McCain’s Navy Records Detail Commendations
http://elections.foxnews.com/2008/05/07/mccains-navy-records-detail-commendations/
WASHINGTON — From his five years in a North Vietnamese prison camp to his tenure as the Navy’s liaison to the Senate, John McCain’s Navy record boils down to a series of unadorned paragraphs that bestow upon him some of the nation’s top military honors.
The Navy recently released McCain’s military record — most of it citations for medals during his Navy career — after a Freedom of Information Act request by The Associated Press.
McCain was awarded a Silver Star Medal for resisting “extreme mental and physical cruelties” inflicted upon him by his captors from late October to early December 1967, the early months of his captivity, according to the citation. The North Vietnamese, according to the Navy, ignored international agreements and tortured McCain “in an attempt to obtain military information and false confessions for propaganda purposes.”
McCain, now the Republican Party’s likely presidential nominee, was taken prisoner in October 1967 after he was shot down while on a mission over Hanoi. He wasn’t freed until March 1973, after the United States signed peace agreements with the North Vietnamese. His captors tortured him and held him in solitary confinement. Still, he declined an offer of early release until those who had been at the prison longer than him were let go.
That decision earned McCain a Navy Commendation Medal. Although McCain was “crippled from serious and ill-treated injuries,” he steadfastly refused offers of freedom from those holding him prisoner. “His selfless action served as an example to others and his forthright refusal, by giving emphasis to the insidious nature of such releases, may have prevented a possibly chaotic deterioration in prisoner discipline,” the citation says.
McCain attended the U.S. Naval Academy from 1954 to 1958, and was commissioned as an ensign in June of that year. He retired in April 1981 with the rank of captain. In that time he received 17 awards and decorations. Besides the Silver Star Medal, McCain also received the Legion of Merit with a combat “V” and one gold star, a Distinguished Flying Cross and a Bronze Art Medal with a combat “V” and two gold stars.
Several citations mention his achievements either as a prisoner or as a lieutenant commander flying bombing runs off the deck of the USS Oriskany. Some are signed by then-Secretary of the Navy John Warner, who would become a colleague of McCain’s in the Senate.
The citations refer to his “accurate ordnance delivery” and his “aggressive and skillful airmanship.” He earned his Bronze Star the day before he was shot down, for participating in a mission over an airfield in Phuc Yen, 11 miles north of Hanoi.
The citation for his Distinguished Flying Cross sums up McCain’s misfortune the following day:
“Although his aircraft was severely damaged, he continued his bomb delivery pass and released his bombs on the target. When the aircraft would not recover from the dive, Commander McCain was forced to eject over the target.”
Years later, as his Navy career approached its end, McCain received the Legion of Merit Medal. By then, his missions were in the halls of Congress as a liaison to the Senate from the Navy’s Office of Legislative Affairs.
He was praised for providing Navy leaders “with sage advice and sound judgment for enacting critical legislation during a period of severe fiscal constraint.”
The following year, he ran for Congress from Arizona, and won.
Replacement Obama Pastor Just As Controversial As Wright
http://www.newsmax.com/insidecover/Replacement_Obama_Pastor_/2008/05/07/94285.html
Barack Obama has finally distanced himself from Rev. Jeremiah Wright after a 20-year relationship, but the pastor who is replacing Wright at Chicago’s Trinity United Church of Christ is likely to be just as controversial.
New Trinity pastor Otis Moss has called Biblical patriarch Abraham a “pimp” and made other statements many would consider offensive.
After Obama called Wright’s comments “divisive and destructive,” a questioner noted that Rev. Moss has defended Wright and asked if Obama would continue attending the church.
“Well, the new pastor, the young pastor, Reverend Otis Moss, is a wonderful young pastor,” Obama responded. “And as I said, I still very much value the Trinity community.”
Moss, the 37-year-old “hip-hop pastor,” as he’s called by congregants, will become head of Trinity in June, after serving as an assistant pastor there for two years.
But a videotape of a sermon he delivered at Wright’s church shows this “wonderful young pastor” referring to “ghetto prophets” and “thug theology,” calling the late rapper Tupac Shakur a “prophet,” and reciting at length lyrics to Shakur’s song “Thugz Mansion.”
See Pastor Moss making these remarks — Click Here Now.
Moss also states in the sermon:
# “Jesus has a soft spot for thugs.”
# “God is always using thugs to do God’s work.”
# “Everyone has a little bit of thug in them.”
# Noah was a “thug” who “was drinking much gin and juice and got drunk on the eve of reconstruction.”
# Abraham “pimped his own wife.”
# Jacob was a “hustler” who “stole his own brother’s birthright.”
# Moses was a “thug” and “if he got mad would give you a royal beatdown.”
# Sampson was a “thug” and a “player.”
# David was a “thug,” a “shot caller,” and a “player,” and a man after God’s own heart.
# “Jesus is on the cross being lynched between two thugs. The moment of execution, the moment of murder, Jesus, the son of God, is hanging out with thugs.”
In an interview last month with National Public Radio, Moss refused to distance himself from claims by Wright that the U.S. government was involved in distributing illegal drugs to minorities.
He said: “I think we need to be very, very honest in terms of that our government has the ability to place a Hubble Telescope in the sky but yet we haven’t had the political will to shut down drugs coming into our community. And from that perspective I think that’s something we can look at in terms of policy.”
In his Easter sermon, Moss said Wright was “lynched” by the international media, and compared Wright to Jesus.
In a Trinity church newsletter, Moss maintained that American entertainment companies operate with contempt for the black community, according to World Net Daily.
He wrote: “Currently, there are eight companies controlling 90 percent of everything we hear, read, watch on television or view in the movie theater. These companies operate with contempt and disdain for the black community.”
Moss has also referred to blacks as “lepers” with a “skin disease.”
Does Reverend Wright Speak For Black America
http://news.christiansunite.com/Religion_News/religion07155.shtml
WASHINGTON, (christiansunite.com) -- Don Swarthout, President of Christians Reviving America's Values said today that Reverend Jeremiah Wright is not speaking for the Christianity of Black America in his current tour, but rather he is speaking for himself.
Swarthout said, "It is very dangerous for a man to interpret the Bible in his own way. It is wrong to say we must think like the Black church when it says it has its own interpretation of Christianity. Jesus himself said that He was the same today, yesterday and forever. That does not mean that every Christian church is different from the others."
In Swarthout's opinion Christianity is the same for everyone who chooses to give their heart to the Lord and that Reverend Wright is all about the rest of America being able to understand his "special" interpretation of Christianity.
While Swarthout may understand the plight of the Black Christian it seems to him that Reverend Wright is all about making a case for his own understanding of Christianity. Swarthout said, "If Reverend Wright's interpretation is to be considered true, then the Black church must also see Christianity the same way as other churches see it."
Many black leaders have said that Reverend Wright is not speaking for them and he is speaking for himself. That is good news according to many political pundits who say that Reverend Wright has made race a strong issue for the upcoming elections.
Most political pundits feel that Reverend Wright is hurting Barack Obama's chances of winning the elections. It has been suggested that he is either for Hillary Clinton or is so full of himself that he just can't stop talking.
Swarthout said, "I really don't have an opinion regarding the Democratic nomination process, but these statements about Reverend Wright certainly do seem to hold water. The main point for all of us to remember is that Reverend Wright has made race a factor in the elections. The main point I want to make is, whether you are considered a Christian or not, is not based upon your race."
Some Evangelicals Say Faith Too Political
http://www.cbn.com/CBNnews/371039.aspx
CBNNews.com - Some evangelicals are saying they want to repair the damage done by evangelical activists who've made the faith too political.
At a news conference in Washington, D.C., Wednesday, they released a document they titled An Evangelical Manifesto. Some on the religious right suspect it may be an effort to push them out of the spotlight.
But those behind the manifesto, from scholar Os Guinness to Christianity Today editor David Neff, said what's more important is recapturing the term evangelical to serve a higher calling: that of religious faith.
They want evangelicals to once again concentrate on Jesus Christ, His Word, and the good news of salvation. Fuller Theological Seminary president Richard Mouw summed it up this way: "The most important issue that any human being can encounter in the universe is the question of 'what will you do with Jesus?'"
The group of Christian leaders worked for three years to produce the manifesto.
In it, they worry some evangelicals so politicize their faith, they become "useful idiots" for one political party or another.
Pastor John Huffman, the chair of Christianity Today International, says the group is concerned many in the public perceive evangelicals as "a group of strident, religious political zealots determined to take over society with the institution of their religious political philosophy in a theocratic grab for power."
Os Guinness, co-author of the manifesto, warned, "When scholars and writers can look at the evangelical political movement and describe them as 'theocrats' or worse as 'fascists,' something is badly wrong."
Conservative critics of the manifesto say what its backers really want to do is toss the religious right overboard. And important religious right members are conspicuously absent from the list of those backing the manifesto. For instance, neither James Dobson of Focus on the Family, Richard Land of the Southern Baptist Convention or CBN founder Pat Robertson signed on to the manifesto.
Janice Crouse of Concerned Women for America told CBN News the authors of the manifesto were definitely trying to distance themselves from the religious right. "Basically, they were saying 'those of you who care about abortion, who care about homosexuality, who care about the family disintegrating don't speak for us, because we are too intellectual, we are too sophisticated to be concerned about those kinds of things.'"
