Please remember that you bless us with your presence, and may the Holy Spirit bring you His comfort and His peace. Join us!!!
Zoom Link:
For Study, Prayer and Fellowship - 8:00 AM PDT on 06/14/2025:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82968961343?pwd=LzcwVjJKcWVESDRURlhDcXlNV0JUdz09
Meeting ID: 829 6896 1343
Passcode: 77299ere:
06/14/2025 – Prologue – In a press release the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) accused traditional Catholics of white supremacy and “violent rhetoric.” A SPLC spokesperson said it would be investigated and that he ordered its immediate removal. But released documents show the memo received “positive feed-back” from the FBI. No objections were raised, and their offices in Buffalo, Louisville, Portland, and Milwaukee assisted with follow-up. This is the beginning of attacks on Christians and their churches.
Deal with the Debt: : – At 9:40 PM, 06/12/2025 the national debt was $36,971,512,037,468 and the annual interest payment is $1,029,292,751,973. Both are increasing rapidly! This is im-moral and unsustainable! If the Federal government defaults on this debt the majority of Americans are at risk of economic ruin and being impoverished. Those who are least capable of making financial adjustments are at even greater risk – including death. America no longer has an impeccable credit rating because our elected officials are irresponsible in their attitude toward our debt. Regardless of your political party please write, to your Federal representatives in Congress, to express your deep concern and request immediate action.
The creation of a Christian Culture is a task placed before humanity two thousand years ago, and is not yet finished. This task cannot be finished in a single age or by a single group. All ages and generations must work on this task in their own way. We must become imbued with Christ’s teachings and invite the Holy Spirit into our own lives and thus into the physical world. This is our task and it will reveal an immense inner freedom. All things addressed by Christ become part of our Christian culture, as well as the history of Christianity. The now is illuminated by the past, which continues to teach and guide people. Christ shines His light into every part of our lives and the world in which we live. Nothing is exempt! But that is not enough – The light of Christ must not only give light to Christians, but to the life of non-Christians as well. Christ’s command was to go and make disciples, who then go and make. [Matt. 28:19-20]
The Pew Research organization just released details of their most recent study of religions: Global Religious Landscape 2010 to 2020. Here are a few broad indicators. As a percentage of the world population, 29% (2.3 B) are Christians; 25.6% (2.0 B) are Muslims and 24.2% (1.9 B) are ‘Nones’. As a percentage of the world population Christianity declined, the other two in-creased. Muslims had the largest growth: 7.1% (327 M) The number of those shedding their religious affiliation is most prevalent in the U.S. and Europe. However, we would do well to remember that we will not convince everyone to see the light of Christ. We will be weaving the implication of these numbers into our future studies. The number, most troubling, is the number of countries where governments harass religious groups or interfere with worship has increased.
The movie - The American Miracle – Our Nation Is No Accident, opened in limited theatres, nationwide to screen June 9 -11 only. “What if the establishment of the United States of America, against all odds, was no accident; what if God’s Divine Hand guided the steps of the Founding Fathers due to their faithfulness to Him and belief in His Providence? What if America is deemed a miracle, the unique, longstanding success of a revolution unlike any other in recorded world history? It is difficult, nearly impossible to explain the outcome, without allowing for divine intervention. Washington said, “the Invisible Hand which conducts the affairs of men.”
As we begin to conclude this journey through Christian Culture, we will discuss our direction, activities and desired results. We could play the blame game. In this era of identity politics there are enough groups from which to select scapegoats. However, we have real issues to consider. In our household the issues that present the greatest challenges are cultural: not political, economic, or religious. The problems we face are challenges to individual conduct which spill outward to engulf spouses, families, communities and even churches.
Above all, as Christians, we must remember we are set apart from the world and called to live according to God’s values and principles. Our culture should reflect the righteousness and holiness of God, rather than conforming to the ways of the world. It reminds us that our identity is rooted in Christ and that we are called to be a light in the darkness, proclaiming the goodness and salvation of God to those around us. “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness and into his wonderful light. [1 Peter 2:9]
A reposting of an article from Acton Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan:
“Freedom granted by state power is no longer a human right, but a privilege that can be revoked at will.
