Here are briefs on some of the current events and news stories that are of interest to Christians today. You can read the briefs and follow the links to the full story at the source website.

U.S. District Judge rules against Proposition 8: Judge Vaughn Walker, U.S. District Judge in California has ruled that California's Proposition 8 that changed the state's constitution to define marriage as being between one man and one woman violates the U.S. Constitution. The ruling if upheld in the appeals process would affect marriage laws in more than 40 states. For more on this, click this link to Family Research Council.

Ultra-liberal Kagan will face Senate vote: President Obama's choice to fill the vacant position on the United States Supreme Court will soon face a confirmation vote in the Senate, despite her extreme liberal viewpoints on judicial activism and her "rewriting" a key statement in a medical study on partial birth abortion to fit her ideology. For more on this, click this link to Family Research Council.

ACLJ defending fired bus driver: The American Center for Law and Justice is defending a Texas bus driver who was fired for refusing to transport a woman to an abortion clinic. For more on this, click this link to the ACLJ.

Washington, D.C., court denies vote on same-sex marriage: In a 5-4 decision, the U.S. Appeals Court in Washington, D.C., has ruled that the people of the district do not have the right to vote on whether or not to sanction same-sex marriages. For more on this, click this link to Family Research Council.

Former preacher touts atheism: A former evangelical preacher who now calls himself an "evolutionary evangelists" says Christians must embrace atheism to fully understand God. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Grant for Pennsylvania exposes abortion lie: A $160 million grant to Pennsylvania under the new national health care law will fund "high risk" health care needs, but it also includes money for abortions. Pro-life groups are saying the grant and its planned use exposes the deceit that was used in the health care debate. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Students stopped from praying at Supreme Court: The Supreme Court police stopped a group of students praying on the Supreme Court building steps following a tour of of the national landmark. for more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com or go to CNSNews.com.

Young pro-lifers cleared for activities in Birmingham: A young pro-life group, arrested for exercising free speech against abortion on public property in Birmingham, Ala., last year, has been granted permission to return this year, despite charges still pending against them. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Rhode Island Governer vetoes hate crimes bill: Gov. Don Carcierci, a Republican, has vetoed a state bill that would have expanded the Rhode Island's hate crimes law to include "gender identity" and "gender expression." For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Philadelphia preacher jailed -- again: Pennsylvania preacher Michael Marcavage of the evangelistic organization "Repent America" and two others were stopped from preaching on a Philadelphia sidewalk and later jailed. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Florida at it again: The Liberty Counsel has filed a lawsuit against a Florida county school district for refusing to allow Bibles to be distributed to students on school grounds on Religious Freedom Day -- this despite the fact that the practice has always been allowed in the past. For more on this, click this link to Liberty Counsel.

A troubling decision: In a 5-4 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court has upheld a ruling by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, which decreed that a California law school's denial of official recognition of the Christian Legal Society was constitutional. In denying recognition to the CSL, college officials said the group does not comply with the university's anti-discrimination policy because it does not allow homosexual's to hold office or become voting members. For more on this, click this link to ACLJ. For commentary from the Family Research Council, click this link.

Disclosure Act would silence conservative political speech: A bill called the Disclosure Act that has passed through the House of Representatives would essentially curtail political speech by Christians and other conservative Americans, according to the American Family Association. To learn more before the bill becomes law, click this link to AFA.

Minnesota school sued over equal access: Liberty Counsel had filed a lawsuit against a Minnesota school district for denying equal inclusion for the Christian Evangelism Fellowship, sponsor of the Good News Clubs. For more on this, click this link to Liberty Counsel.

New Mexico schools stop Christian students' work: Students at two schools in New Mexico were told to stop distributing rubber models of pre-born babies, because, school officials told them, some people were being offended by their message. Liberty Counsel has filed a complaint in federal court on the students' behalf. For more on this, click this link to Liberty Counsel.

ACLJ challenges health care reform: The American Center for Law and Justice has filed suit in federal court to challenge the constitutionality of the nation's mandated health care reform act. ACLJ says the federal government exceeded its constitutional authority by mandating that individuals purchase health care insurance. For more on this, click this link to ACLJ.

Bus driver calls student "stupid little bigot": After two years, parents of an elementary school student are still trying to get justice for their daughter, whom a public school bus driver called a "stupid little bigot" for her remarks concerning homosexuality. For more on this, click this link to the American Family Association.

Liberty Counsel to appeal Ten Commandments ruling: The Liberty Cousel will appeal a Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals ruling to impose a permanent injunction against display of Ten Commandments at courthouses in two Kentucky counties. For more on this, click this link to Liberty Counsel.

Court orders N.Y. school to reinstate student: A student suspended from a New York school will return. A federal judge has issued a restraining order against the school, which suspended the 13-year-old for refusing to remove his Rosary while at school. The ACLJ filed a federal lawsuit against the school. For more on this, click this link to ACLJ. UPDATE: For an update on this case, click this link.

