It's a big secret and we don't have much information, but apparently SIRS (Stamford Integrated Refugee Services) is welcoming Syrian refugees to Stamford today! https://www.facebook.com/fccstamford
"An update and URGENT request from our SIRS action team.... (4/17/16)
Our
Syrian family is coming to Stamford in ten days. We are delighted to
have secured the apartment for them and are thankful that the
Westchester Refugee Task Force has gotten the furniture and some
household goods to furnish it..." read more at https://www.dropbox.com/s/vl0yl833ctaj21q/SIRS_wants_and_wish_list.xls?dl=0
Details are scant, but the mother organization IRIS (Integrated Refugee & Immigrant Services) headquartered in New Haven, CT is sponsoring this campaign. http://www.irisct.org/index1.html Perhaps some news services will pick up this story for a news report, but I'm not holding my breath.
In the meantime, please join me in praying for non-muslims all over the world--especially Christians and Jews--who are being killed, tortured and obliterated by Muslim terrorists.
Americans need to know about this--and that means all of us.
(Additional link added 4/30/16) http://www.fccstamford.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Crossroads-April-2016.pdf
"SIRS group is prepared and funded (thanks to a $10,000 gift from an anonymous donor) to receive a refugee family in Stamford. Thank God that this group was able to organize themselves with representatives from and community groups in Stamford and get approved in record time!"
What does this mean? Who's involved?
God Bless You,
Rev. Barb
Dear Ones Healing Ministry (DOHM)
Dear Ones:
Unfortunately, information on this case is both slow in coming and is, apparently, being suppressed by the progressive liberal press.
Please -- whatever your race and political 'persuasion', suppress your anger and try not to let things get out of control.
I am taking my 'own advice', just so you know. I told my daughter last night, "I am ALMOST sorry about all of my 'civil rights work'."
She said, "Please--don't be that way".
I thought about it, and I really am 'trying not to be that way'.
But to hear of a WW II Okinawa WW II veteran beaten to death as so much 'fodder' for lowlifes who have no respect for life....I have to wonder.
I'm trying not to succumb to anger in this area where Progressive Liberalism and 'White Privilege Initiatives' prevail.
I'm trying to live the Gospel by not promoting vengeance and violence -- and by concentrating on my own 'spiritual self'.
Yet a little part of me wants to say to all good, law-abiding people, Christian or not, to not be lulled into some kind of karmic 'trance' believing that racial tension does not exist any more.
We are not in a 'post-racial period' and we have problems on the horizon, the likes of which we have not seen before in our fine country.
Join me in believing these words:
The Beatitudes
He said:
3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. 5 Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. 6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. 7 Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. 8 Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. 9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. 10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+5&version=NIV I pray for the eternal soul of Delbert Belton and his family and friends and for a humanity who has lost its way. Please join me. With Love in Christ, Rev. Barb
"The daughter of Rev. Jeremiah Wright, President Obama's controversial former pastor, has been accused of laundering money in an alleged $1.25 million fraud led by an ex-police chief in Illinois.
Jeri L. Wright, 47, was indicted by a federal grand jury Wednesday for
allegedly accepting $28,000 from former police chief Regina Evans and
her husband, ex-police officer Ronald Evans, for Wright's supposed work
related to the Evanses' not-for-profit program called We Are Our
Brother's Keeper. Approximately $20,000 of that money, however, found
its way back into bank accounts controlled by the Evanses, prosecutors
said.
According to a release from the Department of Justice,
Wright was playing a part in a scheme by the Evanses to misuse a $1.25
million state grant that had been awarded to the not-for-profit program
in 2009.
We Are Our Brother's Keeper was supposed to spend the money on training
up to 40 participants in bricklaying and electrical work at a Regal
Theater also owned by the Evanses, but the indictment alleges that
"little, if any, of the training provided in the grant agreement was
ever completed."
The Evanses have been charged with more than 10 fraud-related counts. In
addition to the alleged money laundering, Wright stands accused of
making false statements to federal law enforcement officers and lying to a grand jury. If convicted, Wright could face potentially decades in prison."
READ THE REST HERE: http://abcnews.go.com/Blotter/rev-jeremiah-wright-daughter-indicted-alleged-money-laundering/story?id=18932843#.UYaO-sqjscs
Dear Ones:
Heaven knows that the world of organized religion regularly 'sees' its share of gross illegalities and immoralities.
But this article about the Rev. Jeremiah Wright's daughter, Jeri L. Wright, got our attention.
You will recall that Wright is a major proponent of the 'Black Liberation Theology' and its follow-up 'white privilege programs', popular not only in his Chicago church, but here, as well, in the progressive liberal United Church of Christ And Unitarian Universalist churches in Connecticut and elsewhere.
The 'theme' of these 'paradigms' is not to 'unite', but to 'demonize and divide'.
Worse , the ultimate goal is to 'dominate' those who were former oppressors.
As if. As if that is a suitable solution, any more than 'white supremacism' is a suitable solution.
People need to get real!
Any movement set upon deliberately shredding and unraveling the racial fabric of the United States has historically been doomed to failure ever since the Civil War.
Somehow or another, Americans have managed to have the ''triumph of spirit' that allowed for this.
But I see a 'change' in the air. I see a country in all kinds of distress. And I see a complete 'system overload' on 'false dialogues on race'.
What might have started as reasonable dialogue has, thanks to the deadening overkill of 'political correctness', dissolved into silent resentment, fear, deceit and the bearing of false witness.
'Race communications' have fallen by the 'wayside' in the looming shadow of threats of terrorism, financial collapse and other 'quality-of-life horrors' so endemic in the United States today.
