassing mistress after an election. It is disgusting.

"Any pro-life Senator who votes for Sotomayor is turning their back on unborn children and continuing this holocaust. They can't say, 'I want to overturn Roe,' and then confirm a Supreme Court Judge who will uphold Roe. To do so is hypocrisy, cowardice, and treachery of the first order.

"But it is not enough to vote against Sotomayor; pro- life Senators from both parties must filibuster her. Whether they win or lose, it is a battle worth fighting for the sake of innocent children."

ALSO: More protests will occur next week against Sotomayor in various cities across the nation.

See www.OverturnRoe.com for more details.

Prayer Vigil at Supreme Court on Eve of Sotomayor Confirmation Hearings -- Vigil on Sunday, July 12, at 6:30 PM

Prayer Vigil at Supreme Court on Eve of Sotomayor Confirmation Hearings -- Vigil on Sunday, July 12, at 6:30 PM

WASHINGTON, July 12 /Christian Newswire/ -- The Christian Defense Coalition will hold a prayer vigil at the Supreme Court on the eve of the Judge Sonia Sotomayor confirmation hearings.

The vigil will be on Sunday, July 12, at 6:30 P.M. in front of the steps of the United States Supreme Court.

The Sotomayor confirmation hearings begin on Monday, July 13.

Participants will leave roses at the court to remember and draw attention to the over 50,000,000 innocent children that have died from abortions and to pray that Judge Sotomayor embraces justice and human rights.

They will also be praying from Proverbs 21:1 which says, "The king's heart is in the hand of the Lord, like the rivers of water, he turns it wherever he will."

If confirmed, Judge Sonia Sotomayor will have impact on legal decisions for a generation to come.

On Thursday, July 9, the Christian Defense Coalition and Faith and Action held a prayer and anointing service outside of Hart 216 where the Sotomayor confirmation hearings will take place. You may view this prayer and anointing service online at http://qik.com/video/2134568

Rev. Patrick J. Mahoney, Director of the Christian Defense Coalition, states, "On July 13, the confirmation hearings begin for Judge Sonia Sotomayor who is being considered for the next Supreme Court Justice. If confirmed, her decisions will impact generations to come.

"In response to this, we are gathering at the Supreme Court to pray that God will direct the hearings and guide the members of the Senate Judiciary Committee. We will be praying that the truth will be brought out about the record of Judge Sotomayor.

"We will also be praying that if she is confirmed, God will direct her heart to embrace justice and our founding principles. These founding principles support a culture of life, family and freedom of religion.

"We are asking Christians across the nation pray Proverbs 21:1, which proclaims that God can direct and guide those in power. The faith community is not powerless in this process and we believe that God can change and lead the heart of Sonia Sotomayor to make decisions that affirm justice and equality.

"Through prayer, Judge Sotomayor could be the vote that brings down Roe v. Wade.

"We will also be leaving roses to remember the over 50,000,000 children that have died through abortion and call upon the Supreme Court to live up to the words etched on the outside of their building; 'Equal Justice Under Law.'"

For more information or interviews call:
Rev. Patrick J. Mahoney at 540.538.4741 202.547.1735

African American Pro-Life Group Holds Protest at NAACP

African American Pro-Life Group Holds Protest at NAACP

NEW YORK, July 13 /Christian Newswire/ -- LEARN Northeast the Life Education and Resource Network will be holding demonstrations at this year's Centennial NAACP National Convention, July 13 through the 16, in New York City. This year's convention marks 100 years of this prestigious civil rights organization.

"The NAACP continues to ignore the severe health ramifications for women who have abortions," said Rev. Clenard H. Childress Jr, the director of LEARN Northeast and founder of the infamous pro-life website Blackgenocide.org. "A disproportionate number are African American. African American women now lead the nation in miscarriages and the rise in breast cancer among African American women is epidemic. Multiple studies find this is due directly to abortions, especially among women who abort in their first pregnancy."

"With the present administration's aggressive abortion agenda it is ever more imperative that the NAACP inform its body of the decimating effects of abortion on the Afro-American community," stated Rev. Childress.

Alan Guttmaucher reports that for every two African- American women that get pregnant, one will choose to abort. Each day 1,786 African American children are aborted. According to the US Census of 2006 African Americans are at 1.96 birth rate which is beneath the replacement level of 2.1.

"The organization founded for the national advancement of colored people is working in conjunction with the ideology of racist population control groups which advocates the national depletion of colored people, such as Planned Parenthood," stated Rev. Childress. "How else can you explain the continual censoring and disregard for their own chapters resolutions and by-laws by the national board? America should not at all be surprised at the retired Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg comments. Roe vs. Wade was about reducing the numbers of African Americans specifically."

This Sunday the New York Times published an interview with Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Quoting from Justice Ginsburg in the article, "Frankly I had thought that at the time Roe was decided, there was concern about population growth and particularly growth in populations that we don't want to have too many of."

Since 2004 the NAACP has repeatedly censored resolutions submitted by the Macon and Dayton Chapters of the NAACP. LEARN again will be partnering with the Center for Bioethical Reform who will provide 12X4 foot signs to be displayed outside the convention along with a truck that will circle the area. The new documentary film by Life Dynamics MAAFA will be distributed to delegates and pastors.

"There is nothing on earth that exposes the racism of Planned Parenthood and the true intent of abortion providers, like this movie stated," Damon Owens of Joy filled Marriage NJ. "This is going to have an impact!"

The Most Pro-Life State Gains Momentum for Personhood Initiative as Lt Governor Signs On

The Most Pro-Life State Gains Momentum for Personhood Initiative as Lt Governor Signs On

JACKSON, Miss., July 13 /Christian Newswire/ -- The Personhood Initiative in Mississippi has recently gain significant momentum because of national personhood efforts emerging around the country. Mississippi has long been known as the most "pro-life" state in America and could be the first state to affirm the personhood rights of all humans.

Lt Governor Phil Bryant also gave this effort a boost by endorsing the effort and signing the petition. He joined a growing and diverse group of political, church, and community leaders from across the state who are getting behind this effort.

The Personhood Initiative is sponsored by the coalition named Personhood Mississippi, and has the legal backing of the Liberty Council and the Thomas Moore Law Center.

The grassroots volunteers have until January 2010 to gather roughly 90,000 signatures equally distributed among the congressional districts. But their goal is to have the signatures by Oct. 1, 2009 to place Personhood Initiative #26 on the November 2010 ballot.

Personhood Mississippi is mainly focusing on gathering the required signatures in churches all across the State.

"If this amendment becomes law, the rights that we as Mississippians enjoy, to not have our lives, liberty, or property taken without due process of law would be extended to the smallest and most helpless human beings in our state. This is not only an anti-abortion, anti-cloning measure, but ultimately an equal rights law as well." said Les Riley Personhood Initiative sponsor.

When asked about Roe v Wade, Riley continued that "Roe v Wade is not only an affront to God, but it is also one of the worst judicial overreaches in the history of the Republic. Illegitimate, illegal, and unconstitutional Court decisions should be challenged. If passed, the Mississippi Personhood Amendment would set up just such a challenge."

Revolutionary New Christian Online Social Media & Web 2.0 Network Announces Major Release

Revolutionary New Christian Online Social Media & Web 2.0 Network Announces Major Release

Multi-faceted global I-Church Network (www.ichurchnetwork.com) platform is designed to reach millions while offering exciting features powered by affordable cutting edge technologies.

FORT MYERS, Fla., July 13 /Christian Newswire/ -- A new and exciting social networking system - complete with the most advanced online media features - has just announced a major release and upgrade. The new and improved I-ChurchNetwork promises to redefine, reconnect, and revitalize the global Christian community by bringing individuals and churches closer together with futuristic technology that is exceptionally sophisticated - but entirely user-friendly.

The I-ChurchNetwork is the first of its kind faith-based social movement designed to reach millions of people worldwide through an interactive online network. Now Christians everywhere - and their families, friends, and congregations - can enjoy online videos, blogs, MP3 music and message downloads, and even their own dedicated and customized email service.

