Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life

It seems there is an interesting convergence of events now that may only occur once in the life of a universe: Easter, the season finale of Walking Dead, and April Fool’s Day.

Regardless, today seems like a good day to share this oldie but goldie...

Mr. Deity & The Chaplain

The UN's Silence on Discrimination and Violence Against Non-Believers

"The United Nations Human Rights Council this Friday will close its monthlong 22nd regular session in Geneva, Switzerland. Three secularist groups -- the Center for Inquiry, International Humanist and Ethical Union, and British Humanist Association -- have been active at the session, delivering statements and lobbying on issues such as freedom of conscience. CFI's main representative in Geneva is Dr. Elizabeth O'Casey. The following is a report from Ms. O'Casey regarding efforts by CFI and the IHEU to include in a resolution on freedom of religion or belief language referencing non-religious persons."

MORE: http://www.centerforinquiry.net/blogs/entry/the_uns_silence_on_discrimination_and_violence_against_non-believers/

Religious Trauma Syndrome: How Some Organized Religion Leads to Mental Health Problems

Groups that demand obedience and conformity produce fear, not love and growth.

MORE: http://truth-out.org/news/item/15366-religious-trauma-syndrome-how-some-organized-religion-leads-to-mental-health-problems

See also...

What Do Americans Really Think About the Bible?
http://www.barna.org/culture-articles/609-what-do-americans-really-think-about-the-bible

The Bible Gained Six Million New 'Antagonists' Last Year (Infographic)
http://blog.christianitytoday.com/ctliveblog/archives/2013/03/the-bible-gained-new-antagonists-infographic-american-bible-society-barna-group.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+christianitytoday%2Fctliveblog+%28Christianity+Today+Liveblog%29

Facebook Photo Uploads Double for HRC's Equal Sign

Facebook says that millions of people change their profile photos every day, but on Tuesday, March 26, the day the HRC asked gay marriage supporters to "paint the town red" with a new logo, 2.7 million  more users changed their photo compared with the previous Tuesday.

MORE: http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/technology/2013/03/facebook-photo-uploads-double-for-hrcs-equal-sign/

See also...

Facebook releases map of marriage equality support
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-205_162-57577111/facebook-releases-map-of-marriage-equality-support/

The Red Equality Symbols of Social Media
http://abcnews.go.com/US/slideshow/red-equal-sign-facebook-human-rights-campaign-18821171

Strike Down DOMA!: Federal Marriage Law Violates Church-State Separation

The record is clear that members of Congress were legislating a particular religious view of marriage.

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/strike-down-doma-federal-marriage-law-violates-church-state-separation

See also...

High Noon At The High Court: Supreme Court Takes Up Marriage Equality
https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/high-noon-at-the-high-court-supreme-court-takes-up-marriage-equality

Nonbelievers Tell Supreme Court: Declare DOMA and Prop 8 Unconstitutional
http://www.americanhumanist.org/news/details/2013-03-nonbelievers-tell-supreme-court-declare-doma-and-pro?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+AmericanHumanistNews+

How the Court Could Rule on Same-Sex Marriage (Chart)
http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2013/03/24/us/how-the-court-could-rule-on-same-sex-marriage.html?smid=tw-nytimes&_r=0

Biblical Bombast: Religious Right Uses Harsh Fundamentalism To Fight Marriage Equality

All of this gives a sense that Religious Right strategists are becoming increasingly desperate in their attempts to advance their agenda. And when it comes to same-sex marriage, it seems only a matter of time before it's recognized by the federal government.

But until everyone can marry legally in this country, the Religious Right is going to keep cherry-picking Bible verses to justify discriminatory laws. We know equality is at stake here, so we can't and we won't allow those motivated by exclusionary theology to have their way.

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/biblical-bombast-religious-right-uses-harsh-fundamentalism-to-fight

Loving Uganda to Death: The Global Reach of Far-Right Christian Hatred

The role that American religious right leaders have played in fomenting anti-gay bigotry in Uganda has been well-documented, but never with the emotional punch delivered by God Loves Uganda, a new documentary by Academy Award-winning director Roger Ross Williams that premiered at this year's Sundance Film Festival. While God Loves Uganda is a powerful look at the impact that anti-gay evangelizing is having in that country, it is of course a much larger phenomenon.

MORE: http://www.religiondispatches.org/archive/sexandgender/6926/loving_uganda_to_death__the_global_reach_of_far_right_christian_hatred/

Starbucks CEO defends gay-marriage stance in shareholder meeting questions (Video)

There was a sharp exchange between Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz and a shareholder during the question-and-answer session that ended Thursday's otherwise upbeat annual shareholders meeting in Seattle. The shareholder questioned whether it was prudent for Starbucks to risk shareholder value by supporting gay marriage, a move that led to a boycott of the coffee company. The shareholder described Starbucks' first-quarter performance as disappointing and due at least in part to the boycott. Schultz interrupted the shareholder, asking, "What is your question?" and then again a few moments later, again asking, "What is your question?" "The lens we use to make decisions is the lens of our people. We want to embrace diversity," said Schultz to a loud swell of applause from shareholders and Starbucks staffers attending the annual meeting. Schultz suggested that, if the shareholder did not like the 38 percent annual return on shareholder value that Starbucks produced for the year, "You can sell your shares of Starbucks. It's a free country."

MORE: http://www.bizjournals.com/seattle/blog/2013/03/starbucks-ceo-fields-shareholder.html

Group pushes to keep open gays out of Boy Scouts

ORLANDO, Fla. (WFTV) -- A group consisting of parents, Eagle Scouts and Scoutmasters is launching a campaign aimed at influencing leaders of the organization to not change the policy that bans openly gay Boy Scouts. Lawyers for the Boy Scouts are in the process of drafting a resolution that would change the policy when it comes to gay members. Currently, openly gay boys and men are not allowed to join the Boy Scouts.

MORE: http://www.actionnewsjax.com/content/topstories/story/Group-pushes-to-keep-open-gays-out-of-Boy-Scouts/4H1ppx0bika7VDjU0PzI5A.cspx?rss=2758

NC Church: No marriages of any kind until state recognizes gay marriage

A church in Winston-Salem has decided not to allow marriages of any kind until their denomination and the state of North Carolina allow same sex marriages.

MORE: http://www.wbtv.com/story/21673372/nc-church-no-marriages-until-state-recognizes-gay-marriage 

Anti-Atheist Discrimination at the Post Office

Good Germans that they are, the company decided to conduct A Serious Empirical Experiment. They sent 2 packages to each of 89 customers in 49 states, one sealed with the branded tape and the other with neutral. Sure enough, the ATHEIST-taped packages took an average of three days longer to arrive, and of 10 that didn’t arrive at all, nine were ATHEIST-taped.

MORE: http://marksilk.religionnews.com/2013/03/29/anti-atheist-discrimination-at-the-post-office/

See also...

Study: Packages Sealed with ‘Atheist’ Tape 10 Times More Likely to Disappear
http://newsfeed.time.com/2013/03/28/study-packages-sealed-with-atheist-tape-10-times-more-likely-to-disappear/

'Atheist' shoe company claims U.S. Postal Service is discriminatory
http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2013/03/27/atheist-shoe-company-claims-us-postal-service-is-discriminatory/

Shoe study: The USPS discriminates against atheist packages
http://www.boston.com/bostonglobe/ideas/brainiac/2013/03/new_study_the_u.html

Atheist Discrimination Alert: What's Going On With the USPS?
http://news.gather.com/viewArticle.action?articleId=281474981864680

Who's Speaking to the Atheists at 50th Annual Convention?

Founded in 1963 by the late atheist-activist Madalyn Murray O'Hair, the Cranford, N.J.-based nonprofit defines atheism "as the mental attitude which unreservedly accepts the supremacy of reason and aims at establishing a life-style and ethical outlook verifiable by experience and scientific method, independent of all arbitrary assumptions of authority and creeds."

