Today's Cultural Warfare Update
Oct. 16th, 2006 08:26 pm![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
solarbirdSomebody p0wned the Traditional Values Coalition page. I don't know who and I don't know why, but it was a surprise. Anyway, no TVC in this round of updates.
But now, the news:
The next generation of theoconservatives include Stephen Baldwin (yes, the former actor) and Ryan Dobson. Both condemn tolerance, GBLT people, environmentalists, and "inclusive, open-minded Christians." Baldwin in particular apparently likes to talk about breaking peoples' faces and cities on fire. So that's what's up one the older leadership falls over - and for bonus points, he's a cultural advisor to the current chief executive, Mr. Bush. Link found on![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-community.gif)
dark_christian;
The National Association for Research and Therapy of Homosexuality (NARTH), an anti-gay/"ex-gay" group, his a spot of trouble when one of its board members encourages group shaming of GBLT children in school, and the other says black people were better off slaves than being left in Africa; they've yanked the original web documents but they're still on the board. The interesting part is seeing Concerned Women for America wonk Warren Throckmorton quoted with a much less hard "ex-gay" line than usual, saying that acceptance of a gay identity is and can be appropriate;
Mitt Romney (R-MA)'s video presentation to the theoconservative (Family Research Council, Focus on the Family, etc) political rally simulcast apparently went from being taped to being live; here's the Boston Herald article on it; he called for a federal anti-marriage amendment and said that marriage rights hurts children;
Faith and Freedom Network: you're either with us or against us, for "Christian" control of government or with, well, you know. There is no such thing as neutral ground; tolerance is "sinister";
Focus on the Family repeats the "Plan B causes abortion" lie in a story quoting Culture Campaign as saying "it's going to increase the amount of adult-on-teen sex";
Exodus International launches a fundamentalist competitor to the pro-GBLT-tolerant GLSEN, which says it wants to "actively support safer school efforts" but, you know, in an "ex-gay" way;
Justice Scalia: what rights are is a question up to the majority whim, GBLT peoples' rights in particular are not protected by the constitution, government has a proper role in "fostering religious practice";
Faith and Freedom Network papermail-only appeal for money comes out and just says outright, "the real battle is not about gay rights, same-sex marriage, abortion, stem-cell research or judicial reform, it's about which belief will prevail... we know that true freedom is based on a faith in God through Christ." In other words, it's about everyone being Christian. They've also just started calling themselves a ministry. That's new too;
CWA condemns Missouri initiative to allow stem-cell research as "misleading" because it defines cloning for legal purposes as something that will actually lead to a pregnancy and produce a human - it bans that, but allows stem-cell research in general. The fundamentalists are not happy;
CWA links to Robert Novak complaining about the definition of "cloning" as used in the Missouri initiative;
Canada Family Action Coalition reprints a positive review by American Family Association of the book Public Education Against America, which condemns the American public educational system as anti-Christian; mostly interesting because of the transfer of argument/mindset/etc north across the border from American theocons to Canadian;
CFAC: "Sex diseases are rising," blames safer-sex disease-prevention campaigns and (by implication only) gay people;
Family Research Council, American Family Association upset at Secretary Rice over her referring to a gay man's mother-in-law as his, um, mother-in-law, saying the term is reserved for "heterosexuals who have been legally married";
Liberty Counsel launches "Friend or Foe Christmas Campaign" to "help those who face persecution or censorship for celebrating Christmas" in the US; it's more "War on Christmas" bullshit, of course;
Focus on the Family attacks opponents of anti-marriage constitutional amendments as spreading "distortions and out-right lies";
American Family Association/AFA guest commentary wanks on about "making sin acceptable";
AFA has only brief coverage of "Liberty Sunday," where Mitt Romney (above) spoke;
----- 1 -----
Dude, where's my cross?
Stephen Baldwin preaches to teens that Bono is in league with Satan. Don't laugh, the born-again actor is a cultural advisor to Bush and one of the most popular new evangelists in the country.
By Lauren Sandler
Salon.com
9 October 2006
http://www.salon.com/mwt/feature/2006/10/09/baldwin/
Oct. 9, 2006 | On the National Mall in Washington last year, I had the opportunity to bear witness to actor-cum-evangelist Stephen Baldwin. His Livin' It ministry had set up a giant skate park, and under cloudy November skies young disciples flipped tricks. Baldwin, in giant aviator sunglasses, lumbered onto the half-pipe to testify to his "gnarly" rebirth in Christ to a crowd packed onto bleachers. Before the event, volunteers passed out tiny yellow pencils and "decision cards" to hordes of young spectators, who sat about a hundred yards from where the Constitution lies under thick glass. The cards would commit teens to a life in Christ if they were to undergo their own gnarly rebirth that afternoon.
To plenty of passersby strolling on the mall that day, Baldwin's nouveau Bible-thumping to the kids and parents gathered before him may have seemed like a desperate attempt by a B-list movie star to attract an audience. But, in fact, Baldwin's youth ministry has gathered tens of thousands of decision cards -- and faith-professing e-mails -- in the past couple of years. These days, Baldwin not only has the ear of young boys who cleave to his fundamentalist reading of the Bible, and whatever skein of celebrity still clings to his Jesus T-shirts. He has been named a cultural advisor to President Bush, a formidable follow-up to his invitation to speak at the Republican National Convention, where he announced proudly from the podium, "I'm here because of my faith."
Now Baldwin has released a memoir, "The Unusual Suspect," a reference to the one critically acclaimed film for which he's known. The book, the "Gospel according to Stevie B.," is part testimonial and part evangelical manifesto, a cocktail of anti-intellectualism and a biblical interpretation that would have Jesus spinning in his grave, had he stayed there. Baldwin preaches that free will is a lie of Satan -- we must shut off our brains, he says, and be led by what God tells our hearts. Furthermore, he writes, efforts to end global poverty and violence are just the sort of "stupid arrogance" that incur God's wrath, which we'll be feeling any day now in the coming apocalypse. I suppose when the star of "Bio-Dome" is advising the president and converting kids by the thousands to his gnarly brand of faith, the end is, indeed, nigh.
[...]
All of this might seem like the easily ignorable ravings of a Hollywood has-been if the book wasn't climbing bestseller lists. Baldwin writes that "God has called me to go and make disciples of the youth of America. That is what I am going to try to do, and if you try to stop me I am going to break your face." Most frightening of all, Baldwin is succeeding. All of his dude-speak is actually speaking to the dudes. Thanks to his book, videos and live sermons, he continues to draw thousands of young people across the country into his church of celebrity and absolutism.
[...]