"I-Church is run by a team of Christians," explains spokesperson John Allen. "We are passionate about bringing a social and academic movement to individuals, churches, ministries, schools, vendors, performing artists, and various organizations."

Users can, for example, post their event announcements and calendars. They can participate in local or international discussion groups and forums, meet new people, or upload and download sermons. Church leaders can maintain a private network to facilitate fellowship and ministry management. Young people can use I-Church as their social gathering site, exchanging messages and posting profiles with the confidence that the environment is not just fun but also safe, secure, and uplifting. There is even an online store for users to sell products, and all members can join the network for free.

Sotomayor is Unfit to Serve

Sotomayor is Unfit to Serve

WASHINGTON, July 13 /Christian Newswire/ -- As Senate hearings are underway this morning to consider the nomination of Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the U.S. Supreme Court, Operation Rescue releases the following statement, attributable to Troy Newman:

"We are blessed to live in a nation that is founded on the rule of law with protection for certain inalienable rights, including the precious right to life. Without this right, the rest of our laws are meaningless.

"Unfortunately, in our country today, that right is routinely ignored while vulnerable human beings in the earliest stages of their existence are deprived daily of their right to life through abortion with the consent of a 1973 Supreme Court decision, Roe v. Wade, that many now agree was wrongly decided.

"Judge Sotomayor has shown disregard for the lives of these individuals with her personal support for abortion. She has also shown a disturbing propensity for allowing her personal beliefs to impact her legal decisions. It is clear that she would further the injustice of abortion by upholding the errant Roe decision and would continue to deprive the most vulnerable among us of their right to life.

"This makes her unfit to serve on our nation's highest court.

"The latest polls show that the majority of Americans now identify themselves as "pro-life" and especially oppose abortions done after the first trimester of pregnancy. Judge Sotomayor's views on abortion and rule of law are out of step with the American people and out of step with common decency and compassion that would abhor the violence of abortion and work instead to build a society where killing babies for convenience is considered the unthinkable evil that it truly is.

"For this reason, Operation Rescue opposes the confirmation of Judge Sotomayor, and will encourage the new pro-life majority of the American people to immediately contact their Senators to voice their opposition to this nominee as well."

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.

Richard Viguerie: All Issues at Sotomayor Confirmation Hearings Boil Down to One

Richard Viguerie: All Issues at Sotomayor Confirmation Hearings Boil Down to One

MANASSAS, Va., July 13 /Christian Newswire/ -- The following is a statement by Richard A. Viguerie, Chairman of ConservativeHQ.com, concerning the Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearings for President Obama's Supreme Court nominee, Judge Sonia Sotomayor:

"Some Republican senators are finally hinting at the one issue that could dominate and make uniquely historic the Sotomayor hearings. As longtime Chicago- way Obama advisor David Axelrod said in a May 26, 2009 interview, the President nominated Sotomayor because 'he wanted someone whose philosophy of judging was his,' which was to 'adapt' - meaning change - 'constitutional principles and law.'

"That is a shocking admission of Obama's views, which go beyond judicial activism and undermine our constitutional structure based in separation of limited, enumerated powers.

"Judge Sotomayor's rulings, whether dealing with the 1st Amendment, 2nd Amendment, private property rights, criminal law, use of foreign law, race, equal protection, and other areas of law, demonstrate that she is consistently 'empathetic' in favor of government power.

"In her speeches, Sotomayor has said policy is made by the courts, which affirms her view shared with Obama that judges may and should make law. That, however, usurps the powers of the people's elected representatives.

"All senators have a serious, constitutional obligation to the American people to explore in great detail such a dangerous and radical view of judicial power, especially for Obama's first Supreme Court nominee.

"President Obama is a statist. The real debate is no longer whether he is a socialist, but whether his ideology is authoritarian. The views of judicial power shared by Obama and Sotomayor are inconsistent with the Constitution itself, and that should disqualify this nominee for the highest and in some cases last forum to protect individual rights and prevent authoritarian government, which America's founders feared.

"These hearings are an opportunity for Republicans to define Obama, which they and John McCain's campaign failed to do in the 2008 election."

NOTE TO EDITORS: Richard A. Viguerie pioneered political direct mail and has been called "one of the creators of the modern conservative movement" (The Nation magazine) and one of the "conservatives of the century" (The Washington Times).

11 Christians Murdered in Weekend Attacks -- Seven Believers Beheaded in Somalia; Four Killed in Violence in Iraq

11 Christians Murdered in Weekend Attacks -- Seven Believers Beheaded in Somalia; Four Killed in Violence in Iraq

SANTA ANA, Calif., July 13 /Christian Newswire/ -- At least 11 Christians were killed in attacks in Somalia and Iraq over the weekend.

Al-Shabaab, Somalia's hard-line insurgents, reportedly beheaded seven Somalis for being "Christians" and "spies." This news was announced by Reuters News Agency on Friday. The report stated that the incident took place in the south- central town of Baidoa.

In Iraq, the Associated Press reported a car bomb exploded near a church in Baghdad, killing three Christians and a Muslim. Another Christian was killed in the northern city of Kirkuk. Several more churches were also bombed in Baghdad over the weekend.

The Reuters report from Somalia pointed out that although al-Shabaab has carried out similar severe punishments in regions under its control, these executions allegedly are the largest number done at the same time.

Somalia is believed to have a 99.95% Islamic following. There are only a handful Somali Christians inside the country and they have been forced underground. Some Christians have taken refuge in neighboring countries.

These decapitations follow an incident in Mogadishu on June 25 in which al-Shabaab amputated a hand and a leg each of four teenagers accused of stealing mobile phones and other possessions. With these actions al-Shabaab is extending its reign of terror across Somalia.

Somalia is ranked No. 5 on this year's Open Doors World Watch List which ranks the top persecutors of Christians. The previous year Somalia was ranked No. 12.

"Those who come to Christ in Somalia do so at a huge risk. Most of them are Muslim Background Believers who face unbelievable pressure and persecution, even death as reported this weekend," says Open Doors USA President/CEO Carl Moeller.

"Somalia desperately needs our prayers as conditions deteriorate. This country needs both physical and spiritual nourishment. Please join me in praying for the tremendous needs of Somalia and for the few brave believers inside the country."

Iraq Christians Living In Fear

The car bomb detonated outside the Virgin Mary Church in east Baghdad. In addition to the four deaths, at least 16 others were wounded in the attack, according to the Los Angeles Times. The paper also reported five other bombs were exploded outside churches around Baghdad on Saturday night and Sunday.

CNN reported a gunman shot and killed Rizko Aziz Nissan on Sunday morning outside his home in central Kirkuk. Nissan was an Iraqi Christian, but the motives behind his killing were not immediately clear since he was also a government official.

One survivor of one of the bombings in Iraq told CNN that "if this (violence) continues, there will be no Christians left in Iraq."

Although it is difficult to state how many Iraqi Christians are in the country, the number in 2003, prior to the fall of Saddam Hussein, was around 550,000. Church leaders in Iraq conservatively estimate that almost 165,000 Christians live outside Iraq - in Syria, Jordan or the West - and that another 70,000 have fled to northern Iraq. That means less than 400,000 Christians remain in mainland Iraq. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees has estimated that at least 2 million Iraqis have fled the country since 2003 and another 2 million are displaced inside the country.

"With U.S. troops pulling back from cities on July 1 and these weekend bombings, Iraqi Christians fear that this could mark a resurgence of anti-Christian violence," says Moeller. "Christians have always been caught in the crossfire in Iraq. Many have fled the country. We need to lift up in prayer those who remain. They are scared and living in daily fear. Please pray that these bombings will end and believers can worship in peace."
An estimated 100 million Christians worldwide suffer interrogation, arrest and even death for their faith in Christ, with millions more facing discrimination and alienation. Open Doors supports and strengthens believers in the world's most difficult areas through Bible and Christian literature distribution, leadership training and assistance, Christian community development, prayer and presence ministry and advocacy on behalf of suffering believers. To partner with Open Doors USA, call toll free at 888-5-BIBLE-5 (888-524-2535) or go to our Website at www.OpenDoorsUSA.org.

