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| Take away the tool of vengeance from Muslims! By Sheraz Khurram Khan In January 2007 a Pakistani Christian woman, Martha Bibi, was accused of blasphemy when she reportedly requested the return of building materials she had lent to a group of Muslims building a mosque. In the month of March one Amanat Masih, a Christian man from a village in district Sheikhupura of the Punjab province of Pakistan was held for alleged blasphemy. Daniel, an eleven-year-old boy is from among the five Christians accused of blasphemy in a fresh blasphemy case registered during this month. Like others the fate of the Christian teenager hangs in the balance. Even if declared innocent the 'blasphemer stigma' will make life even difficult for the poor young man. The list of the blasphemy accused is likely to swell as it has over the years, if the pernicious laws are not repealed. The radical religious fanatics of course would not like the controversial laws to be scrapped. Their 'dexterity' in exploiting peoples' religious sensibilities with the help of the potent tool of vengeance-the Blasphemy Laws-has been "remarkable". They are quick to ring out provocative speeches and shouts from the loudspeakers of mosques exhorting their followers to attack Churches in the wake of leveling of blasphemy accusations against some Christian. The Sangla Hill tragedy is a case in point. The existence of the blasphemy laws affords them an opportunity to incite their followers' sentiments in the name of the religion. Sadly, presence of the blasphemy laws means continued marginalization and oppression of the members of the religious minorities' communities. Accusations of theft, dacoity, rape, swindling or arson may not send the accused as swiftly to a prison as the allegations of blasphemy can in Pakistan. Even the Police who have acquired the notoriety for apathy, corruption and arriving late on the scene of crime arrest the blasphemy accused promptly. It is argued that the accused is taken in police custody for his safety. The arrest of the 'blasphemer' helps pacify the complainant and often a large army of local supporters. It (the arrest of the accused) also marks the initiation of hardships for the accused and his family. If past is any guide the lower courts convicted and sentenced the blasphemy accused, leaving the complainants, clerics and the supporters euphoric. Conversely, the accused continued to rot in the jail and in many cases it took several years before the accused were acquitted by the High Court. The High Court's verdict of acquittal of course can't undo harm already done to the accused. Ranjha Masih, a Christian man accused of blasphemy was acquitted by the High Court in November, 2006 after some eight years and seven months incarceration. Blasphemy stigma can always provoke a Muslim fanatic to take life of a man who has been acquitted by the court. There are three worth-mentioning points vis-à-vis blasphemy accusations. One, given his relatively fragile socio-economic standing in the society how come a Christian or a member of some other religious minority community can dare committing blasphemy against Prophet Muhammad or desecrate the Quran, the Muslim holy book, let alone doing that publicly. It is an open secret that the members of the religious minorities are already confronting a plethora of problems on social, economic and political fronts. Why would they like to invite trouble for themselves and for those associated with them by offending their dominant countrymen especially the fiery Muslim clerics who do not let go any chance of preaching hate against people of other faiths? Where would a marginalized non-Muslim Pakistani citizen bring this audacity to commit blasphemy against the Prophet Muhammad? The likelihood of his committing blasphemy in a predominantly Muslim country is next to impossible. Isn't it strange that a sanitary worker who does not even have the gall to raise his voice against delayed payment of his salary or a Christian tenant of an influential Muslim landlord who has only learnt submission all his life or a Christian woman servant who ekes out her humble income by doing house chores would commit blasphemy? Strangely enough, they may commit 'blasphemy' but they do not have nerves to fight for their inalienable rights. The abuse of the law has become so widespread that even the insane took the hammering of the controversial law. Islam places a high premium on Huqooq-al-Ibad (the rights of people). One wonders why the Muslim complainants lodged fake blasphemy cases against Sohail Masih, an insane man from Rawalpindi, Shahbaz Masih alias Kaka and Naseem Bibi of unsound mind from district Kasur of Punjab province of Pakistan. Ostensibly, the Muslim complainants in each of these cases did not even seem to have an iota of compunction in making life even difficult for those who already had daunting odds stacked against them on health front. Two, why is it that the "blasphemers" pattern of committing blasphemy is uniform. If non-Muslims commit blasphemy quite often in Pakistan then why is it that the fashion in which they are said to have allegedly committed blasphemy is same? Do the worn-out accusations in every blasphemy case's First Information Report not reinforce the widespread notion that most of the blasphemy cases are contrived merely to penalise the victim by invoking the draconian laws? Following leveling of the blasphemy charges life for the victim and his family takes a turn for worse. Three, Pakistani non-Muslims are non-violent. Even amid worst of pandemonium ever created by the Muslim mobs at the behest of their firebrand Muslim clerics Pakistani religious minorities' communities including Christians have kept their tempers cool. One argues if Pakistani Christians did not commit blasphemy during anti-cartoon or anti-Pope protests why would they resort to committing blasphemy in the absence of any provocation by Muslims. Many a times they let peace reign rather than opting for a tit-for-tat move when their religious sentiments are hurt either in the wake of attacks on churches or a terrorist attack on a missionary school or by the painting of cross on Pakistani roads. When some alleged injustice is done with Muslims in the western world, angry Muslim mobs spearheaded by the radical Muslim