Bob's Notes: Matthew 17

A New Pope Is Good for Humanists

For humanists, the selection of the next pope is a win-win situation. Either a more humanistic modernizing force that respects science and opposes discrimination will be elected to help bring the church into the 21st century, or a conservative traditionalist will be chosen to continue the backward prejudices and repressive tendencies that contribute so significantly to the flight from faith that is destroying organized religion. So either Catholicism is about to become more humanistic, or there's about to be lots more former Catholics coming to humanism.

MORE: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/roy-speckhardt/a-new-pope-is-good-for-humanists_b_2733992.html

The real church scandal

Why should I even care who the next very fallible pope is? Thanks to the HBO documentary Mea Maxima Culpa, and other revelations, the world is finally paying attention to pedophilia within the church, and the next pope won’t have as much cover-up freedom as previous popes.

If Catholics choose to be counseled about marital or sexual difficulties by celibate priests, that’s their right. But I’m amazed by a church that opposes both abortion and condom use that reduces the number of abortions; that requires celibacy before marriage, yet opposes masturbation, which makes it easier to remain celibate; that requires married women to be fruitful and multiply regardless of circumstances, but prevents church leaders from being fruitful and multiplying; that encourages monogamous marriage to avoid promiscuity, yet opposes monogamous marriage for committed gays.

MORE: http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/guest-voices/post/the-real-church-scandal/2013/02/22/57477016-7cfc-11e2-82e8-61a46c2cde3d_blog.html

LA's Cardinal Mahony calls himself 'scapegoat' ahead of deposition, conclave

Improbable as that is, it underscores the outrage in some quarters that cardinals whose reputations have been battered by cover-up allegations will have an equal say in who will next lead the world's 1.3 billion Catholics.

MORE: http://usnews.nbcnews.com/_news/2013/02/23/17057099-las-cardinal-mahony-calls-himself-scapegoat-ahead-of-deposition-conclave?lite

See also...

Records detail cardinal's failings in abuse scandal
http://religion.blogs.cnn.com/2013/02/22/records-detail-cardinals-failings-in-abuse-scandal/?hpt=hp_t1

And...

Pope Benedict XVI leaves mixed legacy on clergy sexual abuse
http://www.religionnews.com/2013/02/12/pope-benedict-xvi-leaves-mixed-legacy-on-clergy-sexual-abuse/

Pope Immunity: Vatican Will Protect Benedict From Sexual Abuse Prosecution
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/02/17/pope-immunity_n_2708518.html

Vatican blasts Italian media for ‘false and damaging’ reports
http://worldnews.nbcnews.com/_news/2013/02/23/17068017-vatican-blasts-italian-media-for-false-and-damaging-reports?lite

Archbishop deposed in abuse lawsuit

New York’s Cardinal Timothy Dolan sat for questions from lawyers for victims of sexual abuse by priests in Milwaukee where he previously served as that city’s Roman Catholic leader.

MORE: http://religion.blogs.cnn.com/2013/02/20/archbishop-deposed-in-abuse-lawsuit/

U.N. child rights body says U.S. lax on clerical sex abuse cases

A U.N. committee has accused U.S. legal authorities of failing to fully pursue cases of child sex abuse in religious groups, an issue especially troubling the Roman Catholic Church.The Committee on the Rights of the Child wrote this month that it was “deeply concerned” to find widespread sexual abuse by clerics and staff of religious institutions and “a lack of measures ... to properly investigate cases and prosecute them”.

MORE: http://blogs.reuters.com/faithworld/2013/02/18/u-n-child-rights-body-says-u-s-lax-on-clerical-sex-abuse-cases/

Poll: Only 6 states less religious than D.C.

Mississippi, Utah and Alabama topped the most-religious list, each with more than 55 percent of "very religious" residents. Vermont was ranked as the least religious state in the nation, at 19 percent.Lauren Anderson Youngblood, spokeswoman for the D.C.-based Secular Coalition for America, said the nation is growing less religious overall and suggested the levels of religious adherence in the District might be related to education. "All of the statistics do indicate that atheists and agnostics are in general higher-educated," she said. "We know that D.C. specifically is one of the most educated cities in the country, so I'm not sure if that directly correlates, but it seems like a good place to start."

MORE: http://washingtonexaminer.com/d.c.-lags-on-being-religious/article/2521504

10 celebs you didn’t know were atheists

Kiera Knightley? Brad Pitt? Here are some movie star non-believers.

MORE: http://www.salon.com/2013/02/23/10_celebs_you_didnt_know_were_atheists_partner/

Is secularism making a comeback?

When it comes to not making optimistic, pie-in-the-sky pronouncements about American secularism I have almost unparalleled street cred. For years I have rued and bemoaned and lamented the fate of this poor mangled -ism. But in the past few months there have been some positive and unexpected developments both here and abroad as well.

MORE: http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/guest-voices/post/is-secularism-making-a-comeback/2013/02/19/c8160b10-7a93-11e2-82e8-61a46c2cde3d_blog.html

See also...

The new American Jewish secularism
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/guest-voices/post/the-new-american-jewish-secularism/2013/02/19/23cfa7a8-7aae-11e2-9a75-dab0201670da_blog.html?wprss=rss_on-faith

New atheist group launches at TCU

A new student group at Texas Christian University aims to let students discuss freely their atheistic or agnostic views on religion.

MORE: http://www.wfaa.com/news/education/New-atheist-group-launches-at-TCU-192420401.html

Black Nonbelievers of Dallas, Texas' First Black Atheist Organization, Launches Sunday

Just about a year ago, Dallas's atheist community announced a new billboard in South Dallas, celebrating "black atheists and freethinkers." This year, just in time for the tail end of black history month, the Fellowship of Freethought, Dallas' largest atheist group, is announcing a spinoff organization for its black members. Called Black Nonbelievers of Dallas, it's launching Sunday and will be the first dedicated black atheist organization in Texas. The group is modeled on and supported by Black Nonbelievers Inc., an Atlanta-based group.

MORE: http://blogs.dallasobserver.com/unfairpark/2013/02/black_nonbelievers_of_dallas_t.php

What Federal Debt?: Congressional Republicans Want New Subsidy For Religious Schools

All this adds up to one thing, influential Republicans in Congress plan to push hard for some kind of federal taxpayer subsidy for religious and other private schools. Those of us who support church-state separation and a strong, effective public school system must be on the alert.

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/what-federal-debt-congressional-republicans-want-new-subsidy-for-religious

See also...