(For more information or to set up an interview, contact Jerry Dykstra at 616-915-4117 or email jerryd@odusa.org).

Scarborough Calls for Overthrow of Obama's Czars

Scarborough Calls for Overthrow of Obama's Czars

WASHINGTON, July 13 /Christian Newswire/ -- Originally, the word "czar" referred to an autocratic ruler with despotic powers - the very antithesis of democracy.

"That's the way Obama's czars operate," said Vision America President Rick Scarborough. "His czars are unelected and unaccountable. They have too much money and power, and are remaking America in ways none of us could have imagined."

Scarborough noted that whereas most of his predecessors had one or two "czars," President Obama has 34 and counting. Each is paid over $172,000 annually plus benefits and has a staff of 10 or more.

"Pay Czar" Kenneth Feinberg (who's 31-years-old, drives a foreign car and has no executive experience) can set the pay of executives at any company that receives bailout money.

"Science Czar" John Holdren once supported compulsory population-control, including forced- abortion, to fight what's termed over-population.

"Obama is afflicted by Czar-mania, "Scarborough said. "By appointing these czars, often with powers exceeding those of cabinet-level officials, the president has avoided the Senate confirmation process, as set forth in Article II, Section 2."

In this regard, Scarborough shares the concerns of ranking Senate Democrat Robert Byrd, who also questions the constitutionality of whole the czar-ist system.

Scarborough noted that Representative Jack Kingston (R-GA) has filed a bill requiring confirmation of Obama's czars and withholding funding from their bureaucratic empires until that happens.

Vision America President Rick Scarborough is also the moderator of a growing STOP Obama Coalition, dedicated to maintaining Constitutional government.

To schedule an interview with Dr. Scarborough, contact Catherine Rouse at 936-560-3900 or catherine@visionamerica.us

Abortion and Sotomayor Hearings Arrests: Former 'Jane Roe' of Roe vs. Wade Arrested with 3; Next: Desecrate Roe

Abortion and Sotomayor Hearings Arrests: Former 'Jane Roe' of Roe vs. Wade Arrested with 3; Next: Desecrate Roe

WASHINGTON, July 13 /Christian Newswire/ -- Today Norma McCorvey, the former "Roe" in Roe vs. Wade, was arrested with three other pro-life advocates at Sotomayor hearings as they decried abortion.

Norma McCorvey, formally the "Jane Roe" of the Roe vs. Wade decision - that led to the death of over 50 million children by abortion - was arrested at the Sotomayor hearings for speaking out against child- killing by abortion.

Miss McCorvey has become a strident pro-life advocate, calling on government officials to overturn the landmark case that "legalized" child-killing. She was arrested with: Francis Mahoney, Andrew Beacham, and Robert James.

All of those arrested "preached" or "prophesied" to the Senators and the crowd that child-killing by abortion must be made illegal again.

Next on the agenda:

"Desecrate Roe" Event Details---

Where: Corner of 1st and C St., near Dirksen Senate Building entrance, Washington D.C.

When: 9:00 A.M., Tuesday, July 14

Who: Norma McCorvey, Randall Terry and other DC area leaders and pro-lifers

Pro-life advocates will gather at the Dirksen building at the corner of 1st and C St., to publicly desecrate the Supreme Court's Roe vs. Wade decision. Joining her will be Randall Terry, Missy Smith, and other local pro- life leaders.

Randall Terry states, "Victory over child-killing requires courage and leadership from 'pro-life' Senators from both parties. It is long overdue for so called 'pro-life' Senators to fulfill their campaign promises. They claim they want to overturn Roe; well, now is the time to see if they will defend the babies, or submit like cowards to Obama.

"Republican 'Pro-life' Senators bear special responsibility in this; they shamelessly prostitute Roe vs. Wade and babies lives. Does 'GOP' stand for 'Good Ol' Pimps'? Or will GOP Senators actually fight in this life and death struggle? They need to filibuster Sotomayor."

Will there be more arrests? To be seen...

Contact Kathy Veritas at 406-570-1802 to schedule an interview with Norma McCorvey.

Gospel Dream: TV Talent Search Series--Idol®-Style Trio of Judges Bring Reality of 'Hard Knocks' to Hopefuls

Gospel Dream: TV Talent Search Series--Idol®-Style Trio of Judges Bring Reality of 'Hard Knocks' to Hopefuls

New Episodes of "Gospel Dream" Premiere Weds. Nights at 10 pm ET/9pm CT on Gospel Music Channel

ATLANTA, July 13 /Christian Newswire/ -- Viewers of the Gospel Music Channel television network (www.gospelmusicchannel.com) American Idol®- style summer series, Gospel Dream, will have immediately spotted the reminiscent touch of Simon Cowell style 'career advice' coming from behind the judge's table. Like Cowell, Mitchell Solarek, who sits among the trio of judges, is not one for pulling punches on his delivery.

"I don't intentionally approach my judging to bring 'hard knocks' into anyone's life but this is a reality series-- and the reality is that the music industry is full of hard knocks," noted Solarek in a recent interview. "We are looking for the one ultimate Gospel Dream winner who we feel is worth the risk of having significant money invested in their music career and who is ready to step up to the plate and deliver on that investment."

Gospel Dream hopefuls are this season getting advice from a panel of judges who definitely have the streets creds to identity the ultimate "winner" amid the talented field of contestants. One of the music industry's most respected personal managers, Solarek is founder of Maximum Artist Management. The Nashville-based agency represents a diverse roster of major label artists, among them current top female artist in contemporary Christian music, Natalie Grant. He shares the judges' platform with two additional heavyweights in the arena of qualifications. Michelle Williams, GRAMMY© Award winning artist who launched her career as a part of mainstream group sensation, Destiny's Child, and J. Moss, a gifted songwriter, singer, record producer and arranger whose career has had a major impact in the gospel, soul, hip-hop and R&B genres.

Solarek feels that in this fourth season of "Gospel Dream" the talent is hitting new levels.

"Gospel Dream has gained respect over the first three seasons as a real forum to launch major careers in music and I think that affected raising the bar on the talent we saw this spring in auditions," commented Solarek.

What are viewers tuning into Gospel Dream this summer seeing? "A much broader and more diverse side of gospel music than in any other season," notes Solarek. "Gospel reaches across many genres, and in auditions over nine major cities this spring, we saw music presented in everything from pop to soul to Latin and country formats. Viewers are seeing the best that we saw--right down to ten finalists that all have tremendous potential to have full-fledged careers in music. It makes it a little more challenging for the judges to decide a winner this season--but it's a process that will definitely engage viewers."

New episodes of Gospel Dream are seen on GMC Wednesday nights at 10:00 P.M. ET/9:00 CT. The series was created by Executive Producer, Elvin Ross, who is also the series' executive producer and musical director. 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 Channel 338, and on Verizon FiOS Channel 224.

Multi-Platinum Selling Group 'Diamond Rio' Mark Christian Music Debut with 'The Reason' Streeting Sept. 22

Multi-Platinum Selling Group 'Diamond Rio' Mark Christian Music Debut with 'The Reason' Streeting Sept. 22

NASHVILLE, July 13 /Christian Newswire/ -- After two decades of making music, acclaimed six time vocal group of the year and GRAMMY® nominated Diamond Rio are unveiling their 11th album and first full length Christian record The Reason on Word Records on Sept. 22.

Over the years, each member of Diamond Rio has heard God's calling through a myriad of experiences and it's those joys and challenges that are reflected in the songs on this new album. For example, member Dana Williams in the wake of his pastor's death wrote the poignant "What Are We Going to Do Now" where as the track "Moments of Heaven" was penned with the idea of family, friendships and more granting us moments of "Heaven on earth."

Making this transition from mainstream county music to a Christian deal with Word Records was an organic progression for the band that has been known for such positive hits as "I Believe," "Mama Don't Forget to Pray for Me" and "One More Day."