MORE: http://abcnews.go.com/US/speaking-atheists-50th-annual-convention/story?id=18822262

The money man behind atheism’s activism

With money and resolve comes great influence for Stiefel. He has the ear of many atheist leaders, meaning he can dictate the movement's focus. Stiefel said he wants to see the atheism movement expand its footprint."What I would really like to see is expanding out communities to people who may not just be atheists or agnostics and into people who are religiously skeptical and may still have some religious beliefs," he said. "Nobody is a perfect skeptic and I would like to see more people like that in our community."

MORE: http://religion.blogs.cnn.com/2013/03/23/the-money-man-behind-atheisms-activism/

Dawkins Foundation Continues Care Package Support

For more than a year, the Richard Dawkins Foundation for Reason and Science has partnered with the Military Association of Atheists & Freethinkers (MAAF) to send over 300 care packages to military personnel around the world. These packages have gone from Japan and Djibouti, Afghanistan and Iraq. The Richard Dawkins Foundation, through its existing store has provided increased efficiencies to allow more packages to be sent out with the same level of funding.

MORE: http://militaryatheists.org/news/2013/03/dawkins-foundation-continues-care-package-support/

Fact Sheet: U.S. Should Invest $1 Billion in International Family Planning

The American Humanist Association is an endorsing organization of this comprehensive fact sheet calling for greater support for family planning and reproductive health. We join groups such as NARAL Pro-Choice America, Sierra Club, and Population Connection.

MORE: http://www.americanhumanist.org/news/details/2013-03-fact-sheet-us-should-provide-1-billion-to-internatio

Light Bulb Moment: Religious Discrimination Is Illegal

A question for job applicants: Would you mind coming into work early to attend a Bible study?

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/light-bulb-moment-religious-discrimination-is-illegal

Court moves forward with atheist family's suit against Acton schools over 'God' in Pledge

BOSTON -- The state's highest court has opened the floodgate of opinion by seeking outside briefs in a religious-discrimination case against the Acton-Boxboro Regional School District by an atheist family that is challenging the use of "under God'' in the Pledge of Allegiance. The case is scheduled to be heard during the first week of May, but no date has been listed. The unidentified family, along with the American Humanist Association, a secular-rights group, argue in the lawsuit that the words "under God'' in the Pledge of Allegiance violate the equal-rights amendment in the Massachusetts Constitution. They also argue that the daily recital of the Pledge counts as unlawful discrimination because reciting the phrase "under God'' is endorsing a religion.

MORE: http://www.lowellsun.com/todaysheadlines/ci_22864663/court-moves-forward-atheist-familys-suit-against-acton#ixzz2OYxrVrmq

See also...

Under God' faces new legal attack
http://www.sentinelandenterprise.com/editorial/ci_22880521/under-god-faces-new-legal-attack

Atheist Activist Group Demands That City Remove Cross From Vietnam War Monument

The Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF) recently sent a letter to officials in Coos Bay, Oregon, stating that the monument displayed in Mingus Park violates the Establishment Clause of the United States Constitution. The organization advised that it received complaints about the display, and was therefore responding on behalf of the unhappy citizens.

MORE: http://christiannews.net/2013/03/25/atheist-activist-group-demands-that-city-remove-cross-from-vietnam-war-monument/

N.Y. judge tosses atheist lawsuit over Sept. 11 steel cross

“No reasonable observer would view the artifact as endorsing Christianity,” the judge said. She added that the museum’s creators “have not advanced religion impermissibly, and the cross does not create excessive entanglement between the state and religion.” She said the plaintiffs also failed to allege any form of intentional discrimination or cite any adverse or unequal treatment on the basis of their religious beliefs.

MORE: http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2013/mar/29/ny-judge-tosses-atheist-lawsuit-over-sept-11-steel/

Supreme Court Rejects American Atheists' Challenge to Kentucky's 'God Protects Us From the Terrorists' Law

In 2006, politicians in Kentucky passed a law requiring the state's Department of Homeland Security to declare in its training materials that security was unattainable without reliance on "Almighty God." It also required a plaque to be installed at the Department's entrance saying as much. AA's attorney Edwin Kagin called the law "one of the most egregiously and breathtakingly unconstitutional actions by a state legislature that I've ever seen." After a long, drawn-out court battle that involved a lower court victory, an appellate court loss, and a "we're not getting involved" from the Kentucky Supreme Court, AA appealed to the United States Supreme Court.

MORE: http://www.patheos.com/blogs/friendlyatheist/2013/03/19/supreme-court-rejects-american-atheists-challenge-to-kentuckys-god-protects-us-from-the-terrorists-law/

Senate Voucher Victory!: Religious School Subsidy Defeated, But The Fight Isn't Over

It is great to see such a resounding vote rejecting a scheme that serves mainly to funnel taxpayer dollars to religious schools. But even though this recent voucher plot flopped, it is certainly not the last we are likely to hear about this issue in Congress.

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/senate-voucher-victory-religious-school-subsidy-defeated-but-the-fight-isn

Good News From Virginia: Pittsfield County Prayer Policy Struck Down

"This ruling sends a clear message to localities that government officials may not impose their own religious beliefs on the entire community by leading sectarian prayers at public meetings," said ACLU of Virginia Legal Director Rebecca Glenberg, according to the Augusta Free Press. "It is, indeed, unfortunate that, given the clarity of the law, Pittsylvania County officials would choose to waste time and taxpayer dollars in an unnecessary lawsuit, rather than simply conform their behavior to well-settled law."

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/good-news-from-virginia-pittsfield-county-prayer-policy-struck-down

The Forsyth Saga, Final Chapter

"The Winston-Salem City Council has already made a decision to go from sectarian prayer before meetings to a moment of silence," Wilson said. "The board of commissioners hasn't decided how to respond yet, and we've urged them to go to a moment of silence as well."

MORE: https://www.au.org/church-state/march-2012-church-state/featured/the-forsyth-saga-final-chapter?__utma=1.791044345.1360361050.1364487142.1364492870.76&__utmb=1.2.10.1364492870&__utmc=1&__utmx=-&__utmz=1.1363966992.67.2.utmcsr=au.org|utmccn=%28referral%29|utmcmd=referral|utmcct=/search/site/politicking&__utmv=-&__utmk=38899747

Atheist Group Loses Lawsuit Challenging Prayers at Florida City Commission Meetings

Lakeland, Florida -- A Florida atheist group has lost their court challenge surrounding prayers that are offered during Lakeland's City Commission meetings.

MORE: http://christiannews.net/2013/03/28/atheist-group-loses-lawsuit-challenging-prayers-at-florida-city-commission-meetings/

Mississippi Governor signs bill allowing prayers over public school intercoms

Governor Phil Bryant signed a bill into law that will require Mississippi public schools to develop policies to allow students to pray over school intercom systems. Bryant is a long-standing proponent of public school prayer, and while this bill does not allow for school-sanctioned prayer, it does allow students to pray with as long as there is a disclaimer signed by the school system.

MORE: http://www.goddiscussion.com/108105/mississippi-governor-signs-bill-allowing-prayers-over-public-school-intercoms/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+GodDiscussion+%28God+Discussion%29

Relaxed Regulations?: AU Tells Committee Not To Ease Tax Rules For Houses Of Worship

It's clear that more and more churches are diving head first into electoral politics, and until the IRS shows it means business, the problem is only going to worsen. But this isn't happening because the rules are wrong, it's happening because enforcement appears to be too lax.

