Weary Congregation Worships Despite Flood Conditions

In Fargo, North Dakota, a local Ramada Inn opened its doors to churches on Sunday, allowing the ministers and congregants to worship in their conference center. The nearby Red River has been in flood conditions for much of the last week, though experts now say that the flood will continue to steadily recede.

On Sunday, March 29, 2009, churches were still battling floodwater and were unable open their doors… many united in a show of solidarity.

Triumph Lutheran Brethren Church held its Sunday service at the Ramada Plaza, where worshipers gathered on folding chairs.

Pastor Vern Baardson told the weary congregation that he'd been on the sandbag line in bitterly cold weather himself.

(AP)

Residents who were able to make it to the service expressed relief that they had a place to worship.

“It’s just a traumatic time,” said Fargo resident JoAnn Flanagan, who attended the service with her husband, Vern. “It just gives you a feeling of calm, peace.”

(InFo)

Our hearts go out to the residents of the Red River area, if you wish to contribute to the relief effort, please make a donation to the Red Cross.


- Associated Press
- In Forum

Religion and the Brain

It may come as somewhat of a surprise but researchers at the University of Toronto Scarborough and York University are attempting to explain the physical relationship between one's religion and its correlation with brain activity. The research, under the direction of Michael Inzlicht, Ian McGregor, Jacob B. Hirsh and Kyle Nash will hopefully allow us to better understand the relationship between people and their environment. Thus far, two separate studies have been conducted. Both show a positive correlation between one's faith (or lack of faith) and the activity in the anterior cingulate cortex. The ACC, as it is commonly referred to, is involved in the brain's experience of anxiousness and self-regulation. Studies conducted with the consideration of an individual's personality and cognitive abilities, show that one's faith and religious convictions provide a blueprint for how we understand, act and respond to our own environment. As a result, they have found that religious people tend to be less anxious and have lower activity in the ACC region of their brains compared with non-religious people.

"Inzlicht says it would be interesting to test people as their religious devotion strengthens or weakens over time to see if ACC activation changes accordingly. This could help confirm the correct explanation for the lower ACC activity." -NS

Sources:

-New Scientist

-Wiley InterScience

Pope's Publicity Team at Question

Four years into his reign, Pope Benedict XVI has already proven to be somewhat of a controversial variable to the Catholic Church. In 2006, while delivering a lecture in Germany at the University of Regensburg, the Pope stated,

"Show me just what Muhammad brought that was new and there you will find things only evil and inhuman, such as his command to spread by the sword the faith he preached."
-Wikipedia

More recently however, the Pope has found himself touring Africa; part of what is supposed to be a fresh start for the pontiff. Questions continue to arise however concerning the pontiff's publicity team. As it stands now the pontiff meets with few advisers, his entire media operation is under the sole supervision of Archbishop Claudio Maria Celli, 67 and furthermore the Vatican has been publicly criticized for the pontiff's remote nature and questionable public statements. Archbishop Celli responded to these criticisms by stating,

“New media technologies are creating a new environment, a new culture" stating further that, "innovative thinking, so that we can better reach out to others and better communicate the Good News to all humanity" is needed.
-The Times

Father Federico Lombardi, spokesperson for the Pope and also responsible for Vatican radio and television was quoted as saying,

"I don't think my role is to explain the things the Pope already states in an extraordinarily clear and rich way."
-The Times

Regardless, the Pope is no stranger to publicity and his Africa Tour continues forward. Sunday brought the largest congregation of people thus far in his travels, bringing together nearly one million devout Angolan Catholics.

Charges dismissed against ex-church deacon

Former First Baptist Church deacon, Terry Dean Gibson of Las Cruces, was dismissed Tuesday of all charges related to the secret video-taping of women and girls at backyard pool parties that he hosted for church bible study and youth group meetings. In April of 2008, Gibson had been charged with nine counts of sexual exploitation of children following an investigation surrounding the deacon. Third Judicial District Court Judge Stephen Bridgforth stated in his ruling that in order for the videotapes to be considered exploitative, "visible display or readily discernible depiction of a child engaged in sexually provocative conduct" must exist as well as "visible signs of eroticism." None of which, according to the courts findings existed. Ultimately the videotapes were protected speech under the First Amendment, given that such exploitative acts did not exist. A statement by Gibson's lawyer said the ruling was "an important victory for the First Amendment in an era that has seen the government increasingly and consistently encroaching upon our rights as citizens."

