SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY JULY 7th, 2024

Good News Club wins case in Hawaii
The Child Evangelism Fellowship has won its case in court. The organization which is the operator of the Good News Bible Club has won the right to establish the clubs in the state of Hawaii.
The organization had previously been denied applications to establish a club on the island state. The group was rejected by the state’s Department of Education at least six times over a three-year period. The CEF was represented by Liberty Counsel in their lawsuit. A U.S. district court ruled the Child Evangelism Fellowship must be given the same equal rights as any other school club that applies to be in public schools. Attorneys for the group called the decision a great victory for the CEF, parents, and students in Hawaii public schools. 

 BGEA announces legal fund for UK Christians
Rev. Franklin Graham has announced a new legal support group for Christians in Great Britain. The Billy Graham Defense Fund was recently announced by Graham, CEO and President of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. The group will offer legal support to Christians in the UK facing court cases due to religious persecution. In a statement Rev. Graham says he hopes the creation of this legal group encourages Christians in the UK to continue sharing their faith freely and with boldness. The legal fund is believed to have stemmed from the organization’s previous experience in the UK. In 2018, the BGEA’s tour of the UK was canceled, following the organization being forced to take down advertisements for their upcoming crusade.  The group also had several venues cancel scheduled crusade events. The organization later sued and won a religious discrimination case. The organization was later awarded monetary awards totaling over 700- thousand dollars in damages.

Church/Pastor announce largest baptism event numbers in US history
 A group in California is reporting the largest baptism event in US History. According to Baptize California, thousands gathered to be baptized at a beach and churches across the state as part of a statewide campaign to witness the Gospel. Pastor Mark Francey, who organized the event, says it was part of a vision given to him by God as an outreach to witness the Gospel to other California residents. The event resulted in six thousand people being baptized on the beach and six thousand more being baptized at various partner churches. Pastor Francey commented on the event saying in part, “You can smell another Great Awakening in the air like rain before it hits”. “God lit a match yesterday! If God can do this in the church in California, it can — and it will — happen in the rest of America!” The pastor and founder of Oceans Church previously hosted Baptize SoCal where over four thousand people accepted Christ as their Savior and were baptized.

SNBC Health report: excessive social media use and its effect on health
The US Surgeon General recently announced his desire to add a warning label to social media platforms. According to Dr. Vivek Murthy, the warning would be to address the growing correlation between adolescent mental health and social media use. According to Dr. Murthy, teenagers who spend three hours or more on social media have a higher risk of issues with anxiety and depression. The surgeon general compared the effects of social media on teens to the same risk as driving in an unsafe vehicle or consuming junk food in excess. Dr. Murthy advised parental monitoring and urged social media platforms to safeguard their sites. According to a study published on Yale Medicine’s website there are some teens who show positive effects from being on social media. However, over the last decade doctors have seen an increase with mental health issues in teens and children ages 12-15 who are on social media for an excessive amount of time.

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY JUNE 30th, 2024

Louisiana passes Ten Commandments bill
Louisiana has become the first state to require the Ten Commandments to be displayed in every public-school classroom. Republican Governor Jeff Landry signed HB71 into law on Wednesday after it passed in the Louisiana Senate in a 30-8 vote and then passed in the state House by a 79-16 vote last month. The American Civil Liberties Union vows to challenge the law, and the case could go to the U.S. Supreme Court. If the law survives legal challenges, every Louisiana classroom from kindergarten to the university level, which receives state funding, will be required to display the commandments "on a poster or framed document that is at least eleven inches by fourteen inches." The commandments displays would be paid for by private donations, so the state isn't funding them. Louisiana State Rep. Dodie Horton (R) introduced the bill and said implementing the Ten Commandments is the "basis of all laws in Louisiana" and honors the country's religious origins, according to The New Orleans Advocate. "I hope and I pray that Louisiana is the first state to allow moral code to be placed back in the classrooms," she said. "Since I was in kindergarten (at a private school), it was always on the wall. I learned there was a God, and I knew to honor him and his laws." All the "no" votes to the bill came from Democrats. "I didn't have to learn the Ten Commandments in school”, said one democratic senator who identifies as a practicing Catholic. "You want your kids to learn about the Ten Commandments, take them to church." Various organizations including The American Civil Liberties Union, Americans United for Separation of Church and State, and the Southern Poverty Law Center have released a statement calling the mandate unconstitutional. Texas, South Carolina, and Utah have recently attempted to approve similar legislation, according to a Higher Ed Dive report.

UN issues warrant for Israeli Prime Minister
The United Nations recently accused the nation of Israel and the terrorist group Hamas of war crimes, and issued warrants for both leaders, