The Non-prophets

A Michigan commissioner wants to prevent Satanists from giving an invocationFriendly Atheist , By Hemant Mehta, on March 25, 2024Battle for the Pulpit: Satanists vs. Christianshttps://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/a-michigan-commissioner-wants-to?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android&r=oa4eg&triedRedirect=trueThe Non-Prophets, Episode 23.14.2 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Jonathan Roudabush, Eli and Helen Greene

Erin Hawley: The Woman Arguing Against the Abortion PillHawley: Ranches to Roe BattleNew York Times/Yahoo News, By Elizabeth Dias and Abbie VanSickle, on March 26, 2024https://ca.news.yahoo.com/erin-hawley-woman-arguing-against-121736503.htmlThe Non-Prophets, Episode 23.14.1 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Jonathan Roudabush, Eli and Helen Greene

Researchers say Christian leaders will embezzle an estimated $86 billion in 2024The Friendly Atheist, By Hemant Mehta, on Mar 20, 2024https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/researchers-say-christian-leadersThe discussion delved into the issue of financial transparency and accountability within Christian organizations, particularly regarding the embezzlement of funds.Kelley Laughlin shed light on the alarming statistic that Christian leaders may embezzle over $80 billion annually by 2024, as reported by the Center for the Study of Global Christianity and the Trinity Foundation. This embezzlement includes practices like skimming from offering plates and diverting mission donations to personal expenses.The panelists highlighted the lack of financial oversight and transparency within religious institutions, emphasizing the need for routine audits, transparency measures, and consequences for illegal activities. They also discussed the pervasive influence of Christianity in American society, particularly in politics, an

Former Hays County GOP leader sentenced to 410 years in prison for sexual abuse of children, child pornographyKVUE News, By Lauren Petterson, Jeff Bell , on March 11, 2024https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/bo-michael-dresner-sentencing/269-17fad9be-ddb4-4304-b956-fb3ba7bb7344In this segment, the hosts discuss a recent case involving a former GOP leader in Hayes County, Austin, who was sentenced to 410 years in prison for sexual assault of children and child pornography.They criticize the justice system for allowing the perpetrator to go unpunished for similar crimes in the early 2000s and failing to adequately investigate allegations made against him in 2012. The hosts express outrage at the leniency shown to the perpetrator, highlighting the systemic failures in protecting vulnerable individuals, particularly children, from offenders like him.They discuss the betrayal felt by the victims and the impact of the perpetrator's status as an elected official. They emphasize the need for holding politicians an

White Pastor Defends Slavery And Calls Martin Luther King Jr. A 'Non-Believer Who Misrepresented Christ'News One, By Zack Linly, on March 1, 2024https://newsone.com/5047878/john-macarthur-white-pastor-martin-luther-king-jr/In this segment, the discussion revolves around John MacArthur, a Christian pastor at Grace Community Church in California, who has garnered attention for his controversial views on race, slavery, and religious freedom. MacArthur criticized a group of Evangelical pastors for honoring Martin Luther King Jr. during Black History Month, labeling MLK as an unbeliever and accusing the pastors of succumbing to the "woke movement" and racial baiting. MacArthur's comments reflect a supremacist interpretation of Christianity, justifying racial disparities and advocating for slavery as part of Christianity's history. This narrative contrasts with attempts to whitewash MLK's legacy, portraying him as a colorblind figure, while MacArthur depicts him as a threat to white supremacy.MacArthur's interpreta

