Boko Haram Using 1,000 Children in Cameroon as Human Shields; UN Condemns Jihadists as ‘Inhuman’

-
0
Boko Haram Using 1,000 Children in Cameroon as Human Shields; UN Condemns Jihadists as ‘Inhuman’

Boko Haram (Photo: Reuters/Afolabi Sotunde)

Christian Post Report – A child rescued from Boko Haram in Sambisa forest carries a baby in front of a clinic at the Malkohi camp for Internally Displaced People in Yola, Adamawa State, Nigeria, May 3, 2015. Hundreds of traumatised Nigerian women and children rescued from Boko Haram Islamists have been released into the care of authorities at a refugee camp in the eastern town of Yola, an army spokesman said.

Nigerian terror group Boko Haram has reportedly kidnapped more than 1,000 children and used some of them in neighboring Cameroon as human shields, prompting a U.N. official to condemn its actions as “inhuman.”

“The system they use is just inhuman,” Najat Rochdi, U.N. humanitarian coordinator for Cameroon, told AFP.

While the Islamic militants have killed more than 15,000 people in continuous attacks throughout Nigeria since 2009, they have also sought to expand their operations in other countries in the region, in a mission to establish an Arican Caliphate.

Boko Haram has been following in the footsteps of ISIS in Iraq and Syria, though the Nigerian army has said it has managed to drive them out of several hideouts in the past few months.

Boko Haram has also suffered heavy losses when engaging with Cameroon’s army, but has still successfully carried out a number of hit-and-run cross-border attacks, where the jihadist raid villages to steal supplies, kill people, and kidnap children.

Reports have since come out showing that Boko Haram has used some of these children as human shields, putting them on the frontline of such attacks.

“To my knowledge, the children were used as human shields … [and] were aged between eight and 12,” Rochdi said.

1

2

3

4

5

6

 

  • Boko Haram
    (Photo: Reuters/Afolabi Sotunde)
    A girl sits with belongings during an evacuation of Nigerians displaced by Boko Haram militants, at the camp for displaced people in Geidam, Yobe state, Nigeria, May 6, 2015. Niger has evacuated Nigerians living around Lake Chad, military and aid officials told Reuters on Tuesday, as the armies of four west African nations battle to quash the Islamist militants.
  • Boko Haram
    (Photo: Reuters/Afolabi Sotunde)
    Women displaced by Boko Haram violence residing at the IDP camp yola, welcome other women and children rescued from Boko Haram in Sambisa forest by Nigeria Military as they arrive at the Internally displaced people’s camp in Yola, Adamawa State, Nigeria, May 2, 2015.
  • Boko
    (Photo: Credit/Afolabi Sotunde)
    A woman, who was freed by the Nigerian army from Boko Haram militants in the Sambisa forest, feeds her child at the Malkohi camp
  • Boko Haram
    (Photo: Reuters/Afolabi Sotunde)
    A child rescued by the Nigerian army from Boko Haram militants in the Sambisa forest rests on a bed at the Malkohi camp for internally displaced people in Yola, Nigeria, May 3, 2015. Picture taken May 3, 2015.
  • Boko Haram
    (Photo: Reuters/Afolabi Sotunde)
    Cicilia Abel, from the local government of Michika, rests with her children at the Malkohi camp for the Internally Displaced People, after being rescued from Boko Haram in Sambisa forest, in Yola, Adamawa State, Nigeria, May 3, 2015.
  • Boko Haram
    (Photo: Reuters/Afolabi Sotund)
    Children are seen at a camp for displaced people fleeing violence from Gulak, a border town in the north of Adamawa state which was attacked by Boko Haram militants in September 2014, January 31, 2015. The African Union has endorsed a West African plan to set up a regional task force of 7,500 to fight Islamist Boko Haram militants, a senior official said on Thursday, a vital step toward securing U.N. Security Council backing.

“The worst was the children … Obviously this created a horrible situation,” she added, noting that Cameroonian soldiers have been deeply traumatized by having to face children on the battlefield.

The humanitarian coordinator said it is not known if the kidnapped children were from Cameroon or Nigeria.

UNICEF has said that at least 743,000 children have been uprooted by the conflict in Nigeria in the states of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa alone.

Last week the terror group slaughtered dozens of people, including scores of Christians, in a series of village raids in Nigeria.

“They destroyed the telephone mast first before invading our community — this was to prevent us from telephoning and requesting help,” said one pastor from the Pambula-Kwamda Christian community in Adamawa’s Madagali local government area.