leaders commit blasphemy of horrendous magnitude by setting churches to fire, desecrating altar and torching religious books placed in the Church that becomes victim of the Muslim fury. At the height of caricature issue of the Prophet Muhammad last year, the Danish flag bearing a cross, was painted on Pakistani roads. It was run over by motorists and pedestrians alike. If contrasted against registration of the baseless blasphemy cases this horrible desecration of cross was committed in a broad day light and this continued to happen for a couple of months. Why this despicable incident did not draw any condemnation from among those Muslim politicians and religious leaders who claim to be moderate? True, people were enraged since their sentiments had been hurt by the controversial drawings but they could have registered their protest in other ways too. It was obvious enough that the anger was being let out against Denmark or against other western countries the protesters and their instigators must have given it a thought that the cross is a universal symbol of Christianity and the Christians across the globe highly venerate it. It is about time the conservative and myopic Muslim religious leaders preached love, peace, harmony and tolerance rather than advocating hate in their sermons and speeches. Source: Assist News AUSTRALIA INCREASES AID FOR ZIMBABWEANSThe Australian Government is to launch a new and vigorous campaign of support for the people of Zimbabwe against the repressive and incompetent policies of the Mugabe regime. The Australian Fund for Zimbabwe will aim to alleviate some of the worst effects of Zimbabwe's economic failures. It will also expand significantly our efforts to help ordinary Zimbabweans reassert their political and civil rights. Today, more than three million Zimbabweans rely on food distribution programs for basic sustenance in a country which, as recently as 2000, was a net exporter of food. Average life expectancy in Zimbabwe is the lowest in the world, at only 33 years, down from 61 years in 1990. One fifth of Zimbabwe's population of 11 million are living with the debilitating effects of HIV/AIDS. Yet, under President Mugabe, only 10 per cent of the people who need treatment receive it. Amid the collapse of the nation's economy and social infrastructure, more than 1.3 million children are orphans. This year, Australia has increased its aid for Zimbabwe by 33 per cent, to an estimated $6 million in 2006-07. In response to the brutal attacks by the Zimbabwean authorities on its political opponents, Australia's funding through civil society organisations has been expanded, including the provision of $82,000 to a non-government organisation which supports victims of political violence. A spokesperson for the Australian Government said, "We recognise that more can, and should, be done. We will make further significant increases in our commitment into the future. Through the Australian Fund for Zimbabwe, the Australian Government will increase assistance for international humanitarian relief efforts in Zimbabwe, and strengthen support for civil society organisations promoting human rights and good governance." "Australia helped to bring democracy to Zimbabwe in 1980 and is now deeply shocked by the shameful incompetence and vindictive brutality of the Mugabe regime. The Australian Government remains determined to continue its support for ordinary Zimbabweans in the face of President Mugabe's assault on their rights and wellbeing" the spokesperson concluded. Source: Compiled by APN from media reports
NATIONAL DAY OF THANKSGIVING IS AN OPPORTUNITY NOT AN EVENT AND HERE IS WHYThe National Day of Thanksgiving (NDOT) is held each year on the Saturday of Pentecost weekend which this year is Saturday 26th May. The week leading up to the National Day of Thanksgiving however is as much part of the overall celebrations as what occurs on the Day itself. MAKE UP PERSONAL KITS FOR MEMBERS OF YOUR CHURCH, PRAYER, OR HOME GROUPS
The National Day of Thanksgiving gives Churches and Groups the opportunity to do and experience something different. Why not give every member of your Church or group a kit to encourage them to express and show their appreciation to people whose contribution to the local community they value. Let them experience the thrill of being a blessing to others whilst building up goodwill in your community and being encouraged, in a non threatening way, to become more active and confident in the expression of their faith. Each Kit should contain: 6 Thanksgiving Day Cards (1 pack) 6 "Thank You" Ribbons 6 Yellow NDOT stick on "dots" Purchase bulk supplies for all members of your congregation or group, make up enough kits for every member, including youth and children, and either give them away as part of your Churches outreach budget or onsell them to the people of your congregation or group for $3.00 each to recover your outlay. This would represent a small investment for most Churches to get their congregation interacting with the community. Any left over can be used next year so you cannot lose. CARDS - $2.00 per pack. Purchase over the counter at any Koorong Store or order over the Internet at http://www.koorong.com.au/ Internet orders attract postage and handling unless 50 or more packs are purchased. RIBBONS - $9.00 per pack of 60 ribbons. 2 packs $17.00, 3 packs $24.00, 4 packs $30.00 5 packs $35.00 then $5.00 for each additional pack. These delightful gold ribbons (which were a great hit last year) are designed to be pinned on the lapel or dress of the recipient to say "Thank You" to them. They can be ordered post free from info@thanksgiving.org.au . You will be invoiced for payment purposes. If you wish to order and pay by credit card please contact 02 9939.2113 If you are near a Koorong Store they can also be purchased over the counter for a flat charge of $8.00 per pack. DOTS - Sheet of 70 yellow "stick on" dots (each 25mm diameter) with NDOT printed on them are designed to be worn by Christians as a conversation starter. They cost $3.00 a sheet or for purchases of 4 sheets or more the cost reduces to $2.50 per sheet. They too can be ordered post free from info@thanksgiving.org.au It may well be the best and simplest method you have ever been offered to mobilise your Church or group to touch the community with the love of Jesus.
