Word News

FDR’s D-Day landing prayer bill passes House

2012-01-26T17:37:00.003-05:00

WASHINGTON, D.C. (WordNews.org) Jan. 24, 2012 – A bill that would include FDR’s D-Day landing prayer in its entirety in a plaque at the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C., has passed the House 386-26.
The bill is now headed to the Senate for hearings, according to the Ohio Christian Alliance.

To read more

Family Worship Sunday is Jan. 29

2012-01-26T17:35:00.003-05:00

RICHMOND, Va.,(WordNews.org) Jan. 24, 2012 — Jan. 29 is Family Worship Sunday (January is Family Worship Month, by the way).Pastors around the globe are speaking to their congregations this Sunday about the importance of reading the scriptures, praying and singing together as a family in the home, organizers said.

For more information

Patrick Morley: A Borneo Christian? (Part 9)

2012-01-26T17:32:00.002-05:00

CASSELBERRY, Fla. (WordNews.org) Jan. 26, 2012 – Patrick Morley remains thankful some four decades later to some men who reached out to him early in his adulthood.
That’s because unlike his father, Morley attended a church that had a vision to disciple men like him.
“I’m just so grateful that almost 40 years from now these men saw this young struggling father, came around him—and they discipled me. So I was able to fully break the cycle in a way my dad was not,” Morley tells WordNews.org.
Morley is the head of the Man in the Mirror ministry and is launching a major initiative to hire 330 men nationwide who will oversee a total of 330,000 churches—one man per 1,000 churches.

To read more

Patrick Morley talks about creating, capturing and sustaining momentum

2012-01-23T13:37:00.005-05:00

CASSELBERRY, Fla. (WordNews.org) Jan. 23, 2012 – Patrick Morley, author of the best-selling “Man in the Mirror” series, says he’s learned a lot about what not to do.
At 63, he finds himself heading up a men’s discipleship initiative that seeks to hire 330 men to help 330,000 churches nationwide disciple men.
That’s right, one man who will be an area director for a region covering 1,000 churches.
“There are some guys around the country that are already doing this effectively,” he said. “The main thing is that we have figured out through a lot of mistakes how to actually help a church actually develop a sustainable discipleship ministry to men. And that is the No. 1 problem in men’s discipleship”—sustainability, Morley tells WordNews.org.

To read more

Britt Nicole releases details of new album on Twitter

2012-01-19T22:53:00.002-05:00

Christian music artist Britt Nicole released details of her next album on her Twitter account (@ittsbrittnicole). "Hear it is...... The record title is "GOLD" and it will come out on MARCH 27 !!!!! :) can't wait for u guys to hear!

WordNews.org profiled Britt in a six-part series.

Patrick Morley: God’s calling and a warehouse full of books (Part 2)

2012-01-19T22:26:00.002-05:00

CASSELBERRY, Fla. (WordNews.org) Jan. 19, 2012 – At 63, bestselling Christian author Patrick Morley has seen several trends in men’s ministries in the United States.
Best known for his book “Man in the Mirror,” Morley is the author of 18 books. His latest, “Man Alive,” is out this month.
“Back when I became a follower of Jesus in 1973, there was a huge marketplace for men.” Navigators was one ministry that was big in the Orlando, Fla., area where he lives.
A decade later, God called Morley to write “Man in the Mirror.” To read more

NH bill would prohibit contracts with abortion providers

2012-01-19T22:22:00.003-05:00

CONCORD, N.H. (WordNews.org) Jan. 19, 2012 — The New Hampshire House of Representatives passed a bill 207 to 147 that shifts state taxpayer funds away from abortion providers such as Planned Parenthood.
Instead, under the measure, funds would go to public and private entities that provide comprehensive health care to women and that do not provide abortions.
The bill’s language was developed in part by the Alliance Defense Fund and the Susan B. Anthony List. It now heads to the state Senate.

To read more

Prayer at the flagpole constitutional? Ministry leader to school board of ed

2012-01-19T22:21:00.000-05:00

CLAY COUNTY, Fla. (WordNews.org) Jan. 18, 2012 – The head of Bible Concepts Ministries is scheduled to address the Clay County, Fla., school board tomorrow about biblical concepts and constitutional principles pertaining to churches and civil groups.
Biblical Concepts Ministries teaches free seminars.
Johnson and BCM has been involved the fight for religious freedom and second amendment issues.

To read more

Patrick Morley: Looking for a few (hundred) good men (Part 1)

2012-01-19T22:18:00.001-05:00

CASSELBERRY, Fla. (WordNews.org) Jan. 18, 2012 – Patrick Morley, the bestselling author of the book “Man in the Mirror” is leading an effort to improve the discipleship of men across the country.
A national casting call has been launched at www.mimareadirectors.org. It is a collaboration with Young Life, Campus Crusade for Christ, Compass—Finances God’s Way, and the Navigators. The purpose: to recruit candidates throughout the country with a passion for discipling.
The goal is lofty: to disciple 1 million men by 2015; 10 million men by the end of 2020.
To that end, Morley’s group is looking to hire 330 men who will be responsible for 1,000 churches each.

To read more

Home schoolers face stiff fines, opposition in Sweden

2012-01-17T14:10:00.001-05:00

STOCKHOLM, Sweden (WordNews.org) Jan. 17, 2012 – The Home School Legal Defense Association and Alliance Defense Fund say proposed changes to Swedish law could make it easier for the government to take children away from home-schooling families.
Liberal Party politician Lotta Edholm wrote in a Jan. 10 column in Aftonbladet, a prominent Swedish newspaper, that “the social services law should be amended so that social services are able to intervene when children are kept away from school by their parents — often for religious or ideological reasons.”
The Home School Legal Defense Association said the recommended law change comes at a time when there are already stringent penalties for home schooling in Sweden. The Home School Legal Defense Association and Alliance Defense Fund have applied to the European Court of Human Rights on behalf of one family whose child was taken by the government in 2009 and have filed a brief in a Swedish appellate court on behalf of another family fined an amount equivalent to $26,000.

For more on the story

Anti-abortion film to play on Jumbo screen in D.C. before March for Life

2012-01-17T10:02:00.000-05:00

WASHINGTON, D.C. (WordNews.org) Jan 17, 2012 — An anti-abortion film “Created Equal” will be shown on a jumbo LED screen in Washington, D.C. on Jan. 23.
The video can be viewed here [Warning: Graphic].
The video will be debut at the March for Life. Organizers says this is the first time in the history of the pro-life movement that an abortion video has been broadcast in the public square on a jumbo LED screen.
“Getting this video into the heads of Americans is Planned Parenthood’s worst nightmare,” said Mark Harrington, Created Equal’s executive director.

For the rest of the story

Does God care about who wins?

2012-01-14T07:29:00.001-05:00

A lot of commentators question whether God cares about the outcome of a certain event.
Like the Broncos vs. the Patriots tonight.
The arguments include there are Christians on both sides. Good point. Just like one prays for a cloudless day when hosting a picnic, that farmer is desperate for rain.
Ahhh, decisions, decisions.
Then there's the argument that God must have better things to do. That may seem true to some, especially non football fans but since He is omnipotent, this really won't drain Him. He is the original multitasker.
He cares enough to know the very hairs on our heads.
My thought is this: who will give Him the glory and maximize the platform He has afforded them? Tebow, in his book, talks about everyone having a platform. And making the most of that platform. He also says life is about more important things than a game. It seems to bewilder him, the attention he gets for playing football.
It's a good perspective.
One God may just favor tonight.

Christian causes tapping into Tebow

2012-01-13T23:34:00.001-05:00

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (WordNews.org) Jan. 13, 2012 – Tomorrow, Tim Tebow takes to the field in Gillette Stadium to take on the Patriots for the divisional playoffs.
For some, the Broncos quarterback is a polarizing figure, making some question their own faith and what role spiritual matters have in secular life. Not to mention the way he plays the game.
But some ministry groups see Tebow as a rallying cry, an opportunity and illustration for their cause.
For example, Steve Karges, founder and president of Children's Ministries International Inc. says Tebow’s testimony – his story on how and when he became an Christian, which is in his book "Through My Eyes" – supports the emphasis of his ministry: lead children to faith in Christ at an early age.
To read more

Supreme Court gives church a win

2012-01-12T22:35:00.003-05:00

WASHINGTON, D.C.(WordNews.org) Jan. 12, 2012 – The U.S. Supreme Court unanimou sly decided that religious organizations have some liberties when it comes to human resources issues.

Liberty Counsel said the high court ruled that under the First Amendment churches are entitled to a “ministerial exception” when it dismissed a wrongful termination suit against the church.

In Hosanna-Tabor Evangelical Lutheran Church v. EEOC, the Court recognizes that the ministerial exception applies beyond the head of a religious congregation to others, such as the teacher in this case, who are viewed as ministers or those carrying the message of the church, Liberty said.

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Village Voice founder’s son urges paper to stop accepting sex ads

2012-01-12T22:27:00.003-05:00

NEW YORK (WordNews.org) Jan. 12, 2012 — John Mailer, the son of author Norman Mailer, is criticizing the paper his father helped start, the Village Voice, for accepting sex ads that feature children and teens for sex.
Mailer is joining more than 80,000 who are campaigning on Change.org to ban the ads on the paper’s website.
“The Village Voice was born out of the desire for an independent media voice for the people, a voice that had the freedom and authority to hold those who abuse power accountable for their actions,” said Mailer. “While I understand firsthand the financial difficulties facing all print publications today, the fact of the matter is that Village Voice is making money from selling advertisements that others have used to buy and sell minors for sex.”