“They killed 10 members of our church [Church of the Brethren in Nigeria, or EYN] using machetes and then slaughtering them.”

The U.N. has also said that the Islamic militants continue to use women and girls in its suicide bombing attacks.

“Children are not instigating these suicide attacks; they are used intentionally by adults in the most horrific way; they are, first and foremost, victims not perpetrators,” UNICEF representative Jean Gough said.

Human rights groups like Amnesty International have meanwhile documented what they say are abuses carried out by Nigeria’s military, and earlier this week accused it of the war-crime death of thousands of people by way of starvation, suffocation and torturing to death.

The 133-page report, based on hundreds of interviews, including some with military sources and exposition of leaked defense ministry documents, says that armed forces “committed countless acts of torture; hundreds, if not thousands, of Nigerians have become victims of enforced disappearance; and at least 7,000 people have died in military detention as a result of murder, starvation, extreme overcrowding and denial of medical assistance.”

Amnesty called on the government of new Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari to ensure that civilians in Nigeria are protected from terrorism, but at the same time said that there needs to be a crackdown on the “culture of impunity” within the army.

“This sickening evidence exposes how thousands of young men and boys have been arbitrarily arrested and deliberately killed or left to die in detention in the most horrific conditions. It provides strong grounds for investigations into the possible criminal responsibility of members of the military, including those at the highest levels,” said Salil Shetty, Amnesty International’s Secretary General.

“Whilst an urgent and impartial investigation of these war crimes is vital, this report is not just about the criminal responsibility of individuals. It is also about the responsibility of Nigeria’s leadership to act decisively to end the pervasive culture of impunity within the armed forces.”

214 Boko Haram Captives Pregnant

214 Boko Haram Captives Pregnant

Source : Christian Post

Is Tamra Judge Really a Christian? ‘Real Housewives’ Villain Baptized in Season 10 Trailer, Former Co-Stars Weigh In (Video)

-
0
Is Tamra Judge Really a Christian? ‘Real Housewives’ Villain Baptized in Season 10 Trailer, Former Co-Stars Weigh In (Video)

Tamra (Photo: Screenshot/YouTube)

Christian Post Report – ‘Real Housewives of Orange County’ star Tamra Judge is baptized in season 10

“Real Housewives of Orange County” star Tamra Judge, known for her sharp zingers and feisty attitude, appears to have turned over a new leaf and found Jesus after being dubbed the villain of season nine by viewers of the hit Bravo TV show. Some critics, including a former castmate, are unconvinced that her spiritual journey is genuine.

In a newly released trailer for season 10, Judge, who made famous the term “Jesus Jugs” during a heated exchange with her former co-star Alexis Bellino in season eight, is seen being baptized with holy water to wash all of her sins away as loved ones look on.

“In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit,” a man believed to be a pastor is heard saying before tilting Judge backwards as she dips into the water.

The mother of four shared recently that viewers will finally get to see her “softer side” when season 10 premieres on June 8. For years, the veteran housewife, who joined “RHOC” in season three, has been at the center of explosive feuds and never-ending drama, but she now seems to be changing her ways.

“I think they will see a softer side of me,” Judge told Blogger Real Mr. Housewife. “I become a grandmother and take a spiritual journey in my life that I’m excited to share with everyone.”

Last month, unconfirmed reports speculated that Judge might be faking her religious storyline to secure her spot on the popular show. And Bellino, who spent three seasons on the show before departing in season eight, recently expressed doubts about Judge’s Christian faith.

“I cannot believe that,” Bellino, who claims to be a devout Christian, told blogger Perez Hilton when asked about Judge accepting Christ as her Savior. “But more power to her. Soul saved, that’s what matters. Let’s just hope her actions stay with what a baptism really means.”

Season eight cast member Lydia McLaughlin, a Christian who used her platform on the show to share the Gospel, was slightly more optimistic about Judge’s conversion.

“Well, I heard Tamra got baptized. I’m not sure if this is true but I think she needs the Lord, so that’s great; I’m excited. I hope that she can inspire people more to learn about Jesus,” said McLaughlin.

Judge, who has been embroiled in a bitter custody dispute with her ex-husband over the past year, is yet to publicly address questions about her faith but alluded to the criticism in a recent Instagram post.

“Show hasn’t even started and they are already spreading rumors about me. Bless their broken hearts. It kinda makes me laugh,” she wrote alongside a photo that read “rumors are carried by haters, spread by fools and accepted by idiots.”

