Blinken: Ukraine Will Join NATO

 Washington wants to see Ukraine defeat Russia , and become a member of NATO,  U.S. Secretary of Srtate  Antony Blinken said today (Sept. 11, 2024), according to the RT website. 

Blinken is visiting Kiev with his British counterpart, David Lammy, to reiterate Anglo--American support for Vladimir Zelensky's governmwent. 

Hungary and Slovakia have  already said they will not agree to Ukraine's NATO membership,  because  bringing Ukraine into NATO would mean war with Russia. 

During his speech in Kiev, Blinken painted a rosy picture of Ukraine's military industry, claiming it had expanded six--fold over the last year. 

The bottom line is this: "We want Ukraine to win," Blinken declared  at another point during his visit in Kiev. 

In Timor, Pope Praises Becoming "Small before God"

 Pope Francis celebrated Mass for East Timor's overwhelming Catholic majority today (Sept. 10, 2024), applauding the country for its high percentage of youth and stressing the importance of becoming  small and humble in order for God to work miracles, the Crux website reports.

Speaking to Catholics during his Sept. 10 Mass at the Esplanade of Taci Tolu in Dili, the pope said, "Let us not be afraid to make ourselves small before God, and before each other, to lose our lives, to give up our time, to revise our schedules, giving up something to help a brother or sister become better and happier." 

"Let us not be afraid to scale down our plans when necessary, not in order to diminish them, but to make them even more beautiful lthrough the gift of ourselves and the acceptance of others, with all the unpredictability that this entails,"  he added. 

True kingship, he said, "is seen in those who give their life out of love."

Pope Francis is in Dili as part of a broader Sept2--13 tour of Asia and Oceania that has so far taken him to Indonesia and Papua, New Guinea, and which will take him in Singapore before he returns to Rome. 

It marks the longest and farthest trip of Francis's papacy. 

Calif. Fire Grows Due t o High Temps.; Thousands Forced to Leave Homes

 Regarding the spreading fire in California today (September 9, 2024), Calif. Gov. Gavin Newsom said in a statement  "It's critical that residents in the impacted areas remain vigilant and prepare to evacuate immediately if called for by local authorities, the USA Today website reports. 

The Line Fire in Southern California has set over 20,500 acres ablaze and is 0% contained. 

 The wildfire was discovered Sept. 5, acccording to InciWeb's data. t is located in San Bernardino County, around 121 miles northeast of Los Angeles.

High temperatures have increased the fire's activity and will continue through today. By September 11, temperatures are expected to be below normal.

The fire is spreading towards the northeast direction. The cooler weather will help to moderate the flames below the marine level. 

Over 36,000 structures, including single and multi--family homes, commercial buildings, and others, are threatened by the fire and thousands are forced to evacuate. 

The fire also set areas of San Bernardino National Forest ablaze. 

A Damage Inspection Team was ordered, and there were 1,855 personnel assigned to fight the fire, while  more resources arrived from other parts of California. 

Suitcase--Packing Pope Delivers Materials to the Margins; Calls on Papua, New Guinea Residents to Spread God's Beauty and Love

 In one of Papua, New Guinea's most remote diocese, Pope Francis arived today (Sept. 8, 2024), bringing both spiritual and material comfort to people at the margins, some of whom live in communities so isolated they can only be reached by using a machete to hack a path through thick jungles, the Crux website reports. 

On his 600--mile fligt from the national capirtal of Port Morseby to Vanimo, the Vatican said the pontiff brought eight suitcases, each weighing around 65 pounds. They contain food, medicine, toys, and primary goods, as well as containers for the food which otherwise would risk rapid deterioration in the tropical climate.

On the spiritual level, the pontiff also brought a message of hope to a crowd estimated at some 20,000 exhorting faithful to spread God's beauty and love wherever they go. 

Speaking to members of the local church in the reote Diocese of Vanimo today, Pope Francis called each person to be a missionary in the places they live, bearing witness to Christ at home, at school, at work, and everywhere they go. 

"Let us remember that love and its beauty can heal the world, because it has its roots in God," he said. 

Pope Tells Pastors in New Guinea to Be Close to Peripheries

 Pope Francis told bishops and pastors in Papua, New Guinea today (Sept. 7, 2024) to be close to those on the peripheries and to continue spreading hope, despite the challenges they may face, the Crux website reports. 

Speaking inside Port Moresby's Shrine of Mary Help of Christians, the pope told pastors to "focus their work on the peripheries of this country."

"I think of people belonging to the most deprived segments of urban populations, as well as those who live in the most remote and abandoned areas, where sometimes basic necessities are lacking," he said, also pointing to those marginalized and wounded due to prejudice and superstition.

The church, he said, "desires especially to be close  to these brothers and sisters, because in them, Jesus is present in a special way.And where He , our head is present, there are we, His members, for we belong to the same body."

Indonesia Arrests 7 Suspects Planning to Attack Pope Francis

 Seven people in Indonesia have been detained after a failed plot to attack Pope Francis , who is currently visiting the country, the Crux website reports today (Sept. 6, 2024). 

Local media says the people were taken by police on Sept. 2 and Sept 3 in Jakarta, Bogor, and Bekasi.

Spokesperson Colonel  Aswin Siregar told reporters that investigations are still ongoing, and it is not known if the detainees knew each other or were  part of the same terrorist group.

"We have a mechanism to monitor and filter. We had tip--off information from members of the public, "  he said.

Four Killed, Several Injured in Georgia High School Shooting

 Two students and two teachers were killed , after a 14--year--old student opened fire,and several others were injured at a high school in Georgia in the Atlanta suburb of Winder., the AP website reports today (Sept. 5, 2024).

A  14--year--old student was in custody , facing murder charges. Nine other people were taken from Apalachee High School to hospitals with injuries, officials said. 

Killed were two 14--year--olds, Mason Schermerhorn and Christian Angulo, and instructors Richard Aspenwall and Christina Irimie, Georgia Bureau of Investigation Director Chris Hosey said. 

Two school resource officers encountered the shooter within minutes after a report of shots fired went out, Hosey said. The suspect , a student at the school, immediately surrendered and was taken into custody. He is being charged as an adult with murder. Authorities said the weapon he used was an assault--style rifle. 

Most Regretted College Major Is Humanities

 If you studied humanities, life sciences, or law in college, there is a better --than--40% chance you regret the choice now, the USA Today website reports today (August 30, 2024). 

That's the takeaway from a report by the Federal Reserve, whose researchers  perennially ask college graduates whether they would choose a different field of study if they were granted a do--over. The Fed reports levels of college satisfaction across broad academic categories in a report titled Economic Well--Being of U.S. Households in 2023, published earlier this year. 

Researchers asked college completers if they would choose a different field now. 

The most--lamented majors: social and behavioral sciences, regretted by 44% of grads, followed by humanities and arts (43%), life sciences (also 43%), law (41%), and education (38%). 

The least--regretted fields were: Engineering, a choice regretted by only 27% of graduates, followed by computer and information sciences (31%)and health (32%). Across all fields of study,35% of college graduates said they would pick a different major, given a second chance. The vast majority of college graduates with bachelor's degrees  -- more than 80% -- say their education helped prepare them for a well--paying job, according to a May report from Pew Research.

Pope: Pushing Back Migrants Is a "Grave Sin"

 Pope Francis recently said those who refuse to offer aid to migrants attempting to cross into Europe are committing a "grave sin," the RT website reports today (August 29, 2024). 

Speaking at the regular papal audience on August 28, the head of the Roman Catholic Church drew attenton to the fate of scores of migrants attempting to reach European shores, particularly via the Mediterranean route. 

Referring to the Mediterranean Sea as Mare Nostrum -- a label used by the ancient Romans -- Francis argued that it should be "a place of communication between peoples and civilizations" but instead "has become a cemetery." 

The pope said the thousands of deaths in the region were avoidable, denouncing those  "who systematically work, using all means, to push back migrants."

"And this, when done with conscience and responsibility, is a grave sin," he warned citing the Bible as saying , "You shall not wrong or oppress a foreigner." 

Calif. Passes School Cellphone Restrictions

 California state lawmakers have approved a bill requiring all public schools to devise a policy by July 1, 2026, to limit or prohibit the use of smartphones during the school day, the Los Angeles Times  website reports today (August 28, 2024). 

It would force distracted , cell--obsessed students to do something many haven't ben willing to do on their own: put their phones away in class. The legislation is expected to be signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom, who urged educators as the academic year began to enact restrictions , citing the "mental health, scholastic, and social risks" of phone use in classrooms. 

California would be the fifth state to require school districts to limit students' phone usage, joining Indiana, Minnesota, Ohio, and Virginia.

The bill also includes a few exceptions -- schools cannot prohibit students from using phones for individualized instruction, medical necessity, and in emergencies. A teacher or administrator can also grant permission. 

The proposed law does not include details on what constitutes an emergency, leaving it to schools to decide. 

Research Study: Nearly Half of World's Migrants Are Christian

 The world's 280 million immigrants have greater shares of Christians, Muslims , and Jews than the general population , according to a recent Pew Research Center study,released yesterday, the Christian Today website reports t oday (August 27, 2024).

"You see migrants coming to places like the U.S., Canada, different places through Western Europe, and being more religious -- and sometimes more Christian in particular -- than the  native--born people in those countries," said Stephanie Kramer, the study's lead researcher. 

While Christians make up about 30% of the world's population, the world's migrants are 47% Christian, according to the latest data collected in 2020.  The study found that Muslims make up 29% of the migrant population, but  25 of the world's population. Jews, only 0.2% of the world's population, but 1% of migrants are by far the most likely religious group to have migrarted, with 20% of Jews worldwide living outside their country of birth, compared to just 6% of Christians and 4% of Muslims. 

Four percent of migrants are Buddhist, matching the general population , and 5% are Hindu, compared to 15% of the world population.