To read more

InterVarsity donates Colorado ranch

2012-01-11T22:48:00.000-05:00

MADISON, Wis. (WordNews.org) Jan. 11, 2012 – InterVarsity Christian Fellowship announced that it has donated the assets of Bear Trap Ranch in Colorado to Foundation of the Heart, the organization which operates the ministry Band of Brothers.
The transfer was effective on Dec. 12, 2011, and includes the name, logo, and assets of Bear Trap Ranch.
Bear Trap Ranch, located in the Rocky Mountains, was one of four retreat and training centers operated by InterVarsity. The camp is located near Colorado Springs, Colo. It had been a part of InterVarsity’s ministry to college students and faculty since 1953.

For more information

Texas Appeals Court upholds ‘informed consent law’

2012-01-10T22:05:00.000-05:00

SAN ANTONIO, Texas (WordNews.org) Jan. 10, 2012 – A Texas Appeals Court has ruled in favor of a motion that will lead to the immediate enforcement of the state’s “informed consent law.”
The law requires abortion providers to make available to women ultrasound images of their unborn children prior to the women giving consent to an abortion.

The federal Appeals Court for the Fifth Circuit vacated an Aug. 30 preliminary injunction issued by a lower court. Under the law, women seeking abortions have the ability to hear a sonogram of the child’s heartbeat. Women are required to certify they have received the information before an abortion can take place.

"A picture is worth a thousand words, and the abortionists wanted to silence the voice of my baby,"
said Mayela Banks, one of the 317 Texas Women Hurt By Abortion.

To read more

66% surveyed say they 'experience God' in church

2012-01-09T21:39:00.000-05:00

VENTURA, Calif. (WordNews.org) Jan. 9, 2011 -- Sixty-six percent of those surveyed said they felt a "real and personal connection" with god while in a church setting, a new Barna Research poll finds.
Barna noted that conversely, that means a third of those who have attended a church in the past did not feel God's presence.
Other poll results found:
35 percent of adults in the U.S. connect with God at least monthly in a church setting; and those who attend church weekly, 44% said they experience God’s presence every week and 18% do so on a monthly basis.

To read more

Open Doors releases its ‘World Watch List’

2012-01-04T21:33:00.001-05:00

SANTA ANA, Calif. (WordNews.org) Jan. 4, 2012 — Open Doors released its World Watch List for 2012 and it may look similar to past lists.
North Korea takes the top of the list again, the spot it’s occupied for the past decade. Open Doors said in North Korea, Christians face the most severe persecution. Open Doors said Islamic-majority countries represent nine of the top 10 on the list and 38 of the 50 countries on the annual ranking.

Afghanistan (2), Saudi Arabia (3), Somalia (4), Iran (5) and the Maldives (6) form a bloc where indigenous Christians have almost no freedom to openly worship, Open Doors said. Rounding out the top 10 were Uzbekistan (7), Yemen (8) Iraq (9) and Pakistan (10), replacing Laos, which fell to No. 12.

Click here for more on the list

Top 10 anti-Christian acts of 2011?

2012-01-03T21:18:00.000-05:00

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (WordNews.org) Jan. 3, 2012 -- DefendChristians.org has compiled the top 10 anti-Christians actions of 2011.
The nonprofit surveyed the members of its online community for the top anti-Christian stories within the United States and the results surprised Gary Cass of DefendChristians.org.
"The fact the number one and number two issues are public policy and political in nature shows Christians are very concerned about the political direction of the country. I wouldn't be surprised if this translates into a strong political response in 2012," he said.

To read more

Women hurt by abortions to gather outside Planned Parenthood

2012-01-02T22:08:00.000-05:00

SAN ANTONIO, Texas (WordNews.org) Jan. 2, 2012 -- Women who say they were hurt by abortions plan to gather outside a Planned Parenthood in San Antonio, Texas, and urge abortion providers to show women their sonograms before receiving their informed consent to an abortion.
They are expected to gather outside the 104 Babcock site at 10 a.m.

The women who plan to stand outside the clinic say they were not told about the impact an abortion would have on them. They were not shown sonograms.
"I wish I would have had the opportunity to see an ultrasound, or information about fetal development, before my abortion at age 16. There are no words to describe the amount of pain, guilt, and trauma I experienced when I saw pictures of fetal development two years later," said Lisa Skowron from San Antonio. "I was horrified that the 'products of conception' and 'tissue' I had 'removed from my uterus' had had precious little hands and feet, and a beating heart. I felt like a monster. And I felt betrayed by the medical professionals I had trusted."

Mission to Hollywood

2012-01-01T23:27:00.001-05:00

ENUMCLAW, Wash., (WordNews.org) Jan. 1, 2012-- With the fourth Mission: Impossible film in theaters now, Steve Cha tells about his life as a missionary to what he calls one of the most dangerous missionary fields -- Hollywood.

Cha describes how he committed career suicide in his book "Hollywood MIssion: Possible."

"Christians need to start making a difference in the entertainment industry, the community around them, and the entire world by evangelizing lost souls," he said.
Cha writes about his three years as a background actor, or extra, in Hollywood on more than 100 films, television shows and commercial productions.

To read more

Odyssey Networks launches election 2012 coverage

2011-12-30T21:24:00.002-05:00

NEW YORK (WordNews.org) Dec. 30, 2011 -- Odyssey Networks is kicking off its election 2012 coverage with a video called "Run-Up to Iowa."

The video looks at faith issues surrounding the Iowa caucus. On Jan. 3, Republican voters will choose their candidate to face President Barack Obama in the general election in November.

Odyssey said in a state where an estimated 60 percent of the GOP identify as evangelicals, candidates have been heavily courting the state's pastors and Christian power brokers in an effort to find favor with this crucial voting bloc.

Going online to increase the evangelical vote

2011-12-28T22:12:00.000-05:00

IRVINE, Calif. (WordNews.org) Dec. 28, 2011 -- Restore America has tapped a web design firm to develop an online strategy to draw more evangelicals to the voting booth next November.
Restore America, a nonprofit formed in 1999, says it is working to restore America "under God."
It has hired Trinet Internet Solutions Inc., an Orange County, Calif., web development company to create a comprehensive online strategy to achieve its online goal of increasing the evangelical vote in the 2012 elections.
Restore America’s goal is to increase the number of evangelical voters to be 3 million more in 2012 compared to the number in 2008.

Minister says he faces arrest for reading Christmas story at Capitol tree

2011-12-21T22:36:00.000-05:00

WASHINGTON, D.C. (WordNews.org) Dec. 21, 2011 — A pastor with a national profile is planning to read the Christmas story and sing carols at the Capitol Tree at the West Lawn of the United States Capitol Building on Thursday at noon.

The Rev. Patrick Mahoney told the Capitol police about his plans, which also include praying for peace, justice and religious freedom.
He will also be holding a small, 5-inch tall Nativity display.
Police officials told him some of his activities may be prohibited or constitute an illegal demonstration, Mahoney said.

To read more

A week with Mark Schultz: Renaissance (Part 5)

2011-12-16T16:15:00.000-05:00

NASHVILLE (WordNews.org) Dec. 16, 2011 — It was a whirlwind trip to Europe last year that filled Christian recording artist Mark Schultz with the inspiration to try something new.
Actually, some things new.
First, there was the instrumental album, “Renaissance.”
That was followed with a recently released book, “Letters from War,” which was inspired by the song by the same name. (More on that later)
“My wife and I went to Europe and I did a tour over there last year and it was awesome,” Mark tells WordNews.org. “We were in Normandy where my grandfather served,” Mark says, “walking up and down the beach and climbing up the cliffs and going to see the cemetery.
That’s when it started to happen.

What is "it"? Click here for more

A week with Mark Schultz: The voice for the orphans (Part 4

2011-12-15T23:08:00.000-05:00

NASHVILLE (WordNews.org) Dec. 15, 2011 – Recently, Christian singer/songwriter Mark Schultz did a benefit concert for a clinic that helps unwed mothers-to-be.
“They can come in and get counseling about adoption as opposed to abortion,” Mark says.
During the night, he heard a presentation that left an impression.
“I heart a staggering figure—One and a half million abortions happen each year, and 15,000 adoptions.”
It hit home for Mark.
“I was adopted when I was younger,” he says. “I’m really realizing how grateful I am to be here, to have been able to be on this earth and to live to do these songs and perform and do what I love.”

A week with Mark Schultz: Early musical influences

2011-12-14T22:46:00.000-05:00

NASHVILLE (WordNews.org) Dec. 14, 2011 – Mark Schultz, the Dove Award-winning Christian recording artist, says his biggest musical influence may have been his boom box.
“When I was growing up I grew up on the radio because I lived on farms and stuff and your only friends were the box and earphones and listening to the radio,” Mark says. “I think that’s what got me decent at writing radio songs because I’ve been listening to them my whole life.”
What’s he listening to these days?

Click here to find out

A week with Mark Schultz: 'What's real resonates'

2011-12-13T22:19:00.000-05:00

NASHVILLE (WordNews.org) Dec. 13, 2011 — The songs Christian recording artist Mark Schultz began to write got a little more personal than ski outings and mission trips.
“There was a kid in the youth group who got cancer and the youth pastor was like, ‘Hey, why don’t you write a song about that?’”
Mark did.
“I wrote a song called ‘He’s My Son’ about a dad praying over his son who has cancer and that became not only a Christian hit but a mainstream hit.”

Click here to read more

A week with Mark Schultz: How it all began

2011-12-12T22:10:00.000-05:00

NASHVILLE (WordNews.org) Dec. 12, 2011 – Mark Schultz’s songs are filled with stories.
But the Platinum recording artist known for such songs as “He Is” and “I Am” sort of eased into the whole story-telling song approach.
“Where it started for me was when I came to Nashville I got a job as a youth director at a church,” he says. “I didn’t mean to. It just happened. I lost a bet with a youth minister and ended up going on a retreat with a bunch of kids and got duct taped to a bed and, you know, stayed with the kids until they graduated from college.”

