Saturday, 16 October 2010
THEY HAD IT COMING TO THEM
From YAHOO:
Belgium's Roman Catholic Church, already reeling from allegations of sexual abuse, faced a new scandal Friday after its primate wrote that AIDS was "a sort of inherent justice."
Many lawmakers condemned Archbishop Andre-Joseph Leonard, the head of the Belgian church, for the remarks in a new book and Belgium's center for equal opportunities received a series of complaints, including one by a lawyer who said his comments were incitement to hatred. The Church is struggling to recover from the resignation of the Bishop of Bruges in April after he admitted sexually abusing a nephew.
Belgium's Roman Catholic Church, already reeling from allegations of sexual abuse, faced a new scandal Friday after its primate wrote that AIDS was "a sort of inherent justice." Many lawmakers condemned Archbishop Andre-Joseph Leonard, the head of the Belgian church, for the remarks in a new book and Belgium's center for equal opportunities received a series of complaints, including one by a lawyer who said his comments were incitement to hatred. The Church is struggling to recover from the resignation of the Bishop of Bruges in April after he admitted sexually abusing a nephew.
AMAZING RECORD SLEEVES OF ALL TIME
I actually really like Jason Meadows' albums.
But what the heck is going down on this particular sleeve?
But what the heck is going down on this particular sleeve?
Thursday, 14 October 2010
BLOGGING BISHOP OF BUCKINGHAM
THROWN OUT OF ANGLICAN COMMUNION
(INVITED TO ATTEND CHURCH SERVICES AS OBSERVER)
OCICBW... has received unreliable information from fabricated sources that Bishop Alan Wilson, the area bishop of Buckingham (England) has received a letter from The Revd Canon Dr. Kenneth Kearon stating that he is no longer allowed to preside in any of the Grand Tufti's English churches, although he will be allowed to attend services as an observer. Although Bishop Wilson had been warned many times in the past, he has continued to cross borders and minister to members of the Anglican laity, and even some non-Anglicans, in provinces other than the Church of England whilst cleverly hiding his evil designs on world domination behind the facade of his blog, innocently, but disingenuously, called BISHOP ALAN'S BLOG.
A quick check of the bishop's comment boxes on his blog reveals the truth of this accusation. All sorts of foreign ne'erdowells write in to him at his blog and ask him questions. Bishop Alan ANSWERS their questions and is invariably polite to them (something frowned on, if not actually illegal, in England when it comes to taking part in conversations with foreigners).
Furthermore, the bishop's clandestine ministry appears to take place on something called BLOGGER. We have checked into this and discovered that BLOGGER uses the GOOGLE servers, which are based in the US. Technically, Bishop Alan has invaded the province of the The Episcopal Church (who have also been crossed off the Tufti's Facebook friend's list). So, which ever way you look at it, Bishop Alan has not only broke the Moratorium, he has single-handedly wrecked it.
And we all thought he was such a nice man.
SERIOUSLY THOUGH:
If St. Laika's is electronically present in the US, on a server somewhere, should I be licensed by an Episcopal bishop?
And SERIOUSLY THOUGH (2), does the internet, and it's spawn the blogosphere, render the Covenant not only a stupid, stuck in the 20th. century idea, but one that will get stupider and more archaic as the world shrinks into one big, happy blogging Tower of Babel.
A quick check of the bishop's comment boxes on his blog reveals the truth of this accusation. All sorts of foreign ne'erdowells write in to him at his blog and ask him questions. Bishop Alan ANSWERS their questions and is invariably polite to them (something frowned on, if not actually illegal, in England when it comes to taking part in conversations with foreigners).
Furthermore, the bishop's clandestine ministry appears to take place on something called BLOGGER. We have checked into this and discovered that BLOGGER uses the GOOGLE servers, which are based in the US. Technically, Bishop Alan has invaded the province of the The Episcopal Church (who have also been crossed off the Tufti's Facebook friend's list). So, which ever way you look at it, Bishop Alan has not only broke the Moratorium, he has single-handedly wrecked it.
And we all thought he was such a nice man.
SERIOUSLY THOUGH:
If St. Laika's is electronically present in the US, on a server somewhere, should I be licensed by an Episcopal bishop?
And SERIOUSLY THOUGH (2), does the internet, and it's spawn the blogosphere, render the Covenant not only a stupid, stuck in the 20th. century idea, but one that will get stupider and more archaic as the world shrinks into one big, happy blogging Tower of Babel.
ROWAN WILLIAMS KICKS OUT
SOUTHERN CONE WITH FLAKE
From the Secretary General
Posted On : October 14, 2010 4:39 PM
The Secretary General writes: 'Many of you will have read the Archbishop of Canterbury's letter to the Anglican Communion issued at Pentecost last (28 May 2010). Part of that letter addresses the current and ongoing tensions in the Anglican Communion - these tensions cluster around the three moratoria referred to in the Windsor Report.
'In that letter the Archbishop made the following proposals:
"I am therefore proposing that, while these tensions remain unresolved, members of such provinces – provinces that have formally, through their Synod or House of Bishops, adopted policies that breach any of the moratoria requested by the Instruments of Communion and recently reaffirmed by the Standing Committee and the Inter-Anglican Standing Commission on Unity, Faith and Order (IASCUFO) – should not be participants in the ecumenical dialogues in which the Communion is formally engaged. I am further proposing that members of such provinces serving on IASCUFO should for the time being have the status only of consultants rather than full members".
'At that time I wrote to the Primate of the Southern Cone, whose interventions in other provinces are referred to in the Windsor Continuation Group Report asking him for clarification as to the current state of his interventions into other provinces. I have not received a response.
'Consequently, I have written to the person from the Province of the Southern Cone who is a member of the Inter Anglican Standing Commission on Unity Faith and Order (IASCUFO), Bishop Tito Zavala, withdrawing his membership and inviting him to serve as a Consultant to that body.
'These decisions are not taken easily or lightly, but relate to the gracious restraint requested by successive meetings of the Instruments of Communion and the implications for Communion bodies when these requests are not honoured.'
The Revd Canon Dr. Kenneth Kearon.
COMMENT: Ah, yes. The old "get rid of the most expendable of your mates" gambit. this bloke is so transparent he could star in a remake of "The Invisible Man."
Posted On : October 14, 2010 4:39 PM
The Secretary General writes: 'Many of you will have read the Archbishop of Canterbury's letter to the Anglican Communion issued at Pentecost last (28 May 2010). Part of that letter addresses the current and ongoing tensions in the Anglican Communion - these tensions cluster around the three moratoria referred to in the Windsor Report.
'In that letter the Archbishop made the following proposals:
"I am therefore proposing that, while these tensions remain unresolved, members of such provinces – provinces that have formally, through their Synod or House of Bishops, adopted policies that breach any of the moratoria requested by the Instruments of Communion and recently reaffirmed by the Standing Committee and the Inter-Anglican Standing Commission on Unity, Faith and Order (IASCUFO) – should not be participants in the ecumenical dialogues in which the Communion is formally engaged. I am further proposing that members of such provinces serving on IASCUFO should for the time being have the status only of consultants rather than full members".
'At that time I wrote to the Primate of the Southern Cone, whose interventions in other provinces are referred to in the Windsor Continuation Group Report asking him for clarification as to the current state of his interventions into other provinces. I have not received a response.
'Consequently, I have written to the person from the Province of the Southern Cone who is a member of the Inter Anglican Standing Commission on Unity Faith and Order (IASCUFO), Bishop Tito Zavala, withdrawing his membership and inviting him to serve as a Consultant to that body.
'These decisions are not taken easily or lightly, but relate to the gracious restraint requested by successive meetings of the Instruments of Communion and the implications for Communion bodies when these requests are not honoured.'
The Revd Canon Dr. Kenneth Kearon.
COMMENT: Ah, yes. The old "get rid of the most expendable of your mates" gambit. this bloke is so transparent he could star in a remake of "The Invisible Man."
ROWAN WILLIAMS KICKS OUT SOUTHERN CONE WITH FLAKE
From the Secretary General
Posted On : October 14, 2010 4:39 PM
The Secretary General writes: 'Many of you will have read the Archbishop of Canterbury's letter to the Anglican Communion issued at Pentecost last (28 May 2010). Part of that letter addresses the current and ongoing tensions in the Anglican Communion - these tensions cluster around the three moratoria referred to in the Windsor Report.
'In that letter the Archbishop made the following proposals:
"I am therefore proposing that, while these tensions remain unresolved, members of such provinces – provinces that have formally, through their Synod or House of Bishops, adopted policies that breach any of the moratoria requested by the Instruments of Communion and recently reaffirmed by the Standing Committee and the Inter-Anglican Standing Commission on Unity, Faith and Order (IASCUFO) – should not be participants in the ecumenical dialogues in which the Communion is formally engaged. I am further proposing that members of such provinces serving on IASCUFO should for the time being have the status only of consultants rather than full members".
'At that time I wrote to the Primate of the Southern Cone, whose interventions in other provinces are referred to in the Windsor Continuation Group Report asking him for clarification as to the current state of his interventions into other provinces. I have not received a response.
'Consequently, I have written to the person from the Province of the Southern Cone who is a member of the Inter Anglican Standing Commission on Unity Faith and Order (IASCUFO), Bishop Tito Zavala, withdrawing his membership and inviting him to serve as a Consultant to that body.
'These decisions are not taken easily or lightly, but relate to the gracious restraint requested by successive meetings of the Instruments of Communion and the implications for Communion bodies when these requests are not honoured.'
The Revd Canon Dr. Kenneth Kearon.
COMMENT: Ah, yes. The old "sacrifice the most expendable of your mates" gambit. This bloke is so transparent he could star in a remake of "The Invisible Man."
Posted On : October 14, 2010 4:39 PM
The Secretary General writes: 'Many of you will have read the Archbishop of Canterbury's letter to the Anglican Communion issued at Pentecost last (28 May 2010). Part of that letter addresses the current and ongoing tensions in the Anglican Communion - these tensions cluster around the three moratoria referred to in the Windsor Report.
'In that letter the Archbishop made the following proposals:
"I am therefore proposing that, while these tensions remain unresolved, members of such provinces – provinces that have formally, through their Synod or House of Bishops, adopted policies that breach any of the moratoria requested by the Instruments of Communion and recently reaffirmed by the Standing Committee and the Inter-Anglican Standing Commission on Unity, Faith and Order (IASCUFO) – should not be participants in the ecumenical dialogues in which the Communion is formally engaged. I am further proposing that members of such provinces serving on IASCUFO should for the time being have the status only of consultants rather than full members".
'At that time I wrote to the Primate of the Southern Cone, whose interventions in other provinces are referred to in the Windsor Continuation Group Report asking him for clarification as to the current state of his interventions into other provinces. I have not received a response.