Jack Hibbs Says Critics Of Christian Nationalism Are 'Literal Cancers'Right Wing Watch, By Kyle Mantyla, on March 11, 2024https://www.rightwingwatch.org/post/jack-hibbs-says-critics-of-christian-nationalism-are-literal-cancers/The panel addresses Jack Hibbs, a pastor who has made controversial remarks comparing critics of Christian nationalism to Nazis and socialists. Hibbs, known for his anti-LGBTQ+ stance and conspiracy theories, lacks understanding of politics and history, yet he was invited to deliver a prayer on the House floor by Secretary of State Mike Johnson. The panel questions the constitutionality and appropriateness of this invitation.Kelley highlights Hibbs' troubled relationship with history, citing his inaccurate claims about God's removal from American history in 1925 and other historical distortions. Despite Hibbs' lack of credibility, some followers believe his rhetoric, revealing a concerning trend of indoctrination and a disregard for truth.Cynthia underscores Hibbs' misuse of scripture t

Iowa Republicans send 'religious freedom restoration' bill to governor's deskIowa Public Radio, By Katarina Sostaric, on March 1, 2024https://www.iowapublicradio.org/state-government-news/2024-03-01/iowa-republicans-send-religious-freedom-restoration-bill-to-governors-deskThe discussion revolves around the contentious issue of whether religions should be banned in light of recent events highlighting discriminatory practices under the guise of religious freedom. The proposed Religious Freedom Restoration Act in Iowa has sparked concerns that it could legalize discrimination against LGBTQ individuals under the pretext of protecting religious beliefs. Critics argue that such legislation distorts the concept of religious freedom, potentially infringing on civil rights and equality.Participants in the conversation express strong opinions regarding the perceived erosion of human rights in favor of religious beliefs. They decry the trend of prioritizing religious freedoms over individual rights, citing examples of d

The owners of a Christian boarding school in Missouri are jailed and charged with kidnapping crimesAP News, By JIM SALTER, on March 4, 2024https://apnews.com/article/christian-boarding-school-missouri-owners-arrested-3ec27c8fc26d37108f4afe1199351084A heartfelt conversation centering on the disturbing events surrounding the arrest and charges brought against Larry and Carmen Musgraves, proprietors of ABM Ministries, a Christian boarding school in Missouri. The arrests were prompted by allegations of abuse and reports of children fleeing from the school. The participants express a range of emotions, from outrage and disgust to sadness and frustration, as they discuss the broader implications of trust placed in religious institutions and the lack of oversight that allowed such abuse to occur.Throughout the discussion, there is a palpable sense of indignation at the exploitation of vulnerable children under the guise of religious education. The participants lament the systemic failure that enabled these atrocitie

Matt Schaefer Provides A Case Study In Christian NationalismRight Wing Watch, By Kyle Mantyla, on March 8, 2024https://www.rightwingwatch.org/post/texas-state-rep-matt-schaefer-provides-a-case-study-in-christian-nationalism/In this discussion, the panel acknowledges that individuals have the right to their beliefs and the freedom to express them, but when those beliefs infringe upon the rights and freedoms of others, it becomes a problem. The concern is not just about the sincerity of the beliefs but the actions they inspire.There's a consensus among the panelists that the merging of religion and government, particularly in the form of Christian nationalism, poses a threat to individual liberties, democratic principles, and scientific progress. This merging creates a system where authoritarianism is reinforced by religious doctrine, leading to a society where dissent is suppressed and conformity to a specific belief system is enforced.The panel expresses concern about the normalization of Christian nationalis

Jewish Passenger Sues JetBlue After He Refused to Sit With Woman, Was Thrown Off PlaneBusiness Insider, By Grace Dean, on Mar 12, 2024https://www.businessinsider.com/jetblue-orthodox-jewish-passenger-sues-lawsuit-refused-sit-woman-seat-2024-3The discussion delves into a highly charged incident aboard an airplane, where a passenger adamantly refuses to comply with a request to switch seats to accommodate a fellow traveler's religious beliefs. Tensions rise as the situation unfolds, with the crew and other passengers becoming involved in the escalating dispute.The conversation explores the complexities surrounding the accommodation of religious practices within the context of communal spaces such as airplanes. It raises questions about the extent to which individual rights should be balanced against the needs and beliefs of others, particularly in situations where there is limited space and resources.Throughout the discussion, various viewpoints emerge, each reflecting different perspectives on the matter. Some

