Religion News – Weekly Newsletter for August 16-23, 2010

Religion News – Weekly Newsletter for August 16-23, 2010

Monday, August 23, 2010

Every night lights: Mich. football team practices at night for Muslim players during Ramadan

Holy month, hot days mean football nights in Mich.

DEARBORN, Mich. – Illuminated by the night lights on the football field, Adnan Restum joined a scrum of teammates at the end-zone water fountain, taking a break from a grueling preseason football workout to guzzle a drink.
In just a few hours, he wouldn’t be able to take … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Every night lights: Mich. football team practices at night for Muslim players during Ramadan.

Backing Muslims’ right to build centre not an endorsement: Obama

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama has clarified that his defence of Muslims’ right to build an Islamic complex near New York’s Ground Zero site of 9/11 attack was not an endorsement of the controversial proposal that has drawn flak from both Republicans and Democrats.

Speaking to reporters during a family vacation visit to Panama … Read : Backing Muslims’ right to build centre not an endorsement: Obama.

Religious minorities in Indonesia pushing back against Islamic hard-liners, violence

Religious minorities in Indonesia push back

BEKASI, Indonesia – Tired of government inaction, Christians and other religious minorities in Indonesia are pushing back against rising violence by Islamic hard-liners.
For months, Christians in the industrial city of Bekasi have been warned against worshipping on a field that houses their shuttered church. They’ve arrived to find human feces …. Original source : Religious minorities in Indonesia pushing back against Islamic hard-liners, violence.

Israel says it will not accept any Palestinian conditions for resuming peace negotiations

Israel: No conditions for talks with Palestinians

RAMALLAH, West Bank – Israel will not accept conditions for resuming direct negotiations with the Palestinians, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and top Cabinet ministers affirmed in a meeting late Sunday, reflecting a hard line just as invitations to the talks appeared to be near.
The Palestinians want the framework and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Israel says it will not accept any Palestinian conditions for resuming peace negotiations.

Backing right to build mosque not endorsement: Obama

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama has clarified that his defence of Muslims’ right to build an Islamic complex near New York’s Ground Zero site of 9/11 attack, was not an endorsement of the controversial proposal.

Speaking to reporters during a family vacation visit to Panama City, Florida, Obama reiterated the stand he took Friday … Original article on : Backing right to build mosque not endorsement: Obama.

Detroit’s Bishop Charles Ellis named to head 1.5 million-member Pentecostal Assemblies

Detroit Bishop Ellis heads Pentecostal Assemblies

DETROIT – The 1.3 million-member Pentecostal Assemblies of the World movement has chosen Detroit’s Bishop Charles H. Ellis III as its presiding bishop.
Ellis is pastor of Greater Grace Temple. The 104-year-old Indianapolis-based denomination installed him last week at its convention in Minneapolis.
He served two terms as assistant presiding bishop.
Ellis became …. Original article : Detroit’s Bishop Charles Ellis named to head 1.5 million-member Pentecostal Assemblies.

In sign of West Bank calm, Israel dismantles protective concrete barrier in Jerusalem

In sign of calm, Israel removes gunfire barrier

RAMALLAH, West Bank – Israeli army cranes on Sunday began removing a concrete barrier that shielded a Jewish neighborhood bordering the West Bank from gunfire – a sign that calm is taking hold in the Palestinian territory.
The Israeli military erected the 600-yard (meter) concrete barrier nine years ago …. Original article on Gaea Times at : In sign of West Bank calm, Israel dismantles protective concrete barrier in Jerusalem.

GOP senator suggests Obama remarks on mosque in NY will be considered by voters this fall

GOP senator suggests mosque will be election issue
WASHINGTON – A Republican senator is suggesting there could be political fallout from President Barack Obama’s remarks about building a mosque near the site of the Sept. 11 attacks in New York City.
Texas Sen. John Cornyn (KOHR’-nihn) says Obama is “disconnected from mainstream America” and that …. Original source : GOP senator suggests Obama remarks on mosque in NY will be considered by voters this fall.

30,000 evacuated from Catholic pilgrimage site at Lourdes in France after bomb threat

Pilgrims evacuated after bomb threat at Lourdes

PARIS – Thousands of people, many disabled or ailing, were evacuated Sunday from the shrine at Lourdes in southern France after a bomb threat on the Catholic holy day of Assumption. The pilgrims returned after explosives experts scoured the area.
Some 30,000 pilgrims were at the site, whose spring water … Original source on Gaea Times at : 30,000 evacuated from Catholic pilgrimage site at Lourdes in France after bomb threat.

Mindset List: Class of ‘14 has little use for e-mail, wristwatches, cursive; Dirty Harry who?