New York student suspended for Rosary: The American Center for Law and Justice has entered the legal battle over a New York State school which suspended a seventh grade student for wearing a Rosary to school. The student was suspended after refusing to take the beads off after being told to do so by Oneida school officials. For more on this, click this link to ACLJ.

CDC study finds greater acceptance for single motherhood: A new study by the Center for Disease Control indicates that more teens believe single motherhood is all right. The "National Survey of Family Growth" found that 64 percent of male teens believe that it is acceptable for single women to become mothers. That's up from 50 percent in 2002. For more on this, click this link to the Culture and Media Institute.

Obama moves forward on same-sex agenda: A June 2 memorandum from President Obama clears the way for some benefits for gay partners of federal employees. For more on this, click this link to Culture and Media Institute.

Florida legislature acts on Santa Rosa situation: The Florida Legislature has approved legislation aimed at preventing situations such as the one in Santa Rosa School District in Florida. The new law would prohibit any school district from entering any consent decree affecting First Amendment rights without first consulting with those affected. For more on this, click this link to Liberty Counsel.

Schumer proposes "domestic partner" provision in immigration reform: Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., has proposed allowing foreign gay partners of American citizens to be allowed citizenship under proposed immigration reform. For more on this, click this link to Liberty Counsel.

Parks department opposing replacement cross: Just recently the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that a memorial cross in the Mojavi Desert was not unconstitutional. Unforutnately thieves stole the 70-year veterans memorial, and now the U.S. Parks Department is blocking placement of a replica on the site. For more on this, click this link to ACLJ.

Texas schools keep true history: The attempt by liberals to revise history has ended with a victory for truth. The Texas State Board of Education voted 9-5 last month to keep true history, including references to America's Christian heritage, in the books for another 10 years. For more on this, click this link to Liberty Counsel.

Christian group hopes to oust liberal judges: Headed by Christian attorneys, a group in California is ramping up efforts to oust four liberal judges in that state. The group is hoping to put more conservative judges in their places. For more on this, click this link to Townhall.com.

Mainstream media side with protesters in Arizona law: Mainstream media are siding with protesters against the Arizona immigration law scheduled to go into effect July 29. For more on this, click this link to the Media Research Council.

Report finds coercion behind many abortions: A report recently released by the Elliot Institute inidicates that many women feel coerced to abort their unborn children. Many such coercions even include violence and death at the hands of fathers. For more on this, click this link to LiveNews.com.

Liberty Counsel sues Florida school district: Liberty Counsel has filed a federal lawsuit against Santa Rosa County School District for violating the First Amendment rights of teachers, students, parents and others. For more on this, click this link to Liberty Counsel.

Oklahoma legislature overrides abortion laws vetoes: The Oklahoma House of Representatives and Senate have overridden the veto of two pro-life measures. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Virgina governor rescinds policy against praying in Jesus' name: Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell has rescinded a policy that barred Virginia State Police chaplains from praying in Jesus' name. For more on this, click this link to the Roanoke Times.

Supreme Court rules Mohave cross can stay: The U.S. supreme Court has ruled that the cross in the Mohave Desert memorializing World War I American soldiers can stay. In a close decision, 5-4, justices instructed a district court to re-consider some of the issues involved in the suit brought by the ACLU. For more on this, click this link to Liberty Counsel.

Mississippi senator to question Army on Graham: Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee says he will question Pentagon officials who dis-invited the Rev. Franklin Graham from speaking at the Pentagon's National Day of Prayer ceremony. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Justice calls college policy "crazy": During arguments on a case filed by a Christian college student group, Justis Antonin Scalia called a school policy requiring a Christian group to allow atheists in as members "crazy." For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Government campaign to "Queer up the Census": Casting aside the federal Defense of Marriage Act, Census officials have launched an advertising campaign to encourage gay and lesbian people to sign the census as married if they have a gay partner living in their household. For more on this, click this link to The Miami Herald. To read a press release from the Family Research Council on the subject, click this link.

Obama's Easter address "dechristianized" Christianity: President Obama edited out part of a historical speech he quoted during his Easter address by removing the reference to Christ, and in doing so, he was not only religiously inaccurate, but historically as well. For more on this, click this link to Wallbuilders.com.

New website informs educators about managing students' homosexuality: A new website launched by the American College of Pediatricians gives educators strong advice on how to treat the issue of homosexuality tendencies of students. For more on this, click this link to Liberty Counsel. To access the website, go to http://factsaboutyouth.com/.

New Hampshire pledge case goes to appeals court: The American Center for Law and Justice has filed an amicus brief in a case originating out of the state of New Hampshire in which the group Freedom from Religion Foundation is seeking to block a state law allowing students to voluntarily recite the "Pledge of Allegiance," including the words "under God." For more on this, click this link to ACLJ.

