Hindus in Bangladesh celebrate Janmashtami

DHAKA – Janmashtami, the birthday of Lord Krishna, is being celebrated Wednesday across Muslim-majority Bangladesh.

The day’s programmes include worship of Lord Krishna, puja, Gita Jagna, kirtan, discussions and peace processions, Star Online, the website of The Daily Star reported Wednesday.
The day is a public holiday in the country. Bangladesh has the third largest population …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Krishna Janmashtami Celebrations In Delhi

DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The holy event of Krishna Janmashtami is being celebrated in Delhi just like the other parts of India. The birth anniversary of Lord Sri Krishna, a prominent deity in Indian mythology, has made the devout followers excited and happy. However, the government does not want any untoward incident to take …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Krishna Janmashtami Celebrations In Delhi.

PM greets nation on Janmashtami

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Wednesday greeted the nation on the auspicious occasion of Janmashtami that celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna.

The prime minister said in a message that the festival of Janmashtami celebrates the life and eternal teachings of Lord Krishna – discipline, knowledge and selfless action.
“May the festival inspire …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Chopper service for Himachal’s Manimahesh pilgrims

SHIMLA – Himachal Pradesh has allowed private heli-taxi operators to ferry pilgrims during the sacred Hindu pilgrimage Manimahesh in the remote areas of Chamba district, an official said here Wednesday.

“Two companies – Shiva Heli Service and Virat Heli Service – were allowed to operate heli-taxis this week. They will operate choppers till the end of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Chopper service for Himachal’s Manimahesh pilgrims.

EEOC alleges Muslim Somali workers face harassment at JBS meatpacking plants in Colo., Neb.

Suits: Muslims harassed at JBS meatpacking plants

DENVER – Muslim Somali workers at two JBS Swift & Co. meatpacking plants in Colorado and Nebraska face ongoing harassment because of their race and religion, including being prevented from getting a drink at one of the plants after fasting all day during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, …. Original source  : EEOC alleges Muslim Somali workers face harassment at JBS meatpacking plants in Colo., Neb..

EEOC lawsuits allege Muslim Somali workers harrassed at JBS meatpacking plants in Colo., Neb.

Suits: Muslims harrassed at JBS meatpacking plants

DENVER – Muslim Somali workers face ongoing mistreatment and harassment at two JBS Swift & Co. meatpacking plants in Colorado and Nebraska, including being prevented from getting a drink at one of the plants after fasting all day during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, the Equal Employment Opportunity … Original source on Gaea Times at : EEOC lawsuits allege Muslim Somali workers harrassed at JBS meatpacking plants in Colo., Neb..

EEOC sues JBS over alleged harassment of Muslim workers at meatpacking plants in Colo., Neb.

EEOC sues JBS, says Muslim Somalis mistreated

DENVER – Federal officials say Muslim Somali workers were denied prayer time and faced harrassment and termination at two JBS Swift & Co. meatpacking plants in Colorado and Nebraska.
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission made the allegations in lawsuits filed late Monday in U.S. District Court in Denver and in …. Original source  : EEOC sues JBS over alleged harassment of Muslim workers at meatpacking plants in Colo., Neb..

Iraqi prime minister says his country is independent, sovereign as US ends combat operations

Iraq says its independent as US ends combat
BAGHDAD – Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki said the end of American combat operations Tuesday leaves his country independent and an equal to the United States and he assured his people their own security forces will protect them.
But the extent of U.S. …. Read the original article  : Iraqi prime minister says his country is independent, sovereign as US ends combat operations.

‘I would take them down,’ NY synagogue plot suspect says in tapes played for jury

NY synagogue plot suspect heard boasting on tape

NEW YORK – A down-and-out Muslim man, under pressure from a paid FBI informant, admitted he was eager to attack a New York synagogue to vent his rage against Jews and U.S. military might in the Middle East, according to tapes played Tuesday at his trial.
“I don’t care …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘I would take them down,’ NY synagogue plot suspect says in tapes played for jury.

Imam says fight over planned mosque near ground zero could shape future of Islam in America

NY Imam: Mosque fight about Muslim role in America

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – The imam leading plans for an Islamic center near the site of the Sept. 11 attacks in New York said Tuesday that the fight is over more than “a piece of real estate” and could shape the future of Muslim relations in … Read : Imam says fight over planned mosque near ground zero could shape future of Islam in America.

NYC mayor: Probing finances of proposed Islamic center, mosque would set ‘terrible precedent’

NYC mayor disapproves of probe of mosque financing

NEW YORK – New York’s mayor says an investigation by the state attorney general into the finances of a proposed Islamic center and mosque near ground zero would set “a terrible precedent.”
Mayor Michael Bloomberg says there’s no reason for the government to investigate donations to religious organizations.
Congressman Peter …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

UAE sends 500 tonnes food aid to Somalia

Abu Dhabi, Aug 31 (IANS/WAM) The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has sent 500 tonnes of food to Somalia as part of its humanitarian assistance to the poverty-stricken country during the holy month of Ramadan.

Abdullah Mattar Al Mazrouie, UAE ambassador to Yemen, said more than 500 tonnes of food supplies were sent from Sana’a to save …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : UAE sends 500 tonnes food aid to Somalia.

Defrocking process begun for Pa. priest accused of impregnating teen; DA says no charges

Pa. priest won’t face charges over videotaped sex

PHILADELPHIA – A Roman Catholic diocese in Pennsylvania has begun the process to defrock a priest whose dalliances with a teenage girl were videotaped by her parents. She later gave birth to a daughter.
But Berks County District Attorney John T. Adams says his office won’t press charges against …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Defrocking process begun for Pa. priest accused of impregnating teen; DA says no charges.

Security beefed up in temples ahead of Janmashtami

NEW DELHI – Security arrangements have been beefed up in and around the big temples and markets in the capital on the eve of Janmashtami – the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna, which will be celebrated Sep 2 this year.

Thousands of devotees are expected to visit the temples around the capital on the eve … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Security beefed up in temples ahead of Janmashtami.

Pope grants interviews to German journalist for new book expected later this year

Pope grants interviews to journalist for new book

VATICAN CITY – Pope Benedict XVI has granted a series of interviews to a German journalist that will form the basis of a new book expected later this year.
The Vatican said Tuesday that Benedict and journalist Peter Seewald spoke several times over the course of the final week …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pope grants interviews to German journalist for new book expected later this year.

Poll: 71 percent of New Yorkers want developers to move mosque, want AG to investigate funding

Poll: Most NYers want developers to move mosque

ALBANY, N.Y. – A new poll finds 71 percent of New Yorkers want the developers of an Islamic center and mosque near ground zero to voluntarily move the project.
The Quinnipiac (KWIHN’-uh-pee-ak) University poll released Tuesday finds the same amount of New Yorkers want Attorney General Andrew Cuomo to … Read : Poll: 71 percent of New Yorkers want developers to move mosque, want AG to investigate funding.

Krishna Janmashtami Celebrations Ahead

BANGALORE, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- For the religious and devout Indians Krishna Janmashtami is a holy and auspicious occasion and this is something they look forward to. It is celebrated in various parts of the country by the followers of Lord Krishna with great enthusiasm and the occasion is associated with a number of religious rituals. …. Original article  : Krishna Janmashtami Celebrations Ahead.

Bangladesh minister slammed for comments on Janmashtami

DHAKA – A call by Bangladesh Home Minister Sahara Khatun to the minority Hindu community to observe Janmashtami, the birthday of Lord Krishna, “peacefully” and end it by 5 p.m. Wednesday in time for the end of “roza” has been criticised by the nation’s media.

The minister’s call has been termed “overtly discriminatory” in an editorial …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Developer says Islamic center planned near ground zero should be known as ‘hub of coexistence’

Developer behind NYC mosque talks about his vision

NEW YORK – The developer behind an Islamic cultural center and mosque planned near ground zero says it should be known as “a hub of coexistence.”
Sharif El-Gamal says it never occurred to him an Islamic center near the site of the Sept. 11 attacks would stir up so …. Source article  : Developer says Islamic center planned near ground zero should be known as ‘hub of coexistence’.

Federal employment commission files suit alleging discrimination against Muslims at Neb. plant

Feds: Muslims faced discrimination at Neb. plant

OMAHA, Neb. – Federal officials say a JBS Swift & Co. meatpacking plant in Nebraska should provide Muslim employees with prayer time and not retaliate against workers who ask to pray.
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission filed a lawsuit Monday on behalf of more than 80 Somali Muslims.
A message left … Read : Federal employment commission files suit alleging discrimination against Muslims at Neb. plant.

India partners Nepal to spread Krishna’s voice

KATHMANDU – The Bhagvad Gita – containing Lord Krishna’s teachings and regarded as the essence of the Hindu religion and philosophy – is one of the most influential books in the world, but not much is known about its sequel, the Anugita.

Janmashtami, Lord Krishna’s birthday, is perhaps the perfect occasion to remember this less …. Original article  : India partners Nepal to spread Krishna’s voice.

Joyous mood sweeps Braj bhoomi on Janmashtami

MATHURA – Temples across Braj Mandal, a large swathe of area around Mathura, are bustling with joy and fervour, celebrating Janmashtami — the birthday of Lord Krishna. — who is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

The confusion created by two Janamashtmi dates notwithstanding, the festivities in Vrindavan and Mathura reached dizzy heights with more … Read more »».

Drum beats wake up Mumbai, Govindas seek pot of luck

MUMBAI – Mumbaikars woke up to beating of drums on Janmashtami Thursday as Govindas got together at their venues to strategise and form human pyramids to reach ‘dahi handis’ — or pots of curd and luck — suspended high.

With huge prize money at stake, Govindas in Panchpakhadi area of Thane aimed to break the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Drum beats wake up Mumbai, Govindas seek pot of luck.

Delhiites throng temples on Janmashtami

NEW DELHI – Men, women and children of all ages Thursday thronged temples that were decked up in bright coloured lights, decorations and flowers across Delhi for Janmashtami which celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna. Despite the hot and humid weather, crowds were large.

The main Janmashtami celebrations in the city take place at the …. Read the original article  : Delhiites throng temples on Janmashtami.

Archaeologists in Jordan say they have unearthed a 3,000-year-old Iron Age temple

Jordan unearths 3,000-year-old Iron Age temple

AMMAN, Jordan – Archaeologists in Jordan have unearthed a 3,000-year-old Iron Age temple with a trove of figurines of ancient deities and circular clay vessels used for religious rituals, officials said Wednesday.
The head of the Jordanian Antiquities Department, Ziad al-Saad, said the sanctuary dates to the eighth century B.C. and …. Source  : Archaeologists in Jordan say they have unearthed a 3,000-year-old Iron Age temple.

NY Muslim groups decry hostile atmosphere, say bigotry shouldn’t impede Islamic institutions

NY Muslim groups decry hostile atmosphere
NEW YORK – It is “unethical, insensitive and inhumane” to oppose the planned mosque near ground zero, more than 50 leading Muslim organizations said Wednesday as they cast the intense debate as a symptom of religious intolerance in America.

The imam behind the project, meanwhile, was preparing to return to the … Read : NY Muslim groups decry hostile atmosphere, say bigotry shouldn’t impede Islamic institutions.

Mormon church: New genealogy database addresses Holocaust victim baptism concerns

Mormon church, Jewish leaders tackle proxy baptism

SALT LAKE CITY – The Mormon church says it has changed its genealogical database to better prevent the names of Jews killed in Nazi concentration camps from being submitted for posthumous baptism by proxy.
In a joint statement issued Wednesday, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and a … Original article on : Mormon church: New genealogy database addresses Holocaust victim baptism concerns.

Manmohan Singh offers prayers at Tirupati temple

HYDERABAD – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Wednesday offered prayers at the famous Lord Venkateswara temple in Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh.

On a visit to the temple town to lay the foundation stone for two projects, he visited the temple atop Tirumala Hills.
Priests and officials of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), which manages the affairs of the …. Source article  : Manmohan Singh offers prayers at Tirupati temple.

Janmashtami Wishes and Scraps

KOLKATA, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com) — Janmashtami marks the birth of the savior Lord Krishna — an avatar of Hindu deity Vishnu.
This celebration is also known by the names — “Krishnashtami”,”Saatam Aatham” ,”Gokulashtami”, “Ashtami Rohini”, “Srikrishna Jayanti”, “Sree Jayanthi”. According to the Hindu calendar the event is dated on Ashtami tithi, the eighth day of the dark …. Source  : Janmashtami Wishes and Scraps.

Top 10 Janmashtami SMS 2010

KOLKATA, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com) — India is a land of various cultures and festivals. Today on 1st September people all over are ready to celebrate the scared festival of Janmashtami. This festival marks the birthday of Lord Krishna. Lord Krishna was born at Mathura where Janmashtami where this festival marks a very auspicious occasion.
The Hindus all … Original article on : Top 10 Janmashtami SMS 2010.

Iskon Celebrates Janmashtami 2010

KOLKATA, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com) — Janmashtami is a Hindu Festival that marks the birth of Lord Krishna. It is celebrated all across India with a great fervor. ISKON or International Society for Krishna Consciousness is celebrating Janmashtami today. This is celebrated on the 8th day of Bhadra Month.
Many followers of Lord Vishnu observes this day …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Converts to Islam should go public: Malaysian Muslim clergy

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia’s Muslim religious leaders Wednesday supported the government’s proposal to get converts to Islam to publicly announce their religious status, saying this would avoid future family disputes.

They said the move, which would require converts to update their religious status in an automatic system, was necessary as Islam required them to declare their … Original article on : Converts to Islam should go public: Malaysian Muslim clergy.

Most New Yorkers don’t want Islamic centre near Ground Zero

NEW YORK – Two-thirds of New York City residents want a controversial Muslim community centre and mosque to be relocated farther away from the site of 9/11 terrorist attack, according to a New York Times poll.

The poll indicates that support for the 13-story complex at the Sep 11, 2001 ground zero site in Lower Manhattan, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Most New Yorkers don’t want Islamic centre near Ground Zero.

Ramadan TV show focuses on darker side of Muslim Brotherhood, provoking controversy in Egypt

Egypt TV show stirs debate over Muslim Brotherhood

CAIRO – The bearded young cleric yells at a young woman for lifting her traditional veil from her face while speaking to him on the street, and rants against Egyptians who adopt Western lifestyles and values. His followers beat up an opponent.
That is the image of the founder … Original source on Gaea Times at : Ramadan TV show focuses on darker side of Muslim Brotherhood, provoking controversy in Egypt.

13 years on, Mother Teresa still draws foreign tourists to Kolkata

KOLKATA – Be it soccer legend Diego Maradona, tennis star Martina Hingis or football World Cup hero Diego Forlan – they have all visited the plain two-storey Missionaries of Charity headquarters here that houses Mother Teresa’s grave. It’s a must-see for foreign tourists visiting eastern India even 13 years after her death.

Sep 5, 1997, was …. Original source  : 13 years on, Mother Teresa still draws foreign tourists to Kolkata.

Imam behind proposed NYC Islamic center due back in the US, says he will break silence soon

Imam for NYC Islamic center due to return to US

NEW YORK – The spiritual leader of a group of New Yorkers planning to build a $100 million Islamic center near the World Trade Center site will return to the U.S. this weekend from a State Department-sponsored tour of Persian Gulf nations.
Feisal Abdul Rauf has been …. Source article  : Imam behind proposed NYC Islamic center due back in the US, says he will break silence soon.

Farrakhan backs planned mosque near ground zero, says Muslims among those killed on Sept. 11

Farrakhan supports planned mosque near ground zero
WASHINGTON – Nation of Islam Minister Louis Farrakhan said Thursday an Islamic community center and mosque planned near ground zero should be built because Muslims were among those of many faiths who died in the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
“Why then should a mosque, a cultural center, not … Read : Farrakhan backs planned mosque near ground zero, says Muslims among those killed on Sept. 11.

Chaplain killed in Afghanistan is 1st Army clergy killed in action since Vietnam

Army: Chaplain is 1st killed in action since ‘70

DENVER – A chaplain killed in Afghanistan this week was the first Army clergyman killed in action since the Vietnam War, the military said Thursday.
Capt. Dale Goetz of the 4th Infantry Division at Fort Carson, Colo., was among five soldiers killed by an improvised bomb on Monday.
Before …. Source article  : Chaplain killed in Afghanistan is 1st Army clergy killed in action since Vietnam.

Hamas, though excluded from Mideast talks, is among most intractable issues

Hamas among intractable issues in Mideast talks

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip – To relaunch Middle East peace talks on Thursday, the Israeli and Palestinian leaders and their American mediators quietly agreed to push aside the question of Hamas – the Islamic militant group that controls one of the two Palestinian territories and rejects negotiations.
But Hamas let …. Original source  : Hamas, though excluded from Mideast talks, is among most intractable issues.

Afghan President Karzai says govt will guarantee deposits at troubled Kabul Bank

Karzai: Afghan govt will back Kabul Bank
KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan President Hamid Karzai reassured nervous customers at the troubled Kabul Bank on Thursday, saying every penny of their deposits would be guaranteed by the government.

Larger than usual crowds gathered to withdraw funds from Afghanistan’s largest bank Wednesday and Thursday after two top executives resigned amid … Original article on : Afghan President Karzai says govt will guarantee deposits at troubled Kabul Bank.

Afghan official: Afghan govt will guarantee deposits at troubled Kabul Bank

Afghan official: Afghan govt will back Kabul Bank

KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan’s finance minister reassured nervous customers at the troubled Kabul Bank on Thursday, saying every penny of their deposits would be guaranteed by the government.
Larger than usual crowds gathered to withdraw funds from Afghanistan’s largest bank Wednesday and Thursday after two top executives resigned amid …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Main Paris mosque criticizes burger chain’s efforts to offer food tailored to Muslims

Paris mosque slams burger chain’s Muslim outreach

PARIS – Note to big companies hoping to tap into France’s lucrative but long-neglected Muslim consumer market: Pitfalls may await, and not only in the form of complaints from the far-right.
As of this week, 22 outlets of popular French fast food chain Quick are serving burgers it says respect …. Read the original article  : Main Paris mosque criticizes burger chain’s efforts to offer food tailored to Muslims.

Few signs of impending run on Afghanistan’s Kabul Bank after top executives resign

Few signs of impending run on Kabul Bank
KABUL, Afghanistan – Larger than usual crowds gathered to withdraw funds from Afghanistan’s largest bank Thursday, but there was little sign that questions surrounding its viability had sparked a major panic.

After the bank’s two top executives resigned amid allegations of mismanagement and unorthodox real estate loans, nervous customers … Read : Few signs of impending run on Afghanistan’s Kabul Bank after top executives resign.

Janmashtami celebrated with fervour in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Thousands of devotees Thursday gathered at temples across the capital to pay obeisance to Lord Krishna, one of the most revered gods of Hindus, on the occasion of Janmashtami.

The main Janmashtami celebrations in the city took place at the Lakshmi Narayan temple, better known as Birla Mandir, in New Delhi, … Read more : Janmashtami celebrated with fervour in Delhi.

Few signs of impending run on Afghanistan’s Kabul Bank as official seek to calm fears

Few signs of run on Afghanistan’s Kabul Bank

KABUL, Afghanistan – Larger than usual crowds gathered to withdraw funds from Afghanistan’s largest bank Thursday, but there was little sign that questions surrounding its viability had sparked a major panic.
Nervous customers flocked to Kabul Bank branches on Wednesday to take out their money following the resignation of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Court stops polls at Canada’s oldest Sikh temple

VANCOUVER – The cancellation of elections to North America’s oldest Sikh temple, the Ross Street Gurdwara, by a court this week has opened divisions between moderates and hardliners in the local Sikh community.

Vancouver and its surrounding areas in British Columbia province – which were the first places where Punjabi immigrants from India arrived in the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Court stops polls at Canada’s oldest Sikh temple.

At Minnesota State Fair, Muslims hand out information in effort to repair tattered image

Muslims take to Minn. State Fair to repair image

FALCON HEIGHTS, Minn. – Despite the smells of fried dough and roasted meat wafting from the Minnesota State Fair, Salim and Zuleyha Ozonder were focused on the people who were leaving, not the food or festivities beckoning from across the street.
Each time a new wave of people …. Read the original article  : At Minnesota State Fair, Muslims hand out information in effort to repair tattered image.

Half of poll respondents oppose mosque near WTC; majority say people have right to build it

Poll: NYers conflicted on mosque near WTC
NEW YORK – A new poll finds New Yorkers are conflicted about the construction of a mosque near the World Trade Center site, with half of respondents opposed to the project and a majority saying people have the right to build an Islamic center near ground zero.

The New York …. Source article  : Half of poll respondents oppose mosque near WTC; majority say people have right to build it.

Iraqi Shiite bloc names new candidate for PM, further complicating govt. formation process

Shiite bloc names new candidate for Iraqi PM

BAGHDAD – A powerful Iranian-backed Shiite bloc put forward its own candidate for prime minister Friday, further complicating Iraq’s fractured political scene as the country stumbled into month six without a new government.
The March 7 parliamentary vote produced no clear winner, setting up a contentious fight between the …. Source article  : Iraqi Shiite bloc names new candidate for PM, further complicating govt. formation process.

Rs.100 crore Vivekananda education project approved

NEW DELHI – The government Friday gave in-principle approval to the Rs.100 crore Swami Vivekananda Values Education Project aimed at encouraging research on religion.

“The National Implementation Committee in a meeting chaired by Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee has approved in principle Swami Vivekananda Values Education Project worth Rs.100 crore,” an official statement said.
The meeting …. Read the original article  : here.

Shiite cleric warns Iraqis security forces against working with remaining American troops

Shiite cleric warns Iraqis against working with US

BAGHDAD – A powerful Shiite cleric in Iraq has warned the country’s security forces against working with the remaining American troops in the country.
In a statement read at Friday prayers in mosques across Iraq, Muqtada al-Sadr extended support to Iraq’s police and soldiers, as long as they don’t …. Original article  : Shiite cleric warns Iraqis security forces against working with remaining American troops.

Only ancient wisdom can save India’s ’sacred’ animals

NEW DELHI – Many “sacred” animals of India – a concept most visible in Hindu religion – may become extinct one day unless the ancient respect for all creations returns.

“Respecting these sentiments would certainly improve the lives of domestic animals and the chances of survival of India’s endangered wildlife,” says “The Sacred Animals of India”, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Only ancient wisdom can save India’s ’sacred’ animals.

November to be Sikh Awareness Month in California

YUBA CITY – In a historic gesture for the 250,000-strong Sikh community in California, the state assembly has passed a resolution declaring November as ‘California Sikh American Awareness and Appreciation Month.’

During the month, Sikh cultural and social events will be held to highlight their contribution to California since there arrival in the state more than …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : November to be Sikh Awareness Month in California.

