Congressman prayers Amen and “woman”
A Congressman’s controversial prayer has him at the center of criticism. Congressman Emmanuel Cleaver delivered the prayer for the first session of Congress for 2021. The Congressman’s prayer included references to scriptures and then began to take a turn. Cleaver referenced the Hindu god Braham. Cleaver referred to God as being known by many names by many different faiths. The congressman then ended the prayer by saying Amen and “a woman”. Other congressmen and critics quickly criticized Cleaver pointing out that Amen means “So be it” it Latin and has nothing to do with gender. Congressman Cleaver claims his prayers was misinterpreted. Cleaver went on to say the end of the prayer was a lighthearted joe to acknowledge the number of women now serving in the U.S. Congress.
Sudan and Morocco join Abraham Accords
The Nations of Sudan and Morocco have officially signed peace deals with Israel. Israel’s deal with Morocco had previously been announced, but was made official this week. A delegation led by the U.S. participated in the signing of Morocco to the Abraham Accords. The nation of Sudan announced last week their nation had also signed the Abraham Accords. The Sudanese government released a statement concerning the signing during a recent visit by U.S officials. The nation was visited for the first time in 15 years by U.S. Secretary Mike Pompeo last year.
In Christian World News: Pakistan, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia
A Christian in Pakistan has been acquitted of blasphemy and released from prison. The man according the family had already served 10 years. The family says his release was not expected. The family is currently in hiding for their safety and protection, but say they release is an answer to their prayers.
Nigeria: 300 abducted boys have been rescued. The children were abducted as apart of an attack on a school in December. The Nigerian government reported negotiations with the attackers prior to their release. No further details were given but the attackers are believed to be connected to the terrorist group Boko Haram.
Saudi Arabia: The nation of Saudi Arabia is continuing its efforts to strengthen ties with Israel. The nation’s school textbooks are now being revised concerning Israel. The government is now removing mentions of Anti-Israel and Anti-Semitism from those books. A report released this year says the nation is making a clear change in textbook content compared to previous editors. The CEO of IMACT Marcus Sheff, says Saudi authorities have begun the process of voting out Anti-Jewish hate.
SNBC Health News: the benefits of cocoa flavanols
Flavanols are beneficial to the brain and can be found in a variety of foods. According to a 2017 study, cocoa flavanols assist in brain oxygenation. Flavanols especially found in dark chocolate have several health benefits. It’s rich in fiber, protein, carbohydrates. Flavanols in dark chocolate improve insulin sensitivity. It is considered beneficials for its healthy fats, antioxidant properties, mineral and assists in stress reduction. The health benefits according to experts are found in chocolate with a 70 percent cacao ratio or higher. The health benefits of chocolate reduce when other ingredients are added.