Federal court says Homeland Security violated rights: A federal district court in Dallas, Texas, has ruled that the Homeland Security Agency violated the rights of a Christian group that distributed "million dollar" gospel tracts. For more on this, click this link to Liberty Counsel.

Obama's off-session ultra-liberal appointments: A grassroots non-denominational church organization is outraged at Obama's ultra-liberal appointments made after Congress recessed. For more on this, click this link to Vision to America.

Muslims try to force removal of Christian reference from diploma: Muslim students at Trinity University in Texas (a Christian school) are trying to force the removal of "in the year of our Lord" from diplomas. For more on this and an analysis of historical Christian references in American society and government, click this link to Vision to America.

ACLU caught with secrets in Santa Rosa County school decree: The ACLU has been caught withholding important information in its attempt to continue the court decree that has left Christian educators in that Florida school district hiding their faith and prayers in closets. For more on this continuing story, click this link to Liberty Counsel.

Pennsylvania judge denies same-sex divorce: A judge in Pennsylvania has denied a same-sex couple's request for a divorce, saying that same-sex marriage is not a "fundamental right." For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

California legislator introduces gay adoption bill: A Democratic legislator in the bay area of California has introduced a bill that, if passed, would force adoption agencies to consider same-sex couples as adoptive parents even if doing so violates the agency's religious and moral beliefs. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Judicial Watch says Obama shut down ACORN investigation: Judicial Watch, a watchdog group that investigates and prosecutes corruption in government, says documents secured through the Freedom of Information Act indicate that the federal investigation of voter fraud by ACORN was shut down by President Obama. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Ninth Circuit says "In God We Trust" is constitutional: The usually liberal U.S. Ninth Circuit Court in California has ruled that "In God We Trust" placed on coins and inscribed on federal buildings does not violate the U.S. Constitution. The suit to have the national motto removed from government buildings and coins was brought by atheist Michael Newdow. For more on this, click this link to Liberty Counsel.

Gates issues new orders on gays in military: Defense Secretary Robert Gates has approved new regulations that make it more difficult to oust gay soldiers from the military. For more on this, click this link to FoxNews.com.

Liberty University fights new healthcare law: Liberty University and others have filed a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the new health care reform law. Liberty, which offers its own health care plans to employees, would be forced to pay $2,000 for each employee even though the employees are insured. For more on this, read the news release from Liberty Counsel.

IPPF says religion is obstacle to sex education: A report by International Planned Parenthood Federation says religion and culture are the major obstacles in educating children (anyone over age 10) about the pleasures of sexuality. For an analysis on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com. Meanwhile, the ACLU has filed suit against the United States Agency for International Development to find out if religion is linked to taxpayer-funded, abstinence-only education in foreign countries. For more on that, click this link.

Obama health care plan includes abortion: President Obama's health care proposal includes taxpayer funding for abortion, something a majority of Americans oppose. For more on this and to sign a petition against proceding with the president's plan or other plans already passed in the House and Senate, click this link to the American Center for Law and Justice.

Florida library sued for turning away Christian group: When the Christian Family Coalition sought use of the New Smyrna Beach, Fla., Library, library officials turned the group away because the program to be presented was of a religious nature. Consequently, CFC has sued the library for violation of its First and Fourteenth Amendment rights. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Chief judge in Prop. 8 case in conflict?: The chief justice of the U.S. District Court deciding California's Proposition 8 case has been "outed" by the San Francisco Chronicle, which reported that Chief Justice Vaughn Walker is a practicing homosexual. Should he recuse himself from the case? For a perspective on this from OneNewsNow columnist Max Barber, click this link.

Pro-life Ohio student will get her resolution: An Ohio high school student who won a statewide oratory contest sponsored by National Right to Life will be able to receive a resolution from the Ohio State Legislature after all. House Speaker Armond Budish reversed an earlier decision not to recognize the student's achievement. For more on this, click this link to Cleveland.com.

ACLJ files final brief in courtroom Ten Commandments Case: The American Center for Law Justice has filed its final brief on behalf of its client, an Ohio judge, whose display of the Ten Commandments in his courtroom brought a law suit by the American Civil Liberties Union. For more on this, click this link to ACLJ.

Planned Parenthood report bad for kids: A new report released by Planned Parenthood teaches kids as young as 10 about sexuality in a way that puts them in danger according to the Family Research Council. For more on this, click this link to FRC.

American Family Association ends boycott of Pepsi-Co: The American Family Association has called for an end of the boycott of Pepsi-Co because Pepsi-Co has ended its financial support of gay and lesbian organizations and events. For more on this, click this link to American Family Association.

Christian society fights court battle: The Christian Legal Society at UC-Hastings Law School in California is battling for the right to require its members to adhere to Christian values. The lawsuit was brought by a homosexual challenging the group's rules on the grounds of discrimination. For an analysis on the case and its possible ramifications, click this link to phibetacons.com. Also, click this link to the ACLJ, which has filed an amicus brief in the case.