Ryan Dobson receives a shout-out in Baldwin's book as a messenger for "Homey," as Baldwin calls God. In Dobson's book "Be Intolerant," he rails against relativism, homosexuals, environmentalists and "inclusive, open-minded Christians," charging his readers to "get your armor on and take up your cross." He knows just how to instill pride in the heart of his father. "I bleed conservatism, Dobson told me when I met him at a Christian publishing convention in Denver last year, crossing his ornately inked arms over a T-shirt that says, "Jesus Loves My Tattoos." "I see conservatives like me everywhere, at hot rod shows in Vegas, surfing top breaks on the coast, crazy motocross freaks like me living for Jesus. We know we're right, we have the power of the truth behind us. And because of that, I see cities on fire."
[More at URL]
----- 2 -----
'Ex-Gay' Group Draws Fire From Allies
Backers raise concerns about online postings. One advocated ridicule of nonconforming children; the other seemed to justify slavery.
By Stephanie Simon, Time Staff Writer
October 15, 2006
Long URL elided
The National Assn. for Research & Therapy of Homosexuality positions itself as a scientific group dedicated to helping gay men and lesbians shed same-sex attractions and realize their "heterosexual potential."
Its statements routinely outrage gay-rights activists. But two commentaries posted online in recent months by members of NARTH's scientific advisory committee have raised concerns among its closest allies as well.
One psychiatrist called for allowing schoolchildren to shame and ridicule classmates who don't act according to stereotypical gender roles. Another board member, a therapist, asserted that slaves may have been better off in chains than in "savage" Africa.
One of NARTH's scientific advisors has quit in protest, and a prominent therapist has canceled his presentation at the group's annual conference next month. Alan Chambers, who leads the nation's largest support group for "ex-gays," urged NARTH's members to "think long and hard about the mission of the organization."
[...]
Therapist Warren Throckmorton, an associate professor of psychology at Grove City College in Pennsylvania, has long been concerned that NARTH overemphasizes poor parenting as the root of homosexuality. He's also uneasy that NARTH rejects even the possibility of a fulfilling life with a same-sex partner.
At the upcoming conference, Throckmorton had hoped to persuade NARTH therapists to adopt the approach he uses, which is to help patients find harmony between their sexual identity and their religious values. For some, that means trying to change their attraction to the same sex; for others, it means finding peace with a gay identity.
"Therapists should not impose their view of the outcome on clients," Throckmorton said.
[Editor's note: Regular readers should know that Warren Throckmorton is a regular Concerned Women for America wonk who in real life spends his time delivering the CWA-compatible ex-gay line. This is the first notice I've ever seen of him anywhere ever having anything other than "queers must be ex-queers" ever. I don't know whether he's lying to the Los Angeles Times or whether he's changing his tune.]
[More at URL]
----- 3 -----
Attack on gay marriage - Gov blasts Bay State in his own backyard
By Jessica Fargen
Boston Herald Health & Medical Reporter
Monday, October 16, 2006 - Updated: 07:31 AM EST
http://news.bostonherald.com/localPolitics/view.bg?articleid=162563
In a passionate pitch simulcast to millions of Christian conservatives across the nation, Gov. Mitt Romney blasted gay marriage in Massachusettsas a danger to kids and urged the passage of a national ban on same-sex marriage.
"The price of same-sex marriage is paid by the children," said Romney during a brief but peppy speech from Boston duringa forum hosted by the Family Research Council. "The child’s development is enhanced by the nurturing of parents of both genders. Every child deserves a mother and a father."
[...]
"Once again he chooses to demonize loving couples and families in Massachusetts as part of his heartless crusade for the presidential nomination," said Marc Solomon, campaign director from MassEquality. "Everyone but Romney has moved on and we just wish he’d finally bite the bullet, move out and drop this pretend game of governing."
[...]
Romney joined Tony Perkins, president of the Family Research Council, to enumerate what they see as violations of freedom of religion brought on by gay marriage. They cited the end of Catholic Charities adoptions when it refused to adopt to gays and exposure to gay-friendly lessons in schools.
"What happens here will affect every state in the nation," Romney said. He called for a federal constitutional amendment banning gay nuptials.
[More at URL]
----- 4 -----
Why We Must Take Sides
Faith and Freedom Network
Monday, October 16, 2006
http://www.faithandfreedom.us/weblog/2006/10/why-we-must-take-sides.html
Neutrality is a myth. It is not possible to be completely neutral about anything, particularly religion - especially Christianity.
Yet we have gotten to a place in America where there are those who seek to remove the Christian influence that not only gave birth to our country, but made it the great “city on a hill.” And if the Christian voice of influence can’t be silenced, it must be retracted inside the walls of church buildings under the banner of “separation” of church and state, while mainstream society takes a neutral position.
[...]
Jesus was also very clear on the idea of neutrality. In fact, He said, if you are a follower of me, you can’t be neutral. He said, “He that is not with me, is against me; and he that gathereth not with me, scattereth abroad.” (Matthew 12:30).
Neutrality seems like an innocent, harmless word. Kind of like tolerance. They carry the overtones of open-mindedness, fair play, objectivity and virtue. They certainly sound like words for the twenty-first century. They hardly sound like words that carry some sinister potential. Yet, they do.
[...]
It is simply not possible to be neutral. God didn’t create us that way and Jesus taught that we will not be neutral.
This is a time when we must choose sides. Everyday our culture is assaulted by those who wish to redefine family, marriage, morality and America itself.
[More at URL]
----- 5 -----
Abortion Advocates Sue Over Plan B
Center for Reproductive Rights wants morning-after pill available to girls under 18 without a prescription.
Focus on the Family
from staff reports
October 16, 2006
http://www.family.org/cforum/news/a0042318.cfm
The Center for Reproductive Rights (CRR) is suing the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), hoping to make the morning-after-pill available to girls under 18. The move flies in the face of an agreement the FDA made with Barr Laboratories, which prohibits younger girls from getting the drug without a prescription.
[...]
The morning-after pill, also known as Plan B, delivers a high dose of the same hormones used in birth-control pills and can sometimes cause an early abortion.
Sandy Rios, president of Culture Campaign, said if the legal challenge to the FDA's decision to make Plan B available over the counter to women under 18 is successful, it will be "open season on our kids."
"When you make this kind of a pill available to adolescents," she told Family News in Focus, "it's going to increase the amount of adult-on-teen sex."
[More at URL]
----- 6 -----
Scalia Gives ACLU an Earful
by Pete Winn, associate editor
Focus on the Family
October 16, 2006
http://www.family.org/cforum/extras/a0042323.cfm
The Court's top conservative confronts the American Civil Liberties Union face to face — not that his insights changed any minds.
Delegates to the American Civil Liberties Union's (ACLU) annual conference in Washington, D.C., heard from a conservative icon Sunday night — Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia.
Speaking to an audience of 1,500 civil libertarians during an hour-long debate with ACLU President Nadine Strossen, Scalia spoke out about abortion, same-sex marriage and religious freedom.
[...]
Scalia said our forefathers never included abortion or homosexual activism in the Bill of Rights.
"Nobody ever thought that they had been included in the rights contained in the Bill of Rights," he said, "which is why abortion and homosexual sodomy were criminal for 200 years."