Wear wristwatch? Use e-mail? Not for Class of ‘14

Every year, Beloit College in Beloit, Wis., releases its Mindset List to give a snapshot of the world view of the incoming freshmen class. The list for the Class of 2014:
Most students entering college for the first time this fall – members of the Class of 2014 …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Mindset List: Class of ‘14 has little use for e-mail, wristwatches, cursive; Dirty Harry who?.

Mexico supreme court votes to uphold Mexico City law allowing adoptions by same-sex couples

Mexico supreme court upholds gay adoptions

MEXICO CITY – Mexico’s Supreme Court voted Monday to uphold a Mexico City law allowing adoptions by same-sex couples, drawing jubilant cheers from gay advocacy groups and angry protests from Roman Catholic Church representatives.
The justices voted 9-2 against challenges presented by federal prosecutors and others who had argued the law … Read more : Mexico supreme court votes to uphold Mexico City law allowing adoptions by same-sex couples.

Mourners pay tribute to Ted Stevens at memorial mass in Alaska

Mourners remember Stevens at Mass
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Mourners filled an Anchorage Catholic church to remember former U.S. Sen. Ted Stevens Monday, launching a three-day tribute to the Alaska Republican a week after he died in a plane crash.

Several hundred people attended the memorial Mass for Stevens, who was among five people killed in the crash … Read more »»».

Sen. Harry Reid comes out against plan to build a mosque near ground zero

Reid against plan to build mosque near ground zero
WASHINGTON – The Senate’s top Democrat on Monday came out against plans to build a mosque near the site of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, moving away from President Barack Obama on the controversial election-year issue.
Locked in a … Read more >>>.

Reid says he supports mosque, not at ground zero

Reid: Build mosque elsewhere
WASHINGTON – The Senate’s top Democrat on Monday came out against plans to build a mosque near the site of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, moving away from President Barack Obama on the controversial election-year issue.
Locked in a tight race, Nevada Sen. Harry Reid became the highest profile Democrat … Read : Reid says he supports mosque, not at ground zero.

Sunni-backed coalition accuses Iraqi premier of sectarianism, suspends power-sharing talks

Iraqi rivals break off power-sharing talks

BAGHDAD – A Sunni-backed coalition that won the most seats in Iraq’s parliamentary election said Monday it would cease power-sharing talks with the nation’s incumbent Shiite prime minister, accusing him of turning political bickering into a sectarian issue.
The breakdown is certain to extend a five-month political stalemate since the voting, … Read more >>>.

Over 300,000 gather for religious festival in Mexico

Guadalajara (Mexico), Aug 16 (IANS/EFE) More than 310,000 people from 43 countries gathered at La Luz del Mundo (The Light of the World) church here for the Holy Supper, the sect’s most important annual celebration, a church spokesman said.

At the ceremony, held during the week of the Holy Assembly which concluded Sunday, the pastor [..] Read the original article: here.

Food prices go up in Somali capital during Ramadan as traders flee, fearing renewed violence

Food prices in Somali capital go up during Ramadan

MOGADISHU, Somalia – Residents in Somalia’s capital have feared a threatened increase in fighting during Ramadan, but the Muslim religious month has brought another hardship as well: high food prices.
Somali businessmen on Monday said prices of some food items in Mogadishu have increased by up to 50 …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Food prices go up in Somali capital during Ramadan as traders flee, fearing renewed violence.

Hamas leader: Muslims ‘have to build’ mosque near ground zero

Hamas leader: Ground zero mosque must be built

NEW YORK – A Hamas leader says Muslims “have to build” a mosque near ground zero.
Mahmoud al-Zahar said Muslims “have to build everywhere” so that followers can pray, just like Christians and Jews build their places of worship.
Al-Zahar spoke Sunday on “Aaron Klein Investigative Radio” on WABC-AM. He …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Every night lights: Mich. football team practices at night for Muslim players during Ramadan

Holy month, hot days mean football nights in Mich.

DEARBORN, Mich. – Illuminated by the night lights on the football field, Adnan Restum joined a scrum of teammates at the end-zone water fountain, taking a break from a grueling preseason football workout to guzzle a drink.
In just a few hours, he wouldn’t be able to take …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Every night lights: Mich. football team practices at night for Muslim players during Ramadan.

Backing Muslims’ right to build centre not an endorsement: Obama

Speaking to reporters during a family vacation visit to Panama … Read : Backing Muslims’ right to build centre not an endorsement: Obama.

Religious minorities in Indonesia pushing back against Islamic hard-liners, violence

Religious minorities in Indonesia push back

Israel says it will not accept any Palestinian conditions for resuming peace negotiations

Israel: No conditions for talks with Palestinians

RAMALLAH, West Bank – Israel will not accept conditions for resuming direct negotiations with the Palestinians, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and top Cabinet ministers affirmed in a meeting late Sunday, reflecting a hard line just as invitations to the talks appeared to be near.
The Palestinians want the framework and …. Original article : Israel says it will not accept any Palestinian conditions for resuming peace negotiations.