Worse, 'race conversations' that remain are being further obfuscated by those injecting 'Islamist' considerations them, in this day and age where everything revolves around 'terrorism'.
I say Americans need to 'reboot and reengage' on the race issue. We need to not 'give up' on discussions of race, because we are witnessing a decline in interracial civility, the likes of which we haven't seen in a long time.
But we have to keep it 'real', as I said. And the way to do that is to disregard all vestiges of the bogus 'political correctness' that have brought us to where we are today.
We can and should rationally observe the actions of those who abuse their 'positions of power' on ALL sides of the race debate, learn from them and vow to never 'do the same', ourselves.
We can 'say we've had enough' and choose to work for 'good', but only if we throw off the mantle of false speech, false pride and false doctrine. If you can't play this way, this is not for you, of course.
For all others, especially for those of the Judeo-Christian tradition and for those who do not purely wish to 'dominate others', I suggest this:
Let us subscribe to 'God Liberation Theology' first.
It's worth a shot.
God Bless You
With Love In Christ,
Rev. Barbara Sexton
"The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross" www.DearOnesHealingMinistry.blogspot.com
NEW VIDEO: Project Veritas Targets Gun Control Hypocrites
Jan152013
"After the high impact Voter Fraud investigation released
throughout 2012, Project Veritas, set its sights on top gun control
advocates to see how they felt when placed in the same position as our
nation's children – within a Gun Free Zone. Project Veritas' found, James O'Keefe remarked, "Our nation's
children spend the majority of their week within schools that are
starkly emblazoned with signs that read 'Gun Free Zone.' Project
Veritas put that same concept to the test with some of America's most
fervent advocates for gun control." Organizing as Citizens Against Senseless Violence, Project Veritas'
citizen journalists went door-to-door in New York, New Jersey and
Washington, D.C. to see which outspoken champions for Gun Control would
be willing to declare their own home as a "Gun Free Zone" by placing a
sign on their lawn. O'Keefe continued, "It's amazing to see members of our media
equivocate and contradict their spoken and written words when faced with
the dilemma to declare their own homes as Gun Free." READ THE REST HERE: http://www.theprojectveritas.org/node/152
Dear Ones:
Well, I don't know about any 'major' Muslim leaders, but I count one Muslim 'group' 'locally', at least, who has spoken up against the horrendous anti-American violence flaring up in the Middle East and all over the world.
That 'one group' is 'The Muslim Coalition of Connecticut'. I thank them for speaking forth: "Latest Announcements September 12, 2012" "The
Muslim Coalition of Connecticut strongly condemns the violent attacks
on American embassies in Egypt and Libya. Nothing is worth the cost of a
human life, and we firmly believe that there is no honor or faith in
committing such violence. We extend our deepest condolences to the
families of U.S. Ambassador Christopher Stevens and the other three
American personnel at this tragic time."
LINK: http://www.muslimcoalitionct.org/
This is a good start." But things have been largely silent about anything remotely related to caring about the United States of America, let alone non-Muslims in general.
American Muslims are as silent as they have been since 9/11. Except to attend a few 'interfaith Iftars' here and there, there is nothing.
They offer no real words of sympathy for the American lives lost due to Muslim extremists.
With Love in Christ-
Rev. Barbara Sexton
"The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross" www.DearOnesHealingMinistry.blogspot.com
photo courtesy: http://www.jihadwatch.org/2012/09/in-any-war-between-the-civilized-man-and-the-savage-support-the-civilized-man.html
Dear Ones:
Rather than emphasize the many 'negatives' about President Obama's response to and his 'handling of' the embassy killings in Libya, I will take a different course here. I praise our up and coming 'President Mitt Romney'.
I laud him for his appropriate, honorable and COURAGEOUS comments--amidst a sea of Progressive Liberal 'nay-sayers'--about the terrible PLANNED attacks on Ambassador Chris Stevens and others at United States embassies around the world.
Here in 'liberal Connecticut', as elsewhere, I urge all peoples of 'good faith'....those who love America and those who seek to work for true JUSTICE...to have the COURAGE OF THEIR CONVICTIONS and thus vow to protect this United States of America. We cannot ignore obvious truths.
It is time to wake up...and it is time to pray, as we seek to avoid violence whenever and wherever possible.
With Love In Christ,
Rev. Barbara Sexton
"The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross" www.DearOnesHealingMinistry.blogspot.com
Progressive-Lib Political Stuff by those too lazy or too corrupt to look for the truth, who ask me (formatting 'as is'):
Dear Reverend Barbara,
You appear to be a wacky reverend with a wacky website that supports a candidate who likes wacky tabacky. Just what is a biblical biochemist? And why are you Lately of the UCC-United Church of Christ (the Obama/Reverend Jeremiah Wright church)? Does Robert "I Got High And Forgot To Vote" Merkle attend your church and get spiritual advice and counseling from you? (Anonymous from Westport Roundup)
"All
that pious religious bulls--t he spews…at the end of the day, that’s
not him. That’s what his parents and his pastors have drilled into his
head from the day he was born. The kid doesn’t even know who he really
is. When you’re indoctrinated with religion from birth, and you commit
your life to the all-consuming sport of football, there isn’t much time
left for true self-discovery. If he is in fact gay, he may not know it.
Even if he does, chances are slim he’d be comfortable telling his
mother…or pastor…let alone us.
If Tebow is gay, he is buried beneath so much crap he many never get out
from under it. Instead of attacking him for it, maybe reaching out a
helpful hand would be nice. Don’t get me wrong, he’s still a crappy
quarterback. But all that “my lord and savior Jesus Christ” stuff…could
be Tebow’s cry for help.
