Wartime Bosnian Serb chief Karadzic claims self defense from Bosnian Muslim fundamentalists

Bosnian Serb leader opens defense against genocide

THE HAGUE, Netherlands – Wartime Bosnian Serb leader Radovan Karadzic says his people defended themselves against Islamic fundamentalists who started the war in Bosnia to lay claim to the entire country.
Karadzic is giving his opening statement at the U.N. war crimes tribunal for the former Yugoslavia. He was arrested …. Read the original article  : Wartime Bosnian Serb chief Karadzic claims self defense from Bosnian Muslim fundamentalists.

Obama turns to Indian-American to be bridge with Muslim world

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama has chosen the son of an Indian migrant couple from Bihar to help bridge the cultural divide in US relations with Muslims inside and outside America’s borders.

As Obama’s new special envoy to the Organization of the Islamic Conference, Rashad Hussain, both a Quran scholar and an ardent North Carolina Tar …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Obama turns to Indian-American to be bridge with Muslim world.

Nation of Islam Minister Farrakhan claims divine stature, predicts future troubles for Obama

Farrakhan predicts ‘white right’ trouble for Obama
CHICAGO – Nation of Islam Minister Louis Farrakhan, boasting his divine stature, on Sunday predicted trouble ahead for President Barack Obama and urged him to do more to improve the lives of blacks and the downtrodden.
The 76-year-old leader said the “white right” was conspiring to make Obama …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Nation of Islam Minister Farrakhan claims divine stature, predicts future troubles for Obama.

China seeks to raise profile of Panchen Lama, naming him to top legislative advisory body

Panchen Lama named to top advisory body in China

BEIJING – The Panchen Lama, the young man enthroned by Beijing as the second-highest figure in Tibetan Buddhism, has joined China’s top legislative advisory body.
The 20-year-old Panchen Lama, whose name is Gyaltsen Norbu, is emerging as Beijing’s choice to supplant the Dalai Lama as the public face … Read this article on Gaea Times at : China seeks to raise profile of Panchen Lama, naming him to top legislative advisory body.

Nation of Islam’s Farrakhan blames ‘white right’ for Obama woes, predicts more troubles ahead

Farrakhan predicts continued trouble for Obama
CHICAGO – Nation of Islam Minister Louis Farrakhan claims the “white right” is trying to make Barack Obama a one-term president.
The 76-year-old says the stalling of health care legislation is proof.
Farrakhan is addressing followers of the Chicago-based movement that has embraced black nationalism since its founding. Sunday’s keynote …. Source  : Nation of Islam’s Farrakhan blames ‘white right’ for Obama woes, predicts more troubles ahead.

AP Exclusive: Iraqi PM calls candidate ban legitimate; says no US troops needed after 2011

Iraqi PM calls pre-vote candidate ban legitimate

BAGHDAD – Iraq’s prime minister Sunday defended a ban of candidates with alleged ties to Saddam Hussein’s former regime, calling it a legitimate decision that would not affect Sunni turnout at the polls.
In an interview with The Associated Press just a week before March 7 elections, Prime Minister Nouri …. Original article  : AP Exclusive: Iraqi PM calls candidate ban legitimate; says no US troops needed after 2011.

Israeli police clash with Palestinian protesters at volatile Jerusalem holy site

Israeli police, Palestinians clash at holy site

JERUSALEM – Israeli riot police dispersed a crowd of masked Palestinian youths throwing stones in the heart of Jerusalem’s Old City on Sunday, in a violent reminder of tensions at the holiest site in the contested city.
In the past, even seemingly minor incidents at the hilltop compound – known … Read more >>>.

Tajikistan’s parliamentary vote to consolidate ruling party under president’s watchful eye

Tajikistan votes under president’s watchful eye

KURGANTEPPA, Tajikistan – Huge posters of Tajikistan’s president adorn the facade of the main polling station in this provincial town, as if to remind voters that he will remain in charge regardless of the outcome of Sunday’s parliamentary election.
An ascendant Islamic party may grab a handful of extra seats in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Tajikistan’s parliamentary vote to consolidate ruling party under president’s watchful eye.

AP Exclusive: Iraqi PM defends ban of candidates with alleged Baathist ties ahead of election

Iraqi PM defends ban of candidates before vote

BAGHDAD – Iraq’s prime minister on Sunday defended a decision to ban hundreds of candidates from the upcoming election, saying the decision was not intended to target the country’s minority Sunni population.
In an interview with The Associated Press, Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, who is up for re-election in … Read more >>.

Over three million women gather for Pongala festival (Second Lead)

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Braving the rising mercury and smoke rising from their earthen kilns, more than three million women devotees cooked rice and jaggery as offering for the presiding deity of Attukal Bhagavathi temple here Sunday to celebrate the Pongala festival.

The devotees carrying bricks, firewood, rice, jaggery and coconut waited to make an offering of … Read more : Over three million women gather for Pongala festival (Second Lead).

Fraud In Name Of Kalki Bhagavan Exposed

CHENNAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- According to reports, a South Indian television channel has exposed the fraud that the famous couple Kalki Bhagavan and Amma Bhagavan were allegedly carrying out. The famous duo reportedly claimed themselves to be the incarnation of Lord Vishnu and his Wife and have accumulated a large amount of money from their … Read : Fraud In Name Of Kalki Bhagavan Exposed.

In DC gay marriage debate, message focused on references to civil rights, interracial marriage

In DC, blacks were crucial to gay marriage debate

WASHINGTON – Gay and lesbian couples will soon be able to marry in Washington, but the debate over same-sex marriage has sounded different here, with references to interracial marriage and Martin Luther King.
Over the past year, both sides have courted the support of Washington’s black community, a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Palestinian Cabinet holds meeting in Hebron, stakes its claim amid furor over contested shrine

Palestinian Cabinet stakes claim amid shrine furor
HEBRON, West Bank – The Palestinian Cabinet moved its weekly meeting to Hebron on Monday, a symbolic protest against Israel’s addition of a contested shrine in this volatile West Bank city to its list of national heritage sites.
Israel’s decision last week drew widespread international criticism and … Read more : Palestinian Cabinet holds meeting in Hebron, stakes its claim amid furor over contested shrine.

With headscarf and without, Iraqi women take prominent roles in Iraq’s election

Women take prominent role in Iraqi vote
BAGHDAD – The minute Friday prayers are over, a crowd of women worshippers clothed in long black cloaks swarm around parliament member Maha al-Douri, peppering her with questions and requests. She is their access to power.

Under a U.S.-backed quota requiring that at least one quarter of Iraq’s lawmakers be …. Original article  : With headscarf and without, Iraqi women take prominent roles in Iraq’s election.

Daughter of Martin Luther King Jr. keeps silent as group he co-founded faces uncertain future

Bernice King silent as SCLC faces uncertain future

ATLANTA – Four months after Martin Luther King Jr.’s daughter was elected president of the civil rights group he co-founded, the organization is in a tailspin and she is silent on why she hasn’t taken the helm.
The Southern Christian Leadership Conference has been fractured by infighting and a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Catholic diocese in Ireland’s child-abuse scandals appeals to faithful to help pay legal bills

Catholic diocese seeks cash to pay Irish victims

DUBLIN – A Roman Catholic diocese at the center of Ireland’s child-abuse scandals appealed Tuesday to its parishioners to cover some of its more than euro10 million ($14 million) in bills to victims and lawyers.
Bishop Denis Brennan of Ferns, the southeast Irish diocese that was first to face … Original source on Gaea Times at : Catholic diocese in Ireland’s child-abuse scandals appeals to faithful to help pay legal bills.

Study: More Afghan women using contraceptives; 300 times safer than pregnancy

Mullahs help promote birth control in Afghanistan

Some mullahs in Afghanistan are distributing condoms. Others are quoting the Quran to encourage longer breaks between births. Health experts say contraception is starting to catch on in a country with the world’s second highest maternal death rate.
Afghanistan has one of the world’s highest fertility rates, averaging more than …. Read the original article  : Study: More Afghan women using contraceptives; 300 times safer than pregnancy.

Massacre or myth? Academics explore 4,000 accounts of 1641 killings of Protestants in Ireland

Experts explore 1641 Irish slayings of Protestants

DUBLIN – One of the most divisive and hotly disputed events in Irish history – the 1641 killings of thousands of Protestant settlers by Catholic natives – is to be examined in forensic detail for the first time, researchers said Tuesday.
The scale of the bloodshed left communal scars for …. Original source  : Massacre or myth? Academics explore 4,000 accounts of 1641 killings of Protestants in Ireland.

In final scramble for votes, Sunnis already worried about power struggles after March 7 ballot

Iraq’s Sunnis bracing for chaos after election

RAMADI, Iraq – Here in the birthplace of Iraq’s insurgency and its later turnabout against al-Qaida, Sunni Arabs are pushing to get out the vote in an election they see as their best hope of restoring some of their lost power. But they are gloomy over their chances of … Read more »».

Somalia’s fragile government tries to counter propaganda blitz from militants

Somalia war moves to the airwaves
NAIROBI, Kenya – Last year Somalia’s Radio Warsan was a pro-government station that vilified al-Qaida-linked insurgents. Today it is in the hands of the rebels as they battle the U.N.-backed government on the ground with guns and on the nation’s airwaves with pro-jihad messages.

As the propaganda war intensifies in the … Read more >>.

Ohio Muslim couple wants to reconcile with teen daughter who became a Christian, fled to Fla.

Ohio Muslim-to-Christian teen convert in court

COLUMBUS, Ohio – The attorney for an Ohio couple says they just want a reasonable chance to reconcile with their daughter, a teenager who converted from Islam to Christianity and ran away to Florida.
Seventeen-year-old Rifqa Bary and her parents appeared Tuesday before a juvenile court judge in Columbus as part …. Original source  : Ohio Muslim couple wants to reconcile with teen daughter who became a Christian, fled to Fla..

Protestant firebrand-turned-peacemaker Ian Paisley to quit British Parliament after 40 years

NIreland’s Paisley to quit Parliament after 40 yrs

DUBLIN – Ian Paisley, the hard-line Northern Ireland evangelist who led Protestants into power-sharing with Catholics, announced Tuesday he will retire from the British Parliament after a 40-year career.
The 83-year-old Paisley spent decades opposing compromise with minority Catholics, particularly the Irish Republican Army supporters of Sinn Fein. He …. Original source  : Protestant firebrand-turned-peacemaker Ian Paisley to quit British Parliament after 40 years.

Early returns show anti-immigration party win in Dutch city of Almere

Dutch anti-immigration party gains ground in vote

AMSTERDAM – Early returns in Dutch local elections showed an anti-immigrant, anti-Islam party making big gains in a result seen as a possible foreshadowing of national elections in June.
“We’re going to take the Netherlands back from the leftist elite, that coddles criminals and supports Islamization,” said Freedom Party leader [..] Read the original article: here.

Employees fired from Ohio workers’ comp panel claim religious discrimination, harassment

Fired workers’ comp panel staff cries foul

COLUMBUS, Ohio – After a sweeping scandal nearly five years ago that cost the state’s insurance fund for injured workers $300 million because of investments in Beanie Babies, rare coins and other risky assets, Ohio beefed up oversight and created a panel to help lawmakers look out for the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Employees fired from Ohio workers’ comp panel claim religious discrimination, harassment.

Iran backs Shiite allies in Iraq’s election to secure leverage ahead of US withdrawal

Iran casts its shadow over high-stakes Iraq vote

BAGHDAD – As the U.S. prepares to withdraw its forces from Iraq, Iran is said to be working hard to fill a potential power vacuum – an effort that faces its first big test in Sunday’s elections, in which Tehran is backing hard-liners against a coalition of moderates.
Shiite … Read more >>>.

PBS host Tavis Smiley calls meeting in response to debate over the need for a ‘black agenda’

PBS host Smiley calls meeting to urge black agenda
Two months after ending his annual State of the Black Union conference, Tavis Smiley is gathering African-American advocates to press the case for a “black agenda.”
The decision was motivated by what Smiley called recent statements from some black leaders downplaying the need … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : PBS host Tavis Smiley calls meeting in response to debate over the need for a ‘black agenda’.

Libya demands apology for joking US response to Gadhafi call for holy war against Switzerland

Libya demands US apology for ‘jihad’ response

TRIPOLI, – Libya on Wednesday demanded an apology for a joking remark by a U.S. official about the Libyan leader’s call for a holy war against Switzerland.
Last month Moammar Gadhafi appealed for a Muslim holy war because Switzerland banned building of new mosque minarets.
At the Friday State Department briefing, …. Source  : Libya demands apology for joking US response to Gadhafi call for holy war against Switzerland.

Dutch gay groups and Catholic church call for end to dispute on communion for homosexuals

Dutch gays, Catholic church put aside dispute

AMSTERDAM – Dutch gay rights groups have called for an end to protests against a Catholic church southwest of Amsterdam after it said it would no longer seek to bar homosexuals from taking communion.
The Sint-Jan church in Den Bosch says it will leave it up to believers to decide … Read more »».

Pope to make 2-day trip to Spain in November, will inaugurate Gaudi’s cathedral in Barcelona

Pope to visit Spain in November
VATICAN CITY – Pope Benedict XVI will make a two-day visit to Spain in November, with a stop in Barcelona to consecrate the famed Sagrada Familia church, the Vatican’s spokesman said Wednesday.

The pope will first go to the western pilgrimage city of Santiago de Compostela on Nov. 6, the Rev. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pope to make 2-day trip to Spain in November, will inaugurate Gaudi’s cathedral in Barcelona.

Dutch begin voting in local elections, anti-immigration parties set to gain ground

Dutch anti-immigrants set to make gains in vote

AMSTERDAM – Dutch voters went to the polls in local elections Wednesday, with political parties opposing Muslim immigration expected to make gains before national elections in June.
The elections in 394 cities in theory cover matters such as parking fees and taxes on dog ownership. But national politicians have …. Source  : Dutch begin voting in local elections, anti-immigration parties set to gain ground.

Dutch anti-Islam politician stirs up protest in Britain

Victorious Dutch anti-Islam politician back in UK

LONDON – Dutch anti-Islam politician Geert Wilders returned to Britain on Friday, seizing the media spotlight and stirring up protest after winning a local election in the Netherlands.
Wilders flew in to London to show his anti-Islam film “Fitna,” a 15-minute short which associates the Muslim holy book, the Quran, … Original article on : Dutch anti-Islam politician stirs up protest in Britain.

Different campaigning styles point to choice Iraqis must make in weekend vote for parliament

Campaign styles reflect the choices in Iraq vote

BAGHDAD – There were no politicians kissing babies at the campaign rally, but it came close.
The band played, men danced and women swayed to the music as a speaker worked the crowd before the arrival of the main candidate – former prime minister and secular Shiite Ayad Allawi, … Read more >>>.

Member of conservative Catholic order says he knew of fellow priest’s alleged lover, children

Clergy member: Priest had alleged children

MEXICO CITY – Two prominent members of the Legion of Christ said Thursday that they have met a man who says he is an abused son of the group’s founder, and one priest said the man had offered to “keep quiet about the truth” if he received $26 million.
The statements …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Member of conservative Catholic order says he knew of fellow priest’s alleged lover, children.

Gaza’s Hamas rulers ban men from working in women’s hair salons in new Islamic clampdown

Hamas bans men from women’s hair salons
GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip – Gaza’s Islamic Hamas government on Thursday banned men from working in women’s hair salons, the latest step in its campaign to impose strict Islamic customs on Gaza’s 1.5 million people.

Since seizing Gaza in 2007, Hamas has taken steps in that direction while avoiding a … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Gaza’s Hamas rulers ban men from working in women’s hair salons in new Islamic clampdown.

Thousands stampede at north Indian temple, leaving at least 63 dead, dozens injured: official

63 die, dozens injured in Indian temple stampede

KUNDA, India – A stampede among thousands of poor villagers scrambling for free food and clothes at a commemorative event killed 63 people at a Hindu temple in northern India and injured dozens of others.
Nearly all the victims were women and children. Thursday’s stampede was so intense it … Read more : Thousands stampede at north Indian temple, leaving at least 63 dead, dozens injured: official.

Egyptian president to have gall bladder operation, hands over power to prime minister

Egyptian president to have gall bladder operation

CAIRO – Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak will undergo a gall bladder operation Saturday in Germany and has temporarily handed over power to the prime minister, the state-owned news agency reported in a rare public statement on the leader’s health.
The 81-year-old leader was diagnosed as having “severe inflammation of his … Original article on : Egyptian president to have gall bladder operation, hands over power to prime minister.

Malaysia Muslim magazine apologizes for upsetting Christians over article on church masquerade

Malaysia Muslim mag sorry for offending Christians

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – A Malaysian magazine apologized Saturday for upsetting Christians after it published an article researched by two Muslims who pretended to be Roman Catholics and took Communion in a church.
The apology is likely to soothe frustrations among religious minorities who feel that overzealous government authorities and [..] Read the original article: here.