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/relaxed-regulations-au-tells-committee-not-to-ease-tax-rules-for-houses-of

Missouri Catholic Parish gets raided after child porn downloads

A Catholic Parish was raided by Federal and State authorities this past Tuesday. The parish, in Independence, Missouri, is part of an ongoing investigation into child pornography. According to a story filed by The Raw Story, A spokeswoman with the Catholic Diocese of Kansas City -- St. Joseph stated that four computers were taken in the raid, and IP addresses were tracked to an unsecured wireless network located within the offices of the St. Anne Parish in Independence.

MORE: http://www.goddiscussion.com/108438/missouri-catholic-parish-gets-raided-after-child-porn-downloads/

Backdoor Maneuver: Crafty Bishops Try To Repeal Birth Control Mandate

The Catholic hierarchy will fight until the very end to limit the access Americans have to contraceptives, and now it's apparent that leaders like Timothy Dolan have no problem presenting a misleading public relations campaign to further their goals.

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/backdoor-maneuver-crafty-bishops-try-to-repeal-birth-control-mandate

Michigan Senate committee approves 'moral objection' health bill allowing refusal of service

A bill advanced by a Michigan Senate committee would allow health care providers could use a "moral objection" or "matter of conscience" standard to refuse service to patients.

MORE: http://www.pendletontimespost.com/view/story/db3c5b0abc7346988ac9d6c03ad81962/MI-XGR--Health-Care-Michigan/

North Dakota Gears up for Legal Dispute on New Abortion Laws

North Dakota Gov. Jack Dalrymple said his decision to sign strict new abortion laws, including the nation's toughest restriction on the procedure, was not based on "any religious belief or personal experience" and that he believes legislators have a right to ask such questions about abortion restrictions.

MORE: http://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/north-dakota-governor-approves-week-abortion-ban-18814952#.UVMFJVf_DaI

Kentucky legislature overwhelmingly overrides veto of 'religious freedom' bill

The Kentucky House and Senate voted by overwhelming margins Tuesday night to override Gov. Steve Beshear's veto of the controversial "religious freedom" bill.

MORE: http://www.richarddawkins.net/news_articles/2013/3/28/kentucky-legislature-overwhelmingly-overrides-veto-of-religious-freedom-bill#

Climate of denial

"We're teaching science in a climate of denial," biology teacher Beth Adler said. "We have legislated denial." From the theory of evolution to climate change, teachers are becoming wary of teaching basic scientific consensus because of the potential backlash they can face, she said. "This leads to intimidated and capitulating teachers," she said. "We need courage. It is scary," Adler said. "We need to hear 'Thank you for teaching the scientific consensus.'"

MORE: http://www.richarddawkins.net/news_articles/2013/3/26/-climate-of-denial-intimidating-for-science-teachers-audience-told

Latino Atheists Search for Community in Chicago

We talk about the importance of reaching out to minority atheists all the time, but more often than not, "minority" as we use it just means "black." Latino atheists are usually ignored in that context. WBEZ's Aurora Aguilar spoke with some Latino atheists in Chicago about their transitions into atheism and what they're searching for.

MORE: http://www.patheos.com/blogs/friendlyatheist/2013/03/27/latino-atheists-search-for-community-in-chicago/

Better 'baby picture' of universe emerges

(CNN) -- How cute was our universe as a baby? We now know better than ever: The picture of our early universe just got sharper and tells scientists with greater precision many important facts about how the universe evolved.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/03/21/tech/innovation/universe-planck-map/index.html?hpt=us_bn1

New Evidence Ancient Asteroid Caused Global Firestorm On Earth

A new look at conditions after a Manhattan-sized asteroid slammed into a region of Mexico in the dinosaur days indicates the event could have triggered a global firestorm that would have burned every twig, bush and tree on Earth and led to the extinction of 80 percent of all Earth's species, says a new University of Colorado Boulder study.

MORE: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/03/130327144249.htm

NASA's Swift Sizes Up Comet ISON

Astronomers from the University of Maryland at College Park (UMCP) and Lowell Observatory have used NASA's Swift satellite to check out comet C/2012 S1 (ISON), which may become one of the most dazzling in decades when it rounds the sun later this year.

MORE: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/03/130329125112.htm

Swarming Robots Could Be the Servants of the Future

Swarms of robots acting together to carry out jobs could provide new opportunities for humans to harness the power of machines.

MORE: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/03/130328125325.htm

See also...

Large Robotic Jellyfish Could One Day Patrol Oceans
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/03/130328124807.htm

Robotic Ants Successfully Mimic Real Colony Behavior
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/03/130329090614.htm

Meet the men who are crucified on Good Friday

During Holy Week in the Philippines, Christian devotees allow themselves to be nailed to a cross.

MORE: http://travel.cnn.com/explorations/life/whats-it-be-crucified-501065?hpt=ias_t2

Secularist of the Year prize fund donated to girls' education in honour of Malala Yousafzai

The National Secular Society has donated its Secularist of the Year prize fund to a global charity campaigning to ensure girls everywhere have equal access to education. The prize fund of £7,000 was awarded to Plan UK in honour of Malala Yousafzai, the schoolgirl from Pakistan who was shot by the Taliban in October for campaigning in support of female education.

MORE: http://www.secularism.org.uk/news/2013/03/secularist-of-the-year-prize-fund-donated-to-girls-education-in-honour-of-malala-yousafzai

See also...

Teen at school for first time since being shot by Taliban
http://www.cnn.com/2013/03/19/world/asia/pakistan-malala-school/index.html

Godless gatherings in London's atheist church

Going to church is the latest fashion for London hipsters. They're attending godless gatherings that incite people to 'live better, help often and wonder more.' Emma Wallis went along to find out more.

MORE: http://www.dw.de/godless-gatherings-in-londons-atheist-church/a-16709978

Spanish atheist group barred from march

MADRID, (UPI) -- The local government in Madrid has barred a Spanish atheist group from staging a march on Holy Thursday.

MORE: http://www.upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2013/03/27/Spanish-atheist-group-barred-from-march/UPI-35141364417918/

Thousands pack St. Peter's Square for Pope Francis' inauguration

When the gathered faithful held up babies and young children for him to kiss, he obliged. He also stepped out of his sport utility vehicle to kiss the head of a man with a physical disability.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/03/19/world/europe/vatican-new-pope/index.html

Earlier...

Humble pope has complicated past
http://www.cnn.com/2013/03/14/world/americas/argentina-pope-profile/index.html

Bangladesh widens crackdown on 'blasphemous' atheist bloggers

The telecommunications regulator ordered two leading Internet sites to remove hundreds of posts by seven bloggers whose writings it said offended Muslims, according to its assistant director Rahman Khan.

MORE: http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2013/03/27/bangladesh-widens-crackdown-on-blasphemous-atheist-bloggers/

See also...

'Atheist' bloggers to 'repent'
http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/03/31/atheist-bloggers-to-repent

You Ask, an Atheist Answers

Stigmas and assumptions about Indonesian atheists often paint them as smart-aleck contrarians with a penchant for hedonistic nihilism who leave the burden of proof to believers.

MORE: http://www.thejakartaglobe.com/lifestyle/you-ask-an-atheist-answers/582197

Prosecutors question 'Egypt's Jon Stewart'

Egypt's public prosecutor summoned Youssef for questioning on Sunday, accusing him of insulting President Mohamed Morsy and Islam.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/03/31/world/africa/egypt-host-questioned/index.html?hpt=iaf_c2

In the beginning was the ideogram

China has become one of the largest producers of bibles in the world.

MORE: http://www.economist.com/news/china/21574529-china-has-become-one-largest-producers-bibles-world-beginning-was

Somali rappers defy bullets, death threats for Mogadishu concert

Armed with powerful songs and bold lyrics, a daring group of hip-hop musicians has defied death threats and violent attacks from militant extremists to spread its message of peace in war-torn Mogadishu.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/03/28/world/africa/somalia-rappers-waayaha-cusub/index.html

See also...

