News archive Year 2010

**************   December 31, 2010     **************

 

• Degree offering aimed at `new atheism' movement   Which came first - the incessant cramming of religion into society or the fight to keep society as secular. The only way to win this war is through the media and a huge influx of highly trained charismatic apologetics will do much harm to the wall separating church and state...

 

• Faking It   Very few non-theists would be willing to voice opposition to religious rants because most non-theists are not out of the closet. There are times when faking it is the correct response...

 

• Mandatory U.S. Army Survey Says: Non-Believers Unfit To Serve   This story is starting to get more media attention. Maybe Obama will have to repeal this the same as DADT...

 

**************   December 30, 2010     **************

 

• The War on Christianity   As the author states, I have no problem with PRIVATE religion. The problem is PUBLIC religion where the mayor, principal, governor, president and governmental entities espouse the virtue and righteousness of their gods and I, being against that, will vehemently voice my disapproval no matter whose feelings get hurt. Prominent public officials should have ZZEERROO influence on my child's religious upbringing. Public officials and governmental entities should be in the same category of disdain as that held against professional athletes advertising tobacco and alcoholic products...

 

• Merry Christmas, Richard Dawkins   I agree with the author and their dislike of the religious wars. I would be perfectly okay with theactions of either side if they would take their personal beliefs out of my government and out of the public arena. This is not likely to ahppen as people have tendencies to convert others to their own personal beliefs. Religion grows best where there are uneducated poor people and irreligion grows best in an educated affluent society...

 

• Atheists would need to be a god to find God   If you give a god credit for the beauty of intelligent design then that same god has to take credit for the ugly and cruel non-intelligent parts of the universe as well...

 

**************   December 29, 2010     **************

 

• BUBACK: Attacks on Christmas threaten freedoms   Public schools should be free from political and religious biases shown favor by the local community...

 

• OUT ON A LIMB: Leave It Alone!   Religion as a topic, can bring out the worst in people. There are certain camps on both sides that are beligerant and in your face which I do not care for...

 

• Critics Blast Potential Taxpayer Funding of Noah's Ark Theme Park   It is good to see major newspapers become involved in this sectarian issue...

 

**************   December 28, 2010     **************

 

• Critics Blast Potential Taxpayer Funding of Noah's Ark Theme Park   It is good to see major newspapers become involved in this sectarian issue...

 

• How to: Have your car cleaned overnight-for free!   Godless Girl had another moment of brilliant creativity...

 

• Does God Exist? Ricky Gervais Takes Your Questions   Gervais number 2 - great answers to follow up questions. Hang out for the ending - it is pretty good...

 

**************   December 27, 2010     **************

 

• 'John of God': Faith Healer?   I will gladly give this faith healer $10,000 to come heal my missing finger...

 

• Despite abysmal track record, Calif. atheist keeps suing   This is a very well done and balanced piece centering on Mr. Newdow. I wish him well in his struggle to strengthen the wall separating church and state...

 

• Arizona hospital loses Catholic status over surgery   This is a welcome ruling by the church. The more idiocy they spew, the more credibility the lose....

 

**************   December 26, 2010     **************

 

• Obama signs repeal of 'don't ask, don't tell' policy   This is a GREAT win for America and HUGE loss to the religious right anti-secular evangelical bigots...

 

• Tax neglect cost Pinellas County millions   All churches should pay taxes on all facilities and services that are in direct competition with the general public. Gymnasiums, recreation centers, kitchens, counseling and the list goes on and on...

 

• American Stage Theatre Presents SANTALAND DIARIES & ...SCIENTOLOGY PAGEANT   It is strange that the Scientologists legal team didn't call on Zenu for help when the production company chose to ignore their threats of lawsuits for putting on this play...

 

**************   December 25, 2010     **************

 

• Atheists' numbers doom them to irrelevance   I simply love this article as it shows the teaching of religiosity. Of the comments posted so far -ALL are negative against the authors erroneous assertions...

 

• Real patriots must be prepared to thwart aggression from religious right   This is a great piece written by a passionate patriot - my two cents -Any religious diatribe in a meeting meant for citizens is no more welcome than the advertisements from professional athletes espousing the virtues of tobacco and alcohol. The way I see it – to be anti-secular is to be anti-American. Get your religious beliefs out of MY government and keep it out....

 

• Luxembourg losing faith in the Catholic church   The sheeople of the world are slowly but surely loosing faith in the churches. Of course there are the acceptations in the poor and illiterate communities of the planet...

 

**************   December 24, 2010     **************

 

• Opinion - Threat to religion is from fundamentalism not atheism   I disagree with the author in that secularism is a good tool against fundamentalism. I do agree that fundamentalism is very harmful to all religions....

 

• Why I Chucked My Mormon Faith and Became an Atheist   This is a little long but a great read of how easy faith is lost when people venture outside the confines of the church...

 

• But what if you're wrong   Instructions for atheists in case there is a heaven....

 

**************   December 23, 2010     **************

 

• USA WEEKEND promotes “god is love” and other myths   I checked out this USA Today story in the Sunday paper and noticed a VERY one sided feel good piece that belongs in a church and not a national newspaper....

 

• Christopher Hitchens and me   This author did a great job of praising Hitchens even though there is much disagreement in their beliefs....

 

• A Holiday Message From Ricky Gervais: Why I’m an Atheist   Good read - it only took Rick one hour to change his theological viewpoint. Wish I could have been so lucky because it took me nearly 30 years to be free of religion...

 

**************   December 22, 2010     **************

 

• Candidate was blasted unfairly   Only a simple minded teenager would ask such sophomoric (moronic) questions during a debate for high office. Ms. O'Donnell's stance on the subject of church and state was probably the biggest factor of why she did not win...

 

• The 'zombie theology' behind the walking dead   I would love for the religious right to use this zombie fest as a new avenue to recruit parishioners. This would be yet another aspect to discredit the silliness they already subscribe to...

 

• Take Your Hand Off the Steering Wheel...   Thanks for the humor this morning. Please be careful in suggesting that people let god do all the work because we have enough overweight couch potatoes as it is...

 

**************   December 21, 2010     **************

 

• Non-believers stick to their conviction   This could be a very dangerous place to espouse religious disbelief. The fact that it is happening in the largest Muslim country in the world is also very promising...

 

• Noah's ark coming to Kentucky   The United States will continue its decline partly due to the religious factions that are driven to teach the next generation these fables. Having the government back it up is probably the most damaging aspect...

 

• SB COUNTY: 'In God We Trust' motto to be displayed   The phrase "under god" is without a doubt an anti-secular phrase which is without a doubt anti-American. The United States was born as a secular country and should always and forever remain a secular country...

 

**************   December 20, 2010     **************

 

• Atheists Will Be On Right Side of History   One of the winning ways for non-theists will be to strengthen (brand) the link between anti-secular with anti-American....

 

• Religion is good for America, authors argue   The best part of the report cites that separation of church and state is one of the main causes for so much religious freedom.  Most of the rest of the report is questionable...

 

• Religious ads banned from Fort Worth buses   It is good that the transit authority banned all religious ads. I doubt the same will happen in the general business arena as there is a good deal of money to be made from the conflict between the theists andnon-theists....

 

**************   December 19, 2010     **************

 

• Dan O’Neill: Don’t blame atheists for the crisis in Christianity   I believe the author is correct in that the church is looking for a "fall guy" to blame for its own demise...

 

• In Life Satisfaction, Social Connections Matter More Than Religion   Community is and has been the key to social well being and happiness. The church has facilitated this activity and has profited and grown ever more powerful. Sleep in on Sunday and find other facilities for community is rapidly growing...

 

• John Micklethwait: China Will Be the Biggest Christian Nation   I would love to see the demographics on these 100 million Chinese Christians. IMHO - wherever you find the poor and illiterate, you will find Christian's knocking on doors...

 

**************   December 18, 2010     **************

 

• Prayer Warriors Team Up to Storm Capitol Hill   I like the part that says the president is the representative of our nation - our nation contains millions and millions of Americans that do not believe in gods. "E Pluribus Unum" is a perfect fit for ALL Americans - In God We Trust is NOT a good fit...

 

• Druplord with spiritual bent   Video - A wolf in sheep's clothing. Long has religion calmed the masses and used the cloak of religion to garner favor...

 

• Atheists Are Ramping Up the War on Christmas   Someone should and is battling the religious right's "anti-secular" movement. There are many ways to accomplish that goal and one is to discredit your opponent...

 

**************   December 17, 2010     **************

 

• NH Parents Object to Book That Calls Jesus Vagrant   I can easily understand these parents wanting to pull their child from school. I, on the other hand, would pull my child from school if they were teaching Christianity in a good light...

 

• Atheists Protest Hartford City Council Prayers   This is a good example of the slippery slope toward a secular state. Even small protests like this one will embolden others to do like wise...

 

• Man Church!   Thanks Godless Girl for the tidbit on how churches are reaching out to the manly men in an effort to bolster attendance records. Sounds almost like the Cowboy Church we have here in Amarillo...

 

**************   December 16, 2010     **************

 

• Atheists To Protest Hartford City Council Meeting   You really can not argue with a city council that is willing to go far enough to actually make a point to include all religions and even a moment of silence. As far as I know that practice is approved. Do not get me wrong, I would prefer that government entities not get involved at all in religious rituals. The council is present at the government meeting to conduct government business not to pray...

 

• Pakistan doctor arrested on suspicion of blasphemy   What lunacy abounds in the world of Islam. Not long ago a teacher got into big trouble for naming a teddy bear doll Mohamed and now you can not even throw paper in the trash if it has the word Mohamed. ha ha ha what lunacy...

 

• Indoctrinating Children In a Religious Faith is Abusive   I do agree with the author on several points but think there are other areas to concentrate on that are actually winnable. Telling parents how to raise their kids is not an issue that could be easily won....

 

**************   December 15, 2010     **************

 

• Belief in Christ still the biggest   Christianity has moved into the areas of the planet to find easy pickings in the poorest and least educated populations...

 

• Tax Breaks to Build an Ark? ‘Noah’ Way, Brother   This author has added an interesting twist to this church/state scenario playing out in Kentucky. Should businesses, like churches and manufacturers, prostitute themselves to the highest bidder...

 

• 'Christian Conservative' Should Replace Jewish Speaker, Some Texas Pols Say   This is going a bit far by having this conversation in our government. Did any of these lawmakers study the constitution in their schooling?

 

**************   December 14, 2010     **************

 

• Cables show Ireland irked Vatican on sovereignty   The Catholic church has too long hidden these details. It is good to see the Vatican squirm...

 

• APOV: The Drug-Free Marshals, Scientology and deception   I would be in favor of revoking tax-exempt status from CoS and any church with assets over a million dollars. These organizations, in my opinion, are for profit businesses and should be pay corporate taxes...

 

• Controversy waits in the wings as 'Scientology Pageant' takes to stage   I would love to see this show. Most belief systems have strange quirks. Most people have strange quirks. It is healthy to be able to laugh at your own idiosyncrasies...

 

**************   December 13, 2010     **************

 

• Atheist bus wars   Christians complaining about atheists voicing their opinions sounds just like the pot calling the kettle black. One comment attached to this story accused atheist's of being afraid to attack Islam with negative ads. Sounds to me that someone might benefit from a business course in marketing. Why would any sane business person specifically target Islam in the midst of a Christian community....

 

• Pa. couple who only prayed for dying tot convicted   The guilty party should include the actual church that fosters this sort of belief. Maybe next time the court will put the actual culprit, religion, on trial...

 

• Florida town discriminates against Christians   So now one religious clan is accusing another religious clan of discrimination. How about we just follow the rules and not allow ANY religious symbolism on public property...

 

**************   December 12, 2010     **************

 

• Holiday Smackdown: The Creche and the Menorah and Santa vs. the Tree of Knowledge   So the religious majority does the opposite of what is constitutionally correct. They circumvent the law to silence and FORCE their view on the minority. A perfect example of why we REALLY need a wall of separation between church and state...

 

• Westboro Baptist Church to Protest at Elizabeth Edwards' Funeral   The is a PERFECT EXAMPLE of why we do not want religion mixed in our public schools and in our government.  Can you imagine our society if Westboro were in charge...

 

• Tempering Atheist Optimism: Remembering the Big Picture   I tend to be much more optimistic about the inroads being made by the atheist movement. Never before in American history has non-belief been so accepted. It is all over the news media, national prime time news, sitcoms, politics...

 

**************   December 11, 2010     **************

 

• Rediscovering the Democratic Voice on Church & State   More praise for Kathleen Kennedy Townsend's reply to "1/2 term" governor Palin's book...

 

• Anti-church killjoys target high school graduations   Unfortunately, the religious zealots in America are still trying to place their brand of belief on young kids so they can have a slave to their cause for life. Let the kids learn religion on their own and not by sleight of hand by infusing the brand through the use of government entities...

 

• Lubbock Interfaith Dialogue scheduled for Dec. 14   Is this a sign that a few churches have decided to reconcile many of the deep differences between the theists and non-theists. The more stage time the better...

 

**************   December 10, 2010     **************

 

• Pastor Calls for Bus Boycott Over Atheism Ads   I say let the Christians start their own bus company instead of trying to tell the private company how to run its business...

 

• 4 popular Christmas myths debunked   This is a much needed story for the Christians to read and there are many great comments....

 

• Sarah Palin is wrong about John F. Kennedy, religion and politics   The secular movement grows by leaps and bounds when credible high profile people speak in favor of church and state separation. Thank you Ms. Kennedy Townsend...

 

**************   December 9, 2010     **************

 

• Proposed bill calls for Bible class in public schools   The only way I would agree to teach the bible in public schools is if the other major religions were also taught. Atheism, not being a religion, should also be instructed along with agnosticism, deism, et al...

 

• Video: Activist Not Guilty After Hawaii Prayer Protest   This is one serious activist. I can easily see how the passion of one's belief can make all the difference in making changes to our society. The more we speak out - the easier it becomes for others to do the same.  The religious right has lost another forum to insert their views onto society...

 

• Questions surround dreams for an ark TOURISM: For starters, can a state offer cash for a religious attraction?   Yes governor, the people of Kentucky elected you to create jobs but to create jobs for religion to become a bigger focus in peoples lives is counter productive. It is embarrassing to continue to tell the world that Americans believe in fairy tales from the bible...

 

**************   December 8, 2010     **************

 

• The Rise of Indonesian Atheism   To see that atheism is also growing in Muslim countries is a another sign that the tide against the intolerant repressive religious societies is growing stronger each day...

 

• Bill Maher compares Glenn Beck to ‘Scientology’ founder   The more atheists come out - the more atheists speak out. The cycle repeats and snowballs...

 

• Anti-Gay Group Protests Local H.S. Play   Many churches have preached anti-gay rhetoric for many years now. Westboro Baptist takes that hate filled teaching one step further. Hopefully society will get fed-up with religious organizations and finally will be stripped of their powers...

 

**************   December 7, 2010     **************

 

• Atheists launch anti-Christian ad campaign   Atheists did not rename Christmas - businesses did - they want money from the pockets of Christians and atheists et al. The vast majority of businesses are united in their effort to service all people not divided like religions...

 

• My take: Where's the outrage over Noah's Ark park?   This is another example of misuse of public money. Government entities - please stop funding and promoting religion. If God wants a theme park in Kentucky, let him pay for it through the tithing of his subjects...

 

• The Science of Monkey Morality   This is a great report from Dan Harris, Religion not needed for morality...

 

**************   December 6, 2010     **************

 

• Wisconsin jeweler urges diamond purchases before Second Coming   This makes absolutely no sense at all. Why would Christians want to buy jewelry at 50 percent off if Jesus is indeed coming soon. This type of ad cheapens religious belief and makes it even less credible...

 

• The God that Fails   This is a little long but worth the read. Another point about religious societies is that there is much more corruption in the government as previous studies have shown...

 

• When Atheists Attack   I like to read viewpoints opposite of my own every now and then to keep up with the language of the apologetics...

 

**************   December 5, 2010     **************

 

• FFRF’s Winter Solstice sign returns to Wisconsin Capitol   I vote for these two signs to serve as disclaimers to each and every religious display on public property...

 

• Warren Jeffs arraigned in Texas on sex charges   Old men having sex with children is not okay. Having numerous wives and dozens of kids is not okay unless you can afford them without society having to help raise your children. Maybe some liability insurance would fit into this scenario. And maybe even some paid up insurance to support each of the extra family members wives and children alike...

 

• Building on FFRF’s firm foundation   This is great news and I am proud to be a member of this great organization. May your numbers double again every year or two...

 

**************   December 4, 2010     **************

 

• Madison360: In ranking of religious cities, Madison doesn't have a prayer   Is there a relationship between Madison's lack of religiosity and the location of FFRF...

 

• Dueling billboards face off in Christmas controversy   The Catholics have really deep pockets with their 1 billion membership role. But it only takes one atheist sign of truth to offset 100's of fairy tale signs...

 

• Protestor sues State and employees after alleged attack   I am fearful of physical harm should I disrupt the opening prayer at city council. I would not recommend doing this unless you did as this chap and had a camera crew filming the whole thing...

 

**************   December 3, 2010     **************

 

• Scientology, Narconon and the Domino Effect   Religion is still taboo for the politicians and other power brokers but that is slowly changing. A few Australian politicians have finally had enough and are actively investigating. Hoorah for them...

 

• Advertising for Atheism   Now that sign would look great on an Amarillo, Texas bus...

 

• Atheist Group Putting Up Anti-Nativity Billboards   I love this effort by the Denver citizens. If you do not want atheists billboards then move the Christian display off of public property. Simple as that...

 

**************   December 2, 2010     **************

 

• Blown For Good   It is good for everyone, if they want, to be able to escape the ideology they grew up with for decades. You can formally leave the organization but it may take years to free your mind...

 

• Hitchens outscores Blair in Munk Debate about religion   I believe it would be a very grave mistake to get religions to work together. Religions have WAY TOO much power and influence as it is...

 

• The Big Lie - Separation of Church and State   Politicians have and will continue to say anything in order to get votes. This is nothing new and is not a surprise at all. Good ole Ben had a lot of bad things to say about religion as well...