House passes bill to give disaster relief to religious groups
http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/on-faith/house-passes-bill-to-give-disaster-relief-to-religious-groups/2013/02/13/637cd65c-7633-11e2-b102-948929030e64_story.html

FEMA Funds For Fred Phelps?: U.S. House Sets Bad Precedent On Funding Religion

If that nice little Methodist church down the block is eligible for taxpayer dollars, then so is Phelps' loathsome den of iniquity.

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/fema-funds-for-fred-phelps-us-house-sets-bad-precedent-on-funding-religion

See also...

God and the acts of Congress
http://www.northjersey.com/columnists/doblin/doblin_022213.html

Course Correction: Ark. Legislators Should Rethink Bible Class Promotion

Without guidance from professional educators who have no theological axe to grind, classes about the Bible in Arkansas' schools could easily end up being Sunday School lessons on steroids.

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/course-correction-ark-legislators-should-rethink-bible-class-promotion

See also...

Newly Passed Bill Could Bring More Bibles Into Classrooms
http://ozarksfirst.com/fulltext?nxd_id=769122

And...

Bible Thumping in Texas
http://newsitem.com/opinion/bible-thumping-in-texas-1.1442538

Discovery Deception Derailed: Colorado Lawmakers Scuttle Creationist Bill

Good news from Colorado! The House Committee on Education voted 7-6 on Monday to reject a creationist measure intended to undermine science education in the state.

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/discovery-deception-derailed-colorado-lawmakers-scuttle-creationist-bill

Insist That People Coexisted With Dinosaurs…and Get an A in Science Class!

In biology class, public school students can't generally argue that dinosaurs and people ran around Earth at the same time, at least not without risking a big fat F. But that could soon change for kids in Oklahoma: On Tuesday, the Oklahoma Common Education committee is expected to consider a House bill that would forbid teachers from penalizing students who turn in papers attempting to debunk almost universally accepted scientific theories such as biological evolution and anthropogenic (human-driven) climate change.

MORE: http://www.motherjones.com/mojo/2013/02/oklahoma-hr1674-science-evolution-climate-change

Ohio School Board Votes to Keep Jesus Portrait Up

An Ohio school district decided Tuesday night to keep a portrait of Jesus hanging in the school where it's been 65 years, denying a federal lawsuit's claim the portrait's display unconstitutionally promotes religion in a public school.

MORE: http://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/ohio-school-decide-jesus-portrait-suit-response-18478524

Ten Commandments Monument Will Stay Up in Front of Florida County Courthouse After Judge Dismisses Lawsuit

The six-ton granite monument of the Ten Commandments on top of the Dixie County Courthouse steps is not going anywhere. On Wednesday, the six-year First Amendment battle over the religious display ended as a federal judge in Gainesville dismissed the American Civil Liberties Union's lawsuit against Dixie County.

MORE: http://www.gainesville.com/article/20130214/ARTICLES/130219767?p=all&tc=pgall

Alabama Senate committee OKs measure to allow displays of ‘historical documents’ in public buildings

"In a telephone conversation after the meeting, Charles Miller, executive director of the Secular Coalition of Alabama, said the Ten Commandments wording in the original bill would never have stood up in court."

MORE: http://www.annistonstar.com/view/full_story/21709827/article-Alabama-Senate-committee-OKs-measure-to-allow-displays-of-%E2%80%98historical-documents%E2%80%99-in-public-buildings-

Bill could lead to prayer in schools

Supporters of a Mississippi bill that would legalize school prayer say the measure would ensure religious liberty. Both the state House and the state Senate have passed versions of the Schoolchildren's Religious Liberties Act, but they have to agree on a single bill before anything would go to Republican Gov. Phil Bryant, the Associated Press reports.The ACLU's interim director, Bear Atwood, said the bill will force students to listen to someone else's religious expression at football games and graduation events. The same measure led judges to strike down a previous Mississippi law allowing student-led prayer, the AP reports.

MORE: http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2013/feb/17/mississippi-bills-could-lead-prayer-schools/#ixzz2LLzHfu6y

South Dakota City Resists Atheist Demands to End Prayer at Council Meetings

Government officials in a city in South Dakota are resisting demands from a well-known atheist activist organization to cease presenting a time of prayer before each city council meeting.

MORE: http://christiannews.net/2013/02/20/south-dakota-city-resists-atheist-demands-to-end-prayer-at-council-meetings/

Humanist legal center succeeds in getting YMCA festival to accept nonreligious group

Following the involvement of the American Humanist Association, the YMCA Flowertown Festival has reversed its decision to exclude a local humanist group. In an email sent today to Amy Monsky, president of the Secular Humanists of the Lowcountry (SHL), the Summerville Family YMCA Festival Coordinator Kimberly Howell informed Monsky that the group has "officially been accepted to the 2013 Flowertown Festival."

MORE: http://www.secularnewsdaily.com/2013/02/humanist-legal-center-succeeds-in-getting-ymca-festival-to-accept-nonreligious-group/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+SecularNewsDaily+%28Secular+News+Daily%29

Sudden Conversion: Religious Right Warms Up To Church-State Separation In Calif. Yoga Case

The Religious Right seems to believe church-state separation should be ignored when conservative Christians want to use public schools to promote their faith but applied vigorously to every other religious group.

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/sudden-conversion-religious-right-warms-up-to-church-state-separation-in

Disingenuous Discourse: Sectarian Lobbies Defend DOMA, Prop 8 On Secular Grounds

Most of these groups are tossing around some pretty flimsy secular arguments in a weak attempt to make it seem like their opposition isn't based in religious dogma. We know better.

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/disingenuous-discourse-sectarian-lobbies-defend-doma-prop-8-on-secular

State of Tennessee confiscates pastor's venomous snakes; pastor wants them back

The pastor, Jamie Coots, has been charged with illegal possession and transporting of wildlife, but Coots claims that he has a permit for them now and wants them back.  Coots had a prior conviction for the same thing in 2008.  He is the pastor of Full Gospel Tabernacle in Jesus Name Church in Middlesboro, KY.

MORE: http://www.goddiscussion.com/107291/state-of-tennessee-confiscates-pastors-venomous-snakes-pastor-wants-them-back/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+GodDiscussion+%28God+Discussion%29

White House asks Supreme Court to overturn same-sex marriage ban

The Obama administration is asking the Supreme Court to declare unconstitutional a section of federal law that only recognizes male-female marriages.

MORE: http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-250_162-57570902/white-house-asks-supreme-court-to-overturn-same-sex-marriage-ban/

See also...