Crouse warns their fear of appearing too strident may leave manifesto-backers in the mushy middle -- inoffensive, but also ineffective. She complained to the manifesto-authors, "You know, you want to work with everybody, but you don't want to work with those of us who care very deeply about some of the issues that are clearly biblical and some of the commandments that Christ clearly gives."
Crouse critiques the manifesto in-depth on Concerned Women for America's website.
But in the manifesto, its authors say this isn't just about the religious right. They also want to get both sides in the culture wars to simmer down. They say they repudiate those who want "to give one religion a preferred place in public life." But they also oppose those who want to wash all religion out of the public square, saying "nothing is more illiberal than to invite people into the public square but insist that they be stripped of the faith that makes them who they are."
Sing Changelujah: 'What Would Jesus Buy' Mission Presses on
http://news.christiansunite.com/Religion_News/religion07154.shtml
(christiansunite.com) -- "It is powerful; it's rooted in a missional, gospel-centered view of the Christian reality," says Mickey Klink, New Testament professor at Talbot School of Theology. Film critic Darrel Mason of Hollywood Jesus agrees. "What Would Jesus Buy? has a message that needs to be spoken to a world that is out of control," he says.
What Would Jesus Buy? is a satirical documentary that follows Reverend Billy and his Church of Stop Shopping on a cross-country road trip to save Christmas from being consumed by consumption. It is a consumption that is unchecked by where and how Americans buy their goods, the values that purchasing habits suggest, and what it ultimately does to compromise the celebrated season of Christmas.
With a successful release last Christmas to a select number of theaters, Reverend Billy and producer Morgan Spurlock (Super Size Me) hope to expand their message to a wider audience when What Would Jesus Buy? releases to DVD on May 20.
And they've assembled a broad base of support. Evangelical groups like Buy Nothing Christmas and Advent Conspiracy (a group of more than 1,000 churches started by Rick Mckinley of Imageo Dei Church) and fair trade organizations like Global Exchange and Co-Op America see the film as a showcase for discussions about the simple message of Christmas and the problems of America's consumption habits. Simply put: buy less and give more. "Christmas is meant to shake the world up. Not just be an occasion for more shopping!" says Jim Wallis of Sojourners.
What Would Jesus Buy? releases on DVD May 20 in an effort to build awareness in the months leading up to Christmas. For complete information, including resource materials, ongoing events and church services please visit www.wwjbmovie.com and www.revbilly.com. You'll be singing "Changelujah" too.
Huge Victory: KS Supreme Court Unseals Secret Abortion Suit
http://news.christiansunite.com/Religion_News/religion07162.shtml
TOPEKA, Kansas, (christiansunite.com) -- In a huge victory for the rule of law, this morning the Kansas Supreme Court unsealed a secret lawsuit filed by Planned Parenthood against District Attorney Phill Kline. Planned Parenthood was seeking to have the Court order Kline to return abortion records that are critical evidence in Kline's prosecution of 107 criminal charges against the abortion giant.
Instead the Court rejected a letter from former Attorney General Paul Morrison "exonerating" Planned Parenthood, indicating that the records showed no criminal conduct by Planned Parenthood. Morrison then engaged in acts meant to force the evidence from Kline's possession in order to cover up criminal activity on the part of Planned Parenthood, who had supported his election campaign.
"Every judge that has reviewed the evidence has ruled that there is probable cause to believe that crimes have been committed by Planned Parenthood," said Operation Rescue President Troy Newman.
Oral arguments in the case are scheduled for June 12. The abortion records were subpoenaed by Kline when he was attorney general. When still the attorney general, Kline received permission from Judge Richard Anderson to forward the records to the Johnson County District Attorney's office, with the court's full knowledge that Kline had been appointed to that post. Planned Parenthood secretly sued Kline to get the records back, a suit that was joined first by Morrison, and then by Attorney General Stephen Six after Morrison's resignation due to a sex and corruption scandal.
"It is wrong that the subject of a criminal investigation should be allowed to misuse secret proceedings to harass a prosecutor with falsehoods and spurious personal attacks as Planned Parenthood has done," said Newman. "Now that this case has been unsealed, we trust that the truth of Planned Parenthood's wrongdoing and the obstructionist attitude of the Attorney General's office will finally come out."
"The mantra from the AG's office has always been that the records must be returned in order to protect patient privacy, but that couldn't be further from the truth. All patient identifying information was redacted long ago. One has to wonder about the integrity of the attorney general's office that continues to promulgate such untrue statements," said Newman.
"In the interest of justice, Kline's evidence must be allowed to be seen in a court of law at the time of trial and let a judge and jury decide. That's the American way," said Newman.
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.
Independent Christian Recording Artist Wayburn Dean Leaps to # 3 on R&R and CRW Charts
http://news.christiansunite.com/Religion_News/religion07159.shtml
GRAND RAPIDS, Michigan, (christiansunite.com) -- Wayburn Dean's rapid success with his fourth solo single, Through The Rain continues to prove that there has never been a better time to be an independent musician. During the first week of release the song tied as the "Most Added" song with multi-million selling artist Stephen Curtis Chapman on the Radio & Records (R&R) Soft AC/ Inspirational chart. Through the Rain has now jumped from number five to number three on both the R&R charts and the Christian Radio Weekly (CRW) charts.
"It has been said that at any given time, individuals are headed toward a storm, in the throws of a storm, or just coming out of a storm," says Dean. "When I'm on the road traveling, I see so many people going through tough times, whether it's financial challenges, loss of loved ones, or relationship issues; people are hurting. Through The Rain was an opportunity to write songs that would touch the soul and encourage people to draw near to God in these uncertain and fearful times."
Dean's vision with the CD was to inspire listeners on a deeper level with a fresh new sound. Over 350 stations throughout the country are playing Through the Rain, with an estimated audience of well over a million listeners. The CD features 10 songs including What Will Be Your Legacy, a poignant reminder that we all have an individual journey, but only one chance to write a lasting story.
Through the Rain is available now in three of the largest Christian bookstore outlets across the nation, including Lifeway Christian Stores, Parable Christian Stores, and Family Christian Stores. It can also be downloaded from iTunes or Walmart music downloads. Individuals interested in learning more can visit www.wayburndean.com.
About Wayburn Dean
Wayburn Dean was lead singer of the award-winning and multi-platinum group Acappella. After receiving Dove and Grammy nominations and the Rubel Lifetime Achievement Award, Dean ventured out on his own in 2001 as a solo artist. His second release, Immeasurable quickly garnered three Top 10 Singles and has been picked up for distribution in Wal-Mart, Target, Barnes & Noble, Best Buy, Borders, Tower Records and other mainstream stores nationwide.
U.S. Honey Bee Deaths Increased Last Year
http://www.cbn.com/CBNnews/370856.aspx
CBNNews.com - SAN FRANCISCO -- A survey of bee health released Tuesday revealed a grim picture, with 36.1 percent of the nation's commercially managed hives lost since last year.
Last year's survey commissioned by the Apiary Inspectors of America found losses of about 32 percent.
As beekeepers travel with their hives this spring to pollinate crops around the country, it's clear the insects are buckling under the weight of new diseases, pesticide drift and old enemies like the parasitic varroa mite, said Dennis vanEngelsdorp, president of the group.
Measured for Second Year
This is the second year the association has measured colony deaths across the country. This means there aren't enough numbers to show a trend, but clearly bees are dying at unsustainable levels and the situation is not improving, said vanEngelsdorp, also a bee expert with the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.
"For two years in a row, we've sustained a substantial loss," he said. "That's an astonishing number. Imagine if one out of every three cows, or one out of every three chickens, were dying. That would raise a lot of alarm."
The survey included 327 operators who account for 19 percent of the country's approximately 2.44 million commercially managed bee hives. The data is being prepared for submission to a journal.
About 29 percent of the deaths were due to Colony Collapse Disorder, a mysterious disease that causes adult bees to abandon their hives. Beekeepers who saw CCD in their hives were much more likely to have major losses than those who didn't.
"What's frightening about CCD is that it's not predictable or understood," vanEngelsdorp said.
CCD Research
On Tuesday, Pennsylvania's Agriculture Secretary Dennis Wolff announced that the state would pour an additional $20,400 into research at Pennsylvania State University looking for the causes of CCD. This raises emergency funds dedicated to investigating the disease to $86,000.
The issue also has attracted federal grants and funding from companies that depend on honey bees, including ice-cream maker Haagen-Dazs.
Because the berries, fruits and nuts that give about 28 of Haagen-Daazs' varieties flavor depend on honey bees for pollination, the company is donating up to $250,000 to CCD and sustainable pollination research at Penn State and the University of California, Davis.
United Methodists Vote to Uphold Traditional Marriage
http://news.christiansunite.com/Religion_News/religion07157.shtml
FT. WORTH, Texas, (christiansunite.com) -- On Wednesday, April 30 around 5:30 p.m. the United Methodist General Conference delegates voted on what is considered one of the most controversial issues before the world- wide church body. The delegates voted down the committee report that would change The Book of Discipline to explicitly condone homosexual practice. The Minority Report that was passed by a vote of 501- 417 affirms not only that marriage is between a man and a woman but that marriage is a "covenant of monogamous, heterosexual marriage." The conference, United Methodism's chief rulemaking body, is a denominational gathering that occurs every four years and brings together delegates from around the world.