Although people immigrate for many reasons -- including economic opportunity, reuniting with family, and fleeing violence or persecution -- religion and migration are often closely connected, the report finds. Moreover, U.S. migrants are much more likely to have a religious identity than the American--born population in general.

U.S. Now Builds a Hydrogen Economy

 The U.S. Dept. of Energy's Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs Program uses economic clusters to drive innovation, cut costs, and accelerate green hydrogen adoption across the country, the Observer website reports today (August 26, 2024).

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, passed by Congress in 2021, includes up to $7 billion to fund a Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs Program. The U.S. Dept. of Energy administrator states that its goal is to facilitate  the creation of "large--scale commercially viable hydrogen ecosystems." 

The term "cluster" as an economic construct was explained by Harvard Business School Professor Michael Porter in 1998 as "geographic concentration of interconnected companies and institutions in a particular field." The great benefit of clusters, Porter says, is that they encourage interactions across cluster members that foster a variety of productivity enhancements. "The enduring competitive advantages in a global economy lie increasingly in local things -- knowledge, relationships, motivation -- that distant rivals cannot match."

Pope to Politicians: Build a World of Fraternity, Justice, and Peace

 Pope Francis called the heart of war an "abyss of evil" during a meeting with International Catholic politicians and legislators at the Vatican on August 24, the Catholic News website reports today (August 25, 2024). 

"Our consciences cannot fail to be moved by the scenes of death and destruction daily before our eyes, the pope said about the many violent conflicts taking place around the globe. 

"We need to hear the cry of the poor, the widows and orphans of which the Bible speaks," he continued, "in order to see the abyss of evil at the heart of war and to resolve by every means possible to choose peace."

Francis addressed the topic of war in an audience with members of the International Catholic Legislators Network (ICLN) in the Clementine Hall of the Apostolic Palace.

He said it was imperative to renounce war as a suitable way of resolving international conflicts and establishing peace, urging the Catholic legislators and all men and women of goodwill "to build a world -- to cultivate a garden -- marked by fraternity, justice, and peace." 

Vandal Sought for Spray Painting Antisemitic Images on Queens Street

A vandal armed with spray paint is being sought by police for scrawling  antisemitic images along a busy Queens street, the Daily News website reports today (August 24, 2024). The bearded suspect, wearing a striped shirt, gray sweat pants, and a black backpack, left swastikas and other graffiti in blue paint on electrical boxes, walls, poles, and other spots, along Jamaica Avenue near 91 St.  shortly after 12 a.m. on  August 14.

Local shopkeepers reported the graffiti to police, who recovered surveillance images of the man walking down the street holding a can of spray paint. 

Members of the NYPD's Hate Crimes Task Force are investigating the swastika spree, police said. 

Biden Voices Support for Ukraine with New U.S. Aid Package

U.S. President Joe Biden reiterated America's "unwavering support for the people of Ukraine in a phone call with President Volodymyr Zelensky today (August 23, 2024), Ukraine's Independence Day, the Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty website reports. 

Biden also announced a new package of military aid for Ukraine that includes air--defense missiles, equipment to counter drones, anti--armor missiles, and ammunition.

According to an unidentified U.S. official, the package is worth $125 million, although the White House statement did not provide a figure. 

Biden praised Ukraine for repelling "Russia's vicious onslaught" and remaining "unbowed in the face of Russia's heinous war crimes and atrocities." He added, "Ukrainians have defended  the values that unite people across both of our nations and around the world -- including independence." 

FDA: COVID--19 Vaccines Ready for Fall

 Millions of updated COVID--19 vaccines will soon be ready for patients, following Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval announced today (August 22, 2024) the USA Today website reports. 

The updated vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna for people ages six months and older come amid a summer surge in COVID--19 cases across the U.S. Walgreens and CVS , two of the largest chains, told USA Today shipments of the vaccines could arrive a few days after FDA approval.

The new vaccines are designed to target the most dominant recent variants of the virus and protect against serious illness. Getting the shot  now will offer protection when the anticipated winter surge comes and other respiratory illnesses become more prevalent,  as people congregate indoors. 

Report: RFK Jr. to Exit Race, Back Trump

Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. could exit the presidential race on August 23 and endorse GOP nominee Donald Trump, according to ABC News and NBC News  citing anonymous sources, the USA Today website reports today (August 21, 2024).  

Kennedy's leave would mean the end of a potential spoiler campaign and sets the contest dedidedly between  Vice President Kamala Harrris, the Democratic nominee, and former President Trump. 

 The decisaion is not yet finalized , as those close to Kennedy tell USA Today they do not expect him to drop out. 

Kennedy's campaign announced earlier today that he will make an address to the nation on August 23 in Arizona, where he will talk about "the present historical moment and his path forward."

An ABC reporter said in a post on X he asked Kennedy if he would endorse  Trump. "I will not confirm or deny that," Kennedy said, according to the reporter. "We are not talking about any of that." 

Buffalo Cath. Church Is Sold to Muslims

 The Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo, New York has commented on the sale of a historic church to the local Muslim community, after a social media post about the deal triggered a deluge of outraged comments, the RT website reports today (August 20, 2024). 

St. Ann's Church was built in 1886. It was closed down in 2007, as there weren't enough parishioners to sustain it, and sold to a holding company in 2022. Earlier this month, however, it was an example of dwindling Christianity.

"Sold to the Islamic community for $250,000 who are converting the historic church into a mosque," an account named Father R. Vierling" posted on X with photos of the Gothic--style cathedral . The post was viewed 11 million times. 

Some comments beneath the post were so furious that the original poster had to respond, urging people not to direct their anger against the Islamic community.

Father Vierling blamed the demise of the parish on the changing demographics of the area and the inability to financially support the complex, noting t hat this "scenario is being played out in once large, urban dioceses across the country." 

Talk Show Host Phil Donahue Dies at 88

 Talk show host Phil Donahue , a legend of daytime telecvision, has died at the age of 88, the USA Today website reports today (August 19, 2024). 

The Emmy Award winning journalist died yesterday (August 18) following a long illness , his family told NBC's "Today."

Marlo Thomas, his beloved wife of over 40 years, paid tribute to her late husband on Instagram today, sharing "one of her favorite photos" of her and Donahue, fearturing the two of them riding a moped while on vacation together many years ago. 

"I'm sure by now you've heard the very sad news that I lost my sweetheart last night, so I know you understand that I'll be stepping away from this page for a while to take care of myself and the many people who took care of Phil, and hold him close to their hearts," she wrote in the caption. 

Report: Evangelicals Make Up Smaller Share of U.S. Pop. than Commonly Thought

 Evangelicals make up a far smaller share of the United States population than expected due to a musunderstanding of the term, a new research report states, finding that the lack of a uniform biblical worldview among Evangelicals has negative implications,  the Christian Post website reports today (August 18, 2024). 

The Cultural Research Center at Arizona Christian University, led by longtime Evangelical pollster George Barna, released the fourth installment of its American Worldview Inventory 2024 last week. 

The report concluded that "Evangelicals are fewer in number than typically reported , often are far less biblical in their thinking than one might assume, and tend to vote in a far fewer number than expected. 

The data in the report is based on the American Worldview Inventory,  a survey of 2,000 adults conducted by  Arizona Christian University in January 2024. The Cultural Research Center estimates that Evangelicals constitute  10%  of adults in the U.S. , between 20 and 30 million people. 

New Real Estate Agent Rule Goes into Effect

New rules for the residential real estate market mean  that starting today ( August 17, 2024), anyone in the markwet to buy or sell a home will encounter unfamiliar processes, and possibly a bit of confusion, the USA Today website reports. 

The "practice changes" stem from a 2023 legal decision over the way real estate agents were compensated. 

Traditionally, when a home was sold, a commission of roughly 5% to 6%  was paid by the seller and divided between the agents for the buyer and the seller. That process helped keep commissions higher than they would otherwise be, the lawsuit alleged.  It also meant a seller had to pay the agent representing the other side of the deal, a practice many observers thought was inappropriate.

"So much of the industry doesn't make sense  from a common sense point of view," said Stephen Brobeck, a senior fellow with the Consumer Federation of America, who has been advocating for realtor changes for decades. "The key argument was it's just not fair for sellers to pay both the listing agent and the buyer's agent." 

Now, a seller will need to decide wherther , and how much , to pay a buyer's broker. Whatever the decision, that information can no longer be included in what is known as the "multiple listing service" or MLS, the official real estate data service used by local realtor associations.

Whatever the seller decides about compensation may, however, be communicated personally by phone or text, or advertised by social media, a sign on the lawn, or other informal means. 

Buyers will be required to sign an agreement with their own broker before starting to view homes. The buyer and the agent must agree, and put in writing, how much the agent can expect to receive from the buyer. 

50 Christians Killed in Nigeria; Due to Land Disapute with Criminal Gang

At least 50 Christians were brutally killed on August 8 in the predominantly Christian village of Ayati, located in Ukum County, Benue State, Nigeria, the Christian Today website reports today (August 16, 2024).  

Local reports indicate that the deadly assault was allegedly carried out by Fulani herdsmen in collaboration with a criminally motivated gang. 

The attack occurred around 5:00 p.m., leaving the local community devastated. Tivta Samuel, a resident of the area, confirmed the tragic event stating, "Suspected herdsmen militias killed over 50 Christians in Ayati village." Another  local, Abraham Waroh, corroborated this, identifying "Fulani herdsmen militias" as the attackers, Christian Daily International Morning Star News reports. 

The violence reportedly stemmed from a land dispute , with the criminals allegedly "selling" the villagers' land to the herdsmen. 

Shima Ayati, a local resident and former gubernatorial candidate, explained that after the herdsmen began grazing their cattle on the land, the farmers lodged complaints with government authorities. The government dispatched the state security outfit who came and chased the herdsmen away and burnt their tents  which got them angry," Ayati said. 

Ohio Investigators Rule 4 Church Fires Due to Arson; U.S. Violence against Churches on the Rise

A string of rural Ohio church fires has left both parishoners and investigators with many questions and few answers, the CBN website reports today (August 15,2024). 

