Friday, October 30, 2009

A Weekend Prayer

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R-71 Update: Be active on this last weekend before the election. Encourage everyone to vote and to get their ballots in.

Sign Rallies are being organized on very short notice this weekend. Attend if possible. Check our calendar for times and locations.

Remember, mail in ballots must be postmarked on or before November 3. If they are postmarked later than the 3rd, they will not be counted. You may drop off your ballot at ballot collection boxes in your county until 8 PM, on the 3rd. To check ballot drop off locations, see our homepage.

Be wary of last minute polls designed to discourage you. These are nearly always sponsored by folks who want SB 5688 to become law. They will be presented by the media over the next five days. They are designed to silence and discourage you.

Beware of last minute converts to this campaign. Appreciate their vote. Discern their motives. Forgive them.

Be at peace. You have and are doing everything humanly possible to protect marriage and the family. Continue through Election Day, but be at peace. "Let not your heart be troubled."

Do not be fearful of retaliation from homosexual activists. God will protect you. Larry Stickney and I have seen it all. We are still standing, because God is faithful and He is able.
___________________

A Weekend Prayer

Approaching the final weekend before an historic decision will be made as to whether Washingtonians will protect and preserve marriage or walk away from natural marriage, one might wonder what more I can do to defend marriage and the family?

While reading the teaching of One, whose--to paraphrase a man named John---shoe lace I am not worthy to tie, I found both comfort and direction.

Jesus taught us to pray and it was He who prayed, "Deliver us from evil."

The Bible characterizes all as sinners, in need of deliverance, redemption and salvation. It characterizes the act---not the person---"the act" of homosexuality as un-natural, vile affections, unseemly and an abomination.

When one's identity is defined by his deviant sexual behavior, one cannot make the distinction between rejecting the "act" and rejecting the person. Consequently, any position that does not support and advance the homosexual agenda is seen as rejecting or hating the person. Opposition to enshrining this behavior into law and redefining marriage, family and educational curriculum is seen as hate.

The spirit that drives that thinking and the homosexual agenda is driven more by rebellion against the Creator, than it is sexual behavior. And that spirit is evil.

We pray to be delivered from that spirit.

R-71 has never been about "taking" anything away from anyone. It has always been about preserving the ageless institution of natural marriage that has been the norm of every successful society in human history.

Unfortunately, that distinction has been lost to some in our society who have been seduced into feeling they are not compassionate or "fair" unless they agree to redefine the proven historical norms of marriage and family.

That spirit is referenced in the New Testament book of Romans as changing, "the truth of God into a lie, and worshiped and served the creature more than the Creator." The actions that resulted from that decision are described as, "women changing their natural use which is against nature" and "men leaving the natural use of the woman" burning in "lust toward one another."

The book of Romans further teaches that although people knew there would be negative consequences to their rebellious thinking and actions, they continued and people who had known the judgement of God, had "pleasure in them that do them."

No wonder President Obama's appointee to his Faith Based Program, self professed "homosexual Christian," Harry Knox, said he believes teachings in the book of Romans is "not true." And it was our President who described this teaching as "obscure".

This spirit attacks the Bible---it should not be surprising that those who advocate and advance biblical teaching would also be attacked.

This spirit that rejects biblical teaching also seduces the electorate, both locally and nationally. As many have said, we are not standing against flesh and blood, but against principalities and powers.

As we approach the final weekend before the vote on SB 5688, be at peace.

Take a moment and pray the Lord's Prayer. I am including it in both traditional and more contemporary language:
Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name.
Thy Kingdom come,
thy will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory. for ever and ever. Amen
This is the most important thing to be done this weekend. And every day.

________

Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom

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Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be thy name.
Your Kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as in heaven
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins,
as we forgive those who sin against us.
Lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For the kingdom, the power and the glory are yours.
Now and for ever. Amen

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Seattle Hosts "Freedom From Religion" National Convention

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"Praise Darwin, Evolve Beyond Belief," "I Don't Believe In God, Because I Don't Believe In Mother Goose," are only a couple of signs and banners that are associated with the Freedom From Religion Foundation.

They consider themselves "free thinkers" and Seattle a good place to hold their national convention. They're coming to the Seattle Red Lion next week.

Their founder actually visited the Capitol in Olympia last Christmas. Based in Wisconsin, they've chosen Seattle and are promoting one of Seattle's own as a keynote speaker.

I have linked to images of several of their signs that are often placed in public, high profile places, places where people can think about their message.

Who are these folks and what do they believe?

The founder and co-president, Dan Barker, a self described former evangelical, is the guy who placed the atheist placard next to the Nativity in the Capitol in Olympia last Christmas.

It appears their emphasis is more on what they do "not" believe. I noticed in their convention promotion that they are having their "traditional non-prayer breakfast" on Saturday.

This is from some of their literature:

"Free thinkers accept the natural world and reject the unproved and primitive supernatural myths about gods, devils, angels, magic, life after death and the suspension of natural laws (miracles) through wishful thinking (prayer). We hope that someday humanity will outgrow god-ideas much as children outgrow literal belief in Santa Claus."

Although I have not seen it, I'm told they also sponsor a sign that reads, "Yes, Virginia, there is no god".

Saint Paul was considered a "free thinker" by many of his contemporaries. I'm reminded of what he once said, "Be not conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."

His focus, however, was neither on the conformity or the transformation itself, rather on the One who did the transforming.

________________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom


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Wednesday, October 28, 2009

WA State Has Become an Assisted Suicide "Twilight Zone"

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R-71 UPDATE: I have been so appreciative and impressed with the number of people who are setting aside time and making the effort to attend the R-71 rallies.

We are adding three more to the calendar. One is this afternoon from 3 PM to 6 PM in Vancouver. People will be meeting at 117th and Padden. For more information contact Chuck Miller at wcrg@att.net .

There will also be two additional rallies this coming Saturday. One at 117th and Padden from 12 to 3 PM. For more information contact Chuck at wcrg@att.net.

Next Saturday there also will be a rally in Kelso at the corner of South Pacific Street and Allen. You will be at the bridge next to City Hall and the police station. People will be there from 11 AM to 3 PM. Contact Chuck for more information at wcrg@att.net .

Check the Faith and Freedom calendar for additional events.

In just a few days all the ballots will be marked and will be in. A decision will have been made that will impact the State and the culture for decades to come. Thank you for standing strong for biblical , natural marriage.

May God bless you in special ways.
_________________

Washington State has become an assisted suicide "twilight zone"

Remember last November when the compassionate folks from the Hemlock Society and elsewhere were assisting voters in approving I-1000, the so-called "Death With Dignity Act"?

In their successful campaign, they assured voters that if they approved the measure they would not only prove their compassion, but would not have to worry about anything, because it would be solely a matter of choice for patients who wanted "aid-in-dying" and health care providers would not have to participate in it.

That was then---this is now. 365 days later.

A concerning story out of Mount Vernon not only exposes the deceit in the death campaign, but reveals how things are often not as they seem.

Think "Everything But Marriage."