Mark Tooley, Executive Director of IRD's UMAction Committee, commented:
"The vote today in affirmation of traditional marriage represents the will of the international United Methodist Church. Those who demand acceptance of homosexual behavior maximized their campaign this year knowing it was their last chance to win in United Methodism.
"The African and other over-seas delegates represented the margin of victory for the current church stance on marriage and sex. This year they comprised almost 30 percent of the total delegates thanks to their church growth and membership decline in the U.S. The internationals may comprise 40 percent in 2012.
"Africans and other international United Methodists in coalition with Evangelicals in the U.S. are working for a new denomination faithful to historic Christian teaching, and culturally transformative instead of culturally accommodating."
JAARS Museum of the Alphabet Displays Contribute to The National Museum of Language Opening
http://news.christiansunite.com/Religion_News/religion07161.shtml
WAXHAW, Nc., (christiansunite.com) -- The National Museum of Language will open its doors tomorrow in College Park, Maryland and visitors will see displays from Waxhaw, N.C.'s Museum of the Alphabet.
Dr. Amelia Murdoch, president of the National Museum of Language (NML), says, "The Board of Directors of the National Museum of Language deeply appreciates the assistance of the Museum of the Alphabet in developing the opening exhibit of the NML entitled 'Writing Language: Passing It On.' We highly value the cooperation of the Museum of the Alphabet as we pursue our common goal of better informing the general public of the importance of language
The National Museum of Language is a small museum that explores the transformative powers of language, opens to the public after more than ten years in the making. A trail-blazer in the field-there are no more than three museums in the world with a similar focus-the NML will examine the history, impact and art of language.
The opening exhibit "Writing Language: Passing It On," displays how language developed over time and uses the Museum of the Alphabet displays. Attention is given to alphabetic and pictographic writing systems.
The alphabetic exhibit was constructed by Museum of the Alphabet Director La Donna Mann and her staff in collaboration with Dr. Janet Chernela of the University of Maryland, and is based on displays at the Waxhaw museum. It traces the beginnings of the most widely used alphabet, the Roman, from Sumerian clay tablets, as well as depicting the Greek, Arabic and Hebrew alphabets.
The new museum's pictographic exhibit features the Chinese and Japanese scripts. For more information on the National Museum of Language, go to www.languagemuseum.org
The Museum of the Alphabet, which opened in 1990, is located on the JAARS Center in Waxhaw N.C. The Museum of the Alphabet contains a colorful and impressive array of displays and artifacts depicting the history and development of inscribed languages.
Of the world's 6,912 languages, more than 2,000 still do not have a written form. JAARS provides technical support services for Wycliffe Bible Translators worldwide.
JAARS is committed to "Vision 2025"-that a Scripture translation program will have begun in every language by the year 2025. To find out more about JAARS go to www.jaars.org
World Vision International President Leaving Office in 2010
http://news.christiansunite.com/Religion_News/religion07160.shtml
WASHINGTON, (christiansunite.com) -- The international president of World Vision, the largest Christian humanitarian aid organization, announced today that he plans to retire from his role in September 2010.
Dean Hirsch, who has served as the organization's chief executive since 1996, said he was making the announcement now to give sufficient time for a presidential search and transition process.
"While I still love the job," Hirsch, 60, said in a letter to the World Vision International Board, "I feel it is time for a leadership change. As Ecclesiastes tells us, 'there is a time and a season for everything,' including World Vision presidents."
By 2010, Hirsch will have led the relief, development and advocacy organization longer than anyone since Bob Pierce, who founded World Vision in 1950 to help Korean orphans.
Speaking on behalf of the organization's 24-member governing body, WVI Board Chair Denis St-Amour praised Hirsch for "extraordinary leadership in challenging times." On Hirsch's watch, he noted that World Vision has seen its revenue grow from $550 million to $2.4 billion, has made public advocacy an integral part of its work, and mounted major campaigns to respond to the HIV/AIDS epidemic, the Asian tsunami, child malnutrition and mortality, and, more recently, the adverse effects that poor communities experience from rising food prices and climate change.
St-Amour said the emphasis of the Hirsch administration on children returned World Vision to its roots and gave focus to its programmes.
"Because of Dean," he said, "We are clearly Christ- centered, community-based and child-focused."
Richard E. Stearns, president and CEO of the U.S. office of World Vision, said "After more than 30 years of service, Dean Hirsch's uncompromising commitment to follow Christ and serving the poor, has left a living legacy in the changed lives of millions across the globe."
"Dean Hirsch has championed the victims of poverty and injustice in all his endeavors, whether addressing the U.N. General Assembly or addressing the parents of an infant recovering from malnutrition," Stearns said.
Hirsch has also championed working with other non- governmental organizations, UN agencies, institutions and corporations in furthering development in poor nations. He chairs the Global Movement for Children, serves on the Foundation Board of the Global Humanitarian Forum and is a regular participant a the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.
Helping children achieve full lives has been the cornerstone of his tenure at World Vision. "Our mission is to help create a world in which no child suffers or dies for lack of food, clean water, shelter or protection from exploitation or war," Hirsch has said on numerous occasions.
Prior to his appointment as international president, Hirsch served World Vision as chief operating officer, vice president for development and vice president for relief operations. He has worked in the United States, Africa and Europe and visited virtually all of the 98 nations in which World Vision works. He joined the organization in 1976.
Hirsch's humanitarian work has been recognized with four honorary doctorates, numerous media appearances and speaking engagements.
The WVI Board, which is charged with appointing his successor, has named five of its members to an advisory committee, which hopes to select a president-elect by September 2009 and formally install him or her at the organization's triennial council in August 2010.
PM praises Christians, endorses Global Day of Prayer
http://www.christiantoday.com/article/pm.praises.christians.endorses.global.day.of.prayer/18647.htm
Prime Minister Gordon Brown hosted a reception at 10 Downing Street on Wednesday in honour of the Global Day of Prayer London taking place at Millwall football stadium this Sunday.
Mr Brown invited 80 senior church leaders to the two-hour reception ‘In Honour of the Global Day of Prayer London', during which he also highlighted the Millennium Development Goals and Call to Action declaration.
The Global Day of Prayer London (GDOP) is a movement of collaboration across the Christian church in the capital towards unity, prayer and transformation, and is part of a global network which began in South Africa at the turn of the Millennium.
In 2007, over 250 million Christians united in 203 countries to pray. Here in London, GDOP has been a focus of prayer and Christian action since 2006 with last year’s event at West Ham stadium attracting 20,000 Christians.
This year’s event is to be held at Millwall football stadium, with an expected crowd of 25,000. Organisers have a vision of hiring the new Wembley Stadium in 2010 to accommodate the ever-growing interest.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the work being done by church leaders on behalf of the most vulnerable people both at home and abroad and commended their work towards the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).
He went on to urge a renewed effort to achieve the MDGs through support for the Call to Action declaration. A number of organisations, including Premier Radio, Micah Challenge and Tearfund endorsed the Call to Action declaration.
GDOP London founder, Pastor Dr Jonathan Oloyede, said: “A number of church leaders have been meeting with Prime Minister Brown since the very earliest days of his office to discuss major issues London’s communities face, and how the churches are seeking to find solutions, and offer hope and care to the most vulnerable citizens.
"Having heard about the Global Day of Prayer, the Prime Minister kindly agreed to host a reception at No 10, for which we are extremely grateful. At Millwall this Sunday, we will be urging thousands of Christians to be agents of transformation for the global poor.”
In his commendation of the event, Brown told guests: "Whether it is supporting young single parents, providing education, or helping to improve the criminal justice system, the work of leaders such as yourselves makes an invaluable contribution to British life and I’d like to thank you for that.
"I know that you are passionate about promoting fairness and development in every country of the world. That is why I’m delighted that we are using this opportunity to join together to tackle global poverty."
This Sunday’s event, apart from praying for Madeleine McCann and abducted children, Christians will focus their prayers on the gun and drug crime in the capital.
They will be joined by Richard Taylor, father of Damilola Taylor, the 10-year-old stabbed to death in November 2000. Mr Taylor, together with his late wife Gloria led the Damilola Taylor Trust, aimed at ‘healing many of the ills faced by today’s youths’.
Mr Taylor will speak of how his faith helped him and his family following the death of his son and how it was a driving force for them in their tireless work to put an end to "this terrible cancer in our nation’s capital”.
Just last week 15-year-old Peckham teenager Lyle Tullock was stabbed to death, the 12th teenage murder in London since the start of 2008.
For full details of the Global Day of Prayer, visit www.gdoplondon.com
Israel Is Turning 60
http://www.cbn.com/CBNnews/371434.aspx
Israel is turning 60, and soon Gan Sacher will be covered with wall-to-wall people. Celebration in this country means barbecues and people eating in clumps by the thousands, bringing Israelis together as family.
Sixty years is indeed a reason to celebrate, yet one can't help but notice it isn't all that long a time span relative to the age of this ancient people living in their ancient homeland.
