Finnish Politician on trial for faith stance
A politician in Finland is continuing her fight for free speech. Dr. Pavi Rasanen is defending herself for a second time in court following an appeal.
The former minister of the interior is on trial for speaking out against a pro-LGBT event in her country. Rasanen posted a Bible verst on social media, following the announced of a LGBT pride event sponsored by her church’s denomination in 2019. The post along with a previous pamphlet and radio interview she conducted sparked outrage from liberal groups in Finland. The protests led to a police investigation and later trial. Rasanen was acquitted but is now back in court following the prosecution’s appeal. If convicted Dr. Rasanen could face fines and up to two years in jail. Dr. Rasanen says this case could set a dangerous precedent for Christians in Finland and around Europe.
Revival continues across secular colleges campuses in US
Revival on college campuses around the US is continuing. According to the pastor and youth pastor of New Life Church, in Corpus Christi revival on the campus of Texas A&M is growing at a rapid rate. Students have responded to witnessing events since 2022 and are continuing to accept Christ and spread the Gospel to fellow students. They report several witnessing events, with students asking to be baptized immediately. The last event over 240 students showed up after accepting Christ requesting to be baptized as a statement of faith. The Church also reports over 400 students are encouraging each other as apart of small groups.
(SNBC NEWS NOTE: according to New Life Church’s pastor and youth pastor, student leaders for the campus ministries bought horse troughs from the local animal feed stores to keep up the demand for baptisms on campus. The pastors noted most students ask to be baptized immediately following their acceptance of Christ. To God be all the Glory!)
The same is happening at Auburn University in Alabama. According to students on that campus, thousands of students gathered to worship on campus, which led to 200 students accepting Christ and being asked to be baptized that very night. Student later used the lake at Auburn’s Red Barn to conduct the baptisms. The campus ministry reported over five thousand people showed up to participate in Auburn’s night of worship, as the event was later called. This recent revival started on the college campuses of Asbury University in 2022 and has continued spreading at a rapid rate across the US. According to most campus ministries the revival is being led by students who are praying to God for change on their college campuses.
(SNBC NOTE: Atheist groups are attempting to attack the head coach of Auburn’s football team, Hugh Freeze and the campus chaplain, who participated in baptizing students.) Auburn University officials have not commented on their staff’s participation. Please continue to keep the students and the staff members on college campuses in prayer as the Gospel of Jesus Christ continues to spread across colleges and universities in the U.S.
Abraham Accords marks third anniversary
The relationship between Israel and several Arab nations is continuing to develop this week. September 15th marked the third anniversary of the Abraham Accords signing in Washington, D.C. The treaty has also been an opening for additional treaties by other nations with Israel, following the signing of the document. The accords have helped Israel to continue diplomatic relationships with other predominantly Muslim countries. Trade has reportedly increase between Israel and other nations. Several nations are rumored to start diplomatic ties. Negotiations with the kingdom Saudi Arabia, one of the most prominent Muslim nations in the Middle East so far has not advanced. Saudi officials want Israel to offer land for a future Palestinian nation along with part of the capital of Jerusalem. Israeli officials have continued to refuse this request.
SNBC HEALTH report: How Blue Zones affect health
Have you ever wondered if any common characteristics exist between centenarians around the world? Bestselling author, longevity expert, and National Geographic Explorer Dan Buettner wondered the same thing and went on a global quest to get answers. In his book Blue Zones, he reported a long, healthy life is no accident. We know it begins first with knowing God and walking in His wisdom. But what other characteristics were found in those who live long lives? The Sardinians from Italy Eat a lean, plant-based diet accented with meat, put family first, drink goat’s milk, celebrate elders, take a walk, and laugh with friends. Okinawans in Japan: Have a purpose in life, grow most of their plant-based foods (including herbs), maintain social networks, enjoy the sunshine, stay active, endure hardness, and have a slower pace of life, focusing on excellence---not competition. The Adventists of Loma Linda, California (the only U. S. Blue Zone): Keep the Sabbath and focus on God, maintain a healthy body mass index, exercise regularly, associate with like-minded friends, eat in moderation, and snack on nuts. They’re mostly vegetarians, drink plenty of water, and don’t drink or smoke. In addition to characteristics already mentioned, other Blue Zone centenarians including Costa Ricans and Greek Ikarians, drink calcium rich water, eat a light dinner, work hard, stay free from stress, drink lots of herbal teas, take mid-afternoon naps and fast occasionally. Centenarians in the newly added Blue Zone of Singapore prioritize walkable, clean environments and a tax break for people who keep their aging parents close. Buettner found that the recipe for longevity is deeply intertwined with community, lifestyle, and spirituality. People live longer and healthier by embracing a few simple but powerful habits, and by creating the right community around themselves.