Click here for more

Macy’s dressing room policy focus of Fox Sunday program

2011-12-10T23:25:00.000-05:00

NEW YORK (WordNews.org) Dec. 10, 2011 — Macy’s policy to allow cross dressers to change in the dressing room of their choice is the subject of Fox News’ Sunday program, America’s News HQ at 1 p.m.
Matt Staver of the Liberty Counsel will be among the guests.
Staver said that some Macy’s customers are outraged by the department store’s policy and are cutting up their Macy’s credit cards and refusing to shop at the store until the policy is changed. The policy came to light when Macy’s worker Natalie Johnson saw a man entering a women’s fitting room in her department area in a San Antonio, Texas, Macy’s.
Johnson, who will also be on the Fox show, told the man he could not change in the women’s room. Liberty said the man, who was wearing black lipstick, became upset and began swearing and warning Johnson about Macy’s lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender-friendly policy.

To read more

A week with Erica Lane: Life lessons and 'finding the beauty and joy of Christ'

2011-12-10T09:21:00.000-05:00

NASHVILLE (WordNews.org) Dec. 9, 2011 – Erica Lane pretty much succeed the things most important to her—school and music.
“I’ve excelled in high school. I succeeded in college. There were things that opened my eyes at a time in my life but overall it was a pretty good life,” the Christian recording artist said.
What opened her eyes also “defines the direction I take in music.”
It was her sophomore year at Texas Tech University. To that point, Lane had few worries and had been cruising on a pretty smooth path.

To read more click here

A week with Erica Lane: How 'A Merry Little Christmas' came about

2011-12-05T18:49:00.000-05:00

NASHVILLE (WordNews.org) Dec. 5, 2011 -- Erica Lane tells how her first Christmas album sort of evolved out of necessity.
"The album came about last year. We did a live Christmas concert in Nashville. I had an orchestra and choir backing me," the Christian recording artist recalled. "The original plan was to record and make a live Christmas album out of that concert night. And then I ended up getting really sick that night."
To find out what happened next, click here.

Macy's fires workers for preventing cross-dresser from using women's dressing room

2011-12-05T17:10:00.000-05:00

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS (WordNews.org) Dec. 5, 2011 – A law firm announced today that Macy’s fired one of its workers for preventing a male cross-dresser from changing in the women’s dressing room.
Liberty Counsel said the woman, Natalie Johnson, refused “to violate her religious beliefs by permitting a young man from entering the women’s dressing room.”
A call to Macy’s was not immediately returned.
Johnson said saw a young man walk out of the women’s fitting room. She told him that he could not go back in because it was for women only.
Liberty Counsel said the cross-dressing young man claimed that he is a “female.” Johnson said that he was wearing make-up and girl’s clothing, “but clearly he was a male.”

To read more

Forced abortion opponent reported still alive

2011-12-03T23:11:00.000-05:00

LINYI, CHINA (WordNews.org) Dec. 3, 2011 -- Forced abortion opponent Chen Guancheng is still alive, despite previous reports that he had died under house arrest, Women's Rights Without Frontiers said.
"Now his mother is allowed to go outside to buy food although escorted by three guards, and his health also is getting better," a source told Women's Rights Without Frontiers.
The source said Guancheng had been treated better recently.
"Chen's situation was exposed and got huge public attention," the source said. One campaign that brought considerable visibility to Chen's plight was the flow of concerned citizens attempting to visit him for his 40th birthday on Nov. 12. Many of these citizens were beaten and detained, according to Women's Rights Without Frontiers.

In addition, the "Chen Sunglasses Freedom" campaigns inside and outside of China have raised the visibility of his case. These campaigns post photos of people wearing sunglasses in support of Chen. The source stated, "I think it's great. I think it's very helpful for people all over the world to show they care about Chen through the Sunglasses campaigns. I think it's very important to show support inside and outside the country – we can work together." These campaigns, spearheaded by Women's Rights Without Frontiers and Dark Glasses Portrait, can be found at www.womensrightswithoutfrontiers.org/index.php?nav=chen-guangcheng and ichenguangcheng.blogspot.com/.

Click here to read more

Revolutionizing how churches use PowerPoint?

2011-12-02T22:18:00.000-05:00

ASHLAND, Ore. (WordNews.org) Dec. 2, 2011 -- ExaltNow revolutionizes how churches use PowerPoint in worship.
That's how Sharefaith.com began their news release highlighting its new product. Sharefaith, a church media company, recently aunched a PowerPoint plugin "that is likely to revolutionize the way churches uses PowerPoint in their worship service."The product went on sale this month.
"The ExaltNow worship software plugin for PowerPoint combines text over video for seamless slide transitions, and offers full integration to a church's existing CCLI song select database," the company said. "Creating and planning a worship service within MS PowerPoint has never been this easy."
Sharefaith conducted a survey this month of 10,000 churches and found that 89 percent of congregations rely on PowerPoint as their premier projection software during their church service.

To read more

AdoptionJourney.com launched to encourage couples considering adoption

2011-12-01T22:24:00.001-05:00

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WordNews.org) Dec. 1, 2011 — Three national organizations have partnered together to help couples interested in adoption.
The Adoption Journey Project has launched a new website, www.AdoptionJourney.com. It is a collaborative effort between Bethany Christian Services, Lifesong for Orphans and Lifeline Children’s Services.

“The vast majority of resources being published by adoption agencies and supporting organizations are for families that are either close to or have committed to the adoption process already,” said Marc Andreas, vice president of marketing at Bethany Christian Services, the largest adoption agency in the country.

“We recognize that couples just starting to think about adoption have completely different perspectives and needs regarding the discernment process for adoption in their lives. This project will provide tangible resources to help support them and the beginning of their own adoption journey.”

Click here for more

Wednesdays with Britt Nicole: 'Let's hang out with God for a little bit' (Part 6 of 6)

2011-12-01T04:37:00.001-05:00

NASHVILLE (WordNews.org) Nov. 30, 2011 – “There’s some cool opportunities that are coming up,” Christian music artist Britt Nicole blurts out.
Then, she adds cautiously, “Something I don’t know if I can share yet.”
A hint?
“There’s other people they’re putting together.”
Britt is currently touring with Brandon Heath’s “Leaving Eden” tour. She talks about what she would like to do one day.
“There’s a lot. So many things I would love to do,” she says. “Ultimately, I want to reach people.”
She talk about the frustration she gets sometimes in the midst of completing a performance.
“A lot of times on tour we have this hour-long or two hour-long show and people are almost at the breaking point where God is about to do something in their life,” Britt says, “and you’re like, ‘Ok, good night, see you next year.’ It’s like, ‘Wait!’ God was moving and they were about to have a break through in their life.’ I see that a lot. For me that kind of breaks my heart.”
She knows what she would like to do at those moments.

To find out, click here

Billy Graham hospitalized

2011-11-30T21:09:00.000-05:00

ASHEVILLE,N.C. (WordNews.org) Nov. 30, 2011 — Evangelist Billy Graham has been hospitalized at Mission Hospital in Asheville, N.C., near his home in Montreat, for evaluation and treatment of his lungs.

A spokesperson said Graham was alert, smiling and waving to staff as he was admitted.

Mr. Graham’s personal physician, Lucian Rice, described Graham’s condition as stable. The pulmonologist treating Mr. Graham, Mark Hellreich, M.D., said that Mr. Graham is being tested for possible pneumonia.

Click here to read more

First virtual Christmas choir being assembled. Seriously

2011-11-29T22:45:00.000-05:00

MORRISTOWN, N.J. (WordNews.org) Nov. 29, 2011 -- Imagine choir practice where you never have to leave home.
That’s the plan devised by Liquid Church of New Jersey. Liquid Church is inviting people from around the world to participate via webcams and YouTube in the first ever Christmas Virtual Choir for Christmas Eve services.
“Whether they’re soldiers in the Middle East, moms in Estonia or students in Phoenix, Arizona, the church will leverage technology to synchronize individual singers into a unified choir rendition of Silent Night,” the church announced.

“We’re creating a unique experience for singers across the globe to come together as one voice this Christmas,” said Tim Lucas, lead Pastor of the New Jersey-based Christian church.

To read more

Religious freedom in China at lowest point since Tiananmen Square crackdown

2011-11-28T22:08:00.000-05:00

BRUSSELS, Belgium (WordNews.org) Nov. 28, 2011 — Religious freedom is nonexistent in China, ChinaAid founder and president Bob Fu will be telling the European Parliament on Wednesday. Fu said human rights and religious freedom in China have deteriorated to its lowest point since the period after the crackdown on the 1989 Tiananmen Square student-led pro-democracy demonstration.

Fu and several other ChinaAid witnesses were invited by the European Parliament to testify at its hearing on “The human rights situation in China” at the parliament building in Brussels, Belgium.

To read more

Ministry partners with inmates to help amputees

2011-11-28T22:05:00.000-05:00

Nashville (WordNews.org) Nov. 27, 2011 — Two Nashville-based organizations have formed a unique partnership and are are teaming up to help amputees in developing countries.
Standing With Hope, a nonprofit faith based corporation providing artificial limbs to amputees in the West African country of Ghana, will now work with Corrections Corporation of America (CCA) to launch a work program for inmates to disassemble donated used prosthetic limbs and recycle key components needed for fabricating new legs for amputees overseas.

To read more

Universities join in 40-day prayer for Penn State

2011-11-25T17:40:00.001-05:00

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. (WordNews.org) Nov. 25, 2011 -- A 40-day prayer series focused on the Penn State scandal has been launched and students and faculty from other universities are encouraged to join the effort.
The online prayer series was created by CS Heinz, a writer.
"Universities that Penn State normally competes with in sports and academia are signing up to pray for Penn State," Heinz said. "Our need for something and someone greater than ourselves is uniting us in this dark hour. I think that's why many people are turning to prayer."
In addition to students and faculty at Penn State, people from universities such as Ohio State, University of Virginia, Clemson, and University of Oklahoma and joined in.
The email series called "40 Days of Prayer for PSU," is designed to help people pray for the crisis at Penn State including the alleged victims, their families, and abuse survivors. It is available at www.PrayPSU.org.