Gay marriage opponents make their case to Supreme Court
http://www.religionnews.com/2013/02/19/gay-marriage-opponents-make-their-case-to-supreme-court/

The AHA Joins Call to Ban LGBT Discrimination by Federal Contractors

The AHA, in coalition with 53 organizations supporting LGBT rights, is proud to be a sign-on to this letter to President Obama calling for an executive order banning federal contractors from discriminating against LGBT Americans.

MORE: http://www.americanhumanist.org/news/details/2013-02-the-aha-joins-call-to-ban-lgbt-discrimination-by-fed

Sex-Ed Bill Proposes Funding For Pro-LGBT, Pro-Contraception Programs

Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA) and Sen. Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ) reintroduced the Real Education for Healthy Youth Act on Valentine's Day. The bill would give grants to state and local education agencies, nonprofit organizations, and universities to fund comprehensive sex education programs -- ones that would include information about birth control, LGBT sexuality, emotional health, and other aspects of sex-ed.

MORE: http://www.patheos.com/blogs/friendlyatheist/2013/02/18/sex-ed-bill-proposes-funding-for-pro-lgbt-pro-contraception-programs/

Illinoisans back gay marriage 50-29: Crain's/Ipsos poll

Most Illinois residents want the Legislature to legalize same-sex marriage in the state, according to the latest results of the Crain's/Ipsos Illinois Poll.The marriage bill passed the Senate last week 34-21. The odds of passage are believed to be somewhat longer in the House, but sponsors say they are cautiously optimistic. A vote could occur this week or wait for later, depending on its prospects.

Illinois would be the 10th state in the country and the second in the Midwest, after Iowa, to allow gay marriage. Gov. Pat Quinn has promised to sign the measure into law if it reaches his desk.

MORE: http://www.chicagobusiness.com/article/20130219/BLOGS02/130219779/illinoisans-back-gay-marriage-50-29-crains-ipsos-poll#ixzz2LM09Dx8a

Virginia House subcommittee kills employment-nondiscrimination bill

A Virginia House of Delegates subcommittee voted Tuesday to table SB701, a bill that would prohibit discrimination in public employment based on a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity, effectively killing the measure for the remainder of the session despite widespread support for LGBT employment protections across the commonwealth, including among Republicans in the state Senate.

MORE: http://www.metroweekly.com/poliglot/2013/02/virginia-house-subcommittee-kills-employment-nondi.html

'Gay-free' prom idea backfires on supporters in Indiana town

Students and the principal at an Indiana high school are disavowing a campaign by parents to organize a "gay-free" prom.

MORE: http://usnews.nbcnews.com/_news/2013/02/11/16930207-gay-free-prom-idea-backfires-on-supporters-in-indiana-town

How to post to Facebook, Twitter after you die

People have long left letters for loved ones (and the rare nemesis) with estate lawyers to be delivered after death. But a new crop of startups will handle sending prewritten e-mails and posting to Facebook or Twitter once a person passes. One company is even toying with a service that tweets just like a specific person after they are gone.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/02/22/tech/social-media/death-and-social-media/index.html?hpt=hp_c2

In Rich and Poor Nations, Giving Makes People Feel Better Than Getting, Research Finds

Feeling good about spending money on someone else rather than for personal benefit may be a universal response among people in both impoverished countries and rich nations, according to new research published by the American Psychological Association.

MORE: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/02/130221104357.htm

Has Evolution Given Humans Unique Brain Structures?

Our ancestors evolutionarily split from those of rhesus monkeys about 25 million years ago. Since then, brain areas have been added, have disappeared or have changed in function. This raises the question, 'Has evolution given humans unique brain structures?'. Scientists have entertained the idea before but conclusive evidence was lacking. By combining different research methods, we now have a first piece of evidence that could prove that humans have unique cortical brain networks.

MORE: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/02/130222120753.htm

Federal government to announce Religious Freedom Office

Human rights groups and opposition critics have said the office is a misguided attempt to inject religion into foreign policy.

MORE: http://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/federal-government-to-announce-religious-freedom-office-1.1162231

Puerto Rico denies gays right to adopt children

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – Puerto Rico's Supreme Court has narrowly voted to uphold a law banning gay couples from adopting children. Wednesday's 5-4 vote comes in the case of an unidentified woman who sought to adopt a child that her partner had through in vitro fertilization.

MORE: http://nbclatino.com/2013/02/20/puerto-rico-denies-gays-right-to-adopt-children/

French lawmakers approve same-sex marriage bill

Argentina, Belgium, Canada, Spain, South Africa and Norway are among nearly a dozen countries that allow same-sex marriages.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/02/12/world/europe/france-gay-marriage-vote/index.html

Focus on Islamist militants as French family seized in Cameroon

The abduction of a French family, including four children, in a remote part of Cameroon has fueled fears that Western civilians living and working in parts of Africa are becoming targets of Islamist militant groups -- especially in the wake of France's military intervention in Mali.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/02/19/world/africa/cameroon-french-kidnapped/index.html

Boko Haram offshoot claims responsibility in Nigeria kidnapping

Boko Haram -- whose name means "Western education is sacrilege" -- has killed more than 2,800 people in an escalating campaign to impose strict Islamic law on largely Muslim northern Nigeria, according to Human Rights Watch.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/02/18/world/africa/nigeria-kidnappings/index.html

Thousands riot in Bangladesh over writings of 'atheist bloggers'

Tensions have risen in the Muslim-majority nation over the alleged anti-Islamic blog posts by Ahmed Rajib Haider, who was hacked to death last week near his home in the capital Dhaka.

MORE: http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2013/02/22/thousands-riot-in-bangladesh-over-writings-of-atheist-bloggers/http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2013/02/22/thousands-riot-in-bangladesh-over-writings-of-atheist-bloggers/

See also...

Four killed in Bangladesh clashes over 'atheist bloggers'
http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-02-22/south-asia/37240925_1_rubber-bullets-national-mosque-protesters

Deadly Bangladesh clashes over 'atheist bloggers'
http://www.scmp.com/news/asia/article/1156424/deadly-bangladesh-clashes-over-atheist-bloggers

4 killed in Bangladesh in clashes over 'atheist bloggers'
http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/4-killed-in-bangladesh-in-clashes-over-atheist-bloggers-113022200519_1.html

How Islamists are gaining ground in Syria

The high-profile Islamist victories on the battlefield have been accompanied by another trend. Gradually, black Islamist banners have replaced the distinctive green, black, white and red flags of the Syrian rebels at weekly anti-government protests.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/02/21/world/meast/syria-nusra-front-rise/index.html?hpt=imi_t3

4 killed, 7 arrested in security operation after bombing in Pakistan

Police said a suicide bomber rammed a water tanker laden with explosives into a crowded marketplace Saturday, setting off a huge blast that killed at least 89 people and wounded at least 180 others.