 

**************   December 1, 2010     **************

 

• Belief in Demonic Possession Has Led to Great Suffering   Exorcism in lieu of proper medical treatment is the same as denying a child medical treatment in lieu of heavenly intervention...

 

• Under the U.S. Supreme Court: Governors get mangers under the Christmas tree   Governors that are familiar with the constitution would do one of two things - not display these mangers, two - display the manger with along with any other belief system wanting space...

 

• Is religion good?   How could anyone mistakenly refer to Christopher Hitchens as an agnostic? It is quite acceptable to say that religions care about this subject but it is absolutely absurd for the same group to demand the government enforce belief...

 

**************   November 30, 2010     **************

 

• Oregon Fire Raises Muslims' Fears Of Backlash   Beware of all that hear voices in their heads telling them to commit acts of violence. Gods don't kill people but the hate speech you find in some religions is the first step to getting gods permission to take revenge...

 

• Troops buck historical trend by saying gays OK   The churches have slowed their anti-gay rhetoric in the past few years therefore societies opinion will slowly change as shown in this article...

 

• Reconverting the De-converts: A New Modus Operandi for the Church   I really liked the way this author tied today's religion to today's political-social climate. One of the main truths - beware of those that claim to have all the answers...

 

**************   November 29, 2010     **************

 

• Atheists' Billboard Calls Nativity a 'Myth'   I sometimes do not agree with some of the tactics used by Christians and atheists but it takes all kinds to make the world go round.....

 

• Religion - a force for good? Tony Blair debates atheist Christopher Hitchens   This will be a really good show. There may not be many minds changed, as the author states, but just having the event is absolutely wonderful for atheists around the globe....

 

• New cardinal slams ‘irrationality of atheism’   I've got news for the cardinal. People who believe in gods are irrational and are actually faith-less. The next time you need emergency care - call on your god instead of a doctor. oh ye of little faith...

 

**************   November 28, 2010     **************

 

• Church-charter school partnerships a growing trend in education   There is no doubt that taxpayer money is being used for religious instruction and there may be no easy way to stem the tide. Are there any secular associations that would like to join in on the charter school band wagon. FFR, AAI, AHA, et al...

 

• Cardinal: Atheism Is Irrational   All the gods prior to Yahweh have also been attacked and discarded as fairy tales just like Yahweh is being treated today. It is insane for anyone to believe that gods, as described in any modern religious text, actually exist...

 

• Give thanks for those who helped our cornucopia of faiths coalesce   I agree with much of this opinion except that foremothers had very little if any say so in the forming of the American government. Women were treated rather poorly due to church doctrine until just a few decades ago....

 

**************   November 27, 2010     **************

 

• More trouble at Hobson church   I do not regard this as an issue of church and state separation. Non profit corporations have bylaws and contracts that are enforceable by local governments and judiciaries...

 

• Religious States the Fattest   This is very interesting. Good luck on gathering enough strong scientific data to tie obesity to religiosity...

 

• CATHOLIC LEAGUE SCHEME FOR NATIVITY CRECHES DIVISIVE, UNCONSTITUTIONAL SAYS ATHEIST GROUP   The atheists push and the theists push back. Coming soon - a supreme court decision to decide the rights to display Christian nativity scenes on public property along with scenes from any other belief system...

 

**************   November 26, 2010     **************

 

• I'm Pro-Boy Scouts (And Pro-Gay)   I would have loved to have been able to enroll my son in scouts. But I cannot sign a document saying I believe in a higher power. I can hope in the future that the scout organization will stop being bigots...

 

• The Australian Book of Atheism - 1st collection to explore atheism from an Australian viewpoint   I will add this one to my wish list...

 

• Are Scientists Atheists?   I agree that the definition of atheist is still not very clear. Therefore I call myself an agnostic atheist. I definitely do not believe any god of any worldly religion exists. However that does not mean there is no god...

 

**************   November 25, 2010     **************

 

• Op-Ed: True colors of atheism are as vibrant as those of other beliefs   This a good rendition of one's path to becoming an atheist...

 

• One Nation Under God?   The words "under god" should be removed from the pledge. At the very least please stop allowing schools to coerce students into reciting the pledge until these very divisive words have been removed...

 

• Culture War Brewing Within Tea Party?   I believe it will be very hard for any person to win an election while standing on a religious platform. Get religion out of politics and out of government. I want people who can run the country and not someone who wants to run what happens in my bedroom...

 

**************   November 24, 2010     **************

 

• Religion Blamed for Whooping Cough?   Not getting vaccinated?   Evolution will take care of you as you die off little by little. My heart goes out to the children who have to suffer. My loathing goes out to their parents and their archaic religious beliefs....

 

• John F. Kennedy: One more Sarah Palin villain   I surely hope that Palin runs for the office of the president of the United States. Let us put her views to the real test of what the American people think about her very radical beleiefs about church and state....

 

• Atheists, agnostics gather for convention in Springfield MO   Skepticon rules. What a great show and up front, out in the open, out of the closet public event.

 

**************   November 23, 2010     **************

 

• Atheists don't have to share religious beliefs, but they also don't have to share ill will, either: Regina Brett   A really well written article. I do not agree with all that is said but enjoyed the funny parts. Great comments too....

 

• Pope says condoms may be OK in some circumstances   This is GREAT news. Another chink in the armor of the religiously pure catholic. But mind you - condoms are only allowed when used with a prostitute. I know that sounds a little silly but it is a step in the right direction....

 

**************   November 22, 2010     **************

 

• Facebook-banning NJ pastor acknowledges threesome   Let's see now - the pastor is from the church, his wife is from the church, the third person in the "ménage à trois" was from the church . I think the church is at fault and all people should abstain from religion because church causes people to seek extra marital stimulation....

 

• Australia's health department warns Church of Scientology on their dangerous therapy   Kind of smells like a snake oil salesman. Why are they peddling their wares to the poor and ill informed - because that spiel will not pass muster with the well educated populace?

 

• Idiot of the Week: Mike Huckabee   I really look forward to the time when major political players or very well know and respected Americans come forward in a very loud way to voice opposition to this blatant disregard for the American governmental system...

 

**************   November 21, 2010     **************

 

• Pastor to Church: Drop Facebook   This is absolutely ridiculous. Are people to not talk to other humans who are not their spouse. A weak marriage will fail due to the loss of respect for their vows and not because of Facebook.  People that are more affectionate and/or attractive than our current mates are the real problem.

 

• New Bible drops gender-neutral language of '05 version   Wow, I understand the the church needs to evolve to keep up with our ever changing society. Does it seem ironic that what religious people say that god wants turns out to be exactly what the people wanted prior to what god wanted?

 

• The Circle game: Commissioners pass resolution 58-10; but what was accomplished?   The best part as stated in the article is that the commissioners bigotry is documented for all to see...

 

**************   November 20, 2010     **************

 

• The NS Interview: James Ellroy, author   One could easily believe in gods if one is totally isolated and lives in a bubble protected from the real world...

 

• Solstice celebrated long before Christmas   The winter solstice season is rapidly approaching. I am getting ready for a good time of family and friends and will be celebrating the holiday time with many other belief systems. There is room for all ...

 

• Obama signs order clarifying church-state relationship   One step forward and two steps back is the way this sounds to me. Mixing politics and religion is never a good thing. Dear President Obama - please get our government the hell out of the religious business ...

 

**************   November 19, 2010     **************

 

• Tenn. Judge Refuses To Stop Mosque Construction   This Christian extremism is the result of religion having too much power in this country. Please help to strengthen the wall separating church and state to lessen the amount of influence that religion has on the everyday lives of Americans ...

 

• Where Did God Go in Afghanistan? An Atheist Writes.   There are plenty of atheists in foxholes. This forced religious participation aides our enemies in creating additional angst against Americans...

 

• Americans should be less comfortable with phrases referencing “God” in the public sphere   Another very well stated set of reasons to remove god from the pledge and currency of this great country called the United States - one nation indivisible...

 

**************   November 18, 2010     **************

 

• Scolded for Not Attending Church   Atheists speaking out in public allows me to speak out in public about my non-theist belief. This activity snowballs to the point where more and more non-theists will be able to exit their closets...

 

• Cardiff councillor reflects on Scientology tweet controversy   Another rational human speaking their mind on the subject of scientology. This simple story continues to put a smile on my face...

 

• Civil debate settled   Another church congregation evolves in step with society by casting off the final layer of the old gay bashing rhetoric...

 

**************   November 17, 2010     **************

 

• New Hampshire Pledge of Allegiance Law Upheld   Any child refusing to recite the "under god" part of the pledge will be ostracized by the majority. This should never happen in a REAL free society. Take religion completely out of government control and/or coercion...

 

• Will a Secular Coalition of Florida become a reality?   Organization is key to any national movement. It has been said that organizing atheists is like trying to "herd" cats. Non-theists have reached the point that it is no longer taboo to criticize religion. Coming to a community near you, a non-theist community center...

 

• Created by God to be good   This author seems to live in a bubble called western civilization. Please realize there are billions and billions of non-Christians. Please realize the bible did not invent morality. Criminal activity has been shunned by society for tens of thousands of years. Please read books other than the bible to get your history......

 

**************   November 16, 2010     **************

 

• An Anti-Bullying Message From the NOH8 Campaign   This is a great piece but does not go to the root of the problem. It is not the laws of the country alone that are the problem but the religious community that bashes gays from the pulpit......

 

• Baptist Bulwark: Virginia ‘Messengers’ Reaffirm Church-State Separation   It is funny how one flavor of Baptists wants to strengthen the wall and one set wants to tear down the wall. The Virginia Baptists realize that they will loose freedoms if one religion is allowed to take control.....

 

• West Bank: Blogger Arrested Over Posts Seen as Heresy for Satirizing Koran   I love the freedom I enjoy in the United States and let us keep it that way by building a bigger and better wall of separation between church and state....

 

**************   November 15, 2010     **************

 

• Biblical Flood Disproves Climate Change, claims Shimkus   This is some scary stuff. I just have a hard time understanding why the bible is being used to prop up an argument for-or against global warming....

 

• Clout: Church/state separation? Not in this polling place   Allowing voting to be held in a church lends credibility to the church and to that particular religion. Continue the church polling place if you must but at least designate a separate polling place that any may go to that do not want to mix church and state function...

 

**************   November 14, 2010     **************

 

• Christian Calls Islam a Superstition   This article puts a big smile on my face - one religion calling another religion superstitious - ha ha...

 

• PalmPilot creator offers $500K grant to secular group   Great news. Philanthropy for non-theist non-profit organizations...

 

• Courthouse Panel Readies For Another Controversial Season Of Displays   This is the proper way to allow all to perpetuate their belief system on public property. Of course it would be best if there were no displays on public property...

 

**************   November 13, 2010     **************

 

• When I Realized I Am an Atheist   Some of the same reasons this author states are a part of my story of freedom from religion...

 

• Atheist Groups Promote a Holiday Message: Join Us   Welcome world -join in a very special pagan holiday of the winter solstice...

 

• Atheism and Video Games   Such a simple statement can have a profound meaning - "If there is an all powerful, all good god, then how is there evil in the world"... -thanks Luke

 

**************   November 12, 2010     **************

 

• Election Reflection: It’s Good That Church-State Wall Bashers Lost – But Let’s Not Get Complacent   Please do not write an excellent article such as this and leave the reader hanging. Where are the pointers on actions that can be taken by freethinking groups. What can an individual do?

 

• Atheist Ministers Struggle With Leading the Faithful   A few have come forward but this is likely only the tip of the iceberg. Those who study the bible without a priest interpreter are finding some very disturbing truths...

 

• Gingrich: Democrats Want to Impose 'Secular-Socialist Machine'   More politicians spewing more hyperbole. The majority of American people do not want your theocratic government Mr. Gingrich. Your outspoken right wing nuts were trounced in the election...

 

**************   November 11, 2010     **************

• Judge blocks Oklahoma's ban on Islamic law   This is a prime example of the extremely important need to keep religion and government separate. No religious law should ever trump government law - period...

 

• Lavanam Adresses Indian Secularism   I love this quote - "Let us make the human being the center of our social action in society". I believe this is to take the place of a god as the center of society...

 

• Happy one year “outiversary” to me!   Coming out - it is sometimes very hard to do...

 

**************   November 10, 2010     **************

• Amarillo Atheists Adopt a Highway   How about that. Steve got us a plug in a national blog. Woohoo. Go FTO!!!

 

• National Christmas tree   Your tax dollars at work. Ooops - I mean your borrowed tax dollars.  The government had to borrow the money to pay for this tree and will just add it to what you, the tax payer, owes...

 

• The good death   I do not mind that the church has a political voice but they should pay a price for it. lLke say - loss of tax exempt status...

 

**************   November 9, 2010     **************

• Methodists seek better pastors, vital churches to fight shrinking rolls   All churches better learn how to EVOLVE or they will cease to exist. Churches that are growing the most are offering more and more services. Kind of like a business...

 

• Pope Spain's 'aggressive' anti-church ways   Does the pope have the authority to excommunicate an entire country?

 

• Giant Jesus statue completed in Polish town   A much better use of resources would be to help the needy. You could feed tens of thousands with the money used to erect this lighting rod monument...

 

**************   November 8, 2010     **************

• Process Begins Now to Replace 3 Justices   You can label the justices as activist. Also the out of state money came from activists pushing their belief system on unsuspecting Iowans...

 

• Religion is fundamental to a child's development.   I believe strongly that the title of this article is not true at all but I agree with the author on many other points. All children are atheists until someone indoctrinates them.   There are untold billions of children that have made it through life just fine without Christian brainwashing...

 

• Where Are All The Atheist Women? Right Here   Thanks MS. Magazine for running both sides of the story...

 

**************   November 7, 2010     **************

• Atheism; How the Tide is turning on religion   A good article coming from the younger generation...

 

• More atheists speak out   Nice article about coming out as a non-believer. Freethought Oasis is on the cutting edge of this movement in the Texas Panhandle area...

 

• Does voting in houses of worship violate church-state separation?   Allowing churches to be a place for electing government officials lends credibility to religion. In order to perform my civic duty, I am required to enter a building that is owned by people who worship a gay bashing, woman hating, baby killer.  That is if you believe the inerrancy of the Holy Bible...

 

**************   November 6, 2010     **************

• Does voting in houses of worship violate church-state separation?   This is the same argument that I have. I get the heebie geebies every time I have to fulfill my civic duty...

 

• Solicitor general surprises justices in religious schools case   There should be NO mixing of religion and government period. If you allow this you will end up funding jihadists, black magic, Satanists too...

 

• Police: Pastor Arrested For Hiring Prostitute   Prostitutes and johns have been around longer than the church and will be alive and well after the church seizes to exist...

 

**************   November 5, 2010     **************

• Iowa voters oust justices who made same-sex marriage legal   A victory for the religious zealots but a defeat for the American society...

 

• Interpreting the Election Results   There is a silver lining in that dark election cloud but you have to look pretty hard...

 

• North Carolina City Votes to Allow Christian Flag to Fly Again   This is a story of the majority stomping on the rights of the minority and using money from the minority to purchase boots with which to stomp them with...

 

**************   November 4, 2010     **************

• Print: Atheism's Poster Boy Sam Harris on the Science of Morality   This is a great review. It is very sad that non-theists must hide their whereabouts from a few religious fanatics that take parts of their holy scriptures too literally...

 

• What Did Jefferson Mean By "Wall of Separation"?   It is extremely disingenuous for the author to say the Left want total elimination of religion from American public life. The Left and the Right want secularism. Secularist want nothing more than for government to butt out and stop backing religion altogether...

 

• Mega Church Pastor: 'I'm Gay'   It is good to see Christians admit they are human. Gay people have been around longer than the church. Thank you sir for helping to heal our society...

 

**************   November 3, 2010     **************

• Voting: Can Faith Be a Guide?   So it sounds like the deciding method of where to place ones vote is that of reason and not of faith. To be a 100 percent faith based vote, one could just stay home and let God decide who to put in office....

 

• Russia’s Atheists Organize to Protect and Promote Secularism   I wish Russian atheists good luck with their campaign to strengthen secularism. No religious organization should ever wield the staff of power....

 

• Delaware candidate O'Donnell is either dumb or disingenuous   This would be a good time to introduce the candidate proficiency test. A job application of sorts to allow one to be put on the ballot for political office....

 

**************   November 2, 2010     **************

• Religion, politics getting too cozy, warns a faith-filled Carter   Thank you President Carter for affirming what I believe is the melding of church and the republican party. What a disaster...

 

• Rallying for reason: a little atheism goes a long way   Coming soon to a billboard near you - REASON...

 

• State judge rejects prayer proclamation challenge   Any judge that says prayer proclamations by government officials is not an endorsement of religion should immediately enroll in the nearest school to go back and relearn the constitution...

 

**************   November 1, 2010     **************

• Arkansas school board member to resign over anti-gay post   I understand being caught up in the moment and some pay the price for it...

 

• Scientology speech is cause of first campus riot since 1995   You just have to indulge in a little satire now and then to put a smile on your face. Enjoy and a hearty thanks to the author...

 

• Sharia Charade: Oklahoma Ballot Measure Reflects Religious Intolerance   We don't need more laws but just need to strengthen and enforce the ones we already have on the books...

 

**************   October 31, 2010     **************

• Additional Thoughts on Offending Others   The graphic is hilarious. What we atheists need is a secret handshake or some such other tom-foolery...

 

• Answer Man: Get a history refresher on separation of church, state   Christian values were a part of the American landscape but lets not forget that morals and values did not originate with Christianity...

 

• New Washington U. center aims to foster polite talk of religion and politics   I agree that much more civilized conversation is needed. Freethinkers will rule in the end...

 

**************   October 30, 2010     **************

• Ark. School Board Official Clint McCance to Resign After Making Anti-Gay Comments   Church and the deep south - a prime combination for hateful bigotry...

 

• Nikki Haley: Churches Should Take Over Universal Pre-K Education   Keep your sick and morbid religious brainwashing away from other parents children...

 

• Prop. 8 Ban Has No Legitimate Basis, Americans United Tells Appeals Court   Again I say - homosexuality has been around longer than God, longer than religion itself. Homosexuals have the same right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness as heterosexuals including the right of marriage...

 

**************   October 29, 2010     **************

• Superintendent bans 'led' prayers at ball games   I just love polls...