Saudi telecom shuts websites violating royal decree limiting fatwas to senior clerics

Saudi telecom shuts websites violating Fatwa edict

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia – Saudi Arabia’s telecom regulator has shut down three websites that were violating a government decree limiting the issuance of religious edicts to the country’s most senior group of clerics, authorities said Saturday.
Saad al-Shihri, an official at the Saudi Communications and Information Technology Commission, said the … Read more >>.

US Muslims gird for tough 9/11 anniversary; ground zero uproar stokes fears of backlash

For US Muslims, a 9/11 anniversary like no other

NEW YORK – American Muslims are boosting security at mosques, seeking help from leaders of other faiths and airing ads underscoring their loyalty to the United States – all ahead of a 9/11 anniversary they fear could bring more trouble for their communities.
Their goal is not only … Read more : US Muslims gird for tough 9/11 anniversary; ground zero uproar stokes fears of backlash.

French diplomats face fallout abroad as bid to ban Islamic veils irks allies _ and tourists

French bid to ban veils worries allies, tourists

PARIS – Protests in Pakistan, al-Qaida warnings, skittish Muslim tourists: France’s plan to do away with burqa-style veils is already reverberating far beyond its borders.
A bill to outlaw face veils, aimed at upholding French republican values, is expected to win Senate approval this month. If it passes this …. Read the original article  : French diplomats face fallout abroad as bid to ban Islamic veils irks allies _ and tourists.

Egyptian democracy advocate says government behind Facebook photos of daughter in swimsuit

Egypt opposition leader claims official harassment

CAIRO – Egypt’s most prominent democracy advocate accused President Hosni Mubarak’s government Saturday of posting Facebook photos of his daughter in swimsuits and at events where alcohol was served in an attempt to discredit him.
Mohammed ElBaradei, the Nobel Peace Prize winner and former U.N. nuclear chief, was quoted in the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Egyptian democracy advocate says government behind Facebook photos of daughter in swimsuit.

Sweat, breath damaging Sistine Chapel’s frescoes

LONDON – The sweat and breath of over 4 million tourists who gape at the exquisite frescoes at the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican City are damaging the Renaissance period works of art, a top official has warned.

The Sistine Chapel has between 15,000 and 20,000 visitors a day, the Daily Telegraph reported Friday.
The Sistine …. Read the original article  : Sweat, breath damaging Sistine Chapel’s frescoes.

Thousands of Indonesian Muslims protest US church’s plan to burn Quran on 9/11

Indonesian Muslims protest plan to burn Quran

JAKARTA, Indonesia – Thousands of Indonesian Muslims rallied outside the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta on Saturday to denounce an American church’s plan to mark the anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks by burning copies of the Quran.
The Dove World Outreach Center in Gainesville, Florida, said it will burn the … Read : Thousands of Indonesian Muslims protest US church’s plan to burn Quran on 9/11.

Shiva’s mace procession in Himachal begins Wednesday

SHIMLA – The procession of the holy mace of Lord Shiva during the Manimahesh pilgrimage in Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh would start Wednesday, an official said Monday.

“All arrangements have been made for the ‘Charri Yatra’ (holy mace procession) that would begin from 1,000-year-old Lakshmi Narayan temple in Chamba town,” Chamba Deputy Commissioner Devesh Kumar … Read more >>.

Malaysia TV station scraps Muslim holiday ad following Christmas, Santa comparison complaints

Malaysia Muslim TV ad scrapped amid Christmas link

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – A Malaysian television station scrapped a commercial tied to the biggest Muslim holiday after viewers complained it appeared influenced by Christmas and Santa Claus.
The commercial began airing earlier this month to wish Muslim viewers a happy celebration of Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Malaysia TV station scraps Muslim holiday ad following Christmas, Santa comparison complaints.

Fla.-based Internet evangelist begins services near ground zero to preach against Islam

Evangelist preaches against Islam near 9/11 site

NEW YORK – An Internet evangelist from Florida has begun holding services near ground zero to preach against Islam as debate continues over plans for a nearby Muslim community center.
Bill Keller has gained a following through his Liveprayer.com website, and has promised to establish a “9/11 Christian Center” to … Read more >>>.

US honours Mother Teresa with a stamp

WASHINGTON – The United States has issued a postal stamp honouring Mother Teresa “the diminutive Roman Catholic nun and honorary US citizen who served the sick and destitute of India for nearly 50 years.”

Designed by award-winning artist Thomas Blackshear II, the 44-cent stamp was released Sunday, the 13th anniversary of Mother Teresa’s death, at a …. Original article  : US honours Mother Teresa with a stamp.

Bahrain steps up crackdown on restive Shiite opposition, threatening democratic reform push

Bahrain steps up pressure on Shiite ‘plotters’

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – What began last month with the arrest of an opposition leader in Bahrain has mushroomed into a full-blown political offensive in the tiny Gulf nation with big fault lines: U.S.-allied Sunni rulers against members of a Shiite majority being cast as coup plotters who …. Original source  : Bahrain steps up crackdown on restive Shiite opposition, threatening democratic reform push.

UAE charity to pay for deportation of 200 inmates

Abu Dhabi, Sep 5 (IANS/WAM) On the occasion of Eid ul-Fitr that marks the end of Ramadan, the UAE president’s charity will bear the travel costs of 200 prisoners who have completed their terms and are to be deported but don’t have the money to return home.

The Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation (KBZF) … Read : UAE charity to pay for deportation of 200 inmates.

Special prayers mark Mother Teresa’s 13th death anniversary

KOLKATA – Special prayers and masses Sunday marked the 13th death anniversary of Mother Teresa.

Nuns of Missionaries of Charity, a Catholic Order founded by Mother Teresa to minister to the poorest of the poor and the infirm and the dying, held special prayers at their global headquarters Mother House.
Mother Tersa’s three-foot-high cement grave …. Original source  : Special prayers mark Mother Teresa’s 13th death anniversary.

Who will define ground zero? 9 years after 9/11, tug of war over ’sacred ground’ grows heated

9 years gone, everyone’s a ground zero stakeholder

NEW YORK – It is a place of sacrifice. A place of mourning. A place people pass by on their way to grab lunch. It’s a place where tourists crane their necks to snatch a glimpse around barriers walling off an enormous construction site – which is also …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

BJP again takes Ayodhya issue to high pitch

LUCKNOW – The Ayodhya temple issue that helped the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) come to power in the past appears to be taking a dominant position once again with a meeting of the party’s Uttar Pradesh executive concluding Sunday by taking it to a high pitch.

Spelling out the BJP’s priority vis-a-vis the Ayodhya issue, party’s …. Read the original article  : BJP again takes Ayodhya issue to high pitch.

RSS seeks consensus on Ramjanmabhoomi issue

KOLKATA – The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sunday pitched for a national consensus on the controversial Ram Janmabhomi issue and said parliament should discuss the matter after a court delivers its judgment later this month.

“We want that a national consensus be created on the issue,” RSS spokesperson Ram Madhav said in an interaction with the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : RSS seeks consensus on Ramjanmabhoomi issue.

Vatican decries stoning as brutal punishment, hints at help in adultery case of Iranian woman

Vatican: stoning in Iran adultery case ‘brutal’

VATICAN CITY – The Vatican raised the possibility Sunday of using behind-the-scenes diplomacy to try to save the life of an Iranian widow sentenced to be stoned for adultery.
In its first public statement on the case, which has attracted worldwide attention, the Vatican decried stoning as a particularly brutal …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Vatican decries stoning as brutal punishment, hints at help in adultery case of Iranian woman.

Reports: relics of Russian saint, ancient icons stolen in Moscow suburb

Relics of Russian saint, icons stolen
MOSCOW – A Russian news agency is reporting that three ancient icons, one of which contained relics of Russia’s most venerated saint, have been stolen.

RIA Novosti said Sunday that clerics at the St. Trinity church in a Moscow suburb discovered the theft after a service Saturday.
It said one of the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Reports: relics of Russian saint, ancient icons stolen in Moscow suburb.

Kerala idol draws crowds in Singapore

SINGAPORE – An idol from a 5,000-year-old temple in Kerala is drawing huge crowds in Singapore.

Hundreds of Hindus are flocking to the Sri Vairavimada Kaliamman temple in Toa Payoh area to pray to Sree Bhagavathy Amman, popular among women seeking comfort from family-related problems such as abuse and alcoholism, The Straits Times newspaper reported Sunday. …. Source article  : Kerala idol draws crowds in Singapore.

Sarkozy adviser: 2 French hostages in Afghanistan ‘in good health’; talks to resume

2 French hostages in Afghanistan ‘in good health’

PARIS – President Nicolas Sarkozy’s chief of staff says two French journalists held hostage in Afghanistan are “in good health” and that negotiations toward their release will resume.
Elysee Palace secretary-general Claude Gueant says French officials received proof in the last 10 days that France-3 television reporters Stephane Taponier … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Sarkozy adviser: 2 French hostages in Afghanistan ‘in good health’; talks to resume.

Tharoor violated no rules at Guruvayoor

GURUVAYOOR – Authorities at the famed Guruvayoor temple said Sunday that Shashi Tharoor and his wife Sunanda Pushkar had not violated any rule when they visited it after their wedding.

Temple secretary K.M. Reghuraman told IANS that there was a complaint that former central minister Tharoor and his wife had broken temple rules by entering an …. Original article  : Tharoor violated no rules at Guruvayoor.

Muslims nervously await 9/11 amid row over mosque plan

WASHINGTON – Muslims in the US are nervous about celebrating Eid this year as the festival coincides with the 9/11 anniversary that too amid a controversy over plans to build a mosque near ground zero.

A worried US commander in Afghanistan has criticised a Florida church’s plan to mark the anniversary of Sep 11, 2001, terrorist …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Muslims nervously await 9/11 amid row over mosque plan.

Top US commander in Afghanistan warns Quran burning could spark violence against Americans

Top US commander: Burning Quran endangers troops

KABUL, Afghanistan – The top U.S. and NATO commander in Afghanistan warned Tuesday an American church’s threat to burn copies of the Muslim holy book the Quran could endanger U.S. troops in the country and Americans worldwide.
“Images of the burning of a Quran would undoubtedly be used by extremists … Read more »»».

Imam behind plans for Islamic community center near ground zero back in the US after Gulf trip

Imam behind NYC mosque back in US after Gulf trip

NEW YORK – An imam who has become the public face of a proposed Islamic community center and mosque near ground zero has returned to the United States following a taxpayer-funded tour of the Middle East, his wife said Monday.
Daisy Khan said her husband, Feisal Abdul …. Original source  : Imam behind plans for Islamic community center near ground zero back in the US after Gulf trip.

Dubai relaxes marriage rules

Dubai, Sep 6 (IANS/WAM) A Dubai court has ruled that marriage officiants in the emirate have legal authority to solemnize marriage contracts between Muslims regardless of their nationalities.

Head of family court Judge Salem Obaid Othman passed the ruling Monday.
The system earlier in force in Dubai did not give this right to marriage officiants …. Read the original article  : Dubai relaxes marriage rules.

Afghanistan to close more polling stations because of security concerns

Afghanistan: More voting stations to remain closed

KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan election officials said Wednesday that scores of additional polling stations will have to remain closed during the Sept. 18 parliamentary vote because of the deteriorating security situation in the country.
The state electoral commission said 81 of the 458 polling stations planned in Nangarhar province will … Read more >>>.

Cleric to child, Ramadan spirit binds them all

NEW DELHI – From dawn to dusk and dusk to dawn, the Islamic holy month of Ramadan is a time for nurturing piety. Mosques fill with worshippers. The muezzin’s call of ‘adhan’ and sirens signal the starting and breaking of fast. Markets in Muslim dominated areas in India overflow in the evenings, as people get …. Source article  : Cleric to child, Ramadan spirit binds them all.

In secular Syria, a TV soap raises controversy by criticizing Muslim hard-liners

Sex, violence, Islam: Syrian TV soap raises drama

BEIRUT – In a new Syrian soap opera, a beautiful green-eyed young woman named Layla is torn over whether to take off the niqab, the billowing black Islamic garb that hides every part of her except her eyes.
“I cannot take this pressure anymore,” she says in one episode. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : In secular Syria, a TV soap raises controversy by criticizing Muslim hard-liners.

White House, religious leaders pressure Fla. minister not to burn Quran; he’s still praying

Fla. minister: Quran burning still planned

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The leader of a small Florida church that espouses anti-Islam philosophy said he was still praying about whether go through with his plan to burn copies of the Quran on Sept. 11, which the White House, religious leaders and others are pressuring him to call off.
The Rev. … Read more : White House, religious leaders pressure Fla. minister not to burn Quran; he’s still praying.

Mormon farmers in Idaho abstain from alcohol but earn living by supplying barley to brewers

Abstinent Mormon farmers grow barley for beer

BOISE, Idaho – Idaho Sen. Mike Crapo might seem like an unlikely person to be pushing a bill to cut federal taxes on small beer-makers: A member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he abstains from alcohol.
But Crapo’s effort, with senators from Oregon, Massachusetts and Maine, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mormon farmers in Idaho abstain from alcohol but earn living by supplying barley to brewers.

Prayers, feasts and piety – it’s Ramadan in India (Special)

From dawn to dusk and dusk to dawn, the Muslim holy month of Ramadan is a time for nurturing piety. Mosques fill with worshippers, hotels are closed during the day. The muezzin’s call of ‘adhan’ and sounds of sirens are the signals for starting and breaking fast.

Each year, when the sound of a particular … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Prayers, feasts and piety – it’s Ramadan in India (Special).

Islam will sooner or later dominate Europe: Italian priest

LONDON – Christians in Europe must have more children or else the continent would become Islamised, said a Vatican official who predicted that Islam would “sooner rather than later conquer the majority in Europe”.

Italian Father Piero Gheddo said the poor birth rate among Europeans coupled with waves of Muslim immigrants could lead to Europe …. Read the original article  : here.

Rev up those prayers at Bullet Baba’s shrine!

PALI – It’s a shrine dedicated to the Motorbike Devta, also called Bullet Baba. The deity is indeed a motorcycle and such is faith that hundreds of devotees turn up every day to pray for a safe journey.

The unlikely shrine near Chotila village, around 20 km away from Pali en route to Jodhpur on the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Rev up those prayers at Bullet Baba’s shrine!.

Friend testifies that defendant never spoke of sending money to Muslim fighters in Chechnya

Longtime friend testifies in Islamic charity trial

EUGENE, Ore. – A longtime friend of a man accused of using an Islamic charity to smuggle money to Muslim fighters in Chechnya has testified that defendant Pete Seda wanted to promote peace and help orphans.
Seda is on trial in federal court in Eugene, Ore., on charges he and …. Read the original article  : here.

Hillary Clinton condemns Koran burning plan; pastor adamant

WASHINGTON – As a Florida church vowed to move forward with a controversial plan to burn the Koran, US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton joined other US officials in condemning it as “disrespectful and disgraceful”.

“We sit down together for this meal on a day when the news is carrying reports that a pastor down …. Original source  : Hillary Clinton condemns Koran burning plan; pastor adamant.

Imam behind NYC Islamic community center says it will include ‘prayer spaces’ for other faiths

Imam: NYC Islamic center to include other faiths

NEW YORK – A proposed Islamic community center near ground zero will include separate prayer spaces for Muslims, Christians, Jews and people of other faiths, the imam behind plans for the facility wrote in an op-ed piece published online Tuesday.
Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf wrote in The New York … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Imam behind NYC Islamic community center says it will include ‘prayer spaces’ for other faiths.

Clinton condemns Fla. pastor’s plan to burn Quran a ‘disrespectful, disgraceful act’

Clinton calls plan to burn Quran ‘disgraceful act’

WASHINGTON – Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton on Tuesday called a Florida church’s threat to burn copies of the Muslim holy book to mark the ninth anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks a “disrespectful, disgraceful act.”
Others in the Obama administration weighed in against the proposed burning, including …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Clinton condemns Fla. pastor’s plan to burn Quran a ‘disrespectful, disgraceful act’.

Attorney General Holder tells religious leaders burning Quran is ‘idiotic and dangerous’

Holder: Quran burning idiotic and dangerous

WASHINGTON – Attorney General Eric Holder is calling the planned burning of the Quran at a Florida church idiotic and dangerous.
That’s the word from religious leaders who met with Holder for nearly an hour Tuesday to discuss recent attacks on Muslims and mosques around the United States.
The meeting was closed … Original article on : Attorney General Holder tells religious leaders burning Quran is ‘idiotic and dangerous’.

Government turns up pressure on Florida church where pastor wants to burn copies of Quran

Pressure rises on pastor who wants to burn Quran

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The government turned up the pressure Tuesday on the head of a small Florida church who plans to burn copies of the Quran on Sept. 11, warning him that doing so could endanger U.S. troops and Americans everywhere.
But the Rev. Terry Jones insisted he …. Source article  : Government turns up pressure on Florida church where pastor wants to burn copies of Quran.

Justice Department investigating at least 5 anti-Muslim acts in 4 states

DOJ investigating at least 5 anti-Muslim acts

WASHINGTON – The Justice Department is investigating a handful of apparently anti-Muslim incidents in four states, including the stabbing of a Muslim cab driver in New York City.
FBI agents and civil rights division investigators also are looking into vandalism and other incidents at mosques or mosque construction sites in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Justice Department investigating at least 5 anti-Muslim acts in 4 states.

US officials say Quran burning ‘un-American,’ will put US troops, diplomats, travelers at risk

US officials say Quran burning endangers troops

WASHINGTON – The Obama administration on Tuesday weighed in against a Florida church’s threat to burn copies of the Muslim holy book, with the State Department calling the plan “un-American” and officials saying it could threaten U.S. troops, diplomats and travelers overseas.
State Department spokesman P.J. Crowley said the administration …. Read the original article  : US officials say Quran burning ‘un-American,’ will put US troops, diplomats, travelers at risk.

NYC mayor: Fla. minister’s plan to burn Quran on 9/11 is ‘distasteful’ but a protected right

NYC mayor defends minister’s right to burn Quran

NEW YORK – Mayor Michael Bloomberg says a minister’s plan to burn the Muslim holy book on Sept. 11 is “distasteful” but says the minister has a right to do it.
Bloomberg was asked Tuesday about Pastor Terry Jones’ announced plan to burn the Quran on Saturday, the ninth … Read more »»».

US State Department calls Quran burning plan un-American; Fla. pastor says he’ll do it anyway

US church to go ahead with Sept. 11 Quran burning

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – A Christian minister vowed Tuesday to go ahead with plans to burn copies of the Quran to protest the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks despite warnings from the White House and the top U.S. general in Afghanistan that he would endanger American troops overseas.
Pastor …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : US State Department calls Quran burning plan un-American; Fla. pastor says he’ll do it anyway.

White House: Quran burning would put troops in Afghanistan in harm’s way

White House: Quran burning would endanger troops

WASHINGTON – The White House said Tuesday that a Florida church’s threat to burn copies of the Muslim holy book could endanger U.S. troops abroad, while the State Department denounced the plan as “un-American” and said it would put American diplomats and travelers at risk.
White House spokesman Robert Gibbs …. Original article  : White House: Quran burning would put troops in Afghanistan in harm’s way.

Kalyan Singh to launch Ram temple movement

LUCKNOW – Expelled Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Kalyan Singh Tuesday said he would soon start a movement to push for the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya even as the court verdict in the Ramjanmbhoomi-Babri Masjid case is expected next week.

Singh, who was Uttar Pradesh chief minister when the 16th century Babri Masjid …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Kalyan Singh to launch Ram temple movement.

Bangladeshi rich take to Eid tourism

DHAKA – Many of Bangladesh’s well-off families are utilising the Eid-ul-Fitr festival this year to take a holiday abroad, moving away from the grime and jostling crowds at home.

Some tour operators recorded 20 percent increase this year in their clients who will take a week-long holiday abroad, The Daily Star reported Thursday.
Travel agents …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Bangladeshi rich take to Eid tourism.

Bengal artisans sculpt Ganesha idols in Karnataka (Feature)

HUBLI – Each year, artisans from West Bengal travel to north Karnataka to sculpt idols of the elephant god Ganesha, lending the images an eastern touch that is reminiscent of goddess Durga who is widely worshipped in their native state.

“This city has been our second home for the past 18 years, as we migrate every … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Bengal artisans sculpt Ganesha idols in Karnataka (Feature).

Bahrain calls plans for Quran burning in US ’shameful’ act of intolerance

Bahrain calls Quran burning plans ’shameful’

MANAMA, Bahrain – Bahrain says plans by a Florida church to burn copies of the Quran are a shameful attack on efforts for dialogue between faiths.
The statement by Bahrain’s Foreign Ministry on Thursday is among the first official denunciations in the Arab world against the planned torching of Islam’s holy …. Read the original article  : here.

Flap over Quran burning an unwelcome distraction from Obama’s efforts to keep focus on economy

Quran burning flap a distraction from Obama agenda
WASHINGTON – First came the outrage over plans for a mosque near ground zero. Now there’s anger over a Florida church’s plan to burn copies of the Quran.
Caught up in it all is President Barack Obama, who’d rather be talking about something – anything – else.
Two [..] Read the original article: here.

Australia’s first Muslim, Aboriginal and youngest ever members of parliament come to Canberra

Australia’s new crop of lawmakers meet in Canberra

CANBERRA, Australia – Among the newly elected legislators who congregated for the first time Thursday at Parliament House were Australia’s first Muslim lawmaker, its youngest-ever at 20 years old and the first Aboriginal in the House of Representatives.
The new lawmakers came to the capital Thursday for their first …. Original article  : Australia’s first Muslim, Aboriginal and youngest ever members of parliament come to Canberra.

Koran burning could amount to another Abu Ghraib: Petraeus

WASHINGTON – The top US commander in Afghanistan warned Wednesday that a Florida pastor’s plan to burn copies of the Koran could be as harmful to the US as the Abu Ghraib prison scandal in Iraq.

General David Petraeus told NBC television that images of the Koran burning would be used by Islamic extremists to fuel … Read : Koran burning could amount to another Abu Ghraib: Petraeus.

Germany: Danish Muhammad cartoonist receives prize in ceremony attended by Chancellor Merkel

Danish Muhammad cartoonist receives German prize

BERLIN – German Chancellor Angela Merkel praised the bravery of a Danish cartoonist who caricatured the Prophet Muhammad at an award ceremony honoring his achievements for freedom of speech.
In her speech praising illustrator Kurt Westergaard, “who has had to fear for his life since the publication of the cartoons in … Read : Germany: Danish Muhammad cartoonist receives prize in ceremony attended by Chancellor Merkel.

Pastor who plans to burn Quran is not in Christian mainstream, was thrown out of former church

Fla. pastor on fringe of US Christian life

NEW YORK – The Florida pastor who plans to burn the Quran on the anniversary of 9/11 is rooted in Pentecostal tradition that believes Christians are engaged in a modern-day spiritual battle with evil.
For Terry Jones and his Dove World Outreach Center, Islam is that evil, a world … Read more >>.