10 killed in suicide car bombing in Mogadishu
http://www.cnn.com/2013/03/18/world/africa/somalia-suicide-bombing/index.html

Fighting surges in northern Mali

Bamako, Mali (CNN) -- At least two militants were killed as Islamists and troops clashed Sunday in northern Mali, a military official said.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/03/31/world/africa/mali-violence/index.html

See also...

Report: Al Qaeda kills French hostage held in Mali
http://www.cnn.com/2013/03/19/world/africa/mali-hostage-killed/index.html

Tensions persist between Buddhists and Muslims in Myanmar

In the Meiktila clashes, which were reportedly set off by a dispute between a Muslim gold shop owner and two Buddhist sellers, rioters set fire to houses schools and mosques, prompting thousands of residents to flee their homes.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/03/25/world/asia/myanmar-unrest/index.html

See also...

Armed Buddhists, including monks, clash with Muslims in Myanmar
http://www.cnn.com/2013/03/22/world/asia/myanmar-clashes/index.html

10 dead, mosques burned as Buddhists, Muslims clash in Myanmar
http://www.cnn.com/2013/03/21/world/asia/myanmar-clashes/index.html

Blast kills 10 near U.S. Consulate in Pakistan

Peshawar, Pakistan (CNN) -- The Pakistani Taliban claimed responsibility for a blast that killed 10 people near the U.S. Consulate in Peshawar on Friday.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/03/29/world/asia/pakistan-bomb-attack/index.html?hpt=wo_c2

See also...

Police: Principal killed in grenade, gun attack on Pakistani school
http://www.cnn.com/2013/03/30/world/asia/pakistan-school-attack/index.html

Teacher's murder sparks calls for school protection for Pakistan's girls
http://www.cnn.com/2013/03/27/world/asia/pakistan-teacher-death-petition/index.html

Child suicide bombers find safe haven
http://www.cnn.com/2013/03/27/world/asia/pakistan-anti-taliban/index.html

Marketplace blast kills 6 in Pakistan, injures 30
http://www.cnn.com/2013/03/22/world/asia/pakistan-violence/index.html

Car bomb in Pakistan kills 12, injures 32
http://www.cnn.com/2013/03/21/world/asia/pakistan-violence/index.html

18 killed as car bombs target Shiite worshipers in Iraq

Baghdad (CNN) -- Sectarian violence flared anew in Iraq Friday as bombers struck several Shiite mosques, killing at least 18 worshipers and wounding scores more, police said.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/03/29/world/iraq-violence/index.html?hpt=imi_c2

See also...

Islamists claim responsibility for Iraq anniversary attacks
http://www.cnn.com/2013/03/20/world/meast/iraq-violence/index.html

5 officers dead in Afghanistan as John Kerry visits

The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack that occurred in the city of Jalalabad.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/03/26/world/asia/afghanistan-attack/index.html

Rockets from Gaza hit Israeli city during Obama visit

Jerusalem (CNN) -- Two rockets from Gaza slammed into southern Israel on Thursday morning, as U.S. President Barack Obama prepared to leave Jerusalem for Ramallah for meetings with top Palestinian Authority officials.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/03/21/world/meast/israel-gaza-rocket/index.html

Religion Among Americans Hits Low Point, As More People Say They Have No Religious Affiliation: Report

Back in the 1930s and 1940s, the number of "nones" -- those who said they were religiously unaffiliated -- hovered around 5 percent, Claude Fischer, one of the researchers with UC Berkeley, told The Huffington Post. That number had risen to only 8 percent by 1990.

But since then, the number of people who don't consider themselves part of a religion has increased to 20 percent.

MORE: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/03/13/religion-america-decline-low-no-affiliation-report_n_2867626.html

See also...

Americans and Religion Increasingly Parting Ways
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/03/130313100438.htm

Yet Another Survey Shows ‘Nones’ Growth at Record Levels
http://www.religiondispatches.org/dispatches/elizabethdrescher/6925/yet_another_survey_shows__nones__growth_at_record_levels/

Religious People Less Driven By Compassion Than Are Atheists And Agnostics, Study Says

"Overall, this research suggests that although less religious people tend to be less trusted in the U.S., when feeling compassionate, they may actually be more inclined to help their fellow citizens than more religious people," Willer said.

MORE: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/05/01/religious-compassion-atheists-agnostics_n_1468006.html

New Study Suggests Religion May Help Criminals Justify Their Crimes

A new study in the academic journal Theoretical Criminology (hat tip to the Vancouver Sun) suggests that, far from causing offenders to repent of their sins, religious instruction might actually encourage crime.

MORE: http://www.slate.com/blogs/crime/2013/03/08/faith_based_prison_programs_new_study_suggests_religion_may_help_criminals.html

South Texas CoR Launches!

Headline coverage above the fold!



The South Texas Coalition of Reason group shot...

Atheist Billboard Stirs Controversy

CORPUS CHRISTI - A new atheist billboard along I-37 has some people in town upset. The billboard was put yesterday by an atheist organization called The South Texas coalition of Reason. The billboard reads, "dont Believe in God? You're not Alone".

MORE: http://www.kristv.com/news/atheist-billboard-stirs-controversy/#_

See also...

Atheist Billboards Go Up in Corpus Christi, Texas
http://www.patheos.com/blogs/friendlyatheist/2013/03/07/atheist-billboards-go-up-in-corpus-christi-texas/

Godless billboards now on display in Corpus Christi
http://www.caller.com/news/2013/mar/07/godless-billboards-now-on-display-in-corpus/

Non-Theist Coalition Pays for 'Don't Believe in God?' Billboards
http://www.kztv10.com/news/non-theist-coalition-pays-for-don-t-believe-in-god-billboards/

Pastor Says Uplifting Sign for Atheists is a ‘Negative Message’
http://www.patheos.com/blogs/friendlyatheist/2013/03/08/pastor-says-uplifting-sign-for-atheists-is-a-negative-message/

Atheist Billboard
http://www.nbcnews.com/id/51099935/ns/local_news-corpus_christi_tx/t/atheist-billboard/#.UUU19lctcjE

Corpus Christi atheist billboard controversy: The South Texas Coalition of Reason posts sign
http://www.wptv.com/dpp/news/local_news/water_cooler/corpus-christi-atheist-billboard-controversy-the-south-texas-coalition-of-reason-posts-sign

Coalition behind signs say they're just trying to get message out
http://www.nbc33tv.com/news/national-news/coalition-behind-signs-sa

Godless Billboards Go Up in Corpus Christi (Orginal Press Release)
http://www.unitedcor.org/national/news/godless-billboards-go-corpus-christi

5 Kids Bravely Fighting Christian Domination of Their Schools

It can take a lot of guts to stand up for separation of church and state in America. People who file lawsuits to stop the display of religious symbols on public property or the use of sectarian prayers before government meetings often find themselves the targets of harassment, threats, and even violence. Here are five young people who made a difference.

MORE: http://www.alternet.org/5-kids-bravely-fighting-christian-domination-their-schools?paging=off

'A' Week 2013 Is Coming Up

Join thousands of people from all over the world in a global shared experience. Display an 'A' as your Facebook profile picture or change your cover photo for one week starting 17 March 2013 to raise awareness of how many people are 'Good without Gods' and don't need religions to influence their lives.

MORE: http://www.patheos.com/blogs/friendlyatheist/2013/03/12/a-week-2013-is-coming-up/

The Fairies and Elves of the Irish People

Fairies (and otherworldly beings) were both feared and respected. But then most cultures have believed in them. Ever hear of Santa’s elves? And guess what? They believed in them just as much as others in today’s world believe in their saints, angels, demons and gods.