In this case, the Mount Vernon law enforcement officers, in training to help people in a crises who are often considering suicide, end up having a social worker telling them how to subvert the law and help the people they are trying to save, commit suicide.

Rita Marker, at "American Thinker," writes:

Live in Washington State? In a crisis? Suicidal?
Call 911.
Then what?

I have linked this troubling story. I strongly suggest you read it. It is very revealing and once again affirms that the secular progressives often present things as being one way, while in fact they are quite different.

This is precisely the tack the homosexual activists have and are taking with SB 5688.

___________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom

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Tuesday, October 27, 2009

R-71: The Revelation and the Deception

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R-71 UPDATE: The following is a report I received yesterday morning from the person who led the Tacoma Mall R-71 Rally on Saturday. In their own words:

"Please pass my thanx on to all those that attended the Tacoma Mall rally. At the height of the rally over 300 people stood shoulder to shoulder for 3 hours in support of preserving God-designed, natural one man - one woman marriage up and down 38th St. & Tacoma Mall Blvd. Many stayed for several hours longer after the rally officially ended."

"Vehicle honks, hand gestures of approval and comments were at least 10 - 3 in favor of rejecting R-71/SB-5688 and preserving marriage. Hundreds of brochures were given to people in their vehicles passing through the intersection. Hundreds of signs went home with people who attended the rally that said they would post them at their personal residence. A big thanx to our Russian brothers and sisters in Christ who attended. They seem, more than anyone to understand what we are stand in the threshold in defense of. We left the area cleaner than it was when we got there."

"Tacoma's finest in blue mentioned to me several times that, 'it was the most well-behaved and civil gathering of people that they had seen in a very long time.' They also mentioned to me that, 'the only individuals that they had to speak to about vile signs, offensive language and gestures and obstructing traffic were those in attendance in favor of approving R-71/SB-5688.' About 15-20 in support of R-71/SB-5688 were in attendance with signs that read, "Christianity is about hate, and do they ever love to hate" and "Vote YES for homosexual marriage." Unlike the media, most homosexuals understand that this is about marriage."

"No surprise, the media ignored the rally! Thanx for all your hard work and God's blessings to you."
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R-71: The Revelation and the Deception

Before it is even known if SB 5688 will become law, and I personally think there is a good chance it will not, it has already revealed what many have known all along about the press, the homosexual community and a bit about the Christian community as well.

The R-71 campaign seems to have transcended the Referendum itself.

Among other things, R-71 has revealed a good deal of deception. I want to be very candid in my comments.

The law "that would be," the "everything but marriage" law boldly states in its more than 100 pages, "It is the intent of the legislature that for all purposes under state law, state registered domestic partners shall be treated the same as married spouses."( p. 4: 25-27 )

Had it not been for R-71, the statements made by Sen. Ed Murray, pleading with his colleagues in the senate saying, "this bill is not marriage, I wish it was, but it is not," then telling the press that "domestic partnerships is an incremental step, a long term strategy" for the "prize" and the "prize is marriage," would have gone unchallenged, except for the minority group of lawmakers who opposed it in the legislature at the time of its passage. Thank God for them.

Rep. Jamie Pederson's remarks to the press suggesting SB 5688 is a, "bridge until they can legally marry," would have also passed without a challenge, aside from all of you who signed on for the R-71 campaign.

You have challenged their comments, called SB 5688 "homosexual marriage," which it is, and over the past few months, they have moderated their words in an attempt to find something more than a hallow chant and an attempt to frame SB 5688 as being akin to the civil rights movement of the 50s and 60s. Not finding substance for their argument, they have turned to attack our message and our messengers.

And they have ceased their mantra that SB 5688 is not about marriage, with signs, as we saw displayed at the Tacoma Mall Saturday, simply asking people to vote for gay marriage. As our coordinator correctly pointed out, everyone but the press seems to know this is about homosexual marriage.

They know.

R-71 has laid open a complicit press, that has made a feeble attempt at appearing objective in the past, to one of merely writing stories that affirm the obsessive support of homosexual marriage and redefinition of the family that nearly every editorial board in this state has taken.

Today's Seattle Times editorial is typical of the daily assault on R-71 supporters, with references to arm waving (that's you guys who are going to the weekend rallies) and suggesting that somehow we are trying to confuse the voter with hand waving and court orders to seal petition signers names. Sort that out.

It is not only what they write, but what they do not write.

The press has shown itself to appear accountable to the so-called homosexual newspapers and pornographic blogs that are obsessed with the personal destruction of all who do not accept their agenda to deconstruct marriage and the family.

R-71 has cut deeply into the slice of what we believe about marriage and the family---and what we believe about the Bible itself and biblical teaching.

I have lived a fully engaged and rather public life in Christian ministry. I have not seen a more concerted effort to undermine and marginalize biblical teaching on homosexuality and destroy those who believe it as truth.

A recent mild example is that of Ken Schram writing, "I have seen the light, brothers and sisters. I have seen the light." While he eventually gets to his point that easy divorce, not homosexual marriage is destroying the institution of marriage, he must take a shot at the evangelicals. He is, by the way, suggesting that we run an initiative to ban divorce calling it, "Defending American Marriage" or DAM.

It is not uncommon to be mocked for biblical beliefs, but the intensity has reached a significant high since R-71 was filed.

R-71 has also exposed differences within the Christian community. Some have, unfortunately, made it a public matter by taking their case against R-71 to the press and continuing it to include pastors and Christian leaders.

While most seem to agree that marriage must be only between one man and one woman, there are differences as to whether the church should be speaking to these cultural issues and if so, how. Some have said that the work we have done in the R-71 campaign has been harmful, not helpful.

From these differences, new alliances have been formed, based only on deeply held moral beliefs and a belief that reaching people with the message of the gospel and speaking with a clear voice to the cultural issues of our day are not mutually exclusive. We have been called to do both.

If people of Christian faith do not actively speak to the culture, who will? Who will defend life? Who will defend marriage? Who will defend the family? Who will expose and stand against the secular progressive's assault on our children in the public school classroom?

Who will provide moral cultural clarity?

I personally believe there is a call for those who will "stand in the gap" and be the "watchman on the wall." There is a call for those who will rise and be counted for "such a time as this." This is a time to shout it from the roof top.

There is no need for those who merely look for political advantage to solve spiritual challenges or ways to prove their love by passively letting the culture continue to spiral into the abyss, saying it is too late. Whatever will be will be.

That is both fatalism and deception.

Jesus Christ has proven God's love for all who will accept Him.

The call to the church is to rise and be healed from division, fear and apathy.

God is going to help us.

_____________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom

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Monday, October 26, 2009

Only 51% will Vote

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R-71 UPDATE: Thank you to all who participated in rallies around the state this past weekend. We have heard good reports from several different locations. Chuck told me the Longview R-71 rally went so well everyone decided to extend their time on the street for an additional hour or so.

If you have pictures or reports send them in and we will share them.

This is the final week. Polls say it is still too close to call. This is not a time to pull back or become silent.