NY Attorney General sends cease-and-desist order to county executive over transgender sports ban | CNNCNN, By By Michelle Watson and Eric Levenson, on March 3, 2024https://www.cnn.com/2024/03/03/us/newyork-nassau-trans-athletes/index.html The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.11.4 featuring Cynthia , Eli, Helen Greene and Jonathan RoudabushNew York Attorney General Leticia James demanded that Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman rescind a ban on transgender athletes from competing in women's and girls' sports. Blakeman's executive order, signed on February 22nd, prohibited transgender athletes from participating in such sports at county facilities, citing fairness concerns. The ban affected over 100 venues under the Department of Parks, Recreation, and Museums.James asserted that the order violated state civil and human rights laws, subjecting female athletes to intrusive questioning. Blakeman defended the order, arguing that biological males shouldn't compete in girls' or women's leagues. However, he noted that tra

The Threat of Christian Nationalism in All 50 States, Illustrated in Eight ChartsPRRI , By ROBERT P. JONES, on February 28, 2024https://www.whitetoolong.net/p/the-threat-of-christian-nationalism?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android&r=oa4eg&triedRedirect=true The conversation delves into the findings of a PRRI survey on the prevalence of Christian nationalism in the United States. It reveals that approximately three in 10 Americans can be classified as Christian nationalism adherents or sympathizers, with notable influence within the MAGA movement and the Republican Party. Participants express concern over the implications of Christian nationalism, which perpetuates the idea of America as a promised land for European Christians, potentially undermining democracy and fostering political polarization.The dialogue explores the complex dynamics behind Christian nationalism, including its roots in Protestantism and its appeal to certain demographics. There's a recognition of the diverse perspectives with

Florida is swamped by disease outbreaks as quackery replaces science | Florida | The GuardianThe Guardian, By Richard Luscombe, on March 3, 2024https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/mar/03/florida-measles-outbreak-preventable The discussion  revolves around the contentious actions and viewpoints of Florida's Surgeon General, Joseph Ladapo, amidst a measles outbreak and broader discussions on vaccination policies. Ladapo's controversial advice, contrary to CDC recommendations, sparks criticism from medical experts and reignites debates on vaccine misinformation and public health policy. His alignment with Governor Ron DeSantis and history of vaccine skepticism draw scrutiny, with concerns raised about the politicization of science in the state's public health decisions.The discussion delves into Ladapo's background, highlighting his unorthodox medical views, including skepticism towards life-saving COVID shots and preference for unconventional treatments like leeches. Despite being Harvard-educated, Ladapo'

Hateful GOP official called out to his face in Nex Benedict's death:LGBTQ Nation, By By John Russell , on February 28, 2024https://www.lgbtqnation.com/2024/02/hateful-gop-official-called-out-to-his-face-in-nex-benedicts-death-its-on-you/ The discussion centered around a tragic incident involving the death of 16-year-old Nex Benedict, who was reportedly attacked due to their gender identity and later died. The incident occurred at a high school in Oklahoma, sparking outrage and calls for action against discrimination and bullying in schools. The vice mayor, Sean Cummings, publicly criticized Oklahoma's Republican superintendent of Public Instruction, Ryan Walters, and the State Board of Education for fostering an environment of hostility toward LGBTQ+ individuals.Cummings directly implicated Walters and the board for allegedly contributing to the bullying culture, linking their rhetoric to the tragic outcome. He called for accountability and urged state officials to address the root causes of anti-LGBTQ+ senti