Iraqi refugees cast ballots in their homeland’s election, with Sunnis hoping for solid turnout

Iraqis abroad cast ballots in homeland’s election

AMMAN, Jordan – Thousands of Iraqis living abroad lined up at polling stations to cast ballots in their homeland’s crucial parliamentary elections Friday, a constituency Iraq’s Sunni Arab minority hope will boost their showing.
Voting was being held in 16 countries across the globe, from neighboring Syria and Jordan, which …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Alleged son of Mexican priest acknowledges asking for money from religious order

Mexican priest’s alleged son admits seeking money

MEXICO CITY – A man who says he is the abused son of the founder of a conservative Roman Catholic religious order acknowledged Friday he asked the group for money to keep quiet.
Jose Raul Gonzalez said he asked The Legionaries of Christ for $26 million because the Rev. Marcial … Original article on : Alleged son of Mexican priest acknowledges asking for money from religious order.

Dutch populist, riding an electoral wave at home, shows his anti-Islam film at UK parliament

Dutch anti-Islam politician creates stir in UK

LONDON – Dutch anti-Islam maverick Geert Wilders took his cinematic assault on the Quran to Britain’s House of Lords on Friday, sparking heated debate inside the building and angry protests outside.
The invitation to Parliament, and Wilders’ stunning political gains in the Netherlands this week, highlight a growing dichotomy in … Read more »».

Muslim students protest in Jakarta against Barack Obama’s first Indonesian visit as president

Indonesian students protest Barack Obama’s visit
JAKARTA, Indonesia – Scores of Islamic students staged protests outside Jakarta’s parliament and in at least three other major Indonesian cities on Friday against President Barack Obama’s upcoming visit to this predominantly Muslim country.
The students carried banners branding Obama as an enemy of Islam and an imperialist in … Read more »».

Iraqi refugees vote in their homeland’s election, with Sunnis hoping for strong turnout

Iraqis abroad begin voting in homeland’s election

DAMASCUS, Syria – Iraqis living abroad began casting ballots in their homeland’s crucial parliamentary elections Friday, a constituency Iraq’s Sunni Arab minority hope will boost their showing.
Thousands stood in lines at polling stations in Syria and Jordan, home to the largest Iraqi expatriate communities. Voting was also being held …. Original article  : Iraqi refugees vote in their homeland’s election, with Sunnis hoping for strong turnout.

Former member of German Catholic boys’ choir alleges abuse while Pope’s brother was in charge

Pope’s brother’s choir faces abuse claims
BERLIN – The Regensburg Diocese says a former member claims he was abused while singing with Germany’s leading Roman Catholic boys’ choir that was led for 30 years by the brother of Pope Benedict XVI.

The Diocese said in a statement Friday that one former member of the Regensburger Domspatzen claimed [..] Read the original article: here.

Clashes erupt at sacred and disputed compound in Jerusalem

Clashes erupt at sacred compound in Jerusalem

JERUSALEM – Clashes erupted Friday between Muslim worshippers and Israeli riot police at a sacred and disputed hilltop compound following a sermon on a recent Israeli decision to include two West Bank shrines on a list of national heritage sites.
A Palestinian woman was hit in the head with a …. Source  : Clashes erupt at sacred and disputed compound in Jerusalem.

China says boy chosen by Dalai Lama as Panchen Lama is living normal life with family in Tibet

China says missing Panchen Lama is living in Tibet

BEIJING – A boy who disappeared after being named Tibetan Buddhism’s second-highest figure by the Dalai Lama is living with his family somewhere in Tibet, the Himalayan region’s Chinese-appointed governor said Sunday.
Speaking to reporters in Beijing, Padma Choling gave no other details about the boy, Gendun Choekyi …. Source  : China says boy chosen by Dalai Lama as Panchen Lama is living normal life with family in Tibet.

Defying threats of violence, Iraqis head to polls in historic election

Iraqis defy threat of violence to vote in election
BAGHDAD – Under a blanket of tight security designed to thwart insurgent attacks, Iraqis went to the polls Sunday in an election testing the ability of the country’s still-fragile democracy to move forward amid uncertainty over a looming U.S. troop drawdown and still jagged sectarian …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

South Dakota defeats Houston Baptist 97-84 to wrap up regular-season Great West title

South Dakota defeats Houston Baptist 97-84

VERMILLION, S.D. – Louie Krogman scored a career-high 31 points and Roman Gentry added 24 to lead South Dakota to a 97-84 victory over Houston Baptist Saturday night.
Steve Smith added 17 points and Jake Thomas 11 for the Coyotes.
The win gives South Dakota (19-9, 10-1) the regular-season championship in the … Original article on : South Dakota defeats Houston Baptist 97-84 to wrap up regular-season Great West title.

A look at the major coalitions in Iraq’s election

A look at the major coalitions in Iraq’s election

A look at the major alliances, coalitions expected to take part in Iraq’s parliamentary elections:
- Iraqi National Alliance: A broad religious Shiite coalition led by the Iranian-backed Supreme Islamic Iraqi Council, also known as SIIC, and backed by followers of radical anti-American cleric Muqtada al-Sadr and the … Read more »».

Key political players in Iraq’s parliamentary elections

Key players in Iraq’s parliamentary elections

A look at the key political players in Iraq’s March 7 parliamentary elections:
Nouri al-Maliki – The prime minister is seeking a second, four-year term in office, contesting this election at the head of his State of Law Coalition. Al-Maliki took office in May 2006 after winning the premiership as a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Key political players in Iraq’s parliamentary elections.

Iraqis look forward to vote but fear chaotic aftermath with no clear winner expected

Iraq’s vote key test for a democracy in progress
BAGHDAD – Billed as a key test of Iraq’s nascent democracy, Iraqis fear Sunday’s parliamentary election will lead to a protracted period of uncertainty as the winners and losers try to cobble together a new government – even as American forces prepare to go home.
None …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Egyptian president undergoes gall bladder operation, hands over power to prime minister

Egyptian president has gall bladder operation

CAIRO – Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak underwent a successful operation in Germany on Saturday to remove his gall bladder after temporarily handing over power to the prime minister, the state-owned news agency reported.
The 81-year-old leader, who has governed for nearly three decades, was diagnosed with “severe inflammation of his gall … Original source on Gaea Times at : Egyptian president undergoes gall bladder operation, hands over power to prime minister.

Philippine health chief takes on powerful Catholic church to hand out condoms to fight AIDS

Philippine health chief, church fight over condoms

MANILA, Philippines – On Valentine’s Day, Philippine government health workers hit the streets of Manila to hand out roses and condoms to passers-by.
The message was clear in a country with a relatively small but rapidly growing HIV-positive population: Avoid unprotected sex.
It didn’t get far. Within days, leaders of the … Read : Philippine health chief takes on powerful Catholic church to hand out condoms to fight AIDS.

Obama hails Iraq vote as an ‘important milestone,’ says millions who voted should be proud

Obama calls Iraq vote an ‘important milestone’
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama praised the Iraqi people for passing “an important milestone” Sunday, when millions turned out for national elections despite insurgent attacks that killed more than 30 people.
No doubt relieved that violence was not worse, Obama said Iraqi security forces … Read : Obama hails Iraq vote as an ‘important milestone,’ says millions who voted should be proud.

Obama: Iraq vote an ‘important milestone,’ pledges to stick to US combat troop withdrawal plan

Obama says Iraq vote an ‘important milestone’
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama is praising the Iraqi people for passing “an important milestone” as millions turned out for national elections despite attacks that killed more than 30 people.
Obama notes that Iraqi security forces showed growing maturity in keeping violence from reaching much higher levels. The …. Original source  : Obama: Iraq vote an ‘important milestone,’ pledges to stick to US combat troop withdrawal plan.

Obama congratulates Iraqi people on vote, mourns loss of life to insurgent attacks

Obama congratulates Iraqis on national vote
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama praised Iraqis who turned out to vote in national elections Sunday despite “acts of violence” to discourage participation.
Insurgent attacks on polling stations killed at least 36 people even with extraordinary security measures in place, including closure of the country’s …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pope’s brother to daily: I’d testify in boy’s choir sex abuse scandal but I know nothing

Pope’s brother says he would testify in abuse case

ROME – The brother of Pope Benedict XVI has told a newspaper he is willing to testify in the sex scandal rocking Germany’s Catholic Church, even though he says he knows nothing about the alleged abuse of boys in a choir he later led.
The Rev. Georg Ratzinger, … Read : Pope’s brother to daily: I’d testify in boy’s choir sex abuse scandal but I know nothing.

China says it expects further attacks by Xinjiang separatists, calls them ‘doomed to failure’

China expects further Xinjiang separatist attacks

BEIJING – China says it expects new attacks by separatists seeking independence for the traditionally Turkic Muslim region of Xinjiang after deadly ethnic violence there last year.
Despite massive pressure from security forces, separatists will continue to refine their methods and seek opportunities, the region’s governor, Nur Bekri, told reporters Sunday.
“They …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Nigeria: Rights group, US call for inquiry, credible prosecutions after religious violence

Nigeria: Calls for inquiry into religious violence

JOS, Nigeria – The U.S. government and an international human rights group called Tuesday for Nigeria to investigate and prosecute those responsible for the deaths of more than 200 unarmed people in renewed violence between Christians and Muslims.
Human Rights Watch also asked Acting President Goodluck Jonathan to provide police … Original article on : Nigeria: Rights group, US call for inquiry, credible prosecutions after religious violence.

Restrictions on abortion funding take on different form in Obama’s health care overhaul bill

A policy change on abortion, but how radical?
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama’s health care bill would change federal policy on abortion, but not open the spigot of taxpayer dollars that some abortion opponents fear.
Abortion rights groups such as Planned Parenthood and NARAL Pro-Choice America say the House and Senate versions of the bill …. Read the original article  : here.

Iraqi prime minister’s coalition, secular rival both claim to be ahead in historic vote count

Iraqi parties both claim to be ahead in election

BAGHDAD – The Iraqi prime minister’s coalition and its main secular rival both claimed to be ahead in the vote count Monday, a day after historic parliamentary elections that the top U.S. commander said would let all but 50,000 American troops come home by the end of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Iraqi prime minister’s coalition, secular rival both claim to be ahead in historic vote count.

Parties predict Iraqi Prime Minister al-Maliki’s coalition will lead parliamentary vote

Iraqi PM’s coalition seen leading vote
BAGHDAD – Early estimates from a range of Iraqi parties on Monday predicted a coalition led by Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki would take the lead in the parliamentary election, though official results were not expected for a few days.

A win by al-Maliki could signal Iraqis’ rejection of the religious …. Source  : Parties predict Iraqi Prime Minister al-Maliki’s coalition will lead parliamentary vote.

Hundreds slaughtered in Nigeria including infants in latest religious violence flare-up

Hundreds slaughtered in Nigeria religious violence

DOGO NAHAWA, Nigeria – The killers showed no mercy: They didn’t spare women and children, or even a 4-day-old baby, from their machetes. On Monday, Nigerian women wailed in the streets as a dump truck carried dozens of bodies past burned-out homes toward a mass grave.
Rubber-gloved workers pulled ever-smaller bodies …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Hundreds slaughtered in Nigeria including infants in latest religious violence flare-up.

Vatican launches appeal to help dwindling Christian community in Holy Land

Vatican appeals for Holy Land Christians
VATICAN CITY – The Vatican has launched an appeal for support for Christians in the Holy Land, seeking to stem the exodus from the ancient community.

The annual appeal, announced Monday, seeks to raise funds for schools, housing, scholarships and the restoration of Christian sites.
Members of the region’s once large and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Amish farmer who refused to register livestock wins legal battle with Wis. regulators

Amish farmer wins fight over registering livestock

NEILLSVILLE, Wis. – An Amish livestock farmer who refused to follow a 2005 Wisconsin law requiring him to register his land and livestock has won a legal battle with state regulators.
Clark County Circuit Judge Jon Counsell on Tuesday ruled in favor of Emanuel Miller Jr., of Loyal, who was …. Source article  : Amish farmer who refused to register livestock wins legal battle with Wis. regulators.

German Catholic official: Pope’s brother’s apology to abuse victims a ‘wonderful sign’

Official: Pope brother’s apology ‘wonderful sign’

BERLIN – A top Catholic prelate in Germany says an apology from the pope’s brother for abuse of students in the 1960s should be seen as a “wonderful sign” that the church plans to get to the bottom of the allegations.
Karl Juesten, the liaison between Catholic bishops and the German …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : German Catholic official: Pope’s brother’s apology to abuse victims a ‘wonderful sign’.

Dalai Lama says China attempting to annihilate Tibetan Buddhism

Dalai Lama: China aims to annihilate Buddhism
DHARMSALA, India – The Dalai Lama blasted Chinese authorities Wednesday, accusing them of trying to “annihilate Buddhism” in Tibet as he commemorated a failed uprising against China’s rule over the region.
The Tibetan spiritual leader’s angry comments appeared to signal his frustration with fruitless efforts to …. Source  : Dalai Lama says China attempting to annihilate Tibetan Buddhism.

Automatic weapons fire breaks out in Nigerian town wracked by Christian-Muslim violence

Gunshots heard in violence-wracked Nigerian town

JOS, Nigeria – Automatic weapons fire punctuated by screams erupted after dark Tuesday in a Nigerian city located near villages where massacres just two days ago left more than 200 people dead.
Nerves remained on edge, despite a long-standing dusk-til-dawn curfew in Jos, the capital of Plateau state. When sustained gunfire … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Automatic weapons fire breaks out in Nigerian town wracked by Christian-Muslim violence.

US urges Nigeria to prosecute those responsible after 200 slaughtered in religious violence

Nigeria urged to investigate religious violence

JOS, Nigeria – The U.S. government and human rights activists called Tuesday for Nigeria to investigate and prosecute those responsible for the deaths of more than 200 unarmed people in renewed violence between Christians and Muslims.
Acting President Goodluck Jonathan had promised that the fighting would stop after more than 300 …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : US urges Nigeria to prosecute those responsible after 200 slaughtered in religious violence.

Northern Ireland lawmakers vote to support next step in Catholic-Protestant cooperation

NIreland lawmakers back next power-sharing step
BELFAST, Northern Ireland – Northern Ireland lawmakers voted overwhelmingly Tuesday to create a new Justice Department, the next key step in making their Catholic-Protestant government work.
Three of the four parties in Northern Ireland’s cross-community government backed the motion to take control of the territory’s police and courts from … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Northern Ireland lawmakers vote to support next step in Catholic-Protestant cooperation.

Egypt says it is dedicated to restoring all the country’s synagogues

Egypt to pay for restoration of all synagogues

CAIRO – Egypt will shoulder the costs of restoring the country’s Jewish houses of worship said the culture minister Tuesday, two days after a historic synagogue in Cairo’s ancient Jewish quarter was rededicated in a private ceremony.
Farouk Hosny said in a statement that his ministry views Jewish sites …. Original source  : Egypt says it is dedicated to restoring all the country’s synagogues.

Muslim street wear from Germany spreads across Europe with trendy designs, tolerant message

Muslim fashion label conquers streets of Europe

WITTEN, Germany – T-shirts and hoodies declare “Terrorism has no religion.” A head-covering tunic bears the message: “Hijab. My right. My choice. My life.”
A German fashion label is out to tell the world that Islam isn’t just compatible with Western values of tolerance and free expression – it can …. Read the original article  : here.

Northern Ireland Assembly to vote on next power-sharing step; No. 2 Protestant party says ‘no’

NIreland Assembly to vote on next peacemaking step

BELFAST, Northern Ireland – Northern Ireland lawmakers debated Tuesday whether to approve the next key step in making their Catholic-Protestant government work. The No. 2 Protestant party, the Ulster Unionists, confirmed it will vote against the plans amid continuing tensions.
Analysts expect a sufficiently strong majority of lawmakers to …. Read the original article  : here.

Woman appointed governor of West Bank’s most important district; joins other trailblazers

Women in charge in West Bank’s key district

RAMALLAH, West Bank – At 35, Leila Ghanem is the first woman to become a Palestinian governor, the latest in a group of trailblazing women leaders who are slowly winning acceptance in this traditional society.
Ghanem, a former intelligence agent, joins a cluster of women in senior positions in … Original source on Gaea Times at : Woman appointed governor of West Bank’s most important district; joins other trailblazers.

Clashing with fellow Dems nothing new for Mich. lawmaker at center of debate over health care

Lawmaker’s clash with fellow Democrats nothing new
WEST BRANCH, Mich. – Shortly after entering Congress in 1993, Rep. Bart Stupak withstood President Bill Clinton’s charm offensive and voted against free-trade legislation – an early display of the independent streak that has put him at odds with fellow Democrats many times since.
He’s now the unofficial …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Clashing with fellow Dems nothing new for Mich. lawmaker at center of debate over health care.

Preadom helps Houston Baptist top Chicago State 80-77 in Great West 1st round

Preadom, Houston Baptist top Chicago State 80-77

OREM, Utah – Wendell Preadom scored 22 points and hit the go-ahead basket to lead Houston Baptist to an 80-77 victory over Chicago State in the first round of the Great West Conference tournament Wednesday.
Andrew Gonzalez scored 18 points, Fred Hinnenkamp 16 and Mario Flaherty 12 for the second-seeded … Read more : Preadom helps Houston Baptist top Chicago State 80-77 in Great West 1st round.