 

• Ken Buck: ‘I Disagree Strongly with Concept of Separation of Church and State’   This is the very reason to have the separation - the right wing Christians want the government to back up their particular viewpoint...

 

• "An Atheist in Full Support of Faith"   As long as others do not spread there road to happiness onto me I am fine with whatever makes you happy as long as it harms no one else and you don't expend tax dollars to further your cause...

 

**************   October 28, 2010     **************

• Christine O’Donnell Claims Divine Mandate for Candidacy   There have been many to say that God told them to run for office. An omnipotent God could simply make it happen if that is what was actually intended. For all the ones who ran and lost were probably just hearing the anti-Christ...

 

• Newspaper won't print gay marriage announcements   It is sad that the paper chooses to discriminate in this way but, as a private company, they have the right to print or not print...

 

• Evangelist leads 'disinformation campaign' on Obama: Religion professor   Another example of the millions who believe they have the only "true answer" and everybody else is wrong...

 

**************   October 27, 2010     **************

• Satanists' event in Oklahoma draws Christian protest   Satanism is just another religion and has the same protection as the Christians and Muslims. I would suggest keeping an even stronger wall separating church and state...

 

• In atheism, they trust   Here comes Christmas - Please do not use Santa Claus in your theist or non-theist ads...

 

• Idiot of the Week: Christine O'Donnell (Again)   This is another well deserved satire "Idiot of the Week" award. I do not really care for the word idiot and would prefer "absurdity of the week"...

 

**************   October 26, 2010     **************

• I believe in Dog   I have not seen such a wonderful article in a long time. Thanks Saul Friedman...

 

• The history behind the separation of church and state   Another great call from a learned professional expressing the correct intent of the first amendment...

 

• Political speech ends at steps of my church   This is the absolute best champion for secularism - please listen to the words of this wise woman - put churches back where they should be - out of the business of being in business and not playing as a political pawn...

 

**************   October 25, 2010     **************

• Del. House candidate questions church, state   All religionists can stand in the public square and spew their spiel 24-7. Just do not use my government, my school and my tax money to spread your particular version of the one and only truth...

 

• The Catholic Church must change with the times   It is ironic that this author is attempting to tie power hungry materialists to atheism. I believe the opposite is true as the many preachers in mega churches are filthy rich with mansions as their parsonage...

 

• Narconon Rehab Called Front for Scientology   This will be a good case to follow...

 

**************   October 24, 2010     **************

• School will stop illegal loudspeaker prayers   Thank you Superintendent Jim Scales for ending this practice of prayer at school events. Everyone at these events do not believe in the same thing...

 

• We Should All Support Atheist Organizations   I would think a more inclusionary request would be to support any "secular" group instead of simply "atheist"...

 

• God's own Tea Party   An excellent article - thank you Mr. James Picht...

 

**************   October 23, 2010     **************

• Public Prayer Banned At School Events   I just love polls...

 

• Let Church do its teaching in Sunday school   All children are atheist until some brand of religion is allowed to infect the child. Please do not indoctrinate other peoples children with YOUR brand of theism...

 

• Sec. of State candidate Severson: There’s no such thing as separation of church and state   But what about all the Americans who are not Christian. Christians forcing their way of life on society are no better than Muslims pushing to enforce Sharia law. Keep religion out of my government...

 

**************   October 22, 2010     **************

• Christine O'Donnell asks where Constitution calls for separation of church, state   Having knowledge of the U.S. Constitution should be a requirement to have ones name on the ballot...

 

• Local Scientology Church draws student curiousity   Scientology uses a much different bait to lure in unsuspecting people. I find it ironic that there is an up front fee...

 

• Your Religion Questions Answered: Robert Putnam of 'American Grace'   Pure atheists are a small minority of the U.S. population. The percentage of Americans wanting less religion controlling their lives is growing by leaps and bounds...

 

**************   October 21, 2010     **************

• Atheism is becoming the new religion, evangelicals warned   Uh-oh - liberal Protestants are now being grouped with Atheists. I see another chasm opening up...

 

• Don’t Mess (With God) In Texas: Lone Star State’s Pro-Deity Pledge Wins Court Approval   The God referred to in the pledge is undoubtedly the Christian God and that woman hating, gay bashing, baby killing God deserves ZERO reverence and I should never be asked to pledge to that diety...

 

• Red Mass is Another Example of Christian Privilege   I did not have a problem with the -red mass - gathering until I read that it is an "invitation only" event...

 

**************   October 20, 2010     **************

• Atheists and believers can get along   I certainly do not agree with in your face theism or atheism but realize that those approaches are just as valid as mine...

 

• Gay marriage surfaces as an issue in state races   It is good to see that the religious right has completely high jacked the republican party and this will be both of their downfalls. So what is a conservative to do now without a political party...

 

• How real is America's faith?   An American religious perspective from across the pond...

 

**************   October 19, 2010     **************

• Remove muzzle on charities, churches   I will vote today to allow ALL churches be allowed to advocate political decisions in trade for ALL churches losing their tax-exempt status...

 

• Councils urged to avoid tax breaks for Scientology   This may be the beginning of the the decline of churches operations as businesses but claiming tax exempt status as charities...

 

• No Atheists in [Chilean] Mines   There are atheists in fox holes and in the mines. Pray for God to get you out of the mine and you will be there for eternity. Science and regular ole human beings freed these men from the mine - period....

 

**************   October 18, 2010     **************

• Atheists Debate How Pushy to Be   As with any societal movement - you need outspoken leaders and followers and all personality types in between....

 

• Don't Forget the New Atheists   It never hurts to throw in the old adage - we are all born as atheists and most are forced into religious belief WAY before we are able to make intelligent decisions...

 

• Israeli police suspect arson in Scientology blaze   I need to get around more - I was not aware that Israel allowed this type of religion in their country...

 

**************   October 17, 2010     **************

• Scientology: The Secrets it Tries to Hide   I would like to see more "proof" of these allegations. Being an agnostic, I lack - faith that these assertions are actually true. I believe that your assertions are true but where is the official document showing costs of advancement in the Scientology society...

 

• Oklahoma public school opens doors to Christian evangelicals   This ought to be interesting to see how the law handles this case. Me thinks the church is losing ground so fast that they are having to resort to picking up new members from the elementary schools. Children can be frightened into whatever belief you care to indoctrinate them with...

 

• Papal Decree Establishing New Council   Oh no, now the Catholics are evolving into evangelicals...

 

**************   October 16, 2010     **************

• Mormon leader's remarks spark outcry on same-sex issues   LGBT can no more change the way they feel than any heterosexual can. Gays have been on this planet as long as heterosexuals and have the same rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness as anyone...

 

• Judge Virginia Phillips Orders Immediate Halt to 'Don't Ask Don't Tell'   It is about time the judiciary stepped up to put a stop to this blatant discrimination and obvious violation of the coinstitution...

 

• Oh god, just what we needed: More religion in America!   I realize there was a lot of bad stuff in the miniseries but there were a few bits that were helpful - Catholics trying to take over, freedom for all...

 

**************   October 15, 2010     **************

• Christine O'Donnell and Rush Limbaugh: A Match for the (Dark) Ages   It is okay that charisma is much more important for entertainers than intelligence. The same can be said for politicians. How sad of a fact is that for our society...

 

• 'Political' pastor to IRS: Sue me   I do not care for the IRS to sue but to at least revoke this church's tax exempt status...

 

• Students debate separation of church and state   Another good example of bringing this topic into the open for discussion...

 

**************   October 14, 2010     **************

• Three religious leaders & an atheist walk into a TV studio...   Amarillo production at KACV. It should be a good learning experience

 

• Serb Police Clash With Anti-Gay Rioters In Belgrade   What? - the Tea Party flew all the way to Belgrade to protest a gay pride march?

 

• Carl Paladino Says Homosexuality Not a 'Successful Option'   The Tea Party shows its true colors by backing this candidate...

 

**************   October 13, 2010     **************

• 'Mormons Are a Cult,' He Says. Now Sharron Angle Has a Pastor Problem   What? - Mormons are rated as low as atheists? Say it ain't so...

 

• Cubans Flock To Evangelism To Fill Spiritual Vacuum   Poor and uneducated populations are ripe pickings for the religions of the world...

 

• No place for atheism   Even the most secular of constitutions have little power if enough "godly" citizens oppose it...

 

**************   October 12, 2010     **************

• Atheist Congressional Candidate Takes on Theocratic Incumbent   I wish Mr. LeGrow was running in my district so I could have someone to vote for that would not drag his religious beliefs into MY government...

 

• Abilene atheists are a rare breed   This is a welcome sight coming from the bible belt...

 

• Atheists Ignore Richard Dawkin's Advice   I would take this authors suggestion one step further. Please make bible reading mandatory for a college degree. This would be the best way to decrease the influence in government  from the already declining church...

 

**************   October 11, 2010     **************

• Beilue: Documentary explores religion's role in history   Not only is there a documentary that will be a must see but there is also a planned discussion here in Amarillo. Hope many people are able to attend...

 

• THE PEOPLE IN A SMALL NORTH CAROLINA TOWN TAKE ON THE ACLU OVER DISPLAY OF CHRISTIAN FLAG   I hope every Christian in this town buys a 35 foot flag pole and flag and hardware and erects it in their front yard and their place of business but NOT ON PUBLIC PROPERTY...

 

• Yount: A snapshot of Americans' knowledge of religion   I love this quote - gave a bible to my daughter - that is how you make atheists...

 

**************   October 10, 2010     **************

• PBS looks at God and America   More and more references and shows about religion and the lack thereof. puts a BIG smile on my face. Lets talk about this most important subject especially from a critical point of view...

 

• Opinion: Separation of church and state worth preserving   This is a good example that not all churches are against separation of church and state. I applaud this article from the Baptists...

 

• I'm an Atheist, and I Vote Too   This I can totally agree on. It would be good to see non-theists run for office...

 

**************   October 9, 2010     **************

• Miss. judge jails attorney for not reciting pledge   This judge is the one that should be jailed plus he should be disbarred...

 

• Christian group pulls support for event challenging homosexuality   This church is evolving - FINALLY.- It is a shame that so many gay kids have been committing suicide. TIMHO - these deaths are directly attributable to the continuous gay bashing by the church...

 

• Pastor Behind Military Funeral Protests   I like for this pastor to get air time so all of America can easily see what a religious fanatic he is...

 

**************   October 8, 2010     **************

• Miss. judge jails attorney for not reciting pledge   I just love this one comment by BBBarker that rings so true...

 

• Kanelis: SBOE sets lousy school example   Thank you Mr. Kanelis for keeping this subject in the front of the public. He is so correct to request politics to not be mixed in with education...

 

• Is the Atheist Movement Really Moving?   I feel the need to return to this article again in the future for a good reminder of our goals and the proper way to reach the goals...

 

**************   October 7, 2010     **************

• STEVENSON: Time for a museum of American religion   What a great idea! There is much irony when using museum and religion in the same sentence....

 

• Turning down Gates & Buffett: Philanthropy in China requires For-Profit Social Enterprises   The family unit in China is leaps and bounds ahead of the United States and their culture requires much less welfare and government interference....

 

• Separation of church and state is always taken out of context   Cherry picking quotes from any person can be used to prove any side of a story. The government shall not support any one religion over another - therefore should not support religion at all....

 

**************   October 6, 2010     **************

• Religion should not be taught in public schools   I would not mind and would rather enjoy a class on religions but only from a devout atheist teacher....

 

• Gordon says 100 churches will join ouster effort   I do not have a problem with any institution having opinions and voicing of those opinions. Tax-exempt status to assist churches in their charitable work, not their politics. There is no gray area here and this church should immediately lose it's tax-exempt status...

 

• Texas Faith: Charity work or justice work?   I will believe in prayer as soon as I see that it works. Pray for someone that they can re-grow a missing limb. When that prayer is answered,I will believe...

 

**************   October 5, 2010     **************

• Fifth Gay Teen Suicide in Three Weeks Sparks Debate   Anti-gay rhetoric emanates from and is condoned by the church. These deaths are attributable directly to Christian gay bashers...

 

• Druids Recognized as Religion for First Time in UK   This is actually good news for non-theists as it links this type of group right next to Christianity and Islam. The Druids now are considered equal to all other fantasies...

 

• Atheism 101: The last throes of religion   This is good news and we can hasten the rise of non-theism by growing community groups and activities...

 

**************   October 4, 2010     **************

• Soapbox Mike Lake: The Pope should not be expecting taxpayers to subsidise his pontifications   What a splendid opinion article. The church continues to lose ground rapidly in the eyes of more and more of the planets population...

 

• Does the Koran Advocate Violence?   The Koran abdicates violence just like the Holy Bible. Both books should be labeled as hate speech...

 

• At USF, Michael Shermer and Dinesh D'Souza debate role of religion   Our country needs many more debates such as this and that will be the future as non-theists continue to multiply...

 

**************   October 3, 2010     **************

• Ombudsman takes alternative view on 'stupid' scientology tweet   I am not in favor of the government, while performing government duties, criticizing religion. Private citizen should be able to criticize any religion without being reprimanded and this includes any religion on the planet...

 

**************   October 2, 2010     **************

• Atheist America   I totally agree with this. It is going to get mean and nasty. As the church continues to decline it will fight back like a wounded animal...

 

• The Protestant Clergy Sex Abuse Pattern   This is great news to the ones abused and bad news for the protestants...

 

• U.S. Religious Knowledge Survey   The solution to bring the religious up to speed would most likely be counter productive. Studying religion - the bible - is one of the main factors of my rejection of Christianity and other religions...

 

**************   October 1, 2010     **************

• Georgetown Professor Launches Catholics for Equality   Alright, another organization promoting equal rights...

 

• Beyond God and atheism: Why I am a 'possibilian'   A nice article in search of a middle ground between the theist and non-theist...

 

• Don't know much about religion? You're not alone, study finds   Can you spell irony with a capital I...

**************   September 30, 2010     **************

• Preach, pray in private   Thank you Mr. Compere for taking the time to compose a wonderful article....

 

• Alternative Realities and Mega-Churches   I believe the mega churches are actually doing themselves much harm by supplying most of the parishioners needs. This parasitic behavior is sucking money from the local tax base and will come to an end hopefully sooner rather than later....

 

• Opinion: French Catholic Church relatively untouched by pedophile scandal   Relatively untouched and largely absent is by no means a clean bill of health for the French Catholics. But it sounds nice, huh....

 

**************   September 29, 2010     **************

• Pastor preaches inclusion of gays   This is called managing expectations....

 

• John Sweeney revisits the Church of Scientology   One has to wonder if there is any solid evidence against this church. I believe Scientology is a cult but all stories I have seen are personal testimony and circumstantial at best....

 

• Meditations on Death: Prelude   Death is a subject that we all should deal with sooner rather than later. Existence after death is unknown to atheist as well as religionists because neither have proof either way....

 

**************   September 28, 2010     **************

• North Carolina: Group Protests Planned Religious Rally at Fort Bragg   Why would anyone in today's Muslim vs. Christian wars think that this is a good idea to hold a religious rally at an American military base...

 

• Most religious groups in USA have lost ground, survey finds   There is a lot of data here and its almost all good news for freethinkers....

 

• FFRF protests Billy Graham’s “Rock the Fort” evangelism of Fort Bragg   This reminds me of the church song - onward Christian soldiers. No wonder many parts of the world hate the U.S.....

 

**************   September 27, 2010     **************

• Sex abuse victim learns of Pope's role   My question would be - why is Ratzinger still allowed to walk free on the streets? Because of our cowardly governments....

 

• Statement from FFRF Regarding Pulpit Freedom Sunday   This is going to be very interesting to see if the IRS takes any action against these churches that violate the law. Of course if it is similar to the governments dealing with pedophile priests, I guess the government with take the cowardice route again having to face the more powerful church...

 

• Proselytizing results in library ban for Alabama teen   Again, a God, if all powerful should not require word of mouth advertising from pimpled teenagers professing to know the meaning of life...

 

**************   September 26, 2010     **************

• Richard Dawkins Responds to Papal Attack on Atheists   The Pope from a critical point of view - i.e. - with the gloves off...

 

• Libertarians fight to break cycle of battered gay voter syndrome   Would the Libertarians actually deliver on their promises. Probably so for a few years but power corrupts and always will. Change would be good, give them a try...

 

• Jon Stewart has the right idea   This is a good article outlining the purpose of Stewart's call to arms from the middle of the road America. Would love to attend the rally...

 

**************   September 25, 2010     **************

• Atheists, Believers Battle It Out On Tulsa Billboards   The reliogous machine in America could easily outspend the freethinking crowd but not out think us...

 

• Judge to rule on lesbian's return to Air Force   Knowing the strength of religious bigotry, one might say these rules about LGBT in the military are strongly supported by the church...

 

• Is His a Lone Voice in the Wilderness?   Vicious Atheism? Have you ever even read the bible. I know of no atheist books that call for stoning, murder and wholesale slaughter of children as you will find in the bible...

 

**************   September 24, 2010     **************

• Anger over papal visit shows religious freedom is alive and well in Britain   This is a varied perspective of the papal visit to Britain...

 

• Mosque Denies Students Were Invited To Pray   Taking school kids on field trips to visit different religious organizations is great as long as the teachers show no favoritism to any one sect...

 

• Glorious New Tomorrow Postponed Indefinitely   This is another great onion article...

 

**************   September 23, 2010     **************

• Idiot of the Week: Pope Benedict XVI   Nuff said!...

 

• Leader of Calif. religious sect hospitalized   This is so sad. Better education would help. We could start with a course on how to NOT be a sheople...

 

• Pope meets with abuse victims as thousands protest   If the Pope were actually seriously sorry - he would go through all documentation at all of his churches and release the names of ALL PRIESTS that have committed crimes against children. Until he can do that, his apologies have ZERO meaning to me...

 

**************   September 22, 2010     **************

• Scientology’s New Ad Campaign Promises Immortality   I wonder what the warranty says about refunds. What about truth in advertising...

 

• Atheist Dawkins rages at pope tying godless, Nazis   Stop tearing down the wall of separation. Any god worthy of the name does not need the help of the state...

 

• Lebanon polling place moves to church   It would be niceto see the courts close this loophole that allows for this break in the wall. Using churches lends to their credibility which should never happen in a secular society...