Referendum 71 will likely be decided in the next few days. If the pollsters are correct, it will be decided by just a few votes.

There are still expenses to be paid this week. Thank you for your financial support.
_________________

Only 51% will Vote

Secretary of State Sam Reed's office says about 51% of the registered voters in Washington State will actually vote in this election. As of last Friday, 8.8% of the ballots had been mailed in. If you are a King County resident and have already mailed in your ballot, click here to track it. Check other county information on our homepage.

So, what does that mean to those of us who are working to REJECT R-71/SB 5688?

As of October 12, the state had 3,575,498 registered voters. If about half of them vote, about 1.8 million people will vote.

King County, unfortunately, is expecting a higher than average vote because of the races for County Executive and Seattle Mayor. King County is liberal---far left, on social issues such as homosexual marriage, which is not helpful to our cause.

However, nothing has really been "in our favor" since the beginning of Referendum 71. Predictions of our failure and an all-out effort to stop us came first from within, then from without, with the news media lining up in near military style to destroy both message and messenger. Responding to the positions of their editorial boards and the demands of the pornographic, homosexual "so-called "newspapers," many reporters have crafted their "news" stories and reporting to undermine and diminish our cause---and to satisfy their colleagues.

Yet miracles have happened, and can continue to happen.

Continue to talk to people you know about this issue---as you have been doing. Also, use this week to remind and encourage people to get their ballot in. It's vitally important that everyone who believes in defending marriage, votes.

If the predictions and polls are correct, it is still too close to call. The issue of R-71 / SB 5688 will very likely be decided by a very few votes.

Let's finish strong.

________________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom

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Wednesday, October 21, 2009

US Supreme Court Prevents Release of R-71 Names

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We reported yesterday that Justice Kennedy had taken our request to seal the names of those who signed R-71 to the US Supreme Court. We then reported later in the day, that the Supreme Court had voted 8 to 1 to consider our petition.

The Court has now issued an order preventing Secretary of State Sam Reed from releasing the names, addresses and other personal information of the 138,000 signers on Referendum 71.

I am linking a press release from our lawyer, James Bopp Jr., in which he says, "The order will prevent several groups from making this personal information available on the Internet and should protect the petition signers from the harassment similar to what occurred in California last November during the campaign surrounding Proposition 8."

Attorney Bopp says, "The Supreme Court seems to recognize the gravity of this situation and we look forward to their review of the case on appeal."

"No citizen should ever have their personal property destroyed or receive death threats for exercising their right to engage in the political process," Bopp says.

Be sure to read the entire press release.

There are so many ways in which this effort has been blessed during the process that began last January in planning meetings, beginning with the first between Larry Stickney and myself.

From day one there were those who not only disagreed, but tried to undermine our every effort to get the Referendum on the ballot---yet it happened.

There were miracles that happened during the name validation process that are undeniable---even recognized by a press that stands against us for the most part.

The threats to harass made by "who-signed" and other homosexual activist groups and the death threats leveled at Larry and myself, have now found an opportunity to be heard and considered.

Most in the press, that have spoken to me, have been shocked by this ruling by the Supreme Court---like they were when R-71 qualified for the ballot.

Does this ensure anything on November 3? No, I think it reinforces the fact that if people who are conservatives and people of faith will start moving in the right direction, good things will happen.

With the exception of a few, most in the faith community are working together on this matter---in harmony. When that happens, good things happen.

We must continue to do all we can humanly do, then place our best efforts in God's hands. I know all who are working on this effort are in agreement.

Your support has allowed us to continue against overwhelming financial odds. We are being out spent, yet our message is getting out through your hard work and commitment to stand for righteousness and to defend marriage and the family.

In several aspects of this effort, history has already been made. Keep the miracle going.

Your financial support is deeply appreciated.

_______________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom

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Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Wealthy Gay Activist: "Undermine credibility, choke finances, re-educate their children."

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R-71 UPDATE: People have received their ballots and are beginning to vote. There are many, however, who have not yet marked their ballot. Polls indicate there are 13% of voters who are undecided. If you know someone who may be in that category, take a moment and talk with them.

Check our calendar for signing events in your area. Thank you to all who are participating in this effort. It will make a difference.
_____________________

Wealthy Gay Activist: "Undermine credibility, choke finances, re-educate their children."

A wealthy, multimillionaire, homosexual activist, gave some straight talk to an audience in Los Angles, explaining who their real enemy is and what homosexuals must do to defeat them.

You and I are them.

He praised The New York Times Magazine for an article about young people "coming out" as homosexuals in middle school.

And he said, "It's time we raise our children to be independent thinkers and deeply suspicious of bible [sic] beating organized religion."

He argued that, "Children taught that the Bible condemns homosexuality may become "school bullies" and later become adults who vote "to deny marriage equality."

He laid out a specific plan as to how to defeat the Catholics, Mormons and Evangelicals who oppose the homosexual agenda.

David Bohnett, who founded Geocities then sold it to Yahoo, now gives millions of dollars to help homosexual organizations such as the Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network. Bohnett was receiving an award from GLSEN on the occasion of his comments.

He said, "We must treat the 'causes' of intolerance and bullying as well as the 'symptoms' of them."

The "symptoms," of course, would be the effort to defend the redefinition of marriage and related actions.

The "causes," however, is a person's belief or biblical worldview. This is very troubling because he said, "It is the evangelical and fundamentalist groups that teach homosexuality is a sin, who stand in the way of fairness and equality."

He and most all homosexual activists advocate every effort to not only redefine marriage, but to also redefine biblical teaching and "sin".

He even defines the activities of GLSEN in our public schools as an "outreach." Indeed it is.

Interestingly, Senator Ed Murray and Representative Jamie Pederson, both sponsors of SB 5688, say the continuous expansion of domestic partnerships is, "a bridge until they can legally marry," and an "incremental approach---a strategic plan."

David Bohnett is probably one of the two most influential homosexual activists and donors in the country. They have a plan that is being advanced both nationally and locally.

He told the audience, "The bible [sic] is all too often used as a weapon against us..."

He was clear in outlining the plan to remedy the "symptoms" and cure the "causes" of resistance to the homosexual agenda. He calls it "faith based discrimination," meaning if you believe anything other than what they believe and are advancing in our culture, you are discriminating against them. There is no room for diversity of thought or belief. And certainly not for tolerance from them.

He says it is the "obligation" of homosexuals to take "active measures."

The following is the "active measures" he is suggesting:

*Confront lies with facts.
*Implement a pre-emptive campaign that anticipates the arguments of our opponents.
*Undermine their credibility.
*Condemn their intolerance.
*Expose their hypocrisy.
*Choke off their financial support.
*Shine the bright light of shame and humiliation on their cowardly prejudices.

With a complicit press and a liberal left Congress and President; and a liberal left majority in the State Legislature and Governor's office, Washington has become fertile ground for the advancement of this agenda.

Except---after several successive losses to this agenda in recent years, you and others like you, have now taken a stand and said, "this is enough"---"no more". You are telling the state and the country that you will and do stand for truth, will not be intimidated or bullied and will not allow marriage to be redefined and homosexuality taught as normal in the class room.