Will hate crimes law become hate speech law?: Response to pro-Christian remarks made by the mayor of Lancaster, Calif., could be the harbinger of things to come under the hate crimes law. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

South Dakota informed consent law challenged: A law in South Dakota requiring abortion providers to inform women about legal and potential emotional problems associated with having an abortion will be decided in the U.S. Eigth Cirucuit Court of Appeals. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Liberty Counsel reports on Obama nominees/appointees: The Liberty Counsel has compiled a 72-page report on the ideologues that have been appointed and nominated to high government positions by President Obama. The report cites hundreds of writings and quotes by the men and women named by Obama to reshape America. For more on this and to download a free copy of the report, click this link to libertycounsel.org.

New Hampshire turns away home school threat: Faced with staunch opposition from home school parents in the state, the New Hampshire House of Representatives overwhelmingly defeated a measure that would have given the state sweeping new powers over parents who choose to educate their children at home. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Appeals court upholds Ten Commandments: The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals has ruled that a display of the Ten Commandments in the Grayson County, Ky., courthouse is constitutional. For more on this, click this link to the Liberty Counsel.

House Republicans weigh in on D.C. marriage law: Thirty-seven U.S. House Republicans have joined forces with Washington, D.C., opponents of the recently passed gay-marriage law in the city in an attempt to force a citywide referendum to define marriage in the city as being betwen one man and one woman. For more on this, click this link to The Washington Post.

Health care plan faces Constitutional challenges: If the health care legislation being considered now passes, it is certain to face numerous legal challenges on constitutional grounds. To see some of the possible constititional violations, click this link to The Wall Street Journal.

Challenge to California Prop. 8 begins: Attorneys are now arguing before a federal appeals court in California whether or not the passage of Proposition 8 is constitutional. Proposition 8 was a people's referendum that changed the state's constitution to define marriage as being between one man and one woman, thus overturning a California Supreme Court decision that declared a previous ban on gay marriage to be in violation of the California constitution. The latest case will likely end up in the U.S. Supreme Court. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Canadian court reverses commission decision on hate speech: A Canadian court has reversed a decision handed down by the Alberta Human Rights Commission that declared that a former youth pastor's letter to the editor opposing Canada's gay rights laws constituted hate speech. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Anti-religious bigotry fired in D.C. gay marriage debates: Washington, D.C., is just one step away from approving same-sex marraiage. In the debates preceding a vote on council vote on the matter, some proponents fired anti-religious bigotry comments. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Virginia Court to rule on child custody: The Virginia Supreme Court will hear a case in which one of its residents has been ordered by a court in Vermont to turn over custody of her biological daughter to a former lesbian partner. Liberty Counsel is defending the mother in the case. For more on this see the news release from Liberty Counsel.

Oregon principal bans Christmas trees, Santa: The principal of an Ashland, Ore., elementary school has banned the use of Christmas trees and Santa in the school for the Christmas season. For more on this, click this link to Liberty Counsel.

Christian teachers say they have been forced into closet: Christian school teachers in the Santa Rosa County, Fla., school district testified in court this week that the anti-Christian order crafted by the a court and the ACLU have forced them into the closet when it comes to their faith. For more on this, click this link to Liberty Counsel.

University criticized for announcing prayer vigil: The Freedom from Religion Foundation has condemned the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater for announcing a prayer vigil for a Fort Hood massacre victim on the school website. A representative of Wisconsin Family Action calls the nontheist's condemnation a "bullying" tactic. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Pro-lifers protest Chicago's "bubble" law: Pro-lifers in Chicago protested Chicago's new "bubble" law enacted to keep pro-life proponents from getting closer than 50 feet to the city's abortion clinics. The group also plans to file a law suit to challenge the law's constitutionality. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Supreme Court refuses to hear speech case: The Rutherford Institute is saying that the refusal of the U.S. Supreme Court to hear a vital case on freedom of religious speech involving censorship of a valedictorian address constitutes a serious threat to Christian freedom in America. For more on this, click this link to the Rutherford Institute.

Obama choice for EEOC director has radical agenda: Chai Feldblum, President Obama's choice to head the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has a radical agenda if her past affiliations and actions are any indication. Confirmation hearings on Feldblum will begin Thursday. For more on her qualifications and her previous stands on sexual and hiring issues, click this link to the Family Research Council blog.

"Hate Crimes" law is dangerous: An evangelist in Pennsylvania once arrested under that state's hate crimes legislation says the new federal law is dangerous and a threat to free speech and ministry. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com. Christian broadcasters are also very wary of the new law and its potential effect on FCC and IRS regulations. For more on that aspect, click here. To see how your representatives voted, click this link to the American Family Association.

Privately maintained nativity scene ordered removed: The Macomb County Road Commission in Michigan has ordered a nativity scene removed from a crossroads in the county. The scene has been erected and privately maintained since 1945. For more on this, click this link to the American Family Association.