Backing right to build mosque not endorsement: Obama

Speaking to reporters during a family vacation visit to Panama City, Florida, Obama reiterated the stand he took Friday …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Backing right to build mosque not endorsement: Obama.

Detroit’s Bishop Charles Ellis named to head 1.5 million-member Pentecostal Assemblies

Detroit Bishop Ellis heads Pentecostal Assemblies

In sign of West Bank calm, Israel dismantles protective concrete barrier in Jerusalem

In sign of calm, Israel removes gunfire barrier

RAMALLAH, West Bank – Israeli army cranes on Sunday began removing a concrete barrier that shielded a Jewish neighborhood bordering the West Bank from gunfire – a sign that calm is taking hold in the Palestinian territory.
The Israeli military erected the 600-yard (meter) concrete barrier nine years ago …. Source : In sign of West Bank calm, Israel dismantles protective concrete barrier in Jerusalem.

GOP senator suggests Obama remarks on mosque in NY will be considered by voters this fall

GOP senator suggests mosque will be election issue
WASHINGTON – A Republican senator is suggesting there could be political fallout from President Barack Obama’s remarks about building a mosque near the site of the Sept. 11 attacks in New York City.
Texas Sen. John Cornyn (KOHR’-nihn) says Obama is “disconnected from mainstream America” and that … Original source on Gaea Times at : GOP senator suggests Obama remarks on mosque in NY will be considered by voters this fall.

30,000 evacuated from Catholic pilgrimage site at Lourdes in France after bomb threat

Pilgrims evacuated after bomb threat at Lourdes

PARIS – Thousands of people, many disabled or ailing, were evacuated Sunday from the shrine at Lourdes in southern France after a bomb threat on the Catholic holy day of Assumption. The pilgrims returned after explosives experts scoured the area.
Some 30,000 pilgrims were at the site, whose spring water … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 30,000 evacuated from Catholic pilgrimage site at Lourdes in France after bomb threat.

Tweeting Dalai Lama says voices for Tibetan independence growing stronger

DHARAMSALA – With over 600,000 people, including hundreds of Chinese, following him on networking site Twitter, the Dalai Lama has said the non-resolution of the Tibet issue is making the voices of those seeking independence of Tibet from China grow stronger.

Answering questions from his Chinese followers on Twitter, which he joined last month, the Dalai …. Original source : Tweeting Dalai Lama says voices for Tibetan independence growing stronger.

Turkey: Orthodox Christians gather for rare Mass at ancient site after government approval

Turkey: patriarch holds historic Mass
MACKA, Turkey – Orthodox Christians are holding a rare Mass at an ancient monastery in Turkey after the government allowed worship there once a year in a gradual loosening of restrictions on religious expression.

Sunday’s service at the Byzantine-era monastery of Sumela near the Black Sea is being led by Patriarch Bartholomew … Read : Turkey: Orthodox Christians gather for rare Mass at ancient site after government approval.

GOP candidates label Obama insensitive for backing right of Muslims to build mosque near WTC

GOP calls Obama insensitive over stand on mosque
WASHINGTON – Republican candidates around the country seized on President Barack Obama’s support for the right of Muslims to build a mosque near ground zero, assailing him as an elitist who is insensitive to the families of the Sept. 11 victims.
From statehouses …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Governor says NYC mosque meeting is in the works, but developers say none has been scheduled

Governor aims to meet with NYC mosque developers

ALBANY, N.Y. – Gov. David Paterson, who last week suggested that developers of a proposed Islamic center and mosque near ground zero might want to consider a different location, will meet soon with them, a spokesman said Tuesday.
Paterson’s office declined to say what the meeting would be about, …. Source : Governor says NYC mosque meeting is in the works, but developers say none has been scheduled.

Aide says Obama not worried by mosque furor, or that Senate Dem. leader now opposes plans

Obama undaunted by fallout from mosque remarks
ABOARD AIR FORCE ONE – President Barack Obama isn’t worried about the furor unleashed by his comments on a planned mosque near Ground Zero, a spokesman said Tuesday.
He’s also not dismayed that the Senate’s top Democrat, Majority Leader Harry Reid, now opposes the idea, deputy Press Secretary … Read more : Aide says Obama not worried by mosque furor, or that Senate Dem. leader now opposes plans.

Mexico City mayor demands cardinal apologize for bribery allegation, threatens legal action

Mexico City mayor demands cardinal apologize

MEXICO CITY – Mexico City’s leftist mayor says he will take legal action if a Roman Catholic cardinal doesn’t apologize for suggesting he bribed the Supreme Court to uphold a city law allowing adoptions by same-sex couples.
Mayor Marcelo Ebrard says that if Cardinal Juan Sandoval Iniguez does not apologize by … Original article on : Mexico City mayor demands cardinal apologize for bribery allegation, threatens legal action.