East Jerusalem, home to Muslim and Jewish shrines, is crux of Israeli-Palestinian conflict

East Jerusalem lies at core of conflict
Israel’s plan to build 1,600 new apartments in contested east Jerusalem has thrown a spotlight on the city at the core of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

-What’s the bottom line? Israel wants to retain control of an undivided Jerusalem. The Palestinians want east Jerusalem as capital of a future state.
-Why is … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : East Jerusalem, home to Muslim and Jewish shrines, is crux of Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Former Christian Coalition leader Ralph Reed says he won’t run for Georgia congressional seat

Ex-Christian Coalition head won’t run for Congress

ATLANTA – Former Christian Coalition head Ralph Reed announced Wednesday he will not run for Congress in Georgia, saying he can do more to push a conservative agenda through his work for a political startup.
Reed considered seeking the Republican nomination for Georgia’s 7th Congressional District northeast of Atlanta, but …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Former Christian Coalition leader Ralph Reed says he won’t run for Georgia congressional seat.

UN official urges Iraqis to report election results quickly

First Iraqi vote results likely on Thursday

BAGHDAD – The top United Nations envoy in Iraq urged election officials Wednesday to release the results of this week’s historic vote as quickly as possible, saying Iraqis “have the right to know” the results as soon as possible.
The call by U.N. diplomat Ad Melkert came as Iraqi election …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : UN official urges Iraqis to report election results quickly.

Egypt’s top Muslim cleric, whose moderate views angered hard-liners, dies of heart attack

Egypt’s top Muslim cleric dies of heart attack

CAIRO – Egypt’s top cleric, Sheik Mohammed Sayed Tantawi, known for promoting the government agenda against female genital mutilation and the face veil, died of a heart attack Wednesday during a visit to Saudi Arabia. He was 81.
Tantawi was the grand sheik of Cairo’s Al-Azhar, the pre-eminent theological …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Egypt’s top Muslim cleric, whose moderate views angered hard-liners, dies of heart attack.

Eminent Islamic scholar Moulana Aqil passes away

HYDERABAD – Eminent Islamic scholar Moulana Hameeduddin Aqil Hussami, who was also a member of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, passed away here Friday after a brief illness. He was 82.

Moulana Aqil, who was suffering from lung problem for the last few months, was shifted to his house from a hospital Thursday night … Read more »»».

Federal appeals court upholds ‘under God’ references in Pledge of Allegiance, currency

Fed. appeals court upholds ‘under God’ in pledge

SAN FRANCISCO – An appellate court has upheld references to God on U.S. currency and in the Pledge of Allegiance, rejecting arguments they violate the constitutional separation of church and state.
“The Pledge of Allegiance serves to unite our vast nation through the proud recitation of some of the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Theater Review: A question of faith compassionately explored in Geoffrey Nauffts”Next Fall’

Review: Question of faith explored in ‘Next Fall’

NEW YORK – To believe or not to believe.
It’s a quandary at the heart of “Next Fall,” Geoffrey Nauffts’ compassionate exploration of faith that has made a smooth transfer from off-Broadway to the big time of Broadway’s Helen Hayes Theatre.
The play, which had a successful run last summer [..] Read the original article: here.

2 brides and a wedding: Mexico witnesses 1st explicitly legal same-sex marriages

In Mexico, gay couples celebrate historic weddings

MEXICO CITY – Two glowing brides in matching white gowns and four other same-sex couples made history in Mexico City on Thursday as they wed under Latin America’s first law that explicitly approves gay marriage.
Mayor Marcelo Ebrard was a guest of honor at the weddings of Judith Vazquez and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 2 brides and a wedding: Mexico witnesses 1st explicitly legal same-sex marriages.

Federal appeals court upholds God references in Pledge of Allegiance, currency

Court upholds ‘under God’ in Pledge of Allegiance

SAN FRANCISCO – A federal appeals court in San Francisco upheld the use of the words “under God” in the Pledge of Allegiance and “In God We Trust” on U.S. currency, rejecting arguments on Thursday that the phrases violate the separation of church and state.
The 9th U.S. Circuit … Read more >>.

Early results in historic Iraq election show brewing battle between PM, secular challenger

Early Iraq results: PM battling secular challenger

BAGHDAD – First results from Iraq’s parliamentary election showed the prime minister and his secular rival locked in an extremely tight contest Thursday amid fraud allegations by rival parties and a chaotic, unpredictable vote count.
The partial tallies came from only five of Iraq’s 18 provinces. However, Iraqi officials who … Read more >>>.

Discovery of monotheist pharaoh’s mummy provides clues about unique time in ancient Egypt

Mummy of Egypt’s monotheist pharaoh to return home

CAIRO – The DNA tests that revealed how the famed boy-king Tutankhamun most likely died solved another of ancient Egypt’s enduring mysteries – the fate of controversial Pharaoh Akhenaten’s mummy. The discovery could help fill out the picture of a fascinating era more than 3,300 years ago when …. Source article  : Discovery of monotheist pharaoh’s mummy provides clues about unique time in ancient Egypt.

France’s Sarkozy, fallen from his pedestal, faces drubbing in regional election

France’s Sarkozy faces whipping in regional vote

PARIS – Nicolas Sarkozy is looking politically lonely in his presidential palace.
Voters hit by France’s worst recession since World War II are fearing for their jobs, and are worried and conflicted about how Islamic veils and immigrant culture fit in their nation today.
They get a chance to voice their …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : France’s Sarkozy, fallen from his pedestal, faces drubbing in regional election.

Vatican, Italian bishops slam Rome school’s move to install condom-vending machines

Vatican criticizes condom machines in Rome school

ROME – A Rome high school has decided to install vending machines selling condoms for its students, sparking angry reaction from the Catholic Church which claims the move will only encourage youths to have sex.
Cardinal Agostino Vallini, the pope’s vicar for Rome, criticized the decision as trivializing sex.
L’Avvenire, the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Vatican, Italian bishops slam Rome school’s move to install condom-vending machines.

Religious hatred, politics and poverty weave tapestry of violence across central Nigeria

Religious hatred, poverty behind Nigeria violence

JOS, Nigeria – Christians and Muslims once shared their lives together in Nigeria’s fertile central belt, buying each other’s goods in mixed neighborhoods and cultivating each other’s farms across a sun-baked plateau.
But growing religious hatred, political and ethnic rivalries, and increasing poverty have led to two outbursts of savage violence … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Religious hatred, politics and poverty weave tapestry of violence across central Nigeria.

Where Hindus and Muslims pray together

GADDEAJIJPUR – When Hindus visit a temple in Gaddeajijpur village of Uttar Pradesh, they also make it a point to pray at the adjacent mausoleum. It is no different for Muslims. For, the villagers believe their prayers will not be answered otherwise.

Gaddeajijpur village, located on the outskirts of Hardoi district, some 110 km from …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Where Hindus and Muslims pray together.

Stone pelting is un-Islamic: Kashmiri cleric

NEW DELHI – Terming stone pelting as a form of protest un-Islamic, the Grand Mufti of Jammu and Kashmir, Maulana Bashir-ud-Din, Wednesday said such violent practices were against the basic tenets of the religion whose essence is “peace and brotherhood”.

“Islam strongly prohibits any means of violence. The stone pelting practice is surely un-Islamic. It causes … Read more »».

Resolve Tibet issue through dialogue, reiterates Dalai Lama

DHARAMSALA – Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama Wednesday reiterated his commitment to settle the Tibetan issue through dialogue and within the framework of Chinese law.

“Whether the Chinese government acknowledges it or not, there is a serious problem in Tibet…For more than 30 years, I have tried my best to enter into talks with …. Source article  : Resolve Tibet issue through dialogue, reiterates Dalai Lama.

Swedish newspapers reprint Prophet cartoon

STOCKHOLM – Several Swedish newspapers Wednesday reprinted a controversial caricature of the Prophet Mohammed as a dog, the day after an alleged plot to murder the cartoonist was disclosed.

Seven arrests were reported Tuesday in Ireland while one woman was charged in the US for conspiring to commit terrorism. The target of the alleged murder plot … Original source on Gaea Times at : Swedish newspapers reprint Prophet cartoon.

Grand Mufti urges Muslim women to enter politics

NEW DELHI – A top Islamic cleric Wednesday welcomed the passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill in the Rajya Sabha, describing it as “a great step towards women’s empowerment”.

“This is a great step towards women’s empowerment. I would urge Indian Muslim women to enter politics and get themselves elected to parliament and state assemblies. They … Read more »»».

Tainted godman’s Malaysian centre will not shut down

KUALA LUMPUR – A centre run by followers of Swami Paramhamsa Nithyananda, allegedly involved in a sex scandal in southern India, will not close down and will continue to promote his teachings, a Hindu leader said.

Malaysia Hindu Sangam (MHS) president R.S. Mohan Shan said they have taken this decision as Nithyananda’s teachings were not against …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Tainted godman’s Malaysian centre will not shut down.

Mohsina Kidwai elected chairperson of Haj committee

NEW DELHI – Senior Congress leader Mohsina Kidwai was Wednesday elected chairperson of the Haj Committee of India, a government panel that makes arrangements for the Muslim pilgrimage to the holy cities of Makkah and Medina in Saudi Arabia.

Hasan Ahmed and Aboo Bucker were elected vice chairmen at the meeting of the newly constituted committee, [..] Read the original article: here.

Mohali village tense after head priest’s suicide

MOHALI – Security was strengthened outside a Jain temple in Punjab’s Mohali district after its head priest committed suicide Thursday triggering tension in the area, police said.

The family members of the priest alleged foul play.
According to the police, 51-year-old Ajay Muni, head priest of the Jain temple in Pabhat village, set himself afire …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Islamic clerics oppose women’s reservation

LUCKNOW – Not only certain political parties, but even some influential Islamic scholars and clerics are strongly opposed to the women’s reservation bill.

Their opposition seems to stem from the fact that such a provision will not only entitle but also encourage more and more Muslim women to take a plunge into politics, where it would …. Original source  : Islamic clerics oppose women’s reservation.

Texas ed board adopts new social studies standards that reflect ultra-conservatives’ influence

Texas ed board adopts social studies standards

AUSTIN, Texas – The Texas State Board of Education agreed to new social studies standards on Friday after the far-right faction wielded its power to shape the lessons that will be taught to millions of students on American history, the U.S. free enterprise system, religion and other topics.
In a …. Original article  : Texas ed board adopts new social studies standards that reflect ultra-conservatives’ influence.

Bolstered by early election leads, Iraq’s al-Maliki seeks to make allies of foes in new govt

Iraq PM uses early lead to pursue new govt allies

BAGHDAD – Seizing on an early lead in Iraq’s election, the prime minister’s political coalition began reaching out to rivals Friday as partial results signaled a tight race that was unlikely to produce a clear-cut winner.
It’s doubtful that Nouri al-Maliki – even if he keeps his …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Bolstered by early election leads, Iraq’s al-Maliki seeks to make allies of foes in new govt.

Pope says thanks but no thanks: he’ll skip Alps and have a Roman holiday this summer

Pope to skip Alps this summer
VATICAN CITY – The Vatican says Pope Benedict XVI, who broke his wrist last summer during his Alpine vacation, is passing up invitations to return to the mountains so he can spend his holiday near Rome.

Benedict received several invitations for the Alps, but the Holy See said Friday that while … Original article on : Pope says thanks but no thanks: he’ll skip Alps and have a Roman holiday this summer.

Pope’s former diocese admits error over abuse priest in 1980, says pontiff unaware

Pope’s former diocese admits error over priest

BERLIN – Pope Benedict XVI’s former German diocese said Friday it made a mistake when the pontiff was archbishop in allowing a priest suspected to have abused a child to return to pastoral work. However, it said Benedict was unaware of the decision.
The chaplain was sent to Munich in …. Read the original article  : here.

Vaishno Devi shrine security beefed up

JAMMU – The security of the Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu and Kashmir will be strengthened as it faces a threat of terror attack, an official said here Friday.

The decision was taken at a meeting chaired by Governor N.N. Vohra. Senior security officials, including Director General of Police Kuldeep Khoda and Additional Director General of …. Read the original article  : here.

Shiite religious alliance leading in southern Iraq province vote tally, as counting continues

Shiite group leads in southern Iraq province vote

BAGHDAD – An Iraqi Shiite religious alliance with ties to Iran is leading in one southern province according to the latest vote tallies released.
Results have only been released for six of 18 provinces, excluding Baghdad, so the final outcome is far from certain.
Election officials said Friday that the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Shiite religious alliance leading in southern Iraq province vote tally, as counting continues.

Iraqi PM’s bloc lays groundwork to form new govt after strong showing in initial results

Iraqi PM starts laying groundwork for new govt

BAGHDAD – The Iraqi prime minister’s bloc said Friday it has started laying the groundwork to form a coalition government, signaling growing confidence after preliminary election results showed it winning in at least three provinces in the southern Shiite heartland.
But the outcome from the key parliamentary vote was …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Iraqi PM’s bloc lays groundwork to form new govt after strong showing in initial results.

Eminent Islamic scholar Moulana Aqil dead

HYDERABAD – Eminent Islamic scholar Moulana Hameeduddin Aqil Hussami, who was also a member of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, died here Friday after a brief illness. He was 82.

Moulana Aqil, who was suffering from a lung problem for some months, was shifted to his house from a hospital Thursday night after his …. Read the original article  : here.

Israel declares two-day closure of West Bank to head off unrest

Israel seals off West Bank to prevent unrest

JERUSALEM – Israel has sealed off the West Bank for 48 hours, preventing Palestinians from entering Israel because of fears of unrest.
There have been clashes after Friday prayers at mosques in Jerusalem and elsewhere in recent weeks, sparked by deadlock in peace talks and Israel’s inclusion of two … Original article on : Israel declares two-day closure of West Bank to head off unrest.

Muslim MPs say reservation alone can help community

HYDERABAD – Four Muslim members of parliament have demanded 10 percent reservation for Muslims across the country as recommended by the Ranganath Mishra Commission and a sub-quota for Muslim women in the proposed 33 percent reservation for women in parliament and state assemblies.

The MPs, including three Rajya Sabha members who were suspended during the debate … Original source on Gaea Times at : Muslim MPs say reservation alone can help community.

From Israel, a new way to boost organ donation, but some see a religious problem

From Israel, a radical way to boost organ donation

JERUSALEM – Israel is launching a potentially trailblazing experiment in organ donation: Sign a donor card, and you and your family move up in line for a transplant if one is needed.
The new law is the first of its kind in the world, and international medical authorities …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : From Israel, a new way to boost organ donation, but some see a religious problem.

South Dakota tops Houston Baptist 91-86 for Great West title, CollegeInsider.com bid

S. Dakota tops Houston Baptist 91-86 in Great West

OREM, Utah – Jake Thomas scored 24 points and Kendall Cutler 21 to lead South Dakota over Houston Baptist 91-86 on Saturday night as the Coyotes won the Great West Conference championship and an automatic bid to the CollegeInsider.com Postseason Tournament.
Thomas hit 5 of 7 3-pointers for …. Original article  : South Dakota tops Houston Baptist 91-86 for Great West title, CollegeInsider.com bid.

Early leads by 2 secular political groups forecast Iraq rejection of fundamentalist government

Iraqi vote signals shift from religious leaders

BAGHDAD – Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki’s political coalition took an early vote lead Saturday in the election’s all-important battleground of Baghdad, pulling away from its two closest rivals in the latest indication that Iraqis want a moderate government instead of Shiite religious hard-liners leading the postwar nation.
Partial results released … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Early leads by 2 secular political groups forecast Iraq rejection of fundamentalist government.

Split among abortion opponents widens as Catholic hospitals publicly support health care bill

Catholic hospitals support health care bill
WASHINGTON – A group representing Catholic hospitals Saturday rallied behind President Barack Obama’s health care bill ahead of a House vote in which anti-abortion lawmakers could play a decisive role.
The chief executive of the Catholic Health Association, Carol Keehan, wrote on the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Jewish retiree creates stir by taking Vatican’s side in dispute over Pope Pius’ wartime role

Jewish retiree creates stir defending Pope Pius

LONG BEACH, N.Y. – In the long and painful debate over whether he should have done more to halt the murder of 6 million Jews by the Nazis and their collaborators in World War II, Pope Pius XII has an unusual defender.
Gary Krupp, who is Jewish, says he grew … Read more »».

Iraq vote results show PM leading in key Baghdad tally, boosting re-election chances

Iraq’s PM leads in early Baghdad vote count

BAGHDAD – A coalition led by Iraq’s prime minister held a comfortable lead Saturday in the crucial contest for the nation’s capital, bolstering his chances in an election deciding who will lead the country as U.S. forces go home.
The province that includes Baghdad accounts for almost a fifth … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Iraq vote results show PM leading in key Baghdad tally, boosting re-election chances.