So I’m gonna lay off Tim a little. If he is in fact gay, and if he does
in fact ever figure that out, he’s going to need all the support he can
get."
LINK: http://outsports.com/jocktalkblog/2012/01/12/is-tim-tebow-gay/ Dear Ones: Oh, boy. We will need a lot of healing here, as we consider the simple question: Is Tim Tebow gay?
I feel this is his business, but anti-Christian bigots' are attacking poor Tim for his Christianity by attempting to 'out' him online.
I wonder what 'Hammerman Jews' have to say about about this?
Do they believe it will 'help' their 'gay marriage industry' somehow?
This seems like pretty poor treatment at the hands of the LGBT community of 'one of their own', if their assertions are correct about Tebow.
But I believe (hope) these LGBT Christianophobes are relatively few in number and are merely 'guessing' about Tim's sexual orientation, which they are using as justification to taunt and be cruel to him as only they can be to their 'own'.
I've seen something akin to this before in churches--gays attempting to 'out' closeted gays in order to fatten their ranks for one socio-political reason or others--thinking this was 'okay'.
Well, it wasn't okay and some people needed to be protected.
And this public bullying is over the top, in my opinion.
But circumstantially, at least, it looks like Tim's 'outing' by the LGBT community is intended to serve as his 'punishment' for being 'too religious'.
This is horrible. And while I feel sorry for decent gays who do NOT engage in this type of thing with their brothers and sisters IN the religious community...and outside of it...I also believe it is incumbent upon them to make things right-
Unless this is merely what now passes as 'acceptable' amongst Progressive Liberals in America today.
Blessings-
Rev. Barbara Sexton
"The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"
Rev. Kate Heichler (photo http://interfaithcouncil.net/books.aspx ) The amazing silence of the Interfaith Council of SW CT on Rabbi Joshua Hammerman's (Temple Beth El) shenanigans. What say you, Council 'Steering Committee' listed below? Your silence is deafening! The Rev. Kate Heichler,The Rev. Michael Hyman, Rabbi Joshua Hammerman, Mr. Duane Hill, The Rev. Cari Jackson (formerly Sr. Pastor of FCC Stamford, suddenly 'gone'), The Rev. Tommie Jackson, Ms. Debra Katz,The Rev. Mark Lingle, The Rev. Douglas McArthur, The Rev. Juan Paniagua,The Rev. LeRoy Parker, Ms. Marie Orsini Rosen,Ms. Eileen Swerdlick, The Rev. Mary Thies LINK: http://interfaithcouncil.net/books.aspx :
http://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Members-of-all-faiths-gather-in-support-of-Islam-630355.php Dear Ones: This is upsetting, yes, but it is hardly surprising in liberal Stamford, CT that this type of thing should originate here. But, Rabbi Joshua Hammerman of Temple Beth El recently 'went off', as many Progressive Libs are wont to do as if it is their birthright. He raled on 'those not like himself'...and on those who do not hold to 'his particular social justice values'. The Rabbi's blog is called, ironically, 'On One Foot: Joshua Hammerman's Blog. Unfortunately Rabbi Josh, you don't have a FOOT to stand on with your anti-Christian rant. LINK:http://joshuahammerman.blogspot.com I am very used to hearing from religious leaders with Rabbi Hammerman's mindset, especially ever since he played a major role in some ill-conceived interfaith shenanigans in the 'interfaith community'. LINK: http://dearoneshealingministry.blogspot.com/2010/08/shariah-law-preached-from-stamford.html But recently, Rabbi Hammerman's blew it bigtime! Even I was surprised when he decided to zero in on all moderate/conservative CHRISTIANS in a very unkind (and weird) way by saying,
"If Tebow wins the Super Bowl, against all odds, it will buoy his
faithful, and emboldened faithful can do insane things, like burning
mosques, bashing gays and indiscriminately banishing immigrants." WHAT IN HEAVEN'S NAME ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT, RABBI JOSH HAMMERMAN? HAVE YOU LOST YOUR MIND? Not surprisingly, 'Jewish Week' pulled Rabbi Hammerman's article and the good Rabbi offered an 'apology'. LINK: http://content.usatoday.com/communities/gameon/post/2011/12/jewish-week-apologizes-for-anti-tebow-column-by-rabbi-tim-tebow-denver-broncos-rabbi-joshua-hammerman/1 not because they wanted to, but because they had to. Popular outrage saw to that. Be that as it may, it is worthwhile for people of ALL faiths (as well as for all atheists/agnostics) to educate themselves about the anti-Christian/anti-religion bigotry that is running rampant today. I, myself, never realized that Rabbi Josh was such a Christianophobe. He certainly successfully hid it from me in the 22+ years I have been acquainted with him via the faith community. But do draw your own conclusions. May God grant us the ability to live together peaceably, if it is at all possible. To my fellow Christians, I say learn and be wiser. Then do as Jesus would do. Be smart about those who intend us harm and be as agreeable and understanding as possible with those who are 'different than ourselves'. Forgive Rabbi Josh Hammerman and sin not as he has in thought, mind, word and deed. With Love In Christ Rev. Barbara Sexton "The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross" www.DearOnesHealingMinistry.blogspot.com See: http://joshuahammerman.blogspot.com/ See also: http://biggovernment.com/jdunetz/2011/12/14/the-tim-tebow-hating-rabbi-and-progressive-bigotry/
Please excuse my recent extended 'absence', which has been due to Hurricane Irene'. I've been very busy and will be, yet, for a while.