In recent weeks, the Bravo TV star suffered backlash when she weighed in on the Duggar family scandal in a now deleted Facebook post she shared with her 800,000 followers.

Josh Duggar, whose Christian family catapulted to fame in 2008 following the launch of their hit reality TV series “19 Kids and Counting,” is accused of molesting his sisters as a teen. Judge recently appeared to support him.

“I don’t know the whole story and I know the press likes to blow things up,” Judge wrote in a comment. “My question is … did someone do this to him? Is he a victim as well? Just a thought …”

Judge returns to “RHOC” in season 10 along with her best friend and fellow Christian, Vicki Gunvalson, as well as Heather Dubrow, Shannon Beador and newcomer Meghan King Edmonds.

Email me: [email protected]
Connect with me on Twitter: @MzBenge

Source : Christian Post

Prophetess’ Explain Why They Signed On To Lifetime Reality T.V. Series ‘Preach’ And Why You Should Watch (Exclusive)

-
0
Prophetess’ Explain Why They Signed On To Lifetime Reality T.V. Series ‘Preach’ And Why You Should Watch (Exclusive)

'Preach' (Photo: Karolina Wojtasik)

Christian Post Report – (L to R) Linda Roark, Taketa Williams, Kelly Crews and Belinda Scott star in Lifetime’s all-new docu-series Preach, premiering Friday, June 5, at 10pm ET/PT on Lifetime.

It seems reality television cameras are leaving no stone unturned now that they are delving into the world of prophecy with Lifetime network’s latest docu-series “Preach” which is filled with gun shooting, chest bumping, chair hopping prophetesses who believe God is being glorified through their gifts on the small screen.

Dr. Belinda Scott, a Cleveland Heights based prophetess, has received some hateful messages for her participation the Lifetime network docu-series but she and the three other women who will help others develop their own gifts of healing and prophesying on national television believe that God called them to the show for a divine purpose.

Scott has advised politicians and celebrities while blessing the wombs of barren women. Now that she has signed on to bring her gifts to the world on national television, the woman who refers to herself as a “master prophetess” says she has encountered some backlash.

“We received hateful messages, hateful letters and hateful things from people who don’t think women should be doing it and they don’t think we should be doing it as Christians. Are we confined just to the church to deliver prophetic words,” Scott asked in an interview with The Christian Post. “No we are not. In the Bible John the baptist was not in the temples.”

The prophetess believes her appearance on the Lifetime show is a part of what Jesus has commissioned his people to do in Matthew 28: 19 where he states, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:” (KJV)

“Some are commissioned to go into countries, some are commissioned to go into gangs and some are commissioned to even go into where whores are and things of that nature,” Scott told CP. “We cannot limit ourselves as Christians and we cannot worry about what the few may feel that is wrong with it especially even if they haven’t even viewed a full episode.”

In the series Lifetime, in conjunction with A&E Networks, will give the world a glimpse of the four Ohio-based female church leaders who serve others by foretelling the future according to God’s will and healing people from a multitude of ailments. Instead of just showcasing their own spiritual gifts for television cameras, the four women will take protégés under their wings to teach them how to hone their own God given gifts in the show produced by CORE Media Group.

The women featured on the show insist they are only appearing to glorify God without any expectation of personal gain and Lifetime told CP that “the prophetesses are paid a modest fee for their time and expenses so that they will not be out of pocket from participating in the series.”

Kelly Crews, the only single prophetess of the group who was once Belinda’s protégé, wants to make it clear that she is not on the show to pursue fame.

“I got involved because I do know a couple of the women that are on the show and I know personally that they are great women of God. I just wanted to be able to display God on the earth and be His instrument,” said Crews. “If you talk to anybody that knows me, nobody ever heard me say, ‘oh this is going to make me famous.’ I really do live to glorify God.”

When Trenton, Ohio-based prophetess Linda Roark’s ministry was contacted by Lifetime, she thought it was a scam. Instead of just signing on to participate, Roark intensively sought the Lord for direction in the matter and fasted for 14 days to ensure that God wanted her to be a part of “Preach.”

“I asked God about it and He really began to speak to my heart and told me to take the gospel out into the marketplace,” Roark, who calls herself the the “Blue-Eyed Soul Sister” told CP. “We are living in a very crucial time right now and I believe we should go outside of the four walls of the church to spread the gospel. Even if it is going out into the marketplaces, into Hollywood or however God decides to do it and use me as a tool to do it, I’m honored and honestly quite humbled as well.”