Shiite Muslims in Quetta had refused to bury those killed in the devastating bombing until authorities responded to their demands to take military action against Sunni extremists thought to be responsible.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/02/19/world/asia/pakistan-quetta-blast/index.html

See also...

Suicide bomber devastates Shiite enclave in Pakistan, killing 83
http://www.cnn.com/2013/02/17/world/asia/pakistan-blast/index.html

Al Qaeda affiliate in Iraq claims responsibility for deadly Baghdad attacks

Last month, at least 177 Iraqi civilians, soldiers and police officers were killed in attacks, according to figures compiled by Iraq's interior, defense and health ministries.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/02/18/world/meast/iraq-violence/index.html

See also...

Bombs target Shiite neighborhoods, claim 21 lives in Iraq
http://www.cnn.com/2013/02/17/world/meast/iraq-violence/index.html

And...

Car bombings in chiefly Shiite areas of Iraq kill at least 26
http://www.cnn.com/2013/02/08/world/meast/iraq-violence/index.html

36 killed in stampede at Indian rail station near huge Hindu festival

"The Hindus believe that a dip in the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna and the Saraswati on this occasion helps get rid of all worldly sins," Suresh said.

Sunday was the main day for bathing of the 55-day Kumbh Mela. In Hindu mythology, Allahabad is one of the four places where drops of the "nectar of immortality" contained in a pitcher fell to earth as gods and demons fought for it.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/02/10/world/asia/india-stampede-deaths/index.html

Darwin Day Resolution in Congress Gains Seven Co-Sponsors

Darwin Day is less than a week away! Seven Representatives have co-sponsored H.Res. 41 to designate February 12 as Darwin Day.

MORE: http://www.americanhumanist.org/HNN/details/2013-02-darwin-day-resolution-in-congress-gains-five-co-spon

See also...

On Feb. 12, should Darwin get his day?
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/guest-voices/post/on-feb-12-should-darwin-get-his-day/2013/02/05/b61c9334-6fe4-11e2-ac36-3d8d9dcaa2e2_blog.html

Obama adviser Joshua DuBois to leave Office of Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships

Over DuBois' tenure, the office been criticized for failing to address one of the core issues around government funded programs run by religious organizations--that of faith-based hiring and firing. A 2012 report left "critical questions unanswered" about how the government could work with religious groups within the limits established by the First Amendment.

MORE: http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/under-god/post/obama-advisor-joshua-dubois-to-leave-office-of-faith-based-and-neighborhood-partnerships/2013/02/07/52baa3aa-7131-11e2-ac36-3d8d9dcaa2e2_blog.html

See also...

Bush's director of faith-based initiatives praises liberal successor
http://www.salon.com/2013/02/05/former_bush_director_of_faith_based_initiative_extols_liberal_successor_partne/

Are Atheists The New Campus Crusaders?

This month at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, a select group of students will show their humanitarian spirit by participating in the Bleedin' Heathens Blood Drive. On February 12th, they will eat cake to celebrate Darwin Day, and earlier this year, they performed "de-baptism" ceremonies to celebrate Blasphemy Day, attended a War on Christmas Party, and set up Hug An Atheist and Ask An Atheist booths in the campus quad.

MORE: http://www.religiondispatches.org/archive/atheologies/6790/are_atheists_the_new_campus_crusaders/

Some Arguments Just Don't Have Two Sides

Bigoted people of all stripes and sizes will continue to cling to their prejudices and sadly, they will even demand that their intolerant and inaccurate beliefs be the standard by which all of society lives. It's time to call them on their hate and stop equating them with valid and informed stances. Everyone has a right to say what they believe, but people shouldn't expect to be taken seriously if what they say is so obviously based upon prejudice and superstition.

MORE: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/roy-speckhardt/some-arguments-just-dont-_b_2639935.html

We Need Less Religion in our Politics and Less Politics in our Religion

The IRS prohibits tax-exempt organizations from endorsing candidates, so the Scott Brown yard sign clearly ran afoul of federal law. And to his credit, when the Rev. Jonathan Cobb of First Baptist learned this, he agreed to take it down. The Corpus Christi sign was perfectly proper, however, since the IRS interprets nonprofits working for or against ballot initiatives to be "lobbying" rather than "political" activity. But enough with legalities. How far should religious groups go when it comes to politics? Are U.S. religious leaders now crossing the line?

MORE: http://religionandpolitics.org/2013/02/05/we-need-less-religion-in-our-politics-and-less-politics-in-our-religion/

Humanist Legal Center Succeeds in Getting YMCA Festival to Accept Nonreligious Group

Following the involvement of the American Humanist Association, the YMCA Flowertown Festival has reversed its decision to exclude a local humanist group. In an email sent today to Amy Monsky, president of the Secular Humanists of the Lowcountry (SHL), the Summerville Family YMCA Festival Coordinator Kimberly Howell informed Monsky that the group has "officially been accepted to the 2013 Flowertown Festival."

MORE: http://www.americanhumanist.org/news/details/2013-02-humanist-legal-center-succeeds-in-getting-ymca-festi

Humanists Applaud DC Bill Allowing Secular Wedding Officiants

Humanists and other nontheists are enthusiastic about a proposal by Washington D.C. City Councilmember Tommy Wells to allow anyone to perform a wedding ceremony in the nation's capital.

MORE: http://www.americanhumanist.org/news/details/2013-02-humanists-applaud-dc-bill-allowing-secular-wedding-o

See also...

DC Residents, Take Action: Support Secular Weddings in D.C.!
http://www.americanhumanist.org/news/details/2013-02-dc-residents-take-action-support-secular-weddings-in

Religious sponsors loom large in Boy Scouts' policy debate

The decision by Boy Scouts of America to postpone any change in policy about gay membership was fueled by an "outpouring of feedback." Much of that reaction came from a sector with strength in numbers: the religious groups that comprise the majority of the Scouts' chartered organizations.

MORE: http://www.religionnews.com/2013/02/06/religious-sponsors-loom-large-in-boy-scouts-policy-debate/

ACLU, Atheist Group Sue Ohio School District Over Jesus Portrait

The Ohio chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union and the Freedom From Religion Foundation have filed suit against an Ohio school district where one school has a prominently displayed portrait of Jesus Christ.

MORE: http://www.christianpost.com/news/aclu-atheist-group-sue-ohio-school-district-over-jesus-portrait-89732/

Virginia Senate approves bill to allow discrimination by university clubs based on religious beliefs

RICHMOND, Va. -- A bill that would allow publicly funded college groups to discriminate in their policies and membership was approved in the Virginia state Senate on Tuesday.