But I have some stories, photos, videos and more to share with you as soon as things settle down. I also have some 'comments' about CL&P's 'service' to the Connecticut Community, but all that can wait! Suffice it to say that with all the 'anti-Tea Party sentiments and vocalizations' being expressed by our brothers and sisters in UNIONS EVERYWHERE during this past horrible week and continuing now...we will certainly be having some vital 'discussions' in the days to come. Surely we TEA PARTY PATRIOTS will be asking why 'once-necessary and well-intentioned' UNIONS have become the 'new war mongers' (President Barack Obama's Self-Proclaimed ARMY, no less!) of the United States...clearly intent upon initiating and fomenting a 'civil war' in America. Yes, we have all been suffering in the aftermath of Hurricane Irene, only to emerge from this trying time scratching our heads, wondering why our UNION FRIENDS are so bent upon harming the TEA PARTY MOVEMENT. Persons of faith and peace everywhere wonder just what this new Progressive-Lib 'war paradigm' is all about. It appalls the senses and trashes the sensitivities. Tea Party Patriots desire unity, peace and justice for all in our fine nation--and we certainly did not expect to be met with a contentious, belligerent and aggressive Democratic Left commandeered by UNION LEADERS! Does our President Obama have no sense about these things? Does he truly believe these tactics will work to get him re-elected? Does the President have no conscience and discernment about what is the best for America? Does he truly give his 'blessing' to the war-like TEAMSTERS and other UNIONS who wish to do us TEA PARTY PATRIOTS HARM? As we in Connecticut and the Northeast get our 'bearings' back, we shall examine these things. But at this juncture, the sum total of my responses is that I plead the following things of my fellow TEA PARTY PATRIOTS: Do not succumb, yourselves, to the calls for WAR and WAR-LIKE ACTIVITIES against ANYONE. And do not resort to any of the harmful things that the UNIONS, as well as the CONGRESSIONAL BLACK CAUCUS AND OTHER 'RACE GROUPS' have set upon us! Treat these people, instead, with decency and dignity. Let us do as Jesus has told us to do and try very much to love those who would insist that we are their enemies. There is a very real opportunity to be a 'true pacifist' here for those who are bona-fide believers in our Heavenly Father. As I write this, I remind myself, too, to keep my self-control in check and to greet all 'BLOWS' in a supernatural way...with a Supernatural Love. This is all 'only' 'politics', remember. It is in no way WORTH jeopardizing one's mortal soul as we wind our way up to the 2012 elections. This 'newfound hatred' by UNIONS and BLACK RACE GROUPS towards TEA PARTY PATRIOTS will pass in time, though there is no telling how severely they intend to wound us. But it will all pass!!! And we--if we are worth anything, at all-- must keep our eye on the prize of NOT succumbing to the lowest denominators of our 'human condition'. We've got to 'keep it good' and 'keep things in check', while others unravel before us. We must 'keep it together', for ourselves, for our children and grandchildren...and, most of all...for God! Young people are watching us. And they will remember and be affected by just how Mom and Pop and all the adult role models in their lives comported themselves (ourselves) at this time. We must lead with 'love', first and foremost. With Love In Christ Rev. Barbara Sexton www.DearOnesHealingMinistry.blogspot.com Please read this Scripture Verse:
Romans 12
A Living Sacrifice
1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Humble Service in the Body of Christ
3 For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. 4 For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5 so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. 6 We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your[a] faith; 7 if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; 8 if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead,[b] do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.
Love in Action
9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. 14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position.[c] Do not be conceited. 17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,”[d] says the Lord. 20 On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”[e] 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." Romans 12: 1-21 (NIV) LINK: www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+12&version=NIV
Dear Ones: At this time, we are under the 'threat' of a substantial Hurricane named 'Irene'. As I prepare, myself, to help with emergency sheltering in the area...and secure my own family...I wanted to make sure to share some information with you. Please do take the time to make note of what I've written here, so that you can assure the best safety for yourselves and for your loved ones. DO IT NOW! PLEASE! The 'emergency hurricane hot-line number' for Stamford is 203-977-8840. Use it while you can. And most of all, make sure that you have appropriate emergency preparedness supplies and are 'good-to-go' for whatever may befall us. Please be prepared for the worst of loss of phone systems and power, flooding, wind, tree-tumbling, structural damage, lack of food, water and all the essentials we ordinarily take for granted. Rest assured that our best emergency preparedness people are 'on top of things'. While we pray that we need not initiate the highest levels of assistance for this Hurricane Irene, I can tell you that people like Bobby Valentine (Dir. of Emergency Preparedness for the city of Stamford) and Elizabeth Rodriguez of the MRC (Medical Reserve Corps) have things well in hand. But I truly love our most precious of Stamford's Health And Social Services former MRC Director Elaine Braccia R.N. and her group of wonderful, caring healing 'Angels'. It is a pure joy to have the opportunity to work with such selfless and 'giving' people! There are so many good people in Stamford who care about YOU, dear Readers! All that is asked is that you 'stay current', be prepared and be responsible for those around you. We are not alone on this earth--our sisters and brothers of all ages are here too! Here's the link for Stamford Government Center's 'homepage', which you can check as long as the Internet is up and running: http://www.ci.stamford.ct.us/#
Maybe I will see you soon. If so, please say 'hello' and know that you are in my prayers more than you can ever know. And if someone gives you a 'helping hand', please be sure to thank them and go on, yourself, to help others, if you are able! As we all work together, we can overcome anything that may befall us with God's love and help. With Love in Christ, Reverend Barbara Sexton "The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross" www.DearOnesHealingMinistry.blogspot.com/ Member U.S. Medical Reserve Corps
