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.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
'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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Australian Missionary to Cycle Across America
Australian Missionary to Cycle Across America
MEDIA ADVISORY, July 8 /Christian Newswire/ -- Bernie Scanlon - an Australian missionary has chosen an unusual way to do something about poverty. He is cycling across America!
Bernie's Bike Ride as it has become known will be raising funds for Home of the Open Heart, a Christian ministry to HIV children in Thailand.
I just really want to help those less fortunate than myself said Bernie shortly before leaving New Your on June 27th. I believe this is a challenge that God has given me to do.
Bernie is cycling all the way to San Francisco a journey that is expected to take 4 months.
Bernie is hoping to raise sponsors as he goes and would love to hear from you - you can phone him on +1 6316720123 (Please keep in mind that calla to this number cost Bernie $3 per minute)
You can track Bernie's progress through his blog site http://bikingbernie.blogspot.com/ and donations to Bernie's Bike ride can be made via the ARMS website www.arms.org.au.
More information about Bernie's Bike Ride can be obtained from David Skeat davids@arms.org.au.
MEDIA ADVISORY, July 8 /Christian Newswire/ -- Bernie Scanlon - an Australian missionary has chosen an unusual way to do something about poverty. He is cycling across America!
Bernie's Bike Ride as it has become known will be raising funds for Home of the Open Heart, a Christian ministry to HIV children in Thailand.
I just really want to help those less fortunate than myself said Bernie shortly before leaving New Your on June 27th. I believe this is a challenge that God has given me to do.
Bernie is cycling all the way to San Francisco a journey that is expected to take 4 months.
Bernie is hoping to raise sponsors as he goes and would love to hear from you - you can phone him on +1 6316720123 (Please keep in mind that calla to this number cost Bernie $3 per minute)
You can track Bernie's progress through his blog site http://bikingbernie.blogspot.com/ and donations to Bernie's Bike ride can be made via the ARMS website www.arms.org.au.
More information about Bernie's Bike Ride can be obtained from David Skeat davids@arms.org.au.
Michael Jackson: Heaven, Hell, or Elsewhere?
Michael Jackson: Heaven, Hell, or Elsewhere?
Best-selling author discusses popular notions of death amidst global mourning over King of Pop
NEWPORT, Washington, July 9 /Christian Newswire/ -- Nearly 20,000 gathered at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California to pay final tribute to music legend Michael Jackson (1958-2009). Joining grief-stricken family, friends and fans, actress Brooke Shields moaned, "Although our hearts are aching, we need to look up, where he is undoubtedly perched in a crescent moon, and we need to smile."
It's hard to smile when loved ones die. It's also hard to avoid -- especially during emotionally charged memorial services like Jackson's -- that age-old question we mortals are often confronted with throughout our brief earthly sojourn,
"After death, then what?"
Is Jackson truly "perched in a crescent moon"? In other words, is he in heaven? Has he entered the spirit world as NBC's Medium and CBS's Ghost Whisperer portray? Can he return as a ghost to speak, sing, or dance for the living? How about purgatory, as Catholics teach? Or even hell, as many Christians proclaim?
TV producer, radio host, and Bible expert Steve Wohlberg knows the answer, yet that answer is NOT what the average person believes. His eye-opening book, Solving the Mystery of Death, counteracts current misconceptions and comforts the living.
"Believe it or not," Wohlberg adamantly argues, "when a person dies -- whether good or bad -- they don't immediately go to heaven, or hell, or purgatory, or into the spirit world. Instead, they're dead, that is, they 'sleep' silently and unconsciously in their graves, awaiting a resurrection.' As proof, Wohlberg quotes Bible verses like these:
"The dead know not anything" (Ecclesiastes 9:5) "...there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going" (Ecclesiastes 9:10) "The dead... go down into silence" (Psalm 115:17) The dead "sleep in the dust of the earth" (Daniel 12:2) "...the dead shall be raised" (1 Thess. 4:16)
"The idea that man's soul is inherently 'immortal' and soars somewhere at death is based in Greek philosophy, not Scripture," argues Wohlberg. The author of 22 books, Wohlberg has been a guest on over 500 radio and TV shows discussing biblical topics that relate to everyday living.
To schedule an interview, contact Steve Wohlberg. (Mobile) 559-977-9744
For more information about Steve Wohlberg, visit www.avoidthedead.com.
Best-selling author discusses popular notions of death amidst global mourning over King of Pop
NEWPORT, Washington, July 9 /Christian Newswire/ -- Nearly 20,000 gathered at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California to pay final tribute to music legend Michael Jackson (1958-2009). Joining grief-stricken family, friends and fans, actress Brooke Shields moaned, "Although our hearts are aching, we need to look up, where he is undoubtedly perched in a crescent moon, and we need to smile."
It's hard to smile when loved ones die. It's also hard to avoid -- especially during emotionally charged memorial services like Jackson's -- that age-old question we mortals are often confronted with throughout our brief earthly sojourn,
"After death, then what?"
Is Jackson truly "perched in a crescent moon"? In other words, is he in heaven? Has he entered the spirit world as NBC's Medium and CBS's Ghost Whisperer portray? Can he return as a ghost to speak, sing, or dance for the living? How about purgatory, as Catholics teach? Or even hell, as many Christians proclaim?
TV producer, radio host, and Bible expert Steve Wohlberg knows the answer, yet that answer is NOT what the average person believes. His eye-opening book, Solving the Mystery of Death, counteracts current misconceptions and comforts the living.
"Believe it or not," Wohlberg adamantly argues, "when a person dies -- whether good or bad -- they don't immediately go to heaven, or hell, or purgatory, or into the spirit world. Instead, they're dead, that is, they 'sleep' silently and unconsciously in their graves, awaiting a resurrection.' As proof, Wohlberg quotes Bible verses like these:
"The dead know not anything" (Ecclesiastes 9:5) "...there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going" (Ecclesiastes 9:10) "The dead... go down into silence" (Psalm 115:17) The dead "sleep in the dust of the earth" (Daniel 12:2) "...the dead shall be raised" (1 Thess. 4:16)
"The idea that man's soul is inherently 'immortal' and soars somewhere at death is based in Greek philosophy, not Scripture," argues Wohlberg. The author of 22 books, Wohlberg has been a guest on over 500 radio and TV shows discussing biblical topics that relate to everyday living.
To schedule an interview, contact Steve Wohlberg. (Mobile) 559-977-9744
For more information about Steve Wohlberg, visit www.avoidthedead.com.
World Renown Church Leader has a Controversial New Book About Ministers Who Cheat and the Women Who Love Them
World Renown Church Leader has a Controversial New Book About Ministers Who Cheat and the Women Who Love Them
Unveiling the truth about sex, lies and religion
LOS ANGELES, July 9 /Christian Newswire/ -- On the heels of Governor Mark Sanford's shocking confession and Elizabeth Edward's tell-all memoir titled "Resilience" about her husband's affair and love child with Rielle Hunter comes a book that pulls back the veil on the sexual misconduct of some of our nation's other influential leaders -- Pastors.
Fifty years in the making, Dr. Betty Price of the esteemed television ministry "Ever Increasing Faith" and bicoastal mega-church Crenshaw Christian Center has written a provocative new book about ministers who cheat and the women who love them called, "Warning To Ministers, Their Wives and Mistresses." She wrote "Warning" as a cautionary tale to discourage pastoral sexual infidelity. But the warning should be heeded by all -- be they pastors, celebrities, athletes or politicians like Sen. Edwards and Gov. Sanford.
"Christians are just copying politicians and entertainers," said Dr. Betty, the wife of Apostle Frederick K.C. Price. "I believe that 'Warning' will bring attention to the fact that adultery is wrong and there are severe consequences.
"All of the ministers I know who've cheated on their wives, their lives were cut short. And I've seen it happen to ministers of all ethnicities. When you live an immoral life, you're doing what Galatians 6:7 says. God is not mocked. Whatever a man sows, he will reap. You are sowing seeds of death and destruction when you commit adultery because you're betraying something very sacred. Your oath to God and your spouse."
Dr. Betty's tell-all book reveals some personal trials with seductresses who have tried to tempt her high- profile charismatic husband. Although the women were cunning, none have succeeded in subverting his commitment to his wife or to God. Since Dr. Betty is a highly respected First Lady, she has been in communication with thousands of women. Consequently, Dr. Betty felt compelled to share in her book some of the tear-stained letters, shocking emails and gut-wrenching intimate confessions by wives and mistresses snared in a dangerous liaison.
Ask just about any churchgoer and most of them would have either attended a church or know of a church where the pastor was caught in an illicit affair. How prevalent is adultery? The Internet is full of statistics. One report estimates that 50% to 70% of Americans are victims of infidelity.
Unfortunately, that includes church leaders. The seventh commandment says "Thou shalt not commit adultery." Nevertheless, from King David's affair with Bathsheba to Ted Haggard and others, our spiritual leaders are failing to uphold this sacred oath. Although this is a scandalous issue, Dr. Betty has received tremendous support by parishioners who feel that it's time to pull back the veil of sex, lust, and lies and call for change in the church.
For more information on "Warning To Ministers, Their Wives and Mistresses" go to www.faithdome.org or call (800) 943-4388. "Warning" is also available on Amazon.com.
Unveiling the truth about sex, lies and religion
LOS ANGELES, July 9 /Christian Newswire/ -- On the heels of Governor Mark Sanford's shocking confession and Elizabeth Edward's tell-all memoir titled "Resilience" about her husband's affair and love child with Rielle Hunter comes a book that pulls back the veil on the sexual misconduct of some of our nation's other influential leaders -- Pastors.
Fifty years in the making, Dr. Betty Price of the esteemed television ministry "Ever Increasing Faith" and bicoastal mega-church Crenshaw Christian Center has written a provocative new book about ministers who cheat and the women who love them called, "Warning To Ministers, Their Wives and Mistresses." She wrote "Warning" as a cautionary tale to discourage pastoral sexual infidelity. But the warning should be heeded by all -- be they pastors, celebrities, athletes or politicians like Sen. Edwards and Gov. Sanford.
"Christians are just copying politicians and entertainers," said Dr. Betty, the wife of Apostle Frederick K.C. Price. "I believe that 'Warning' will bring attention to the fact that adultery is wrong and there are severe consequences.
"All of the ministers I know who've cheated on their wives, their lives were cut short. And I've seen it happen to ministers of all ethnicities. When you live an immoral life, you're doing what Galatians 6:7 says. God is not mocked. Whatever a man sows, he will reap. You are sowing seeds of death and destruction when you commit adultery because you're betraying something very sacred. Your oath to God and your spouse."
Dr. Betty's tell-all book reveals some personal trials with seductresses who have tried to tempt her high- profile charismatic husband. Although the women were cunning, none have succeeded in subverting his commitment to his wife or to God. Since Dr. Betty is a highly respected First Lady, she has been in communication with thousands of women. Consequently, Dr. Betty felt compelled to share in her book some of the tear-stained letters, shocking emails and gut-wrenching intimate confessions by wives and mistresses snared in a dangerous liaison.
Ask just about any churchgoer and most of them would have either attended a church or know of a church where the pastor was caught in an illicit affair. How prevalent is adultery? The Internet is full of statistics. One report estimates that 50% to 70% of Americans are victims of infidelity.
Unfortunately, that includes church leaders. The seventh commandment says "Thou shalt not commit adultery." Nevertheless, from King David's affair with Bathsheba to Ted Haggard and others, our spiritual leaders are failing to uphold this sacred oath. Although this is a scandalous issue, Dr. Betty has received tremendous support by parishioners who feel that it's time to pull back the veil of sex, lust, and lies and call for change in the church.
For more information on "Warning To Ministers, Their Wives and Mistresses" go to www.faithdome.org or call (800) 943-4388. "Warning" is also available on Amazon.com.
Make Your Everyday Relationships Intentional
Make Your Everyday Relationships Intentional
MEDIA ADVISORY, July 9 /Christian Newswire/ -- The overwhelming percentage of adults who come to Christ do so during a time of crisis. One study estimates that 15% of adults will face some crisis during any twelve-month period. We encounter these hurting people every day through our routine tasks and errands. Many won't go to a church, but they still need someone with whom to talk. What if we could transform these everyday encounters into intentional, eternal opportunities?
With the help of a dynamic new program, you can claim your own community as your mission field. Community Chaplains of America training equips laypeople with the skills to minister to others during a time of crisis. Ordinary Christians with a heart for the lost and hurting can train to become a chaplain who will be present with people during times of crisis and gain permission to share the hope found in Christ. This "ministry of presence" is particularly crucial in reaching people who are not connected to a church or a member of the clergy.
Community Chaplains of America was developed by Mark Cress, founder of Corporate Chaplains of America, a company that has provided chaplains in the workplace since 1996. The training course is based on the ministry model developed by Corporate Chaplains of America and was written by their veteran Chaplains. The curriculum will equip volunteers to reach people in their own areas of interest: on the little league field, in the neighborhood, at a child's school, at work, etc.
In the short time since its inception, Community Chaplains of America has trained several hundred people in 35 different states. Commissioned chaplains receive credentials and ongoing support which includes access to a web portal that tracks their ministries and facilitates interaction with other chaplains.
In addition, Community Chaplains of America offers a Group Study Kit with enough materials to facilitate a 10 member small group. The Group Study Kit familiarizes participants with the principles of care giving and relationship building, along with the necessary tools to minister during times of crisis.
"The start of a new school year will introduce new relationships and opportunities for ministry for many of us," says Community Chaplains General Manager Vicki Frye. "Why not complete the Community Chaplains of America training over the summer and be prepared to start caring for people this fall. This is the perfect way to find the ministry you've always wanted."
www.commchap.com
MEDIA ADVISORY, July 9 /Christian Newswire/ -- The overwhelming percentage of adults who come to Christ do so during a time of crisis. One study estimates that 15% of adults will face some crisis during any twelve-month period. We encounter these hurting people every day through our routine tasks and errands. Many won't go to a church, but they still need someone with whom to talk. What if we could transform these everyday encounters into intentional, eternal opportunities?
With the help of a dynamic new program, you can claim your own community as your mission field. Community Chaplains of America training equips laypeople with the skills to minister to others during a time of crisis. Ordinary Christians with a heart for the lost and hurting can train to become a chaplain who will be present with people during times of crisis and gain permission to share the hope found in Christ. This "ministry of presence" is particularly crucial in reaching people who are not connected to a church or a member of the clergy.
Community Chaplains of America was developed by Mark Cress, founder of Corporate Chaplains of America, a company that has provided chaplains in the workplace since 1996. The training course is based on the ministry model developed by Corporate Chaplains of America and was written by their veteran Chaplains. The curriculum will equip volunteers to reach people in their own areas of interest: on the little league field, in the neighborhood, at a child's school, at work, etc.
In the short time since its inception, Community Chaplains of America has trained several hundred people in 35 different states. Commissioned chaplains receive credentials and ongoing support which includes access to a web portal that tracks their ministries and facilitates interaction with other chaplains.
In addition, Community Chaplains of America offers a Group Study Kit with enough materials to facilitate a 10 member small group. The Group Study Kit familiarizes participants with the principles of care giving and relationship building, along with the necessary tools to minister during times of crisis.
"The start of a new school year will introduce new relationships and opportunities for ministry for many of us," says Community Chaplains General Manager Vicki Frye. "Why not complete the Community Chaplains of America training over the summer and be prepared to start caring for people this fall. This is the perfect way to find the ministry you've always wanted."
www.commchap.com
Women's Coalition for Justice: Conservative Women Leaders Speak Out on Sotomayor
Women's Coalition for Justice: Conservative Women Leaders Speak Out on Sotomayor
WASHINGTON, July 9 /Christian Newswire/ -- Members of the Women's Coalition for Justice released the following statements in advance of the Senate confirmation hearings for Supreme Court Nominee Judge Sonia Sotomayor beginning next Monday.