Even before Lifetime contacted her, Roark believes she was given a sign about the show.

“I remember something that the Lord said to me before I even got any calls from Lifetime. He said He was going to open up a large platform, a door that would forever change my life,” said Roark. ” I was thinking a mega ministry, or going to Africa. I was thinking multiple things, this was never in the back of my mind.”

Dr. Taketa Williams, the Columbus based prophetess who refers to herself as the “Beyonce of the Preaching World,” was also given a revelation about appearing on the show prior to her signing on.

“About 20 years ago, my now husband gave me a prophecy that my prophetic voice would reach into Hollywood and I would begin to inspire people beyond the church. When I was approached by CORE Media Group, initially I was a little hesitant because of the concept and the stigma that is sometimes associated with reality shows,” Williams admitted. “But, I remembered the prophecy my husband gave me and I said, ‘this is a part of my prophecy being filled.’ With that in mind, it was definitely one of my determining factors that heavily weighed on my decision to be a part of it.”

Now that Williams is a part of the show, she is encouraging people to give it a chance.

“I would say judge nothing before its time. I’ve heard there are many who have been presumptuous regarding the show and they really don’t know what the show is about,” said Williams. “I would encourage people to watch and see because it’s really not what most think.”

Viewers can tune into “Preach” for it’s premiere on Friday, June 5 at 10 p.m ET.

follow me on Twitter @CAThomasos

Source : Christian Post

Is Tamra Judge Really a Christian? ‘Real Housewives’ Villain Baptized in Season 10 Trailer, Former Costars Weigh In (VIDEO)

-
0
Is Tamra Judge Really a Christian? ‘Real Housewives’ Villain Baptized in Season 10 Trailer, Former Costars Weigh In (VIDEO)

Tamra (Photo: Screenshot/YouTube)

Christian Post Report – ‘Real Housewives of Orange County’ star Tamra Judge is baptized in season 10

“Real Housewives of Orange County” star Tamra Judge, known for her sharp zingers and feisty attitude, appears to have turned over a new leaf and found Jesus after being dubbed the villain of season 9 by viewers of the hit Bravo TV show. Some critics, including a former cast mate however, are unconvinced that her spiritual journey is genuine.

In a newly released trailer for season 10, Judge, who made famous the term “Jesus Jugs” during a heated exchange with her former costar Alexis Bellino in season 8, is seen being baptized with holy water to wash all of her sins away as loved ones look on.

“In the name of the Father, the son and the Holy Spirit,” a man believed to be a pastor is heard saying before tilting Judge backwards as she dips into the water.

The mother of four shared recently that viewers will finally get to see her “softer side” when season 10 premieres on June 8. For years, the veteran housewife, who joined “RHOC” in season 3, has been at the center of explosive feuds and never-ending drama although she now seems to be changing her ways.

“I think they will see a softer side of me,” Judge told Blogger Real Mr. Housewife. “I become a grandmother and take a spiritual journey in my life that I’m excited to share with everyone.”

Last month however, unconfirmed reports speculated that Judge may be faking her religious storyline to secure her spot on the popular show, and Bellino, who spent three seasons on the show before departing in season 8, recently expressed doubts about Judge’s Christian faith.

“I cannot believe that,” Bellino, a devout Christian, told blogger Perez Hilton when asked about Judge accepting Christ as her savior. “But more power to her. Soul saved, that’s what matters. Let’s just hope her actions stay with what a baptism really means.”

Season 8 cast member Lydia McLaughlin, a Christian who used her platform on the show to share the gospel, was slightly more optimistic about Judge’s conversion.

“Well I heard Tamra got baptized. I’m not sure if this is true but I think she needs the Lord so that’s great, I’m excited. I hope that she can inspire people more to learn about Jesus,” said McLaughlin.

Judge, who has been embroiled in a bitter custody dispute with her ex-husband over the past year, is yet to publicly address questions about her faith although she alluded to the criticism in a recent Instagram post.

“Show hasn’t even started and they are already spreading rumors about me. Bless their broken hearts. It kinda makes me laugh,” she wrote alongside a photo that read “rumors are carried by haters, spread by fools and accepted by idiots.”

In recent weeks, the Bravo TV star suffered backlash when she weighed in on the Duggar family scandal in a now deleted Facebook post she shared with her 800,000 followers.

Josh Duggar, whose Christian family catapulted to fame in 2008 following the launch of their hit reality TV series “19 Kids and Counting,” is accused of molesting his sisters as a teen. Judge recently appeared to support him.