Amnesty International calls on Cuba to stop disrupting marches by dead hunger striker’s mother

Amnesty: Cuba harassing dead hunger striker’s mom

HAVANA – Amnesty International is calling on Cuban authorities to stop disrupting weekly marches by the mother of a political prisoner who died following a lengthy hunger strike.
The London-based human rights group said in a statement Tuesday that officials should “end the harassment” of Reina Luisa Tamayo, who takes …. Source article : Amnesty International calls on Cuba to stop disrupting marches by dead hunger striker’s mother.

UAE charity distributes Iftar meals in Gaza

Abu Dhabi, Aug 17 (IANS/WAM) A UAE charity will distribute free Iftar meals to 1,500 families in Gaza during the holy month of Ramadan.

The Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Foundation for Charitable and Humanitarian Works has launched the programme.
Salem Obaid Al Dhahiri, director general of the charity said the programme reflects the mission [..] Read the original article: here.

Seven Baha’i leaders in Iran get 20 years jail

NEW DELHI – Seven Baha’i leaders, convicted in Iran on charges of conducting propaganda activities against the Islamic order and spying, are believed to have been sentenced to 20 years jail, community leaders said here Tuesday.

The Indian Baha’i community “completely and categorically” denied the charges against the two women and five men being …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Seven Baha’i leaders in Iran get 20 years jail.

Mindset List: Class of ‘14 has little use for e-mail, wristwatches, cursive; Dirty Harry who?

Wear wristwatch? Use e-mail? Not for Class of ‘14

Every year, Beloit College in Beloit, Wis., releases its Mindset List to give a snapshot of the world view of the incoming freshmen class. The list for the Class of 2014:
Most students entering college for the first time this fall – members of the Class of 2014 … Original article on : Mindset List: Class of ‘14 has little use for e-mail, wristwatches, cursive; Dirty Harry who?.

Mexico supreme court votes to uphold Mexico City law allowing adoptions by same-sex couples

Mexico supreme court upholds gay adoptions

Mourners pay tribute to Ted Stevens at memorial mass in Alaska

Several hundred people attended the memorial Mass for Stevens, who was among five people killed in the crash … Read more : Mourners pay tribute to Ted Stevens at memorial mass in Alaska.

Sen. Harry Reid comes out against plan to build a mosque near ground zero

Reid says he supports mosque, not at ground zero

Sunni-backed coalition accuses Iraqi premier of sectarianism, suspends power-sharing talks

Iraqi rivals break off power-sharing talks

Over 300,000 gather for religious festival in Mexico

At the ceremony, held during the week of the Holy Assembly which concluded Sunday, the pastor … Read more : Over 300,000 gather for religious festival in Mexico.

Food prices go up in Somali capital during Ramadan as traders flee, fearing renewed violence

Food prices in Somali capital go up during Ramadan

Hamas leader: Muslims ‘have to build’ mosque near ground zero

Hamas leader: Ground zero mosque must be built

UK says Catholic adoption charity that refused to help gay couples must change its policy

UK: Adoption charity can’t ban gay couples

LONDON – Britain’s charity regulator says a Catholic adoption advisory service that refuses to help gay couples has lost an appeal against a ban on its policy.
Catholic Care, a charity in Leeds, northern England, had argued that as a religious group it should be allowed to offer its adoption-support … Read more : UK says Catholic adoption charity that refused to help gay couples must change its policy.

PM greets nation on Parsi New Year

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Thursday greeted the Parsi community on their new year and hoped Navroz would usher in prosperity to all Parsis and the nation.

In his message, the prime minster said Navroz is the most important part of the Gahambar celebration of nature and the seasons, a festival dedicated to … Read this article on Gaea Times at : PM greets nation on Parsi New Year.

NY Democrats silent or shying away from Obama’s stance on mosque construction near ground zero

Mosque debate divides Democrats, especially in NY
NEW YORK – As vulnerable congressional Democrats weigh how to respond to President Barack Obama’s statements on Muslims’ right to build a mosque near ground zero, those in New York and closest to the controversy are staying silent or scrambling away.
Democrats control both Senate seats and 27 …. Read the original article : here.

1 in 5 Americans thinks Obama is a Muslim

WASHINGTON – As many as one in five Americans think wrongly that President Barack Obama is a Muslim, indicating a significant increase in the number of such people since his inauguration in January 2009.

At the same time, the number of people who now correctly identify Obama as a Christian has dropped to 34 percent, down … Read more >>>.

Poll: 1 in 5 incorrectly say Obama is a Muslim as president’s religion remains mystery to many

Poll: Growing number incorrectly call Obama Muslim
WASHINGTON – Americans increasingly are convinced – incorrectly – that President Barack Obama is a Muslim, and a growing number are thoroughly confused about his religion.
Nearly one in five people, or 18 percent, said they think Obama is Muslim, up from the …. Original article : Poll: 1 in 5 incorrectly say Obama is a Muslim as president’s religion remains mystery to many.