"We're revealing who we are. We're not preaching. We're not preachers, but we're saying, 'This is who I am and I'm proud of it,'" says member Jimmy Olander. "God is working and we're here for a reason."

Diamond Rio teamed up to write with some of the Christian industry's most recognizable songwriters for their newest recording including Matthew West (Rascal Flatts, Point of Grace), Bernie Herms (Casting Crowns) and Chris Eaton (Vince Gill, Margaret Becker).

"We've gone to great efforts to try to make sure we've written a record that's from the heart," adds Olander. "These songs share what we believe in. This is who we are."

The Reason's first single "God Is There," an anthem of hope and a powerful reminder in troubled times, will impact radio on Jul. 31.

The autobiography Beautiful Mess from Thomas Nelson will coincide with the album release of The Reason. The band's first book chronicles both their personal and professional legacy.

Formed in 1984, Diamond Rio features lead singer Marty Roe, guitarist Jimmy Olander, drummer Brian Prout, keyboardist Dan Truman, bassist/harmony Dana Williams and Gene Johnson on mandolin/harmony. The band has sold over 10 million albums earning three platinum and five gold records. Their last recording, A Diamond Rio Christmas: The Star Still Shines, marked their debut with Word Records.

Richard Viguerie: Sotomayor Already on Defensive About Views Shared with Obama

Richard Viguerie: Sotomayor Already on Defensive About Views Shared with Obama

MANASSAS, Va., July 13 /Christian Newswire/ -- The following is a statement by Richard A. Viguerie, Chairman of ConservativeHQ.com, concerning President Obama's Supreme Court nominee Judge Sonia Sotomayor's opening statement at the Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearings:

"Judge Sotomayor's opening statement reflects she is already being defensive about the judicial philosophy she shares with President Obama, as expressed in my earlier news release ("All Issues at Sotomayor Confirmation Hearings Boil Down To One').

"She said, 'Senators have asked me about my judicial philosophy. It is simple: fidelity to the law.'

"Was anyone expecting her to tell senators that her judicial philosophy was 'infidelity' to the law?

"Fidelity to the law is not a judicial philosophy, of course, since some of the great atrocities known to man have been done based on someone's interpretation of 'fidelity to the law.' On the other hand, we expect at a minimum that someone nominated to the Supreme Court would express fidelity to the Constitution. That, Judge Sotomayor did not do."

NOTE TO EDITORS: Richard A. Viguerie pioneered political direct mail and has been called "one of the creators of the modern conservative movement" (The Nation magazine) and one of the "conservatives of the century" (The Washington Times).

Sen. Graham, Does GOP Stand for 'Good Ol' Pimps'? RE: GOP, Sotomayor, and Abortion

Sen. Graham, Does GOP Stand for 'Good Ol' Pimps'? RE: GOP, Sotomayor, and Abortion
Pro-life advocates demand Republican Senators honor their platform and their campaign promises. Fax campaign" launched at www.OverturnRoe.com

WASHINGTON, July 13 /Christian Newswire/ -- South Carolina Republican Lindsey Graham, said to Sonia Sotomayor in her confirmation hearings: "Now, unless you have a complete meltdown, you're going to get confirmed."

The orthodox Republican world is reeling after the apparent surrender to Sotomayor and the Obama agenda by one of the GOPs most stalwart conservatives.

In that light, pro-life advocates are encouraged to contact Senator Graham, and every so called "pro-life" Senator in the nation by FAX, demanding that they filibuster Sotomayor. The fax program is launched from www.OverturnRoe.com.

Protests and rallies are being scheduled around the country to hold Republican Senators accountable to their campaign promises.

Randall Terry, founder and leader of Operation Rescue Insurrecta Nex, states:

"Does the 'GOP' stand for 'Good Ol' Pimps'? Republican Senators like Graham, Brownback, McCain, etc., have seduced the pro-life movement, made her their mistress, and then a prostitute. She gives them her 'favors' in exchange for empty promises.

"They pimp the pro-life cause, raising millions of dollars with promises to 'overturn Roe' and protect the unborn. The party platform - their false vows - calls for the overturn of Roe, and legal protection of unborn babies.

"But alas, we again see that these are seductive lies; and like any good pimp, they tell us that they love us, while they sell us out; they feign pain as we are abused and babies are murdered, while they prepare to get in bed with those who despise us, and slay the innocent.

"Our protests and rallies over the coming weeks will focus on GOP Senators who claim to be pro-life. We will call on them to stop pimping the babies, but rather to fight for them by filibustering Sotomayor."

ChinaAid President Bob Fu to Speak to CECC Today

ChinaAid President Bob Fu to Speak to CECC Today

WASHINGTON, July 10 /Christian Newswire/ -- Today, ChinaAid president Bob Fu will speak during a roundtable hosted by the Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC) regarding the recent crackdown on human rights attorneys in China.

Some lawyers have lost their licenses or have been refused renewal of their licenses. Others have been arrested, beaten and tortured for practicing normal legal defense work. In his speech, Bob Fu will present the personal statements of seven lawyers and also an open letter to the Ministry of Justice written by 31 Chinese intellectuals.

Bob Fu will also present a petition with 100,000 signatures representing concerned citizens in the U.S. and around the world who are asking for the immediate release of Gao Zhisheng, a Christian human rights attorney, who was kidnapped February 4, 2009 by Chinese security agents. Gao, along with many of the other attorneys targeted by the government, have been working with ChinaAid's legal defense efforts for religious freedom cases.

The roundtable, entitled "China's Human Rights Lawyers: Current Challenges and Prospects" will be held on Friday, July 10 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the Dirksen Senate Office Building, Room 628.

Find out more information and about the CECC roundtable.

Read Bob Fu's speech to the CECC.

Read the seven lawyer's statements submitted to the CECC:

Li Fangping

Zhang Kai and Li Fuchun

Jiang Tianyong

Tang Jitian

Li Xiongbing

Wen Haibo

Read an "Open Letter to the Ministry of Justice in Protest Against the Illegal Persecution of Human Rights Attorneys by Beijing Lawyers Association" written by 31 Chinese intellectuals.

Sign the online petition for Gao Zhisheng's immediate release at www.FreeGao.com.

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.

Beautiful Mess: New Book Details Diamond Rio's Personal and Professional Legacy

Beautiful Mess. Photo: Christian Newswire

Beautiful Mess: New Book Details Diamond Rio's Personal and Professional Legacy

NASHVILLE, July 10 /Christian Newswire/ -- For the first time, the real story of one of country music's most successful bands is told. Diamond Rio's climb to the musical mountaintop may best be described as the ultimate thrill ride--an adrenaline-rushed ascension, a series of twists and turns, ups and downs, and ultimately the overwhelming feeling that they'd do it all again.

In Beautiful Mess (Thomas Nelson September 22, 2009), Diamond Rio pulls the curtain back, allowing fans unlimited access into their personal lives, revealing details of health scares, freak accidents, and other obstacles that had to be overcome. The book tells the story of how six contrasting personalities formed a partnership that has evolved for more than two decades, establishing an inspiring musical legacy.

"A lot of people are struggling out there," said lead singer Marty Roe. "We hope in some way that our story will help encourage them. Our prayer is that readers will see that their mess can become beautiful."

The book's release coincides with Diamond Rio's eleventh album The Reason, on Word Records. The new project that continues their tradition of positively-charged songs fans have come to love.

DIAMOND RIO
For more than two decades, the members of Diamond Rio have been making music together, becoming one of country music's most successful groups. In a competitive industry where band members come and go, there have been no personnel changes. The original six includes: Marty Roe, Dan Truman, Gene Johnson, Jimmy Olander, Brian Prout, and Dana Williams.