Marjorie Dannenfelser, President of the Susan B. Anthony List, stated, "Women are best protected by the rule of law -- and blind justice. Their rights are most endangered when personal preference, ideology or painful personal history inform judgment. Susan B. Anthony and her early feminist compatriots fought for a human rights standard sustained only through blind justice. When evidence of personal preference appears in any Supreme Court nominee's judgment, it should give all women pause. Sonia Sotomayor's record of support for judicial activism and her work for the pro-abortion Puerto Rican Legal Defense Fund offer little comfort that she will be a friend to the unborn on the Supreme Court. Given what we know about Sonia Sotomayor's own judicial philosophy, including her support of policymaking from the bench, senators have just cause to reject her appointment to the United States Supreme Court."
Genevieve Wood, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives, The Heritage Foundation, stated, "I am troubled by Judge Sotomayor's rejection of Justice O'Connor's favored adage that a wise old man would reach the same conclusion as a wise old woman. It is deeply offensive that she has suggested that the sexes and ethnicities 'have basic differences in logic and reasoning,' and even more offensive that she believes it is somehow patriotic to indulge in gender or ethnic biases. Her statements raise grave concerns about whether she can truly be impartial and the current defense that she simply endorses including different perspectives doesn't hold water. The Senators must ask challenging questions to determine whether she believes that a wise woman can reach the same conclusion as a wise man, or whether she intends to bring bias, as she has suggested, even to most cases."
Connie Mackey, Senior Vice President for FRCAction remarked, "I reject the admonition of Senator Chuck Schumer that opposing the nomination of Sonia Sotomayor will cause the Republican Party to lose women's vote permanently. I believe his crystal ball is cloudy when it comes to women in America. Women think independently and most women will see that Sonia Sotomayor is a judicial activist who will use the courts to make policy reflective of her own personal judgments as opposed to ruling based upon the tenets put forth by the Constitution. Her career as an activist is well-documented and disqualifies her from taking the 9th seat on the United States Supreme Court."
Charmaine Yoest, President and CEO of Americans United for Life remarked, "It's important for the American people to understand that the confirmation of Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the Supreme Court will dramatically shift the dynamics of the Court. Her record of activism in support of a radical pro-abortion agenda is clear and documented. This is a judge with a record significantly worse than Judge Souter's. We are asking the Senate Judiciary Committee to seriously consider the consequences of confirming a Supreme Court justice whose radical record shows she would rule against all common-sense legal protections for the unborn, including parental notification, informed consent and bans on partial- birth abortion. The American people will not tolerate a nominee who is outside the mainstream of American public opinion."
Wendy Wright, President of Concerned Women for America Legislative Action Committee stated, "Sonia Sotomayor's record reveals she lacks the primary characteristic required of a judge -- impartiality. She has used her position as a judge to deny equal justice to people based on their ethnicity. She worked with organizations that aggressively fought against common-sense regulations on abortion. Her flippant dismissal of cases and unwillingness to provide Constitutional reasoning for her decisions exposes her arrogance, disrespect for our judicial system and the people whose lives are dramatically impacted by her decisions. Through her work as a judge and in organizations, she has denied people equal opportunity to make a living because of the color of their skin, preborn babies their right to live, and women the right not to be exploited by abortionists. After giving her the benefit of the doubt, her record of giving preferences to certain classes of people and denying equal justice to others obliges Concerned Women for America Legislative Action Committee to oppose her nomination to the U.S. Supreme Court. Sonia Sotomayor has disqualified herself from the U.S. Supreme Court. Senators need to set aside their party loyalty and do their Constitutional duty to uphold equal justice for all by opposing Sonia Sotomayor's nomination."
To arrange interviews with coalition members, please contact: Joy Yearout, jyearout@sba-list.org or (703) 380-6674
WASHINGTON, July 9 /Christian Newswire/ -- Members of the Women's Coalition for Justice released the following statements in advance of the Senate confirmation hearings for Supreme Court Nominee Judge Sonia Sotomayor beginning next Monday.
Marjorie Dannenfelser, President of the Susan B. Anthony List, stated, "Women are best protected by the rule of law -- and blind justice. Their rights are most endangered when personal preference, ideology or painful personal history inform judgment. Susan B. Anthony and her early feminist compatriots fought for a human rights standard sustained only through blind justice. When evidence of personal preference appears in any Supreme Court nominee's judgment, it should give all women pause. Sonia Sotomayor's record of support for judicial activism and her work for the pro-abortion Puerto Rican Legal Defense Fund offer little comfort that she will be a friend to the unborn on the Supreme Court. Given what we know about Sonia Sotomayor's own judicial philosophy, including her support of policymaking from the bench, senators have just cause to reject her appointment to the United States Supreme Court."
Genevieve Wood, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives, The Heritage Foundation, stated, "I am troubled by Judge Sotomayor's rejection of Justice O'Connor's favored adage that a wise old man would reach the same conclusion as a wise old woman. It is deeply offensive that she has suggested that the sexes and ethnicities 'have basic differences in logic and reasoning,' and even more offensive that she believes it is somehow patriotic to indulge in gender or ethnic biases. Her statements raise grave concerns about whether she can truly be impartial and the current defense that she simply endorses including different perspectives doesn't hold water. The Senators must ask challenging questions to determine whether she believes that a wise woman can reach the same conclusion as a wise man, or whether she intends to bring bias, as she has suggested, even to most cases."
Connie Mackey, Senior Vice President for FRCAction remarked, "I reject the admonition of Senator Chuck Schumer that opposing the nomination of Sonia Sotomayor will cause the Republican Party to lose women's vote permanently. I believe his crystal ball is cloudy when it comes to women in America. Women think independently and most women will see that Sonia Sotomayor is a judicial activist who will use the courts to make policy reflective of her own personal judgments as opposed to ruling based upon the tenets put forth by the Constitution. Her career as an activist is well-documented and disqualifies her from taking the 9th seat on the United States Supreme Court."
Charmaine Yoest, President and CEO of Americans United for Life remarked, "It's important for the American people to understand that the confirmation of Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the Supreme Court will dramatically shift the dynamics of the Court. Her record of activism in support of a radical pro-abortion agenda is clear and documented. This is a judge with a record significantly worse than Judge Souter's. We are asking the Senate Judiciary Committee to seriously consider the consequences of confirming a Supreme Court justice whose radical record shows she would rule against all common-sense legal protections for the unborn, including parental notification, informed consent and bans on partial- birth abortion. The American people will not tolerate a nominee who is outside the mainstream of American public opinion."
Wendy Wright, President of Concerned Women for America Legislative Action Committee stated, "Sonia Sotomayor's record reveals she lacks the primary characteristic required of a judge -- impartiality. She has used her position as a judge to deny equal justice to people based on their ethnicity. She worked with organizations that aggressively fought against common-sense regulations on abortion. Her flippant dismissal of cases and unwillingness to provide Constitutional reasoning for her decisions exposes her arrogance, disrespect for our judicial system and the people whose lives are dramatically impacted by her decisions. Through her work as a judge and in organizations, she has denied people equal opportunity to make a living because of the color of their skin, preborn babies their right to live, and women the right not to be exploited by abortionists. After giving her the benefit of the doubt, her record of giving preferences to certain classes of people and denying equal justice to others obliges Concerned Women for America Legislative Action Committee to oppose her nomination to the U.S. Supreme Court. Sonia Sotomayor has disqualified herself from the U.S. Supreme Court. Senators need to set aside their party loyalty and do their Constitutional duty to uphold equal justice for all by opposing Sonia Sotomayor's nomination."
To arrange interviews with coalition members, please contact: Joy Yearout, jyearout@sba-list.org or (703) 380-6674
Natalie Grant Surprises Contestants, Three Singers Voted Out, but One is Saved on 'Gospel Dream'
Natalie Grant Surprises Contestants, Three Singers Voted Out, but One is Saved on 'Gospel Dream'
Encores July 11 (8 P.M./1 A.M.) & July 12 (8 P.M./11 P.M.) ET
ATLANTA, July 9 /Christian Newswire/ -- Natalie Grant surprised contestants, then helped coach their performances, while three singers were sent packing, but in a surprise twist, one was voted back in by remaining contestants last night on the popular Gospel Music Channel ( www.gospelmusicchannel.com) television network series Gospel Dream. (Viewers can catch special encores of the episode Saturday, July 11 (8:00 P.M., 1:00 A.M.) and Sunday, July 12 (8:00 P.M., 11:00 P.M.) on GMC. All times eastern.
It was ladies night and the surprise visit by the reigning and four-time GMA Female Vocalist of the Year Grant shocked the five remaining females: Amber Davies, Brownsville, TN (Age 18); Ashli Marie Pritchett, Thomaston, GA (16); Erin Lyder, Boston, MA (24); Jasmine Jackson, Murfreesboro, TN (21) and Rashelle Garrett, Ceres, CA (32). Grant then helped guide their performances as the ladies performed in front of a studio audience for the first time. Songs performed included: "Get Up" (Erin), "Can't Live a Day" (Rashelle), "I Will Not Be Moved" (Ashli), "I Can See Clearly Now" (Jasmine) and "When You Believe" (Amber). The judges voted out Erin, Rashelle and Ashli -- but then allowed the five remaining male contestants, whose night is next week -- to save one of the outcasts. The men elected to bring back Erin Lyder, who lives to sing another day along with Amber Davies and Jasmine Jackson.
Next week, it's guys night as NeVar Massey, Hampton, GA (34); Robert Mauti, Nashville, TN (26); Tim Stylez, Atlanta, GA (27); Tony LeBron, Boca Raton, FL (32); and Travis Lindseth, Kirkland, WA (21) hit the stage. Three are scheduled to be voted out, but they may get a few surprises of their own. The new episode premieres on GMC Weds. July 15 at 10:00 P.M. ET/9:00 P.M. CT.
The judges deciding the fate of the contestants are: Michelle Williams from the GRAMMY- winning group "Destiny's Child"; one of Gospel music's most prolific talents, J. Moss; and one of the music industry's most respected executives, Mitchell Solarek. Kimberley Locke, the first American Idol® alumnae to debut at #1 on the Billboard charts with a non-Idol single, serves as co-host along with Mike Kasem ("MTV's Top 20 Video Countdown" "American Top 10"). In addition, two major musical artists will serve as surprise coaches during the season. The theme for the Gospel Dream's fourth season: The Greatest Inspirational Songs of All Time.
GMC now gives viewers a chance to catch the previous week's Gospel Dream episode immediately before the new episode premiere:
GMC's New Weds. Night Line-Up
8:00 P.M. Clash of the Choirs
9:00 P.M. Gospel Dream (Encore of Previous Week)
10:00 P.M. Gospel Dream (New Episode Premiere)
All Times Eastern
Gospel Dream talent auditions invited solo artists between the ages of 16-40, from all genres of Gospel/Christian music styles, including traditional, rock, pop, country and soul to compete for the final competition in Nashville from which ten finalists-- and ultimately one winner--will be chosen by a celebrity panel of industry professionals. The winning artist will receive record and music video exposure, among other prizes.
The Gospel Dream 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 on channel 338 and on Verizon FiOS on channel 224.
Encores July 11 (8 P.M./1 A.M.) & July 12 (8 P.M./11 P.M.) ET
ATLANTA, July 9 /Christian Newswire/ -- Natalie Grant surprised contestants, then helped coach their performances, while three singers were sent packing, but in a surprise twist, one was voted back in by remaining contestants last night on the popular Gospel Music Channel ( www.gospelmusicchannel.com) television network series Gospel Dream. (Viewers can catch special encores of the episode Saturday, July 11 (8:00 P.M., 1:00 A.M.) and Sunday, July 12 (8:00 P.M., 11:00 P.M.) on GMC. All times eastern.
It was ladies night and the surprise visit by the reigning and four-time GMA Female Vocalist of the Year Grant shocked the five remaining females: Amber Davies, Brownsville, TN (Age 18); Ashli Marie Pritchett, Thomaston, GA (16); Erin Lyder, Boston, MA (24); Jasmine Jackson, Murfreesboro, TN (21) and Rashelle Garrett, Ceres, CA (32). Grant then helped guide their performances as the ladies performed in front of a studio audience for the first time. Songs performed included: "Get Up" (Erin), "Can't Live a Day" (Rashelle), "I Will Not Be Moved" (Ashli), "I Can See Clearly Now" (Jasmine) and "When You Believe" (Amber). The judges voted out Erin, Rashelle and Ashli -- but then allowed the five remaining male contestants, whose night is next week -- to save one of the outcasts. The men elected to bring back Erin Lyder, who lives to sing another day along with Amber Davies and Jasmine Jackson.
Next week, it's guys night as NeVar Massey, Hampton, GA (34); Robert Mauti, Nashville, TN (26); Tim Stylez, Atlanta, GA (27); Tony LeBron, Boca Raton, FL (32); and Travis Lindseth, Kirkland, WA (21) hit the stage. Three are scheduled to be voted out, but they may get a few surprises of their own. The new episode premieres on GMC Weds. July 15 at 10:00 P.M. ET/9:00 P.M. CT.
The judges deciding the fate of the contestants are: Michelle Williams from the GRAMMY- winning group "Destiny's Child"; one of Gospel music's most prolific talents, J. Moss; and one of the music industry's most respected executives, Mitchell Solarek. Kimberley Locke, the first American Idol® alumnae to debut at #1 on the Billboard charts with a non-Idol single, serves as co-host along with Mike Kasem ("MTV's Top 20 Video Countdown" "American Top 10"). In addition, two major musical artists will serve as surprise coaches during the season. The theme for the Gospel Dream's fourth season: The Greatest Inspirational Songs of All Time.
GMC now gives viewers a chance to catch the previous week's Gospel Dream episode immediately before the new episode premiere:
GMC's New Weds. Night Line-Up
8:00 P.M. Clash of the Choirs
9:00 P.M. Gospel Dream (Encore of Previous Week)
10:00 P.M. Gospel Dream (New Episode Premiere)
All Times Eastern
Gospel Dream talent auditions invited solo artists between the ages of 16-40, from all genres of Gospel/Christian music styles, including traditional, rock, pop, country and soul to compete for the final competition in Nashville from which ten finalists-- and ultimately one winner--will be chosen by a celebrity panel of industry professionals. The winning artist will receive record and music video exposure, among other prizes.
The Gospel Dream 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 on channel 338 and on Verizon FiOS on channel 224.
Sky Angel and SGM Radio - Uplifting Christians Together
Sky Angel and SGM Radio - Uplifting Christians Together
MEDIA ADVISORY, July 9 /Christian Newswire/ -- In order to connect with the large audience of Southern Gospel music lovers, Sky Angel recently teamed up with SGM Radio (www.sgmradio.com) to promote their television service to SGM Radio's online audience.
SGM Radio is a network of Southern Gospel stations that broadcasts exclusively via the internet. Their website draws hundreds of thousands of new visitors each month, and includes monthly articles from a range of Southern Gospel artists, album and DVD reviews, Artist Features and much more.
"Sky Angel and SGM Radio share the same mission: to spread the Gospel worldwide. We are pleased to have the opportunity to be featured prominently on SGM Radio's website and encourage people to learn about our uplifting faith-based and family-oriented television service," said Tom Scott, Sky Angel's President & COO.
"I'm really excited to be able to partner with a great company like Sky Angel. It isn't often that you have a business relationship and a friendship like I do with Bill Dykes and the Sky Angel team. I believe wholeheartedly in the service Sky Angel provides for wholesome entertainment for our families," said Rob Patz, President/CEO of Coastal Media, the parent company of SGM Radio.
