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Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. (Mat 28:19)

Church News: Jan13 Same-sex marriage activists taking actions on court, that is, the Margaret Court Arena at the coming Australia Open in protest against the views expressed by pastor Margaret Court for expression her view that same-sex marriage is unhealthy and unnatural. Activists are planning to unfurl 'rainbow flags' as their sign of protest. In response to the planned protest pastor Margaret has this to say, "I actually love homosexual people, I do not have anything against them. It's just my view and it's in the scriptures ... The Bible will always be the TV guide to my life." source: WAToday.com.au Dec 3 Labor voted in favour of same-sex marriage in defiance of the warning within the Labor delegates of electorate backlashs and the Pandora's box of social chaos that will be opened when marriage is redefined. ED: No children can be produced from a same sex marriage. Where will the shortfall in working Australians coming from to upkeep the ageing population? This is a question skipped in the debates. Europe had gone into that same path much earlier and the population void is been filled by immigrants. Not unlike the measures taken today by central banks to print more currency to overcome the GFC woes of today the future generations will be made to pay for the convenience of a few of today's generation. Read also: Kevin Rudd's sister quit Labor Party over same-sex marriage Bill Muehlenberg's Commentary which include Labor's Barry Cohen criticism of his party Nov 28 The Syrian Church & Arab Spring uprising. Behind the news of violence and Arab League sanctions of President Assad's crackdown on demonstrators the future of the Syrian Church is very much ignored. Unlike the Coptics in Egypt the Syrian Christians, though forming proportion (10%) to the total population, had not known to be supportive of the uprising. Already threats against the Church had been made by leaders in the uprising. The believers in Antioch, the Syrian city where missionary efforts were centered during Paul's time, were as credited for being called Christians for the very first time (Acts 11:26). Syria had also served as a sanctuary for fleeing Iraqi Christians. Should the little buffer that Christian in Syria now had against an all out Muslim aggression against Israel be further weakened the sign is ominous for Israel. Turkey (the nation from the north) and Syria are close allies. Nov 2 WA government introduces bill to legalise prostitution in 'tolerated zones'. According to a report from ACL legalising brothels, contrary to the intention, only increases the harms of the prostitution industry. The legalisation of prostitution in other Australian states has failed. Despite brothels being legalised in 1999 in Queensland, the University of Queensland estimates that 90 per cent of prostitution in that state remains illegal. The problem of human trafficking remains closely linked with prostitution. Legalising prostitution also sends the message that the purchase of a woman for sex is acceptable and tolerated by the government. It tells men that it is okay to buy women and use them for sex. Make a Stand Sex Slavery by Four Corners Oct 21 Tony Abbott's not turning back clock on abortion laws. "No. End of Story" was his firm response to The Age reporter's question on abortion legislation if he becomes the next PM. According to Mr Abbott, becoming the PM does not make a person ''less predictable (but) more responsible, more conscious of their obligations to the wider world and particularly to the totality of the Australian community.'' When he was the Health Minister during John Howard administration he was adament that abortion is "an unambiguous moral tragedy" but was restraint from making any changes in 'existing arrangements' by the then PM. source: theage.com.au Mr Abbott may do well to read John Maxwell's "When the Crowd Boos" on how Harry Truman who rather than shying away from thorny issues but had stuck to his conviction and changed the world for good. Oct 20 World rejoices in the death of Muammar Gaddafi who was captured alive but lived long enough to watch his people ("they loved me") acting like a pack of dogs let loose on their prey. A similar scene is given in the Bible regarding the death of the tyrant, Jezebel, who led Israel into idolatry (2Kings 9:30-37). Oct 6 Today we read of the death of a legend of our time -Steve Jobs. He might have died relatively young at 56 but he left a legacy that is unlikely to be surpassed in my generation except maybe by another visionary, Bill Gates. No one could imagine just some years ago that one day Apple could become the biggest company (by stock valuation) in the world! Almost everyone’s life is touched by Steve Jobs works, yes, even our 2 year old granddaughter, Gloria. She grew up with an iPad as her entertainment and educational tool. She is so good at it that she naturally learned to turn on and off the iPad, select and move applications on her own and to press up and down the volumn buttons to suit her moods. Food for thought: "Being the richest man in the cemetary doesn't matter to me. Going to bed at night saying we've done something wonderful... that's what matters." Steve Jobs (1993) However, the visionary had miscalculated the threat of his cancer by opting out of surgery for a diet regiment which which failed him. In the words of Solomon: The wise have eyes in their heads, while the fool walks in the darkness; but I came to realize that the same fate overtakes them both.Eccl 2:13-16 Sep 20 Miracle on a bullet train to Beijing. A Perth-based pastor sent this account: A deaf and dumb came to our table to ask us to buy her tissue papers. We stretched out our hands and I felt the anointing on my hand so asked her to sit near me and continued to lay hands on her two ears...shortlyI felt the heat across my shoulders and neck and then she began to feel hot also...she got a shock (including us..) when her right ear popped open and she can hear...then her left ear also popped open...her environment is seems loud suddenly...she began to read with a noise the salvation prayer as Roger wrote it down. Our Dad is SO SO GD! In a public place He displayed His glory!!!!! She is so shock and happy and we gave her materials! I'm still in awe of Him and learned an awesome revelation from this, when He does it, it is so easy. Sep 6 Secrets of Samoa's triumph over Wallabies. Religeous Samoans, Fijians and Tongans can pull off surprises at the coming World Cup not only because of their legendary playing skills but in their belief that God is on their side. After the defeat of Wallabies in July 18 Samoa's lock, Daniel Leo, had this to say, "We had our prayers before the game, a half-hour church service. And then after the game we prayed - we're still very mindful of giving that respect for Sunday (the day the game was played). This is a way to serve God, to use our talents. Hopefully God will be smiling down upon us now, seeing that we're using the potential he gave us.'' Source: SMH Aug 29 Winds of Pentecost following the shaking in most unusual places just as the recent earthquake that shook New York and the hurricane threats it now faces will follow them that turn to God in prayer. Mike and Cindy Jacobs, who will be visiting Perth in September (see events), had prophesized and taught on this <watch their latest video>. July 21 The fine line between chaplaincy and conversion tested once again this time in Victoria and because of the funding from the Federal Government the federal Education Minister Peter Garrett, himself a Christian, said that there had been no breach of the guidelines and no further action would be taken. Garrett added, "''There are very strict guidelines in place to ensure that chaplaincy service providers do not engage in proselytising or misuse their positions, and we will fully investigate any complaints.'' source: theage.com.au July 11 Mike Bickle's IHOP face legal challenge by IHOP, International House of Pancakes that is. Mr Bickle says the similarity was unintentional and he is not backing down as IHOP.org is very well known internationally. IHOP (prayer house) has continued in prayer backed by worship music without pause, day and night, since May 1999. source: The New York Times July 8 Christians in Syria are wary of the "Arab Spring" uprising. Given the Shite dominated leadership of the current uprising against President Assad the fear expressed by Syrian Christians is understandable as it echoed those of Iraq Christians after the Shites came into majority there resulting in mass migration of Christians due to increased persecution. source: ChristianityToday June 20 WA Labor Party is likely to endorse same-sex marriage at the party's conference on June 25 aligning the state with Queensland, Tasmania and South Australia. Labor frontbencher Jon Ford said there was growing support among the community for same-sex marriage and it was time the party echoed those calls. "Well I think the guts of it is that even the people on the more conservative side of the party, and the power brokers, (don't) have the strength not to support the motion calling for equality of marriage," Mr Ford said. source: watoday.com.au The move has long-term supporters of Labor questioning whether the party has lost its distinctiveness considering the many similarities between Labor and Greens policies. June 9 Apple's Steve Job is building a state-of-art new Apple HQ for 12000 staff and it will be smoke-free."Both my parents died from lung cancer." said Job as he affirmed his committment to the environment, safety and health of his staff working at the new site which he planned to be built by 2015. source:WAtoday.com.au May 31 You Swear, You Pay Victoria is due to approve new legislation this week under which police will be able to slap fines of up to A$240 (S$317) on people using offensive words or phrases. The oo-the-spot penalties, similar to those issued for speeding or parking illegally, would free up police time. source: AFP May 31 Egypt's Revolution