[...]
Taking a firm stance on religious freedom, Scalia said it was clear that, throughout our history, no one thought the Constitution's First Amendment prevented the government from fostering religious practice, or being favorable towards religion.
[More at URL]
----- 7 -----
What Should We Tell Our Children?
Faith and Freedom Foundation
PO Box 399
Bellevue, WA 98009
www.faithandfreedom.us
October 1, 2006
[Received in paper mail; no URL]
Dear Friends of Faith and Freedom:
We all care a great deal about our children and grandchildren. This past year, the point has been well made by Senator Dan Swecker and others that marriage is more about the children - the next generation than it is about me and what I want and when I want it.
There are two very different world views competing for dominance in our country today.
It is between those who believe in the primacy of the individual and whose who believe that human beings owe their allegiance and identity to God. It is between those who give priority to live at the moment, with little regard for others or the future, and those who believe that there is accountability to God, freedom with restraint and eternal consequences. One believes that they create their own "truth" through science, reason, and logic, while the other believes that ultimate 'truth" is divinely revealed through scripture and a personal relationship with God. One is secular and man centered - the other is Christian and God centered.
WHAT SHOULD WE TELL OUR CHILDREN?
This is the reason Faith and Freedom was formed in the first place - to advance Judeo-Christian principles in our society.
Your financial support allows Faith and Freedom to continue each month in this struggle for our future - the struggle for the next generation.
Gay rights have dominated the political process this year in Washington. We have been in the trenches and will continue to be on every issue because people supported us prayerfully and financially.
In fact, I have included a review sheet of the past nine months which includes a look at where we are going in 2007.
But the real battle is not about gay rights, same-sex marriage, abortion, stem-cell research or judicial reform, it's about which belief will prevail and what we will tell our children. The politics of it all are symptoms, but they must be addressed.
The reason we chose the words, "Faith and Freedom," is because we know that true freedom is based on a faith in God through Christ.
While may believe what I have just shared, few are willing to step up and make a difference. I believe you are one of those who are willing.
In this past primary race, we put out hundreds of thousands of Judicial Voter Guids, yet there are things we had wanted to do, but were unable to do because we simply didn't have the money to do.
Your tax-deductible gift today enables us to continue in this battle and it is a vote on what our children will be told.
If gay rights legislation is enshrined into law, our children will grow up in a very different world than you and I know.
Our kids are already being taught, in any number of ways, that the Bible is irrelevant - out of date, that man is the ultimate authority and truth is relative. It's what you want it to be. This, with the devaluing of life through abortion-on-demand, creates hopelessness.
As we look at the November election, there are still some things that we can do, that will make a difference. Particularly in the judicial race.
I have also enclosed a Judicial Voter's Guide for the Steve Johnson - Susan Owens race for the Washington Supreme Court. Please distribute it.
While we will be casting our votes in the November election, not only for candidates but issues as well, it's important that we cast a vote toward what we believe.
To support the ministry of Faith and Freedom is a vote in that direction.
We use the money we receive wisely and prudently. We deeply believe we are investing in the next generation and in eternity.
Thank you for your most generous gift.
God bless you,
Gary Randall
President
P.S Your gift is tax-deductible
[Ed. Note: Here's the text of the included "voter's guide"]
Faith and Freedom Network
A Faith and Family Perspective
Candidates for the Supreme Court
Stephen Johnson
Record on Social Issues -
* 100% Pro-Life Voting Record
* Voted "No" on the gay rights Bill HB 2661
* 100% rating with the Conservative Coalition
Social Issues Endorsements -
* Pro-Life Groups
* Committee for Judicial Restraint
* Constitutional Law PAC
Susan Owens
Record on Social Issues -
* Owens ruled against the Defense of Marriage Act and in Favor of Gay Marriage
* Owens ruled in favor of tax money being spent on benefits for homosexual couples. Heinsma vs. Vancouver.
* Owens ruled to allow a non-custodial lesbian couple custody of a child. Sue Ellen ('Mian") Carvin vs. Page Britain.
Social Issues Endorsements -
* National Abortion Rights League
* Equal Rights Washington
"gay marriage group"
These are not endorsement
For Educational Purposes Only
Paid for by Faith and Freedom Network
www.faithandfreedom.us
----- 8 -----
Missouri's Cloning Initiative: Your State Could Be Next!
Missouri voters will decide whether to fund embryo-destructive research.
Concerned Women for America
10/16/2006
By Cara Cook
http://www.cwfa.org/articles/11635/CWA/life/index.htm
Missourians will vote on a key initiative this November 7, the outcome of which could be essential or detrimental to women's health and the protection of human life in the state. The proposed amendment to be voted on, the "Missouri Research and Cures Initiative" or Amendment 2, will force taxpayers to fund human cloning for research purposes.
The text that will appear on the ballot is deceptive. One part claims that the measure will "ban human cloning or attempted cloning." Article 6.2 of the amendment (which will not be printed on the ballot), however, extrapolates on its creative definition of human cloning: "clone or attempt to clone a human being means to implant in a uterus or attempt to plant in a uterus..."
In other words, the measure would allow the creation of human embryos for experiments which would involve their destruction, as long as the embryos are not implanted in a uterus. The framers of the initiative have narrowed the definition of cloning to mean the implantation of a cloned embryo into a uterus, attempting to fool voters who have not read the fine print.
[More at URL]
----- 9 -----
Misleading measure may launch U.S. cloning
October 16, 2006
BY ROBERT NOVAK Sun-Times Columnist
Chicago Sun-Times
http://www.suntimes.com/news/novak/97998,CST-EDT-novak16.article
A new video available on YouTube marks a late attempt by pro-life forces to avert serious defeat in Missouri Nov. 7, with national implications. Cathy Ruse, speaking for Missourians Against Human Cloning, declares: "Amendment 2 is a fraud. It is an attempt to trick Missourians into approving -- in their Constitution -- human cloning, the right of biotech firms to do human cloning in Missouri -- something Missourians oppose by an overwhelming majority."
But Amendment 2 is identified for many Missouri voters by the language at the beginning of the five-page, 2,000-word ballot initiative: "No person may clone or attempt to clone a human being." That explains why polls have shown a substantial margin of support for the constitutional amendment, also backed by key Republican politicians and business interests. It seems to offer the best of all worlds: government support of stem cell research without fear of cloning.
The problem is that the proposal so narrowly defines cloning as to open the door in Missouri to any cloning procedure that takes place outside the womb. If this is approved by a state that historically is a barometer of national trends and is considered a pro-life stronghold, it will be a national model for breaking popular resistance to what the scientists and biotech companies want.