Sky Angel offers subscribers over 80 television and radio channels of faith-based and family-friendly channels, with entertainment, educational, sports and news programming. Sky Angel requires no dish or antenna, is completely compatible with current TV service, is easily installed, and includes value-added features like 48-hour playback on all Faith-based television channels plus an ever-growing Video-On- Demand library with thousands of free and fee-based selections.
For more information about Sky Angel, visit www.sgmradio.com and click on the link.
About Sky Angel:
Sky Angel® U.S. LLC is a Christian-owned multi- channel provider of faith-based and family-friendly television and radio programming. Founded by Robert Johnson Sr. more than 27 years ago, Sky Angel was created to provide a Christ-centered and family- friendly alternative to the standard television fare. Since then, his vision has grown into a service providing quality television and radio programming to all corners of the United States. Sky Angel carries the Parents Television Council's® prestigious Entertainment Seal of Approval(tm), which recognizes excellence and social responsibility in programming.
About SGM Radio:
SGM Radio strives to be a positive voice on the internet and a powerful tool in spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ, playing the best in today's Southern Gospel music.
MEDIA ADVISORY, July 9 /Christian Newswire/ -- In order to connect with the large audience of Southern Gospel music lovers, Sky Angel recently teamed up with SGM Radio (www.sgmradio.com) to promote their television service to SGM Radio's online audience.
SGM Radio is a network of Southern Gospel stations that broadcasts exclusively via the internet. Their website draws hundreds of thousands of new visitors each month, and includes monthly articles from a range of Southern Gospel artists, album and DVD reviews, Artist Features and much more.
"Sky Angel and SGM Radio share the same mission: to spread the Gospel worldwide. We are pleased to have the opportunity to be featured prominently on SGM Radio's website and encourage people to learn about our uplifting faith-based and family-oriented television service," said Tom Scott, Sky Angel's President & COO.
"I'm really excited to be able to partner with a great company like Sky Angel. It isn't often that you have a business relationship and a friendship like I do with Bill Dykes and the Sky Angel team. I believe wholeheartedly in the service Sky Angel provides for wholesome entertainment for our families," said Rob Patz, President/CEO of Coastal Media, the parent company of SGM Radio.
Sky Angel offers subscribers over 80 television and radio channels of faith-based and family-friendly channels, with entertainment, educational, sports and news programming. Sky Angel requires no dish or antenna, is completely compatible with current TV service, is easily installed, and includes value-added features like 48-hour playback on all Faith-based television channels plus an ever-growing Video-On- Demand library with thousands of free and fee-based selections.
For more information about Sky Angel, visit www.sgmradio.com and click on the link.
About Sky Angel:
Sky Angel® U.S. LLC is a Christian-owned multi- channel provider of faith-based and family-friendly television and radio programming. Founded by Robert Johnson Sr. more than 27 years ago, Sky Angel was created to provide a Christ-centered and family- friendly alternative to the standard television fare. Since then, his vision has grown into a service providing quality television and radio programming to all corners of the United States. Sky Angel carries the Parents Television Council's® prestigious Entertainment Seal of Approval(tm), which recognizes excellence and social responsibility in programming.
About SGM Radio:
SGM Radio strives to be a positive voice on the internet and a powerful tool in spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ, playing the best in today's Southern Gospel music.
NIH Guidelines for Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research Ignore Public Opinion and the Human Cost
NIH Guidelines for Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research Ignore Public Opinion and the Human Cost
PHILADELPHIA, July 9 /Christian Newswire/ -- July 7, 2009, marked a major ethical shift in United States government-funded research. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) implemented President Obama's executive order, "Removing Barriers to Responsible Scientific Research Involving Human Stem Cells" (March 9, 2009). The new NIH "Guidelines" authorize taxpayer funding of research on human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) harvested from human embryos as of July 7, 2009, or from earlier sources, both domestic and foreign, with the approval of the Working Group of the Advisory Committee to the Director.
Historically, federal funding of research on humans from which they derived no benefit has been prohibited. Now the destruction of human beings in their earliest and most vulnerable stages is promoted and funded by federal taxpayer dollars. Lengthy explanations exist as to how informed consent from the embryo donors will be obtained, and about how conflicts of interest will be handled, but no mention is made about the rights of the embryos themselves. In fact, the guiding principles are listed as follows:
1. Responsible research with hESCs has the potential to improve our understanding of human health and illness and discover new ways to prevent and/or treat illness.
2. Individuals donating embryos for research purposes should do so freely, with voluntary and informed consent. (p. 15).
No mention is made of the destruction of human life that these Guidelines support. Such a lacuna fails to represent the breadth of reasoned public opinion on this issue.
This egregious violation of human life is exacerbated by the fact that there are ethical alternatives (namely induced pluripotent stem cells) that share the same plastic-like properties as embryonic stem cells. Second, there exists wide consensus that stem cell research using adult stem cells, or induced pluripotent stem cells, or stem cells from cord blood should be used and funded. There is not wide consensus on the use of embryonic stem cells. To say that there is, is to ignore a sector of the population and more importantly, the arguments they have against such research. Third, the Guidelines open up funding for research that has yet to show any distinctive therapeutic benefit in humans. Such use of funds is irresponsible.
The NCBC is grateful that the NIH responded to its call for more explicit prohibitions against inducements of parents to donate embryos, and to NCBC's support of prohibitions against expanding the sources of embryos to be destroyed by this research. However, these Guidelines represent a break in a tradition of respecting human subjects, especially the most vulnerable of human beings, who have no voice. Human embryos are human beings in their earliest stage of development. Their value is not dependent upon age, genetic makeup, development or maturity. Discrimination against these human beings is no less reprehensible and arbitrary than any other form.
The National Catholic Bioethics Center was founded in 1972 to apply the Roman Catholic moral tradition to developments in health care and the life sciences. www.ncbcenter.org.
PHILADELPHIA, July 9 /Christian Newswire/ -- July 7, 2009, marked a major ethical shift in United States government-funded research. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) implemented President Obama's executive order, "Removing Barriers to Responsible Scientific Research Involving Human Stem Cells" (March 9, 2009). The new NIH "Guidelines" authorize taxpayer funding of research on human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) harvested from human embryos as of July 7, 2009, or from earlier sources, both domestic and foreign, with the approval of the Working Group of the Advisory Committee to the Director.
Historically, federal funding of research on humans from which they derived no benefit has been prohibited. Now the destruction of human beings in their earliest and most vulnerable stages is promoted and funded by federal taxpayer dollars. Lengthy explanations exist as to how informed consent from the embryo donors will be obtained, and about how conflicts of interest will be handled, but no mention is made about the rights of the embryos themselves. In fact, the guiding principles are listed as follows:
1. Responsible research with hESCs has the potential to improve our understanding of human health and illness and discover new ways to prevent and/or treat illness.
2. Individuals donating embryos for research purposes should do so freely, with voluntary and informed consent. (p. 15).
No mention is made of the destruction of human life that these Guidelines support. Such a lacuna fails to represent the breadth of reasoned public opinion on this issue.
This egregious violation of human life is exacerbated by the fact that there are ethical alternatives (namely induced pluripotent stem cells) that share the same plastic-like properties as embryonic stem cells. Second, there exists wide consensus that stem cell research using adult stem cells, or induced pluripotent stem cells, or stem cells from cord blood should be used and funded. There is not wide consensus on the use of embryonic stem cells. To say that there is, is to ignore a sector of the population and more importantly, the arguments they have against such research. Third, the Guidelines open up funding for research that has yet to show any distinctive therapeutic benefit in humans. Such use of funds is irresponsible.
The NCBC is grateful that the NIH responded to its call for more explicit prohibitions against inducements of parents to donate embryos, and to NCBC's support of prohibitions against expanding the sources of embryos to be destroyed by this research. However, these Guidelines represent a break in a tradition of respecting human subjects, especially the most vulnerable of human beings, who have no voice. Human embryos are human beings in their earliest stage of development. Their value is not dependent upon age, genetic makeup, development or maturity. Discrimination against these human beings is no less reprehensible and arbitrary than any other form.
The National Catholic Bioethics Center was founded in 1972 to apply the Roman Catholic moral tradition to developments in health care and the life sciences. www.ncbcenter.org.
The Institute for Priestly Formation Celebrates 'Year for Priests' with New Resources
The Institute for Priestly Formation Celebrates 'Year for Priests' with New Resources
IPF Publications Assists Priests and Seminarians in Spiritual Growth
OMAHA, Neb., July 7 /Christian Newswire/ -- The "Year for Priests," announced by Pope Benedict XVI, began on June 19, 2009. The pope said this special year is intended to "encourage priests in striving for spiritual perfection" and he encouraged priests to be "men of intense prayer who cultivate a communion of love and life with the Lord." Benedict also talked about the importance of proper formation of candidates to the priesthood, saying "the work of forming priests is a delicate mission." The Holy Father explained that formation must promote "human maturity, spiritual qualities, apostolic zeal and intellectual rigor."
The Institute for Priestly Formation (IPF), located at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska, is answering the Pope's plea to teach these virtues and strengthen the spiritual life of priests and seminarians. IPF has dutifully prepared for the celebration of the Year for Priests and IPF Publications, the publishing arm of the Institute, is providing a variety of resources and programs to assist in this formation process.
Father David Toups, the Interim Director of the Secretariat of Clergy, Consecrated Life and Vocations for the USCCB, wrote the first in a series of books published by IPF Publications. "Reclaiming Our Priestly Character serves as a source of renewal for the priesthood," says Toups. "By renewing our understanding of the priestly character, we are not saying we are better than the lay faithful, but we are different by virtue of ordination."
Fr. Michael Najim, Vocation Director for the Diocese of Providence, Rhode Island, offers a resource for seminarians called Radical Surrender: Letters to Seminarians. "While writing this book, I had one simple goal: to inspire seminarians to enter deeply into a personal bond with Jesus Christ so that Christ can interiorly transform them," reflected Najim. "Young men preparing for the priesthood can prayerfully read the letters and then reflect on how the Lord is speaking to their hearts."
Deacon James Keating, Director of Theological Formation at IPF, provides a resource for theologians who teach at seminaries. "Resting on the Heart of Christ offers a vision of theological formation that takes seriously the goal of holiness," said Dr. William Mattison of Catholic University of America. Having taught in seminaries himself, Keating knows the importance of spiritual growth through prayer. Resting on the Heart of Christ integrates the best of theological research with the rich intellectual tradition of the Church and the wisdom of the saints, ensuring conversion of both mind and heart.
An additional resource, Be Thou My Vision: Mediations on the Priesthood, by Bishop David Ricken, Bishop of the Diocese of Green Bay, is scheduled for publication later this year.
IFP was founded to assist bishops in the spiritual formation of diocesan seminarians and priests as well as those who are responsible for diocesan priestly formation.
For more information about The Institute for Priestly Formation or to schedule an interview, please contact Christine Schicker with the Maximus Group at 404- 610-8871.
IPF Publications Assists Priests and Seminarians in Spiritual Growth
OMAHA, Neb., July 7 /Christian Newswire/ -- The "Year for Priests," announced by Pope Benedict XVI, began on June 19, 2009. The pope said this special year is intended to "encourage priests in striving for spiritual perfection" and he encouraged priests to be "men of intense prayer who cultivate a communion of love and life with the Lord." Benedict also talked about the importance of proper formation of candidates to the priesthood, saying "the work of forming priests is a delicate mission." The Holy Father explained that formation must promote "human maturity, spiritual qualities, apostolic zeal and intellectual rigor."
The Institute for Priestly Formation (IPF), located at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska, is answering the Pope's plea to teach these virtues and strengthen the spiritual life of priests and seminarians. IPF has dutifully prepared for the celebration of the Year for Priests and IPF Publications, the publishing arm of the Institute, is providing a variety of resources and programs to assist in this formation process.
Father David Toups, the Interim Director of the Secretariat of Clergy, Consecrated Life and Vocations for the USCCB, wrote the first in a series of books published by IPF Publications. "Reclaiming Our Priestly Character serves as a source of renewal for the priesthood," says Toups. "By renewing our understanding of the priestly character, we are not saying we are better than the lay faithful, but we are different by virtue of ordination."
Fr. Michael Najim, Vocation Director for the Diocese of Providence, Rhode Island, offers a resource for seminarians called Radical Surrender: Letters to Seminarians. "While writing this book, I had one simple goal: to inspire seminarians to enter deeply into a personal bond with Jesus Christ so that Christ can interiorly transform them," reflected Najim. "Young men preparing for the priesthood can prayerfully read the letters and then reflect on how the Lord is speaking to their hearts."
Deacon James Keating, Director of Theological Formation at IPF, provides a resource for theologians who teach at seminaries. "Resting on the Heart of Christ offers a vision of theological formation that takes seriously the goal of holiness," said Dr. William Mattison of Catholic University of America. Having taught in seminaries himself, Keating knows the importance of spiritual growth through prayer. Resting on the Heart of Christ integrates the best of theological research with the rich intellectual tradition of the Church and the wisdom of the saints, ensuring conversion of both mind and heart.
An additional resource, Be Thou My Vision: Mediations on the Priesthood, by Bishop David Ricken, Bishop of the Diocese of Green Bay, is scheduled for publication later this year.
IFP was founded to assist bishops in the spiritual formation of diocesan seminarians and priests as well as those who are responsible for diocesan priestly formation.
For more information about The Institute for Priestly Formation or to schedule an interview, please contact Christine Schicker with the Maximus Group at 404- 610-8871.
Annual Labor Day Music Fest, RevGen, Celebrates Fifth Year Anniversary
Annual Labor Day Music Fest, RevGen, Celebrates Fifth Year Anniversary
Two-Day Mega-Concert Expects 30,000 Fans for 2009 Edition; Looks Back on Early Years
FRENCHTOWN, NJ, July 7 /Christian Newswire/ -- Revelation Generation (www.revgen.org), the ever-popular two-day music festival held annually at Revelation Farms in Hunterdon County will be celebrating its fifth anniversary this year with its most impressive lineup to date. Featuring all-star talent including Jars of Clay, Flyleaf, Underoath, Switchfoot and Relient K, this year's show is certain to be the most impressive yet. However, RevGen is not quick to forget its roots, past iterations and every hand that has helped shape it.
The 2008 edition of RevGen marked the first attempt at a two-day festival. Featuring incredible acts such as TobyMac, Flyleaf, As I Lay Dying, Norma Jean, newsboys and Sixpence None The Richer and more, an estimated 25,000 fans attended across both days. The 2008 festival also saw the introduction of the highly successful Tent7, where lucky fans could sit in on interview sessions with their favorite bands and get an inside look at their stories. This venue provided an incredibly intimate, personable environment where passionate fans could interact with RevGen performers like never before.
2007 saw chart-topping acts including MXPX, Skillet, Norma Jean and newsboys during the first Saturday of September -- not to mention over 15,000 fans in one day. That year, the festival also featured the RevGen Breakout competition -- a battle of the bands performance won by I Am Alpha And Omega and Reilly.
In 2006, RevGen introduced its harder side with the Philadelphia Stage -- an effort that generated tremendous response from festival-goers throughout the region. While rocking to full capacity, the stage served as a great balance to the contemporary Christian music lineup on the New York Stage and truly highlighted RevGen's growing musical diversity.
In 2005, in its very first year, RevGen welcomed 4,500 adventurous souls that turned out to support the vision of a community. Further Seems Forever, Skillet, Paul Coleman and more performed before the ardent core of fans who decided to experience something new in Frenchtown NJ.
"Looking back on the last five years, it really is fantastic to see how RevGen has grown," said concert promoter Sean Grom. "It's amazing to think that we started with just a handful of bands and not even 5,000 fans -- and it's even more important to remember that RevGen wouldn't be what it is in 2009 if it weren't for ever musician, driver, organizer, stagehand, vendor, organization, volunteer and every single fan that has participated. That's what keeps us excited and that's what keeps us growing."