"We haven't had a graffiti situation, we haven't had anything left at the scene that would say that there's hatred toward the Church, or hatred toward God. We don't have any of those factors," said Josh Hobbs, Chied of the Ohio Fire Marshal's Fire and Explosion Investigation Bureau.

Hobbs tells CBN News they are now confident these are all acts of aeson and were likely committed by the same person or group of people. 

"So a couple of these churches, perhaps, were unoccupied at the the time of the fire and had no electric service... so we knew there was a human act involved. And then when you have other fires in that area , you know, you start putting two and two together... you have a pattern," Hobbs explained. 

The first fire happened at Kokeen Enterprise Baptist Church in April of 2022. Then nothing for two years , until May, July, and August of this year, when three more churches were set on fire, all in close proximity to the first. 

Churches in America are experiencing record levels of violence and hostility. A Family Research Council Report shows incidents have more than doubled since 1922, with a majority reported as vandalism or arson. 

Columbia U. President Resigns; Due to Pro--Palestinian Protests on Campus

 Columbia University President Minouche Shafik resigned today (August 14, 2024) amid criticism of her handling pro--Palesrtinian protests, the Jewish Telegraphic Agency website reporrts. 

Her decision to resign comes after widespread , sustained criticism of how she handled pro--Palestinian protests that have convulsed the Ivy League university since October 7. 

Katrina Armstrong, the CEO of Columbia's medical center, will serve as interim president, the Columbia Spectator student newspaper reported. 

Newark Abp.: All Citizens Should Engage in the Political Process

 At a time of inflamed  political rhetoric, where neither major party candidate fully represents Chirch  teaching on the issues, Cardinal Joseph Tobin is reminding Catholics of  their duty to actively participate in the political process, the CRUX website reports today (August 13, 2024). 

"In this time of political uncertainty, it is tempting to be cynical about the motivations and tactics of politicians and to want to disengage from politics , but in spite of  what people often say, "politics is not a dirty word," Tobin said. "In fact, as Pope Francis forcefully reminds us, committed Christians and faithful citizens need to participate actively in politics to ensure the common good." 

Tobin, the archbishop of Newark, New Jersey, made the comments in a recent letter to the faithful where he acknowledges the threats America and the world face, and poses the question ,"Is it really possible for the country to persist as a free society 'that ensures liberty , justice, and equality for all?'"

"I believe the answer is a resounding 'Yes!' Tobin wrote in the letter, published August 9. "But to be successful, all citizens must have reasonable confidence in their political leadership, and they must engage in the political process in meaningful ways."

Inflation Has Eased; Americans Still Worry about Rise in Prices

 Inflation has eased, but Americans still worry about the total rise in prices since COVID, the USA Today website reports today (August 12, 2024). 

They still shop at discount stores and buy store--brand items. 

Fresh data reveal that shoppers have become more price sensitive recently even as inflation has cooled, at least partly because  their COVID--ers savings have dwindled.

Annual inflation has eased from a 40--year --high of 9.1% in mid 2022 to 3% in June 2024, according to the Labor Department's consumer price index.

Survey: Cliques, Exclusion Top Reasons Americans Aren't Getting More Involved in Their Churches

 A new survey suggests that exclusion and the existence of cliques are the most common reasons why Americans don't want to get more involved in their churches and houses of worship, even though most don't report any negative experiences with their congregations , the Christian Post website reports today (August 11, 2024). 

The Amewrican Bible Society released the fifth chapter of its "State of the Bible USA 2024" report on August 8. The latest installment focuses on Americans' involvement with worship communities and what factors lead them to increase or decrease their involvement with their own congregations. 

The data is based on responses collected from 2,506 U.S. adults between Jan. 4 and 23, 2024. 

American Bible Society Chief Innovation Offcer  and State of the Bible series Editor--in--Chief John Farquhar Plake said, "When churchgoers feel they belong, they participate more.. And when they feel excluded by cliques, they drift away."

Wisconsin Case Questions Whether Catholic Charities Are "Religious"

 In a case that could have broad national implications, a Wisconsin Catholic Charities branch has petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn a state Supreme Court decision that its activities are not primarily religious , therefore denying it an exemption  from paying into the state's unemployment  compensation program, the CRUX website reports today (August 10, 2024). 

In March, the Wisconsin Supreme Court affirmed a lower court decision from a year earlier that the activities of Catholic Charities in the Diocese of Superior are not primarily religious. The ruling denied the organization from a religious exemption  from paying into the state's unemployment compensation program,and prevented it  from joining the Church's own unemployment program. 

 The work of the Catholic  Charities  in the Diocese of Superior mirrors that of the Catholic Charities branches nationwide. The organization helps people in the area with education in life skills, vocations and employment housing, infant development,in--home nursing services, and independent living assistance.

Ukraine Troops Attack Russia 's Kursk Region; Biggest Attack on Russia since War Began

 Russia's Ministry for Emergencies today (August 9, 2024) declared a "federal level" emergency four days after hundreds of Ukrainian troops poured over the border in Kyiv's biggest attack on Russian soil since the war began, the Euro News website reports. 

Ukrainian officials have refused to comment on the incursion, which is taking place about 50 kilometers southwest of Moscow. 

A top[ adviser to Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky, Myhailo Podalyak, said yesterday that border region attacks will cause Russia to" start to realize that war is slowly creeping inside Russia"

Ukraine has also kept up its strategy of hitting areas well behind the front with long--range drones, targeting military sites,  refineries, and other infrastructure. 

Blinken:U.S. Pressing Middle East to Avoid War

 U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said today (August 7, 2024) Washington is preparing to help Israel fend off an imminent retaliatory strike by Iran, the RT website reports. 

All parties in the Middle East, including Israel,should refrain from escalatory actions,  U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said. 

The region is bracing for an Iranian retaliation for the assassination of a senior  Hamas official, which Iran blamed on Israel. 

Isamail Haniyeh, who was the political leader of the Palestinian militant movement, was killed last week in a bombing, after he travelled to Iran from his usual place of residence in Qatar. Tehran has vowed revenge against Israel,accusing it of violating Iranian sovereignty.

Blinken reiterated Washington's commitment to defending Israel, but stressed that the Jewish state should moderate its actions. He addesd that the U.S. will "press everyone involved, including Israel, to avoid anything that could actually escalate the conflict."

Kamala Harris Picks Minn. Gov. Tim Walz as Her VP

 Vice President Kamala Harris today (August 6, 2024) picked Tim Walz, Governor of Minnesota, as her vice presidential running mate, the USA Today website reports. 

Walz has decades of political experence inside and outside of Washington, and he has spent time courting pivotal Midwestern voters. But that doesn't mean most Americans know his name. In fact, 71% of Americans said they've never heard of Walz or were unsure how to rate him , according to a NPR/PBS/ Marist national survey released this week. 

Here's what we know about Walz:

Tim Walz, a member of the Democratic Farmer-Labor Party, was elected governor of Minnesota in 2018 and re-elected in 2022.

Born in Nebraska, Walz joined the Army National  Guard after graduating high school in 1981. He worked as a high school teacher and football coach . After retiring from the military in 2005, Walz represented Minnesota's First Congressional District until he was inaugurated as governor in 2019.

In his 2024 State of the State address, Gov. Walz emphasized reproductive rights. Walz also highlighted the signing of the Protection of Reproductive Options (PRO) Act and praised Minnesota's high voter turnout and election law reform. 

Gov. Walz has spoken against book bans and worked to increase funding for childcare across Minnesota, which now has the nation's most significant child tax credit.

America's Best and Worst States for Rel. Liberty

 For the second year in a row, Illinois has ranked as the best state for religious liberty because it has the most safeguards in place, while a majority of other states continue to lack adequate protections for people of faith , the Christian Today website reports today (August 5, 2024). 

The Center for Religion, Culture and Democracy at First Liberty Institute released its third annual Religious  Liberty in the states report last week. The report ranks all 50 states based on the presence or absence of religious liberty safeguards . Illinois was ranked the best state for religious liberty, while West Virginia was ranked the worst. 

Besides Illinois, other states that received a score of at least 50% on the issue of religious liberrty were Florida (73%), Montana (66%), (Arkansas (66%), Mississippi (65%0, Ohio (65%), South Carolina (64%), Utah (61%), Washington (59%), Maryland (58%), New Mexico (56%), North Dakota (52%), and Hawaii (51%).

Joining West Virginia in the bottom 10 were Alaska (29%), California (29%), Vermont (29%), Wyoming (30%), New York (33%), New Jersey (33%), Colorado (34%), Michigan (35 %), and New Hampshire (35%).

Jerry Falwell Jr., Liberty University Reach Agreement

Liberty University and its former chancellor, Jerry Falwell Jr., have agreed to a settlement, ending litigation that stemmed from Falwell's  ouster as leader of the Virginia -- based Evangelical academic institution, the Christian Post website reports today (August 4, 2024). 

Acording to an announcement released August 2 , the two parties stated that they "have reached a global resolution agreement settling all outstanding disputes on both legal and personal matters. 

"This agreement is grounded in a firm commitment to protecting and preserving Liberty's original mission of developing Christ--centered men and women with the values, knowledge, and skills essential to impact the world, " they said.  

U.S. Unemployment Rate Increases

The U.S. unemployment rate rise to 4.3% from the 4.1% recorded in June marks the fourth straight monthly increase, the RT website reports today (August 3, 2024).  

The unemployment rate rose for the fourth straight month in Julyto 4.3%, up from 4.1% the previous month , the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported on August 2. The figure is the highest since the onset of the pandemic. 

Average hourly earnings increased 0.2% in July after wages increased 3.6%, demonstrating  the smallest year--on--year growth since May 2021, and leaving wage growth just above the 3.0%--3.5% range seen as  consistent with the Fed's 2% inflation target. 

