SNBC NEWS SUNDAY FEBRUARY 28th, 2021

Equality Act passes in the US House of Representatives
The Equality Act has been passed by the House and is now up for debate in the US Senate. The controversial bill was introduced in 2019 by Representative David Cicilline. The bill would ban discrimination against people based on sexual orientation and gender identity. President Biden had previously promised the bill was one of his top legislative priorities during his campaign. Biden praised the vote saying that he commended the congressman who introduced the law. Biden went on to say in a statement that LGBTQ+ citizens deserve civil rights protections from the federal government which are, “long overdue”.  If passed this would be added as an amendment to the 1964 Civil Rights Act. Long term the bill would affect the church by possibly forcing employees who do not share the same beliefs or identify as LGBT to be accepted if they apply for jobs. The bill would force allowing those who identify with the opposite gender access to public locker rooms and restrooms. Medical professionals would also be forced to treat a child who wanted to change their gender without parental consent no matter how young.  The bill would also make it illegal to refuse service, lending systems, housing, education and protection from being fired based on their lifestyle. Only 5.6 million people identify as apart of the LGBTQ community out of 382.2 million people in the US population. A group of Rabbis in the US also released a statement saying the passing of this law could potentially pose an infringement on the rights of Jewish Americans who actively practice their faith.

Pastor arrested for holding in person services
A pastor in Alberta Canada has been arrested for violating pandemic restrictions. Pastor James Coates of Grace Life Church was arrested for holding in person services. The service according to local officials was in violation of Covid-19 restrictions. According to the pastor’s attorney the church was issued an order by the city health services inspector in December. The city officials ordered the church to obey the following rules: anyone on their campus must were a mask, social distance and occupancy stay at 15 percent or less. The health department then filed a complaint in court last month to force the church to obey the order. The pastor was arrested after a church service was attended by 400 members. Pastor Coates was arrested on February 14th according to reports. Officials say they offered Pastor Coates to be released if he agrees to stop holding church services in person. He has refused citing his call as a minister and is currently still in jail according to his attorney. Church representatives called the Alberta government restrictions “dystopian” and said they obey God first, not the government. The statement further pushed for citizens in Canada to have their civil liberties restored to them.

Christian World News: Pakistan, India, China
In Christian World News: two men were arrested in Pakistan for blasphemy recently. The two men in their 20s were accused by a group of Muslims after they were seen reading the Bible and discussing it between each other in a public park. According to the report the Muslims demanded the two men leave the park claiming they were in violation of the law to which they refused. After the group asked for some Christian material from the two men they later returned to the park accusing the one man remaining at the scene of blasphemy. The second man was arrested at his home. Both are currently in jail awaiting trial. Christian advocacy groups say blasphemy laws are regularly abused in Pakistan by those seeking revenge or for religious persecution against Christians…

In India a couple was forced out of their home and village for their Christian faith. The couple recently converted to Christianity last year and say they have been bullied and harassed by other villagers. The chief of the village demanded the couple abandon their faith, which they refused. Jaga Padiami says he told the chief he and his wife will not leave Jesus no matter what. The couple were forced to leave the village just a week later. The incident was reported to the local police, but so far no charges have been filed…

Violations against Christians continue in the nation of China. Government officials are now using Covid-19 as an excuse to raid the churches and homes of Christians. Government officials now claim worship services, prayer events, religious funeral services, and even religious meetings in homes among family members are in violation of social restrictions. A Christian in that nation confirmed the persecution reporting last year police forced their way into her home claiming she was holding an illegal meeting. According to Christian watchdog groups in the nation, the Chinese government wants all citizens to pledge loyalty to only them and no other source including religious beliefs. 

SNBC HEALTH : the health benefits of eating black pepper
This spice is one of the most commonly used seasonings in the US second only to salt.  The easy access to black pepper may cause consumers to overlook how beneficial it is to the human body. Pepper in particular black pepper is called the King of Spices. It is the leading variety of pepper sold making up 70 percent of sales in the spice market. Black pepper has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It according to scientist helps aid in the prevention of illness such as liver disease and atherosclerosis. It benefits in cardiovascular health assisting in the reduction of inflammation in the body. Black pepper promotes brain health and fights against issues that may lead to diabetes. It fights against cancer, assists in the absorption of other nutrients, and has several other benefits according to researchers. Researchers advise purchasing black pepper in its natural state as peppercorn and using a pepper mill or grinder to receive the full nutrients from the spice.

