Monday, November 30, 2009
Lakewood Police Chief Gives A Call For Prayer
Chief Bret Farrar, speaking to the press, spoke of the difficulties the families of those who were slain will now face. He concluded his statement to the press with, "Please keep our families and Lakewood Police in your prayers."
The slain officers are: Sgt. Mark Renninger, 39, survived by a wife and 3 children; Ronald Owens, 37, survived by a former wife and a daughter; Tina Griswold, 40, survived by her husband and 2 children, and Greg Richards, 42, survived by a wife and 3 children.
Please take a moment and remember these families in prayer as they deal with this loss.
We would also remind you---especially those who live in the area, to be aware of other opportunities to reach out to these families.
God bless you.
________________________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom
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Wednesday, November 25, 2009
To Whom Do We Give Thanks?
Faith & Freedom would like to wish you and your family a Happy Thanksgiving.
On the south side of the Rotunda in the United States Capitol Building is a painting titled "The Embarkation of the Pilgrims."
The painting depicts the deck of the ship as it departs from Holland for the New World in 1620. Look, and you will see that the pilgrims are praying. A rainbow rises on the left side of the painting, symbolizing hope and divine protection.
The faith in God that the pilgrims exhibited on embarkation from the old world became thankfulness to the same God on disembarkation in the New World.
This is the origin of the day of Thanksgiving we celebrate this week. We give thanks, not merely to one another, or to some undefined spiritual force, but to God.
It doesn't mean we're all Christians. It means we're Americans; lucky citizens of a nation uniquely rooted in faith in our Creator.
Tomorrow We Give Thanks to the God of Washington and Lincoln
To whom will we give thanks tomorrow?
To the God whom George Washington, in the first national Thanksgiving Day proclamation in 1789, called on all Americans to "unite to render unto Him our sincere and humble thanks for His kind care and protection."
To the God to whom Abraham Lincoln looked in the midst of the Civil War as he made Thanksgiving an annual national holiday in 1863:
"No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy."
Tomorrow we give thanks to the Creator who is the source of our sovereignty.
We pause in gratitude to He who has endowed us with the inalienable rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
And just as no government has granted these rights, no government can legitimately take them away.
This is the freedom the pilgrims prayed for, Washington fought for and Lincoln stood for.
As important as it is to give thanks tomorrow is to remember, as Americans have before us, to whom we give thanks.
May you and your family have a happy, healthy and blessed Thanksgiving.
____________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom
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Tuesday, November 24, 2009
All The King's Men (and Women)
He has continued to make bad choices in nearly every aspect of his administration, none more potentially damaging than his nominations and appointments. The results of these decisions are apparently becoming more clear to Americans, and polls indicate that a growing number are starting to push back.
The damage that is beginning to emerge as a result of his propensity for bad choices may be such that all the kings horses and all the kings men and women may not be able to put it back together again.
And maybe that's a necessary step in their rush toward a post American world.
The President's most recent nomination may be one of the worst yet.
Chai Feldblum, his recent nomination to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, (EEOC) holds beliefs that are beyond the fringe philosophy of many of the President's previous nominees. And it is a nomination intended to be a stepping stone to a US Supreme Court nomination.
Feldblum is a signer on the "Beyond Marriage" petition, which advocates polyamory---a practice that includes a grouping of any number of individuals---both male and female---who are willing to engage in sexual acts with each other or just live together in a 'beyond marriage' arrangement. I have written about the "beyond marriage" group in at least two previous blogs.
Feldblum has stated, "I, for one, am not sure whether marriage is a normatively good institution. I have moved away from the belief that marriage is clearly the best normative way to structure intimate relationships."
She has also said that when religious freedom clashes with the LGBT agenda, religious freedom should lose. She believes sexual liberty should win in most all cases because, "that's the only way that the dignity of gay people can be affirmed in any realistic manner."
Andrea Lafferty with Traditional Values Coalition attended Fledblum's recent confirmation hearing and has done considerable research into the nominee. She has written some very insightful and alarming comments. I strongly recommend you read Lafferty's linked report, which also includes a link to Feldblum's comments made in a speech on the subject of "Tilt" in our culture.
This one nomination is a snapshot of how our culture is being undermined, and stone by stone the very foundation is being dismantled leading to the lose of our freedoms.
This is why we at Faith and Freedom continue to do our best each day to inform and inspire. We believe an informed people will be inspired and empowered to resist and will stand for faith and freedom in our culture.
Your tax deductible financial support of Faith and Freedom Foundation allows us to continue this daily process of education and information.
Thank you and God bless you.
______________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom
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Monday, November 23, 2009
Sex Ed in Public Education; AKA Indoctrination
The redefinition of terms such as "husband" and "wife" and a litany of others traditionally associated with natural marriage will soon be the topic of discussion in your child's classroom.