Turning Against Christians. Arab Spring initially appeared to open a welcoming door to the dwindling number of Christian Arabs who, after years of feeling marginalized, eagerly joined the call for democracy and rule of law. But now many Christians here say they fear that the fall of the police state has allowed long-simmering tensions to explode, potentially threatening the character of Egypt, and the region. source: NYT read also: Egypt opens Gaza border despite Israel's protest. May 30 Online Christian Education for Children opened for Business. Perth-based Nuture Bright believes that play is integral to the learning and development of children by incorporating biblical values into their educational and entertainment items including books, games and toys. Nurture Bright is a pioneering work and probably only one of its kind in Australia is founded by husband and wife team, Alan and Christine Yio. Apart from many innovative and quality goods the website visitor will find they will also get to read the couple's touching testimony of how faith triumps over tragedy, the loss of their child, Jordan (the website was launched in his memory). Nurture Bright May 23 More bad news from Europe: German Buba say the country’s economy “will lose momentum and growth is likely to ease somewhat in the future” Greek sovereign debt downgraded by Fitch stating any further restricting is basically a default Portugal was give another handout, this time to the tune of Eur 26.1 Bio Italy was placed on negative credit watch by S&P (source: AFEX Australia World Market Update 23/5/11) Europe is in a slow decline for a number of years relative to the rest of the world, in particularly, to Asia. Coincidently, the Church in Europe likewise is in decline even as record church growths are registered in Asia, Africa and South America. May 2 Death of Osama bin Ladin brings relief to the world including the Muslim nations. Bin Ladin had done great disfavour to Muslims not only by the number of Muslims death resulting from terrorism but by Bin Ladin's fundamental belief in violence as the force for social changes which also had dogged Islam and Prophet Mohammad since the very beginning. Muslims are at the crossroad today as to where their beliefs had taken them into. After Sep 11 ten years ago the world had never been the same, today, with the death of Osama bin Ladin the world can breath a sigh of relief. read: From the Heart of a Muslim by Dr Tawfik Hamid Apr 27 David Wilkerson of The Cross and the Switchblade fame died in a car crash. He was 79. His wife who was a passenger was also injured so also the driver of the truck involved in the accident. <more> "It takes 35 years to come here (to Perth). I didn't come here to impress you. I am here on a divine order. This nation cries out for a crisis that does not come from calamities but begin within our hearts!" David Wilkerson, speaking on the lesson from the Church in Sardis at Perth Convention Centre, 2007 From my heart of hearts … I miss him... Nicky Cruz, former gangster now evangelist who was converted from life of crime to life of commitment to the Cross Apr 24 Sathya Sai Baba, leader of the 6-million strong Sai Baba movement, passed away today after a long illness. He claimed to be the avatar or reincarnation of the original founder, Shiridi Sai Baba. With some notable followers from the West and generous donations Sathya managed to build a multi-billion dollars empire centred in Puttaparthi in India. He had earlier claimed he would die at age 96 and would identify the next avatar of himself before he died. Both of these predictions had not come true. <more> Mar 16 Power of the Word had caused so much distress to the Islamic council of Malaysia that the Malaysian Home Minister had to confiscate Bibles imported into the nation. An uproar from the Christian community, particularly flinkrom the eastern state of Sarawak where a state election is to be held, the Home Minister reluctantly released the books, however, not after insisting that the Bibles be stamped, "For Christian Only". In addition, the Home Ministry isssued a reprimand to the leading English language newspaper, the Star, for publishing the issue in the first place. <more> Update: Bibles released after government added serial numbers and the stamp, "By order of the Home Minister" <more> Mar 4 Pope Benedict's new book, Jesus of Nazareth: Holy Week, exonerates the Jews for the death of Christ. The "blood guilt" had been linked to mass persecution of Jews through the centuries culminating in the Holocaust. According to the Pope Jesus blood was shed for redemption, not punishment and all his followers were Jews. In John's Gospel this word ("the Jews") has a precise and clearly defined meaning: he is referring to the Temple aristocracy. <more> Mar 2 Freedom of religion and not freedom from religion. Tasmanian senator Guy Barnett warned of political correctness gone mad after ban was placed on handing out Bible during citizenship ceremonies. The ban is "an extremist US approach to the separation of church and state", he said at a Coalition party room. <more> Feb 28 Christian foster couple ruled out of adoption because of their views on gays. Their application to Derby City Council as respite carers were rejected because a social worker concern that could not tell a child a homosexual lifestyle was acceptable. The British High Court ruled that laws protecting people from sexual discrimination should take precedence. <more> also on <YouTube> Feb 24 200 Pastors attended the Building the Kingdom seminar held at Victory Life Centre. The gathering was an initiation of several key church pastors in Perth who had been praying regularly together over the past couple of years. The theme was Church unity and the pastors involved all spoke on this. Present amongst the pastors were those who had previously embarked on combined churches efforts in the city and they were duly honoured at this gathering. The strong representation of younger generation of pastors amongst the gathering bode well for Kingdom building efforts in the future. Feb 23 Somali Pirates Killed American Missionaries held as hostages after hijacking the yacht last week. American navy boats had been tracking the yacht but had to respond when gunfires were heard coming from the yacht. Amongst the dead was Scott Adam, a graduate from Fuller Seminary, who with his wife, Jean, started the 'friendship evangelism' with loads of bibles in the yacht. <more> Feb 7 WA Vilification Law had its first indictment today - the jailing of Brendon O'Connell for racial vilification. O'Connell had for two years waged an online campign against Jews, posting anti-semitic diatribes and videos on the internet. One quote O'Connell made regarding Samuel's command to King Saul to completely annihilate the Amalekites in accusing Isreal as the motivation for destroying Palestinians need clarification. Palestinians are not Amalekites, they are non-Jews who happened to live in the territory of Palestine before the partition in 1947. Included amongst the Palestines are a large number of Christians. While Jesus was ministering in Judea he also ministered amongst the Samaritans, the non-Jews living in Israel, and often cited Samaritan as good examples to stir up responds from the Jews. Jan 25 We are alone despite the billions of galaxies out there is the findings of Dr Howard Smith, a senior astrophysicist at Harvard University. "There are very few solar systems or planets like ours. It means it is highly unlikely there are any planets with intelligent life close enough for us to make contact. Many of these planets are either too close to their sun or too far away, which means their surface temperatures would not support life. He further noted that other planets have unusual orbits that cause vast temperature variations making it impossible for water to exist as a liquid." <more> Jan 17 Graham Johnston, senior pastor of Subiaco Church of Christ, lost his battle with cancer on Monday night at his family home. However, his legacy as one of the prime movers in his denomination over the recent decades, pioneers in welcoming migrants to the church and support for city wide inter-denomination outreaches will be remembered by many in the city. Jan 6 Pray for Sudan as the Christian south heads for a referendum regarding statehood. The Muslim controlled government had officially agreed to support the outcome of the expressed wishes of southern Sudanese. However, Christian leaders are expressing grave concern of possible violence especially coming from the military and have requested the international Christian community to pray. source: <ChristianityToday> Dec20 With mounting legislation on discrimination and growing political correctness in Europe the Church had taken most hits for the worse. Foremost of all is the restriction of freedom of speech, so fundamental for democracy and for healthy church growth. Dr Lachlan Dunjey, a leading Perth activist, had this to add, "Assuredly, for Christians to 'turn the other cheek' is an expression of personal spirituality. Yet with regard to public policy the Christian motto is to take action to help one’s neighbor, not to turn the cheek or the head when another is being unjustly treated or persecuted. A Christian must not look away from an injustice done to another Christian so that he may gain practice in turning the other cheek. A Christian will always work towards a more free and just society, including for Christians." read: "Intolerance against Christians, European perspectives" also: Canberra Declaration Dec14 Iraqi Christians fleeing persecution in Baghdad and Mosul are heading to safer havens like the Kurdish control regions of Iraq. In the wake of the Oct 31 siege of a church in Baghdad that killed 53 people there were more bombings and assasinations targeting Christians. True to the command of Jesus Christ - 'When they persecute you in one town, flee to the next' (Matthew 10:23) -Iraqi Christians are emigrating or moving to other cities within Iraq. To date it is estimated that one-half of the estimated 800,000 to 1.4 millions Christians in Iraq had flee the nation since the start of the U.S. led invasion in 2003. source: New York Times Dec2 Lausanne III, Cape Town Oct 2010. With the oversights of Billy Graham and John Stott the Lausanne Congress had in the past 35 years became the most influential church forum amongst evangelicals. 