Deputies: Fla. woman dies alone in locked bedroom while fasting, praying for several weeks

Fla. woman dies during weeks-long religious fast

BARTOW, Fla. – Authorities say a 55-year-old woman died alone in a bedroom of her central Florida home after locking herself in the room for several weeks for a lengthy religious fast.
Evelyn Boyd told her husband, a preacher at a Pentecostal church in the city of Bartow, not to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Deputies: Fla. woman dies alone in locked bedroom while fasting, praying for several weeks.

Shiite religious blocs, secular coalition both pick up province apiece in Iraq election

Shiite, secular blocs pick up provinces in Iraq

BAGHDAD – A secular bloc led by former Iraqi prime minister Ayad Allawi and a Shiite religious bloc both appeared to pick up votes as new results were released in Iraq’s election.
But the gains for the secular Iraqiya and the Shiite Iraqi National Alliance did not appear to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Shiite religious blocs, secular coalition both pick up province apiece in Iraq election.

Swiss newspaper report: 60 people say they were abused by Catholic priests in Switzerland

Swiss media: 60 people report abuses by priests

GENEVA – Around 60 people have reported being victims of abuse by Catholic priests in Switzerland, a Swiss abbot said in an interview published by a newspaper Saturday.
Abbot Martin Werlen of the Benedictine Abbey of Einsiedeln said some of the allegations were reported to the Swiss Bishops Conference’s …. Original source  : Swiss newspaper report: 60 people say they were abused by Catholic priests in Switzerland.

Mizoram church to take action against gay members

AIZAWL – The influential Baptist Church of Mizoram (BCM) Saturday announced strong disciplinary action against homosexual members.

“We have decided to take strong punitive action against members who are involved in homosexuality. The disciplinary actions include ex-communication,” a BCM statement said.
The statement was issued after the BCM assembly, the main decision-making body, met. The BCM … Read more >>>.

Egyptian bishop says 23 Coptic Christians wounded after attack by Muslims in western Egypt

Bishop: 23 Christians wounded in Egypt
CAIRO – An Egyptian bishop says 23 Coptic Christians have been wounded when extremist Muslims attacked a church community center in a western province.

The Rev. Bejemy told The Associated Press Saturday that a group of young men pelted cars and threw firebombs at the Coptic center and nearby homes in … Read : Egyptian bishop says 23 Coptic Christians wounded after attack by Muslims in western Egypt.

Houston Baptist tops NJIT 74-64 to reach Great West tournament final

Houston Baptist defeats NJIT 74-64
OREM, Utah – Andrew Gonzalez scored 24 points to lead Houston Baptist past NJIT 74-64 Friday night in the Great West Conference tournament semifinals.

Houston Baptist (12-20) will face regular-season champion South Dakota in the title game Saturday night. The conference, playing its first full season schedule and postseason tournament, does not …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Houston Baptist tops NJIT 74-64 to reach Great West tournament final.

Malaysian Sikhs observe Nanakshahi New Year

KUALA LUMPUR – Sikhs in Malaysia observed a low key New Year, as per the Nanakshahi calendar named after the founder of the faith Guru Nanak.

More and more Sikhs are becoming conscious of the Sikh New Year that fell Sunday, The Star newspaper said.
There were low-key celebrations in Sikh homes and in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Malaysian Sikhs observe Nanakshahi New Year.

Cartoonist lampoons niqab, angers Muslims in Canada

TORONTO – A controversial cartoon in a Montreal newspaper at the weekend has further fuelled the niqab controversy and angered Muslims in Canada.

The controversy, which was sparked by a Muslim woman’s refusal in November to remove her veil in her French language class in Montreal, has been further inflamed by the controversial cartoon in the [..] Read the original article: here.

Conflict between European artists and Muslims fuels concern about a clash of civilizations

Culture clash: European art provokes Muslims

LONDON – With the West locked in conflicts across the Muslim world, why would anyone throw fuel on the fire?
A small group of Europeans have been doing just that – provoking death plots and at least one murder by turning out art that derides the Prophet Muhammad and the Quran … Read more >>.

Israeli leader regrets crisis with Washington, but apology gets cool reception in Washington

Israeli apology gets cool reception in Washington
JERUSALEM – Israel’s prime minister expressed regret Sunday for a crisis with the United States over plans to expand a Jewish neighborhood in east Jerusalem, even as American officials played down the apology and called for bold Israeli action to get peace efforts back on track.
With tensions … Read more : Israeli leader regrets crisis with Washington, but apology gets cool reception in Washington.

Synagogue opens in German town after 70 years

HERFORD – A new synagogue was opened Sunday in the north-western German town of Herford, more than 70 years after the old synagogue was destroyed under Nazi rule.

“I wish you and all of us that Jewish life in North Rhine-Westphalia and Germany flourishes,” Juergen Ruettgers, the state premier of North Rhine-Westphalia where Herford is located … Read more »»».

Iraq PM edges ahead of rival in partial election count, holds narrow lead over chief rival

Iraqi PM in narrow lead in partial election tally

BAGHDAD – Iraq’s prime minister edged ahead in a tight race in the country’s parliamentary elections Sunday after partial results from all of 18 provinces showed his bloc leading in seven provinces – two more than his chief rival.
The tally strengthens Nouri al-Maliki’s chances of retaining the …. Original article  : Iraq PM edges ahead of rival in partial election count, holds narrow lead over chief rival.

Israeli leader urges calm after new rebuke from US over east Jerusalem construction plans

Israeli leader urges calm over row with Washington

JERUSALEM – Israel’s prime minister tried to play down a serious diplomatic dispute with the United States on Sunday, urging calm after another stern rebuke from Washington over plans to build 1,600 new apartments for Jews in contested east Jerusalem.
Reflecting the high tension, Israel deployed hundreds of security …. Source article  : Israeli leader urges calm after new rebuke from US over east Jerusalem construction plans.

Amended Sikh calendar released in Amritsar

CHANDIGARH – After a controversy over the last few years regarding dates of important religious events in the ‘Nanakshahi’, the Sikh religious calendar, its amended version was Sunday released by the Shiromani Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee (SGPC) at Amritsar.

The dates of the previous Nanakshahi calendar did not match with the Vikrami calendar followed elsewhere in the …. Source article  : Amended Sikh calendar released in Amritsar.

Egypt cancels synagogue unveiling, citing Israeli maltreatment of Palestinians

Egypt cancels unveiling of restored synagogue

CAIRO – Egypt canceled the inauguration of a restored synagogue on Sunday citing objections to Israel’s treatment of Muslims in the occupied territories as well as alleged excesses during an earlier ceremony.
Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiquities spent seven months restoring the ruined Ben Maimon synagogue in Cairo’s ancient Jewish quarter …. Original article  : Egypt cancels synagogue unveiling, citing Israeli maltreatment of Palestinians.

Tripura debates Maneka’s plea against animal sacrifice

AGARTALA – Maneka Gandhi’s appeal to stop animal sacrifice in Tripura’s temples has sparked a debate with animal lovers supporting her while others dead against stopping of age-old traditions.

“We are taking opinion of the royal family, state government, priests and the civil society over Maneka Gandhi’s request to stop animal sacrifice in the temples,” South …. Original source  : Tripura debates Maneka’s plea against animal sacrifice.

Hymns to nature at the Golden Temple

AMRITSAR – Hundreds of Sikhs Sunday recited hymns devoted to the environment in the Golden Temple here to mark the coronation of their seventh guru Hai Rai.

US-based Sikh Council on Religion and Education (SCORE) and mini-parliament of Sikhs Shiromani Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee (SGPC) observed the day as Sikh Environment Day, reciting shabad kirtan (hymns composed [..] Read the original article: here.

US Mideast envoy cancels Jerusalem trip as Israel FM calls settlement freeze ‘unreasonable’

US envoy cancels Mideast trip amid US-Israel feud

JERUSALEM – Washington’s Mideast peace envoy delayed his trip to the region as Israeli officials remained defiant on Tuesday over their plans to build more settlements in disputed east Jerusalem amid deepening feud between U.S. and Israel.
Dozens of masked Palestinians also hurled rocks at police and set tires … Read more >>>.

Bail plea of publisher in Jesus blasphemy case rejected

SHILLONG – The Shillong bench of the Gauhati High Court Monday rejected the bail plea of Indra Mohan Jha, whose publishing house had printed a blasphemous image of Jesus — holding a beer can and a cigarette — in a school textbook.

The objectionable pictures of Jesus Christ found in the cursive writing exercise copies at …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

US demanding cancellation of contentious east Jerusalem building plan a center of dispute

US wants Israel to cancel Jerusalem building plan

JERUSALEM – The U.S. is pressing Israel to scrap a contentious east Jerusalem building project whose approval has touched off the most serious diplomatic feud with Washington in years, American and Israeli officials said Monday.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, however, gave no indication he intended to cancel construction …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : US demanding cancellation of contentious east Jerusalem building plan a center of dispute.

Israel’s Netanyahu says Jewish building in east Jerusalem ‘in no way’ hurts Palestinians

Netanyahu: Jerusalem building doesn’t hurt Arabs

JERUSALEM – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says Jewish building in east Jerusalem does not hurt the city’s Palestinian residents.
Speaking to Israel’s parliament, Netanyahu said the construction of homes for Jews in the city’s eastern sector “in no way” hurts Palestinians.
Israel drew angry reactions from the U.S. and the Palestinians …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Israel’s Netanyahu says Jewish building in east Jerusalem ‘in no way’ hurts Palestinians.

Vatican official: pope will be ‘clear and decisive’ in letter responding to Irish sex scandal

Pope to be ‘clear and decisive’ in Irish letter

VATICAN CITY – A top Vatican official says Pope Benedict XVI will speak with a “clear and decisive voice” when he addresses clerical sex abuses in Ireland in a forthcoming letter.
Benedict is expected to release his letter soon in response to decades of systematic abuse in church-run …. Source article  : Vatican official: pope will be ‘clear and decisive’ in letter responding to Irish sex scandal.

Ugadi 2010/Gudi Padwa Greeting Card And SMS

CHENNAI, India (GaeaTimes.com)- The new year festival Ugadi will be celebrated this year in South India, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh on March 16. Since it marks the beginning of a new year for the Deccan states, people take the opportunity to wish happiness and prosperity to friends and family members through Ugadi greeting …. Source  : Ugadi 2010/Gudi Padwa Greeting Card And SMS.

US demanding cancellation of contentious east Jerusalem building plan, say Israeli officials

Officials: US wants Israel to cancel building plan

JERUSALEM – The U.S. is pressing Israel to scrap a contentious east Jerusalem building project whose approval has touched off the most serious diplomatic feud with Washington in years, said Israeli officials Monday.
Tensions in the city at the center of the spat were high, with police out in …. Original source  : US demanding cancellation of contentious east Jerusalem building plan, say Israeli officials.

Pope Benedict XVI to visit Scotland, England for 4 days in September

Pope to visit England, Scotland in September

LONDON – Pope Benedict XVI will visit Scotland and England in September in a four-day visit combining preaching and diplomacy, Buckingham Palace announced Tuesday.
British officials described it as an unprecedented “papal visit with the status of a state visit,” though some of the usual trappings laid on for a …. Source  : Pope Benedict XVI to visit Scotland, England for 4 days in September.

Treasures from Aga Khan collection displayed in Berlin, show underlines breadth of Islamic art

Aga Khan’s Islamic treasures go on show in Berlin

BERLIN – More than 200 items from the Aga Khan’s collection of Islamic treasures are going on show in Berlin in an exhibition spanning a millennium and covering half the globe.
A chestnut leaf delicately inscribed with golden calligraphy greets visitors at the start of the show of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Treasures from Aga Khan collection displayed in Berlin, show underlines breadth of Islamic art.

London’s Jewish Museum reopens after major facelift, telling story of pride and prejudice

London Jewish Museum reopens after major facelift

LONDON – They are icons of Britain: a Victorian-era statesman, a World War I soldier-poet, fish and chips.
They’re also Jewish – evidence of the 1,000-year history of Jews in Britain, whose story is told in a museum reopening this week after a 10 million pound ($15 million) expansion.
“Fish and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

St. Patrick’s Day: To Be Celebrated Tomorrow

BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND (GaeaTimes.com)- With St. Patrick’s Day just round the corner, residents across the country of Northern Ireland are gearing up to celebrate the day to the fullest. St. Patrick’s Day is observed every year on March 17, and it is marked with widespread celebrations in the country as well as other nations where … Read more : St. Patrick’s Day: To Be Celebrated Tomorrow.

Egypt TV shows first images of president following operation in German hospital

First post-op images of Egyptian president appear

CAIRO – Egypt’s president appeared on state television talking with his doctors Tuesday in his first appearance since an operation in Germany 10 days earlier, quelling speculation over the state of his health.
The broadcast followed a swirl of rumors and speculation over the 81-year-old president’s health due to a … Read more >>>.

Navratri 2010 Amidst Tight Security

KANPUR, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Navratri is a festival that is celebrated in various parts of India amidst enthusiasm and gusto by the religious people. The festival draws a large crowd to the major places where temples are situated and this forces the administration to beef up the security and police patrol to avoid incidents …. Read the original article  : Navratri 2010 Amidst Tight Security.

German bishop says he did not expect so many sexual abuse cases

German bishop surprised at number of abuse cases

BERLIN – A German bishop says he is taken aback at the scope of sexual abuse in the Roman Catholic church of Pope Benedict XVI’s native Bavaria.
Bavarian Bishop Ludwig Schick of Bamberg told Bayerischer Rundfunk radio Tuesday he had not expected so many cases.
He said, “it is bitter …. Original article  : German bishop says he did not expect so many sexual abuse cases.

US Mideast envoy cancels Jerusalem trip, deepening feud with Israel

US envoy cancels Mideast trip, Israel feud deepens
JERUSALEM – A U.S. envoy’s postponement of his Mideast trip appeared Tuesday to deepen one of the worst U.S.-Israeli feuds in memory – even as Israel’s foreign minister signaled his government had no intention of curtailing the contentious construction at the heart of the row.
Hundreds of …. Source  : US Mideast envoy cancels Jerusalem trip, deepening feud with Israel.

Happy Ugadi Scraps, SMS Doing The Round

BANGALORE, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Ugadi, the beginning of a new year for the people of southern India will begin from today, March16. The day is held auspicious as it marks the beginning of a new year. While Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka mark this day as Ugadi, people of Maharashtra celebrate the same occasion but … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Happy Ugadi Scraps, SMS Doing The Round.

Gudi Padwa SMS Contest

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- In Maharastra, the festival of Gudi Padwa is celebrated each year with aplomb and enthusiasm by the residents and this year is not an exception either. The households in Maharastra are adorned with mango leaves, neem leaves and a red flower garlands. These items are all tied on the edge … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Gudi Padwa SMS Contest.

Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine’s Security Increased

JAMMU, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The security arrangements at the famous Mata Vaishno Devi shrine has been stepped up as ordered by NN Vohra, the governor of Jammu and Kashmir. The decision was taken after a meeting attended by the governor and top police officials of the state recently. The governor had said in his …. Source article  : Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine’s Security Increased.

Democrats struggle over final details of health bill ahead of weekend vote as support grows

Lawmakers struggle to finish health overhaul bill
WASHINGTON – Pushing toward a history-making vote, Democrats struggled to eliminate lingering complications standing in the way of House action this weekend on President Barack Obama’s landmark health care overhaul.
Their drive to make the nation’s health care system more efficient and extend coverage to millions …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Democrats struggle over final details of health bill ahead of weekend vote as support grows.

Australian Senate rejects call for parliamentary inquiry into Church of Scientology

Australian Senate rejects Scientology inquiry call

CANBERRA, Australia – Australia’s Senate on Thursday overwhelming rejected a call for an inquiry into allegations against the Church of Scientology made by former members who claim to have been abused, harassed or coerced into having abortions.
Sen. Nick Xenophon’s motion to authorize a senate committee to hold a wide-reaching inquiry … Read more >>.

Retired Texas bishop joins Catholic nuns in supporting Obama’s health care bill

Retired Catholic bishop endorses health care bill
WASHINGTON – A retired Catholic bishop is announcing his support for President Barack Obama’s health care overhaul, despite the church’s official opposition.
Retired Bishop John E. McCarthy of Austin told The Associated Press on Wednesday that he is as opposed to abortion as every other bishop and that …. Source article  : Retired Texas bishop joins Catholic nuns in supporting Obama’s health care bill.

Episcopal church approves election of lesbian bishop to LA post; 2nd gay bishop overall

Episcopal church approves 2nd gay bishop
LOS ANGELES – The Episcopal Church has approved the election of a lesbian assistant bishop in the Diocese of Los Angeles, making her the second openly gay bishop in the Anglican global fellowship, diocese officials said Wednesday.

Episcopal conservatives were quick to criticize the approval of the Rev. Mary Glasspool of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Episcopal church approves election of lesbian bishop to LA post; 2nd gay bishop overall.

Iraqi PM fighting off challenge from secular candidate _ negotiations to follow vote count

Iraqi PM fights for survival as votes are counted
BAGHDAD – The man who has led Iraq for the past four years is battling for his political survival just as U.S. troops are getting ready to pack up and go home.
With about 83 …. Original article  : Iraqi PM fighting off challenge from secular candidate _ negotiations to follow vote count.