Pope's Comments Astound

"It (AIDS) cannot be overcome by the distribution of condoms. On the contrary, they increase the problem,"

These were the words spoken by the vicar of Christ yesterday in an interview. It could be argued that the Pope is merely expressing a religious view, however given the unfortunate reach and influence of the office in communities worst affected by the scourge of HIV/AIDS, his position is unconscionable.

The rest here.

People: FLDS=Cult

FLDS leaders arranged a press junket for a several People reporters hoping for some good PR a year after 439 children were removed from their Texas compound by the state's protective services. However the the title of the feature article blares out from newsstands everywhere, "The Children of the Cult". The eight-page photo spread shows the FLDS women and children, but grown men are conspicuously absent. According to the article, some children were having trouble readjusting to their sect's austere lifestyle after being exposed to bicycles, television, and video games during their absence from the compound.


- People

Not in Jesus' name

In response to Virginia Governor Timothy Kaine's affirmation of a statewide policy prohibiting state troopers serving as chaplains from praying "in Jesus' name," a coalition of Christian Pastors has begun organizing a demonstration rally for November 1st, right before the fall election, to protest the resignation of 17 Virginia trooper chaplains. The "Stand Up For Jesus" rally is set for Nov. 1 at 10 a.m. at the Capitol Square Bell Tower in Richmond, VA.

In a written response to the coalition of Pastors, Governor Timothy Kaine remarked, "it is important for state employees to be sensitive to the entire population who would attend such events," and, "I did note that the attachments to your letter contained some extraneous references to energizing voters before November 4 and disparaging comments about 'liberals,' 'atheists' and 'homosexuals.' I take matters of faith and religious liberty very seriously and am offended when people attempt to inflame passions about these sacred matters for political ends."

- World Net Daily

Rev. Andy Pete of Pennsylvania writes, "Heavens Aflame"

Andy Pete just may be our best recent example of what a Universal Life Church minister is truly made of. With two kids, two cats, a loving wife, family and home daycare; it would seem that Andy would have no free time. You may be surprised to find however, that Andy, whose first son was born when he was only 16, has done much more with his time than your average Joe. Andy Pete has a master's degree in English from online Rochville University, and in addition to his ordainment with the Universal Life Church, he is a master hypnotherapist and part-time writer. Last year in fact, he invested his 2008 stimulus check into both him and his families future by publishing 3k copies of "Heavens Aflame". The novel was written by hand during his younger son's baseball practices. It is a fantasy which follows the life of a man trapped "somewhere between Heaven and Hell" introducing the reader to a unique outlook on life after death. Depending on the success of the novel, Pete is prepared with ideas for a sequel.

Rev. Andy Pete can be reached at unliving@comcast.net

Source: www.ldnews.com

Catholic Sex Abuse Allegations on the Rise

2008 saw a rise in the number of Catholic clergy sexual abuse claims. Last year 803 individuals reported past abuse; the highest number of cases brought before the Catholic Church in a single year.

Despite the increase in abuse claims – and the corresponding settlements – the amount of money actually paid out by the Catholic Church was less than in preceding years. This has brought attention to the practices that the Church is using to mediate damage to its reputation and finances.

"Unfortunately, many dioceses are conducting the investigations themselves without also making a report to civil authorities," the researchers said. Advocates have repeatedly encouraged victims to make their first report to police, not the church.

(AP)

As more abuse victims follow the Catholic Church’s prescribed path of compensation, fewer cases ever see a court room. Only about 30% of victims settle their claims with an attorney, and as media exposure declines, so does public pressure to reform Church policy.

The statistics of abuse continue to outrage The Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests, who say that the Church’s self policing policies do not offer a solution to the continuing problems.