MORE: http://www.lgbtqnation.com/2013/02/virginia-senate-approves-bill-to-allow-discrimination-by-university-clubs/

Religious Leaders Talk About Prayer in School

A new measure to make prayer legal at school functions passes in the Senate. Senate Bill 2633 was approved Thursday.

MORE: http://www2.whlt.com/news/2013/feb/07/religious-leaders-talk-about-prayer-school-ar-5548033/

Passing The Bill: Mass. Taxpayers To Subsidize Church Improvements

Under the separation of church and state, a church's first duty is to pay its own way. All repair, upkeep and maintenance is the responsibility of the members of the congregation.

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/passing-the-bill-mass-taxpayers-to-subsidize-church-improvements

Contrary Clerics: Bishops Reject Latest Obama Olive Branch On Contraceptives

The Catholic bishops simply don't want Americans to have access to birth control. They consider its use a sin, and their most recent statement shows that they're not open to reasonable compromise.

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/contrary-clerics-bishops-reject-latest-obama-olive-branch-on-contraceptives

See also...

Conscientious Clergy: 1,000 Religious Leaders Stand Up For Religious Liberty And Contraceptive Access
https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/conscientious-clergy-1000-religious-leaders-stand-up-for-religious-liberty

Fed Lawsuits Pile Up Against HHS Mandate; Court Injunctions Block Enforcement

Federal lawsuits continue to pile up against the Obama administration's birth control mandate even after additional proposed rules were offered last week.

MORE: http://www.christianpost.com/news/fed-lawsuits-pile-up-against-hhs-mandate-court-injunctions-block-enforcement-89537/#TCm854EJPVw886uf.99

The Not-So-Lofty Origins of the Evangelical Pro-Life Movement

[W]hat galvanized the Christian community was not abortion, school prayer, or the ERA [Equal Rights Amendment]...What changed their minds was Jimmy Carter's intervention against the Christian schools, trying to deny them tax-exempt status on the basis of so-called de facto segregation. In other words, as Randall Balmer has succinctly put it: "the religious right of the late twentieth century organized to perpetuate racial discrimination." Only after the movement was underway did it begin advocacy on abortion.

MORE: http://www.religiondispatches.org/archive/sexandgender/6801/the_not_so_lofty_origins_of_the_evangelical_pro_life_movement_/

Iowa bill would jail raped women for 'murder' of single-cell zygotes

A bill introduced by nine Republican state lawmakers in Iowa on Wednesday would define abortion as "murder," sending doctors and raped women who terminate pregnancies to jail.

MORE: http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2013/02/07/iowa-bill-would-jail-raped-women-for-murder-of-single-cell-zygotes/

House approves abortion bans with no exceptions for rape or incest

The Republican controlled Arkansas House approved one of the most restrictive abortion bans in the nation on Monday. According to the measure, there are no exceptions for women who are victims of rape or incest. The proposal now goes before the GOP controlled state Senate, which, according to a report filed by Boston.com, already approved restrictions last week that were even more severe, including a ban on abortion once a heartbeat is detected.

MORE: http://www.goddiscussion.com/107075/arkansas-house-approves-abortion-bans-with-no-exceptions-for-rape-or-incest/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+GodDiscussion+%28God+Discussion%29

IL Takes First Step Towards Gay Marriage With Senate Executive Committee Approval

Illinois is easing on down the road toward marriage equality after the Senate Executive Committee approved a same-sex marriage bill Tuesday.

MORE: http://www.queerty.com/il-senate-committee-approves-gay-marriage-bill-20130206/#ixzz2K86yuXcc

Stacey Campfield, 'Don't Say Gay' Bill Sponsor, Debates Critics in Online Newspaper Comment Section

Don't Say Gay bill sponor gets into online argument and tells TMZ "The act of homosexuality is very dangerous to someone's health and safety." The bill was allowed to die at the end of last year, but was recently re-filed by Campfield, with an added provision that advocates say could be interpreted as forcing school authorities to inform parents if their child is gay.

MORE: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/02/04/dont-say-gay-bill-stacey-campfield-comments-section_n_2616286.html

Amish sect leader sentenced to 15 years for role in beard-cutting attacks

CLEVELAND -- An Ohio Amish sect leader was sentenced on Friday to 15 years in federal prison for his leadership role in beard- and hair-cutting attacks on members of other Amish communities in 2011.

MORE: http://usnews.nbcnews.com/_news/2013/02/08/16899647-amish-sect-leader-sentenced-to-15-years-for-role-in-beard-cutting-attacks?lite

Busting the Myth That Christians Are More Generous Than Non-Believers

Researchers are starting to apply the tools of the social sciences to study religion, and one of the big questions they are asking is whether religion makes people more generous. The answer is complicated and much debated. Religious people make more tax deductible donations, but without controlled research it has been hard to sort out how much of their giving is simply to promote their own religion or to pay for what economists call "club benefits."  A recent study by the Nottingham University Business School suggests that religion has little effect on generosity per se, except toward insiders. Religious participants, including Christians, Hindus, Muslims and Buddhists became more generous than nonreligious only when they were told that the other participant was a member of their own faith.

A Kiva lending team that calls itself "Atheists, Agnostics, Skeptics, Freethinkers, Secular Humanists, and the Non-Religious" is Kiva's the top ranked team in terms of total microcredit lending.

MORE: http://www.alternet.org/belief/busting-myth-christians-are-more-generous-non-believers?akid=10017.275909.wFFZtD&rd=1&src=newsletter789871&t=5&paging=off

Most Comprehensive Tree of Life Shows Placental Mammal Diversity Exploded After Age of Dinosaurs

An international team of scientists including University of Florida researchers has generated the most comprehensive tree of life to date on placental mammals, which are those bearing live young, including bats, rodents, whales and humans.

MORE: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/02/130207141458.htm

Earth-Size Planets May Be Next Door, Kepler Data Suggest

Using publicly available data from NASA's Kepler space telescope, astronomers at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics (CfA) have found that six percent of red dwarf stars have habitable, Earth-sized planets. Since red dwarfs are the most common stars in our galaxy, the closest Earth-like planet could be just 13 light-years away.

MORE: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/02/130206110916.htm

U.K. Takes Big Step to Legalize Gay Unions

LONDON -- British lawmakers voted in favor of allowing same-sex couples to marry, taking a major step Tuesday toward adding the U.K. to a growing list of jurisdictions around the globe legalizing the practice, while highlighting the divisions in the Conservative Party.