ACLU files another suit to block Illinois parental notification law: A law requiring parental notification when a minor girl is requesting an abortion faces yet another attempt by the ACLU to stop it. Passed in 1995, the law has yet to go into effect because of numerous attempts by the ACLU to stop it. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Sen. Lieberman pushes homosexual agenda: Sen. Joe Lieberman is using his clout to push for changes in the law being sought by supporters of the radical homosexual. Guess who would foot the bill on two of the changes? For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Pennsylvania middle school student sues for right to wear pro-life shirt: A middle school student in Pennsylvania is suing his school district for the right to wear a pro-life T shirt after being told that he was in violation of school policy for wearing it to school in September. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Lawsuit filed to stop funding for embryonic stem cell research: A lawsuit has been filed by a group of people opposing use of federal funds for embryonic stem cell research. Included among the plaintiffs are a wide variety of participants, including scientists. For more on this, click this link to Family Research Council. To download a copy of the lawsuit, click this link to Advocates International.

Christian group files suit for flyer ban: A Christian group in Missouri has filed suit to end the ban on distributing flyers for a soccer camp. Victory Through Jesus Ministry Foundation filed suit against Lee's Summit School District for preventing distribution of flyers promoting its Christian-based soccer camp, even though the school district allowed distribution of similar secular literature. For more on this, click this link to Liberty Counsel.

Community supports cheerleaders' scripture banners: The community of Fort Oglethorpe, Ga., came out in force to support cheerleaders who have been using banners citing scriptures at the opening of football games. Fans came out to support the cheerleaders the first Friday night game following a ban on the scriptures by school officials. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

New Hampshire "pledge" case dismissed: A lawsuit filed in New Hampshire over reciting the Pledge of Allegiance by students, specifically the use of "one nation under God," has been dismissed. For more on this, click this linke to the American Center for Law and Justice.

Sentences handed down for unlicensed abortionists: A Southern California court has handed down more sentences in a case involving a string of abortion clinics. The clinics' owner is already serving time for performing abortions without a medical license. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Christian Action Network suit: The Christian Action Network in Maine has filed a lawsuit against the state for denying its right to send out newsletters. Maine denied CAN's license renewal (even though it had already cashed the group's check) and fined the group $4,000 because the letter informed recipients about the teaching of Muslim religion in classrooms. For more on this, click this link to Liberty Counsel.

Doctors who refused to inseminate lesbian settle: A California lesbian has settled a law suit with California fertility doctors who refused to inseminate her because of their Christian beliefs. For more on this and how it might affect conscience provisions for medical professionals, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Huckabee calls for complete investigation of ACORN: Former Arkansas governor and Republican presidential candidate says ACORN should be investigated extensively by the U.S. Justice Department for possible illegalities throughout the organization. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Florida school officials cleared of criminal charges: A high school coach and athletic director in Santa Rosa County, Fla., have been cleared of criminal contempt charges filed against them for praying over a meal held in honor of donors who helped fund construction of the new field house. For more on this, click this link to Liberty Counsel. For a review by Mat Staver, Liberty Counsel founder and chairman, click this link.

School ensemble banned from playing "Ava Maria": The Rutherford Institute has entered the legal battle created when the Everett School District in Washington state stopped the school's instrumental ensemble from playing "Ava Maria." For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Arizona pro-life laws being challenged: Planned Parenthood is challenging some pro-life laws, including one that prohibits nurse practioners from performing abortions. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Colorado group pushes for "personhood" amendment: Personhood Colorado is mounting a campaign to get an amendment on the ballot for the 2010 elections that would declare that life -- or personhood -- begins at inception. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

ENDA amendment adds gender identity: The latest U.S. Senate version of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act would, if passed, include penalties for refusing to hire cross-dressers and transgenders in addition to homosexuals. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Virginia prison backs down on religious materials ban: After being contacted by a coalition of civil rights legal groups, officials of the Rappahannock, Va., Regional Jail has reversed its ban on religious materials for inmates. For more on this, click this link to the Rutherford Institute.

New Jersey Christian group denied use of park: The American Center for Law and Justice is working with a church in Plainview, New Jersey that was denied use of a park facility for an annual event, although other groups are allowed to use the facilities. For more on this, click this link to ACLJ.

Justice Department challenges DOMA: Although President Obama publicly speaks out in defense of the Defense of Marriage Act, the Obama Justice Department has filed papers in federal court saying the act, which declares that marriage is between one man and one woman, is discriminatory. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

ABA weighs in against DOMA: The American Bar Association has adopted a resolution citing its opinion that the Defense of Marriage Act is discriminatory and should be repealed. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

American Psychological Association denounces gay therapy: The American Psychological Association has advised that reversal therapy for homosexuals who want to leave the lifestyle should not be administered. Mat Staver, founder and chairman of Liberty Counsel, says the APA reasoning is scientifically flawed. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Los Angeles Episcopal Diocese nominates openly gay clergy: Less than a month after the Episcopal Church ended its moratorium on electing homosexual priests as bishops, the Los Angeles diocese nominated two openly gay priests. For more on this and how it may further divide Episcopalians, click this link to AlbertMohler.com.