As Israel approaches its sixtieth anniversary of independence, Christian Zionists around the world are paying special attention to this celebration. It represents for them a momentous day in the unfolding of salvation history.
Travel back a few years and picture a bookish boy, 12 or 13 years old, raised in south Virginia Beach, bored with the hum drum of a small 200-student school. Then along came Polly, the girl who got this young man's heart pumping -- a fellow academic and bookworm.
…she would read Nancy Drew novels and he the Hardy Boys. They would compete and compare who'd read more books each week. The academic challenge put a bounce in his step until his mother upped the ante and entrusted him with the book that would change the rest of his life: While Six Million Died, by A.D. Morse.
David Parsons is now the head of the Media and Public Relations Department of the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem. Yet while he was still just a child himself, he learned about other children -- Jewish orphans his age -- who were sent on ships back to Germany. He learned about kids who had to fight against British soldiers with nothing to defend themselves but potatoes and cans.
"I remember in places I just had to put it down and stop reading," he said.
It was at this very young age that Parsons remembers being called by the Lord -- that he would use his life for the Jews and for Israel.
While many Christians remain indifferent to or simply unaware of Israel, others, like Parsons, describe a sense of special calling not only to the Jewish people and their restoration to the Promised Land, but also to educate others about the importance of a proper understanding of biblical Zionist theology.
Christian Zionism
Christian Zionism. Now here is a fully loaded term that has, for many, much ambiguity surrounding it.
"I am very comfortable with the word 'Zionist,'" Parsons told CBN News, and he is proud to be identified as one. As long as the word refers to biblical Zionism, he feels strongly that as Christians, a Zionist perspective has everything to do with a proper understanding of God's character. "…that He is faithful and His promises are everlasting…" Parsons said.
Parsons now works with the ICEJ to educate others about the crucial impact a Zionist perspective has on one's understanding of God. He accomplishes this through media ventures and very effectively through academic and theological dissertation. In part of a well-written apologetic series called Swords into Ploughshares, Parsons fights back against the many misconstrued ideas portraying Christian Zionism, especially in the media.
In the work he reminds readers of the "Second Coming of Christ media frenzy" and the Y2K bug. Many news agencies including AP, Reuters, BBC, CNN… totaling some 200 interviews, engaged with ICEJ reps concerning the subject of the Apocalypse during the 18 months preceding January 1, 2000.
Approximately half of these reporters were intent on focusing on all the Christian fanatics who were supposedly coming to Israel that would either contract Jerusalem Syndrome or try to blow up the Dome of the Rock shrine on the Temple Mount and thereby 'force the end.'"
"We only want the crazies! Just give me the crazies! Where are they? Do you have their phone numbers?" said one unnamed journalist from a German magazine.
While many consider Zionism just another manifestation of Christian conspiracy theorists and modern "end-times" fanatics, Parsons traces Christian Zionism "back to the very infancy of the Protestant Reformation in the late 1500s." He also points out the interesting connection and Christian involvement in the restoration of the State of Israel.
Around the world, Christian Zionism is on the rise. There seems to be an escalating phenomenon of mainstream Christians having their hearts tugged regarding Israel. And most describe their 'awakenings,' like Parsons, as being experienced from a very young age.
Parsons represents a theology of those concerned with what the Old and New Testament scriptures say about the Jews and the return of the Lord, with praying for the peace of Jerusalem, with seeing restoration, and with teaching about the faithfulness of God's character.
Israel's 60th Anniversary
Anniversaries of special and momentous occasions.These are times to look over our shoulders -- to look at the year that has passed. They are times to take a minute to sigh and to smile. Anniversaries are often a time to reflect on our lives, get some perspective, be thankful.
As of May 8, 2008, modern Israel will be 60 years old. Through this anniversary eschatology is brought to life -- brought near in a fresh way -- as we are reminded that God really is taking this Story somewhere, that He really is coming back again.
And for those who keep a biblical watchful eye on the unfolding story of modern Israel, they hold close to their hearts that the existence of this tiny little country is having a ripple effect on the course of salvation history.
Olmert: Nothing can destroy Israel
http://www.jnewswire.com/article/2441
Speaking shortly before the start of Memorial Day for Israel's fallen soldiers Tuesday, Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert insisted that his country, which Wednesday evening will begin celebrating 60 years since its miraculous rebirth, can never be destroyed.
"The people of Israel are strong, the State of Israel is strong, there is no enemy that can destroy us," he said in a speech, parts of which were quoted in The Jerusalem Post, and which appeared to be directed at Iran.
That country has repeatedly threatened to wipe Israel off the map and is pursuing the means to do so.
Olmert suggested that, before Iran actually acquires a nuclear bomb, Israel will deal with it.
"We will not place ourselves in a position where anyone will, in an effective manner, threaten us with destruction, because if there was one thing that has changed since the establishment of the State of Israel 60 years ago until today, it is not that here the Jews are safe in every situation, in every condition and that there will not be any dangers.
"But here, my friends," the prime minister declared, "the Jewish people can fight, and when it needs to, it fights, and when it fights, it wins."
Olmert's words were echoed by Israel's state president, Shimon Peres, who told the nation at a Memorial Day ceremony Tuesday evening that, while Israel wants to end wars and shake hands with its neighbors, "we know when to pull the trigger."
IDF Chief of Staff Gabi Ashkenazi, who followed Peres at the podium in front of the Western Wall at the nationally televised event, similarly exhorted his countrymen.
"We must continue teaching of the fallen soldiers' bravery, the heroes whose blood soaks the earth of Israel," he said evenly but with determination.
"The IDF will not fear any obstacle and will continue to be the shield that defends Israel."
The ceremony, at the foot of the Temple Mount where King Solomon 3000 years ago asked God to always hear the prayers prayed there, concluded with Bible readings, prayers, and the singing of Israel's National Anthem - Hatikvah (The Hope).
Bush's Mideast Visit 'Ceremonial'
http://www.cbn.com/CBNnews/371427.aspx
CBNNews.com - JERUSALEM, Israel - U.S. President George W. Bush's upcoming five-day visit to Israel, Saudi Arabia and Egypt, the same countries he visited in January, has been billed as ceremonial rather than substantive.
On Wednesday, Stephen Bradley, Bush's national security advisor, said the President will not hold a joint session with Israel and the Palestinians while in Israel.
"This did not seem the time for a big, high-level, three-way event," Hadley told the media. "It just doesn't feel right as the best way to advance the negotiation," he said.
"We are, in some sense, all over this process, both in Israel and in terms of the West Bank [Judea and Samaria]," Hadley told reporters.
"And I think it just made sense in terms of the President's scheduling and given the messages and themes we wanted to strike, this seemed a good way to accomplish what we are trying to accomplish with the trip," he said.
In fact, meetings with Palestinian Authority (PA) President Mahmoud Abbas and PA Prime Minister Salam Fayyad will take place in Sharm el-Sheikh, where Bush will also meet with Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak, Afghan President Hamid Karzai, Jordan's King Abdullah, Lebanese Prime Minister Fuad Siniora and unnamed Iraqi leaders.
In Jerusalem, Bush will hold meetings with Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and President Shimon Peres and attend a conference and reception marking Israel's 60th anniversary. He will also address the Knesset.
During an overnight stay at Saudi King Abdullah's horse farm outside Riyadh, Hadley said the President will once again ask for increased oil production to alleviate soaring gasoline prices in the US, a request that's been ignored in the past.
While OPEC nations are producing just over 8.5 million barrels a day, they could produce as much as 11 million barrels a day.
"There are developments in terms of the world [and] the US economy in terms of its prospects and strengths," Hadley said.
According to Hadley, the President will again tell Saudi's monarch that for its own best interests, Arab oil suppliers should take the economic health of their customers into account.
Palestinian Bible Society head to speak on challenges of war
http://www.christiantoday.com/article/palestinian.bible.society.head.to.speak.on.challenges.of.war/18650.htm
Labib Madanat, who leads the Bible Society in Palestine, will be speaking at the annual Churches’ Media Conference on 9 -11 June.
The event is sponsored by Bible Society as part of its mission to equip and encourage those who work in media to promote the Bible’s message in today’s society.
The theme for this year’s event is Going Digital, and delegates will explore audience expectation and values in the world of new media.
Coming from a volatile environment, Labib is set to highlight the importance of Bible Society’s work in the difficult and challenging circumstances of war.
Labib has been the Executive Secretary of the Bible Society in Palestine for 15 years. In this time the Society’s offices has been the subject of a series of terrorist threats and attacks.
The kidnap and murder of one of his staff last year was at the centre of worldwide media attention. Blogs, online news and 24-hour media took the story around the world within hours.
No stranger to the glare of the media, Labib will be speaking on the role of the Bible Society in the volatile and war-torn Palestinian territories.
The conference will also include sessions on new media ethics, social networking and new initiatives in faith broadcasting.
Also speaking at the event is Tim Gardam former Head of Current Affairs at BBC TV and Principal of St Anne’s College, Oxford, and Clarence Mitchell, former BBC journalist and advisor to Kate and Gerry McCann.