To read more

Thursdays with Brandon Heath: On other artists (Part 5 of 5)

2011-11-24T11:15:00.000-05:00

NASHVILLE (WordNews.org) Nov. 24, 2011 – Christian music artists Brandon Heath and Britt Nicole have been touring together since October, opening for Brandon’s “Leaving Eden” tour.
Brandon said having Britt on tour, an old-time friend, brings a different dimension to his concerts. Mainly, a slightly different fan base.
“As a young female artist, she brings little girls and that wouldn’t be my audience,” Brandon says. “I feel like we both bring a very valuable audience to each other. It’s cool to see her in her ministry and do what she does. I think we complement each other well.”
Click here to read more

Wednesdays with Britt Nicole: 'A great journey so far' (Part 5 in a series)

2011-11-23T18:25:00.000-05:00

Britt Nicole

NASHVILLE (WordNews.org) Nov. 23, 2011 – When we last left Britt Nicole, she was in a conversation with God.
She wanted to go to college in Nashville, but He wanted her to return to her small town in North Carolina.
“There’s nothing for me to do here,” she remembers complaining. “But as soon as I surrendered to God and said, ‘I’m not going to take my path, I’m going to take Yours,’ doors began to open for me as far as my music"

Click here to read more

Is 180 film blackballed by billboard companies?

2011-11-22T20:51:00.001-05:00

LOS ANGELES (WordNews.org) Nov. 22, 2011 -- A sign of the times?
Ray Comfort, head of The Way of the Master ministries and the creator of the film “180” which has gone viral, says three of the largest billboard companies in southern California have declined to allow him to advertising the film using their billboards.
Other companies that were approached haven’t returned calls.
Meanwhile, Comfort said, these same companies advertise “atheists’ mockery of god and the Bible, promote strip clubs and porn conventions.”
Comfort, who is Jewish, said one of the billboard companies is owned by a Jewish person who was upset that the 180 film compares abortion in America to the Holocaust.

To read more

Erica Lane's 'A Merry Little Christmas'

2011-11-21T21:43:00.000-05:00

NASHVILLE (WordNews.org) Nov. 21, 2011 — If you’ve already started listening to Christmas music, here’s a new one to try out: Erica Lane’s “A Merry Little Christmas.” Lane is a classically trained singer/songwriter. She’s a former Miss Houston. She’s been in a family-friendly reality TV series. And now, her third album.
This six-song Christmas album includes classics like “Silent Night” and “Jingle Bells” as well as “Angels in the Snow,” which was recorded for a film.
“I originally wrote ‘Angels in the Snow’ for a movie called ‘A Christmas Snow,’ but it has evolved into much more than a song for film,” she said. “People approach me every time I sing it and share their memories and stories of lost loved ones, relating themselves to the message of the song."
Click here for more

Santa is in, Jesus is out at SC cancer center

2011-11-19T07:24:00.000-05:00

CHARLSESTON, S.C. (WordNews.org) Nov. 19, 2011 – A cancer treatment center in Charleston, S.C., has reversed its decision to not display Santa Claus on its property.Now, a Christian law firm, Liberty Counsel, is urging The Hollings Cancer Center to reverse its ban on the Nativity scene and other religious Christmas symbols.
Liberty Counsel sent a letter to a cancer treatment center, demanding the change.
Liberty said The Hollings Cancer Center is a state-funded institution.
"They reversed the decision and let Santa Claus sneak in, but for now baby Jesus is still out in the cold," the legal organization said.

Click here to read more.

Thursdays with Brandon Heath: Staying grounded, 'Doing what I was born to do'

2011-11-17T21:20:00.003-05:00

NASHVILLE (WordNews.org) Nov. 17, 2011 – If you listen to Christian radio much, you don’t have to wait long for a Brandon Heath tune to come on.
Hits like “Give Me Your Eyes” and his current hit, “You Put the Light In Me,” get lots of airtime.
How’s a guy stay grounded?
“I have a men’s group of about four guys that I meet with,” he said.
Because Brandon tours mostly on weekends, “I get to be home with the fam over the week and then I’ve got a mentor that asks me a lot of tough questions sometimes. [And] I have a counselor,” he said. “So, I think that it’s pretty extraordinary, if I think about it. I have some pretty awesome people in my life. But I’ve made it a priority to have them. It’s important that they’re around.”

To read more click here

Wednesdays with Britt Nicole: A conversation with God (Part 4 in a series)

2011-11-16T21:34:00.002-05:00

NASHVILLE (WordNews.org) Nov. 16, 2011 – Christian music artist Britt Nicole began sensing God’s calling on her life when she was 16 years old.
“I remember sitting in youth group one night,” she recalls. “My aunt and uncle were my youth pastors. They asked us to write down our vision or dreams.”
Her dream?
“I remember writing on this little piece of paper that I wanted to reach a million [people] through music,” she says. “I wanted to reach people and touch people’s lives.”
Britt’s on track to do just that. She’s got three albums out: “Acoustic EP,” “Say It” and “Lost Get Found.”
But Britt’s plan and God’s were not exactly the same.

Click here for more

C.S. Lewis' stepson to answer questions over Twitter

2011-11-15T21:37:00.000-05:00

SAN FRANCISCO (WordNews.org) Nov. 15, 2011 — If you ever wanted to know what life was like living with the great Christian thinker C.S. Lewis, you now have a chance to find out. Publisher HarperOne, in collaboration with the estate of C. S. Lewis, announces the first-of-its kind event with Douglas Gresham, stepson of the celebrated author.

Click here to read more.

Former Borders prez to lead Christian Leadership Alliance

2011-11-14T22:32:00.001-05:00

SAN CLEMENTE, Calif. (WordNews.org) Nov. 14, 2011 — Tami Heim, the former president of Borders, has been appointed president and CEO of Christian Leadership Alliance. She begins Jan. 1, 2012.

To read more:
http://tinyurl.com/CLAHeim

Book calls on men to 'step up'

2011-11-12T11:39:00.000-05:00

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (WordNews.org) Nov. 12, 2011 – “Will you be ready to step up?”
It’s a challenge Dennis Rainey, co-founder of FamilyLife, is giving to me these days.
“Men are in a battlefield,” he says. “Literal bullets may not be flying, but the need to bravely step up is quite real.”
It’s a battle for the young and old alike, Rainey says.
“Regardless of your age or stage in life, you are uniquely suited for a task God has in mind. There’s no question of that,” he says, “only a question of—Will you be ready and will you step up?”

Click here for more

Wednesdays with Britt Nicole: No worries. Here to reach, love people (Part 3 in a series)

2011-11-09T14:30:00.001-05:00

NASHVILLE (WordNews.org) Nov. 9, 2011 – Britt Nicole says she’s been given a lot of freedom as a Christian recording artist.

“I’ve been very blessed to be able to work with people that I love and that really support me and support my heart, what I feel called to do and really give me a lot of space creatively to be myself and not feel like I’m in a box and that I’ve got to do specific things.”

But she says she knows that’s not the case for everyone.

Click here for more

Religious freedom group challenges Operation Christmas Child

2011-11-08T21:23:00.001-05:00

WASHINGTON, D.C. (WordNews.org) Nov. 8, 2011 – The head of the Military Religious Freedom Foundation wants to stop the U.S. Air Force Academy from promoting Operation Christmas Child, according to the American Center for Law and Justice.
According to notices that went out to supporters Tuesday, the ACLJ said Mikey Weinstein, head of the foundation, complained about an email sent by students to fellow cadets encouraging them to “provide the joy of Christmas to impoverished children around the world.”

Wednesdays with Britt Nicole: Touring with buddy Brandon Health (Part 2 in a series)

2011-11-02T22:54:00.000-04:00

NASHVILLE (WordNews.org) Nov. 2, 2011 – Christian recording artist Britt Nicole has been touring with fellow singer/songwriter Brandon Heath since Oct. 6. Tomorrow, another town, another state. This time, Dothan, Ala. At Ridgecrest Baptist Church.

2 days set aside for International Day of Prayer

2011-11-01T22:19:00.000-04:00

(WordNew.org) Nov. 1, 2011 -- The International Day of Prayer will actually be held on two days this year.

Sunday, Nov. 13 is the official day designated the International Day of Prayer. However, the day will be celebrated on Nov. 6 in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

Supreme Court inaction means roadside crosses must come down

2011-10-31T22:33:00.001-04:00

WASHINGTON, D.C. (WordNews.org) Oct. 31, 2011 - The U.S. Supreme Court has decided not to hear Davenport v. American Atheist, which means 14 crosses bearing the names of fallen Utah state troopers will have to be taken down.

The roadside crosses are located in Utah, Kansas, Colorado, Oklahoma, New Mexico and Wyoming.

Iraqi Christians donate $2M parcel to build church

2011-10-30T21:48:00.000-04:00

KURDISTAN, Iraq (WordNews.org) Oct. 30, 2011 – Christians here have donated two acres worth about $2 million to build a church, seminary, medical clinic and school, according to the ministry Barnabas Fund.

The first phase of the Grace Baptist Cultural Centre, to be built in the town of Simele, will be completed in 2012, according to Barnabas Fund.

Jaci Velasquez's newest single climbs the charts

2011-10-29T20:14:00.000-04:00

NEW YORK (WordNews.org) Oct 29, 2011) — Jaci Velasquez’s newest album “Diamond” isn’t due out until Feb. 7, 2012.

But a single on that album, “Give Them Jesus,” is already the most added song at Christian AC Radio in the first two weeks of its release, with more than 500,000 impressions, the singer said.