State control of religion is a practice that has long been in operation in totalitarian regimes like China, North Korea, Vietnam, and Nicaragua. One of the reasons is that the religious sector often serves as the moral compass of society. Religious leaders are key public figures, able to influence millions of people with a message that may contradict the political narrative. The late Archbishop Desmond Tutu recognized the key role that faith communities and their leaders play in a nation’s socio political life.
Freedom of religion is a basket of human rights, broader than praying or attending church. It includes freedom of conscience, thought, belief and opinion, and the right to follow the faith of your choice—or to adhere to no faith at all. It is the right to assemble, form religious institutions that determine their confessions, doctrines, and ordinances. It gives parents the right to pass on their faith, views, and values to their children.
The right to freedom of religion must be robustly defended against any erosion by the state. Europe endured centuries of violent conflict after the Reformation, as state-backed religious factions persecuted dissenters. October 27, is now commemorated as “Religious Freedom Day,” a reminder of the dangers of government-backed faith.
It is deeply concerning to note a growing trend for states—in sub-Saharan Africa—to seek ways to intervene in and control the religious sector. State control of religion is established in Rwanda and Angola and is under consideration in Kenya, Uganda, Namibia, and South Africa. (Personal note: There are only 5 churches in Kenya.)
State regulation treats religious freedom as a privilege that it grants, rather than an inalienable human right guaranteed by international treaties and the Constitutions of many nations.
In South Africa the reasons to establish state control of religion are common with the others. Elements have pushed for the government to pass legislation to impose state regulation. They include establishing state-appointed peer review committees to license religious practitioners and oversee churches, with the power to suspend or dismiss leaders guilty of misconduct. This call for state regulation of religion was based on cases of abuse, fraud, fake miracles, and dangerous practices. Existing laws prohibit these, regardless of religious affiliation. The problem is not a lack of regulation but a failure to enforce existing laws. Religious freedom has never been a legal defense to excuse or justify a criminal act. These remain crimes, regardless of religious affiliation. A legal analysis revealed that every abuse cited was illegal under South African law.
A common argument for regulation is that clergy should be treated like other professionals, with standard qualifications and ethical oversight. Unlike regulated professions, religion is not based on a universally accepted body of knowledge. There are over 40,000 Christian “denominations”. No government should have the authority to determine what beliefs are correct or “acceptable.”
Any form of compelled training or requirement for a state-recognized academic qualification as a prerequisite for a license to practice as a religious leader will conflict with the right to religious freedom. It is not the role of the state to support religious conformity or faith orthodoxy.
The claim that the religious sector is unregulated is false. Religious organizations are subject to many laws governing property ownership, banking, employment, and taxation. Most churches operate as legal entities, such as nonprofit organizations or trusts.
Another argument for state regulation of religion is that it will help stamp out charlatans and misguided theology. The proposal is for the state to appoint a “Peer Review Committee” of religious leaders of the Hello All,
Please remember that you bless us with your presence, and may the Holy Spirit bring you His comfort and His peace. Join us!!!
Zoom Link:
For Study, Prayer and Fellowship - 8:00 AM PDT on 06/14/2025:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82968961343?pwd=LzcwVjJKcWVESDRURlhDcXlNV0JUdz09
Meeting ID: 829 6896 1343
Passcode: 77299ere:
06/14/2025 – Prologue – In a press release the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) accused traditional Catholics of white supremacy and “violent rhetoric.” A SPLC spokesperson said it would be investigated and that he ordered its immediate removal. But released documents show the memo received “positive feed-back” from the FBI. No objections were raised, and their offices in Buffalo, Louisville, Portland, and Milwaukee assisted with follow-up. This is the beginning of attacks on Christians and their churches.
Deal with the Debt: : – At 9:40 PM, 06/12/2025 the national debt was $36,971,512,037,468 and the annual interest payment is $1,029,292,751,973. Both are increasing rapidly! This is im-moral and unsustainable! If the Federal government defaults on this debt the majority of Americans are at risk of economic ruin and being impoverished. Those who are least capable of making financial adjustments are at even greater risk – including death. America no longer has an impeccable credit rating because our elected officials are irresponsible in their attitude toward our debt. Regardless of your political party please write, to your Federal representatives in Congress, to express your deep concern and request immediate action.