The 2009 iteration of RevGen will feature the following chart-toppers across two days and five stage:
NEW YORK STAGE - An eclectic mix of pop and rock: Friday: Mercy Me, Jars of Clay, Delirious, Matthew West Saturday: Switchfoot, Relient K, Barlow Girl, Need to Breathe, The Fold, Seabird
PHILADELPHIA STAGE - Alternative, metal, and underground bands with a sharp edge: Friday: Underoath, Emery, Haste The Day, The Glorious Unseen Saturday: Flyleaf, The Devil Wears Prada, Norma Jean, August Burns Red, Fireflight, And Then There Were None, Before Their Eyes
NASHVILLE STAGE - Some of the finest acoustic artists and groups influenced by The Music City: Saturday: Paul Coleman, Jon Foreman, Bethany Dillon, Derek Webb
COME AND LIVE STAGE - Up and coming bands in a quick, fast-paced environment: Saturday: Mychildren Mybride, For Today, Impending Doom, Sleeping Giant, I Am Alpha And Omega, The Ember Days, Nothing More, Kronicles
URBAN STAGE - Top talent from the hip-hop, R&B, and rap worlds: Saturday: Lecrae, Group 1 Crew, Trip Lee, RUNAWAY, Carmen Michelle, Bengie, Heesun Lee, Harold B.
Revelation Generation has emerged as the premier summer festival in the greater New York and greater Philadelphia area. The event is a great venue for youth groups, singles, families, churches, friends and everyone in between to come together for excellent music in fun environment. Last year, Revelation Generation welcomed more than 25,000 fans -- a figure we expect to eclipse this year. The show will now feature two full days (expanding from last year's one and a half days) of music, games, and flat out fun for everyone. In addition to the aforementioned musical acts, Revelation Generation will host amazing speakers, children's activities, games, extreme sports, incredible local food, a massive merchandise tent and state of the art sound and lighting.
RevGen also welcomes the triumphant return of Tent 7. Introduced last year, Tent 7 provides lucky fans the opportunity to sit in on intimate interview sessions with their favorite performers. Throughout the festival, artists will stop by Tent 7 to share their stories allowing unprecedented access to bands they're like to find nowhere else (except maybe on the tour bus).
Fans can stay tuned for everything and anything Revelation Generation at the following destinations:
Official Homepage: www.revgen.org
MySpace: www.myspace.com/revelationgenerationorg
Facebook: www.facebook.com/people/Tim- RevGen/1538196464
Twitter (@Rev_Gen): http://twitter.com/Rev_Gen
Ticket Availability
Tickets are available for individual purchase and discounted group rates at
http://revgen.org/tickets/information.php.
About Revelation Generation
In its fifth year, Revelation Generation is the premier annual music festival in the greater New York and greater Philadelphia area -- bringing a world-class entertainment experience to Central New Jersey. The unique non-profit event takes place in Frenchtown, NJ at Revelation Farms, a sprawling 140-plus acre property owned by festival founders, Robert and Kim Grom. Revelation Generation brings together a unique mix of emerging and award-winning musical artists spanning rock, pop, alternative, and punk, along with inspiring speakers, demonstrations, activities, and games in an alcohol-free and drug-free venue that anyone can enjoy. For more information, visit www.revgen.org.
Two-Day Mega-Concert Expects 30,000 Fans for 2009 Edition; Looks Back on Early Years
FRENCHTOWN, NJ, July 7 /Christian Newswire/ -- Revelation Generation (www.revgen.org), the ever-popular two-day music festival held annually at Revelation Farms in Hunterdon County will be celebrating its fifth anniversary this year with its most impressive lineup to date. Featuring all-star talent including Jars of Clay, Flyleaf, Underoath, Switchfoot and Relient K, this year's show is certain to be the most impressive yet. However, RevGen is not quick to forget its roots, past iterations and every hand that has helped shape it.
The 2008 edition of RevGen marked the first attempt at a two-day festival. Featuring incredible acts such as TobyMac, Flyleaf, As I Lay Dying, Norma Jean, newsboys and Sixpence None The Richer and more, an estimated 25,000 fans attended across both days. The 2008 festival also saw the introduction of the highly successful Tent7, where lucky fans could sit in on interview sessions with their favorite bands and get an inside look at their stories. This venue provided an incredibly intimate, personable environment where passionate fans could interact with RevGen performers like never before.
2007 saw chart-topping acts including MXPX, Skillet, Norma Jean and newsboys during the first Saturday of September -- not to mention over 15,000 fans in one day. That year, the festival also featured the RevGen Breakout competition -- a battle of the bands performance won by I Am Alpha And Omega and Reilly.
In 2006, RevGen introduced its harder side with the Philadelphia Stage -- an effort that generated tremendous response from festival-goers throughout the region. While rocking to full capacity, the stage served as a great balance to the contemporary Christian music lineup on the New York Stage and truly highlighted RevGen's growing musical diversity.
In 2005, in its very first year, RevGen welcomed 4,500 adventurous souls that turned out to support the vision of a community. Further Seems Forever, Skillet, Paul Coleman and more performed before the ardent core of fans who decided to experience something new in Frenchtown NJ.
"Looking back on the last five years, it really is fantastic to see how RevGen has grown," said concert promoter Sean Grom. "It's amazing to think that we started with just a handful of bands and not even 5,000 fans -- and it's even more important to remember that RevGen wouldn't be what it is in 2009 if it weren't for ever musician, driver, organizer, stagehand, vendor, organization, volunteer and every single fan that has participated. That's what keeps us excited and that's what keeps us growing."
The 2009 iteration of RevGen will feature the following chart-toppers across two days and five stage:
NEW YORK STAGE - An eclectic mix of pop and rock: Friday: Mercy Me, Jars of Clay, Delirious, Matthew West Saturday: Switchfoot, Relient K, Barlow Girl, Need to Breathe, The Fold, Seabird
PHILADELPHIA STAGE - Alternative, metal, and underground bands with a sharp edge: Friday: Underoath, Emery, Haste The Day, The Glorious Unseen Saturday: Flyleaf, The Devil Wears Prada, Norma Jean, August Burns Red, Fireflight, And Then There Were None, Before Their Eyes
NASHVILLE STAGE - Some of the finest acoustic artists and groups influenced by The Music City: Saturday: Paul Coleman, Jon Foreman, Bethany Dillon, Derek Webb
COME AND LIVE STAGE - Up and coming bands in a quick, fast-paced environment: Saturday: Mychildren Mybride, For Today, Impending Doom, Sleeping Giant, I Am Alpha And Omega, The Ember Days, Nothing More, Kronicles
URBAN STAGE - Top talent from the hip-hop, R&B, and rap worlds: Saturday: Lecrae, Group 1 Crew, Trip Lee, RUNAWAY, Carmen Michelle, Bengie, Heesun Lee, Harold B.
Revelation Generation has emerged as the premier summer festival in the greater New York and greater Philadelphia area. The event is a great venue for youth groups, singles, families, churches, friends and everyone in between to come together for excellent music in fun environment. Last year, Revelation Generation welcomed more than 25,000 fans -- a figure we expect to eclipse this year. The show will now feature two full days (expanding from last year's one and a half days) of music, games, and flat out fun for everyone. In addition to the aforementioned musical acts, Revelation Generation will host amazing speakers, children's activities, games, extreme sports, incredible local food, a massive merchandise tent and state of the art sound and lighting.
RevGen also welcomes the triumphant return of Tent 7. Introduced last year, Tent 7 provides lucky fans the opportunity to sit in on intimate interview sessions with their favorite performers. Throughout the festival, artists will stop by Tent 7 to share their stories allowing unprecedented access to bands they're like to find nowhere else (except maybe on the tour bus).
Fans can stay tuned for everything and anything Revelation Generation at the following destinations:
Official Homepage: www.revgen.org
MySpace: www.myspace.com/revelationgenerationorg
Facebook: www.facebook.com/people/Tim- RevGen/1538196464
Twitter (@Rev_Gen): http://twitter.com/Rev_Gen
Ticket Availability
Tickets are available for individual purchase and discounted group rates at
http://revgen.org/tickets/information.php.
About Revelation Generation
In its fifth year, Revelation Generation is the premier annual music festival in the greater New York and greater Philadelphia area -- bringing a world-class entertainment experience to Central New Jersey. The unique non-profit event takes place in Frenchtown, NJ at Revelation Farms, a sprawling 140-plus acre property owned by festival founders, Robert and Kim Grom. Revelation Generation brings together a unique mix of emerging and award-winning musical artists spanning rock, pop, alternative, and punk, along with inspiring speakers, demonstrations, activities, and games in an alcohol-free and drug-free venue that anyone can enjoy. For more information, visit www.revgen.org.
National Religious Freedom Group Calls for Dismissal of Connecticut State Ethics Office Chief for Harassing the Catholic Church
National Religious Freedom Group Calls for Dismissal of Connecticut State Ethics Office Chief for Harassing the Catholic Church
MEDIA ADVISORY, July 7 /Christian Newswire/ -- The national advocacy group In God We Trust today called on Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal to dismiss the head of the state's Ethics Office, Carol Carson, over the her office's harassment of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Bridgeport. Carson's office claimed the church violated state lobbying laws by busing supporters to a rally protesting a controversial bill before the Connecticut state legislature. The proposed law would have allowed the state government to regulate the governing structure of the church. The bill was withdrawn in the face of public pressure. Last week Carson's office reluctantly agreed to drop its investigation of the church after Connecticut's Attorney General warned that the state would likely lose a lawsuit filed against it by the Diocese.
"The Connecticut state ethics office is out of control. It attempted to use its power to regulate and infringe on the rights of the Catholic church and the people of Connecticut to exercise their first amendments rights," says Bishop Council Nedd, In God We Trust's Chairman. "It is right for the office to drop its investigation, but it should never have gone after the church in the first place. This is clearly a case of power-crazed bureaucrats run amok. Anyone who would even consider using the power of the state to try to intimidate a church should not be working in government. Carol Carson and Ethics Enforcement Officer Thomas K. Jones, who was in charge of this investigation, must be fired," he says.
In God We Trust is a national political advocacy organization with over 70,000 supporters of various faiths. Council Nedd is a traditional Episcopal priest and serves as the Bishop of the Chesapeake and Northeast for the Episcopal Missionary Church. In God We Trust can be found on the Internet at www.InGodWeTrustUSA.org.
MEDIA ADVISORY, July 7 /Christian Newswire/ -- The national advocacy group In God We Trust today called on Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal to dismiss the head of the state's Ethics Office, Carol Carson, over the her office's harassment of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Bridgeport. Carson's office claimed the church violated state lobbying laws by busing supporters to a rally protesting a controversial bill before the Connecticut state legislature. The proposed law would have allowed the state government to regulate the governing structure of the church. The bill was withdrawn in the face of public pressure. Last week Carson's office reluctantly agreed to drop its investigation of the church after Connecticut's Attorney General warned that the state would likely lose a lawsuit filed against it by the Diocese.
"The Connecticut state ethics office is out of control. It attempted to use its power to regulate and infringe on the rights of the Catholic church and the people of Connecticut to exercise their first amendments rights," says Bishop Council Nedd, In God We Trust's Chairman. "It is right for the office to drop its investigation, but it should never have gone after the church in the first place. This is clearly a case of power-crazed bureaucrats run amok. Anyone who would even consider using the power of the state to try to intimidate a church should not be working in government. Carol Carson and Ethics Enforcement Officer Thomas K. Jones, who was in charge of this investigation, must be fired," he says.
In God We Trust is a national political advocacy organization with over 70,000 supporters of various faiths. Council Nedd is a traditional Episcopal priest and serves as the Bishop of the Chesapeake and Northeast for the Episcopal Missionary Church. In God We Trust can be found on the Internet at www.InGodWeTrustUSA.org.
The Faith and Freedom Institute will Conduct a Prayer Vigil at the White House in Washington, DC
The Faith and Freedom Institute will Conduct a Prayer Vigil at the White House in Washington, DC
WASHINGTON, July 7 /Christian Newswire/ -- On Wednesday, July 8, 2009 at 11:00 AM, The Faith and Freedom Institute will conduct a prayer vigil outside the north lawn of The White House in Washington, DC, on the sidewalk parallel to Pennsylvania Avenue across from LaFayette Park.
The purpose of the prayer vigil is threefold:
1) To pray for America, as it is evident that the nation is rapidly falling away from the Judeo-Christian values upon which she was established.
2) To call America back to God by repenting of national and personal sins which have angered God.
3) To warn America that God may indeed bring judgment on the land if repentance is not conducted.
At the prayer vigil, Dr. Gary G. Dull, President and co- founder, and Dr. David Kistler, Vice President and co- founder of The Faith and Freedom Institute will speak to the occasion followed by a time during which all present will pray for the nation.
Dr. Dull said this morning that "in the past six months, America has taken on a course toward socialism, secularism, and liberalism so rapidly that if the direction is not changed, the America we all grew up to know and love will dissolve and many of our freedoms will be lost. Thus all who love America and who have faith in God must humble themselves, pray, seek God's face and turn from their wicked way so that God will heal and revive the nation. We must not delay. We must act today. We must work hard, stand up, speak out and pray earnestly for God to save America."
More information on The Faith and Freedom Institute may be received at the website: faithandfreedominstitute.com or by calling 814/944-2894.
WASHINGTON, July 7 /Christian Newswire/ -- On Wednesday, July 8, 2009 at 11:00 AM, The Faith and Freedom Institute will conduct a prayer vigil outside the north lawn of The White House in Washington, DC, on the sidewalk parallel to Pennsylvania Avenue across from LaFayette Park.
The purpose of the prayer vigil is threefold:
1) To pray for America, as it is evident that the nation is rapidly falling away from the Judeo-Christian values upon which she was established.
2) To call America back to God by repenting of national and personal sins which have angered God.
3) To warn America that God may indeed bring judgment on the land if repentance is not conducted.
At the prayer vigil, Dr. Gary G. Dull, President and co- founder, and Dr. David Kistler, Vice President and co- founder of The Faith and Freedom Institute will speak to the occasion followed by a time during which all present will pray for the nation.
Dr. Dull said this morning that "in the past six months, America has taken on a course toward socialism, secularism, and liberalism so rapidly that if the direction is not changed, the America we all grew up to know and love will dissolve and many of our freedoms will be lost. Thus all who love America and who have faith in God must humble themselves, pray, seek God's face and turn from their wicked way so that God will heal and revive the nation. We must not delay. We must act today. We must work hard, stand up, speak out and pray earnestly for God to save America."
More information on The Faith and Freedom Institute may be received at the website: faithandfreedominstitute.com or by calling 814/944-2894.
Pro-life Groups Ask for Comprehensive Investigation of Late-term Abortionist Carhart
Pro-life Groups Ask for Comprehensive Investigation of Late-term Abortionist Carhart
LINCOLN, Neb., July 7 /Christian Newswire/ -- A coalition of four pro-life groups have sent a letter to Nebraska Attorney General Jon Buning asking him to open a "comprehensive" investigation into late-term abortionist LeRoy Carhart and his Bellevue abortion clinic.
Signing the letter were Troy Newman of Operation Rescue headquartered in Wichita, Kansas, Rev. Pat Mahoney of the Christian Defense Coalition in Washington, DC, Larry Donlan of Rescue the Heartland in Omaha, Nebraska, and Ann Bowen of Nebraskans United for Life, also of Omaha.
The group expressed concerns about the legality of certain aspects of Carhart's abortion business as well as concerns about the condition of Carhart's run-down abortion clinic that was damaged by an accidental fire earlier this year.
Carhart has indicated that he wants to begin doing risky third trimester abortions at his Bellevue clinic.
"There is concern that this decision will create an unacceptable safety risk to women," the group stated in their letter dated July 6, 2009.