4000 church leaders from 200 nations came together for the third congress and a city in Africa hosted this time around, what begun in the European city of Lausanne and then in Asia's Manila, Cape Town, which in May hosted the 10th Global Day of Prayer and the following month, as a soccer World Cup venue. Not all the delegates made it, the rivalry between house church leaders and the state-controlled Three-Self Patriotic church, prevented many Chinese church leaders from attending by Chinese authorities. Our former DPM, John Anderson, made it and had profoundly affected his walk in Christ (read the talk excerpts he gave at CITM). A computer glitch had brought down the information system supporting the forum but thanks to two delegates from Bengalore, India's silicone valley, the problem fixed - a timely reminder not to be over reliance on technology but also to appreciate the various giftings of different nations and our need for each other. source: Christianity Today Nov25 WA Prostitution Law gives Police extra power now before the Parliament. Some of the changes include: * Anyone who engaged in sex with a person who is being coerced into prostitution would face a penalty of up to two years in jail, irrespective of whether it could be shown they knew the prostitute was coerced. *Mothers could be forced to display certificates declaring that they were prostitutes at home "in front of their children", while an ex-husband could get anyone banned from visiting the home on a complaint. The ligislation is expected to be passed in the first half of 2011. source: WA Today Nov5 El Salvador enjoys rapid church growth in the last two decades so much so that politicians in the nation will not legislate on issues detrimental to the interest of the Church. However, on one issue of Bible reading in classrooms the politicians passed the legislation to make it compulsory besides appeasing the Church it was intended to reduce youth crimes. However, the unexpected backlash came from the most surprising quarter - the Church. Both the Catholic (60%) and Protestant (40%) arei unhappy that they were not consulted beforehand. Now the churches cannot agree on the version of the bible to be read, what verses and who to read them. Interestingly, the debate's final words came from Juan Carlos Carcomo, World Vision coordinator for church relations, "An area where Bible reading must be promoted is the church itself. A profound weakness in many churches is that Bible reading has been replaced by alternative liturgical expressions, which are not illegitimate but in terms of transforming lives leave large gaps." source: ChristianityToday Nov3 Brazil evangelicals growing influence in politics was borne out in the latest election held last week. Their favoured candidate, Marina Silva, a former environment minister and committed Assemblies of God member, came third in the prelim that forced the leading two candidates to a runoff which resulted in the candidate of choice of the former President to take power. Evangelicals representation in the Parliament had grown from 7 to 13 percent in the parliament. The ChristianityToday reporter lamented that the lack of unity amongst the evangelicals had reduced their influence on the new President. <more> Nov2 Pro-Life Victoria intensified campaign to repeal Abortion Law Reform Act on the eve of the state election. A video entitled A Story About Life highlights the Victorian legislation as the most excessive of all western democracies allowing abortion up the time of birth and also termination of life even when the aborted child shows signe of life. Link submitted by Dr Lachlan Dunjey Oct15 At the end of November each year thousands of 17 years olds make themselves extremely vulnerable without even realising it. Leavers Week is a growing event and your involvement may result in harm minimisation to those that celebrate end of school. Anyone interested can find out more information by going to the following website www.greenteamwa.org.au Oct13 Chilian trapped miner, Jimmy Sanchez, wrote before being rescued that "There are actually 34 of us,” the nineteen-year-old miner wrote in a letter sent up from the mine on Tuesday, "because God has never left us down here. God wanted me to stay here, I don't know, maybe so I change from now on. I have thought and I'll change a lot. I have suffered too much and don't want to suffer any more. In the hard moments I was thankful of God because I got a daughter. I expect than when my turn arrives everything will be OK. Hugs for everyone." <ChristianityToday> Sep28 Perth's Anglican Archbishop Roger Herft declared support for homosexual bishops on the grounds that the Church had 'rejected' the gay and lesbian people too long. Yet ten months ago Archbishop Herft condemned the election of the second openly homosexual Anglican bishop in the US. His sudden change of mind was blamed on the timing which in 2009 was not the right thing to do then. The 120-strong Traditional Anglican Communion of WA led by the Right Rev. Harry Entwistie who opposed appointment of gay bishop stating that homosexual sex was as immoral as promiscuous sexuality is set to join the Catholic Church. <TheWest> Sep20 MPs to have conscience vote on Euthanasia when PM Julia Gillard had the opportunity to table it in the Parliament soon. Euthanasia was first introduced in the Northern Territory fourteen years ago only to be overruled by the then PM, John Howard. Given the Green dominance in the senate and influence in the lower house, MP Bob Brown said, ''Rather than focusing on the economy, rather than focusing on Australian standard of living, the Greens will ensure that in their alliance with the Labor Party we are pursuing rabbits down every hole,'' he told ABC TV." <WAtoday.com.au> Sep11 Doctor banned by WA Medical Board for conducting prayer therapy after business hours. The case for her deregistration is being heard by the State Administrative Tribunal, which has the power to ban doctors from practising medicine for life. <PerthNow> Aug29 Make Way for The King is the newest CD album from Rob Scott & Victory Worship team recorded live at Victory Life Centre. Featuring songs include: But God! Make Way for The King, Take Us Higher and Lifter of My Head. <more> Aug26 Multicultural nation promoting itself as Truly Asia banned its Christian citizens from visiting Israel. Freedom of religion is enshrined in Malaysia's constitution, however the Muslim dominated government had made a blanket ban its citizens from visiting Israel. A growing unrest amongst Malaysian Christians is growing not only with this restriction but also on the free circulation of the Bible written in Bahasa for fear it would unduly influence Muslims to convert to Christianity. <more> Aug24 myChristiandaily launching on September 1, is the newest portal  for Australia and New Zealand serving the wider Christian community. As the publishers of Alive (incorporating DayStar) and Christian Woman, among other things,  myChristiandaily.com.au will not only have news updated during the day, but also carry magazine-style articles and profiles. The goal is to mix Christian news with articles on business, leadership, women, church, missions, and entertainment. Aug14 New Life City Church dedicated their new venue at Orrong Road, Kewdale attended by the mayor of Belmont City Council, Ps. Mike Keating (ACC), Ps. Benny Ho (AACN), congregation members, friends of NLCC and a good cross-section of pastors and leaders from Perth represented. Snr Pastor, YatWan Eu, together with NLCC pastors pledged themselves to minister the love of God to the community in practical ways and with renewed passion and commitment to transformation. Invited speaker, Ps Dominic Yeo of Trinity Christian Centre Singapore, encouraged the congregation to move from just being a church of potential to one with actual fulfillment, not to focus on immediate challenges but upon the promises of God. TCC in 2010 completed building on their new location featuring one 500-seat theatrette and a 300-seat santuary. Aug9 An international medical team were shot dead after Taliban claimed that they were Christian missionaries. Amongst the 8 foreigners and 2 Afghans was a Bristish dorctor, Dr Karen Woo, who holds a humanist viewpoint with no religious or political agenda, was due to be married this week. July22 CDP calls for Christian Crisis Meeting as the federal election draws close, an atheist Prime Minister and the growing influence of the Greens' anti-Christian agenda. With the slogan, If You Don't Act Now, Then When! and assurance that it is not fund-raising CDP is urging Christians to attend. Meeting will be held on Monday 26th July 7:30pm @Fox Lecture Theatre, UWA Register Now! July21 Family First calls for Christian Candidates as the dateline draws near (July 26th lodgment) for regislation. <email Linda Ross, Lead Candidate Family First WA> July9 Victorian Gays testing exemptions to Victoria's anti-discrimination laws. What started out as a plan to hold a youth camp at a resort on Phillip Island has turned into a three-year legal stoush over Victoria's anti-discrimination laws and it's come to a head at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal this week. <more> June 18 Former JI's Spiritual Head, Abu Bakar Bashir, on Police Trail for supplying arms to a para-military camp based in Aceh. Abu Bakar’s driver and security guard have already been arrested by anti-terror police during a series of raids in the past few months. Indonesian police are now waiting for the green light from “higher authorities” in the government to move against Abu Bakar. <theStarOnline> Read also An al-Qaeda-backed group in Malaysia has spread its tentacles into mosques and several non-governmental organisations June 18 Making Sense of the Racial Conflicts in Kyrgyzstan. The