Thursdays with Brandon Heath: Sound Checks and stories (Part 1 in a series)

2011-10-28T21:42:00.002-04:00

NASHVILLE (WordNews.org) Oct. 27, 2011 — Two hours before a concert, Brandon Heath comes out with just a guitar to entertain a smaller crowd.
It’s called Sound Check.
“I meet with the people and bring out my guitar and say, ‘Hey, what song do you want to here?’ and then I’ll tell them the story behind the song.”
And there’s always a story.
Brandon is known for his storytelling songs.
Like the No. 1 hit “I’m Not Who I Was” on his first album on the Reunion label, “Don’t Get Comfortable.”
Brandon’s got a collection of wins already under his belt, including winning Dove’s New Artist of the Year and other Dove Awards for Song of the Year.
Brandon’s not just about telling stories.
“I like to hear their personal stories and their take on the songs.”

True Love Waits co-founder Hester retiring

2011-09-21T22:09:00.000-04:00

NASHVILLE (WordNews.org) Sept. 20, 2011 -- Jimmy Hester will retire after 26 years with the ministry, LifeWay Christian Resources, which spawned True Love Waits.
His last day at the ministry will be Sept. 30
For more

Rallies set for pro-life priest

2011-09-14T21:52:00.000-04:00

AMARILLO, Texas (WordNews.org) Sept. 14. 2011 --Groups are mobilizing to show support for a pro-life priest that has been disciplined by his diocese.
The Center For Bio-Ethical Reform (CBR) announced plans to start of informational pickets in the vicinities of Catholic facilities and activities in the Diocese of Amarillo, Texas, to urge parishioners to respectfully ask Bishop Patrick Zurek to allow Father Frank Pavone, National Director of Priests For Life, to resume full-time anti-abortion ministry.
Picketers will represent a coalition of anti-abortion organizations.

Prayer at Ground Zero

2011-09-09T22:25:00.002-04:00

NEW YORK CITY (WordNews.org) Sept. 9, 2011 -- A prayer vigil is scheduled for tomorrow at Ground Zero, the site of the terrorist attacks nearly a decade ago.

This marks the only public prayer service at Ground Zero during the Sept. 11 10th anniversary weekend, organizers said.

'Personhood amendment' to be on Miss. ballot

2011-09-08T18:19:00.000-04:00

JEFFERSON CITY, Miss. (WordNews.org) Sept. 8, 2011 -- A personhood amendment opposed by Planned Parenthood will appear on a state ballot in Missouri, a ministry announced today.
The Mississippi Personhood Amendment was told today that Planned Parenthood's motion to remove the amendment
had been denied.

Christian sports show launches

2011-09-07T21:52:00.000-04:00

NASHVILLE (WordNews.org) Sept. 7, 2011 -- The first episode of Stand Firm kicks off tomorrow, featuring former NFL coach Tony Dungy.
Stand Firm is a webcast produced by LifeWayMen. It will air at noon central time.
Stand Firm at noon Central, Sept. 8, 2011.
In the premier episode of Stand Firm, LifeWay co-hosts Jason Ellerbrook and Scott Mills interview Super Bowl-winning coach and NBC Sunday Night Football analyst Dungy, who will talk about family life, his books and his passion for ministry.
Oh yeah, and his pick for the 2012 Super Bowl.(Click here for more).

Do you have a story?

2011-09-06T17:46:00.000-04:00

Word News is looking for stories about Christian ministries, ministers, missionaries that are doing things that often get overlooked. Know someone who might make a good story? Pass on details to info@wordnews.org and pass this on. Word News is a ministry aimed at helping get the word out about what Christians are doing worldwide.

Ministry names new president

2011-09-06T17:30:00.000-04:00

DALLAS (WordNews.org) Sept. 6, 2011 -- EvanTell, an evangelistic ministry, announced its board has named a new president.
Andy Coticchio, EvanTell's chief operating officer, will also assume the role of president.
Larry Moyer, EvanTell's founder, had served as president and CEO. He will retain the CEO title.
The nonprofit said the move positions the ministry for future growth.
Andy Cotlicchio brings over three decades of management experience and a wealth of knowledge in managing operations and overseeing finances," said Taylor Gardner, chairman of the board.
Moyer said he will continue speaking and writing and will focus on the company's strategy. he founded the ministry in 1973.
David Souther was also promoted to senior ministry director as well as retaining international responsibilities.
"I am grateful to God for Andy and David and their skills, experience and giftedness," Moyer said. "These two along with our entire team will be used of God to continue to grow the impact EvanTell has had. What has happened is just the beginning of what we are convinced an awesome God is going to do."

Is there a revival going on in New York City?

2011-09-05T11:21:00.002-04:00

Is there a revival going on in NYC?

NEW YORK CITY (WordNews.org) Sept. 5, 2011 -- A new study shows church attendance has risen from a low of 31 percent in 1999 to 46 percent.

Barna Group said its survey includes those attending all types of religious services, but the vast majority attend Protestant and Catholic churches.
Bible reading is up in the New York market during the same period, from 29 percent to 35 percent, and those who say they have an active faith (praying reading the Bible and attending church) rose from 17 percent to 24 percent.

Visit Word News to read more

30 days on $30

2011-09-04T08:09:00.000-04:00

The number of students asking Christ into their hearts through the witness of InterVarsity staff and students has risen 30 percent in the past five years, the ministry said.
“Most of our 866 InterVarsity chapters across the country are engaged in a variety of new student outreach activities at the beginning of the fall semester, in order to meet incoming students,” said InterVarsity president Alec Hill.

Supreme Court rules Mojave Desert cross can stay

2010-04-28T22:00:00.002-04:00

WASHINGTON, D.C. (WordNews.org) April 29, 2010 -- The U.S. Supreme Court ruled 5-4 Wednesday that an 8-foot cross once on display in the Majave Desert in California can return to its location.

The cross a 75-year-old National World War I Memorial.
Click here for the rest of the story.

NCAA yanks pro-family ad

2010-03-02T15:09:00.000-05:00

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (W.) March 2, 2010 -- An online advertisement by Focus on the Family featuring a father holding his young son has been yanked from the National Collegiate Athletic Association's Web site, according to the American Family Federation.

To read more, visit http://www.wordnews.org.

'Adopt a Liberal' trading cards introduced by Christian law firm

2010-03-01T14:48:00.000-05:00

WASHINGTON, D.C. (W.) March 1, 2010 -- A Christian law firm has introduced a set of trading cards similar to baseball cards.

But instead of getting batting averages and pitching stats, users will see the leaders view on certain issues and also ways to remind people how they can pray for these leaders, Liberty Counsel said.

Click here for more.

Word News update

2009-08-18T22:13:00.002-04:00

Do you have a story?
Send it to wordnewsnow@yahoo.com

Christian activists to protest university's honoring of Margaret Sanger

2008-03-20T06:38:00.002-04:00

FREDERICKSBURG, Va. (W.) March 20, 2008 -- Activists are scheduled to gather tonight outside of the Dodd Auditorium on the campus of the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg, Virginia, to protest against the racism and bigotry of Margaret Sanger.

The school is featuring a lecture series that includes a focus Margaret Sanger's life. Sanger is the founder of Planned Parenthood.

The protests plan on praying outside the school and holding up signs featuring some of Sanger's quotes, including:

"We don't want the word to go out that we want to exterminate the Negro population."

"Eugenics is the most adequate and thorough avenue to the solution of racial, political and social problems."

"The mass of Negroes, particularly in the South, still breed carelessly and disastrously." -- From Sanger's "Negro Project"

Kaitlin Clare, the project director for the Christian Defense Coalition, said: "It is a shame and a disgrace that the University of Mary Washington, an institution that was once only for women, that is named for a great women in American history, and prides itself on teaching and empowering women today, would honor Margaret Sanger, an avowed racist and bigot. Ms. Sanger's racist views have created a legacy of pain and hurt for women and other minorities."

Rev. Patrick J. Mahoney, Director of the Christian Defense Coalition, added: "Over the past few days, America has had to confront the ugliness of racism and bigotry. The overwhelming lesson learned is, that on every level racism must be condemned and repudiated. That is why it is so troubling for the University of Mary Washington to feature such an avowed racist and bigot as Margaret Sanger as part of their 'Great Lives Lecture Series.'

"The founder of Planned Parenthood was determined to reduce the number of African-Americans through her 'Negro Project.' She believed in eugenics which was the same philosophy that Adolf Hitler embraced in supporting the killing of six million Jews. We will be out praying and holding signs as a public witness against racism and injustice."

Christian bookstore raided

2008-03-19T06:49:00.002-04:00

CAIRO, Egypt (W.) March 19, 2008 -- A Christian bookstore was raided by police in Cairo last week, according to Advocates for the Persecuted.
Jan Fletcher, executive director of Advocates For The Persecuted, is now urging Christians around the world to contact Egyptian consulates to express concern about a police raid.
Egyptian police arrested Shenouda Armia Bakhait midday Saturday, March 15, confiscating books, compact discs, and issues of a newspaper read by Christians in Egypt.
He was released Sunday night after posting bail.
David Joseph, president of Advocates For The Persecuted, said eight undercover policemen stormed into the Nile Christian Book Shop.
"They spent two hours searching everything in the bookstore," he said. "Mr. Shenouda was interrogated for more than five hours."
The Nile Christian Book Shop opened in 2006 in a location that first housed a bookstore in 1890.
"We posted a suggested letter we'd like to see sent to Egyptian consulates on our website at www.advocatesforthepersecuted.org," said Fletcher. "Sending this letter is an important step Americans and Canadians can take to present a clear message to Egypt's government that the sizable population of Christians in Egypt, estimated to comprise 8 to 10 percent of the population, should have the right to distribute and obtain Christian literature."

Calif. bill called anti-marriage

2008-03-17T06:47:00.004-04:00

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (W.) March 17, 2008 -- A California bill that would give people living together many of the same rights married people have is being criticized by the Campaign for Children and Families (CCF).

The bill ensures that unwed parents remain unmarried, CCF said.
State Sen. Carole Migden (D-San Francisco) sponsored the bill that CCF said would allow cohabitating men and women to receive every marriage right and all marriage benefits that married husbands and wives receive under California law. Under SB 1066, more than 300 spousal rights – which CCF said are meant to bond together a husband and wife in the law – would go to unmarried couples. The bill passed the Senate Judiciary Committee on March 11. Last year, the same bill failed to pass the Legislature.