U.S. Senate Passes "Kids Online Safety Act"

The U.S. Senate on July 30, 2024 voted overwhwelmingly to approve bipartisan legislation intended to protect children from dangerous online content and hold tech companies 

to bettter account for harm suffered by minors on the intrnet, the CBS News website reports today (August 2, 2024).  

Passsed 91--3 . the "Kids Online Safey Act was written and introduced by Democratic Se. Richard Blumenrthal of Conn. and Republican Sen. Marsha Blackburn of Tenn. The legislation was prepared in response to pleas from parents whose children committed suicide as a result of online bullying or other dangerous content , CBS said. 

The bill places a "duty of care" on tech companies , requiring them to take "reasonable" steps to prevent harm on online platforms frequently used by minors. 

Biden Proposes Ethics Code, Term Limits for Supreme Court; Would Limit Justices to 18--Year Term

 President Joe Biden today (july 29, 2024) proposed major changes for the U.S. Supreme Court: an enforceable code of ethics, term limits for justices, and a constitutional amendment that would limit the justices' recent decision on presidential immunity, the AP website reports. 

There's almost no chance of  the proposal passing a closely divided Congress with Election Day looming, but the ideas could still spark conversation with public confidence in the court hitting an all--time low amid ethical revelations about some  justices. 

Bisden's proposal would limit justices to 18--year terms , a system that he says would make nominations more predictable, less arbitrary, and reduce the chances that a single president could shape the court for generations to come. 

The Supreme Court  didn't have a formal code of ethics until last year, when the justices adopted one in the face of sustained criticism over undisclosed trips and gifts from wealthy benefactors to some justices, like Clarence Thomas. 

Paris Olympics Organizers Apologize to Christians for Last Supper Mockery; Say Scene Was Intended to Raise Awareness of Human Violence

The Paris Olympics organizing committee has apologized to Catholics and other Christian groups who were outraged over an apparent drag parody of the Last Supper during the opening ceremony on Jult 26, The Guardian website reports today (July28, 2024).

The scene, performed against the background of the Seine River, was intended to interpret Dionysus and raise awareness "of the absurdity of violence betwen human beings," organizers wrote on X.

The committee was forced to apologize after the performance caused outrage among Catholics, Chrisatian groups, and conservative politicians around the world. 

"Clearly there was never an intention to show disrespect to any religious group. The opening ceremony tried to celebrate community tolerance,"  the Paris 2024 spokesperson Anne Descamps told a press conference . "We believe this ambition was achieved. If people have taken any offense, we are really sorry." 

The Olympic opening ceremony featured a fashion show of what appeared to be a mockery of the Last Supper. 

Paris Olympics Celebrates French Culture, Diversity; Over 300,000 People Atttend the Ceremony

Pars Olympics opening ceremony showcased a grandiose celebration of French culture and diversity , the Euro News website reports today (July 26, 2024). 

Dozens of boats rolled down the Seine River with 205 delegations cheered on by over 300,000 people. The ceremony featured Lady Gaga and an emotional comeback by Celine Dion. 

Following suspected acts of sabotage targeting France's flagship high--speed rail network , a soggy but celebratory parade down the Seine River officially kicked off the 2024 Summer Games. 

The games will resume on July 27 with the first medals awarded in cycling road, diving, fencing judo, rugby. sevens, shooting, skateboarding, and swimming. 

AntiI--Israel Mob Protests in D.C.; Sparked by Visit of Israeli PM Netanyahu

 Anti--Israeli protestors have floodsed the streets of Washington, D.C.with the arrival of Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the Daily Caller website reports today (July 24, 2024).

Vandalism, clashes with police, and burning American flags all occurred today.

Not Just Smoking Causes Lung Cancer; Several Other Factors Also Cause It

Lung cancer is the second most common cancer among men (behind prostate cancer) and women (behind breast cancer) in the U.S. ,according to the American Cancer Society, the USA Today website reports today (July 23, 2024).

Nearly a quarter of a  million people will be diagnosed with lung cancer in 2024and 125,000 will die from lung cancer, the organization estimates. Most people who are diagnosed are over the age of 65 -- very few are diagnosed below the age of 45, per the ACS. 

Health experts are encouraged by the fact that statistics are on the decline== likely thanks to a combination of smoking declining  and advances in medical technology that allow for earlier detection and treatment. 

About 80% of lung cancer deaths are caused by smoking, according to the ACS. 

You don't have to smoke tobacco to develop lung cancer, experts note. Exposure to secondhand  smoke, air pollution, asbestos, diesel exhaust, and radon, a radioactive gas with no smell or color that is typically found in rocks, soil and burning coal and  fossil fuels , can also cause lung cancer, according to the ACS.

Biden Quits Presidential Race; Endorses Kamala Harris for President

 U.S. Prwesident  Joe Biden today (July 21, 2024 ) said he is withdrawing his candidacy in the November 2024 election, and endorsed his vice president Kamala Harris as the Democratic Party's candidate after weeks of pressure to step aside over concerns about his fitness to run because of his age, the Radio Free Eurpe/Radio Liberty website reports. 

"It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve as your President. And while it has been my intention to seeek reelection , I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling by duties as President for the remainder of my term ," the 81--year--old leader said in a post on X on July 21.

Biden, who is recovering from COVID--19 at home in Delaware, said he would address the nation later this week."I have dedided not to accept the nomination and to focus all my energies on my  duties as President for the remainder of my term," he said. 

"My very first decision as the party nominee in 2020 was to pick Kamala Harris as my Vice President. And it's been the best decision I've made. Today I want to offer my full support and endorsement for Kamala to be the nominee of our party this year," he added. 

Biden's fellow Democrats have been calling for him to step down following his poor debate performance against Republican challenger Donald Trump on June 27. Biden appeared frail and confused at times, raising questions about his physical and mental state. 

Pope Grants Indulgences ; for World Day of Elderly, Grandparents

 On July 18, the Vatican announced that Pope Francis has authorized the granting of indulgences to those who participate in the upcoming World Day for Elderly and Grandparents later this month , the CRUX website reports today (July 20, 2024). 

The World Day for Elderly and Grandparents was instituted  by Pope Francis in 2020, amid the  COVID--19 pandemic, which disproportionately impacted the elderly and left many isolated from family and lonely as a result  of social distancing and lockdown requirements. 

In charge of organizing the event , scheduled for July 28 is the Vatican's Dicastery for Laity, Family, and Life, led by American Cardinal Kevin Farrell. 

This year, on the fourth edition of the event, the Vatican's Aposstolic Penitentiary has offered plenary indulgences to those who participate "in order to increase the devotion of the faithful and for the salvation of  souls,"according to a statement from the Penitentiary published July 18.                                  

Joe Biden Has COVID Again;Experiences Mild Symptoms

 The White House has confirmed that President Joe Biden has tested positive for COVID --19 following an event  yesterday in LasVegas, the USA Today website reports today (July 18, 2024).

This is the third time the president has tested positive for the virus. 

The positivity rates for COVID--19 have been increasing recently, as have visits to the emerfgency department and deaths. 

Biden, 81, is vaccinated and boosted and is "experiencing mild symptoms," the White House said. 

Food Companies Feeling the Pain; Consumers Reject Higher Prices

 Groceryi inflation is slowing and the companies that make the food are startiing to sweat , the Washington Post website reports today (July 13, 2024).

"We're seeing consumers being very price sensitive," said Bobby Gibbs, a partner  in "the retail and consumer goods division of the marketing consulting firm Oliver Wyman. "Consumers are cherry picking promotonal prices more and retailers are putting out more promotional pricing than they have in the last few years."

Grocery prices are up 18 percent since 2020, but the latest inflation report released July 11 shows them leveling off.

Earthquake of 6.4 Magnitude Hits Vancouver Island in Southwest Canada

 A magnitude 6.4 earthquake shook southwestern Canada near Vancouver today (July 11, 2024), the USA Todqay website reports.

The epicenter of the quake was around 130 miles from Tofino,  small district on Vancouver Island in the Pacific ocean off Canada's west coast, according to the U.S.Geological Survey. Tofino is around 130 miles west of Vancouver. The quake'sdepth was around 6.2 miles.

The population of around 2,000 in Tofino would be exposed to light shaking, the Survey said.

Thr rumbling was first detected just after 8 a.m.local time. Two more earthquakes shook the same area in he next few hours, the USGS reported.

Several Foods Can Add Years to Your Life

 These anti-aging foods will help you eat your way to a longer life expectancy , the Very Well Health website reports today (Juy 7, 2024).

Avocados are one of the most delicious foods . Slice a few up in your salad for an anti--aging treat.

Walnuts are the perfect snack for anti--aging.  Walnuts are great because of the amount of omega--35 in just a handful.

Vegetablrs are a great source of nutrients and antioxidants.

--aging benefits

Water is needed to to keep your body functioning well.

Eat chocolate (not too much) for anti--aging benefits. The antioxidants in dark chocolate protect your heart against aging, damage, and heart disease.

Berries (strawberries,blueberries,and blackberries help with anti--aging and longevity. 

Red wine contains potent antioxidants that can help reduce your risk of heart disease a well as diabetes and high blood pressure. 

Green tea is good for longevity. The antioxidants benefits of green tea are well known. 

Watermelons and cantaloupe are great anti--aging food. Add melons to your daily foods for a healthy boost to your diet.

Biden Criticized for Debate Performance; Concerns His Ability to Be Pres. for 4 More Yrs.

 U.S. President Joe Biden and his Republican rival,Donald Trump, clashed over foreign policy and Russia's war against Ukraine in a televised debate betwen the two oldest candidates ever to seek the U.S. presidency, the Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty website reports today June 28, 2024). 

After taking the debate stage on June 27 without shaking hands and with no audience in the hall, the current president and his predecessor  laid out starkly differing views on Rusasaia's full--scale invasion of its neighbor in February 2022. 

But it was Biden's performance, his words delivered with a raspy voice and often haltingly, that overshadowed the topics being discussed and raised concerns over the 81--year-old 's ability to lead the country for another four years.