PLEASE REGISTER YOUR NDOT EVENT ON OUR WEBSITEIf your Church of Group is holding an NDOT event of any description we and the people of Australia would like to know about it. This is one of the ways that we can get some feel for the extent of the celebrations across Australia. It is also important for people wanting to know what is on and what they may be able to link up with in their local community to have such information available to them on the internet. If you have any problem registering your event please supply details to info@thanksgiving.org.au advising time, location of event (including street address), type of event, speakers or special guests and any cost involved and a contact name and number and we will put it up manually for you. WE NEED YOUR HELP TO MEET OUR NATIONAL BUDGETEvery year the Australian Prayer Network has to find around $30,000 to meet the national budget of the NDOT. This covers things like the publicity brochures, Church and Children's Kits, promotional DVD's and recording of material by our national leaders, plus the initial costs of printing and distribution of cards, ribbons and NDOT "dots", the costs of which we later seek to recover through sale of such items. This event is changing our nation and reaching more Australians with both the practical and spiritual implications of the Gospel than any large scale evangelistic crusade could do. As more and more Churches understand the enormous opportunities this Day provides, its influence can only continue to increase. If you believe in the Day as God's unique gift to our nation, so that we might focus on Him and through so doing reclaim our Christian heritage and values as an integral part of who we are as a nation, then your financial support is a practical way of showing that. You may give by sending cheques payable to the Australian Prayer Network to PO Box 31, Epping NSW 1710 or give by credit card over the phone to our national office at 07 3343.8242 during office hours. Please be sure to tell them the funds are for the National Day of Thanksgiving appeal. Thank you for your help which is greatly appreciated. Source: Australian Prayer Network National Coordinator - Brian Pickering (02) 9876 2419 or 0409 779 870 for all interviews National Office - (07) 3343 8242 when Coordinator is not available. Website: www.thanksgiving.org.au
Record Church Attendance a Sign of "Cultural Shift" in Australia "This is happening across the board, it's not just here." The AAP in Australia has reported that there were record-breaking attendances throughout Australia last weekend for services marking the Resurrection of Christ. Anglican Dean Phillip Jensen of St. Andrew's in Sydney believes the "increasing popularity of religious elements of Easter was indicative of a cultural shift in Australia." "This is happening across the board, it's not just here," said Jensen. In Melbourne, Catholic Bishop Christopher Prowse was quoted as saying worshippers attended Easter services like never before. "I think people today are searching for a deeper sense of religion in their lives," he said. In Queensland, the Australian Gospel Music Festival in Toowoomba reportedly attracted 40,000 people to its worship-themed rock, pop and blues celebration dubbed the Christian Big Day Out. (Photo: A previous Australian Gospel Music Festival—ABC Queensland) Source: Breaking Christian News NATIONAL CHURCH LIFE SURVEY REVEALS A CHURCH CONSTANTLY ON THE MOVEThe results of the latest National Life Survey reveal the net change for all Protestant churches across Australia is a growth in attendance of 1%.' There has also been a positive trend across denominations, where the 'front door' is open more widely and the 'back door' has been partly closed. The proportion of newcomers has increased across survey periods and, correspondingly, the proportion of drift outs has also decreased across survey periods for every denomination listed. This trend is illustrated by the example of one Church the 6,000-strong City Life Church in Melbourne. Senior Pastor Mark Conner said "Last year we had 1290 new people added to the church and of those, about 50%, as far as we aware, came from another church. About 104 babies were born in the year, and the rest - 500-plus - would be new Christians or unchurched people.' 'As far as the outs are concerned,' Mark adds, 'we had 627 people move on last year, so our growth overall was about 663 net. Of those who moved on, some died, others moved out of town, some left Church life altogether and some 218 moved to another church." Mobility in a modern-day church is most noticeable. Pastor Conner explains. 'I reckon that for the average church, in an urban area like Melbourne, probably 20 percent of the people are moving on every year, just through mobility,' Mark says. He recalls a conversation with a leading church figure in the United States who revealed an even higher figure of 40% within a west coast city. That American pastor told Mark he'd previously seen his church as a 'lake', with people coming in and the lake getting bigger. But that US pastor had since taken a different view. 'I now see my church as a river,' the minister told Mark, 'with people coming in and then possibly moving on at a certain point. So my goal 'is to make sure that they're further on in Christ, further on in their faith before they move on.' Pastor Conner believes there's a parallel with many Australian churches that's worth paying attention to. 'So I think,' Mark concludes, 'just to keep level, you've got to be adding 20 percent new members per year.' Source: APN & National Church Life Survey (Top)PLANS FOR INTERACTIVE CHRISTIAN MUSEUM APPROVED