Obama’s health care bill wins support from Rep. Kucinich, Catholic nuns; Weekend vote likely

Health bill gains ground with weekend vote likely
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama’s sweeping health care legislation won precious support from a longtime liberal holdout in the House on Wednesday and from Catholic nuns representing dozens of religious orders, gaining fresh traction in the run-up to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Obama’s health care bill wins support from Rep. Kucinich, Catholic nuns; Weekend vote likely.

Boost for Obama’s health bill: Lawmaker signs on, nuns write their support; vote this weekend

Health bill gains ground; weekend vote likely
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama’s sweeping health care legislation won precious support from a longtime liberal holdout in the House on Wednesday and from a retired Catholic bishop and nuns representing dozens of religious orders – …. Source article  : Boost for Obama’s health bill: Lawmaker signs on, nuns write their support; vote this weekend.

Yemen-American radical preacher issues message calling for US Muslims to go against their govt

Yemen-American imam calls for US Muslim revolt

CAIRO – A Yemeni-American Muslim preacher known for his ties to extremists operating in the U.S. called on American Muslims in a new audio message to turn against their government because of its actions against Muslims around the world.
Anwar al-Awlaki’s latest message, excerpts of which were aired on CNN [..] Read the original article: here.

Galilee ruins, thought to be synagogue, now seen as palace of Muslim caliphs

Wrong religion: Israeli ruins re-identified

JERUSALEM – Israeli archaeologists have announced that ruins long thought to be of an ancient synagogue are actually the remains of a palace built by Arab caliphs 1,300 years ago.
The site, on the banks of the Sea of Galilee, was identified as a synagogue in the 1950s because archaeologists found a …. Original article  : Galilee ruins, thought to be synagogue, now seen as palace of Muslim caliphs.

Green globe: 70 million Irish at home, abroad cheer St. Patrick’s Day from Sydney to San Fran

Irish at home, worldwide cheer St. Patrick’s Day
DUBLIN – Much of the world is turning green Wednesday for St. Patrick’s Day, the annual celebration of all hues of Irishness.
More than a half-million people lined the 3-kilometer (2-mile) route of the flagship Dublin parade beneath unusually sunny skies in this wet, windy land. The … Read more »».

Rep. Kucinich switches to ‘yes’ on health care bill; Catholic nuns break with bishops

Obama’s health care plan picks up support
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama’s much-challenged health care overhaul gained traction Wednesday as a liberal lawmaker became the first to switch his opposition and Catholic nuns declared their support in an unusual public break with the bishops.
Rep. Dennis Kucinich, D-Ohio, …. Original article  : Rep. Kucinich switches to ‘yes’ on health care bill; Catholic nuns break with bishops.

In a break with bishops, Catholic nuns say health care bill will not fund abortions

Catholic nuns urge passage of Obama’s health bill
WASHINGTON – Catholic nuns are urging Congress to pass President Barack Obama’s health care plan, in an unusual public break with bishops who say it would subsidize abortion.
Some 60 leaders of religious orders representing 59,000 Catholic nuns Wednesday sent lawmakers a letter urging them to pass …. Source  : In a break with bishops, Catholic nuns say health care bill will not fund abortions.

Vatican investigates reported apparitions of Virgin Mary at Medjugorje shrine in Bosnia

Vatican studies visions of Virgin at Medjugorje

VATICAN CITY – The Vatican has begun formally investigating reported apparitions of the Virgin Mary at the Medjugorje shrine in southern Bosnia.
An international commission of inquiry headed by Italian Cardinal Camillo Ruini – a top adviser to the late Pope John Paul II – has been formed to study … Original article on : Vatican investigates reported apparitions of Virgin Mary at Medjugorje shrine in Bosnia.

Pope hopes letter to Irish on church abuse helps process of ‘repentance, healing and renewal’

Pope hopes letter to Irish helps healing
VATICAN CITY – Pope Benedict XVI says he hopes his upcoming letter to Irish Catholics on the sex abuse scandal in the Irish Church helps with the process of “repentance, healing and renewal.”

Benedict told his weekly general audience Wednesday that he would sign the pastoral letter Friday and would … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pope hopes letter to Irish on church abuse helps process of ‘repentance, healing and renewal’.

Fresh religious fighting reported in central Nigerian village, region where hundreds have died

Fresh fighting reported in central Nigeria

JOS, Nigeria – Officials say people are fleeing a central Nigerian village after reports that fighting took place overnight, only a week after violence in the area left more than 200 people dead.
Government spokesmen and the leader of a Christian nonprofit group told The Associated Press people were fleeing the … Read more »»».

First summit of religious leaders on AIDS in Netherlands

NEW DELHI – Some 40 Baha’, Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Jewish, Muslim and Sikh religious leaders will meet to discuss the HIV and AIDS in the Netherlands March 22-23.

The World Council of Churches (WCC) said: “It aims to generate greater involvement from religious leaders of many of the world’s faiths in the global response to the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : First summit of religious leaders on AIDS in Netherlands.

Czech doctors apologize to Jewish colleagues for persecution in pre-WWII Czechoslovakia

Czech doctors apologize to Jews for persecution

PRAGUE – A Czech doctors organization has apologized to Jewish doctors for the persecution they endured in pre-World War II Czechoslovakia before the Nazis invaded, an official said Thursday.
Before the war broke out, organizations of Czechoslovak doctors, lawyers and others issued a memorandum Oct 14, 1938 urging the government … Read more : Czech doctors apologize to Jewish colleagues for persecution in pre-WWII Czechoslovakia.

House Dems: Health care bill will reduce deficit by more than $10B over 10 years

House Dems on track for vote on $940B health bill
WASHINGTON – House Democrats are pushing to the brink of passage a landmark, $940 billion health care overhaul bill that would simultaneously deliver on President Barack Obama’s promise to expand coverage … Read more »»».

Guided by ‘zakat’, a village funds its road and bridge

LUCKNOW – Guided by ‘zakat’ – charity as envisaged by the Quran – villagers of Muslim-dominated Shirajpur in Uttar Pradesh have repaired roads, dug wells, established schools and are now building a bridge.

The village is located in Azamgarh, some 300 km from Lucknow, and its people say the apathy of public representatives towards their problems …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Guided by ‘zakat’, a village funds its road and bridge.

Health care overhaul fight exposes rift pitting Catholic bishops against nuns and hospitals

Health care overhaul fight exposes Catholic rift

An unusual public split between U.S. Roman Catholic bishops, nuns and hospitals over abortion in the health care overhaul could undermine the church hierarchy’s influence on the debate and give anti-abortion Democrats the political cover they need to vote for the bill.
The president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic …. Read the original article  : Health care overhaul fight exposes rift pitting Catholic bishops against nuns and hospitals.

Pravin Togadia prevented from entering Kandhamal

BHUBANESWAR – Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) international general secretary Praveen Togadia was Friday stopped by police on his way to Kandhamal district in Orissa.

He was stopped at Charichhak on the border of Boudh and Kandhamal district. He was trying to head to Kandhamal district despite a ban imposed by the district administration on his …. Source article  : Pravin Togadia prevented from entering Kandhamal.

Moderate, Western-educated Islamic scholar named Egypt’s new top cleric

Islamic scholar named Egypt’s new top cleric

CAIRO – Egypt’s president named a moderate, Western-educated Islamic scholar the country’s new top cleric on Friday, the state news agency reported.
The appointment makes Ahmed el-Tayeb the new grand sheik of Cairo’s Al-Azhar, the pre-eminent theological institute of Sunni Islam, the faith’s majority sect. He takes over from Sheik … Read : Moderate, Western-educated Islamic scholar named Egypt’s new top cleric.

Muslim law board to oppose any anti-Shariat law

LUCKNOW – In a major development, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) resolved Friday evening to oppose any court verdict that goes against the tenets of the Islamic Shariat.

The decision was taken on the opening day of the three-day AIMPLB conclave at the Nadwatul Ulema University of Islamic Studies here.
Briefing mediapersons at …. Source  : Muslim law board to oppose any anti-Shariat law.

Pope signs letter on child abuse cases in Ireland

VATICAN CITY – Pope Benedict XVI Friday signed a highly anticipated pastoral letter to Catholics in Ireland dealing with a child sex abuse scandal involving priests, the Vatican said.

The letter will be published Saturday and will be accompanied by a briefing on its contents by papal spokesman Father Federico Lombardi to media outlets accredited with …. Original article  : Pope signs letter on child abuse cases in Ireland.

Turkey indicts 33 more, including military officers, in alleged plot to overthrow government

Turkey indicts 33 in alleged coup plot
ANKARA, Turkey – Authorities have indicted 33 people in an alleged secularist plot to destabilize Turkey and overthrow the government.

The 33 are accused of planning assassinations of prominent members of Turkey’s Christian and Jewish minorities and other sensational attacks to foment chaos and bring down the Islamic-oriented government.
The suspects …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Turkey indicts 33 more, including military officers, in alleged plot to overthrow government.

No cut in duration of Amarnath pilgrimage

JAMMU – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has pledged to keep the duration of the annual Hindu Amarnath pilgrimage two months long, rejecting a separatist leader’s request to cut it short.

“The pilgrimage period will stay unchanged,” Abdullah said here late Thursday. “It (pilgrimage) benefits the local population economically and is a symbol … Read more >>>.

Where gold and silver locks are key to prayers

KANPUR – Flowers, fruits and incense sticks are not quite what devotees bring to a temple in Kanpur. To appease the deity, they make an offering of locks made of gold, silver and other precious metals.

This unusual way of worship has become a tradition at the Kali Mata temple in the Bangali Mohaal area of …. Source  : Where gold and silver locks are key to prayers.

Activists protest Muslim cleric’s sexist remark

NEW DELHI – Women activists Saturday staged a demonstration against a cleric who spoke against Muslim women’s participation in politics.

Around 30 activists, mostly from the Muslim community, as well as filmmaker Gauhar Raza and lyricist Javed Akhtar gathered at the Jantar Mantar observatory to protest comments made by Lucknow-based Muslim cleric Kalbe Jawad regarding women’s …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Activists protest Muslim cleric’s sexist remark.

Togadia released after trying to enter Kandhamal

BHUBANESWAR – Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) leader Praveen Togadia, who was arrested late Friday for attempting to enter Orissa’s Kandhamal district, was released early Saturday, police said.

Togadia was stopped at Charichhak in Boudh district as he tried to head to Kandhamal, which had witnessed large-scale communal violence last year, despite a ban imposed by the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Togadia released after trying to enter Kandhamal.

Bangladesh Islamist leaders sued for hurting Muslim sentiments

DHAKA – Top leaders of the Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI), Bangladesh’s largest Islamist party, have been sued for hurting Muslim sentiments by a comparison with the prophet at a public function, a media report said.

A criminal case was filed at a Dhaka court Sunday against five JeI leaders, including its Ameer (chief) Maulana Motiur Rahman Nizami and …. Read the original article  : Bangladesh Islamist leaders sued for hurting Muslim sentiments.

West Nepal shut down by group seeking Hindu state

KATHMANDU – Violence erupted in western Nepal Monday as a Hindu group clamped a shutdown demanding the restoration of a Hindu state ahead of the promulgation of a new constitution in May.

A little-known group calling itself the Vishwa Ekata Parishad set two buses and a motorcycle on fire in Kailali district for venturing out during …. Original article  : West Nepal shut down by group seeking Hindu state.

Muslim law board opposes communal violence bill

LUCKNOW – The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has expressed strong opposition to the communal violence bill as well as the growing “bonhomie between India and Israel.”

Declaring this at the conclusion of its three-day annual convention at the Nadwatul Darul Uloom Islamic University here, AIMPLB spokesman Maulana Abdul Rahim Quraishi told a press …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Muslim law board opposes communal violence bill.

Pope urges faithful to be ‘intransigent’ on sin but beg forgiveness for their own failings

Pope does not mention rebuke to Irish bishops

VATICAN CITY – Pope Benedict XVI is urging Catholics to be intransigent toward sin but not to judge the sinner.
The pontiff addressed pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday but didn’t mention his rebuke to Irish bishops a day earlier for their handling of decades of clergy sexual …. Original source  : Pope urges faithful to be ‘intransigent’ on sin but beg forgiveness for their own failings.

Muslim law board enhances its own women quota

LUCKNOW – The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) may been silent on the women’s reservation bill. But when it came to reconstituting its executive body, it unanimously increasef the representation of women from one to five.

Announcing this on the last day of the board’s three-day annual convention at the Nadwa Darul-Uloom Islamic university … Original source on Gaea Times at : Muslim law board enhances its own women quota.

Goa MP urges politicians to shun ’sadhus’, ‘babas’

PANAJI – Shantaram Naik, Congress MP from Goa, has “appealed to all the political leaders” to refrain from meeting ’sadhus’ and ‘babas’ in the interest of the state and its people.

The Rajya Sabha member said in a statement Sunday: “Several politicians, irrespective of political affiliations, visit such people in the hope of finding … Read more >>>.

Dentist to become 1st Sikh soldier to complete Army officer school in decades

1st Sikh in decades to wrap up Army officer school

SAN ANTONIO – Amid lines of soldiers, one after the other in standard-issue fatigues and combat boots, was one in a turban and full beard on Monday – the first Sikh in a generation allowed to complete U.S. Army officer basic training without sacrificing the articles …. Source  : Dentist to become 1st Sikh soldier to complete Army officer school in decades.

Protesting in verse: A Saudi woman criticizes Muslim clerics’ in a TV poetry contest

Saudi woman blasts clerics in TV contest poem

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – It was a startling voice of protest at a startling venue. Covered head-to-toe in black, a Saudi woman lashed out at hard-line Muslim clerics’ harsh religious edicts in verse on live TV at a popular Arabic version of “American Idol.”
Well, not quite “American …. Read the original article  : here.

Islamic clerics in Yemen declare supporters of child bride ban to be apostates

Top Yemeni clerics oppose ban on child brides

SAN’A, Yemen – Some of Yemen’s most influential Islamic leaders, including one the U.S. says mentored Osama bin Laden, have declared supporters of a ban on child brides to be apostates.
The religious decree, issued Sunday, deeply imperils efforts to salvage legislation that would make it illegal for those …. Original source  : Islamic clerics in Yemen declare supporters of child bride ban to be apostates.

World Expo in Shanghai to showcase China’s rise as modern power, world’s green ambitions

Shanghai World Expo forecasts 70 million visitors

SHANGHAI – Looking for the China of pagodas, farmers in rice paddies and Mao-suited masses pedaling bicycles through grim city streets?
You won’t find such scenes here when Shanghai’s World Expo opens on May 1.
What you will find: A giant octopus, an alpine meadow and an apple-shaped “green city,” among …. Source article  : World Expo in Shanghai to showcase China’s rise as modern power, world’s green ambitions.

West Bengal doubles funds for Muslims, madrasas education

KOLKATA – In an apparent bid to woo the Muslims ahead of next year’s assembly polls, the West Bengal government Monday proposed to more than double the plan outlay for minorities and madrasa education from Rs.121 crore to Rs.300 crore next year.

Presenting the state budget for 2010-11, Finance Minister Asim Dasgupta said special priority has … Read more »».

Religious leaders discuss HIV issues in the Netherlands

AMSTERDAM – Religious leaders and top UN officials began Monday a two-day conference in the Netherlands to debate HIV issues and religions’ response to the illness.

Several dozen Baha’i, Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Jewish, Muslim and Sikh leaders were taking part in the conference taking place in Den Dolder near Utrecht in the central Netherlands through Tuesday. … Read more : Religious leaders discuss HIV issues in the Netherlands.

BJP leader calls for Hindu state again in Nepal

KATHMANDU – A little-known Hindu organisation’s call for reinstatement of a Hindu state in Nepal received an unexpected support here from a visiting top leader of India’s Bharatiya Janata Party.

Former BJP president Rajnath Singh, who had arrived in Nepal Sunday to attend the last rites of former Nepali prime minister Girija Prasad Koirala, who was … Read more »».

Bareilly’s Hindus, Muslims rebuild shrines and peace

BAREILLY – If the recent riots made Bareilly cry for peace, the trouble-torn district in western Uttar Pradesh is now witnessing a rare show of communal harmony now — Muslims taking up the construction of a damaged temple and Hindus joining hands to restore a mazar (mausoleum).

The Hanuman temple, popularly known as the Bajrangi … Read : Bareilly’s Hindus, Muslims rebuild shrines and peace.

Germany’s Regensburg diocese says 6 people accused of abuse, asks for forgiveness

German diocese say 6 accused over abuse
REGENSBURG, Germany – The Regensburg diocese in the pope’s native Bavaria says six people there face sexual abuse allegations, many of them dating back decades.

Diocese spokesman Clemens Neck said Monday that church officials “regret deeply” what employees did to children and “we ask for forgiveness.”
Neck says seven people have …. Original source  : Germany’s Regensburg diocese says 6 people accused of abuse, asks for forgiveness.

