Florida passes ban on transgender athletes in women’s sports
The president’s support for LGBT causes may directly result in a battle between the Biden Administration and a growing number of states here in the US. Florida is now the latest state government to pass a bill banning transgender athletes in all levels of competition. Governor Ron DeSantis spoke about the bill at a town hall meeting prior to the vote. DeSantis said that he and state officials will protect girls in the state of Florida. The governor further added referencing his own daughters that girls and women in the state deserve to be on an even playing field in sporting competitions. The state of Florida is the latest in a series of several states passing laws to protect biological women in sports competitions. President Biden in his first state of the union address commented that he has the back of those in the transgender community. The comment is believed to be in reference to the recent sports bans. The state of North Carolina is also considering a bill to ban transgender athletes in women’s sports. We will update you on the bill’s progress as this story continues.
Judge issues warrant for pastor’s arrest over services
News from Canada as that nation’s government has issued a by any means necessary order concerning a pastor and his church. In a surprise move a Canadian judge gave permission for police and health department officials to raid a church building. The justice David Gates, issued a warrant for Pastor Artur Pawlowski’s arrest and gave access to the church’s building. Gates added to the warrant that police and health officials are allowed to use such reasonable force they deem appropriate to gain access. The warrant further makes the instructions clear adding if the pastor or anyone present intervenes to “do what is necessary”. The pastor went viral and made international headlines for kicking out health officials and police from the church’s building on Resurrection Sunday. During the confrontation the pastor referred to the police and health officials as Nazis and communists telling them to only return with a warrant. The officials did return the following Sunday but were denied access by Pastor Pawlowski. This news is the latest in a string of growing persecution by the Canadian government against The Church. Pastor James Coates was arrested for violating COVID-19 restrictions according to officials and is now meeting with his congregation at a secret location following a barricade being erected around the church’s building. Another church in Canada has been charged thousands of dollars in fines every-time they meet for in person worship services.
Participants in Journey to Joy Photo courtesy of Victory Christian Center
VCC’s Journey to Joy Ministry hosts Spring Refresher
The VCC Journey to Joy hosted a luncheon and activity session of ministry participants. According to ministry team leader Joan Kelley was a check in to see how participants are doing. She says the ministry also provides participants the opportunity to encourage one another. Journey to Joy is a ministry for widows and widowers who are members of VCC. There were various activities led by Dr. Clarissa Carr, prizes and participants received encouragement from Mrs. Gool during the event. We spoke with a member of the ministry team Mary Land who spoke about the impact of the ministry on participants. Mrs. Land says ministering to this group is a ministry of hope, healing and restoration. She says that those that are further along in their journey of healing are able to minister to those who need encouragement by standing on the Word of God.
SNBC Health report: the health benefits of Zinc
The nutrient has been referenced more in health circles in the past year. This nutrient is one of the names being floated around to help build the immune system. Zinc in addition to boosting the immune system has other benefits for the body. This nutrient is known to help with inflammation. Zinc is an essential nutrient required for the function of the body’s metabolism, nerve function, and digestion. It helps with the immune system by strengthening various areas of the body including the lungs. It also assists in wound healing. The nutrient is fortified into some breakfast foods, but the best way to get the nutrient is through food. Eggs, legumes, seafood, whole grains, and dark chocolate are all rich in zinc.