Anyone interested in the media, from radio and television to online social networks, is invited to the event. The Churches’ Media Conference will be held at the Hayes Conference Centre in Swanwick, Derbyshire.
Find out more and book a place at www.churchesmediacouncil.org.uk/conference
Hasty Exit from Iraq a Danger, Iraqi Minister Says
http://www.newsmax.com/newsfront/Hasty_Exit_from_Iraq_/2008/05/08/94410.html
Washington -- A quick withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq would endanger not only Iraq but the entire Middle East, Fawzi Hariri, Iraq's minister of industry, warned on Wednesday. Some congressional Democrats are pressing for an immediate troop withdrawal, and both Democratic presidential hopefuls have said it's time to bring the troops home.
"The removal of (U.S.) forces, especially in a fast and quick way, will not only put Iraq in danger, but it will put the whole region in danger," Hariri said at a press conference at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. "I don't believe even some of the most outspoken regional countries that are anti-U.S.-presence-in-Iraq will accept a quick and fast withdrawal of the U.S. forces."
Hariri joined with Deputy Undersecretary of Defense Paul Brinkley to announce successes in the ongoing efforts to establish a flourishing economy in Iraq -- a key element, they said, to a lasting peace and a stable government in the country. Brinkley heads the Task Force to Improve Business and Stability Operations in Iraq.
"(The economy) is critical to the Department of Defense and the overall mission in Iraq," Brinkley said. "It is the element of stability ... that will enable normal life to take hold and will enable us as we draw down our presence in Iraq to leave behind a stable and prosperous country."
Hariri said rapid troop withdrawal would have a significant impact on the stability needed in Iraq to continue economic progress.
"Clearly, as it stands now (in) its military capacity, (Iraq) is unable to sustain any foreign intervention on its own," Hariri said.
Brinkley said that his task force has embedded business experts with U.S. troops in every region of the country over the last two years, resulting in significant job creation.
"The results we're going to announce today are (that) the task force has restored employment and support, in partnership with the Iraqi government, to over 100,000 people," Brinkley said. "These are not temporary jobs. These are sustained, professional, manufacturing jobs."
Working with the task force, the Iraqi government is privatizing state-owned industry to operate in a free-market economy. The task force also is helping the economy in Iraq by awarding contracts to local businesses, with 3,900 businesses receiving more than $1 billion in contracts since 2006, when the task force was formed.
Brinkley said international companies are beginning to set up manufacturing operations in Iraq, including Daimler AG and Caterpillar.
A strong economy in Iraq also will strengthen the U.S. economy, said Brinkley, who cited a $2 billion contract Boeing recently signed with the Iraqi government to build 40 commercial aircraft.
"These aircraft are going to be manufactured in Washington state, creating American jobs," Brinkley said. "When the Iraqi economy gets on its feet it will begin to consume its own goods, its own services, and the beneficial relationships that will take hold between the United States and other countries and Iraq will create employment here, in addition to in Iraq."
Brinkley said building a flourishing economy also is important to a significant portion of the more than 26 million Iraqi citizens.
"Roughly 50 percent of the population ... are under the age of 15," Brinkley said. "Economic development in Iraq is critical, not in the immediate term, but in the long term. There has to be a vibrant economy in place to absorb that young population who are going to grow up and expect a better life."
Congress has appropriated $50 million to revitalize the Iraqi economy in its 2007 supplemental budget. Hariri said the Iraqi government is also investing billions to rebuild its economy, including $5 billion targeted for job creation.
Pakistan Test-Fires Nuclear-Capable Cruise Missile
http://www.newsmax.com/international/pakistan_missile_test/2008/05/08/94342.html
ISLAMABAD, Pakistan -- Pakistan said it test-fired a short-range cruise missile capable of carrying a nuclear warhead Thursday, one day after archrival India test-fired a long-range missile with nuclear capability.
The 220-mile-range Pakistani missile, known as the Ra'ad or Hatf VIII, was developed exclusively for launch from aircraft, a military statement said.
The statement did not disclose the launch site but said the missile "has special stealth capabilities," and is a "low altitude, terrain-following missile with high maneuverability."
The missile "can deliver all types of warheads with great accuracy," the military said.
Pakistan became a declared nuclear power in 1998 by conducting nuclear tests in response to those by India. Since then, the South Asian neighbors have both routinely test-fired missiles.
On Wednesday, India test-fired the Agni III, its longest-range missile designed to reach 1,900 miles _ putting China's major cities as well some targets deep in the Middle East into range.
India's missile was launched from Wheeler Island off the eastern state of Orissa and is believed to be capable of carrying a 300-kiloton nuclear warhead.
India and Pakistan have fought three wars since gaining independence from Britain in 1947.
Their relations have improved since 2004 when they began a peace process aimed at resolving their core dispute over the divided Himalayan region of Kashmir.
'Iran could have the bomb in a year'
http://www.jnewswire.com/article/2440
Israelis awoke Tuesday to the news that Iran is far further along the road to going nuclear than previously thought.
Mahmoud Ahmadinejad could have his hands on an atomic bomb by mid-2009.
This is according to an exclusive report run as the top story on the website of The Jerusalem Post, and comes on the day Israeli patriots - and their friends - are remembering the thousands who have sacrificed their lives to secure the Jewish state against its myriad enemies in the otherwise Muslim Middle East.
"Israel now believes the Islamic Republic will master centrifuge technology and be able to begin enriching uranium on a military scale this year," the Post said. "According to the new timeline, Iran could have a nuclear weapon by the middle of next year."
In its unswerving quest to obtain a nuclear weapon Iran is seeking to position itself at the forefront of the Islamic intent to remove Israel from the region.
A senior Israeli defense official told the Post Tuesday that while Iran had had to overcome many technical obstacles on its road towards nuclearization, it was now set to, within six months, master the ability to enrich uranium from which to manufacture a warhead.
Not only is such a warhead almost within reach, but Iran is also believed to be developing the means to deliver the weapon to an Israeli city on a low-flying missile designed to evade Israel's Arrow anti-missile system, the newspaper said.
Tehran’s Terror Inc.
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,354445,00.html
Almost a week after the U.S. Department of State branded the ayatollahs’ regime in Iran as the “most active state sponsor of terrorism,” there are reports from Baghdad that the Hezbollah of Lebanon has been training Iraqi terrorists at camps near Tehran. Tehran’s Terror Inc. certainly knows a thing or two about the art of outsourcing.
According to the New York Times, “the account of Hezbollah’s role was provided by four Shiite militia members who were captured in Iraq late last year” after they had returned from training in Iran., In a training program described, according to the Times, by the American officials as “training the trainers,” the captured terrorists were part of a “class of 16 militants who crossed into Iran from southern Iraq and were taken to a camp near Tehran.”
While these reports corroborate with the information I revealed in January and March of 2007, they are far from the whole story. Last year, I received a number of intelligence reports from my sources inside the Tehran government and affiliated with the underground network of Iran’s main opposition, the People’s Mujahedin of Iran (MEK/PMOI), about an extensive, elaborate program to train large numbers of Iraqi terrorists in Iran.
The plan is led by the Qods Force, the elite terrorist wing of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corp (IRGC). IRGC Brigadier General Ahmad Forouzandeh, known by his nickname "Abu Shahab” in Iraq, is in charge of the training program. IRGC Brigadier General Mohammad Shahlaei, a veteran Qods commander, supervises the recruitment of Iraqi militias.
To minimize the risk of exposure and logistical bottlenecks, the Qods Force scatters these would-be terrorists in several of its bases near the cities of Tehran, Karaj, Qom, and Isfahan. Qods bases in provinces close to the Iraqi border, such as Kermanshah, Ilam, Kurdistan, and Khuzestan, are also utilized.
These camps offer a full menu of courses, from urban guerrilla warfare and sniper targeting, to launching mortars and installing explosive packs. Let’s not leave out the instructions on how to fire shoulder-launched anti-aircraft missiles. The duration of each course is 20 days. Much of the training is done by veteran commanders of the Lebanese Hezbollah who, like their students, speak Arabic and are more than eager to share their experiences with the latest unconventional warfare tactics.
The Qods Force’s Imam Ali Base in Tehran is at the center of the ayatollahs’ terrorist training program. Tucked away in a quiet area of northern Tehran close to Saad-abad Palace, it used to accommodate would-be terrorists from more than a dozen countries. Run by IRGC commander Hossein Lotfi, Imam Ali Base is now dedicated entirely to the training of Iraqi militia. One of the base’s main commanders, IRGC Brigadier General Orouj, was previously a senior commander of the Qods Force in Lebanon.
The trainees at Imam Ali are usually divided into small groups of eight or so for the sake of secrecy. Each group has two trainers: an Iranian and a member of Hezbollah. According to information from my sources in Iran, in October 2006, several groups of Iraqi Shiite militants from the Supreme Council for the Islamic Revolution in Iraq, SCIRI (currently known as the Supreme Iraqi Islamic Council) and from Sadr City in Baghdad, were trained in this base.