Study shows lack of faculty diversity affects college students: A study by the University of Michigan's Institute of Social Research indicates that students in social science and the humanities curriculae tend to lose abandon their faith more often than those in other disciplines. One Christian professor says the findings point to a lack of faculty diversity, particularly in those areas of studies. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Iowa pro-life group challenges IRS -- and wins: A newly formed grassroots pro-life group seeking non-profit status was questioned about prayers outside Planned Parenthood Clinics and its directors asked to sign pledges that they would not demonstrate outside the clinics. The group challenged the ruling, stating the IRS was attempting to deny their Constitutional rights. A letter from the Thomas Moore Society caused the IRS to back down. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Stimulus money funding porn: Part of the $80 million of stimulus money that went to the National Endowment for the Arts is being funneled into pornographic productions in California. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Canadian marriage commissioners must perform homosexual weddings: A court in Saskatchewan, Ontario, Canada has ruled that a government marriage commissioner cannot refuse to marry homosexual couples despite his religious convictions. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Navy removes restrictions on NavyForMoms website: The United States Navy has issued new guidelines for its NavyForMoms site, reversing its ban on religious discussions. For more on this, click this link to Liberty Counsel.

Hall of fame coach sues over firing: A Dearborn, Mich., wrestling coach, who is in the Michigan Wrestling Association Hall of Fame, says he was fired from his job because he is a Christian. The school principal, a devout Muslim, fired the 35-year veteran coach. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Fake pro-life bill working way through Congress: A bill called the Reducing the Need for Abortions Initiative, is expected to show up in Congress soon. Despite its name, however, some pro-life proponents says it will increase, not decrease, abortions. For more on this, click this link to LifeNews.com.

Obama nominee says animals can sue people: Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, has placed a hold on President Obama's nominee for "regulatory czar." Obama nominated legal scholar Cass Sunstein to head the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs at the Office of Budget and Management. Sunstein has argued that animals should be able to sue humans with a person as its representative. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Senate passes "hate crimes" bill: Following a cloture vote to allow the hate crimes bill to be added as an amendment to an important defense appropriations bill, the Senate passed its version of the bill late Thursday night (July 16). A conference committee will have to be called now to reconcile the Senate and House versions. To find out how your senator voted, click this link to the United States Senate.

NEA throws support to same-sex marriage: At its annual meeting held in San Diego, Calif., in early July, the National Education Association, the largest union and most powerful lobbyist for educators and support personnel in America, voted to lend its support to same-sex marriage. A conservative who spoke against the measure was booed. For more on this, click this link to LifeSiteNews.com.

Court upholds Washington's law against pharmacists' conscience: The U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals has upheld a Washington state law that forces pharmacists to dispense drugs even though it violates their right of conscience. The lawsuit was originally filed by pharmacists primarily opposed to being forced to give out Plan B drugs, otherwise known as the "morning after pill." For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Massachusetts AG files federal suit against DOMA: Massachusetts, the first state to allow same-sex marriage, has become the first state to challenge the legality of the federal Defense of Marriage Act. Filed by Attorney General Martha Coakley, the suit alledges that DOMA interfers with states' rights to define marriage. For more on this, click this link to The Boston Globe.

President Obama inches ahead on homosexual benefits: Apparently in response to cricism from some big contributors with the homosexual activist lobby that he is moving to slowly on promises made during the 2008 presidential campaign, President Obama has agreed to sign a memo that will give some benefits to homosexual federal employees and their partners that are currently available to employees and spouses. For more on this, click this link to Poltico.com.

"Civil licenses" instead of marriage?: Brannon Howse of Worldview Weekend looks at a proposal for the government to subsititute civil licenses for marriages and to leave marriage to the churches. He cites 10 reasons why this is bad for America. To read his full column, click this link to Worldview Weekend.

Massachusetts considering "bathroom bill": Massachusetts lawmakers are considering adding the term "sexual orientation" to the state's "hate crimes" laws. Opponents are concerned about the effect such an inclusion will have on use of public restroom facilities. For more on what opponents are calling the "bathroom bill," click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

GLSEN founder heads DOE's "safe schools" program: Kevin Jennings, founder of the Gay, Lesbian, Straight Education Network, has been named to head the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Safe Schools. GLSEN's background leads some to believe that Jennings' is a radical appointment. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Homosexual activist admits "hate crimes" push is about money: Andrew Sullivan, a homosexual activist, has stated on his blog that the real reason behind the push to include sexual orientation in America's "hate crimes" law is to generate more donations for the homexual agenda. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

American Psychological Association reverses on "gay gene" theory: The American Psychological Association has dealt a major blow to those who promote the theory that being homosexual is a genetic condition. In a recently published brochure, the APA says there is no concensus among scientists about the reason some people turn to homosexuality. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

$2.6 million to train Chinese prostitutes: The Obama administration budget will include $2.6 million to train prostitutes in China to drink responsibly. Can you say "pork"? For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Iowa attorney general issues warnings on same-sex marriage: Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller has issued warnings to county registrars that they must issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples even if their conscience is opposed to the Iowa Supreme Court ruling that struck down Iowa's law defining marriage as being between one man and one woman. The Alliance Defense Fund sees things differently. For more on this, click this link to WorldNetDaily.