"SB 1066 rewards unwed parents for not getting married," said Campaign for Children and Families President Randy Thomasson. "This foolish bill promotes cohabitation just as government welfare programs subsidized illegitimacy. SB 1066 ensures that unwed parents remain uncommitted. Why get married if you can get the legal rights and benefits of marriage without saying 'I do?' And what about the kids, who research shows do much worse in unmarried environments? SB 1066 is bad public policy. It's blind to the evidence that marriage is 1000 percent more stable than shacking up."

Campaign for Children and Families is urging Californians to call their state senator, state assemblymember, and Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger to urge SB 1066's defeat.

"If unmarried couples want stability and security, they should get married," said Thomasson, "and the legal rights of marriage will accompany their good decision. The evidence shows that marriage is much more healthy, secure, and long-lasting than is shacking up for men, women, and the children they often produce."

Fridays with ... Casting Crowns -- Part 4

2008-03-14T06:23:00.008-04:00

'God, help us'
ATLANTA (W.) March 14, 2008 -- Casting Crowns bassist Chris Huffman admits that on the road, it's critical to find time with God.
You'd expect that from a member of Christian music's top band.
But he said it is tough to find time when the band is on the road.
"We all try to have some personal time with God every day. Whether it’s just a few, 15, 20 minutes praying to God, reading the Bible, then praying, just spending some time telling God who He is and praising Him for everything He does," Huffman said.
It has its challenges, however.
"A lot of times we get hectic, very busy on the road. When you try to keep to the schedule, it's really hard to make time. But that's what really matters most, making the time to do that."
The band also has time together to pray and do devotions.
"Even if we don’t have our individual times, we pretty consistently have a band Bible study before we go and play the concert that night," Huffman said. "A lot of guys, they listen to a real upbeat song to get them excited, ready to play. For us, we're on our knees, praying, saying, 'God, help us. We're gonna mess this up right away if you don't do something.' We know full well if we try to be rock stars it's going to go bad pretty quick. We've witnessed that many times, where we get a little ahead of ourselves. We hve many stories of serious mess ups on stage. It’s all just for good laugh now, just a reminder of Who’s in cotnrol."

Judge rules in favor of ministry

2008-03-11T06:16:00.008-04:00

MILLERSVILLE, Tenn. (W.) March 11, 2008 -- The United States District Court for Middle Tennessee ruled that the city of Millersville, Tenn. violated the constitutional rights of Layman Lessons when it threatened application of a "pending zoning ordinance" as a means of blocking the ministry's use of a commercially zoned property, a Christian law firm said.

"The court rejected the city's contention that, as long as it had a pending ordinance that addressed Layman Lessons' intended use of this property, it could indefinitely delay acting on the ministry's application," said Larry Crain, a senior attorney with the American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ) and lead attorney for the plaintiff. "In essence, the court ruled that 'justice delayed is justice denied.'"

When Layman Lessons, a Christian ministry, formed to aid the homeless and destitute, it faced problems after it applied for a use permit for a commercially zoned property in Millersville, a town 17 miles north of Nashville: The city planner issued a letter rejecting the application due to a then-pending ordinance that, if passed, would have limited all religious and nonprofit uses on any commercial lot in the city.

That, in essence would have resulted in Layman Lessons' application being placed on indefinite hold.

Judge Thomas A. Wiseman, Jr. concluded that through these maneuverings the city denied Layman Lessons its constitutional rights, violating the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA).

As a further hurdle to the ministry's use of the land, the city imposed a so-called "buffer strip" requirement on the property, ACLJ said. Such strips, which require an expensive privacy fence to be constructed around the property, had heretofore only been required when a commercial property abutted a residential property. The Layman Lessons' property was surrounded on all sides by commercially zoned properties.

The city of Millersville had argued that it could not be held liable under RLUIPA for the actions of employees who were not part of the top echelon of policymakers. Judge Thomas A. Wiseman, Jr. rejected this argument ruling that the actions of the city planner and city manager constituted a violation of RLUIPA. The city will be responsible for a portion of Plaintiff's legal fees.

"Judge Wiseman's ruling confirms that Tennessee is still a place where the rights of the 'Davids' cannot be casually usurped by the "Goliaths" of this world," said Crain.

Fridays with ... Casting Crowns -- Part 3

2008-03-07T06:14:00.003-05:00

"Learn to be teachable"

ATLANTA (W.) March 7, 2008 -- Chris Huffman isn't usually the guy people think of when they think of Christian music's top band Casting Crowns.
That distinction goes to the front man, Mark Hall.
Huffman is the man behind the scenes, the bassist.
"Most bassists in bands, they're usually the quiet guy in the band," Huffman said (pictured to the far right). "That's definitely me. Unless you get me going on something, I don't say a whole lot."
But there's more to the silence than meets the ears.
"It's not that I don't want to talk," he said. Huffman recounted a typical occurrence that happens when the band prays or has devotions before a concert.
"Sometimes, the good things are said and there's nothing I can add to it," Huffman said. "A lot of times the words are taken out of my mouth and I can't really improve on it."
Huffman said recently he's had a chance to connect with other bassists. He taught a class full of bassists when his church hosted a worship band conference.
"I just leveled with the guys," Huffman said. "You may get down at playing bass because ... you don't hear many bass solos. It's more of a background instrument. But at the same time, it's a lead instrument in that it holds the music together. I try to at least encourage any bass player I meet to just keep pressing on and always learn to be teachable. That was one of the first things someone told me when I was first learning to play bass--learn to be teachable and you'll always learn something new."
He said even when he taught the class of bassist he learned something.
"They taught me a lot," Huffman said. "Even sometimes the teacher can end up being a student."

New Israel bomb shelters inaugurated

2008-03-06T06:07:00.004-05:00

SHLOMI, Israel (W.) March 6, 2008 -- Nine Israeli communities now have 1,690 working bomb shelters thanks to a Chicago-based nonprofit organization.

The bomb shelters were officially dedicated this week, with a ceremony attended by Israel's Defense Minister Ehud Barak (pictured on left) and International Fellowship of Christians and Jews founder and President Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein.

During the ceremony, Barak and Eckstein toured one of the newly rehabilitated shelters in the area and also presented the shelters' keys to each of the town's mayors.

The project began last year and cost $10 million. It involved upgrading shelters located in privately owned residential buildings, providing protection for thousands of people.

"Given the escalating threats of war and terrorism against Israel, the completion of these shelters could not have come at a better time," Eckstein said." I'm heartened to know that thanks to our donors who gave so generously to fund this critical project, residents of northern Israel will have safe places to take refuge in the event of attack."

Barak commended the fellowship for its work.

"Although we hope there won't be a need for the residents to use these shelters, their lives are now more secure," he said. "On behalf of the State of Israel, the Ministry of Defense and the citizens of Israel, I want to thank Rabbi Eckstein and IFCJ for the security they are bringing to Israel."

70 house church leaders, 3 minors detained in China

2008-03-04T06:37:00.003-05:00

SHANGQIU CITY, China (W.) March 4, 2008 -- China Aid Association has reported the arrest of 70 Christians in China who were attending Bible training last month.

China Aid said 250 people were present at the Bible training when more than 20 police officers entered the home of Xue Weimin. Police arrested 80 of the people present but released 10 people. Those being detained are being charged with "making use of a cult to violate law enforcement." Of the 70 being detained 50 (39 women, 11 men) are being held in prison.

China Aid also reported that three minors were being detained in Xinyuan County, Xinjian Province.

UN closes sessions non-government organizations

2008-03-04T06:30:00.004-05:00

NEW YORK (W.) March 3, 2008 -- The United Nations announced Monday that all negotiating sessions on the draft document to come out of the 2008 Commission on the Status of Women would be closed to NGO (non- government organization) representatives, Concerned Women for America said.
CWA said while closed sessions are not unusual as the negotiations "heat up" towards the end, closing sessions at the beginning of the drafting process "is unprecedented ."
Janice Crouse, CWA's director and senior fellow, said the "lack of openness is creating a storm of protest among the NGOs who are here at the UN from round the world for the expressed purpose of influencing the outcome of the resolutions that will be finalized at this session of the Commission on the Status of Women." Some think the UN is "railroading pet programs" through the sessions.
Crouse said the concern is that without NGO input "the agreements will represent the leftist UN positions without any counterbalance from the conservative NGOs. The leftist NGOs will agree with the U.N. positions; it is the conservatives that are being blocked."

Barna study says "unchurched" more complicated to define

2008-03-03T06:12:00.005-05:00

Survey suggests definition of church changing

VENTURA, Calif. (W.) March 3, 2008 -- A new Barna Group study says the definition of church is changing in America.

Barna says with Americans pursuing a growing number of "church" options, some of the traditional measures of church health also are being redefined. Barna says popular measures such as the percentage of people who are "unchurched" - based on attendance at a conventional church service - are now out of date.

Why? Because there's an emergency of new forms of faith communities, such as house churches, marketplace ministries and cyberchurches, which Barna says must be figured into the mix. The study says as a result of these new forms of church, calculating the percentage of Americans who can be counted as "unchurched" is more complicated.

The fact that millions of people are now involved in multiple faith communities - for instance, attending a conventional church one week, a house church the next, and interacting with an online faith community in-between - has rendered the standard measures of "churched" and "unchurched" much less precise, Barna says.

According to Barna, one way of examining people's participation in faith communities is by exploring how they practice their corporate faith engagement. Unveiling a new measurement model, Barna identified the following five segments: Unattached, who don't attend a conventional church, which represents 23 percent of adult Americans; Intermittents, who are "under-churched," meaning they they've gone to church periodically in the past year but not necessarily during the past month. They represent about15 percent of adult Americans; Homebodies, those people who don't go to a conventional church but attend house church. They represent about 3 percent of adult Americans; Blenders, those who experiment between traditional churches and other forms of faith communities. They also represent about 3 percent of adult Americans; and Conventionals are those who go to traditional, congregational-style local church. They represent 56 percent of American adults.