"The safety of the public is our paramount concern, thus we are requesting the most comprehensive investigation of Carhart and his Nebraska abortion business as soon as possible from the Attorney General's office, and that your investigation not be limited solely to the concerns listed in this letter. Women's lives and future health literally depend on it."
Along with the letter, the groups filed a packet of documents, including information about incidents of botched abortions involving Carhart that required emergency transport to the hospital along with photos of the ambulances involved in those incidents. Also included were photos of dilapidated conditions at his abortion clinic, a complaint filed in Kansas about Carhart's part in the third-trimester abortion death of Christin Gilbert, and several news stories that raise questions about the safety and legality of Carhart's abortion operation.
Read the letter
About Operation Rescue®
Operation Rescue is one of the leading pro-life Christian activist organizations in the nation. Operation Rescue recently made headlines when it bought and closed an abortion clinic in Wichita, Kansas and has become the voice of the pro-life activist movement in America. Its activities are on the cutting edge of the abortion issue, taking direct action to restore legal personhood to the pre-born and stop abortion in obedience to biblical mandates.
LINCOLN, Neb., July 7 /Christian Newswire/ -- A coalition of four pro-life groups have sent a letter to Nebraska Attorney General Jon Buning asking him to open a "comprehensive" investigation into late-term abortionist LeRoy Carhart and his Bellevue abortion clinic.
Signing the letter were Troy Newman of Operation Rescue headquartered in Wichita, Kansas, Rev. Pat Mahoney of the Christian Defense Coalition in Washington, DC, Larry Donlan of Rescue the Heartland in Omaha, Nebraska, and Ann Bowen of Nebraskans United for Life, also of Omaha.
The group expressed concerns about the legality of certain aspects of Carhart's abortion business as well as concerns about the condition of Carhart's run-down abortion clinic that was damaged by an accidental fire earlier this year.
Carhart has indicated that he wants to begin doing risky third trimester abortions at his Bellevue clinic.
"There is concern that this decision will create an unacceptable safety risk to women," the group stated in their letter dated July 6, 2009.
"The safety of the public is our paramount concern, thus we are requesting the most comprehensive investigation of Carhart and his Nebraska abortion business as soon as possible from the Attorney General's office, and that your investigation not be limited solely to the concerns listed in this letter. Women's lives and future health literally depend on it."
Along with the letter, the groups filed a packet of documents, including information about incidents of botched abortions involving Carhart that required emergency transport to the hospital along with photos of the ambulances involved in those incidents. Also included were photos of dilapidated conditions at his abortion clinic, a complaint filed in Kansas about Carhart's part in the third-trimester abortion death of Christin Gilbert, and several news stories that raise questions about the safety and legality of Carhart's abortion operation.
Read the letter
About Operation Rescue®
Operation Rescue is one of the leading pro-life Christian activist organizations in the nation. Operation Rescue recently made headlines when it bought and closed an abortion clinic in Wichita, Kansas and has become the voice of the pro-life activist movement in America. Its activities are on the cutting edge of the abortion issue, taking direct action to restore legal personhood to the pre-born and stop abortion in obedience to biblical mandates.
Pope's Encyclical Launches Publisher's Expansion in Electronic and Audio Books
Pope's Encyclical Launches Publisher's Expansion in Electronic and Audio Books
SAN FRANCISCO, July 7 /Christian Newswire/ -- Ignatius Press, the primary English-language publisher of the works of Pope Benedict XVI (Joseph Ratzinger), is now publishing its titles in three formats -- print, electronic, and audio -- beginning with today's release of Pope Benedict's new encyclical, Charity in Truth, on the world economy.
"As we release Charity in Truth -- obviously a very important document, given the far-reaching economic crisis -- we want it to be as widely accessible as possible," said Jesuit Father Joseph Fessio, Editor and Founder of Ignatius Press, and former student of Joseph Ratzinger.
Releasing the encyclical in three formats is part of Ignatius Press' expansion of its work into electronic and audio publishing.
"It's important that people have as many options as possible to read or hear it. Because we believe the other writings we publish are also important, we want to make them available in all three formats, too. So it makes sense that we would launch the new program with the publication of Benedict's new encyclical and rapidly expand the program as we can," Father Fessio noted.
Ignatius Press remains committed to the traditional print book--its publications use high-quality paper and first-rate bindings, as well as beautiful covers. Nevertheless, as preferences of book readers diversify, the San Francisco-based publisher is diversifying its offerings to include electronic and audio editions. As new books are published, Ignatius Press plans to make them available in the three major formats.
Along with the publication of Benedict XVI's Charity in Truth, Ignatius Press is adding to its print editions electronic and audio versions of the Pope's previous encyclicals, God is Love and Saved in Hope. Already the publisher has over two dozen electronic and audio books available in Kindle and other formats. The plan is to add weekly to its offerings as its extensive backlist is converted.
"We want to make sure that as many people as possible can obtain our books," according to Father Fessio. "These additional formats help us to widen our audience."
For more information on Ignatius Press' electronic and audio editions of Pope Benedict's Love in Truth and other works, go to www.popebenedictxvibooks.com or www.ignatius.com .
San Francisco-based Ignatius Press, founded in 1978, is one of the largest Catholic publishers in the world. Ignatius Press is the primary English-language publisher of Pope Benedict XVI. Dedicated to publishing and distributing information on the Catholic faith, Ignatius Press publishes over 40 books each year (with over 1,800 titles in print), and produces and licenses many fine films for distribution in North America. Its author-roster includes some of the foremost names in the Catholic Church. Ignatius Press is also the publisher of Catholic World Report and Homiletic & Pastoral Review magazines. www.ignatius.com
SAN FRANCISCO, July 7 /Christian Newswire/ -- Ignatius Press, the primary English-language publisher of the works of Pope Benedict XVI (Joseph Ratzinger), is now publishing its titles in three formats -- print, electronic, and audio -- beginning with today's release of Pope Benedict's new encyclical, Charity in Truth, on the world economy.
"As we release Charity in Truth -- obviously a very important document, given the far-reaching economic crisis -- we want it to be as widely accessible as possible," said Jesuit Father Joseph Fessio, Editor and Founder of Ignatius Press, and former student of Joseph Ratzinger.
Releasing the encyclical in three formats is part of Ignatius Press' expansion of its work into electronic and audio publishing.
"It's important that people have as many options as possible to read or hear it. Because we believe the other writings we publish are also important, we want to make them available in all three formats, too. So it makes sense that we would launch the new program with the publication of Benedict's new encyclical and rapidly expand the program as we can," Father Fessio noted.
Ignatius Press remains committed to the traditional print book--its publications use high-quality paper and first-rate bindings, as well as beautiful covers. Nevertheless, as preferences of book readers diversify, the San Francisco-based publisher is diversifying its offerings to include electronic and audio editions. As new books are published, Ignatius Press plans to make them available in the three major formats.
Along with the publication of Benedict XVI's Charity in Truth, Ignatius Press is adding to its print editions electronic and audio versions of the Pope's previous encyclicals, God is Love and Saved in Hope. Already the publisher has over two dozen electronic and audio books available in Kindle and other formats. The plan is to add weekly to its offerings as its extensive backlist is converted.
"We want to make sure that as many people as possible can obtain our books," according to Father Fessio. "These additional formats help us to widen our audience."
For more information on Ignatius Press' electronic and audio editions of Pope Benedict's Love in Truth and other works, go to www.popebenedictxvibooks.com or www.ignatius.com .
San Francisco-based Ignatius Press, founded in 1978, is one of the largest Catholic publishers in the world. Ignatius Press is the primary English-language publisher of Pope Benedict XVI. Dedicated to publishing and distributing information on the Catholic faith, Ignatius Press publishes over 40 books each year (with over 1,800 titles in print), and produces and licenses many fine films for distribution in North America. Its author-roster includes some of the foremost names in the Catholic Church. Ignatius Press is also the publisher of Catholic World Report and Homiletic & Pastoral Review magazines. www.ignatius.com
Prison Ministry Opens First Field Office in Africa
Prison Ministry. Photo: Christian Newswire
Prison Ministry Opens First Field Office in Africa
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., July 7 /Christian Newswire/ -- Crossroad Bible Institute, a non-profit prison ministry that focuses on biblically based reentry education for those in prison around the world, has opened a new Distribution Center in Ghana.
This will be CBI's eighth international Distribution Center and the first on the continent of Africa. Reverend David Kwadwo Ofosuhene, a native of Ghana, is the director of the new center.
As one of the world's poorest countries, Ghana's prisons lack appropriate sanitation, food production areas and medical care. In addition, the prisons hold almost double the number of people they were built to hold with many prisoners waiting years before a trial. The needs of those within the prisons are enormous.
As a native of the country, Ofosuhene understands the difficulties of this prison system. He says, however, "God has called me to this particular ministry."
Ofosuhene has gained permission from the government for opening of CBI Ghana and has already recruited and trained 23 volunteer instructors to distribute and correct CBI's Bible study lessons. These instructors will hand deliver the lessons and their letters of encouragement to 12 different prisons, as well as provide those behind bars with practical supplies such as medicine, soap and food.
"I am so excited that African Christians will be equipped to minister to and serve the prisoners in Africa," says president of CBI, Dr. David Schuringa.
These instructors, all native Ghanaians, will offer the prisoners comfort inside the decaying prisons and a chance to find new direction. Ofosuhene believes that these prisoners need to change from the inside out; he prays that once they leave the prisons, they will not return.
As a part of CBI's international program, CBI headquarters will assure the high quality of the program by supplying the lessons and manuals as well as keeping records of the enrolled students and overseeing instructor activity.
If you know of someone who would benefit from the programs or would like more information, visit CBI's website for enrollment forms and sample lessons. CBI's materials are provided at no cost to prisoners and their families.
HLI Congratulates Retiring Prelate; Reiterates Call for Clarification from Vatican
HLI Congratulates Retiring Prelate; Reiterates Call for Clarification from Vatican
FRONT ROYAL, VA, July 7 /Christian Newswire/ -- Father Thomas J. Euteneuer, President of Human Life International (HLI), today lauded Archbishop Jose Cardoso Sobrinho of Olinda and Recife, Brazil as a "pro-life hero." Archbishop Cardoso's retirement was approved by Pope Benedict XVI on July 1, 2009.
"Archbishop Cardoso is to be congratulated for his stalwart charity and courage under very trying circumstances," said Fr. Euteneuer. "His heroic stand for life, taken near the end of his official service to the Church, is a fitting capstone to a career replete with Christ-like love and self-sacrifice."
Critics from the media, the political arena, and even from within the Catholic Church attacked Archbishop Cardoso for his declaration of excommunication of those who performed an abortion on a nine-year-old girl who had been raped by her stepfather. In particular, an editorial by Archbishop Salvatore Fisichella in L'Osservatore Romano was seen as especially damaging both to Archbishop Cardoso and to the pro-life movement, due to its factual and doctrinal errors.
"The facts of the case are known, and Archbishop Cardoso did exactly what he should have done as a loving shepherd of the souls in his charge," said Fr. Euteneuer. "We don't expect accuracy or fairness from politicians and the media, but for this hero to endure the unjust persecution of his brother bishop is unconscionable."
Pointing out that the eminent theologian and demographer Fr. Michael Schooyans has called on the Vatican to correct Fisichella's unjust criticism of the Brazilian prelate, Fr. Euteneuer reiterated the gravity of that is at stake in this matter.
Fr. Euteneuer said, "The heroic Archbishop Cardoso is at the center of a huge battle for the purity of our teaching and discipline on life issues." Reiterating the call of Fr. Schooyans that the Vatican clarify the unjust criticism of Archbishop Fisichella and assure the faithful that there has been no change in a teaching that can never change, Fr. Euteneuer added, "Pro- lifers deserve a clarification that abortion is never permitted under any circumstances, and a statement of support that their efforts are not in vain!"
Human Life International: Creating effective opposition to the culture of death around the world. Founded in 1981, HLI is the world's largest pro-life organization and has affiliates in 87 countries on six continents.
FRONT ROYAL, VA, July 7 /Christian Newswire/ -- Father Thomas J. Euteneuer, President of Human Life International (HLI), today lauded Archbishop Jose Cardoso Sobrinho of Olinda and Recife, Brazil as a "pro-life hero." Archbishop Cardoso's retirement was approved by Pope Benedict XVI on July 1, 2009.
"Archbishop Cardoso is to be congratulated for his stalwart charity and courage under very trying circumstances," said Fr. Euteneuer. "His heroic stand for life, taken near the end of his official service to the Church, is a fitting capstone to a career replete with Christ-like love and self-sacrifice."
Critics from the media, the political arena, and even from within the Catholic Church attacked Archbishop Cardoso for his declaration of excommunication of those who performed an abortion on a nine-year-old girl who had been raped by her stepfather. In particular, an editorial by Archbishop Salvatore Fisichella in L'Osservatore Romano was seen as especially damaging both to Archbishop Cardoso and to the pro-life movement, due to its factual and doctrinal errors.
"The facts of the case are known, and Archbishop Cardoso did exactly what he should have done as a loving shepherd of the souls in his charge," said Fr. Euteneuer. "We don't expect accuracy or fairness from politicians and the media, but for this hero to endure the unjust persecution of his brother bishop is unconscionable."
Pointing out that the eminent theologian and demographer Fr. Michael Schooyans has called on the Vatican to correct Fisichella's unjust criticism of the Brazilian prelate, Fr. Euteneuer reiterated the gravity of that is at stake in this matter.
Fr. Euteneuer said, "The heroic Archbishop Cardoso is at the center of a huge battle for the purity of our teaching and discipline on life issues." Reiterating the call of Fr. Schooyans that the Vatican clarify the unjust criticism of Archbishop Fisichella and assure the faithful that there has been no change in a teaching that can never change, Fr. Euteneuer added, "Pro- lifers deserve a clarification that abortion is never permitted under any circumstances, and a statement of support that their efforts are not in vain!"
Human Life International: Creating effective opposition to the culture of death around the world. Founded in 1981, HLI is the world's largest pro-life organization and has affiliates in 87 countries on six continents.
Churches At-Risk: Mid-Year Crime Report Highlights Loss of Life and Property
Churches At-Risk: Mid-Year Crime Report Highlights Loss of Life and Property
Christian Churches Impacted by Six Homicides and More Than $6.3 Million in Property Loss in the First Six Months of 2009
CINCINNATI, Ohio, July 7 /Christian Newswire/ -- According to "Crimes Against Christian Organizations in the United States," a new report released by the Christian Security Network, of the 17 violent crimes reported by Christian churches thus far in 2009, six resulted in homicides. Additionally, churches lost more than $6.3 million in property loss due to burglary, theft, robbery, arson and vandalism.
2009 marks the first year the Christian Security Network started tracking incidents of violence, theft and other criminal acts against churches, an effort believed to be the first ongoing tracking system to systematically record and categorize crimes against Christian churches and organizations.
Nearly 500 incidents in 42 states are documented in "Crimes Against Christian Organizations in the United States." According to the report, burglary accounted for 64 percent of the crimes against churches, a devastating blow for many churches already impacted by losses due to the economic downturn. Arson and general theft were the second and third most common crimes, accounting for 13 percent and 7 percent of the incidents respectively.
"It's not mandatory that churches report these crimes to any governmental agency, which greatly contributes to the lack of data and statistics available on crimes against churches," said Jeffrey Hawkins, executive director of the Christian Security Network.
"While we've attempted to put together a comprehensive report on these crimes, we also understand many churches do not report criminal activities because of their stance on forgiveness or fear of public embarrassment. We estimate the number of burglaries are probably five to six times greater than the number reported," he said.
Of the 472 incidents tracked in the report, 17 were violent acts, including six homicides and the stabbings of a priest and a church employee. In five of the incidents, the police, faulty weaponry, and other factors averted gunmen, preventing more tragic occurrences and greater loss of life.