Florida city denies permit to a church for planned Quran book burning on Sept. 11 anniversary

Fla. city denies permit for 9/11 Quran burning

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Officials in a Florida city have denied a burn permit for a church that is seeking to burn copies of the Quran on Sept. 11.
Interim Fire Chief Gene Prince said Wednesday that the open burning of books is not allowed under Gainesville’s burning ordinance.
The Dove … Original article on : Florida city denies permit to a church for planned Quran book burning on Sept. 11 anniversary.

Appeals court says Utah’s memorial highway crosses are unconstitutional

Appeals court rules against Utah memorial crosses

SALT LAKE CITY – The 14 crosses erected along Utah roads to commemorate fallen state Highway Patrol troopers convey a state preference for Christianity and are a violation of the U.S. Constitution, a federal appeals court said Wednesday.
The ruling reverses a 2007 decision by a federal district judge that … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Appeals court says Utah’s memorial highway crosses are unconstitutional.

Muslim employee claims Disneyland banned her from wearing head scarf in front of customers

Muslim employee: Disney banned her head scarf

ANAHEIM, Calif. – A Muslim woman who works as a hostess at a Disneyland restaurant alleged Wednesday the theme park would not allow her to appear in front of customers while wearing her head scarf.
Imane Boudlal, 26, appeared outside the resort’s Grand Californian Hotel after filing a complaint with … Read : Muslim employee claims Disneyland banned her from wearing head scarf in front of customers.

Mideast tour for imam of proposed mosque near ground zero to cost taxpayers $16,000

US spending $16,000 for imam’s Mideast tour

WASHINGTON – American taxpayers will pay the imam behind plans for a mosque near the Manhattan site of the Sept. 11 attacks $3,000 in fees for a three-nation outreach trip to the Middle East that will cost roughly $16,000, the State Department said Wednesday.
The department said Imam Feisal Abdul … Read more >>>.

Is it good for the Muslims? Some US Muslims say ‘no’ to proposed mosque near ground zero

Some Muslims question mosque near ground zero

NEW YORK – American Muslims who support the proposed mosque and Islamic center near ground zero are facing skeptics within their own faith – those who argue that the project is insensitive to Sept. 11 victims and needlessly provocative at a time when Muslims are pressing for wider acceptance …. Source article : Is it good for the Muslims? Some US Muslims say ‘no’ to proposed mosque near ground zero.

The other ground zero: Muslims have been praying quietly for years at Pentagon crash site

Muslims pray daily at Pentagon’s 9/11 crash site
WASHINGTON – While Americans are bitterly debating the proposed building of a mosque near New York’s ground zero, Muslims have been praying for years less than 80 feet from where another hijacked jetliner struck.
The Pentagon chapel is part of … Read more : The other ground zero: Muslims have been praying quietly for years at Pentagon crash site.

Moroccan protesters suspend blockade of Spanish enclave after halting food deliveries

Morocco border blockade of Spain enclave suspended

MELILLA, Spain – Activists in Morocco who have twice blockaded food shipments into a Spanish enclave in the last week to protest alleged abuses by border police agreed Wednesday to suspend their demonstrations until September, when the holy Islamic month of Ramadan ends, a merchants association said.
The deal means … Read more >>.

Pelosi wants to know who is funding opponents of proposed Islamic center near ground zero

Pelosi asks: Who is funding opponents of mosque?

WASHINGTON – House Speaker Nancy Pelosi says she wants to look into who is funding the opposition to a proposed Islamic center near the site of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks in New York.
The California Democrat on Wednesday said Muslim leaders have the right to build a proposed … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pelosi wants to know who is funding opponents of proposed Islamic center near ground zero.

Obama says he has ‘no regrets’ over his comments on controversial mosque near ground zero

Obama: ‘No regrets’ over comments on NYC mosque
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Despite criticism from Republicans and others, President Barack Obama said Wednesday he has “no regrets” over the comments he made about the right of Muslims to build an Islamic center near the former site of the World Trade Center in New … Read more >>>.

Hindu seer opposes hydro projects on Ganga

BHUBANESWAR – Puri Shankaracharya Nishchalanand Saraswati has opposed a move by Uttarakhand to build hydropower projects across the Ganga, describing it as an attempt to destroy the sacred river.

Saraswati Wednesday demanded an immediate stop to the ongoing and upcoming projects, and said that in place of building such projects, Uttarakhand should try to tap alternative …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Hindu seer opposes hydro projects on Ganga.

Abu Dhabi gives 1,000 motorists iftar meals daily

Abu Dhabi, Aug 18 (IANS/WAM) Around 1,000 motorists travelling across Abu Dhabi are being served iftar meals daily to create awareness in the Emirates during the holy month on wastage of food.