 

**************   September 21, 2010     **************

• "The New Sarah Palin" talks sex - CNN's Jeanne Moos dances around the "M-word."   Hilarious masturbation jokes and the bible...

 

• Kaczynski cross removed from presidential palace (Roundup)   Another victory for the true secular nature that all governments should adhere to...

 

• North Carolina city officials vote to take down Christian flag   Tada!! - another fine call by the council to do the right - "secular" - thing. Religious symbols on government property is a no-no...

 

**************   September 20, 2010     **************

• Pope Benedict XVI in Britain: Even Susan Boyle Couldn't Draw Crowd To Mass   I wish for the Pope to continue offering these lame excuses just to see his popularity and church membership dwindle...

 

• State question is xenophobic   Interesting question - if courts are to consider laws where the entities are operating what about religious law - is Sharia Law to be thrown into the mix...

 

• Americans continue to blend church and state   I can't believe this author says - "no one seems concerned" - the media is reporting more every day about the struggle between church and state...

 

**************   September 19, 2010     **************

• Coalition: 'We will restore faith to heart of Britain’   It would be a grave mistake to mix government and religion. Your god, if exists, does not and should not require the help of the government...

 

• MY faith in atheism is being sorely tested by born-agains.   There are instances where it would be quite okay to denigrate religion for example - in an argument with a religious zealot. Most atheists do not make it a practice to be zealous at all times...

 

• Montana GOP policy: Make homosexuality illegal   No wonder I am not a republican anymore...

 

**************   September 18, 2010     **************

• POPE’S AIDE CALLS ‘ATHEIST’ BRITAIN THIRD WORLD LAND   The Catholics will surely lose their entire membership if they keep doing things the old way. Churches in particular have to evolve quickly to the fast changing world...

 

• Lockard sentenced to 97 years for grandfather's slaying   Scientologist do not believe in the use of medications for mental illness. Does that make the church culpable in this case...

 

• NC teen: Nose ring more than fashion, it's faith   In America - Christianity is just about the only religion that is recognized because it is the one with all the power...

 

**************   September 17, 2010     **************

• Lawton to speak to Freedom From Religion Foundation convention   This is great news to have a high ranking politician give comments for such a conference and will make it easier for more of the same in the future...

 

• Moscow’s measures against "extremist sects"   Wow. What good news for the Catholics, Baptists, Muslims and other various groups. Russia has just outlawed their competition...

 

• Hartford council urged: Drop prayers altogether   The news media over the past week has been full of examples of religious bigotry. Now would be a great time for government to take a stand and kick the church out of the government's business...

 

**************   September 16, 2010     **************

• Fellow Americans' suspicions frustrate US Muslims   Muslims are being attacked primarily because the Christian leaders have WAY TOO much power in the political scene in America and they allow it to happen....

 

• Gray vows to reestablish religious office   I feel it is unethical if not illegal for politicians to campaign in a church...

 

• Govt anti-drugs campaign's 'worrying' link to Scientology   The problem is - there should be ZERO connection between government and religious organizations. Governments giving money to any church in itself is an endorsement and should never happen...

 

**************   September 15, 2010     **************

• Obama Says He "Relies Heavily" on Christian Faith   I could only wish that pandering is the correct word to use for Obama's view on faith...

 

• 9/11 and another anniversary to remember   A good reminder of the past and a vision for a better future..

 

• Crazed Christians: Two Lifesized Looney Tunes   Thanks for the laugh- your comparison of Jones to Yosemite Sam sent me roflmao...

 

**************   September 14, 2010     **************

• Brisbane atheist burns Koran and Bible   Burning one holy book may be disrespectful to those that have respect for that artifact. Even more disrespectful is for some to force their beliefs on the general public and even more so on to children...

 

• Local atheists invite Oklahomans to 'join the club'   Oklahoma city is large enough to support 4 Freethought groups. We got a ways to go in little ole Amarillo....

 

• Reverend Terry Jones: Relignoramus   We are not only born non-denominational, we are all born as atheists and are later brainwashed, (um, I mean indoctrinated) into the religion of the day....

 

**************   September 13, 2010     **************

• Anti Religion Billboards Outside Atlanta Prompt Free Speech Debate   Coming soon to a billboard near you in Atlanta....

 

• Thank God (and Richard Dawkins) I'm no longer an 'angry atheist'   Diplomacy is something useful when trying to get along but is is useless when in a fist fight....

 

• Under Fire, Goldline Hires Large DC Lobbying Firm   So does God keep track of these shysters and their front men? How Christian are these people as they lead their sheeople?

 

**************   September 12, 2010     **************

• Billboards shun religion, promote separation of church and state   If the God of the Holy Bible were actually REAL - that God would MAKE themselves known to every living human being. Since that has not happened - that God does not exist in my world. Period...

 

• The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors voted to reauthorize its policy on religious and non-religious displays.   I agree that these committees are spending way too much time on religion. The answer - take religion out of government and put it in the private sector where it belongs..

 

• Atheist author Christopher Hitchens battles cancer but ready to debate David Berlinski in Birmingham   I just love some of the foolhardy comments on this article. Many theists feel it is okay for their god of love to torture their fellow humans for eternity...

 

**************   September 11, 2010     **************

• Church and State: What was   Here is a perfect example of someone "data mining" to extract only those arguments to prove one's point with a healthy disregard of the true context...

 

• Time to lift taboo on atheism   Atheists need more community and many groups such as ours here in Amarillo Texas is working toward that goal. Great article...

 

• Glenn Beck’s Salvation Army   It is good to see main stream religion attack the outer fringe called "Glenn Beck"...

 

**************   September 10, 2010     **************

• Dan O’Neill: Why respect beliefs most of us consider are loony?   I totally agree - as soon as your god or alien deity acts in some way as to deserve reverence I will continue to not show any respect...

 

• Afghans chant "Death to America" at rally to denounce plans of Florida church to burn Koran on 9/11   See sectarian violence at its best - radical Muslims versus radical Christians...

 

• Australian Labor Party wins enough support to rule   A non-theist is to continue running the Australian government. It is nice to see that Australia has a very strong wall separating church and state...

 

**************   September 9, 2010     **************

• Bipartisan support for charities commission   Hopefully this commission will find that 90 percent of the churches activities are not in any way charitable events and therefore not tax exempt. It is great to see at least some countries fighting back against he mega churches...

 

• General Petraeus: Burn a Quran Day Could 'Endanger Troops'   What part of burn a loran day a charitable act. Don't churches receive tax exempt status for doing charitable acts...

 

• California Planned Parenthood Clinic Firebombed   Coming soon to an American neighborhood near you - sectarian violence...

 

**************   September 8, 2010     **************

• America a Christian nation?   This is exactly what is needed - educated responses to the hyperbole from the religious right that is thrown into the media as fact...

 

• Strippers Protest Church   Isn't America great. Protestors protesting the protestors. Prostitution is much older than religion itself. Sex is very important to the human race and should not be outlawed for consenting adults...

 

• GOP chair questions end to county grant   This fight will continue on for decades as each side "quote mines" for the necessary data that makes their point...

 

**************   September 7, 2010     **************

• Acid attack victim: Sunglasses -- and God's hand -- saved my vision   If any God gets credit for the good and have the power to make good things happen then that same God will have to take the blame for allowing bad things to happen...

 

• Religious leaders hit back at Hawking   I think we can all admit that we cannot claim to know the how and why. It would be nice if all admit they do not have the answer and neither faith or theory has a claim to the unknown...

 

• OUR VIEW: Atheist preachers, prophets and killers   For every 1000 psycho killers out there, ONE might be an atheist and the other 999 will be Christian and other minority religious groups...

 

**************   September 6, 2010     **************

• County Cancels Horn-Endorsed Grant For Pro-Life Supporters   Saying you were not aware of the law does not protect you from justice. It is good that this funding has stopped at the point it was found that it violated the law...

 

• How Christians spoil sex   Here is another good reason for me to not become a Christian. They have bad hang-ups about sex. I was not even allowed to touch myself as a child and it took decades to correct the guilt...

 

• Ann Coulter Calls Obama an Atheist Like It's a Bad Thing   These conflicts played out in the media are a boon for non-theists. Lets lay it out on the table, examine it, talk about it...

 

**************   September 5, 2010     **************

• Abstinence program in China a milestone for U.S. evangelicals   Quick someone tell the Chinese that the most religious teenage girls in America are the one with the highest teen birth rate...

 

• Complaint: Teachers Recruited Student For Ritual   The first thought coming to me is a sorcery ritual - chanting - oils - incense....

 

• Stephen Hawking: God didn't create universe   It is good that scientists are openly discussing this topic. As an agnostic - I don't know but have serious doubts the God of the bible or Quran exists. There is enough evil in the world without added those two religions to the mix...

 

**************   September 4, 2010     **************

• Castro admits 'injustice' for gays and lesbians during revolution   Everybody is guilty of wrongdoing during some point in their lives. It is good to see people admit their mistakes and Fidel has just added another feather in his own cap as well as a rainbow feather in the cap of the LBGT...

 

• Irish cardinal will not resign after scandals, he says   I wish all I had to do was apologize in order to escape punishment for criminal acts. This cardinal is hugely irresponsible as is the justice system that refuses to persecute him.  ...

 

• Morality, not religion, is what matters   Hopefully the pastor is aware that neighborly kindness and golden rules were in vogue in human societies WAY before today's religions. I appreciate her statement that morals are much more important than the trappings of religion...

 

**************   September 3, 2010     **************

• An Atheist Blogger Apologizes   It is difficult to determine the line between religious freedom and harmful religious acts. I really like the inset cartoon...

 

• Some School Anti-Bullying Programs Push Gay Agenda, Christian Group Says   If the bigoted churches would stop preaching intolerance, this would not be an issue. I hold the church responsible for hate crimes against gays...

 

• Lawyer in Scientology case is stuck between state and federal judges   That is very odd in deed that there are no attorneys willing to file a lawsuit against Scientologists. I guess the devil is in the details...

 

**************   September 2, 2010     **************

• Exclusive: Developer of 'Ground Zero Mosque' Cuts Short Mideast Tour to Deal With Controversy   There are fundamentalist Christians and fundamentalist Muslims, there are moderate Christians and moderate Muslims. America has religious freedom and all are welcome who follow the constitution...

 

• Mexico City woos same-sex honeymooners   Wow, these guys saw an opportunity and grabbed it. Pretty smart. I guess Mexico is not afraid of the wrath from the Catholic Church...

 

• Glenn Beck is “right” on gay rights   This article has a nice play on words. Thanks for the laughs...

 

**************   September 1, 2010     **************

• Glenn Beck's Faith: More Christian than Obama's?   The staging of Beck the Bigot event was purposefully orchestrated to interfere with MLK to drum up additional media attention to the event. My opinion, the event was a bust with less than 100,000...

 

• Israel will not choose to attack Iran: Harun Yahya   Ahaa, so I will not likely make it to my grave before Islam conquers the world, lol...

 

• Secularism and Atheism   Actual reporters writing news articles should have to print retractions/apologies if they make grave errors but writers of opinion pieces have leeway to to say lie after lie without repercussion...

 

**************   August 31, 2010     **************

• Mexico's Catholic Church fans flames of gay rights row   The louder the church speaks the more backlash it will receive on this issue. The arcane and barbaric stance of the church is becoming a thing of the past...

 

• South Carolina gas pumps tells non-believers to GTFO.   Christian bigot in South Carolina....

 

• Papal encyclical attacks atheism, promises hope   Marxism and atheism are no more the same thing than an apple is to an orange. Good thing for the pope is that the majority of his church are illiterate and do not know the difference...

 

**************   August 30, 2010     **************

• Some evangelicals on defensive over partnering with Glenn Beck, a Mormon   I would like to have seen much more negative responses but at least there are a few jabs thrown Beck's way. Thanks CNN...

 

• Believe it or not, there are atheists among us   This is an excellent piece explaining the word atheist...

 

• Church-state separation group blasts Cuccinelli opinion on religious displays   It would be vastly better if there were no religious displays. Allowing all groups to display on public property is at least in the right directions and will cause fundamentalist to lose much of their power...

 

**************   August 29, 2010     **************

• Glenn Beck rewrites civil rights history   PLEASE PLEASE let ABC, CBS and NBC jump into the fray and denounce these religious zealots once and for all...

 

• Concerns raised over group's scientology link   The best and easiest time to pick up new church members is when people are under extreme stress. Do no infuse religious dogma when people are most vulnerable...

 

• Obama sends $6m to global Muslim sites   I am all for restoring and preserving history but the churches should be responsible for their own property and not depend on government monies. Please stop propping up the church and makr them pay their own way...

 

**************   August 28, 2010     **************

• Words of Wisdom: Barry Goldwater   The United States needs more politicians to speak out against the church encroaching on the state. It was okay to state this opinion decades ago and should still be valid today...

 

• OPINION: Separation Of Church and State in Sacramento?   A very well done opinion piece explaining why we have the wall between church and state...

 

• Who is Rob Sherman, traveling atheist?   A short biography of an outspoken atheist...

 

**************   August 27, 2010     **************

• Atheists have a place in discussions on faith   Yes, atheists have been around a very long time and by the way, all people are born as atheist and then are indoctrinated - brainwashed - to the belief of the day...

 

• FFRF Asks Televangelist Pat Robertson For An Apology   Thank you FFRF for representing the rights of non-believers.....

 

• Texas school rejects 4-year-old over lesbian parents   As long as the church is not receiving tax dollars they have a right to pick and chose their students. I would argue the vast majority of churches receive tax payer resources.....

 

**************   August 26, 2010     **************

• Supporters: Church ignored in NYC mosque furor   Religious organizations should be allowed to erect buildings anywhere they own the property and have private money for construction cost and be within the zoning laws....

 

• The Battle for America’s Heritage   The three "wingnuts", as the author puts it, are stirring a big pot full of hate. I doubt they see the damage they cause due to the boost in ratings that this hate speech gets...

 

• WaPo, Editorially a Proponent of Church/State Separation, Worries About Too Few Muslim Chaplains in Va. Prisons   Why are taxpayer funds being utilized for priests to minister to convicts. I thought churches did that sort of thing for free and because of their non-profit status. Now we have to give them tax exempt status and pay them to spread their brand of belief...

 

**************   August 25, 2010     **************

• Crusader with a checkbook: Anne Nicol Gaylor helps women fund abortions   Women have been aborting unwanted babies way before the church espoused their two cents...

 

• In porn, a story of Iraq's politics   This is what happens when religion loses the reins of power...

 

• CNN's Don Lemon speaks to a woman who is suing Disneyland because she says the company dress code is discriminatory   Only in America. Disney is a private company and should decide what the dress code is. I can't wear atheists t-shirts at my workplace but do not consider that discrimination....

 

**************   August 24, 2010     **************

• University Prof Patrick McGorry is targeted by Scientology church   I really like this writing style that targets a religious subject without targeting religion...

 

• University Prof Patrick McGorry is targeted by Scientology church   I wish the freedom of information act allowed citizens to delve deep into the dealings of religious cults of this world...

 

• Slovakia’s Deputy PM says he generally supports separation of church and state   Humans require entities to facilitate and organize our lives for the betterment of society at large. At one time the religious entities took care of this function but the Secular governments are best at accomplishing this task in today's modern world...

 

**************   August 23, 2010     **************

• Kirby: Intolerance, not atheism, is dooming America   Thanks Roger for a well thought out article. We could sure do with more tolernace in the American society...

 

• Editorial: Justice served in Greece prayer ruling ... Amen   This is pitiful that a town is excluding tax paying citizens from their own town hall meetings. Kind of like the little spoiled brat at a party that must have everything their way or no way at all. It's un-American...

 

• Same-Sex Marriage and Atheist Community   Atheist community is something hard to create but we are on that very path in Amarillo, Texas...

 

**************   August 22, 2010     **************

• Russian scientologist faces extremism charges after forcing his staff to embrace the faith   It looks like the Russian government does not tolerate cult like activity by Scientology...

 

• Hamburg to Close Down Scientology Task Force   It seems it took Scientology 17 years to finally clean up its act. Scientology and all other so called religious organizations should be watched closely and publicly ridiculed when necessary...

 

• Poland, a land of crucifixes, finds itself bitterly divided by a simple cross   I sure hope this heated conflict does not lead to violence. The secularists in Poland are quite adamant that religious symbols do not belong on public property and I totally agree...

 

**************   August 21, 2010     **************

• Gay marriage opens rift between church, court in Mexico   Hooray for Mexico. This is another nail in the coffin of the divisive and discriminatory church...

 

• Christopher Hitchens talks to Andrew Sullivan about death without God   That is a nice heart-felt story. Everybody's brain is wired differently. If there is a god that can exist in some brains but not others is just utter cruelty therefore that god does not exist, not in my brain anyway...

 

• Believes Founding Fathers placed faith in God   Here is a prime example of word-smithing or as some call it - data mining. You can also find examples in the Holy Bible that support both sides of this argument....

 

**************   August 20, 2010     **************

• Mosque Debate Grows, Splinters   Religion always divides - please keep it at bay if you would like a strong united country...

 

• Letter: We don’t want church to be function of state.   It is great to see Joe Public voice their opinions in the news. Most comments are in favor of church state separation...

 

• Edmond Pastor, Church Group Under Fire Again for Preaching Politics   On which side of the wall separating church and state will the IRS rule?

 

**************   August 19, 2010     **************

• After Life, Nothing?   Everyone must be true to themselves. I know of no gods as I have never experienced their presence even though I have searched and pleaded and asked for their acceptance but have yet to find them. I no longer search. If they want me, they know where I am...

 

• NYC mosque will be election issue, Republican predicts   I can only hope this issue gets more and more press. This will help to show how ridiculous these religious arguments are and to maybe show that we MUST build the wall between church and state even higher...

 

• For Separation of Church and State, vote Secular   I hope the "fundies" in Australia are not able to hijack a political party as has been done to the Republican party here in the U.S....

 

**************   August 18, 2010     **************

• Atheist donates $5.6m to New York Archdiocese   Generosity is also not God given but is just simple human nature. Thank you sir for your giving and for your ability to vocalize your non-belief in our fundamentalist society...