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY FEBRUARY 21st, 2021

Dr. Frederick K.C. Price passes
Apostle and pastor Dr. Frederick K.C. Price passed. Dr. Price was pastor and founder of Crenshaw Christian Center located in Los Angeles and later a location in New York. The Price Family released a statement online to announce his passing. Dr. Price was known for his upfront no nonsense ministry style. The church he pastored was founded in 1973 and had a weekly  TV broadcast ministering to millions across the world. In addition to the church, Dr. Price founded several schools including the Frederick K.C. Price III Christian School (preschool through 12th grade) in 1986, a Ministry Training Institute, and a school of the Bible. He served as a mentor to pastors and ministers including to Pastor Gool for a season of time. Dr. Price wrote 50 books on faith, prosperity and the Holy Spirit. He retired as the full time pastor of Crenshaw Christian Center in 2009; his son Frederick K. Price Jr. took over as the church’s pastor. Dr. Price is survived by his wife of 67 years Dr. Betty Price, four children, 10 grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Dr. Frederick K.C. Price was 89 years old. 

Christian Music artist Carman passes
The family of Christian music artist Carman announced his passing recently. Born Carman Licciardello, the music artist was known to fans of his music as just Carman. Carman was considered an artist that put the Gospel through music at the forefront of innovation garnering attention from Christian and secular circles. He drew most attention from secular media for holding free concerts to minister packing every venue wherever he toured. The artist says that he never forgot he was sent by God to minster through music. Carman’s albums sold millions and he was awarded several industry honors including being inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2018. In a statement after his passing Carman’s manager Matt Felts emphasized how much evangelism of the Gospel meant to Carman. Several artists in Christian music, those in the industry, and several others, voiced their admiration for the artist and his stance for Christ following his passing. Carman is survived by his wife Dana, five step children and 10 step grandchildren. 

South Carolina state government passes anti abortion law
Governor of South Carolina has officially signed a bill protecting the lives of the unborn into law. Governor Henry McMaster signed the “South Carolina Fetal Heartbeat and Protection from Abortion Act” this week. Surrounded by those who were in support of the law, McMaster said, “There’s a lot of happy hearts beating across South Carolina right now.” The law will prevent an abortion once a heartbeat is detected. Abortions will only be allowed in cases of incest, rape or if the mother’s life is in danger. Doctors who perform abortions in violation of the state’s law will be prosecuted. The law was immediately contested by Planned Parenthood who filed a lawsuit to block it from going into effect. The president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Atlantic called the law plainly absurd, but says abortions are still protected by federal law which prompted the lawsuit. The Attorney General for the state of South Carolina says his office will vigorously defend the law in court because there is nothing more important that protecting life.

In our SNBC HEALTH REPORT: the importance of Thiamine
This nutrient also known as Vitamin B1 is important to the human body for several reasons. The vitamin is converted into energy. It also assists in getting electrolytes to the muscles and nervous system. Thiamine is not naturally produced by the body so it is very important to obtain this nutrient. The vitamin assists in fighting against infectious respiratory illnesses. This nutrient is so important it is even found to have a negative effect on animals that are deficient in the nutrient. Vitamin B1 can be absorbed through supplements, but nutritionists advise acquiring the nutrient through food. Whole grains, eggs, various meats, milk, green leafy vegetables and various beans are foods rich in Vitamin B1 or Thiamine. 

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY FEBRUARY 14th, 2021

State one step closer to banning all abortions
The state of Arkansas is continuing measures to ban abortions in that state. There is currently one remaining abortion clinic located in the state capital of Little Rock. Those supporting abortion rights says state officials are attempting to force women to carry unwanted pregnancies full term. Among the new restrictions, lawmakers require OBGYNs in abortion clinics to be board certified or board eligible. The state also banned a procedure used on patients in their second trimester of pregnancy. The new restrictions in that state are expected to be upheld by a now more conservative court system. If the law is upheld this would make Arkansas the first state to have no abortion clinics. 

SNBC NEWS Parent alert- American doll controversy
A SNBC News parent alert; Parents are expressing their disapproval of a new American girl doll. The company debuted a new doll in the series name Kira. The doll includes a background story that involves a same-sex couple. According to the accompanying book the young girls spends the summer in Australia with her “great aunts.” The storyline does not officially say the women are homosexual. However it mentions that they married once they were allowed to do so. Parents online these types of storylines are too mature and inappropriate for 8 to 10 year old girls. Some parents argued these conversations should be left up to parents not marketing companies. The American girl doll series is owned by Mattel. 

Danish church leaders/Pastors voice concern over potential law
Pastors and church leaders are voicing concern about a proposed law in Denmark. The law would require sermons to be submitted to the Danish government. According to reports the law is actually being used to eliminate radical Islam. The law would require imams or Islamic clerics to translate and submit their sermons to the Danish government to combat terrorism. Critics say because of political correctness the potential law will require all faith institutions to do the same. Pastors in the nation say they understand the motivation, but they call the law a dangerous precedent in Denmark. Church leaders from around Europe have sent letters to the Danish governments urging them not to pass this law. 