We challenge church officials to provide clear, specific information (on every diocesan website and at the national level) about which predators have been defrocked and which have not…

In almost every case, church authorities have vast resources they could use to warn unsuspecting families about these dangerous sex offenders, including their known or suspected or recent whereabouts. But sadly, the Catholic hierarchy largely still prefers to protect itself from embarrassment instead of protecting children from crimes.

(SNAP)

To date the Catholic Church has spent over 2.6 billion dollars settling cases of clergy abuse.


- Associated Press
- The Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests

Washington to be a Leader on Marriage Equality?

On a vote of 30-18, the Washington State Senate on Tuesday passed bill SB5688 which could be signed into law by Governor Chris Gregoire sooner than expected. The bill would extend benefits to state registered domestic partners, giving them the same rights and protections as any married couple in the State of Washington. The only concern that has been expressed is that the state bill, in all of its grandeur, would not address the inequalities domestic partners face under federal law, but it would send a signal to the rest of the country, that the State of Washington is doing something proactive at least.

Chief sponsor of the bill, Sen. Ed Murray stated,

"People who wish that the tens of thousands of gay and lesbian families in Washington did not exist will still be able to wish that we did not exist under this bill...

But this bill does recognize the reality of too many families denied the ability to make decisions as a family at the very times when they need to be together the most."

- Seattle PI

Religious Influence Fading in United States...

... though Universal Life Church ordinations continue to climb.


A 2008 survey of the United States population identified a consistent decline in the number of 'religious' individuals; Americans that identify as non-religious now account for 15% of the population. When compared to past figures, these new findings appear even more dramatic: a 1990 survey found that only 7% of the US population identified as non-religious.

Meabh Fitzpatrick, 49, of Rutland, Vt., says she is upfront about becoming an atheist 10 years ago because "it's important for us to be counted. I'm a taxpayer and a law-abiding citizen and an ethical person, and I don't think people assume this about atheists."

(USA T)

In addition to the rise of secularism, the number of new religions also continues to grow. Another recent survey found that 41% of people have switched religions in their lifetime. This figure is a double edged sword for many deep rooted faith organizations: on one hand, more people are exploring new forms of spirituality, though the growth of new religions is not possible without attrition from already established congregations.

Those that are faithful are staying faithful, and many Christians (currently 86% of the American population) are not worried by the statistics.

"We just look to Jesus," [Tom Haynes] says. "That's why I don't pay attention to surveys. Christianity is moving totally under the radar. It's the work of God. It can't be measured. It happens inside of people's souls."

(USA T)

As an all inclusive, interfaith church, people are continually drawn to the humanitarian teachings of the ULC. Do that which is right, even to those with which you disagree.


- USA Today
- American Religious Identification Survey
- Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life

Prop 8 Archbishop Returns

San Francisco Archbishop George Niederauer, a transplant from Salt Lake City, intervened in the staging of a gay themed play at the Most Holy Redeemer Catholic church in San Francisco's Castro District, a March 9th SFWeekly.com article reported. This is the second time that the Archbishop has gained media publicity through the use of his religious authority, being remembered first for his involvement with Mormon church and their joint efforts in campaigning for Proposition 8.

The student's play, which was pending a curtain date, had received much publicity in Catholic newsletters and blogs and had been highly anticipated by many people. The play had been adapted from Alex Sanchez's, The God Box and follows the story of a small town boy named Paul who meets an openly gay christian his own age named Manuel; following Paul's journey to seek truth and better understanding.

Niederauer was cited by Mormon officials as being the reason why the church became involved with the marriage-equality battle, leading to a nationwide contribution from the church of 20 million dollars to promote the measure, which is currently being reviewed for its constitutionality in court.


- Edge Boston
- SF Weekly

Reverend Bryan Cranston

Actor Bryan Cranston told all in a recent interview with the magazine Time Out New York. You may recognize him as Hal from Malcolm in the Middle, and you’ll find his name on our list of famous ULC ministers. Here he talks about his wedding ministry:

Time Out New York: I read that you were an ordained minister in college.
Bryan Cranston: In the Universal Life Church. I performed weddings.