Pakistan official says TV host Glenn Beck should renounce Quran burning, show US is tolerant

Pakistani says Beck should oppose Quran protest

WASHINGTON – Pakistan’s ambassador to the United States is calling on conservative radio and television host Glenn Beck to denounce the planned burning of the Quran to show that Americans are tolerant of other faiths.
“I think it would help if Mr. Glenn Beck came out against it, and said …. Original source  : Pakistan official says TV host Glenn Beck should renounce Quran burning, show US is tolerant.

Iranian ayatollah calls for arrest of US Koran-burning pastor

TEHRAN – A senior Iranian Ayatollah Wednesday harshly condemned plans by a US pastor to burn copies of the Koran on the ninth anniversary of the Sep 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, calling on the US administration to arrest him.

“On behalf of a half billion Muslims, I condemn this savage plan and warn of its consequences,” … Read more : Iranian ayatollah calls for arrest of US Koran-burning pastor.

Deeply disturbed by Quran burning plan: UN chief

NEW YORK – UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said Wednesday that no religion in the world can condone the burning of the Quran.

Ban said he was “deeply disturbed” by reports that a religious group plans to burn copies of the Quran Saturday, on the ninth anniversary of the Sep 11, 2001, terrorist attacks against the …. Source  : Deeply disturbed by Quran burning plan: UN chief.

Muslims see Quran burning threat as targeting the direct word of God

Muslims see Quran burning as threat to God’s word

CAIRO – The Quran is the most sacred object in the daily lives of Muslims and burning it would be considered an offense against God.
Islam teaches that the holy book is the direct word of God, received by the Prophet Muhammad through the angel Gabriel, and it … Read more : Muslims see Quran burning threat as targeting the direct word of God.

Angela Merkel slams US pastor’s Quran-burning plan

POTSDAM – German Chancellor Angela Merkel Wednesday described as “abhorrent” plans by a US pastor to burn copies of the Quran on the ninth anniversary of the Sep 11, 2001, terrorist attack.

“Honestly, I find it crass, disrespectful, even abhorrent. Just plain wrong,” she said. “Freedom is permanently, and for everyone, bound up with responsibility.”
Merkel … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Angela Merkel slams US pastor’s Quran-burning plan.

Jolie speaks out against plan to burn Quran

LONDON – Hollywood actress Angelina Jolie, who is on a visit to flood-hit areas in Pakistan as UN Goodwill Ambassador, has condemned plans of a Florida church to burn the Quran.

“Of course not. Of course not. I have hardly the words that somebody would do that to somebody’s religious book,” Jolie said when asked if …. Read the original article  : Jolie speaks out against plan to burn Quran.

Fla. minister determined to hold Quran burn on Sept. 11, despite international outcry

Fla. minister determined to hold 9/11 Quran burn
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – A top general, the secretary of state, the White House and political and religious leaders from around the world have decried a plan by the leader of a small Florida church to burn copies of Islam’s holiest text to mark the … Read more »».

Fla. minister says he has no intention of canceling Quran burn on Sept. 11

Fla. minister has no plans to cancel Quran burn
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The leader of a small Florida church that espouses anti-Islam philosophy says he is going forward with his plans to burn copies of the Quran on Sept. 11 despite pressure from the White House, religious leaders and others to call it off.
Pastor … Read more »»».

Clinton, Gates denounce planned Quran burning, warn of risks to Americans

Clinton, Gates denounce planned Quran burning
WASHINGTON – The top two national security advisers in President Barack Obama’s Cabinet on Wednesday denounced plans by a small church in Florida to burn the Muslim holy book to commemorate the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, saying it would inflame tensions and put …. Source  : Clinton, Gates denounce planned Quran burning, warn of risks to Americans.

French Muslim mason immortalized as gargoyle at Catholic cathedral in message of tolerance

Muslim mason immortalized at French cathedral

PARIS – A Muslim stonemason who spent nearly four decades helping to restore a Roman Catholic cathedral in France has been immortalized as a winged gargoyle peering out from its facade – with the inscription “God is great” written in French and Arabic.
It was conceived as a symbol of inter-religious …. Source  : French Muslim mason immortalized as gargoyle at Catholic cathedral in message of tolerance.

Bahrain freezes human rights group and appoints new head

Govt takes over Bahrain human rights group

MANAMA, Bahrain – Bahrain’s government on Wednesday suspended the board of a prominent human rights group, accusing it of being too partial to the country’s Shiite majority.
The Ministry of Social Development issued a statement saying an investigation had been carried out in to the Bahrain Human Rights Society – … Read more : Bahrain freezes human rights group and appoints new head.

Skepticism about peace mixes with festive atmosphere as Israelis usher in Jewish new year

Pessimistic about peace, Israelis greet new year
JERUSALEM – Israelis usher in the Jewish new year, or Rosh Hashana, at sundown Wednesday with a widespread sense of pessimism that a new round of U.S.-sponsored Mideast talks can achieve peace.
President Barack Obama wants a deal within a year, but Israelis are deeply skeptical …. Original source  : Skepticism about peace mixes with festive atmosphere as Israelis usher in Jewish new year.

Indian artist seeks dialogue on faith in age of terror

WASHINGTON – Connecting two key historical moments linked to 9/11, but 108 years apart, Mumbai-based contemporary Indian artist Jitish Kallat has sought to engage the American people on faith in the age of terror.

Opening Saturday, Kallat’s “Public Notice 3″ links a landmark speech delivered by Swami Vivekananda at the First World Parliament of Religions in … Read more : Indian artist seeks dialogue on faith in age of terror.

Fla. pastor, imam at odds over deal to cancel Quran-burning in exchange for moving NYC mosque

Fla. pastor, imam at odds over Quran-burning deal
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Two religious leaders are at odds about whether a deal was struck to stop a Quran-burning at a tiny church in exchange for moving the location of a mosque planned near ground zero, with the church’s pastor leaving the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Fla. pastor, imam at odds over deal to cancel Quran-burning in exchange for moving NYC mosque.

Clinton greets Indians on Eid

WASHINGTON – US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton Friday greeted Indians on the eve of Eid ul-Fitr.

Extending “warmest wishes” to the people of India, Clinton said the “joyous celebration” must inspire people across the globe to work towards peace and mutual respect.
“May this holy season of spiritual renewal for Muslims everywhere inspire us to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

BJP’s Hussain condemns US pastor’s Quran burning move

NEW DELHI – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) spokesperson Shahnawaz Hussain has condemned the move by a US pastor to burn copies of the Quran and asked the Christian community to “alienate such narrow minded people”.

The former union minister, the party’s lone Muslim face in the Lok Sabha, said the US authorities should prevent any such …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Mumbai readies for Ganesh festival revelry from Saturday

MUMBAI – Come Saturday and millions of people will immerse themselves in Ganesh festival, a 10-day gala that sees the elephant-headed god being worshipped in Mumbai’s nooks and corners and crores of rupees being splurged on preparations.

The festival starts with Ganesh Chaturthi Saturday and will end with Anant Chaturdashi Sep 22, when the Ganesha … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Mumbai readies for Ganesh festival revelry from Saturday.

Word that 1 of 3 Americans held in Iran for 13 months will be freed offers hope to families

Moms of US hikers held in Iran get some good news

PINE CITY, Minn. – Three U.S. mothers who have pleaded with Iranian authorities for more than a year to free their sons and daughter from a Tehran prison finally received a piece of the news they’ve been longing for.
Iranian officials have announced that on Saturday … Read : Word that 1 of 3 Americans held in Iran for 13 months will be freed offers hope to families.

Malaysian PM calls for racial unity on Eid

KUALA LUMPUR – Tear down the walls of suspicion and discard prejudices, Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak has said while greeting his countrymen on Eid, which is known as ‘Hari Raya Aidilfitri’ in Malaysia.

In his message to the country of 28 million people, including Malay Muslims, ethnic Chinese and Indians, the prime minister urged …. Original source  : Malaysian PM calls for racial unity on Eid.

Rains play spoilsport on Eid in Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Rains played spoilsport Friday morning in Kerala as Eid-ul-Fitr prayers were hurriedly shifted indoors from open Eidgahs and grounds across the state. But the showers didn’t dampen spirits with large crowds seen at most Eid congregations.

Prayers planned in the state capital were delayed due to the rains while organisers at places like Kochi … Read more : Rains play spoilsport on Eid in Kerala.

US pastor rethinking on cancelling Quran burning (Third Lead)

WASHINGTON – A Florida pastor who called off his controversial Quran burning plan was “rethinking” his position after being told that there was no deal on moving the proposed Islamic center near New York’s ground zero.

The new twist late Thursday was one of several on a day when President Barack Obama and Defence Secretary … Original source on Gaea Times at : US pastor rethinking on cancelling Quran burning (Third Lead).

Muslims welcome American church leader’s decision to suspend Quran-burning plans

Decision to suspend Quran-burning met with relief

LHOKSEUMAWE, Indonesia – Religious and political leaders across the Muslim world welcomed a decision by a small American church to suspend its plans to torch copies of their holy book – but some said Friday the damage has already been done.
The Rev. Terry Jones from the Dove Outreach Center … Read more : Muslims welcome American church leader’s decision to suspend Quran-burning plans.

Pastor cancels plans to burn Qurans, then backtracks (Second Lead)

WASHINGTON/GAINESVILLE – A Florida pastor who wanted to burn Qurans to protest Islamic extremism said late Thursday that he might reconsider his earlier decision to call off the event.

The Reverend Terry Jones told NBC News that “we are a little back to square one” after what he claimed was a deal to relocate a controversial …. Source  : Pastor cancels plans to burn Qurans, then backtracks (Second Lead).

Imam: Pastor ’stretched my words’ about deal to cancel Quran burning in turn for moving mosque

Imam: Pastor misrepresented Quran-burning deal
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – An imam says the leader of a small Florida church told him that he would call off a plan to burn the Quran because it would endanger troops, not because they had a deal to move the location of a mosque planned near ground zero.
Imam Muhammad …. Source  : Imam: Pastor ’stretched my words’ about deal to cancel Quran burning in turn for moving mosque.

Fla. pastor cancels Quran-burning, then reconsiders, saying imam lied about moving NYC mosque

Pastor cancels Quran-burning, then reconsiders
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – An anti-Islamic preacher backed off and then threatened to reconsider burning the Quran on the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, angrily accusing a Muslim leader of lying to him Thursday with a promise to move an Islamic center and mosque away from New York’s … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Fla. pastor cancels Quran-burning, then reconsiders, saying imam lied about moving NYC mosque.

Fla. pastor cancels 9/1l plans to burn Qurans, says NYC mosque will be moved; imams disagree

Pastor nixes Quran-burning, claims NYC mosque deal
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The anti-Muslim leader of a tiny Florida church backed off his threat to burn the Quran, defusing an international firestorm Thursday after he said he was promised that a planned Islamic center and mosque would be moved away from New York’s ground zero. The … Read more >>>.

US defence secretary calls Florida pastor

WASHINGTON – US Defence Secretary Robert Gates Thursday called the Florida pastor at the centre of global controversy over plans to burn Korans and apparently helped persuade him to change his mind, according to a Florida imam who has mediated the conflict.

Muhammad Musri of the Islamic Society of Central Florida told CNN that he was … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US defence secretary calls Florida pastor.

Florida minister insists Muslims promised to move NY mosque if he agreed not to burn Qurans

Fla. pastor insists NY mosque move promised
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The pastor of a Florida church is adament that he was promised that officials planning an Islamic center near ground zero in New York would move it if he canceled his plans to burn Qurans on Sept. 11.
Pastor Terry Jones spoke again to reporters … Read more : Florida minister insists Muslims promised to move NY mosque if he agreed not to burn Qurans.

Investor in proposed NYC mosque site turns down Donald Trump’s offer to buy him out

NY mosque investor declines Trump’s buyout offer

NEW YORK – Donald Trump offered Thursday to buy out a major investor in the real estate partnership that controls the site near ground zero where a Muslim group wants to build a 13-story Islamic center and mosque.
The offer, though, fell flat nearly instantly.
“This is just a cheap attempt …. Original article  : Investor in proposed NYC mosque site turns down Donald Trump’s offer to buy him out.

Imam and developer say no deal and no talks for moving NYC mosque site

Imam and developer: No deal for moving NYC mosque

NEW YORK – The imam and developer behind a plan to build an Islamic center near ground zero are denying reports that there is a deal to move the facility.
A Florida pastor who had threatened to burn copies of the Quran in protest of the center announced … Original source on Gaea Times at : Imam and developer say no deal and no talks for moving NYC mosque site.

Florida imam: No deal to move NY mosque at ground zero in exchange for not burning Qurans

Fla. imam: No deal to move NYC mosque
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – A Florida imam says no deal has been reached to move the site of a mosque near ground zero in exchange for a Florida minister to call off plans to burn Qurans.
Imam Muhammad Musri tells The Associated Press that what he offered was … Original article on : Florida imam: No deal to move NY mosque at ground zero in exchange for not burning Qurans.

A Christian minister in Fla. cancels plans to burn Qurans on Sept. 11, heeding to outcry

Fla. minister cancels burning of Qurans on 9/11
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The leader of a tiny church on Thursday backed off his threat to burn the Quran, saying he gave up the plan in exchange for a deal to move a planned Islamic center and mosque away from New York’s ground zero. The imam … Read more >>>.

Fervour, gaiety mark Ganesha, Eid festivities in Karnataka

BANGALORE – Hindus and Muslims across Karnataka Saturday celebrated their Ganesh Chaturthi and Eid with fervour and gaiety.

Hundreds of Muslims gathered at mosques and Eidgah maidans across BVangalore despite a morning drizzle, offered prayers and warmly greeted one another to mark the end of the month-long Ramadan fast. They also gave alms to the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Fervour, gaiety mark Ganesha, Eid festivities in Karnataka.

Ganesh Chaturthi celebrated in Tamil Nadu

CHENNAI – Ganesh Chaturthi was celebrated across Tamil Nadu with usual fervour Saturday.

Tens of thousands thronged temples to pray to the elephant-headed Hindu god.
Homes wore a festive look with people waking up early to perform prayers to clay cast Ganesh idols adorned with flowers.
After offering prayers, neighbours and friends got together to share …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Ganesh Chaturthi celebrated in Tamil Nadu.

Eid celebrated with traditional fervour in Lucknow

LUCKNOW – Eid-ul-Fitr, marking the end of the holy fasting month of Ramadan, was Saturday celebrated with traditional enthusiasm here with Muslims holding special prayers for communal harmony and peace ahead of the Ram Janmbhoomi-Babri title suit verdict Sep 24.

“We prayed for communal harmony and prosperity of the country. Special prayers were offered for strengthening … Original article on : Eid celebrated with traditional fervour in Lucknow.

Fatehpuri Imam regrets killings in Kashmir

NEW DELHI – The Shahi Imam of one of India’s largest mosques here Saturday regretted the killings of civilian protesters in the Kashmir Valley by security forces.

Addressing a massive Eid gathering in and outside the 17th century Fatehpuri mosque, Mufti Mohammed Mukharram said it was a pity that while security forces used rubber bullets in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Fatehpuri Imam regrets killings in Kashmir.

American Flag Burning Planned By Radicals

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM (GaeaTimes.com)- Terry Jones the Florida pastor who declared about celebrating the so called “International Burn a Quran Day” has come under the fire of Muslim groups all over the world. As a matter of fact the pastor is facing the flak from the political leaders and celebrities alike after his … Read more >>>.

Protests erupt in Srinagar after Eid prayers

SRINAGAR – Massive protests erupted after the Eid-ul-Fitr prayers in Srinagar Saturday as separatists led a procession to the city centre while a mob torched a police barrack outside the Hazratbal shrine.

Authorities had not imposed curfew or restrictions anywhere in the Kashmir Valley to allow people to offer Eid prayers and celebrate the festival. …. Source  : Protests erupt in Srinagar after Eid prayers.

Rains fail to dampen Delhi’s Eid spirit

NEW DELHI – Not letting the rains dampen their festive spirit, hundreds of Muslims offered prayers at the historic Jama Masjid Friday morning on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr that marks the end of a month of fasting.

“The weather was just amazing with a cool breeze blowing. The only issue was that we had to sit [..] Read the original article: here.

US pastor agrees ‘in principle’ not to burn Quran

WASHINGTON/NEW YORK – After a day of flip-flops, a Florida pastor, who earned international headlines and censure after threatening to burn copies of the Quran on the 9/11 anniversary Saturday, “has agreed in principle” not to go ahead with the controversial event.

Pastor Terry Jones arrived in New York City late Friday night apparently for a …. Original article  : US pastor agrees ‘in principle’ not to burn Quran.

Acquaintance: Fla. pastor who once planned Quran burning flies to New York

Fla. pastor who planned to burn Quran flies to NY

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – An acquaintance of the pastor who once planned to burn copies of the Quran to mark the 9/11 anniversary says the Rev. Terry Jones headed to New York aboard a Friday night flight.
K.A. Paul, a Christian evangelist who runs a ministry in Houston, … Read more >>>.

Mumbai soaks in festive spirit of Ganeshotsav, Eid

MUMBAI – Despite a terror threat looming over the city, millions of Mumbaikars were immersed in triple celebrations Saturday – Ganeshotsav, Eid and Jain community’s Samvasari.

While Hindus turned up in huge numbers at thousands of big and small marquees for the inaugural ‘aarti’ of the elephant-headed Lord Ganesha, Muslims converged in the 200-plus mosques around …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mumbai soaks in festive spirit of Ganeshotsav, Eid.

Acquaintance: Fla. pastor who once planned Quran burning is on Friday flight to New York

Fla. pastor who planned to burn Quran on way to NY

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – An acquaintance of the pastor who once planned to burn copies of the Quran to mark the 9/11 anniversary says the Rev. Terry Jones is headed to New York aboard a Friday night flight.
K.A. Paul, a Christian evangelist who runs a ministry … Read more >>.

Associate: Fla. pastor who once planned Quran burning is on Friday flight to New York

Friend: Pastor who planned Quran burn flying to NY

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – An associate of the pastor who once planned to burn copies of the Quran to mark the 9/11 anniversary says the Rev. Terry Jones is headed to New York aboard a Friday night flight.
K.A. Paul, a Christian evangelist who runs a ministry in Houston, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Associate: Fla. pastor who once planned Quran burning is on Friday flight to New York.

First, Sept. 11 anniversary will be about the victims. Then it will be about the mosque

Islam controversies cast shadow over 9/11 events
NEW YORK – Politics threatened to overshadow a day of mourning Saturday for nearly 3,000 Sept. 11 victims amid a polarizing national debate over a planned mosque blocks from the site where Islamic extremists attacked America.
Chants of … Read : First, Sept. 11 anniversary will be about the victims. Then it will be about the mosque.

Muslims throng mosques, cafes in solemn and joyful end to fasting month of Ramadan

Muslims throng mosques to celebrate end of Ramadan

CAIRO – Far from the din and controversy roiling interfaith relations in the West, Muslims worldwide thronged mosques, cafes and parks Friday in a solemn and joyful end to the fasting month of Ramadan.
Authorities increased security in some countries due to fears that violence could intrude on the … Read : Muslims throng mosques, cafes in solemn and joyful end to fasting month of Ramadan.

Peace the big winner at US Open even as Bryan brothers beat “Indo-Pak” express

Tennis, love, peace come together at US Open final

NEW YORK – Long after dust gathers on the U.S. Open trophy that barely eluded Aisam-Ul-Haq Qureshi, the message he sent on a grand stage in New York still will echo loudly.
After two sets of riveting tennis during which Pakistan’s Qureshi and India’s Rohan Bopanna came a …. Original source  : Peace the big winner at US Open even as Bryan brothers beat “Indo-Pak” express.

Fla. pastor’s son says church has no plans to burn Qurans on 9/11

Fla. pastor’s son: no Quran burning on 9/11

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The son of a pastor who suspended plans to burn copies of the Quran to mark the 9/11 anniversary says Islam’s holiest text will not be torched at their Florida church Saturday.
Luke Jones, the son of the Rev. Terry Jones, told reporters Friday that the …. Source article  : Fla. pastor’s son says church has no plans to burn Qurans on 9/11.

Social media, Internet inflames news cycle of Quran burning story

Social media inflames news cycle of Quran burning
NEW YORK – The swelling story of a tiny Florida church’s plan to burn copies of the Quran is raising questions of news judgment not only for the media, but for Web users and readers, too.
In the social media era, everyone’s a news editor.
Several news organizations, …. Original article  : Social media, Internet inflames news cycle of Quran burning story.

Losing my religion: Atheists’ billboard, Satanists’ meeting provoke Christians in Oklahoma

Atheist billboard provokes Oklahoman Christians

OKLAHOMA CITY – Atheists in Oklahoma City have erected a billboard seeking fellow non-believers, and Satanists have scheduled a conference in a city-owned building, drawing criticism from ministers in a state where more than eight out of 10 people say they are Christians.
“It’s not a question of ‘Can you?’ It’s a … Read more >>.

If a church or Hindu temple okay at ground zero, why not mosque?: Obama

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama Friday again backed controversial plans to build an Islamic centre near the site of 9/11 attacks in New York reminding critics that the US was at war against terrorism not Islam.

“All men and women are created equal, they have certain inalienable rights, and one of those is to practice their … Read this article on Gaea Times at : If a church or Hindu temple okay at ground zero, why not mosque?: Obama.

NY imam: No meeting planned with Fla. pastor, but will see anyone committed to peace

NYC imam says no meeting planned with Fla. pastor

NEW YORK – The imam leading an effort to build an Islamic center near the World Trade Center site says he has no plans to meet with a Florida pastor who had threatened to burn copies of the Quran.
But Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf says in the statement …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : NY imam: No meeting planned with Fla. pastor, but will see anyone committed to peace.

Iranian prosecutor says he’s ready to release jailed American woman on $500,000 bail

Iran prosecutor ready to release American woman

TEHRAN, Iran – A senior Iranian prosecutor said Sunday that authorities will release an American woman on $500,000 bail because of health problems, more than a year after she was jailed with two other Americans and accused of spying.
The news came during a weekend of start-and-stop announcements about the … Read more »».

State TV: Tehran prosecutor says Iran ready to release jailed American woman on bail

State media: Iran ready to release American woman

TEHRAN, Iran – Iranian state TV is reporting that a senior prosecutor is ready to release a jailed American woman on bail.
Sarah Shourd was to have been released Saturday as an act of clemency to mark the end of Ramadan after the intervention of Iran’s president, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. …. Original source  : State TV: Tehran prosecutor says Iran ready to release jailed American woman on bail.

Italian Muslims unveil mosque with church model

Florence (Italy) Sep 12 (IANS/AKI) Muslim leaders in Italy have unveiled the model of a mosque to be constructed in Florence with minarets having resemblance of the cathedral’s bell tower designed by medieval period architect Giotto.

