The Non-prophets

Priest sues gay hookup app Grindr over data leakCatholic News Agency, By Daniel Payne, on Jul 26, 2024https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/258413/priest-sues-gay-hookup-app-grindr-over-data-leak In this segment, the discussion centers around Monsignor Jeffrey Burr, a Catholic priest who faced public scrutiny and resigned from his position after being accused of using the social app Grinder for casual encounters, which conflicted with his public persona and the Church's stance on celibacy. Burr subsequently sued Grinder for allegedly mishandling his private data, claiming the app's privacy practices were fraudulent and dishonest. This case highlights broader issues of privacy and personal integrity within religious institutions, especially concerning LGBTQ+ identities and the challenges individuals face in reconciling personal and public lives. The conversation delves into the repercussions for Monsignor Burr, noting the significant impact on his career and personal life. His outing as a result of these rev

Behind Jordan Peterson’s ‘Biblical’ Teaching Is His Own Humanistic AgendaThe Federalist, By Larry Taunton, on May 21, 2024https://thefederalist.com/2024/05/21/behind-jordan-petersons-biblical-teaching-is-his-own-humanistic-agenda/Jordan Peterson's foray into biblical teachings has been characterized by a problematic fusion of superficial theology and psychological self-help. His appeal to Christian evangelicals, who are drawn to his simplified solutions to complex existential questions, signifies a worrying trend of embracing pseudo-religious rhetoric. The critique by Larry Taunton, while pointing out flaws in Peterson's approach, is not without its own issues. Taunton falls into the trap of defending an inflexible, outdated interpretation of Christianity, and from a secular viewpoint, both Peterson and Taunton contribute to a landscape of confusion—Peterson through his shallow engagement and Taunton through his dogmatic stance. The piece reveals how Peterson's pseudointellectualism and Taunton's fundamentali

Missouri Attorney General Opposes Opportunity for Marcellus Williams to Establish His Innocence Before Execution DateDeath Penalty Information Center, By , on Jul 22, 2024https://deathpenaltyinfo.org/news/missouri-attorney-general-opposes-opportunity-for-marcellus-williams-to-establish-his-innocence-before-execution-dateMissouri is currently embroiled in a deeply troubling civil rights case involving a death row inmate who is likely innocent, as DNA evidence suggests. The state’s attorney general is relentlessly pursuing the execution of this individual, despite significant indications of his innocence and the involvement of organizations like the Innocence Project advocating for his release. The persistence of the attorney general in blocking an innocence hearing and disregarding new evidence is alarming, as it appears to prioritize conviction over justice. This disturbing situation highlights a systemic issue in Missouri, where the legal apparatus seems more focused on ensuring executions rather than correc

99 years after the Scopes ‘monkey trial,’ religious fundamentalism still infects our schoolsLos Angeles Times, By Michael Hiltzik, on July 26, 2024https://www.latimes.com/business/story/2024-07-26/99-years-after-the-scopes-monkey-trial-religious-fundamentalism-still-infects-our-schoolsNearly a century ago, a significant trial unfolded in Tennessee, where the clash between religious fundamentalism and modern education took center stage. This trial, known as the Scopes Trial, ignited a debate that still reverberates today, pitting creationism and intelligent design against scientific understanding in schools. Although the defendant, John Scopes, lost the trial, the broader victory went to science. However, in the contemporary landscape, movements across the United States and abroad continue to push for religious doctrines to infiltrate educational curricula, with some states fighting in courts to uphold restrictive laws that challenge academic freedom.The Scopes Trial was rooted in a gesture of appeasement. The

Oklahoma Bible mandate: Ryan Walters threatens 'rogue' districtsThe Oklahoman, By M. Scott Carter Murray Evans, on July 31, 2024https://www.oklahoman.com/story/news/education/2024/07/31/oklahoma-bible-in-schools-ryan-walters-threatens-rogue-districts/74599357007/Oklahoma's State School Superintendent has stirred controversy again by mandating the teaching of the Bible in public school classrooms, threatening repercussions for districts that don't comply. Although legal scholars widely regard this move as unconstitutional, the Superintendent remains resolute, seemingly unbothered by potential legal challenges. Critics argue that his accusations against school districts for being "rogue" are baseless, pointing out that local control over curriculum is enshrined in Oklahoma law. Despite this, the Superintendent continues to push his agenda, possibly for political gain rather than genuine educational reform. This situation echoes past instances where political figures attempted to impose religious mandates, remin