More than 10 million albums sold
Nine #1 hits
Six-time Vocal Group of the Year (CMA, ACM)
Inducted into the Grand Ole Opry in 1998
13 Grammy Nominations

MEMBERS OF DIAMOND RIO ARE AVAILBLE FOR INTERVIEW

Contact: Curt Harding at 615.902.2246 email charding@thomasnelson.com
Or Velvet Rousseau Kelm 615.591.7879 email velvet@theMcollective.com

INO Records and Derek Webb Silent no More with Release of Stockholm Syndrome on Sept. 1

INO Records and Derek Webb Silent no More with Release of Stockholm Syndrome on Sept. 1

NASHVILLE, July 10 /Christian Newswire/ -- After nearly two months of silence, and several months of delay Derek Webb and INO Records are announcing the release of his newest album Stockholm Syndrome set to street Sept. 1, 2009. Over two years in the making, Webb co- produced Stockholm Syndrome with former Caedmon's Call bandmate Josh Moore (Watermark, Bethany Dillon, Bun-B, Slim Thug).

Stockholm Syndrome delivers everything listeners have come to expect from Derek Webb: killer pop hooks and lyrics as thought provoking as they are emotionally revealing. Sonically, however, this record is a radical departure for Webb, who has left his acoustic, folk/rock roots behind for a sound he describes as "intentionally inorganic." Together, Webb and Moore have succeeded in creating a dense, richly absorbing sonic vernacular that pays homage to an entire century of music. From 1920's jazz to 1950's doo-wop, from disco and dance music to old-school R&B, Webb uses this album as a means of exploring deep issues through the central metaphor of Stockholm Syndrome, illuminating the ways in which a society can fall in love with an oppressive culture and become enslaved by it. That sound is palpable in every track from the strut of "Black Eye" and "Cobra Con" to the electropop of "Jena & Jimmy" and Webb's ironic Fred Phelps-inspired love song, "Freddie, Please."

"Instead of writing a dozen songs and then trying to figure out the best way to record them, Josh and I spent a year collecting sounds we loved -- beats, loops, odd bits of programming -- then weaving those elements into tracks that moved us and made us feel something," comments Webb. "Only then did we even begin to think about song structures and melodies and lyrics. It was the total reverse of my usual process and by far the most fun I've ever had making a record."

Due to what some are calling the provocative content and nature of the record, Webb has the most pre- release awareness of his career. Nearly 5,000 people regularly followed details of Webb's release of Stockholm Syndrome daily as he leaked information via websites, twitter feeds, independent blogs, google searches and more. In that time Google recorded over 7,100 google searches and 1,200 independent blogs reporting on all or some aspect of Webb and Stockholm Syndrome. Webb was also among the top 70 google searches (internet wide) the first day information was released through his website.

As part of the campaign, Webb also engaged 20 cities in the U.S. such as Orlando, Nashville, Dallas, Los Angeles and more on a scavenger hunt for "artifacts," USB drives that contained new music. 1,500 people participated per day in finding the pieces of music in these U.S. cities. Webb also plans to tour this fall in all 20 markets where the scavenger hunt took place on the 'Black Eye' release tour.

The search drew to a climactic close on Fri. Jul. 3 as Webb hosted a "secret" event for over 300 fans at The Rutledge in Nashville, Tenn. to watch a sneak peek of a documentary about Stockholm Syndrome and to participate in a Q&A with Webb and Moore. Supporters came from as far as Seattle, WA, Lincoln, NE and Austin, TX. 18 lucky fans who solved the final puzzle, which actually continued into the venue that night, found themselves whisked away to Webb's home studio after the Rutledge show for an intimate listening party with Webb and Moore and exclusive, pre-release copies of Stockholm Syndrome.

Webb and his free distribution tactics will be among the topics that author and editor Chris Anderson discuss in his upcoming book Free: The Future of a Radical Price, releasing on Jul. 7 from Hyperion.

A former member of the Houston, Texas-based Caedmon's Call, singer/songwriter Derek Webb has seen career sales approaching one million records, 10 Dove Award nominations, a Billboard Music Video Award nod and six No.1 radio hits. Webb's innovative music marketing and distribution strategies have received national news coverage in USA Today and the LA Times.

www.derekwebb.com

New York Times Best Selling Author Ted Dekker Ends Popular Circle Series with the Beginning: New Novel GREEN Releasing September 1

New York Times Best Selling Author Ted Dekker Ends Popular Circle Series with the Beginning: New Novel GREEN Releasing September 1

NASHVILLE, July 10 /Christian Newswire/ -- The beginning is the end in New York Times Best-Selling Author Ted Dekker's highly-anticipated new novel, GREEN, otherwise known as "book zero," in the multi-layered CIRCLE series. The tale will be available in bookstores across the country on September 1.

The CIRCLE series--BLACK, RED, and WHITE--has sold more than 700,000 units. Dekker says GREEN is the preferred starting point for new readers and the perfect climax for the countless fans who have experienced BLACK, RED, and WHITE.

"Christian youth are discovering their roots, often for the first time. The tale of redemptive history is full of twists and fantastic romance." says Dekker.

The novels have created a phenomenon that reaches beyond the confined pages. The series challenges the readers' in their faith as shown in the quotes below given by fans of the series:

"I had given up on God and His people and doubted everything I had believed. Re-reading the entire series helped with my healing from the event and helped me see the true God who is personal and aches for us when we are hurt." -- Fan of Circle Series

"I picked up the 1st book of the 'Trilogy' several years ago when ending a bad chapter of life. Through these novels, Jesus was able to get me to see that this life here on earth is not all there is and it's not about me." - - Fan of Circle Series

"Not only did the Trilogy help me see my faith more clearly, but it gave my Dad and I some common ground and helped in keeping him away from the 'dark side.'" -- Fan of Circle Series

Also starting on September 1, Thomas Nelson will release a limited edition 5th Anniversary box set containing the hardcover publications of BLACK, RED, WHITE (which have not been available from retailers for some time) and GREEN. Also, Thomas Nelson will release repackaged editions of the tradepaper editions of BLACK, RED, and WHITE, which will include each respective title's graphic novel in black and white.

Earlier this summer, 500 fans came together in Franklin, TN for Dekker's 3rd Annual event "The Gathering." This one- day event drew fiction fanatics into the worlds of Dekker's tales giving them a taste of his life as a writer.

For more information on the popular fiction writer and to view the details and photos from The Gathering, log on to www.teddekker.com.

New Study Confirms that Pres. Obama's DC Policy Will Increase Abortions Says Dr. Alveda King

New Study Confirms that Pres. Obama's DC Policy Will Increase Abortions Says Dr. Alveda King

ATLANTA, July 10 /Christian Newswire/ -- Dr. Alveda King, Pastoral Associate of Priests for Life and niece of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., commented today on a new Guttmacher Institute study that shows that in states where Medicaid pays for abortions, more poor women have abortions.

"The Guttmacher report is really just another study that confirms the obvious -- subsidized abortion means more abortions," said Dr. King. "My medical insurance paid for my 'legal abortion' in 1973. My 'free' abortion, in turn, made it all too easy for me to be an unsuspecting victim of population control."

"The President says that he wants fewer abortions yet he's now trying to compel the public to pay for abortions in the District of Columbia," added Dr. King. "Killing babies and hurting women will not strengthen our communities. I explain this situation in the new film available at MAAFA21.com."

"If President Obama and Congress want to help women, please let them hear from women like myself who have suffered pain and grief from 'free' abortions," said Dr. King. "Congress needs to reverse the President's proposal for DC abortion funding and do it now. Babies' lives and women's health are at stake."

Priests for Life is the nation's largest Catholic pro- life organization dedicated to ending abortion and euthanasia. For more information, visit www.priestsforlife.org.

New Poll Shows Americans Moving Toward Consensus on Abortion

New Poll Shows Americans Moving Toward Consensus on Abortion

86% favor significant restrictions; Majority believes abortion hurts a woman long-term

NEW HAVEN, July 10 /Christian Newswire/ -- The American people continue to move to the pro-life perspective on abortion according to the latest Moral Compass polling by the Knights of Columbus and Marist Institute.

The poll mirrored findings of other recent surveys, showing that more Americans identify as pro-life than as pro-choice (an 11% shift from October), and that the vast majority of Americans favor restricting abortion.