Internal theft was reported more frequently in the second quarter than in the first, including the case of a church volunteer in Knoxville, Tenn. who stole from fellow worshippers over a period of several years. Losses from all internal theft incidents reported in the first six months of 2009 totaled more than $2.3 million, more per incident than any other crime.
"We frequently receive calls and emails from church members who are worried and frustrated that their church leadership is not more proactive about church security," said Hawkins. "As a society, we protect businesses, schools, banks and other institutions. Now, more than ever, that same level of protection needs to be extended to churches and faith-based organizations."
Incidents reported in the Christian Security Network's "Crimes Against Christian Organizations in the United States" have been compiled from a variety of sources and verified against news media reports and police department data. Cost estimates are based on actual reported losses and averages reported from organizations such as the National Fire Protection Association, in cases of arson.
For a copy of "Crimes Against Christian Organizations in the United States" or interviews with Jeffrey Hawkins, contact Ty Mays at (770) 256-8710 or tmays@inchristcommunications.com. For more information about the Christian Security Network, including a full schedule of upcoming Security and Emergency Preparedness seminars for churches, visit www.christiansecuritynetwork.com.
The Christian Security Network ( www.christiansecuritynetwork.com) is a national organization dedicated to the advancement of security, safety and emergency planning for Christian churches, schools, ministries and missionaries. The organization provides training, information and resources to help faith-based organizations minimize risks and increase safety. In addition to implementing plans against violent acts, arson and similar tragedies, Christian Security Network also provides resources that address lawsuits and liability, medical emergencies and destructive weather. The organization provides subscribers of the network with webinars, seminars, training articles, access to intelligence information, grant information to fund security measures, on-site risk assessments and educational materials.
Christian Churches Impacted by Six Homicides and More Than $6.3 Million in Property Loss in the First Six Months of 2009
CINCINNATI, Ohio, July 7 /Christian Newswire/ -- According to "Crimes Against Christian Organizations in the United States," a new report released by the Christian Security Network, of the 17 violent crimes reported by Christian churches thus far in 2009, six resulted in homicides. Additionally, churches lost more than $6.3 million in property loss due to burglary, theft, robbery, arson and vandalism.
2009 marks the first year the Christian Security Network started tracking incidents of violence, theft and other criminal acts against churches, an effort believed to be the first ongoing tracking system to systematically record and categorize crimes against Christian churches and organizations.
Nearly 500 incidents in 42 states are documented in "Crimes Against Christian Organizations in the United States." According to the report, burglary accounted for 64 percent of the crimes against churches, a devastating blow for many churches already impacted by losses due to the economic downturn. Arson and general theft were the second and third most common crimes, accounting for 13 percent and 7 percent of the incidents respectively.
"It's not mandatory that churches report these crimes to any governmental agency, which greatly contributes to the lack of data and statistics available on crimes against churches," said Jeffrey Hawkins, executive director of the Christian Security Network.
"While we've attempted to put together a comprehensive report on these crimes, we also understand many churches do not report criminal activities because of their stance on forgiveness or fear of public embarrassment. We estimate the number of burglaries are probably five to six times greater than the number reported," he said.
Of the 472 incidents tracked in the report, 17 were violent acts, including six homicides and the stabbings of a priest and a church employee. In five of the incidents, the police, faulty weaponry, and other factors averted gunmen, preventing more tragic occurrences and greater loss of life.
Internal theft was reported more frequently in the second quarter than in the first, including the case of a church volunteer in Knoxville, Tenn. who stole from fellow worshippers over a period of several years. Losses from all internal theft incidents reported in the first six months of 2009 totaled more than $2.3 million, more per incident than any other crime.
"We frequently receive calls and emails from church members who are worried and frustrated that their church leadership is not more proactive about church security," said Hawkins. "As a society, we protect businesses, schools, banks and other institutions. Now, more than ever, that same level of protection needs to be extended to churches and faith-based organizations."
Incidents reported in the Christian Security Network's "Crimes Against Christian Organizations in the United States" have been compiled from a variety of sources and verified against news media reports and police department data. Cost estimates are based on actual reported losses and averages reported from organizations such as the National Fire Protection Association, in cases of arson.
For a copy of "Crimes Against Christian Organizations in the United States" or interviews with Jeffrey Hawkins, contact Ty Mays at (770) 256-8710 or tmays@inchristcommunications.com. For more information about the Christian Security Network, including a full schedule of upcoming Security and Emergency Preparedness seminars for churches, visit www.christiansecuritynetwork.com.
The Christian Security Network ( www.christiansecuritynetwork.com) is a national organization dedicated to the advancement of security, safety and emergency planning for Christian churches, schools, ministries and missionaries. The organization provides training, information and resources to help faith-based organizations minimize risks and increase safety. In addition to implementing plans against violent acts, arson and similar tragedies, Christian Security Network also provides resources that address lawsuits and liability, medical emergencies and destructive weather. The organization provides subscribers of the network with webinars, seminars, training articles, access to intelligence information, grant information to fund security measures, on-site risk assessments and educational materials.
Minister Greets Franken with Questions About Mockery of Christians
Rev. Rob Schenck (L) greets new Senator Al Franken (R) with a question about the former comedian's caustic anti-Christian humor. Photo: Christian Newswire
Minister Greets Franken with Questions About Mockery of Christians
WASHINGTON, July 7 /Christian Newswire/ -- Rev. Rob Schenck was among invited guests at a special reception held in the US Senate Hart Office Building today for newly sworn US Senator Al Franken of Minnesota. Rev. Schenck cheerfully greeted Sen. Franken with a good-natured question about the former comedian's caustic and often insulting jokes about Christians and what they believe.
Rev. Schenck is the president of both the National Clergy Council and it's lay affiliate, Faith and Action, a Christian missionary outreach to elected and appointed officials in Washington, DC.
Earlier in the day a letter from Rev. Schenck to Sen. Franken referencing the former comedian's history of Christian bashing was hand-delivered to his new office. In it, Rev. Schenck gently suggested the Senator begin his tenure with an apology to the millions of Americans who self-identify as Christians.
"Senator, you've really thrown some zingers at Christians over the years. We don't know whether or not to take you seriously," said Rev. Schenck.
"Well, I'm married to a Christian," Sen. Franken responded.
Rev. Schenck is available for further comment. Contact Peggy Nienaber of Faith and Action at 202- 546-8329, ext 104.
Shared Hope International Exposes Child Sex Trafficking in South Florida
Shared Hope International Exposes Child Sex Trafficking in South Florida
MIAMI, July 7 /Christian Newswire/ -- Shared Hope International will release a groundbreaking report and training video on domestic minor sex trafficking at the upcoming Child Slavery in Our Community Leadership and Training Summit. The Assessment of Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking in Broward and Dade Counties, Florida reveals that child victims of sex trafficking are being arrested for prostitution in Broward and Miami-Dade counties. These severely victimized and traumatized children are being misidentified as juvenile delinquents and punished for the crime that is being committed against them. In fact, the report documents more than 500 juveniles were arrested for prostitution in Miami-Dade County from 1998-2008. A lack of training for social service providers and first responders is noted as the primary gap causing the misidentification of child victims of sex trafficking.
"Many service providers currently work with victims of domestic minor sex trafficking, but are not aware of how to properly identify and respond to these children. Misidentification of just one child victim of sex trafficking is too many. However, I believe that the upcoming training we are hosting this Thursday will provide a springboard for response and action as the communities of Broward and Miami-Dade Counties come together to find a solution," said former Congresswoman Linda Smith, President and Founder of Shared Hope International.
On July 9, 2009 law enforcement officers, social service providers, and child advocates from Broward and Miami-Dade counties convene at St. Thomas University School of Law for the Child Slavery in Our Community Leadership and Training Summit. Organized by Shared Hope International, the summit will bring an exclusive focus on Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking - the commercial sexual exploitation of children through prostitution, pornography, and stripping. Shared Hope International will use this event to release groundbreaking video with surveillance footage, survivor interviews, and expert testimony to educate and inform social service providers on how to identify and respond to American children who are commercially sexually exploited.
The new training video INTERVENE: Identifying and Responding to America's Prostituted Children, reveals how American children are recruited and tricked into prostitution in the United States and will assist social service providers in understanding who these victims are and how to better serve them. In the video, child sex trafficking survivor "Maya" who was trafficked in South Florida said this of surviving prostitution as a child:
"I would tell a social worker that she needs to be understanding and when she's talking to the girls to really focus on more or less why they want to be out of the life... If I had someone like Sandy from Kristi House years earlier I could have probably spared me a lot of years of abuse - of all the trauma and negativity."
The summit will feature remarks by Founder and President of Shared Hope International, Linda Smith (U.S. Congress 1994-98), Secretary George Sheldon of the Florida Department of Children and Families, and Andrew Oosterbaan, Chief of the Child Exploitation & Obscenity Section of the U.S. Department of Justice.
Where:
St. Thomas University School of Law
16401 NW 37th Avenue, Miami Gardens, Florida 33054
When:
Thursday, July 9, 2009
10:00am - 4:00pm
About Shared Hope International
For more than a decade, Shared Hope International (SHI) has worked around the world partnering with local groups to prevent trafficking and to rescue and restore the victims of sexual slavery. Shared Hope International's DEMAND. project was a 12-month investigation which focused on commercial sexual exploitation in four countries, including the United States. With funding from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), SHI conducted field assessments on child sex trafficking in 10 U.S. locations. Visit www.sharedhope.org.
MIAMI, July 7 /Christian Newswire/ -- Shared Hope International will release a groundbreaking report and training video on domestic minor sex trafficking at the upcoming Child Slavery in Our Community Leadership and Training Summit. The Assessment of Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking in Broward and Dade Counties, Florida reveals that child victims of sex trafficking are being arrested for prostitution in Broward and Miami-Dade counties. These severely victimized and traumatized children are being misidentified as juvenile delinquents and punished for the crime that is being committed against them. In fact, the report documents more than 500 juveniles were arrested for prostitution in Miami-Dade County from 1998-2008. A lack of training for social service providers and first responders is noted as the primary gap causing the misidentification of child victims of sex trafficking.
"Many service providers currently work with victims of domestic minor sex trafficking, but are not aware of how to properly identify and respond to these children. Misidentification of just one child victim of sex trafficking is too many. However, I believe that the upcoming training we are hosting this Thursday will provide a springboard for response and action as the communities of Broward and Miami-Dade Counties come together to find a solution," said former Congresswoman Linda Smith, President and Founder of Shared Hope International.
On July 9, 2009 law enforcement officers, social service providers, and child advocates from Broward and Miami-Dade counties convene at St. Thomas University School of Law for the Child Slavery in Our Community Leadership and Training Summit. Organized by Shared Hope International, the summit will bring an exclusive focus on Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking - the commercial sexual exploitation of children through prostitution, pornography, and stripping. Shared Hope International will use this event to release groundbreaking video with surveillance footage, survivor interviews, and expert testimony to educate and inform social service providers on how to identify and respond to American children who are commercially sexually exploited.
The new training video INTERVENE: Identifying and Responding to America's Prostituted Children, reveals how American children are recruited and tricked into prostitution in the United States and will assist social service providers in understanding who these victims are and how to better serve them. In the video, child sex trafficking survivor "Maya" who was trafficked in South Florida said this of surviving prostitution as a child:
"I would tell a social worker that she needs to be understanding and when she's talking to the girls to really focus on more or less why they want to be out of the life... If I had someone like Sandy from Kristi House years earlier I could have probably spared me a lot of years of abuse - of all the trauma and negativity."
The summit will feature remarks by Founder and President of Shared Hope International, Linda Smith (U.S. Congress 1994-98), Secretary George Sheldon of the Florida Department of Children and Families, and Andrew Oosterbaan, Chief of the Child Exploitation & Obscenity Section of the U.S. Department of Justice.
Where:
St. Thomas University School of Law
16401 NW 37th Avenue, Miami Gardens, Florida 33054
When:
Thursday, July 9, 2009
10:00am - 4:00pm
About Shared Hope International
For more than a decade, Shared Hope International (SHI) has worked around the world partnering with local groups to prevent trafficking and to rescue and restore the victims of sexual slavery. Shared Hope International's DEMAND. project was a 12-month investigation which focused on commercial sexual exploitation in four countries, including the United States. With funding from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), SHI conducted field assessments on child sex trafficking in 10 U.S. locations. Visit www.sharedhope.org.
Pro-Life Action League Sponsors 2009 'Face the Truth' Tour
Pro-Life Action League Sponsors 2009 'Face the Truth' Tour
Graphic pro-life campaign kicks off July 10 to save babies and their mothers from abortion
CHICAGO July 7 /Christian Newswire/ -- The Pro-life Action League will sponsor the 2009 "Face the Truth" tour beginning this Friday, July 10 and running through Saturday, July 18. Participants and pro-life activists will visit sites throughout Chicagoland holding graphic pictures of unborn and aborted babies while handing out pamphlets to passersby. Their mission is to help Americans better understand the reality of abortion and, in the end, to help save babies.
"The power of signs is undeniable," says Eric Scheidler, the League's executive director. "Last year during the tour, two volunteers were flagged over to a woman in a car who explained that her pregnant teenage daughter decided not to have an abortion after seeing the graphic images. This kind of direct impact is what the tour is all about: saving babies, one life at a time."
The Pro-life Action League encourages all who believe that America must face the reality of abortion to stand up and be counted. The tour will stop at the following locations in the Chicagoland area:
· July 10 -- Joliet, Shorewood
· July 11 -- Niles, Evanston, Lincolnwood
· July 13 -- Downtown Chicago (Kennedy Overpass, Daley Plaza, Union and Ogilvie Stations)
· July 14 -- Downtown Chicago (Buckingham Fountain, Art Institute, Union Station)
· July 15 -- Lake Zurich, Palatine, Arlington Heights
· July 16 -- Bridgeview, Chicago Ridge, Burbank
· July 17 -- Chicago: Garfield Ridge, McKinley Park, Pilsen
· July 18 -- Aurora, Naperville
Nationwide, "Face the Truth" tours are tearing the mask off of "choice" and turning Americans against abortion.
"Yes, our signs are quite graphic," continued Scheidler. "But that's because abortion is ugly. This is the truth. These images ought to disturb us, because the killing of an unborn baby in her mother's womb is a horribly disturbing reality that takes place over 3,400 times per day in our country. These pictures expose the lies of abortion providers like Planned Parenthood and show the human cost of abortion. Once people have faced the truth, they are less likely to become involved in abortion."
Each tour date begins between 9:00 and 9:30 am and continues until approximately 4:30pm. For maps and specific times and locations, please visit www.prolifeaction.org/truth/tours.htm. To watch an 11- minute video about the "Face the Truth" pro-life campaign, please visit http://prolifeaction.org/truth/.
Contacts:
Eric Scheidler
Pro-Life Action League
(630) 896-1200, eric@prolifeaction.org
Tom Ciesielka
TC Public Relations
(312) 422-1333, tc@tcpr.net
Graphic pro-life campaign kicks off July 10 to save babies and their mothers from abortion
CHICAGO July 7 /Christian Newswire/ -- The Pro-life Action League will sponsor the 2009 "Face the Truth" tour beginning this Friday, July 10 and running through Saturday, July 18. Participants and pro-life activists will visit sites throughout Chicagoland holding graphic pictures of unborn and aborted babies while handing out pamphlets to passersby. Their mission is to help Americans better understand the reality of abortion and, in the end, to help save babies.
"The power of signs is undeniable," says Eric Scheidler, the League's executive director. "Last year during the tour, two volunteers were flagged over to a woman in a car who explained that her pregnant teenage daughter decided not to have an abortion after seeing the graphic images. This kind of direct impact is what the tour is all about: saving babies, one life at a time."