While some teachers will do so reluctantly, others will welcome the opportunity to advance a far left, post modern, relativistic worldview---at public expense. The views reflected in SB 5688 elevates that which is not normal to that of normality and socially acceptable behavior. And rewards it.
Dr. Miriam Grossman, for 12 years a staff psychiatrist at UCLA and respected expert on sex ed in public education, has written in her book, "You're Teaching My Child What," that sex ed is not about preventing unwanted pregnancies--it's to promote sexual freedom.
She says, "This is not about health, folks. This is about indoctrination."
Grossman says that the Sex Information and Education Council of the US (SIECUS), who provides sex ed curricula for schools across the country, promotes the idea, without any basis in fact, that it is "healthy" for kids to explore their sexuality.
She also says that many sex ed instructors encourages kids to, "question what they've been taught at home and at church."
She says sex ed not only undermines parental authority, it has the potential to promote dangerous behavior in an age group already eager and willing to break rules.
Dr. Grossman, in the conclusion of her book, advises parents to check carefully, ahead of time what their children will be taught in sex ed classes.
With the negative impact of SB 5688 now ready to be downloaded on our children in an already hostile environment toward traditional Christian values, it is even more important over the next few months to be very, very vigilant regarding what they are teaching your children.
Your child is a gift from God to you---not to state run education.
_____________________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom
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Friday, November 20, 2009
The Power of Palin
And many are concerned, including the President of the United States.
I've observed these kinds of things through out my adult life and have never seen anyone so consistently and maliciously attacked by the press and the entertainment industry---and now the President.
They have repeatedly told us she is not qualified to be President, she is uninformed, unprepared, etc., etc., They have attacked her family, her marriage and her wardrobe.
Newsweek Magazine put her on their cover this week, using a picture from a running and fitness magazine that they were not legally authorized to use. Now they are explaining that they are not, repeat, not sexist---not one bit.
The bold line on the illegal photo cover is: "How Do You Solve A Problem Like Sara?" The subtitle on their cover reads, "She is bad news for the GOP---and Everybody Else Too."
It's odd to see Newsweek looking out for the GOP.
Chris Matthews was wondering out loud yesterday on MSNBC why the 1500 people lined up for her autograph were all white.
If she is so incapable, uninformed and unqualified for an office she is not running for at the moment, why is she so dangerous? Why the pre-occupation?
President Obama sent out an email this morning. He and his organizing office is calling her dangerous and asking for our help in pushing back against her.
Friend --Right now, Sarah Palin is on a highly publicized, nationwide book tour, attacking President Obama and his plan for health reform at every turn.
It's dangerous. Remember, this is the person who coined the term "Death Panels" -- and opened the flood gates for months of false attacks by special interests and partisan extremists.
Whatever lie comes next will be widely covered by the media, then constantly echoed by right-wing attack groups and others who are trying to defeat reform.
As we approach the final sprint on health reform, we can't afford more deception and delay. We need to be ready for anything -- and have the resources to respond with ads, events, and calls to Congress when the attacks come. So we're setting a big goal: $500,000 in the next week to help push back against Sarah Palin and her allies.
Please chip in $5 to help reach our goal.
Earlier this month, Palin publicly said that she hopes health reform will be "dead on arrival." And since then, she's been working fiercely toward that goal.
On Tuesday, Palin went on Rush Limbaugh's radio show where she outrageously -- and falsely -- suggested that Americans could "face jail time as punishment" if they don't buy insurance.
Palin has many more interviews scheduled on Hannity and other conservative shows in the next few weeks, with more platforms to go after the President. As soon as she does, the rest of our opponents will likely parrot those attacks.
We need to be prepared. And we're counting on you help. Can you chip in $5?
Dangerous to whom? To what?
The email from info@barackobama.com says she is on a book tour, is dangerous, and is going to be talking to Limbaugh and Hannity. The explanation is that after talking to them, others will likely parrot what she tells them and that is dangerous.
In fact, it is so dangerous that they need "$500,000 in the next week to help push back against Sara Palin and her allies."
I'm thinking $500,000 may not be enough.
Perhaps the danger is not with Palin. Perhaps the danger to the President lies in his far left, socialistic policies, his economic policies, his personal need to apologize for America as he travels the world, his position on DOMA and abortion, and his inability to recognize those who pose a real danger---the Gitmo guys who are moving to Manhattan and the person who shot our troops in Texas and the cells of those who hate this country and are working to destroy it, come to mind.
Palin is simply articulating values and principles upon which this country was built and has prospered and become a city on a hill---an exceptional nation. A place where there is government of the people, by the people and for the people, not a socialist elite state built on the ruins of what was the greatest nation in the history of the world.
Palin is not the problem, although what she believes and articulates is at the heart of it. The fact that she is a women, good looking and a Christian---and becoming more "capable" and "qualified"---office ready, as they say, by the day, may also be a bit of a problem.
The problem could be solved and the danger diminished if the President would simply change his positions on most every aspect of the American culture.