The Hezbollah base in Varamin, south of Tehran, is another key destination for Iraqi students of terrorism. Before 2003, it was primarily used to train the Badr Corp — the military wing of SCIRI. With the outbreak of the Iraq war, the IRGC promptly dispatched the Badr Corp into Iraq, and the base was handed over to the Qods Force to handle the soon-expected Iraqi militias. The Hezbollah base is currently run by a veteran Qods Force commander named Haj Ayoub. Two of the non-Iranian trainers are Khalili and Vajih. On January 2, 2007, the training of a group of 50 Iraqi militants from Sadr City was completed at this base.
In addition to these bases near Tehran, the Qods Forces also extensively uses the Bahonar base in Karaj, 25 miles west of Tehran, the Kenesht Valley base in the border province of Kermanshah, and the Isfahan training base, to instruct would-be terrorists from neighboring Iraq.
The unrelenting escalation of Tehran’s terrorist meddling in Iraq has prompted American officials both in Washington and Baghdad to speak out. This welcome – albeit overdo – outspokenness by the United States must, however, be backed up by closer scrutiny of Iraq’s porous border with Iran. Closing the gaps will be difficult, in light of the many years of reckless neglect, particularly by the British forces in the south. But heightened vigilance will go a long way toward choking off Tehran’s means of providing funds, arms, and most importantly, trained terrorists and Qods Force personnel.
Media reports of U.S. plan to upgrade facilities at Camp Delta and the Al Kut Air Base in southern Iraq are welcome news. The facility intended as “a strategic overwatch base” is located just 35 miles from the Iranian border and could play a decisive role in blocking Tehran’s use of the border to further its terrorist agenda in Iraq.
An increasingly visible determination by the United States to counter Iran’s “destructive role in Iraq” which, if unchecked, poses “the greatest long-term threat to the viability of a democratic Iraq,” has no doubt made an impression. Despite their strategic gains in Iraq, thanks to Washington’s “see no evil, hear no evil (from Tehran)” approach in the immediate post-war period, the ayatollahs know quite well that this trend is not irreversible. One encouraging sign is the rush — at least publicly — by Tehran’s surrogates in the Iraqi government to distance themselves from their paymasters in Tehran.
Those capitals still bent on “sweetening” the already generous package of incentives they have offered Tehran to stop its drive for nuclear weapons would do well to take note. They have sponsored three rounds of negotiations with Iran’s regime over Iraq’s security; they have offered all sorts of incentives before, during, and after the war to dissuade Tehran’s terrorists; they have even bombed the bases of Tehran’s democratic opposition, the non-belligerent PMOI/MEK. None of these deterred Tehran. Decisive counter-measures can, and will.
The Secret Battle with Iran
http://www.cbn.com/CBNnews/371543.aspx
CBNNews.com - IRAQ - The Iraqi government is asking the U.S. and Iran to start talking again. Iraq is hoping the two countries can get along better to create more stability in the region, the Sacramento Bee Reports
Iran and the U.S. held three rounds of talks last year. But they've recently stalled.
There's now strong evidence Iran is working hard behind the scenes to destabilize Iraq.
A Historic Meeting
The historic visit of Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad to Iraq was designed to be a show of potential cooperation between the two countries.
But a closer look reveals that five years after the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq, Iran secretly fights to keep Iraq in chaos.
Case in point: Iranian made weapons including rockets and deadly explosives were discovered inside Iraq by coalition forces.
Stopping this flow of weapons into Baghdad is a major goal of the U.S. troop surge.
Much of the effort takes place hundreds of miles away in a desolate wasteland along the Iranian border.
CBN News Reporter Chuck Holton went to see first hand what's being done there.
Camp Shocker
Camp Shocker is a new forward operating base that's being constructed about a mile from the Iranian border. Many of the soldiers here aren't Americans, though.
They're from the eastern European country of Georgia, and they're here manning checkpoints to stop the flow of weapons, people and money across the border into Iraq.
There are some Americans stationed here. Their role is to advise the Iraqi troops along the frontier.
The challenges are significant. That's because there are hundreds of years of cultural precedent to overcome…bribery and smuggling are an accepted way of life here. But with training and support from these Americans, the Iraqis are making significant headway.
Captain Brendan McEvoy commands one of these teams.
"The terrorist elements on the other side are seeing this, and the drop off in attacks throughout Wasit province and in Baghdad is significant enough that we've noticed that our work here has had some success." McEvoy said.
Signs of Progress
That success is very apparent in some of Baghdad's neighborhoods, such as one where 90 days ago the stores were closed and the people stayed home out of fear.
Now, when General David Petraeus tours the area, things are much different. But the commander of U.S. forces here is quick to point out that the Iraqi people get the credit.
Petraeus: "Let's not forget that there's been an Iraqi surge ongoing./ Those people are turning in the bad guys, bringing out the weapons caches, are identifying the improvised explosive devices and ultimately are volunteering to help with security."
For the Iraqi troops stationed along the Iranian frontier, helping with security means tracking down smugglers, beefing up border searches and staying vigilant in the midst of an incredibly bleak landscape.
The scars of the brutal Iran/Iraq war fought some 20 years ago can still be seen everywhere, and nearby Iranian forces provide a tense but constant reminder that reconciliation between these two countries has yet to arrive.
Russia Joins U.N. Economic Sanctions on Iran
http://www.newsmax.com/newsfront/Russia_sanctions_iran/2008/05/08/94424.html
MOSCOW -- Russia has signed into law United Nations economic sanctions that world powers agreed to in March, according to a presidential decree published by the Kremlin on Thursday.
The United Nations Security Council imposed a third round of sanctions on Iran on March 3 for refusing to suspend sensitive nuclear activities.
The Russian decree, signed by Vladimir Putin before he left office, calls for restrictions on travel and financial transactions with certain Iranian individuals and companies.
The United States and other Western nations suspect Iran of using its civil nuclear program as a cover to develop nuclear weapons. Iran says its nuclear program is needed to generate electricity so that it can export more of its oil and gas.
Russia has been building Iran's first nuclear power station at Bushehr on the Gulf coast, in southwest Iran. Iranian officials say it may start up later this year.
5 Nations May Present New Iran Offer in Person
http://www.newsmax.com/newsfront/5_Nations_iran/2008/05/08/94423.html
WASHINGTON — Senior envoys from five of the six nations bargaining with Iran over its disputed nuclear program may try to get talks moving by making a special face-to-face appeal, U.S. and European officials said Wednesday.
Diplomats could deliver a new offer as soon as this weekend. They want Iran to scale back a nuclear program that the West fears could lead to a bomb.
The officials said only the United States would sit out the diplomatic trip. It was not clear whether the envoys would travel to Tehran or deliver the offer elsewhere. The officials spoke on the condition of anonymity because plans are not set.
The offer was expected to come from the top career diplomats from Britain, France, Germany, Russia and China. The United States would not stand in the way.
World powers agreed Friday to try luring Iran to the bargaining table again using a repackaged set of carrots to accompany the stick of U.N. sanctions. At the time, diplomats were silent about just how and when they would offer the new package.
Diplomats have told The Associated Press that the Islamic republic sought direct contacts with at least some of the six world powers after years of inconclusive negotiations on the nuclear issue with their representative, European Union foreign policy chief Javier Solana.
Diplomats said the offer contained no major new enticements but was meant to remind Iran that talking is an option.
The central terms of a 2006 offer still stand: Iran could trade away worrisome elements of its nuclear program for economic assistance and the possibility of better relations with the U.S.
Iran rejected the initial proposal, saying it came with insulting strings attached, including a moratorium on uranium enrichment.
Iranian officials have turned down the revamped proposal without seeing it. But diplomats told the AP that would not change plans to formally present it to Tehran. The 2006 offer and the update were prepared by the five permanent Security Council members plus Germany, which had been part of a previous European bargaining gambit.
One official said European nations were particularly keen to give the Iranians every opportunity to bend.
Iran is under three sets of relatively mild U.N. Security Council sanctions for its refusal to freeze uranium enrichment and meet other council demands meant to dispel suspicions that the Iranians are trying to develop nuclear weapons.
Separately, diplomats in Vienna told the AP on Tuesday that the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency urged Washington to show more sensitivity in dealing with Iran if it hopes to see Tehran make concessions.
The diplomats spoke following a meeting between IAEA chief Mohamed ElBaradei and Undersecretary of State John Rood. They said the American diplomat made no commitments, but promised to take ElBaradei's concerns back to his superiors.
Russian Parliament Confirms Putin As Prime Minister
http://www.newsmax.com/international/russia_putin/2008/05/08/94366.html
MOSCOW -- Loyal lawmakers confirmed Vladimir Putin as prime minister Thursday, capping a carefully engineered recast of Russia's leadership a day after he handed the presidency to his protege Dmitry Medvedev.
The State Duma approved Putin in an overwhelming 392-56 vote after Medvedev told lawmakers that Putin had restored the world's respect for Russia and improved the lives of its citizens in eight years as president.
Medvedev said he would sign a decree making Putin prime minister later in the day.
Putin's unprecedented move from the Kremlin to the No. 2 post will keep him politically prominent for the foreseeable future and could serve as a springboard back to the presidency. It has Russians wondering who will really hold the country's reins.
The switch comes after months of political maneuvering by the popular Putin to maintain a role in ruling Russia after stepping down. Barred by term limits from running in the March presidential vote, he anointed Medvedev as his favored successor in December and pledged to serve as his prime minister.