The creation of a Christian Culture is a task placed before humanity two thousand years ago, and is not yet finished. This task cannot be finished in a single age or by a single group. All ages and generations must work on this task in their own way. We must become imbued with Christ’s teachings and invite the Holy Spirit into our own lives and thus into the physical world. This is our task and it will reveal an immense inner freedom. All things addressed by Christ become part of our Christian culture, as well as the history of Christianity. The now is illuminated by the past, which continues to teach and guide people. Christ shines His light into every part of our lives and the world in which we live. Nothing is exempt! But that is not enough – The light of Christ must not only give light to Christians, but to the life of non-Christians as well. Christ’s command was to go and make disciples, who then go and make. [Matt. 28:19-20]
The Pew Research organization just released details of their most recent study of religions: Global Religious Landscape 2010 to 2020. Here are a few broad indicators. As a percentage of the world population, 29% (2.3 B) are Christians; 25.6% (2.0 B) are Muslims and 24.2% (1.9 B) are ‘Nones’. As a percentage of the world population Christianity declined, the other two in-creased. Muslims had the largest growth: 7.1% (327 M) The number of those shedding their religious affiliation is most prevalent in the U.S. and Europe. However, we would do well to remember that we will not convince everyone to see the light of Christ. We will be weaving the implication of these numbers into our future studies. The number, most troubling, is the number of countries where governments harass religious groups or interfere with worship has increased.
The movie - The American Miracle – Our Nation Is No Accident, opened in limited theatres, nationwide to screen June 9 -11 only. “What if the establishment of the United States of America, against all odds, was no accident; what if God’s Divine Hand guided the steps of the Founding Fathers due to their faithfulness to Him and belief in His Providence? What if America is deemed a miracle, the unique, longstanding success of a revolution unlike any other in recorded world history? It is difficult, nearly impossible to explain the outcome, without allowing for divine intervention. Washington said, “the Invisible Hand which conducts the affairs of men.”
As we begin to conclude this journey through Christian Culture, we will discuss our direction, activities and desired results. We could play the blame game. In this era of identity politics there are enough groups from which to select scapegoats. However, we have real issues to consider. In our household the issues that present the greatest challenges are cultural: not political, economic, or religious. The problems we face are challenges to individual conduct which spill outward to engulf spouses, families, communities and even churches.
Above all, as Christians, we must remember we are set apart from the world and called to live according to God’s values and principles. Our culture should reflect the righteousness and holiness of God, rather than conforming to the ways of the world. It reminds us that our identity is rooted in Christ and that we are called to be a light in the darkness, proclaiming the goodness and salvation of God to those around us. “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness and into his wonderful light. [1 Peter 2:9]
A reposting of an article from Acton Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan:
“Freedom granted by state power is no longer a human right, but a privilege that can be revoked at will.
State control of religion is a practice that has long been in operation in totalitarian regimes like China, North Korea, Vietnam, and Nicaragua. One of the reasons is that the religious sector often serves as the moral compass of society. Religious leaders are key public figures, able to influence millions of people with a message that may contradict the political narrative. The late Archbishop Desmond Tutu recognized the key role that faith communities and their leaders play in a nation’s socio political life.
Freedom of religion is a basket of human rights, broader than praying or attending church. It includes freedom of conscience, thought, belief and opinion, and the right to follow the faith of your choice—or to adhere to no faith at all. It is the right to assemble, form religious institutions that determine their confessions, doctrines, and ordinances. It gives parents the right to pass on their faith, views, and values to their children.
The right to freedom of religion must be robustly defended against any erosion by the state. Europe endured centuries of violent conflict after the Reformation, as state-backed religious factions persecuted dissenters. October 27, is now commemorated as “Religious Freedom Day,” a reminder of the dangers of government-backed faith.
It is deeply concerning to note a growing trend for states—in sub-Saharan Africa—to seek ways to intervene in and control the religious sector. State control of religion is established in Rwanda and Angola and is under consideration in Kenya, Uganda, Namibia, and South Africa. (Personal note: There are only 5 churches in Kenya.)