“Florence needs to have a mosque that rivals the city’s historic beauty and cultural wealth,” said the central Italian … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Italian Muslims unveil mosque with church model.

Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrations Countrywide

HYDERABAD, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The country is celebrating the Ganesh Chaturthi festival amidst excitement and enthusiasm and the states are wearing a festive look for that reason. The devotees of the Elephant god wait for this time of the year and seek the blessing of the deity. However, Mumbai is the place where the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Rival rallies over Islamic centre mark 9/11

NEW YORK/WASHINGTON – As America observed the ninth anniversary of the Sep 11, 2001 terror attacks that shook the world, thousands of rowdy protestors held rallies in Lower Manhattan for and against a proposed controversial Islamic centre near Ground Zero.

Both sides drew large, boisterous crowds with about 3,000 pro-mosque demonstrators marching from City Hall to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Rival rallies over Islamic centre mark 9/11.

Amid furor over NYC mosque, nation pauses to remember victims of Sept. 11

Unsettled nation marks 9/11 with rituals of sorrow
NEW YORK – First came the tears, the solemn bugle call and the recital of the names of the dead. Then came the chants, speeches and angry shouts.
It was a Sept. 11 anniversary unlike any other. For the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Amid furor over NYC mosque, nation pauses to remember victims of Sept. 11.

Activists hold dueling demonstrations over NYC mosque after annual Sept. 11 ceremony

Dueling demonstrations begin after 9/11 memorial
NEW YORK – Hundreds of family members of Sept. 11 victims recited loved ones’ names through tears on the ninth anniversary of the attacks Saturday, avoiding direct mention of the political furor over plans for a mosque that later drew thousands of protesters on both sides.
After … Read more >>.

Detained American woman caught in the middle of Iranian power struggle

US woman caught in middle of Iran’s power struggle

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – Iran’s start-and-stop announcements over the release of one of three detained Americans add up to a distinct message: President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and his allies still have a fight on their hands within the ruling ranks.
The confusing signals over the fate of 31-year-old …. Source article  : Detained American woman caught in the middle of Iranian power struggle.

Supporters of Islamic center gather for rally after 9/11 memorial; protest also planned

Pro-mosque demonstrators group after 9/11 memorial
NEW YORK – Several hundred activists are rallying to support an Islamic center proposed near ground zero after remembrances were held for nearly 3,000 victims of the Sept. 11 attacks.
They are toting signs in Saturday’s rally with such slogans as “The attack on Islam is racism” and “Tea [..] Read the original article: here.

Thousands protest in Afghanistan, chant ‘Death to America’ over once-planned Quran burning

Thousands of Afghans in anti-Quran-burning protest

KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghans set fire to tires in the streets and shouted “Death to America” for a second day Saturday despite a decision by an American pastor to call off plans to burn copies of the Islamic holy book.
The protests, the largest drawing a crowd estimated at more than …. Original source  : Thousands protest in Afghanistan, chant ‘Death to America’ over once-planned Quran burning.

Sept. 11 events progress with victims in mind but under shadow of Islam controversies

9/11 events go on in shadow of Islam controversies
NEW YORK – Family members of Sept. 11 victims recited loved ones’ names through tears on the ninth anniversary of the attacks Saturday, avoiding direct mention of the political furor centered two blocks from ground zero as demonstrations began …. Read the original article  : Sept. 11 events progress with victims in mind but under shadow of Islam controversies.

Delhi celebrates Eid with traditional fervour

NEW DELHI – The walled city Saturday reverberated with greetings of ‘Eid Mubarak’ as thousands of people thronged the historic Jama Masjid and other Eidgahs of the old city to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr.

The Jama Masjid, built by Mughal emperor Shahjehan in 1656, looked spectacular as thousands of people, mostly clad in white, offered congregational Eid … Read more : Delhi celebrates Eid with traditional fervour.

Fla. pastor who opposes NYC mosque says his church will ‘not today, not ever’ burn a Quran

Fla. pastor will ‘not today, not ever’ burn Quran

NEW YORK – A Florida pastor says his church will “not today, not ever” burn a Quran, even if a mosque is built near ground zero.
Pastor Terry Jones had threatened to burn the Muslim holy book on the anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks over plans to …. Source  : Fla. pastor who opposes NYC mosque says his church will ‘not today, not ever’ burn a Quran.

Obama cites national unity after Sept. 11 attacks, how Americans showed ‘best of our humanity’

Obama cites national unity after Sept. 11 attacks
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama marked the Sept. 11 anniversary by looking back with pride at how the country “responded to the worst of depravity with the best of our humanity” and embraced a sense of national unity.
“We are one nation – one people …. Original source  : Obama cites national unity after Sept. 11 attacks, how Americans showed ‘best of our humanity’.

Events marking Sept. 11 begin on anniversary that’s become more political than reflective

Events begin marking 9th anniversary of Sept. 11
NEW YORK – Bells have tolled throughout New York City and mourners have observed a moment of silence to mark the time terrorists began their attack on America nine years ago.
Politics threatened to overshadow Saturday’s day of mourning for nearly 3,000 Sept. 11 victims amid [..] Read the original article: here.

Eid celebrated in West Bengal

KOLKATA – West Bengal joined the rest of India in celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr with prayers and exchange of greetings Saturday.

The biggest Eid congregation was held on the sprawling Red Road in central Kolkata, where over 42,000 devotees took part in prayers.
Verses from the Quran were read and explained to the masses before Nakhoda Mosque Imam … Original source on Gaea Times at : Eid celebrated in West Bengal.

Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrated with Grandeur

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- This year two religious festivities namely the Eid and Ganesh Chaturthi are being celebrated in India on the same day and this can be dubbed as an example of peaceful co existence of religious diversity. The Bollywood actors and actresses have sent their greetings and heartfelt wishes to the … Read more : Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrated with Grandeur.

Tight security for Ganesh festival in Hyderabad

HYDERABAD – Police in Hyderabad have made elaborate arrangements for the 11-day Ganesh festival which began Saturday with the installation of hundreds of idols of the elephant-headed god..

Vinayaka Chaturthi, which mark the beginning of the festival, was celebrated with religious fervour and gaiety as devotees thronged the markets to purchase idols.
Policemen were deployed in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Tight security for Ganesh festival in Hyderabad.

Fla. pastor who opposes NYC mosque says his church will never burn a Quran

Fla. pastor says his church will never burn Quran

NEW YORK – A Florida pastor says his church will never burn a Quran, even if a mosque is built near ground zero.
Pastor Terry Jones had threatened to burn the Muslim holy book on the anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks over plans to build an Islamic [..] Read the original article: here.

Hindu-Muslim peace marches ahead of Ayodhya verdict

LUCKNOW – In a unique show of communal harmony, a large number of Muslims and Hindus have joined hands in Uttar Pradesh’s Bijnor district to take out peace marches ahead of the Ramjanmabhoomi-Babri Masjid title suit verdict Sep 24.

Under the banner of Sarvadharma Ekta Parishad, over 100 members from both the communities are carrying out …. Original source  : Hindu-Muslim peace marches ahead of Ayodhya verdict.

Vatican library reopens to scholars after 3-yr renovation; new cataloguing, security measures

Vatican library reopens after 3-year restoration

VATICAN CITY – The Vatican’s Apostolic Library is reopening to scholars following a three-year renovation to improve its cataloguing and security measures.
The library, which houses one of the world’s best collections of illuminated manuscripts, opens its doors Sept. 20. Details will be announced Monday at a press conference.
The library was …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Lawyer awaits word on $500,000 bail to free detained American

Lawyer awaiting word on bail for detained American

TEHRAN, Iran – The lawyer of an American woman cleared for release from an Iranian prison said Monday he is still waiting for word that the $500,000 bail has been paid.
Masoud Shafiei told The Associated Press that he has been in contact with the family of Sarah Shourd …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Lawyer awaits word on $500,000 bail to free detained American.

Kumartuli idol-makers face rising labour and input costs

KOLKATA – Costs of organising Durga Puja have gone up this year as idol-makers in the city spend more on increased labour and raw material costs which in cases have jumped almost 50 percent.

Kumartuli, the nerve centre of the clay idol-makers of Kolkata, is facing an acute shortage of labour thanks to the Mahatma Gandhi …. Original source  : Kumartuli idol-makers face rising labour and input costs.

Australian burns Quran and Bible

MELBOURNE – An Australian has posted a video of himself burning the Quran and the Bible on video sharing website YouTube, drawing widespread criticism, a media report said Monday.

Queensland University of Technology’s Alex Stewart has taken leave from his non-academic position as a commercial contracts lawyer and now expects to be sacked, brisbanetimes.com.au reported Monday. … Read more »».

Security stepped up around Haryana gurdwaras

CHANDIGARH – Security around major gurdwaras in Haryana has been tightened after Jagdish Singh Jhinda, a Sikh leader from the state, set a Sep 15 deadline for taking over control of these shrines from the Punjab-based Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC).

Armed personnel from Haryana Police have been stationed outside major gurdwaras in Kurukshetra, Karnal, Ambala …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

These Ganeshas give environment a fighting chance

MUMBAI – Ganesha idols made of clay and paper pulp or which use naturally extracted colours have found many takers in Mumbai this year, as environment conscious residents are making sure that the 10-day Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations do not come at a cost to nature.

A Mumbai-based organisation called Aniruddha Upasana Trust has this year made …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

For Israelis, a new point of contention: What time is it?

A new spat in Israel: What time is it?
JERUSALEM – When Israel moved its clocks back early Sunday in preparation for the holy fast day of Yom Kippur, people in this high-decibel society found something new to disagree about: the time of day.

The end of daylight savings time here came more than a month and …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : For Israelis, a new point of contention: What time is it?.

Two die in Afghan protest over Quran burning

KABUL – Two people protesting against the desecration of the Quran died after clashes with Afghan security forces Sunday, witnesses said.

A group of about 500 people converged on the headquarters of Afghanistan’s Baraki Barak district Sunday morning chanting anti-American slogans, apparently prompted by the plans, now cancelled, of a US pastor who had wanted to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Two die in Afghan protest over Quran burning.

Muslims celebrate Eid in Assam, northeast

GUWAHATI – Muslims in Assam and other northeastern states Saturday celebrated Eid amid heavy rains in most part of the region.

In Assam, people thronged mosques and other community halls to offer the Eid prayers as incessant rains lashed the state since the morning.
“No matter the weather conditions, Eid today was very special and the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

BJP leader denounces attack on Quran

NEW DELHI – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Vijay Jolly Saturday denounced an American pastor’s earlier threats to burn the Quran on the 9/11 anniversary.

The threat by Terry Jones of Florida was “unacceptable and provocative”, Jolly said in a statement here. “It shall inflame Muslim sentiments and provoke fundamentalist Islamic reaction worldwide.” …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : BJP leader denounces attack on Quran.

Sex abuse scandal overshadows Pope’s British trip

ROME – Virtually on the eve of Pope Benedict XVI’s state visit to Britain, a dossier issued in Belgium has suggested more than 300 cases of child sexual abuse by clergy — a fresh and grim reminder of the widespread scandal that has severely tarnished the Catholic Church’s reputation over the past year.

And as with … Read more >>.

Rushdie supports mosque plans near Ground Zero

LONDON – Renowned author Salman Rushdie has reportedly expressed his support for plans to build a mosque close to Ground Zero in New York, 21 years after an Islamic leader issued a fatwa calling for his death.

Rushdie sparked outrage in 1988 with the release of his book “The Satanic Verses”, which then Supreme Leader of …. Source  : Rushdie supports mosque plans near Ground Zero.

US man claims miracle through Newman, prompts 19th century cardinal’s beatification by pope

US man’s healing prompts Newman’s beatification

MARSHFIELD, Massachusetts – The pain overwhelmed every drug Jack Sullivan’s doctors gave him to fight it, coursing through his back in vicious bursts that made sleep impossible.
The aspiring Roman Catholic deacon had hoped for a quick recovery from spinal surgery to keep his ordination on track. But five days later, …. Source  : US man claims miracle through Newman, prompts 19th century cardinal’s beatification by pope.

Pope urges vigilance on biotechnology

Vatican City, Sep 14 (IANS/AKI) Pope Benedict XVI has said that leaps in scientific capabilities have put humanity in a precarious situation that can lead to a wounding of human “integrity and dignity”.

“We have the duty to diligently study up to what point these methods can help humans and where they amount to a manipulation … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pope urges vigilance on biotechnology.

Conn. Muslims ask for equality after Hartford City Council nixes Islamic prayer before meeting

Conn. Muslims ask for equality from city council

HARTFORD, Conn. – The Hartford City Council’s decision to replace a scheduled Islamic prayer with an interfaith moment of silence before its meeting sends the wrong message to Connecticut’s Islamic community, Muslim leaders said.
Mongi Dhaouadi, executive director of the Connecticut chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, said …. Original source  : Conn. Muslims ask for equality after Hartford City Council nixes Islamic prayer before meeting.

Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair receives Liberty Medal at Philadelphia ceremony

Former British PM Tony Blair gets Liberty Medal
PHILADELPHIA – Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair received the Liberty Medal on Monday for his global human rights work and commitment to international conflict resolution.
The Philadelphia-based National Constitution Center gives the medal annually to individuals or organizations whose actions strive to bring liberty to people …. Read the original article  : Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair receives Liberty Medal at Philadelphia ceremony.

US files religious discrimination suit against Calif. city for denying Buddhist center permit

US sues Calif. city for denying Buddhist permit

LOS ANGELES – The U.S. Justice Department has filed a religious discrimination lawsuit against the Southern California city of Walnut, claiming it unfairly denied a permit to a group seeking to build and run a Buddhist center.
The lawsuit filed Monday in Los Angeles seeks a court order saying …. Original article  : US files religious discrimination suit against Calif. city for denying Buddhist center permit.

Salman Rushdie defends Muslims’ right to build community center, mosque near ground zero

Rushdie defends Muslims’ right to build NYC mosque

NEW YORK – “The Satanic Verses” author Salman Rushdie is not a great fan of organized worship but believes an Islamic center and mosque should be permitted two blocks from ground zero.
Rushdie’s satirical novel led in the 1980s to worldwide riots by Muslims and calls for his death. …. Source article  : Salman Rushdie defends Muslims’ right to build community center, mosque near ground zero.

With strip club and betting parlor also nearby, imam says, NYC mosque site not hallowed

Imam says NYC mosque site is not ‘hallowed ground’

NEW YORK – It is two blocks from ground zero, but the site of a proposed mosque and Islamic center shouldn’t be seen as “hallowed ground” in a neighborhood that also contains a strip club and a betting parlor, the cleric leading the effort said Monday.
Making an …. Original source  : With strip club and betting parlor also nearby, imam says, NYC mosque site not hallowed.

Lawyer says family of detained American appealing to Iran to drop $500,000 bail

Family of jailed American in Iran fights bail

TEHRAN, Iran – The family of an American woman detained in Iran for more than a year is appealing to authorities to drop a $500,000 bail for her release because they cannot afford it, her lawyer said Monday.
Masoud Shafiei told The Associated Press that Swiss diplomats acting on … Read more »»».

Lawyer: Family of detained American appeal to Iran to drop $500,000 bail demand

Lawyer: Family of jailed American appeal Iran bail

TEHRAN, Iran – The lawyer for an American woman detained in Iran says her family is appealing to authorities to drop a demand for $500,000 bail in exchange for her release because it cannot afford the amount.
Masoud Shafiei tells The Associated Press he is aware that Swiss diplomats …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Maine newspaper apologizes for coverage of Ramadan on 9/11 without mention of terror attacks

Maine paper apologizes for 9/11 Ramadan coverage

PORTLAND, Maine – The publisher of a Maine newspaper has apologized for giving Page One coverage to the end of Ramadan on Sept. 11 without mention of the ninth anniversary of the 2001 terrorist attacks.
Saturday’s print edition of The Portland Press Herald featured a front-page photo of Muslims praying … Original source on Gaea Times at : Maine newspaper apologizes for coverage of Ramadan on 9/11 without mention of terror attacks.

Turks step closer to EU with referendum vote, but membership is still a glimmer

Turkey: nation on a dual course
ISTANBUL – Turks took a step closer to Europe by voting for constitutional changes aimed at bringing the country into line with European standards of democracy. Yet it was also a massive show of confidence in an Islamic-rooted government whose closer ties with Iran and hostility toward Israel have caused … Original source on Gaea Times at : Turks step closer to EU with referendum vote, but membership is still a glimmer.

Imam says resolution to debate on proposed location of NYC mosque is in the works

Imam says resolution to NYC mosque debate in works

NEW YORK – The imam leading the effort to build an Islamic center and mosque near the World Trade Center site said Monday that a resolution to the raging debate over its location is being examined.
“We are exploring all options as we speak right now, and we …. Source article  : Imam says resolution to debate on proposed location of NYC mosque is in the works.

Hartford council cites negative feedback in deciding against Muslim prayer before meetings

Hartford says no to Muslim prayer before meetings

HARTFORD, Conn. – Officials in Connecticut’s capital city say they won’t include Muslim prayers before council meetings after getting mostly negative feedback from the public.
The reversal has led the state branch of the Council on American-Islamic Relations to plan a prayer vigil Monday night at Hartford City Hall …. Original article  : Hartford council cites negative feedback in deciding against Muslim prayer before meetings.

Imam: Proposed site for Islamic center near ground zero is not ‘hallowed ground’

Imam: NYC mosque site is not ‘hallowed ground’

NEW YORK – The imam leading the effort to build an Islamic community center and mosque near ground zero says there is a “misperception” that the proposed site is sacred ground.
Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf said Monday that the location where the center would be built, two blocks from [..] Read the original article: here.

Imam vows to go ahead with Ground Zero mosque

NEW YORK – The imam behind the controversial planned Islamic cultural centre close to the site of the destroyed World Trade Center vowed Monday to press ahead with the project.

Speaking at a press conference in New York, Faisal Abdul Rauf said: “Is it worth all this firestorm? The answer is a categorical yes. Why? Because …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Imam vows to go ahead with Ground Zero mosque.

Jammu Muslims protest Quran desecration in US

JAMMU – Muslims Monday held protests across Jammu region following reports of the Quran being desecrated in the US.

Massive protests were held in Doda, Kishtwar, Rajouri and Poonch after reports appeared on Iran-based Press TV that the holy book “had been burnt” by a priest in the US.
Protests turned violent in …. Original source  : Jammu Muslims protest Quran desecration in US.

US condemns violence in Kashmir, Punjab

NEW DELHI – The United States Monday said it was “dismayed” by reports that a school and a church in Kashmir and Punjab had been attacked by rioters. It also condemned reports that a “misguided individual” in the US had desecrated the Quran, terming it “disrespectful, intolerant, divisive, and un-representative of American values”.

“The deliberate …. Source  : US condemns violence in Kashmir, Punjab.

Iran bail offer for American detainee stirs conservative backlash

Iran bail decision on American stirs backlash

TEHRAN, Iran – Iran’s internal battles over the handling of American detainee Sarah Shourd flared again Monday as the mouthpiece of the powerful Revolutionary Guard led the backlash against a decision to free her on $500,000 bail.
The criticism by Guard-linked Fars news agency and others – including one lawmaker … Read more »».

Three die in Jammu after Quran protests

JAMMU – Three people in Jammu and Kashmir’s Mendhar town were killed Wednesday following clashes between police and a crowd protesting the alleged desecration of the Quran in the US.

There were conflicting accounts of what led to the deaths in Mendhar, 210 km from here. While locals said the protesters died in police firing, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Three die in Jammu after Quran protests.

Pope seeks to remind Britain about God amid indifference to visit and disgust over sex abuse

Pope travels to Britain amid indifference, outrage

VATICAN CITY – Pope Benedict XVI takes his campaign to revive Christianity in an increasingly secular Europe to Britain on Thursday. He faces a daunting task in a nation largely at odds with his policies and where disgust over the church sex abuse scandal runs high.
Add to that centuries … Read more >>>.

Police fire warning shots to disperse anti-Quran-burning protest in Afghan capital

Police disperse anti-Quran-burn protest in Kabul

KABUL, Afghanistan – Police have fired warning shots to disperse hundreds of stone-hurling Afghans protesting once-planned Quran burning in the U.S.
Up to 800 protesters gathered Wednesday at a square on the outskirts of Kabul chanting “death to America” and listening to fiery speeches from Muslim clerics demanding the ouster of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

French Senate votes overwhelmingly to outlaw Islamic face veils

French Senate passes ban on full Muslim veils

PARIS – The French Senate on Tuesday overwhelmingly passed a bill banning the burqa-style Islamic veil in public, but the leaders of both parliamentary houses said they had asked a special council to first ensure the measure passes constitutional muster amid concerns its tramples on religious freedoms.
The Senate … Read more >>.

Organizers say they anticipate smaller crowds in Britain for visit of Pope Benedict XVI

Smaller crowds anticipated in UK for papal visit

LONDON – Smaller crowds than initially expected will attend events scheduled during Pope Benedict XVI’s visit to Britain, the head of the Roman Catholic Church in England and Wales said Tuesday.
Organizers now anticipate around 55,000 worshippers to gather for the beatification of Cardinal Newman Sunday in Birmingham, central …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Organizers say they anticipate smaller crowds in Britain for visit of Pope Benedict XVI.

As French Gypsies fight for remembrance of wartime internment, discrimination flares anew

French Gypsies recall forgotten wartime internment

MONTREUIL-BELLAY, France – It’s a thistle-tangled field behind a hedge of blackberries, with little to catch the eye but three surreal staircases that rise out of the parched grass and lead to nowhere.
Not much is left of the camp where thousands of French Gypsies were interned in this village in … Original article on : As French Gypsies fight for remembrance of wartime internment, discrimination flares anew.

Iranian diplomats’ defections signal fissures in Islamic Republic leaders over election unrest

Iranian defections hint at fissures over election

OSLO, Norway – The defection of a third Iranian diplomat in Europe hints at widening fissures within Iran’s government over its crackdown on protesters after the disputed 2009 election that kept hardline President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in power.
Farzad Farhangian, who quit his job as press attache at the Iranian Embassy … Original source on Gaea Times at : Iranian diplomats’ defections signal fissures in Islamic Republic leaders over election unrest.

Jhinda wants SGPC for Haryana

CHANDIGARH – Seeking a separate Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) for Haryana, Jagdish Singh Jhinda, a Sikh leader from the state, is expecting full support from Haryana’s Sikhs.

Jhinda has set up a Sep 15 deadline to take over the Sikh shrines in Haryana from the Punjab-based SGPC that now manages them. He has accused the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Jhinda wants SGPC for Haryana.

Iran releases detained American woman after more than a year in prison

Iran releases detained American woman
TEHRAN, Iran – An American woman detained for more than a year in Iran was released Tuesday on a bail of $500,000, according to state television, more than a year after she was jailed with two other Americans and accused of spying.