'Consequently, I have written to the person from the Province of the Southern Cone who is a member of the Inter Anglican Standing Commission on Unity Faith and Order (IASCUFO), Bishop Tito Zavala, withdrawing his membership and inviting him to serve as a Consultant to that body.
'These decisions are not taken easily or lightly, but relate to the gracious restraint requested by successive meetings of the Instruments of Communion and the implications for Communion bodies when these requests are not honoured.'
The Revd Canon Dr. Kenneth Kearon.
COMMENT: Ah, yes. The old "sacrifice the most expendable of your mates" gambit. This bloke is so transparent he could star in a remake of "The Invisible Man."
MADPRIEST'S THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Sometimes when I pray it feels like
I am just talking to the Hand (of God).
I am just talking to the Hand (of God).
THANK GOD I'M NOT A ROMAN CATHOLIC
The bishops of the Anglican communion can revel in their fancy titles and the power that comes with them as much as any of their secular counterparts, if not more. But if I was to compare them to the Roman Catholic episcopacy it would be like comparing hamsters to the Schutzstaffel.
The following was posted by colkoch at ENLIGHTENED CATHOLICISM - do go and read the rest.
Of course, the "Covenant" could easily give "those in authority over us" exactly the same level of unchallengeable authority. A less trusting commentator than myself might even think that is exactly what our bishops are after.
Archdiocese of Detroit is warning Catholics in metro Detroit — including priests and ministers — to stay away from a national conference of liberal Catholics to be held in Detroit next year. And Archbishop of Detroit Allen Vigneron is calling upon organizers of the conference to cancel their plans, saying they are in opposition to the Catholic faith.
The American Catholic Council, which calls for church reforms and greater openness, is set to hold a national gathering in June 2011 featuring progressive Catholic leaders near the 35th anniversary of the ‘Call to Action,’ a Detroit gathering in 1976 that urged reform and was held by the late Cardinal John Dearden of Detroit.
The liberal group claims there is too much secrecy and hierarchy in the Church; it also calls for greater acceptance of gays and lesbians, and women in leadership roles. It wants women and married priests.
“Serious sexual and financial abuses have resulted,” from problems in the Catholic Church, the group says in a newsletter.
Their conference next year is to feature a range of Catholic speakers who have been critical of the Vatican, including controversial Swiss priest Hans Kung. The liberal group says its efforts are done in the spirit of the Second Vatican Council, whose 50th anniversary is also next year.
The following was posted by colkoch at ENLIGHTENED CATHOLICISM - do go and read the rest.
Of course, the "Covenant" could easily give "those in authority over us" exactly the same level of unchallengeable authority. A less trusting commentator than myself might even think that is exactly what our bishops are after.
Archdiocese of Detroit is warning Catholics in metro Detroit — including priests and ministers — to stay away from a national conference of liberal Catholics to be held in Detroit next year. And Archbishop of Detroit Allen Vigneron is calling upon organizers of the conference to cancel their plans, saying they are in opposition to the Catholic faith.
The American Catholic Council, which calls for church reforms and greater openness, is set to hold a national gathering in June 2011 featuring progressive Catholic leaders near the 35th anniversary of the ‘Call to Action,’ a Detroit gathering in 1976 that urged reform and was held by the late Cardinal John Dearden of Detroit.
The liberal group claims there is too much secrecy and hierarchy in the Church; it also calls for greater acceptance of gays and lesbians, and women in leadership roles. It wants women and married priests.
“Serious sexual and financial abuses have resulted,” from problems in the Catholic Church, the group says in a newsletter.
Their conference next year is to feature a range of Catholic speakers who have been critical of the Vatican, including controversial Swiss priest Hans Kung. The liberal group says its efforts are done in the spirit of the Second Vatican Council, whose 50th anniversary is also next year.
QUOTE OF THE DAY
I came across these perceptive words at DIGGING A LOT.
Because all peddlers of God’s word have that in common, I think: they tell what costs them least to tell and what will gain them most; and to tell the story of who we really are, and of the battle between light and dark, between belief and unbelief, between sin and grace that is waged within us all, costs plenty and may not gain us anything, we’re afraid, but an uneasy silence and fishy stare. (Frederick Buechner)
Because all peddlers of God’s word have that in common, I think: they tell what costs them least to tell and what will gain them most; and to tell the story of who we really are, and of the battle between light and dark, between belief and unbelief, between sin and grace that is waged within us all, costs plenty and may not gain us anything, we’re afraid, but an uneasy silence and fishy stare. (Frederick Buechner)
THE PRAYER LIST
Posted by Charlotte at THEATRICAL MILESTONES:
Remember what I wrote in the last post about not exactly feeling pregnant, despite the persistent two lines?
. . . After a few hours and blood tests and through-the-roof blood pressure measurements, it's looking like my current hormone levels won't allow this baby to stick. Heck, the HCG levels was so low that the ER ob/gyn didn't even think Squirmy merited an ultrasound. I drove home with a sheet outlining instructions of how to collect any tissue or tissue-ish clots.
Then I watched the rest of The Biggest Loser. Numbers and percentages always give me solace, somehow. They're a pretense of fact, a description of some law of nature or logic that governs our existence. I knew going into this that, once the likelihood of actually getting pregnant at my methuselahic age had turned in our favor (yes, there's an algorithm for that), the chance of staying pregnant is about 50%. Of course, then, it never occurred to me, the eternal optimist, that the other 50% were actually a realistic part of the equation. Today's plan will be to find an ob who'll do an ultrasound to confirm or deny miscarriage. And to eat a pint of Ben and Jerry's.
***
Posted by Mibi52 at REV MIBI:
.jpg)
Our older cat, Mia, crossed the Rainbow Bridge this morning. She was to have surgery to amputate her hind leg - she had osteosarcoma - and she crashed as they were getting her IV started. Three doses of epinephrine and the paddles, but they couldn't revive her.
. . . Sleep well, sweet kitty. May you be somewhere where there is lots of salmon (preferably pan-roasted), many birds to watch (particularly cardinals), and a soft window seat to lounge on.
***
Posted by UKViewer at JOURNEYOFDISCOVERY:
My latest DDO meeting was a reminder that complacency is inappropriate in the process of discernment. My reflection submitted last month was basically an Essay, with insufficient depth and content. In particular there not enough reflection on mission and evangelism and how it is active in my ministry and life.
I came away feeling that I had let down both the DDO and myself. . .
I am told that I am being tried - but I wonder if it is me doing the trying, by not being fully what I feel that I am called to be - someone seeking to test a vocation.
***
Posted by Grandmère Mimi at WOUNDED BIRD
(Two emails from Mimi's brother in law, Frank):
Maddie will be euthanized this morning at 10:30. She is going downhill fast - and the tumors are spreading. Her purr has now become a squeak. Please pray for her gentle passing.
Frank
Well, it's over. Gretchen (Frank's daughter) went with me - that helped. Previously, I never had trouble getting Maddie in her carrier. I believe she was really hurting this morning as she kicked and screamed - scratching and biting me. She had really gone downhill even more overnight. Once in she calmed down and rode quietly to the vet. She stayed quiet until the end. The vet was great. Of course, I cried - and am still doing so now and then. She will be sorely missed. I am confident she is in a better place.
Frank
***
Posted by Elizabeth at TELLING SECRETS:
Emmett Jarrett was my seminary field education supervisor for two years at the (then) Mission Church of St. John the Evangelist on Bowdoin Street in Boston. He also served as my mentor during my 6 month diaconal formation and early priesthood.
While we weren't always in touch, he remained a trusted mentor and friend.
Emmett died of cancer last Friday at the age of 71, in his home, surrounded by his family and community.
I've read his obituary and the articles about his life - even found an essay he wrote on line - and I still really can't get my head wrapped around the fact that he is dead.
Remember what I wrote in the last post about not exactly feeling pregnant, despite the persistent two lines?
. . . After a few hours and blood tests and through-the-roof blood pressure measurements, it's looking like my current hormone levels won't allow this baby to stick. Heck, the HCG levels was so low that the ER ob/gyn didn't even think Squirmy merited an ultrasound. I drove home with a sheet outlining instructions of how to collect any tissue or tissue-ish clots.
Then I watched the rest of The Biggest Loser. Numbers and percentages always give me solace, somehow. They're a pretense of fact, a description of some law of nature or logic that governs our existence. I knew going into this that, once the likelihood of actually getting pregnant at my methuselahic age had turned in our favor (yes, there's an algorithm for that), the chance of staying pregnant is about 50%. Of course, then, it never occurred to me, the eternal optimist, that the other 50% were actually a realistic part of the equation. Today's plan will be to find an ob who'll do an ultrasound to confirm or deny miscarriage. And to eat a pint of Ben and Jerry's.
***
Posted by Mibi52 at REV MIBI:
.jpg)
. . . Sleep well, sweet kitty. May you be somewhere where there is lots of salmon (preferably pan-roasted), many birds to watch (particularly cardinals), and a soft window seat to lounge on.
***
Posted by UKViewer at JOURNEYOFDISCOVERY:
My latest DDO meeting was a reminder that complacency is inappropriate in the process of discernment. My reflection submitted last month was basically an Essay, with insufficient depth and content. In particular there not enough reflection on mission and evangelism and how it is active in my ministry and life.
I came away feeling that I had let down both the DDO and myself. . .
I am told that I am being tried - but I wonder if it is me doing the trying, by not being fully what I feel that I am called to be - someone seeking to test a vocation.
***
Posted by Grandmère Mimi at WOUNDED BIRD
(Two emails from Mimi's brother in law, Frank):
Frank
Well, it's over. Gretchen (Frank's daughter) went with me - that helped. Previously, I never had trouble getting Maddie in her carrier. I believe she was really hurting this morning as she kicked and screamed - scratching and biting me. She had really gone downhill even more overnight. Once in she calmed down and rode quietly to the vet. She stayed quiet until the end. The vet was great. Of course, I cried - and am still doing so now and then. She will be sorely missed. I am confident she is in a better place.
Frank
***
Posted by Elizabeth at TELLING SECRETS:
While we weren't always in touch, he remained a trusted mentor and friend.
Emmett died of cancer last Friday at the age of 71, in his home, surrounded by his family and community.
I've read his obituary and the articles about his life - even found an essay he wrote on line - and I still really can't get my head wrapped around the fact that he is dead.
VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Jay Simser is a gentleman. On his blog he relates stories about his animal and human friends, and his Masonic life - always in a calm and gentle manner. I don't think I have ever come across him being nasty about anyone.
But yesterday he posted what could almost be defined as a rant. Not a rant with the nature of MadPriest's usual polemics, but a wise, considered and beautiful appeal to those who act as if they have no heart to find the human heart inside them and stop causing pain.