Among the key findings:

· 86% of Americans would significantly restrict abortion.

· 60% of Americans would limit abortion to cases of rape, incest or the life of a mother -- or not allow it at all.

· 53% of Americans believe abortion does more harm than good to a woman in the long term.

· 79% of Americans support conscience exemptions on abortion for health care workers. This includes 64% of those who identify as strongly pro-choice.

· 69% of Americans think that it is appropriate for religious leaders to speak out on abortion.

· 59% say religious leaders have a key role to play in the abortion debate.

Additionally, the data showed that nearly every demographic sub-group had moved toward the pro- life position except for non-practicing Catholics and men under 45 years of age.

Independents and liberals showed the greatest shift to the pro-life position since October, while Democrats were slightly less likely to be pro-life now than they were in October.

"The data shows that the American people are placing an ever increasing value on human life," said Supreme Knight Carl Anderson. "Far from the great divide that most people think exists when it comes to the abortion debate, there is actually a great deal of common ground. Most Americans are unhappy with the unrestricted access to abortion that is the legacy of Roe vs. Wade, and pundits and elected leaders should take note of the fact that agreement on abortion need not be limited to the fringes of the debate and issues like adoption or pre-natal care. The American people have reached a basic consensus, and that consensus is at odds with the legacy of Roe."

The survey of 1,223 Americans was conducted May 28 - 31 and has a margin of error of +/-3%.

Contact:
Andrew T. Walther
Director of Media Relations
(203) 752-4253 (office)
(203) 824-5412 (cellular)

World Congress of Families Founder Addresses Global Economic Crisis at Oxford University Conference

World Congress of Families Founder Addresses Global Economic Crisis at Oxford University Conference

MEDIA ADVISORY, July 10 /Christian Newswire/ -- World Congress of Families International Secretary and Founder, Dr. Allan C. Carlson, addresses a Conference on "A Distributist View of the Global Economic Crisis" at Oxford University, England on Saturday, July 11.

Carlson will be presenting his speech titled, "Servile World: How 'The Business Government.' 'The Loathsome Thing Called Social Service' and other Distributist Nightmares all Came True."

The conference is being sponsored by the G.K. Chesterton Institute For Faith and Culture from Seton Hall University ( www.shu.edu/catholic-mission/chesterton- index.cfm) and will be held in St. Benet's Hall, Oxford University from 1pm to 6pm on July 11.

Other speakers include: Phillip Blond, U.K. -- Director of the Progressive Conservatism Project for DEMOS, on: "A Distributist View of the Financial Crisis," Philippe Maxence, France -- President of the l'Association des Amis de Chesterton, journalist and writer, on the: "The Paradox of a Crisis: the Distributist response -- France reconnects with the best of its social traditions," and Salvador Antuñano, Spain -- Professor, Universidad dad Francisco de Vitoria, Madrid, on the: "Concept of Distributism in relation with the anthropological roots of today's socio- economic crisis in Spain."

Responses will be given by: Fr Ian Boyd CSB, Stratford Caldecott, Edward Hadas, and Russell Sparkes. For a complete schedule and reservation information go to: www.shu.edu/catholic- mission/upload/07112009ConferenceSchedule.pdf or email, chestertoninstitute@shu.edu.

Next month, Dr. Carlson will also be a featured speaker and serve as International Secretary of the World Congress of Families V at the Amsterdam RAI, The Netherlands, August 10-12. His speech will be on "How We Got Here: A History of the Natural Family."

Click here to register for World Congress of Families V and to hear Dr. Carlson's speech ( www.worldcongress.org/WCF5/wcf5.reg.mem.htm )

For more information on World Congress of Families - - including World Congress of Families V (Amsterdam, August 10-12, 2009) go to www.worldcongress.org or www.worldcongress.nl. To schedule an interview with Dr. Carlson, or request a copy of his speech contact Larry Jacobs at (815) 222-2490 or media@worldcongress.org.

The World Congress of Families (WCF) is an international network of pro-family organizations, scholars, leaders and people of goodwill from more than 60 countries that seek to restore the natural family as the fundamental social unit and the 'seedbed' of civil society (as found in the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights, 1948). The WCF was founded in 1997 by Allan Carlson and is a project of The Howard Center for Family, Religion & Society in Rockford, Illinois (www.profam.org). To date, there have been four World Congresses of Families -- Prague (1997), Geneva (1999), Mexico City (2004) and Warsaw, Poland (2007). A fifth World Congress of Families will be held in Amsterdam, Netherlands, August 10-12, 2009 ( www.worldcongress.nl and www.worldcongress.org).

Abstinence Advocates Get Slapped in the Face by House Sub Committee

Abstinence Advocates Get Slapped in the Face by House Sub Committee

MEDIA ADVISORY, July 10 /Christian Newswire/ -- Federal funding for abstinence until marriage education was stripped from the budget today in the House subcommittee, led by Rep. David Obey (D-WI). The budget now goes to the full committee and to the full House of Representatives.

Proponents of contraceptive-only sex education have long awaited the day when they are given free reign over the sexualization of our children. There is a small minority of very well federally funded groups who try to give the perception that contraceptive-only sex education programs are effective at protecting teens from the problems related to sexual activity.

Studies of contraceptive-only sex education reveal that there is no evidence that condom programs are effective at decreasing teen pregnancy or STDs.

It was also found that abstinence programs have produced broad-based and sustained increases in the percentage of youth who remain sexually abstinent.

There is evidence that abstinence education is an effective primary prevention strategy. The research does not support abandoning abstinence education in favor of a contraceptive-only sex education strategy that has not been proven to be successful.

Abstinence advocates are calling on President Obama for bipartisan support and to stop politicizing the health of our children.

"We've got news for the condom worshipers," says Leslee Unruh, President of the National Abstinence Clearinghouse, "abstinence education is not going away any time soon. Taxpayers will not tolerate their money being used for ideological latex-only programs and the molestation of their children's minds and future."

The Abstinence Clearinghouse continues to work on the front lines to protect abstinence until marriage, without compromise.

Abstinence Clearinghouse
801 E. 41st St.
Sioux Falls, SD 57105
www.abstinence.net

A Match Made in Heaven -- PLACE Ministries Helps to Build More Effective Church Ministries, Happier Staff and Volunteers

A Match Made in Heaven -- PLACE Ministries Helps to Build More Effective Church Ministries, Happier Staff and Volunteers

PLACE Ministries Celebrates 12-Year Anniversary, Introduces Blog and Social Media Outreach

ALPHARETTA, GA, July 8 /Christian Newswire/ -- PLACE Ministries is celebrating its 12-year anniversary in helping churches build effective church ministries that resulted in fulfilled staff and volunteers. In an effort to provide more helpful advice and resources to individuals and ministries alike, PLACE Ministries is introducing a blog and social media outreach program.

PLACE Ministries offers personal online student and adult assessments and holds Bible-based workshop trainings. These workshops are designed to teach ministry leaders how best to match opportunities within the church with each person's personality, skills, passions and life experiences. The result of these specialized trainings is a more empowered and focused staff, which helps to draw more fulfilled volunteers.

By incorporating social media elements, PLACE Ministries will be able to offer guidance and resources to church ministries and Christians through many different channels. The new blog will feature industry experts who will share their knowledge of building and maintaining a harmonious community in the church and in life.

Later on this month, PLACE Ministries will enter the Twittersphere with five designated Twitterers. It will expand its role to support and share its expertise with their followers on Twitter.

"PLACE Ministries is excited to provide new resources and fresh options to help people and ministries alike on their journey. The team we have put together for the blog is eager to share best practices from church ministries across the country. While the team and topics discussed will be diverse, each individual is passionate about helping God's people connect to meaningful ministry. Each individual also uses and understands the difference PLACE tools and resources make in church ministries across the country," said Jay McSwain, president of PLACE Ministries.