Haryana temple gets foreign currency

CHANDIGARH – A Hindu temple in Haryana has got a Navratras bonanza: donations in US, Australian and New Zealand dollars as well as British pounds.

The Mata Mansa Devi shrine in Panchkula town, 10 km from here, attracted over 600,000 people during the nine-day festival.
Temple officials said that while devotees continued to offer Indian currency …. Source article  : Haryana temple gets foreign currency.

Delhi celebrates Ram Navami

NEW DELHI – Delhiites Wednesday celebrated Ram Navami, the birth of Lord Rama, with ritualistic fasting and special prayers at noon when the Hindu god is believed to have been born.

The festival is celebrated on the last day of the nine-day long Navaratri festivities.
“On each day of Navaratri, we observe fasts and there are … Read more »».

Swami Nithyananda Scandal: The Real Story and Tragedy

Kolkata (Gaea Times) – Swami Nithyananda’s intimate video is common knowledge in most of India today and among his devotees worldwide. There has been repeated and continuous airing his videos in Telegu news channels, videos involving his intimacy with Tamil actresses like Ranjitha. As most of you realize that intimacy of two adult human beings … Read more »».

CatholicTV introduces 3-D programs in move to attract youth, make faith message more vivid

CatholicTV rolls out shows in 3-D to attract youth

BOSTON – Avatars and Mad Hatters are already performing before American audiences in 3-D, and Shrek is coming soon. Now, a national Catholic television network is throwing priests into the mix.
CatholicTV debuted 3-D programs Tuesday in an effort to reach younger people and to make the faith …. Read the original article  : here.

Religions from around the world pledge to end stigmatization of AIDS, HIV sufferers

Religious groups pledge to end AIDS stigma

THE HAGUE, Netherlands – Religious groups from around the globe pledged Tuesday to prevent the stigmatization of people living with HIV and AIDS, in a joint statement welcomed by a senior U.N. official as a sea change in attitudes.
Representatives of some 40 religions and faith groups including Christianity, Judaism, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sri Lanka denies visa to US hip-hop star

COLOMBO – Sri Lanka has denied visa to US hip-hop singer Akon in the wake of protest over his controversial video album featuring scantily-clam women dancing around a statue of Lord Buddha.

Akon was to perform in Sri Lanka next month and a major tourism drive was also launched to attract fans from Asia and other [..] Read the original article: here.

Resolve issue of damaged Muslim shrines: court to Gujarat

GANDHINAGAR – The Gujarat High Court Tuesday directed the state government to amicably resolve with the Islamic Relief Committee of Gujarat (IRCG) the issue of restoring religious places that were damaged or destroyed during the 2002 riots.

The IRCG had filed a petition before the high court seeking directions to the government to restore and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Resolve issue of damaged Muslim shrines: court to Gujarat.

Religions from around the world discuss how to end stigmatization of AIDS, HIV sufferers

Religious groups discuss ending AIDS stigma

THE HAGUE, Netherlands – Religious groups from around the globe discussed Tuesday how to help the global fight against AIDS by preventing victims becoming outcasts from society.
Canon Gideon Byamugisha, an Anglican priest from Uganda, said the way his church treated him after he discovered he had HIV should set an …. Original article  : Religions from around the world discuss how to end stigmatization of AIDS, HIV sufferers.

St. Louis museum to be only Midwestern stop for colelction of art from Vatican

St. Louis museum to host Vatican collection

ST. LOUIS – The Missouri History Museum in St. Louis will be the only Midwestern stop in a traveling exhibition of rarely seen art and artifacts from the Vatican.
“Vatican Splendors: A Journey through Faith and Art” opens May 15. Officials from the museum, the Archdiocese of St. Louis and …. Read the original article  : St. Louis museum to be only Midwestern stop for colelction of art from Vatican.

Austria: Priest resigns after admitting abuse; 2 others suspended

Austria: Priest resigns after admitting abuse

VIENNA – An Austrian diocese says a priest has resigned after admitting he abused a 17-year-old boy.
The Graz-Seckau diocese says the priest stepped down of his own accord and that the abuse happened more than 20 years ago on a vacation.
Spokesman Georg Plank says two other priests have been suspended …. Original article  : Austria: Priest resigns after admitting abuse; 2 others suspended.

Muslim prisoners fast and pray during Navratri

BARABANKI – They are Muslim prisoners but they have been fasting, singing hymns and performing ‘yagnas’ at a jail here, hoping their prayers will be heard during Navratri. Never mind if it is a Hindu festival.

Nearly 30 Muslim prisoners of the district jail in Barabanki, about 35 km from Lucknow, are taking part in prayers …. Read the original article  : Muslim prisoners fast and pray during Navratri.

Security in and around Delhi temples beefed up

NEW DELHI – Barricades, door-frame metal detectors have been set up and a large posse of policemen has been positioned in and around temples in the national capital on the eve of Ram Navami Thursday.

“We have taken adequate measures to prevent any untoward incident in the capital. At various places, closed circuit television cameras …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Head of Vancouver Olympics, other sports dignitaries pay tribute to Georgian luger

Sports dignitaries pay tribute to Georgian luger

BAKURIANI, Georgia – The head of the Vancouver Olympics, an Olympic gold medalist and other dignitaries attended a ceremony Tuesday at the grave of the Georgian luger who died during a practice run at the games.
Vancouver organizing committee president John Furlong, luge gold medalist Felix Loch, International Luge Federation [..] Read the original article: here.

President, PM greet nation on Ram Navami

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Patil, Vice President Hamid Ansari and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Tuesday greeted the nation on the eve of Ram Navami.

Patil said in her message: “May this day inspire us to spread Lord Ram’s message of righteous conduct and selfless service and strengthen our resolve to strive for justice and human …. Original article  : President, PM greet nation on Ram Navami.

Sri Rama Navami 2010: Dr. Manmohan Singh Wishes All

DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh has offered his best wishes to the countrymen on the eve of Sri Rama Navami 2010. The Prime Minister on Tuesday said that he hopes that Sri Ram Navami 2010 ushers in happiness for all countrymen and all be blessed with Lord Rama’s blessings. Dr. …. Read the original article  : Sri Rama Navami 2010: Dr. Manmohan Singh Wishes All.

Krishna jazz from faraway Congo

NEW DELHI – The tall dark African servitor from Congo spreads the gospel of Hindu god Krishna on the east coast of Africa with a saxophone, guitar and jazz.

\”Hare Rama, Hare Krishna, Rama Rama, Hare Hare…\”, his gentle baritone fills the air as he plucks a plaintive riff — in the American bluegrass tradition … Read more : Krishna jazz from faraway Congo.

PM greets nation on Ram Navami

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Tuesday greeted the nation on Ram Navami, the birthday of the Hindu god Ram, which will be celebrated Wednesday.

Praying that the festival would bring “joy and happiness for all”, Manmohan Singh said in his message: “The life of lord Ram inspires us to follow the path of righteousness … Read more >>>.

Muslim prisoners fast during Navratri to atone for sins

BARABANKI – They wake up early, keep fast, undertake Hindu rituals, sing hymns and eat a special diet like their Hindu brethren during the ongoing Navratri festival. These Muslim inmates of a Barabanki jail believe this will help them seek pardon from the almighty for their crimes and sins.

Nearly 30 Muslim prisoners of the district … Read : Muslim prisoners fast during Navratri to atone for sins.

Niqab becoming a flash point in Canada

TORONTO – The niqab worn by Muslim women has become a flash point in Canada, with most people seeking ban on the veil in public. But liberals and the media are comparing the ban demand to a Taliban dress code.

Canada has about one million Muslims in its population of 34 million, and their population is … Read more »»».

US Army gets its first Sikh graduate in 25 years

WASHINGTON – Captain Tejdeep Singh Rattan, a 31-year-old dentist, has become the first Sikh in over 25 years to be allowed to complete US Army officer basic training without giving up his turban or shaving his full beard.

Rattan graduated Monday at Fort Sam Houston after the army made an exemption to a uniform policy that … Original source on Gaea Times at : US Army gets its first Sikh graduate in 25 years.

Pope accepts bishop’s resignation over sex scandal

Vatican City, March 25 (IANS/AKI) Pope Benedict XVI has accepted the resignation of an Irish bishop who was found to have not handled properly allegations of clerical sex abuse in his diocese.

The pope accepted Bishop John Magee’s resignation Wednesday, a year after he quit as bishop of Cloyne in southern Ireland. Magee stepped aside in …. Read the original article  : Pope accepts bishop’s resignation over sex scandal.

Indian-origin economist hailed as messiah

LONDON – A British economist of Indian origin has been left perplexed after being hailed by a cult as its “chosen one” who it believes was hiding in the Himalayas for 2,000 years.

“I’m not the messiah… I’m just an economics expert,” an exasperated Raj Patel has been saying after being bombarded with email messages from …. Source article  : Indian-origin economist hailed as messiah.

Times report: Documents show Vatican was told about Wis. priest who may have molested 200 boys

Times: Vatican was warned about priest in Wis.

NEW YORK – Documents obtained by The New York Times show Milwaukee’s Roman Catholic archbishop warned a top Vatican office led by future Pope Benedict XVI about a priest who may have molested as many as 200 deaf boys.
The documents were provided by two lawyers who have filed …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Times report: Documents show Vatican was told about Wis. priest who may have molested 200 boys.

A temple where upper castes bow to Dalits

LUCKNOW – Stories of socially marginalised people not being allowed into places of worship are common in India. In such a scenario, a Dalit family presiding over an Uttar Pradesh temple for ages is nothing short of exemplary.

It’s only Dalits who have been priests of the Kali Mata temple, dedicated to goddess Durga, in Lakhna …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Niqab for Muslim women banned in Canadian province

TORONTO – After France, Muslim women have been banned from wearing niqab in Canada’s French-speaking Quebec province.

A bill tabled Wednesday will not allow government services to women wearing the niqab.
The bill comes after protests triggered by an Egyptian immigrant’s refusal to remove her niqab in her French languages classes in Montreal, forcing the school …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

In post-election talks in Iraq, Shiite rivals inch closer to prime minister’s coalition

Shiite rivals inch closer to Iraqi premier’s group

BAGHDAD – The Iraqi prime minister’s efforts to forge a governing Shiite alliance inched closer Wednesday after he met for the first time with members of a party led by an influential anti-American cleric who’s been one of the prime minister’s staunchest critics.
The State of Law coalition led …. Read the original article  : In post-election talks in Iraq, Shiite rivals inch closer to prime minister’s coalition.

Israel’s Chief Rabbinate finds fake Passover matzah, warns people to be on lookout

Israeli rabbis warn about fake Passover matzah

JERUSALEM – Israel’s Chief Rabbinate is warning Israeli citizens to be on the lookout for pirate matzah and Jews are worried, a merchant said Wednesday.
A week before the start of the holiday of Passover, Israeli police raided a warehouse containing a 7-ton stockpile of matzah with fake kosher certificates, … Read more : Israel’s Chief Rabbinate finds fake Passover matzah, warns people to be on lookout.

Akon postpones concert in Sri Lanka after protests over Buddha statue in music video

Akon postpones Sri Lanka tour after Buddha uproar

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – R&B star Akon has postponed a planned concert in Sri Lanka following angry protests over a music video he is in where scantily clad women dance in front of a Buddha statue.
Akon, who expressed regret and said he was not previously aware of the … Read more »»».

Sri Lanka plans to bar R&B singer Akon after uproar over Buddha statue in his video

Sri Lanka plans to bar entry to R&B singer Akon

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – Sri Lanka says it won’t issue a visa for R&B singer Akon for a planned concert next month, following outrage over his video showing scantily clad women near a Buddha statue.
The government made the decision because the video “triggered a lot of … Read : Sri Lanka plans to bar R&B singer Akon after uproar over Buddha statue in his video.

Opponent turned peacebroker, Northern Ireland firebrand Ian Paisley makes Parliament exit

Northern Ireland firebrand makes Parliament exit

LONDON – Protestant firebrand Ian Paisley – the Northern Ireland naysayer turned peacebroker – made a final appearance Wednesday in Parliament, capping a 40-year career by lauding a peace process that he long opposed.
Speaking in the showpiece weekly questions session with Prime Minister Gordon Brown, the 83-year-old evangelist called on … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Opponent turned peacebroker, Northern Ireland firebrand Ian Paisley makes Parliament exit.

Indonesian police order cancellation of regional gay activists’ conference

Indonesian police ban regional gay conference

JAKARTA, Indonesia – Indonesian police ordered the cancellation Wednesday of a conference of Asian gay activists, saying it could prompt violent protests by conservative Muslim groups.
The conference, organized by the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association, or ILGA, was due to take place this weekend with participants from …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Indonesian police order cancellation of regional gay activists’ conference.

Bhadrachalam Celebrates Ram Navami

BHADRACHALAM, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The temple town of Bhadrachalam conducted the Elysian wedding between Lord Rama and Mata Sita that was held in between 10:30 a.m and 12:30 p.m today on Mar 24 at the Mithila Stadium. This ritual happens to be an usual one which is repeated each and every year on the felicitous eve …. Source  : Bhadrachalam Celebrates Ram Navami.

Pope accepts resignation of Irish Bishop John Magee in sex abuse scandal

Pope accepts resignation of Irish bishop
VATICAN CITY – Pope Benedict XVI on Wednesday accepted the resignation of Irish Bishop John Magee in the country’s sex abuse scandal.

The 73-year-old Magee has been accused of mishandling complaints against priests in his diocese of Cloyne. The Vatican said without elaboration that the pope had accepted his resignation.
Before being …. Original article  : Pope accepts resignation of Irish Bishop John Magee in sex abuse scandal.

Sarkozy vows to ban the burqa

PARIS – French President Nicolas Sarkozy vowed Wednesday to introduce a law to ban the burqa in France, saying that the all-body Islamic veil was an insult to women.

The declaration was part of a major policy speech intended as a response to his party’s defeat in Sunday’s regional elections, which has shaken his position and …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Sarkozy vows to ban the burqa.

Maharashtra celebrates Ram Navami

MUMBAI – Ram Navami, the birth of Lord Ram, was celebrated with enthusiasm and religious fervour in Mumbai and other parts of Maharashtra Wednesday.

One of the main functions in Mumbai was held at the famous International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) temple, where celebrities, film stars and others gathered for the colourful morning ‘abhishek’ (ceremonial …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Maharashtra celebrates Ram Navami.

Lawsuit seeks reforms in Puri temple practices

BHUBANESWAR – Cuttack based NGO Utkal Vidyarthi Abhijan Friday filed a public interest lawsuit (PIL) in the Orissa High Court seeking reforms in the functioning of the Puri temple.

“We have demanded that the misbehaviour of the priests with visiting pilgrims be stopped. It earns a bad name for the state,” the NGO’s general secretary … Read : Lawsuit seeks reforms in Puri temple practices.

Islam, Christianity alien, so cannot get quota: BJP

NEW DELHI – “Islam and Christianity are alien” to India and, therefore, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) feels people from the minority groups, even if their socio-economic condition is low, should not be given the privilege of quota in jobs, legislative bodies and education, a party official said Friday.

At a press conference here, BJP’s newly-appointed …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Islam, Christianity alien, so cannot get quota: BJP.

Taslima finds her voice again – on twitter

NEW DELHI – Controversial Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasreen has found a new outlet for her opinions – on the social networking web tool, Twitter.

She had opened her account in January, but had so far made only three tweets in the last three months. But, after the National Commission for Minorities chairman Mohd Shafi Qureshi had … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Taslima finds her voice again – on twitter.

Bihar welcomes Muslim reservation in Andhra Pradesh

PATNA – Muslims in Bihar welcomed the Supreme Court decision to uphold the validity of four percent reservation for backward members of the Muslim community in Andhra Pradesh.

“It is a historical decision,” chief of a Patna based influential Muslim body Imarat Shariah Maulana Syed Nizamuddin said.
The Supreme Court’s order will have …. Read the original article  : Bihar welcomes Muslim reservation in Andhra Pradesh.

Supreme Court order on Muslim quota a relief for students

HYDERABAD – The Supreme Court order restoring four percent quota for backward Muslims in government jobs and education in Andhra Pradesh has come as a big relief for students aspiring for admission into professional courses in the next academic year.

The students, who were afraid of losing a year due to last months Andhra Pradesh High … Read more »»».

Hare Krishna soliciting at airport barred; court upholds ban

WASHINGTON – The California Supreme Court has upheld a Los Angeles International Airport ordinance barring Hare Krishnas from soliciting donations inside airport terminals.

“Soliciting the immediate receipt of funds at a busy international airport like Los Angeles is particularly problematic,” the court said Thursday in a ruling written by Justice Carlos Moreno.
“The problems posed by …. Source  : Hare Krishna soliciting at airport barred; court upholds ban.

NYC’s St. Vincent’s Hospital fights for life _ like other ‘charity’ hospitals across America

NYC’s St. Vincent’s Hospital fights for life

NEW YORK – St. Vincent’s Hospital in Greenwich Village has fought to save lives for more than 160 years, treating everyone from survivors of the Titanic in 1912 to New Yorkers fleeing the terror attack on the World Trade Center.
The hospital founded by four Roman Catholic nuns in a …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : NYC’s St. Vincent’s Hospital fights for life _ like other ‘charity’ hospitals across America.