You are making a statement that you will defend the Bible's credibility, it's teaching on sin and morality and that of those who believe and strive to live by the Judeo-Christian values the Bible teaches.

For this moment you have stood in the face of harassment and attempted intimidation. You have written your name on a petition putting this issue before the people and the press has called it a miracle. And some in the Christian community said it was "stupid"--- destined to fail and even if it got on the ballot, it would lose by 30 points. You are taking your message to the public and the polls say it is too close to call.

These people are a very small percentage of the population, yet they have co-opted the press, many legislators and the public school system to carry their message and their agenda---until now.

Those caught in this lifestyle need a savior and deliverer, not another legislative session or classroom in which to advance their deceptive agenda.

Things are changing in Washington State. New alliances are being formed and I believe a new day is dawning. Something that transcends R-71 has already happened.

I sincerely believe we have a good chance to win in defeating SB 5688 if we stay on course over the next couple of weeks.

One thing is already certain. We will greet the 2010 Legislative session with a new and energized unity and commitment to turn the tide, with God's help. That has already happened. We will not turn back.

Stand strong. God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of a sound mind. Stand for truth. Do not be ashamed of the gospel because it is the power of God unto salvation. It is also the power that can restore a culture.

Thank you for standing with us in your financial support and in prayer.

_____________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom

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Monday, October 19, 2009

R-71: Developing Story

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We entered an appeal to Justice Kennedy last Friday asking the US Supreme Court to hear our case on sealing the names of those who signed R-71. Justice Kennedy ordered that the State of Washington file a written response by Monday---today. They have done so a few moments ago.

In appealing to Kennedy to intervene, we said that signers and leaders of the R-71 have been exposed to hostile confrontations and threats. We feel there is merit in keeping the names of signers sealed from homosexual activists who are literally standing at the door of Secretary of State Sam Reed's office, promising to publish the information so these people can be "contacted," as soon as Reed will release the names.

Attorney General Rob McKenna and Secretary of State Sam Reed appealed Judge Benjamin Settle's ruling to seal the names to the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals last week. They were successful and the 9th Court ordered Reed to release the names.

Rob McKenna's office successfully argued to the 9th Court that there is little evidence of threats or harassment other than a couple of rude phone calls.

It is difficult to understand how McKenna and Reed are making their case with integrity, when advocacy to kill Stickney and myself as well as destroy church and government property has been posted on the Internet.

We receive a flood of email directed toward Faith and Freedom and myself on our website that reflects the same tone.

Harassing calls have already been made to donors who have contributed to Protect Marriage Washington by a person associated with a homosexual newspaper.

The explanation for the actions of the Attorney General and Secretary of State is that they are simply defending the state's public records law.

Forget me and Stickney for the moment. It is a travesty when citizens cannot express themselves in the political process of our country without fear of retribution from unrestrained homosexual activists.

Intimidation and bullying around the ballot box is normal in third world countries. It is sad that it has become one of several action items for the homosexual activists in the most developed country in the world.

God help us.

Thank you to all who attended the R-71 rallies over the weekend. I was in Spokane, but have heard reports from the others and was told that we were strong and gave a respectful strong message to REJECT R-71/ SB 5688.

Someone shared with me in Spokane that they had been visiting with some friends who had just received their ballots who indicated they were unsure as to how to vote on R-71/ SB 5688 so didn't plan to vote on either of the referenda. This person said they explained R-71, their friends thanked them and promised to vote REJECTED.

There is still time to get out our message as people are receiving and mailing their ballots. If everyone who signed the petition would make a point to talk to 10 people over the next week or so, over a million people would be contacted.

Some are working tirelessly to get the message out to their friends and colleagues in their community, some are thinking about it and some are so busy, it has not occurred to them how much actually hangs in the balance on this one single vote. I trust all of us will be so inspired as to have the will to resist the attempt to enshrine perversion into law and treat as normal, that which is not.

SB 5688 elevates homosexual relations to that of marriage, including redefining spouse, making "husband" and "wife" gender neutral and a long list of redefinitions.

Be active. Be prayerful. Be strong. Do not be afraid.

Thank you for your financial support. Check out the homepage for Faith & Freedom for additional resources.

____________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom

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Friday, October 16, 2009

Further Developments with R-71

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We wanted to give you a quick weekend update on R-71.

Ballots have been mailed out.

We want to let you know that there is a link on the home page of faithandfreedom.us that will take you to your county and the information they are providing regarding the election. Some counties have more information than others, but the information on most, include drop box sites for your ballot.

I'm certain the various county websites will be updating their information as we move forward.

A number of rallies are scheduled across the state and more are being organized. As activities are organized, we will update the Events Calendar. If you have something scheduled, please notify us. You must give us your name and contact number so we can verify your identity. I know you understand why. I know you also understand that we will keep your information confidential to Faith and Freedom.

Remember, now that the ballots are out, every day is election day until Nov. 3rd. Spread the word.
________________

R-71 Developments

I received an email from attorney James Bopp, Jr. this afternoon, filling us in on some further developments on R-71.

He said the three-member panel was very liberal leaning and sometimes hostile toward our positions. Not a big surprise.

Attorney Bopp is taking the matter to the Supreme Court and has contacted Justice Kennedy. As I am typing this update, I just received an email telling us that Justice Kennedy has called for a response to the application to vacate the stay. The response is due Monday, October 19. This is very positive. The vast majority of times the application is denied without requiring a response.

I cannot give more detail, but we all want you to know we are doing everything humanly possible to protect your rights and freedoms to participate in the election process with out the fear of retribution.

There is another action item in play this weekend that I cannot discuss publicly at the moment, however, it will play out over the next couple of days.

It is unconscionable that Attorney General McKenna and Secretary Reed are taking such an aggressive position to protect, as they contend, "open and transparent" government, while ignoring the real, documented threats already made against some who are defending marriage and the threat to further intimidate people using the names from the petitions.

We all want "open and transparent" government. We would also like some common sense that is not jaded by personal support of the homosexual agenda.

What happens now? Are the names available?

They are not. Interestingly, Tim Eyman has also filed for a stay on names from several of his petitions in light of the fact that some consultant is trying to obtain them. The Secretary's website reported today that the Eyman matter must be addressed before the Pasadena ruling can go into affect.

Much will be happening over the weekend. We will keep you posted.

Be vigilant. Be strong. Be discerning. Be prayerful.

____________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom

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We Will Appeal

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R-71 UPDATE: There are at least four R-71 Rallies planned around the state for tomorrow and one already scheduled for next Saturday.

Please check the Faith and Freedom calendar and plan to attend one in your area. We have three weekends before the election. With mail-in ballots, the next two weeks are critical. Thank you for standing strong.
________________

We Will Appeal

A three-member panel of the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in Pasadena yesterday. They ruled against us and against the restraining order that is keeping the names of petition signers sealed against homosexual activists.

This is our next step.

We will appeal.