South-east Queensland will be home to Australia's first interactive Christian museum. A decision of the Planning and Environment Court has given final approval for a concept which was first introduced to the public nine years ago. Web: www.moogerahpassionplay.org.au Source: APN & Moogerah Passion Play Association Inc RICK WAKEMAN - CHRISTIAN CD/DVD Keyboard Legend Rick Wakeman Releases 'Amazing Grace' DVD/CD Combo in the United States. "The 'Amazing Grace' DVD & CD package has been arranged and performed by Wakeman and reveals another side to one of music's most gifted and revered personalities. This collection is a stunning and emotive selection of internationally celebrated hymns," the release states. Also included on both the CD and DVD release is a bonus vocal track of Amazing Grace, arranged and performed by Wakeman, featuring the wonderful vocals of his daughter Jemma Wakeman (aged 24) and The English Chamber Choir. The release also says: "The DVD features live studio performances from Wakeman on the Grand Piano, crafted with motion pictures, high-end graphics and emotive imagery to bring to life stunning visual interpretations shaped from a collection of material that many will be familiar with, whether from a religious background or not." Wakeman's unique arrangements of 'All Things Bright and Beautiful', 'Amazing Grace', 'Jerusalem', 'Ode To Joy' and 'Abide With Me' are just some of the hymns featured, which have served both historic and important roles in worldwide Christian communities, and in fact all walks of life. 'Morning Has Broken', which Rick originally recorded with Cat Stevens and subsequently reached the top 10 on both sides of the Atlantic during 1971, is another well-known title also featured in the collection. A devoted Christian, Rick Wakeman expresses his love for hymns (yet not all of them admittedly): "I just love what they stand for and the fantastic role that they play in our worship. I also consider the hymn to be an important part of outreach, especially at Easter and Christmas. Not only do some have lyrical and meaningful words that help us all with our worship and understanding, but the melodies are some of the most beautiful ever written." The soundtrack will also be available from worldwide Audio Digital Download stores and a Video Digital Download release is also planned for the project. Official Website: www.rwcc.com Please visit the distributor on the web at www.mvdb2b.com To request promo copies, set up interviews, discuss promotional opportunities, or obtain additional information, contact: By Michael Ireland Kids’ Easter prayers reveal haunting trends Grandparents who argue, personal safety and the drought feature in this year’s children’s Easter prayers Surprising this year was the unusually large percentage of young Aussies who were deeply worried about someone in their family struggling with cancer. It produced prayers like these: “could you make Uncle Drew better who’s got cancer and lost his eye.” Julie age 11 QLD.: “I pray for my aunty to get better from cancer.” Jordan Age 10: “I pray for Aunty Janette who’s got cancer.” Kaitlan age 9 Tas: “dear god please help all the people who’ve got cancer.” Jack 8 Vic.: “ that my cancer doesn’t come back. “ Joash age 10 Tas . (Joashs’ prayer came with a note that this young man experienced a lot of prayer that seemed to deliver him from cancer last year). It seems all the talk of recycled sewage becoming drinking water has produced anxiety for many of the kids in Queensland. Produced prayers like this “ dear god I hope Australia doesn’t need to drink recycled water because of the drought”. There seems to be a clear connection in the minds of the young people between the need for rain, the dams to be full and their concerns about what this could do to their health. Whilst there are a number of prayers about bombs, there are very few about terrorist threats this year. There are a strong number of prayers like this one, for endangered species, “dear lord please help the government make the right dicision (sic) over Australia and stop the drought and fire. Please look after the indangered (sic) species” Samantha age 9 Tas and most children are praying for a happier home life. “ a prayer for my family to get along not arguing or yelling.” Sarah age 10 Ballarat: “Dear God I pray that my parents will mot (sic) fight any more.” Amanda age 9: “ God will you pray for me because I’m having a really hard life because my Dad is divorced with my Mum, amen” Maxene age 9 A significant number were dealing with personal tragedy. Like Sophie from central Victoria who prayed “ I pray that I won’t still be sad about mums death that I’ll feel more comfortable about myself sepecially (sic) about my weight” All pretty remarkable for a 10 year old. Then there are the characters like Michael, aged 8, from Western Australia who wanted his “family to go on a holiday to Las Vegas, an Xbox and a good girl friend,” but he still most earnestly wanted to pray for “rain on the farms.” A number prayed for personal improvement “that I won’t be so clumsy”; “that I’ll grow taller”; “that I’ll become a nicer and smarter person.” Rhomony age 11 QLD, “dear lord make me invisible please.” Laura wants to be beautiful and “my friends to like me better than they do.” Alina wanted “Internal life.” Adele aged 11 wanted to “Stop getting pimples.” Madaline age 10 prayed: “to be a wonderful person and have a kind heart.” Julie prayed “I’ve had lots of sad things happen in the past 2 years, please pray for me.” Joel’s prayer was more physical “ that my butt doesn’t get consterpated (sic)” “As we look out through our children’s eyes in these prayers we see a world they are about to inherit which feels like it’s unsafe, drying up, where family members are seriously ill and where many native animals are disappearing because of global warming,” said Mal Garvin, Awakening National Coordinator. “In spite of this there is still a fascinating, anchoring spirituality which most have, expressed with touching prayers like,“ I pray for me that Jesus will always be with me,” and “ I pray that God will be with me.”” A haunting feature of this year’s prayers were children’s hypersensitivity to their grandparents relationships. James, aged 8, prayed “Will you help Nana and Popa stop fighting?” Emma, aged 10, asked “Why do Nan and Pop always argue?” “dear God please send my Nan and Pops a new car so they can stop arguing” “It seems with family breakdowns the importance of the grandparents as a source of safety has become profound. It seems more and more grandparents are directly and actively involved in the raising of children,” said Mr Garvin. “Could it be that many children are now so closely involved with their grandparents they no longer enjoy the emotional benefits that benign distance and unconditional love enjoyed by previous generations. “If this is true it is a fascinating and disturbing sociological phenomenon worthy of further study,” Mr Garvin said. This is the seventeenth year, the hundreds of children’s prayers have been gathered from all over the country. It provides us with one of the most sensitive