The Pro-life Action League encourages all who believe that America must face the reality of abortion to stand up and be counted. The tour will stop at the following locations in the Chicagoland area:
· July 10 -- Joliet, Shorewood
· July 11 -- Niles, Evanston, Lincolnwood
· July 13 -- Downtown Chicago (Kennedy Overpass, Daley Plaza, Union and Ogilvie Stations)
· July 14 -- Downtown Chicago (Buckingham Fountain, Art Institute, Union Station)
· July 15 -- Lake Zurich, Palatine, Arlington Heights
· July 16 -- Bridgeview, Chicago Ridge, Burbank
· July 17 -- Chicago: Garfield Ridge, McKinley Park, Pilsen
· July 18 -- Aurora, Naperville
Nationwide, "Face the Truth" tours are tearing the mask off of "choice" and turning Americans against abortion.
"Yes, our signs are quite graphic," continued Scheidler. "But that's because abortion is ugly. This is the truth. These images ought to disturb us, because the killing of an unborn baby in her mother's womb is a horribly disturbing reality that takes place over 3,400 times per day in our country. These pictures expose the lies of abortion providers like Planned Parenthood and show the human cost of abortion. Once people have faced the truth, they are less likely to become involved in abortion."
Each tour date begins between 9:00 and 9:30 am and continues until approximately 4:30pm. For maps and specific times and locations, please visit www.prolifeaction.org/truth/tours.htm. To watch an 11- minute video about the "Face the Truth" pro-life campaign, please visit http://prolifeaction.org/truth/.
Contacts:
Eric Scheidler
Pro-Life Action League
(630) 896-1200, eric@prolifeaction.org
Tom Ciesielka
TC Public Relations
(312) 422-1333, tc@tcpr.net
Note to Missionary Critics -- The Persecution of Christians in Mauritania is a Human Rights Issue
Note to Missionary Critics -- The Persecution of Christians in Mauritania is a Human Rights Issue
OPINION, July 9 /Christian Newswire/ -- Mauritania is a land of striking beauty. With sand dunes lined against the sky, Bedouins riding camels in the countryside, and flying beetles that look like they come straight from the abyss of the Apocalypse; Mauritania is a land of extremes--extreme beauty, extreme hospitality, and lately, extreme religion. As the world mourned the death of Michael Jackson, another man went not so quietly into the night, though largely unnoticed by mainstream media.
On Tuesday, June 23rd 2009, an American Christian worker named Chris Leggett was gunned down by Al Qaeda for the alleged "crime" of trying to convert Muslims to Christianity. To give you an idea of what kind of man Chris Legget was, the 39-year old native of Cleveland, Tennessee not only taught computer science in a low-class neighborhood in the capital city of Nouakchott, he also, according to the Cleveland Daily Banner, worked with the prison systems to train and equip women and young boys to re-enter society, directed a training center providing training in computer skills, sewing, and literacy, and oversaw a micro-loan program which fostered the growth of hundreds of small businesses.
Although the miniscule media coverage has been fairly straightforward, I was saddened to see some of the nasty comments on the Huffington Post when Ahmed Mohammed posted the Associated Press story on the site. Although a few of the comments unequivocally condemned Leggett's murder for what it is, a cowardly act of violence motivated by extremists, far too many seemed to think that Leggett was somehow "asking for it" because of the nature of his work in a Muslim land, as if Chris Leggett somehow deserved to die because of his passion for sharing his faith.
One commenter wrote, "Well, you know, it is their country. You go walking around with arrogant disregard of their laws, you better be prepared to pay the consequences. Non-story." Another commenter cut from the same cloth replied, "I agree. It doesn't take much intelligence for non-military Americans to keep out of these countries. You not only go there at your own risk - you ask for it."
My beef isn't so much with the Huffington Post (who likely has little control over what people comment on the site), but to the people who made those nasty comments (there were some that were far worse) I would like to say feel free to criticize Christian missionaries working in Muslims lands, but I hope you realize that you're criticizing from a position of privilege. Many of you live in countries that allow you to choose your religious beliefs without fear of torture, imprisonment, or death. Hundreds of millions of Muslims live in countries that deny them that right. How do you know that out of the worlds' roughly 1.2 billion Muslims, that some of them don't want to hear another perspective?
Chris Leggett most likely wasn't banging the Bible over anyone's head, but I wouldn't be surprised if a few curious Muslims quietly asked him about his religious beliefs. After all, most Muslims I know-- unlike most Westerners I know--like to discuss religion in every day conversation and enjoy hearing other people's perspectives. If a few of these same Muslims through peaceful dialogue came to the conclusion that Chris's beliefs were correct, where's the crime in that? If Chris Leggett did break Mauritanian law, then it was an unjust law that he broke. Last time I checked, breaking unjust laws is called civil disobedience. Acts of civil disobedience have been crucial to every major advance in human rights.
As a matter of fact, there are hundreds of secret believers in Mauritania right now. Many of them have been abducted, tortured in horrific ways, and forced to name their fellow believers--while the Mauritanian government looks the other way. According to many persecution watchdogs, the persecution of Christians in Mauritania is particularly ferocious, but the same story can be found in countless other countries like Egypt, Algeria, Morocco, Jordan, Syria, and Pakistan.
It's time that the decent people of the world wake up to the fact that roughly a billion people live under governments that don't allow them the freedom to obey their conscience in choosing their religious beliefs. The right to choose one's religion is the most basic of human rights. After all, why should human rights apply to everyone except for Muslims?
Aaron D. Taylor is the author of "Alone with a Jihadist: A Biblical Response to Holy War" available for pre- order on Amazon.com Aaron can be contacted at fromdeathtolife@gmail.com.
OPINION, July 9 /Christian Newswire/ -- Mauritania is a land of striking beauty. With sand dunes lined against the sky, Bedouins riding camels in the countryside, and flying beetles that look like they come straight from the abyss of the Apocalypse; Mauritania is a land of extremes--extreme beauty, extreme hospitality, and lately, extreme religion. As the world mourned the death of Michael Jackson, another man went not so quietly into the night, though largely unnoticed by mainstream media.
On Tuesday, June 23rd 2009, an American Christian worker named Chris Leggett was gunned down by Al Qaeda for the alleged "crime" of trying to convert Muslims to Christianity. To give you an idea of what kind of man Chris Legget was, the 39-year old native of Cleveland, Tennessee not only taught computer science in a low-class neighborhood in the capital city of Nouakchott, he also, according to the Cleveland Daily Banner, worked with the prison systems to train and equip women and young boys to re-enter society, directed a training center providing training in computer skills, sewing, and literacy, and oversaw a micro-loan program which fostered the growth of hundreds of small businesses.
Although the miniscule media coverage has been fairly straightforward, I was saddened to see some of the nasty comments on the Huffington Post when Ahmed Mohammed posted the Associated Press story on the site. Although a few of the comments unequivocally condemned Leggett's murder for what it is, a cowardly act of violence motivated by extremists, far too many seemed to think that Leggett was somehow "asking for it" because of the nature of his work in a Muslim land, as if Chris Leggett somehow deserved to die because of his passion for sharing his faith.
One commenter wrote, "Well, you know, it is their country. You go walking around with arrogant disregard of their laws, you better be prepared to pay the consequences. Non-story." Another commenter cut from the same cloth replied, "I agree. It doesn't take much intelligence for non-military Americans to keep out of these countries. You not only go there at your own risk - you ask for it."
My beef isn't so much with the Huffington Post (who likely has little control over what people comment on the site), but to the people who made those nasty comments (there were some that were far worse) I would like to say feel free to criticize Christian missionaries working in Muslims lands, but I hope you realize that you're criticizing from a position of privilege. Many of you live in countries that allow you to choose your religious beliefs without fear of torture, imprisonment, or death. Hundreds of millions of Muslims live in countries that deny them that right. How do you know that out of the worlds' roughly 1.2 billion Muslims, that some of them don't want to hear another perspective?
Chris Leggett most likely wasn't banging the Bible over anyone's head, but I wouldn't be surprised if a few curious Muslims quietly asked him about his religious beliefs. After all, most Muslims I know-- unlike most Westerners I know--like to discuss religion in every day conversation and enjoy hearing other people's perspectives. If a few of these same Muslims through peaceful dialogue came to the conclusion that Chris's beliefs were correct, where's the crime in that? If Chris Leggett did break Mauritanian law, then it was an unjust law that he broke. Last time I checked, breaking unjust laws is called civil disobedience. Acts of civil disobedience have been crucial to every major advance in human rights.
As a matter of fact, there are hundreds of secret believers in Mauritania right now. Many of them have been abducted, tortured in horrific ways, and forced to name their fellow believers--while the Mauritanian government looks the other way. According to many persecution watchdogs, the persecution of Christians in Mauritania is particularly ferocious, but the same story can be found in countless other countries like Egypt, Algeria, Morocco, Jordan, Syria, and Pakistan.
It's time that the decent people of the world wake up to the fact that roughly a billion people live under governments that don't allow them the freedom to obey their conscience in choosing their religious beliefs. The right to choose one's religion is the most basic of human rights. After all, why should human rights apply to everyone except for Muslims?
Aaron D. Taylor is the author of "Alone with a Jihadist: A Biblical Response to Holy War" available for pre- order on Amazon.com Aaron can be contacted at fromdeathtolife@gmail.com.
The Center for Bioethics & Human Dignity 16th Annual Conference to Begin July 16
The Center for Bioethics & Human Dignity 16th Annual Conference to Begin July 16
DEERFIELD, Ill., July 9 /Christian Newswire/ -- The Center for Bioethics & Human Dignity (CBHD) located on Trinity International University's (TIU) Deerfield campus will be hosting its 16th annual summer conference, Global Bioethics: Emerging Challenges Facing Human Dignity. The conference commences on July 16 and runs through July 18 with pre-conference institutes July 13-16, and post-conference seminars July 20-22.
CBHD, has partnered with Christian Medical & Dental Associations, Nurses Christian Fellowship, Advocates International, and TIU to present this conference which features eight plenary speakers, paper presentations, and opportunities for attendees to network with one another.
Global Bioethics anticipates more than 200 attendees. The conference includes a geographically diverse schedule of speakers who will address issues across the contemporary bioethical landscape. Special attention will be given to the areas of biotechnology, end of life, black market organ transplantation, as well as disabilities and eugenics.
Those registered for this event include physicians, nurses, lawyers, physician assistants, public policy makers, educators, chaplains, clergy, and students. The conference is open to anyone interested in the opportunities and challenges of bioethics.
For a Press packet please visit here: http://cbhd.org/conferences/2009/presskit.pdf.
The Center for Bioethics & Human Dignity: Exploring the nexus of biomedicine, biotechnology, and our common humanity. The Center exists to equip thought leaders to engage the issues of bioethics using the tools of rigorous research, conceptual analysis, charitable critique, leading-edge publication, and effective teaching.
DEERFIELD, Ill., July 9 /Christian Newswire/ -- The Center for Bioethics & Human Dignity (CBHD) located on Trinity International University's (TIU) Deerfield campus will be hosting its 16th annual summer conference, Global Bioethics: Emerging Challenges Facing Human Dignity. The conference commences on July 16 and runs through July 18 with pre-conference institutes July 13-16, and post-conference seminars July 20-22.
CBHD, has partnered with Christian Medical & Dental Associations, Nurses Christian Fellowship, Advocates International, and TIU to present this conference which features eight plenary speakers, paper presentations, and opportunities for attendees to network with one another.
Global Bioethics anticipates more than 200 attendees. The conference includes a geographically diverse schedule of speakers who will address issues across the contemporary bioethical landscape. Special attention will be given to the areas of biotechnology, end of life, black market organ transplantation, as well as disabilities and eugenics.
Those registered for this event include physicians, nurses, lawyers, physician assistants, public policy makers, educators, chaplains, clergy, and students. The conference is open to anyone interested in the opportunities and challenges of bioethics.
For a Press packet please visit here: http://cbhd.org/conferences/2009/presskit.pdf.
The Center for Bioethics & Human Dignity: Exploring the nexus of biomedicine, biotechnology, and our common humanity. The Center exists to equip thought leaders to engage the issues of bioethics using the tools of rigorous research, conceptual analysis, charitable critique, leading-edge publication, and effective teaching.
Sotomayor Disqualified Herself for the Supreme Court
Sotomayor Disqualified Herself for the Supreme Court
WASHINGTON, July 9 /Christian Newswire/ -- Today, Concerned Women for America Legislative Action Committee (CWALAC) is sending a letter to U.S. Senators asking them to oppose the nomination of Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the United States Supreme Court.
CWALAC President Wendy Wright said, "Sonia Sotomayor has lived the American dream. Rising from a poor childhood to being nominated to the U.S. Supreme Court, Judge Sotomayor is a testimony to the opportunities and blessings of America. But as we investigate her record, we are struck by her unwillingness to allow others to have the same opportunities as she has had. Her record reveals she lacks the primary characteristic required of a judge: impartiality. She has used her position as a judge to deny equal opportunity to people based on their ethnicity. She worked with organizations that aggressively fought against basic human rights for preborn children and ethical rights to ensure women and girls are not coerced into abortion. After giving her the benefit of the doubt, her record of giving preferences to certain classes of people and denying equal justice to others obliges Concerned Women for America Legislative Action Committee to oppose her nomination to the U.S. Supreme Court. We urge senators to vote against her nomination.
"Sonia Sotomayor has disqualified herself from the U.S. Supreme Court. Her proud insistence on denying equal justice to all is antithetical to our American system. Her unwillingness to provide Constitutional reasoning for her decisions exposes her arrogance and her disrespect for our judicial system and the people whose lives are dramatically impacted by her decisions. She fails even President Obama's controversial 'empathy' test of considering how her decisions 'affect the daily realities of people's lives, whether they can make a living, and care for their families, whether they feel safe in their homes....' Through her work as a judge and in organizations, she has denied people equal opportunity to make a living because of the color of their skin, preborn babies their right to live, women the right not to be exploited by abortionists, and property owners the right of their own property.
"Senators need to set aside party loyalty and do their Constitutional duty to uphold equal justice for all by opposing Sonia Sotomayor's nomination."
Read the letter from CWALAC to United States Senators here.
WASHINGTON, July 9 /Christian Newswire/ -- Today, Concerned Women for America Legislative Action Committee (CWALAC) is sending a letter to U.S. Senators asking them to oppose the nomination of Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the United States Supreme Court.
CWALAC President Wendy Wright said, "Sonia Sotomayor has lived the American dream. Rising from a poor childhood to being nominated to the U.S. Supreme Court, Judge Sotomayor is a testimony to the opportunities and blessings of America. But as we investigate her record, we are struck by her unwillingness to allow others to have the same opportunities as she has had. Her record reveals she lacks the primary characteristic required of a judge: impartiality. She has used her position as a judge to deny equal opportunity to people based on their ethnicity. She worked with organizations that aggressively fought against basic human rights for preborn children and ethical rights to ensure women and girls are not coerced into abortion. After giving her the benefit of the doubt, her record of giving preferences to certain classes of people and denying equal justice to others obliges Concerned Women for America Legislative Action Committee to oppose her nomination to the U.S. Supreme Court. We urge senators to vote against her nomination.
"Sonia Sotomayor has disqualified herself from the U.S. Supreme Court. Her proud insistence on denying equal justice to all is antithetical to our American system. Her unwillingness to provide Constitutional reasoning for her decisions exposes her arrogance and her disrespect for our judicial system and the people whose lives are dramatically impacted by her decisions. She fails even President Obama's controversial 'empathy' test of considering how her decisions 'affect the daily realities of people's lives, whether they can make a living, and care for their families, whether they feel safe in their homes....' Through her work as a judge and in organizations, she has denied people equal opportunity to make a living because of the color of their skin, preborn babies their right to live, women the right not to be exploited by abortionists, and property owners the right of their own property.