[More at URL]
----- 10 -----
New Book Exposes Startling Truths About America's Public School System
Canada Family Action Coalition
[Reprint from] AgapePress - Book Review
by James L. Lambert
October 13, 2006
Public Education Against America
by Marlin Maddoux, Late Founder of USA Radio Network
http://www.familyaction.org/Articles/issues/education/against-america.htm
The Christian world was deeply affected in March 2004 by news of the passing of Marlin Maddoux, a pioneer in radio as well as a noted journalist and author, who also hosted the weekday radio program, "Point of View" (featured on the USA Radio Network). And at his untimely death, the author's closest friends discovered another important contribution -- the transcripts for his new book, Public Education Against America (Whitaker House Press).
The book is an expose of sorts, loaded with facts CBS News, PBS Radio or the New York Times would never disclose. In fact, Maddoux recounts numerous times in the book that the data he accessed on some of his radio programs was almost unbelievable. His skills as an investigative reporter enabled him to dig to the root of many of the issues confronting public education, and the book is packed with statistics that will alert parents to the crisis in America's public school system.
[More at URL]
----- 11 -----
Sex diseases are rising
Canada Family Action Coalition
http://www.familyaction.org/Articles/issues/sexuality/stds-rising.htm
Well, is it any wonder?? Oh maybe it is because of people not practicing “ safe” sex! The result of the lie about safe sex has done more harm than any one thing in increasing sex diseases . Promiscuity is always high risk. People are not honest about their sexual behavior. Many do not even know they are infected. Previous promiscuous acts do increase the chances of getting AID or other sex diseases.
And does one have to research why less than 2 % of the population has 70 % of the AIDS. Their behavior, but idiot ideology foisted upon society by activists and so called AIDS experts is disingenuous – well actually it is dishonest and perhaps should be considered criminally irresponsible. Now persons who know they have AIDS and knowingly spread it can be charged. Maybe activists, health organizations, and education institutions who continue to provide false or misleading information should also be charged.
[More at URL]
----- 12 -----
Rice's 'Mother-in-Law' Comment Raises Conservative Hackles
Remark Comes During Swearing In of Open Homosexual to Ambassador-Level Post
American Family Association/Agape Press
By Fred Jackson and Jim Brown
October 16, 2006
http://headlines.agapepress.org/archive/10/afa/162006a.asp
(AgapePress) - A spokesman for a family-advocacy group in Washington, DC, is expressing disgust with Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice's swearing in of an openly homosexual man as global AIDS coordinator -- and in particular, with comments she made at the ceremony.
Late last week, USA Today stated that the Republican Party is facing what it calls an "identity crisis" when it comes to efforts to try to please both homosexuals and conservative Christians. The report used a ceremony at the State Department to provide a very pointed example of how the GOP seems to want the support of "values voters," but are willing to appease the homosexual activist agenda.
The ceremony involved Secretary of State Rice and the swearing in of Mark Dybul, an open homosexual, as the nation's new global AIDS coordinator -- a position that carries the rank of ambassador. An Associated Press photo of the ceremony also shows a smiling First Lady Laura Bush and Dybul's homosexual "partner," Jason Claire. During her comments, Rice referred to the presence of Claire's mother and called her Dybul's "mother-in-law," a term normally reserved for the heterosexuals who have been legally married.
The Washington Blade, a pro-homosexual publication in the nation's capital, was accurate on Friday when it predicted Rice's remarks would "rais[e] the eyebrows of conservative Christian leaders." Peter Sprigg, vice president for policy at the Family Research Council, says the secretary's comments were "profoundly offensive" and fly in the face of the Bush administration's endorsement of a federal marriage protection amendment, though that backing be less than enthusiastic.
[More at URL]
----- 13 -----
Liberty Counsel Kicks Off Annual 'Friend or Foe Christmas Campaign'
By Allie Martin
American Family Association/Agape Press
October 16, 2006
http://headlines.agapepress.org/archive/10/afa/162006b.asp
(AgapePress) - Liberty Counsel, a Florida-based public-interest law firm specializing in the defense of civil liberties, has launched its fourth annual "Friend or Foe Christmas Campaign," an effort to defend Christmas from secularist attempts to suppress the holiday's traditional, faith-based aspects.
The campaign is designed to help those who face persecution or censorship for celebrating Christmas. Mat Staver, founder of Liberty Counsel, expects another active season. "Last year, we put the 'grinches' on the run," he notes, " and this year, millions of Americans will join together to help save Christmas."
[More at URL]
----- 14 -----
Marriage Amendment Myths Get Busted
In some states, gay activists are weaving a tapestry of distortions and out-right lies to counter the overwhelming support the ballot measures have among voters.
by Josh Montez
Focus on the Family
October 16, 2006
http://www.family.org/cforum/fnif/news/a0042313.cfm
Leftist groups are circulating TV ads charging that the marriage amendments aren't necessary.
“Do we need the so-called ‘protect marriage amendment?’ Same-sex marriage is already illegal in Arizona.”
[More at URL]
----- 15 -----
Making Sin Acceptable
By Al Menconi
Al Menconi Ministries
Guest Commentary
American Family Association/Agape Press
October 16, 2006
http://headlines.agapepress.org/archive/10/afa/162006gst.asp
(AgapePress) - Politicians are asking the entertainment industry to be more responsible with what they are producing. Responses have been mixed. Many agree, but others say the responsibility lies solely with parents to supervise their family's entertainment. As a parent, I know that's easier said than done. These days there is so much garbage to supervise, that it's become a full-time job. And when you think about the single parents who are just trying to hold their families together, the job becomes almost impossible.
What makes this issue even more difficult for Christians is that we're being asked to evaluate immorality that has become commonplace in today's society. There was a time when we would not have tolerated some of the filth that passes for entertainment today, but now it has become commonplace. How did this happen? It starts when a musician, movie, or TV program "boldly pushes the envelope" of acceptable morals and good taste. They usually do this to get noticed -- and it usually works. Then someone else goes further so they can get noticed. And then another goes a little further than the last guy. Before we realize it, those immoral borders we thought would never be crossed now have become the "norm."
[...]
Need proof? Think back. Do you remember when the TV program Three's Company was considered risqué because two young women had a man as a roommate? They had to pretend that he was a homosexual so the landlord would accept their situation. When kids watch this program on reruns, they don't even get the "joke" because living together is an accepted practice on television. We've come a long way since 1977, haven't we?
[More at URL]
----- 16 -----
Commentary & News Briefs
October 16, 2006
American Family Association/Agape Press
Compiled by Jenni Parker
http://headlines.agapepress.org/archive/10/afa/162006h.asp
...Conservative religious and political leaders rallied last night in opposition to homosexual "marriage," arguing that their rights to religious expression are being threatened. The event, called Liberty Sunday, was broadcast by the Family Research Council to churches nationally and is part of a larger effort to energize conservative voters before the Congressional elections in three weeks. The event was held in Boston because Massachusetts is the only state that has legalized same-sex marriage. FRC head Tony Perkins says the legal decision "threatens to spread across the country." He called for supporters to pray ten minutes daily about the nation and upcoming election. The event was held in Boston's Tremont Temple Baptist Church. Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney, a likely Republican candidate for president in 2008, was among the speakers.