“I don’t know the whole story and I know the press likes to blow things up,” Judge wrote in a comment. “My question is…did someone do this to him? Is he a victim as well? Just a thought…”

Judge returns to “RHOC” in season 10 along with her best friend and fellow Christian Vicki Gunvalson, Heather Dubrow, Shannon Beador and newcomer Meghan King Edmonds.

Email me: [email protected]
Connect with me on Twitter: @MzBenge

Source : Christian Post

‘Duck Dynasty’ Star Alan Robertson On Marrying Young: ‘Our Faith in Christ is Key’

-
0
‘Duck Dynasty’ Star Alan Robertson On Marrying Young: ‘Our Faith in Christ is Key’

Alan Robertson and "Duck Dynasty" co-stars (Photo: Facebook/Alan Robertson)

Christian Post Report – Alan Robertson and A&E’s “Duck Dynasty” co-stars.

Just weeks before the wedding of his 19-year-old nephew, John Luke, “Duck Dynasty” star Alan Robertson says his family’s tradition of marrying young has been successful because of their faith in Christ.

“It does seem to be a Robertson tradition to marry young and by God’s grace, we are all still going strong in our marriages,” the reality star told The Christian Post via email. “Obviously, our faith in Christ is the key to that and our dedication to always try to react to one another, as Paul challenged the Philippians to do in (sic) Php. 2:3-5 makes a big difference, as well.”

Known as the “beardless brother” among fellow “Duck Dynasty” stars Jase, Willie and Jep Robertson, Alan serves as pastor at White’s Ferry Road Church in West Monroe, Louisiana, where the A&E hit reality television series is filmed. Robertson comes from a long line of family members who have married young including his parents, Phil and Kay, who married at 18 and 16, respectively.

The pastor weighed the “pros and cons” of marrying young, touching on both abstinence and personal development.

  • Alan Robertson
    (Photo: Courtesy of the National Religious Broadcasters)
    Alan Robertson of “Duck Dynasty” fame joins David and Jason Benham and Charles McVety, president of Canada Christian College, in a panel discussion moderated by Tony Perkins, president of the Family Research Council, titled, “Defending Free Speech: Our First Amendment Freedoms,” at the National Religious Broadcasters’ international Christian media convention held in Nashville, Tennessee, on February 26, 2015.

“I don’t feel there is a wrong or right age, but whenever the decision is made, the commitment must be set out to be a lifelong, permanent one,” said the pastor, who married wife Lisa at age 18. “From a purity standpoint, it is a plus marrying younger, but on a maturity level, it is more of a challenge.”

Looking ahead, Robertson is excited for the future of the Robertson family, including John Luke’s wedding to Mary Kate McEacharn this summer.

“We are excited about the upcoming wedding and [that] our fans will get to see some of the things leading up to the wedding in this season’s episodes,” he said.

The pastor also cleared up rumors that his 17-year-old niece Sadie Robertson is headed down the aisle any time soon.

“As far as Sadie goes, she plans on going to college after high school and I haven’t heard anything about marriage plans,” he revealed. “She’s a spiritual and bright girl and I am sure she will be a great wife and mother one day.”

Other Robertson family members who married young include John Luke’s parents, Willie and Korie Robertson, who wed at 19 and 18, respectively. Jase Robertson was 21 when he married Missy, 19, while Jep and Jessica Robertson were ages 23 and 21, respectively, on their wedding day.

follow me on Twitter @emmakoonse

Source : Christian Post

Stephen Hawking Would Consider Assisted Suicide If He Became a Burden

-
0
Stephen Hawking Would Consider Assisted Suicide If He Became a Burden

Stephen Hawking (Photo: AP Photo: / PA Wire, David Parry)

Christian Post Report – In this April 29, 2010, file photo, Stephen Hawking watches the first preview of his new show for the Discovery Channel, Stephen Hawking’s Universe.

World-renowned physicist and professor Stephen Hawking, 73, who suffers from a rare early-onset of a slow-progressing form of Lou Gehrig’s disease that has slowly paralyzed him over several decades, says he would be open to ending his life by assisted suicide if he became a burden.

In an interview with Dara O’Briain for a new BBC program highlighted by The Telegraph, Hawking reveals that he has suffered bouts of loneliness, because people can be afraid to talk to him or let him answer. Due to his illness, Hawking communicates using a single cheek muscle attached to a speech-generating device.

“To keep someone alive against their wishes is the ultimate indignity,” Hawking told O’Briain in the interview set to air on BBC One June 15.