Our attorney, Steve Pidgeon, told the Seattle Times late yesterday, "That particular group of judges saw the law one way; we'll take it to the next group of judges that may have the opportunity to see it the correct way."

This victory by Attorney General McKenna and Secretary of State Reed, was celebrated by those homosexual activists who are waiting in line to get the names.

These are defining times. Be vigilant. Be wise. Be discerning. Don't be silent. Be prayerful.

Thank you for your financial support.

____________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom

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Thursday, October 15, 2009

"Homosexuality is not a civil right" says Board of Education Chairman

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Calendar Update: R-71 Rally scheduled this weekend. Check Events for details.

California Governor Schwarzenegger signed a bill this week, creating a day of recognition for Harvey Milk, a homosexual activist.

The bill encourages schools across the state to set aside a day to honor this controversial person.

The homosexual activists are claiming a civil rights victory.

Dr. Alexandria Coronado, chairman of the Orange County Board of Education, says she is "absolutely furious." And she is not silent about her concerns. I have linked the story which gives more detail.

Her concerns and her willingness to speak out about them raises an even larger question.

Coronado says she knows several Californians who are far more deserving to be honored than a controversial homosexual activist. She mentions the late President Ronald Reagan and former Governor Pat Brown.

As the homosexual lobby continues their attempt to remake the culture, why are there not more people in leadership speaking out as Dr. Coronado is doing?

They are demanding special rights---rights that are above and beyond those given to any other part of our society.

They are demanding the right to redefine marriage and rewrite the textbooks of our children, normalizing homosexuality---calling it "equality".

They mislead the public with deceptive legislation, as in SB 5688, claiming one thing to the public and something else to the press.

They demand honor for Harvey Milk simply because he was a homosexual, yet we pass over the likes of Reagan or Brown who actually did something.

You tell me what's wrong with this picture.

We are standing on our head culturally, wondering why we are loosing our sense of moral balance.

The press seems mandated to support their wishes, regardless of how extreme. Some politicians are driven to prove they are not homophobes or worse----bigots, so they support every bill that comes from the homosexual lobby, from normalizing homosexuality in the classroom, redefining marriage or writing and passing extreme so-called "hate crimes" legislation and ENDA.

The press and the politicians seem to be willing to do anything to escape the wrath and scorn of a vocal and sometimes violent homosexual lobby.

And unfortunately, some pastors and Christian leaders go to great length to avoid addressing the moral decay and its cause that is destroying the culture.

We cannot remain silent.

Many of us are trying to right the listing cultural ship with Referendum 71. Make no mistake, the price is great. Many who read this blog know exactly what I am referring to.

But if not us, who? And if not now, when?

Wake up. Be prayerful. Be vigilant. Be discerning. Be active.

Blessings.

Your donation allows us to continue.

_______________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom

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Wednesday, October 14, 2009

R-71 Goes to Court Today---Again

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Washington State Attorney General Rob McKenna, and Secretary of State Sam Reed are asking a federal court in Pasadena today to overrule the federal court order we got in Tacoma, which blocked release of the names of all who signed the R-71 petitions.

The State of Washington is asking the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals to "stay" the lower court's decision and reverse U.S. District Judge Benjamin Settle's decision to block the release of the names.

Brian Murphy, with the homosexual activist group "who signed" says he will post names and addresses of the 138,000 people who signed the petitions if he gets the green light.

The Secretary of State and the Attorney General are doing all they can do to make his wish come true.

It isn't likely that a ruling will come from the hearing today, although it could. However, we will continue to represent the safety of all who signed the petitions, taking every and all steps possible.

Please remember those who are representing us in prayer.

This is not a political battle, it is a spiritual one. It is against principalities and powers.

The homosexual agenda to redefine marriage and the family does not stand up against societal history or accepted moral norms. It stands in stark contrast to biblical teaching and that of every other major religion in the world.

Given the weakness of their case, they have crafted SB 5688, a deceptive bill and presented it to the public as benefits, while telling the press it's the "strategy" and "bridge" to homosexual marriage in Washington State..

They, as is the case with Brian Murphy and others, are also attempting to intimidate and frighten anyone who stands for morality and defends marriage. And who does so through the democratic process of our political system.

The state has seen fit to seal names from the public in the past for both a homosexual rights organization and a socialist group, but cannot accept that real people have and are making real threats against anyone who stands against the homosexual agenda.

Intimidation is common place in third world countries. I've spent a lot of time in these places, building and establishing Christian churches. It is sad that this has become an accepted action item for homosexual activists in the most advanced country in the world.

We saw it in California. We are seeing it here.

We will continue to stand for marriage and the family and for godly principles. We will not be silent.

I promise.

We are in the final push to REJECT R-71/SB 5688. Over 200,000 flyers have been distributed in communities across the state. Radio ads are running and more are on the way.

The records show, we have no large donors, as in the case of Microsoft giving $100,000 to help our opponents.

We have you. Thank you for standing with Larry Stickney and myself in this battle for marriage, the family and our children and grandchildren.

Your prayer and your financial support is needed. The need at this time cannot be overstated.

Click here to make an online donation to the PAC.

God bless you.

_________________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom

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Tuesday, October 13, 2009

"Hey Obama, let Mama marry Mama"

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REJECT R-71 CAMPAIGN:

The hearing in the 9th Circuit Court in Pasadena, Ca., will be held tomorrow. We will let you know what is happening as soon as we hear from our legal council. Please know that we are doing everything humanly possible---believing that God will bless our efforts. Please be in prayer.

Your donation would be most helpful today.

I received this most interesting and insightful email yesterday:

"We went to this great rally against state support of homosexual addiction and sin. (Don't forget: Homosexual acts, and abortion, were felonies in this state only forty years ago.) The atmosphere was like a high school football pep rally! It was fun! Most there were young adults who were well-dressed, polite, and cheerful. But they also didn't take any disrespect from the very few homosexual supporters who strayed into our gauntlet along the Lynnwood streets. We saw no police during our three hours there. The weather was great. Notably absent were many local pastors from large churches, which is understandable given the heights of the ivory towers they'd have to descend. The Russian-Americans are great citizens. They know what is at stake here. They've slid down the slippery slope into dictatorship, and won't do it again. Are you sliding?"

"Reach out to your "sliding" friends and help them get on board."

_________________

"Hey Obama, let Mama marry Mama"

The assault on marriage continued on the grounds of the capitol in Washington DC this past Sunday, as it did in the streets of Washington State.

Thousands marched in DC chanting, "Hey Obama, let Mama marry Mama." Others screamed, "We're out, we're proud, we won't back down."

Why would someone be "proud" of their sexual behavior? Why would one assume that the well deserved and long overdue civil rights afforded to African Americans would be equal to that demanded by homosexuals on the basis of their sexual inclination?

Is there a reason to be proud of one's sexual behavior? There is an interesting article that appeared a while back in, of all places, the Duke University daily newspaper asking these same questions.

The Chronicle article, "I Don't Hate Gays (and neither does God) says, " 'Gay pride' like 'white pride' is a mockery of real pride." The writer believes pride must be based on merit---achievement, not inclinations or behaviors.