Please go to his blog, BAILEY'S BUDDY and read it. It's not long. Although Jay says nothing that hasn't been said a million times before, what he does say is so heartfelt that it will reach into your soul.
Thanks, Jay. As I said at the beginning. You are a gentleman.
But yesterday he posted what could almost be defined as a rant. Not a rant with the nature of MadPriest's usual polemics, but a wise, considered and beautiful appeal to those who act as if they have no heart to find the human heart inside them and stop causing pain.
Please go to his blog, BAILEY'S BUDDY and read it. It's not long. Although Jay says nothing that hasn't been said a million times before, what he does say is so heartfelt that it will reach into your soul.
Thanks, Jay. As I said at the beginning. You are a gentleman.
HOW TO BUY AN AFRICAN ARCHBISHOP
From NEW VISION:
Archbishop Henry Luke Orombi has lauded the people of Lango for supporting him when he was installed as head the Anglican Church in Uganda.
Speaking at the home of Michael Onapa in Barapwo village in Lira sub-county on Tuesday, he said, “When I was installed as Archbishop, the people of Nebbi never came, but the Langi were there. The gifts they gave were the best,” he said.
Archbishop Henry Luke Orombi has lauded the people of Lango for supporting him when he was installed as head the Anglican Church in Uganda.
Speaking at the home of Michael Onapa in Barapwo village in Lira sub-county on Tuesday, he said, “When I was installed as Archbishop, the people of Nebbi never came, but the Langi were there. The gifts they gave were the best,” he said.
Wednesday, 13 October 2010
OVER AT THE ANCHORHOLD
Ellie has posted some beautiful music today. Those of you who like tuneful, contemporary choral stuff should pop over to THE ANCHORHOLD and give it a listen. The kids singing it are very talented.
BLAME SAM NORTON - AND YOU WILL
Honest folks, this is the tearjerker to end all tearjerkers.
If you were unconsolable for days after watching
"Marley and Me," DO NOT PRESS PLAY!
Last Minutes with ODEN from phos pictures on Vimeo.
If you were unconsolable for days after watching
"Marley and Me," DO NOT PRESS PLAY!
Last Minutes with ODEN from phos pictures on Vimeo.
ANGLICAN INFORMATION RELEASES THE CAPTIVES
This, my friends, is why we blog.
After years of campaigning on their websites and in their mailings, ANGLICAN INFORMATION, can today hold their righteous heads up high and proclaim "Free at Last!"
Justice at last for men falsely accused of poisoning the late Canon Rodney Hunter
ANGLICAN-INFORMATION reports: In a significant judgement handed down today in Nkhota-kota, Diocese of Lake Malawi, a judge has acquitted Leonard Mondoma of murdering the late Canon Rodney Hunter.
Hunter had been a British missionary who had died in 2006 from natural causes due to cancer. His death had been claimed as a ‘poisoning’ and ‘murder’ by a twice suspended priest the Revd’ Dennis Kayamba. Kayamba had managed to persuade the local chief of police to arrest two men, Bernard Mlota (since deceased) and Leonard Mondoma, Hunter’s faithful cook.
Mlota was released on bail quite quickly but Leonard Mlota languished in prison for eighteen months, most of the time without charge, before finally being rescued from life-threatening conditions and being allowed out on bail. Nevertheless, charges brought by Dennis Kayamba remained outstanding.
One British newspaper journalist reported immediately after Dennis Kayamba’s original accusation, without any evidence, that the late Canon Hunter ‘was fatally poisoned’. The same journalist later published the names of three so-called ‘poisons’ found in Hunter’s blood samples as analysed in South Africa. These turned out to be prescription drugs. This irresponsible reporting, including attempts to suggest that others had been poisoned too, led to a frenzy of accusation amongst conservative religious websites and African newspapers, all of which took the journalist’s articles as fact.
Reports about these events as they occurred were covered by us at the time and can be found on our website at: www.anglican-information-archive.org
The tragic false accusations, backed up by scurrilous press reports pillorying an innocent victim, have at last been addressed by the court judgement released today. The judge cited the following as reasons for Mondoma’s acquittal:
· The prosecution failed to provide true evidence that Mondoma murdered Canon Hunter
· The police officers’ statement given to the court in the early days of the case lacked substance and was based solely on circumstantial evidence (i.e. Dennis Kayamba’s word alone)
· The pathologist’s report and claimed evidence of ‘poisons’ in Hunter’s blood in fact showed medicaments that were prescribed for Hunter by the local St Anne’s Hospital at his request
· Other forms of evidence (such as ‘Mondoma was in possession of Hunter’s house keys’, as incidentally was Dennis Kayamba) were pure speculation without support
The acquittal means that Leonard Mondoma now walks as a free man and the late Bernard Mlota has his name cleared for posterity.
So ends a disgraceful saga stoked up in particular by one British journalist and enthusiastically followed by conservative websites. It’s a sad world for small people but justice has prevailed – at a high price.
Postscript: Following Mondoma’s acquittal it is reported that crowds danced and sang him back to his home in celebration!
COMMENT: The English journalist in question is Ruth Gledhill. Her report is still up and you can view it HERE (it's not behind the pay wall). We all make mistakes and I expect Ruth realises how big this particular mistake was. Let this case be a lesson for all journalists and bloggers. We can change the world for the better, as ANGLICAN INFORMATION did in their campaign to free Leonard Mondoma and we can also change things for the worse. The problem is that it's not always obvious at the beginning which way you are going to swing things, whatever your motivations are.
After years of campaigning on their websites and in their mailings, ANGLICAN INFORMATION, can today hold their righteous heads up high and proclaim "Free at Last!"
Justice at last for men falsely accused of poisoning the late Canon Rodney Hunter
ANGLICAN-INFORMATION reports: In a significant judgement handed down today in Nkhota-kota, Diocese of Lake Malawi, a judge has acquitted Leonard Mondoma of murdering the late Canon Rodney Hunter.
Hunter had been a British missionary who had died in 2006 from natural causes due to cancer. His death had been claimed as a ‘poisoning’ and ‘murder’ by a twice suspended priest the Revd’ Dennis Kayamba. Kayamba had managed to persuade the local chief of police to arrest two men, Bernard Mlota (since deceased) and Leonard Mondoma, Hunter’s faithful cook.
Mlota was released on bail quite quickly but Leonard Mlota languished in prison for eighteen months, most of the time without charge, before finally being rescued from life-threatening conditions and being allowed out on bail. Nevertheless, charges brought by Dennis Kayamba remained outstanding.
One British newspaper journalist reported immediately after Dennis Kayamba’s original accusation, without any evidence, that the late Canon Hunter ‘was fatally poisoned’. The same journalist later published the names of three so-called ‘poisons’ found in Hunter’s blood samples as analysed in South Africa. These turned out to be prescription drugs. This irresponsible reporting, including attempts to suggest that others had been poisoned too, led to a frenzy of accusation amongst conservative religious websites and African newspapers, all of which took the journalist’s articles as fact.
Reports about these events as they occurred were covered by us at the time and can be found on our website at: www.anglican-information-archive.org
The tragic false accusations, backed up by scurrilous press reports pillorying an innocent victim, have at last been addressed by the court judgement released today. The judge cited the following as reasons for Mondoma’s acquittal:
· The prosecution failed to provide true evidence that Mondoma murdered Canon Hunter
· The police officers’ statement given to the court in the early days of the case lacked substance and was based solely on circumstantial evidence (i.e. Dennis Kayamba’s word alone)
· The pathologist’s report and claimed evidence of ‘poisons’ in Hunter’s blood in fact showed medicaments that were prescribed for Hunter by the local St Anne’s Hospital at his request
· Other forms of evidence (such as ‘Mondoma was in possession of Hunter’s house keys’, as incidentally was Dennis Kayamba) were pure speculation without support
The acquittal means that Leonard Mondoma now walks as a free man and the late Bernard Mlota has his name cleared for posterity.
So ends a disgraceful saga stoked up in particular by one British journalist and enthusiastically followed by conservative websites. It’s a sad world for small people but justice has prevailed – at a high price.
Postscript: Following Mondoma’s acquittal it is reported that crowds danced and sang him back to his home in celebration!
COMMENT: The English journalist in question is Ruth Gledhill. Her report is still up and you can view it HERE (it's not behind the pay wall). We all make mistakes and I expect Ruth realises how big this particular mistake was. Let this case be a lesson for all journalists and bloggers. We can change the world for the better, as ANGLICAN INFORMATION did in their campaign to free Leonard Mondoma and we can also change things for the worse. The problem is that it's not always obvious at the beginning which way you are going to swing things, whatever your motivations are.
THE SOPPY SHEILA SELECTION
Here's a nice photo for the dog lovers among you:
And here's a nice photo for David and JCF:
And here's a nice photo for David and JCF:
MORE ON BENEDICT VLC AND
THEIR NICE LITTLE EARNER DOWN UNDER
From THE SYDNEY MORNING HERALD:
The head of a retailers group has written to the Pope asking him to petition the federal government to reverse its decision to restrict corporate use of the name of Australia's first saint. National president of United Retail Federation (URF) Scott Driscoll says the government's decision announced on Monday was a "knife in the heart" of business operators.
In the letter Mr Driscoll says the URF "has serious concerns" about the government's action, which will amend corporations law so anyone wanting to use a company name implying a connection to Mother Mary will have to seek ministerial approval.
"I implore you to make representation to the Australian government so that they are encouraged to reverse this concerning decision and thus allow the demand for merchandise recognising Mary MacKillop to be created and distributed more freely," Mr Driscoll asked the Pope in the letter.
MEANWHILE BACK AT THE FAMILY FIRM:
From THE SYDNEY MORNING HERALD:
The Anglican Church in Sydney is in diabolical trouble. Already battered by the global financial crisis, the diocese is planning further savage spending cuts.
The archbishop, Peter Jensen, told the annual synod on Monday: "The financial issues are grave."
One of the biggest and richest dioceses in Australia, Sydney leveraged its huge investment portfolio in the boom and sold when the market hit rock bottom. After losing more than $100 million, it was forced to halve its expenditure. "There was considerable pain," the archbishop told the annual gathering of clergy and laity in Sydney. But it wasn't enough.
"In round terms, it seems possible that the amount of money available … to support diocesan works in the next few years is going to be reduced from the $7.5 million of 2010 to something like $4 million. Our major rethink of last year was only the beginning."
For a full and in depth analysis of the head of the Family Firm's little accountancy error check out Father Christian at GAFCON.
The head of a retailers group has written to the Pope asking him to petition the federal government to reverse its decision to restrict corporate use of the name of Australia's first saint. National president of United Retail Federation (URF) Scott Driscoll says the government's decision announced on Monday was a "knife in the heart" of business operators.