About PLACE Ministries
PLACE Ministries focuses on assisting church ministries in helping its members understand who they are in Christ and how they can use their spiritual gifts to benefit others. As a Bible-based, self-discovery process PLACE helps pastors, church members, lay leaders and others realize their ideal PLACE of ministry in life and in the local church. PLACE was created 12 years ago out of a desire to help pastors design and maximize church ministries and to help Christians discover their purpose-driven ministry through PLACE's assessment tools, spiritual gifts inventory, DISC assessment, leadership training workshops and more.

To learn more about PLACE Ministries, visit www.PLACEMinistries.org.

National Economic Survey Explores Economy's Impact on Christian Nonprofits

National Economic Survey Explores Economy's Impact on Christian Nonprofits

SAN CLEMENTE, Calif., July 8 /Christian Newswire/ -- Christian Leadership Alliance (CLA) ( ChristianLeadershipAlliance.org) today released the insightful results of a national "Economic Outlook Survey" of Christian nonprofit organizations. The survey was conducted in April 2009 by J. David Schmidt and Associates, Wheaton, IL (wiseplanning.net) in partnership with CLA.

"The national survey that CLA released today provides insight into the impact that the current economy is having on nonprofit organizations, particularly faith- based nonprofits," said Frank Lofaro, CLA president and CEO. "For many Christian nonprofit organizations the economy has had a major impact. In fact, compared to one year ago, some 73 percent of nonprofits with investments said their portfolios and endowments are down, and some 51 percent said that reserves have diminished."

When given a list of 21 ways their organization had responded to the economic downturn, 52 percent had reduced travel, 44 percent had frozen raises and 43 percent had cut their overall budgets for the 2009 fiscal year. Some 48 percent of respondents said first quarter income was below plan for this year. "Building cash reserves" was noted as the best past decision made by most organizations.

The findings represent 250 responding organizations, out of the nearly 1,000 surveyed. The size of responding organizations, budgets and employees, varied significantly. Respondents represent a broad spectrum of Christian nonprofit organizations including camps and conference centers, denominational offices, mission and outreach agencies, publishers, professional service firms, social service organizations, associations, colleges/universities, Christian schools, broadcast ministries, and churches.

To read a free executive summary of this "Economic Outlook Survey" click here.

Christian Leadership Alliance (CLA) is a national association representing more than 8,000 individuals, from 4,500 Christian nonprofit organizations nationwide. For more news and information, visit CLA's website, www.ChristianLeadershipAlliance.org.

Pope Releases New Encyclical on Justice and the Common Good

Pope Releases New Encyclical on Justice and the Common Good

The Maximus Group Offers Commentators and Speakers on Caritas in Veritate

ATLANTA, July 8 /Christian Newswire/ -- Pope Benedict XVI's first social encyclical, and third in total, Caritas in veritate or Love in Truth was made public Tuesday, July 7, 2009 by the Vatican. In the letter, the pope explains that "charity in truth... is the driving force behind the authentic development of every person and all humanity."

"Through this close link with truth," said the pope, "charity can be recognized as an authentic expression of humanity and as an element of fundamental importance in human relations, including those of a public nature." The pope warned that without truth, charity (or love) becomes meaningless, mistreated and vague. However, charity filled with truth "can be shared and communicated."

"In the present social and cultural context, where there is a widespread tendency to relativize truth, practicing charity in truth helps people to understand that adhering to the values of Christianity is not merely useful but essential for building a good society and for true integral human development," wrote Benedict.

The pope emphasizes that "charity is at the heart of the Church's social doctrine," and said that this principle takes on "practical forms in the criteria that govern[s] moral action." The pope reflected on two moral measures that contribute to an increasingly global society: justice and the common good.

"Justice is inseparable from charity," said the pope. Not only does charity insist on justice--the respect for the rights of all peoples--charity also "transcends justice and completes it in the logic of giving and forgiving,"

The pope also commented on the common good for the individual as well as all of society. "To desire the common good and strive towards it is a requirement of justice and charity. To take a stand for the common good is on the one hand to be solicitous for, and on the other hand to avail oneself of, that complex of institutions that give structure to the life of society, juridically, civilly, politically and culturally."

One of the challenges Benedict addressed in Caritas in veritate is the "de facto interdependence of people and nations is not matched by ethical interaction of consciences and minds that would give rise to truly human development." While the pope did not offer procedural solutions to the world's social problems, he said the Church has "a mission of truth to accomplish, in every time and circumstance, for a society that is attuned to man, to his dignity and to his vocations."

The Maximus Group offers a variety of spokespersons who can comment on Caritas in veritate:

· Fr. Robert Barron -- founder of Word on Fire Ministries and the Francis Cardinal George Chair of Faith and Culture at University of St. Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary;

· Dr. Pia de Solenni -- moral theologian and an expert on life issues;

· Dr. Matthew Bunson -- Senior Fellow of the St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology, is one of the United States' leading authorities on the papacy and the Church;

· Dr. James Keating -- Director of Theological Formation at the Institute of Priestly Formation; and

· Fr. John Bartunek, LC -- author and cultural commentator.

Please contact Christine Schicker with The Maximus Group at 404-610-8871 to schedule an interview. To schedule any of these commentators for speaking engagements, please contact Tina Remmert of The Maximus Group at 678-990-9032.

'Three Strands' Church Security Conference

'Three Strands' Church Security Conference

The National Organization of Church Security & Safety Management (NOCSSM) launches the National Church Security Tour

FRISCO, Texas, July 8 /Christian Newswire/ -- The National Organization of Church Security & Safety Management (NOCSSM) will begin its new Church Security Tour by presenting a two day "Three Strands" Church Security Conference to be hosted at various Mega-Churches across the nation.

"We have confirmed dates and locations including some of the largest Mega-Churches in American" Says Chuck Chadwick, the President of NOCSSM. "So far we have conferences scheduled in North Carolina, Virginia, Georgia and Missouri; with Texas, Alabama, California, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Ohio and others close behind.

Armed Guards, Crisis Management, Terrorism, Emergency Evacuation, Childcare liability, Safety Plans, Video Surveillance - these are all buzzwords that every church has to address. Church leaders are asking, "Where do we start?"

With every police department struggling to advise their local churches; there is a lot more to church security than just keeping their doors locked and how to dial "911".

As the former Director of Security of one of the largest churches in the nation, Charles "Chuck" Chadwick has had to address all of these issues. With weekly attendance approaching twenty thousand there isn't much he hasn't seen. Currently, Chadwick's companies provide consultation and security services to some of the largest churches in America. "We work exclusively with churches." says Chadwick

While not all churches have the degree of concern as a mega-church, every church wants to meet the unthinkable with a degree of preparedness.

Chadwick says - "I don't see why every church has to struggle with these issues, when we have already had to deal with and address these issues."

The two day conference will weave the "Three Stands of Church Security" into a cohesive plan for the attendee churches. Based on a foundation of Policy & Procedure and held together with the Team Players and Tools & Technology.

For further details go to www.churchsecurityconference.com.

About NOCSSM:
The National Organization of Church Security & Safety Management (NOCSSM) is dedicated to the education and training of all churches in security and safety issues.

Boston Hosts Grand Celebration of John Calvin's 500th Birthday

Boston Hosts Grand Celebration of John Calvin's 500th Birthday

BOSTON, July 8 /Christian Newswire/ -- More than a thousand gathered in downtown Boston this last week to honor the 500th birthday of John Calvin (July 10, 1509) as part of the Reformation 500 Celebration hosted by Vision Forum Ministries. The event, held July 1-4 at the Park Plaza Hotel, featured more than 40 live reenactors, 30 formal history lectures, and 20 walking tour of historic landmarks in Boston, a Children's Parade in Boston's Public Gardens, and more. The conference emphasized both the theological an practical implications of the Reformation and John Calvin's influence on the institutions of family, church, and state, as well as the broader culture.

The Reformation 500 Celebration culminated on July 4 with the tolling of an exact replica of America's Liberty Bell, which was rung thirteen times in honor of the principles of liberty that leaders of America's original thirteen colonies drew from Calvin and other Protestant Reformers from the past.