I see an even greater danger looming. What if others who share her beliefs, also go on book tours, and talk to Hannity and Limbaugh?
That would raise the level on danger.
I pray that is the case.
__________________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom
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Thursday, November 19, 2009
"A New Nation ..."
Because of his pressing demands, the speaker was invited as a courtesy. When he accepted, they were both surprised and pleased.
His speech was a little over 2 minutes, but has been an enduring profile of the man's beliefs in American democracy and ideology.
Do you know the man and the speech?
On November 19, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address at the Soldiers' National Cemetery dedication ceremonies in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. After the Battle of Gettysburg, which took place from July 1-4, 1863, the citizens of the Pennsylvania town were over-burdened with the task of caring for the injured and burying the dead. With nearly 6,000 dead bodies left behind by the Union and Confederate armies, and hundreds more dying each day, the state of Pennsylvania purchased land on Cemetery Hill as a burial ground for the fallen soldiers. State officials invited President Lincoln to the dedication ceremonies as a courtesy, and were surprised when he accepted the invitation to come and speak. The day of the ceremony, Lincoln's address lasted a little over two minutes, but soon became a famous representation of Lincoln's beliefs in American democracy and ideology.
Today, only five copies of the speech exist, each with the immortal words written by President Lincoln himself, "...that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth."
Primary Sources and more
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
God Under Attack at the Capitol Visitor's Center
Jay Sekulow, chief counsel for the American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ) said Monday, "The fact is that Congress acted appropriately and consistent with the Constitution with the inclusion of the national motto and the Pledge of Allegiance in the Capitol Visitor Center."
He said, "These expressions echo the sentiments found in the Declaration of Independence and recognize the undeniable truth that our freedoms come from God."
These cases cause one to wonder if those seeking the complete removal of God and His influence from the American culture, have actually given any thought as to what the consequences to their freedoms might look like?
Sekulow says, "This challenge is another misguided attempt to alter history and purge America of religious references."
Representative Randy Forbes R-VA, has been active in these matters and is one of 44 members of Congress named in the suit, which incidentally has been filed by none other than the Freedom From Religion Foundation----the "Yes Virginia---" people.
Forbes and others in Congress have been working to establish an annual "Month of Religious History" that would include reviewing the influence of Christianity in shaping America.
Forbes said, "The role religion played in shaping the nation is clear." He observes that the freedoms we have are recognized in our Founding Documents as coming from God or "The Creator".
He said, "If those rights came from the state, then the state can take them away."
It bears repeating. Do these folks realize that if they accomplished their goal, they would not be able to exercise and enjoy the very freedoms they are using to move the culture to preeminence of government on the matter of rights?
Under a system that recognizes government above God, they would likely not be free to not believe, much less file lawsuits.
____________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom
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Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Homosexual Activists Very Active
Focus is also reporting that homosexual activists in Maine are advocating that people report the churches that supported the campaign to preserve natural marriage and report them to the IRS requesting their tax exempt status be revoked.
The Maine Marriage Equality website is providing links to forms for filing complaints against churches that supported marriage. The site also provides addresses and fax numbers to assist in filing the complaint.
I have linked their website so you can see their attack on churches and read a letter from the IRS responding to a complaint filed by Adam Flanders of Belfast Maine against the Searsport Full Gospel Church.
What does this mean to us?
First, the matter in Connecticut. While each state has it's own organized assault on marriage, there is clearly a national and international effort that is working in sync with the state organizations.
Many are predicting that having won the R-71 campaign in Washington State, homosexual activists will wait several years to go for "the word" marriage. Senator Ed Murray has been telling the press he is not going to make a move in that direction for at least some time.
I don't believe they will exercise that kind of restraint. That is contrary to the nature of the homosexual movement. We'll see.
I am not surprised at the actions in Maine. That is consistent with the follow up actions in California and Florida.
Faith and Freedom has already experienced that kind of attack. The IRS found us to be in full compliance---exemplary. The process cost us several thousands of dollars. I'm certain that is part of their strategy.
We were both open and helpful toward the IRS during the audit process. In the end we received some very good counsel as to how to accomplish certain goals and remain in full compliance.
The pastors in Maine who supported the effort are not intimidated. Pastor Ken Graves, senior pastor at Calvary Chapel in Bangor, said they welcome the challenge. He said, "We know what the law is, what we're allowed to do, we've acted within the context of the law. We've consulted with the ethics commission here in Maine with regard to our political involvement."
Graves said, "We refuse to be held hostage and held silent with the threat of the removal of our tax-exempt status."
It's refreshing to hear those words from a pastor.
Alliance Defense Fund has offered free legal counsel to all churches who are attacked.
Graves said there are more important things than fretting about the IRS issue. Indeed. I pray God will give courage to pastors to take their rightful stand. For us, a battle is finished, but the war rages on.
The attempt to deconstruct marriage and "give them the name" will return to Washington State. I think it will be sooner than later.