land-locked nation bordering China in the east and Russia in the north has a population of 5.5m comprising 70% Kyrgyz, 14% Uzbek and the rest made up of Russians, Germans, Koreans and other minor ethnic groups. Before becoming independent after the Soviet breakup the ethnic divides were kept under control by Moscow. After independent and with Europeans moving out the mainly rural Kyrgyz begun exerting its majority influence. The current conflict centres around the southern city of Osh which has a large Uzbek population and the city borders Uzbekistan. Even though the Kyrgyz and Uzbek are predominantly Muslims the racial divides appear more pronounced. Christians in Kyrgyzstan are identified with the minority ethnic groups but there is a growing Kyrgyz Church that has taken root. Though Kyrgyzstan is a democratic state the ruling party is pushing ahead with Muslim agendas in line with the aspirations of the majority Kyrgyz. As in Iran and Iraq the differences between two contending groups can easily spill over to attacks on minorities and Christians in particular as an excuse to bring solidality amongst Muslims. further readings: ChristianityToday, Wikipedia June 16 Proposed Green Bill will make Brothels Illegal in Residential Area. The 2008 Labor's prostitution law 'reform' exerts no regulation for brothers with fewer than three operators even in residential areas. Th WA Attorney-General Christian Porter warned of an "explosion" in micro brothels in residential areas if the Green Bill is not introduced. "There is nothing worse than a non-enforceable law - and police say they can't realistically enforce it. Councils can shut down the premises through misuse of property but it is hard (for them) because they are not the police. Street prostitution will be illegal and business operating as brothels will be highly regulated." source: Southern Gazette June 15 USD2.63mil Lunch with Warren Buffett. Since 2000, Warren Buffett has auctioned off lunches with himself to support a San Francisco nonprofit organization. Over the course of ten years, Buffett has brought in $5.9 million in donations through these charity auctions. According to Reuters, this year's auction has broken all previous records, bringing in a staggering $2.63 million for the Glide Foundation, an organization providing food, health care, housing and job training for San Francisco's homeless. June 4 Chinese Church to be Demolished for not "establishing a harmonious and judicial society." The Church is located in Linfen, amongst the world's worst polluted place according to Blacksmith Institute. Despite the gloom the Christians here have always considered themselves most 'liberated' given the openness the Church professes its faith. Therefore when this large church building was erected some years back it finally drew the attention of Beijing who then pressured the city officials to do something about its 'religious problem.' On March 4 the Church leaders were slapped with the notice of an impending demolition of the building. Church members are in the midst of their 120-Day Vigil of Prayer and Fasting which begun on April 13, 2010. watch video: "Esther pleas for release of her jailed parents, pastors of Linfen church" June 2 AG delayed R18+ Game Classification. Home Affairs Minister Brendan O'Connor said that, "Ministers have requested further analysis of community and expert views". Supporters of R18+ games soon speculated that the search for additional information was because of the "overwhelming response from gamers in the public consultation". It shows that over 98% of the 60,000 submissions received were in favour of the R18+ rating.  86% of total submissions came from retailer EB Games and the pro-R18+ organisation 'Grow Up Australia'. The vast majority of submissions were from males in the 18-34 years age category. It is obvious that the results of the R18+ consultation represent those of gaming interests, and not the broad community. This appears to be the reason the ministers are seeking additional information, thus scuttling the gaming industry's tactic of flooding the consultation with submissions. source: Australia Prayer Network May 31 Singapore's largest non-mainline church under state investigation. As it was expected to come after Pastor Kong Hee's 30,000-strong City Harvest Church made a bold purchase of half-share in a downtown conference centre early during the year the state authority had today sent their investigation team to crawl all over the church offices and homes of church administrators for alleged misuse of church funds despite denial by the authority that the two events are not related. The tall-poppy syndrome is very well and alive in Singapore too. What's next? A 40% Super Profit Tax for wealthy churches! <link> May 1 Use the Media in a positive way urges the Pope. Speaking at the Digital Witnesses: Faces and Languages in the Cross-Media Age conference, the pope exhorted followers to get online and provide a spiritual element to online communications. "I exhort you to walk the roads of the digital continent animated by the courage of the Holy Spirit. Without fear we want to set out upon the digital sea embracing the unrestricted navigation with the same passion that for 2,000 years has steered the Church." <video> Apr 22 Will Pentecostalism survives the next decade? Church historian and author of An Eyewitness Remembers the Century of the Holy Spirit, Vinson Synan, in his respond to ChristianityToday query had this to say, "Pentecostalism is into its second century, but it's still vigorous because it tends to renew itself every 30 or 40 years. If its leaders keep the excitement and the fire going intellectually and culturally, the movement will continue to grow." He added too that future transformational leaders will likely come from independent Pentecostal churches rather than from the Baptists or Presbyterians. <more> Apr 21 Canberra pulled the plug on Charter of Rights. Nor will it introduce rules for judges that would have required them to interpret legislation in a way they believe is in accordance with human rights. This would have gone beyond the current rule governing the way judges interpret statutes that may amount to a "back-door charter". ACL Jim Wallace said that the Government’s decision shows that they have listened to the genuine and valid concerns of a wide cross section of the Christian community on this issue, as well as the concerns of former governors general, High Court judges, retired generals and prominent politicians on both sides of politics, among others. Sources: The Australian, Australian Christian Lobby, The People's Charter Apr 19 The Pope, The Media, and the Sexual Abuse Scandals. Pope Benedict XVI has come under intense scrutiny over the last few weeks, regarding the sexual abuse scandals. This page seeks to set out the facts, in an attempt to rectify and combat some of the biased and incorrect media coverage that has surrounded this issue. Sexual abuse of children is a horrific crime. No coverage of this issue would be complete without a frank acknowledgement of the errors that have been made in the handling of child sexual abuse cases in the past. Pope Benedict XVI has apologised on behalf of the entire Catholic Church, and met with victims in several countries. At the same time, it is important to recognise the extraordinary efforts that the Church now goes to assist victims of sexual abuse in their healing, to remove offenders from positions of responsibility, and to safeguard children in our institutions and parishes. <more> Mar 25 Crime Capital Paused During Intense Prayer when 4,000 worldwide intercessors covering the city in prayer 24/7last week. Ciudad Juarez in Mexico had the notoriety of being “the most violent zone in the world outside of declared war zones” would average 30 incidents on a normal day. Juarez is a major center of narcotics trafficking linked to the powerful Juarez Cartel made worse with complexity from the police and politicians. Ed Silvoso reported that only 1 murder happened on the first day of the prayer campaign and 2 murders each day following. "We ministered to pastors overseeing 500 churches, and to 25 captains of industry, followed by an instructional challenge to 300+ top influencers who had never heard the full Gospel before."   Mar 5 Britain making haste to un-Great itself -Christians who want to be Christians are demoted or fired -Legislation to criminalise Christian speech and practise whilst gay and muslim rights are protected -Muslim heading BBC religion broadcasting Watch this CBN's broadcast It is one thing to pass a law that permits evil but it is something more to pass a law that compels evil.  