The Barna study found an increase in ministry crossover in the U.S. According to the study, one out of five adults had been involved in two or more types of churches: a conventional church, a house church, a real-time ministry event online, etc.

Here's a glimpse at what Barna found:

Among adults who were churched (either conventionally or alternatively) 15 percent had experienced the presence of God or expressed their faith in God through a faith-oriented website within the past month. Half as many (7 percent) said they had such an experience through a real-time event on the Internet;

One out of every eight churched adults (13 percent) said they had experienced the presence of God or expressed their faith in God through a ministry that met in the marketplace during the past month;

Twice as many churched people (28 percent) said they had experienced the presence of God or expressed their faith in God through their involvement with a special ministry event (such as a worship concert or community service activity).

A majority of the public claimed to have experienced the presence of God or expressed their faith in God through some form of interaction with religious television or radio programs.

The study also found, that compared to regular churchgoers, the Unattached are:

more likely to feel stressed out

less likely to be concerned about the moral condition of the nation

much less likely to believe that they are making a positive difference in the world

less optimistic about the future

far less likely to believe that the Bible is totally accurate in its principles

substantially more likely to believe that Satan and the Holy Spirit are symbolic figures, but are not real

more likely to believe that Jesus Christ sinned while He was on earth

much more likely to believe that the holy literature of the major faiths all teach the same principles even though they use different stories

less likely to believe that a person can be under demonic influence

more likely to describe their sociopolitical views as "mostly liberal" than "mostly conservative."

However, six out of 10 adults in the Unattached category (59 percent) consider themselves to be Christian. Barna said even more surprising was the revelation that 17 percent of the Unattached label themselves born again Christians - defined as people who have made a personal commitment to Jesus Christ that they consider to be very important in their life, and who believe that they will experience Heaven after they die because they have confessed their sins and accepted Christ as their savior.

"The numbers consistently point out that those who live without a regular face-to-face faith connection tend to be relatively isolated from the mainstream of society, tend to be non-committal in institutional and personal relationships, and typically revel in their independence," said George Barna, who runs the Barna Group. "Attempting to get them involved in the life of a church is a real challenge. The best chance of getting them to a church is when someone they know and trust invites them, offers to accompany them, and there is reason to believe that the church event will address one of the issues or needs they are struggling with at that moment."

Fridays with ... Casting Crowns -- Part 2

2008-02-29T06:22:00.002-05:00

Praising God in the Storm
ATLANTA (W.) Feb. 29, 2008 -- One of the perks of ministry is hearing stories about how God has used you.
Chris Huffman, bassist with Christian music's top band, Casting Crowns, said band members get a lot of feedback.
"We get e-mails all the time," Huffman said, "about either a moment someone had listening to one of our songs or somebody having a rough time and God used our song to lift them up."
Sometimes, the songs come out of that feedback.
Huffman tells the story of the Edwards family from Raleigh, N.C. One of their daughters, Erin, loved Casting Crowns and had put together a dance routine to Casting Crowns' "Here I Go Again." She danced in front of her church and she danced before her friends at school.
The family sent a videotape of Erin's dance to Casting Crowns and the band immediately connected with the Edwards. But soon after the dance, doctors discovered Erin had cancerous tumors in her lung.
"Some days it was good and other days it couldn’t be worse," Huffman said. "Through all that stuff the mom was obviously going through the emotions any family would go through. But at the same time, you could still sense her worship of God. The song 'Praise You in the Storm' came out of that testimony. Mark told her before she passed a way ... She never got to hear the song before she passed on. She’s obviously got nothing to worry about now."

The song includes the chorus:

I’ll praise You in this storm
And I will lift my hands
For You are who You are
No matter where I am
Every tear I’ve cried
You hold in Your hand
You never left my side
And though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm

Huffman said that song has connected with people.
"We have a thing on our website where we ask people to send us e-mails of any sort of how God has used [us], especially relating to that song. We’re actually working at compiling a book of all the letters and things we've gotten to give to Erin’s mom. What we think is used for bad, God still uses for good."

MLK's niece to talk about abortion's impact on Civil Rights

2008-02-28T06:51:00.003-05:00

WASHINGTON, D.C. (W.) Feb. 28, 2008 -- Dr. Alveda King, pastoral associate of Priests for Life and niece of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., is expected to participate today in events celebrating Black History Month and examining the role abortion has played in the African American community.

"As Black History Month comes to a close and we move forward, we cannot forget the devastating impact abortion on demand has had and continues to have on African-Americans," said King. "Abortion has wiped out one out of four blacks in the United States. That's 15 million Americans who have been denied the most fundamental civil right, the right to life."

King will join other leaders for prayer vigils at abortion facilities, a press conference at the Family Research Council, and an afternoon Capitol Hill reception at the Cannon House Office Building.

Indy Coach Dungy inducted in Society of World Changers

2008-02-28T06:35:00.004-05:00

MARION, Ind. (W.) Feb. 27, 2008 -- Tony Dungy, head coach of the 2007 Super Bowl Champion Indianapolis Colts, has been inducted into Wesleyan University's Society of World Changers and received an honorary degree from the school.

After his induction Wednesday, Dungy told students that his parents, who were both educators, instilled in him three important lessons: "They told me, 'Whatever path you take, do it with gusto and fire, representing the Lord; treat everyone you come across with respect; and, wherever you settle down, make your neighborhood a better place to live.'"

Dungy is only the fifth inductee into the Society of World Changers, which Indiana Wesleyan University launched to honor exemplary individuals who are impacting their professions with a vibrant religious faith.

In his first NFL head coaching stint, Dungy led the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to four playoff appearances in six seasons and became the winningest head coach in Tampa Bay history. In 2002 he was named head coach of Indianapolis, where he began a streak of six consecutive double-digit victory seasons and playoff berths, including the Super Bowl XLI championship.

Dungy also is the author of "Quiet Strength: The Principles, Practices and Priorities of a Winning Life," which has been on The New York Times best seller list since the book was released last July.

Dungy's appearance at IWU was arranged by All Pro Dad, a program sponsored by Family First, a Tampa, Florida-based not-for-profit organization, which Dungy helped launch while coaching Tampa Bay.

Dungy was given an honorary doctorate of humane letters during yesterday's ceremony. A life size bronze bust of Dungy was also unveiled and will join those of other World Changer inductees in the rotunda of the University's Jackson Library.

NYC seminary appoints first woman president in its 172-year history

2008-02-27T06:45:00.002-05:00

NEW YORK (W.) Feb. 27 – For the first time in Union Theological Seminary's 172-year history, it will have a woman at the helm.

Serene Jones has been selected to become the 16th president Union Theological Seminary in New York. Jones starts on July 1. She replaces Joseph Hough Jr., who is retiring after 9 years as president of the non-denominational seminary.

Jones is a professor of Theology at Yale Divinity school. She serves as chair and faculty member of Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies at Yale University. She's also held faculty appointments at Yale Law School and in the Department of African American Studies and Religious Studies.

"Dr. Jones's exceptional leadership style and distinguished scholarship make her the ideal person to lead this vibrant theological institution, which has been home to notable scholars Reinhold Niebuhr, Paul Tillich, and Dietrich Bonhoeffer," said David Callard, chairman of the seminary's board. "With Dr. Jones's vision and commitment, Union is positioned not only to continue its role as a leading institution of theological education but also to be a strong voice at a time when religion, with all its pluralistic manifestations, has become an increasingly powerful and divisive issue."

Jones expressed her hope and vision for the school as it moves into the next chapter of its life and mission.

"In the intellectual Christian world, Union Theological Seminary has long held a preeminent position shaping not only American religious life but its cultural and political values as well. At the present historical moment, in North America and globally, Union stands ready to assume this role with renewed vigor, intellectual acuity and abiding faith," Jones said.

Jones has published 37 articles and book chapters since 1991. She is the author of Feminist Theory and Theology: Cartographies of Grace (2000) and Calvin and the Rhetoric of Piety (1995). She co-edited Feminist and Womanist Essays in Reformed Dogmatics (2006), Constructive Theology: A Contemporary Engagement with Classical Themes (2005), Liberating Eschatology: Essays in Honor of Letty Russell (1999), and Setting the Table: Women in Theological Conversation (1995).

Jones earned her M.Div. from Yale Divinity School (1985) as well as her Ph.D. in theology from Yale University (1991). She holds a B.A. from the University of Oklahoma (1981) and is an ordained minister in both the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and the United Church of Christ.

Union Theological Seminary was founded in 1836. It describes itself as "an independent, ecumenical graduate school of theology with the mission to educate men and women for ministries in the Christian faith, service in contemporary society, and study of the great issues of our time."

Churches to hold 'Web Focus' day on April 27

2008-02-26T06:46:00.002-05:00

WHEATON, Ill. (W.) Feb. 26, 2008 -- A worldwide 'Web evangelism focus day' has been scheduled to help Christian ministries maximize their use of the Internet.

April 27 has been designated Internet Evangelism Day. Churches can download free materials from the Internet Evangelism Day website, enabling them to create a short presentation within their activities on that day. A PowerPoint, video clips, drama scripts, music and handouts can be used to create a customized program lasting from one minute to 50 minutes. That information is available at www.internetevangelismday.com .

The emphasis of the day is that Web evangelism is for everyone, not just the "technically gifted," organizers said.

"There are many ways to share your faith online, without any technical background at all," said IE Day Coordinator Tony Whittaker.

Christian leaders are also enthusiastic: "I am glad to commend Internet Evangelism Day," said Dr. John Stott.

Churches can start planning their focus day now. More information: InternetEvangelismDay.com

Internet Evangelism Day is also a year-round resource about online outreach. It explains many ways that Christians can share the good news, including through church websites. Churches often find it difficult to create a site that will engage with outsiders in their area.