_______________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom
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Monday, November 16, 2009
The Fight Over Abstinence at Harvard
The Harvard Abstinence Club, "True Love Revolution," or TLR as they are called, has raised the ire of feminists on campus and raised eyebrows among professors and the press--- including the medical community.
Since their founding in 2006, they have become active and engaged with getting their message out.
On Valentine's Day 2007, TLR representatives put a chocolate in every freshwoman's mailbox with a heart shaped card that read: "Why wait? Because you're worth it."
Feminists on campus became irate, accusing them of promoting a retrograde view of sex and relationships.
Now the group has drawn further ire with an addition to their purpose and mission statement.
The new statement asserts that sex outside of marriage is, "harmful to both parties," and they are embracing, "traditional marriage." They are also advocating that choosing abstinence until marriage is "true feminism" in that "it recognizes the natural characteristics, strengths and abilities of women and seeks to affirm them in this identity."
The responses are varied, but my impression from what I have read is that a good number of people and groups are concerned about this move toward a traditional values worldview.
Newsweek, Medical News Today, students and professors have all weighed in on the matter. One thing is sure, it has ignited a conversation.
I have shared some quotes, links and a couple of personal observations.
Lisa Miller, with Newsweek, has written an article published online November 6 and printed in the magazine issue dated today, November 16 that says, "True Love Revolution might do better than to leave aside the divisive and wrong headed 'one man-one woman' language and help guide students through this modern sexual wilderness."
It's ironic that those who helped lead kids into this "sexual wilderness" are so quick to be giving advice as to how to navigate it and escape it.
Miller quotes from a conversation with Donna Freitas, an author and visiting scholar in religion at Boston College, who says she believes students are not given enough opportunity to tell the truth about what they want out of sex and relationships without drawing the derision of their peers and professors.
The values of many professors in the classroom today were shaped by the sexual revolution of the 60's. Not only were their personal values developed in the "free love" Woodstock era, but they have consistently and strongly advocated these values to recent generations of young people coming to the college campus for a liberal arts education.
Any departure from the progressive move to the left and away from traditional values is seen as a reason for alarm.
Medical News Today recaps Millers story with the headline, "Harvard Abstinence Club Misses Opportunity For 'Nuanced' Conversation About Sex, Opinion Piece Says".
Indeed Miller did say that, but it's interesting that Medical News Today felt that was the most important line from her piece.
Advocates of progressive, relativistic values never embrace absolutes. Medical News is quick to judge that if these kids didn't believe so strongly in their values, they might be more effective. Unfortunately, there are those in the religious community who agree.
Friedas told Miller that health services in colleges simply dispense condoms and lectures about sexually transmitted infections and the average college student is miserable about sex.
While the "hook-up" plan is still dominate, kids are beginning to feel unrestrained sexual activities lack meaning and is oppressive and are looking for a better way.
Similar groups to True Love Revolution are operating on other campuses. Similar clubs under the name, Anscombe Society, are operating at Princeton and MIT.
The far left, secularist progressive may have reason for concern.
The TLR home page says, "Welcome to the True Love Revolution! We are a student organization at Harvard College that strives to present another option to our peers regarding sex-related issues, endorsing premarital abstinence and sexual integrity, upholding the institution of marriage and the family, and advocating true feminism."
It continues, "We believe that casual liberationist sentiments toward sexuality, and relationships are detrimental to the health and well being of fellow students. Further more we are alarmed that our peers are ignorant of the reasons and arguments defending these principles..."
The move away from traditional marriage and values by the young are always highly reported, however, there is a revolution happening that is not "nuanced," but clear and principle based.
Pray for these kids and rejoice.
_____________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom
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Friday, November 13, 2009
"Yes Virginia There is No God"
The "Virginia" signs coincide with the Freedom From Religion Foundation's national convention being held in Seattle this weekend.
Obviously their signs are a play off the now famous answer to a question posed by an 8-year-old to the old New York Sun newspaper which said, "Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. Papa says 'if you see it in the Sun, it's so.' Please tell me the truth; is there a Santa Claus?"
The Sun's editorial response became historic: "Yes Virginia, there is a Santa Claus."
Dan Barker, yes, that Dan Barker, founder of the Wisconsin based Freedom From Religion Foundation and the person who placed the atheist placard beside the Nativity in the Capitol in Olympia last Christmas, says fellow atheists and so-called "free thinkers" celebrate the winter solstice and see Christianity as an intruder, trying to steal the national holiday from "all of us humans."
Some thoughts on the Christian heist being perpetrated on "all us humans" and a glance at freedom of speech. Is speech more free for some than others?
When anti-God billboards started appearing in the Seattle area a year or so ago, the Seattle Times called me and asked if I had seen them, and if so what I thought about them.
I had seen them. I don't like them. I like pro-God signs.
However, America, in her greatness, protects freedom of speech or freedom of expression. Our Founders recognized that freedom and certain rights come from God, not government. Men and women have given their lives to defend those freedoms.
