Methodist organization cuts ties with seminary school
A seminary school relationship with the United Methodist Church has officially ended. The Asbury Theological Seminary School has been officially rejected by the UMC because of the school’s stance against homosexuality and same-sex marriage. The UMC recently announced the separation; the school’s president released a statement in response. Dr. David F. Watson said in part, that school officials hoped for a different outcome, but remain steadfast in continuing to stand with Biblical principles and the union of one man and one woman, which is sanctioned by God. If the name of the school sounds familiar Asbury Theological Seminary School is located directly across from Asbury University. The school in Kentucky was part of a revival that started on the school’s campus in 2023 and continues to spread across schools and universities around the U.S. The seminary school also hosted thousands of visitors and services during the revival’s start in 2023.
State Attorney agrees to terms in lawsuit with Pro-life centers
The state of Delaware has agreed to terms for a case involving pro-life centers in that state. Delaware officials previously attempted to enforce controversial rules for the pro-life centers in the state. State officials attempted to require all pregnancy centers to post disclaimers in their facilities. The posters would require all facilities to advise there was no licensed medical provider available at each facility. Pro-life centers involved in filing a legal motion to fight against the law called in unconstitutional. Following the legal case, the Delaware state attorney agreed to halt the enforcement of the law and pay all attorney fees for the resource centers. Attorneys for the pro-life centers praised the decision made in favor of their clients.
Pastor released from China
A well-known pastor in China is now back in the U.S. after being released from prison. Pastor Ezra Jin was released and arrived back in the U.S. on July 4th. The pastor was released after being imprisoned since October of last year. The pastor is the founder of Zion Church. The church, founded in 2007, was banned by the Chinese government in 2018. Pastor Jin created an underground house church because of the ban. The church eventually grew to about 10 thousand members, according to reports. Pastor Jin was arrested following China’s crackdown on underground churches. Jin and 17 pastors were charged by the government with illegally using information networks. The charge carried a three-year sentence in prison. Jin’s family reached out the Trump administration and members of Congress last year. The president later brought up the matter to China’s leader in May of this year leading to the release. Those commenting on the case believe the release of the pastor is a gesture of goodwill between the two nations, and the release of Pastor Jin on the U.S.’s anniversary of Independence Day was also done on purpose.
SNBC Health Report: the health benefits of onions and heart health
Researchers are discovering that this popular and frequently used root vegetable may have more benefits than most people realize. Researchers studied this vegetable as part of an experiment involving 160-thousand adults. The study found subjects that preferred onions had a reduced risk of higher blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. The study also found that the onion was more like a superfood providing many health benefits. It contains nutrients that promote healthy tissue, immune health, and gut health. Onions are also rich in antioxidants, which reduces inflammation. The vegetable contains four different nutrients, is 98 percent water, fiber and small amounts of protein and healthy fats. Because this vegetable is inexpensive and versatile, researchers advise adding it to your daily food intake as a simple method to receive its health benefits.