UPDATE:http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/02/12/samuel-l-jackson-obama-vote-black_n_1271797.html Dear Ones: In my upcoming book 'Entertaining Angels' (due to be released Dec. 21, 2012), I go to great pains to describe how 'insulated' many of us were from 'the real world' as uniform-wearing members of The Salvation Army. I was an exception, for I personally watched 'cable news'...usually CNN. And when the 'Gulf Wars' were in full effect, I actually asked 'the guys' to scrounge around for a small t.v. set so I could watch the action in 'real time'. Ever a fan of the superb technology of the Mossad (responsible for the very best of 'night-vision technology'), I watched tracer rounds and 'hits' directed with surgical accuracy by our finest of U.S. military forces. I read the newspapers and kept current on the 'big things' going on in the world, unlike many of my Salvation Army cohorts. I knew one young lady, an officer-school candidate, in fact, who 'hadn't read a newspaper in over two and a half years', according to her own reports. Judging from her 'lack of knowledge about the world', I would have to vouch that her claim was true....Though, at the time, I could not understand how she could 'exist' that way. On the other hand, politics never was something I either stayed on top of or got involved in. I was 'apolitical' and proud of it to a certain degree. But that was actually a foolish philosophy, for Christ, himself, was hardly 'apolitical'. He gave it to politico-religious leaders but GOOD, at times! And Jesus provided sure 'guidelines' for us in terms of 'serving two masters' and 'giving Cesaer his due', so I cannot say that I was not forewarned about what my life would later hold in surprise for me. Fast forward to 2007 summertime, June to be exact. My local church pleaded with me to 'be their voting delegate' and to 'represent them' at the United Church of Christ (UCC) 'Synod 2007' in Hartford, CT. "Why ME?", I asked, without a scintilla of false modesty. I felt their 'choice' was ludicrous! I was 'apolitical' (as I've said before), deliberately withholding my political views from the congregation, for I felt them to be utterly IRRELEVENT to my ministerial and counseling duties, such as they were. Yet, all claimed that 'I was the woman for the job' without the slightest consideration that I just might be the 'moderate-conservative' amongst them. I'm sorry, but if my Salvation Army background and obvious pro-life, pro-right-to-bear-arms and pro-capital punishment (in certain cases) stances weren't a dead 'give-away', I don't know what would be. The congregation responsible for my becoming suddenly political knew very well how strongly I subscribe to the tenets of the Bible as my Father in Heaven dictates...Not something the UCC is very notorious for. Yet, still they persisted and ultimately I was persuaded to attend SYNOD 2007. Let me now cut to the chase with this entire-church UCC 'meeting': When I 'hit' the Hartford Civic Center, the 'keynote speaker' was one then-Senator Barack Obama. All were greeted out front by 'guys in suits and bow-ties', the Secret Service, and lines and lines of tables of 'Democratic operatives' who were 'signing up' and registering voters in bulk. I freaked. I was incensed to learn that this 'Synod-In-The-City' was nothing more than a 'first campaign speech opportunity' for then-Senator Barack Obama. Silly me--I'd actually expected for this to be a 'religious' meeting of sorts, sub-texted by some sociological workshops and an assortment of agenda items for which I would faithfully represent my local church. Truth to tell, until this point, I was willing to put my personal opinions aside and 'vote on behalf of my local church (FCC Stamford)' as God so directed me. The congregation had sent me there to do just that, hadn't they? But once I saw all the blatant electioneering (which apparently was not witnessed by many in the UCC at all, for some strange reason!), I welched. The Senator Barack Obama and myself belonged to the same 'church', alright, but there was no way, no how I could sanction the rhetoric and actions of one Reverend Jeremiah Wright and company, whom Senator Obama so righteously 'admired'. Indeed, it only got worse for me as I returned to Stamford and finding myself in the untenable position of having to 'defend' Wright while entertaining concerns and complaints (from both the congregation and the community) about the obvious racism in 'Black Liberation Theology'. I tried to 'defend things' a few times, and then said, 'to heck with it'. This dog was not going to fly. Since my political awakening in 2007, I have witnessed Wright's 'fall from grace', UCC President John Thomas's 'fall from grace', and any number of truly disturbing and revolting shenanigans eeked out by 'the UCC religious community' under the guise of 'Christianity in action'. Well, it's anything but Christianity and so much more like a socio-political machine that certain individuals (I am not one of them, for the record) lodged a complaint with the IRS regarding the UCC's 'tax-emempt' status. The UCC 'skated', of course, and Obama resigned from this church. Since then, a cascade of events has occurred which has rendered the UCC impotent and essentially 'broke'. There is no hope of it reactivating itself as the 'political machine' it once was, fighting so hard to get President Obama elected, for the simple reasons that they haven't the money and they are under 'scrutiny' should they ever try to play 'loose and free' with the concept of 'separation of church and state' again! The last thing 'they' need to do is to jeopardize their 'tax-exempt status'...again. Still, some effects from Synod 2007 persist, one of which is my 'personal politicization'. Never again will my 'Christian conscience' be totally divorced from the theater of politics. And never again will I ever trust a 'leader' or 'body' (religious or otherwise) engaged in the political machine while daring to claim 'theological superiority' on ANYTHING...for I know such an entity does not exist apart from the grace of God. Suffice it to say that I now look upon the 2012 election cycle with a mixture of cynicism, disgust, dread, hope, promise and hope--once again-- for change. Click on all the keywords below for full background articles on everything I've written about here, especially those of you in uber-Progressive Liberal Connecticut who are hoping to make 2012 a repeat of 2008. That's not going to happen. Our eyes are opened now and we are 'still raw' from the Bridgeport 'voter fraud' scandal of the 2010 elections here in the Nutmeg State. So while the 'bulk' of the Democratic 'libs' think their day in the sun is a 'lock', that is far from a sure thing this go-round. Voters are disappointed and sick and tired of this abysmal economy...and many are totally apathetic. In short, 2012 is NOT going to be a repeat of 2008. "As ever, I say, NOT GOD DAMN AMERICA, BUT GOD BLESS AMERICA" Reverend Barbara Sexton "The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross" www.DearOnesHealingMinistry.blogspot.com
Rev. Dr. Cari Jackson preaching on gay rights in Cuba.