We have not been here before in a civilised society. (submitted by Dr L Dunjey) There is one thing higher than Royalty: and that is religion, which causes us to leave the world, and seek God. Queen Elizabeth (1923) Feb 15 Riverview Churchis still growing with life even without their senior pastor, Phil Baker, since June 2009 when he underwent a major surgery and now in recuperation. Ps Phil had over the years instilled leadership skills onto his staff members and these have handsomely paid off through their loyalty, commitment and teamwork during his absence. The leadership team under Ps Haydn Nelson, Executive Minister, is keeping very close to the ethos of Riverview with their usual practical teaching and lively worship (some observers even mentioned of added spiritual dimension to it all) that not only kept the regulars coming back but had also drawn in several newcomers to their regular services. The Christian community in the city at large is missing Phil Baker who had in the past had been a significant contributoer in city-wide campaigns and for his leadership and vision-castings. Ps Phil, the Church in Perth is praying for your full recovery. Thanks be to Jesus Christ, the builder of His Church (Matthew 16:18), for jealously guarding one of His own in Perth. Jan 31 HAITI, A NATION IN MOURNING I cannot recall a nation on earth who had suffered so much loss than the earthquake on Jan 13 that had wrought on Haiti, the poorest nation in the western hemisphere with a population of 9 millions. A New York Times journalist on site had this to report, “For most of the past 20 hours I’ve been hiking the earthquake-rubbled streets of Port-au-Prince. Tuesday night, when we had less idea of the scope of the devastation, there was singing all over town: songs with lyrics like “O Lord, keep me close to you” and “Forgive me, Jesus.” Preachers stood atop boxes and gave impromptu sermons, reassuring their listeners in the dark: “It seems like the Good Lord is hiding, but he’s here. He’s always here.” Why, then, turn to a God who seems to be absent at best and vindictive at worst? Haitians don’t have other options. The country has a long legacy of repression and exploitation; international peacekeepers come and go; the earth no longer provides food; jobs almost don’t exist. Perhaps a God who hides is better than nothing.” However, according to TV evangelist, Pat Robertson, God was actively engaging with the Haitians and the earthquake was the latest string of curse received by Haitians for a historical pact they made with the devil. He went on to add that perhaps a national spiritual re-awakening will grip the nation and something good will come out of it. May I suggest a more biblical view on this earthquake. It  is about a loving God who is stretching out his hands to us all the time whether in Port-au-Prince or in Perth. Jesus Christ was deeply moved in spirit and troubled when he was in the company of mourners after the death of Lazarus and he wept. Once there were some people who approached Jesus for His agreement on the just punishment given to a group of rebels by Pilate he shocked them in reply by telling them that they would likewise perish. He added that even those who were innocently found at the tower in Siloam when it all suddenly collapsed and crushed them to death were just as guilty and deserving death as all who lived in Jerusalem. Unless you repent, you will all perish. Luke 13:1-5 There is hope for all who are living, unless we repent and turn from our sinful ways and seek God we will suffer the same fate. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9). Letters to the Editor: ... you got to the heart of the matter in just a few short sentences with Luke 13:1-5. That scripture answers that age old theological/philosophical question framed with the faulty premise “why do bad things happen to “good” people” – the answer given by Jesus Christ invalidates the faulty premise of this perceived “innocence/goodness” and mercifully shifts its emphasis to a sovereign, holy and loving God who simply says all of us; whether we be Haitians or any other nationality:  “repent, lest you likewise perish”. Though you might think this too censorious, I contend that if the Haitians have made a “pact” with the devil - likes of Pat Robertson and his “Total Blasphemy Network” (TBN) have made an international treaty with him. He ought not to boast before the Lord – his own “earthquake” may be just around the corner. God is merciful and good, holy and just, and not desirous that any should perish – may God grant us the grace to believe this, come what may… R Moss, Parkwood Jan 29 Tower of Babel: Men's Unending Quest to be the Master of Universe Let us be clear that in creating mankind God had intended that we were to have pre-eminence over all His creation (Gen 1:26-28). The origin of sin happened when the serpert tricked Eve and Adam in believing that they could be like God simply by eating the fruit from the forbidden tree that would give them the knowledge of good and evil. By so doing they broke the only one rule God gave to them (Gen 2:16-17). Evil does not exist apart from God but when mankind chose to rebel through disobedience to God evil came alive. Ever since been ejected from the Garden of Eden mankind had struggled on to be their own master of the universe. Nothing is more pronounced in this quest than to build the tallest edifice that reaches out to the heavens. The Tower of Babel was the first attempt along this path and today the 828m tall Burj  Dubai  is mankind’s latest and boldest attempt.     Incidentally, building the tallest buildings often started well but ended in controversy, here are some examples: *Empire State Building, symbolic of the rising influence of New York, was completed at the depth of the Great Depression *World Trade Centre did enjoyed some years of glory but all that was taken away in matters of hours in 2001 *Kuala Lumpur’s Petronas twin towers were built as the economic meltdown hit Asia hardest in the 1990s and even today it is still considered by many as a white-elephant project - a legacy of the Malaysia Boleh can-do era of former PM Mahathir *Taipei’s 101 was to be the pride of Taiwanese in the face of growing world attention on mainland China but ever since its completion in 2004 the nation struggled to grow and the Global Financial Crisis just added to their woes On November 25th 2009 the Dubai government shocked the world with the announcement that it was asking creditors of Dubai World, a large state-owned conglomerate of companies and owner of Dubai Burj, for a six month standstill on debt repayments. There is a tree in the Garden of Eden which is called the Tree of Life. And the LORD God said, "The man has now become like one of us, knowing good and evil. He must not be allowed to reach out his hand and take also from the tree of life and eat, and live forever." So the LORD God banished him from the Garden of Eden to work the ground from which he had been taken. After he drove the man out, he placed on the east side of the Garden of Eden cherubim and a flaming sword flashing back and forth to guard the way to the tree of life. Genesis 3:21-24 The good news is that we can re-gain access to the Tree of Life (Rev 2:7,22ff). To be like God (Gen 3:5) as the serpent enticed Eve to do is in itself not a bad thing, in fact, we are urged to be imitators of God (Ephesians 5:1-2), but certainly we are at our own peril apart from God. Jan 27 Riots in Jos not Religious but Satanic and Criminal claimed the Anglican Archbishop, Benjamin Kwashi. "Why are Muslims and Christians unable to live together in peace on the Jos? Why is there a continuing recurrence of violence? What seems to be a recurring decimal is that over time, those who have in the past used violence to settle political issues, economic issues, social matters, intertribal disagreements, or any issue for that matter, now continue to use that same path of violence and cover it up with religion. We must pray against the powers of hell.", he writes in his hard-hitting article appearing in Christianity Today. Jan 19 Regionalised 'Allah' Illogical, Inconsistent and Untenable claimed Rev Jerry Dusing, head of Sabah SIB. the largest Malaysian founded Christian denomination as he rejected the directives coming from the Malaysian Prime Minister Department to resolve the issue that gripped the nation since Dec 31 High Court judgment. "The intended concession also goes against the spirit and intent of the Prime Minister's 1Malaysia concept of forging unity and harmony among all races and religions by mutual respect and acceptance," Rev Dusing said. Read also: Why I Use 'Allah' by Ps Eu Hong Seng Jan 8 Three Malaysian Churches fire-bombed early this morning in respond to the High Court ruling on Dec 31 regarding the use of the name, Allah, in church publications (see Jan 4 report below). A government-sanctioned march by Muslims in protest of this judgment had gone ahead today in Kuala Lumpur. Woman prayed outside the AOG Metro Tabernacle Church that was set on fire by arsonists. (source: Malaysian Insider) <more> SIB Church in Negre Sembilan latest church fire-bombed Jan 5 Singapore's former PM Lee (LKY) on the rise of evangelical Christians in Singapore: Most Chinese here are Buddhists or Taoists... I’m one of them, so it is a tolerant society. It says, whatever you want to believe, you go ahead. These youngsters, the educated ones, now they are all English-educated, their mother tongue is the second language. Therefore, they begin to read Western books... So they begin to question: What is this mumbo-jumbo, ancestors and so on? And then (there are) Christian groups who go out and evangelise. They catch them in their teens, when they’re malleable and open to suggestion. And they become very fervent evangelists themselves. My granddaughter is one of them. She’s now 28. My wife used to tell her (to look for someone to marry. But my granddaughter says) God will arrange it. They (evangelical Christians) know that if they get politically active, they will incite the Buddhists, the Taoists, the Muslims, the Hindus. (source: The Malaysian Insider) Jan 4 Chaos In the Name of Allah after the High Court of Malaysia ruled that the prohibition by the Home Ministry on a Catholic newsletter use of the name is constitutional. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak called for calm after Muslims demonstrated against the court ruling. Oppostion party PAS spiritual leader Datuk Nik Aziz Nik Mat, have reportedly said it was permissible for followers of Abrahamic faiths to use “Allah”. However, Nasharudin Mat Isa his deputy, disagreed, "The court decision is not only against the Constitution but it also goes against our faith, and this cannot be accepted". And among the governing party, Datuk Mukhriz Mahathir, a deputy minister in the administration of Prime Minister and the son of former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad had protested against the High Court ruling. Dr Mahathir himself has disparaged the judgment, calling for the use of “Allah” to be strictly governed lest it inflames the Muslims. However his daughter, Datuk Marina Mahathir, described those mourning the “loss” of the word “Allah” as 'idiots', "A confident Muslim will not walk into a church, hear a liturgy in Malay or Arabic where they use the word 'Allah' and then think that he or she is in a mosque. A confident Muslim knows the difference,” she wrote in her blog. <more> The word is derived from “The Sole Deity” in Semitic languages, which include Hebrew, Syriac, Aramaic, and pre-Islamic Arabic. Islam is a system of belief, not a race, nation or language. To equate everything Arabic with everything Islamic is misleading, as they are two different things. Plus if the authorities really did go to schools with Islamic curricula, they would know well that pagan Arabs, before the birth of Muhammad, called their gods Allah and goddesses Allat. Yes, it should be in your religious history textbooks. Look it up. Ruby Jakarta Post Dec 22 A house built during the time Jesus was living in Nazareth was unveiled by archaeologists just in time for Christmas. "They say if the people do not speak, the stones will speak," said a smiling Reverend Jack Karam of the nearby Basilica of the Anunciation, the site where Christian tradition says Mary received the angel's word. <more> Dec 16Evangelist Oral Roberts died at 91 from complication after a fall in his home. He was the founder of Oral Roberts University. Centred on healing Dr Robert had never felt comfortable with the label of a 'faith-healer'. He had been credited for bringing the charismatics into the mainstream and for the use of television as an evangelical tool. <more> God wants you well. God wants you prosperous. God wants you a whole person. Oral Roberts It was 1995, I was there at his church. He preached on "Let's go over to the other side". It was the story about Jesus sleeping in a storm (Lk 8:22-25). He demonstrated by sleeping on a pillow. The sermon is still so clear in my mind. Oral Roberts, I missed you. Rewards are installed for you in Heaven. Ps Allen Tan If God had not in his sovereign will raised up the ministry of Oral Roberts, the entire charismatic movement might not have occurred. Dr Jack Hayford Oral Roberts was a man of God, and a great friend in ministry. Just three weeks ago, I was privileged to talk to Oral on the telephone. During the short conversation, he said to me that he was near the end of his life's journey. I look forward to the day that I will see Oral and Evelyn Roberts again in heaven -- our eternal home. Dr Billy Graham Comments Received: While it is sad for his family at hid passing...your article should have given the other side to his ministry for a balanced view. His true legacy was to give to the church his twisted seed-faith heresy..the damage he caused to the true Gospel continues to go forth on Christian television today..this heresy has caused a lot of genuine people to fall away... So a little balance would be good for your readers on your web site and would show some integrity... Paul Harkins Dec 15 SMOG OVER CHINA The picture of Perth covered in smog this morning is reminiscent of the major cities in China. However the cause of the pollution in Perth is the result of bush fires which unlike China will only stay for a day or two. Imaging living in cities that are continued covered in ill-health air pollutants? At the UN climate change conference in Copenhagen yesterday China led the G77 in a mass walkout protesting against rich nations’ reluctance in providing adequate funding for developing nations to combat climate change. Ironically, China leads the world in carbon emission on a national scale and Australia has the dubious honour as the worst polluter on a per capita count. Australia has a sparse population with an enviable expanse of open space and oceans to minimise the effect of man-made air pollutants. China is living in borrowed time with their citizens who were willing in the past to trade-in clean air for material progress. As the Chinese get wealthier they are now demanding a healthier environment and expecting their government to take action. More than ever the 1.3 billion Chinese had to be steered beyond a culture of ever expanding production and consumption habits that lack social responsibility and accountability into a culture marked by higher ethical and social orders. Until a government and its bureaucracy begin acting responsibly with enlightened social conscience it is unlikely to see the citizenry moved to take on the higher callings in life. The same can be said of countries like Myanmar and Malaysia.               Timothy Tay Righteousness makes a nation great; sin is a disgrace to any nation. (Proverbs 14:34) Related Links: Blue skies are very rare in Hong Kong today China shutdown its largest church Malaysia's claim exclusivity for 'Allah' now under question Herft in No Mood for Gay Ordination WA Anglican's Archbishop Roger Herft condemned the election of a lesbian assistant bishop by the Los Angeles Episcopal Diocese, a part of the worldwide Anglican communion. 'Similar move would not have been allowed to happen in WA', Herft was reported to have said on Dec 8, 2009 edition of The West Australian, "The US body had gone against the Anglican global covenant created at last year's Lamberth Conference, which asked that a moratorium be placed on the election of gay people to senior positions in the Church until the matter had been debated further." Archbishop Herft's public denouncement of appointment of known gay in church leadership is to be balanced with his article on the subject posted on the July 4, 2006 edition of Sydney Morning Herald that may appear that he is comfortable with such appointment. In the article titled, “Love and generosity should guide Anglicans”, he wrote, “The church of God called into being by the act of Christ must be particularly careful in its judgements and its exclusions - for, as Jesus reminds those whom he chooses, we are not called to respect or tolerate each other - but to love one another, particularly those we determine to be the "enemy". The heat is on. The gay and lesbian person is placed on the altar - the presenting cause of schism. While the church beats itself into a frenzy it may easily forget that its primary vocation is to love, to make judgements without deeply loving is to hate, and hate is a cycle that leaves the cross standing powerless - without resurrection.” Welcome the sinner and show him or her the Way to sin no more. Scripture: John 8:1-11 Woman caught in adultery Related article: Churches and Charities can discriminate against gay people Dec 2 Johnny Lee Clary, from Persecutor to Reconcilator. A frequent visitor to Perth, Johnny Lee Clary, has formerly taken up the role of an evangelist in a predominated black denomination, Church of God in Christ (COGIC). It will make a 'huge statement that the former national imperial wizard of the Ku Klux Klan would join the Church of God in Christ and reach out with the Church of God in Christ to bring racial reconciliation to America', says Lee Clary, "we want to take this back to where it was when William Seymour (a black) and the Azusa Street Revival was happening, when blacks and whites were together. This is what's needed for this nation now to overcome racism." He went on to add, "I know the answer to racial reconciliation, and that's Jesus Christ. They all come to me, even secular people are saying, ‘What changed you?' I tell them, ‘The only thing that changed me was the Word of God.' Because when I accepted Christ ... I had to get my mind renewed, and that was through God's Word." <more> watch J Lee Clary interview on Enough Rope Dec 1 Liquor shop go-ahead despite residents protest against Belmont Council. The councillors claimed that their hands were tied as the location was zoned commercial. There are many Aboriginal people in Rivervale where the shop is to be sited. Aboriginal Val Woods, citing health and social concerns, pleaded during public uestion time for the bottle shoop not to be approved, saying it would lead to distress for local families. She spoke of the heartace of calming down family members when they hd too much to drink. (Southern Gazette) Nov 23 'Coma' man found to be concious after 23 years shocked the medical and ethical thinkers. The Belgian man was wrongly diagnosed as in coma when he was in fact concious even though he could not communicate. "I would scream, but no sound would come out,'' he said. "I will never forget the day they finally discovered what was wrong - it was my second birth.'' more Nov 2 Riverview Church celebrating 30th year anniversary. Originally founded in Dec 1979 as ‘Inner Faith Fellowship’ in Dec 1979 when its first meeting was held in a hall in Belmont and today it is located at a strategic site in Burswood, Joodalup and Cockburn Sound. Events to mark the anniversary celebration will be held between Nov 27 -29. Wayne Alcorn will be speaking at the church on Nov 29. more Oct 22 Dissident Anglicans becoming Catholics, Perth Archbishops expressed their views. The West Australian reported today that Catholic Archbishop Barry Hickey welcomed the move but said new members would have to identify first and foremost as Catholics. Anglican Archbishop Roger Herft also welcomed the development, claiming it would not make a serious dent on Anglican membership as "Anglicans have a particular understanding of authority . . . There have been questions marks about papal authority." Ed. Not surprising that these were the viewpoints expressed by the head shepherds of two major flocks within the Church in Perth, one expressing the arching need to identify to the denomination and the other expressing a tinge of indifference to the unhappy situation that had caused the move. Herft also credited to have said, “I think we need to bless them and help them to move on without feeling disgruntled.” Pray that he may have even more grace for those disgrunted who had chosen to stay. Oct 20 Three leading pastors of Perth churches are sharing time on the same pulpit in a single morning service on Sunday Oct 25 as a declaration of unity in spirit and in the truth. Pastors Margaret Court of Victory Life Ctr, John McElroy of Churchlands CC and David Storer of Perth CLC with combined church membership of over 5000 have together being leading regular pastoral prayer sessions in Perth for about a year now. Oct 9 Hey Hey skit went awry. What started as a light-hearted reunion for five talented individuals for a repeat of a performance done 20 years ago on the same show had now become an international