The announcement came days after conflicting statements by Iranian authorities …. Read the original article  : Iran releases detained American woman after more than a year in prison.

Pope Benedict XVI’s Visit Not Favored By Many

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM (GaeaTimes.com)- As per the schedule Pope Benedict XVI will be making his first United Kingdom visit on Thursday, Sep 16. While thousands of pilgrims are expected to turn up to see the Pope, some sources report that a survey conducted by a reputed media source has found that only 14 … Original article on : Pope Benedict XVI’s Visit Not Favored By Many.

Iran’s state TV says US woman has been freed after more than a year in prison

Iran state TV says US woman freed from prison

TEHRAN, Iran – Iran’s English language state television reported Tuesday that American Sarah Shourd has been released after more than a year in prison.
“Iran has released US national Sarah Shourd,” flashed the red colored urgent banner on Press TV Tuesday.
Iran’s judiciary granted $500,000 bail for Shourd on …. Original source  : Iran’s state TV says US woman has been freed after more than a year in prison.

Pope travels to Britain for four-day visit

ROME – Pope Benedict XVI Thursday left Rome to travel to Britain for a four-day state visit set to include meetings with Queen Elizabeth II, government officials, and leaders of the Anglican Church.

The Alitalia passenger jet carrying Benedict left the Italian capital’s Ciampino airport around 8.20 a.m. (0720 GMT). It was scheduled to arrive in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pope travels to Britain for four-day visit.

Online campaign to canonise Goan origin priest

PANAJI – Back then, when the world travelled on horseback instead of motor cars, and hawks were used to take messages across, the canonisation of Catholic saints was largely a result of excited word-of-mouth regurgitation of miracles.

But today technology and outreach – besides devotion, of course – are the tools of a campaign launched by … Read more »»».

Hamas condemns France’s decision to ban Islamic veil

GAZA – Hamas has condemned a law passed by the French parliament that bars Muslim women in the country from wearing Islamic veils.

Ahmed Bahar, deputy speaker of the Hamas-dominated parliament in Gaza, said in a statement Wednesday that the decision taken Tuesday was “unfair, racist and hurts Muslims’ feelings”, Xinhua reported.
“Such a law is …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Hamas condemns France’s decision to ban Islamic veil.

West Ham manager Grant to miss match at Stoke due to clash with Jewish holy day of Yom Kippur

Grant to miss West Ham match due to Yom Kippur

LONDON – West Ham manager Avram Grant will be absent from Saturday’s Premier League match against Stoke because it falls on Yom Kippur, the Jewish Day of Atonement.
Yom Kippur begins at sundown on Friday and ends at sundown on Saturday. West Ham’s match is due to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : West Ham manager Grant to miss match at Stoke due to clash with Jewish holy day of Yom Kippur.

1,900 convert to Islam in Dubai

Dubai, Sep 15 (IANS/WAM) Some 1,900 people from 25 countries have converted to Islam since the beginning of this year, the authorities in Dubai said Wednesday.

Of them, 397 people voluntarily came to the Dubai Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department during the holy month of Ramadan and declared their willingness to embrace Islam, its …. Source article  : 1,900 convert to Islam in Dubai.

Obama’s security team visits Amritsar

AMRITSAR – Ahead of US President Barack Obama’s visit to India in November, a special US team Wednesday conducted a security survey in Punjab’s Amritsar district, police said.

“A six-member team had come to Amritsar to conduct recce as President Barack Obama is expected to visit India in November. They inspected various tourist spots, important roads …. Original article  : Obama’s security team visits Amritsar.

UK bans ice cream ad featuring pregnant nun for being offensive to Catholics

Ice cream ad banned as “offensive” to Catholics

LONDON – Britain’s advertising watchdog has banned an Italian ice cream ad featuring a pregnant nun, saying it causes offense to Catholics.
The magazine ad for ice cream maker Antonio Federici showed the nun eating a tub of ice cream, with text that read: “Immaculately conceived … Ice cream … Read more »»».

On eve of pope’s visit, victims of childhood abuse demand Vatican hand over records on priests

Victims of childhood abuse demand action from pope

LONDON – Victims of childhood abuse by clergy urged the Vatican to give secular authorities all information it holds on misbehaving priests, and said Wednesday that the pope’s visit this week to Britain would cause many survivors pain and distress.
The Catholic Church has apologized for abuses by clergy … Read this article on Gaea Times at : On eve of pope’s visit, victims of childhood abuse demand Vatican hand over records on priests.

Pope Benedict XVI’s U.K. Visit A Big Event?

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM (Gaeatimes.com)- On Tuesday, the head of the Roman Catholic Church in England and Wales mentioned to media sources that smaller number of people are expected to attend the scheduled visit of Pope Benedict XVI. While the initial estimation by the organizers held that around 80,000 people will be attending the beatification …. Source  : Pope Benedict XVI’s U.K. Visit A Big Event?.

Northern Ireland monitors say Protestant militants killed Belfast man, broke peace promises

Experts: Belfast militants killed man, broke truce

DUBLIN – A panel of terrorism experts ruled Wednesday that a Protestant militant group in Northern Ireland, the Ulster Volunteer Force, killed a Belfast man in May and broke its promise to renounce violence.
Britain and Northern Ireland leaders called on the shadowy organization to admit it killed Bobby Moffett …. Source article  : Northern Ireland monitors say Protestant militants killed Belfast man, broke peace promises.

Banker-turned-author breaks taboos, channels growing public frustration over immigrants

German book channels public’s immigrant angst

BERLIN – Thilo Sarrazin was a board member of Germany’s august central bank until he wrote a book claiming German society was being made “dumber” by Muslim immigrants. It’s a runaway best-seller, but has cost him his job.
By suggesting that Muslims’ inability, or unwillingness, to speak German may be linked … Read : Banker-turned-author breaks taboos, channels growing public frustration over immigrants.

Resolve Ayodhya issue through talks: Vinay Katiyar to government

LUCKNOW – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national vice-president Vinay Katiyar Wednesday asked Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to make attempts to resolve the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute through talks outside the court.

“The central government can file an affidavit in the court or take a suitable legal step for solving such a long-pending dispute which has religious …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Resolve Ayodhya issue through talks: Vinay Katiyar to government.

Police fire warning shots to disperse anti-Quran-burning protest in Afghan capital; 5 wounded

Afghan police fire to clear Quran-burning protest

KABUL, Afghanistan – Police fired warning shots to disperse hundreds of stone-hurling Afghans on Wednesday in the latest in a series of protests against Quran burning in the U.S.
At least 35 police officers and 10 protesters were wounded, said Interior Ministry spokesman Zemarai Bashary. Hospital officials said two of …. Original article  : Police fire warning shots to disperse anti-Quran-burning protest in Afghan capital; 5 wounded.

Haryana SGPC chief held as a preventive measure

KURUKSHETRA – Two people, including Sikh leader Jagdish Singh Jhinda who set a deadline to take over control of Sikh shrines in Haryana, were Wednesday arrested to maintain law and order in this district.

Jhinda, who heads an adhoc Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) in Haryana, decided to take over control of Sikh shrines in the …. Read the original article  : Haryana SGPC chief held as a preventive measure.

Pope Benedict XVI to meet Archbishop of Canterbury on second day of state visit to Britain

Pope to meet Anglican leader on Day 2 of UK visit

LONDON – Pilgrims and protesters are greeting Pope Benedict XVI on the second day of his state visit to Britain.
The pontiff is meeting Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams, head of the Anglican Communion, in a display of unity between the divided Christian churches. He also …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pope Benedict XVI to meet Archbishop of Canterbury on second day of state visit to Britain.

After breaking his Ramadan fast, Vikings safety Husain Abdullah finds himself a starter

Vikings’ Abdullah says he felt great during fast

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. – Husain Abdullah broke his Ramadan fast in the final minutes before Minnesota’s season opener at New Orleans by grabbing a Gatorade, a banana and half of a protein bar before kickoff.
Then he took the field for the Vikings, as a starting safety for the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pope Benedict XVI Visits Great Britain

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — Pope Benedict XVI visited Britain on his four day tour. His first public appearance at Great Britain was celebrated as 65,000 Roman Catholics gathered at the Glasgow’s Bellahouston Park. It was a lifetime experience for most catholics as they had the sight of the Pope standing at the Altar.

It was an … Read : Pope Benedict XVI Visits Great Britain.

Seattle cartoonist who started “Everybody Draw Mohammed Day” goes into hiding on advice of FBI

Seattle cartoonist goes into hiding on FBI advice

SEATTLE – The Seattle cartoonist who started “Everybody Draw Mohammed Day” with a satirical cartoon in support of free speech has reportedly gone into hiding on the advice of the FBI.
Seattle Weekly editor-in-chief Mark D. Fefer announced in Wednesday’s issue that Molly Norris’ comic would no longer appear … Original article on : Seattle cartoonist who started “Everybody Draw Mohammed Day” goes into hiding on advice of FBI.

Ahmadinejad Agonistes: Iran’s president heads to US amid internal struggles at home

Iran’s president brings political baggage to NY

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – Iran’s president will likely swagger into New York next week in much the same style as past visits for the annual U.N. General Assembly: ready to take his jabs at America on its home turf.
But any outward confidence on the big U.S. stage contrasts … Original source on Gaea Times at : Ahmadinejad Agonistes: Iran’s president heads to US amid internal struggles at home.

Hindus, Muslims amicably resolve religious dispute

LUCKNOW – Sending out a message of communal harmony and peace ahead of the much-awaited Sep 24 court verdict on Ayodhya’s Ram Janambhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute, Hindus and Muslims in Uttar Pradesh’s Maharajganj district have amicably resolved a religious dispute, an officer said Thursday.

Hindus and Muslims of the Daswakalan village have decided to set up a …. Read the original article  : Hindus, Muslims amicably resolve religious dispute.

Holy day Internet blackout on ministry websites fuels secular, religious tensions

Internet holy day blackout imposed in Israel

JERUSALEM – Israeli government offices that provide a wide array of public services are pulling the plug on online payments on the Jewish Sabbath and holidays, creating a potential new source of friction between the religious and secular in the Jewish state.
Ultra-Orthodox Cabinet ministers are leading the charge to …. Source  : Holy day Internet blackout on ministry websites fuels secular, religious tensions.

Ahead of Ayodhya verdict, government seeks peace (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – Afraid that the Ayodhya verdict Sep 24 could spark trouble, the government Thursday appealed to people to maintain calm when the judiciary rules on the dragging dispute.

“There should be no attempt by any section to provoke any other section or indulge in any expression of opinion that will hurt the sentiments of … Read : Ahead of Ayodhya verdict, government seeks peace (Second Lead).

Ranbir bemoans ‘Anjaana Anjaani’ releasing on Ayodhya verdict day

NEW DELHI – Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor says it is “unfortunate” that his upcoming movie “Anjaana Anjaani” is releasing Sep 24 – the day when the verdict in the 51-year-old Ramjanmabhoomi-Babri Masjid legal dispute will be pronounced.

“Unfortunately our film is coming on that same date. I wish the film wouldn’t have been releasing on …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Woody Allen supports mosque at Ground Zero

LONDON – Legendary Hollywood director Woody Allen supports the proposed mosque at Ground Zero in New York insisting the development will be “a step in the right direction”.

Plans for an Islamic community centre at the site of the 9/11 terror attacks sparked outrage earlier this month when hundreds of protesters gathered at the area on …. Original article  : Woody Allen supports mosque at Ground Zero.

Pope condemns child abuse on British visit (Second Lead)

LONDON – Pope Benedict XVI arrived in Britain Thursday on an historic and highly controversial state visit that is expected to promote church unity while also being punctuated by protest and debate.

The scandal over child sex abuse in the Roman Catholic church and controversial remarks about Britain by a papal adviser have added to the … Read more »»».

Popemobile Upgraded to Carry Pope Bedict

LONDON (GaeaTimes.com) — The iconic popemobile will be seen today ravishing the streets of Britain as it will carry 83 year old Pope Bendict XIV. The German made Popemobile is designed with the latest features to ensure total security to the Pope and will give an opportunity to the people to watch the great man … Read : Popemobile Upgraded to Carry Pope Bedict.

I want to save nation from chaos: Ayodhya petitioner

LUCKNOW – A low profile retired government officer, Ramesh Chandra Tripathi, has hit the spotlight in the temple-mosque row, thanks to his last ditch effort to settle the age-old Ayodhya dispute amicably and out of court.

Tripathi, 73, has sought deferment of the judgment slated for Sep 24. And the special Allahabad High Court bench here …. Read the original article  : I want to save nation from chaos: Ayodhya petitioner.

‘Security beef-up before Ayodhya verdict creating terror’

LUCKNOW – Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Ram Gopal Yadav here Thursday accused the Uttar Pradesh government of creating terror and panic among people by “unnecessarily” deploying security personnel across the state ahead of the Ayodhya verdict Sep 24.

“The state government’s unnecessary exercise related to strengthening of security in the wake of the Ayodhya verdict is … Read more : ‘Security beef-up before Ayodhya verdict creating terror’.

Sikhs in US happy Obama may visit Golden Temple

WASHINGTON – The small but influential Sikh community in the US has expressed joy at reports that President Barack Obama may visit their holiest shrine, the Golden Temple, during his visit to India in November.

“We are confident that after Obama’s visit to the Golden Temple, the US residents would come to know about the … Original article on : Sikhs in US happy Obama may visit Golden Temple.

Government appeals for calm after Babri verdict

NEW DELHI – The Indian government Thursday appealed to people to maintain calm when the judiciary rules on the Babri mosque row Sep 24.

A resolution passed by the cabinet urged Indians to “maintain equanimity and tranquility in the aftermath of the judgement”, Tourism Minister Ambika Soni said here.
“There should be no attempt by any …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Discotheque to change its name after Muslim protests

MURCIA – A Spanish discotheque called Mecca which has angered Muslims will change its name, a Muslim representative said Thursday in the southern city of Murcia.

The discotheque in Aguilas near Murcia will also modify controversial features of its architecture, said Mohammed Reda el-Qady, secretary of the Union of Islamic Communities in Murcia.
Features that were … Read more »».

Obama security team visits Amritsar

AMRITSAR – Ahead of US President Barack Obama’s visit to India in November, an American team has surveyed various sites in Amritsar in Punjab.

“A six-member team inspected tourist spots, important roads and Sikh shrines” Wednesday, Deputy Commissioner of Police K.S. Pannu in Amritsar told IANS.
“But this is not a confirmation that Obama will come … Original article on : Obama security team visits Amritsar.

Germany’s Jesuit order offers sexual abuse victims compensation of at least $6,500

German Jesuits offer abuse victims compensation

BERLIN – A spokesman for Germany’s Jesuits says they plan to pay the victims of sexual abuse in the order’s schools a “symbolic compensation” of at least euro5,000 ($6,500).
Jesuit spokesman Thomas Busch said Thursday the order has not yet made a final decision on the amount that will be offered …. Source  : Germany’s Jesuit order offers sexual abuse victims compensation of at least $6,500.

Arrangements in place for Haj pilgrims: Civil aviation ministry

NEW DELHI – The Civil Aviation Ministry Thursday said that it has made all arrangements for the air transport of 125,000 Haj pilgrims to Saudi Arabia this year.

“This year approximately 170,000 pilgrims from India will be going for Haj. Out of these, 125,000 pilgrims will go through the Haj Committee of India,” said the ministry …. Source article  : Arrangements in place for Haj pilgrims: Civil aviation ministry.

Anti-burqa bill tabled in Italian parliament

Rome, Sep 18 (IANS/AKI) Italy’s anti-immigrant North League party has introduced a bill in the lower house of parliament seeking ban on burqa, the full body veil worn by Muslim women.

According to the legislation, wearing burqa will be punishable by a year in prison, fines of 150 to 300 euros for the wearer and 30,000 …. Original article  : Anti-burqa bill tabled in Italian parliament.

Christians plan to defy police, Muslim warnings against praying at closed church in Indonesia

Christians in Indonesia defy police, past attacks

JAKARTA, Indonesia – A group of Christian worshippers said they would defy police and the threat of attack to hold Sunday prayers outside their now-boarded-up church near Indonesia’s capital.
Religious tensions that had been growing for months in the industrial city of Bekasi came to a head last week when …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Christians plan to defy police, Muslim warnings against praying at closed church in Indonesia.

Muslim summit planned as backers of NYC Islamic center seek to gel support

Muslim summit planned over NYC Islamic center

NEW YORK – A proposed Islamic center near ground zero is slowly being embraced by some Muslims who initially were indifferent about the plan, partly in response to a sense that their faith is under attack.
A summit of U.S. Muslim organizations is planned for Saturday and Sunday in New …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Muslim summit planned as backers of NYC Islamic center seek to gel support.

No amicable solution or delaying Ayodhya verdict: Court (Night Lead)

LUCKNOW – A week before it is scheduled to announce its verdict in the Ramjanmabhoomi-Babri Masjid row, the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court Friday turned down a plea for directing an out-of-court amicable settlement of the dispute, noting several such attempts in the past had gone in vain.

The court also slapped costs of … Read more : No amicable solution or delaying Ayodhya verdict: Court (Night Lead).

African Union peacekeepers cite struggles in expanding reach across Somalia’s troubled capital

AU peacekeepers expand bases in Somali capital

MOGADISHU, Somalia – African Union peacekeepers said Friday they have worked frantically to establish new bases across Somalia’s chaotic capital, in what officials said is a new strategic turn after Somali soldiers ditched more than a dozen key positions during a month of bloody clashes.
The force of some 7,100 … Read more >>.

Ayodhya petitioner to move Supreme Court

LUCKNOW – Retired bureaucrat Ramesh Chandra Tripathi, whose plea for a court direction to the parties in the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute to find an amicable and out-of-court settlement was dismissed by the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court Friday, will now move the Supreme Court.

“The high court order has not disheartened me at …. Original article  : Ayodhya petitioner to move Supreme Court.

In Israel, life comes to a halt as Jews mark solemn fasting day of Yom Kippur

Israel grinds to a halt for Yom Kippur fasting day

JERUSALEM – Israel came to a virtual standstill at sundown Friday as Jews began observing the start of the holiest day of the Jewish calendar, the 25 hours of fasting and contemplation known as Yom Kippur.
Though most Israelis are not religious, Israel all but shuts down … Read more : In Israel, life comes to a halt as Jews mark solemn fasting day of Yom Kippur.

Muslims appeal for peace – post Ayodhya verdict

MUMBAI – Muslim intellectuals and religious scholars Friday urged the Muslim community to maintain peace after the judicial gives its ruling on the Babri mosque title suit Sep 24.

Addressing mediapersons here, activists of the Federation of Minorities NGOs appealed to Muslims not to get emotionally swayed by the court ruling and maintain calm at all …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Muslims appeal for peace — post Ayodhya verdict.

India Celebrates Viswakarma Puja Today

NEW DELHI (GaeaTimes.com) — Entire nation has come together today to celebrate the Viswakarma Puja with pure mind and spirit. Lord Viswaskarma is a Hindu deity who is considered to be the god of architecture and engineering. So all the institutions, workshops or companies related to engineering and architectural works observe this day with … Read : India Celebrates Viswakarma Puja Today.

No out-of-court solution or delaying Ayodhya verdict: Court

LUCKNOW – A week before it is to rule on the Ramjanmabhoomi-Babri Masjid row, the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court Friday turned down a plea for delaying the long-pending verdict and directing an out-of-court amicable settlement of the dispute.

The court also slapped costs of Rs. 2 lakhs on the applicant, though sources later …. Original source  : No out-of-court solution or delaying Ayodhya verdict: Court.

Muslims raise money for installing goddess idol

LUCKNOW – Setting a unique example of brotherhood ahead of the Sep 24 court verdict on the Ramjanmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute, Muslims in Uttar Pradesh’s Mainpuri district are raising funds for installation of a new idol in a Hindu temple after the old one was accidentally broken.

About 50 Muslims in Barnal town, some 300 km … Read more »»».

Plea to defer Ayodhya verdict dismissed

LUCKNOW – The Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court Friday dismissed a petition seeking deferment of its Sep 24 verdict in the long-pending Ramjanmabhoomi-Babri Masjid case.

The court also imposed costs of Rs.200,000 on petitioner Ramesh Chandra Tripathi, a low-profile retired government employee, who had sought an amicable and out-of-court settlement of the dispute.
… Read more >>.

Anti-American protests staged in Jammu

JAMMU – Muslims Friday held anti-American protests across Jammu region to give vent to their anger against the alleged desecration of the Quran in Florida, US, last week.

“Down with America”, “Down with imperialism” were the slogans raised at different mosques after the Friday prayers.
However, the protests were held within the places of worship. … Read more »»».

Pope in London on second leg of Britain visit

LONDON – Pope Benedict XVI began the second day of his state visit Friday by meeting thousands of school children in London in an event described as “the big assembly”.

The event, in the London suburb of Twickenham, would “celebrate Catholic education”, organisers said.
Later Friday, the 83-year-old German-born pontiff is scheduled to have a meeting [..] Read the original article: here.

Ayodhya group echoes need for ‘amicable settlement’

LUCKNOW – Barely an hour before a special three-judge bench of the Allahabad High Court was to hear an application seeking to defer its Sep 24 verdict in the long-pending temple-mosque row, a key Ayodhya group echoed the need for efforts towards an out-of-court “amicable settlement” on the vexed issue.

The group is the Ayodhya-based …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Ayodhya group echoes need for ‘amicable settlement’.

Pope ends UK visit with beatification of Newman, an Anglican convert held up by pope as model

Pope ends UK visit with beatification of convert

LONDON – Pope Benedict XVI wraps up his visit to Britain with the beatification Sunday of Cardinal John Henry Newman, the 19th century Anglican convert held up by the pope as a model for the faithful because he followed his conscience at great personal cost.
Newman is admired by …. Source  : Pope ends UK visit with beatification of Newman, an Anglican convert held up by pope as model.

Sheriff’s officials say 13 members of ‘cult-like’ group reported missing by families

Sheriff’s search for 13 members of LA-area ‘cult’

LOS ANGELES – Five adults and eight children from a “cult-like” group in Southern California were reported missing by their families Saturday, and the group left behind letters that they were awaiting “the Rapture or some other catastrophic event,” a sheriff’s official said.
Husbands of two group members, who …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Christians pray in shuttered Indonesian church monitored by police, agree to discuss tensions

Christians pray in shuttered church in Indonesia

JAKARTA, Indonesia – Dozens of Christians held prayers inside their boarded-up church near Indonesia’s capital Sunday, saying they had as much right as anyone to worship in the world’s most populous Muslim country.
They were surrounded by hundreds of police and unarmed security guards.
Using bullhorns, local officials reminded members of … Read more >>>.