Dear Ones: I hardly ever ask you for a very personal prayer, but I must now. Please pray for my church FCC Stamford (The First Congregational Church of Stamford CT). This is the 'church that founded Stamford'. This is the church that celebrated 'the first Thanksgiving', right here in New England with the Native Americans...both of whom I love so much. FCC Stamford was 'gathered' in 1635 and that has to count for something. But now it is literally at risk of total collapse. This is the church that was 'right and ready' at old 'Fort Stamford' to meet the needs of the people, so many years ago. Yet here, today, we are 'at each others' throats' over base things like politics, gay rights, power and money. Truly, we are in trouble and I am putting a call out for all 'prayer warriors' everywhere in the world to petition God on behalf of our church so that we do not fail due to human shortcomings. Yesterday, our pastor The Rev. Dr. Cari Jackson RESIGNED suddenly and abruptly, without any notice and she left the church in a state of crisis.
Lord God, I humbly ask that you will make things right and help us see our way, Myself, I also ask dear Mother Mary to please intervene on my behalf and on the behalf of those who have lost their way at FCC Stamford. I pray that you will open the minds and the hearts of those who no longer believe in the sanctity of YOU...especially the gay people amongst us who feel so unwanted and unloved. Help us all remember that you are the mother of our Risen Lord. Help us all remember to cast aside Christian denominational differences, And help us to always remember to pray FIRST to GOD THE FATHER and to our Brother, your Precious Son JESUS, to the Holy Spirit and also to YOU, dear Lady. I thank you Holy Trinity and dear Blessed Mother as your daughter for listening to all this. In the Name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit- AMEN Reverend Barbara Sexton God Bless You All Reverend Barbara Sexton "The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets The Cross" www.DearOnesHealingMinistry.blogspot.com
Oh...it starts off 'innocuously' enough, but the motive of GAY BULLIES is painfully obvious for those of us who have been assaulted by them and their devious supporters.
So, without much 'ado' here is what's behind the attack of radical gay bullies on churches and other conservative houses of worship, which I pray will be of some consolation to my church-fellows in New York currently struggling with gay rights and gay marriage, specifically.
Points to understand:
1) The gay bullies responsible for the 'uprisings' in houses of worship are typically not regular parishioners or visitors, and do not generally present themselves as genuine persons of faith. Unlike our LGBT loved ones, these gay bullies wish to usurp houses of worship solely for their political and social gain.
2) LGBT persons of faith are likely to attend UCC (United Church of Christ), and Unitarian churches, Disciples of Christ , Metropolitan Community Churches (MCC) and other 'liberal wings' of traditional churches. Catholic churches are particular targets of gay bullies due to the church's pedophilia 'history'. Gay marriages are already performed in many churches and in secular settings in certain states. But gay bullies are NOT satisfied with this and wish to infiltrate ALL Catholic and conservative Protestant churches for their own personal punitive reasons.
3) Gay bullies are 'one issue voters' and 'one issue church attendees'. They are most likely to volunteer (if at all) for such things as hospitality, food and beverage preparation and event handling, so they can bring more of their 'fellows' into the church.
4) When gay bullies infiltrate a church, it is important to determine who their 'inside contacts' are. No gay bully can make a furtive or spectacular 'entry' without being enabled by at least a couple of church members who are either gay themselves or have a family member or two who is gay. These church members will invariably end up on the O & A (Open and Affirming) Committee or at least be vitally interested in what's going on with that committee.
5) Once the issue of 'gay marriage' is brought up in a church, it will be decided that a 'discussion of homosexuality' FIRST will be useful. Many hours will be devoted to assuring one and all that, like Christ, 'all are welcome'. Gay bullies bank on the good-will and compassion of clergy and Christians to do their deeds.
6) Should anyone be honest and express any anti-gay sentiment, the gay bullies will shout the person down and label him/her as a 'homophobe', utilizing the typical tactics of bullies everywhere.
7) Gay bullies will polarize a church overnight, thus distracting it from all the other work at hand. Be prepared for this.
8) Where gay bullies gain a foothold in churches, 'false good behavior' prevails in those who do not wish to be 'unliked' or called a 'homophobe'. Free speech will be stifled. The whole 'gay marriage discussion' will go underground...just like the gay bullies prefer it to be.
9) As gay rights are discussed more and more, the subject of gay marriage will come up. Many persons have strong feelings about gay marriage. And many are 'okay' with a civil ceremony as opposed to a 'religious ceremony'. But make no mistake: gay bullies will settle for no less than full religious ceremonies in the sanctuary with a Priest or Minister or Rabbi celebrating. Gay marriage proponents in NEW YORK call those who have strong anti-gay marriage sentiments (and who as clergy may not wish to perform gay marriages, as is their right) as using 'sad, filthy tactics'. "Filthy?" Really? How about I'll keep my religion out of your 'uterus' (or in your case, Alvin, your 'prostate')...if you'll keep your self-righteous gay bullying out of my 'faith life'. Deal? "If this is the case, then it is a sad, filthy tactic which proves that in spite of all of their prayers and talk of upholding God's will, those who oppose marriage equality don't have any suitable arguments to defend their cause and therefore have to exploit the righteous indignation of those oppressed by their lies." http://holybulliesandheadlessmonsters.blogspot.com/
10) Gay bullies and their supporters will insist that just because a church votes to become 'open and affirming' (of LGBT individuals), it does NOT necessarily follow that the church will be performing gay marriages. THIS IS A LIE. Once a church 'goes' 'O & A', gay marriage invariably follows poste haste.