These freedoms, given by God, extend to those who believe in Him and those who do not. Therein is the greatness of this country.
Go to a Muslim country, paste a sign on a bus---any bus, that says, "Yes Virginia There Is No Allah," and you will not have to be troubled about any intrusion from Christians celebrating Christmas. Or stealing "solstice".
America's greatness lies in the understanding penned by our Founders in both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. "We hold these truths to be self-evident," they wrote, "that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights"---among those rights, articulated in the Constitution and it's First Amendment is that, "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise there of; or abridging the freedom of speech..."
Those who practice the tenants of atheism claim it is not a religion, however, it certainly functions like one.
Our judicial system is extra ordinarily careful not to allow "inappropriate" free expression of the Christian beliefs.
Just last year, the South Carolina state legislature approved a bill to establish a Christian-themed license plate depicting a cross in front of a stained glass window and bearing the words, "I Believe".
There was an outcry from atheist groups, it went to court and the "I Believe" plate was declared in violation of the First Amendment.
The freedom to pay extra for a plate that says "I Believe" violates the First Amendment.
The freedom to pay for a sign to be placed on a government owned bus that says there is no God, or, "I Don't Believe" is protected under the First Amendment.
For those who live in the Seattle area and see the buses bearing the message, remember: While not believing in the God who granted them the right to express themselves, they are practicing His provision, protected by a government based on Christian principles.
In their non-belief and "free thinking," they may be closer to Him than they realize. If not, why are they protesting so much?
When you see the signs, smile and pray for them.
Final suggestion: Don't steal solstice. Express yourself. God reigns. Merry Christmas.
________________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom
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Thursday, November 12, 2009
When Walls Fall Down
I have a piece of that wall on my desk. It reminds me of the joy and sense of freedom felt in the streets of Berlin 20 years ago.
That piece of cement also reminds me that while the old Soviet Union and it's old style communism, self destructed (thank you, President Reagan) in a slow burn for all the world to see, a new, mutated form of the same old beliefs is hard at work.
President Obama said on his 100th day in office,"The work of remaking America is well under way."
Indeed it is.
The ideology that drove the old Soviet Union is remaking western civilization and undermining every principle that framed the founding of the greatest country in the history of the world.
America.
Melanie Phillips has called it "cultural Marxism," which she says is, "based on the understanding that what holds a society together are the pillars of it's culture: the structures and institutions of education, family, law, media and religion. Transform the principles that these embody and you can thus destroy the society they have shaped."
This work is well underway, in our country and our state. And the results are becoming more and more apparent.
Change has come, as they say. Can we reverse the trend?
My piece of cement reminds me this is a cultural war---not a single battle.
Antonio Gramsci, an Italian thinker and journalist, introduced "cultural Marxism" as a way to re-order a culture. His teaching was primarily embraced by radicals in the 60's then became even more accepted in the 70's after his journals were published in English. Those who hated western society, what it stands for and the Judeo-Christian principles upon which it is built, absorbed his teachings and are now acting on them.
They are now in power.
Gramsci understood that the working class would never rise up and take control of 'production, distribution and exchange' as the old communists had hoped and predicted. He concluded that the path to revolution was not economic, but through reordering social norms and beliefs.
He believed a society could be overthrown if it's core principles were replaced by those of the group seeking to change that society.
He advocated a "long march through the institutions" to undermine the core values of that society---turning them upside down.
Change.
The traditional family is being redefined in this generation.
Marriage is being deconstructed and redefined in this generation.
Homosexual relations are being normalized and Washington State, along with a few others, have said these relationships are equal to those in natural marriage. Textbooks are reaffirming this to our children.
Public education has been greatly compromised and one of it's most important functions has been neutralized---that of transmitting a culture to the next generation. That function has been replaced with the idea that what children already know is superior to what they can be taught.
Phillips says, "The outcome of this 'child centered' approach has been wide spread illiteracy and ignorance and an eroded capacity for independent thought."
Our laws have been undermined by the "rights" agenda. Political correctness has turned morality on it's head. Nothing is absolutely right or absolutely wrong. There is no capital "T" Truth---only little personal, often changing, "truths".
Groups who practice deviant behavior are elevated and protected as victims.
"Cultural Marxism" advances the belief that the world is divided into two groups. The powerful, who are responsible for all the world's ills, and the oppressed who are the victims and responsible for nothing and worthy to be rescued by those advancing this belief.
And thus a wall is built between the core principles and beliefs that built a great nation and those espoused by a minority who hate the principles and the resulting culture.
Phillips says, "Feminism, anti-racism and gay rights, thus turned men, white people and Christians into the decency who were forced to jump through hoops to prove their virtue."
This belief has led to a place where a nation with culture, language and borders is the cause of all societal ills. It has also led a nation to elect a President who travels to foreign countries to apologize for America.