annual polls taken in the nation. The prayers indicate what our collective lives are doing to the emerging generation. They show what our nation’s children fear and their expectations as they grow. These prayers will be prayed in dusk to dawn prayer vigils throughout Australia on Good Friday night. The Aussie Awakening Easter programs will climax on Easter Sunday with marches in every capital city celebrating the new life that the message of the resurrection promises. Hundreds of young people will be commissioned from the capital city marches to be ambassadors for reconciliation on an annual pilgrimage to Uluru. Source: Ramon A Williams - Worldwide Photos Luis Palau's Monterrey Festival Draws 400,000+ The weeklong celebration of faith began with a motorcade and ended with a massive 2-day music fest at the city's famed Parque Fundidora. Attendance estimates were 150,000 for Friday and 210,000 for Saturday, with another 40,000 children and families attending a separate children's festival. Palau shared the stage with some of Latin America's top entertainers, including Jose Luis "El Puma" Rodriguez, Marcos Witt, and Jerlene Cintron. The campaign was one of the most extensive in the 40+ years of the Palau ministry, with multiple outreaches including:
Community service was a key component, with a medical initiative involving more than 700 medical service technicians providing cancer screening, vision exams and dental work. In addition, 10,000 meals were delivered to some of the most impoverished neighborhoods in Monterrey. Extensive coverage by local and national media provided an opportunity to extend the Gospel message: international satellite coverage linked the event to a dozen nations in Latin America and beyond. Palau's presentation of the "Good News" in various venues brought 15,741 registered decisions and rededications to Christ. More than 17,000 believers were trained to counsel new decision makers at the festival. Palau's next festival is set for Nashville on May 19th and 20th. Luis Palau has shared the Gospel with close to a billion people including more than 25 million face-to-face in 70 nations. His radio broadcasts in both English and Spanish are heard by millions more on over 2600 radio stations in 42 countries. Mr. Palau has authored close to 50 books and countless articles on issues of faith, and has counseled with business and political leaders and heads of state around the world. Luis Palau Festivals have produced some of the largest audiences ever recorded in cities from south Florida to South America. His ministry also includes the Next Generation Alliance, created to grow and nurture partner evangelists, and Livin It, which uses action sports to reach young people for Christ. His latest book - A Friendly Dialogue between an Atheist and a Christian - is already a best seller in China and will soon be released in the United States. MEDIA CONTACT Source: Assist News UN Human Rights Council: Protecting Religion AUSTRALIA (ANS) -- On Friday 30 March, the UN Human Rights Council passed a non-binding resolution urging a global prohibition on the public "defamation" of religion, "particularly" (specifically) Islam. It was phenomenally convenient that the violent "Cartoon Intifadas" of February 2006, which erupted some five months after the controversial Danish cartoons were originally published, occurred only weeks before the UNCHR was due to reconsider the OIC's resolution on "Combating Defamation of Religion". You don't have to be too cynical to wonder if the OIC and Arab league sponsored not only the resolution but the Cartoon Intifadas as well. On 15 March 2006 the UN General Assembly voted overwhelmingly to replace the discredited UNCHR with a restructured, reformed and improved UN Human Rights Council. The OIC resolution was presented to UN Human Rights Council on 30 March 2007. The fact that the Council is supposed to be promoting the protection of humans and their fundamental rights, not religions, was simply a non-issue with the majority of the Council. The Council has no power beyond drawing attention to rights issues, and the non-binding resolution passed by 24 votes to 14, with 9 abstentions. SUMMARY OF RESOLUTION The following is an excerpt from the media release of the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). It would be fair to say that "defamation" in this context seems to mean any negative critique, as opposed to the dictionary definition: "To damage the reputation, character, or good name of by slander or libel". (The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language) ------------------------------ Action on Resolution on Combating Defamation of Religions In a resolution (A/HRC/4/L.12) on Combating defamation of religions, adopted by a vote of 24 in favour, 14 against, and nine abstentions, as orally amended, the Council expresses deep concern at attempts to identify Islam with terrorism, violence and human rights violations; notes with deep concern the intensification of the campaign of defamation of religions, and the ethnic and religious profiling of Muslim minorities, in the aftermath of the tragic events of 11 September 2001; urges States to take resolute action to prohibit the dissemination including through political institutions and organizations of racist and xenophobic ideas and material aimed at any religion or its followers that constitute incitement to racial and religious hatred, hostility or violence; also urges States to provide adequate protection against acts of hatred, discrimination, intimidation and coercion resulting from defamation of r eligions, to take all possible measures to promote tolerance and respect for all religions and their value systems and to complement legal systems with intellectual and moral strategies to combat religious hatred and intolerance; further urges all States to ensure that all public officials, including members of law enforcement bodies, the military, civil servants and educators, in the course of their official duties, respect different religions and beliefs and do not discriminate against persons on the grounds of their religion or belief, and that any necessary and appropriate education or training is provided; invites the Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance to regularly report on all manifestations of defamation of religions and in particular on the serious implications of