11) Anyone in the church community standing in the way of gay bullies will be confronted with any number of accusations whether true or false, including: claims of violations of civil rights, claims of pedophilia (especially in churches with histories of such), claims of sexual abuse and misbehavior (in the case of Protestant churches where infidelity and illicit affairs are more predominant than pedophilia) and the like. Be aware of this and learn how to protect against 'false accusations'. And if false accusations are made, FOLLOW THROUGH & PROSECUTE!
(Hint for all GAY BULLIES: Another's 'downfall' does NOT serve as justification for your own shortcomings. If you KNOW what it's like to be 'stripped of your rights', why do you seek to strip another of their rights to either perform or not perform gay marriages, each according to their conscience?)
12) Gay bullies will challenge their detractors as being 'bad Christians' for not accepting them and all they demand. They disrespect and discount the Bible and mock long-held Christian beliefs. One of the favorite ploys of gay bullies is to make absurd comparisons of Biblical passages, such as, "Well, if you're going to believe that homosexuality is an abomination in the eyes of the Lord, then you can't have sex with your wife when she's menstruating." Very quickly, discussion with gay bullies in church gets 'weird'. Be prepared for this. http://holybulliesandheadlessmonsters.blogspot.com/2010/10/phony-christians-shedding-crocodile.html
13) Gay bullies get their way by 'intimidation' when they can. Once they are established in the church, they will tell their opponents, "If you don't like it, then leave." Then they will deny saying such a thing. Sadly, many DO leave a church which is overrun by gay bullies.
14) Gay bullies do NOT represent all gays. Most decent gays, like most decent non-gays (Christians and otherwise) can 'live and let live'. Of course, I may be wrong here, but I like to look for the best in people...which is why I've been so successfully 'suckered' over the course of my life, I suppose. Gay bullies only care about what they can get and not a few of them had 'bad experiences' as children at the hands of 'clergy', so to them it's all about that most un-Christian of concepts, 'payback'. Oddly, gay bullies most strongly align these days with Muslims (who also feel sidelined, although most Muslims are not very open-minded about homosexuality). Gay bullies will also align themselves with 'Black Liberation Theology' proponents. This, also, is a curiosity, since the traditional 'Black church' is fairly straight and conservative. "BLACK, GAY & MAD AS HELL" (no kidding!) http://holybulliesandheadlessmonsters.blogspot.com/2008/05/black-gay-and-mad-as-hell-i-was-reading.html
15) The liberal gay community has a lot of resources for gay bullies to use to further their cause. Outside groups will be brought into your church. Protests may be staged. Money may be 'brought in' with the contingency that gay marriages be performed with all the trimmings.
16) The Pastor must provide moral guidance when the church is under attack by gay bullies. If that Pastor has any secrets of their OWN in their closets, or out, they must disclose and deal with it immediately. Gay bullies are great at 'blackmailing'. Any clergy person or church leader who is at risk of being 'blackmailed' should excuse him/herself from any further interaction in positions of authority with gay bullies. Good churches should always police themselves as believers are admonished to in Scripture.
17) Gay bullies are persistent. They say they want your 'approval', but really what they want is 'to be able to have their big church wedding just like everyone else'. There is nothing particularly noble about this, in fact, though only God knows for certain what is in anyone's heart.
18) Gay non-bullies are often uncomfortable by the bully-tactics of their activist brothers and sisters, which is not to say that they don't secretly or openly approve of such tactics. Still, churches need to be aware that closeted gay members may fear being 'outted' by gay bullies and thus may fall away from the church. "The Case For Outting Closeted Politicians" http://www.salon.com/news/politics/war_room/2011/06/14/kruger_outing/index.html This 'falling away' may be misinterpreted as strong disapproval of the gay bullies, thus causing great anguish for non-radical LGBT persons when they feel like they have lost their church home.
19) It's all about power, sex, money and more sex. Gay bullies know this and it serves the church well to know this and react to it with a 'clean heart'. A favorite tactic is disrespectful disruption of church services: Gay activists terrorize Boston church
20) The subject of children is a touchy one. Many gay bullies have no authority over their tongues as they debate 'open and affirming/gay rights/gay marriage' issues in church. Parents must be prepared to protect their children from inappropriate speech and actions. And they must be prepared to 'explain' what gay bullies are all about in ways that are age-appropriate for the individual child.
21) Gay bullies (and other LBGT persons) in church are often found to be involved in 'youth activities'. Gay bullies in particular are keen to 'help' young people 'determine whether or not' a child is gay. I cannot stress strongly enough how imperative it is to be vigilant whenever a radical gay bully seeks close contact with church children. Make sure chaperone's are present. Do background checks! Those who are abused sometimes grow up to be gay bullies who abuse children themselves. In this day and age where anything goes, gay bullies must not be trusted even in a so-called 'church setting'. Gay bullies have issues and have some 'out there' justifications!:
(Hint for all GAY BULLIES: Another's 'downfall' does NOT serve as justification for your own shortcomings. If you KNOW what it's like to be 'stripped of your rights', how DARE YOU attempt to STRIP OTHERS OF THEIRS? (In this case, the right to REFUSE to perform gay marriages!)