This philosophy uses the institutions of society itself to re-educate and re-order a democratic society to replicate that of a totalitarian one reminiscent of the old Berlin Wall" Soviet Union.
The fall of the Berlin Wall reminds me of a moment of freedom, but it also reminds us that the battle for the mind and heart and soul of western civilization--- America in particular, still rages.
A battle won or lost is not the final act. The final act has been foretold by the prophets.
There is a clarion call, an instruction to "occupy until He returns," to each generation. A call to stand for those principles and values that build great civilizations because they build great individuals. These are the fundamental cornerstones to every successful society.
I believe, there is such a call to this generation and sometimes it may include standing in the face of political correctness, experiencing criticism, scorn and sometimes public mockery.
I personally will, to the best of my ability, heed the call. I know many of you will, as well.
Thank you for your support.
__________________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom
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Tuesday, November 10, 2009
One more thought as we move forward
As we attempt to properly do so, words are not adequate to express my personal gratitude to all who worked tirelessly and gave so much of themselves to this effort. Your email of personal support, particularly over the past 24 hours, are deeply appreciated. I am honored to have worked with you and look forward to doing so in the near future as we move forward.
Among the many active in the R-71 campaign is Robert Struble, Jr. Bob passed out flyers and participated in 10 debates. He is a published author, with a history of political experience.
He has written an article giving his perspective on R-71, what we did, what it means and what we must do as we move forward. His article was published yesterday in the Catholic Exchange, titled, "Defending Traditional Marriage: Washington State vs. Maine".
In it he says, "Informed observers now expect that the Washington State Supreme Court will mandate marriage licenses as well on constitutional grounds. The 'Justices' will draw the newly enacted bill from their jurisprudential quiver to kill the concept of marriage affirmed throughout history. Thus they will continue the deconstruction of our Judeo-Christian heritage."
"Because," he says, "Washingtonians cannot amend our constitution directly, we the people cannot overturn constitutional rulings by the Court."
Many of us who worked together on this effort are preparing for the next step. I strongly recommend you read Struble's article for a healthy perspective of what happened in R-71 and what it means moving forward.
____________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom
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Monday, November 09, 2009
Will Petition Signers Be Protected?
Chris Grygiel at the Seattle PI wrote an article yesterday suggesting, "US Supreme Court Could Be Next Stop For R-71".
While Grygiel gets to the point of the case by interviewing a Loyola Law School professor and referencing comments by a Columbia University Law School professor, he misses or ignores a critical point of the case.
He, as others in the press are careful to do, casts the concerns of petition signers as a speculative and hypothetical future possibility saying, "Gay rights groups have said they'll post the names online, and some petition signers fear harassment or threats if their identities are revealed."
The threats and harassment has and is happening. It is not a future possibility.
Here are the names of some who are already actively harassing those who participated in R-71.
You know about the defacement of the REJECT signs and have likely heard about the comments hurled at those holding signs in a number of the rallies. They were often verbally abused for their beliefs and participation.
Earlier in the campaign, John Bisceglia, a homosexual activist, was advocating on his web site that all government property and church property that supported R-71 be destroyed. He was also advocating that Larry Stickney and myself be killed. It was only after KIRO TV 7 in Seattle did a story about it, did he remove the advocacy of killing and property destruction text.
Dominic Holden, from a homosexual newspaper in Seattle, has harvested names and addresses from the PDC donor disclosure forms submitted by Protect Marriage Washington. He called the people at their homes demanding to know, "Why do you hate me?" He then posted their full name, where they live and some of their comments in the newspaper.
You tell me. Is that harassment? Does that have a chilling effect on their freedom to participate in the political process? Does that compromise their expression of free speech?
These are a few of the many specific examples of harassment toward people who hold a different view from the homosexual activists. While this may not reflect the position of all homosexuals, it certainly reflects the position of some of them.
As we have seen, one misguided person consumed with hate and passion, can hurt a lot of people.
While R-71 will now fade from the media interest, be assured we will continue to do everything possible to protect the names of those who signed R-71 petitions.
The US Supreme Court will now consider whether they will hear the case. This consideration will likely take place around June 2010. In the meantime, the names remain sealed from the public. We will keep you updated as this process moves forward.
We are not unaware that there will be those who will attempt to exploit the loss in the R-71 campaign, both from within and without of the faith community. However, this is a spiritual, not a political matter for us and we will continue to be faithful to what we feel God has called us to do, whether or not we fully understand certain developments.
Be discerning.
The cultural issues we face are also not political, but spiritual. We are not resisting flesh and blood in these issues, but principalities and powers. We understand that and know that you understand it as well.
Thank you for continuing to stand with us as we move forward with greater insight, a stronger grassroots base and more resolve to resist the assault on godly principles.
_____________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom
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Friday, November 06, 2009
A Tale of Two States
There are a number of issues that define the difference between the east and the west, none more poignant today than the expansion of homosexual domestic partnerships---"the bridge to homosexual marriage," according to Rep. Jamie Pederson.