Islamophobia on the enjoyment of all rights; and requests the High Commissioner for Human Rights to report to the Human Rights Council on the implementation of this resolution at its sixth session. The result of the vote was as follows: In favour (24): Algeria, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Cameroon, China, Cuba, Djibouti, Gabon, Indonesia, Jordan, Malaysia, Mali, Mauritius, Mexico, Morocco, Pakistan, Philippines, Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, South Africa, Sri Lanka and Tunisia. Against (14): Canada, Czech Republic, Finland, France, Germany, Guatemala, Japan, Netherlands, Poland, Republic of Korea, Romania, Switzerland, Ukraine and United Kingdom. Abstentions (9): Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador, Ghana, India, Nigeria, Peru, Uruguay and Zambia. ------------------------------------------ The media release from the OHCHR also provides summaries of the debate surrounding the presentation of the resolution. Tehmina Janjua of Pakistan presented the resolution on behalf of the OIC, making it clear that it was Islam that was in particular need of protection. She asserted that profiling of Muslims constitutes racism. But this is false. "Muslim" is not a race. A "Muslim" is a person who adheres to Islam, which is religious and political but not racial. She complained that Muslims suffered from discrimination, but this is a totally different subject and has nothing to do with "defamation" of Islam. Even when Islam is "defamed" or criticised, that does not automatically lead to discrimination or persecution of Muslims. These human rights abuses arise primarily from poor governance and weak rule of law. In a robust liberal democracy with rule of law and a solid, moral, human rights base, ideas and religions can be criticised, scrutinised, publicly debated and even insensitively ridiculed without it inciting hatr ed of individuals, discrimination or persecution. Birkitta Maria Siefker-Eberle of Germany, representing the European Union (EU), expressed the EU position that dialogue is the best way forward in the ongoing struggle to end intolerance and discrimination without limiting freedom of religion and expression. She noted that adherents of religions other Islam were also suffering, notably Jews and Christians. She noted that it was problematic to reconcile defamation with discrimination as the two are of a different nature. She noted that various international covenants and declarations already forbid discrimination on the grounds of religious belief and she recommended that the Council remain focused on the rights of individuals. Several other representatives also objected that the resolution was against defamation of religion rather than discrimination or persecution of individuals on the grounds of religious belief. Another objection was that there was no role envisaged for the Special Rapporteur on the rights to freed om of opinion and expression. Paul Meyer of Canada reiterated Canada's strong belief in freedom of expression and expressed concern that freedom of expression was not included in the text. He also expressed concern that it was a religion, rather then the adherents of a religion, that was to receive protection. There were also objections to the inappropriateness of equating "defamation" of religion with a manifestation of racism. Various other state representatives objected to the "unbalanced" and "selective" nature of the resolution. Several states complained that their requests for the resolution to be amended so it could be more balanced and inclusive of religions other than Islam were not taken into consideration. Still most of these objectors failed to even consider the inappropriateness of the Council on Human Rights advocating the protection of a religion rather than human rights. Japan voted against the resolution on the grounds that the resolution was not inclusive and did not insist that all religions should b e fully respected and not subjected to negative labelling. Presumably Japan would not extend the privilege of respect and positive affirmation to the Aum Shinri Kyo (Aum Supreme Truth) Cult, a religion that through its violence and terrorism demonstrated that it is unworthy of respect, and fully worthy of negative labelling. By Elizabeth Kendal
46% Increase The NSW Electoral Commissioner, Mr Colin Barry has declared at 12 noon today, the twenty one candidates elected to the NSW Legislative Council (Upper House). The Rev Fred Nile has been re-elected with a 46% increase and surplus votes. The NSW Upper House membership of 42 will now comprise 19 ALP members, 15 Coalition members, 2 Christian Democratic Party members, 2 Shooter’s Party members and 4 Green Party members. (Refer appended report which lists the 21 members elected). “I thank Almighty God and our loyal voters for their support, which made it possible for me to be re-elected for another eight year term in the NSW Upper House. I can now proudly say when the NSW Parliament resumes in May, that ‘I am here by the will of God and the will of the people’,” said Rev Fred Nile. “I now pledge myself to the people of NSW to continue to represent their concerns, even if sometimes, like John the Baptist, I am a voice crying in the wilderness”, said Rev Fred Nile. “I also thank our 78 Candidates, 2,000 members and 10,000 workers of our Christian Democratic Party for their sacrificial support and hard work on polling booths from Bankstown to Broken Hill”. “As a strong united Christian Democratic party, we can build on our success as we prepare for the next Federal Election”, said Rev Fred Nile, MLC, National President, Christian Democratic Party. Youth Worker Winkie Pratney's Health Improving—although More Surgery is Needed "Winkie's condition is stabilizing...thank you everybody for your prayers, they really are making a difference." Michael Ireland/AH (April 6th, 2007) Youth speaker Winkie Pratney's condition at a hospital in South Korea is improving, according to Shane Anderson, who is updating Pratney's web-blog. However, another surgery is needed to remove fluid surrounding his lungs. Winkie's son, William Pratney, wrote an update on his father's condition, on the ministry's blog. Dad is undergoing another surgery today: he will have the fluid drained out which they found was surrounding his lungs (not actually in his lungs). They will insert two tubes to drain the