 

• Idiot of the Week Twofor: Billy Graham and Pat Robertson   These two must be something other than Jesus Christians because Jesus showed compassion for all...

 

• Pastors weigh in on separation of church, state   There are a few churches that should be commended for their staunch support of the separation of church and state...

 

**************   August 17, 2010     **************

• In new ad, Louisiana dem slams opponents 'serious sin'   I would like to think there are many more people who would condemn the mud slinging than the extramarital affair....

 

• Is atheism going mainstream? One group says yes and presents a new option for nonbelievers   Take notice that words can hurt and can be very divisive. Please try to construct your communication to unite rather than divide......

 

• Inside the mind of one atheist   A short and well worded article......

 

**************   August 16, 2010     **************

• Church dispute makes its way to courtroom   This is a good case to watch and see members of a non-profit take control of the reins of power.....

 

• Atheist sues over state grant to help restore landmark cross   This use of tax payer funds is blatantly wrong....

 

• Local FFRF’er suggests: Enjoy life now   I personally disagree with the statement from this billboard. Being agnostic, I have no way of knowing if an afterlife exists or not but I do agree to Live Now. I have no plans for after death...

 

**************   August 15, 2010     **************

• Polygamist sect leader Jeffs to be extradited to Texas   I don't care which God you pray to. It is not okay for old men like this to be copulating with teenage girls...

 

• Atheists pay for anti-religion billboards   I just love to vote in online polls - join in...

 

• Stop Stoning Now   Please contact Freethought Oasis for an event in Amarillo. We would like to participate or help organize an event...

 

**************   August 14, 2010     **************

• Are Religious Groups Hiding Behind The Tax Code?   Most churches should no longer be considered as non-profit tax exempt. Only a VERY small portion of their wealth goes to help the needy and the poor. Most of the money is spent on administration and building maintenance to their multi-million dollar houses of worship...

 

• Attorney: A perfect and respectful response   It is a sad day when local governments become theocracies. This community would fit in well in Iran...

 

• Hitchens to Debate Berlinski on "How Atheism Poisons Everything," Sept 7 - Birmingham, AL   Entrepreneurs have found another avenue for profits - religious debates...

 

**************   August 13, 2010     **************

• Strippers Protest Church   This is a good idea that's time has come - protest church's that promote gay bashing, preaching that women should be submissive, etc...

 

• My Take: Keep schools open on Christmas   Here is another example where religion is the cause of strife in our society...

 

• Atheist Robert Wilson Gives N.Y. Catholic Schools $5.6 Million   There are many things that religions are good at but infiltrating the government should not one of them...

 

**************   August 12, 2010     **************

• Atheists meet to challenge, sharpen their minds   Aah, we in Amarillo also have our own little meetup group. It is fun and relaxing...

 

• FFRF vouches publicly for reason in New Jersey   I wish there were a cheaper way to get the word out than to buy expensive billboards...

 

• Fair church service, concert moved after pressure from out-of-state 'free thinkers'   Hold church services 24-7 if you want, just locate them on private property. It really is that simple...

 

**************   August 11, 2010     **************

• U.S. SENATE RACE: Reid criticizes Angle for not separating church and state   It is a good thing to get these politicians talking publicly and openly about the issues of church and state...

 

• Does your faith group attempt to recruit new members?   As the author says - there is no need to preach non-belief as the religions of the world are losing their flocks from the craziness of the church's policies

 

• God and the election   If God were truly involved in politics then we might have all countries as theocracies. But we would need more countries to satisfy the plethora of Gods that are recognized around the world today...

 

**************   August 10, 2010     **************

• Never Forget the Burden of Proof   As Carl Sagan said - "Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence"

 

• U.S. officials condemn attacks on aid workers in Afghanistan   Talking about religious intolerance...

 

• Scientology wins legal victory, loses public image war   Sometimes you claim victory for your most recent battle but end up losing the war...

 

**************   August 9, 2010     **************

• Atheist may be sunny on outside, but feel empty inside   At least there is a great comment to this rather sad twisted story -"If I'm empty on the inside it is only because Christianity destroyed my soul long before I realized I did not have one"....

 

• Is atheism going mainstream? One local group says yes, presents a new option for nonbelievers   Most movements can gain allegiance quicker by the use of positive rather than negative rhetoric....

 

• Why religion and atheism need smart women   I still do not understand why so many women continue to be the majority of church goers due to the terrible way they are treated by today's religions....

 

**************   August 8, 2010     **************

• Atheist billboard greets fair-goers   United Coalition of Reason is at it again - trying to bring reason to the masses....

 

• Leave God Out of the Governor’s Race!   This will be a good race to watch. Let us see if the people vote with their brains or their bibles....

 

• Philosophy and Faith   This is a wonderful quote by Gary Gutting - "the many who find religion more a comfort than a burden — happily remember that believing means never having to explain why"....

 

**************   August 7, 2010     **************

• Judge overturns Calif. gay marriage ban   The religious gay bashers have suffered another set back...

 

• FIRST-PERSON (Tal Davis): Scientology: The Celebrity Cult   I wonder if Scientology will attempt to quieten this church...

 

• Unanimous Vote Keeps Christian Flag At Veterans Memorial   If you leave the Christian flag at the memorial, you better be prepared to raise a Muslim, Jewish, etc flag as well. Many other religious denominations have soldiers in the United States military...

 

**************   August 6, 2010     **************

• The Cross and the State   I understand the "true poles" passion but church and state MUST remain separate...

 

• International Blasphemy Day, 2010   I do not intentionally criticize someones personal beliefs although I support everyone's right to say what they please...

 

• TEXAS FAITH: Should clergy salaries be public information?   Ahaa - politicians are finally finding some interesting places to look for tax revenue...

 

**************   August 5, 2010     **************

• REPORT: 25% - 50% of Catholic Priests Gay!   Not that the Vatican will listen to an Atheist organization, this is great press to showcase the archaic practices of one of the worlds most powerful religions...

 

• Bus Ads Offer Protection to Muslims Leaving Their Faith   Millions of people are fleeing Islam in droves as well as Christianity because of their 5th century barbaric and archaic ideals...

 

• Controversial 'Ground Zero Mosque' Likely to Clear Major Hurdle, Commissioner Says   You can't build a Synagogue in Mecca because they are not a country that supports free religion for everybody...

 

**************   August 4, 2010     **************

• NY panel to vote on landmark status for ground zero mosque site   It is not a good thing when the government gets involved in religious matters. It is a religious business matter. Is that an oxymoron...

 

• Sci-fi legend Ray Bradbury on God, 'monsters and angels'   Some of Bradbury's talk sounds in the realm of deism, some Buddhism...

 

• H.Con.Res. 274 Threatens to Put God in Public Schools   You had better contact your congressman on this one to let them know this is a bad idea...

 

**************   August 3, 2010     **************

• An atheism debate writ large, on billboards   And the church-state fight continues with very expensive billboards...

 

• Clever video on the multiple problems with religion and coming to atheism   What a great you tube clip. Some of the story sounded just like the story of my life...

 

• Priest Who Blessed Morales Found With Cocaine   What a perfect undercover occupation for any illegal activity - a Priest...

 

**************   August 2, 2010     **************

• Preacher Wants to Burn Books   This is just wrong to burn books...

 

• Russian Orthodox Church facing ‘aggressive atheism’, says Patriarch   No government should act in a way that excludes parts of their population. In other words -government should always and for ever be secular...

 

• Australian prime minister says her atheism won't affect government funding to church schools   Ms. Julia Gillard is setting a most level headed example that most people would do well to emulate...

 

**************   August 1, 2010     **************

• Anne Rice Says She's Leaving Christianity   Thank you Anne for speaking your mind in a most public way. Fear not the warnings of the fanatical. Be true to yourself...

 

• Citizens fight to keep Christian prayer in Aiken City Council Meetings   This is a prime example of the majority stomping on the rights of the minority...

 

• Gove welcomes atheist schools   Once upon a time the only education to be had was in the church and they have been losing ground ever since...

 

**************   July 31, 2010     **************

• Candidate raises issue of God in the courtroom   It is becoming easier and more commonplace for non-believers to challenge such divisive behaviors...

 

• Oklahoma county must pay up in Ten Commandments case   City, county and state governments should be wary of placing religious monuments on public property so they do not have to waste tax payer money on these types of lawsuits...

 

• My Letter Concerning Sunday School   I really like the suggestion of a disclaimer be added to church advertisements....

 

**************   July 30, 2010     **************

• Do you think The Ten Commandments should be displayed in government buildings?   How about a poll to voice your opinion?

 

• Russia says Scientology is 'extremism'   All churches have to have an enemy to ally the "sheeple". Some do it through hate, suspicion, etc....

 

• Read all about it: My Scientology experience   Send a seasoned scientific reporter to take the e-meter test, undercover of course so we can get to the bottom of this....

 

**************   July 29, 2010     **************

• Atheist vows to go ahead with lawsuit   Now here's one atheist that says what he means and means what he says...

 

• Hiding One's Faith to Get Ahead   Uh oh, Which will he chose - a twist to the truth, lets see, how do we increase our ratings...

 

• Don't impose faith in government meetings   This article raised quite a stink in Kansas...

 

**************   July 28, 2010     **************

• Between equality and the church - LG Duke Aiona, Gov Lingle and the battle that looms   It is great to see religious citizens understand and fight for separation of church and state...

 

• Group warns Hawkins County against including Ten Commandments in courthouse display   The display of religious texts by and inside of government buildings lends credence to religion where no credence should be given...

 

• To the Florida church planning a 'Burn-a-Koran' day...   I don't care much for religion but I do care for books. Anybody has the right to burn any book they want but I feel that is not the right message to send....

 

**************   July 27, 2010     **************

• God or no God is not the only choice   There are many good points of agreement in this article except for the "In God we Trust", etc. The U.S. government is showing REVERENCE to a God by including such phrases. This is clearly government sanction of religion. No god should be elevated to this status from any government entity. In other words - the government should be so far removed from religion that it in effect denies the existence of any god...

 

• San Diego "Refudiates" Westboro Baptist Church Protesters   The Rock Church is protesting the Westboro Church which is protesting anywhere there is a camera and a crowd...

 

• Petition for Free Speech   Free speech petition aimed at murdering Muslim maniacs...

 

**************   July 26, 2010     **************

• How to Be an Agnostic in Theory and an Atheist in Practice   Another attempt at defining and labeling people and their beliefs...

 

• John Comper: State board an embarrassment   A SBOE wrap-up of the fundamentalist agenda for Texas schoolchildren...

 

• Angry computer expert attacked Scientologist - during a stress test   The Scientologist maybe should administer a breathalyzer test prior to the E-meter...

 

**************   July 25, 2010     **************

• Local push for Ten Commandments monuments   I only wish the church would keep their indoctrinations confined to their own property...

 

• Social Cost of Christianity?   Great article with good sources...

 

• The Muslim Mosque: A State Within A State   The Holy Bible also has many troubling passages that could easily be used to disrupt the American way of life. This is why it is so important to keep religion far away from the governmental reins of power...

 

**************   July 24, 2010     **************

• Cranston weighs changing words on 'prayer' banner   Public schools should get out of the business of promoting religion. The school flag could easily say Praise be to Allah if in a predominantly Muslim neighborhood...

 

• Judging religion and charity   It is good that the news media allows both sides of any story. My side is that churches should not be competing with private businesses that pay taxes for their services...

 

• Mississippi school pays damages to lesbian teen over prom dispute   All Americans have the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness and those rights even extend to the religious fringe groups....

 

**************   July 23, 2010     **************

• Churches eye immigration's upside   Poor, uneducated and illegal makes easy picking for the church....

 

• Councillor under fire over Scientology remark   This is absolutely hilarious and made a great start to my day - "I didn’t know the Scientologists had a church on Tottenham Court Road. Just hurried past in case the stupid rubs off"....

 

• 'Evolutionary evangelist' gives heresy bad name   Another fine example of the evolution of religion. Change is inevitable whether you fight against it or not...

 

**************   July 22, 2010     **************

• News sites reining in nasty user comments   If you are not proud enough of your comments to tag your name to them then maybe those words should not be said. Bravo for the web sites that enact this rule...

 

• Syria bans full Islamic face veils at universities   This is great news - the evolution of religion appears before your eyes as a Muslim country also bans the covering of a persons face in certain public places. It wasn't long ago that Catholic women had to cover their hair, but no more...

 

• Today show and New York Times profile Scientology defector   Big news organizations rarely feature stories unless there is some truth behind them, otherwise they could easily be sued for slander. We'll see if Scientology brings a lawsuit of which they will most likely lose....

 

**************   July 21, 2010     **************

• Will atheism spell trouble for Gillard?   The more people, like Ms Gillard, who openly admit their disbelief in gods, the easier it will be for others to come out of the closet. Thank you PM Gillard...

 

• Atheism 101: How to respond to the ex-atheist   As the author states - we are all born as atheists and then take on the religious tenets of our parents...

 

• Sharron Angle’s take on separation of church and state   Any politician who wants to tear down the wall separating church and state is in effect trying to turn this country into a theocracy...

 

• Minister advocates separation of church and state The Rev. Steven Baines says ‘God belongs in our hearts’   This is my kind of preacher....

 

**************   July 20, 2010     **************

• We Need Secular Community Resource Centers   Freethought Oasis in Amarillo is working towards this very type of activity...

 

• Reading the Bible (Or the Koran, Or the Torah) Will Make You an Atheist   How to become an atheist - actually read the popular religious texts...

 

• Scientology building project in St. Paul looks stalled   It looks like the people of St. Paul have something against Scientology. Is there no one to say a kind word in the comment section...

 

**************   July 19, 2010     **************

• Column - Rodney Hinds: Keep government, religion separate   A nice little article written by yours truly...

 

• A conversation between Sharron Angle and God   This is a hilarious bit of satire for your enjoyment...

 

• Catholic Statement Today Caricatures Itself   The Catholics will surely lose a great deal of membership over statements such as this...

 

• Alan Greenspan, central figure in financial collapse is devout Atheist - Why it Matters   This article is typical of a right wing fundamentalist trying to tie atheism to the financial crisis. This article is so wrong in so many ways....

 

**************   July 18, 2010     **************

• Readers say leave God out of secular law   66% of the people say to keep government secular but that may not be enough especially when the religionists have God on their side(wink, wink)...

 

• Alabama's Judge Roy Moore Back in the News   I could only hope that common sense would rule in these situations. The United States is a secular country and should remain secular for ALL PUBLIC EVENTS...

 

• School Aims To Re-Teach Civics With Focus On Faith   Church school can teach whatever they want even if it is divisive. Teaching children that the United State is a Christians Nation alienates the other thousands of religions and non-religious that exist in this great country...

 

**************   July 17, 2010     **************

• Argentina legalizes gay marriage in historic vote   Finally, another country votes against homophobia...

 

• Scientologists Take Anti-Anderson Cooper Fight to Google   The truth, CNN and Cooper will be the winners in this fight...

 

• Should the City of Aiken open meetings with a prayer?   I just love voting in polls like this...

 

**************   July 16, 2010     **************

• FBI warns Seattle cartoonist about threats from radical cleric   It's about time for the American government to stop appeasing these religious fanatics. If Mohammed is offended, let Mohammed or Allah come forth and say so...

 

• Burqa ban passes French lower house overwhelmingly   Many religious rituals have gone by the wayside including sacrificing virgins and Catholic women required to cover their hair. Religions do not get everything they want...

 

• Venezuelan Government and Church Clash over Cardinal’s Political Statements   So Venezuela is in a fight with the Catholic church. I see another splinter group forming...

 

**************   July 15, 2010     **************

• Speaker to talk about separation of church and state   I hope a few politicians and judges attend the event so they can get a proper lesson about the constitution and church state issues...

 

• Church of England takes a step toward women bishops   The catholic church is slowly evolving. There have been numerous recantations of rules gone by the wayside in recent decades - women must cover their hair for one, married priest may be the next evolutionary step...

 

• Faith In Freedom: Religious Groups Oppose Sectarian Invocations At N.C. Government Meetings   These words are music to my ears - 'Their brief argues that sectarian prayer divides communities and discourages members of minority faiths from participating in the political process.'...

 

• Religious Right's attack on PM   If the PM of Australia does not agree with the church, then the church should elect their own PM. And as soon as they politick from the pulpit - pull their tax exemption. That is if the Australian tax laws are similar to U.S...

 

**************   July 14, 2010     **************

• Charles Lewis: Atheism and the love gap   I rather like this article even though the religious struggles in the American south are much different than in Canada. Can't we all just get along...

 

• Tithing for Atheists: Foundation Beyond Belief   This is a great way to give back to society that does not have 'aid' in one hand and 'scripture' in the other...

 

• Over 5,000 anti-school bookmarks found in books at libraries in Dover, Portsmouth, Durham   The author seems to think this is a new phenomenon. Religious groups have been doing this for years...

 

**************   July 13, 2010     **************

• Mike S. Adams, bad professor   A college professor takes fundamentalism to a new level...

 

• Mike Harden commentary: Atheist, snakes led sinners to salvation   There is a way to twist any story to fit one's belief system. No matter how you tell the story - the U.S. Constitution meant to keep the government out of the church's business and to keep the church out of the government's business. The "GOD" from "In God We Trust" is definitely the Christian God that can be found in the Holy Bible. The Christian religion is being promoted by the United States government every time money is minted. There are millions of American citizens that are simply not Christian. The Christian God should not be receiving preferential treatment over all other belief systems. Truth be known - Christianity is a minority religion on this planet of 7 billion ...

 

• Christianity Vs. Atheism   The whole theme of this story brings to light the fact that this country needs a much stronger wall of separation...

 

**************   July 12, 2010     **************

• Billboard seeks to tell non-believers: you are not alone   Here are our fellow freethinkers in the great lone star state doing the same thing we do. Let others know we are here...

 

• Judge rules federal same-sex marriage ban unconstitutional   Woohoo, another win for rationality and loss for those that want to rule your personal life...

 

• Information to arm parents against "stealth evangelists" in public schools   And the fight continues to keep religion away from impressionable children....

 

**************   July 11, 2010     **************

• Presbyterians continue to be divided over gays   Christian infighting....