Pence-Palin presidential ticket in 2012 is top choice among social conservatives in straw poll

Pence is tops in conservatives’ straw vote

WASHINGTON – A straw vote suggests that social conservatives favor Indiana Rep. Mike Pence to head a Republican presidential ticket with former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin in 2012.
About 723 out of more than 2,000 registered attendees cast ballots Saturday at the annual Values Voter Summit. Pence was the top … Original article on : Pence-Palin presidential ticket in 2012 is top choice among social conservatives in straw poll.

Dalai Lama named honorary citizen of Budapest

BUDAPEST – The Dalai Lama addressed a crowd of thousands in the Hungarian capital Saturday, the first of two days of Buddhist teaching in a sports arena.

After his public appearance, the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader travelled to Budapest’s town hall, where Mayor Gabor Demszky named him an honorary citizen of the city.
All of 22,400 …. Source article  : Dalai Lama named honorary citizen of Budapest.

Protests as pope apologises for sex abuse ‘crimes’ (Second lead)

LONDON – Pope Benedict XVI Saturday delivered his strongest condemnation yet of the child sex abuse scandal in the Roman Catholic Church as more than 10,000 people demonstrated in London against his official visit to Britain.

During a mass celebrated in London on his four-day state visit to Britain, the 83-year-old German-born pontiff expressed his “deep …. Original article  : Protests as pope apologises for sex abuse ‘crimes’ (Second lead).

Thousands protest against the pope in London

LONDON – Thousands of demonstrators marched through central London Saturday to demonstrate against the visit to Britain of Pope Benedict XVI.

“Pope protects paedophile priests,” and “The pope is wrong – put a condom on” were among the banners held up by marchers as they made their way from Hyde Park Corner to Downing …. Original article  : Thousands protest against the pope in London.

Dalai Lama to address Hungarian parliament

DHARAMSALA – Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama has reached Hungary after a gap of 10 years where he will deliver lectures on the Buddha’s teachings and address parliament, a statement issued here said Saturday.

“The Dalai Lama was received at the Ferihegy airport in Budapest Friday,” according to a post on the website of …. Read the original article  : Dalai Lama to address Hungarian parliament.

Pope meets political leaders, celebrates mass in London

LONDON – Pope Benedict XVI met British Prime Minister David Cameron and other political leaders on the third day of his official visit to Britain Saturday, as police continued to question six men held on suspicion of a terrorist plot against the pontiff.

However, Scotland Yard said nothing had so far been found to substantiate the [..] Read the original article: here.

2-day Muslim summit begins as backers of proposed NYC Islamic center seek to solidify support

Muslim groups hold summit over NYC Islamic center

NEW YORK – A summit of U.S. Muslim organizations is under way in New York City to address the outcry over a proposed Islamic center near ground zero.
Spokesman Shaik Ubaid said the Muslim leaders met Sunday in an effort to arrive at a united stand. The organizations also … Original source on Gaea Times at : 2-day Muslim summit begins as backers of proposed NYC Islamic center seek to solidify support.

Report: Thousands in Turkey denounce Quran desecration in the United States

Report: Protest in Turkey over Quran desecration

ANKARA, Turkey – A news report says thousands of people have protested incidents of Quran desecration in the United States.
Private NTV television said the protesters have burned U.S. and Israeli flags in the mainly Kurdish city of Diyarbakir on Sunday. Some 200 people staged a similar protest in Istanbul.
A … Read more »».

Pope beatifies Newman, praises British who fought Nazis as Vatican declares trip a success

Vatican declares Pope’s visit to Britain a success

BIRMINGHAM, England – The Vatican declared Pope Benedict XVI’s four-day visit to Britain a “great success” Sunday, saying the pontiff was able to reach out to a nation wary of his message and angry at his church’s sex abuse scandal.
On his final day, Benedict praised British heroics against …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Walking across park, Obamas attend services at Episcopal church popular with presidents

Obamas attend Sunday services at Episcopal church

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama and his family attended an hourlong service Sunday morning at a church just across the street from the White House.
Accompanied by his wife, Michelle, and their daughters, Malia and Sasha, Obama strolled across Lafayette Square to attend St. John’s Church. Sasha held her father’s … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Walking across park, Obamas attend services at Episcopal church popular with presidents.

4,000 year-old temples found in Peru

Lima, Sep 19 (IANS/EFE) Peruvian archaeologists have discovered two ceremonial temples believed to be buried since more than 4,000 years.

The temples are said to have been used by people belonging to Bracamoros culture for 800 years, the daily El Comercio reported.
Fourteen burial vaults were also found at the site with skeletons of newborns and …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 4,000 year-old temples found in Peru.

Armenian Christians celebrate Mass at ancient island church in Turkey in reconciliation effort

Armenian Christians celebrate rare Mass in Turkey

AKDAMAR ISLAND, Turkey – Several thousand Armenian Christian pilgrims took boats to an ancient island cathedral in eastern Turkey on Sunday for the first Mass held in the church since it was abandoned during the mass killings of Armenians 95 years ago.
In 2007, Turkey restored the 10th century Akdamar … Original source on Gaea Times at : Armenian Christians celebrate Mass at ancient island church in Turkey in reconciliation effort.

Ayodhya verdict: Form peace committees, deploy forces, states told

NEW DELHI – The central government has asked state governments to form ‘peace committees’ of Hindus and Muslims in what are called “communally sensitive areas” supplemented by strategic deployment of police and paramilitary forces ahead of the keenly-awaited Allahabad High Court verdict on the Ayodhya temple-mosque row Sep 24.

“Prevention is better than cure. That … Read more >>.

Pope marks Blitz 70th anniversary with personal recollection of Nazi evil, praise for UK

Pope notes 70th Blitz anniversary as he says Mass

BIRMINGHAM, England – Pope Benedict XVI is celebrating Mass to beatify Cardinal John Henry Newman and in that ceremony he has offered a personal reflection on the evilness of the Nazi regime.
It was the second time that the German-born Benedict had made reference to the Blitz, the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pope marks Blitz 70th anniversary with personal recollection of Nazi evil, praise for UK.

Katiyar hints at legal battle if Ayodhya suit is lost

NEW DELHI – Hindus locked in the legal tussle over the Ayodhya title suit will approach the Supreme Court if the Sep 24 judicial verdict goes against them, says Hindutva leader Vinay Katiyar.

But Katiyar, now a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) vice president, still feels that an issue concerning the birthplace of Hindu Lord Ram should …. Original source  : Katiyar hints at legal battle if Ayodhya suit is lost.

Pope concludes Britain visit with mass, beatification

LONDON – Pope Benedict XVI is due to end his four-day official visit to Britain Sunday with the beatification of a 19th century English convert, seen by the Catholic Church as a high point of the visit.

The beatification of Cardinal John Henry Newman, who converted to Catholicism in 1845, will take place in Birmingham.
Earlier … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pope concludes Britain visit with mass, beatification.

Armenian Christians celebrate Mass at ancient island church in Turkey

Armenians celebrate rare Mass in Turkey
AKDAMAR ISLAND, Turkey – Hundreds of Armenian Christians are holding Mass at an island church in Turkey for the first time since the World War I killings of Armenians.

Turkey restored the 10th century Akdamar church in Lake Van, eastern Turkey in 2007 and turned it into a museum. Sunday is … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Armenian Christians celebrate Mass at ancient island church in Turkey.

Guruvayur temple saw 198 weddings in a single day (Feature With Image)

GURUVAYUR – The imposing facade of the ancient shrine in Kerala that rises like a timeless edifice in the early morning mist is rooted in the legends of Lord Krishna, arguably the most popular of Hindu divinities.

It sweeps up in two towering gopurams, a maze of pillared courtyards and a richly ornate sanctum sanctorum …. Original source  : Guruvayur temple saw 198 weddings in a single day (Feature With Image).

Dalai Lama expresses hope of return to Tibet

BUDAPEST – The Dalai Lama said Monday in the Hungarian capital that he was “optimistic” that he would one day be able to return to Tibet on a Chinese passport.

Speaking in the parliament building on the last day of a visit to the Central European country, the Buddhist leader called for political liberalisation in China. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Dalai Lama expresses hope of return to Tibet.

Election gains by anti-immigration party shatters Sweden’s image as bastion of tolerance

Anti-immigration sentiment grows in Sweden

STOCKHOLM – A far-right group’s election breakthrough has shattered Sweden’s reputation as a bastion of tolerance after years of being seemingly inoculated against the backlash on immigration seen elsewhere in Europe.
Sunday’s election showed that the country’s welcome to refugees is not universally accepted: Nearly 6 percent of the population voted for …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Muslim groups meet in New York, support proposed Islamic center, call for interfaith dialogue

Muslim groups back Islamic center near ground zero

NEW YORK – Leaders of prominent U.S. Muslim groups called Monday for a national week of interfaith dialogue to combat religious intolerance and said they support the right to build a controversial Islamic center near ground zero.
“We stand for the constitutional right of Muslims, and Americans of all …. Original source  : Muslim groups meet in New York, support proposed Islamic center, call for interfaith dialogue.

Kuwait strips hard-line Shiite activist of citizenship after claims of blasphemy

Kuwait strips Shiite activist of citizenship

CAIRO – Kuwait revoked the citizenship of a hard-line Shiite scholar on Monday, accusing him of trying to stir up discord among Muslims by describing the Prophet Muhammad’s wife was an “enemy of God.”
The Interior Ministry made the decision after cleric Yasser al-Habib attended an event in London dedicated to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Kuwait strips hard-line Shiite activist of citizenship after claims of blasphemy.

Supreme Court to be moved to for deferring Ayodhya verdict

LUCKNOW – The issue of postponing the long-awaited verdict of Allahabad High Court on the Ayodhya dispute beyond Sep 24, already rejected by the high court, will be raised in the Supreme Court, the petitioner said Monday.

Retired bureaucrat Ramesh Chandra Tripathi is all set to move the Supreme Court Tuesday against the high court’s Friday …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Muslim groups, meeting in NYC, say all Americans may worship where they please

Muslims: Americans may worship where they please

NEW YORK – U.S. Muslim groups, discussing the ground zero mosque controversy, say Americans of all faiths have the right to build houses of worship where they please.
The statement was made Monday as part of a New York summit to discuss the proposed Islamic center near ground zero. It …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Macedonia’s moderate Muslims ask for crackdown on radical Wahabbi sect

Macedonia: Moderate Muslims seek help against sect

SKOPJE, Macedonia – Moderate Muslims in Macedonia are urging the government and the international community to crack down on radical Wahhabi groups on the rise in the country.
The head of Macedonia’s official Islamic Religious Community, Suleyman Rexhepi, says he wants “radical measures” against the Wahhabis by the government, the …. Source article  : Macedonia’s moderate Muslims ask for crackdown on radical Wahabbi sect.

US pastor who vowed to burn Quran billed $180,000

NEW YORK – The pastor of a Florida church who threatened to burn the Quran on the 9/11 anniversary to protest the 2001 terror attacks in the US, has been hit with a whopping $180,000 bill as cost of security cover for his stunt.

The city of Gainesville, Florida, plans to send a bill estimated at … Read : US pastor who vowed to burn Quran billed $180,000.

Battling cancer, atheist author Christopher Hitchens skipping prayer day in his honor

Atheist Hitchens skipping prayer day in his honor

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Stricken with cancer and fragile from chemotherapy, author and outspoken atheist Christopher Hitchens sits in an armchair before an audience and waits for the only question that can come first at such a time.
“How’s your health?” asks Larry Taunton, a friend who heads an Alabama-based …. Read the original article  : Battling cancer, atheist author Christopher Hitchens skipping prayer day in his honor.

Bahrain widens crackdown on Shiites by revoking citizenship of powerful cleric

Bahrain revokes citizenship of top Shiite cleric

BAGHDAD – Bahrain’s king warned that mosques would be key targets in sweeps against suspected Shiite dissent in his tiny Gulf nation and vital U.S. ally. The first blow was a big one: stripping the citizenship of a powerful Shiite cleric with close ties to Iraq before next month’s …. Original article  : Bahrain widens crackdown on Shiites by revoking citizenship of powerful cleric.

Army on standby for Ganesh procession in Hyderabad

HYDERABAD – The mammoth Ganesh procession began here Wednesday amid unprecedented security with the army on standby in case of an emergency, officials said.

Thousands of idols from different parts of the state capital and its outskirts headed towards Hussain Sagar Lake in the heart of the city.
There was a festive mood in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Army on standby for Ganesh procession in Hyderabad.

Printing of Guru Granth Sahib allowed abroad

AMRITSAR – Sikhs living in Western countries will no longer have to wait for the supply of the Guru Granth Sahib, as the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has given its nod to the printing of the holy text in the US and Canada.

The SGPC, known as the mini-parliament of Sikhs with an annual budget …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Printing of Guru Granth Sahib allowed abroad.

Peaceful start to Ganesh idol immersions in Mumbai

MUMBAI – Ganesh immersion ceremonies got off to a peaceful start Wednesday with the Mumbai Police, Indian Navy and the Coast Guard providing aerial, sea and land security cover and hundreds of thousands of people gathering for the mega-religious event, officials said.

Coast Guard choppers hovered over the city keeping strict vigil while naval patrol boats …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Bishop Eddie Long is Gay?

The Bishop faced charges of sexual coercion. These charges have been filed by two men.
According to them, Eddie Long persuaded them to having sex with him in exchange for lavish trips, cars and cash from New Birth Missionary Baptist Church.
The Bishop and his spokesman deny all allegations saying:
We categorically deny the allegations. It is … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Bishop Eddie Long is Gay?.

Media to be kept away from high court Sep 24

LUCKNOW – The Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court, which is scheduled to announce its verdict in the long-pending Babri Masjid-Ram Janmabhoomi dispute Friday, has issued guidelines for the media – keeping it away from the court on the judgement day and asking it to maintain restraint.

According to the guidelines issued Tuesday, it has … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Media to be kept away from high court Sep 24.

615 tour operators get court nod for handling Haj pilgrims

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Tuesday upheld the central government’s Haj policy for the year 2010 thereby clearing the way for 615 private operators to take pilgrims to Jeddah in Saudi Arabia starting October.

The decks for these private operators to arrange the travel of pilgrims were cleared after an apex court bench of Justice … Read more »».

Radical Muslim sect kills 2 more in targeted, motorcycle slayings terrorizing north Nigeria

Nigeria: 2 die in targeted Muslim sect slayings

MAIDUGURI, Nigeria – A police commissioner says members of a radical Muslim sect killed two people in northern Nigeria, the latest motorcycle slayings by the group.
Borno state police commissioner Ibrahim Abdu told The Associated Press that the two were killed Tuesday by Kalashnikov-carrying men riding a motorcycle taxi. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Radical Muslim sect kills 2 more in targeted, motorcycle slayings terrorizing north Nigeria.

Shiv Sainiks will maintain peace post-Ayodhya verdict: Uddhav

MUMBAI – Days after the Muslim community urged restraint after the judgment on the Babri Mosque title suit is announced Sep 24, Shiv Sena executive president Uddhav Thackeray Tuesday assured that his party activists would maintain peace and calm.

Thackeray’s announcement came in the wake of a similar appeal by the government urging all political parties …. Original article  : Shiv Sainiks will maintain peace post-Ayodhya verdict: Uddhav.

Navy, Coast Guard deployed in Mumbai for Ganesh immersions

MUMBAI – The Indian Navy and Coast Guard will join the state police to provide security for Wednesday’s Ganesh idol immersions all over Mumbai, officials said here Tuesday.

Coast Guard choppers will continuously hover over the city keeping a strict vigil while naval patrol boats and naval divers will be stationed at strategic locations.
Police will …. Original source  : Navy, Coast Guard deployed in Mumbai for Ganesh immersions.

Catholic church prays for peace in Sudan as vote on independence, potential conflict looms

Church prays for Sudan peace before freedom vote

JUBA, Sudan – The Catholic Church on Tuesday launched a countrywide campaign in Sudan to pray for peace ahead of a scheduled referendum on southern independence that some fear may lead to violence.
Southern Sudan, which is predominantly animist and Christian, is scheduled to vote on independence Jan. 9, … Read more »».

Hyderabad tightens security for Ganesh immersions

HYDERABAD – Over 30,000 policemen were deployed and the military asked to stand by as massive security arrangements have been made for Ganesh idols immersion processions here Wednesday.

A thick security blanket has thrown around the route of the mammoth procession, which passes through the communally-sensitive old city before culminating at Hussain Sagar Lake in the …. Source article  : Hyderabad tightens security for Ganesh immersions.

Official says Iranian diplomats who defected chose to stay abroad for ‘personal interests’

Iran criticizes its diplomats’ defections
TEHRAN, Iran – The two Iranian diplomats who defected this month in Europe chose to stay abroad for mostly personal reasons and not because of any political motives, the spokesman for the Iranian foreign ministry said Tuesday.

The remarks by Ramin Mehmanparast were Iran’s first official confirmation of the defections, which were … Original source on Gaea Times at : Official says Iranian diplomats who defected chose to stay abroad for ‘personal interests’.

Van with 30 schoolchildren plunges into river in Pakistani Kashmir; most missing or dead

Van carrying 30 kids plunges into Pakistan river

MUZAFFARABAD, Pakistan – A van carrying at least 30 schoolchildren plunged into a river in Pakistan-held Kashmir on Tuesday, and most of the passengers were confirmed or feared dead.
The driver lost control of the vehicle and it plunged 50 feet (15 meters) into the Jhelum River from an … Read : Van with 30 schoolchildren plunges into river in Pakistani Kashmir; most missing or dead.

Nepal government stops ex-king from religious programme

KATHMANDU – Two years after the abolition of monarchy in Nepal, deposed king Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah was at the heart of a fresh row Tuesday with the government, citing security concerns, preventing him from attending a religious programme at the palace of his ancestors.

The 63-year-old ousted king was stopped at the last moment from … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Nepal government stops ex-king from religious programme.

Garlands of harmony from Ayodhya’s Muslim flower artisans

AYODHYA – Muslim artisans here continue to make floral decorations for Hindu devotees, weaving bonds of communal harmony at a time when all eyes are on this ancient town ahead of a much-awaited court verdict Friday on the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid title suit contested by Hindu and Muslim groups.

Around 15 Muslim families in the Asharfi …. Source article  : Garlands of harmony from Ayodhya’s Muslim flower artisans.

Dalai Lama praises Solidarity in Poland

WARSAW – Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama praised the Polish labour union Solidarity Wednesday in Wroclaw, western Poland, saying he felt a special bond with the movement which battled communism in the 1980s.

The Dalai Lama spoke to a crowd of some 6,000 people at Wroclaw’s Centennial Hall during a two-day visit that followed the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Dalai Lama praises Solidarity in Poland.

Third lawsuit filed claiming pastor of Atlanta-area megachurch coerced sex from young men

Third lawsuit filed against pastor of megachurch

ATLANTA – Attorneys representing two men who say a prominent pastor of a 25,000-member megachurch near Atlanta coerced them into a sexual relationship have filed a third lawsuit on behalf of another young male member of his church.
Attorney B.J. Bernstein said Wednesday the allegations in the lawsuit are similar …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Third lawsuit filed claiming pastor of Atlanta-area megachurch coerced sex from young men.

Episcopal Church asks Pennsylvania bishop to step down over allegations he covered up abuse

Episcopal Church asks Pa. bishop to step down

PHILADELPHIA – Episcopal Church leaders have asked for the resignation of a Pennsylvania bishop accused of covering up sexual abuse by his brother more than 30 years ago.
The House of Bishops of The Episcopal Church said in a resolution late Tuesday, issued after a meeting in Arizona, that … Original article on : Episcopal Church asks Pennsylvania bishop to step down over allegations he covered up abuse.

Ganesh procession passes off peacefully in Hyderabad (Night Lead)

HYDERABAD – The mammoth Ganesh procession passed off peacefully here Wednesday amid unprecedented security.

The main procession, comprising hundreds of big idols, passed through the communally sensitive Old City ahead of the immersion of idols in Hussain Sagar Lake.
Officials said over 1,000 idols were immersed in the lake since early morning and the process was … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Ganesh procession passes off peacefully in Hyderabad (Night Lead).

India braces for court verdict in 60-year-old case of mosque-temple dispute

India braces for ruling on contested holy site

AYODHYA, India – From a distance – and few are allowed to get close – the simple white tent housing the modest idol appears no more threatening than any of the thousands of other Hindu shrines in a town renowned for its temples.
But that makeshift temple, and the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : India braces for court verdict in 60-year-old case of mosque-temple dispute.

Hearing on plea for delaying Ayodhya verdict put off (Third Lead)

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Wednesday deferred the hearing on a petition seeking to restrain the Allahabad High Court from pronouncing its verdict Sep 24 on a title suit linked to the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute in Ayodhya. The matter may come up in court Thursday.

An apex court bench of Justice Altamas Kabir and …. Source article  : Hearing on plea for delaying Ayodhya verdict put off (Third Lead).

Bulk SMS services banned ahead of Ayodhya verdict

NEW DELHI – As a precaution to curb rumours related to the Ayodhya verdict Friday, the central government has banned bulk SMS and MMS services till Sep 25 evening, an official said Wednesday.
…. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Bulk SMS services banned ahead of Ayodhya verdict.

After 6 months, health care law not a winner for nervous Dems, White House giving it a boost

Obama, White House boosting health law at 6 months

FALLS CHURCH, Va. – President Barack Obama is touting benefits taking effect this week under the health care law he signed six months ago, including provisions allowing young adults to stay on their family’s health plans until they turn 26.
Polling shows the law remains unpopular with much … Read more »».

Ayodhya verdict: Jammu and Kashmir takes steps to stem trouble

JAMMU – Fearing that there may be trouble in the communally sensitive Jammu region, the authorities in Jammu and Kashmir Wednesday asked the police and paramilitary forces to step up vigil ahead of the Ayodhya verdict Friday.

Chief Secretary S.S. Kapoor and Director General of Police Kuldeep Khoda held a meeting here with senior police officers, …. Source article  : Ayodhya verdict: Jammu and Kashmir takes steps to stem trouble.

Supreme Court defers hearing on Ayodhya plea

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Wednesday deferred the hearing on a petition seeking to restrain the Allahabad High Court from pronouncing its verdict Sep 24 on a title suit linked to Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute in Ayodhya.

An apex court bench of Justice Altamas Kabir and Justice A.K. Patnaik said that it was not in …. Source article  : Supreme Court defers hearing on Ayodhya plea.

Visitors shy away from fortress Ayodhya

AYODHYA – The flow of visitors to this historic town in Uttar Pradesh is fast receding as security is heightened ahead of the court verdict Friday in the Ramjanmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute, posing problems for daily wage earners who depend on tourists.

The otherwise crowded banks of the Ghaghara river that flows through Ayodhya, where each day … Original source on Gaea Times at : Visitors shy away from fortress Ayodhya.