embarrassment for Australia because of its racial overtone even though it was clearly not in the performers’ intent. Could we have stepped backward in openness and tolerance as a cabinet minister appeared to have lamented over the unwanted attention? Or is this a lingering Australian racial heritage that had became sublimated but nevertheless a real and present threat to the progress and peace that the nation is enjoying? If there is a final word of advice on this saga it may well come from Kamahl, a much adored singer who emigrated to Australia from Malaysia - “Hey Hey is devoid of wit and desperate. It’s toilet humour and it should be flushed.” Sep 30 Church collapse in Nepal in the midst of a conference killing 23 and injuring dozens. <more> Dec 1 Liquor shop go-ahead despite residents protest against Belmont Council. The councillors claimed that their hands were tied as the location was zoned commercial. There are many Aboriginal people in Rivervale where the shop is to be sited. Aboriginal Val Woods, citing health and social concerns, pleaded during public uestion time for the bottle shoop not to be approved, saying it would lead to distress for local families. She spoke of the heartace of calming down family members when they hd too much to drink. (Southern Gazette) Nov 23 'Coma' man found to be concious after 23 years shocked the medical and ethical thinkers. The Belgian man was wrongly diagnosed as in coma when he was in fact concious even though he could not communicate. "I would scream, but no sound would come out,'' he said. "I will never forget the day they finally discovered what was wrong - it was my second birth.'' more Nov 2 Riverview Church celebrating 30th year anniversary. Originally founded in Dec 1979 as ‘Inner Faith Fellowship’ in Dec 1979 when its first meeting was held in a hall in Belmont and today it is located at a strategic site in Burswood, Joodalup and Cockburn Sound. Events to mark the anniversary celebration will be held between Nov 27 -29. Wayne Alcorn will be speaking at the church on Nov 29. more Oct 22 Dissident Anglicans becoming Catholics, Perth Archbishops expressed their views. The West Australian reported today that Catholic Archbishop Barry Hickey welcomed the move but said new members would have to identify first and foremost as Catholics. Anglican Archbishop Roger Herft also welcomed the development, claiming it would not make a serious dent on Anglican membership as "Anglicans have a particular understanding of authority . . . There have been questions marks about papal authority." Ed. Not surprising that these were the viewpoints expressed by the head shepherds of two major flocks within the Church in Perth, one expressing the arching need to identify to the denomination and the other expressing a tinge of indifference to the unhappy situation that had caused the move. Herft also credited to have said, “I think we need to bless them and help them to move on without feeling disgruntled.” Pray that he may have even more grace for those disgrunted who had chosen to stay. Oct 20 Three leading pastors of Perth churches are sharing time on the same pulpit in a single morning service on Sunday Oct 25 as a declaration of unity in spirit and in the truth. Pastors Margaret Court of Victory Life Ctr, John McElroy of Churchlands CC and David Storer of Perth CLC with combined church membership of over 5000 have together being leading regular pastoral prayer sessions in Perth for about a year now. Oct 9 Hey Hey skit went awry. What started as a light-hearted reunion for five talented individuals for a repeat of a performance done 20 years ago on the same show had now become an international embarrassment for Australia because of its racial overtone even though it was clearly not in the performers’ intent. Could we have stepped backward in openness and tolerance as a cabinet minister appeared to have lamented over the unwanted attention? Or is this a lingering Australian racial heritage that had became sublimated but nevertheless a real and present threat to the progress and peace that the nation is enjoying? If there is a final word of advice on this saga it may well come from Kamahl, a much adored singer who emigrated to Australia from Malaysia - “Hey Hey is devoid of wit and desperate. It’s toilet humour and it should be flushed.” Sep 30 Church collapse in Nepal in the midst of a conference killing 23 and injuring dozens. <more> Set 21 Riverview Church's Phil Baker has moved to a clinic connected to the hospital after making genuine progress since his surgeries in June. Medical specialists are pleased with his improvement. However, they have re-affirmed that the recovery will take significant time. As an indication of the recovery time the popular Phil Baker-led Business Leaders Breakfast which was re-scheduled for June 2010 had to be postposed indefinitely. For the latest update please click here. Sep 18 Help Us Re-shape the Abortion Debate, ACL Appeal. Last Saturday the Weekend Australian Magazine ran a moving front cover picture of a premature baby born at 23 weeks gestation. The cover line said: For Dear Life Babies born at just 23 weeks can now be saved, but they risk severe disability. Has medical science gone too far? Because babies older than this are killed by abortion, we believe a more appropriate question is Has abortion gone too far? We have designed this advertisement for tomorrow’s Weekend Australian newspaper. Financial support from the groups listed on the bottom of the advertisement has made it possible for the ad to run nationally. Please buy a copy of The Weekend Australian, cut out the advertisement and post it with a letter to your local State and Federal Member of Parliament. You might tell them: That you oppose abortion To work to find ways to support women with unsupported pregnancies, rather than offering abortion as the first choice That they reduce its frequency and immediately ban late term and partial birth abortion To recognise that every abortion takes the life of an unborn baby You can find your State Members here (addresses are on websites) WA - http://www.parliament.wa.gov.au/web/newwebparl.nsf/iframewebpages/Members Addresses for Federal Members can be found here. Society is in denial about the reality and tragedy of abortion for babies and for women who carry the grief of abortion. If you follow this compelling advertisement up with action to your State member and encourage friends to do so as well, this would help create a ‘tipping point’ on abortion in this country. Obviously these advertisements are expensive and despite the generosity of the groups involved, not all of our costs are covered. If you would like to contribute to the cost of this advertisement, please click here to make a secure online donation. God bless Jim Wallace AM Managing Director Sep 7 Jesus All About Life Banner Campaign had kick started with 100s of banners around Perth helping to build awareness of the name of Jesus across NSW and WA. The ads are contemporary and focus on real issues that people face. Attention too will be drawn to related events running across the WA communities <more>. Sep 5 Whilst Kaka, World Player '07, acknowledges that Argentina's Barcelona player, Messi, is the best soccer player in the world today, he is optimistic this weekend clash between Brazil and Argentina will go in favour of Brazil as pressure built up on Diego Maredona-led Argentinian side to perform well after dismal lead-ups. Kaka is rarely off the lime-light and his faith in Jesus Christ too goes hand-in-hand with his soccer stardom even to the extend that soccer-governing body FIFA is planning to clampdown on overt religious displays <more>. Aug 26 AG Assured Prostitution Amendment Act 2008 Non-Operative. AG Christian Porter in respond to a letter from the public re-affirmed the WA government stand, "At the time the State election was called this Act had not been proclaimed. Consequently, it has not come into operation and the State Government does not intend that it ever will. Work is currently underway to develop new legislation governing prostituion which will provide a strong regulatory and enforcement framework which meets the undertakings given by the Government during the last election. The legislation will provide mechanisms for controlling the spread of brothels and strong penalties for illegal involvement in prostitution." Aug 21 Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ECLA) voted today to open the ministry of the church to gay and lesbian pastors and other professional workers living in committed relationships. The action came by a vote of 559-451 at the highest legislative body of the 4.6 million member denomination. <more> related view: Heavenly displeasure over church's decision Aug 7 Rivaval has come to South Africa according to evangelist Rodney Howard-Browne as the nation caught in the grip of soccer's World Cup fever as the nation plays host in 2010, "In 30 years now of ministry, I've never seen anything like this in my life. What is happening here is everything that I prayed for in America," Howard-Browne said. "I don't know why God did it here first." <more> Aug 1 ALP party-cardholders gathered in Sydney to consider amongst other issues one centering on 'liberalising' defnition of marriage, in short, inclusion of same-sex couples. PM Kevin Rudd personally opposed it but the sentiments of his party's leadership team appear to move the other direction. Ed: In an article, Same sex marriage, an experiment we will live to regret, Australian Prayer Network warns, "Advocates of same-sex marriage say marriage is a private affair between two consenting adults, regardless of gender. Therefore, gay marriage is all about ending discrimination. It's a sweet idea, this notion that marriage is just private love sealed by the state. The state has always protected marriage because, in a nutshell, it guarantees society's future. The state has a long history of defending traditional marriage not because it likes to put its stamp of approval on love affairs but because of its institutional value: marriage has withstood the test