[More at URL]
But now, the news:
The next generation of theoconservatives include Stephen Baldwin (yes, the former actor) and Ryan Dobson. Both condemn tolerance, GBLT people, environmentalists, and "inclusive, open-minded Christians." Baldwin in particular apparently likes to talk about breaking peoples' faces and cities on fire. So that's what's up one the older leadership falls over - and for bonus points, he's a cultural advisor to the current chief executive, Mr. Bush. Link found on
dark_christian;The National Association for Research and Therapy of Homosexuality (NARTH), an anti-gay/"ex-gay" group, his a spot of trouble when one of its board members encourages group shaming of GBLT children in school, and the other says black people were better off slaves than being left in Africa; they've yanked the original web documents but they're still on the board. The interesting part is seeing Concerned Women for America wonk Warren Throckmorton quoted with a much less hard "ex-gay" line than usual, saying that acceptance of a gay identity is and can be appropriate;
Mitt Romney (R-MA)'s video presentation to the theoconservative (Family Research Council, Focus on the Family, etc) political rally simulcast apparently went from being taped to being live; here's the Boston Herald article on it; he called for a federal anti-marriage amendment and said that marriage rights hurts children;
Faith and Freedom Network: you're either with us or against us, for "Christian" control of government or with, well, you know. There is no such thing as neutral ground; tolerance is "sinister";
Focus on the Family repeats the "Plan B causes abortion" lie in a story quoting Culture Campaign as saying "it's going to increase the amount of adult-on-teen sex";
Exodus International launches a fundamentalist competitor to the pro-GBLT-tolerant GLSEN, which says it wants to "actively support safer school efforts" but, you know, in an "ex-gay" way;
Justice Scalia: what rights are is a question up to the majority whim, GBLT peoples' rights in particular are not protected by the constitution, government has a proper role in "fostering religious practice";
Faith and Freedom Network papermail-only appeal for money comes out and just says outright, "the real battle is not about gay rights, same-sex marriage, abortion, stem-cell research or judicial reform, it's about which belief will prevail... we know that true freedom is based on a faith in God through Christ." In other words, it's about everyone being Christian. They've also just started calling themselves a ministry. That's new too;
CWA condemns Missouri initiative to allow stem-cell research as "misleading" because it defines cloning for legal purposes as something that will actually lead to a pregnancy and produce a human - it bans that, but allows stem-cell research in general. The fundamentalists are not happy;
CWA links to Robert Novak complaining about the definition of "cloning" as used in the Missouri initiative;
Canada Family Action Coalition reprints a positive review by American Family Association of the book Public Education Against America, which condemns the American public educational system as anti-Christian; mostly interesting because of the transfer of argument/mindset/etc north across the border from American theocons to Canadian;
CFAC: "Sex diseases are rising," blames safer-sex disease-prevention campaigns and (by implication only) gay people;
Family Research Council, American Family Association upset at Secretary Rice over her referring to a gay man's mother-in-law as his, um, mother-in-law, saying the term is reserved for "heterosexuals who have been legally married";
Liberty Counsel launches "Friend or Foe Christmas Campaign" to "help those who face persecution or censorship for celebrating Christmas" in the US; it's more "War on Christmas" bullshit, of course;
Focus on the Family attacks opponents of anti-marriage constitutional amendments as spreading "distortions and out-right lies";
American Family Association/AFA guest commentary wanks on about "making sin acceptable";
AFA has only brief coverage of "Liberty Sunday," where Mitt Romney (above) spoke;
----- 1 -----
Dude, where's my cross?
Stephen Baldwin preaches to teens that Bono is in league with Satan. Don't laugh, the born-again actor is a cultural advisor to Bush and one of the most popular new evangelists in the country.
By Lauren Sandler
Salon.com
9 October 2006
http://www.salon.com/mwt/feature/2006/10/09/baldwin/
Oct. 9, 2006 | On the National Mall in Washington last year, I had the opportunity to bear witness to actor-cum-evangelist Stephen Baldwin. His Livin' It ministry had set up a giant skate park, and under cloudy November skies young disciples flipped tricks. Baldwin, in giant aviator sunglasses, lumbered onto the half-pipe to testify to his "gnarly" rebirth in Christ to a crowd packed onto bleachers. Before the event, volunteers passed out tiny yellow pencils and "decision cards" to hordes of young spectators, who sat about a hundred yards from where the Constitution lies under thick glass. The cards would commit teens to a life in Christ if they were to undergo their own gnarly rebirth that afternoon.
To plenty of passersby strolling on the mall that day, Baldwin's nouveau Bible-thumping to the kids and parents gathered before him may have seemed like a desperate attempt by a B-list movie star to attract an audience. But, in fact, Baldwin's youth ministry has gathered tens of thousands of decision cards -- and faith-professing e-mails -- in the past couple of years. These days, Baldwin not only has the ear of young boys who cleave to his fundamentalist reading of the Bible, and whatever skein of celebrity still clings to his Jesus T-shirts. He has been named a cultural advisor to President Bush, a formidable follow-up to his invitation to speak at the Republican National Convention, where he announced proudly from the podium, "I'm here because of my faith."
Now Baldwin has released a memoir, "The Unusual Suspect," a reference to the one critically acclaimed film for which he's known. The book, the "Gospel according to Stevie B.," is part testimonial and part evangelical manifesto, a cocktail of anti-intellectualism and a biblical interpretation that would have Jesus spinning in his grave, had he stayed there. Baldwin preaches that free will is a lie of Satan -- we must shut off our brains, he says, and be led by what God tells our hearts. Furthermore, he writes, efforts to end global poverty and violence are just the sort of "stupid arrogance" that incur God's wrath, which we'll be feeling any day now in the coming apocalypse. I suppose when the star of "Bio-Dome" is advising the president and converting kids by the thousands to his gnarly brand of faith, the end is, indeed, nigh.
[...]
All of this might seem like the easily ignorable ravings of a Hollywood has-been if the book wasn't climbing bestseller lists. Baldwin writes that "God has called me to go and make disciples of the youth of America. That is what I am going to try to do, and if you try to stop me I am going to break your face." Most frightening of all, Baldwin is succeeding. All of his dude-speak is actually speaking to the dudes. Thanks to his book, videos and live sermons, he continues to draw thousands of young people across the country into his church of celebrity and absolutism.
[...]
Ryan Dobson receives a shout-out in Baldwin's book as a messenger for "Homey," as Baldwin calls God. In Dobson's book "Be Intolerant," he rails against relativism, homosexuals, environmentalists and "inclusive, open-minded Christians," charging his readers to "get your armor on and take up your cross." He knows just how to instill pride in the heart of his father. "I bleed conservatism, Dobson told me when I met him at a Christian publishing convention in Denver last year, crossing his ornately inked arms over a T-shirt that says, "Jesus Loves My Tattoos." "I see conservatives like me everywhere, at hot rod shows in Vegas, surfing top breaks on the coast, crazy motocross freaks like me living for Jesus. We know we're right, we have the power of the truth behind us. And because of that, I see cities on fire."