The Seattle Times has written an article titled, "Gay Rights Support Stops at Cascades." I have also linked the map of the state which shows voting county by county. It is very revealing.
The Tacoma News Tribune said this morning, in reporting the defeat of homosexual marriage in Maine, "There, but for the grace of King County, would have followed Referendum 71."
Ten counties, all in the Puget Sound area, are providing the vote count lead to approve SB 5688, while the other 29 counties are rejecting it. King County is King.
Nationally, the City of Seattle is very near the top in homosexual population. The Seattle Metro Area (Puget Sound) is also very near the top of all cities and metro areas in the country.
Here are some demographic stats, some personal thoughts and a few initial action items for Faith and Freedom Network and Foundation.
First, Wikipedia gives the following demographics:
*12.9% of the City of Seattle is homosexual , second only to San Francisco.
*Seattle is second, nationally, only to San Francisco, in the number of homosexuals living in the city.
*Seattle Metro area (Puget Sound) is second only to San Francisco in both percentage---6.5% and number of homosexuals---154,835.
While most all newspapers in the state strongly and actively supported---including selective reporting at times, SB 5688, the papers in eastern Washington certainly do not reflect the views of their readers. Both the Spokesman Review in Spokane and the Yakima Herald -Republic strongly supported "the bridge to marriage," yet look at how the counties voted.
A great amount of money was given from the metro area, including $100,000 from Microsoft, $73,500 from the Human Rights Campaign, $32,000 from the ACLU and $32,000 from the National Education Association (NEA).
Equal Rights Washington, the state's leading homosexual advocacy group, says they will be opening an office in Spokane to now focus their efforts east of the mountains. Josh Friedes, the director, says they will be identifying areas where they "can make progress."
Some thoughts.
They are right. Education makes a difference---even if it is misinformation. Or even a lie. In fact an ancient prophet has written that, "God's people are destroyed for lack of knowledge."
Postmodernism has given us "many truths".
If the present vote count continues as it is, and I have not yet personally conceded that it will, Washington will have crossed the threshold of redefining marriage and the family. If homosexuals restrain themselves, it may be a year or so before the first lawsuit is filed. It will go something like this: The state has given me "everything but marriage," but is denying me the name "marriage". I am being discriminated against because I am homosexual. The suit will not be primarily about marriage, but discrimination. I doubt they will wait. And I doubt they will lose the litigation, because the approval of SB 5688---which is, remember, "not" about marriage, will be the basis for their litigation. No SB 5688, no legal position for the suit. The state DOMA will become irrelevant.
The homosexual marriage issue will certainly be revisited, however, while preparing for that eventuality, it is absolutely necessary to systematically educate the public.
Good news and action items:
Upwards of 200,000 people have been identified as willing to take a stand for natural marriage and the family. And are willing to remain active to defend these deeply held beliefs. We are much stronger today, than we were when we began discussion and prayer as to how we should respond to SB 5688 early this past spring.
Not only is our grassroots network greatly expanded, but there is a better understanding among people of faith and social conservatives as to what the battle looks and feels like.
The fury of the press was not unexpected. We treated them with respect, although that was often not reciprocated. And we will continue to do so.
The relentless public attempt to undermine R-71 from within the faith community was not expected. We knew there would be those who would not support our efforts, but had no idea it would be taken to that level. We have learned from that experience.
We are moving forward with a much broader, wiser and deeper base than when we began.
We are now developing a specific program to further expand the faith based network and begin an organized state wide educational program---county by county and community by community.
We will be considerably more active and more visible during the upcoming 2010 Legislative session.
We are making plans to help elect new law makers who will support those beliefs that are important to people of faith and social conservatives. There are some vulnerable seats and we will be targeting them in the future.
Many of you have financially supported Faith and Freedom for a number of years, some have begun more recently. Thank you for standing with us.
Going forward, your financial support will be even more important and necessary.
All donations to our educational outreach are tax deductible. And your name is not required to be disclosed on our annual report to the IRS. Unlike the PAC which is used for direct advocacy of candidates or referenda and initiatives.
We are substantially increasing our educational programs. I realize we are sometimes more inspired to give in a crises or campaign, however, the future lies in getting our message to people in meaningful and understandable ways. With our expanded network in place, it is the time to move forward.
I am not tired, weary or discouraged in any way, but thank you for the encouraging emails. They mean a great deal to me personally. I believe God has called me to this and I believe He will guide us and provide the necessary funding.
Please consider a tax deductible donation to Faith and Freedom Foundation.
Thank you and God bless you.
______________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom
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Wednesday, November 04, 2009
"Smelling Victory"---"Being Approved"
Danny Westneat at the Times says the election is a "tipping point, of sorts"---"a bellwether of public acceptance" of the homosexual lifestyle.
Whatever the narrative, celebration reigns---especially in the press.