Trump, who in the past has called Russian President Vladimir Putin's tactics in his 2022 invasion of Ukraine "genius"and "very savvy." attacked Biden saying that if the U.S. had a "real president," Putin would not have attacked Ukraine."He knew not to play games with me," Trump said referring to Putin..

Biden, 81,countered by calling Putin a "war criminal" and warning that if Russia is allowed to succeed in its war, Putin would not stop at Kyiv. "He killed thousands and thousands of people," said Biden, who several times appeared to lose his train of thought while delivering responses.

Okla. High Court: Public Funds for Rel. Charter Schools Is Unconst.; Prohibits Govt. from Making Any Law on Rel.

The Oklahoma Supreme Court on June 25 stopped what would have been the first publicly funded religious charter school in the  U.S., turning back conservatives and the state's GOP governor who have wqelcomed religious groups into public education, the Crux website reports today (June 26, 2024).

The high court determined the Statewide Virtual Charter School Board's 3--2 vote last year to approve an application  by the Catholic Archdiocese of Oklahoma for the St. Isidore of Seville Virtual Charter School violates the Establishment Clause , which prohibits government from making any law "respecting establishment of religion." 

The ruling also says both Oklahoma and U.S. constitutions , as well as state law, were violated. 

The case is being closely watched because  supporters of the school believe recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions have indicated  the court is more open to public funds going to religious entities. 

Terrorists Attack Churches, Synagogues in Russia ; Ocurred Near Muslim Area of Chechenya

 Two Orthodox churches and two synagogues were targeted  in what appears to have been a coordinated terrorist attack in southern Russia timed for t he Orthodox festival of Pentecost, the Catholic Herald website reports t oday (June 24, 2024). An Orthodox priest was one of 20 victims of t he attacks on June 23, the majority of whom are reported to have been police officers. Five gunmen are also dead , reports t he BBC, and at least 46 people are taken to a hospital with injuries after the attacks. In the cities of Derbent and Makhachkala in Dagestan, a predominantly Muslim republic, which borders Chechnya.

Russian media reported that around 6 p.m. on June 23, gunmen opened fire with automatic weapons on an Orthodox church and a synagogue in Derbent, which is home to an ancient Jewish community. 

At around the same time, in the city of Makhachkala, two gunmen ran into an Orthodox church , tried to set fire to the main icon, and opened fire, the Izvestia newspaper said. 

acht Crew Appears in Greek Court for Starting Fire on Hydra Island; Face up tp 20 Years in Prison and a Large Fine

 The 13 crew members of the yacht Persefoni were charged with a felony and ordered to enter a plea on June 17 by the investigating judge, the EuroNews website reporrts today (June 23, 2024). 

If found guilty, they could face a prison sentence of up to 20 years as well as a large fine. 

They were arrested on June 19 for allegedly launching fireworks that caused a fire to break out in a pine forest on the island of Hydra. 

Firefighters managed to put the fire out , but not before it had burned down part of the pine forest. 

The yacht, which had been hired by a group of 17 Kazakh nationals, has since been confiscated by the authorities. 

Hydra's Mayor, Giorgos Koukoudakis said anti--fire zones must be expanded on the island and more access roads built to improve firefighting efforts in the future. 

Although Greece's fires are often caused by extreme heat and fast winds, it  also has a problem with arsonists. 

Last year, Greece significantly increased penalties for both deliberate and negligent arson. The new laws impose fines up to $200,000 and potential prison sentences up to 20 years. 

Greece's Civil Protection Minister, Vassilis Kikilias, warned last week against accidentally triggering wildfires, saying "even the smallest fire can rapidly turn into a fiery front." 

Supreme Court Upholds Gun Control Laws; Intended to Protect Domestic Violence Victims

 The Supreme Court today (June 21, 2024) upheld a federal gun control law that is intended to protect victims of domestic violence in their first Second Amendment case since they expanded gun rights in 2022, the AP website reports. 

The justices ruled 8--1 in favor of a 1994 ban on firearms for people under restraining orders to stay away from their spouses or partners. 

Donald Sutherland of "Mash," "Ordinary People," and "Hunger Games" Dies at 88;Was Exceptional Actor

 Donalsd Sutherland, the prolifixc Canadian actor who roared to fame in the irreverent antiwar classic "Mash" and captivated audiences with dramtic performances in films such as "Ordinary People" and "Don't Look Now," has died, the LA Times website reports today (June 20, 2024). 

A mainstay of Hollywood for more than six decades, Sutherland died on June 20 at the age of 88.Sutherland began alternating between roles in film, such as "A Dry White Season " with Marlin Brando and Robert Redford's Oscar--winning "Ordinary People" and character film roles in films such as "JFK" and "Buffy the Vampire Slayer." 

In 2017 he was given an honorary Oscar, which recognizes extraordinary distinction in lifetime achievement and exceptional contributions to the state of motion picture arts and sciences. 

Pope, Cardinals Discuss Role of Women in the Church; Seek to Provide More Jobs for Catholic Women

 Pope Francis and his International Council of Cardinals have continued their discussions about the role of women in the Church, listening to women experts and discussing the possibilities according to canon law, the Catholic News website reports today (June 19, 2024). 

This is the fourth time the pope and the nine--member Council of Cardinals have invited women to make presentations at their meetings. Women experts , including an Anglican bishop, attended the December, February, and April meetings. 

The council met on June 17--18 in the Domus Marthae, the pope's residence, the Vatican press office said. 

Salesian Sister Linda Pocher, a professor of Christology and Mariology at Rome's Pontifical Faculty of Educational Sciences Auxilium, introduced the speakers on the first day , which was dedicated to the women's talks and the group's reflections. 

Donata Horak, a professor of canon law in Italy, reflected on canon law by making several contrasts , "such as justice and mercy, consultative power and deliberative power, hierarchical principle, and ecclesiology of communion, democratization, and the  monarchical model." 

Council member Cardinal Gracias told Vatican News that he agreed with the importance of increasing the role of women in the Church. 

"I come from India and in some areas women have little importance; they are 'second class' and for this reason  the Church is working" to give them "the right position in the family, in society, in politics," he said. 

Ukraine, U.S. Sign 10--Year Security Treaty; Treaty Puts U.S. at Risk of WW III

 Ukraine is now a formal ally of the United States, thanks to  a new 10--year bilatreral security agreement signed on June 13 by Biden and Zelensky at the  G--7 conference, the

The agreement commits the U.S. to continue defending Ukraine, sharing military technology,imposing economic sanctions on Russia ,et.c.

The treaty could cause he U.S. to take part in World War III , if Ukraine and Russia are  involved in another major war. 

Pope Warns of AI Dangers for Mankind; Humans Have a Heart in Making Decisions, AI Does Not

 Pope Francis has warned of the challenges the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) poses for mankind. 

AI is an "exciting and fearsome tool" that needs strict human oversight, the Pontiff told the leaders of Canada,France, Germany, Italy Japan, Britain, the U.S., and EU during a gathering at the Borgo Egnazia resort in the Italian city of Fasanoon June 14, the RT website reports today (June 16, 2024). 

The algorithms "can only examine realities formalized in numerical terms," while humans who have wisdom and can listen to Sacred Scripture "not only choose, but in their hearts are capable of deciding," he said. 

Itr is paramount "that decision--making, even when we are confronted with the sometimes dramatic and urgent aspects, must always be left to the human person," Pope Francis insisted. 

"We would condemn humanity to a future without hope if we took away people's ability to make decisions about themselves and their lives, by dooming them to depend on the choices of machines," he said. 

The pope urged a creation of "space for proper human control over the choices made by artificial intelligence programs,"stressing that "human dignity itself depends on it." 

Michigan Worshippers Need Permission to Follow Bible; Church Argues against the Law, Says it Should Run Its Parish

 Do Michigan residents need permission from elected and appointed officials in Lansing, their capital city, in order to practice their religious faith? 

That is the issue in dispute in a case being handled by Becket for St. Joseph Parish, and the legal team is arguing against the idea, the WND website reports today (June 13, 2024). 

The Catholic parish, helped by Becket, is challenging a state law that makes it illegal for the Catholic church and school to hire staff based on their agreement to uphold Catholic relifgious beliefs and practices. 

Becket senior counsel William Hann stated, " Michiganders don't need a permission slip from bureaucrats in Lansing to practice their religious beliefs.The court should reject this irresponsible law and let institutions like St. Joseph get back to freely serving their schools, churches, and communities." 

St. Joseph filed a case contesting the state's religious ideology, but it was dismissed. It now is seeking permission from the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to run its parish and school consistent with its faith. 

Southern Baptists Reject Formal Ban on Churches with Women Pastors; SBC Doctrine Already States SBC Pastors Are Limited to Men

Southern Baptists narrowly rejected a proposal today (June 12, 2024) to enshrine a ban on churches with women pastors in their constitution after opponents argued it was unnecessary because the denomination already has a way of ousting such churches, the AP website reports. 

The measure received support  from 61% of the delegates, but failed to get the required two--thirds supermajority. 

It still leaves the Southern Baptist Convention(SBC) with the official doctrinal statement saying the official pastor is limited to men. Even the opponents of the ban said they favored that doctrinal statement but didn't think it was necessary to reinforce it in the constitution. 

Opponents noted that the SBC already can oust churches that assert women can serve as pastors  -- as it did last year and last night.  

National Study to Probe Reasons for Drop in Cath. Mass Attendance; Findings to Assist Leaders Understand Recent Sunday Drop

 The National Center for Pastoral Research (NCPR) will soon begin a study of reported reasons why people who continue to affiliate as Catholics do not participate regularly in Sunday Mass, The Catholic Weeekly website reporrts today (June 10, 2024). 

Titled "Absent from the Table," he national study will raise questions aboutt the contemporary religious practice and beliefs of Catholics in Australia, and the place of the Eucharist in their spiritual lives. 