TO: Really?
BC: I did about a dozen. I did one for a couple on a plane. I did one dressed as Elvis. I did one once in a bunny suit. The minimum wage back in 1974 was, like, $1.75. I was getting $150 per wedding, so I thought, Absolutely, sign me up!

TO: Sounds like a good way to make money for anyone getting laid off.
BC: There you go!

(TONY)

Become an ordained minister for free; the possibilities are endless.

- Time Out New York

Religion in the Doctors Office

Prior to leaving office, the Bush Administration enacted a set of rules designed to protect the freedom of conscience for those working in the health care system. The rules allow for health care workers to refuse participation in abortions or other medical activities that contradict their religious beliefs. Passed in December, the law went into effect on January 20, the day of President Obama’s Inauguration.

The biggest controversy surrounding the rule is that applies prohibitive restrictions to health care organizations that receive government funding. Organizations that do accept taxpayer dollars will be barred from firing health professionals that refuse to perform abortions or offer referrals. The Planned Parenthood Federation of America took a firm stance against the new policy stating that, “the rule would make it hard for women to get legal services such as contraception and abortion counseling.”

The Obama administration has moved to revoke the new rule following a 30 day public comment period. The paradox we are left with is whether this will be a step forward or a step backwards for religious freedom.


- Pew Sitter
- Bloomberg.com

ULC Teachings, Not Just for People

On March 1st, the All Creatures Universal Life Church held their first Sunday service. They are now the only completely pet friendly church in the Detroit Metro area, and we are so glad to witness their achievement.

There are many churches that offer a day or ritual for the blessing of animals, but there are few churches that can claim to be a full spectrum animal ministry. Reverend Claudia Barber, the founder of All Creatures ULC, has created an environment in which both animals and people can worship together.

"My dogs go almost everywhere with me and I believe that pets, having such a special place in our lives, also deserve to be present at the most important time of our lives - in church," says Barber. "Instead of just one day where pets are allowed, usually outside the actual church building, for a blessing, why not allow them to be part of every service?"

(WXYZ)

Rev. Barber has shown us that whether we are human or animal, we are all children of the same Universe.

Congratulations All Creatures ULC!


- WXYZ News Detroit
- All Creatures Universal Life Church

Catholic Evolution

To mark the 150th anniversary of Charles Darwin’s Origin of Species, the Vatican has sponsored a week long conference to explore a possible relationship between Catholicism and evolution. On a broader spectrum, the conference aims to examine barriers between faith and revolutionary scientific theory.

Cardinal William Levada, head of the Vatican's Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, said the Catholic Church doesn't stand in the way of scientific realities like evolution, saying there was a "wide spectrum of room" for belief in both the scientific basis for evolution and faith in God the creator.

(AP)

Examining past examples, the Vatican is taking a careful look at the history of Galileo’s work. The astronomer Galileo (1564 – 1642) was persecuted for his scientific theories by the Catholic Church, though he is now internationally renowned for his groundbreaking discoveries.

the Catholic Church never condemned Darwin, as it condemned and silenced Galileo...

[and in 1996] Pope John Paul II said that evolution was "more than a hypothesis".

(BBC)

At the forefront of the conference will be the highly publicized debate between evolution and intelligent design. The church has never affirmed a position favoring one theory over the other, though they have stated that they do not regard intelligent design as a science.

To complicate the issue further, in 2005 Austrian Cardinal Christoph Schoenborn, who has worked closely with Pope Benedict, publicly rejected evolution in favor of intelligent design.

In [a New York Times opinion] piece, Schoenborn seemed to reject traditional church teaching and backed instead intelligent design, the view that life is too complex to have developed through evolution alone, and that a higher power has had a hand in changes among species over time…

Vatican officials later made clear they did not believe intelligent design was science and that teaching it alongside evolutionary theory in school science classes only created confusion.

(AP)

We will look on with curiosity for the duration of this five day conference.

- Associated Press
- BBC