Medvedev formally nominated Putin in one of his first acts as president Wednesday. His confirmation was never in doubt in the Duma, the lower parliament house, where his United Russia party holds 315 of the 450 seats.
Presenting his nominee to a rare full house at the Duma on Thursday, Medvedev said lawmakers' applause "means that Vladimir Vladimirovich needs no special recommendation" and credited his mentor with recharging Russia's economy and raising its global stature.
"Russia is respected once again," Medvedev said.
Medvedev suggested Putin would have a strong influence on Russian policy for years to come. He said Putin had been involved in setting goals for the country's development through 2020 and "as Cabinet chairman will play a key role in their realization."
Churches Facing Administrative Charges in Kazakhstan
http://news.christiansunite.com/Religion_News/religion07163.shtml
(christiansunite.com) - Officials have brought administrative charges against two churches in Kazakhstan in recent weeks, according to an April 23 report from Forum 18.
On April 21, the city of Atyrau's Prosecutor's Office brought charges against the Salem Church for holding "illegal" meetings under Article 374 part 1 of the Administrative Code, which punishes unregistered church activity. The charges are a response to a group of Russian-speaking church members meeting regularly in a private home instead of the church's registered address. The church's leader, however, stated that the Administrative Code allows such groups to meet in a member's private home, so long as important religious ceremonies - such as baptisms and weddings - are not conducted.
Also in Atyrau, local authorities have asked the New Life Church to re-register since their old registration did not indicate a legal address. Since the church does not currently have a building, re-r egistering will be difficult as Kazakhstan's amended Religion Law demands that a church indicates a legal address. Church members fear that they will be subject to penalty because authorities will now consider their church activity "illegal.
Pray for wisdom for these churches and their leaders as they face pressure and opposition from authorities (James 1:5). Pray that the Word of God will continue to spread throughout Kazakhstan.
For more information on the persecution facing Christians in Kazakhstan, go to www.persecution.net/country/kazakhstan.htm.
Pope reaches out to China at unprecedented concert
http://www.christiantoday.com/article/pope.reaches.out.to.china.at.unprecedented.concert/18658.htm
Pope Benedict reached out to communist China on Wednesday at an unprecedented concert by its national orchestra in the Vatican that the Church hopes can help end decades of icy relations with Beijing.
The China Philharmonic Orchestra played Mozart's "Requiem" and Chinese folk songs along with the Shanghai Opera House Chorus in the Vatican's packed audience hall.
The German-born Pope appeared happy at the concert of European religious music by the orchestra of an officially atheist state that has ridiculed the papacy in the past.
In his address at the end of the first part of the concert, the Pope was full of praise for the Chinese people and held out the hope that music could succeed where diplomacy has failed.
"Music, and art in general, can serve as a privileged instrument for encounter and reciprocal knowledge and esteem between different populations and cultures...," said the Pope, who also managed a few words of thanks in Chinese.
Some diplomats say the long-term result of the unique concert could be similar to the so-called "ping-pong" diplomacy of the 1970, when the exchange of sports teams led to relations between Washington and Beijing.
Pope Benedict has made improving relations with Beijing a major goal of his pontificate. He issued an open letter in June saying he sought to restore full diplomatic ties with China that were severed two years after the 1949 Communist takeover.
Catholics in China are split between those who belong to a state-backed Church and an underground Church whose members are loyal to the Vatican and it was to these steadfast faithful that the Pope sent a particular message.
"In greeting you this evening, dear Chinese artists, the Pope intends to reach out to your entire people, with a special thought for those of your fellow citizens who share faith in Jesus and are united through a particular spiritual bond with the Successor of Peter," he said.
CHINA HAS NOTHING TO FEAR
In what appeared to be a message to China's leaders that they had nothing to fear by better relations, the Pope said the Vatican was a place "where people from all over the world often meet, with their own personal stories and their own culture, all of them welcomed with esteem and affection".
Relations between the Vatican and Beijing have hit low points several times in recent years as the Vatican criticised China for appointing bishops without papal approval.
A main sticking point is the Vatican's relations with Taiwan, which Beijing considers a renegade province. China wants the Vatican to cut the ties.
In his address to the Pope, conductor Yu Long called the night "a glorious moment" of historical significance.
In an interview with Reuters before the concert, Yu saw parallels between the performance and the New York Philharmonic's ice-breaking concert in North Korea in February.
The Pope said religious sentiment, like music "transcends the boundaries of every individual culture". He sent his regards to all Chinese people "as they prepare for the Olympic Games, an event of great importance for the entire human family".
Church sources said before the concert that the Chinese were clearly "shopping for good will" in an effort to improve China's international image, tarnished by recent unrest in Tibet and disruptions of the international leg of the Olympic torch relay.
"I don't think they (the communist government) are doing it out of love for the Pope or love of the Holy See but it will be positive in the end," said one Vatican source familiar with the situation.
World Evangelical Alliance head: 'China is on the move'
http://www.christiantoday.com/article/world.evangelical.alliance.head.china.is.on.the.move/18659.htm
The International Director of World Evangelical Alliance (WEA), Dr Geoff Tunnicliffe, paid a meaningful visit to China from 5 - 10 April during his recent East Asia tour. He also visited Thailand, Vietnam and South Korea. In the following interview Dr Tunnicliffe shares about his meetings with the Chinese Christian leaders and Chinese government officials, as well as their significance to the work of the WEA and the current state of Christianity in China.
What conclusions do you draw from your trip to China?
Since my trip was limited this time to Beijing and Shanghai, consequently, my conclusions have some limitations as well. Having said that, it is obvious that China is on the move. As a leading economic force in the world, China will continue to have a growing impact beyond its borders. Within its borders, however, China faces great challenges. Serious pollution, urbanisation, growing disparity between the rich and the poor, spiralling inflation as well as unrest in certain parts of the country are having a profound impact upon the nation.
In addition, I would say that Christianity is alive and growing in the urban churches. While my visit was limited to connections with the registered churches it was made clear to me that all parts of the Christian family are growing. What was also interesting to me was the fact that 90 percent of the registered churches would be considered evangelical in their beliefs. Access to Bibles and other Christian literature seemed quite easy. However, I cannot speak for the situation in the rural areas.
It was also my observation that Chinese leaders are very sensitive to the outside world. I was told repeatedly the western media in particular was very biased. (During my stay, some news was blacked out on CNN and BBC when they were reporting on the Olympic Torch Relay.)
How significant were the meetings with the Three-Self Patriotic Movement and Chinese Christian Council (TSPM/CCC), and SARA (State Administration for Religious Affairs)?
These were very significant meetings. In many ways they were “get acquainted” opportunities for both sides. It was obvious the Chinese leaders had researched WEA ahead of our meetings. This was very helpful since it led to a more thorough exchange of thoughts and ideas. I felt we were both able to respond to what are both caricatures and stereotypes of both of our movements.
I felt we had a very constructive discussion around the current state of the church, religious freedom and the Chinese involvement in Darfur.
I was fascinated to note that both the leaders at SARA and CCC indicated that they felt the Church would have a greater positive role in Chinese society. However, they also acknowledged some challenges the Church is currently facing which include: the lack of trained leaders, developing a theology of integral (holistic) mission and tensions with the unregistered churches.
How will these meetings help WEA's future work in China?
WEA wants to develop a long term partnership with Chinese Christians. One of the primary purposes of my trip was to begin to build bridges of understanding with the Chinese leaders in order to accomplish this goal. This trip certainly helped with this goal.
Does the WEA have any short-term and/or long-term plans to work with SARA and the official Chinese church?
I believe we took the first important steps during this visit. We are anticipating over the next number of years building upon this first visit. This could include an official visit to China next year by the international council and leadership team of WEA.
You visited Yanqing Theological Seminary and gave a lecture there. What impression did you get from the Chinese Christian youth?
It was exciting to be with students who are hungry to know God and want to serve Him.
Any other observations?
We need to pray for China and our brother and sisters there.
The following article has been produced by the WEA to help guide prayers:
www.worldevangelicals.org/news/view.htm?id=1741
Vietnam to Try American for Terrorism
http://www.newsmax.com/international/vietnam_dissident_trial/2008/05/08/94389.html
HANOI, Vietnam -- A Vietnamese-American and two Vietnamese nationals will be put on trial on charges of terrorism for allegedly planning to distribute anti-government pamphlets in Vietnam, an official said Thursday.
Nguyen Quoc Quan, of Sacramento, and Vietnamese nationals Nguyen Hai and Nguyen The Vu face jail terms of up to seven years if convicted. Their trial begins Tuesday at the People's Court in Ho Chi Minh City, Foreign Ministry spokesman Le Dung said.
The three were arrested last November at a house in Ho Chi Minh City along with Truong Van Ba, an American, and Nguyen Thi Thanh Van, a French national. Authorities allegedly found them preparing to circulate anti-government pamphlets on behalf of Viet Tan, a California-based pro-democracy group that Vietnam considers a terrorist organization.
Viet Tan says it promotes nonviolent political change in Vietnam, and U.S. Ambassador Michael Michalak has said he has seen no evidence the group is engaged in terrorism.
Ba, whose American name is Leon Truong, and Van were released in December.