In the letter Mr Driscoll says the URF "has serious concerns" about the government's action, which will amend corporations law so anyone wanting to use a company name implying a connection to Mother Mary will have to seek ministerial approval.
"I implore you to make representation to the Australian government so that they are encouraged to reverse this concerning decision and thus allow the demand for merchandise recognising Mary MacKillop to be created and distributed more freely," Mr Driscoll asked the Pope in the letter.
MEANWHILE BACK AT THE FAMILY FIRM:
From THE SYDNEY MORNING HERALD:
The Anglican Church in Sydney is in diabolical trouble. Already battered by the global financial crisis, the diocese is planning further savage spending cuts.
The archbishop, Peter Jensen, told the annual synod on Monday: "The financial issues are grave."
One of the biggest and richest dioceses in Australia, Sydney leveraged its huge investment portfolio in the boom and sold when the market hit rock bottom. After losing more than $100 million, it was forced to halve its expenditure. "There was considerable pain," the archbishop told the annual gathering of clergy and laity in Sydney. But it wasn't enough.
"In round terms, it seems possible that the amount of money available … to support diocesan works in the next few years is going to be reduced from the $7.5 million of 2010 to something like $4 million. Our major rethink of last year was only the beginning."
For a full and in depth analysis of the head of the Family Firm's little accountancy error check out Father Christian at GAFCON.
ANTI-AMERICAN CULTISTS SPOUT USUAL BS
(BUT THEN IF YOU BELIEVE THAT STORY ABOUT THE DISAPPEARANCE OF GOLDEN PLATES I SUPPOSE YOU CAN BELIEVE ANY OLD TWADDLE)
Official statement from Mormon church in response to petition from gay rights group:
My name is Michael Otterson. I am here representing the leadership of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to address the matter of the petition presented today by the Human Rights Campaign.
While we disagree with the Human Rights Campaign on many fundamentals, we also share some common ground. This past week we have all witnessed tragic deaths across the country as a result of bullying or intimidation of gay young men. We join our voice with others in unreserved condemnation of acts of cruelty, or attempts to belittle or mock any group or individual that is different — whether those differences arise from race, religion, mental challenges, social status, sexual orientation, or for any other reason. Such actions simply have no place in our society.
This church has felt the bitter sting of persecution and marginalization early in our history, when we were too few in numbers to adequately protect ourselves and when society's leaders often seemed disinclined to help. Our parents, our young adults, teens and children should therefore, of all people, be especially sensitive to the vulnerable in society and be willing to speak out against bullying or intimidation whenever it occurs, including unkindness towards those who are attracted to others of the same sex. This is particularly so in our own Latter-day Saint congregations. Each Latter-day Saint family and individual should carefully consider whether their attitudes and actions to others properly reflect Jesus Christ's second great commandment — to love one another.
As a church, our doctrinal position is clear: any sexual activity outside of marriage is wrong, and we define marriage as between a man and a woman. (Oh, you do, do you? Well, fair enough. But couldn't you just keep your weird ideas to yourself?) However, that should never, ever be used as justification for unkindness. (What - such as stopping people who have nothing to do with you realising their dreams of loving commitment?) Jesus Christ, whom we follow, was clear in his condemnation of sexual immorality, (Erm, not really) but never cruel. His interest was always to lift the individual, never to tear down.
Further, while the church is strongly on the record as opposing same-sex marriage, it has openly supported other rights for gays and lesbians such as protections in housing or employment. (Oh, how generous of you).
The church's doctrine is based on love. (Bullshit) We believe that our purpose in life is to learn, grow and develop, and that God's unreserved love enables each of us to reach our potential. None of us is limited by our feelings or inclinations. (You lot appear to be). Ultimately, we are free to act for ourselves. (But you won't let people act for themselves).
The church recognizes that those of its members who are attracted to others of the same sex experience deep emotional, social, and physical feelings. (Bullshit) The church distinguishes between feelings or inclinations on the one hand, and behavior on the other. It's not a sin to have feelings, only in yielding to temptation. (Really massive bullshit)
There is no question that this is difficult, but church leaders and members are available to help lift, support and encourage fellow members who wish to follow church doctrine. Their struggle is our struggle. Those in the church who are attracted to someone of the same sex but stay faithful to the church's teachings can be happy during this life and perform meaningful service in the church. They can enjoy full fellowship with other church members including attending and serving in temples, and ultimately receive all the blessings afforded to those who live the commandments of God.
Obviously, some will disagree with us. (You think?) We hope that any disagreement will be based on a full understanding of our position, and not on distortion or selective interpretation. (I think we all understand where you are coming from) The church will continue to speak out to ensure its position is accurately understood.
God's universal fatherhood and love charges each of us with an innate and reverent acknowledgement of our shared human dignity. We are to love one another. We are to treat each other with respect as brothers and sisters and fellow children of God, no matter how much we may differ from one another.
We hope and firmly believe that within this community, and in others, kindness, persuasion and goodwill can prevail. (It doesn't seem to have changed your bigoted little minds so far)
COMMENT: In summary - bullshit.
My name is Michael Otterson. I am here representing the leadership of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to address the matter of the petition presented today by the Human Rights Campaign.
While we disagree with the Human Rights Campaign on many fundamentals, we also share some common ground. This past week we have all witnessed tragic deaths across the country as a result of bullying or intimidation of gay young men. We join our voice with others in unreserved condemnation of acts of cruelty, or attempts to belittle or mock any group or individual that is different — whether those differences arise from race, religion, mental challenges, social status, sexual orientation, or for any other reason. Such actions simply have no place in our society.
This church has felt the bitter sting of persecution and marginalization early in our history, when we were too few in numbers to adequately protect ourselves and when society's leaders often seemed disinclined to help. Our parents, our young adults, teens and children should therefore, of all people, be especially sensitive to the vulnerable in society and be willing to speak out against bullying or intimidation whenever it occurs, including unkindness towards those who are attracted to others of the same sex. This is particularly so in our own Latter-day Saint congregations. Each Latter-day Saint family and individual should carefully consider whether their attitudes and actions to others properly reflect Jesus Christ's second great commandment — to love one another.
As a church, our doctrinal position is clear: any sexual activity outside of marriage is wrong, and we define marriage as between a man and a woman. (Oh, you do, do you? Well, fair enough. But couldn't you just keep your weird ideas to yourself?) However, that should never, ever be used as justification for unkindness. (What - such as stopping people who have nothing to do with you realising their dreams of loving commitment?) Jesus Christ, whom we follow, was clear in his condemnation of sexual immorality, (Erm, not really) but never cruel. His interest was always to lift the individual, never to tear down.
Further, while the church is strongly on the record as opposing same-sex marriage, it has openly supported other rights for gays and lesbians such as protections in housing or employment. (Oh, how generous of you).
The church's doctrine is based on love. (Bullshit) We believe that our purpose in life is to learn, grow and develop, and that God's unreserved love enables each of us to reach our potential. None of us is limited by our feelings or inclinations. (You lot appear to be). Ultimately, we are free to act for ourselves. (But you won't let people act for themselves).
The church recognizes that those of its members who are attracted to others of the same sex experience deep emotional, social, and physical feelings. (Bullshit) The church distinguishes between feelings or inclinations on the one hand, and behavior on the other. It's not a sin to have feelings, only in yielding to temptation. (Really massive bullshit)
There is no question that this is difficult, but church leaders and members are available to help lift, support and encourage fellow members who wish to follow church doctrine. Their struggle is our struggle. Those in the church who are attracted to someone of the same sex but stay faithful to the church's teachings can be happy during this life and perform meaningful service in the church. They can enjoy full fellowship with other church members including attending and serving in temples, and ultimately receive all the blessings afforded to those who live the commandments of God.
Obviously, some will disagree with us. (You think?) We hope that any disagreement will be based on a full understanding of our position, and not on distortion or selective interpretation. (I think we all understand where you are coming from) The church will continue to speak out to ensure its position is accurately understood.
God's universal fatherhood and love charges each of us with an innate and reverent acknowledgement of our shared human dignity. We are to love one another. We are to treat each other with respect as brothers and sisters and fellow children of God, no matter how much we may differ from one another.
We hope and firmly believe that within this community, and in others, kindness, persuasion and goodwill can prevail. (It doesn't seem to have changed your bigoted little minds so far)
COMMENT: In summary - bullshit.
ANTI-AMERICAN CULTISTS SPOUT USUAL BS
(BUT THEN IF YOU BELIEVE THAT STORY ABOUT THE DISAPPEARANCE OF GOLDEN PLATES I SUPPOSE YOU CAN BELIEVE ANY OLD TWADDLE
Official statement from Mormon church in response to petition from gay rights group:
My name is Michael Otterson. I am here representing the leadership of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to address the matter of the petition presented today by the Human Rights Campaign.
While we disagree with the Human Rights Campaign on many fundamentals, we also share some common ground. This past week we have all witnessed tragic deaths across the country as a result of bullying or intimidation of gay young men. We join our voice with others in unreserved condemnation of acts of cruelty, or attempts to belittle or mock any group or individual that is different — whether those differences arise from race, religion, mental challenges, social status, sexual orientation, or for any other reason. Such actions simply have no place in our society.
This church has felt the bitter sting of persecution and marginalization early in our history, when we were too few in numbers to adequately protect ourselves and when society's leaders often seemed disinclined to help. Our parents, our young adults, teens and children should therefore, of all people, be especially sensitive to the vulnerable in society and be willing to speak out against bullying or intimidation whenever it occurs, including unkindness towards those who are attracted to others of the same sex. This is particularly so in our own Latter-day Saint congregations. Each Latter-day Saint family and individual should carefully consider whether their attitudes and actions to others properly reflect Jesus Christ's second great commandment — to love one another.
As a church, our doctrinal position is clear: any sexual activity outside of marriage is wrong, and we define marriage as between a man and a woman. (Oh, you do, do you? Well, fair enough. But couldn't you just keep your weird ideas to yourself?) However, that should never, ever be used as justification for unkindness. (What - such as stopping people who have nothing to do with you realising their dreams of loving commitment?) Jesus Christ, whom we follow, was clear in his condemnation of sexual immorality, (Erm, not really) but never cruel. His interest was always to lift the individual, never to tear down.
Further, while the church is strongly on the record as opposing same-sex marriage, it has openly supported other rights for gays and lesbians such as protections in housing or employment. (Oh, how generous of you).
The church's doctrine is based on love. (Bullshit) We believe that our purpose in life is to learn, grow and develop, and that God's unreserved love enables each of us to reach our potential. None of us is limited by our feelings or inclinations. (You lot appear to be). Ultimately, we are free to act for ourselves. (But you won't let people act for themselves).