[More at URL]
----- 2 -----
'Ex-Gay' Group Draws Fire From Allies
Backers raise concerns about online postings. One advocated ridicule of nonconforming children; the other seemed to justify slavery.
By Stephanie Simon, Time Staff Writer
October 15, 2006
Long URL elided
The National Assn. for Research & Therapy of Homosexuality positions itself as a scientific group dedicated to helping gay men and lesbians shed same-sex attractions and realize their "heterosexual potential."
Its statements routinely outrage gay-rights activists. But two commentaries posted online in recent months by members of NARTH's scientific advisory committee have raised concerns among its closest allies as well.
One psychiatrist called for allowing schoolchildren to shame and ridicule classmates who don't act according to stereotypical gender roles. Another board member, a therapist, asserted that slaves may have been better off in chains than in "savage" Africa.
One of NARTH's scientific advisors has quit in protest, and a prominent therapist has canceled his presentation at the group's annual conference next month. Alan Chambers, who leads the nation's largest support group for "ex-gays," urged NARTH's members to "think long and hard about the mission of the organization."
[...]
Therapist Warren Throckmorton, an associate professor of psychology at Grove City College in Pennsylvania, has long been concerned that NARTH overemphasizes poor parenting as the root of homosexuality. He's also uneasy that NARTH rejects even the possibility of a fulfilling life with a same-sex partner.
At the upcoming conference, Throckmorton had hoped to persuade NARTH therapists to adopt the approach he uses, which is to help patients find harmony between their sexual identity and their religious values. For some, that means trying to change their attraction to the same sex; for others, it means finding peace with a gay identity.
"Therapists should not impose their view of the outcome on clients," Throckmorton said.
[Editor's note: Regular readers should know that Warren Throckmorton is a regular Concerned Women for America wonk who in real life spends his time delivering the CWA-compatible ex-gay line. This is the first notice I've ever seen of him anywhere ever having anything other than "queers must be ex-queers" ever. I don't know whether he's lying to the Los Angeles Times or whether he's changing his tune.]
[More at URL]
----- 3 -----
Attack on gay marriage - Gov blasts Bay State in his own backyard
By Jessica Fargen
Boston Herald Health & Medical Reporter
Monday, October 16, 2006 - Updated: 07:31 AM EST
http://news.bostonherald.com/localPolitics/view.bg?articleid=162563
In a passionate pitch simulcast to millions of Christian conservatives across the nation, Gov. Mitt Romney blasted gay marriage in Massachusettsas a danger to kids and urged the passage of a national ban on same-sex marriage.
"The price of same-sex marriage is paid by the children," said Romney during a brief but peppy speech from Boston duringa forum hosted by the Family Research Council. "The child’s development is enhanced by the nurturing of parents of both genders. Every child deserves a mother and a father."
[...]
"Once again he chooses to demonize loving couples and families in Massachusetts as part of his heartless crusade for the presidential nomination," said Marc Solomon, campaign director from MassEquality. "Everyone but Romney has moved on and we just wish he’d finally bite the bullet, move out and drop this pretend game of governing."
[...]
Romney joined Tony Perkins, president of the Family Research Council, to enumerate what they see as violations of freedom of religion brought on by gay marriage. They cited the end of Catholic Charities adoptions when it refused to adopt to gays and exposure to gay-friendly lessons in schools.
"What happens here will affect every state in the nation," Romney said. He called for a federal constitutional amendment banning gay nuptials.
[More at URL]
----- 4 -----
Why We Must Take Sides
Faith and Freedom Network
Monday, October 16, 2006
http://www.faithandfreedom.us/weblog/2006/10/why-we-must-take-sides.html
Neutrality is a myth. It is not possible to be completely neutral about anything, particularly religion - especially Christianity.
Yet we have gotten to a place in America where there are those who seek to remove the Christian influence that not only gave birth to our country, but made it the great “city on a hill.” And if the Christian voice of influence can’t be silenced, it must be retracted inside the walls of church buildings under the banner of “separation” of church and state, while mainstream society takes a neutral position.
[...]
Jesus was also very clear on the idea of neutrality. In fact, He said, if you are a follower of me, you can’t be neutral. He said, “He that is not with me, is against me; and he that gathereth not with me, scattereth abroad.” (Matthew 12:30).
Neutrality seems like an innocent, harmless word. Kind of like tolerance. They carry the overtones of open-mindedness, fair play, objectivity and virtue. They certainly sound like words for the twenty-first century. They hardly sound like words that carry some sinister potential. Yet, they do.
[...]
It is simply not possible to be neutral. God didn’t create us that way and Jesus taught that we will not be neutral.
This is a time when we must choose sides. Everyday our culture is assaulted by those who wish to redefine family, marriage, morality and America itself.
[More at URL]
----- 5 -----
Abortion Advocates Sue Over Plan B
Center for Reproductive Rights wants morning-after pill available to girls under 18 without a prescription.
Focus on the Family
from staff reports
October 16, 2006
http://www.family.org/cforum/news/a0042318.cfm
The Center for Reproductive Rights (CRR) is suing the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), hoping to make the morning-after-pill available to girls under 18. The move flies in the face of an agreement the FDA made with Barr Laboratories, which prohibits younger girls from getting the drug without a prescription.
[...]
The morning-after pill, also known as Plan B, delivers a high dose of the same hormones used in birth-control pills and can sometimes cause an early abortion.
Sandy Rios, president of Culture Campaign, said if the legal challenge to the FDA's decision to make Plan B available over the counter to women under 18 is successful, it will be "open season on our kids."
"When you make this kind of a pill available to adolescents," she told Family News in Focus, "it's going to increase the amount of adult-on-teen sex."
[More at URL]
----- 6 -----
Scalia Gives ACLU an Earful
by Pete Winn, associate editor
Focus on the Family
October 16, 2006
http://www.family.org/cforum/extras/a0042323.cfm
The Court's top conservative confronts the American Civil Liberties Union face to face — not that his insights changed any minds.
Delegates to the American Civil Liberties Union's (ACLU) annual conference in Washington, D.C., heard from a conservative icon Sunday night — Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia.
Speaking to an audience of 1,500 civil libertarians during an hour-long debate with ACLU President Nadine Strossen, Scalia spoke out about abortion, same-sex marriage and religious freedom.
[...]
Scalia said our forefathers never included abortion or homosexual activism in the Bill of Rights.
"Nobody ever thought that they had been included in the rights contained in the Bill of Rights," he said, "which is why abortion and homosexual sodomy were criminal for 200 years."
[...]