"Senators need to set aside party loyalty and do their Constitutional duty to uphold equal justice for all by opposing Sonia Sotomayor's nomination."
Read the letter from CWALAC to United States Senators here.
Calvin500 Concludes in Geneva
Calvin500 Concludes in Geneva
GENEVA, Switzerland, July 9 /Christian Newswire/ -- On the eve of the 500th anniversary of John Calvin's birth, Calvin 500, the international Quincentenary celebration concluded tonight at St. Pierre Cathedral in the old town of Geneva. Following a week of over 20 academic lectures, 15 expository sermons, with numerous other associated meetings, the commemoration concluded with a closing luncheon at Restaurant La Broche, with the Rev. Geoff Thomas of Wales, addressing the banquet.
Later that afternoon, Dr. Henry Krabbendam and Archbishop Henry Luke Orombi of Uganda spoke on "Reformation and Revival." Nearly 1000 participants enjoyed the festivities and addresses during the week. The conferences concluded with sermons by Ted Donnelly from Northern Ireland, Hywel Jones from Wales, and Derek Thomas from the USA.
Executive Director, Dr. David W. Hall summarized: "We could not be more pleased--the speakers were superb, this has been the only conference to date to focus on Calvinistic preaching, our hosts were simply magnanimous, and we could not be more pleased. This has been a once-in-a-lifetime experience."
In addition, the publishing Sponsor, Presbyterian and Reformed Publishers (www.prpbooks.com), is releasing an 8-volume set as THE CALVIN500 SERIES. Four volumes are now available, and the fifth one, Calvin and Commerce by David W. Hall and Matthew D. Burton, was announced at the conference. All volumes are also available at amazon.com or may be ordered at a local bookstore.
For a description of each volume, click here.
For more information and updates, visit www.Calvin500blog.org.
GENEVA, Switzerland, July 9 /Christian Newswire/ -- On the eve of the 500th anniversary of John Calvin's birth, Calvin 500, the international Quincentenary celebration concluded tonight at St. Pierre Cathedral in the old town of Geneva. Following a week of over 20 academic lectures, 15 expository sermons, with numerous other associated meetings, the commemoration concluded with a closing luncheon at Restaurant La Broche, with the Rev. Geoff Thomas of Wales, addressing the banquet.
Later that afternoon, Dr. Henry Krabbendam and Archbishop Henry Luke Orombi of Uganda spoke on "Reformation and Revival." Nearly 1000 participants enjoyed the festivities and addresses during the week. The conferences concluded with sermons by Ted Donnelly from Northern Ireland, Hywel Jones from Wales, and Derek Thomas from the USA.
Executive Director, Dr. David W. Hall summarized: "We could not be more pleased--the speakers were superb, this has been the only conference to date to focus on Calvinistic preaching, our hosts were simply magnanimous, and we could not be more pleased. This has been a once-in-a-lifetime experience."
In addition, the publishing Sponsor, Presbyterian and Reformed Publishers (www.prpbooks.com), is releasing an 8-volume set as THE CALVIN500 SERIES. Four volumes are now available, and the fifth one, Calvin and Commerce by David W. Hall and Matthew D. Burton, was announced at the conference. All volumes are also available at amazon.com or may be ordered at a local bookstore.
For a description of each volume, click here.
For more information and updates, visit www.Calvin500blog.org.
Rick Warren is Wrong
Rick Warren is Wrong
MADISON, Wisc., July 6 /Christian Newswire/ -- Steve McConkey submits the following and is available for comment:
Rick Warren spoke to 8000 Muslim listeners at the annual convention of the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) at the Washington Convention Center on July 4th. He said, "Muslims and Christians can work together for the common good without compromising my convictions or your convictions. I am not interested in interfaith dialogue but interfaith projects."
Earlier, a Canada Free Press article said ISNA is an organization with ties to Hamas and other terrorist groups. According to the article, the organization's website has quotations like the following, "The Hour will not be established until you fight with the Jews, and the stone behind which a Jew will be hiding will say. 'O Muslim! There is a Jew hiding behind me, so kill him.'"
Rick Warren is putting works first and faith second. According to the Bible in James 2:14-26, works should follow a person's faith. Warren has reversed this and has put works first and faith second.
According to the book of James, true faith is believing the exclusive claims of Christ and not putting faith behind works. Jesus Christ is the only way to heaven according to the Bible. As we share this truth with the world, we should then do good works.
Speaking at interfaith meetings should not be done if a person does not tell the listeners that Jesus Christ is the only way to heaven - period. By not doing this, a person is saying that all ways lead to God by works. Sincere Christian faith is never afraid to tell others that Jesus Christ in the only way to heaven.
By Warren's silence on the exclusive claims of Christ, he led his Muslim audience into believing that works will save a person. As Christians, we know that works follow our faith, not the other way around. As Paul preached in Athens, he concluded his message by telling them about the resurrection of Christ with a few coming to the Lord.
UndergroundNews.us is an apologetics and news site for Christians, including athletes. Steve McConkey is the president of 4 WINDS. He grew up in the North Country of Wisconsin. He has extensively studied apologetics and graduated with honors from Minnesota State University-Mankato (BS-Public Health) and Western Kentucky University (Masters of Public Health). Also, Steve and his wife have been in track and field ministries since 1981.
MADISON, Wisc., July 6 /Christian Newswire/ -- Steve McConkey submits the following and is available for comment:
Rick Warren spoke to 8000 Muslim listeners at the annual convention of the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) at the Washington Convention Center on July 4th. He said, "Muslims and Christians can work together for the common good without compromising my convictions or your convictions. I am not interested in interfaith dialogue but interfaith projects."
Earlier, a Canada Free Press article said ISNA is an organization with ties to Hamas and other terrorist groups. According to the article, the organization's website has quotations like the following, "The Hour will not be established until you fight with the Jews, and the stone behind which a Jew will be hiding will say. 'O Muslim! There is a Jew hiding behind me, so kill him.'"
Rick Warren is putting works first and faith second. According to the Bible in James 2:14-26, works should follow a person's faith. Warren has reversed this and has put works first and faith second.
According to the book of James, true faith is believing the exclusive claims of Christ and not putting faith behind works. Jesus Christ is the only way to heaven according to the Bible. As we share this truth with the world, we should then do good works.
Speaking at interfaith meetings should not be done if a person does not tell the listeners that Jesus Christ is the only way to heaven - period. By not doing this, a person is saying that all ways lead to God by works. Sincere Christian faith is never afraid to tell others that Jesus Christ in the only way to heaven.
By Warren's silence on the exclusive claims of Christ, he led his Muslim audience into believing that works will save a person. As Christians, we know that works follow our faith, not the other way around. As Paul preached in Athens, he concluded his message by telling them about the resurrection of Christ with a few coming to the Lord.
UndergroundNews.us is an apologetics and news site for Christians, including athletes. Steve McConkey is the president of 4 WINDS. He grew up in the North Country of Wisconsin. He has extensively studied apologetics and graduated with honors from Minnesota State University-Mankato (BS-Public Health) and Western Kentucky University (Masters of Public Health). Also, Steve and his wife have been in track and field ministries since 1981.
How Much is a Woman's Life Worth? In Michigan, Only $10,000
How Much is a Woman's Life Worth? In Michigan, Only $10,000
Operation Rescue declares abortionist Hodari a "Public Menace" and demands meaningful discipline for his reckless conduct.
DETROIT, July 6 /Christian Newswire/ -- Abortionist Alberto Hodari has been fined $10,000 by the State of Michigan for the 2003 abortion death of Regina Johnson. The consent order, which recently became public, was issued on March 4, 2009, over five years after Ms. Johnson's death.
"Now we know what a woman's life is worth in the State of Michigan once she walks into an abortion clinic," said Operation Rescue President Troy Newman. "This paltry fine has reduced Ms. Johnson's life to that of chattel. Animals are bought and sold for more than this."
In exchange for the consent agreement, counts of negligence and incompetence against Hodari were dismissed, leaving only the charge that his conduct constituted a "lack of good moral character."
"Hodari was given a slap on the wrist for his part in Regina Johnson's death, even though he has been involved in the deaths of at least three additional women since 2004," said Operation Rescue President Troy Newman. "The Board's finding that his conduct lacks 'good moral character' is a gross understatement. The man is a public menace. "
Hodari has had other problems with the law. Citizens for a Pro-Life Society discovered illegally dumped private medical records in open dumpsters behind several of Hodari's Detroit-area abortion clinics. He was charged with 12 counts of illegal record dumping, but another agreement allowed him to plead "no contest" to a single count, for which he remains on probation.
More shocking was the discovery of the bodies of aborted babies that had been illegally dumped in the same trash receptacles. Hodari was never charged with any crime related to the dumping of human remains. The babies were later given a proper burial.
One of Hodari's former patients came forward in February, 2009, and told of her traumatic forced abortion when she was 16-years old. She has since filed a formal complaint against Hodari with the health board in Michigan.
But Hodari appears to be so confident that he is above the law that he has given interviews and speeches bragging about his appalling abortion practices. He says that he believes abortionists have a "license to lie."
"In addition to his part in four abortion deaths, Hodari has openly admitted that he purposely places women's lives and health at risk. The fact that he is still allowed to continue his reckless behavior is inexcusable," said Newman. "The Health Department's coddling of Hodari completely unacceptable. We plan to formally demand that they take meaningful disciplinary action before he kills anyone else."
DOCUMENTS: Complaint, Consent Order
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. Click here to support Operation Rescue.
Operation Rescue declares abortionist Hodari a "Public Menace" and demands meaningful discipline for his reckless conduct.
DETROIT, July 6 /Christian Newswire/ -- Abortionist Alberto Hodari has been fined $10,000 by the State of Michigan for the 2003 abortion death of Regina Johnson. The consent order, which recently became public, was issued on March 4, 2009, over five years after Ms. Johnson's death.
"Now we know what a woman's life is worth in the State of Michigan once she walks into an abortion clinic," said Operation Rescue President Troy Newman. "This paltry fine has reduced Ms. Johnson's life to that of chattel. Animals are bought and sold for more than this."
In exchange for the consent agreement, counts of negligence and incompetence against Hodari were dismissed, leaving only the charge that his conduct constituted a "lack of good moral character."
"Hodari was given a slap on the wrist for his part in Regina Johnson's death, even though he has been involved in the deaths of at least three additional women since 2004," said Operation Rescue President Troy Newman. "The Board's finding that his conduct lacks 'good moral character' is a gross understatement. The man is a public menace. "
Hodari has had other problems with the law. Citizens for a Pro-Life Society discovered illegally dumped private medical records in open dumpsters behind several of Hodari's Detroit-area abortion clinics. He was charged with 12 counts of illegal record dumping, but another agreement allowed him to plead "no contest" to a single count, for which he remains on probation.
More shocking was the discovery of the bodies of aborted babies that had been illegally dumped in the same trash receptacles. Hodari was never charged with any crime related to the dumping of human remains. The babies were later given a proper burial.
One of Hodari's former patients came forward in February, 2009, and told of her traumatic forced abortion when she was 16-years old. She has since filed a formal complaint against Hodari with the health board in Michigan.
But Hodari appears to be so confident that he is above the law that he has given interviews and speeches bragging about his appalling abortion practices. He says that he believes abortionists have a "license to lie."
"In addition to his part in four abortion deaths, Hodari has openly admitted that he purposely places women's lives and health at risk. The fact that he is still allowed to continue his reckless behavior is inexcusable," said Newman. "The Health Department's coddling of Hodari completely unacceptable. We plan to formally demand that they take meaningful disciplinary action before he kills anyone else."
DOCUMENTS: Complaint, Consent Order
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. Click here to support Operation Rescue.
Joel Osteen Direct from Australia on GOD TV
GOD TV. Photo: Christian Newswire
Joel Osteen Direct from Australia on GOD TV
Hillsong 2009 welcomes speakers and delegates from across the globe
MEDIA ADVISORY, July 6 /Christian Newswire/ -- Each year, the Hillsong Conference brings world-renowned speakers and worship leaders together for one of Australia's largest and most influential Christian events. This year Joel Osteen will be featured at Hillsong for the first time and GOD TV will once again broadcast the conference worldwide for five days from July 8-12
The pastor of Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas, with more than 40 000 people regularly attending services, Joel is committed to bringing a message of hope to the world and helping people achieve their potential. He will be featured direct from the Acer Arena in Sydney on Friday July 10 at 7.30pm (Eastern) along with his wife, Victoria, and the Lakewood ministry team.
Joel Osteen's weekly half-hour program 'Joel' is already part of GOD TV's international line-up of programming, but this is the first time he will be appearing 'LIVE' on the network.
Designed to champion the cause of the local church, Hillsong Conference is hosted by Hillsong pastors, Brian & Bobbie Houston. The Conference attracts about 25,000 delegates from different countries, with some 5,000 volunteers. Many more will be able to participate through GOD TV this week as the network relays the messages in prime time viewing.
Hosted by Bo Sander in Sydney, GOD TV's coverage of Hillsong 2009 also includes:
* Wednesday July 8 at 9pm - Craig Groeschel, the pastor of LifeChurch.tv, who is known for his creative and relevant Bible teaching;
* Thursday July 9 at 10pm - Jentezen Franklin, pastor of Free Chapel in Gainesville, GA and Irvine, CA, which has been named as one of the top 30 churches in America.
* Saturday July 11 at 7.30pm - Brian Houston, who has a passion to see the local church rise up and present the Gospel with relevance; and
* Sunday July 12 at 8pm - Louie Giglio, who is the director of Passion Conferences, a movement calling for students around the world to live lives that reflect their Creator.
Praise and worship will be led by the Darlene Zschech, Joel Houston and the Hillsong music team and special guest, Chris Tomlin, who is best known for the song, 'How Great is our God'.
"Hillsong Church has touched the hearts of so many people through anointed music and a word in season and it's always a privilege for us to share their inspirational songs and challenging messages with our viewers worldwide," said GOD TV's director of television, Wendy Alec. "Hillsong Conference is one of the highlights of our LIVE programming at GOD TV and I encourage viewers to tune in for all five nights!"
For more information about Hillsong Conference 2009 visit www.hillsong.com
GOD TV can be accessed via channel 365 of DIRECTV throughout the USA as well as via select cable outlets or online at www.god.tv/stream. The Hillsong 2009 Conference will also be made available for video on demand viewing at www.god.tv/god.
About GOD TV: GOD TV was founded in the UK in 1995 by Christian media pioneers Rory & Wendy Alec and in 13 short years has become a global phenomenon. Today the network beams a broad cross section of cutting-edge programs, including many life-changing LIVE broadcasts, into millions of homes worldwide. The only Christian broadcaster to transmit globally from Jerusalem, GOD TV's powerful signal is carried via multiple satellites providing free viewing to almost half a billion people 24-hours-a-day. In the USA, GOD TV can be viewed on DIRECTV channel 365 as well as on select cable channels. It can also be viewed online at www.god.tv/stream and via VOD at www.god.tv/god. The network has offices in Washington, DC and Orlando, Florida and Kansas City, Missouri. Other offices are situated in Europe, Africa and Asia. In addition to its vast media outreach, GOD TV also helps people in charitable ways by supporting feeding schemes, orphanages, water drilling projects and disaster relief funds.
GOD TV USA: Suite 1008, 375 Douglas Avenue, Altamonte Springs, Florida, 32714
Telephone: +1 407 862 5084, Fax +1 407 682 2407
Broadcast HQ: Jerusalem, Israel
International offices: Africa, Asia & Middle East, Europe, Scandinavia, UK & Ireland
Angel Christian Television Trust, Inc is a Not-For-Profit Florida Corporation with 501 (C) (3) tax-exempt status from the IRS.
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