A charity organisation – Centre of Preservation of Grace – is distributing the food.
“The humanitarian initiative is being carried out through fuelling stations,” … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Abu Dhabi gives 1,000 motorists iftar meals daily.

Moroccan truckers halt fresh food shipments to Spanish enclave in north Africa

Morocco halts fresh food shipments to Spanish city

MELILLA, Spain – Truckers have halted food shipments from Morocco to the Spanish enclave of Melilla as protesters accuse Spanish police of brutality and racism against Moroccans who cross into the tiny city on the North African coast.
No fish, fruits or vegetables arrived Wednesday in Melilla – forcing …. Read the original article : Moroccan truckers halt fresh food shipments to Spanish enclave in north Africa.

Malaysian court declines Hindu widow’s appeal

KUALA LUMPUR – A Malaysian court Friday rejected the appeal of a Hindu widow to determine the religious status of her husband who was buried as a Muslim five years ago.

The Court of Appeal ruled that the Civil High Court had no jurisdiction to determine the religious status of late Sgt M. Moorthy, whose … Read more : Malaysian court declines Hindu widow’s appeal.

Obama is a Christian, says White House

WASHINGTON – A day after a poll found that one in five Americans think US President Barack Obama is a Muslim, the White House has asserted he is a Christian, who prays every day.

“President Obama is a committed Christian, and his faith is an important part of his daily life,” White House Deputy Press Secretary … Read more »»».

Coverage of US troops’ exit from Iraq illustrates stark differences in cable news networks

Coverage of Iraq exit shows networks’ differences
NEW YORK – Nowhere was the difference between the cable news networks on starker display than in prime-time coverage on the night the last American combat brigade left Iraq following a war that started seven years and five months ago.
MSNBC devoted its entire prime-time footprint … Original source on Gaea Times at : Coverage of US troops’ exit from Iraq illustrates stark differences in cable news networks.

President Obama a Muslim? Facts are not enough to stop myths from taking on lives of their own

Obama a Muslim? Rumors gain steam, defying facts

NEW YORK – “President Obama is a Muslim.” ”He’s not an American citizen.” ”He wasn’t even born here.”
None of this is true. But to surprising levels, it is believed.
Blame it on the media, or on human nature. All presidents deal with image problems – that they’re too weak …. Original article on Gaea Times at : President Obama a Muslim? Facts are not enough to stop myths from taking on lives of their own.

Obama begins summer vacation on Martha’s Vineyard

Vacation time for the president
CHILMARK, Mass. – Martha’s Vineyard is barely an hour’s flight from Washington, but it felt worlds away as President Barack Obama and his family began their summer vacation Thursday amid the island’s beaches and quaint farmhouses.
Instead of politicians and polls, the Obamas encountered pony farms and ponds. Instead …. Source : Obama begins summer vacation on Martha’s Vineyard.

Obama and family set out for summer vacation on Martha’s Vineyard

R&R time for Obamas on Martha’s Vineyard
VINEYARD HAVEN, Mass. – Fleeing the heat and headaches of the capital, President Barack Obama arrived on Martha’s Vineyard Thursday for a 10-day vacation – and a chance to rest up for the coming fight for control of Congress.
Obama landed at the airport on this island off … Read more : Obama and family set out for summer vacation on Martha’s Vineyard.

NY political support grows for land swap of mosque near WTC site as imam tours Mideast

Giuliani supports move of mosque near WTC site
NEW YORK – Former Mayor Rudy Giuliani on Thursday joined a growing number of politicians supporting a move of a proposed Islamic center and mosque near ground zero to state-owned land farther from the Sept. 11 attack site.
Giuliani, who led … Read more : NY political support grows for land swap of mosque near WTC site as imam tours Mideast.

White House says Obama is Christian, prays daily as poll shows 1 in 5 think he’s a Muslim

White House says Obama is Christian, prays daily
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama is a Christian who prays daily, a White House official said Thursday, trying to tamp down growing doubts about the president’s religion.
A new poll showed that nearly one in five people, or 18 percent, believe [..] Read the original article: here.

Australia’s first female prime minister faces voter backlash at first election

Australian PM faces voter backlash at election

CANBERRA, Australia – Julia Gillard became Australia’s first female prime minister by seizing control of her party from her former boss less than two months ago and called elections weeks later – hoping to save the left-leaning government from rising voter grumbling with fresh, straight-talking leadership. It hasn’t quite …. Read the original article : Australia’s first female prime minister faces voter backlash at first election.

US-backed Mideast tour begins for imam seeking mosque near 9-11 site

NY mosque imam in Mideast for outreach tour

MANAMA, Bahrain – The imam leading plans for an Islamic center near the Manhattan site of the Sept. 11 attacks began a U.S.-funded outreach tour of the Middle East Thursday to talk about religious tolerance in America.
The U.S. State Department said Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf arrived in Bahrain …. Source article on Gaea Times at : US-backed Mideast tour begins for imam seeking mosque near 9-11 site.