MORE: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424127887324761004578286172193089306.html

The Sunday Assembly, an atheist church in London, is a runaway success that is drawing standing room only crowds

The brainchild of stand-up comedians Pippa Evans and Sanderson Jones, The Sunday Assembly offers monthly services in north London for atheists and nonbelievers. "We've been quite surprised -- amazed really -- that so many people have turned up," Evans said.

MORE: http://www.nydailynews.com/news/world/atheist-church-huge-success-london-article-1.1257274

See also...

The church of the non-believers
http://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/375622/The-church-of-the-non-believers

Accused Witch Burned Alive in Papua New Guinea

She was tortured with a hot iron rod, bound, doused in gasoline, and then set alight on a pile of car tires and trash in the Western Highlands provincial capital of Mount Hagen, national police spokesman Dominic Kakas said.

MORE: http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/alleged-witch-burned-alive-papua-guinea-18434480

Hindu pilgrimage to the Ganges

From every corner of India and by every conceivable mode of transport, pilgrims are making their way to Prayag for the biggest celebration on the Hindu calendar. The Maha Kumbh Mela, is held only once every twelve years.

MORE: http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=50140677n

Car bombings in chiefly Shiite areas of Iraq kill at least 26

Iraq continues to be racked by lethal bomb and gun attacks, although the level of violence has dropped considerably since the height of sectarian unrest in the country during 2006 and 2007.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/02/08/world/meast/iraq-violence/index.html?hpt=imi_c2

Israeli football club torched after signing Muslim players

(CNN) -- Arsonists attacked the administrative offices of leading Israeli football club Beitar Jerusalem on Friday, police said. The attack occurred just days after the club signed two Muslim players.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/02/08/world/meast/israel-football-arson/index.html?hpt=hp_bn2

Atheist Billboard In San Diego To Tout 'Personal Relationship With Reality'

Religious billboards are a fairly common sight in San Diego, carrying messages like "Jesus is Lord, Not a Swear Word." But starting Thursday, San Diegans will be treated to a different message.

The San Diego Coalition of Reason and American Atheists are setting up their own billboard. Drivers on Martin Luther King Jr. freeway (state Route 94) will see the sign near College Avenue that carries the message, "Atheism: A personal relationship with reality."

MORE: http://www.kpbs.org/news/2013/jan/30/atheist-billboard-san-diego-tout-personal-relation/

See also...

New billboard promotes athiest gospel
http://fox5sandiego.com/2013/01/30/15559/#axzz2JZaOTXfd

Planned atheist billboard troubles neighbors
http://www.myfoxal.com/story/20880084/planned-atheist-billboard-troubles-neighbors

Atheist Billboard In San Diego To Tout ‘Personal Relationship With Reality’
http://www.kpbs.org/news/2013/jan/30/atheist-billboard-san-diego-tout-personal-relation/

San Diego Billboard Reads: ‘Atheism: A Personal Relationship with Reality’
http://www.patheos.com/blogs/friendlyatheist/2013/01/30/san-diego-billboard-reads-atheism-a-personal-relationship-with-reality/

New Atheist Billboard in San Diego Urges 'Personal Relationship With Reality'
http://www.christianpost.com/news/new-atheist-billboard-in-san-diego-urges-personal-relationship-with-reality-89260/

AHA signs on to support Violence Against Women Act

The American Humanist Association has signed the below letter by the National Task Force to End Sexual and Domestic Violence Against Women asking for reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act.

MORE: http://www.americanhumanist.org/news/details/2013-02-aha-signs-on-to-support-violence-against-women-act

See also...

Take Action: Sign the Equal Rights Amendment White House Petition!
http://www.americanhumanist.org/news/details/2013-01-take-action-sign-the-equal-rights-amendment-white-ho

The Ur-Source

Most religions provide some version of a creation myth. This is, after all, necessary to elevate the role of a god or gods in the history of the world—to establish a Supreme Being’s supremacy by making Him the ultimate source and creator of all things. So it is natural that the Bible begins with its creation myth.

MORE: http://www.realclearreligion.org/2013/02/05/an_atheist_reads_the_bible_again_252407.html

See also...

What Has Homer to Do with the Bible?
http://www.tracinskiletter.com/2013/01/homer-bible/

'None' leaders to chart path for more political, cultural power for religiously unaffiliated

A number of studies have found that religious “nones” -- people who either don’t believe in God or do not affiliate with a religion -- are increasing rapidly in the United States. A 2012 Pew study, for example, found this faction to be the fastest-growing "religious" group in America and determined that one in five Americans now identify with no religion.

MORE: http://religion.blogs.cnn.com/2013/01/25/none-leaders-to-chart-path-for-more-political-cultural-power-for-religiously-unaffiliated/

Rhode Island flower shops shun atheist teenager

Local vendors allegedly refused to deliver a bouquet to a 16 year old, setting off a new war of the roses.

MORE: http://www.salon.com/2013/02/03/rhode_island_flower_shops_shun_atheist_teenager_partner/

See also...

Cranston florist sued for refusing to deliver flowers to Jessica Ahlquist
http://news.providencejournal.com/breaking-news/2013/02/cranston-florist-sued-for-refusing-to-deliver-flowers-to-jessica-ahlquistre.html

Creationism Commotion: Five States Have Anti-Evolution Bills In Play

The 2013 legislative session has just begun, and there are already anti-evolution bills (in some cases more than one) circulating in Missouri, Montana, Colorado, Oklahoma and Indiana.

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/creationism-commotion-five-states-have-anti-evolution-bills-in-play

See also...

Four US states considering laws that challenge teaching of evolution
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2013/jan/31/states-laws-challenge-teaching-evolution

Very Old Barton: 'Christian Nation' Propagandist Channels Louis L'Amour's Western Fiction

David Barton’s shoddy record means he has not earned the benefit of the doubt.

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/very-old-barton-christian-nation-propagandist-channels-louis-l-amour-s

Huntington Hero: West Virginia Mom Stands Up For Church-State Separation

Without parents like Jacqueline Webb, it would be very difficult to get coercive prayers kicked out of public schools.

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/huntington-hero-west-virginia-mom-stands-up-for-church-state-separation

Public School Proselytizing Prohibited: Federal Appeals Court Rejects New Prayer Scheme

Compelling a young person to recite a prayer or read a Bible passage every morning in a public school violates core religious liberty protections as well as usurps family rights.

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/public-school-proselytizing-prohibited-federal-appeals-court-rejects-new

Constitutional Calamity : Virginia Senate Committee Flunks Religious Liberty Test

According to The Washington Post, a Senate committee yesterday voted 8-6 to approve a sweeping state constitutional amendment that says "no student shall be compelled to perform or participate in academic assignments or educational presentations that violate his religious beliefs."