 

• Unbelievers claim a new label for friendly skeptics -- 'Neo Humanist'   Atheist infighting....

 

• Tutoring Service Approved By DC Public Schools Has Ties To Church of Scientology   If this tutoring school is owned and or operated by Scientologists then it has no right to taxpayer dollars....

 

**************   July 10, 2010     **************

• Afraid to Criticize Islam?   I will gladly say bad things about any fundamentalists extremists be they Islamic, Christian, Jewish, etc....

 

• Police: Priest used church money on male escorts, lavish lifestyle   Uh Oh. Is this priest ever in trouble....

 

• The Conservative Christian Case for Separation of Church and State   A very well written plea from a Christian to a Christian begging for a better wall between church and state...

 

**************   July 9, 2010     **************

• Missouri Legislature Thwarts Religious Freedom Amendment for Third Straight Year   You know it must be a VERY bad bill if Atheists, Jews, and Baptists all agree it is bad...

 

• Holier Than Thou: Tennessee Candidates Tout Their Religiosity   Infighting among the devout hopefully is a good thing for non-theists...

 

• The Conservative Christian Case for Separation of Church and State   A very well written plea from a Christian to a Christian begging for a better wall between church and state...

 

**************   July 8, 2010     **************

• Atheistic Billboards Across N.C. Tout a Dangerous Message   The really dangerous messages can be easily found in the Holy Bible, Quran, and other religious texts...

 

• Can Christians and Atheists Ever Get Along?   I wish for a world where people do not proselytize no matter their beliefs...

 

• Freethinkers to hold convention   If you are in the Fargo North Dakota area September 18th, drop in for a visit...

 

**************   July 7, 2010     **************

• My Take: New York's schools should observe Muslim holidays   American taxpayer dollars funneled through NASA to help Muslim's feel good about their contributions?  What kind of space program are we running?

 

• My Take: New York's schools should observe Muslim holidays   The answer is not to add more holidays but to install floating holidays so each and every sect can take off when needed...

 

• Independence Day   The author is correct to say this is a great country but we got that way from hard work and not from blessings from some god...

 

**************   July 6, 2010     **************

• Mother to be stoned to death   This is what you get when you mix government and religion. Please speak out against atrocities such as this...

 

• Faith healing in the USA   Faith healing will fade into history the same as blood letting but will take another century or two...

 

• The Irrefutable Mr. Jefferson   Very well said. We are not a Christian nation of god, by god or for god. We are first and foremost Americans...

 

**************   July 5, 2010     **************

• You Say God Is Dead? There’s an App for That   There is a lot of money to be made in this debate. The entrepreneurs will be the winners...

 

• Florida school district sued for banning Bible give-away   I love to see religious groups wasting their money with such a frivolous lawsuit. Too bad it costs taxpayers also....

 

• God is great to Christopher Hitchens   If GOD has the ability to bless someone, GOD has the ability to stop bad things. I see a conflict in logic. Hello! Anybody there? GOD does not meddle with the everyday lives of humans. PERIOD...

 

**************   July 4, 2010     **************

• Democracy, religion and the state   So there is conflict between Egypt's Muslim culture and the government. That is a good thing....

 

• Noted atheist author stricken with cancer   If 'ole Hitch is healed it will be done by science and not by any God...

 

• Scientology church’s neighbor: a strip club   I feel sorry for the owner of the club after the Scientologists move in next door. I hope it does not hurt the nightclub's business...

 

**************   July 3, 2010     **************

• Proposed 10 Commandments Monument in Madison Won't Happen   Monument struck down by reason?

 

• Analyst says Australians unfazed by PM's atheism   A non-theist politician. Hopefully they are a better lot than theist politicians...

 

• Opinion: “Christian nation” e-mails inbound...   I like it when preachers espouse the validity of separation of church and state...

 

**************   July 2, 2010     **************

• Catholic Church evades abuse scandals   Uh Oh, I have failed in keeping up with the members of the United Nations. Did you realize the Vatican is a member of the United Nations...

 

• Sharron Angle Retracts Remark to 'Take Out' Reid   I am normally in favor of kicking out the incumbents but this race should not be won by a secularist instead of a religionist...

 

• Quotes of the day   Agnosticism - the new gun in town...

 

**************   July 1, 2010     **************

• Italy fights for crucifixes in classrooms   Put up all the crucifixes you want on your private property but not in public places where the citizen are required to visit...

 

• The Separation of Church and State   More calls to strengthen the wall of separation...

 

• Belgium urges Vatican to stay out of child sex abuse investigations   Another country with the courage to treat a church like a crime scene...

 

**************   June 30, 2010     **************

• Humanists Celebrate CLS vs. Martinez Decision   Woohoo!  Another win for the team of reason...

 

• Kupelian's "How Evil Works" Shines Bright   Amazon shows as many negative reviews as positive ones. Looks like a split along party lines...

 

• Mightier Than the Sword   I guess you will not see a porky pig cartoon in the Muslim world anytime soon...

 

• Separation of church and state at it again   This is a carefully worded article dealing with issues of separation of church and state...

 

**************   June 29, 2010     **************

• New York church maintains Gay Pride presence, but with blank banner   This Catholic church welcomes gays but the man upstairs says no. I sense a breakup in the future....

 

• Credo: Barry Lynn   It would be wonderful for more pastors to preach this message from their pulpits as does Pastor Barry Lynn....

 

• Church and state separation a road that runs two ways   There is a silver lining in this court decision for the theist and non-theist....

 

• New Haven delivers ‘Lordless’ diplomas to graduates   It's the little wins like this one that count the most...

 

**************   June 28, 2010     **************

• Paul courts Christian home schoolers in Kentucky   It would be nice if more politicians pushed for separation of church and state...

 

• Vatican expresses shock over police raids following sex abuse claims   Belgium police treat a church based crime like any other crime. Act like a criminal, be treated like a criminal...

 

• Governor's Proclamations   I think the governor is asking way too much from god and in too general of terms. The prayer should be more specific like - god please stop the oil leak at 12 noon tomorrow....

 

**************   June 27, 2010     **************

• Rebuttal to letter about U.S. flag   Opinion does not equal fact and in this case - opinion equal wishful thinking....

 

• What You Need to Know About Sharron Angle   If you are in Nevada, you better pay attention to this senate race...

 

• Which is More Offensive?   Anybody up for a quiz this morning...

 

**************   June 26, 2010     **************

• Church of Scientology Buys Vatican   This short satire brightened my day...

 

• A Nation Divided: Rationalists and Theists in America   This blog is rather long but has a lot of good points...

 

• 'I Had an Atheist Wedding'   There are some pretty rude comments from Christians at the end of this wonderful article. I left a message to try and balance it out.

 

**************   June 25, 2010     **************

• Scientology 'offended' by tax evasion accusation   Oops, surely religious organizations wouldn't defraud the government?

 

• TX GOP platform: Re-criminalize sodomy, make gay marriage a felony   The Republican party is going down in a ball of flames for promoting such bigoted attitudes...

 

• Legal Group to Defend Church Reported to IRS   Do you want to be tax exempt or not - I say let that church preach all the politics it wants but lose its tax exempt status...

 

**************   June 24, 2010     **************

• Letter to the Editor: Grad ceremony pushed envelope   A rational patriot speaks against the school system promoting religion...

 

• Secularists spreading the word , bus by bus   The freethinking billboards will arrive in Amarillo in the near future...

 

• AP sources: Gay workers to get family leave   This is a huge move in the right direction that will surely irritate the Baptists and other gay bashing religious groups...

 

**************   June 23, 2010     **************

• No prosecution for UK minor who called Scientology a 'cult'   Scientologists are classified as a cult by British protesters...

 

• The Church of Scientology does not want you to see L. Ron Hubbard's woman-hatin' book chapter   So this is how history gets rewritten -just edit out and or change history you do not agree with...

 

• In disaster response, there's no church-state separation   It is good to see disaster organizations agreeing to not proselytize while offering aid...

 

**************   June 22, 2010     **************

• Authentic History Is Right Of All   It is a sad fact that history is written and re-written by those with the most power....

 

• Saturday letters: The realities of Scientology are being distorted   A variety of letters sent to newspaper that did negative story on Scientologists...

 

• LETTER: eligion should not be forced on student body   There are some great comments at the end of this excellent short piece...

 

• Louisiana lawmakers propose prayer to stop oil disaster   At least they are not saying god caused the spill because of (pick a sin)...

 

**************   June 20, 2010     **************

• 8: The Mormon Proposit   There will come a time when the church will not have enough money and influence to push their dogma onto the whole of society...

 

• That Old Existential Feeling   Dan Barker blog from Atheist conference in Denmark...

 

• Secularists spreading the word   This is a very well written article explaining reasons for non-believers to speak out...

 

**************   June 19, 2010     **************

• Controversial New Ads on CTA Buses Tell People to Sleep In, Skip Church   I agree with one of the commenter's that FFRF should also pick on Muslims too...

 

• School trades evangelism access for shoes, school supplies   Here is another example of the religious taking advantage of the poor by buying their souls with a pair of shoes...

 

• Confronting Religiously Motivated Idiocy   Here are a few good suggestions on how to respond to certain apologetics...

 

• Praying For A Resolution - Ruminations   Canada sounds like a good place for atheists to live...

 

**************   June 18, 2010     **************

• Sexy nun too far for Lady Gaga?   Sexy nun? - that's an oxymoron isn't it?

 

• "We’re All Born Atheists”: A Religious Person Defends Non-Belief   There is a certain segment of the religious that are friendly to atheists and have a live and let live attitude...

 

**************   June 17, 2010     **************

• Stephen (Colbert) v. Stephen (Prothero) on Religious Truthiness   I just love taking religion, putting it on the table and talking about it openly...

 

• Bus ad campaign urges riders to skip church, sleep in   Another ad campaign. some love 'em, some hate 'em...

 

• Jesus statute struck by lightning   This one should put a smile on your face...

 

• Children taught to be suicide bombers   Muslims will rule the whole world if governments don't wake up and put a stop to religious influence...

 

**************   June 16, 2010     **************

• Faith and the ballot box   This political debate may turn into a squabble about who's a better Christian...

 

• Pray for an oil fix   The problem is, when the leak is fixed these people will give god the credit instead of the workers on the rig...

 

• Light the Empire State Building to honor Mother Teresa, or else?   These religious zealots are acting like a bunch of spoiled children...

 

**************   June 15, 2010     **************

• My Take: Why I can't accept the pope's latest apology   I like the way this article is worded. Actions speak louder than words and all we have seen so far is words...

 

• Church of Scientology: The Headley Lawsuits   The tax laws protect almost any activity of the church even though the church operates like a place of business...

 

• Paul Prather: New atheists embody the very things they hate   This is a fairly moderate article written from the religionist viewpoint. There are many well written comments at the end of the article that are quite enlightening...

 

**************   June 14, 2010     **************

• Guest essay: Separation of church, state and progress   What? A government body showing favoritism for one religion over another. Say it isn't so! Where is church and state separation when you really need it?

 

• IRS received complaint about Rapid City pastor endorsing Howie   I guess god decided not to back this candidate...

 

• Will Scientologists declare war on Paul Thomas Anderson's 'The Master'?   Scientology will lose face with a film such as this unless politics, bribes or other sundry activities put a stop to it...

 

**************   June 13, 2010     **************

• Empire State Won't Celebrate Mother Teresa's Centennial   The world is not used to such denial to religious groups. It is getting easier and easier for the world to not have to cower to the church. Finally...

 

• Pope begs forgiveness, promises action on abuse   What I see here is all fluff and no action. Pope - release a list of all priests and all in their chain of command that acted against children and all that acted to cover-up these facts.  If you really want forgiveness and respect, have all names on the list that are still alive report to the local police station and turn themselves in...

 

• California Hits Mormon Church With Savage Four-Digit Fine   This is another example of government in bed with the church or they are just afraid of them...

 

**************   June 12, 2010     **************

• Nuns Evicted From Public Housing   Do you think god sent those boulders down the hill to put a stop to this church/state relationship?...

 

• What's up with the popularity of atheism?   This columnist asks some great questions that are very telling of today's movement away from religion...

 

• South to wait for contentious advertising   These ads are a good thing. Religion is divisive and has some bad and good influences on society. Let's bring this squabble out into the open and study it...

 

• Which local officials pray before public meetings?   It is sad to see some holdouts on this obvious violation. Public functions are supposed to be about the ENTIRE community...

 

**************   June 11, 2010     **************

• SD Christian lawyers lose to incumbent judges   More music to my ears. People running campaigns on a Christian platform are losing badly. Message sent - message received...

 

• 'How Dawkins converted me from atheism to agnosticism'   I do not understand a lot of the negative comments attached to this story. Many of the comments were anti-agnostic, fence sitter.  That sounds like Madalyn Murray O'Hair come back from the grave.  You do not have to be a hard core atheist to be a free thinker or a secularist or dozens of other labels that are friendly to atheists....

 

• Why Atheism? One Former Christian's Story   I like this story. It is all about community. We all do better with a support group whether theist or atheist....

 

**************   June 10, 2010     **************

• THE FAMILY: WORSE THAT CHRISTIAN EXTREMISM   This is some frightening stuff. I would like to see this group's manifesto which would be more Than enough to bring them down...

 

• Scientology takes hold in India   An Indian and his money are soon parted once the Scientologist's come to town....

 

• Enfield board will fight to have graduations at church   Why should the tax payer give thousands of more dollars to the church for rental space? There is surely a local tax paying business that would like the revenue....

 

**************   June 9, 2010     **************

• Removing the God factor: Morgan Freeman discusses 'creation' on the Daily Show with John Stewart   This is for entertainment purposes, please do not take everything seriously...

 

• FFRF stops Alabama teacher’s bible distribution   FFRF does more good work - one little step at a time...

 

• Interview: Abp. Gomez of Los Angeles on 'Practical Atheism' and the Hispanic Catholic Mission   I agree with Archbishop Gomez that religion is being pushed back into the church. Where we differ is I think religion should stay in the church and not in public....

 

• Stephen Hawking on Religion: 'Science Will Win'   This is a huge step forward for secularism as a national media giant airs, during primetime, what amounts to slaps in the face of religion...

 

**************   June 8, 2010     **************

• Catholic Church fixer tells of his role in covering up clerical sex abuse   This is so sad that people can come forward and report such obvious cover up of criminal activity and there not be an outcry from the national media. If this person has enough courage to come forth and tell his story, surely we should take the story to the next logical step...

 

• Community groups seek dialogue on prayer issue   A moment of silence in lieu of prayer tends to include every belief but is still a waste of time. How about just get down to business....

 

• Catholic Priest Makes Money Molesting Children   So it seems defrocking a priest is too difficult or maybe the details have to be aired....

 

**************   June 7, 2010     **************

• Blood in the Water   Seriously, this is just...wow. What do you get when you cross Christian Fundamentalists with the "Tea Party" ? Entertainment.

 

• Love me, love my belief   This is a very nice article that is respectful to both sides of the argument...

 

• Lingle soul-searching over civil unions   That's what we need more of in this world is religious leaders who keep religion and politics separate...

 

**************   June 6, 2010     **************

• Does SF Allow "Illegal" Church Parking? SFMTA, SFPD Don't Seem To Agree   If a place of business had cars double parked, there would be fines. The same should apply to churches. They should follow the rules like everyone else. Build more parking lots the same as a place of business would have to do....

 

• Author offers class on 'New Atheism'   So this author is offering more untruths from a book full of untruths. I, a non-believer, have more morals than the majority of Christians.....

 

• Appeal dropped in Conn. church graduations case   No appeal in this case could easily mean acceptance of guilt....

 

**************   June 5, 2010     **************

• There ARE atheists in foxholes!   I would still like to know the percentage of NO PREF designations....

 

• FFRF to Chicago: Feel free to snooze on Sundays   This is great. Laughter is good medicine and maybe Dan Barker should try his hand at comedy....

 

• Scientology probed over underpayment claims   Volunteers are usually not paid anything and can come and go at anytime they wish....

 

• Statement from the Church of Scientology   Voluntary work with religious organizations is great and should continue, but when churches leave the spritual realm and enter the business realm, these volunteers turn into a labor force...

 

• I get email   I know we have in the past and will continue in the future to have a positive effect on peoples lives through this web site, through our own web site and the countless thousands of others available...

 

**************   June 4, 2010     **************

• Playing God   Alright, some more prime time discussion on Is there a god...

 

• Henri Cartier-Bresson and Scientology: The MoMA-Approved, Legendary Photographer's Strange Connection   Another unflattering article concerning Scientology...

 

• Fallen evangelical leader Ted Haggard to start new church   What can you say - the guy has got a good agent to capture free national press...

 

**************   June 3, 2010     **************

• Detroit Buses Won’t Display Ads   There are still small pockets of resistance but soon it will be okay to openly criticize any religious belief...

 

• Lake Local resident thanks board for valuing all beliefs   And yet another win for the secularists...

 

• Ontario council eyes 'In God we trust' for seal   When will these government entities understand that America was founded as a secular country...

 

• Judge Calls Graduations In Church 'Unconstitutional'   Another win for the secularists but a loss for the kids who are stuck in the middle. Now if they can only extend this to polling places that are outrageously held in churches...

 

**************   June 2, 2010     **************

• Experts: Texas textbooks are unlikely to spread   This whole SBOE fiasco has left a bad taste in my mouth...

 

• Vatican reaches out to atheists – but not you, Richard Dawkins   Who is reaching out to who? Non-theists have been challenging theists to have open debates for years....

 

• Open letter to pope urges end to celibacy   Many archaic religious beliefs are being slowly eroded from the mainstream...

 

**************   June 1, 2010     **************

• Church plans to picket rocker Dio's memorial service   Westboro Church is the fringe of the fringe. I hope they get ZERO media coverage...

 

• NGO calls for death sentence for Maldivian avowing atheism   I am very thankful I live in a country where the government does not tell me how to believe...

 

• Fargo, North Dakota atheist wins appeal for license plate "ISNOGOD" - why the hassle?   A small but significant win for the secularists....

 

**************   May 31, 2010     **************

• Giving to religious schools   Here is another loophole where religion is avoiding paying taxes.....

 

• Graduations in churches make some groups uneasy   Again, the government, in this case a school district, should not be in bed with religion. This is a church operating as a place of business....