"The torch of liberty that burned so bright in 1776 was kindled in the 16th century by the groundbreaking efforts of the Protestant Reformers -- of whom John Calvin was chief," noted Doug Phillips, president of Vision Forum Ministries. "John Adams, an ardent patriot and our nation's second president, himself referred to Calvin as 'a vast genius' of 'singular eloquence', adding this admonition to his hearers: 'Let not Geneva be forgotten or despised. Religious liberty owes it much respect.'

"In hosting the Reformation 500, it was our goal to heed President Adams' charge by celebrating the great legacy of liberty that Calvin forged in Geneva, as well as the broader heritage of freedom that the Reformation bequeathed to the West. With Calvin's birthday on July 10, 1509, and the subsequent reforms that he and such men as Martin Luther and John Knox effected in the pivotal 16th century, tyranny was quashed, liberty was championed, and the West was radically transformed. The religious and civil liberties we enjoy today in America flow directly from their efforts."

Although the event included important presentations by church historians and Calvin scholars such as Dr. Joseph Morecraft, one mission was to make the great doctrines of the Reformation and the very lives of the Reformers themselves accessible to the man in the pew and to children. The week's activities were designed for whole families to enjoy. More than 40 reenactors -- representing such Reformation characters as John and Idelette Calvin, John and Margaret Knox, Martin and Katherina Luther, and Pierre Viret, as well as American colonial figures such as Sam Adams, Priscilla Mullins, and Anne Bradstreet -- engaged with guests over the course of the four-day celebration. Children who obtained 30 or more reenactor signatures were awarded a $10 coupon good toward the purchase of a 1-ounce troy silver commemorative coin of John Calvin that was minted specially for the event.

"It was our desire to make Reformation history come alive for families," Phillips commented. "And we are pleased with the enthusiastic response that young and old showed in participating in our Children's Parade led by Gen. George Washington and our Fife and Drum Corps. Christians from dozens of states, including hundreds of homeschooling families, participated. The children came in costume and had a splendid time. And their active conversations with the formal reenactors were a thrill to behold."

One of the other features of the Reformation 500 was "Calvin vs. Darwin: The Boxing Match of the Millennium", a vigorous head-to-head debate between two re-enactors representing John Calvin and Charles Darwin's diametrically-opposing worldviews. Both Calvin and Darwin advanced their ideological positions using the most compelling arguments in their worldview arsenals.

Millions around the world are celebrating their distinct birthdays: the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth on the one hand, and the 200th anniversary of Darwin's birth on the other (as well as the 150th anniversary of the publication of Darwin's "Origin of Species").

Acknowledging both Calvin and Darwin's world- shaping influence, Phillips noted: "No two men of the millennium have done more to shape the thoughts of mankind or to effect the political and social destiny of nations than Calvin and Darwin -- the former for great good and the glory of God, and the later for unimaginable evil. The children of Calvin and the Reformers gave us the rise of nation states that embraced republican representative government. The children of Darwin gave us Marxism and totalitarianism."

Concluded Phillips: "The reforms of Calvin resulted in the blossoming of Christendom. Darwin foreshadowed the darkness of modernity."

John Calvin, a convert to Reformation Christianity born in Noyon, France, on July 10, 1509, is best known for his influence on the city of Geneva. It was there that he modeled many of the principles of liberty later embraced by America's Founders, including anti- statism, the belief in transcendent principles of law as the foundation of an ethical legal system, free market economics, decentralized authority, an educated citizenry as a safeguard against tyranny, and republican representative government which was accountable to the people and a higher law.

To read a Washington Post editorial on Calvin written by Doug Phillips, click here. To interview Doug Phillips regarding Calvin's world-shaping influence, contact Wesley Strackbein by e-mail at press@visionforum.org or by phone at (210) 340- 5250, ext. 222.

Calvin500 Bestows Lifetime Achievement Awards in Geneva

Calvin500 Bestows Lifetime Achievement Awards in Geneva

GENEVA, Switzerland, July 8 /Christian Newswire/ -- Calvin 500, the international Quincentenary celebration of the 500th anniversary of John Calvin's birth (July 10, 1509), is bestowing three Lifetime Achievement Awards this week in Geneva to honor exceptional scholarship and achievement.

The Lifetime Achievement Award for Reformation Scholarship was awarded on July 6th to Robert Kingdon, "Scholar par Excellence in the history of the Reformation, who led the way to a greater appreciation of Calvin's work by his own study of Calvin's life and times," said Dr. David W. Hall, Executive Director of Calvin500.

The Calvin500 Executive Committee bestowed this award with its deepest thanks and in honor of Dr. Kingdon's Lifetime Contribution to Reformation Scholarship. John Witte, Jr., of Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, accepted the award on behalf of Dr. Kingdon on July 6, who is recovering from an illness in Wisconsin.

On July 8, the Calvin Quincentenary in Geneva will award its Lifetime Achievement Award for Liturgics to Hughes Oliphant Old, "Dean of Reformed liturgical scholars in our day, for calling the Church back to the sources for worship according to Scripture, affirmed by the Fathers and the Reformers: Chrysostom, Augustine, and Calvin." Dr. David W. Hall, Executive Director will present the award "with our deepest thanks and in honor of his Lifetime Contribution to the Recovery of Reformed Liturgy," which will be accepted by Dr. Terry L. Johnson of the Independent Presbyterian Church in Savannah, Georgia.

In addition, at its closing banquet on July 9 in Geneva, the Calvin Quincentenary will award its Lifetime Achievement Award for Pastoral Ministry to Rev. Geoffrey Thomas, "Reformed pastor in the tradition of Calvin, Baxter, Spurgeon, and Lloyd-Jones, for exemplifying the life of a godly pastor and mentoring many others, and for your years of pastoral ministry that adorns the profession." At the closing banquet, Rev. Geoffrey Thomas will address the gathering on "What I learned from John Calvin and Martin Lloyd- Jones," and the award will be presented by Drs. Derek Thomas and David Hall.

Throughout the week, scholars and ministers are presenting lectures and sermons in these historic environs to celebrate the contributions of the Genevan reformer.

For more information and updates, visit www.Calvin500blog.org. Live blogging information will also be available from that page.

Calvin500 Recognizes Young Scholars in Geneva

Calvin500 Recognizes Young Scholars in Geneva

GENEVA, Switzerland, July 8 /Christian Newswire/ -- Calvin 500, the international Quincentenary celebration of the 500th anniversary of John Calvin's birth (July 10, 1509), recognized several promising prize-winning Young Scholars as part of its commemoration of John Calvin.

As its own symposium within the Quincentenary of John Calvin's birth, Calvin500 is pleased to announce that the following will be recognized at the Young Calvin Scholars Symposium at the Auditoire in Geneva on July 8 at 15h00. The public is cordially invited to hear synopses of these award-winning papers below.

The Calvin Prize will be awarded to Michael Habets of New Zealand for his essay, "Calvin's Reformed Doctrine of Theosis," at 15h10.

The Beza Prize will be awarded to Sebastian Heck of Heidelberg, Germany for his essay, "Elements of Innatism in the Thought of John Calvin," at 15h30

The Viret Prize will be awarded to Matthew Burton of Atlanta, Georgia for his essay, "The Spirit of Calvinism in Business," at 15h50.

The Zwingli Prize will be awarded to Michael Dewalt of Grand Rapids, Michigan for his essay, "Calvin's Practical View of Adoption," at 16h10.

The Bucer Prize will be awarded to Timothy Gwin of Atlanta, Georgia for his essay, "Piety in Calvin and Erasmus," at 16h30.

The Farel Prize will be awarded to Joseph Fleener of New Zealand for his essay, "Exploring, with John Calvin, Our Adoption as Sons," at 16h50.

Moderators for the Symposium will be Drs. David Hall, Darryl Hart, and Jon Payne.
Throughout the week, scholars and ministers are presenting lectures and sermons in these historic environs to celebrate the contributions of the Genevan reformer. 


For more information and updates, visit www.Calvin500blog.org. Live blogging information will also be available from that page.