SNBC HEALTH: Vegetable oil and the brain
Doctors are reporting the elimination of certain vegetable oils can help restore brain function. In our SNBC HEALTH report, doctors studied the effects of certain vegetable oils on the human brain. Research shows certain oils, in particular soybean, corn and sunflower, are high in Polyunsaturated fatty acids. This acid can affect the brain negatively over a period of time. The study also found these oils were heavy in lioneic acid. This acid can change the body’s biology when consumed heavily over time. Experts believe these acids assist in aging the brain by lowering its metabolic rate. Experts advise finding healthier vegetable oils to consume. Coconut, avocado, flaxseed and olive oils are examples of healthier oils that are beneficial to the body. 

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY FEBRUARY 7th

Mecklenburg County Commissioners pass pro-LGBT ordinance
The Mecklenburg County Commissioners have passed a controversial resolution. The officials adopted a resolution that opposes LGBTQ discrimination. The ordinance was highly controversial and opposition voiced their disproval of the resolution. The commissioners voted unanimously in favor of the resolution. The county attorney is looking into making this resolution law in the county at the request of Commissioner Leigh Altman. The resolution reads, “The Mecklenburg County Board of Commissioners affirms that every person deserves to be treated with dignity and respect and should be able to live in Mecklenburg County without fear, no matter their sexual orientation or gender identity including Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Non-Binary individuals.” The resolution affirms according to commissioners that LBGTQ individuals cannot be discriminated against various areas including hotels, retail, restaurants, hospitals, and government buildings. The resolution also protects hairstyles normally associated with Black American culture. The city of Charlotte is also working on expanding their nondiscrimination ordinance according to mayor Vi Lyles. 

Kosovo establishes ties with Israel
The nation of Kosovo has officially established ties with the nation of Israel. Kosovo officials made the announcement recently. That nation’s foreign minister commented on how Israel and Kosovo had a similar experiences in being recognized as a nation. Kosovo will be the first Muslim-majority country to recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. The nation will build its embassy in Jerusalem. Other Muslim nations have recognize Israel and signed peace deals; several have promised to build embassies in Tel Aviv (possibly to not upset Palestinian leaders.) Kosovo is the third nation to move its embassy to Jerusalem following Guatemala and the U.S.  

IN US AND WORLD NEWS: Hong Kong, Illinois, California
An Evangelist is home in the US after being forced to leave Hong Kong. Author and Evangelist Francis Chan was forced to leave Hong Kong after his visa was rejected. The evangelist was living in Hong Kong with his family to continue evangelism as international missionaries according to Chan himself. Chan along with his two son in laws visas were rejected and they were told they had to leave and return to the U.S. Chan says he was able to set up three house churches, but says he is not sure of when Hong Kong officials will let his family return. Hong Kong is a territory of China; according to the persecution watchdog group China Aid the Communist government has a heavy influence on the island territory. China Aid representatives believe China’s mainland government is the influence behind the evangelist’s dismissal from Hong Kong. 

In Illinois a student is being punished for requesting an exemption from a class. The student Macail McBride requested to be removed from a sex education class at her school saying the class violated her religious beliefs. The school Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy requires students to take the Gender and Sexuality program prior to graduation. The student and her family are being represented by First Liberty and the Illinois Religious Freedom Restoration Act, forcing students to take a class that violates their beliefs is against the state law. Attorneys for the family say the school is attempting to evade the law and the school is required to provide an accommodation to the student.  

In California that state’s governor continues to defy rulings by the US Supreme Court. According to several churches currently fighting in court the governor continues to restrict in person worship. California’s governor banned in person services and praise and worship during outdoor services citing COVID-19 concerns. The US Supreme Court ruled in favor of churches being allowed to reopen in New York and Colorado prompting several state governments to relax their restrictions. California’s state government is the only one in the US that continues to ban churches from meeting indoors. Attorneys for churches in the lawsuit say the courts in California have refused to hear the case and they had to appeal to the Supreme Court. According to reports except for a small window of time California’s no worship ban has been in place for 318 days on February 1st. 

SNBC HEALTH REPORT: Boosting the Body’s immunity naturally
Dr. Shelby Township, a dentist discussed natural ways to boost the body’s immunity on a blog post for her company in Michigan. Dr. Township mentioned her frequent collaborations with Dr. David Brownstein, author of the newsletter, The Natural Way to Health in discussing the matter. Dr. Brownstein gives several ways to stay healthy naturally during the winter months which is commonly referred to by mainstream medical doctors as cold and flu season. He advises eating a mostly healthy diet and avoiding refined sugars. Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated. Dr. Brownstein also advises adding Vitamins A, D3, C and iodine to a healthy regimen. Supplements can be consumed, but taking in these nutrients through food is always the best way.  Here are just a few foods rich in each nutrient: foods rich in Vitamin A and C: broccoli, spinach, oranges, and strawberries, Vitamin D3- egg yolks, and various seafood, and iodine- various seafood, eggs, strawberries and cranberries.