Apex court defers hearing on plea for delaying Ayodhya verdict (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Wednesday deferred the hearing on a petition seeking to restrain the Allahabad High Court from pronouncing its verdict Sep 24 on a title suit linked to Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute in Ayodhya. The matter may come up in court Thursday.

An apex court bench of Justice Altamas Kabir and Justice … Original source on Gaea Times at : Apex court defers hearing on plea for delaying Ayodhya verdict (Second Lead).

AP Exclusive: Palestinian leader hints at compromise on settlement standoff with Israel

AP Exclusive: Palestinian hints at settlement deal

JERUSALEM – The Palestinian president has left the door open to continuing peace negotiations with Israel even if it resumes settlement construction in the West Bank, offering a glimmer of hope that a compromise will be reached in a key dispute that has threatened to torpedo the newly relaunched …. Original source  : AP Exclusive: Palestinian leader hints at compromise on settlement standoff with Israel.

Inter-faith summit to remove HIV-related myths

NEW DELHI – In a bid to eliminate stigma and discrimination related to HIV and AIDS, religious heads from across the country will take part in a summit, ‘Faith in Action’, to spread awareness and bust myths about the disease.

The summit, slated for Sep 27-28 in Bangalore, aims at providing a platform for interaction and …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Inter-faith summit to remove HIV-related myths.

Ayodhya crosses its fingers before court verdict

AYODHYA – With just two days to go for the long awaited verdict on the Babri Masjid-Ramjanmabhoomi dispute, a strange quiet has descended over this town with old timers hoping this is not the proverbial lull before a communal storm.

The dispute that dates back to the 19th century is scheduled to come to some … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Ayodhya crosses its fingers before court verdict.

Ganesh procession in Hyderabad progressing peacefully

HYDERABAD – The mammoth Ganesh procession was progressing smoothly through the city Wednesday amid unprecedented security, with the army on stand-by to tackle any emergency, officials said.

Thousands of idols from all parts of state capital Hyderabad and its outskirts headed towards Hussain Sagar Lake in the heart of the city. More than a million … Read : Ganesh procession in Hyderabad progressing peacefully.

Apex court bench declines to hear Ayodhya plea

NEW DELHI – A Supreme Court bench Wednesday declined to hear a petition seeking to restrain the Allahabad High Court from pronouncing its verdict Sep 24 on a title suit related to the Ramjanambhoomi-Babri Masjid disputed structure at Ayodhya.

A bench of Justice Altamas Kabir and Justice A.K. Patnaik said that it had no jurisdiction … Read more >>>.

Anant Chaturdashi Celebrated In Mumbai

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The people of Maharashtra are bidding adieu to Lord Ganesha on the auspicious occasion of Anant Chaturthi. The residents of the financial capital of India are saying goodbye to their favorite deity with sweets, fruits and flowers. This year the residents and organizers of Ganesh Chaturthi have made sure that the …. Original source  : Anant Chaturdashi Celebrated In Mumbai.

Southern California winemakers fear new churches will trample vineyard views, crush business

SoCal winemakers want to block church expansion

TEMECULA, Calif. – After the Mediterranean climate and sandy soil, winemaker Ray Falkner said his greatest asset is the view of rolling vine-covered hills from the top of his property in Southern California.
Confident the Temecula Valley wine-grape region’s strict zoning limits would protect that view, he built a multimillion …. Original source  : Southern California winemakers fear new churches will trample vineyard views, crush business.

Fla. bar drafting complaint against ex-lawyer of runaway Ohio teen Muslim-to-Christian convert

Attorney faulted in runaway Ohio teen convert case

COLUMBUS, Ohio – A professional organization for lawyers is drafting a misconduct complaint against the former attorney of a teenager from Ohio who ran away to Florida after converting to Christianity.
Orlando, Fla.-lawyer John Stemberger represented Rifqa Bary (RIHF’-kuh BAYR’-ee) after she alleged her Muslim parents in suburban Columbus … Read more >>>.

What structure should disputed site have – Some views

MUMBAI – What structure should the disputed site in Ayodhya have, a temple, a mosque or just left bare? With the ruling on the Ayodhya verdict deferred by the Supreme Court till Sep 28, a cross-section of Mumbaikars gave different reactions on the issue.

Bharatkumar Raut, a Member of Parliament from Shiv Sena, said: “Ram is …. Source  : What structure should disputed site have – Some views.

Hyderabad police relieved as Ayodhya verdict deferred

HYDERABAD – Police in Hyderabad Thursday heaved a sigh of relief with the Supreme Court deferring, till Sep 28, the pronouncement of the verdict in the Babri Masjid-Ramjanmabhoomi dispute by the Lucknow bench of Allahbad High Court.

Andhra Pradesh Police officials said the deferment of verdict till Sep 28 has eased pressure on them. The security … Read more »»».

Mixed response in Ayodhya to apex court’s stay on verdict

AYODHYA – The Supreme Court’s decision to stay, till Sep 28, the pronouncement of the verdict in the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid title case by the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court, has evoked a mixed response in this Hindu holy city.

While some believe it will give another chance to the parties to think of …. Source article  : Mixed response in Ayodhya to apex court’s stay on verdict.

Supreme Court stays Ayodhya verdict till Sep 28 (Night Lead)

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Thursday ordered an interim stay till Sep 28 on the pronouncement of the Ayodhya verdict by the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court.

The high court was due to deliver its verdict on the Babri Masjid-Ramjanmabhoomi title suit Friday.
An apex court bench of Justice R.V. Raveendran and …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Supreme Court stays Ayodhya verdict till Sep 28 (Night Lead).

Deferment will prolong Ayodhya issue: Owaisi

HYDERABAD – Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi Thursday apprehended that further deferment of the Ayodhya verdict’s pronouncement by the Allahabad High Court would unnecessarily prolong the issue.

Ruling out any compromise on the matter, Owaisi said the people of the country have the right to know the truth.
“Where is the question of compromise when both the … Original article on : Deferment will prolong Ayodhya issue: Owaisi.

Apex court stays Ayodhya verdict till Sep 28 (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Thursday ordered an interim stay till Sep 28 on the pronouncement of the Ayodhya verdict by the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High court.

The high court was due to deliver its verdict on the Babri Masjid-Ramjanmabhoomi title suit Friday.
An apex court bench of Justice R.V. Raveendran and …. Original article  : Apex court stays Ayodhya verdict till Sep 28 (Second Lead).

Muslims ready to accept Ayodhya verdict, says oldest litigant

AYODHYA – Mohammed Hashim Ansari, 90, the oldest litigant in the Ayodhya case, Thursday said that Muslims across the globe were ready to accept the final verdict even if it goes against the minority community, but the case should be settled in the high court itself.

Reacting to the Supreme Court deferring the Ayodhya … Read more »».

Muslim Personal Law Board terms Supreme Court order ‘unfortunate’

HYDERABAD – The All India Muslim Personal Law Board, the apex body of Indian Muslims, Thursday termed as “unfortunate” the Supreme Court order deferring the pronouncement of the verdict in the Babri Masjid-Ramjanmabhoomi case.

The board demanded immediate pronouncement of the court saying “we must face the truth”. It suspects malafide intentions behind the petition against … Read more >>.

Lawyer: Other young men went on trips with Ga. megachurch pastor who denies sex claims

Lawyer: Other young men went on trips with pastor

ATLANTA – The pastor of a prominent megachurch accused by three young men of coercing them into sex took trips with other male proteges in his youth ministry as part of a mentoring effort, a lawyer for the religious leader said Thursday.
Bishop Eddie Long, who has denied … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Lawyer: Other young men went on trips with Ga. megachurch pastor who denies sex claims.

Nirmohi Akhada hails apex court’s deferring Ayodhya verdict

AYODHYA – The head of the Nirmohi Akhada – one of the key parties in the Ayodhya title dispute – Thursday hailed the Supreme Court’s move to defer the Ayodhya verdict, saying there was no issue that “cannot be solved amicably with the blessings of the Almighty”.

“We welcome the Supreme Court’s decision… I personally believe …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Congress welcomes Ayodhya deferment; BJP, Left differ

NEW DELHI – Political parties reacted contrastingly to Thursday’s Supreme Court decision to postpone the Allahabad High Court judgement on the Ayodhya temple-mosque dispute till Sep 28, with the ruling Congress welcoming the order and the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) questioning the motive behind the deferment.

The Left parties also found no purpose in the [..] Read the original article: here.

Post-immersion, Mumbai residents clean up beaches

MUMBAI – A day after the immersion ceremony of hundreds of big and small idols of Lord Ganesh, the state’s favourite elephant-headed god, Mumbai residents, from students to community workers and even a few celebrities, Thursday joined clean-up drives along the sea beaches and other water fronts.

They supplemented the efforts of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Post-immersion, Mumbai residents clean up beaches.

Supreme Court defers Ayodhya verdict

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Thursday deferred by a week the pronouncement of the Ayodhya verdict by the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court.

The court also issued notice to all the parties to the title suit and asked the attorney general to be present in the court when the case is heard Sep …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Indian Supreme Court agrees to delay verdict in dispute over Ayodhya holy site

Indian court delays verdict on holy site dispute

NEW DELHI – India’s Supreme Court agreed Thursday to delay a verdict in a religious dispute over a holy site in Ayodhya that has shaken the core of modern India and led to repeated outbreaks of Hindu-Muslim violence.
A lower court had been scheduled to rule Friday in the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Indian Supreme Court agrees to delay verdict in dispute over Ayodhya holy site.

Ayodhya verdict casts a shadow over Gaya pindadaan

GAYA – Thousands of Hindus began conducting the ‘pindadaan’ ritual — seeking salvation for their ancestors — in this pilgrim town Thursday but the Ayodhya dispute verdict expected Friday cast its long shadow here.

The day ‘Pitrapaksh’ began — the fortnight-long period is designated for offering ‘pindadaan’, thousands of Hindus from India and abroad gathered …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

APNewsBreak: 4th man says he had a sexual relationship with Ga. megachurch pastor as teenager

APNewsBreak: 4th man sues Ga. megachurch pastor

ATLANTA – A fourth young male member of Bishop Eddie Long’s megachurch is suing the prominent pastor, claiming Long coerced him into a sexual relationship.
The lawsuit was filed by Spencer LeGrande, a member of New Birth Charlotte. New Birth Charlotte is a satellite church run by Long in Charlotte, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : APNewsBreak: 4th man says he had a sexual relationship with Ga. megachurch pastor as teenager.

Vatican bank chief questions money-laundering probe and says bank’s image badly damaged

Vatican bank chief laments damaged image
VATICAN CITY – The chairman of the Vatican bank is questioning why Italian prosecutors seized euro23 million ($30 million) from a Vatican bank account for alleged violations of Italy’s anti-money laundering laws.

Ettore Gotti Tedeschi said in an e-mail exchange Friday with The Associated Press that the bank’s image may have …. Read the original article  : Vatican bank chief questions money-laundering probe and says bank’s image badly damaged.

West Bengal increases OBC quota for Muslims

KOLKATA – The West Bengal government Friday issued notification to increase reservation in the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category from seven percent to 17 percent by introducing a ‘more backward’ classification to benefit the Muslim communities.

Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee at state secretariat Writers’ Building said: “The reservation of the OBC will now be 17 percent … Original article on : West Bengal increases OBC quota for Muslims.

New Yorkers say Ground Zero mosque inappropriate

NEW YORK – A majority of New Yorkers feel that a mosque and an Islamic centre at the site of the erstwhile World Trade Center was “wrong” and inappropriate and could have been shifted to some other place.

A poll conducted among 751 voters from around New York State during Sep 16-20 by the Quinnipiac University …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : New Yorkers say Ground Zero mosque inappropriate.

Ban on bulk SMS, MMS extended till Sep 30

NEW DELHI – The ban on bulk SMS and MMS has been further extended till Sep 30, the ministry of communications and information technology said Friday.

The move came after the Supreme Court deferred till Sep 28 the verdict of the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court in the Ayodhya case.
Extending the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Ban on bulk SMS, MMS extended till Sep 30.

Sex scandal in Catholic Church takes a toll on victims’ lawyers; some lost faith or marriages

Clergy sex scandal takes toll on victims’ lawyers

BOSTON – Three high-profile lawyers who represented victims in the clergy sex abuse scandal that rocked the Roman Catholic Church went through some emotional turmoil of their own.
Boston attorney Eric MacLeish suffered a breakdown after the abuse cases reawakened memories of his own sexual abuse as a child. … Read more >>>.

Congress behind Ayodhya petitioner: BJP

LUCKNOW – The Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) Uttar Pradesh unit chief Surya Pratap Shahi Friday alleged that the Congress was behind retired bureaucrat Ramesh Chandra Tripathi, on whose petition the Supreme Court had stayed pronouncement of the much-awaited Ayodhya verdict.

“We are of the view that Congress is supporting Ramesh Chandra Triptahi as the party wants … Read : Congress behind Ayodhya petitioner: BJP.

US walks out on Ahmadinejad UN speech as he says some think Americans caused 9/11 attacks

US walks out on Ahmadinejad UN speech
UNITED NATIONS – The U.S. delegation has walked out of the U.N. speech of Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad after he said some in the world have speculated that Americans were actually behind the Sept. 11 terror attacks, staged in an attempt to assure Israel’s survival.

He did not explain the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US walks out on Ahmadinejad UN speech as he says some think Americans caused 9/11 attacks.

For some megachurch leaders like accused Ga. pastor, power can come with little accountability

Some churches like Ga. pastor’s thin on safeguards

The 2006 scandal that ousted one of America’s most prominent preachers forced independent charismatic and evangelical churches to consider how to keep a closer eye on their leaders, an issue raised again this week with lawsuits accusing another megachurch pastor of misconduct.
It’s too early to say whether the …. Source  : For some megachurch leaders like accused Ga. pastor, power can come with little accountability.

Congress asks Advani, BJP not to reopen Ayodhya wounds

NEW DELHI – The Congress Saturday expressed hope that veteran leader L.K. Advani or his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would not re-start the Ayodhya movement that created a communal divide in the country.

Calling Advani as the ‘Bhishma Pitamah’ of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), Congress spokesman Manish Tewari said the saffron leader’s controversial rath … Read more : Congress asks Advani, BJP not to reopen Ayodhya wounds.

Chief Minister urges Sikhs to maintain peace in Haryana

CHANDIGARH – With a section of Sikh leadership in Haryana adamant on taking control of gurdwaras in the state from the Amritsar-based Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda Saturday appealed to the Sikh leadership to cooperate in maintaining law and order in the state.

Hooda said: “The interests of Sikhs in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Chief Minister urges Sikhs to maintain peace in Haryana.

As Yamuna overflows, Vrindavan celebrates Pulin Utsav

AGRA – As the Yamuna river rose and spilled its water onto its banks in the holy town of Vrindavan in Uttar Pradesh, hundreds of devotees turned up at the riverside and set lit lamps afloat in the waters to celebrate ‘Pulin Utsav’.

Pulin Utsav is celebrated only when the Yamuna water enters Pulin Vrindavan in …. Read the original article  : As Yamuna overflows, Vrindavan celebrates Pulin Utsav.

Archbishop of Canterbury would support appointment of gay bishops, if they pledge celibacy

Archbishop of Canterbury: Gay rows wounding church

LONDON – Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams was quoted Saturday as saying he is not opposed to the appointment of gay people as bishops, if they pledge to remain celibate.
Williams, the spiritual leader of the Anglican Communion, was quoted as telling the Times of London that he could in …. Source  : Archbishop of Canterbury would support appointment of gay bishops, if they pledge celibacy.

Bhutanese PM attends annual Mahabodhi Society meet

PATNA – Bhutanese Prime Minister Lyonchen Jigmy Y. Thinley Saturday attended the annual general meeting of the Mahabodhi Society of India (MSI) in Bihar’s Bodh Gaya after visiting the World heritage Mahabodhi temple – Buddhism’s holiest shrine.

Thinley is one of the 150 delegates attending the 113th annual general meeting of the MSI.
“The Bhutanese prime …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Bhutanese PM attends annual Mahabodhi Society meet.

Advani urges Supreme Court to allow Ayodhya judgment

SOMNATH – Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader L.K. Advani Saturday urged the Supreme Court to allow a decision on the Ayodhya dispute by the Allahabad High Court, and said people had been waiting for a judgment in the case for over past five decades.

Advani, who visited the Somnath temple here along with …. Read the original article  : here.

In Ayodhya, a temple that is open to all faiths

AYODHYA – Idols of Lord Rama, Gautam Buddha, Lord Mahavir, an image of Makkah-Madina, a picture of Prophet Zarathustra…No matter which faith you belong to, chances are you will find your god at the Satyar temple here .

The temple in the Hanuman Garhi area has emerged as a symbol of communal harmony in this historic … Original source on Gaea Times at : In Ayodhya, a temple that is open to all faiths.

Flock cheers Ga. megachurch pastor as he vows to fight sex allegations like David vs. Goliath

Ga. pastor: I’ll fight like David battled Goliath

LITHONIA, Ga. – Casting himself as the Bible’s ultimate underdog, Bishop Eddie Long went before thousands of faithful supporters at his megachurch Sunday and promised to fight accusations that he lured four young men into sexual relationships.
“I feel like David against Goliath. But I got five rocks, and … Read more >>>.

Former wildlife manager for New Mexico ranch owned by Ted Turner alleges wrongful firing

Man claims wrongful firing from Turner’s NM ranch

RATON, N.M. – A former wildlife manager for a northern New Mexico ranch owned by media mogul Ted Turner alleges he was wrongfully fired from the ranch after a new general manager began pushing religion on employees.
James Baker’s complaint does not charge religious discrimination, but says his three-decade-plus …. Read the original article  : Former wildlife manager for New Mexico ranch owned by Ted Turner alleges wrongful firing.

White descendants gather to honor 1st black US doctor, put tombstone on his unmarked NYC grave

Descendants of 1st black US doctor mark NYC grave

NEW YORK – White descendants of the nation’s first professionally trained African-American doctor gathered in a cemetery on Sunday to dedicate a tombstone at the unmarked grave where he was buried in 1865.
“Right now I feel so connected in a new way, to actually be here,” said …. Original source  : White descendants gather to honor 1st black US doctor, put tombstone on his unmarked NYC grave.

Egypt’s Coptic pope apologizes over anti-Islam remarks by top bishop

Egypt pope apologizes over bishop’s Islam remarks

CAIRO – Egypt’s Coptic Christian leader Pope Shenouda III apologized in a television interview Sunday to any Muslims who were offended after his top bishop reportedly disputed the authenticity of some verses of the Quran.
The remarks come during a period of heightened tension in Egypt between the majority Muslims … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Egypt’s Coptic pope apologizes over anti-Islam remarks by top bishop.

Millennium celebrations of Thanjavur temple conclude

CHENNAI – The curtains came down on the millennium celebrations of the Thanjavur Brihadeeshwara Temple here Sunday evening with the state government announcing several development projects for Thanjavur costing around Rs.12 crore.

Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, who attended the closing ceremony, announced the setting up of free dispensary and a cancer department at the Thanjavur Medical … Read more »».

Ga. megachurch pastor accused in sex scandal says ‘I’ll be here next week’ for services

Ga. megachurch pastor: ‘I’ll be here next week’

LITHONIA, Ga. – The pastor of a Georgia megachurch accused of luring young men into sexual relationships says “I’ll be here next week” for church services.
Bishop Eddie Long told a congregation of thousands Sunday that services were held at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church each week, and that … Read : Ga. megachurch pastor accused in sex scandal says ‘I’ll be here next week’ for services.

Muslim clerics oppose further delay in Ayodhya verdict

LUCKNOW – Muslim religious leaders Sunday joined their Hindu counterparts in opposing any further postponement of the Allahabad High Court’s verdict on the Babri Masjid-Ramjanmabhoomi issue, noting both sides have reposed faith in the court’s decision.

“Isn’t the issue already pending for too long? Sure enough we also want that the dispute reaches its logical conclusion …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Muslim clerics oppose further delay in Ayodhya verdict.

Ga. megachurch pastor accused in sex scandal: I am not the man being portrayed on television

Ga. megachurch pastor pledges to fight accusations

LITHONIA, Ga. – The famed pastor of a Georgia megachurch said Sunday that he will fight allegations that he lured young men into sexual relationships, stressing that he’d be back to lead the church the next week.
Addressing a New Birth Missionary Baptist Church sanctuary packed with thousands, Bishop Eddie … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Ga. megachurch pastor accused in sex scandal: I am not the man being portrayed on television.

Thousands fill cathedral for 1st public remarks from Ga. pastor accused in sex scandal

Thousands await public remarks from accused pastor

LITHONIA, Ga. – Sunday’s services at a Georgia megachurch will give its famed pastor the chance to address the congregation for the first time about allegations that he lured young men into sexual relationships with gifts and travel.
Bishop Eddie Long is scheduled to speak at services at 8 a.m. …. Source  : Thousands fill cathedral for 1st public remarks from Ga. pastor accused in sex scandal.

Ga. megachurch pastor accused in sex scandal: All must face distasteful, painful situations

Ga. megachurch pastor: All face painful situations

LITHONIA, Ga. – The pastor of a Georgia megachurch accused of luring young men into sexual relationships has told his congregation of thousands that all people must face painful and distasteful situations.
Bishop Eddie Long said Sunday that “Bishop Long, Eddie Long, you can put your name in that blank, … Original article on : Ga. megachurch pastor accused in sex scandal: All must face distasteful, painful situations.

Egypt’s top Islamic institution says remarks by Coptic bishop about Quran were irresponsible

Egyptian Islamic body criticizes bishop’s remarks

CAIRO – Egypt’s top Islamic institution criticized a senior Coptic bishop who reportedly disputed the authenticity of some verses of the Quran, warning that the statement threatened Egypt’s national unity.
Bishop Bishoy, head of the Coptic Church’s theological council and considered its No. 2 official, was quoted in Egyptian media reports … Read more : Egypt’s top Islamic institution says remarks by Coptic bishop about Quran were irresponsible.

Three women perform father’s ‘pinda daan’ in Gaya

PATNA – Three Hindu women from Tamil Nadu Sunday broke age-old Hindu traditions by offering ‘pinda daan’ (salvation rituals) for their father in Bihar’s Gaya town.

Raj Lakshmi, Guni Sundari and Gomla Lakshmi performed the ritual at Vishnupad temple and on the banks of the Falgu river in Gaya, about 100 km from here.
“We ignored … Read more »»».

Nitish Kumar meets Bhutanese PM in Bodh Gaya

PATNA – Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar Sunday met Bhutanese Prime Minister Lyonpo Jigmi Y. Thinley in Bodh Gaya to discuss the development of a Buddhist circuit in the state.

The Bhutanese prime minister was elected president of the Mahabodhi Society of India (MSI) for three years at its annual general meeting in Bodh Gaya Saturday. …. Original article  : Nitish Kumar meets Bhutanese PM in Bodh Gaya.