State regulation treats religious freedom as a privilege that it grants, rather than an inalienable human right guaranteed by international treaties and the Constitutions of many nations.
In South Africa the reasons to establish state control of religion are common with the others. Elements have pushed for the government to pass legislation to impose state regulation. They include establishing state-appointed peer review committees to license religious practitioners and oversee churches, with the power to suspend or dismiss leaders guilty of misconduct. This call for state regulation of religion was based on cases of abuse, fraud, fake miracles, and dangerous practices. Existing laws prohibit these, regardless of religious affiliation. The problem is not a lack of regulation but a failure to enforce existing laws. Religious freedom has never been a legal defense to excuse or justify a criminal act. These remain crimes, regardless of religious affiliation. A legal analysis revealed that every abuse cited was illegal under South African law.
A common argument for regulation is that clergy should be treated like other professionals, with standard qualifications and ethical oversight. Unlike regulated professions, religion is not based on a universally accepted body of knowledge. There are over 40,000 Christian “denominations”. No government should have the authority to determine what beliefs are correct or “acceptable.”
Any form of compelled training or requirement for a state-recognized academic qualification as a prerequisite for a license to practice as a religious leader will conflict with the right to religious freedom. It is not the role of the state to support religious conformity or faith orthodoxy.
The claim that the religious sector is unregulated is false. Religious organizations are subject to many laws governing property ownership, banking, employment, and taxation. Most churches operate as legal entities, such as nonprofit organizations or trusts.
Another argument for state regulation of religion is that it will help stamp out charlatans and misguided theology. The proposal is for the state to appoint a “Peer Review Committee” of religious leaders of the major faiths, who would evaluate religious practitioners and those wishing to form a religious organization, to ascertain if their doctrine is acceptable.
If the state appoints, empowers, and rules on the outcomes of these peer review mechanisms, it will have established a system of state control of religion. It may appear well-intentioned. The state should intervene only when actual laws are broken.
Should the state protect people from the consequences of their financial choices? Is it the role of the state to draw a line? Is giving money to religion misguided? If the state is serious about protecting the financially vulnerable, it should address high-risk financial activities, such as casinos and state-run lotteries.
In Rwanda 9,800 “prayer houses” and 7,000 “illegal churches” have been shut down. In Angola, the government closed approximately 2,308 places of worship and 2,000 un-registered churches were closed because the government approved a new law requiring at least 100,000 signatures from followers to register. (N.B. We experienced a similar requirement in KG.)
Regulation of religion by the state represents an existential threat to religious freedom. When the government controls who can preach, what can be taught, and which institutions are legitimate, faith ceases to be independent and becomes a tool of the state. Faith communities must therefore remain vigilant against government overreach.
Michael Swain is the executive director of Freedom of Religion South Africa (FOR SA).
Love, hank
Cell: 541-973-5442
hankhohenstein@gmail.com faiths, who would evaluate religious practitioners and those wishing to form a religious organization, to ascertain if their doctrine is acceptable.
If the state appoints, empowers, and rules on the outcomes of these peer review mechanisms, it will have established a system of state control of religion. It may appear well-intentioned. The state should intervene only when actual laws are broken.
Should the state protect people from the consequences of their financial choices? Is it the role of the state to draw a line? Is giving money to religion misguided? If the state is serious about protecting the financially vulnerable, it should address high-risk financial activities, such as casinos and state-run lotteries.
In Rwanda 9,800 “prayer houses” and 7,000 “illegal churches” have been shut down. In Angola, the government closed approximately 2,308 places of worship and 2,000 un-registered churches were closed because the government approved a new law requiring at least 100,000 signatures from followers to register. (N.B. We experienced a similar requirement in KG.)
Regulation of religion by the state represents an existential threat to religious freedom. When the government controls who can preach, what can be taught, and which institutions are legitimate, faith ceases to be independent and becomes a tool of the state. Faith communities must therefore remain vigilant against government overreach.
Michael Swain is the executive director of Freedom of Religion South Africa (FOR SA).
Love, hank
Cell: 541-973-5442
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