Taking a firm stance on religious freedom, Scalia said it was clear that, throughout our history, no one thought the Constitution's First Amendment prevented the government from fostering religious practice, or being favorable towards religion.
[More at URL]
----- 7 -----
What Should We Tell Our Children?
Faith and Freedom Foundation
PO Box 399
Bellevue, WA 98009
www.faithandfreedom.us
October 1, 2006
[Received in paper mail; no URL]
Dear Friends of Faith and Freedom:
We all care a great deal about our children and grandchildren. This past year, the point has been well made by Senator Dan Swecker and others that marriage is more about the children - the next generation than it is about me and what I want and when I want it.
There are two very different world views competing for dominance in our country today.
It is between those who believe in the primacy of the individual and whose who believe that human beings owe their allegiance and identity to God. It is between those who give priority to live at the moment, with little regard for others or the future, and those who believe that there is accountability to God, freedom with restraint and eternal consequences. One believes that they create their own "truth" through science, reason, and logic, while the other believes that ultimate 'truth" is divinely revealed through scripture and a personal relationship with God. One is secular and man centered - the other is Christian and God centered.
WHAT SHOULD WE TELL OUR CHILDREN?
This is the reason Faith and Freedom was formed in the first place - to advance Judeo-Christian principles in our society.
Your financial support allows Faith and Freedom to continue each month in this struggle for our future - the struggle for the next generation.
Gay rights have dominated the political process this year in Washington. We have been in the trenches and will continue to be on every issue because people supported us prayerfully and financially.
In fact, I have included a review sheet of the past nine months which includes a look at where we are going in 2007.
But the real battle is not about gay rights, same-sex marriage, abortion, stem-cell research or judicial reform, it's about which belief will prevail and what we will tell our children. The politics of it all are symptoms, but they must be addressed.
The reason we chose the words, "Faith and Freedom," is because we know that true freedom is based on a faith in God through Christ.
While may believe what I have just shared, few are willing to step up and make a difference. I believe you are one of those who are willing.
In this past primary race, we put out hundreds of thousands of Judicial Voter Guids, yet there are things we had wanted to do, but were unable to do because we simply didn't have the money to do.
Your tax-deductible gift today enables us to continue in this battle and it is a vote on what our children will be told.
If gay rights legislation is enshrined into law, our children will grow up in a very different world than you and I know.
Our kids are already being taught, in any number of ways, that the Bible is irrelevant - out of date, that man is the ultimate authority and truth is relative. It's what you want it to be. This, with the devaluing of life through abortion-on-demand, creates hopelessness.
As we look at the November election, there are still some things that we can do, that will make a difference. Particularly in the judicial race.
I have also enclosed a Judicial Voter's Guide for the Steve Johnson - Susan Owens race for the Washington Supreme Court. Please distribute it.
While we will be casting our votes in the November election, not only for candidates but issues as well, it's important that we cast a vote toward what we believe.
To support the ministry of Faith and Freedom is a vote in that direction.
We use the money we receive wisely and prudently. We deeply believe we are investing in the next generation and in eternity.
Thank you for your most generous gift.
God bless you,
Gary Randall
President
P.S Your gift is tax-deductible
[Ed. Note: Here's the text of the included "voter's guide"]
Faith and Freedom Network
A Faith and Family Perspective
Candidates for the Supreme Court
Stephen Johnson
Record on Social Issues -
* 100% Pro-Life Voting Record
* Voted "No" on the gay rights Bill HB 2661
* 100% rating with the Conservative Coalition
Social Issues Endorsements -
* Pro-Life Groups
* Committee for Judicial Restraint
* Constitutional Law PAC
Susan Owens
Record on Social Issues -
* Owens ruled against the Defense of Marriage Act and in Favor of Gay Marriage
* Owens ruled in favor of tax money being spent on benefits for homosexual couples. Heinsma vs. Vancouver.
* Owens ruled to allow a non-custodial lesbian couple custody of a child. Sue Ellen ('Mian") Carvin vs. Page Britain.
Social Issues Endorsements -
* National Abortion Rights League
* Equal Rights Washington
"gay marriage group"
These are not endorsement
For Educational Purposes Only
Paid for by Faith and Freedom Network
www.faithandfreedom.us
----- 8 -----
Missouri's Cloning Initiative: Your State Could Be Next!
Missouri voters will decide whether to fund embryo-destructive research.
Concerned Women for America
10/16/2006
By Cara Cook
http://www.cwfa.org/articles/11635/CWA/life/index.htm
Missourians will vote on a key initiative this November 7, the outcome of which could be essential or detrimental to women's health and the protection of human life in the state. The proposed amendment to be voted on, the "Missouri Research and Cures Initiative" or Amendment 2, will force taxpayers to fund human cloning for research purposes.
The text that will appear on the ballot is deceptive. One part claims that the measure will "ban human cloning or attempted cloning." Article 6.2 of the amendment (which will not be printed on the ballot), however, extrapolates on its creative definition of human cloning: "clone or attempt to clone a human being means to implant in a uterus or attempt to plant in a uterus..."
In other words, the measure would allow the creation of human embryos for experiments which would involve their destruction, as long as the embryos are not implanted in a uterus. The framers of the initiative have narrowed the definition of cloning to mean the implantation of a cloned embryo into a uterus, attempting to fool voters who have not read the fine print.
[More at URL]
----- 9 -----
Misleading measure may launch U.S. cloning
October 16, 2006
BY ROBERT NOVAK Sun-Times Columnist
Chicago Sun-Times
http://www.suntimes.com/news/novak/97998,CST-EDT-novak16.article
A new video available on YouTube marks a late attempt by pro-life forces to avert serious defeat in Missouri Nov. 7, with national implications. Cathy Ruse, speaking for Missourians Against Human Cloning, declares: "Amendment 2 is a fraud. It is an attempt to trick Missourians into approving -- in their Constitution -- human cloning, the right of biotech firms to do human cloning in Missouri -- something Missourians oppose by an overwhelming majority."
But Amendment 2 is identified for many Missouri voters by the language at the beginning of the five-page, 2,000-word ballot initiative: "No person may clone or attempt to clone a human being." That explains why polls have shown a substantial margin of support for the constitutional amendment, also backed by key Republican politicians and business interests. It seems to offer the best of all worlds: government support of stem cell research without fear of cloning.
The problem is that the proposal so narrowly defines cloning as to open the door in Missouri to any cloning procedure that takes place outside the womb. If this is approved by a state that historically is a barometer of national trends and is considered a pro-life stronghold, it will be a national model for breaking popular resistance to what the scientists and biotech companies want.
[More at URL]
----- 10 -----
New Book Exposes Startling Truths About America's Public School System
Canada Family Action Coalition
[Reprint from] AgapePress - Book Review
by James L. Lambert
October 13, 2006
Public Education Against America
by Marlin Maddoux, Late Founder of USA Radio Network
http://www.familyaction.org/Articles/issues/education/against-america.htm
The Christian world was deeply affected in March 2004 by news of the passing of Marlin Maddoux, a pioneer in radio as well as a noted journalist and author, who also hosted the weekday radio program, "Point of View" (featured on the USA Radio Network). And at his untimely death, the author's closest friends discovered another important contribution -- the transcripts for his new book, Public Education Against America (Whitaker House Press).