The findings will assist pastoral leaders to better understand the self--understanding of these Catholics, identify how their expression of Catholic identity may have changed, and suggest responses and strategies for seeking to encourage participation in this primary act of worship.Previous studies that have been conducted in this field suggest that there are multiple reasons why Catholics do not attend Mass, including personal beliefs, dissatisfacrtion with church practices, and competing obligations.

NCPR director Trudy Dantis will lead the two--year project alongside her team, including senior researcher Stephen Reid. 

"The first stage of the project , a national survey, will seek participants through dioceses, parishes, schools, support agencies, Catholic universities, and other Catholic organizations and groups," Dr. Reid said. 

A second stage will involve a collection of more in--depth information using interviews. A report of the findings of the project will be completed in November 2025. 

Pope Invites Comedians from around World to Celebrate Diversity; Invites Whoopi Goldberg, Jimmy Fallon, Chris Rock from US

Pope Francis, who says he regularly prays "Lord, give me a sense of humor," will welcome comedians from around the world to a cultural event in Italy to "celebrate the beauty of human diversity," the USA Today website reports today (June 9, 2024). 

Whoopi Goldberg, Jimmy Fallon, Conan O'Brien, and Chris Rock will be among more than 100 entertainers at the Vatican on June 14.  

The pope "recognizes the significant impact that the art comedy has on the world of contemporary culture," a Vatican statement said. 

British comedian Stephen Merchant, co--writer of TV's "The Office," and Italian comedian Lino Banfi will also be at the event. 

The meeting will take place on June 14, before the pope travels to Puglia to attend the Group of Seven (G7) leaders' summit. 

"The meeting between Pope Francis and the world's comedians aims to celebrate the beauty of human diversity and t o promote a message of peace, love,and solidarity," the Vatican said. 

The audience has been organized by the Vatican's Dicastery for Culture and Education and Dicastery for Communication. 

Goldberg last month saaid in an interview that she had offered the pope a cameo in "Sister Act 3," in wqhich she will reprise her comedy role of a singer who takes refuge in a convent and organizes a choir. 

"He said he would see what his time was like," Goldberg said joking, when asked if the pope had accepted her offer.

Car Insurance Rates Soar since Pandemic; Many Car Owners Change Insurance Cos.

 After getting a slight break on their auto insurance rates during the pandemic, drivers in the U.S. are now seeing rates escalate, the Best Money website reports today (June 7, 2024). 

If your car insurance is currently paid, you drive fewer than 37 miles a day, and live in a qualified zip code, you may get an extremely high discount. 

According to Bankrate.com, the average cost of car insurance in 2022 is $1,655 per year. The rising inflation rate and an increased number of accidents on the road are resulting in even higher rates in many states. 

The most significant way for drivers to move money on car insurance is to shop around for the best rates. Often, a consumer's best chance to save many dollars on their insurance bill is to find a new provider using a comparison website, such as BestMoney.com, which provides you with the added advantage of lower prices and great deals. 

When drivers visit sites like BestMoney.com, they can view all the best rates in their area. Survey data indicates it is possible to save up to $820 per year on your car insurance rates. 

Experts recommend getting at least three price quotes from providers before you buy new car insurance. 

Over 1 Million UMC Members Vote to Leave Denomination; Due to Removing Rules that Prohibited Same--Sex Unions

The United Methodist Church Council of Bishops has issued an official response to the news that a regional body with over one million members had voted to leave the denomination, the Christian Post website  reports today (June 6, 2024).

The Cote d'Ivoire Conference,based in West Africa, voted last month to leave the UMC over the denomination removing rules that prohibited the blessing of  same--sex  unions and the ordination of people in same--sex relationship from the Book of Discipline. UMC Council of Bishops President Tracy Malone said in a statement issued June 5 that she acknowledged the vote and the bishops were working with the conference as it becomes an autonomous church body. 

"While we grieve Cote d'Ivoire Conference's decision to separate from the United Methodist Church,  we commit to work with them through the process of becoming an Autonomous Methodist Church." stated Malone. 

"While we are not all of one mind in all things, the strength of our connection is love, respect, compassion, and a shared commitment to faith in Jesus Christ." 

Malone added that UMC "Is a worldwide denomination that shares the same Constitution , Doctrinal Standards, Theological Task, Social Principles, and embraces the cultural, contextual , and theological differences across the connection," 

"The General Conference decisions that removed the restrictive language in the Book of Discipline related to to LGBTQIA persons do not force pastors or churches to act contrary to their conscience and make decisions in their missional contexts," she continued. 

Narcissism Is on the Rise in Our Society

Should Christians be concerned about "narcissism growing in our society?" 

Narcisssists are characterized as people who pretend to be nice to get what they want but will be unconcerned about hurting others or discarding them when it suits them, making terrible spouses and family members. Narcissism is blamed for the horrendous scandals committed by church leaders and some of the worst evils of the world, the Christian Today website reports today (June 3, 2024). 

A narcisssist is seen as so excessively self--involved , selfish, focused on the self, in a way that can make a person dangerous. It's one of the "dark triad" personality traits that is linked with a lot of nasty human behavior. And some argue that it's becoming more prevalent in society.

A "narcissistic personality disorder" (NPD) was first classed as a psychiatric diagnosis in 1980 by the American Psychiatric Association  (APA), although the APA discussed scrapping this diagnosis in 2013, arguing it was too simplistic among other things. 

Currently, the APA says symptoms of NPD are "grandiose self--importance" exhibitionisam, fantasies of greatness, emotional disfunctions, and interpersonal problems, such as "feeling entitled to special favors, taking advantage of others, and inability to empathize with the feelings of others." 

Psychology academic Prof. Jean Twenge has written several books on the subject, arguing that since the 1970s, the average person is more narcissistic , which she blames on an excesssive focus on encouraging self--esteem and individualism in schools and in our culture. Prof. Twenge cites research showing that in early 1950s, only 12% of teens agreed"I am an important person" but by the late 1980s an astonishing 80% did so. 

Modern Westerners  are taught that "self -love" is a very good thing, even mandated by Jesus. It is often pointed out that Jesus' command to love our neighbor adds "as yourself."

Biden Says Israelis, Hamas Reach Gaza Peace Plan; Agree to Cease--fire, Release of All Hostages

 President Joe Biden said Israel has offered a "comprehensive new proposal" to ensure an enduring cease--fire and the release of all hostages after months of failed negotiations, the USA  Today website reported on May 31, 2024. 

The new proposal is "one that brings all the hostages home, ensures Israel's security, creates a better day after in Gaza without Hamas in power, and sets the stage for political settlement that provides a better future for Israelis and Palestinians alike," Biden said. 

The proposal, which has three phases, has been relayed by Qatar to Hamas, he said. 

The first phase would last six weeks, and includes "a full and complete cease--fire and withdrawal" of Israeli forces from all populated areas of Gaza, the release of a number of hostages, including women, the elderly, and the wounded in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. 

"There are American hostages who would be released at this stage, and we want them home," Biden said. Remains of hostages who have been killed would be returned to their families, bringing some degree of closure to that terrible grief. 

In the first phase, humanitarian assistance would surge, with 600 trucks carrying aid to Gaza every day. 

"With the cease--fire, that aid would be safely and effectively distributed to all who need irt," the president said. "Hundreds of thousands of temporary shelters, including housing units, would be delivered by the international community. All that and more would begin immediately. 

Phase 2 would include the release of  all remaining living hostages, including male soldiers in exchange for a full I sraeli withdrawal from Gaza. As long as Hamas lives up to its commitments, the temporary cease--fire would become "the cessation of hostilities permanently," Biden said. 

The proposal also indicates that if the negotiations take longer than six weks , the cease--fire would continue as long as negotiations do. 

Phase 3 would include a major reconstruction plan for Gaza, and the bodies of any other hostages killed in captivity would be returned to their families.

Hamas said on May 30 it had told mediators it would not  take part in more negotiations durinf ongoing hostilities, but it was ready for a "complete agreement," including an exchange of hostages and prisoners, if Israel stopped the war.

Pope Apologizes for Using Defamed Gay Term; Used Term at Bishops' Meetng to Ban Gays at Seminaries

 Pope Francis has issued an apology for using  a derogatory description during a recent closed meeting with a group of Italian Catholic bishops while discussing a ban on homosexuals from seminaries, the Christian Post website reports today (May 30, 2024). 

Matteo Bruni, the director of the Holy See Press Office, released a statement on May 28, explaining that the pontiff is sorry fpr using an Italian word that loosely translates in English to "faggotness." 

"The pope never intended to offend or express himself in homophobic terms, and he apologizes to those who felt offended by the use of a term, as reported by others," stated Bruni. 

As he has stated on many occasions,  "There is room for everyone in the Church, for  everyone! No one is useless; no one is superfluous; there is room for everyone. Just as we are, everyone." 

At a 90--minute, closed-door meeting with more than 200 members of the Italian bishops' conference on May 20 at Vatican City, the pope reaffirmed a 2005 position of the Catholic Church that barred from the priesthood men who "practice homosexuality, present deep--seated homosexual tendencies, or support the so--called gay culture."

Francis was quoted as saying that "It is necessary to put down markers, and prevent the risk that the gay person who chooses the priesthood could later end up living a double--life. continuing to practice homosexuality, while at the same time suffering from this dissimulation." 

According t o multiple news outlets, Francis used the Italian word "frociaggine" during his remarks, a derogatory term for "queerness," stating that "he believed there is too much 'frociaggine' in seminaries."

Pope Francis Celebrates Vatican's First World Children's Day

Pope Francis celebrated the first ever World Children's Day this past weekend , which brought together 50,000 children from 100 countries in Rome's Olympic Stadium on Saturday, May 25, and in St. Peter's Square on unday, May 26,  the Vatican Dispatch website reports today (May 29, 2024).The children (under the age of 18), accompanied by parents and grandparwents, ave him a tremendous qwelcome when he entered the Olympic Stadium on May25 afternoon on a papal jeep and drove among them. 