The church recognizes that those of its members who are attracted to others of the same sex experience deep emotional, social, and physical feelings. (Bullshit) The church distinguishes between feelings or inclinations on the one hand, and behavior on the other. It's not a sin to have feelings, only in yielding to temptation. (Really massive bullshit)
There is no question that this is difficult, but church leaders and members are available to help lift, support and encourage fellow members who wish to follow church doctrine. Their struggle is our struggle. Those in the church who are attracted to someone of the same sex but stay faithful to the church's teachings can be happy during this life and perform meaningful service in the church. They can enjoy full fellowship with other church members including attending and serving in temples, and ultimately receive all the blessings afforded to those who live the commandments of God.
Obviously, some will disagree with us. (You think?) We hope that any disagreement will be based on a full understanding of our position, and not on distortion or selective interpretation. (I think we all understand where you are coming from) The church will continue to speak out to ensure its position is accurately understood.
God's universal fatherhood and love charges each of us with an innate and reverent acknowledgement of our shared human dignity. We are to love one another. We are to treat each other with respect as brothers and sisters and fellow children of God, no matter how much we may differ from one another.
We hope and firmly believe that within this community, and in others, kindness, persuasion and goodwill can prevail. (It doesn't seem to have changed your bigoted little minds so far)
COMMENT: In summary - bullshit.
My name is Michael Otterson. I am here representing the leadership of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to address the matter of the petition presented today by the Human Rights Campaign.
While we disagree with the Human Rights Campaign on many fundamentals, we also share some common ground. This past week we have all witnessed tragic deaths across the country as a result of bullying or intimidation of gay young men. We join our voice with others in unreserved condemnation of acts of cruelty, or attempts to belittle or mock any group or individual that is different — whether those differences arise from race, religion, mental challenges, social status, sexual orientation, or for any other reason. Such actions simply have no place in our society.
This church has felt the bitter sting of persecution and marginalization early in our history, when we were too few in numbers to adequately protect ourselves and when society's leaders often seemed disinclined to help. Our parents, our young adults, teens and children should therefore, of all people, be especially sensitive to the vulnerable in society and be willing to speak out against bullying or intimidation whenever it occurs, including unkindness towards those who are attracted to others of the same sex. This is particularly so in our own Latter-day Saint congregations. Each Latter-day Saint family and individual should carefully consider whether their attitudes and actions to others properly reflect Jesus Christ's second great commandment — to love one another.
As a church, our doctrinal position is clear: any sexual activity outside of marriage is wrong, and we define marriage as between a man and a woman. (Oh, you do, do you? Well, fair enough. But couldn't you just keep your weird ideas to yourself?) However, that should never, ever be used as justification for unkindness. (What - such as stopping people who have nothing to do with you realising their dreams of loving commitment?) Jesus Christ, whom we follow, was clear in his condemnation of sexual immorality, (Erm, not really) but never cruel. His interest was always to lift the individual, never to tear down.
Further, while the church is strongly on the record as opposing same-sex marriage, it has openly supported other rights for gays and lesbians such as protections in housing or employment. (Oh, how generous of you).
The church's doctrine is based on love. (Bullshit) We believe that our purpose in life is to learn, grow and develop, and that God's unreserved love enables each of us to reach our potential. None of us is limited by our feelings or inclinations. (You lot appear to be). Ultimately, we are free to act for ourselves. (But you won't let people act for themselves).
The church recognizes that those of its members who are attracted to others of the same sex experience deep emotional, social, and physical feelings. (Bullshit) The church distinguishes between feelings or inclinations on the one hand, and behavior on the other. It's not a sin to have feelings, only in yielding to temptation. (Really massive bullshit)
There is no question that this is difficult, but church leaders and members are available to help lift, support and encourage fellow members who wish to follow church doctrine. Their struggle is our struggle. Those in the church who are attracted to someone of the same sex but stay faithful to the church's teachings can be happy during this life and perform meaningful service in the church. They can enjoy full fellowship with other church members including attending and serving in temples, and ultimately receive all the blessings afforded to those who live the commandments of God.
Obviously, some will disagree with us. (You think?) We hope that any disagreement will be based on a full understanding of our position, and not on distortion or selective interpretation. (I think we all understand where you are coming from) The church will continue to speak out to ensure its position is accurately understood.
God's universal fatherhood and love charges each of us with an innate and reverent acknowledgement of our shared human dignity. We are to love one another. We are to treat each other with respect as brothers and sisters and fellow children of God, no matter how much we may differ from one another.
We hope and firmly believe that within this community, and in others, kindness, persuasion and goodwill can prevail. (It doesn't seem to have changed your bigoted little minds so far)
COMMENT: In summary - bullshit.
GERMANS TO MAKE STERILISATION
COMPULSORY AGAIN
From THE LOCAL (Germany):
Delmenhorst recently became the second German city to require the sterilisation of all outdoor cats in hopes of reducing its neglected feral feline population. The move could start a trend in a country where pets are infrequently spayed or neutered.
“We want this to be compulsory for cat owners,” (Ouch!!! - that will put a lot of people off owning cats - especially Roman Catholics) said the Lower Saxon city’s animal health commissioner and veterinarian Nicolin Niebuhr, who led the campaign for the new rule. “The cat sterilisation requirement is mainly an appeal for responsibility awareness.”
“It’s not about taking the cat’s sexuality away,” Hoffmann says. “A sterilisation does the opposite, improving the cat’s quality of life” (Well, no and yes, in that order, I think).
Estimates say German households enjoy the company of some eight million house cats, with another two million stray cats lurking in the shadows. Delmenhorst has about 1,000 feral felines. Animal shelters are full and the number of abandoned cats is rising, Niebuhr and Hoffmann said.
Pet owners who allow their unsterilised cats to roam freely are creating a vicious cycle for the feral population, which suffers a host of diseases and malnutrition, city vet Niebuhr explained, calling the new rule a “step in the right direction.”
But officials don’t expect an immediate change, the model programme in Paderborn has reportedly caught on slowly.
Delmenhorst recently became the second German city to require the sterilisation of all outdoor cats in hopes of reducing its neglected feral feline population. The move could start a trend in a country where pets are infrequently spayed or neutered.
“We want this to be compulsory for cat owners,” (Ouch!!! - that will put a lot of people off owning cats - especially Roman Catholics) said the Lower Saxon city’s animal health commissioner and veterinarian Nicolin Niebuhr, who led the campaign for the new rule. “The cat sterilisation requirement is mainly an appeal for responsibility awareness.”
“It’s not about taking the cat’s sexuality away,” Hoffmann says. “A sterilisation does the opposite, improving the cat’s quality of life” (Well, no and yes, in that order, I think).
Estimates say German households enjoy the company of some eight million house cats, with another two million stray cats lurking in the shadows. Delmenhorst has about 1,000 feral felines. Animal shelters are full and the number of abandoned cats is rising, Niebuhr and Hoffmann said.
Pet owners who allow their unsterilised cats to roam freely are creating a vicious cycle for the feral population, which suffers a host of diseases and malnutrition, city vet Niebuhr explained, calling the new rule a “step in the right direction.”
But officials don’t expect an immediate change, the model programme in Paderborn has reportedly caught on slowly.
FILE UNDER - "WELL, IT'S WORTH A TRY"
David Cameron
10 Downing Street
13th. October 2010
Dear Prime Minister,
The Archbishop Of Canterbury is, at this moment in time, trying to persuade the provinces of the Anglican Communion to sign up to a covenant that will result in the individual provinces, including the Church of England, having to adhere to the beliefs of the majority of provinces. This would include matters of church order, such as the equality of gay people and women in the churches, and also matters of belief such as an insistence on Biblical inerrancy, not previously insisted upon in the Church of England.
I believe the adoption of such a covenant by the Church of England would be unconstitutional. It would place members of the Church of England under the authority of foreign churches and would contradict our monarch’s position as head of state and church. The idea of a member of the Church of England being told what to think by a a foreign prelate is the antithesis of the reasons why the Church of England was founded in the first place.
It may well be that Parliament feels that it should not interfere in church matters nowadays. But I strongly suspect that they have no option regarding this particular matter because the connection between church and state is still in the constitution of our country.
The general feeling among those of us in the church who wish to retain our independence is that the Church of England is sleepwalking into the adoption of this covenant. I am worried that Parliament will also fail to take full notice of the constitutional aspects of the covenant when and if it is passed to it for approval.
The Church of England is spending a lot of money on this matter that could be well spent elsewhere. If the Church is debating something that will end up being rejected because it is unconstitutional, money would be saved if they were told so now rather than later.
Yours faithfully,
Jonathan Hagger
10 Downing Street
13th. October 2010
Dear Prime Minister,
The Archbishop Of Canterbury is, at this moment in time, trying to persuade the provinces of the Anglican Communion to sign up to a covenant that will result in the individual provinces, including the Church of England, having to adhere to the beliefs of the majority of provinces. This would include matters of church order, such as the equality of gay people and women in the churches, and also matters of belief such as an insistence on Biblical inerrancy, not previously insisted upon in the Church of England.
I believe the adoption of such a covenant by the Church of England would be unconstitutional. It would place members of the Church of England under the authority of foreign churches and would contradict our monarch’s position as head of state and church. The idea of a member of the Church of England being told what to think by a a foreign prelate is the antithesis of the reasons why the Church of England was founded in the first place.
It may well be that Parliament feels that it should not interfere in church matters nowadays. But I strongly suspect that they have no option regarding this particular matter because the connection between church and state is still in the constitution of our country.
The general feeling among those of us in the church who wish to retain our independence is that the Church of England is sleepwalking into the adoption of this covenant. I am worried that Parliament will also fail to take full notice of the constitutional aspects of the covenant when and if it is passed to it for approval.
The Church of England is spending a lot of money on this matter that could be well spent elsewhere. If the Church is debating something that will end up being rejected because it is unconstitutional, money would be saved if they were told so now rather than later.
Yours faithfully,
Jonathan Hagger
COMPASSION FOR THE COMPASSIONLESS
Comment left at USA TODAY:
Before deciding wether or not there should be equivalence in the compassion we should show towards the bully and the bullied I would need to know how many gangs of homophobic men have been beaten up and left for dead by a young gay man walking home on his own. (MadPriest)
Before deciding wether or not there should be equivalence in the compassion we should show towards the bully and the bullied I would need to know how many gangs of homophobic men have been beaten up and left for dead by a young gay man walking home on his own. (MadPriest)
CAPTION COMPETITION
It's Michael Povey (you know, the deacon with a painting
of himself in his attic) on his recent trip to Ecuador. Check
out POVEY PRATTLE for a link through to more pics
from his trip.