MAGA Republican Pledges “End of Democracy” to Rabid Cheers at CPACThe New Republic, By Tori Otten, on February 23, 2024https://newrepublic.com/post/179247/jack-posobiec-democracy-cpac-2024In a chilling revelation at the recent Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC), ultra-right-wing Republican Jack Prosak made a shocking statement, declaring, "Welcome to the end of democracy. We are here to overthrow it completely." His brazen assertion, accompanied by a gesture of a cross on a chain, symbolized the GOP's embrace of theocratic authoritarianism. Former White House adviser Steve Bannon echoed his sentiments with a fervent "amen," highlighting the party's dangerous trajectory. This alarming declaration sheds light on the GOP's concerted efforts to dismantle America's democratic institutions, laying bare their disdain for the principles of democracy. Their audacious agenda, once confined to closed-door discussions, now stands exposed for all to see. The specter of authoritarianism looms large, posing a g

N.C. hospital sues an 18-year-old quadriplegic to make her leaveNPR, By Joseph Shapiro, on February 22, 2024https://www.npr.org/2024/02/22/1232463580/teen-hospital-lawsuit-disability-rightsThe discussion delved into various aspects of the situation, from the shortcomings of the healthcare system to the societal values that prioritize profit over human dignity. There was a consensus that Alexis deserves better, and that resources should be allocated to support individuals like her who are working hard to overcome their circumstances. The group expressed admiration for Alexis's resilience and determination, highlighting her positive attitude despite facing immense challenges. They emphasized the importance of recognizing her humanity and ensuring that she has the opportunity to pursue her goals and aspirations like anyone else. Overall, the conversation underscored the need for systemic change to address the needs of individuals with disabilities and prioritize human well-being over financial interests. Alexis'

'Abuse of power': Catholic leaders, local officials blast Texas lawsuit targeting migrant ministryNational Catholic Reporter, By Kate Scanlon, on February 26, 2024https://www.ncronline.org/news/news/abuse-power-catholic-leaders-local-officials-blast-texas-lawsuit-targeting-migrantIn a recent controversy, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton drew criticism from Catholic leaders and local officials alike for his attempt to shut down a Catholic nonprofit aiding migrants and asylum seekers. Paxton's move has been labeled as an abuse of power and an infringement on religious freedom. The nonprofit in question, Annunciation House based in El Paso, Texas, was targeted in Paxton's lawsuit, accused of facilitating illegal entry and human smuggling. However, Bishop Mark Seitz and others swiftly rallied to defend the organization's mission, emphasizing its longstanding commitment to providing basic resources to those in need. This situation has ignited a fierce debate, shedding light on broader concerns about the treatment

NC pastor says rape suspects aren’t guilty if victims wore shorts, prompting outrageCharlotte Observer, By Joe Marusak, on Feb 26, 2024https://www.charlotteobserver.com/news/local/article285847716.htmlThe discussion delved into Pastor Bobby Leonard's controversial remarks and subsequent apology, which sparked widespread condemnation. Leonard suggested that rape suspects should be acquitted if their victims wore shorts, drawing intense backlash for perpetuating victim-blaming and excusing sexual assault. Despite his apology displayed on a church sign, skepticism remained as it failed to address the deeper issues raised by Leonard's remarks. Participants in the discussion expressed outrage and incredulity at Leonard's remarks, highlighting the inherent misogyny and flawed logic behind his stance. They criticized his apology as insufficient and insincere, calling for more meaningful accountability and recognition of the harm caused. The conversation also touched on the broader societal issues of purity culture a

Why do so many people feel comfortable mocking Christians? Washington Examiner, By Matt Lamb, February 20, 2024 https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/2864377/why-do-so-many-people-feel-comfortable-mocking-christians/ The Non-Prophets, episode 23.09.04 airing 03-09-2024 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Phoebe Rose, Aaron Jensen and Helen Greene

Ruby Franke: Parenting advice YouTuber and influencer jailed for child abuse, Sky News, February 21, 2024 https://news.sky.com/story/ruby-franke-parenting-advice-youtuber-ruby-franke-jailed-for-child-abuse-13076408 The Non-Prophets, episode 23.09.03 airing 03-08-2024 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Phoebe Rose, Aaron Jensen and Helen Greene