 

• Under pressure, Malawi's leader pardons gay couple   Religions "iron grip" on the communities of the world is weakening...

 

• Fun Friday: Forget the Super Bowl -- Faith Ads Hit the Street by Bus   Well here comes the fundamentalist ad machine...

 

• New Los Angeles coadjutor: secular culture saps Hispanic Catholic identity   I like the term "Practical Atheist"...

 

**************   May 30, 2010     **************

• Voices of unbelief -- behind pulpits   The church is full on non-believers as some of them desperately need a job as the people in this story...

 

• Iowa Catholic school fires teacher after Facebook survey indicates she doesn't believe in God   I believe the Catholic Church should be able to fire anyone because of their religious beliefs as long as the Church uses no public funds...

 

• Senate panel, House approve 'don't ask, don't tell' compromise plan   Its about time the military stopped this absurd practice...

 

**************   May 29, 2010     **************

• Sharron Angle campaign working to quiet Scientology quest   I would think having Scientology on your resume would be a kiss of death if you are trying to run for a government office...

 

• Prayer breakfast focuses on keeping God in daily life   This country is much better off keeping religion out of government no matter how much one data mines the history of the founders...

 

• Somersworth High School students note diversity on special day   This high school is doing a wonderful thing by having a diversity day...

 

**************   May 28, 2010     **************

• Separation of church, state urged   This discussion by this community is what is needed in all American council meetings...

 

• Attention for atheists   As this article says, the news media is becoming more accepting of the rise of freethinkers...

 

• Judge: Federal challenge to parish exemption has merit   Finally, maybe this lawsuit will start taking away some of the churches tax free privileges...

 

• Republicans v secular America   It is old news that the republicans are throwing in with the evangelicals. I believe this will be the death of the republicans if they do not shed this religious right wingers...

 

**************   May 27, 2010     **************

• Man sentenced in Scientology cyber attack   Crimes committed by theists or atheists is not the correct course of action....

 

• Tea Party Supports Teachers Accused of Sprinkling Atheist   I look forward to many more incidents such as this where the religious fail to control their absurd behavior....

 

• When did God become a sports fan?   If any god bothers to meddle in the everyday lives of humans that god is a lousy excuse for being a god to allow so many children to suffer while they are busy blessing some sports event. ALL people who thank God for their win are very arrogant....

 

• Nevada Open Records Request Seeks to Discover Connection Between Church of Scientology, Republican U.S. Senate Candidate Sharron Angle   Is Scientology trying to sneak a candidate in?  In the future it will be more important to hide ones religiosity than one's atheism....

 

• How to Leave the Catholic Church   Yes I too am disgusted with the Catholic Church and also with the legal systems that allow the church to circumvent the laws of nations....

 

**************   May 26, 2010     **************

• Will Atheism Replace Religion in America?   This is absolute music to my ears....

 

• How church shopping is polarizing the country   Once again, religion and politics do not mix - there will be more non-religious than religious in a couple more decades, hopefully....

 

• Unintentioned Consequences of Historical Revision   Maybe, just maybe the Texas Legislature will refuse to fund the textbooks....

 

**************   May 25, 2010     **************

• Do you support the Texas Board of Education's plan for social studies curriculum changes that portray America as a nation rooted in Biblical values?   Please take a minute to vote in this poll!!!!!!

 

• David Hegg: Religious values and American ethics   This entire argument is built on the fallacy that ethics and morals can only come from religion.....

 

• After John Travolta flies aid and Scientology to Haiti, Many accuse Scientology of using disaster   I do not have a problem with religious groups giving aid as long as they leave their proselytizing out of it....

 

• Fargo man appeals after rejection of atheist license plate   Ooh, this is a sticky situation for North Dakota concerning vanity license plates....

 

**************   May 24, 2010     **************

• Vigilante California Moves Against Right Wing Texas Textbooks   This is great - the State of California criticizes the absurd Texas (SBOE) State Board of Education.....

 

• 'Nomad,' by Ayaan Hirsi Ali   This will added to my wish list for the next set of books I will buy.....

 

• Replacement cross appears at Mojave National Preserve but is immediately removed   The cross is up, it's down, it's up, it's down again....

 

• Alan Greenspan, central figure in financial collapse is devout Atheist - Why it Matters   This article should win an award for having the most fallacies...

 

**************   May 23, 2010     **************

• Thank God I'm not an Atheist   There are several well thought out comments to this story - one in particular- theists often give thanks to a god when they should be thanking a human being...

 

• Americans United Asks IRS to Investigate Los Angeles Church That ‘Tweeted’ Candidate to Victory   I would love to see the IRS close some of these tax loopholes that are used by the churches...

 

• From The Back Pew: ‘Atheists’ sign under siege   Why do some people not like Atheists?

 

**************   May 22, 2010     **************

• Information on 'enemies of Scientology found' in Italian police raid   This is great news - another government hammers Scientology again......

 

• Church of Scientology faces new abuse claims   This looks very similar to the Catholic sexual abuse cover-up. My momma always told me that one lie just leads to another lie and sooner or later you get caught.....

 

• Son Of Westboro Baptist Church Founder Leaves Church, Becomes Atheist   Many a pastors off spring turns out to reject the parent's faith....

 

**************   May 21, 2010     **************

• Go, Idaho!: Federal Judge Rules Against Religious Right Charter School   It is so good to hear rulings such as this that uphold the church-state separation....

 

• Muslim anger prompts Pakistan to block Facebook   Try as they may, these zealots cannot stop the internet. The internet is like a child not liking to be told what to do and doing the opposite of what is asked....

 

• Church of Scientology rejects neglect claims   It is very brave for one so young to speak out against this organization. I hope she is able to find some corroborating evidence...

 

**************   May 20, 2010     **************

• When liberals bash atheists   Damn, just when I am starting to be comfortable in my belief system, someone says I need to stay in the closet...

 

• We need God, not atheism   I hereby declare that the writer of this article can have my share of Jesus too...

 

• Why atheism will replace religion   Hopefully, atheism will replace religion in America during my life time...

 

**************   May 19, 2010     **************

• Gay couple convicted in Malawi faces 14-year term   Religious hatred of a sector of our society will be the churches downfall...

 

• Experts say city of Tampa violated zoning for Scientologists   It seems government is being pushed and pulled at the same time from two sides - theists & atheists...

 

• High Noon At The (Not So) OK Corral: Texas Ed. Board Gang Wants To Shoot Down Accurate Social Studies Standards   The fight against the absurd SBOE continues...

 

**************   May 18, 2010     **************

• Attack on cartoonist a threat to us all   Anybody should have the right to criticize anyone else. That is very basic free speech but is not afforded in all countries...

 

• FFRF bus ads highlight founders’ secular vision   More and bigger ads to combat the mixing of church-state issues...

 

• Liberal grit in the fight for school choice   What is a parent to do if the only way to a better education is through a religious school?

 

• Alien vs Predator   This is a well written article and a recommended read (especially bible belted Oklahoman's...

 

**************   May 17, 2010     **************

• Atheists offer $5000 towards alternative to Mojave Cross memorial   This is a kind gesture. Maybe we can help build a non-secular memorial to replace the cross...

 

• Episcopal Church consecrates first openly lesbian bishop   This church is moving closer and closer to the center which puts a smile on my face...

 

• Church of Scientology in France accused of fraud; ordered to stand trial   Scientology versus the French government is back in the news again...

 

• Defections, court fights test Scientology   900,000 fine is a drop in the bucket but is maybe a first step toward banishment...

 

**************   May 16, 2010     **************

• From Muslim to Pagan   A rejection of radical faiths...

 

• Tax status of charities, religions under review   Woohoo - this may get a foot in the door to bringing justice to the archaic tax exemption for religious organizations...

 

**************   May 15, 2010     **************

• Home : News : Opinion/Letters Soliman: Once again, the old stereotypes roll   The author correctly pointed out that we all should not stereotype but they should also be able to read in between the lines...

 

• Texas clergy to SBOE: Don’t downplay church and state separation   More great commentary on the SBOE conflict...

 

**************   May 14, 2010     **************

• Church-state relations: a wall of separation or a one-way street?   Most criticism about church/state has to do with religion interfering with government but this article is the opposite side of that argument...

 

• A Radical Christianity?   How to be a kinder, gentler atheist...

 

• Xenophon won't give up on Scientologists   Senator Xenophon's actions will give others courage to put a stop to religions stranglehold on the government...

 

**************   May 13, 2010     **************

• Authorities in Belgium raid Church of Scientology   There are as many anti-scientology stories today as there are pro-scientology...

 

• Freethought San Marcos: Unthinking Christians and the National Day of Prayer   Rather long but very well put and worth the read....

 

• Secular groups protest ‘Godly’ oath on behalf of census workers   Now this is probably a request that will be honored will little backlash....

 

**************   May 12, 2010     **************

• Disputed Mojave cross honoring US war dead stolen   The cross is not a memorial, it is a Christian symbol. I do not agree with theft and/or vandalism as a way to solve this church state issue....

 

• Georgia Mayor Hopes to End Flap Over Prayer Before Meals at Senior Center   If you want free meals from god, go get them from your local church. Otherwise you should be giving THANKS to the American citizenry for the gift of your food...

 

• Pastor: church, state not separate   The problem is, Pastor Elkins, what church are we going to tie the State to?

 

**************   May 11, 2010     **************

• Religion: What's The Harm?   Superstitions are harmless up to a point and then they can be rather deadly...

 

• Judge quotes Bible in MSU speech   It is rather arrogant for anyone to tell a graduating class they should perform as god wants them to...

 

• Hinduism and Democracy: A Comparison   The government in India is much closer to achieving true secularism than is the United States...

 

• Atheism: The Name   Sometimes the word atheist fits nicely as a definistion for non-religious and other times it doesn't...

 

**************   May 10, 2010     **************

• AP source: Elena Kagan picked for Supreme Court   Ahaaa, a non-catholic to be nominated to the Supreme Court, That's a move in the right direction....

 

• As It Stands: 'The Family': Politicians who violate separation of church and state   This is some frightening stuff. Religion's tentacles reach deep into our political process....

 

**************   May 09, 2010     **************

• Scientology, Tom Cruise, and Brainwashing: Tom Says Mission Impossible for Others; Scientology the 'Authority' on Everything   Scientology can create new realities? Sounds like something out of the Matrix....

 

• Tom Cruise Was Secretly Videotaped.....   One of these days Scientology is going to slipup and lose one of their big sponsors and then they will go down in flames....

 

• "Texans for Truthful Textbooks" to rally at state capitol   I plan on being at the state capitol on the 16th. I hope to see other Amarilloans there....

 

• PALIN WANTS BIBLE AS BASIS FOR US LAW   I am so glad most Americans view this woman as off her rocker...

 

**************   May 08, 2010     **************

• National Day of Prayer Violates Establishment Clause   This a very good article on the National Day of Prayer...

 

• Should the president consider an atheist for a Supreme Court position?   How about we make justice blind in the area of religious belief...

 

• A distance that matters   Short but very well put...

 

• ACLU Sues Enfield Over Plans To Hold Graduations At Church   It is sad that the kids have to be drug into this fight. Maybe other schools will think twice in the future...

 

**************   May 07, 2010     **************

• YouTube accounts of Scientology critics suspended   It would be really nice for YouTube to publicly give reason for this shutdown...

 

• Religion: Voices of unbelief -- behind pulpits   The secularists most powerful tool - a church leader who no longer believes...

 

• BERG: Salute to atheism on National Day of Prayer   A nice article with a little humor too. Makes my day...

 

• Religion News in Brief   There area lot of small tid-bits from around the world in this article...

 

• Nation united -- and divided -- by prayer   I like this quote in the article - "In a way, Johnson says, National Prayer Day could be a victim of its own success.

 

• Woman guilty of assault   In this case - Is any type of news, good news for Scientology?

 

**************   May 06, 2010     **************

• Corporate sponsors contribute to Fla. faith-healing scam   Attention all faith healers - "Help a lot of people and make some big money for your cause" - I, Rodney Hinds, will pay you $10,000.00 for each and every amputee that you heal. Of course I will need to be present at the miraculous event prior to the healing process actually occurring..

 

• Group says Becker foundation violating Constitution   Traveling from school to school talking about the dangers of alcohol and driving is a great idea but preaching religious dogma is not okay...

 

• Scientology behind on rent in Amsterdam   Scientology is showing weakness, especially in European countries...

 

**************   May 05, 2010     **************

• Who is the paper tiger?   Check out the great comment section and add your own...

 

• The Media And Obama Handle Christianity Poorly – According To One Atheist   I really like the viewpoint of live and let live but prefer that government totally stay out of religion.

 

• Thou shalt not pray: Atheists' bid to ban prayers before council meetings - because they breach 'human rights' of non-believers   Certain Brit's are fed up with this mixing of religion and government.

 

**************   May 04, 2010     **************

• Prayer day does serve a secular function   My response in the comments area to this article was - Prayer does not work. If it did the hospitals would be empty and the doctors would be out of a job. I put prayer in the same category as the faith healing snake oil salesman. Why don't those faith healers just head on down to the local hospital and pray and heal and pray some more? Be honest with your answer now. Religious people's belief in prayer has killed many a child that was denied basic medical treatment in lieu of their ineffective prayer. FFRF does not want to stop prayer but just wants the government to stop sponsoring such activities.

 

• Imagine you’re a Walrus – It’s easy if you try   What this guy did is much less offensive than the Gideons who scatter bibles in many of the motels in America. I wonerd if the Gideons can get an ASBO?

 

**************   May 03, 2010     **************

• Scientology leader David Miscavige accused of snooping in secret celeb confessional files   This type of stuff just warms my heart.  Support those with the guts to speak out - buy her book...

 

• Pope all but endorses authenticity of Turin Shroud   It seems to me that someone like the Pope that is so close to god would know if the shroud is authentic or not. To not publicly state so might mean there is doubt...

 

**************   May 01, 2010     **************

• National Day of Prayer ruling could provide boost in Oklahoma   Video interview says Obama will NOT have a day of prayer at the white house. This is a move in the right direction in my opinion. The video interview is somewhat balanced but the article itself is anti-secular...

 

• Marty: Church-state separation doesn’t mean opposing religion   I really like the way this is presented to Baptist university students and hope it helps to strengthen secularism...

 

**************   April 30, 2010     **************

• Church and State: Symbols and Service   How about that, a church is helping but not proselytizing...

 

• Thinking freely and radically   Freethinking school groups are new and struggling...

 

• Poll: Region religious, but respects church/state separation   I just love polls like this one. They are as powerful as expensive lawsuits...

 

**************   April 29, 2010     **************

• High court rules cross doesn't violate separation of church and state   I hope to live long enough to witness the majority of tax breaks taken from the churches for all categories except those granted to your everyday charitable organization...

 

• High court rules cross doesn't violate separation of church and state   It would have been nice if the Supreme Court had of ordered the cross removed. I would like to see a poll taken about matters such as this...

 

• 1000 Ex-Scientology Church Members Have Left And Spoken Out   How much longer can this cult stand the daily criticism aimed at its absurd activities...

 

• Nick Clegg throws a wrench in Britain's prime minister race   What a breath of fresh air. I sure wish Americans could get over their paranoia about non-believers like the Brit's have...

 

• A Journey From Pastor To Atheist   Religion's biggest adversary is a well trained theologian...

 

**************   April 28, 2010     **************

• Sandra A. Vandervest: State can't dictate religious actions   I believe if the truth be known, that the majority of Christians want separation of church and state...

 

• Survey: 72% of Millennials 'more spiritual than religious'   A new survey showing the proportion of religious inclination in the younger population specifically...with any luck many of these "spiritual" teenagers will mature into "irreligious" adults.

 

• Lebanese demand religion out of politics   Lebanese demand a greater separation between church and state:

 

• John Lennon Airport sexual image atheist gets Asbo   This would never stand in the United States. We may, on occasion, express appreciation for those nations more secular than ours...but THIS is why the United States of America is where I would rather be:

 

**************   April 27, 2010     **************

• A just repudiation   Nice article - no author listed?...

 

• Religions must work together to create better community   It would be nice to have many more religious leaders like this one who favors the separation of church and state...

 

**************   April 26, 2010     **************

• Guest column: Wall of legal separation between church and state confuses religious issues   I disagree with the final word in this article. The government and god should always and forever be separate. Putting the word god on government of any kind is the same as a promotion of such ideas...

 

**************   April 24, 2010     **************

• Russia Sees Scientology as "Undermining"   I do not agree with the Russian populace losing freedom of religion but I am enjoying negative press toward the cult from a powerful government body ...

 

• Kentucky Triumph: State Supreme Court Blocks Public Funding Of Baptist University   Even in Kentucky it's not okay to use public funds for schools. Win, Win for the American people, a lose, lose for the fundies ...

 

• Evangelist son of Billy Graham disinvited to Pentagon prayer breakfast -- what happened to the separation of church and state?   Short but sweet...

 

• Atheists, religious groups lobby on Day of Prayer   And the fight goes on. Even if FFRF does not win, it will still be a victory by having a huge amount of media coverage...

 

**************   April 23, 2010     **************

• This Jew Says 'Sorry Sarah, America isNot a "Christian" Nation   Enlightening and funny at the same time. This is the kind of writing that brightens my day...

 

• Do atheists have equal rights in the eyes of Christians?   This is a very good article outlining the struggle of atheism in America...

 

**************   April 22, 2010     **************

• Russian court bans Scientology literature   Finally, a government with enough nerve to cast a vote against this cult...

 

• Well, of course public schools are atheistic!   More reasons to be a secular nation...

 

• Nick Clegg's atheism would rule him out of office in America, Iran   America has many more similarities to Iran than the need for politicians to be religious. Check out some of the comments on this article...

 

• Sarah Palin throws the God punch -- again   Here is some good comments on both sides of the story...

 

**************   April 21, 2010     **************

• Palin: Founding Fathers Wouldn't Agree With Separation Of Church And State   It is very discouraging to hear a very high profile and popular politician use religion to gather together a voting block. That type of rhetoric is driving the country apart...

 

• Hastings defends anti-bias policy at high court   Hastings Law School has been in a battle with a conservative Christian student-formed club regarding who the students can and cannot exclude. While the Hight Court could simply kick the case back to a lower court for clarification, they could also rule on the case themselves and thereby effect the very definition of "academic freedom" on American College campuses.