fluid out. Complications can include a hemotoma (blood clot). And Dave, I don't have to tell you, we don't need any complications right now. Dr. Lim says, if there's one more complication, he doesn't have a great chance of survival. Please ask everyone to keep praying. He is in another drug-induced coma at the moment, with a fever and high heart rate. Mom, Trevor and I met with Dr. Lim and Dr. Han (the doctor that performed the transverse colon operation). The veteran youth worker's condition improved quite a bit, in the last couple days, according to an ANS article yesterday, which included an update by Shane Anderson that read... "Winkie's condition is stabilizing: his kidney and his liver are beginning to function normally. He's still on the dialysis machine (and) they still want to give him a little bit of help there. And so thank you everybody for your prayers, they really are making a difference." Anderson said Winkie, "was in a very bad place twenty-four hours ago—today (Thursday) his chances are much, much improved. And I really think that we have the prayers of God's people crying out to the throne for that. Thank you." Anderson reportedly told his radio audience that as he was praying with his wife last night, "I thought there's tens of thousands, probably hundreds of thousands, perhaps even into the millions of people praying (and that's) the wonderful thing with the internet is that people all over the world have been praying for Winkie." Anderson said that his e-mail box "is literally flooded with pastors from all over the globe saying that they had called their churches to pray." "Some of the large massive churches in South Korea are even calling entire churches to pray. It's just a sign of how much of a servant Winkie has been to The Lord's Church for so long," he said. Shane Anderson, who is maintaining the updates on Winkie, had this to say in closing: Winkie needs our prayers like never before. There has been improvement, yes, but there's still more surgery required, and he's still in a critical condition. I am sure though that you can feel this rising-up of faith stirring your spirit to intercede. Keep praying. Fast if you are able. We love you and thank you for your devotion and your prayers. If you want to find out more about Winkie Pratney, CLICK HERE and you can keep up-to-date on what's happening in South Korea with Winkie's health. Source: ASSIST News Service
Give an inch and they will take EVERY mile! Great Britain recently passed the 'Sexual Orientation Regulations' banning 'discernment' (discrimination) of right and wrong with regard to what is natural and unnatural sexual activity. Homosexual sues church for right to be employed as youth worker An Anglican Bishop has been accused of unlawful discrimination because he blocked the appointment of a practising homosexual to a youth worker post within the Church of England. Peter P Stokes
Disasters help book launch SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA (ANS) -- The launch of "Ministry in Disaster Settings: Lessons from the Edge" by Rev. Dr Stephen Robinson was launched on Monday evening, April 2, at 7.30pm in Wesley Mission, Sydney. The Book Launch was chaired by Major Christine Unicomb, Director of The Salvation Army Counselling Service, with the Guest Speaker being Police Chief Inspector (rtd) Gary Raymond OAM APM. The author, Dr Robinson explained that the book was the publishing was at the insistence of his wife, Jenny. The material was from earlier notes he had correlated. Fortunately, the book was self-published, as no publishers thought it would be an acceptable production. Dr Robinson spoke of the wide interest in the publication which deals with those involved in disasters, during and after! Already enquiries have been received from psychologists, university lecturers, clergy and church leaders, from across Australia. "Ministry in Disaster Settings" has sections on Case Studies on transport disasters (Granville Train Disaster and the Kempsey Bus Crash); disasters in a recreational setting (Port Arthur massacre and the Thredbo disaster) as well as The Nature of Ministry; Biblical and Theological Reflections on Ministry in Crisis Times; Lessons for Ministry on the Edge and Lessons for the Pastor's Carers. Major Unicomb explained that she became involved when interviewed by Dr Robinson after the Kempsey Bus Crash, where she was personally involved in caring for those in need. Her story is in the book. Gary Raymond spoke of his personal experiences as a member of the Police Rescue Unit at the Granville Train Disaster and his current reliance on the Lord Jesus Christ in many incidents since. He told of a serious motor vehicle accident where a woman victim was going into labour, while trapped in the car. He prayed for guidance and help and when finished said, "Amen". He then heard other emergency personnel around him also join in the "Amen". When the lady was released and the baby born safely, a nearby bikie amongst the onlookers, wearing his leather jacket and numerous tattoos, shouted out: "Good on yer God!" Many stories were related of how, those involved in the actual rescue and disasters, as well as those ministering to them from all denominations, need guidance and even ministry themselves afterwards. "May this book be used of the Lord to help those involved," said Mr Raymond. In the Foreword, Ray S. Anderson, Senior Professor of Theology and Ministry at the Fuller Theological Seminary in the USA, comments: "I heartily recommend this book, not only for those involved in trauma ministry, but also for church leaders who are searching for ways to be more effective in providing training and support for those who are on the front line." "Ministry in Disaster Settings: Lessons from the Edge" can be purchased from Rev. Dr Stephen Robinson, PO Box 69, Lugarno, NSW 2210, Australia; Phone or Fax: +61-2-9153 8653; E-mail: emergencyministry@lpuc.org.au By Ramon Williams
NATIONAL SOLEMN ASSEMBLY REPORT REPORT ON NATIONAL SOLEMN ASSEMBLY HELD IN CANBERRA FROM 9th - 11th MARCH 2007