He says, "Rather than seeking respect on account of one's merits, it demands respect on account of one's sexual lifestyle. This is simple arrogance. It says that we cannot judge the actions of others, but demands that we respect them. No one has any right to place that puerile demand on you, because these are precisely the judgements required to lead a moral life."

He also says, "As a human being, you have every obligation to judge right from wrong, and every right to judge gay "sex" wrong."

The article continues--"To treat a homosexual union as marriage---even just in terms of rights and privileges---is to fake equality between two fundamentally unequal relationships. It would demand that we remain utterly indiscriminate and utterly ignorant of the reasons why the rights and privileges of marriage exist."

This is, of course, precisely what Senator Ed Murray, Representative Jamie Pederson and other sponsors of SB 5688 are demanding of the public.

It is a deceptive bill. They confused and convinced a majority of your elected officials in the Legislature to vote for the deception, but will they fool the public?

We shall see.

The writer ponders the question of same-sex marriage or the "everything but marriage" equivalent. And concludes, "Proponents of gay marriage disregard thousands of years of cultural and legal development on a whim, opening the door wide to other disasters, like polygamy. This is something our society, the rebellious child of human industry that it is, despite its lack of education and decency, and thinking itself too enlightened to bother with the wisdom of the past, might just be willing to do. But it may not and will not command our respect."

__________________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom

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Monday, October 12, 2009

WA Catholic Bishops Oppose SB 5688

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R-71 UPDATE: Hundreds carried signs and marched peacefully in Lynnwood Saturday.

We want to thank the Russian/Slavic Christians for their stand to defend marriage. They have tirelessly supported this effort from the beginning.

You may also have read that while the homosexuals gave President Obama a standing ovation Saturday night at the Human Rights Campaign Annual Dinner, many were wondering out loud if Obama would actually keep his promise to them.
___________________
WA Catholic Bishops Oppose SB 5688

In a headline that could be misleading, although I don't really think that was intended, The Seattle Times published the headline, "WA's Catholic Bishops Oppose R-71 and I 1033."

The initial response to reading the headline could be to believe that the bishops do not support REJECTING SB 5688, but rather favor the Senate Bill.

As you read past the headline, you learn that the bishops are opposed to R-71/SB 5688 and will vote REJECT, while they actually do oppose I-1033.

Their reasons are given in the article.

In their statement, the bishops say they oppose SB 5688 and Referendum 71, because its legislative sponsors specifically stated that the law is part of a strategy to legalize same-sex marriage.

Indeed it is.

The bishops got it right on two counts.

The sponsors have repeatedly said that domestic partnerships and SB 5688 is an incremental step to legalize homosexual marriage.

Senator Ed Murray, a sponsor says, "The goal is marriage equality. It's an important statement that our eyes are on the prize, and the prize is marriage." Seattle Times, January 10, 2007.

Senator Ed Murray: "incremental approach---a strategic plan". Seattle Times, May 17, 2007.

Representative Jamie Pederson, a sponsor, said SB 5688 will give homosexuals, "a bridge until they can legally marry." Seattle Times, January 28, 2009.

Secondly, the bishops know they were for putting R-71 on the ballot, now that it's on the ballot, we are voting REJECT thus defeating SB 5688 which is the last incremental step to the "prize".

This statement of support by the bishops should inspire every Catholic to reach out to their friends in the local parish. The bishops said they were leaving it up to each individual church as to how they should respond.

Ballots will soon be mailed out and people will begin marking their ballot. Please take every opportunity to explain what SB 5688 is really all about. We are finding that the more people know about this bill, the more inclined they are to oppose and REJECT it.
______________

Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom

Friday, October 09, 2009

You Are Not a "NAZI"--- Even if You Believe in Traditional Marriage

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R-71 Rally Tomorrow In Lynnwood. Click here for details

The fierce opposition to our attempt to "REJECT" R-71/SB 5688 continues to increase and take on new dimensions.

You already know about the individual in Everett who has been calling for defacement and destruction of church or government buildings that are in any way connected to supporting the defeat of SB 5688. This same person has been publicly advocating that Larry Stickney and I be killed.

There is now a growing effort to deface or destroy the signs that you are placing around the state. The one pictured above gives one of their favorite messages. "If you defend marriage you are a Nazi."

As the mask continues to slip and reveal what is really behind SB 5688, a concerted effort is well underway to discredit anyone who is advancing the defense of marriage effort and label anyone who supports the effort as not only a "bigot," but now a "Nazi."

The lack of a substantive case for homosexual "marriage" has turned the homosexual activists to a campaign of personal destruction and slander.

Attack the message. Attack the messenger.

The mainstream media is beginning to circle their wagons with the extreme far left homosexual websites and publications, with newspaper editorial staffs across the state joining in chorus for the approval of the, "Everything but marriage bill." The bill is deceitful and so is the message of destruction.

When you began to circulate R-71 petitions, you were not a threat. The far left, and frankly some who should have been supportive of your position, loudly proclaimed that there was no chance for R-71 to even make the ballot.

With the recent Elway Poll showing a much closer call than they could have imagined, the pro-homosexual advocates are stepping up the attack, while we continue to make our case.

They can destroy our signs, call us names and attempt to slander or even hurt some of us, but our message is clear and we are on the right side of 5,000 years of the historical tradition for marriage, biblical teaching on marriage and the teaching of every major religion on the subject.

With only a few weeks left before all will have marked their ballots, I encourage you to not grow weary in well doing.

After you placed the Referendum on the ballot, I got a call from the Seattle Times. The voicemail, which I have kept said, "Hi, we want to do a story on how you guys did the miracle of getting on the ballot."

My honest response has not been accurately reported. The real answer is that more than 120,000 people worked hard circulating and signing petitions. The hard work was placed in God's hands and He blessed your best effort.

Tens of thousands of you are having conversations with people and distributing flyers all across the state. You are being effective and you are creating panic to those who want to redefine marriage and the family.

Earlier this week Microsoft gave $100,000 to those who seek to redefine marriage. The money is likely to continue pouring in for their cause. They are and will outspend us in the media.

Yet with all their money and alliances in the media, they still are apparently not confident, because they continue to ramp up their destructive actions.

Continue to faithfully do what you can do as God directs you. Keep a right spirit and never forget:

Greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world.
_________________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom

Thursday, October 08, 2009

Another Clinton Confession---Another Obama Promise

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REJECT R-71 / SB 5688 Sidewalk Rally This Saturday.

Our friends in the Russian/Slavic community are leading a, "REJECT R-71/SB 5688 Side Walk Rally" this weekend in Lynnwood.

The pastor is asking people to join with them and publicly stand for marriage this Saturday. We expect a great turnout. If you can attend, please do so.

Your donation is needed today. Thank you.

The following is his invitation:

INVITATION TO REJECT R-71 "SIDEWALK RALLY" IN LYNNWOOD

The city of Lynnwood will allow us to carry out a rally on the city sidewalks, provided we do not interfere with pedestrian and vehicular traffic and stay only on the sidewalks.