MORE: http://www.skepticink.com/debunkingchristianity/2013/03/16/the-fairies-and-elves-of-the-irish-people/

Missouri Atheist Group Says It Will Take Part in St. Patrick's Day Parade Despite Ban

An atheist organization in Missouri banned from taking part in a citywide St. Patrick's Day Parade has stated that it will participate despite the ban.

According to Fox 4 of Kansas City, the leader of the Kansas City Atheist Coalition announced earlier this week that his organization would hold an event along the parade route titled "Ask an Atheist."
MORE: http://www.christianpost.com/news/missouri-atheist-group-says-it-will-take-part-in-st-patricks-day-parade-despite-ban-91982/

See also...

Despite ban, atheist group says they'll participate in St. Patrick’s festivities
http://fox4kc.com/2013/03/14/despite-ban-atheist-group-says-theyll-participate-in-parade/

Earlier...

Kansas City Atheists Denied Participation In St. Pat's Parade
http://www.kcur.org/post/kansas-city-atheists-denied-participation-st-pats-parade

Fundamentalist Forces?: New Report Highlights Ongoing Church-State Problems In America's Military

Institutional support for fundamentalist, evangelical Christianity in the military has spread and entrenched since September 11, 2001, beginning in haste during the Bush administration and remaining unchallenged by the Obama administration.

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/fundamentalist-forces-new-report-highlights-ongoing-church-state-problems

See also...

(MAAF) Center for Inquiry Takes Up Fight Against Military Evangelism
http://militaryatheists.org/news/2013/03/center-for-inquiry-takes-up-fight-against-military-evangelism/

New Pope, Old Policies, Says American Humanist Association

"The election of Pope Francis only means the church's unacceptable policies of the past will be endorsed with a new signet ring," said American Humanist Association Executive Director Roy Speckhardt. "The Church's stances on women, same-sex relationships, and access to birth control are centuries out of date and lack compassion."

MORE: http://www.americanhumanist.org/news/details/2013-03-new-pope-old-policies-says-american-humanist-associa

See also...

Cardinal Bergoglio's Dirty Past
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5iVHJR4jTPWVSrC-ZchsLSq6WWZdA?docId=6dee729dae854ceda7b22397f094b19d

What a New Pope Means for Atheists
http://www.patheos.com/blogs/friendlyatheist/2013/03/14/what-a-new-pope-means-for-atheists/

How to Elect a Pope *and* Get Higher Ratings
http://www.patheos.com/blogs/friendlyatheist/2013/03/13/how-to-elect-a-pope-and-get-higher-ratings/

Atheists see papal election as a red-carpet reality show
http://www.thestar.com/opinion/commentary/2013/03/13/atheists_see_papal_election_as_a_redcarpet_reality_show_mallick.html

U.S. Catholics in Poll See a Church Out of Touch
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/03/06/us/poll-shows-disconnect-between-us-catholics-and-church.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0

Abuse victims want Pope Benedict tried in criminal court
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/news-video/video-abuse-victims-want-pope-benedict-tried-in-criminal-court/article8964113/ 

Mother Teresa, Anything but a Saint

A study conducted by Canadian researchers has called Mother Teresa "anything but a saint", a creation of an orchestrated and effective media campaign who was generous with her prayers but miserly with her foundation's millions when it came to humanity's suffering. The controversial study, to be published this month in the journal of studies in religion/sciences called Religieuses, says that Teresa "known across the world as the apostle of the dying and the downtrodden" actually felt it was beautiful to see the poor suffer.

MORE: http://www.realclearreligion.org/2013/03/05/mother_teresa_anything_but_a_saint_252915.html

See also...

Academics suggest Hitch called it right on Mother Teresa
http://www.independent.co.uk/voices/iv-drip/academics-suggest-hitch-called-it-right-on-mother-teresa-8521363.html

The New Director of Obama’s Faith-Based Office is a Supporter of Church-State Separation

In case you need more of a reason to be optimistic about her appointment, some Christian groups are worried she'll take away their right to discriminate: "... many faith-based organizations will be very uneasy about Rogers' view that their right to hire on a religious basis should be limited in any program they operate using government funds. Such a universal limit would be unprecedented and would cause many of the government's current and most-valued service partners to have to walk away."

MORE: http://www.patheos.com/blogs/friendlyatheist/2013/03/14/the-new-director-of-obamas-faith-based-office-is-a-supporter-of-church-state-separation/

See also...

Church-State Separation Advocates Praise New Obama Pick for Faith-Based Office Director
http://www.religiondispatches.org/dispatches/sarahposner/6916/church_state_separation_advocates_praise_new_obama_pick_for_faith_based_office_director/

Standing for principles in all situations

The current debate over whether we should provide federal financial aid for churches and other houses of worship damaged by Hurricane Sandy is another one of these tough cases that stirs up a debate and splits the religious community.Theological and constitutional principles ensuring religious liberty must apply and be followed in the hard cases as well as the easy cases. We enjoy unprecedented religious liberty in this country precisely because, over the past 222 years, we have stuck to our principles of voluntary, self-sufficient religion and disallowed governmental help or harm, even in the tough cases.

MORE: http://www.bjconline.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5458&Itemid=112

See also...

BJC asks Members of Congress to oppose federal grants to houses of worship
http://www.bjconline.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5451&Itemid=112

New York Times Supports Secular Community's Position on FEMA Aid to Churches, Urges Senate to Let Bill Die
http://mobile.nytimes.com/2013/03/05/opinion/separation-between-church-and-state.xml

DC Council Hears Humanist Testimony Supporting Unrestricted Wedding Officiants

Fred Edwords, a former executive director of the American Humanist Association, testified Thursday in favor of a proposal to let anyone perform a wedding in Washington D.C. The proposal, the Marriage Officiant Amendment Act of 2013, would allow anyone to obtain single-use licenses to perform weddings.

MORE: http://www.americanhumanist.org/news/details/2013-03-humanist-societys-frederick-edwords-testifies-for-dc

The Atheist Chaplain

Just because you're an atheist doesn't mean you don't want guidance. At least that's what a new atheist chaplain at Stanford U. believes. Have atheists found religion?

MORE: http://live.huffingtonpost.com/#r/segment/atheist-gets-religion/50ee5c8a78c90a40500000c1

National Atheist Party Celebrates with Inaugural Convention in San Francisco

With much fanfare, the National Atheist Party (NAP) held its inaugural convention, NAPCON2013, Saturday, March 9 at the South San Francisco Conference Center.

MORE: http://www.pr.com/press-release/478769

Atheist Groups Sues US Gov't to Remove 'In God We Trust' From Currency

The Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF), is suing the United States Treasury Department to remove the words "In God We Trust" from all U.S. currency, because they claim the motto is offensive to nonreligious citizens.

MORE: http://www.christianpost.com/news/atheist-groups-sues-us-govt-to-remove-in-god-we-trust-from-currency-91901/

See also...

Nonbelievers seek to take God off currency - Freedom From Religion Foundation
http://ffrf.org/news/news-releases/item/17021-atheists-seek-to-take-god-off-currency

No Bible For Brennan: CIA Director Takes Oath Of Office On Constitution

While there is nothing that prevents officials from being sworn in on a Bible, there's certainly nothing wrong with following Brennan's example and honoring the U.S. Constitution. Doing so not only sends a positive message, it frees government from giving the appearance of religious favoritism.

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/no-bible-for-brennan-cia-director-takes-oath-of-office-on-constitution

Church, State and Bible Class in Texas

There has long been disagreement about the legitimate place of religion in student-led and extracurricular activities, like after-school prayer groups, and at public school sporting events. But the new trend is to push the Bible into the heart of the instructional day. Since 2006, public schools in four other states -- Arizona, Georgia, Oklahoma and Tennessee -- have passed laws similar to the one in Texas, and North Carolina is considering such a bill. South Carolina allows students to receive credit for Bible courses taken off campus, say, at a church or a Christian college.