He added: “I would consider assisted suicide only if I were in great pain or felt I had nothing more to contribute but was just a burden to those around me.”

Despite his willingness to die by assisted suicide, however, Hawking, who says he’s not in pain and only suffers occasional discomfort due to his inability to adjust his own position, revealed that he isn’t ready to die just yet.

“I am damned if I’m going to die before I have unraveled more of the universe,” he said.

When asked about life with his disease, Hawking highlighted some of the things he struggles with.

“At times I get very lonely because people are afraid to talk to me or don’t wait for me to write a response,” he said. “I’m shy and tired at times. I find it difficult to talk to people I don’t know.”

He also noted that he missed being able to swim and play with his children when they were young.

“I would like to be able to swim again. When my children were young, I missed not being able to play with them physically,” he said.

The full interview from the program which will also feature interviews with Lucy, his daughter, his youngest son, Tim, and his Cambridge research students will be broadcast as part of “Dara O’Briain meets Stephen Hawking,” on BBC One.

Contact: [email protected]; follow me on Twitter @leoblair

Source : Christian Post

CBS Wanted ‘Touched by an Angel’ to Feature Angels Smoking, Drinking and Cursing, Says Show’s Creator

-
0
CBS Wanted ‘Touched by an Angel’ to Feature Angels Smoking, Drinking and Cursing, Says Show’s Creator

"Touched By An Angel" Season 8 DVD Cover (Photo: Dvdreleasedates.com)

Christian Post Report – The cover to the “Touched By An Angel” season 8 DVD set.

Martha Williamson, creator of the hit 1990s faith-based CBS series “Touched by an Angel” revealed Thursday that the network wanted a less than holy version of the angels America came to love on the small screen but she rejected the perverted pitch because of her personal faith values.

“They had wanted to do [a show] with angels who smoked, drank, swore and told drug jokes. I had turned the show down because I said it’s not what I believe in and I can’t be a part of it and the Lord said to me, this is your opportunity to change that or this is going to go on the air like this,” Williamson to The Christian Post in a telephone interview Thursday.

“Could you imagine now seeing Roma Downey and Della Reese… smoking, drinking and telling drug jokes?” she asked.

Williamson said she stuck to her values and created the inspiring series viewers enjoyed for nine seasons. She credits “Touched by an Angel” for “making it possible” for people to embrace more stories on television with spiritual content and recognizes that she did not do it alone.

“One of the best things I ever did was put Della Reese and Roma Downey on ‘Touched by an Angel.’ And I’ll always be proud of the fact that during all the changes and challenges it took to get the show on the air, I kept three things on the show, Roma, Della and the word angel,” she said.

Williamson also commended Downey for taking on the Bible with husband Mark Burnett with the two series they worked on as executive producers including the History Channel’s “The Bible” and NBC’s “A.D. The Bible Continues.”

“I applaud anyone who has the courage to take on the Bible,” said Williamson. “I can’t. I would be overwhelmed. It’s such a huge responsibility and it’s very expensive to do. But for me I’m really enjoying for something like Hallmark to just take the small stories of real people today, and try to encourage the people today who are trying to deal with today’s problems. That’s what I do best.”

Williamson’s latest project “Signed, Sealed, Delivered: From Paris With Love,” will debut on the Hallmark Movies & Mysteries channel on June 6 at 9 p.m.

It is the first of a series of films which will follow the story of a man named Oliver O’Toole who together with a team of “postal detectives” sets out on a mission to solve mysteries behind lost letters that can change lives when they reach their intended recipients.

O’Toole is a man of faith who Williamson based on her father who was born in 1901.

“I said to Hallmark I want to write a character who’s a gentleman and holds the door for somebody, not just because they’re a woman, but because they’re a person who wants to do the right thing who will be honest and avoid all sorts of opportunities and temptations because he knows it’s going to take him down the wrong road,” said Williamson.

She explained that it’s hard to tell these types of stories on television today since most shows throw their characters into big conflicts and leaves them with the challenge of trying to figure their way out.

“Signed, Sealed and Delivered” brings a different type of storytelling to the small screen.

“This is a tender sort of storytelling that people are really embracing because it reminds them of the days when you could really go into people’s hearts and court not just people’s romantic side, but court their spiritual side,” said Williamson.