 

• Mireille Silcoff: A few lessons in rhetoric for Dawkins and Hitchens   A blog-style article criticizing Dawkins and Hitchens for their "arrest the Pope campaign". While the article itself is filled to the brim with straw-men and sloppy reasoning, the responses from people afterward deserve a quick read!

 

• Supreme court crushes law against animal cruelty video and photos   The Supreme Court makes another controversial ruling pertaining to free speech. This one is bound to anger some animal lovers...

 

**************   April 20, 2010     **************

• JOEY KENNEDY: Upset about prayer at government meetings? Get over it!   POLL -  Should governmental bodies open their meetings with prayer?  -  POLL...

 

**************   April 19, 2010     **************

• Redirecting a long life of godlessness   I like Kurtz's somewhat softer ideals of atheism...

 

• Court to hear arguments on campus Christian group   Form all the Christian groups you want and disallow anyone you want as long as you are not using tax payer money for that purpose...

 

**************   April 18, 2010     **************

• Life After Atheism   One of these days atheism will have very little meaning...

 

• Bob Shepherd: Faith-based programs work   There is one GREAT comment posted at the end of this article that is so well written that I just had grab a copy of the entire article HERE...

 

• AMERICA'S ALL-OUT SPIRITUAL BATTLE   Read this fallaciously full article to help you understand the fundamentalists new/old plan of attack...

 

**************   April 17, 2010     **************

• Society of cynics spread knowledge at Western   Skeptics and freethinkers are popping up more and more and are quite visible. It's time to come out of the dark..."

 

• Letter: 'Radical' lesson?   Children are taught that schools offer "credible" and "actionable" information. As this parent expresses, it is not okay to plant the seeds of religion into a child's head..."

 

**************   April 16, 2010     **************

• Calif. city may face legal action over prayer vote   Is the mayor of Lancaster favoring Christianity above other religions? The ACLU says, "Maybe so..."

 

• Federal judge rules Day of Prayer unconstitutional   National "Day of Prayer" ruled unconstitutional! This proves that when you don't pray...good things happen.

 

• The Pope-hunters' pathological campaign   An Australian article showcasing a rather myopic view of the child-abuse scandal centered on the Catholic Church. I suppose instead of taking action, we're just supposed to have "faith" that the Church will get better?

 

**************   April 15, 2010     **************

• Dispute flares again between lawyer and Scientology   There's bad blood between these two it seems...

 

**************   April 14, 2010     **************

• Antony Flew dies   Antony Flew renounced his atheism toward the end of his life in favor of a vague sort of deism. Agree with him or not, he was one of the most influential philosophers in living memory.

 

• Jury holds Boy Scouts negligent in sex-abuse case   The Boy Scouts of America won't let homosexuals or atheists in...but pedophiles don't seem to bother them too much; after all, they do have standards!

 

• St. Augustine Godless Billboard Damaged   Looks like the freethinkers may have pushed someone's button too hard...

 

• Priest calls for pope's resignation   The pope is in big trouble when the priests start asking him to step down....

 

**************   April 13, 2010     **************

• Hawaii retreat center revenue challenged on tax-exempt status   Finally, more government entities are challenging churches that are abusing the tax code...

 

• Ringo Starr: 'Vatican has more to talk about than the Beatles'   We need even more high profile personalities to speak their mind when it comes to the rich and powerful churches...

 

• Connecticut bishops fight sex abuse bill   This one is a little tricky to decide. If there can be adequate proof shown then the perpetrator should pay the price no matter how many years....

 

**************   April 12, 2010     **************

• Young and atheist   Our youth have always been the wave of the future. Maybe someday there will be classes on freethought in elementary school...

 

• Defining the Boundaries of Religion & Politics   Politics and religion should not be mixed together. If a church wants to delve into the political arena then they are no longer churches but political organizations and should pay taxes like the rest of the voting public...

 

**************   April 11, 2010     **************

• Scientology being sued for $1m in US test case   If you throw up enough accusations, sooner or later one will stick...

 

• Richard Dawkins plans to arrest the Pope for 'crimes against humanity'   This is probably a pipe dream but it will allow all to see that it is getting easier and easier to denigrate religious wrongs...

 

**************   April 10, 2010     **************

• Why Belief in God Is Not Innate   Religion the product of socioeconomic disparity?

 

• Evangelical scholar forced out after endorsing evolution   Evangelical dismissed from seminary for endorsing the theory of evolution:

 

• Dutch Christian fundamentalist party blocks women   Fundamentalist Christian political party doesn't like women in positions of authority? Who would have thought?

 

• Does the U.S. Supreme Court need another Protestant?   Discussing the religious influence of the next, as yet undecided, Supreme Court Justice:

 

• Female moral superiority a dubious basis for reform   Susan Jacoby, historian and author of Freethinkers, briefly analyzes the position of "The Virgin Mary" in the following article:

 

• Scientologists infiltrate jails   What lengths would you go to recruit new members?

 

• Abortion and gay marriage new hot-button issues in Mexico   The Mexican government is not kowtowing to the Catholics...

 

**************   April 9, 2010     **************

• Mysterious rituals of the atheists   This article fascinates me because of the title. This is perhaps the worst "news" article I have read this year:

 

• Lecture to explore atheism   A short article about a lecture given on April 6...some of the comments are just sad.

 

• Australian bishops use Easter to attack atheism   Catholic clergy get called out for making erroneous claims about atheism:

 

• Rosie O'Donnell: Catholic Church is Like Jonestown Suicide Cult   Something tells me Rosie has a problem with Catholicism...

 

**************   April 8, 2010     **************

• Scientology rears head in Egypt's bookstores   Money can get you a reservation just about anywhere...

 

• We Didn’t Start the Fire   Who threw the first punch?

 

• What Do You Know About The Separation of State and Church?   Try this short quiz from FFRF...

 

• Understanding atheism and agnosticism   Non-belief from another point of view...

 

**************   April 7, 2010     **************

• Senate panel pushes vote to drop ban on state funds for religious institutions   Mark this on your calendar to check the Florida vote this November...

 

• Judge dimisses wage claims in Scientology lawsuit   The world continues to criticize the Scientology organization. Just the fact that they are complaining is helpful...

 

• Boo! I'm a scary atheist   What atheism is not...

 

**************   April 6, 2010     **************

• Joe Hallett commentary: Washington center blurs separation of church and state   The church is policing itself - halleluiah

 

• In Defense of Atheism   Atheist's may become a protected group?

 

• Huntsville Council Member to Explain Refusal of Pledge, Prayer Participation   Here's a short little piece about a brave council member..

 

**************   April 4, 2010     **************

• Atheists cite resurgence as they gather on Easter weekend   This article uses a bit of humor which is extremely helpful.

 

• Atheists respond to church leader attacks   Religions will most likely become more vocal as their power and influence wanes.

 

• Push for Scientology ban looks wobbly   Even the Germans don't want them around. One of these days there will be a government that is bigger and more powerful than CoS.

 

• Jason Lee's Ex-Wife On Scientology, Domestic Abuse   It is nice to see high profile people speak out. If this article frees but one person...

 

• The USA: Separation of church & state or a Christian nation?   The founding fathers really did want church to be separate....

 

**************   April 3, 2010     **************

• Atheists’ Collection Plate, With Religious Inspiration   Feeling a need to help others is a simple human trait that in no way belongs to the religions of the world...

 

• Scientists investigate if atheists' brains are missing a ‘God Spot’   I guess somehow I must have lost my god spot. I wonder if it went to heaven?

 

• Faust: Church-state separation the only way to go   This is a very well written explanation of the church-state issue...

 

**************   April 2, 2010     **************

• Derry couples seeking Pagan weddings   Pagans attempting to reclaim their old traditions. :)

 

• Lawyer: Beheading planned in Saudi sorcery case   Just when you think it's safe to go outside... I thought the world was done with the witch burning days?

 

• Shooter of Kansas abortion doctor gets life sentence   Scott Roeder sentenced to life in prison for murdering Kansas abortion doctor:

 

• Has the bell tolled on Easter's meaning?   This individual seems to have grudge against "unbelief" because.....he really, really likes Easter.

 

**************   March 31, 2010     **************

• US Mormons mark Passover holiday with Seder   An interesting article discussing some of the Mormon Church's religious practices:

 

• Christian Militia Group? Militia Insider Denies it, Says Hutaree Was "Terrorist Organization"   Christian Militia raided on Saturday:

 

• Gay Jesus Play Canned at Texas School   Some of the community response was just not very Christian like...

 

• Iowa Town Renames Good Friday to 'Spring Holiday'   Well at least they considered reason...

 

**************   March 30, 2010     **************

• Hundreds gather to pray for the state budget   Here's another one claiming their god of love has punished us yet once again...

 

• Homer Simpson isn't the only would-be 'Messiah' in Jerusalem   I just love to see these shows when they show religious idiosyncrasies...

 

• America, Religion And The New Atheist Writers   Apparently, all of the "New Atheists" have religion all wrong:

 

• Pray for an Atheist Facebook Initiative Stirs Religious Emotions Between Christians and Atheists   Pray for me and I'll think for you!

 

**************   March 29, 2010     **************

• Author Sarah Malini Perera held ‘for offending Buddhists’ in Sri Lanka   Author arrested in Sri Lanka for offending Buddhists:

 

• Pullman Risks Christian Anger With Jesus Novel   British author likely to offend Christians with his newest book:

 

• Atheists Are at It Again   An article written by a believer who obviously has some...interesting viewpoints concerning the alleged connection between atheism and communism:

 

• Atheists question spirituality award at National Academy of Sciences   Atheists give their input on award celebrating "spiritual" scientists:

 

**************   March 28, 2010     **************

• Ex-Scientology lawsuits reveal elite Sea Org group   Scientology just can't seem to get a break. They must be spending a fortune in lawyers fees...

 

• Sinead O'Connor on Pope Benedict and Catholic abuse scandal   Is it true? Are our governments afraid of the church? Who has the real power?

 

• IRS Should Investigate Florida Church For Opposing Mayoral Candidate, Says Americans United   Wouldn't it be neat if churches started paying taxes. Woohoo...

 

• Gay teen in prom case feels ostracized locally, celebrated nationally   One step closer to make this statement true - "we are all created(born) equal"...

 

• Stamping out Mother Teresa   The truth, like beauty, is in the eye of the beholder...

 

**************   March 26, 2010     **************

• Atheist billboard coming   More and more billboards. Maybe we can get one or two here in good 'ole Amarillo soon...

 

**************   March 25, 2010     **************

• The Catholic Church and the credibility-challenged Comelec   Again, if religions want to play politics, then be a taxpayer like me...

 

• Catholics vs. non-believers   It is not good for any person or group to gain too much power. Power corrupts. Period....

 

• L.A. film premiere cancelled after maker's anti-gay past revealed   It is getting to the point where it's not okay to be anti-gay :) ...

 

• When Fox News Gets It Right   Fox did a pretty good job with interview of funeral protestors...

 

• Judge: School violated lesbian's rights, but prom cancellation valid   Judge has ruled in favor of "reason", woohoo...

 

**************   March 24, 2010     **************

• CNN’s Anderson Cooper 360 Explores the Church of Scientology’s Leadership   I can only hope that this story is widely viewed...

 

• Rave Should Churches Be Tax Exempt?   Shall I dare say that prayer for an atheist will increase the number of atheists in this country. Quick, somebody take a benchmark so we can measure this phenomenon...

 

• Rave Should Churches Be Tax Exempt?   How about any church with an income above $200,000.00 start paying taxes. Or better yet, churches should stop providing any services in competition with local businesses, i.e. fitness facilities, banquets, weddings, etc...

 

• Good Fences Make Good Neighbors   I am all for churches being allowed to participate in the political process as SOON as they start paying taxes!!!!!

 

**************   March 23, 2010     **************

• OUR VIEW: By God, this has got to stop (vote in poll)   Take a minute of your time to vote in this poll. You'll be glad you did...

 

• The faith trap   Have you ever been paid to believe what you didn't believe?...

 

• Church and State Get Too Close for Comfort in Va.   What? The government is building churches?...

 

**************   March 22, 2010     **************

• Church has lost moral authority   I can only hope that these events finally reveal the full size of the corruption of the Catholic system...

 

• Xenophon certain about Scientology probe   I believe that the government is afraid to investigate the Church of Scientology because they are afraid of what they will find...

 

**************   March 21, 2010     **************

• Atheism: the good, the bad and the ugly   Be careful of how far you are willing to push others to believe as you do. Go too far and you will be a fundamentalist...

 

• LAPD To Cut Ties With Group Linked To Boy Scouts   This is a little old but still relevant and I consider it to be wonderful news...

 

**************   March 20, 2010     **************

• Nutbags take over education   I love the title of this article...

 

• Study shows which churches are politically active   I do not understand why churches do not lose their tax breaks for these activities?...

 

• Statistics challenge 'demise' of religion   A view from somewhere around the middle of the two camps...

 

**************   March 17, 2010     **************

• Atheism is a broad church   This is a wrapup of the Atheist convention in Australia. There are also a lot of good one-liners and other quotes...

 

• Project Reason holds atheist/nontheist video contest   Here is a small sample of atheist video submitted for the contest...

 

• Church-state separation above majority rules   Short but sweet and many great comments. Majority should not squash the minority...

 

**************   March 16, 2010     **************

• The rise and rise of atheism   A summary of the latest Atheist Convention...

 

• William McKenzie: Right-wingers work without a theological net   Another viewpoint from the Dallas Morning News...

 

• Cardinal v. Atheist: Without God We Are Nothing   A good debate but rather long...

 

**************   March 15, 2010     **************

• Bribery Blackmail Coercion? Scientology And The IRS   More scientology bad press...

 

• Debate probes value of religion   Debates on religious beliefs are being held in a church! This is another nail in religion's coffin...

 

• Govt urged to back Scientology inquiry   France questioned scientology in 2009, now Australia - one of these days the allegations will stick...

 

**************   March 13, 2010     **************

• Atheists meet in Melbourne to celebrate lack of faith Is there a technical term for a gathering of atheists?...

 

• Atheist group offers to hold gay friendly prom So American Humanist Association is doing proms now?....

 

• No separation between church and state in the actual pledge The opinions are coming from every direction....

 

• Catholic School Rejects Child Because Of Lesbian Parents The church gets some more bad ink....

 

• Separation of church, state doesn’t apply to our money Which god is being referred to?

 

**************   March 12, 2010     **************

• Appeals Court Says "Under God" Not A Prayer I believe this court case is headed for the Supreme Court....

 

**************   March 11, 2010     **************

• Revisiting JFK JFK was right-on about separation of church and state. Religion, in order to survive, needs to evolve a little quicker. It is no longer okay for females to give birth to unwanted babies. It is no longer okay to deny females contraception. It is no longer okay to deny the use of condoms that could save millions from the AIDS epidemic....

 

• D.C. Gay Marriage Law Sets Standard of Equality for Tri-State Area Count this as another nail in religion's coffin...

 

• Hundreds protest Fairfax imam giving prayer in Va. House tomorrow Aaaah, this is music to my ears. Maybe, just maybe the christians will decide no prayer at government functions would be a better deal. I'll keep my fingers crossed. :)

 

• Honorary Associate: Sir Ludovic Kennedy (1919-2009) In Memoriam....

 

**************   March 10, 2010     **************

• Florida Atheists angry with Governor Crist You mean a politician publicly says that prayer will protect FLorida from hurricanes?..

 

• I met Charlie Crist last night Another point of view "from the horses mouth" for the story above...

 

**************   March 9, 2010     **************

• Freethought San Marcos: Christians nationwide demand government support for their religion It sure would be nice if the Suprem Court would strengthen the language..

 

• Catholic School Rejects Child Because Of Lesbian Parents I think the church has the right to allow or disallow students. I also appreciate that this topic gets a headline..

 

**************   March 8, 2010     **************

• Jay Huling's New Comedy Lambastes Atheism, Televangelists, and Predatory Lending Laughter is good medicine. I hope this play come out on DVD or to a nearby theater..

 

• Secular homeschoolers find Darwin on their own Where does one have to look for a good text book on evolution for school age kids?

 

• Fundamentals of church-state relations It seems the Phillipines has a problem just like the U.S...

 

**************   March 6, 2010     **************

• The Roman Catholic Church continues to put out mixed messages How come religions continue to condemn homesexuality after thousands of years of existence?

 

• Bishops want debate with Cabral on condoms How many people have to die from AIDS before the Catholics concede that condoms are helpful?

 

**************   March 2, 2010     **************

• Mexico's Separation of Church and State I would like to see America pass an amendment that reinforces the separation of church and state so as to put a stop to all the bickering..

 

• Religious freedom under attack This is a well written article about religous over reaction..

 

**************   February 28, 2010     **************

• Nick Coleman: Pawlenty the pious: God runs the show Fundie's compared to jihadist's..

 

• Why 'Everything Has a Cause' Is a Terrible Justification for God's Existence All people should strive to listen to both sides of an arguement..

 

• Why Richard Dawkins is a mean ol atheist. (Religious people starve baby to death.) Another horror story and this cult is probably "tax exempt"..

 

**************   February 27, 2010     **************

• Keep religion out of public schools It is sad that other states are using Texas as a comparison on this subject..

 

• That grey area between church and state Australia also has troubles with churches inteferring in the political process..

 

**************   February 26, 2010     **************

• Higher intelligence linked to liberal political ideology, atheism So do democrats have higher IQ's than republicans?..

 

• Obama aides to meet with atheists on White House grounds I hope they release the "meeting minutes" for the general public..

 

• Pastors urge IRS to investigate evangelical Washington insiders' C Street Center It is a good thing when an organization policies itself..

 

**************   February 25, 2010     **************

• WTAMU Distinguished Lecture Series Brings Shermer to Campus   TONIGHT, February 25th, 7:00 PM - WTAMU campus -"Why People Believe Weird Things" - hope to see you there..

 

**************   February 23, 2010     **************

• Morality and Atheism in Pakistan   There more religious a society, the more corrupt..

 

• Church/State Group Asks IRS to Investigate Liberty University   It looks like a church group may have crossed the political line..