Qatar forces out moderates from IslamOnline, plans more conservative approach

Moderates forced out of top Islam Web site

CAIRO – The Qatari government has forced out the moderate leadership of a popular Islamic Web site and plans to reshape it into a more religiously conservative outlet, former employees of the site said Thursday.
Sheik Youssef al-Qaradawi, the widely respected cleric who co-founded IslamOnline and is known as …. Read the original article  : Qatar forces out moderates from IslamOnline, plans more conservative approach.

End of an Irish Catholic era: Limerick pubs to open Good Friday, defy nation’s ‘dry’ holy day

Irish pubs to open on Good Friday for first time

DUBLIN – As long as Ireland has had pubs, Good Friday has been off-limits as a “dry” holy day – until now.
A Limerick judge ruled Thursday that the city’s 110 pubs can open April 2 because the city is hosting a major Irish rugby match attracting [..] Read the original article: here.

Gujarat’s Parsi woman seeks court help to worship

GANDHINAGAR – A Parsi woman married to a non-Parsi has sought the Gujarat High Court’s intervention to avail the fundamental right to worship and to access the religious places of Parsis she was denied by her community after her marriage.

The Public Interest Litigation (PIL), perhaps the first of its kind, was admitted in Ahmedabad Thursday. …. Source article  : Gujarat’s Parsi woman seeks court help to worship.

Wis. man says abuse by priest, cover-up caused nightmares, ruined his faith in Catholic church

Wis. man: Abuse by priest ruined faith in church

MILWAUKEE – A Wisconsin man says he lost all faith in the Catholic church after being abused by a priest who’s at the center of a scandal about the way the Vatican has handled reports of abuse by clergy.
Donald Marshall says he was 13 or 14 when … Read more : Wis. man says abuse by priest, cover-up caused nightmares, ruined his faith in Catholic church.

Iraqi minister walks out of meeting in Libya to protest Gadhafi’s support for Saddam loyalists

Iraqi foreign minister walks out of Libya meeting

SIRITE, Libya – Iraqi Foreign Minister Hoshyar Zebari briefly walked out Thursday of an Arab League ministerial meeting held in Libya to protest against Moammar Gadhafi’s declared support for Saddam Hussein loyalists, delegates said.
They said Zebari stormed out after he told his Arab peers that his government was …. Read the original article  : Iraqi minister walks out of meeting in Libya to protest Gadhafi’s support for Saddam loyalists.

Andhra Pradesh Muslim quota gets apex court nod

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Thursday temporarily allowed job quota for backward Muslims in Andhra Pradesh, but left a final decision on the matter to a constitution bench.

With this, the Andhra Pradesh government is likely to go ahead with its proposal of reserving four percent of government jobs for Muslims.
A bench of Chief …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

RAW officer to depose in Babri case Friday

LUCKNOW – Anju Gupta, a police officer who had told investigators that senior BJP leaders, including L.K. Advani, were euphoric after the 1992 Babri Masjid razing, will depose Friday before a special court hearing the 18-year-old demolition case.

Gupta, a deputy inspector general of police (DIG), is currently attached to the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) …. Original article  : RAW officer to depose in Babri case Friday.

Bangladeshis widening communal divide in Assam: experts

NEW DELHI – In the otherwise communally harmonious Assam, there is a growing divide between communities because Indian Muslims are often clubbed with the migrants from Bangladesh and are eyed with suspicion by others, experts said at a seminar in the capital Thursday.

Former union tourism secretary M.P. Bezbaruah, who hails from Assam, said: “The tradition …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Bangladeshis widening communal divide in Assam: experts.

Pope accepts bishop’s resignation over sex scandal

Vatican City, March 25 (IANS/AKI) Pope Benedict XVI has accepted the resignation of an Irish bishop who was found to have not handled properly allegations of clerical sex abuse in his diocese.

The pope accepted Bishop John Magee’s resignation Wednesday, a year after he quit as bishop of Cloyne in southern Ireland. Magee stepped aside in …. Read the original article  : Pope accepts bishop’s resignation over sex scandal.

Indian-origin economist hailed as messiah

LONDON – A British economist of Indian origin has been left perplexed after being hailed by a cult as its “chosen one” who it believes was hiding in the Himalayas for 2,000 years.

“I’m not the messiah… I’m just an economics expert,” an exasperated Raj Patel has been saying after being bombarded with email messages from …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Indian-origin economist hailed as messiah.

Times report: Documents show Vatican was told about Wis. priest who may have molested 200 boys

Times: Vatican was warned about priest in Wis.

NEW YORK – Documents obtained by The New York Times show Milwaukee’s Roman Catholic archbishop warned a top Vatican office led by future Pope Benedict XVI about a priest who may have molested as many as 200 deaf boys.
The documents were provided by two lawyers who have filed …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Times report: Documents show Vatican was told about Wis. priest who may have molested 200 boys.

A temple where upper castes bow to Dalits

LUCKNOW – Stories of socially marginalised people not being allowed into places of worship are common in India. In such a scenario, a Dalit family presiding over an Uttar Pradesh temple for ages is nothing short of exemplary.

It’s only Dalits who have been priests of the Kali Mata temple, dedicated to goddess Durga, in Lakhna … Read this article on Gaea Times at : A temple where upper castes bow to Dalits.

Niqab for Muslim women banned in Canadian province

TORONTO – After France, Muslim women have been banned from wearing niqab in Canada’s French-speaking Quebec province.

A bill tabled Wednesday will not allow government services to women wearing the niqab.
The bill comes after protests triggered by an Egyptian immigrant’s refusal to remove her niqab in her French languages classes in Montreal, forcing the school …. Read the original article  : here.

Madhya Pradesh Church battles property control

BHOPAL – Catholics in Madhya Pradesh have launched a campaign to garner public support against a proposed legislation that aims to bring Church property under government control.

The Madhya Pradesh Minorities Commission has recommended that a law be enacted to set up a board to manage Church property, including cemeteries, similar to the Wakf Board that …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

President, PM greet nation on Mahavir Jayanti

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and President Pratibha Patil Saturday greeted the nation on the occasion of Mahavir Jayanti, the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavira, saying his teachings inspire people to live in peace and harmony.

Mahavir Jayanti will be celebrated in the country Sunday.
On the auspicious occasion of Mahavir Jayanti, I convey … Read more »».

PM greets nation on Mahavir Jayanti

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Saturday greeted the nation on the occasion of Mahavir Jayanti, the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavira, saying his teachings help us live a “life of happiness and contentment”.

Mahavir Jayanti will be celebrated in the country Sunday.
Lord Mahavir’s life and teachings inspire us to be compassionate and simple. …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Alliance led by ex-Iraqi PM wins parliamentary elections; al-Maliki vows to challenge results

Alliance led by ex-Iraqi PM wins election narrowly

BAGHDAD – Former U.S.-backed prime minister Ayad Allawi and his secular, anti-Iranian coalition narrowly won Iraq’s parliamentary elections in final returns Friday, edging out the bloc of Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, who angrily vowed to challenge the results.
If Allawi’s coalition remains on top, it will get the first … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Alliance led by ex-Iraqi PM wins parliamentary elections; al-Maliki vows to challenge results.

Secular challenger claims victory in Iraq election; Allawi to try to form new government

Secular challenger claims victory in Iraq election

BAGHDAD – A jubilant Ayad Allawi claimed victory for his secular, anti-Iranian coalition as final parliamentary returns Friday showed him edging out the bloc of Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, who angrily vowed to fight the results.
The results, if they stand, will give Allawi the first opportunity to form a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Secular challenger claims victory in Iraq election; Allawi to try to form new government.

Secular challenger’s bloc wins most seats in Iraqi elections

Secular challenger’s bloc wins most seats in Iraq

BAGHDAD – A secular challenger’s bloc edged out the prime minister’s in parliamentary elections, according to full vote returns Friday – a significant setback for Nouri al-Maliki, who has been the U.S. partner in Iraq for the past four years.
Al-Maliki vowed to challenge the results, which gave his …. Read the original article  : Secular challenger’s bloc wins most seats in Iraqi elections.

Lawsuit seeks reforms in Puri temple practices

BHUBANESWAR – Cuttack based NGO Utkal Vidyarthi Abhijan Friday filed a public interest lawsuit (PIL) in the Orissa High Court seeking reforms in the functioning of the Puri temple.

“We have demanded that the misbehaviour of the priests with visiting pilgrims be stopped. It earns a bad name for the state,” the NGO’s general secretary … Read more : Lawsuit seeks reforms in Puri temple practices.

Islam, Christianity alien, so cannot get quota: BJP

NEW DELHI – “Islam and Christianity are alien” to India and, therefore, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) feels people from the minority groups, even if their socio-economic condition is low, should not be given the privilege of quota in jobs, legislative bodies and education, a party official said Friday.

At a press conference here, BJP’s newly-appointed … Read more : Islam, Christianity alien, so cannot get quota: BJP.

Taslima finds her voice again – on twitter

NEW DELHI – Controversial Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasreen has found a new outlet for her opinions – on the social networking web tool, Twitter.

She had opened her account in January, but had so far made only three tweets in the last three months. But, after the National Commission for Minorities chairman Mohd Shafi Qureshi had … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Taslima finds her voice again – on twitter.

Bihar welcomes Muslim reservation in Andhra Pradesh

PATNA – Muslims in Bihar welcomed the Supreme Court decision to uphold the validity of four percent reservation for backward members of the Muslim community in Andhra Pradesh.

“It is a historical decision,” chief of a Patna based influential Muslim body Imarat Shariah Maulana Syed Nizamuddin said.
The Supreme Court’s order will have …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Supreme Court order on Muslim quota a relief for students

HYDERABAD – The Supreme Court order restoring four percent quota for backward Muslims in government jobs and education in Andhra Pradesh has come as a big relief for students aspiring for admission into professional courses in the next academic year.

The students, who were afraid of losing a year due to last months Andhra Pradesh High … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Supreme Court order on Muslim quota a relief for students.

Hare Krishna soliciting at airport barred; court upholds ban

WASHINGTON – The California Supreme Court has upheld a Los Angeles International Airport ordinance barring Hare Krishnas from soliciting donations inside airport terminals.

“Soliciting the immediate receipt of funds at a busy international airport like Los Angeles is particularly problematic,” the court said Thursday in a ruling written by Justice Carlos Moreno.
“The problems posed by … Read more : Hare Krishna soliciting at airport barred; court upholds ban.

NYC’s St. Vincent’s Hospital fights for life _ like other ‘charity’ hospitals across America

NYC’s St. Vincent’s Hospital fights for life

NEW YORK – St. Vincent’s Hospital in Greenwich Village has fought to save lives for more than 160 years, treating everyone from survivors of the Titanic in 1912 to New Yorkers fleeing the terror attack on the World Trade Center.
The hospital founded by four Roman Catholic nuns in a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : NYC’s St. Vincent’s Hospital fights for life _ like other ‘charity’ hospitals across America.

Qatar forces out moderates from IslamOnline, plans more conservative approach

Moderates forced out of top Islam Web site

CAIRO – The Qatari government has forced out the moderate leadership of a popular Islamic Web site and plans to reshape it into a more religiously conservative outlet, former employees of the site said Thursday.
Sheik Youssef al-Qaradawi, the widely respected cleric who co-founded IslamOnline and is known as …. Original article  : Qatar forces out moderates from IslamOnline, plans more conservative approach.

End of an Irish Catholic era: Limerick pubs to open Good Friday, defy nation’s ‘dry’ holy day

Irish pubs to open on Good Friday for first time

DUBLIN – As long as Ireland has had pubs, Good Friday has been off-limits as a “dry” holy day – until now.
A Limerick judge ruled Thursday that the city’s 110 pubs can open April 2 because the city is hosting a major Irish rugby match attracting …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : End of an Irish Catholic era: Limerick pubs to open Good Friday, defy nation’s ‘dry’ holy day.

Gujarat’s Parsi woman seeks court help to worship

GANDHINAGAR – A Parsi woman married to a non-Parsi has sought the Gujarat High Court’s intervention to avail the fundamental right to worship and to access the religious places of Parsis she was denied by her community after her marriage.

The Public Interest Litigation (PIL), perhaps the first of its kind, was admitted in Ahmedabad Thursday. …. Read the original article  : Gujarat’s Parsi woman seeks court help to worship.

Wis. man says abuse by priest, cover-up caused nightmares, ruined his faith in Catholic church

Wis. man: Abuse by priest ruined faith in church

MILWAUKEE – A Wisconsin man says he lost all faith in the Catholic church after being abused by a priest who’s at the center of a scandal about the way the Vatican has handled reports of abuse by clergy.
Donald Marshall says he was 13 or 14 when …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Wis. man says abuse by priest, cover-up caused nightmares, ruined his faith in Catholic church.

Iraqi minister walks out of meeting in Libya to protest Gadhafi’s support for Saddam loyalists

Iraqi foreign minister walks out of Libya meeting

SIRITE, Libya – Iraqi Foreign Minister Hoshyar Zebari briefly walked out Thursday of an Arab League ministerial meeting held in Libya to protest against Moammar Gadhafi’s declared support for Saddam Hussein loyalists, delegates said.
They said Zebari stormed out after he told his Arab peers that his government was …. Original article  : Iraqi minister walks out of meeting in Libya to protest Gadhafi’s support for Saddam loyalists.

Andhra Pradesh Muslim quota gets apex court nod

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Thursday temporarily allowed job quota for backward Muslims in Andhra Pradesh, but left a final decision on the matter to a constitution bench.

With this, the Andhra Pradesh government is likely to go ahead with its proposal of reserving four percent of government jobs for Muslims.
A bench of Chief …. Source article  : Andhra Pradesh Muslim quota gets apex court nod.

RAW officer to depose in Babri case Friday

LUCKNOW – Anju Gupta, a police officer who had told investigators that senior BJP leaders, including L.K. Advani, were euphoric after the 1992 Babri Masjid razing, will depose Friday before a special court hearing the 18-year-old demolition case.

Gupta, a deputy inspector general of police (DIG), is currently attached to the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) … Read more >>.

Chhattisgarh legislators take dip at Kumbh mela

RAIPUR – As many as 60 Chhattisgarh legislators, including Chief Minister Raman Singh, and their spouses took the holy dip in the Ganga Sunday in Haridwar, where they flew down in a private jet Saturday to attend the Kumbh mela.

“We took a dip in the Ganga and prayed for the prosperity of Chhattisgarh and its … Read : Chhattisgarh legislators take dip at Kumbh mela.

Mahavir Jayanti SMS And Celebrations

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Today, the Mahavir Jayanti is being celebrated in various parts of India by the followers of the founder of Jain religion, Lord Mahavir. The followers of the Lord are also exchanging devotional SMSes between themselves. President Pratibha Patil and the Prime Minister of India, Manmohan Singh has wished the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Niqab ban gets unanimous support in Canada

TORONTO – Canadians have unanimously supported the niqab ban announced by French-speaking Quebec province this week. After France, the Canadian province is the first in North America to ban the niqab, a top-to-toe dress worn by Muslim women.

The ban, triggered by an Egyptian immigrant woman’s refusal to remove her niqab in her French classes in …. Source  : Niqab ban gets unanimous support in Canada.

AP Top News at 6:42 p.m. EDT

AP Top News at 6:42 p.m. EDT
Palin to tea party rally: Don’t sit down, shut upSEARCHLIGHT, Nev. – Sarah Palin told thousands of tea party activists assembled in the dusty Nevada desert Saturday that Sen. Harry Reid will have to explain his votes when he comes back to his hometown to campaign. The … Read this article on Gaea Times at : AP Top News at 6:42 p.m. EDT.

AP Top News at 6:35 p.m. EDT

AP Top News at 6:35 p.m. EDT
Palin to tea party rally: Don’t sit down, shut upSEARCHLIGHT, Nev. – Sarah Palin told thousands of tea party activists assembled in the dusty Nevada desert Saturday that Sen. Harry Reid will have to explain his votes when he comes back to his hometown to campaign. The [..] Read the original article: here.

AP Top News at 6:28 p.m. EDT

AP Top News at 6:28 p.m. EDT
Palin to tea party rally: Don’t sit down, shut upSEARCHLIGHT, Nev. – Sarah Palin told thousands of tea party activists assembled in the dusty Nevada desert Saturday that Sen. Harry Reid will have to explain his votes when he comes back to his hometown to campaign. …. Original article  : AP Top News at 6:28 p.m. EDT.

AP Top News at 6:24 p.m. EDT

AP Top News at 6:24 p.m. EDT
Palin to tea party rally: Don’t sit down, shut upSEARCHLIGHT, Nev. – Sarah Palin told thousands of tea party activists assembled in the dusty Nevada desert Saturday that Sen. Harry Reid will have to explain his votes when he comes back to his hometown to campaign. The …. Original source  : AP Top News at 6:24 p.m. EDT.