Father Enzo Fortunato, the communications director of St. Peter's Basilica and the main organizer of this event,  greeted him together with five children --  from Brazil, China, Australia , Burundi, and Italy -- representing five continents. 

"You speak of life and the future . and the church -- as mother -- welcomes you and accompanies you," Francis saidas he began  a lively, interactive dialogue with the children, with him asking questions and the children shouting their responses. As a Jesuit priest in parishes in Buenos Aires, he would often engage in such dialogueswith children. Among the children present were some from Ukraine and Palestine, and when he asked everyone in the stadium if they thought war" is "good'," they shouted "no!"  He then asked them what they did want. and they shouted back "Peace!" He then asked them to shake hands with each other and told them "That's the way to make peace."Francis then asked them to join him in praying for children suffering from war, children who can't go to school, children who don't have enough to eat, and he invited them to recite the "Ave Maria" with him. 

The three-hour festival included music, songs, artistic performancesand even a rather chaotic 10--minute soccer game with a few well--known Italian soccer stars helping the children. 

Several children asked the pope questions regarding war, injustice, and why so many families are without home, food, or work. The pope, who had a big basket of candy next to him, responded in various ways, and gave each child who asked a question a sweet. He told them, "So many are without food,  but we are egoists." People are without food or homes and this also "is the fruit of war; we spend money on arms."

Free Bulk COVID--19 Tests Can Now Be Mailed to You

The availability of bulk COVID--19 tests delivered by mail has revolutionized the way individuals can access testing for the virus , the USA Today website reports today (May 25, 2024). 

By providing the option to order multiple test kits at once, individuals can ensure they have an adequate supply on hand for regular testing or for distribution within their households or communities. 

One of the key advantages of bulk COVID--19 tests by mail is the convenience it offers to individuals. By eliminating the need to visit a testing site or healthcare facility, individuals can easily and safely collect  their samples at home, reducing the risk of potential exposure to the virus. This convenience is especially beneficial for those who may have limited mobility. live in remote  areas, or prefer the privacy of testing at home.

Moreover, bulk COVID--19 tests by mail contribute to the overall efficiency of testing efforts, by allowing  individuals to order multiple test kits in a single transaction, resources are utilized more effectively, and the testing process is streamlined . This approach can be particularly valuable during periods ofincreased testing demand or when public health authorities recommend regular testing for specific populations. 

The United States Postal Service (USPS) has played a crucial role in making free COVID--19 tests available to individuals across the countryThrough its partnership with the federal government, USPS offers the option to order up to  four free at--home test kits per household via its official website. This initiative aims to increase testing accessibility particularly for those who may face barriers to obtaining tests by other means. 

George Barna: Biggest Threats Facing Christianity Today

 George Barna, a leading expert in church and worldview trends, has weighed in on some of the biggest issues facing the Church -- including the steady decrease in a biblical worldview and dwindling concern for spiritual formation, the Christian Post website reports today (May 22, 2024). 

In an interview with the Christian Post, the 69--year--old founder of the Barna Group, a market research firmspecializing in studying Americans' religious beliefs and behaviors that he sold in 20009, said that over the last few decades, he's seen certain negative trends increasingly permeate Western Christianity.

People have become more selfisah, churches have become less influential, pastors have become less Bible--cenrter, Barber, who now serves as the director of research at the Cultural Research Center at Arizona Christian University said:

Families have invested less of their time and energy in spiritual growth, particularly of their children. The    media now influences the Church more than the Church influences the media, or the culture for that matter." 

One of the most troubling trends Barna highlights is the decline in discipleship and a lack of solid, biblical training from seminaries. He criticized the prevalent metrics used by churches  to gauge success-- attendance, fundraising, and infrastructure-- which he stressed have little to do with Jesus' mission. 

"There is poor leadership in seminaries that mislead local churches into thinking that they're actually training individuals whom God has called to be leaders and certifying them to lead local churches, not having any better bringing them on," he said. 

Barna added, "Jesus didn't come to build institutions , he came to build people . And we see that model in His life. He devoted the ministry portion of this life to investing in individuals, and that's what each of us who are followers of Christ need to be doing ." 

Red Lobster Files for Bankruptcy; Was World's Largest Seafood Restaurant Chain

 Red Lobster , which brought affordable shrimp and lobster to middle-class America and grew to become the largest seafood restaurant chain in the world, has filed for bankruprtcy.the NY Times website reports today (May 20, 2024). 

The company said it had more than $1 billion  in debtand less than $30 million in cash on hand . It plans to sell its business to its lenders , and in turn , it will receive financing to stay afloat. It expects to to close restaurants in the meantime.

Red Lobster, known for its cheddar bay biscuits, crab legs, and shrimp dishes, spread around the country during the 1980s  and 1990s. 

With 578 restaurants  across 44 states and Canada, Red Lobster serves 64 million customers a year, and it brings in $2 billion in annual sales, the company said  in its bankruptcy filing. One in five lobster tails purchased in North America is bought by Red Lobster. 

But recent mismanagement, compertition, inflation and other factors brought down Red Lobster, analysts and former Red Lobster employees say.

Years of underinvestment in Red Lobster's  marketing, food quality, service , and restaurant upgrades hurt t he chain's ability to compete with growing fast--casual and quick--service chains. 

Red Lobster started in 1968 by Bill Darden, an architect of the casual dining revolution in America,  and General Mills soon bought the restaurant. Red Lobster later became part of Darden Restaurants, the owner of Olive Garden and other chains. 

In 2014, Darden sold off Red Lobster to Golden Gate Capital, a private equity firm, for $2.1 billion. Since 2020, seafood distributor The Union Group,based in Thailand, has been the largest Red Lobster shareholder. The Union owns 49% of the company.

Red Lobster has struggled under Thai Union. 

The number of customers coming to Red Lobster tumbled 30% since 2019 and has only slightly improved since the pandemic. Earlier this year, Thai Union said it would divest from Red Lobster and take a $530 million loss on its incvestment. 

It's Time to Enhance Christianity in Global Missions

When Jesus gave His command to His disciples to ..."go and make disciples of all nations..." (Matthew 28:16--20 NIV), the only way then to reach people was to physically go into new areas and find places they congregated. The digital era in which we now live presents different opportunities to reach globally, and many argue faster than ever before, the Christian Today website reports   t oday (May 18, 2024).

In April 2024. the Lausanne Movement released its global "The State of the Great Commission" 2024 report.

The report indicates "It is time for a new thing."What catalysts can we use and in which ways can we use them to pursue the mission  of God's kingdom  so all can know Jesus?  

The estimated number of internet users is 5.4 billion. This represents 67 % of the global population. According to the Global Web Index, the average time spent online daily is 6.5 hours. 

The internet has made the world feel smaller in many ways. Digital or online evangelism is entering public spaces and sharing about the life, love and example of Jesus in a whole new way. There is still a significant need to physically go and share the message of Jesus with those who haven't heard, but in some cases where access is difficult, we must harness our technological landscape. 

Sharing the life and love of Jesus in a digital  world   requires a spirit of creativity, authenticity, and adaptability. If we do this, we can extend the reach of our  collective voices as we share the love of Jesus with the world. 

In the words of John Piper, "Don't wait for a feeling or love in order to share Christ with a stranger. You already love your heavenly Father, and you know that this stranger is created by Him... so take those first steps in evangelism because you love God. It is not primarily out of compassion for humanity that we share our faith or pray for the lost; it is first of all , love of God. In other words, it's not a question of  'if'' we are called. We've already said yes. The only question is 'how' to do it  in the context of today."                                                                                                                                                                           

Why Did God Pick the People of Israel as His "Chosen People?"

Why did God choose the people of Israel to be a "royal priesthood" and a "holy nation" Exodus 19:5)? Was  irt because of somerthing inherently good in them? Was it because they were better than other peoples? The Lord answered this question directly, saying, "The Lord did not set His affection on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples. But it was because the Lord loved you and kept the oath, He swore to your ancestors that He brought you out  with a mighty hand and redeemed you from the land of slavery, from the power of Pharaoh king of Egypt"  (Deuteronomy 7:7--9), the Christian Post website reports today (May 17, 2024). 

Paul addressed this as well, writing, "For He says to Moses,. ' I will have mercy on whom I have mercy , and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.' It does not , therefore, depend on human desire or effort , but on God's mercy" (Romans 9:15--16).

In short, Israel was chosen because of the sovereignty of God, not because of Israel's own merit. 

Israel Accused of Genocide in World Court;Israel's War in Gaza Must Be Stopped to Protect Palestinians

 South Africa asked the t op international court today (May 16, 2024) to order a halt to the Rafah offensive, accused Israel of genocide , and said the country's war effort "must be stopped"to protect the Palestinian people , the USA Today website reports. 

South Adfrica's legal representatives at the International Court of Justice -- also known as the World Court --  said Israel's shutdown of the Rafah and Kerem Shalom border crossings have plunged Gaza into "unprecedented levels  of humanitarian need."  They demanded  Israel completely withdraw from Rafah, a city of 250,000 before the war that swelled to more than one million ,as refugees fled fighting elsewhere in Gaza. 

"From the onset, Israel's intent was always to destroy Palestinian life and to wipe them off the face of the earth," said South African law professor Max du Plessis. "Rafah is the final stand. "  

Israel will provide a response in court tomorrow. Israeli offficials have previously denied in court claims the country's military campaign violates the 1949 Genocide Convenrtion, arguing that it stepped up efforts to provide humanitarian aid for Gaza in acordance with previous court orders. 

The court's rulings and orders  are binding, but it has no way to enforce them. Israeli Prime Minister  Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly claimed Israel is defending itself after the Hamas--led attack October 7 that resulted in almost 1,200 deaths and the seizing of more than 250 hostages.