He's a real nice bloke popular with all the ladies and quite
a few gentlemen, and that really annoys me.
So please, do your worst.
of himself in his attic) on his recent trip to Ecuador. Check
out POVEY PRATTLE for a link through to more pics
from his trip.
He's a real nice bloke popular with all the ladies and quite
a few gentlemen, and that really annoys me.
So please, do your worst.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Check out ON TRANSMIGRATION and MAYBETHINKING for two excellent videos, the first a beautiful testimony and the second quite funny for a Christian.
Joan Sutherland was never on my musical radar so there's no point in me doing one of my usual obits. But Doug has posted something tasteful and appropriate over at COUNTERLIGHT'S PECULIARS.
If I said THIS I would be in an awful lot of trouble with the usual patriots. But Sherry at A FEATHER ADRIFT can say it, and get away with it, as she is a self-confessed part of the problem.
That young whippersnapper, Lesley Fellows is being all clever again over at LESLEY'S BLOG. Those of you into churchy stuff will probably like her post a lot, and, although I don't like to encourage her in case it puffs her up, I have to admit that it is quite good.
Joan Sutherland was never on my musical radar so there's no point in me doing one of my usual obits. But Doug has posted something tasteful and appropriate over at COUNTERLIGHT'S PECULIARS.
If I said THIS I would be in an awful lot of trouble with the usual patriots. But Sherry at A FEATHER ADRIFT can say it, and get away with it, as she is a self-confessed part of the problem.
That young whippersnapper, Lesley Fellows is being all clever again over at LESLEY'S BLOG. Those of you into churchy stuff will probably like her post a lot, and, although I don't like to encourage her in case it puffs her up, I have to admit that it is quite good.
DON'T BLAME MADPRIEST, BLAME MAD DAD
A 75-year-old man walked into a crowded waiting room and approached the desk. The Receptionist said, 'Yes sir, what are you seeing the Doctor for today?'
'There's something wrong with my dick', he replied.
The receptionist became irritated and said, 'You shouldn't come into a crowded waiting room and say things like that. '
'Why not, you asked me what was wrong and I told you,' he said.
The Receptionist replied; 'Now you've caused some embarrassment in this room full of people. You should have said there is something wrong with your ear or something and discussed the problem further with the Doctor in private.'
The man replied, 'You shouldn't ask people questions in a roomful of strangers if the answer could embarrass anyone.
The man walked out, waited several minutes, and then re-entered.
The Receptionist smiled smugly and asked, 'Yes??'
'There's something wrong with my ear,' he stated.
The Receptionist nodded approvingly and smiled, knowing he had taken her advice.
'And what is wrong with your ear, Sir?'
'I can't piss out of it,' he replied.
'There's something wrong with my dick', he replied.
The receptionist became irritated and said, 'You shouldn't come into a crowded waiting room and say things like that. '
'Why not, you asked me what was wrong and I told you,' he said.
The Receptionist replied; 'Now you've caused some embarrassment in this room full of people. You should have said there is something wrong with your ear or something and discussed the problem further with the Doctor in private.'
The man replied, 'You shouldn't ask people questions in a roomful of strangers if the answer could embarrass anyone.
The man walked out, waited several minutes, and then re-entered.
The Receptionist smiled smugly and asked, 'Yes??'
'There's something wrong with my ear,' he stated.
The Receptionist nodded approvingly and smiled, knowing he had taken her advice.
'And what is wrong with your ear, Sir?'
'I can't piss out of it,' he replied.
OVER AT ST. LAIKA'S
In England, today is the feast day of Edward the Confessor, King of England, an important saint in Western Orthodoxy. I have cobbled together a service of daily prayer that concentrates on the Godly use of authority by both rulers and also the rest of us whose authority is restricted to the local. As always, you may cut and paste the text of the liturgy for your own future use (as long as it is not commercial).
Please remember to forward prayer requests to me by email for inclusion in our daily prayer. Thank you.
Please remember to forward prayer requests to me by email for inclusion in our daily prayer. Thank you.
Tuesday, 12 October 2010
SHE WAS A BIG GIRL
From WORLD RECORDS ACADEMY:
With the help of about 20 friends and family, and the blessing of Pastor Tim Kennedy of Grace Lutheran Church in Yorktown, Suzanne Kraus Mancuso completed her 100 feet tall, 10 feet wide mural of the Virgin Mary, "Mural of Hope" - setting the new world record for the Largest Virgin Mary Painting in Folk Art.
Putnam Valley artist Suzanne Kraus Mancuso says there are not enough positive things reported in the news these days.
"People need hope," she said.
Mancuso plans to show the mural at various churches in the area before selling it to raise money to pay off the remaining $120,000 on the church mortgage.
Putnam Valley artist Suzanne Kraus Mancuso says there are not enough positive things reported in the news these days.
"People need hope," she said.
Mancuso plans to show the mural at various churches in the area before selling it to raise money to pay off the remaining $120,000 on the church mortgage.
WOULD YOU ADAM AND STEVE IT?
From EARTH TIMES:
Malaysian authorities said Tuesday they would not ban US singer Adam Lambert's concert despite protests from conservative Islamist groups over his openly gay performances, but would require him to tone down his act.
"Our decision remains the same. The concert can go on as long as they follow our guidelines," a spokeswoman from the government agency that vets permit for performance by foreign artists said.
Adam Lambert's Glam Nation Tour was scheduled for Thursday at the indoor Putra Stadium in the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur. But his eyebrow-raising stage antics have not escaped the attention of the Pan Islamic Party. The country's largest opposition party has called on the government to cancel the "wild, lewd and extreme" concert because Lambert is deemed to be a purveyor of the Western "yellow," or depraved, culture.
"Adam Lambert has not only publicly disclosed that he is gay but he has wantonly displayed his gayness by kissing male dancers and performed lewd acts on stage with his fellow rock band," PAS youth wing head Nasruddin Hassan Tantawi said.
His concert would "destroy the morals of our youths," he added.
"Our decision remains the same. The concert can go on as long as they follow our guidelines," a spokeswoman from the government agency that vets permit for performance by foreign artists said.
Adam Lambert's Glam Nation Tour was scheduled for Thursday at the indoor Putra Stadium in the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur. But his eyebrow-raising stage antics have not escaped the attention of the Pan Islamic Party. The country's largest opposition party has called on the government to cancel the "wild, lewd and extreme" concert because Lambert is deemed to be a purveyor of the Western "yellow," or depraved, culture.
"Adam Lambert has not only publicly disclosed that he is gay but he has wantonly displayed his gayness by kissing male dancers and performed lewd acts on stage with his fellow rock band," PAS youth wing head Nasruddin Hassan Tantawi said.
His concert would "destroy the morals of our youths," he added.
ISRAELIS AGAINST OLIVE OIL STRIKE AGAIN
From MUSLIM NEWS:
On Saturday morning, in the village of Burin, south of Nablus, a group of Israeli settlers assualted Palestinian farmers during the olive harvest. Eyewitnesses reported that around 15 settlers set off from one of the outposts, attacked Palestinian olive pickers in a field next to houses in the village and hurled stones.
Ghassan Douglas,a Palestinian official in charge of monitoring Israeli setter and settlement issues in the Northern West Bank, said that settlers stoned houses and people, and continued until a large group of villagers stood together to demand that the stoning end.
Douglas added that settlers also chopped down a number of olive trees during the attack.
Israeli settlers carry out almost daily attacks against the villages south of Nablus, particularly during the olive harvesting season, which is the most essential time of year for Palestinian farmers. A few days before this incident, Israeli settlers destroyed olive groves in the town of al-Huwwara and in the village of Yanoun, near Nablus.
On Saturday morning, in the village of Burin, south of Nablus, a group of Israeli settlers assualted Palestinian farmers during the olive harvest. Eyewitnesses reported that around 15 settlers set off from one of the outposts, attacked Palestinian olive pickers in a field next to houses in the village and hurled stones.
Ghassan Douglas,a Palestinian official in charge of monitoring Israeli setter and settlement issues in the Northern West Bank, said that settlers stoned houses and people, and continued until a large group of villagers stood together to demand that the stoning end.
Douglas added that settlers also chopped down a number of olive trees during the attack.
Israeli settlers carry out almost daily attacks against the villages south of Nablus, particularly during the olive harvesting season, which is the most essential time of year for Palestinian farmers. A few days before this incident, Israeli settlers destroyed olive groves in the town of al-Huwwara and in the village of Yanoun, near Nablus.
MAORIS BAN "DIRTY" WOMEN FROM ART EXHIBITION
From NZ HERALD:
A clash of cultures over a rule forbidding pregnant or menstruating women to attend a Te Papa exhibit has been criticised by feminists. An invitation for regional museums to go on a behind-the-scenes tour of some of Te Papa's collections included the condition that "wahine who are either hapu [pregnant] or mate wahine [menstruating]" were unable to attend.
Jane Keig, Te Papa spokeswoman, said the policy was in place because of Maori beliefs surrounding the Taonga Maori collection included in the tour. She said the rule was one of the terms Te Papa agreed to when they took the collection.
"If a woman is pregnant or menstruating, they are tapu. Some of these taonga have been used in battle and to kill people.
If an object is tapu it is "forbidden" and in Maori culture it is believed that if that tapu is not observed, something bad will happen.
Women who plan to attend the tour on November 5 are expected to be honest about whether they are pregnant or menstruating as a sign of respect to Maori beliefs.
COMMENT: Sounds like the Maoris are good contenders for being the lost tribe of Israel.
A clash of cultures over a rule forbidding pregnant or menstruating women to attend a Te Papa exhibit has been criticised by feminists. An invitation for regional museums to go on a behind-the-scenes tour of some of Te Papa's collections included the condition that "wahine who are either hapu [pregnant] or mate wahine [menstruating]" were unable to attend.
Jane Keig, Te Papa spokeswoman, said the policy was in place because of Maori beliefs surrounding the Taonga Maori collection included in the tour. She said the rule was one of the terms Te Papa agreed to when they took the collection.
"If a woman is pregnant or menstruating, they are tapu. Some of these taonga have been used in battle and to kill people.
If an object is tapu it is "forbidden" and in Maori culture it is believed that if that tapu is not observed, something bad will happen.
Women who plan to attend the tour on November 5 are expected to be honest about whether they are pregnant or menstruating as a sign of respect to Maori beliefs.
COMMENT: Sounds like the Maoris are good contenders for being the lost tribe of Israel.
THOUSANDS OF MINNESOTANS
TAKE UP FRISBEE THROWING
From TWIN CITIES.COM:
Lucinda Naylor's copy of communion denying bishop, John Nienstedt's homophobic DVD was one of about 1,300 copies stored in four cardboard boxes on her living room floor last week, in preparation for their transformation into art.