California court says teacher violated First Amendment: U.S. District Court Judge James Selena has ruled that a high school teacher violated the U.S. Constitution's First Amendment by repeatedly making comments in class that are offensive to Christian beliefs. The law suit was initiated by Chad Farnan, who recorded many of his former teacher's comments. For more on this, click this link to FoxNews.com.

Media quiet on Sec. Clinton connection to Ponzi scheme convict: The national media has had little to report about the close connection between Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and convicted con-man Norman Hsu. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Some church leaders support passage of "hate crimes" bill: Some liberal-leaning pastors and church leaders are calling for Christians to support passage of the Senate Bill 909, the so-called hate crimes bill. More conservative voices in the church disagree. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

IRS confirms non-profit groups' right to speak out on issues: The Internal Revenue Service has issued a ruling that confirms that non-profit groups, such as churches, have the right to speak out on political issues without losing their tax-exempt status. The ruling stems from a case in Texas. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Catholic leaders call for ouster of Harry Knox: A group of Catholic leaders has sent a letter to President Obama calling for him to remove Harry Knox from his Advisory Council on Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships. They oppose his being on the council because of his "hate-filled" rhetoric against the Catholic Church. To read the letter, click this link to the Media Research Center.

Michigan Church sues homosexual activists: A church in East Lansing, MI, has filed a federal law suit against a group of homosexual activists who disrupted a church service in November. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

San Francisco sets up homosexual website for students: The San Francisco Unified School District is using taxpayer money to fund a website for "lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning" students. Officials say it provides a safe place for young students to get answers to their questions about sexual identity. Parents can't opt their kids our of the program. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Washington state adds transgenders to "hate crimes": Washington state has added transgenders to its list of people given special protection under its own version of "hate crimes" laws. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Judge rules "morning after" pill OK for 17-year-olds: Despite uncertainties about safety of the Plan B (morning after) pill, a federal judge has ruled that former President Bush's order against selling the pill to minors is not valid. He extended the OTC drug to 17-year-olds, which means parental consent is no longer required for some minors. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Connecticut becomes fourth same-sex marriage state: Connecticut has become the fourth state in the nation to approve counterfeit marriage without a vote of the people. Gov. Jodi Rell signed the state legislature's bill into law last week. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

"Dr. Oz" tells Oprah adult stem cells better: Dr. Mehmet Oz, a regular on the Oprah Winfrey Show, told Oprah and her audience recently that the debate on stem cell research is essentially dead, primarily because embryonic stem cell research just can't catch up to strides being made in adult stem cell technology. For more on this, click this link to LifeNews.com.

Homeland Security says watch out for conservatives: An assessment report issued this week by the Department of Homeland Security cite "right-wing extremism" and military veterans from the war in Iraq as the main threats to America. The report says that single-cause extremists, such as individuals opposed to abortion, are particularly worrisome. Conservatives are outraged. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow, and also this link.

Morris: Obama plan will devastate charitable giving: Despite President Obama's rhetoric that his proposal to reduce the deductions for charitable contributions, the effect will be devastating, according to Dick Morris. Morris notes that citizens in the upper 1 percent economically in America also contribute almost 50 percent of the total amount of charitable contributions. For more on this, click this link to Townhall.com.

Vermont follows Iowa in making same-sex marriage equal: The Vermont legislature has voted to override the governor's veto of a bill that would open the institution of marriage up to same-sex couples in that state. For an indepth look and analysis of the action, follow this link to TownHall.com.

Obama appoints homosexual activist to faith-based action group: President Obama has named Harry Knox to the White House Advisory Council on Faith-based and Neighborood Partnerships. Knox is an outspoken activist for the homosexual movement. For more on this, follow this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Physicians conscience authorization: President Obama still has not signed away the rights of medical professionals to refuse treatments that they believe are unethical, procedures such as abortion, but he has indicated that he will do so, and time may be running out. The American Center for Law and Justice is monitoring the situation. To learn more and sign a petition, click this link to ACLJ.org. For more insight from a physician's point of view, click this link to "Celestial Fire" on the Hosea 4:6 Ministries website.

Judge who ruled against Jesus in prayers on fast track to federal bench: The Senate Judiciary Committee is using questionable tactics to rush through affirmation of Judge David Hamilton to the U.S. Court of Appeals, Seventh Circuit. Hamilton is President Obama's first judicial nomination. Republican committee members boycotted the first committee hearing because they were given very little time to review Hamiltons previous case history and qualifications. For more on this, click this link to WorldMag.com.