Contact: [email protected]; follow me on Twitter @vinfunaro

Source : Christian Post

Ex-Transgender Warns Caitlyn Jenner ‘Suicide Is Always a Risk’ When Changing Gender Identity: ‘I Felt Like I Had Been Duped, Tricked … I Wasn’t Really a Woman’

-
0
Ex-Transgender Warns Caitlyn Jenner ‘Suicide Is Always a Risk’ When Changing Gender Identity: ‘I Felt Like I Had Been Duped, Tricked … I Wasn’t Really a Woman’
  • Caitlyn Jenner
    (Photo: Reuters/Annie Leibovitz/Vanity Fair)
    Caitlyn Jenner, formerly known as reality television star and former Olympic athlete Bruce Jenner, poses in an exclusive photograph made by Annie Leibovitz for Vanity Fair magazine and released by Vanity Fair on June 1, 2015.

Christian Post Report – A man who identifies as ex-transgender has expressed “caution” regarding former Olympic athlete Bruce Jenner’s decision to change his gender identity to become “Caitlyn.”

Walt Heyer, author and blogger with The Federalist, stated in an interview Tuesday with CNN that while Caitlyn Jenner may feel great at present “this doesn’t always last.”

“The surgeons can make it look like you changed genders but the fact of the matter is it’s all cosmetic surgery. There’s really no actual gender change,” Heyer asserted during an interview with CNN’s Carol Costello.

“I felt like I had been duped, tricked, and it wasn’t really real. I wasn’t really a woman. I looked like one.”

In an interview with The Christian Post, Heyer emphasized that he “never declared Jenner was wrong to change his gender.”

“I did suggest caution because I have received hundreds of emails from transgenders over the years who regret making the transition. The long-term outcomes are not always the best and suicide is always a risk,” Heyer emphasized.

  • A Compassionate Christian Response to Bruce Jenner

Heyer was born a man and underwent gender reassignment surgery to become a woman only to eventually become a man once more.

An author of multiple books, Heyer has become a critic of gender reassignment surgery and believes that transgendered identity carries with it emotional wounds.

“Transgenders undergo hormone injections and irreversible surgeries in a desperate effort to feel better, yet they attempt and commit suicide at an alarming rate, even after treatment,” reads the description of one of his books.

According to a 2003 study conducted in Sweden, transsexuals who change their gender through body mutilation or hormone therapy have a higher suicide rate than the general population.

The study, which followed 191 male-to-female gender reassignments and 133 female-to-male gender reassignments from 1973-2003, found that suicide attempts and in-patient psychiatric treatment actually increased in Sweden among those who had a sex change.

Heyer’s comments come as the July issue of Vanity Fair magazine has Caitlyn Jenner on its front cover.

Jenner has received much support and admiration from social media, major media outlets, and fellow high profile celebrities and public figures.

“Bruce always had to tell a lie, he was always living that lie. Every day he always had a secret. From morning until night. Caitlyn doesn’t have any secrets. As soon as the Vanity Fair cover comes out, I’m free,” Jenner said in a promo video for the magazine.

Many social conservatives have taken issue with the gender identity change and assumption that Jenner has improved by now being Caitlyn, including the Rev. Franklin Graham.

“I have news for them — changing the outside doesn’t change the inside. No man-made modification can fix what’s wrong with the heart,” posted Rev. Graham on Facebook.

“Only God can fix the human heart. If we ask for His forgiveness and accept by faith His Son, Jesus Christ, He will wipe the slate clean.”

When asked by CP about Americans’ acceptance of transgender identity, Heyer said he believed “it is important to have compassion for anyone struggling with their gender identity.”

“After living eight years in a different gender, I do not think the long-term solution to resolving gender confusion is hormones, surgery and a change of clothing. It is a deeper issue,” Heyer explained.

Source : Christian Post

Is Gospel Singer Erica Campbell Defending Possible Collaboration With K.Michelle Amid Backlash?

-
0
Is Gospel Singer Erica Campbell Defending Possible Collaboration With K.Michelle Amid Backlash?

Erica Campbell and K. Michelle (Photo: K. Michelle/Instagram)

Christian Post Report – K. Michelle took to Instagram to announce that she would possibly be working on a remix to a song with Erica Campbell.

Gospel singer Erica Campbell made it clear that money is not her motivation for trying new things after she received some backlash about the news that she may be working with boisterous R&B singer and reality television star K. Michelle.

Campbell, 43, who recently won a Grammy as a solo singer, posted a cryptic message following questions from her fans about the news that she could be working with 31-year-old Michelle whose real name is Kimberly Pate.

“I chase purpose not paper,” noted Campbell in an Instagram post in which she talked about glorifying God in unorthodox ways.