"I'm planning on doing some experiments with them first," Naylor said. "I've never worked in the medium of DVD before."
Naylor is more accustomed to working in the media of church banners and church bulletins as artist-in-residence at the Basilica of Saint Mary. That changed soon after she updated her Facebook status:
"On 9/22 the archbishop mailed Catholics a DVD warning that if Minnesota legalizes same-sex marriage, the sky will fall. RESIST your temptation to return the DVD; toss it; use it as a frisbee! Give me your DVDs and I'll recycle them into art: transforming a message of fear into hope. Please share this w/your facebook friends."
Her friends spread the word, her idea made headlines and her official connection with the church was revealed.
"I was doing this as an individual, not as the artist-in-residence at the Basilica, which is a contract position," Naylor said. "The Basilica is a very affirming place to be, but of course, when you go against the hierarchy of the church ... People ask me if I will get my job back, and I tell them I'm suspended the way Galileo was — 500 years from now, they'll lift my suspension."
Naylor is now working on transforming the DVDs into art, perhaps with a flame or water motif, Catholic symbols of the Holy Spirit.
Other Catholics take the arrival of the DVD as a call to action. When a small group of friends who describe themselves as "mostly suburban, mostly middle-aged, married Catholics" tried to think of a positive way to respond, they ended up with returnthedvd.org.
"We had heard about the DVD and asked each other: 'What can we do instead of just be angry? Can we do anything good?' " said Bob Radecki of Burnsville. "And that's how this group of friends came up with, 'Hey, let's raise some money for the poor!' "
Their website gives information on how to send unwanted DVDs to the group, which will make charitable financial donations for each disc they collect. The website is also a portal for the public to make direct donations to either St. Stephens Human Services or Episcopal Community Services, nonprofit organizations working to help end poverty and homelessness in Minnesota.
Ultimately, the group will return the (disabled) discs they collect en masse to the archbishop, with a letter asking him to make the needs of the poor and love of neighbor his highest priority. (Or, at the donors' request, discs can instead be donated to Naylor's art project.)
At press time, 1,500 discs had been collected and a statement had been posted on the website's home page: "With each dvd or donation we receive, we can hear our voices grow louder and louder."
COMMENT: It's great to see good catholics trying to make something beautiful out of Nienstedt's contemporary homage to "Jud Süß." I have a couple more suggestions.
Firstly, when suspended by cotton, so that they move in the wind, DVD's make excellent bird scarers for both the garden and large scale agricultural use.
Secondly, why not sell them as novelty coasters. I think students would find them particularly useful as beer mats. At parties they would be an excellent way to keep beer can marks off coffee tables etc. and after all have enjoyed a few beers I can imagine the viewing of the DVD would really bring the party to life. The police would probably be called to tell them to keep the laughter down.
"I'm planning on doing some experiments with them first," Naylor said. "I've never worked in the medium of DVD before."
Naylor is more accustomed to working in the media of church banners and church bulletins as artist-in-residence at the Basilica of Saint Mary. That changed soon after she updated her Facebook status:
"On 9/22 the archbishop mailed Catholics a DVD warning that if Minnesota legalizes same-sex marriage, the sky will fall. RESIST your temptation to return the DVD; toss it; use it as a frisbee! Give me your DVDs and I'll recycle them into art: transforming a message of fear into hope. Please share this w/your facebook friends."
Her friends spread the word, her idea made headlines and her official connection with the church was revealed.
"I was doing this as an individual, not as the artist-in-residence at the Basilica, which is a contract position," Naylor said. "The Basilica is a very affirming place to be, but of course, when you go against the hierarchy of the church ... People ask me if I will get my job back, and I tell them I'm suspended the way Galileo was — 500 years from now, they'll lift my suspension."
Naylor is now working on transforming the DVDs into art, perhaps with a flame or water motif, Catholic symbols of the Holy Spirit.
Other Catholics take the arrival of the DVD as a call to action. When a small group of friends who describe themselves as "mostly suburban, mostly middle-aged, married Catholics" tried to think of a positive way to respond, they ended up with returnthedvd.org.
"We had heard about the DVD and asked each other: 'What can we do instead of just be angry? Can we do anything good?' " said Bob Radecki of Burnsville. "And that's how this group of friends came up with, 'Hey, let's raise some money for the poor!' "
Their website gives information on how to send unwanted DVDs to the group, which will make charitable financial donations for each disc they collect. The website is also a portal for the public to make direct donations to either St. Stephens Human Services or Episcopal Community Services, nonprofit organizations working to help end poverty and homelessness in Minnesota.
Ultimately, the group will return the (disabled) discs they collect en masse to the archbishop, with a letter asking him to make the needs of the poor and love of neighbor his highest priority. (Or, at the donors' request, discs can instead be donated to Naylor's art project.)
At press time, 1,500 discs had been collected and a statement had been posted on the website's home page: "With each dvd or donation we receive, we can hear our voices grow louder and louder."
COMMENT: It's great to see good catholics trying to make something beautiful out of Nienstedt's contemporary homage to "Jud Süß." I have a couple more suggestions.
Firstly, when suspended by cotton, so that they move in the wind, DVD's make excellent bird scarers for both the garden and large scale agricultural use.
Secondly, why not sell them as novelty coasters. I think students would find them particularly useful as beer mats. At parties they would be an excellent way to keep beer can marks off coffee tables etc. and after all have enjoyed a few beers I can imagine the viewing of the DVD would really bring the party to life. The police would probably be called to tell them to keep the laughter down.
OVER AT ST. LAIKA'S
I have cobbled together a special daily office for the anniversary of Matthew Shepard's death. I am very pleased with it so I have posted the text in full at ST. LAIKA'S. This is so that anyone who wants to cut and paste it for their own use, or for use in a place of worship, can do so with ease.
AMAZING RECORD SLEEVES OF ALL TIME
Alison sent this in.
I don't know why.
Perhaps she hates you all.
When I first saw it I thought it was a long lost, early
Bee Gees album I'd never seen before. But Alison insists
that they are all young ladies. Mmmm, I'm not convinced.
I think it's three transvestites on a picnic in the woods.
And I must say, the chap in the middle should be well proud
of his make-up skills. And he is the only one to have made
an effort with the padding.
I don't know why.
Perhaps she hates you all.
When I first saw it I thought it was a long lost, early
Bee Gees album I'd never seen before. But Alison insists
that they are all young ladies. Mmmm, I'm not convinced.
I think it's three transvestites on a picnic in the woods.
And I must say, the chap in the middle should be well proud
of his make-up skills. And he is the only one to have made
an effort with the padding.
GOD REDEEMS
From CNN:
A national Christian organization will stop sponsoring an annual event that encourages school students to "counter the promotion of homosexual behavior" because the event has become too divisive and confrontational, the group's president told CNN on Wednesday.
"All the recent attention to bullying helped us realize that we need to equip kids to live out biblical tolerance and grace while treating their neighbors as they'd like to be treated, whether they agree with them or not," said Alan Chambers, President of Exodus International, the group that sponsored the event this year.
Called the Day of Truth, the annual April event has been pushed by influential conservative Christian groups as a way to counter to the annual Day of Silence, an event promoted by gay rights advocates to highlight threats against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender students.
The Day of Truth, held on the same day as the Day of Silence, "was established to counter the promotion of homosexual behavior and to express an opposing viewpoint from a Christian perspective," according to a manual for this year's event published by Exodus International.
COMMENT: I know, it shouldn't take the death of children to shame the wicked into desisting from their evil ways. And to say the young, gay people didn't die in vain seems flippant to the point of being cruel. But God redeems and every time God does, the Kingdom moves just a little bit closer.
A national Christian organization will stop sponsoring an annual event that encourages school students to "counter the promotion of homosexual behavior" because the event has become too divisive and confrontational, the group's president told CNN on Wednesday.
"All the recent attention to bullying helped us realize that we need to equip kids to live out biblical tolerance and grace while treating their neighbors as they'd like to be treated, whether they agree with them or not," said Alan Chambers, President of Exodus International, the group that sponsored the event this year.
Called the Day of Truth, the annual April event has been pushed by influential conservative Christian groups as a way to counter to the annual Day of Silence, an event promoted by gay rights advocates to highlight threats against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender students.
The Day of Truth, held on the same day as the Day of Silence, "was established to counter the promotion of homosexual behavior and to express an opposing viewpoint from a Christian perspective," according to a manual for this year's event published by Exodus International.
COMMENT: I know, it shouldn't take the death of children to shame the wicked into desisting from their evil ways. And to say the young, gay people didn't die in vain seems flippant to the point of being cruel. But God redeems and every time God does, the Kingdom moves just a little bit closer.
Monday, 11 October 2010
A FINE, CHRISTIAN WOMAN LEAVES THE STAGE
29th. August 1929
– 8th. October 2010
May she rest in peace
and raise the roof of heaven.
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
Albertina Walker was born in Chicago, Illinois. She began singing in the youth choir at the West Point Baptist Church at an early age, and joined several Gospel groups thereafter, including The Pete Williams Singers and the Robert Anderson Singers. Albertina was greatly influenced by Mahalia Jackson, her friend and confidante. Mahalia Jackson took her on the road when she was just a teenager.
"Mahalia used to kid me. She'd say, 'Girl, you need to go sing by yourself.' " recalled Walker in a recent Washington Post Interview.
Albertina Walker did just that. In 1951, she formed the group called The Caravans.
She was given the title "Queen of Gospel Music" initially by such notables as the late Reverend James Cleveland and Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr., for her outstanding achievements within the genre after the death of Mahalia Jackson in 1972. (WIKIPEDIA)
I'm not the world's biggest fan of gospel music but I sure loved The Caravans. This is because they were one of the first gospel groups to fuse traditional black gospel stylings with the early soul sounds of the 1950s. Albertina was not just a gospel singer. She was also a mighty fine soul singer and a gospel diva of the highest class. May her soul climb on board that train to glory. And Lord, make sure she travels first class. (MadPriest)
THE BEST FORM OF DEFENCE IS HUMOUR
I did this specially for a couple of dear friends of mine. It doesn't make that much sense out of context, but what the heck?! I'm really pleased with it so it gets posted.
CHURCH OF ENGLAND LEADS THE WAY IN GOVERNMENT'S ATTEMPT TO CUT SPENDING
BY UNDERPAYING CHURCH WORKERS
From EKKLESIA:
Church Action on Poverty has today (10 October 2010) written to all Anglican and Roman Catholic Bishops to press them to sign up their Diocese to pay a Living Wage. Despite the steps taken by the Methodist, Baptist, Church of Scotland and URC churches neither of the two largest denominations - the Roman Catholic Church and the Church of England – has taken serious steps towards respecting their low-paid workers with a Living Wage, campaigners say.