A Texas public school superintendent won't stop promoting Christianity at workThe Friendly Atheist, By Hemant Mehta, on Jul 24, 2024https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/a-texas-public-school-superintendentIn the latest segment on religious issues in public schools, the focus turns to Rusk Independent School District (ISD) Superintendent Gray Burton and his controversial approach to prayer in school settings. The Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF) has been in a contentious battle with Burton, who has replaced traditional moments of silence with student-led prayers, a move deemed unconstitutional by the FFRF. Their concern extends to several specific incidents, including a prayer broadcast over the loudspeaker at a football game and a Facebook post from the district favoring Christian applicants for jobs.Burton’s response to these criticisms has been marked by an apparent misunderstanding of the law. He has likened his district’s religious endorsements to preferences in music genres, a comparison criticized f

Olympics opening ceremony sparks outrage with drag queens parodying Last Supper: 'Gone completely woke'Fox News, By Alexander Hall, on July 26, 2024https://www.foxnews.com/media/olympics-opening-ceremony-sparks-outrage-drag-queens-parodying-last-supper-gone-completely-wokeThe Paris 2024 Olympics opening ceremony ignited a storm of controversy, primarily due to a performance that some viewers misinterpreted as a parody of the Last Supper rather than an homage to Greek mythology. This artistic display, featuring drag queens and various historical figures, aimed to celebrate the rich cultural and religious tapestry that is a fundamental aspect of the Olympic Games' history. Despite its intentions to honor the ancient gods of Mount Olympus, the performance was perceived by some Christians as a direct affront to their faith.The controversy highlights a deep-seated tension between traditional religious beliefs and modern interpretations of cultural expressions. Critics, particularly from American political spheres,

Inside the two-year fight to bring charges against school librarians in Granbury, TexasNBC News, By Mike Hixenbaugh, Tyler Kingkade, Scott Friedman and Eva Parks, on July 23, 2024https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/school-librarians-banned-books-investigation-texas-rcna161444In a saga reminiscent of the Keystone Cops, a two-year pursuit of felony charges against school librarians in Granbury, Texas, unfolded like a farcical mission gone awry. Right-wing extremist Scott London embarked on a vendetta, pouring over stacks of literature while sporting a body cam to capture his quest to persecute—er, prosecute—three school librarians. Their alleged crime? Allowing minors to check out books deemed obscene. Despite subpoenas and dramatic investigative theatrics, the case ultimately fizzled when the district attorney declined to indict, citing insufficient evidence.Scott London's mission to stop kids from reading books he deemed inappropriate was both absurd and alarming. The details of his crusade, covered by NBC N

Sonya Massey shooting: Illinois police release bodycam video of fatal shooting of Black woman in her homeCNN, By Eric Levenson, Jillian Sykes and Brad Parks, on July 23, 2024https://www.cnn.com/2024/07/22/us/sonya-massey-police-shooting/index.htmlA distressing case of police brutality involving the death of a Black woman, Sonia Massi. Sonia, a 36-year-old mother of two, called the police for help because she suspected an issue nearby. The police arrived at her home, and the situation escalated tragically, resulting in Sonia's death. The incident, reported by CNN, involved an officer named Grayson, whose troubling history includes misconduct in the Army, multiple DUIs, and several complaints about his behavior as a police officer. Despite this, he managed to secure six different police jobs in four years, reflecting severe flaws in the system's background checks and accountability measures.The discussion highlights the bizarre circumstances leading to the shooting. Sonia jokingly said, "I rebuke you in the nam

Project 2025 would fundamentally change public education, experts sayThe Hill, By Lexi Lonas, on July 12, 2024https://thehill.com/homenews/education/4766919-project-2025-trump-campaign-biden-heritage-foundation-public-education/ Project 2025 represents a significant conservative push to radically transform U.S. public education, primarily aimed at dismantling existing structures and reorienting educational content and funding. This initiative, developed by the Heritage Foundation and supported by Trump allies, proposes several sweeping changes that could dramatically affect the quality and equity of education.The plan includes the elimination of the Federal Department of Education, which would remove the primary federal oversight body responsible for setting educational standards and ensuring equity across states. Critics argue that this move could lead to a severe reduction in federal support for public schools, especially those serving low-income communities, as it plans to dismantle Title I funding, which