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/constitutional-calamity-virginia-senate-committee-flunks-religious-liberty

See also...

Senate Committee Approves Constitutional Amendment on Prayer, Religion in Schools
http://www.bjconline.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5427&Itemid=134

County Board brings prayer back into proceedings

Following the public comment portion of the meeting, the County Board voted 27-0 to keep prayer on its agenda.

Earlier last year, the Freedom from Religion Foundation threatened a lawsuit against the board if it continued with its invocation as part of government proceedings.

The prayer was then moved to directly before the start of the meeting.

The foundation responded with another letter stating that simply moving the prayer to before the meeting would not withstand constitutional challenge.

The Executive Committee then met on the matter and voted to recommend to the County Board returning prayer to its agenda.

MORE: http://www.ricelakeonline.com/main.asp?SectionID=32&SubSectionID=113&ArticleID=25172

Catholic hospital says it was 'morally wrong' to argue fetus is not a person

A Catholic hospital in hot water for claiming in a Colorado court that a fetus is not a person backtracked on Monday, saying it was "morally wrong" to make the argument while defending itself in a wrongful death lawsuit.

MORE: http://religion.blogs.cnn.com/2013/02/05/catholic-hospital-says-it-was-morally-wrong-to-argue-fetus-is-not-a-person/

CNN: Files may reveal what the Catholic Church in Los Angeles knew about sex abuse

A California judge has forced the Archdiocese of Los Angeles to release some 12,000 pages of church documents revealing how it handled allegations of priest sexual abuse. There were many – 192 priests and bishops were named in litigation, the archdiocese said. "The cases span decades," Archbishop Jose H. Gomez said in a statement Thursday. Some go back to the 1930s.

MORE: http://religion.blogs.cnn.com/2013/02/01/files-may-reveal-what-the-catholic-church-in-los-angeles-knew-about-sex-abuse/

Teacher linked to gay slurs at school

Later in the tape, Grisham referred to the U.S. as going in the "wrong direction" and tells the students they can "get pissed off at me or not. You can go tell the principal, call the superintendent and tell her. I don't believe in queers. I don't like queers, I don’t hate them as a person, but what they do is wrong and an abomination against God." The tape was reportedly recorded by a student Monday and took place on school campus during the school day.

MORE: http://timesdaily.com/stories/Teacher-linked-to-gay-slurs-at-school,201960?content_source=&category_id=29&search_filter=&event_mode=&event_ts_from=&list_type=&order_by=&order_sort=&content_class=&sub_type=stories&town_id

Critics Want More Exemptions From Birth-Control Rule

"One atheist advocacy group, The Secular Coalition, warned that the exemption for nonprofits is too broad, and women working for the groups risk not having coverage for birth control if the alternative insurance mechanism doesn’t work. 'These accommodations set a terrible precedent for religious interference in individual choice,” Edwina Rogers, the group’s executive director, said in a statement.'"

MORE: http://www.insurancebroadcasting.com/news/Critics-Want-More-Exemption-From-Birth-Control-Rule-2730681-1.html

New Round, Old Fight: Why The Religious Right Rejects The Obama Compromise Over Birth Control

No matter what the Obama administration does on contraceptive access, far-right religious groups are never satisfied.

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/new-round-old-fight-why-the-religious-right-rejects-the-obama-compromise

From gay members to atheist scouts: The Boy Scouts America deserves

The BSA probably considered reversing its policy on gays because several pro-equality, corporate sponsors had withdrawn their support. But with new leadership and more sponsor withdrawals, the BSA will eventually be forced to change its position on gays. Someday, they might even consider changing their anti-atheist stance if enough corporate sponsors object to the policy. It would be especially gratifying to see the BSA admit gays and atheists because it’s the moral thing to do, and not simply for financial reasons.

MORE: http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/guest-voices/post/from-gay-members-to-atheist-scouts-the-boy-scouts-america-deserves/2013/01/29/32df0ff8-6a60-11e2-af53-7b2b2a7510a8_blog.html

See also...

Secular Group Urges Obama to Demand Boy Scouts End Atheist Ban
http://www.christianpost.com/news/secular-group-urges-obama-to-demand-boy-scouts-end-atheist-ban-89485/

Did a change of tune lead to a marriage loss in 2012?

The Boston-based Political Research Associates examined the content and tone of the anti-gay marriage campaign and found some notable changes from previous years, when gay marriage foes stacked up a string of victories at the ballot box.

MORE: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/religion-news-service/~3/YC0VVBmKz5o/

Paying For Prejudice: Georgia Tax-Credit Program Subsidizes Anti-Gay Bias

Bigotry at private religious schools should not receive even one dime of taxpayer support, directly or indirectly.

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/paying-for-prejudice-georgia-tax-credit-program-subsidizes-anti-gay-bias

See also...

Seven Days Of Deception: TGIF, 'School Choice Week' Is Just About Over
https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/seven-days-of-deception-tgif-school-choice-week-is-just-about-over

Gay teen who hanged himself after being bullied has died

La Grande's School Superintendent, Larry Glaze, said administrators and counselors recently handled a situation where Bell had been bullied at school and he said the issue had been resolved.

However, family members believe the bullying extended from campus onto the Internet.

MORE: http://www.kptv.com/story/20877296/gay-teen-hangs-himself-after-being-bullied?hpt=us_bn10

The Bible Belt brouhaha over beer

Homebrew laws have failed to materialize for the past five years, with religion and morality arguments narrowly beating out the estimated 5,000 underground homebrewers in the state who say their civil liberties are on the line.

MORE: http://cnnradio.cnn.com/2013/02/04/the-bible-belt-brouhaha-over-beer/?hpt=hp_bn1

Evolution Weekend February 8-10; congregations gathering to affirm that science and religion compatible; evolution not a threat to faith

This may not be widely known, but churches and synagogues from across the nation will be gathering February 8-10 for Evolution Weekend (formerly Evolution Sunday), to affirm that science and religion are compatible, and that evolution does not threaten faith.  The event has been going on since 2006, the date nearest Charles Darwin's birthday on February 12, 1809.

MORE: http://www.goddiscussion.com/106982/evolution-weekend-february-8-10-congregations-gathering-to-affirm-that-science-and-religion-compatible-evolution-not-a-threat-to-faith/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+GodDiscussion+%28God+Discussion%29

Seeing Darwin Through Christian Eyes? It All Depends on the Christian

"Edwina Rogers, executive director of the Secular Coalition for America, said that when her coalition polled more than 1,800 of its supporters, 'education issues,' a topic that includes creationism and anti-Darwinism in public schools, were their top concern. 'This is what they care about more than anything,' Ms. Rogers said. 'They want their kids to be able to go out in the world and get jobs based on scientific knowledge.'