Vietnamese authorities have said Quan entered the country on a forged Cambodian passport.
Communist Vietnam does not tolerate any form of dissent, which it considers a threat against its one-party rule.
Sri Lankan Priest Killed in a Claymore Mine Attack
http://news.christiansunite.com/Religion_News/religion07158.shtml
(christiansunite.com) - Father M.X. Karunaratnam, the Chairman of the North East Secretariat on Human Rights in Sri Lanka, was killed in a claymore mine attack in the region of Vanni, near the Kushanthai Jesus Church, at approximately 12:30 p.m. on April 20, according to an April 29 report from the National Christian Evangelical Alliance of Sri Lanka.
Father Karunaratnam frequently spoke on behalf of human rights of the civilian population in the northeast of the country, and also provided counseling to those affected by the civil war and the Tsunami.
Pray that those who mourn for Father Karunaratnam will find strength, comfort and peace in Christ. Ask God to raise up other servants of the Gospel to continue His work in Sri Lanka (Matthew 9:38).
For more information on the difficulties facing Christians in Sri Lanka, go to www.persecution.net/country/srilanka.htm.
Christian relief, prayers helping to ease ‘unimaginable suffering’ in Burma
http://www.christiantoday.com/article/christian.relief.prayers.helping.to.ease.unimaginable.suffering.in.burma/18660.htm
Christian aid agencies and leaders are keeping Burma in their prayers as they scramble emergency aid to the cyclone-ravaged country.
Gospel for Asia’s more than 500 native Burmese missionaries are on the ground helping out in communities badly hit by last Saturday’s devastating Cyclone Nargis.
"The suffering of the people is unimaginable," said GFA President KP Yohannan, speaking from India where he is monitoring the situation. "Hundreds of thousands, perhaps millions, are homeless. Food is in short supply, and prices are skyrocketing. Electricity may be out for months. People have lost literally everything."
The missionaries are teaming up with other volunteers to form GFA Compassion Services that will speed relief to the thousands who have been left homeless after whole towns and villages were blown away by 120-mph winds. A GFA-run Bible college is sheltering and feeding survivors, whilst a cyclone relief fund has been set up by the ministry that will gift 100 per cent of the donations to relief for survivors.
Coastal towns and villages in the rice-growing Irrawaddy delta southwest of Rangoon bore the brunt of the cyclone, which swept a 12ft tidal wave across the region, and witnesses told of people clinging to trees in a desperate fight for survival.
The death toll continues to climb. Burma’s state radio and television report that 22,980 are dead and 42,119 still missing. In the town of Bogalay alone, 10,000 people have been killed and 95 per cent of the homes destroyed.
According to Bangkok-based Richard Horsey of the UN Office of the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, 5,000 square km (1,930 square miles) of the Irrawaddy delta remain under water.
The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams, has sent a letter to the Archbishop of Rangoon, the Most Rev Stephen Than Myint Oo, assuring the Anglican Church in Burma of the prayers of the worldwide Anglican Communion.
“Our hearts grieve with all those who have lost their loved ones, their homes and their livelihoods,” the Archbishop of Canterbury wrote. “In the face of such loss, all I can offer in my prayers for you is the totality of the love of God, even in the face of all that on earth is disfigured by natural disaster.”
Quoting John 6.39, he added, “Please be assured that your brothers and sisters across the Communion are holding you in their prayers.”
GFA’s Yohannan also appealed to Christians to keep Burma in their prayers. "The people in Burma live in clusters of small communities in simple bamboo structures. Literally hundreds of these simple structures were just blown away. We are praying here in India and are asking Christians around the world to join us."
A number of ministries, including Christian Aid, World Vision, Tearfund and Barnabas Fund have launched emergency appeals to assess the extent of the damage on the ground and bring immediate relief to the survivors.
The Methodist Church and the Methodist Relief and Development Fund (MRDF) have also launched an emergency appeal for funds.
Michael King, the Methodist Church's World Church Team Leader, said, "The cyclone has created a humanitarian emergency that is unprecedented in Burma’s history. Hundreds of thousands of people are cut off from clean water and shelter, and prices for basic foodstuffs are escalating. We are asking people to offer whatever support they can, both financially and through their prayers."
The Church sent an immediate solidarity grant of £10,000 to the Methodist Church in Myanmar and has launched a joint appeal with MRDF.
Burma’s military government has come under pressure from the US to open its borders so that it can receive more help from the international community. US military aid flights have so far been delayed whilst Washington awaits approval from Burma.
Witnesses on the ground, meanwhile, say that there is little evidence of relief in the delta.
"We'll starve to death, if nothing is sent to us," said Zaw Win, a 32-year-old fisherman who waded through floating corpses to find a boat that would take him to Bogalay two hours away.
"We need food, water, clothes and shelter," he told a Reuters reporter. "We'll starve to death if nothing is sent to us."
Caritas Internationalis is currently coordinating the relief efforts of its 162-strong network of Catholic aid agencies. Caritas Emergency Response Team Leader Dolores Halpin-Bachmann said that the Burmese junta needs to ease access for aid workers if more people are to be saved.
“There is an urgent need for access to aid workers to the affected areas so that we can assess the damage, start to provide food, shelter, clean water, and medical assistance,” she said. “Myanmar (Burma) is a poor country and will most likely need international help to respond to a disaster on this scale. The government must do all it can to help aid workers respond.”
Christians make up only 4 per cent of the population in largely Buddhist Burma and face, alongside other religious and ethnic minorities, fierce persecution from the country’s repressive military junta.
“As we pray for all the people of Burma at this time of crisis, let us especially remember our Christian brothers and sisters,” says Dr Patrick Sookhdeo, International Director of Barnabas Fund. “They have endured many years of persecution, faithfully and courageously. Pray that as this further trial comes upon them, they will be given great grace.”
A letter from Zimbabwe
http://www.christiantoday.com/article/a.letter.from.zimbabwe/18655.htm
As I was writing an article for this web site focusing on the situation in Zimbabwe, I received a letter from a contact there. The timing was so significant I felt it needed to be shared.
Whilst most of us have been shocked and concerned by recent headlines and TV news coverage from Zimbabwe, I think this letter makes the dreadful situation there all the more real. It is personal and factual. The ‘ask’ is not for money but that we rise up and press our leaders to take action.
The author of this letter is a white Zimbabwean who owns a small farm and actively supports a number of families in the local community. He has asked for his name to be withheld. I hope this will inspire us all to pray and shout out for action NOW:
"I reckon that these are the last days of TKM and ZPF. The darkest hour is always before dawn. We are all terrified at what they are going to destroy next...I mean they are actually ploughing down brick and mortar houses and one white family with twin boys of 10 had no chance of salvaging anything when100 riot police came in with AK47's and bulldozers and demolished their house because it was "too close to the airport", so we are feeling extremely insecure right now.
You know I am aware that this does not help you sleep at night, but if you do not know how can you help? Even if you put us in your own mental ring of light and send your guardian angels to be with us - that is a help - but I feel so cut off from you all knowing I cannot tell you what's going on here simply because you will feel uncomfortable. There is no ways we can leave here so that is not an option.
I ask that you all pray for us in the way that you know how, and let me know that you are thinking of us and sending out positive vibes...that's all. You can't just be in denial and pretend/believe it's not going on. To be frank with you, it's genocide in the making and if you do not believe me, read the Genocide Report by Amnesty International which says we are IN level 7 - (level 8 is after it's happened and everyone is in denial).
If you don't want me to tell you these things then it means you have not dealt with your own fear, but it does not help me to think you are turning your back on our situation. We need you, please, to get the news OUT that we are all in a fearfully dangerous situation here. Too many people turn their backs and say - oh well, that's what happens in Africa.
This Government has GONE MAD and you need to help us publicize our plight - or how can we be rescued? It's a reality! The petrol queues are a reality, the pall of smoke all around our city is a reality, the thousands of homeless people sleeping outside in 0 Celsius with no food, water, shelter and bedding are a reality.
Today a family approached me, brother of the gardener's wife with two small children. Their home was trashed and they will have to sleep outside. We already support 8 adult people and a child on this property, and electricity is going up next month by 250% as is water. How can I take on another family of 4 - and yet how can I turn them away to sleep out in the open?
I am not asking you for money or a ticket out of here - I am asking you to FACE the fact that we are in deep and terrible danger and want you please to pass on our news and pictures. Do face the reality of what is going on here and help us SEND OUT THE WORD. The more people who know about it, the more chance we have of the United Nations coming to our aid.
For now, we ourselves have food, shelter, a little fuel and a bit of money for the next meal - but what is going to happen next? Will they start on our houses? All property is going to belong to the State now. I want to send out my Title Deeds to one of you because if they get a hold of those, I can't fight for my rights.
Censorship! We no longer have SW radio [which told us everything that was happening] because the Government jammed it out of existence – we don't have any reporters, and no one is allowed to photograph. If we had reporters here, they would have an absolute field day. Even the pro-Government Herald has written that people are shocked, stunned, bewildered and blown mindless by the wanton destruction of many folks homes, which are supposed to be 'illegal' but for which a huge percentage actually do have licenses.
Please! Have compassion and HELP by sending out any articles and personal reports so that something can be done to help the people here."
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