MORE: http://www.nytimes.com/2013/03/02/us/for-texas-religious-electives-a-call-for-more-inclusion.html?_r=0

See also...

Reading, Writing & Religion II
http://www.tfn.org/site/PageServer?pagename=issues_religious_freedom_bible_courses

North Carolina should say no to Bible-class bill

SB 138 does nothing to make sure teachers receive adequate training to teach these courses in ways that ensure that constitutional guidelines are followed and religious freedom of students protected. Failure to address this issue in the bill invites the kind of problems experienced in Texas and will set the stage for numerous legal battles on the local level when inadequately trained teachers fail to follow the constitutional guidelines.

MORE: http://www.newsobserver.com/2013/03/06/2730364/north-carolina-should-say-no-to.html

See also...

Bill would OK Bible classes at public schools
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20130227/News/302279970

Virginia’s Liberty transforms into evangelical mega-university

The small Baptist college that television preacher Jerry Falwell founded here in 1971 has capitalized on the online education boom to become an evangelical mega-university with global reach. Total enrollment now exceeds 74,000, with nearly 62,000 working toward degrees online in fields such as psychology, business, education, criminal justice and, of course, religion. That makes Liberty the largest university in Virginia -- with more than double the number of students at No. 2 George Mason -- and the largest private, nonprofit university in the country.

MORE: http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/education/virginias-liberty-transforms-into-evangelical-mega-university/2013/03/04/931cb116-7d09-11e2-9a75-dab0201670da_story.html

The Religious Right Empire Strikes Back: Fundamentalists Target Churches For 2014 Elections

This week, Mat Staver's Liberty Counsel, which is affiliated with Jerry Falwell Jr.'s Liberty University, said it is gearing up to help fundamentalists take "dominion" over the United States and make us a "Christian nation."

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/the-religious-right-empire-strikes-back-fundamentalists-target-churches-for

Petition Interdiction: Tenn. Legislator Seeks To Make It A Crime To Protest Church-State Violations

A Tennessee legislator is trying to set up a series of hurdles so complex, formidable and intimidating that no one in his or her right mind would even think about filing a church-state lawsuit.

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/petition-interdiction-tenn-legislator-seeks-to-make-it-a-crime-to-protest

False Freedom: Ky. Governor Should Veto Reckless 'Religious Liberty' Law

The Kentucky 'religious freedom' bill is a power grab. It's all about some religious groups winning the legal right to discriminate against others and deny them certain rights.

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/false-freedom-ky-governor-should-veto-reckless-religious-liberty-law

See also...

Beliefs may trump laws: Kentucky bill's issue of freedom is hotly debated
http://www.courier-journal.com/article/20130306/NEWS0101/303060166/Beliefs-may-trump-laws-Kentucky-bill-s-issue-freedom-hotly-debated?gcheck=1

Alabama Affront: Governor, GOP Legislators Railroad Neo-Voucher Scheme Into Law

I've said it before, and I'll say it again. A mega-bucks combination of powerful sectarian and ideological interests is waging war on the public school system and the principle of church-state separation.

They want to divert as much taxpayer funding as possible to religious and other private schools, starving public schools in the process.

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/alabama-affront-governor-gop-legislators-railroad-neo-voucher-scheme-into

Out-of-state groups' ads push for voucher legislation

At least two pro-voucher organizations are airing broadcast ads -- perhaps spending as much as $1 million combined -- to promote "school choice" while some legislators are eyeing expansion of pending voucher legislation beyond Gov.

MORE: http://www.knoxnews.com/news/2013/mar/05/legislative-notebook-out-of-state-groups-ads-for/

Access Supplied: Court Says Public Library Can't Block Pagan Websites

This was an obvious violation of the First Amendment, and it seems the library knew that since it altered its policy even before being brought into court.

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/access-supplied-court-says-public-library-can-t-block-pagan-websites

Atheist Who Wants to Deliver City Council’s Invocation Gets Rejection Letter Because He’s Not Part of a Congregation

Tommy Coleman and Brandon Jones filed a lawsuit against them and the case is still being decided, but in the meantime, Coleman has been trying to deliver one of the invocations. He’s been asking for months but the County keeps saying no because he’s not affiliated with any church (as if we needed more proof of their discrimination in action).

MORE: http://www.patheos.com/blogs/friendlyatheist/2013/03/13/atheist-who-wants-to-deliver-city-councils-invocation-gets-rejection-letter-because-hes-not-part-of-a-congregation/

Texas Two-Step: Religious Right Anti-Family Planning Agenda Backfires In The Lone Star State

The Texas Tribune reported that funding cuts for contraception and health-care services are likely to lead to 24,000 unintended births in 2014-2015, at a cost to taxpayers of $273 million.

MORE: https://www.au.org/blogs/wall-of-separation/texas-two-step-religious-right-anti-family-planning-agenda-backfires-in-the

Ten Commandments in Texas public schools?

Texas State House representative Phil Stephenson has introduced a resolution calling on all public schools to display the Ten Commandments. His resolution also calls for "support(ing) prayers, including the use of the word 'God' at public gatherings.:

MORE: http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/for-gods-sake/post/ten-commandments-in-texas-public-schools/2013/03/03/8f340fc2-847f-11e2-98a3-b3db6b9ac586_blog.html?wprss=rss_on-faith

'In God We Trust' gets a place in city hall

San Juan Capistrano will become the latest Orange County city to display the national motto, "In God We Trust," at its city hall. On Tuesday night, the City Council voted unanimously to accept a donation from local churchgoers to help install the motto and appointed two members to a new subcommitte.

MORE: http://www.ocregister.com/news/motto-212773-ocprint-city-council.html

Lake Forest council delays prayer decision

A vote on bringing public prayer to City Council meetings is on hold temporarily as the council seeks additional legal guidance. Mayor Scott Voigts in January voiced support for having an invocation at council meetings, something the city has not previously done.

MORE: http://www.ocregister.com/news/city-212598-ocprint-council-speakers.html

Update: the ACLU lawsuit against Rowan County

The commissioners, who deliver the prayers themselves, routinely call on Jesus Christ and refer to other sectarian beliefs during invocations. Opening invocations have declared that "there is only one way to salvation, and that is Jesus Christ," as well as given thanks for the "virgin birth," the "cross at Calvary," and "the resurrection."

MORE: http://salisbury.wbtv.com/news/news/81612-update-aclu-lawsuit-against-rowan-county

Charlotte police: No more 'Jesus' in department prayers

In the past, volunteer chaplains have included Jesus' name in their invocations at official department ceremonies, but the department wants the prayers to be more inclusive.

MORE: http://www.wbtv.com/story/18850654/cmpd-changes-prayer-policy

Mississippi Legislature Passes School Prayer Bill

Mississippi lawmakers have passed legislation that would legalize student-led prayer in the state's public schools. Senate Bill 2633, which went to Gov. Phil Bryant March 6 for his signature, would also allow students to talk about their faith in the classroom and organize school Bible clubs, as well as pray at football games, graduation ceremonies, and during morning announcements.

MORE: http://www.thenewamerican.com/culture/faith-and-morals/item/14743-mississippi-legislature-passes-school-prayer-bill

‘Christ’ kicked out of city council invocation in Longview, Wash.

Mayor Don Jensen says men and women of faith who are asked to open the city council meetings with prayer may no longer invoke the name of Jesus Christ.

MORE: http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2013/mar/7/christ-kicked-out-city-council-invocation-longview/

Atheist cop sues after being demoted to car washer for refusing to pray

A 14-year veteran police officer from San Juan, Puerto Rico sued his bosses on Friday, alleging that he was reassigned from police work to washing cars and relaying messages when he refused to participate in a compulsory Christian prayer.