of time as the best way to rear the next generation." Breaking News: ALP caucus decided to keep marriage as union between a male and a female, however, with a possible change in position in the future. Jul 15 Nine Malaysian Christians arrested for trying to convert Muslim university students - a serious crime punishable by prison in this Muslim-majority country. Proselytising of Muslims by members of other religions is forbidden in Malaysia, though the reverse is allowed. Muslims, who comprise nearly two-thirds of Malaysia's 28 million people, are also not legally permitted to change religion. <ST reports> Jun 21 Hon. John Howard will be the speaker for this year's Menzies Lecture to be held on 26 Aug. He will be addressing the proposed Charter of Rights. Jun 16 A biology program originally approved in the Australian state of New South Wales to teach public schoolchildren about the “Wonder of Life” before birth has been banned because of its creator's connections to pro-life groups. <more> Jun 12 Phil Baker, snr pastor of Riverview Church, underwent surgery for the removal of a spherical tumour located in the back left of his brain. Haydn Nelson, the acting Executive Minister, who contacted the body of Christ in Perth to pray on their church's behalf had this to add, " The coming days will have both tears and laughter and, no matter what the future holds, we are ready to walk this journey of faith with Phil and Heather." Join 3000+ 'Praying for Phil Baker' @Facebookready to walk this journey of faith with Phil and Heather." May 25 Don’t Leave us with the Bill: The Case Against an Australian Bill of Rights published by the Menzies Research Centre, WA book launch comprising a range of essays by Australians of different ages and backgrounds making the case against an Australian bill or charter of rights. Contributors include former Prime Minister John Howard, Professor James Allan, Professor Helen Irving, Senator George Brandis, Cardinal George Pell and ACL Managing Director Jim Wallace. The book will be launched by Member for Bateman, the Hon Christian Porter MLA, on Wednesday 27 May 2009 at the Constitution Centre of Western Australia. For further details including RSVP arrangements click here. Michelle Pearse, ACL WA State Director May 15 Charter of Human Rights will effectively transfer responsibility for our values on human rights from elected Parliamentarians to unelected judges. The repercussion on the Church of similar legislation in a number of countries had resulted in judges imposing 'rights' granted to gays, tobacco and pornography interest groups and opening up Christian schools to employment and teaching that may contradict the teachings of the Church. Check out www.makeastand.org.au for more information. May 7 Obama's political correctness had the President missed out hosting the National Day of Prayer (NDOP). However, two African-American ministers prayed at the White House today, even though it led to their arrest. Both were taken into custody briefly after holding a "prayer picket" outside the White House to publicly oppose the president’s decision not to participate in NDOP. (source: Charisam News) Apr 29 Christian Parliamentarians making an impact on WA politics claims a report by the Australian Christian Lobby (ACL). Unlike other states in Australia WA Christian politicians pack a bigger punch. They're in government, not Opposition, and they have the numbers. The group is being closely watched after putting Premier Colin Barnett on notice that integrity and moral certainties would guide their votes. Chief among them is Peter Abetz, an ordained minister of the Christian Reformed Church and the brother of right-wing Liberal senator Eric Abetz. He makes no bones about his intention to put his Christian values first, even if it means breaking ranks. ACL's Jim Wallace says the "resurgence in Christian values" in WA was inevitable after the moral slide, misbehaviour and "unchristian legislation", such as permitting gay adoption, that surfaced in recent years. State Liberal Party president Barry Court adds another tier in the west. Deeply involved in Victory Life church run by his wife and former tennis great Margaret Court, he has long called for a greater focus on conservative morality in politics. <more> Apr 20 Egyptian Man Receives Certificate of Conversion from the Coptic Church for the first time in Egypt. This is a very significant development in the ongoing debate on the right to change one’s religion on Egyptian ID cards. Other Muslim dominated countries like Malaysia shared laws to prevent conversion from Muslim faith to others. The Coptic Church in Egypt, which is one of the oldest branches of Christianity in the world, would not comment on Gohari’s case specifically, but said, "In general, the church cannot turn away anyone who reaches out to it, otherwise it would be abandoning one of its roles as a church." <more> Apr 1 Bobby Michaels Now in Heaven. Musician, trainer and missionary, Bobby Michaels, who was to minister in Perth last week had succumbed to a heart attack while in Cambodia and passed away peacefully in a hospital in Thailand. <more> Mar 20 Archbishop Hickey wins case against The West. A report in The West Australian branding the Archbishop as a hypocrite was settled amicably after a visit from the new chief editor of the newspaper to his office. The West Australians formally printed its regret for causing hurt and offence to the archbishop in circumstances where he, as a public figure, was merely upholding the teachings of his Church. The settlement includes a donation to a Catholic charity. Mar 16 President Obama's Pastoral Team. Past U.S. President identified closely in times of need with a single man of God, most notably, with Rev Billy Graham for a number of them. Just couple of months at the Oval office the President has already sought prayer and counsel from five pastors though on separate occasions. The pastors are notable leaders which include Rev Jim Wallis and Rev T D Jakes, however, all are considered evangelical-conservative in their expression of Christian faith. <source: The NYT> Mar 14 Name of God copyrighted for exclusive use of Malay Muslims. A leading state in Malaysia, Selangor, has imposed a ban on a popular Indonesian gospel song, Allah Peduli or God Cares, because the use of the name of God would confuse Muslims. Offenders faced fines of RM1,000 under the Non-Muslim Religious Enactment 1988. <more> Read also "Malaysia Christians battle with Muslims over Allah" by Int'l Herald Tribune Mar 12 Prayer helped Sanderson Farms to weather the economic storm which saw their biggest rival falling into Chapter 11. The Sanderson management prayed before deciding whether to lock in future feed prices and felt led not to do so which eventually saved them from the fate of their nearest rival who had made the decision to lock into future pricings. <more> Mar 07 Family First WA have informed that State Director, Mike Keating, and a board member, David Bolt, have made the decisions to resign from the board. Linda Rose, the interim chair, informed members that their contributions over the past four years that have greatly helped the party. Also annoounced is the appointment of Mr Bob Day AO from South Australia as the new National Chairperson. Family First is hoping to have their first Senator elected in the coming Federal Election. Feb 12 Elder Shirley Wynne, a much-loved elder in the Noongar community, had gone with the Lord this morning after succumbing to cancer. In 2007 she led the indigenous community in prayer for reconciliation during the Global Day of Prayer at Challenge Stadium. In 2008 on the National Day of Thanksgiving she declared that Australia is ready for revival. Her son, Eric, is a former ATSIC Commissioner and stood as a candidate for Senate during the last Federal election. read also Apology Brings Positive Change, from Paternalism to Partnership, Jan 28 A Christian school that teaches a biblical view of creation has been cleared of breaching state curriculum requirements for the teaching of evolution. The NSW Board of Studies has found that Pacific Hills Christian School  has met its requirements for teaching the science syllabus, including evolution. The board said it had not substantiated a complaint about how science was taught at the school. Its investigation involved an assessment by the school's overseeing body, Christian Schools Australia, and its own inspection of curriculum and teaching materials. (source: APN ) Jan 27 Evangelicals embracing "Local Church". Following the confession in 1997 of Local Church founder, Witness Lee, a disciple of Watchman Nee, that they were wronged in separating their movement from the broad evangelical ecumenical fellowship a number of American church leaders have extended their right hands of fellowship to the Local Church. In Australia, the Local Church draws most of its membership from resident Chinese and Chinese students from abroad with chapters in major Australian cities. To date, there is no evidence the Local Church is making effort to embrace the wider church community and likewise for the wider church community to extend their right hands of fellowship to the Local Church. (ED. Except for the similarity in the name, Churchinperth.com has no link with the Perth's Local Church website, churchinperth.org., except in the belief, I hope we do share, that as Jesus Christ looks down from heaven into the sea of humanity living in our city, our Lord sees His church as one (John 17), and may we in turn respond in spirit and in truth to the builder of the Church (Matt 16:18)) Jan 6 Warning: Religious Freedom does not equate to Human Rights A “freedom of religion” project sounds good until you realise what is meant. Last year the Australian Human Rights Commission told a Senate inquiry that “the rights to religious freedom and to gender equality must be appropriately balanced in accordance with human rights principles.” Here balanced really means restricted. The body which is supposed to defend our human rights is actually proposing to limit our right to religious freedom. <more>