Blinken: Israeli Offensive in Gaza Won't Defeat Hamas; Instead, Israel Should Withdraw from Gaza

U.S. Secretary of State Aantony Blinken has criticized Israel's conduct of the war in Gaza, claiming that an all--out offensive in Rafah in the south of the Palestinian enclave would only provide "anarchy, rather than eliminating Hamas, the RT website reports today (May 14, 2024)

In a pair of TV interviews on May 12, Blinken underscored that Washington believes Israeli forces should "get out of Gaza " as their tactics have failed to neutralize Hamas and could drive a lasting insurgency. 

The top U.S. diplomat told CBS that a full--scale invasion of Rafah could come  "potentially at an incredibly high cost" for civilians , and that even a massive assault on the southern Gazan city was unlikely to end the threat from Hamas.  

Washington is waiting to see credible plans from West Jerusalem for Gaza once the war is finally over, Blinken said in another interview with NBC, addding, "we've been talking to them [Israeli authorities] about a much better way of getting an enduring result." 

Blinken's comments come as Israeli forces have been pushing deeper into the densely populated Rafah , where more than a million Palestinians have crowded in hopes of  refugee. 

Turkey Makes Greek Orthodox Church into a Muslim Mosque; Move Is Condemned by Greek Government

 Turkey's President Tayyip Erdogan officially inaugurated a former Byzantine--era church , previously known as  the Church of the Holy Savior in Chora, a United Nations World Heritage Site, as a mosque this week, drawing condemnation fom the Greek government, the Christian Post website reports today (May 13, 20214). 

The change is part of a series of conversions in recent years, including the iconic Hagia Sophia in 2020, and has garnered international criticism .

Located in the Faith district of Istanbul, near the ancient city walls, the building, known locally as Kariye, is celebrated for its intricate mosaics and frescoes dating back to the 11th and 12th centuries. 

Greece has been vocal in its criticism, especially since the Kariye was opened as a mosque the day afrter the Greek Orthodox Easter. The Greek Foreign Ministry condemned the move in a statement:

"The Turkish authorities' decision to begin the operation of the Monastery of Chora as a Muslim mosque constitutes a provocaton for the international community as it distorts and affects its characters as a UNESCO World Heritage Site belonging to humanity," the statement reads. 

"The maintenance of monuments' universal character and compliance with international standards for the protection of religious and cultural heritage is a clear international obligation binding on all States. "

Israel Calls on Palestinians to Leave Southern Gaza City of Rafah; Israeli Mil. May Be Planning to Attack Rafah

 Israel yesterday called for Palestinians in nine areas of Gaza's southern city of Rafah to evacuate and head to what it calls an expanded humanitarian area in Al--Mawasi, in a further indication that the military is pressing ahead with plans for a ground attack on Rafah, the USA Today website reports today (May 12, 2024). 

In a post on social media site X, a military spokesperson also called on residents and displaced people in the Jabalia  area of northern Gaza, and 11 other neighborhoosds in the enclave to go immediately to places wst of Gaza City. 

The Palestinian health ministry said at least 37 Palestinians, 24 of them from central Gaza areas, were killed in overnight airstrikes across the enclave, including in Rafah.

The Biden administration acknowledges possible Israeli weapons misuse in a report to Congress. 

"There is no safe place in Gaza," Khitan Al--Khatib, who said she had lost at least 10 of her relatives in an airstrike on a family house, told Reuters. 

What Is Ascension Day?

Thursday, May 9, is Ascension Day, which is a public holiday in many countries, the Christian Today website reports today (May 10, 2024).

The English word "to ascend " means to go up, and an "ascent" process of doing it. In English, we talk about "ascent of Mount Everest or a person's" arcension  to the presidency." In theology, ascension is the idea that some individuals  ascend to heavenwithout dying first or first die and are bodily resurrected and taken into heaven.  

In the Bible, the idea  of ascension is sometimes applied to Enoch, who was Noah's great-grandfather. The text says, " And Enoch walked with God: and he was not ; for God took him." (Genesis, 5:24). It is not totally clear what that means, but some people interpret it to mean that Enoch had an ascension ionto heaven. A clearer story is told of Elijah . The text reads "behold, there appeared a  chariot of fire, and horses of fire, and parted them both asunder; and Elijah went uo by a" whirlwind into heaven." (2 Kings2:n).

After the resurrection, Jesus spent 40 days with the disciples . The scene of the Ascension is the Mount of Olives near Bethany near Jerusalem. The Gospel accounts by Matthew and John do not record the ascension, but it is recorded by Mark and Luke. Mark mentions it at the end of his Gospel where it reads: "So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, He was received up into heaven and sat on the right hand of God (Luke 24: 52--53).

t of fire 

Billy Graham Statue to Be Unveiled in US Capitol; Is a Great Honor for Top American Evangelist

 The late evangelist Billy Graham wiltake his place next week among 200 Americans honored with a statue in the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., the Christian Post website reports today (May 9 , 2024). 

Graham's statue will be unveiled on  May 16 during an 11 a. m. ceremony that will be attended by musician Michael W. Smith, House Speaker Mike Johnson, R--La., and other congressional representatives, the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association announced. 

The bronze sculpture, designed by an artist from Graham's birthplace of Charlotte, North Carolina, will stand seven feet tall on a pedestal and depict him gesturing toward an open Bible in his hand as a symbol  of his life's work. 

The pedestal will be engraved with 'JOHN 3:16 and JOHN 14:6 , and Graham will be proclaimed as a "Preacher of the Gospel of Jesus Christ." 

Columbia Univ. Cancels Main Commencement; Due to Many Palestinian Protesters Arrested

 Columbia University canceled its main commencement ceremony, but will go ahead with smaller--scale graduations , the school said yesterday, after weeeks of pro--Palestinian demonstrations disrupted the campus, the USA Today website reported yesterday (May 7, 2024.).

"We have decided to make the centerpiece of our commencement activities our class days and school--level ceremonies , where students are honored individually alongside their peers, rather than the university--wide ceremony that is scheduled for May 15," the Upper Manhattan school said in an announcement.. 

School spokesman Ben Chang added, "Holding a large commencement ceremony on our campus presented security concerns that unfortunately proved insurmountable." 

"Like our students , we are deeply disappointed with this outcome." 

He said Columbia tried to come up with a different venue to still hold the traditional larger commencement, but couldn't find one large enough. More than 50,000 people typically attend the ecvent. 

None of the school's smaller ceremonies will even be held on its  iconic South Lawn, where such events are usually staged -- and where hundreds of protesters were recently  arrested for refusing to leave a massive tent encampment. 

EU Ready to Make Full Use of Trade Defense Tools against China, EU Chief Warns

European Union  ( EU)  Chief von der Leyen warned today (May 6, 2024) that trhe European Union stands to flex its muscles to protect the bloc from China's aggressive trade practices , the Euro News website reports today. 

It is von de Leyen's starkest warning that the EU executive will leave no stone unturned in its bid to stop China 's heacvily --subsidized manufacturing sector unfair trade practices from suffocating Europe's homegrown industries.

It is also the clearest sign to date that the bloc is preparing for a potential trade war with China. 

"For trade to be fair, access to each other's markets also needs to be reciprocal , von der Leyen told reporters in Paris adfter meeting the Chinese President alongside France's Emmanuel Macron.

"We stand ready to make full use of our trade defense instruments if this is necessary,"von der Leyen added

"Europe cannot accept market-distorting practices that could lead to de--industrialization here at home." 

"Europe will not waver from making tough decisions needed to protect its economy and its security."  

Danish Govt. Permits Women to End Pregnancies 18 Weeks after Conception;Girls over 15 Can Have Abortion 18 Weeeks after Conception without Parental OK

The Danish government announced on May 3 that it will permit women to have their pregnancies terminated until 18 weeks after conception, instead of 12, the RT website reports today (May 4, 2024).

Aditionally, girls over 15 will get the right to have an abortion without  parental approval.

"Choosing whether to have an abortion is a diffficult situation and I hope that young women can find support from their parents. But if there is disagreement , whether she wants to be a mother," Marie Bjerre, Minister of Digitzation and Gender Equality said. 

Currently, women under age 18 are allowed to get abortions, but only with parentel consent. The amended Health Act will take affect on June 1, 2025.  

US,Other Nations to Shut Down Coal Plants; Agree to Shut Them Down by 2035

 Early this week, all the nations using coal planrts agreed to shut them down by 2035 at the latest, the New American website reported on May 1, 2024

This includes the U.S. , which still operates more than 200 coal-- fired power plants. 

It does not include China and India which are starting up new coal plants faster than the West is shutting its down.

The Rise of the US Evangelical Right; US Evangelical Church Has Much Indfluence

 The Evangelical Christian Churches in the  U.S. are a very important feature of American life and have a great influence on the world evangelical community, the Christian Today website reports today (April 30, 2024). 

They make up a large part of rthe Christian population of the U.S. as well as the overall population. 

 The impact on culture, communities,  and individual lives is difficult to exaggerate. However, it is their involvement with politics which has increasingly gained attention. Their close association with the Republican Party is wqell known , but their support for Donald Trump has become a defining feature since 2016.

In 2016, it generally is  accepted that about 81% of White U.S. evangelists voted for Donald Trump. Some analysis of the data argues for it being 79%, but figures are comparable . The proportion voting for Trump in 2020 was similarto the higher figure. This support of white evangelicals (and it is necessary to add that racial clarifier) for the Republican Party in its current Trump--MAGA -- form, has become one of the norms of modern U.S. politics. There is every sign that 20 24 will  be comparable with previous  patterns of voting. 

The ideological voting pattern, so clear in 2016 and 2020, looks set to continue. 

 It is a political and cultural phenomenon of great importnce. But what is its history? How has the U.S. "evangelical right" emerged as such a political force? And why is it so important of  Donald Trump and MAGA? 

Right--leaning evangelical Protestants have been involved in politics for much of the twentieth century and the activities are not simply a modern phenomenon , although during the past 35 years they have come to increasing prominence. As far back as 1940s, 50s and 60s,anxieties about the perceived threat of communism and changing patterns of social behavior caused many with this outlook to gravitate towards the Republican Party as a way of defending what would have been  described as the Protestant--based moral order.