Virginia governor bucks party on stem cell research: Virginia Governor Tom Kaine, who is also head of the Democratic National Committee, has bucked his party's pro-death platform by signing a bill into law that will prohibit some state funds from being used for embryonic stem cell research. This action came after another action to allow pro-life license plates to be used in Virginia. For more on this, click this link to CNNPolitics.com.

GIVE Act antagonistic toward religion: The Generations Invigoration Volunteer and Education Act would expand volunteerism in America to the tune of about $6 billion. Some critics say it is also a bill that is antagonistic toward Christian and other religious education. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

California school district bucks parental notification trend: In a rare action in California, the Vista Unified School District board recently voted 5-0 to require parental notification any time a student is excused from school for any "confidential medical reason." For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Bisexual teacher invites students to "wedding": A bisexual teacher in New Your City gave each of his students slips of paper inviting them and their parents to his wedding to another man. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

College Christian club denied funding: The U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in California has upheld a lower court ruling that sided with Hastings College of Law officials who denied recognition and funding for an on-campus Christian Club. The ruling lets stand for now the college's prohibition of funding for the club on the grounds that it requires members to be Christian, despite the fact that the school funds other clubs with different membership requirements. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.

Obama tax proposal would likely hurt church giving: President Obama's proposal to lower the tax deduction that many Americans can take on charitable contributions could actually lower the amount that many non-profit organizations receive from donors -- including churches. For more on this, click this link to The Washington Post.

Adult stem cell research still producing results: While President Obama and liberals in Congress, the news media and other venues continue to scream for more money for embryonic stem cell research despite a lack of progress research to date, research with adult stem cells continues to produce results. For more on this click this link to the Family Research Council.

Report: Unwed pregnancies up 40 percent: A new report just out shows births to unwed mothers is up slightly, but births to unwed parents are up about 40 percent. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Study: Faith low on parents view of success: A study by LifeWay Research, found that parents, including Christian parents, rate the Bible and Faith low on their scale of importance when it comes to defining success for their children. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Has Obama opened door to cloning?: The debate over the ethical ramifications of using human embryos to develop stem cells that supporters say could lead to curing debilitating diseases is ongoing. But, when Obama lifted the ban on using taxpayer dollars to conduct embryonic stem cell research, did he also open the door to human cloning? Ken Blackwell of Family Research Council thinks the answer is yes. Read his comments by clicking this link to Family Research Council.

Atheists still trying to stop trooper crosses in Utah: American Atheists are still pursuing their lawsuit which challenges the use of crosses along Utah highways that honor state troopers killed in the line of duty. For more on this case, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Rescinding "don't ask, don't tell" would reduce military: No one is certain just what President Obama intends to do with the "don't ask, don't tell" policy concerning gays in the military, but 10 percent of military personnel surveyed said if it is repealed, they will leave military service. For more on this, click this link to CNSNews.com.

ACLU challenges Arkansas foster care law: The American Civil Liberties Union has filed suit in Arkansas in an attempt to overturn a constitutional amendment that limits eligibility of potential foster parents to couples who are married according to the state's definition of marriage and to singles. The Alliance Defense Fund is assisting in defense of the amendment, which was approved by a 57-43 percent margin. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Gainsville voters to decide fate of gender ordinance: Opponents of a "gender identity" ordinance in Gainsville, Fla., have sucessfully petitioned to force a referendum calling for its appeal. If the referendum is successful, the council may be forced to eat a little crow, since it ignored protests that the ordinance would create awkward and perhaps dangerous situations in public restrooms. The ordinance essentially allows an individual to describe his or her own gender identity. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Study links abortion to premature births: A recently released study links induced abortions to future premature births. The study was published in the February issue of the Journal of Reproductive Medicine. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

GLAD asks court to declare DOMA unconstitutional: The homosexual activist group Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders has challenged America's Defense of Marriage Act, asking the court to declare that the law passed by large majorities in both houses of Congress during the Clinton administration be declared unconstitutional. For more on this, click this link to OneNews Now.com.

Minnesota school district declares neutrality on homosexuality issue: A school district in Minnesota has declared a state of neutrality on the issue of homosexual activsm. School officials say teachers are to remain neutral in their support or non-support of homosexual student groups. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.com.

Pregnancy/breast cancer study: A study out of M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Tex. casts doubt on the need for "therapeutic abortions" for pregnant women who develop breast cancer. For more on this, click this link to OneNewsNow.

NOTE: The articles cited on this "News Briefs" page of the Hosea 4:6 Ministries website are generated solely by the organizations promoting them on their own websites. Hosea 4:6 Ministries is not responsible for their content or accuracy.

To make a secure, online donation to Hosea 4:6 Ministries, a 501(c)3 non-profit ministry,

simply click the "Donate" button below and follow instructions.