Is Arizona erasing Black history? These leaders say contributions 'systemically oppressed'Arizona Republic, By Kaely Monahan Amanda Luberto, on July 9, 2024https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/2024/07/08/is-arizona-erasing-black-history/74282912007/ Arizona, a state with a rich and diverse history, has long seen the stories and contributions of its African American residents underacknowledged or completely erased. Despite the presence of over 318,000 Black residents today, Black history in Arizona is rarely taught in schools, prompting the question: Why isn’t Arizona doing a better job of preserving and sharing its Black history? Arizona’s Black history is a rich and complex tapestry, stretching from the first recorded Black resident in Phoenix, Mary Green, in 1868, to a vibrant community of over 318,000 today. Despite this significant presence, many argue that Arizona’s Black history is often sidelined or completely absent from educational curricula. The conversation delves into the systemic neglect of

Texas megachurch pastor steps down over ‘moral failures,’ invokes Lucifer to bar congregants from talkingNew Your Post, By Alex Oliveira, on July 16. 2024https://nypost.com/2024/07/15/us-news/texas-megachurch-pastor-steps-down-over-moral-failures/ In Frisco, Texas, Tony Karoda, pastor of Stonebrier Community Church, recently resigned after admitting to a "moral failure." The church's response, as detailed in a New York Post article by Alex Olivera, suggests a heavy-handed approach to handling the situation. The church has urged congregants to avoid discussing the matter, framing such discussions as the work of the devil. This incident is part of a troubling pattern in Texas, where multiple mega-church pastors have resigned amid various scandals, raising questions about cover-ups and the handling of misconduct within large religious organizations.Eli, a commentator, posits that the moral failure likely came to light through a congregant or another church leader, leading to the pastor’s confession to avoid furt

Donor-Funded Ziklag Backs Voter Purges, Christian RuleZiklag, funded by wealthy donors, wants voter purges and Christian NationalismThe Friendly Atheist, By Hemant Mehta , on July 16. 2024https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/ziklag-funded-by-wealthy-donors-wantsThe biblical town of Ziklag, mentioned in the Old Testament as a place where King David strategized during his exile, is now being used as a symbolic backdrop by a modern organization with controversial aims. The organization, also named Ziklag, was founded in 2017 to push forward the "Seven Mountains Mandate," a plan with roots in a 1975 prophecy that seeks to influence seven key areas of society: family, religion, education, media, entertainment, business, and government. This mandate, originally intended to usher in the end times, is now being employed by Ziklag to establish a Christian nationalist state.Ziklag is composed of about 150 wealthy individuals, each with a net worth exceeding $25 million, and had a reported $12 million in assets as of 2022.

Thanks to Humanists, all British Columbia municipalities have ditched prayers at meetings., Friendly Atheist, by Hemant Mehta, on July 5, 2024, https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/thanks-to-humanists-all-british-columbiaIn a significant step forward for humanists and advocates of secular governance, all City Council meetings in British Columbia will now be prayer-free. This development comes nine years after a Supreme Court ruling declared the practice of opening meetings with prayers unconstitutional, as it violated civil rights. Despite the ruling, the British Columbia Humanist Association discovered that 23 municipalities were still starting their meetings with predominantly Christian prayers. In response, the association launched a determined campaign to end this practice. Their efforts included publishing a report identifying non-compliant municipalities, sending letters urging leaders to adhere to the law, and, in some cases, threatening legal action. As a result of these persistent efforts, all municipal

Satanists in Florida offer to fill school counselor roles after DeSantis lawThe Hill, By Lexi Lonas, on July 8, 2024https://thehill.com/homenews/education/4760286-satanists-florida-public-school-counselors-desantis/ In an expected turn of events, the Satanic Temple is challenging a new law in Florida, signed by Governor Ron DeSantis, which permits volunteer chaplains in public schools. Lucien Greaves, co-founder of the Satanic Temple, asserts that excluding them violates the First Amendment, despite DeSantis' claim that Satanism isn't a legitimate religion. This has sparked a heated debate on religious freedom and inclusion.The conversation delves into the implications of allowing chaplains from non-Christian backgrounds, such as Satanism, into public schools. One argument suggests that children, being highly impressionable, could easily be indoctrinated by religious figures, regardless of their intent. Thus, introducing chaplains into schools might favor certain religions and potentially indoctrinate childre