"How can our church website help us reach out into our community?"

A new online tool has been released by IE Day, which provides churches with a free 15-page evaluation report. Users assess their own website by answering 55 simple questions in the tool questionnaire. Their customized report is immediately displayed online, ready to print or save. Its recommendations are tailored with specific practical suggestions, based on the questions that were ticked. View the evaluation tool here: InternetEvangelismDay.com/design

A church site which has been prioritized for non- Christian visitors can be remarkably effective in reaching the community. "Week in, week out, more visitors turn up at our church on a Sunday because of the website, than anything else," writes one growing church in London UK.

The tool also provides the parable 'A Tale of Two Golf Clubs' (which is available to republish) to illustrate the principles of effective church websites: www.InternetEvangelismday.com/golf

"This checklist is an invaluable tool to identify critical areas for improvement. Every church should study this regularly and act on it," said Gary McClure, LifeWay Ministries.

Dozens of Chinese Christians detained; S. Korean minister missing

2008-02-25T06:21:00.002-05:00

XILINHAOTE CITY, Inner Mongolia (W.) Feb. 25, 2008 -- The president of the Inner Mongolia Branch of the Chinese House church Alliance , Wang Dawei, was detained along with more than 40 co-workers last week, according to China Aid.
China Aid said the leaders were in their third day of Bible study when more than 100 police officers from the State Security Bureau and members of the Religious Affairs bureua disrupted the meeting and detained the ministers.
Police officials also confiscated the offering collection and more than 30 boxes of Bibles and other Christian literature, China Aid said. Security Bureua members then searched Dawei's personal residence.
The leader of the meeting, a South Korean minister, was also detained during the incident, his whereabouts remain unknown, China Aid said.
The intensity of persecution amongst members of the Chinese House Church Alliance continues to increase as the Beijing Olympics draw near, China Aid said.

Fridays with ... Casting Crowns

2008-02-22T07:22:00.005-05:00

The Message

ATLANTA (W.) Feb. 22, 2008 -- "Casting Crowns" is the hottest Christian concert ticket in town these days, securing six Dove nominations and their latest album, "The Altar and the Door" going Gold in 10 days.
Chris Huffman admits, he was just glad to have some new songs to play when the album came out last summer. The Alter followed the successful debut album "Casting Crowns" and "Lifesong."
WordNews.org had an exclusive with bassist Huffman who gives some insight into what its like to be in the band everyone's talking about.
"We're excited to have some new songs to play," Huffman said. "When the traveling kind of wears you out, that the only time when we get a little tired of the songs."
Huffman continues: "but even then it's just the music part. Even in those times when we're tired the message is kind of slapping us in the face, reminding us who we're playing for."
It's the difference between being a musician and a Christian musician.
"Every musician has a desire to play in front of people or be able to share their talents with people around them," Huffman said. "But it’s definitely a good reminder to us, no matter how tired we can be, it reminds us to keep our heads straight and why we get to tour."

Check in next Friday for the next installment of Fridays with ... Casting Crowns.

Anti-abortion Ob/Gyns feel threatened for their beliefs

2008-02-21T07:16:00.002-05:00

Anti-abortion obstetricians and gynecologists say they are being threatened for their beliefs.
The group cited a November 2007 opinion by American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology's (ACOG) Ethics Committee titled "The Limits of Conscientious Refusal in Reproductive Medicine."
The opinion warns Ob/Gyn doctors that their practice pattern can be considered "unethical" by ACOG standards if they do not either do abortions, or refer patients desiring an abortion to an abortion provider.
The opinion suggests anti-abortion doctors should locate their office in proximity to an abortion provider, for the convenience of such patients.
The American Board of Ob/Gyn published its revised standards for doctors seeking recertification in January 2008 which are tied to ACOG Ethics compliance.
Anti-abortion Ob/Gyns called the move "a raw power play to cripple, and ultimately eliminate from practice, those doctors who hold a conscience conviction on the sanctity of human life, and refuse to have a part in doing, or referring for, the elective, deliberate taking of an unborn human life."
The American Association of ProLife Obstetricians and Gynecologists (AAPLOG) said it objects strenuously to this attempt, by a professional medical organization (ACOG), using "ethics violations" and "denial of recertification" as a battering ram, to force pro-life doctors into pro-choice compliance."
APPLOG issued a position statement earlier this month, concluding: "... it seems that the (ACOG) Ethics Committee does not understand the strength and depth of a conscience conviction against the elective, deliberate taking of an unborn human life. This is not a negotiable issue for those who hold this conviction. The United States Supreme Court allowed elective abortion to be a legal right. The U.S. Supreme Court is not an infallible moral guide for a person's conscience, as evidenced by a previous similar egregious ruling."
The group pointed, as an example, to the 7-2 court majority that concluded that Africans are "beings of an inferior order" than the white race, and slaves are property devoid of all rights of legal redress for grievances.
"The U.S. Supreme court got it wrong in 1887, and they made the same mistake in 1973 in Roe vs. Wade: Unborn children are fully human, and are entitled to the same right to life as the rest of society," AAPLOG said.

Anti-abortion protests planned outside Democratic National Convention

2008-02-20T06:41:00.004-05:00

DENVER (W.) Feb. 20, 2008 -- Plans are being made for peaceful anti-abortion protests outside the Democratic National Convention this August.

The planned protesters and their legal team are scheduled to meet with Denver's Attorney David Fine today.

Prior to that meeting, the Christian Defense Coalition and the Survivors, an anti-abortion group, will be holding a news conference in Denver. The convention is scheduled for Aug. 25-28.

At issue, the Christian Defense Coalition said, is the city's decision to remove 14 downtown city parks from the list of public venues in which groups may peacefully assemble. The coalition said the city has refused to accept applications from the pro-life groups seeking to conduct peaceful First Amendment activities at these parks.

The groups followed the normal park application process for the City of Denver by attempting to apply for permits on Nov. 1, the coalition said. They were told that their name would be put on list and they would be contacted when a permit process was put in place. After nearly 4 months of waiting, there is still no plan in place and no indication when one will be put in place, the coalition said.

If the groups cannot reach an agreement with the City of Denver at this meeting, they will file a federal lawsuit tomorrow.

"As advocates for the pre-born, it is the responsibility of the Survivors to defend our right to free speech," said Danielle Versluys, Survivors' director of special events. "Peaceful prayer and witness in the public square are essential to our fight for justice in America, and we cannot let our rights be trampled at the expense of the children scheduled to die from abortion."

If President, Alan Keyes would turn to UN for help in Iraq

2007-08-02T09:03:00.001-04:00

ALBANY, N.Y. (W.) Aug. 2, 2007 -- Former presidential candidate Alan Keyes said the United States turned to the United Nations at the wrong time -- before the war in Iraq -- and never returned when it should have, to help establish a stable government.

Keyes isn't running for president -- officially -- though there is an effort among supports to draft him to run. Keyes said he'd make his decision by the end of the year. But if he was president, he'd do things differently.

The former presidential candidate, author and speaker said in an interview with WordNews.org said if he were president he'd redefine the objectives.

To read more, visit WordNews.org

County reverses decision to prevent distribution of religious flyers

2007-08-02T08:57:00.000-04:00

ORLANDO, Fla. (W.) Aug. 2, 2007 -- Orange County officials decided Shirley Snyder can distribute religious flyers in public parks. That decision follows a lawsuit filed by Liberty Counsel.

Snyder had been stopped at Cypress Grove Park where she was passing out tracts about Jesus and a flyer announcing a church service.

To read more, visit WordNews.org

Four Christian publishing house employees slain

2007-04-19T10:43:00.003-04:00

MALATYA, Turkey (W.) April 19, 2007 -- Four employees at Zirve, a prominent publisher and distributor of Bibles in Turkey were killed Wednesday.

Three of the victims -- including the owner of the publishing house --had their throats slit. The fourth victim died after jumping from a third floor window in an attempt to flee from the killers, according to the Institute of Religion and Public Policy.

To read more, visit WordNews.org

Supreme Court upholds ban on partial birth abortion

2007-04-19T10:43:00.001-04:00

WASHINGTON, D.C. (W.) April 19, 2007 -- The U.S. Supreme Court upheld a ban on partial birth abortion yesterday by a narrow 5-4 margin.

The decision won praise from pro-life groups and a sense of urgency for abortion rights supporters. Planned Parenthood put a "breaking news" section over its regular home page with a "donate" button. The National Organization for Women concluded that 2008 -- when President Bush leaves office --can't come soon enough. Two of Bush's appointees played a key role in having the abortion procedure banned.

To read more, visit WordNews.org

Virginia Tech massacre: Mourning after

2007-04-19T10:42:00.001-04:00

BLACKBURG, Va. (W.) April 18, 2007 -- President Bush arrived on Virginia Tech campus yesterday and took on another role, one he has played several times during his presidency -- Comforter in Chief.

"Laura and I have come to Blacksburg today with hearts full of sorrow," he said during a convocation following the the deadliest campus massacre in U.S. history.
"This is a day of mourning for the Virginia Tech community -- and it is a day of sadness for our entire nation."

To read more, visit WordNews.org

Anti-spanking bill advances

2007-04-19T10:41:00.001-04:00

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (W.) April 18, 2007– A California bill that would ban some forms of spanking has passed the Assembly Public Safety Committee.

The bill would make it illegal to spank with an item such as a paddle.

To read more, visit WordNews.org

Ministries respond to Virginia Tech massacre

2007-04-19T10:40:00.002-04:00

BLACKSBURG, Va. (W.) April 17 -- Ministries are mobilizing on the Virginia Tech campus in the aftermath of what is the bloodiest day on an American college campus.

A gunman killed 32 people yesterday before killing himself.

Alec Hill, president of the college ministry InterVarsity said the campus fellowship met for prayer following news of the rampage.

To read more, visit WordNews.org