MORE: http://www.nytimes.com/2013/02/02/us/seeing-darwin-through-christians-eyes.html?_r=0

Life in meteorites? Not so fast…

A few weeks ago, the blogosphere was all abuzz with a report that life had been found in a meteorite. The Huffington Post ran a blurb promoting the claim with no peer review or cross-checking, and there were numerous posts in all the science blog sites giving credence to the claim and pretty much repeating the authors' arguments without any caveats. But Bad Astronomer Phil Plait immediately ran a post debunking the claim, as did P.Z. Myers from a different perspective. And once you look closer, the evidence falls completely apart.

MORE: http://www.skepticblog.org/2013/01/23/life-in-meteorites-not-so-fast/

It Actually Is Better (and Healthier) to Give Than to Receive, Study Finds

A five-year study by researchers at three universities has established that providing tangible assistance to others protects our health and lengthens our lives.

MORE: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/02/130204184300.htm

Meerkat Predator-Scanning Behavior Is Altruistic, Research Suggests

In order to spot potential predators, adult meerkats often climb to a higher vantage point or stand on their hind legs. If a predator is detected, they use several different alarm calls to warn the rest of the group. New Cambridge research shows that they are more likely to exhibit this behaviour when there are young pups present, suggesting that the predator-scanning behaviour is for the benefit of the group rather than the individual.

MORE: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/02/130204220845.htm

Mexican cult accused of forced labor

A website for the cult identifies Losanger as an "apostle" of the reincarnation of Christ. The group believes that a man named Ignacio Gonzalez de Arriba is the reincarnation of Jesus.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/01/30/world/americas/mexico-cult-forced-labor/index.html

'Not believing in God makes life more precious': meet the atheist 'churchgoers'

More than 200 people came to the first event; today there are perhaps 300, with several dozen more carrying on a parallel discussion in a local pub. Inside the nave of the deconsecrated church, volunteers have been bunching chairs closer together, adding extra benches and children's seats in every scrap of space. It is not a problem most vicars struggle with on a Sunday morning.

MORE: http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2013/feb/03/atheist-church-sunday-assembly-islington

See also...

The Atheist Church in London Draws a Larger Crowd at Its Second Service
http://www.patheos.com/blogs/friendlyatheist/2013/02/04/the-atheist-church-in-london-draws-a-larger-crowd-at-its-second-service/

What happens at an atheist church?
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-21319945

UK lawmakers to vote on same-sex marriage bill

London (CNN) -- UK lawmakers are to vote on a bill to introduce same-sex marriage Tuesday, an issue that has prompted widespread rebellion within Prime Minister David Cameron's Conservative Party.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/02/05/world/europe/uk-gay-marriage-vote/index.html?hpt=wo_c2

2 St. Lucians Plead Guilty in Fatal Church Attack

Police said the men told them they were Rastafarian prophets sent by God to fight corruption in the Catholic Church.

MORE: http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/st-lucians-plead-guilty-fatal-church-attack-18410142

French president on military offensive: 'We are winning in Mali'

(CNN) -- French-led troops in Mali now control the ancient city of Timbuktu, the city of Gao and the swath in between that was an Islamist stronghold for almost a year, the French Defense Ministry said.

"We are winning in Mali," French President Francois Hollande said at a news conference Monday, but he added that militants still control parts of the north.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/01/29/world/africa/mali-military-offensive/index.html

Hezbollah linked to deadly bomb blast in Bulgaria

Bulgaria has linked Lebanon's militant group Hezbollah to the bomb attack on a bus last July that killed five Israeli tourists.

MORE: http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-202_162-57567657/hezbollah-linked-to-deadly-bomb-blast-in-bulgaria/

Officials: Militants target Pakistan army base in attack that leaves at least 35 dead

The Pakistani Taliban claimed responsibility for the assault, saying it was in retaliation for a drone strike in nearby North Waziristan last month that killed two of its commanders.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/02/02/world/asia/pakistan-violence/index.html

See also...

Deadly suicide blast rips through Pakistani city
http://www.cnn.com/2013/02/01/world/asia/pakistan-violence/index.html

Nine dead in Pakistan violence
http://www.cnn.com/2013/01/30/world/asia/pakistan-violence/index.html

Saudi Islamist preacher on trial in daughter's slaying

(CNN) -- Outrage is mounting in Saudi Arabia about the case of a 5-year-old girl who died after allegedly being beaten and tortured by her father, who activists say is an Islamist preacher.

Lama Al-Ghamdi was admitted to King Saud Hospital in Riyadh last March after suffering extensive injuries, including broken ribs, a crushed skull, bruising and burns. Family, activists and officials say she died of her wounds in late October.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/02/04/world/meast/saudi-arabia-girl-death/index.html?hpt=hp_t3

Egyptian secular, Islamist groups meet to try to end conflict

Cairo (CNN) -- An Islamist party that once supported Egyptian President Mohamed Morsy met Wednesday with a prominent opposition group to talk about a solution to the political strife that has wracked the country in recent days.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/01/30/world/africa/egypt-unrest/index.html?hpt=imi_c2

23 killed, dozens wounded in Iraq suicide bombing

At least 23 people were killed and 49 were wounded when a suicide bomber blew himself up among members of a local Awakening Council in Taji, Iraq, on Monday.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/02/04/world/meast/iraq-violence/index.html?hpt=imi_c2

See also...

Attack on Iraq police headquarters kills at least 20
http://www.cnn.com/2013/02/03/world/meast/iraq-attacks/index.html?hpt=imi_c2

Iraq attacks kill at least 12
http://www.cnn.com/2013/01/10/world/meast/iraq-violence/index.html

Suicide bomber kills 10 officers in Afghanistan

The Taliban claimed responsibility for the bombing, Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid said in a written statement.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/01/26/world/asia/afghanistan-violence/index.html

U.N. report slams Israeli settlements

After the war, Israel soon annexed East Jerusalem. It established a unified Jerusalem as its capital and has established settlements in the West Bank, the Palestinian land, over the decades, but has not annexed any of that territory.

The country has cited the need for a presence in the West Bank for security, but Jewish settlers -- some for religious reasons and others seeking affordable dwellings -- have made their homes in the land.

That consistently growing presence in East Jerusalem and the West Bank has caused great tension between Israel and the Arab world, including the Palestinians.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/01/31/world/meast/u-n--israel-settlements/index.html