NY governor says support growing for alternative mosque site, but decision up to developers

Paterson: Support growing for new NYC mosque site

ALBANY, N.Y. – New York Gov. David Paterson says he believes support is growing for a possible land swap to provide an alternate site for a mosque and Islamic center planned for near ground zero.
He says the developers and his staff began discussing the possibility days ago, but … Read this article on Gaea Times at : NY governor says support growing for alternative mosque site, but decision up to developers.

Australian judge orders Muslim witness to remove burqa when testifying in fraud trial

Australian judge: Woman cannot wear veil in court

PERTH, Australia – An Australian Muslim woman who sought permission to keep her face and head covered while she gives evidence at an upcoming trial was told by a judge Thursday she would have to remove her veil.
The case is the first time in Australia that a court … Original source on Gaea Times at : Australian judge orders Muslim witness to remove burqa when testifying in fraud trial.

Ganapathi seeks tourists from Pashupati’s domain

KATHMANDU – Enthused by the average Nepali’s love for visiting temples, India’s Tamil Nadu state – the land of the fabled Vathapi Ganapathi, Meenakshi and over 30,000 other temples – is targeting Nepal, the abode of the revered Pashupatinath deity, to become the most preferred destination of Nepali tourists.

The Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Ganapathi seeks tourists from Pashupati’s domain.

Muslim or Christian? Religion row dogs Obama

WASHINGTON – A day after controversial evangelical leader Rev. Franklin Graham said Barack Obama was born a Muslim because of his father’s religious beliefs, the White House again asserted that the president is a “committed Christian” and prays daily.

Graham, son of famed presidential religious adviser Billy Graham, told CNN Thursday that while he believes …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Muslim or Christian? Religion row dogs Obama.

Nothing unusual in Dalai Lama’s meeting with PM, says aide

NEW DELHI – The Dalai Lama’s top aide, Tempa Tsering, Saturday said the Tibetan spiritual leader made a courtesy call on Prime Minister Manmohan Singh last week to thank him for the hospitality shown in the last five decades. He added that there was nothing unusual about the meeting.

“He has been living in India for … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Nothing unusual in Dalai Lama’s meeting with PM, says aide.

Muslim-born Miss USA opposes Ground Zero mosque

WASHINGTON – The reigning Miss USA has come out against the Ground Zero mosque, saying “it shouldn’t be so close” to the site of the Sep 11, 2001 terror attacks in New york.

The 24-year-old Rima Fakih, is the first Muslim winner of the Miss USA contest and is preparing for the Miss Universe Pageant, scheduled …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Muslim-born Miss USA opposes Ground Zero mosque.

APNewsBreak: Army probes claim that soldiers were punished for skipping a Christian concert

Troops: Skipping Christian concert got us punished

RICHMOND, Va. – The Army said Friday it was investigating a claim that dozens of soldiers who refused to attend a Christian band’s concert at a Virginia military base were banished to their barracks and told to clean them up.
Fort Eustis spokesman Rick Haverinen told The Associated Press he … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : APNewsBreak: Army probes claim that soldiers were punished for skipping a Christian concert.

Cuba Church says it was right to broker prisoner release, in answer to dissidents’ complaints

Cuba Church defends brokering prisoner release

HAVANA – Roman Catholic officials said Friday they had a humanitarian obligation to broker a landmark deal in which Cuba promised to free 52 political prisoners – answering island opposition activists who complained of being left out of negotiations.
Cuba’s Catholic Church said it knew beforehand that its discussions with the … Read more >>.

NYC imam makes U.S.-sponsored goodwill tour of Mideast as furor rages over mosque back home

NYC imam’s goodwill tour comes amid mosque furor

NEW YORK – The furor over the planned mosque and Islamic center near ground zero has put Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf in a curious position: At the same time he is being vilified in the U.S. for spearheading the project, he is traveling the Mideast on a State … Original source on Gaea Times at : NYC imam makes U.S.-sponsored goodwill tour of Mideast as furor rages over mosque back home.

Interfaith leaders in Calif. issue letter supporting NYC mosque

NYC mosque draws interfaith support in California
LOS ANGELES – More than 30 Southern California religious leaders gathered Friday in downtown Los Angeles to show their support for plans to build a mosque and community center two blocks from ground zero, despite widespread opposition to the project.
The leaders representing more than a dozen faiths … Read more : Interfaith leaders in Calif. issue letter supporting NYC mosque.