DATE:SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2009
TIME: 11:00AM (rally will go for several hours)
PLACE: Please be at the Lynnwood Transit Center at 11:00AM!

Additional info: We will park at "Lynnwood Transit Center" and walk north on 44th ave towards 196th st. We will take our time and walk slow and in single file as to not cause a traffic disturbance.

Our goal is to have people with "REJECT" signs covering both sides of 196th st from the Lynnwood convention center to past the Fred Meyer and have parts of 44th st covered as well. This will go on for a few hours.People should be standing at a few feet away from each other.

Signs will be provided... but if you can, please make some of your own. Only include "Ref71 REJECT" and "Preserve Marriage" "Protect Children."

Please avoid negative comments. Act civil. And have fun.

All ages and groups are invited. Even children with proper adult supervision. See you in Lynnwood. Our future depends on it.

_____________________

Another Clinton Confession---Another Obama Promise

Former President Clinton makes yet another confession, while President Obama is making yet another promise. Both are talking about the homosexual agenda. Both claim to be a Christian and yet both are taking a position that stands in stark denial of fundamental Christian teaching.

How does that work?

Former President Clinton confesses he has, "been hung up about it."

"It" is homosexual marriage. A few weeks ago he told Anderson Cooper on CNN that he has had a change of heart on the issue.

He said, "I realized that I was over 60 years old. I grew up in a different time---I was hung up about it, I decided I was wrong."

President Obama's Security Advisor, James Jones, said last Sunday, that the President, "will focus 'At the right time' on how to overturn the 'don't ask--don't tell' military ban against homosexuals serving openly in the military. This coming Saturday evening President Obama will deliver the keynote address at the Human Rights Campaign's (HRC) 13th Annual National Dinner. He will reaffirm his promise to abolish the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA).

Both Clinton and Obama claim to be Christians--believers. But what do they believe? How can their positions stand in such stark contrast to the teachings of the faith they claim to hold? And how do the absolute, eternal truths taught in the Bible, the "Book" that most Christians believe to be "God's Word," keep changing? Governor Bill Clinton once wrote a letter to Right to Life affirming that he opposed abortion and was pro-life, not pro-choice. Senator Al Gore wrote a similar letter. I have copies of both. Both changed their beliefs. During the presidential campaign, Senator Joe Biden explained why he left the teaching of his church in regard to abortion and embraced a pro-choice belief. He said he changed his belief because he felt it would be more politically effective to be pro-choice in public office.

Obama and Oprah have both claimed they are Christians, yet both have said they believe there are many ways to God---Jesus is not the only way. Yet, Jesus said that He is indeed the only way to the Father.

How do people change fundamental beliefs based on God's eternal truth, while publicly proclaiming to be devout Christians?

It's called Post Modernism or Relativism. In their world there are no absolutes---no eternal truths.

In an interview from several years ago, a Chicago reporter ask Senator Obama how he would define sin. The Senator's reply? "Sin is being out of alignment with my values."

Analyze that for a moment. Senator Obama's remarks in the interview defines what is wrong in our culture.

( source. Jonah Goldberg. USA Today. Aug. 2008)

Post modern relativism believes there is no such thing as Truth, with a capital T. There are only lower case truths. Our traditional understanding of right and wrong, true and false, are really just outdated ways to oppress and control people.

Postmodern relativism believes that reality and truth is socially constructed, so they constantly work to tear down "old" truths under the guise of liberating the oppressed, while creating new truth that is more to their liking.

Post modernism is deeply dishonest. It claims to liberate society from fixed meanings and rigid categories, but it is invariably used to impose new ones, usually in the form of political correctness. Free speech is okay if it is speech that agrees with their agenda. Tolerance is king, as long as it is practiced within the boundaries of the secular progressive's agenda.

Post modernism is about one's self. It is about me---what I want. It's relationship to reality is theoretical.

This is why, with a straight face, a postmodernist can revise the Bible-- God's word, history, the Constitution of the United States or any other established Truth, to fit and affirm their particular truth of the moment. They can claim a Christian faith, while denying the very essence of the faith they proclaim.

St. Paul described this condition. He wrote that perilous times would come and those times would be defined by a number of self centered, self serving attitudes. He said people would be, "Ever learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." He said they would actually "resist" truth. He said, they would be defined as, "Having a form of godliness (or religion) but denying it's power, which is God's truth."

This state of mind creates confusion for the individual and for a culture and nation that is led by those who embrace relativism. St. Paul instructs followers of Christ to turn away from such people and ideas, saying their folly will be made clear to all. (2 Timothy, chapter 3)

We are living in defining times. Be prayerful. Be vigilant. Be discerning. Be active.

_____________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom

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Monday, October 05, 2009

Homosexual TV Characters at Record High This Season

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R-71/SB5688 UPDATE: These are the last days.

R-71 and the effort to "REJECT" SB 5688, which elevates homosexual relations to that of married heterosexual couples, is at the peak of urgency. We have, perhaps, a few weeks to influence a decision that will impact the state for decades to come. Ballots will soon be out, will be marked and will be sent in.

SB 5688 is a deceitful bill. It boldly proclaims to be everything but the name marriage, setting the stage for homosexual marriage in Washington State through litigation, yet is presented as having nothing to do with marriage. The sponsors, however, are traveling the state, attempting to, "change the hearts and minds of people," to believe it is only about benefits, fairness and equality. That is not true.

SB 5688 is an affront to intelligent people. Once the public properly understands the bill and its intent as a back door approach to homosexual "marriage," a majority oppose it.

"Marriage" is a union between one man and one woman, any other arrangement is not marriage and never will be. This is why the presentation by the sponsors of SB 5688 does not include their remarks to the press over the past couple of years, affirming that domestic partnerships is, "a long-term strategy" that will lead to homosexual marriage, a "bridge until we get [homosexual] marriage," etc.

It is focused on the personal destruction of those who defend marriage and an appeal to the public on behalf of "benefits," which frankly, the state can neither pay for or even correctly assess the cost.

These are the final days of an historic cultural battle. Please participate. You can do so by talking to neighbors, family and friends about the matter, asking them to vote "REJECT" on R-71 /SB 5688. You can also distribute flyers. If you have requested some and have not yet received them, 50,000 more have been printed and all requests will be filled over the next few days.

Expenses continue every day.

We need your donation today. I cannot overstate the urgency. I know you understand.
________________________

Homosexual TV Characters at Record High This Season

According to the Hollywood Reporter, homosexual characters in scripted programs, has reached an all time high in the season's network TV shows.

However, there is one network that has no, that's right, "zero" homosexual characters in their scripted shows and the Gay Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) is not happy about it, calling that network, "Out of step with network television."

GLAAD president, Jarrett Barrios, says this network alone, "Continues to weed out gay and lesbian programming."

I was surprised at which network they are talking about. You may be as well.

CBS has no gay characters out of 132 series regulars.