MORE: http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2013/03/08/atheist-cop-sues-after-being-demoted-to-car-washer-for-refusing-to-pray/

Pastor Jack Schaap: Jesus Blessed My Affair with an Underage Girl

First, it was an extra-marital affair.

Then, it was an extra-marital affair with a teenager.

Now, we learn, it was an extra-marital affair with a teenager that was approved by Jesus Christ.

MORE: http://www.patheos.com/blogs/friendlyatheist/2013/03/15/pastor-jack-schaap-jesus-blessed-my-affair-with-an-underage-girl/

See also...

End of the Mainline

The once prestigious and now nearly bankrupt National Council of Churches is quitting its famous New York headquarters built with largesse from John D. Rockefeller, Jr. and whose cornerstone was laid by President Dwight Eisenhower.  Down to a handful of staffers, the NCC will consolidate into the United Methodist Building on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.

MORE: http://spectator.org/archives/2013/03/01/end-of-the-mainline

Escapee from Westboro Baptist Church describes church's brainwashing and control tactics to CNN

Lauren was thrust into the Westboro Baptist Church, which she characterizes as a cult, at the age of 15. She spent her early years enjoying a normal life with her family in Florida, but when her formerly liberal and secular father set out to produce a documentary about the Westboro Baptist Church, his detached interest gradually evolved into fascination and he moved the entire family to Kansas to join the church and live on their compound.

MORE: http://www.goddiscussion.com/107728/escapee-from-westboro-baptist-church-describes-brainwashing-and-control-tactics-to-cnn/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+GodDiscussion+%28God+Discussion%29&utm_content=Google+Reader

Significant Changes to LDS Scripture Reflect Shifting Church Views on Racist History

A newly released digital edition of the four books of LDS or Mormon scripture—the Holy Bible, the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price—includes editorial changes that reflect a shifting official view on issues like polygamy, the Church's history of racism, and the historicity of LDS scripture. Perhaps the most significant is the inclusion of a new heading to precede the now-canonized 1978 announcement of the end of the LDS Church's ban on Black priesthood ordination.

MORE: http://www.religiondispatches.org/dispatches/joannabrooks/6889/significant_new_changes_to_lds_scripture_reflect_shifting_church_views_on_racist_history/

Carly Rae Jepsen refuses to play Boy Scout Jamboree over anti-gay policy

Looks like Carly Rae Jepsen is following pop band Train's tracks out of performing at the Boy Scouts of America's 2013 National Scouting Jamboree. Her announcement comes in response to the Boy Scout's anti-gay policy.

MORE: http://www.freep.com/article/20130305/ENT04/130305057/Carly-Rae-Jepsen-refuses-play-Boy-Scout-Jamboree-over-anti-gay-policy

See also...

Music Group "Train" Refuse to Play Boy Scouts Event Unless Ban on Gay Scouts Is Lifted
http://music.yahoo.com/news/train-refuse-play-boy-scouts-event-unless-ban-220511783-rolling-stone.html

Atheist group apologizes for misquoting Palin, but defends billboard's intent

An atheist group that misquoted former vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin in a billboard in Texas is apologizing to the Republican and correcting the mistake. But it continues to defend the "intent and context" of the effort.

MORE: http://religion.blogs.cnn.com/2013/03/04/atheist-group-apologizes-for-misquoting-palin-but-defends-billboards-intent/

Old Earth, Young Minds: Evangelical Homeschoolers Embrace Evolution

For homeschooling parents who want to teach their children that the earth is only a few thousand years old, the theory of evolution is a lie, and dinosaurs coexisted with humans, there is no shortage of materials. It's no secret that the majority of homeschooled children in America belong to evangelical Christian families. What's less known is that a growing number of their parents are dismayed by these textbooks. More Christian parents are asking for mainstream science in their children's curricula. Will religious textbook companies deliver?

MORE: http://www.theatlantic.com/national/archive/2013/03/old-earth-young-minds-evangelical-homeschoolers-embrace-evolution/273844/

Bill Moyers Full Show: Fighting Creeping Creationism

Zack Kopplin on fighting the onslaught of creationism and Susan Jacoby on the challenges of free thinking in America.

MORE: http://billmoyers.com/episode/full-show-fighting-creeping-creationism/

The Bible Isn't The History You Think It Is

The stories in the Bible were meant to be history, others fiction. But modernity has obscured the original distinction between the two kinds of biblical writing, depriving readers of the depth of the text.

Perhaps surprisingly, this confusion lies at the heart of the History Channel's miniseries "The Bible," which continues the pattern of blurring history and fiction, and thereby misrepresenting the nature of the Bible to its viewers.

MORE: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/dr-joel-hoffman/the-bible-isnt-history_b_2803409.html

See also...

History's 'The Bible': What The Critics Are Saying
http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/historys-bible-what-critics-are-425767

God’s Word, the Greatly Abridged Version
http://tv.nytimes.com/2013/03/02/arts/television/the-bible-mini-series-on-history-channel.html?_r=0&adxnnl=1&src=twrhp&adxnnlx=1362356673-awXJPtbmVF/8tOxepIVGTg

Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act Bars Federally Funded Religious Discrimination

The reauthorization of VAWA was an important victory in the fight against domestic violence, and the fight for LGBT equality. But it was also an important victory in the fight to protect separation of church and state. 

MORE: http://www.centerforinquiry.net/blogs/entry/violence_against_women_reauthorization_act_bars_federally_funded_religious_/#When:21:08Z

See also...

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Oppose Violence Against Women Act
http://www.catholicculture.org/news/headlines/index.cfm?storyid=17251

District attorneys are declining to defend controversial state and federal laws

Alvarez agreed with the plaintiffs that the gay marriage ban violates the Illinois Constitution's equal protection clause. "I took an oath when I was sworn in to defend the constitution of the state of Illinois and I believe that's what I’m doing," Alvarez told the Associated Press. "I'm not going to defend something I believe is in violation of the constitution." Nor is Alvarez alone in choosing to abstain from pursuing or defending particular laws of one's jurisdiction. In other parts of Illinois--as well as other states, and even in the federal government--prosecutors are making similar decisions and standing by them. For example, President Barack Obama told the Justice Department in 2011 to stop defending the constitutionality of the Defense of Marriage Act.

MORE: http://www.abajournal.com/magazine/article/district_attorneys_are_declining_to_defend_controversial_state_and_federal/

One woman’s journey out of faith, family and fear

If her true identity were known, Samya believes, her family would seek her out and possibly kill her. They would certainly try to persuade her -- if not force her -- to come home. Her parents, she said, think she is guilty of two serious crimes: She rejected a marriage arranged by her father, who came to the U.S. from the Middle East when Samya was an infant. And perhaps more serious to her parents: She has become an atheist.

MORE: http://www.religionnews.com/2013/03/03/one-womans-journey-out-of-faith-family-and-fear/

See also...

Woman challenges tradition, brings change to her Kenyan village
http://www.cnn.com/2013/03/14/world/africa/cnnheroes-ntaiya-girls-school/index.html?hpt=iaf_c2

FRC: No Right to Have Sex Outside of Marriage, Society Should 'Punish It'

Family Research Council senior fellow Pat Fagan appeared alongside Tony Perkins, the head of FRC, on Washington Watch yesterday to discuss his article which claims that Eisenstadt v. Baird, the 1972 case that overturned a Massachusetts law banning the distribution of contraceptives to unmarried people, may rank "as the single most destructive decision in the history of the Court."

MORE: http://www.rightwingwatch.org/content/frc-no-right-have-sex-outside-marriage-society-should-punish-it

It's time to overturn DOMA

Bill Clinton, who signed the Defense of Marriage Act into law in 1996, now says it's unconstitutional and should be struck down by the Supreme Court.
MORE: http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/bill-clinton-its-time-to-overturn-doma/2013/03/07/fc184408-8747-11e2-98a3-b3db6b9ac586_story.html

See also...