These are just some of the many responses received since the Solemn Assembly. In what is thought to have been Australia's first ever National Solemn Assembly some 1,500 people representing every State and Territory in Australia, a wide spread of Christian denominations, and a cross section of all ages, attended this 3 day gathering in our National Capital.. From reports received it is estimated that hundreds of local Solemn Assemblies were held across the Nation on the Sunday afternoon. The common theme of almost all reports was the passion with which people addressed the issues of sin being dealt with, and the overwhelming sense of the Spirit of God's presence being in their midst. http://www.ausprayernet.org.au The Solemn Assembly is available on DVD. Cost $20 with free shipping. To order a copy of the DVD go to the shop at www.cityharvest.org.au/shop/ and follow the links to the order form. Please note that the DVD will not be ready for posting until the end of April or first week in May. Brian Pickering Source: Australian Prayer Network
WHAT THE METEOROLOGISTS ARE SAYINGDrought-breaking rains across eastern Australia have been predicted in new modelling which shows a similar pattern developing to that recorded after 1924 when eastern Australia enjoyed heavy falls after a period of prolonged drought. The Pacific Ocean has continued to cool rapidly following the unexpected demise of El Niño. While current conditions are neutral, the cooling has increased the likelihood of, though not guaranteed, a switch to La Niña conditions over the coming months. There would now appear to be little chance of a return to El Niño conditions in 2007, with a continuation of neutral, or a switch to La Niña conditions, the more likely scenarios. What does this mean for Australia? Firstly, a rapid cooling of the Pacific at the end of the El Niño would normally be associated with a return to more normal, or in some cases above normal rainfall patterns. The Weather Bureau continues to be cautiously optimistic that there will be a general easing of dry conditions in drought-affected areas over the next few months. The chance of a La Niña developing in 2007 is thought to be higher than average. El Niño has decayed somewhat earlier than normal thereby giving time for a La Niña to begin developing during the critical March to June period. La Niña events are generally associated with wetter than normal conditions. Computer models generally indicate further cooling in the Pacific Ocean which will further aid this process.. Source: APN & Bureau of Meteorology
Scientific Study of Speaking In Tongues "When they are actually engaged in this whole very intense spiritual practice...their frontal lobes tend to go down in activity. It is very consistent with the kind of experience they have, because they say that they're not in charge. [They say] it's the voice of God, it's the Spirit of God that is moving through them." At the University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Andrew Newberg has been conducting a scientific study of the phenomenon for a long time. According to an ABC report, Newberg found that brain scans show quite different results with Christians praying in tongues compared to Buddhist monks meditating and Franciscan nuns praying. The frontal lobes—the part of the brain right behind the forehead that's considered the brain's control center—went quiet in the brains of tongue-speakers. "When they are actually engaged in this whole very intense spiritual practice...their frontal lobes tend to go down in activity. It is very consistent with the kind of experience they have, because they say that they're not in charge. [They say] it's the voice of God, it's the Spirit of God that is moving through them," said Newberg. "Whatever is coming out of their mouth is not what they are purposefully or willfully trying to do. And that's in fairly stark contrast to the people who are—like the Buddhist and Franciscan nuns—in prayer, because they are very intensely focused and in those individuals the frontal lobes actually increase activity." Says one participant in the study, Pastor Gerry Stoltzfoos, "I don't think faith has anything to be afraid of from science. Science validates faith, so bring it on, whatever the facts are, bring it on." "When you have experienced this, you don't really care what anybody else thinks. It is personal in the first place; it is something between you and God," said Stoltzfoos. "So we don't really care if it is validated or not, but it is fascinating when it is, so that people who have thought we are crazy can have something to look at and—we are still crazy, we are just not as crazy as they thought." Source: Breaking Christian News & ABC
200 Years of Bible Society work in Australia
The third annual report of the Society, which began in London in 1804, reports that, “the long arm of this benevolent Society has already reached out to the most distant posts of Empire, laden with its precious gifts of God’s Word”.
In its first published list of gifts, dating from April 10th, 1804, the report includes the following: “April 6 (1807), To Governor Collins, for Van Dieman’s Land, 50 Bibles and 100 New Testaments.” Further is reported the, “supply of 500 Bibles and 1,000 Testaments to the Rev. Samuel Marsden in 1808 and to a ‘settler and schoolmaster’, bound for New South Wales.”
During 1836, 1,300 volumes were voted to the directors of the South Australian Church Committee, to the British and Foreign School Society and to friends and correspondents leaving for the colony.
In 1837, Mr HS Spencer who lived in Albany, the first settlement of Western Australia, distributed Bibles from the Society to, “the crew of the sailing boat”. When settlement took place at Swan River, the Bible Society again helped with its gifts of scripture, granting, “125 Bibles and 75 Testaments … to individuals proceeding to this colony.”
Bible distribution in other states followed, with the appointment of CJ Latrobe as Superintendent of Port Philip in 1839. He received a gift of 100 Bibles and 300 New Testaments from the London based British and Foreign Bible Society for ‘distribution in his new field’.
Bible Society NSW came into being through an Act of the NSW Parliament on March 7th 1817. Bible Society NSW (then called the NSW Auxiliary of the British and Foreign Bible Society) was the first auxiliary branch in the Pacific of the Bible Society
Bible Society NSW continues the tradition of free Bible and New Testament distribution, with $70,000 worth of scripture going to chaplains and theological students this year.
For more information: Martin Johnson. Manager Communications Ph 02 9888 6588 Mob 0417 028 438 (Top)
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