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY JANUARY 31st, 2021

Three state pass laws to protect the unborn
Three states have announced plans to protect the unborn. South Carolina, South Dakota, and Kentucky each announced legislation to protect the lives of unborn children. South Carolina legislators announced a law preventing abortions after a fetal heartbeat has been detected. According to medical professionals a baby’s heartbeat can be detected after 6 weeks. Any doctor in South Carolina that performs an abortion after that time according to the new law will be fined 10-thousand dollars and face up to two years in jail; the law is expected to be passed by the state Senate. The state of Kentucky’s Congress has voted that medical staff at abortion clinics must aid a child that has survived a failed abortion. The law includes aiding a child born with a disability that is not wanted by the parent or guardian. The Governor of South Dakota also recently announced legislation that would ban abortions based on a child’s medical condition in particular Down Syndrome. Governor Kristi Noem in her statement said God created us and endowed all of us with the right to life…this is true for everyone.  

Military Chaplain investigated for opinion against transgender soldiers
A military chaplain is under investigation for comments he made on social media. According to reports Major Andrew Calvert is under investigation for speaking out against allowing transgender soldiers to serve in the U.S. military. Calvert posted his comments on the Army Times social media page. Calvert said a transgender solider is the very definition of mentally unfit. The chaplain continued saying the idea of allowing a person to claim the opposite gender and everyone condone it is feeding into a fantasy and delusion. He continued comparing a transgender person to believing the Earth is flat. Calvert continued saying allowing transgender soldiers would be a waste of military resources and funding. Military officials quickly commented against Calvert’s remarks. One official said Major Calvert was under investigation and that the military fully supported the commander in chief and the Department of Defense in all policies and directives. President Biden issued an executive order shortly after taking office allowing transgender soldiers in the military. President Trump had previously issued a ban on transgender soldiers. 

Willie Reid (senior citizen outreach participant) - photo courtesy of VCC Missions Department (a division of Victory Christian Center)

VCC Ministry Highlight: Senior Citizen Outreach Ministry
One of VCC’s favorite praise dancers recently went Home to be with the Lord. Mr. William Reid who was faithfully at church dancing and praising the Lord was mainly due in part to the Senior Citizen Outreach ministry team. According to Richardine Horne ministry team leader for this ministry, Mr. Reid loved his pastor (Pastor Gool) and was a faithful participant of the ministry. She mentioned that he loved dancing before the Lord and even though he used a cane, never used it when praising the Lord. This outreach team focuses on ministering to our senior members of the Charlotte community. The ministry started in the 1990s for the purpose of ministering to  senior citizens. These seniors mostly live in assisted living facilities and senior homes and may not have family or visitors on a regular basis. As Mrs. Horne put it, we (the ministry team and the church members of VCC) became their family. She says that the seniors in the ministry have all accepted Christ as their Savior and encourage each other in the Word of God from what they have learned in church. Mrs. Horne says senior citizens often gave testimonies and told how the ministry and the church has impacted their lives. One of the moments Mrs. Horne considers special is the testimony of one particular senior citizen. She recalled asking the seniors to give a testimony on how Victory Christian Center and the ministry team has affected their lives. She mentioned one senior who had a history of being a “mean old man” (his own words). The senior citizen then mentioned that the team showing the Love of God to him  is what changed his demeanor. The Senior Citizen Outreach ministry team is currently ministering to senior citizens with help from our Missions Office by delivering food and checking in on senior citizens especially during this time. Many seniors have been blessed including those who were in the same facilities and were able to receive food and encouragement as well. If your are and member of VCC and interested in participating in the Senior Citizen Outreach ministry please sign up at the Courtesy Booth. They are always in need of volunteers especially men. 

SNBC HEALTH Report; the importance of Omega-3 and why you need more
According to researchers omega-3 is beneficial to the body in various ways. There are several ways that have been widely reported; but researchers say they continue to find various ways this nutrient benefits the body. Researchers studying diabetic patients found omega-3 caused patients’ bodies to react positively. In some cases omega-3 helped with autoimmune diabetes prevention. Omega-3 assists in the prevention of inflammation and cardiovascular issues. DHA found in omega-3 fatty acids is beneficial to the brain, eyes, and skin. The nutrient is beneficial to muscle development and bone health. Omega-3 can be found mainly in cold water fish: Alaskan salmon, sardines, anchovies, mackerel and herring. Researchers advise avoiding farmed salmon because most are genetically modified and are fed corn and soy. Corn and soy are not naturally apart of the animal’s diet. Genetically modified versions of Soy and corn are also is currently being sold in the American food market.