Niall Cooper, CAP National Coordinator said: “It is an important for Christians to take the initiative on social justice issues and lead by example. All church workers – administrators, cleaners, caretakers – should be paid the Living Wage of at least £7.85 in London, £7.15 in Scotland and £7.60 everywhere else. We must stand with people and families who are working hard but are still in poverty. For this reason, we are today calling on all Anglican and Roman Catholic Diocese to follow the example of the non-conformist denominations and sign up to pay their employees a Living Wage.“
On 1 October the National Minimum Wage rose from £5.80 to £5.93 for those workers over the age of 21. This ‘pay rise’ is insufficient, says the charity. For those hard working families struggling to make ends meet the 13 pence increase falls a long way short of a Living Wage. Only a Living Wage of at least £7.60 (or £7.85 in London and £7.15 in Scotland) is acceptable to help overcome the problem of ‘in-work poverty’, campaigners say.
Church Action on Poverty is calling upon all employers to pay a Living Wage, but asking churches to take a lead and set an example. It says that it is the churches' moral responsibility to take a lead by paying all their employees a Living Wage, not the minimum wage.
In a statement they quoted Proverbs 14:31; "Those who oppress the poor insult their Maker, but those who are kind to the needy honour God."
Church Action on Poverty has today (10 October 2010) written to all Anglican and Roman Catholic Bishops to press them to sign up their Diocese to pay a Living Wage. Despite the steps taken by the Methodist, Baptist, Church of Scotland and URC churches neither of the two largest denominations - the Roman Catholic Church and the Church of England – has taken serious steps towards respecting their low-paid workers with a Living Wage, campaigners say.
Niall Cooper, CAP National Coordinator said: “It is an important for Christians to take the initiative on social justice issues and lead by example. All church workers – administrators, cleaners, caretakers – should be paid the Living Wage of at least £7.85 in London, £7.15 in Scotland and £7.60 everywhere else. We must stand with people and families who are working hard but are still in poverty. For this reason, we are today calling on all Anglican and Roman Catholic Diocese to follow the example of the non-conformist denominations and sign up to pay their employees a Living Wage.“
On 1 October the National Minimum Wage rose from £5.80 to £5.93 for those workers over the age of 21. This ‘pay rise’ is insufficient, says the charity. For those hard working families struggling to make ends meet the 13 pence increase falls a long way short of a Living Wage. Only a Living Wage of at least £7.60 (or £7.85 in London and £7.15 in Scotland) is acceptable to help overcome the problem of ‘in-work poverty’, campaigners say.
Church Action on Poverty is calling upon all employers to pay a Living Wage, but asking churches to take a lead and set an example. It says that it is the churches' moral responsibility to take a lead by paying all their employees a Living Wage, not the minimum wage.
In a statement they quoted Proverbs 14:31; "Those who oppress the poor insult their Maker, but those who are kind to the needy honour God."
DON'T BLAME MADPRIEST, BLAME ELLIE
Another wicked gem from that sweet religious solitary who is in charge of our spiritual welfare - God preserve us!
Two women were sitting next to each other at a bar. After a while one looks at the other and says, 'I can't help but think, from listening to you, that you're from Ireland.'
The other woman responds proudly, 'Yes, I sure am!'
The first one says, 'So am I! And where about in Ireland are ya from ?
The other woman answers, 'I'm from St. John's , I am.'
The first one responds, 'So, am I!! And what street did you live on?'
The other woman says, 'A lovely little area it was in the west end. I lived on Warbury Street in the old central part of town.'
The first one says, 'Faith and it's a small world. So did I! So did I! And what school did ya go to?'
The other woman answers, 'Well now, I went to Holy Heart of Mary, of course.'
The first one gets really excited and says, 'And so did I. Tell me, what year did you graduate?'
The other woman answers, 'Well, now, let's see. I graduated in 1964.'
The first woman exclaims, 'The Good Lord must be smiling down upon us ! I can hardly believe our good luck at winding up in the same pub tonight. Can you believe it, I graduated from Holy Heart of Mary in 1964 me self.'
About this time, Michael walks into the bar, sits down and orders a beer. Brian, the bartender, walks over to Michael, shaking his head and mutters, 'It's going to be a long night tonight.'
Michael asks, ' Why do you say that, Brian?'
Brian replies, 'The Murphy twins are drunk again.'
Two women were sitting next to each other at a bar. After a while one looks at the other and says, 'I can't help but think, from listening to you, that you're from Ireland.'
The other woman responds proudly, 'Yes, I sure am!'
The first one says, 'So am I! And where about in Ireland are ya from ?
The other woman answers, 'I'm from St. John's , I am.'
The first one responds, 'So, am I!! And what street did you live on?'
The other woman says, 'A lovely little area it was in the west end. I lived on Warbury Street in the old central part of town.'
The first one says, 'Faith and it's a small world. So did I! So did I! And what school did ya go to?'
The other woman answers, 'Well now, I went to Holy Heart of Mary, of course.'
The first one gets really excited and says, 'And so did I. Tell me, what year did you graduate?'
The other woman answers, 'Well, now, let's see. I graduated in 1964.'
The first woman exclaims, 'The Good Lord must be smiling down upon us ! I can hardly believe our good luck at winding up in the same pub tonight. Can you believe it, I graduated from Holy Heart of Mary in 1964 me self.'
About this time, Michael walks into the bar, sits down and orders a beer. Brian, the bartender, walks over to Michael, shaking his head and mutters, 'It's going to be a long night tonight.'
Michael asks, ' Why do you say that, Brian?'
Brian replies, 'The Murphy twins are drunk again.'
PRAYER REQUEST AND UPDATE
My apologies for my tardiness in posting these two items. Unfortunately, I've been blogging with a temperature, that would render less committed bloggers completely out of action, for the last week. Not that I'm complaining. I was born to suffer.
From JCF:
My namesake, "V", is a freshman in college.
This morning, (7th. October) I got an email from her mother, my best friend:
a friend from middle school committed suicide over the weekend. If that were not horrible enough, the girl called (my namesake) before she did the thing...(my namesake) called the police, who found the girl and got her to the hospital, but she died on Sunday morning. (My namesake) was still pretty shaken when we talked with her
Please pray for my namesake, V. She's fought so hard through her own issues, just to get where she is: this is the last thing she needed.
And of course, pray for the repose of the soul of her friend. So much pain, in so many young lives: may we all recognize it when we see it - and help!
***
From Mibi52:
Jonathan, thank the OCICBW... clan for their prayers for Mia. The vet removed the tumor and they determined it was an osteosarcoma. We are now figuring out whether it has spread. If it hasn't, they will amputate her left hind leg. She will be a three-legged kitty, which will confirm what we've already known, that she is a truly Anglican cat. If you all could continue to pray for her, we would be grateful. She is a love, and it would be sad to see her die before her time.
From JCF:
My namesake, "V", is a freshman in college.
This morning, (7th. October) I got an email from her mother, my best friend:
a friend from middle school committed suicide over the weekend. If that were not horrible enough, the girl called (my namesake) before she did the thing...(my namesake) called the police, who found the girl and got her to the hospital, but she died on Sunday morning. (My namesake) was still pretty shaken when we talked with her
Please pray for my namesake, V. She's fought so hard through her own issues, just to get where she is: this is the last thing she needed.
And of course, pray for the repose of the soul of her friend. So much pain, in so many young lives: may we all recognize it when we see it - and help!
***
From Mibi52:
Jonathan, thank the OCICBW... clan for their prayers for Mia. The vet removed the tumor and they determined it was an osteosarcoma. We are now figuring out whether it has spread. If it hasn't, they will amputate her left hind leg. She will be a three-legged kitty, which will confirm what we've already known, that she is a truly Anglican cat. If you all could continue to pray for her, we would be grateful. She is a love, and it would be sad to see her die before her time.
WELCOME TO THE
JEWISH MAD HATTERS'
FACIST TEA PARTY
The Republican candidate for governor, Carl P. Paladino, told a gathering in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, on Sunday that children should not be “brainwashed” into thinking that homosexuality was acceptable, and criticized his opponent, Attorney General Andrew M. Cuomo, for marching in a gay pride parade earlier this year.
Addressing Orthodox Jewish leaders, Mr. Paladino described his opposition to same-sex marriage.
“I just think my children and your children would be much better off and much more successful getting married and raising a family, and I don’t want them brainwashed into thinking that homosexuality is an equally valid and successful option — it isn’t,” he said, reading from a prepared address, according to a video of the event.
And then, to applause at Congregation Shaarei Chaim, he said: “I didn’t march in the gay parade this year — the gay pride parade this year. My opponent did, and that’s not the example we should be showing our children.” Newsday.com reported that Mr. Paladino’s prepared text had included the sentence: “There is nothing to be proud of in being a dysfunctional homosexual.” But Mr. Paladino omitted the sentence in his speech.
COMMENT: And there's nothing to be proud of in being a dysfunctional human being, Paladino, you arsehole. And really, Jewish people should know better than support bigots. I believe the last time one gained absolute power in Europe it was the homosexuals who were sent to the gas chambers first. Then, I believe he noticed the Jews.
CAPTION COMPETITION
Thanks to Susan for sending
this story into MadPriest Towers.
IN WHICH MADPRIEST IS DISAPPEARED
AND THE IMPORTANT PEOPLE TAKE OVER
I actually rang this man up a couple of years ago to try and make him realise the importance of forming some sort of galvinised campaign against the covenant in England. I said at the time that this would lead to people called Giles taking over the campaign and getting all the kudos for it. Of course, that is what I wanted, because nobody is going to take an unemployed, slightly crazy blogging upstart seriously. But it still hurts, especially when you are suffering from the worst man cold ever.
Sunday, 10 October 2010
MADPRIEST'S BOG STANDARD PODCAST NUMBER TWO
I had to come up with something good to mark 10/10/10, one of the few days in history that it doesn't matter if you're American or English - the date is written the same in both countries. So, here's some legally downloadble music, and idle chat from MadPriest, to celebrate the three tens clashing.
MP3 File
Double click, or whatever, on MP3 FILE to download.
PAYOLA IS THE
NEW SELLING
OF INDULGENCES
SUPPORT YOUR
NEIGHBOURHOOD
VIRTUAL PRIEST
MP3 File
Double click, or whatever, on MP3 FILE to download.
PAYOLA IS THE
NEW SELLING
OF INDULGENCES
SUPPORT YOUR
NEIGHBOURHOOD
VIRTUAL PRIEST
US CONSERVATIVES FIGHT BILL THAT WOULD
OUTLAW ELEPHANTS TRAMPLING PUPPIES
Thanks to the ever vigilant Tracie for sending
this horrifying news story into MadPriest Towers.
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