Defense Of Marriage Act Promotes Religion And Should Be Struck Down, Says Americans United
https://www.au.org/media/press-releases/defense-of-marriage-act-promotes-religion-and-should-be-struck-down-says?utm_source=AU+main+email+list&utm_campaign=c3fbd4cfe7-2013-03-04+DOMA+Promotes+Religion&utm_medium=email

Opposition to same-sex marriage narrows
http://www.heraldnet.com/article/20130307/NEWS02/703079929

DOMA Supreme Court Brief Argues That Law Restricts Political Activity For Gay Married Couples
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/03/01/doma-supreme-court-brief_n_2791233.html

American Indian tribe OKs same-sex marriage, lets gay couple wed

The head of an American Indian tribe in Michigan signed a law approving same-sex marriage on Friday, joining at least two other tribes nationwide in doing so, then immediately wed a gay couple who had been together for 30 years but never thought they would see this day come.

MORE: http://usnews.nbcnews.com/_news/2013/03/15/17325923-american-indian-tribe-oks-same-sex-marriage-lets-gay-couple-wed?lite

See also...

Michigan's first gay marriage: Couple to wed on American Indian reservation under tribal law
http://www.wxyz.com/dpp/news/first-gay-couple-to-marry-in-michigan-under-tribal-law?hpt=us_bn9#ixzz2NcGM19KR

And...

GOP sea change on gay rights?
http://nbcpolitics.nbcnews.com/_news/2013/03/15/17326354-gop-sea-change-on-gay-rights?lite

Same-sex couple denied family medical leave in Arizona
http://www.azfamily.com/news/9pm-extra/Same-sex-couple-denied-family-medical-leave-in-Arizona-197387301.html?hpt=us_bn10

RI Gay Marriage Bill May Hinge On Religious Clause

Valente and Bond hope Rhode Island joins the rest of New England this year in allowing gay and lesbian couples to marry. But they're concerned that the kind of treatment they received may still be allowed if lawmakers insert a broad religious exemption allowing religious organizations like churches, hospitals and schools - or private businesses - to ignore the law and decide for themselves whether they want to extend benefits and rights to married gay couples.

MORE: http://www.pridesource.com/article.html?article=59004

Colorado Legalizes Civil Union

Colorado lawmakers passed legislation on Tuesday to legalize civil unions for same-sex couples, following several years of bitter debate over the issue.

MORE: http://mobile.nytimes.com/2013/03/13/us/colorado-legalizes-civil-unions-for-same-sex-couples.xml

Abortion bill filed in General Assembly

The bill has two parts. It would require doctors to stay on site after an abortion until the woman is ready to go home, and doctors would need to what are called admitting privileges at a nearby hospital to provide abortions.

--snip--

Reed said she thinks hospitals worried about protestors might refuse to give abortion providing doctors those admitting privileges, which would effectively shut abortions down in the state.

MORE: http://abclocal.go.com/wtvd/story?section=news/local&id=9029521

Arkansas adopts strictest abortion law in the nation

Arkansas on Wednesday adopted what is by far the nation's most restrictive ban on abortion -- at 12 weeks of pregnancy, when a fetal heartbeat can typically be detected by abdominal ultrasound. The law, the sharpest challenge yet to Roe v. Wade, was passed by the newly Republican-controlled legislature over the veto of Gov. Mike Beebe, a Democrat, who called it "blatantly unconstitutional." The state Senate voted Tuesday to override his veto, and the House followed suit Wednesday, with several Democrats joining the Republican majority.

MORE: http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/news/us/arkansas-adopts-strictest-abortion-law-in-the-nation-678272/#ixzz2Mret49qk

North Dakota Senate approves 6-week abortion ban

Some supporters of the so-called fetal heartbeat measure have said they hope to send a message that North Dakota is anti-abortion and aims to challenge the U.S. Supreme Court's 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling that legalized abortion up until a fetus is considered viable, usually at 22 to 24 weeks.

MORE: http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-201_162-57574622/north-dakota-senate-approves-6-week-abortion-ban/

Planned 'Spider-Man' Movie Shoot In Brooklyn During Passover Has Jewish Community Outraged

Columbia Pictures alerted local leaders they wanted to shoot from March 22 through March 27. That would include the first few days of Passover.

In response, Community Board 1 fired off a letter to the Mayor's Office of Media and Entertainment, saying "We ask that you not issue a permit for any of the High Holy Days."

MORE: http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2013/03/14/planned-spider-man-movie-shoot-in-brooklyn-during-passover-has-jewish-community-outraged/?hpt=us_bn7

Saugus man claims Jesus Christ depicted on cloth

Krantz used the drop cloth four years ago to spray paint his shutters; he used it 50 or 60 more times before he noticed something for the first time.

MORE: http://www1.whdh.com/news/articles/local/north/10010099510473/saugus-man-claims-jesus-christ-depicted-on-cloth/

New Results Indicate That Particle Discovered at CERN Is a Higgs Boson

Having analysed two and a half times more data than was available for the discovery announcement in July, they find that the new particle is looking more and more like a Higgs boson, the particle linked to the mechanism that gives mass to elementary particles.

It remains an open question, however, whether this is the Higgs boson of the Standard Model of particle physics, or possibly the lightest of several bosons predicted in some theories that go beyond the Standard Model. Finding the answer to this question will take time.

MORE: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/03/130314102140.htm

Strange Spaghetti-Shaped Creature Is Missing Link: Discovery Pushes Fossil Record Back 200 Million Years

It's a discovery that pushes back the fossil record of a group of creatures known as enteropneusts by 200 million years -- and provides the crucial "missing link" in an important evolutionary transformation.

MORE: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/03/130313142526.htm

Earth-Sized Planets in Habitable Zones Are More Common Than Previously Thought

"We now estimate that if we were to look at 10 of the nearest small stars we would find about four potentially habitable planets, give or take," said Ravi Kopparapu, a post-doctoral researcher in geosciences. "That is a conservative estimate," he added. "There could be more."

MORE: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/03/130312152047.htm

See also...

Spectacular raw images of Saturn's moon
http://www.cbsnews.com/2300-205_162-10016149.html

See Jupiter and moon pair up on St. Patrick's Day
http://science.nbcnews.com/_news/2013/03/16/17339527-see-jupiter-and-moon-pair-up-on-st-patricks-day?lite

Stargazers capture images of comet

(CNN) -- Stargazers in North America were delighted this week to see a highly anticipated comet make an appearance in the March sky.

MORE: http://www.cnn.com/2013/03/16/us/panstarrs-comet/index.html?hpt=hp_c3

See also...

Watch time-lapse of comet Pann-STARRS
http://www.cnn.com/video/?hpt=hp_c3#/video/us/2013/03/15/vos-comet-panstarrs-arrow.cnn

Do countries lose religion as they gain wealth?

Poor nations have the highest proportion of people who identify as religious. "The correlation between religiosity and successful societies is somewhere around 0.7. Zero is no correlation and one is a perfect correlation, so it's a really good correlation, and it's not just an accident," he told CBC News.

MORE: http://www.cbc.ca/news/world/story/2013/03/05/f-religion-economic-growth.html

Britain's 'Atheist Church' Set to Go Global

Britain's atheist church is barely three months old but it already has more "worshippers" than can fit into its services, while more than 200 non-believers worldwide have contacted organisers to ask how they can set up their own branch.

MORE: http://news.discovery.com/human/life/atheist-church-set-to-go-global-130308.htm

See also...

Britain's atheist church to go global - and it's coming to Australia
http://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/britains-atheist-church-to-go-global-and-its-coming-to-australia/story-fneszs56-1226595770888