22) Gay bullies and their silent but ardent supporters are coming to a church near you. All they care about is gay rights and gay marriage and they will 'damn' anyone who disagrees with them and/or gets in their way. They take advantage of Christian hospitality and Christian kindness, knowing full well that in order for Christians to 'live the Gospel' we must love the sinner along with the saint. And we must know that we cannot always tell the difference between the sinner and the saint either! Scripture tells us very clearly that 'even the elect will be deceived' meaning that even churchmen and women will make bad choices and have bad discernment. We are told that in these days, sexual mores will be lax and libertine lifestyles will be common even in religious settings, so that none of us should be surprised.
23) There is one last 'trick' that gay bullies have which they 'pull in church' in order to further their own selfish gay rights and gay marriage ends. They will start to speak of Jesus as being gay. They will speak of the disciples as being gay. They will speak of Jesus and the disciples having gay sex together and they will speak like this in front of all...including the children they are 'trying to help through their wonder years'. I am not aware that there are any Biblical passages that affirm that our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is gay, but I am certain that the liberal left gay bullies have a plethora of evidence. It's amazing how even non-Judeo-Christian gay bullies are quick to pull out a Bible verse they don't believe in if it is useful to make their point! Prepare yourself for such talk. There are no limits when it comes to gay bullies justifying a lifestyle they feel they must justify. They will impugn Mother Mary and the other Mary and all the women in the Bible. They will even go so far-as they have in the O & A gay-friendly, gay-marriage performing churches I am familiar with here in CT-as to call God the Father...'Mother'.
24) I've told you these things so that you are prepared when gay bullies attack your church in New York. Be strong in Christ and testify to the truth. Do not forget to be kind to strangers, but use the wisdom and discernment God gave you to determine what gay bully troublemakers are really all about. Most of all, pray for those, both straight and LGBT, who are NOT like gay bullies, but who simply wish to live their lives in peace and in the Love of God. No evildoers will prevail in the end. But in the meantime, true Christians must be strong so that when gay bullies who are interested only in the things of the world assault them and their houses of worship, they will be prepared.
25) It is claimed that legally, no Priest, Minister, Rabbi or other clergy person can be compelled to perform a gay marriage against their wills, nor force a church or synagogue or social center to service a gay event they are not comfortable with. However, gay bullies are already seeing to it that such 'exemptions' be deemed 'unconstitutional' on the grounds that the rights of gay people will be violated.
As it stands, church leaders and their congregations will be the ones with no rights whatsoever should they oppose gay marriage.
Please keep the New York religious community in prayer with me at this time. I have a 'soft place in my heart' for conservative New Yorkers in the religious community, as I was one of the few 'moderate-conservatives' (now fully conservative!) in liberal Connecticut for many years. The truth was so expertly concealed from me that I want to warn others of this. I want to warn those involved in church politics in New York that they will be lied to. False promises will be made to them. And when all else fails, bully tactics are sure to follow in their wake from those with no consciences or regard for the law. The old adage is: 'give them an inch and they'll take a yard'. The 2011 version of this is: 'give them an inch and they'll try to sue you for violating their 'civil rights' if you don't perform their gay marriages in your churches to their specifications no matter WHAT, if any their 'religious preferences' may be and HOW DARE YOU ASK ANYWAY? I will never alter my perception of marriage as it is given in the Bible and as it is in my heart as God speaks to me: Marriage is a union of men and women for good so that people don't 'stray' (I know, I know...but remember that we are all but dear sinners) wherein those who are intended to bear children do so and those who are so destined adopt. I no longer care if gays get married or not as long as they don't 'get into my face with it'. I don't care if they have a civil or church ceremony, as long as they don't tell me I must sanction gay nuptials in my church sanctuary'. That will not happen. Others are responsible for what THEY do, as I am responsible for what I do! A church sanctuary is a holy place in God's house, no matter that my Progressive lib friends consider it to be nothing more than a 'really neat site to have a wedding and to take pictures with the cool stained glass windows'. Of course, my gay friends, God will know what's really in your hearts and what socio-political points you just had to make at your gay wedding. Rev. Barb is happy to leave it at that. But there are LOTS of pretty places to have your ceremonies and take your photos. Are you sure you really care about our 'churches' or are you just trying to make some kind of 'statement'? To all gay bullies: I want you to consider that there are those of us who dedicate our church sanctuaries for holy activities such as worship, communion, baptism, funerals/memorial services, weddings, confirmations and other life-affirming transitions and celebrations. Do you realize how disrespectful and hurtful you are to insist that you get your way when there are so many other options available to you? I don't expect the 'worst' of gay rights advocates to understand what I am saying here, especially those who don't have a faith life. The greatest thing I can do for them...is to pray for them and wish them well. However, I DO expect gay rights advocates to RESPECT MY RIGHT to feel and say as I do as an American citizen who has a right to freely practice my religion. Neither do I expect GAY BULLIES to understand that my refusal to perform gay marriages is anything other than a PERSONAL CHOICE...and one to which I am entitled, at that. And strangely enough, I am grateful to the LGBT community in Connecticut, New York and surrounding area and especially to those few of you whom I call 'gay bullies': You have made me more aware. You have blessed me and you have freed me. You have solidified my work and my faith and I am grateful for all that you have done. Now I only wish that we could 'work together' in true honesty, without the games and subterfuge. Reverend Barbara Sexton
"The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"
Suspects: Demetrius Glenn (above), 16, was arrested for the murder of Delbert Belton; his alleged accomplice, 16-year-old Kenan Adams Kinard (below), is on the loose