Lawyer for megachurch pastor blamed 12-year-old for initiating ‘inappropriate’ sexual conductNBC News, By Mike Hixenbaugh and Antonia Hylton, on July 9, 2024https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/robert-morris-gateway-church-lawyer-letters-cindy-clemishire-rcna160661 The discussion continues to uncover and critique the abhorrent behavior of certain pastors within the church community. This episode highlights the case of Robert Morris, a pastor whose lawyer shockingly accused a 12-year-old child of seducing the pastor, thereby attempting to deflect blame for the pastor's reprehensible actions. This form of victim-blaming is sadly not new; the episode references numerous other cases of clergy abuse, particularly within the Catholic Church, where similar tactics have been used to protect perpetrators rather than victims.The conversation delves into how churches often teach blind obedience and place clergy in positions of untouchable authority, creating an environment where abuse can thrive unchecked. This dynamic

Texas pastor fined after illegally using church donations to boost his city council campaignFriendly Atheist, By Hemant Mehta, on JULY 11, 2024https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/texas-pastor-fined-after-illegallyIn an unprecedented move, a Texas pastor and two churches have been fined by the Texas Ethics Commission for violating state election laws, emphasizing the ongoing importance of the separation between religion and government. The pastor was fined $3,500 for using his church to campaign for an elected office, and the two churches were fined for donating money to his campaign. This action, published by Hemet Mehta on the Friendly Atheist on July 11, 2024, has sparked significant reactions. Many view it as a necessary consequence for blatant violations of long-standing laws intended to prevent the intertwining of political and religious practices. Commentators have expressed surprise and approval, noting that this enforcement in Texas, a state known for its conservative leanings, is a positive sign that l

Floresville ISD debates random drug testing for middle, high school extracurricularsSan Antonio Express News, By Melissa Manno, on June 24, 2024https://www.expressnews.com/news/education/article/floresville-isd-considers-random-drug-testing-19508797.php?sid=6628c885020c5168ed00c05The debate over implementing random drug testing for approximately one hundred students per year in Floresville Independent School District has sparked mixed reactions within the community. The proposed policy aims to curb drug use among students by enforcing punishments such as suspension from extracurricular activities and parking privileges upon testing positive. Parents' responses vary widely, highlighting concerns over invasion of privacy, allocation of funds, and efficacy compared to other community initiatives.Proponents argue that such measures could deter drug use and identify students needing early intervention through counseling. However, critics, including panelists like Rob and Eli, argue against its punitive nature, que

Oklahoma orders schools to teach the Bible 'immediately'BBC News, By Bernd Debusmann Jr, on June 29, 2024https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cjk35vv2ryjo In this segment discussing Oklahoma's recent educational policy changes, the focus is on Ryan Walters, the school superintendent, who has mandated integrating Bible studies into the state's classrooms. This move has sparked widespread debate over its constitutionality and educational implications. Walters argues that understanding the Bible is crucial for grasping the foundation of the United States, which has drawn criticism for potentially marginalizing non-Christian students.Opposition to Walters' directive has been robust, with organizations like the Interfaith Alliance arguing that true religious freedom includes preventing the imposition of any single religious viewpoint on all students. Critics fear this move could violate the separation of church and state principles enshrined in the Constitution. The controversy has also garnered attention nationally,

Religious leader wants to display Indian scriptures in Louisiana public classroomsWGNO ABC, By Keymonte Avery, on June 24, 2024https://wgno.com/news/politics/louisiana-politics/religious-leader-wants-to-display-indian-scriptures-in-louisiana-public-classrooms/Indians seek display of Gita verses along with Ten Commandments in Louisiana schools - IndiaPost NewsPaperIndia Post News Service, on June 29, 2024https://indiapost.com/indians-seek-display-of-gita-verses-along-with-ten-commandments-in-louisiana-schools/In Louisiana, a contentious new law has stirred debate over the intersection of religion and public education. The law mandates that any classroom receiving state funding must prominently display the Ten Commandments. This requirement has ignited a fierce legal and ideological battle, with proponents arguing for the importance of religious values in education and opponents raising concerns about constitutional violations regarding the separation of church and state.Adding complexity to the issue, religiou