“I’m always looking for an opportunity to let God shine! I’m always gonna step outside the box people try and put me in,” Campbell wrote in the cryptic Instagram caption. “Everybody isn’t gonna come to church we have to go get them! And I take the Lord with me everywhere I go… #purpose #ItakecareofGodsbusiness #Godtakescareofmine.”

K. Michelle suggested the possibility of the pair working together when she posted an Instagram image of herself with Campbell who is one half of the gospel music duo Mary Mary.

“Guess who’s about to do a remix song together @iamericacampbell,” K. Michelle wrote on Instagram to which Campbell responded, “So great seeing you tonight lady!”

While the post was met with mixed reactions, some fans questioned the suggestion of a collaboration between the two singers.

“I pray K is nothing like what’s portrayed on TV. I’m all for good music, but the way she talks, fights, cusses, and treats ppl on TV blows me,” one person commented on the Instagram image on Campbell’s page. “I’m not a fan of K. Michelle at all. But, if great ANOINTED music, glorifying God is the outcome, I will have an open mind & heart… #prayaboutitfirst.”

K. Michelle engaged in both verbal and physical altercations when she got her big break on the reality show “Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta.” Since then, she has released two albums, where she uses colorful language to illustrate her relationship woes in her music.

Although she is a secular artist has been outspoken about her faith in the past and how it was helping her overcome her negative reputation.

“I just feel like God’s just really blessing me,” K. Michelle told the Atlanta radio station 94.5 FM in 2013. “I just feel like I can’t keep putting myself in negative situations that’s going to make me want to slap somebody.”

follow me on Twitter @CAThomasos

Source : Christian Post

Two Sudanese Pastors Facing Possible Execution for ‘Offending Islam;’ Pastor Says God Chose Him to Suffer

-
0
Two Sudanese Pastors Facing Possible Execution for ‘Offending Islam;’ Pastor Says God Chose Him to Suffer
  • Sudanese Pastors Yat Michael and David Yein
    (Photo: Screengrab/ CBN)
    Sudanese pastors Yat Michael and David Yein are being held in a Khartoum prison and could be facing the death penalty for sharing their faith.

Christian Post Report – Two South Sudanese pastors are facing possible execution after being imprisoned for two months after authorities arrested them for various offenses including “offending Islamic beliefs” and “inciting organized groups.”

Pastors Yat Michael and David Yein are currently being held in a jail in Khartoum, the capital of Sudan where a number of Catholic and Protestant churches have been destroyed recently and told CBN via telephone that they are prepared for whatever punishment lies ahead for preaching the Gospel in the region.

Michael says he hasn’t spoken with his family for two months and he was accused of spying when he was arrested in January.

“When they interviewed me, they asked me why I’m preaching here. I say, ‘I am preaching because this is my call. I am a pastor. I must speak the Word of God,” Michael said to CBN.

“They say ‘No, you don’t need to preach the Word of God with a hidden agenda. I said, ‘No, I don’t have any hidden agenda.’ They accused me because I’m a spy here.”

Yein said he’s not afraid to die and he believes God chose him to suffer. He asked that Christians pray that their imprisonment be used for God’s glory and to bring peace between the pastors and those that are holding them prisoner.

Michael is pastor for the South Sudan Presbyterian Evangelical Church and the organization recently said this type of persecution is common in Sudan.

“This is not ‘something new’ for our church,” said Rev. Tut Kony, pastor of the South Sudan Presbyterian Evangelical Church. “Almost all pastors have gone to jail under the government of Sudan. We have been stoned and beaten. This is their habit to pull down the church. We are not surprised. This is the way they deal with the church.”

Open Doors USA, a Christian non-profit that aids persecuted believers throughout the world ranks Sudan sixth on its World Watch List of countries where Christians face the most persecution for their faith.

The organization’s CEO David Curry spoke to Fox News about Michael’s case last month.

“This case in particular, we feel the charges are trumped up. These are just good citizens practicing their Christian faith, but the Sudanese government is using any tactic they can to push Christianity out of the market place and out of daily life, and unfortunately they are having some success,” said Curry.

The nation’s Islamic government made headlines when Christian mother Meriam Ibrahim was sentenced to death for marrying an American Christian citizen in 2014. The sentence was dropped after international pressure. She has since relocated to the U.S.

Contact: [email protected]; follow me on Twitter @vinfunaro

Source : Christian Post

1...3,3913,3923,393...3,897Page 3,392 of 3,897