The book is an expose of sorts, loaded with facts CBS News, PBS Radio or the New York Times would never disclose. In fact, Maddoux recounts numerous times in the book that the data he accessed on some of his radio programs was almost unbelievable. His skills as an investigative reporter enabled him to dig to the root of many of the issues confronting public education, and the book is packed with statistics that will alert parents to the crisis in America's public school system.
[More at URL]
----- 11 -----
Sex diseases are rising
Canada Family Action Coalition
http://www.familyaction.org/Articles/issues/sexuality/stds-rising.htm
Well, is it any wonder?? Oh maybe it is because of people not practicing “ safe” sex! The result of the lie about safe sex has done more harm than any one thing in increasing sex diseases . Promiscuity is always high risk. People are not honest about their sexual behavior. Many do not even know they are infected. Previous promiscuous acts do increase the chances of getting AID or other sex diseases.
And does one have to research why less than 2 % of the population has 70 % of the AIDS. Their behavior, but idiot ideology foisted upon society by activists and so called AIDS experts is disingenuous – well actually it is dishonest and perhaps should be considered criminally irresponsible. Now persons who know they have AIDS and knowingly spread it can be charged. Maybe activists, health organizations, and education institutions who continue to provide false or misleading information should also be charged.
[More at URL]
----- 12 -----
Rice's 'Mother-in-Law' Comment Raises Conservative Hackles
Remark Comes During Swearing In of Open Homosexual to Ambassador-Level Post
American Family Association/Agape Press
By Fred Jackson and Jim Brown
October 16, 2006
http://headlines.agapepress.org/archive/10/afa/162006a.asp
(AgapePress) - A spokesman for a family-advocacy group in Washington, DC, is expressing disgust with Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice's swearing in of an openly homosexual man as global AIDS coordinator -- and in particular, with comments she made at the ceremony.
Late last week, USA Today stated that the Republican Party is facing what it calls an "identity crisis" when it comes to efforts to try to please both homosexuals and conservative Christians. The report used a ceremony at the State Department to provide a very pointed example of how the GOP seems to want the support of "values voters," but are willing to appease the homosexual activist agenda.
The ceremony involved Secretary of State Rice and the swearing in of Mark Dybul, an open homosexual, as the nation's new global AIDS coordinator -- a position that carries the rank of ambassador. An Associated Press photo of the ceremony also shows a smiling First Lady Laura Bush and Dybul's homosexual "partner," Jason Claire. During her comments, Rice referred to the presence of Claire's mother and called her Dybul's "mother-in-law," a term normally reserved for the heterosexuals who have been legally married.
The Washington Blade, a pro-homosexual publication in the nation's capital, was accurate on Friday when it predicted Rice's remarks would "rais[e] the eyebrows of conservative Christian leaders." Peter Sprigg, vice president for policy at the Family Research Council, says the secretary's comments were "profoundly offensive" and fly in the face of the Bush administration's endorsement of a federal marriage protection amendment, though that backing be less than enthusiastic.
[More at URL]
----- 13 -----
Liberty Counsel Kicks Off Annual 'Friend or Foe Christmas Campaign'
By Allie Martin
American Family Association/Agape Press
October 16, 2006
http://headlines.agapepress.org/archive/10/afa/162006b.asp
(AgapePress) - Liberty Counsel, a Florida-based public-interest law firm specializing in the defense of civil liberties, has launched its fourth annual "Friend or Foe Christmas Campaign," an effort to defend Christmas from secularist attempts to suppress the holiday's traditional, faith-based aspects.
The campaign is designed to help those who face persecution or censorship for celebrating Christmas. Mat Staver, founder of Liberty Counsel, expects another active season. "Last year, we put the 'grinches' on the run," he notes, " and this year, millions of Americans will join together to help save Christmas."
[More at URL]
----- 14 -----
Marriage Amendment Myths Get Busted
In some states, gay activists are weaving a tapestry of distortions and out-right lies to counter the overwhelming support the ballot measures have among voters.
by Josh Montez
Focus on the Family
October 16, 2006
http://www.family.org/cforum/fnif/news/a0042313.cfm
Leftist groups are circulating TV ads charging that the marriage amendments aren't necessary.
“Do we need the so-called ‘protect marriage amendment?’ Same-sex marriage is already illegal in Arizona.”
[More at URL]
----- 15 -----
Making Sin Acceptable
By Al Menconi
Al Menconi Ministries
Guest Commentary
American Family Association/Agape Press
October 16, 2006
http://headlines.agapepress.org/archive/10/afa/162006gst.asp
(AgapePress) - Politicians are asking the entertainment industry to be more responsible with what they are producing. Responses have been mixed. Many agree, but others say the responsibility lies solely with parents to supervise their family's entertainment. As a parent, I know that's easier said than done. These days there is so much garbage to supervise, that it's become a full-time job. And when you think about the single parents who are just trying to hold their families together, the job becomes almost impossible.
What makes this issue even more difficult for Christians is that we're being asked to evaluate immorality that has become commonplace in today's society. There was a time when we would not have tolerated some of the filth that passes for entertainment today, but now it has become commonplace. How did this happen? It starts when a musician, movie, or TV program "boldly pushes the envelope" of acceptable morals and good taste. They usually do this to get noticed -- and it usually works. Then someone else goes further so they can get noticed. And then another goes a little further than the last guy. Before we realize it, those immoral borders we thought would never be crossed now have become the "norm."
[...]
Need proof? Think back. Do you remember when the TV program Three's Company was considered risqué because two young women had a man as a roommate? They had to pretend that he was a homosexual so the landlord would accept their situation. When kids watch this program on reruns, they don't even get the "joke" because living together is an accepted practice on television. We've come a long way since 1977, haven't we?
[More at URL]
----- 16 -----
Commentary & News Briefs
October 16, 2006
American Family Association/Agape Press
Compiled by Jenni Parker
http://headlines.agapepress.org/archive/10/afa/162006h.asp
...Conservative religious and political leaders rallied last night in opposition to homosexual "marriage," arguing that their rights to religious expression are being threatened. The event, called Liberty Sunday, was broadcast by the Family Research Council to churches nationally and is part of a larger effort to energize conservative voters before the Congressional elections in three weeks. The event was held in Boston because Massachusetts is the only state that has legalized same-sex marriage. FRC head Tony Perkins says the legal decision "threatens to spread across the country." He called for supporters to pray ten minutes daily about the nation and upcoming election. The event was held in Boston's Tremont Temple Baptist Church. Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney, a likely Republican candidate for president in 2008, was among the speakers.
[More at URL]