New English-language missal for US Catholics to debut on first Sunday of Advent in 2011

New US Catholic missal to debut in November 2011

Catholics in the United States will begin using a long-awaited English translation of the Roman Missal on the first Sunday of Advent next year, a leading American cardinal announced Friday.
Setting the missal’s debut for Nov. 27, 2011, gives publishers more than 15 months to prepare texts, and …. Read the original article : New English-language missal for US Catholics to debut on first Sunday of Advent in 2011.

Ground zero Muslim group says it never planned to meet with governor to discuss moving mosque

Mosque group: Never planned to meet with governor

ALBANY, N.Y. – Developers of an Islamic cultural center and mosque near ground zero say they never planned to meet with New York Gov. David Paterson over his offer to help find an alternative site.
The developers from the Cordoba Initiative say there never was a meeting planned with … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Ground zero Muslim group says it never planned to meet with governor to discuss moving mosque.

NYC mosque leader says organizers are sticking with plan for Islamic center near ground zero

NYC mosque leader: We won’t change the course

NEW YORK – A leader of the proposed Islamic center and mosque two blocks from ground zero says dropping the plan in the face of protest is not an option.
Daisy Khan tells The Associated Press that she and other organizers of the center are closely consulting with American …. Original article : NYC mosque leader says organizers are sticking with plan for Islamic center near ground zero.

Election pressure mounts in oil-rich Nigeria for still-quiet President Goodluck Jonathan

Nigeria: Election pressure mounts for quiet leader

LAGOS, Nigeria – While Nigeria’s president remains silent on whether he’ll seek the oil-rich nation’s highest office in upcoming elections, the campaign has all but begun on the Internet.
A new website once linked from a Nigerian government page purportedly advertises President Goodluck Jonathan’s 2011 election bid, complete with a … Original source on Gaea Times at : Election pressure mounts in oil-rich Nigeria for still-quiet President Goodluck Jonathan.

NY mosque imam: Extremism common threat to West and Muslim world

NY mosque imam: Extremism is global threat
MANAMA, Bahrain – The imam leading plans for an Islamic center near the Manhattan site of the Sept. 11 attacks said Friday he hopes to draw attention during his trip in the Middle East to the common challenges to battle radical … Read : NY mosque imam: Extremism common threat to West and Muslim world.

Never united, Sept. 11 family members split over planned Islamic center near ground zero

Mosque near ground zero divides Sept. 11 relatives
NEW YORK – Talat Hamdani traveled to Mecca to pray that her missing son, an EMT, was safe in the days after 9/11. She held out hope that his Muslim background had led to his detention as a suspect, considering … Read more >>.

Never united, Sept. 11 family members divided over planned Islamic center near ground zero

9/11 family members divided over mosque near WTC
NEW YORK – When her EMT son went missing in the days after 9/11, Talat Hamdani traveled to Mecca to pray that he was safe – hoping authorities could have thought him a suspect because of his Muslim background and detained him.
When they returned part of …. Source article : Never united, Sept. 11 family members divided over planned Islamic center near ground zero.

Celebrate Varamahalakshmi Festival 2010: Varamahalakshmi SMS

Varamahalakshmi is a day to show devotion and offer prayer to Goddess Lakshmi. Lakshmi is said to be the Goddess of wealth and prosperity. So, Hindu women believe that performing Varamahalakshmi Vrata will bring fame and fortune to their family. With this sheer belief they are going to celebrate the auspicious Varamahalakshmi festival 2010 …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Celebrate Varamahalakshmi Festival 2010: Varamahalakshmi SMS.

Onam Shopping On Full Swing

KOCHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The Onam celebrations begin today and the residents of the southern states of India have started their festive shopping in various states. This harvest related festive season is something the residents of Kerala and Karnataka wait for the whole year and the business entities also make full utilisation of the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Onam Shopping On Full Swing.

America the Tolerant: NYC mosque dispute prompts reflection on a notion as old as the republic

Mosque flap tests limits of US tolerance
The word tolerance comes from the Latin “tolerare” – to bear. In our dictionaries, we define it as, among other things, the “freedom from bigotry or prejudice.”
Its meanings are almost as numerous as the people who express them, as recent entries in the … Read more : America the Tolerant: NYC mosque dispute prompts reflection on a notion as old as the republic.

Saudi Arabia to launch official TV, radio for fatwa

RIYADH – Saudi Arabia is mulling the idea of setting up an official television channel and radio station for accredited Muslim scholars to issue fatwas, or religious edicts, reports said Saturday.

The television channel will “create a credible link between the inquirer from inside or outside the kingdom and the authorised clerics” through free hot lines …. Source : Saudi Arabia to launch official TV, radio for fatwa.

Omar assures all protection to Kashmiri Sikhs

SRINAGAR – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Saturday assured a delegation of Sikhs, who met him over the threats to community members in the Valley, that the government will take all steps necessary to protect their lives and properties.

The delegation approached the chief minister after some Sikh families reportedly received anonymous letters from …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Omar assures all protection to Kashmiri Sikhs.