AP Top News at 6:21 p.m. EDT

AP Top News at 6:21 p.m. EDT
Palin to tea party rally: Don’t sit down, shut upSEARCHLIGHT, Nev. – Sarah Palin told thousands of tea party activists assembled in the dusty Nevada desert Saturday that Sen. Harry Reid will have to explain his votes when he comes back to his hometown to campaign. The …. Original source  : AP Top News at 6:21 p.m. EDT.

AP Top News at 6:14 p.m. EDT

AP Top News at 6:14 p.m. EDT
Palin to tea party rally: Don’t sit down, shut up
SEARCHLIGHT, Nev. – Sarah Palin told thousands of tea party activists assembled in the dusty Nevada desert Saturday that Sen. Harry Reid will have to explain his votes when he comes back to his hometown to campaign. The …. Read the original article  : here.

AP Top News at 6:07 p.m. EDT

AP Top News at 6:07 p.m. EDT
Palin to tea party rally: Don’t sit down, shut upSEARCHLIGHT, Nev. – Sarah Palin told thousands of tea party activists assembled in the dusty Nevada desert Saturday that Sen. Harry Reid will have to explain his votes when he comes back to his hometown to campaign. The … Read : AP Top News at 6:07 p.m. EDT.

AP Top News at 5:56 p.m. EDT

AP Top News at 5:56 p.m. EDT
Palin to tea party rally: Don’t sit down, shut upSEARCHLIGHT, Nev. – Sarah Palin told thousands of tea party activists assembled in the dusty Nevada desert Saturday that Sen. Harry Reid will have to explain his votes when he comes back to his hometown to campaign. The …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : AP Top News at 5:56 p.m. EDT.

AP Top News at 5:53 p.m. EDT

AP Top News at 5:53 p.m. EDT
Palin to tea party rally: Don’t sit down, shut up
SEARCHLIGHT, Nev. – Sarah Palin told thousands of tea party activists assembled in the dusty Nevada desert Saturday that Sen. Harry Reid will have to explain his votes when he comes back to his hometown to campaign. The … Read more >>>.

AP Top News at 5:42 p.m. EDT

AP Top News at 5:42 p.m. EDT
US troop deaths double in Afghanistan
KABUL – The number of U.S. troops killed in Afghanistan has roughly doubled in the first three months of 2010 compared to the same period last year as Washington has added tens of thousands of additional soldiers to reverse the Taliban’s momentum. Those deaths … Original article on : AP Top News at 5:42 p.m. EDT.

AP Top News at 5:28 p.m. EDT

AP Top News at 5:28 p.m. EDT
US troop deaths double in Afghanistan
KABUL – The number of U.S. troops killed in Afghanistan has roughly doubled in the first three months of 2010 compared to the same period last year as Washington has added tens of thousands of additional soldiers to reverse the Taliban’s momentum. Those deaths …. Original article  : AP Top News at 5:28 p.m. EDT.

AP Top News at 5:21 p.m. EDT

AP Top News at 5:21 p.m. EDT
US troop deaths double in Afghanistan
KABUL – The number of U.S. troops killed in Afghanistan has roughly doubled in the first three months of 2010 compared to the same period last year as Washington has added tens of thousands of additional soldiers to reverse the Taliban’s momentum. Those deaths …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : AP Top News at 5:21 p.m. EDT.

AP Top News at 5:20 p.m. EDT

AP Top News at 5:20 p.m. EDT
US troop deaths double in Afghanistan
KABUL – The number of U.S. troops killed in Afghanistan has roughly doubled in the first three months of 2010 compared to the same period last year as Washington has added tens of thousands of additional soldiers to reverse the Taliban’s momentum. Those deaths … Read more >>.

AP Top News at 5:14 p.m. EDT

AP Top News at 5:14 p.m. EDT
US troop deaths double in Afghanistan
KABUL – The number of U.S. troops killed in Afghanistan has roughly doubled in the first three months of 2010 compared to the same period last year as Washington has added tens of thousands of additional soldiers to reverse the Taliban’s momentum. Those deaths … Read : AP Top News at 5:14 p.m. EDT.

AP Top News at 5:12 p.m. EDT

AP Top News at 5:12 p.m. EDT
US troop deaths double in Afghanistan
KABUL – The number of U.S. troops killed in Afghanistan has roughly doubled in the first three months of 2010 compared to the same period last year as Washington has added tens of thousands of additional soldiers to reverse the Taliban’s momentum. Those deaths …. Read the original article  : AP Top News at 5:12 p.m. EDT.

AP Top News at 5:07 p.m. EDT

AP Top News at 5:07 p.m. EDT
US troop deaths double in Afghanistan
KABUL – The number of U.S. troops killed in Afghanistan has roughly doubled in the first three months of 2010 compared to the same period last year as Washington has added tens of thousands of additional soldiers to reverse the Taliban’s momentum. Those deaths …. Source article  : AP Top News at 5:07 p.m. EDT.

AP Top News at 4:56 p.m. EDT

AP Top News at 4:56 p.m. EDT
US troop deaths double in Afghanistan
KABUL – The number of U.S. troops killed in Afghanistan has roughly doubled in the first three months of 2010 compared to the same period last year as Washington has added tens of thousands of additional soldiers to reverse the Taliban’s momentum. Those deaths …. Source article  : AP Top News at 4:56 p.m. EDT.

On eve of Passover, polls shows Israelis concerned about their international standing

On Passover, Israel concerned over world standing
JERUSALEM – Nearly one out of every two Israelis thinks the country’s international standing is poor following Israel’s most serious crisis with the United States in decades, according to a poll published Monday on the eve of the Passover holiday.
As Jews around the world were making last-minute …. Source  : On eve of Passover, polls shows Israelis concerned about their international standing.

Games village to have prayer rooms for athletes of all faiths

NEW DELHI – The Commonwealth Games village in east Delhi, where athletes will be staying during the games in October, will have a special building with prayer rooms for all faiths. This, officials said, will give the athletes a space and option to pray and meditate – crucial for a peaceful mind during the taxing … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Games village to have prayer rooms for athletes of all faiths.

Sonia Gandhi speaks to Rosaiah over Hyderabad situation

HYDERABAD – United Progressive Alliance (UPA) chairperson Sonia Gandhi and union Home Minister P. Chidambaram spoke to Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister K. Rosaiah over phone to inquire about the situation in Hyderabad after the communal clashes.

Rosaiah informed the state assembly Monday that the Congress president was concerned about clashes in the old part of the [..] Read the original article: here.

Oud maker faces little demand for his instrument: Hundreds of artists have fled Iraq

Oud maker labors in secret on Baghdad rooftop

BAGHDAD – In a tiny workshop on the roof of his home in a Baghdad slum, Farhan Hassan works in secret, lovingly curving wood and tightening strings to make his ouds – a traditional Arabic instrument.
Only close family and friends know what he is doing, because the militiamen …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Air India snag leaves Thai monks stranded at Agartala

AGARTALA – As many as 44 Buddhist monks from Thailand were stranded Sunday at the Agartala airport after their Kolkata-bound Air India flight was cancelled due to technical snag, officials said here.

“The monks came to Tripura from Thailand last week to visit Buddhist religious places in the northeastern state. On Sunday they were scheduled to …. Read the original article  : Air India snag leaves Thai monks stranded at Agartala.

Christian pilgrims in Jerusalem mark Palm Sunday with prayers and processions

Christian pilgrims mark Palm Sunday in Jerusalem

JERUSALEM – Hundreds of Christians from around the world marched from the Mount of Olives into Jerusalem to mark Palm Sunday, retracing the steps of Jesus 2,000 years ago.
The pilgrims waved national and church flags and followed a white donkey, which according to Christian tradition was the way Jesus … Read more »».

Palm Sunday Address Of Pope

ROME (GaeaTimes.com)- Despite facing severe criticism from a section of the media over his inaction over sex abuse charges leveled against some priests, Pope Benedict XVI remains defiant and he said recently that such charges will not be able to intimidate him. The Pope started his special Palm Sunday address by saying that Christ … Read : Palm Sunday Address Of Pope.

Advani blog cites Tully’s praise of Hinduism

NEW DELHI – Secularism in India stems from Hindu tolerance as the religion of the majority community engenders respect for all religions, senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader L. K. Advani said Sunday in the latest post on his blog that cites eminent journalist Mark Tully.

In the post titled “Encyclopaedia of Hinduism and Mahakumbh”, [..] Read the original article: here.

AP Top News at 4:49 p.m. EDT

AP Top News at 4:49 p.m. EDT
US troop deaths double in Afghanistan
KABUL – The number of U.S. troops killed in Afghanistan has roughly doubled in the first three months of 2010 compared to the same period last year as Washington has added tens of thousands of additional soldiers to reverse the Taliban’s momentum. Those deaths …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

AP Top News at 4:47 p.m. EDT

AP Top News at 4:47 p.m. EDT
US troop deaths double in Afghanistan
KABUL – The number of U.S. troops killed in Afghanistan has roughly doubled in the first three months of 2010 compared to the same period last year as Washington has added tens of thousands of additional soldiers to reverse the Taliban’s momentum. Those deaths … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : AP Top News at 4:47 p.m. EDT.

Malaysia loosens movie censorship, but keeps tight leash on tiny bikinis, ‘erotic voices’

Malaysia movie censors ease up, but scorn bikinis

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Malaysia’s censors have loosened decades of restrictions on sexual and religious content in movies, but are still keeping a tight leash on tiny bikinis, kisses and passionate hugs on screen.
The guidelines – made public on the Home Ministry’s Web site this week – are …. Original source  : Malaysia loosens movie censorship, but keeps tight leash on tiny bikinis, ‘erotic voices’.

Barred from airport, Hare Krishnas to spread message elsewhere

WASHINGTON – The Hare Krishna movement has expressed disappointment over a ban on soliciting donations inside Los Angeles International Airport but said the group plans to continue to spread its message in other public spaces in the United States.

“We are disappointed by the ruling,” said Anuttama Dasa, a spokesperson of the International Society for Krishna … Read more : Barred from airport, Hare Krishnas to spread message elsewhere.

Criticism of Vatican in Wisconsin over handling of abuse scandal after recent revelations

Criticism of Vatican in Wis. over abuse scandal

MILWAUKEE – The Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests is criticizing the Vatican for its handling of revelations about a case involving Wisconsin abuse victims.
The group claims top Catholic officials in Rome have vilified and insulted victims. SNAP spokeswoman Mary Guentner says victims should be praised for …. Read the original article  : Criticism of Vatican in Wisconsin over handling of abuse scandal after recent revelations.

Retired Calif minister again faces charges from church for performing gay marriages

Church charges Calif minister over gay weddings

SANTA ROSA, Calif. – A retired Presbyterian minister in Northern California is again facing charges she violated church law when she officiated at the weddings of gay couples.
The Rev. Jane Spahr was acquitted two years ago of similar charges when the church’s Supreme Judicial Council found that she did … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Retired Calif minister again faces charges from church for performing gay marriages.

Gadhafi says Nigeria should be split along ethnic lines into mini-states like Yugoslavia

Gadhafi: Nigeria should split along ethnic lines

TRIPOLI, Libya – Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi suggested Monday that Nigeria be split along ethnic lines, like Yugoslavia, into several mini-states as a way of resolving violence in Africa’s most populous nation.
Gadhafi drew Nigeria’s anger last week by saying the oil-rich nation should be divided into Muslim and Christian … Read more »»».

Iraqi committee wants to bar 4 elected on winning list for ties to Saddam Hussein’s regime

Iraqi panel wants to bar 4 elected on winning list

BAGHDAD – A committee that vets candidates for ties to Saddam Hussein’s regime is recommending four people elected to parliament from the winning list of former Prime Minister Ayad Allawi be disqualified, an official on the committee said Monday. The challenge risks deepening Iraq’s sectarian tensions.
If … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Iraqi committee wants to bar 4 elected on winning list for ties to Saddam Hussein’s regime.

Obamas to host Passover Seder at White House with aides, friends

Obamas mark Passover with private Seder
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama plans to mark the start of Passover with a private Seder in the executive mansion.
Obama and first lady Michelle Obama invited friends and White House aides to mark the Jewish holiday with a meal on Monday. The Obama aides started the tradition during …. Source  : Obamas to host Passover Seder at White House with aides, friends.

Somalis protest against al-Qaida linked militants after rebels exhume tombs in Mogadishu

Somalis protest against al-Qaida linked militants

MOGADISHU, Somalia – Hundreds of women and children marched through Somalia’s capital Monday to protest the destruction of tombs of Somali clerics, some a century old, by al-Qaida-linked militants wielding sledgehammers and pickaxes.
It was a rare demonstration against al-Shabab in a city mainly controlled by the extremist group. Protesters chanted … Original article on : Somalis protest against al-Qaida linked militants after rebels exhume tombs in Mogadishu.

Benedict leads faithful in honoring John Paul II on 5th anniversary of death

Benedict honors John Paul 5 years after death

VATICAN CITY – Pope Benedict XVI is commemorating the fifth anniversary of the death of John Paul II with a Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica.
Many pilgrims from Poland, the late pontiff’s homeland, joined Benedict in prayer Monday evening.
The 84-year-old John Paul died on April 2, 2005, after battling …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Benedict leads faithful in honoring John Paul II on 5th anniversary of death.

Several prominent Iraq politicians fail to get into parliament, new election lists show

Prominent Iraq politicians fail to win seats

BAGHDAD – Several prominent Iraqi politicians – long considered untouchable – failed to win seats in the country’s March 7 election, according to lists published Monday, reflecting voter dissatisfaction with the country’s political class.
Their failure comes as weeks of haggling to form a new government lie ahead, possibly opening …. Source article  : Several prominent Iraq politicians fail to get into parliament, new election lists show.

Turkish man who shot previous pope calls on Benedict to resign over clerical sex abuse cases

In Turkey, Pope gunman says Benedict should resign

ANKARA, Turkey – The Turkish man who shot Pope John Paul II says Pope Benedict XVI should resign over the Catholic Church’s handling of clerical sex abuse cases.
Mehmet Ali Agca, who emerged from prison in January nearly 29 years after wounding Pope John Paul II in Rome, has … Read more »».

Priest involved in sex-abuse investigation of Wisconsin colleague defends Vatican’s response

Priest defends Vatican’s handling of Wis. scandal

MILWAUKEE – A priest who helped investigate child sex allegations against a former colleague in the Milwaukee Archdiocese says there’s no indication the current pope knew at the time of the investigation.
The Rev. Thomas Brundage said Tuesday from Alaska that there’s no way of knowing whether then-Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger … Read more »».

Anti-American cleric al-Sadr calls for Iraqi referendum on who will be prime minister

Anti-US cleric calls for Iraq referendum on PM

BAGHDAD – An anti-American Shiite cleric called Tuesday for a referendum on who will be Iraq’s prime minister, a proposal that was nearly certain to fail but which added more turmoil to an already tense and uncertain postelection period.
The firebrand cleric, Muqtada al-Sadr, who leads a Shiite religious … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Anti-American cleric al-Sadr calls for Iraqi referendum on who will be prime minister.

APNewsBreak: Vatican mounts legal defense to shield pope from US sex abuse lawsuit

Vatican defends pope in US lawsuit
VATICAN CITY – The Vatican is launching a legal defense that the church hopes will shield the pope from a lawsuit in Kentucky seeking to have him deposed over claims that the Holy See was negligent in failing to report abuse claims.

In court documents obtained Tuesday by The Associated Press, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : APNewsBreak: Vatican mounts legal defense to shield pope from US sex abuse lawsuit.

Best Hanuman Jayanti SMS

Hanuman Jayanti is observed on the Full Moon day of the month Chaitra. This day is celebrated as the birthday of Lord Hanuman. Devotees visit Hanuman temple and worship Lord Hanuman on this special occasion.
Read more here.
… Read more »»».

Minority panels’ conference to be held Wednesday

NEW DELHI – The annual conference of minority commissions is being held here Wednesday to ascertain the needs of Indian minority communities, identify solutions for the issues related to their socio-economic problems and facilitate focus of governmental action towards them.

Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram will inaugurate the day-long state minorities commissions’ conference organised by …. Read the original article  : Minority panels’ conference to be held Wednesday.

Hanuman Jayanti Today: Chalisa, Mantra, Wallpapers, SMS Free Download

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)-Lord Hanuman, the greatest devotee of Sri Rama is worshiped all over India as the all powerful devotee, who had accompanied and helped Sri Rama in his battle against Ravana. In the month of Chaitra according to the Hindu calendar, Hanuman Jayanti or the birthday of Sri Hanuman is celebrated … Read more »».

As Easter nears amid scandal, Catholics find ties to the church tested in painful ways

Catholics find ties to the church tested by crisis

WARSAW, Poland – An Austrian priest avoids mention of Pope Benedict XVI in his Masses. A Philadelphia woman stops going to confession, saying she now sees priests as more flawed than herself. British protesters call for the pontiff to resign.
As the faithful fill churches this Holy Week, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : As Easter nears amid scandal, Catholics find ties to the church tested in painful ways.