Megachurch pastor accused in sex scandal expected to address congregation; 1st public remarks

Accused megachurch pastor to talk to congregation

LITHONIA, Ga. – Sunday’s services at a Georgia megachurch will give its famed pastor the chance to address the congregation for the first time about allegations that he lured young men into sexual relationships with gifts and travel.
Bishop Eddie Long is scheduled to speak at services at 8 a.m. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Megachurch pastor accused in sex scandal expected to address congregation; 1st public remarks.

Supreme Court dismisses petition on Ayodhya

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Tuesday dismissed a petition seeking deferment of the Allahabad High Court verdict on the Babri Masjid-Ramjanmabhoomi title suit case.

The petition was filed by former bureaucrat Ramesh Chandra Tripathi.
… Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Supreme Court dismisses petition on Ayodhya.

SRK a symbol of religious unity: Vienna meet to debate

VIENNA – Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan is seen as an icon of religious unity by many the world over and experts will deliberate upon the topic at a three-day conference from Thursday at Vienna University.

Titled “Shah Rukh Khan and Global Bollywood”, the meet will not be attended by the superstar himself, but he has … Original source on Gaea Times at : SRK a symbol of religious unity: Vienna meet to debate.

Catholic Church in the Philippines angry at new president’s public support for contraception

Philippine church hits president on contraception

MANILA, Philippines – Just a few months into his tenure, President Benigno Aquino III has angered the powerful Catholic Church by expressing support for the right to contraception in a televised interview abroad.
The issue of contraception – which is opposed by the Vatican, whether chemical or physical – is a … Original source on Gaea Times at : Catholic Church in the Philippines angry at new president’s public support for contraception.

Indian temple attackers get jail in Vienna

VIENNA – Six radical Sikh men received heavy prison sentences Tuesday in Vienna for their involvement in the killing of a senior Indian sect leader last year in Austria’s capital, media reported.

The May 2009 attack at the temple of the Dera Sach Khand sect had triggered widespread violence in India’s northern states of Punjab and …. Read the original article  : here.

Malaysia calls for creation of a ‘global movement of moderates’ to combat extremists

Malaysia calls for moderation to fight extremists

UNITED NATIONS – Malaysia’s prime minister called Monday for creation of a “global movement of moderates” from all faiths to marginalize extremists from all religions.
Najib Razak said terrorist activities carried out by extremist Muslim militants such as al-Qaida members have nothing to do with Islam the same way the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Malaysia calls for creation of a ‘global movement of moderates’ to combat extremists.

Sikh gets life sentence in Vienna temple attack trial

VIENNA – A radical Sikh man was convicted early Tuesday in Vienna of having murdered an Indian sect leader there last year and was sentenced to life behind bars, the Austrian press agency APA reported.

After hours of deliberations, the jury found four other Indian-born defendants guilty of having aided the crime that took place in … Read more : Sikh gets life sentence in Vienna temple attack trial.

Muslim worker at Disney agrees to wear hijab substitute to keep job, religious obligations

Disney, Muslim worker agree on hijab substitute

ANAHEIM, Calif. – Disney is allowing a Muslim employee at its Orange County park to wear a specially designed headscarf after initially objecting to her religious head covering, the Council on American-Islamic Relations said Monday.
Noor Abdallah, 22, was told she couldn’t wear the hijab while working as a vacation … Original source on Gaea Times at : Muslim worker at Disney agrees to wear hijab substitute to keep job, religious obligations.

Poll: Majority of Israelis see non-Orthodox converts a part of Jewish people

Poll: Israelis view non-Orthodox converts as Jews

JERUSALEM – A majority of Israelis regard non-Orthodox converts to Judaism to be part of the Jewish people, according to a survey published Monday, putting the general public at odds with religious authorities.
The survey, conducted for Israel’s Ministry of Diaspora Affairs, found that 63 percent of respondents believed those … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Poll: Majority of Israelis see non-Orthodox converts a part of Jewish people.

No Durga Puja, Shiv Sena Dassehra rally at Shivaji Park?

MUMBAI – A question mark hangs over the Durga Puja celebrations and Dussehra rally at the historic Shivaji Park here after the civic authorities, citing a court order, denied permission for the much-anticipated events at the venue.

The civic body has cited a Bombay High Court order declaring the Shivaji Park as a “silence zone”.
This … Read more »».

Ayodhya vedict delay petition untenable: Sunni Central Wakf Board

NEW DELHI – The Sunni Central Wakf Board Monday said the petition by retired bureaucrat Ramesh Chandra Tripathi seeking the deferment of the Allahabad High Court’s verdict in the Babri Masjid-Ramjanmabhoomi title case was “untenable, misconceived and frivolous” and needed to be dismissed.

The board’s affidavit, filed in the apex court registry, also said the petitioner’s … Read more >>>.

Ground Zero mosque to allow inspection of funds

NEW YORK – The leader behind the proposed mosque near the site of the World Trade Center has said US officials would be allowed to monitor from where funds for the mosque were coming, to reduce fears that terror outfits would contribute to the project.

Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf said he would ask officials to approve … Read more »»».

Ayodhya verdict: Another party to move apex court

LUCKNOW – After petitioner Ramesh Chandra Tripathi, who had sought deferment of the Ayodhya verdict, another key party in the matter Nirmohi Akhara plans to move the Supreme Court for postponement of the judgment for three months to facilitate an out-of-court amicable settlement, a lawyer said Monday.

This was disclosed by Nirmohi Akhara counsel Ranjit Lal …. Original article  : Ayodhya verdict: Another party to move apex court.

Ga. megachurch pastors congregation standing by him despite claims of sexual relationships

Ga. megachurch pastor’s flock standing by him

LITHONIA, Ga. – Despite allegations that he lured four young men into sexual relationships, many of Bishop Eddie Long’s followers remain unwavering in their support for him as he pledges to fight the accusations like David fighting Goliath.
Casting himself as the Bible’s ultimate underdog, Long went before thousands of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Ga. megachurch pastors congregation standing by him despite claims of sexual relationships.

Ayodhya verdict: PM appeals for communal peace

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has made a passionate appeal for peace and harmony following the “outcome of a long judicial process” on the Ayodhya land dispute.

In his appeal, put out as a half-page newspaper advertisement Wednesday, Manmohan Singh urged the people to treat the expected court judgment on the Ramjanmabhoomi-Babri Masjid …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ayodhya verdict: PM appeals for communal peace.

One of Atlanta megachurch pastor’s accusers tells TV interviewer Bishop Long is a ‘predator’

One of Bishop’s accusers calls Long a ‘predator’

ATLANTA – One of the young men accusing a megachurch pastor of coercing him into a sexual relationship told a TV interviewer he loved the pastor, but nevertheless called him a “predator.”
“I loved him and I’m always going to have love for the things he taught us, but … Read : One of Atlanta megachurch pastor’s accusers tells TV interviewer Bishop Long is a ‘predator’.

NY town tells Muslim community to close cemetery, remove 2 corpses; Leaders say it’s bigotry

NY Muslims say bigotry behind cemetery order

SIDNEY CENTER, N.Y. – Officials in a rural upstate New York town are trying to force a group of Muslims to dig up two bodies in their cemetery, saying the burials were illegal.
But the Sufi group, which has documents that appear to support the cemetery’s legality, says the town … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : NY town tells Muslim community to close cemetery, remove 2 corpses; Leaders say it’s bigotry.

Working manuscript of Alcoholics Anonymous ‘big book’ a rare glimpse into fellowship’s roots

12-step manuscript rare glimpse into early AA

In 1939, about 5,000 copies of a book offering hopeless drunks a spiritual path to recovery through 12 steps were released by a fledgling fellowship of alcoholics.
They called it “Alcoholics Anonymous: The Story of How More Than One Hundred Men Have Recovered From Alcoholism.”
Sales were dismal at first, but … Read more >>>.

Obama: ‘I’m a Christian by choice,’ tries to see God in others, does his best to help them

Obama tells questioner he’s ‘Christian by choice’

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – President Barack Obama, in a rare discussion about his religious beliefs, described himself on Tuesday as a “Christian by choice” who arrived at his faith in adulthood because “the precepts of Jesus Christ” helped him envision the kind of life he wanted to lead.
Obama talked about … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Obama: ‘I’m a Christian by choice,’ tries to see God in others, does his best to help them.

Restrain cadres on Ayodhya issue, Digvijay Singh urges BJP

NEW DELHI – Congress general secretary Digvijay Singh Tuesday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of using the Ram temple issue for political gains and asked it to restrain its cadres when the Ayodhya verdict is delivered Thursday.

“BJP’s relationship with Ram is limited to elections. What was BJP doing when it was in power? They …. Original article  : Restrain cadres on Ayodhya issue, Digvijay Singh urges BJP.

PM appeals for peace after Ayodhya verdict

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Tuesday urged the people to maintain peace and harmony after the Allahabad High Court delivers its verdict Thursday in the 61-year-old Ramjanmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute in Ayodhya.

“Whatever be the nature of judgment, I think everyone should make every effort to maintain peace, harmony and tranquility in the country,” Manmohan Singh … Original article on : PM appeals for peace after Ayodhya verdict.

Chavan urges peace ahead of Ayodhya verdict

MUMBAI – Urging people to maintain peace and calm after the Ayodhya verdict Sep 30, Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan Tuesday said tight security measures enforced in the state last week would continue.

“We are maintaining alert and all precautionary measures have been taken to maintain peace in the state,” Chavan said in Nagpur.
Chavan urged … Original article on : Chavan urges peace ahead of Ayodhya verdict.

Court cautions media against speculation on Ayodhya verdict

LUCKNOW – The Lucknow bench of Allahabad high Court Tuesday firmly told the media Tuesday to shun speculation on the much-awaited Ayodhya verdict scheduled to be delivered Sep 30.

In the larger interest of security and safety of the litigants, they have been advised to keep away from the court premises on judgment day.
In an … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Court cautions media against speculation on Ayodhya verdict.

Apex court’s Ayodhya order welcomed by Hindus, Muslims

LUCKNOW – The Supreme Court’s decision to clear the decks for pronouncing the verdict on the decades-old Ayodhya litigation has been welcomed by all quarters – both Hindus and Muslims – here.

Vinay Katiyar, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) vice president, who is also a former BJP MP from Faizabad – Ayodhya, hailed the verdict. “It is … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Apex court’s Ayodhya order welcomed by Hindus, Muslims.

Apex court’s Ayodhya decision welcomed by all (Roundup)

NEW DELHI – Political parties across the board as well as religious groups Tuesday welcomed the Supreme Court dismissing a petition seeking to defer the Allahbad High Court judgment on title suits in the Ayodhya dispute, saying the decision would end the uncertainty.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) spokesman Prakash Javadekar said all parties to the dispute … Original source on Gaea Times at : Apex court’s Ayodhya decision welcomed by all (Roundup).

Ayodhya verdict scheduled for Sep 30 (Third Lead)

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Tuesday paved the way for the Allahabad High Court to give its verdict on the Ayodhya dispute, dismissing a petition that sought its postponement. The high court has now decided to deliver the judgment Sep 30 at 3.30 p.m.

Former bureaucrat Ramesh Chandra Tripathi had filed the petition for deferring … Read more : Ayodhya verdict scheduled for Sep 30 (Third Lead).

‘Apex court’s decision will provide direction to Ayodhya case’

LUCKNOW – Residents of Ayodhya heaved a sigh of relief after the Supreme Court decided to lift the stay on the Allahabad High Court verdict in the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid title case, as they believe the move will provide “momentum and direction to the long-pending case”.

“Today’s (Tuesday) decision by the Supreme Court is a significant …. Source article  : ‘Apex court’s decision will provide direction to Ayodhya case’.

Ayodhya court verdict should be respected by all: Karat

NEW DELHI – Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) general secretary Prakash Karat Tuesday said the Allahabad High Court verdict on the Ayodhya suit should be respected by all.

“There can only be a judicial resolution to the problem,” Karat told reporters after the Supreme Court rejected a plea to defer the verdict in the case. … Read more >>.

Muslims welcome apex court decision on Ayodhya

NEW DELHI – Muslim groups Tuesday welcomed the Supreme Court decision to allow the Allahabad High Court to deliver its verdict on the Ayodhya dispute.

The Darul Uloom Deoband, one of the country’s leading Muslim seminaries based in Uttar Pradesh, told IANS that any delay in pronouncing the verdict would have “only vitiated communal peace …. Read the original article  : Muslims welcome apex court decision on Ayodhya.

Ayodhya case: A great sense of relief, says oldest litigant

LUCKNOW – Mohammed Hashim Ansari, 90, the oldest litigant in the Ayodhya case, Tuesday said the Supreme Court’s decision to lift stay on the Allahabad High Court verdict has brought “a great sense of relief for Muslims and Hindus across the country”.

“I welcome the Supreme Court’s decision… In fact, the entire country would be happy … Read more : Ayodhya case: A great sense of relief, says oldest litigant.

Congress welcomes Supreme Court order on Ayodhya

NEW DELHI – The Congress Tuesday welcomed the Supreme Court order dismissing a petition seeking postponement of the Allahabad High Court verdict on the Ayodhya row.

“I welcome the decision on behalf of the party. The party has always maintained that the solution to the dispute should be found through talks or the decision of the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Congress welcomes Supreme Court order on Ayodhya.

Ayodhya verdict on Sep 30 (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Tuesday paved the way for the Allahabad High Court to give its verdict on the Ayodhya dispute, dismissing a petition that sought its postponement.

The high court has decided to announce the verdict Sep 30 at 3.30 p.m.
Former bureaucrat Ramesh Chandra Tripathi had filed the petition for deferring … Read more >>.

Apex court paves way for Ayodhya verdict

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Tuesday paved the way for pronouncement of the Babri Masjid-Ramjanmabhoomi title suit verdict by the Allahabad High Court, dismissing a petition seeking deferment of the decision.

The petition was filed by former bureaucrat Ramesh Chandra Tripathi for postponing the high court verdict till the end of the Commonwealth Games. …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Ayodhya verdict not about Hindus, Muslims: Babri panel

LUCKNOW – The Ayodhya verdict will not be about Hindus or Muslims, but will reflect the victory of the rule of law and independence of the judiciary, Zafaryab Jilani, the Babri Masjid Action Committee convenor, said ahead of the Ayodhya verdict Thursday.

“These cases relating to the title and possession of Babri Masjid are apparently …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Ayodhya verdict not about Hindus, Muslims: Babri panel.

Ayodhya is part of India’s growing up process: B.G. Verghese

NEW DELHI – The Ayodhya issue is a growing-up pang India is battling with in its process of growth as a mature democracy, says veteran journalist B.G. Verghese whose book, “First Draft: Witness to Making of Modern India”, was released here.

“India is growing up and changing. An underlying transformation is taking place and Ayodhya …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ayodhya is part of India’s growing up process: B.G. Verghese.

Wary Lucknow deserts roads ahead of Ayodhya verdict

LUCKNOW – Limited vehicular movement, deserted commercial establishments, half-day schools and heavy armed deployment – this was the scene in some areas of the city Thursday, hours before the Allahabad High Court’s judgment on the Ayodhya dispute.

Roads in Aliganj, Jankipuram, Kapoorthala, Mahanagar, Vikas Nagar and other areas of the Old City which have a … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Wary Lucknow deserts roads ahead of Ayodhya verdict.

4 years after son’s death in Iraq, father and funeral protesters take dispute to Supreme Court

High court looks at military funeral protests

YORK, Pa. – One thing Al Snyder wants to make clear: His boy fought and died for freedom in Iraq, but not for the right of some “wackos” to spew hate at soldiers’ funerals under the protection of the Constitution.
“It’s an insult to myself, my family and the veterans … Read more >>>.

Amicable agreement on dispute needed: Ayodhya residents

AYODHYA – An amicable agreement should be reached over the land dispute in Ayodhya, residents of this Uttar Pradesh city said Thursday, a day when the Allahabad High Court is to deliver its judgment on the long pending Babri Masjid-Ramjanmabhoomi dispute.

“The judgment is necessary as it would mark the end of a judicial … Original source on Gaea Times at : Amicable agreement on dispute needed: Ayodhya residents.

Thousands of police patrol northern India as verdict over control of holy site looms

India braces for violence amid holy site verdict

LUCKNOW, India – India sent hundreds of thousands of troops into the streets Thursday as it braced for a potential eruption of violence ahead of a court decision on whether Hindus or Muslims should control a disputed holy site.
The conflict over the compound in the town of Ayodhya, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Thousands of police patrol northern India as verdict over control of holy site looms.

Agra short of priests for ‘pitrapaksh’ rituals

AGRA – This city seems to be running short of priests during ‘pitrapaksh’, the fortnight when many Hindus offer prayers to ancestors. Pundits from other parts of Uttar Pradesh as well as Bihar are helping meet the demand for trained hands to conduct rituals.

Migrant priests are gradually filling the vacuum created by local priests … Read more >>>.

4 years after son’s death in Iraq, father, funeral protesters take dispute to US Supreme Court

US high court looks at military funeral protests

YORK, Pennsylvania – One thing Al Snyder wants to make clear: His boy fought and died for freedom in Iraq, but not for the right of some “wackos” to spew hate at soldiers’ funerals under the protection of the U.S. Constitution.
“It’s an insult to myself, my family and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 4 years after son’s death in Iraq, father, funeral protesters take dispute to US Supreme Court.

Defense says waving, dropping Quran in court tainted trial of Ore. man in Islamic charity case

New trial sought in Oregon Islamic charity case

PORTLAND, Ore. – Prosecutors in the trial of the Oregon leader of an Islamic charity branch used appeals to provoke prejudice and emotion that included waving the Quran in the air and throwing it on the table in front of jurors, his lawyers say in a request for … Read more : Defense says waving, dropping Quran in court tainted trial of Ore. man in Islamic charity case.

Vatican taps Spaniard to investigate cult-like group linked to disgraced Legionaries of Christ

Vatican taps investigator for group tied to Legion

VATICAN CITY – The Vatican has named a Spanish archbishop to investigate a cult-like group affiliated with the Legionaries of Christ, the conservative religious order disgraced by revelations its founder sexually abused seminarians and fathered three children.
Monsignor Ricardo Blazquez, archbishop of Valladolid, Spain, will head the probe into … Read more : Vatican taps Spaniard to investigate cult-like group linked to disgraced Legionaries of Christ.

US commander says Iraqi impasse over forming government encouraging spike in insurgent attacks

US general: Iraq political limbo fuels violence

BAGHDAD – The top U.S. commander for Baghdad warned Wednesday that Iraq’s prolonged political crisis has encouraged militants to step up attacks and left civilians so frustrated they could be holding back crucial tips on suspected insurgent cells.
The assessment by U.S. Brig. Gen. Rob Baker is the most direct … Read more »».

Danish foreign minister meets Muslim ambassadors ahead of cartoon anniversary

Denmark seeks to avoid renewed cartoon uproar

COPENHAGEN, Denmark – Denmark’s foreign minister met Wednesday with ambassadors from 17 Muslim countries in a move to avoid tensions ahead of the five-year anniversary of the Prophet Muhammad cartoons.
The drawings first appeared in the Danish newspaper Jyllands-Posten on Sept. 30, 2005, and sparked fiery protests in Muslim countries … Original article on : Danish foreign minister meets Muslim ambassadors ahead of cartoon anniversary.

Ayodhya dispute a national problem: Priest

AYODHYA – Head priest of Ram Lala – a makeshift temple at the disputed site in Ayodhya – Mahant Acharya Satyendra Das said here Wednesday that the Ramjanmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute must be viewed as a national problem and not as a conflict between two religious communities.

“The Ramjanmabhoomi-Babri Masjid issue cannot be linked only …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ayodhya dispute a national problem: Priest.

PM calls for calm as India on alert ahead of Ayodhya verdict (Roundup)

NEW DELHI – A day ahead of the Babri Masjid-Ramjanmabhoomi verdict that will put to test India’s ideal of religious tolerance, India was on alert Wednesday with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Congress president Sonia Gandhi, among others, appealing for peace and mutual respect.

While the central and state governments stepped up security to ward … Read more : PM calls for calm as India on alert ahead of Ayodhya verdict (Roundup).

Don’t foresee problem after Ayodhya verdict: Chidambaram

NEW DELHI – A day before Allahabad High Court’s verdict on the Ayodhya dispute, Home Minister P. Chidambaram Wednesday said the government didnt foresee any problems after the announcement of the court decision.

India has moved on, especially the people who were born after 1992 (when Babri Masjid at the disputed site was razed …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Don’t foresee problem after Ayodhya verdict: Chidambaram.

Ayodhya dispute: claims and counter-claims

NEW DELHI – The Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court will Thursday give its verdict on the Ayodhya land row. Here are the claims and counter-claims of the contestants in the Babri Masjid-Ramjanmabhoomi dispute:

Birthplace of Hindu god Ram:
– Hindu litigants say the disputed site in Ayodhya is the birthplace of Ram.
– …. Source article  : Ayodhya dispute: claims and counter-claims.

Security tightened ahead of Indian court decision on Ayodhya holy site

Tight security as India awaits holy site verdict

LUCKNOW, India – Thousands of police and paramilitary forces fanned out across a dozen north Indian cities and towns Wednesday ahead of a potentially explosive court judgment on who should control a disputed holy site, police said.
Authorities used helicopters to keep a vigil on historic sites of violence … Original source on Gaea Times at : Security tightened ahead of Indian court decision on Ayodhya holy site.

Iraqi PM candidate in Syria amid frustration over political deadlock

Iraqi PM candidate in Syria for talks
DAMASCUS, Syria – A leading candidate in the contested race to lead Iraq’s new government insisted during a visit to Syria on Wednesday that he would not take part in any coalition headed by his rival, the current prime minister.

Former Prime Minister Ayad Allawi narrowly defeated Prime Minister Prime …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Iraqi PM candidate in Syria amid frustration over political deadlock.

Maintain peace after Ayodhya verdict, urges Sonia

NEW DELHI – Congress president and United Progressive Alliance (UPA) chairperson Sonia Gandhi Wednesday asked the people to maintain peace and communal brotherhood “at any cost” after the court verdict on the “sensitive” Ayodhya dispute.

“I request you to accept whatever the court’s decision will be and keeping faith in the Indian judiciary maintain … Read more : Maintain peace after Ayodhya verdict, urges Sonia.

Devotees can visit Ayodhya temple on judgement day

LUCKNOW – No restrictions will be imposed on devotees visiting Ram Lala – the makeshift temple at the disputed site in Ayodhya – Thursday when the verdict in the Ramjanmabhoomi-Babri Masjid title suit will be pronounced, an official said Wednesday.

“There will be absolutely no restriction on ‘darshan’ of Ram Lala,” said Faizabad District Magistrate …. Source article  : Devotees can visit Ayodhya temple on judgement day.