As of this morning; 1,002,599 votes have been counted. We trail by 20,703.
I have some further thoughts.
The Seattle PI correctly quoted the statement we put out yesterday:
"The Faith and Freedom Network, which opposed the new gay rights law, said in a statement earlier Tuesday that the effort had been worth it."
"People of faith and social conservatives have been revived as a political force in Washington," the statement said. "R-71 has identified upwards of 200,000 people who are willing to take action to protect marriage, the family and children. It has also identified a legal team that has won victory after victory, a team that will now defend R-71 petition signers and their right to anonymous political speech before the United States Supreme Court."
Pastor Ken Hutcherson expanded on this thought last night. He pointed out that half the churches in the state did not participate in R-71. He also said, "R-71 is a victory regardless of the vote," pointing to a series of impossible victories during the R-71 campaign.
He said, "We're praying that the vote comes through for us. If the vote doesn't come through for us tonight, we'll try again."
Indeed.
Be assured we will try again. And we are already looking at our options.
But for the moment, let's wait until all the votes are counted.
Be strong. Be vigilant. Be prayerful.
______________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom
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Tuesday, November 03, 2009
R-71 Election Day Update
In talking with David Ammons, spokesperson for the Secretary of State's office today, I learned that the voter participation may not be as strong as many counties had predicted---particularly King County and Seattle. If that is true, it could favor us, because Seattle represents the strongest opposition to our efforts with R-71.
PLEASE REMEMBER: with mail-in ballots, the dynamic of reporting has changed. For example, the Secretary's office will likely report on King County at about 8:15 or so this evening. That will include ballots received through this past Saturday and may include some ballots received yesterday. The rest will be processed over the next several days. Keep in mind, the initial state-wide reports will be impacted by the King County report. Don't cheer or faint prematurely. It may take several days before the results are final.
Win or lose on this vote, we have a clear sense of direction going forward. Things have changed in regard to the involvement of people of faith and social conservatives.
I want to personally thank the team of volunteers across the state who have worked tirelessly on R-71.
The Slavic Churches have not only helped lead, but have reminded us all how important our freedoms really are. The involvement of the Slavic pastors and their churches have been exemplary. A most sincere thank you to these brothers and sisters.
Without your financial support, R-71 could not have happened, nor could we continue to stand for godly principles in the culture.
Be at peace. God is leading us.
___________________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom
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Monday, November 02, 2009
WA State at Crossroads. Does It Matter?
And SB 5688 is about homosexual "marriage".
Senator Ed Murray and Representative Jamie Pederson have repeatedly made it very clear that SB 5688 and domestic partnerships is a "long term strategy" and a "bridge" until homosexual "marriage" is legal.
The Seattle Times and others in the print news have selectively reported on the R-71 campaign while their editorial boards and columnists have been calling for passage of SB 5688, with the Seattle Times editorial board actually calling for same-sex "marriage" following the Governor's signing of SB 5688. In the celebratory spirit of the moment a few months ago, the Times Editorial Board said, "Give them the name."
Domestic partnerships has been advanced as a compassionate expression--an act of tolerance and equality, while in truth, it is a train rushing across the threshold to a place that will, in fact, negatively impact every aspect of society.
If you think that homosexual "marriage" is a benign act of tolerance that really doesn't affect the life and marriage of anyone else---think again.
That's the big lie.
In Massachusetts, it has become a hammer to force acceptance and normalization on everyone---in every part of the state's culture.
Homosexual "marriage" came to Massachusetts through litigation in the GOODRIDGE Court opinion, which ruled that it was unconstitutional not to allow same-sex marriage.
SB 5688 sets the table for the same legal conclusion. And the sponsors know it.
Brian Camenkar, with the organization, Mass Resistance, has written an overview titled, "What Same-sex 'Marriage' Has Done To Massachusetts," which covers the period from the "Goodridge" case, November 18, 2003 through this past year.
If you read nothing else today, please read this article.
He says, "Homosexual 'marriage' hangs over society like a hammer with the force of law, affecting every aspect of life. And it's only just begun."
In this article, which is downloadable, he reviews how re-defining marriage has impacted the public schools, with a school wide assembly to, "celebrate same-sex 'marriage' and a teacher telling NPR that she tells kids in the classroom that, 'lesbians can have vaginal intercourse using sex toys.'"
He gives an extensive overview of the negative impact to public education, public health, increased cost of domestic violence related to homosexual behavior, business, the legal profession, homosexual adoption, government mandates, the media and the public square.
"It's pretty clear," he says in conclusion, "the homosexual movement's obsession with 'marriage' is not because large numbers of them actually want to marry each other---This is about putting the legal stamp of approval on homosexuality and imposing it with force throughout the various social and political institutions of a society that would never accept it otherwise."
He says, "To the rest of America: You've been forewarned."
Washington, you, too, have been forewarned. And it matters.
__________________
Gary Randall
President
Faith & Freedom
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