Barrios says that homosexual characters are important on television. "It's a critical way," he says, "toward changing the hearts and minds of America."

Indeed it is.

ABC Network continues to lead in scripting homosexual characters with eight. NBC has three this year.

Only two years ago, FOX had no homosexual characters in scripted programs---this year they have four.

Barrios singled out FOX's "GLEE" for particular praise. He said last weeks episode of "GLEE," showed a teenage boy struggling with his sexual orientation and discussing it with his father.

He says of the current television programming as it relates to homosexuality, "It is a much deeper and fuller portrayal of this issue than we've seen before."

In nearly every case where homosexual behavior is portrayed, in film, television or stage, great care is taken to present it as natural and normal.

There is no hesitation in their drive to "change the hearts and minds of America" and normalize that which is not normal or natural.

Every major religion condemns homosexual behavior. St. Paul teaches in the New Testament book of Romans, that as people exchange the truth of God for the lie and worship and serve the creature rather than the Creator, God gives them over to vile passions. He describes these vile passions as including, women exchanging their natural use for what is against nature and men, "leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful and receiving in themselves the penalty to their error."

Biblical teaching on homosexual behavior is really at the heart of the R-71 effort. People who believe in the authority of biblical teaching are unwilling to enshrine into law and reward those who practice such behavior.

The question is, "Should homosexual relations be elevated to that of natural marriage?"

If not, we must REJECT R-71/SB 5688.

__________________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom

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Friday, October 02, 2009

R-71 Transcends the Referendum

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There are several dynamics emerging during this R-71 / SB 5688 effort.

First, there is a growing sense that the faith community is engaged and cares about the culture. Some had been listening to an incorrect drum beat and I am told were shocked that you were able to even place the referendum on the ballot. The press and the homosexual community would be among those shocked, although there are others.

There is also a growing number of people who, when they understand what SB 5688 is really all about, are opposed to it and will vote to "REJECT" it on the November ballot.

Angie Vogt has written an article for Red Country, titled, "R-71: A Tale of Two Genders". While I do not agree with all of her positions, she makes an excellent point regarding the deception of SB 5688.

In the article she says, "When a law is written in such a way that it is described by popular media as, 'Everything but marriage, without calling it marriage', we should know that we are being deceived. Laws are written for the purpose of exacting justice, so if it has to be written in such a way as to imply something, without actually declaring it to be so, then we have been taken for fools."

She also says, "To pretend that a same-sex relationship holds the same value for society as a life long, committed heterosexual union doesn't make it so. It's a form of self deception."

An interesting article.

There is also an emerging dynamic that transcends the referendum itself.

As you likely know, there has been a great deal of resistance toward the referendum from the day we began. Even in the first planning meeting earlier this year, there were those who told us they would not participate and that there was no chance for a referendum to make the ballot; that it was a waste of time and money, foolish, stupid, etc. And, they said, even if it were to make the ballot, it would be defeated by 30 points.

The press, of course, loved that dynamic. That was then, this is now. You were faithful to your beliefs and conscience. You worked hard and long and the referendum is on the ballot.

God blessed and honored your commitment and we honor His blessing of these acts of service.

During the course of this "trial by fire," aka, Referendum 71 campaign, something new and good has taken root and is beginning to emerge.

A new and genuine desire to work together is rising in the faith community. A number of organizations, such as Washington Values Alliance, Faith and Freedom, Concerned Women for America, Eagle Forum, YWAM, and a number of others have successfully worked together for this common good.

During this time people who had been opposed to Referendum 71 or simply ambivalent to the issue, have become energized and active. More churches are stepping up and educating their congregations on SB 5688 with flyers and other materials. As personal conversations continue about the issue, people are seeing the urgency of defeating this legislation and are sharing that urgency with others.

Earlier this week I attended a meeting that included pastors, leaders of faith-based organizations, and elected officials who serve in the State Legislature.

I cannot share all I know about this at this time, but can assure you that whatever the outcome of Referendum 71 / SB 5688, and I feel we have an excellent chance for victory if we stay on course, the faith community is emerging as a stronger voice in the culture and much more unified.

There will be a much stronger voice from the faith community this coming year than we have seen in recent years.

I am not suggesting that everyone is on board. They are not. Do not be misled. However, God is doing something special at this time.

Be very sensitive to the leading of His Spirit in these matters. Pray and spiritually test all things concerning these matters.

Take heart. I don't know, but I feel there is not just a cultural change in progress, but perhaps, and more importantly, a spiritual awaking. I would not be surprised to begin to see and hear of these things in local churches. There is an expectation, a humbleness and desire, which I believe, God will honor.

The sun is rising. May His will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
_______________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom

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Thursday, October 01, 2009

You've Got to Love "Tolerance"

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We continue to get lessons and lectures on "tolerance".

One of the most recent goes something like this:

"On Friday, 9-25-09, I received 15 R-71 signs and put them out in the University Place area. As of Tuesday morning, 9-29-09, only 6 of the 15 were okay and remained where I put them."

Let me tell you what happened, what messages were sent back to this person and others who saw the defaced signs, the solution from someone else in another area and my personal observation regarding what I feel is the real lesson in this.

Nine of the 15 signs in University Place had been broken off or defaced with messages, including two with swastikas spray painted on them. The messages included:


"F--- you homophobe"
"Real love is one man and one man"
"man and man-woman and woman"
"Everyone should be equal-equal-equal-equal"
"One man and one man--one woman and one woman=LOVE"

And so on.

In a email from another person involved in the same effort, different area, relayed similar stories of sign destruction. He said, "I think these folks prefer boycotts and parades to tearing out signs. Taking out the signs is hard work, boycotts and parades are not. I just keep putting new signs up and now they have grown tired of it and leave them alone."

He used the word "persistence". Indeed.

I think there is also an unintended message in this.

Clearly there is a deep need to affirm a lifestyle as an acceptable identity. There is also a double standard regarding "tolerance".

But there is also something else.

I personally think these kinds of actions point out why homosexuals have a difficult time believing that Christians don't hate them, but rather stand against their attempt to legalize and enshrine into law as normal that which is not normal and to deconstruct the institution of marriage. There is no historical, theological or social basis to justify so-called homosexual "marriage".

Every major religion condemns it and no successful society has ever made homosexual relationships equal to marriage.

This realization leads to desperation, hate and a need to destroy anyone who opposes their agenda.

And it seems to preclude their ability to accept the fact that Christians do not hate them. Christians hate the destructive lifestyle and are not willing to incorporate that as a legal norm and equal to marriage. Without justification for the lifestyle, the only response left for homosexual advocates, it seems, is often personal destruction toward those who have a different view.

Christians also know of the grace and restoration that is found in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, God's only begotten Son. In that all have sinned, we pray for God's deliverance and restoration for every person.

When one has been restored and redeemed in Christ, it is an easy matter to believe that everyone who disagrees with you does not necessarily hate you, because God's Spirit has dealt and is dealing with any hate you may have harbored.

It is said, "Those who the Son sets free are free indeed."

Freedom is a wonderful thing.

____________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom

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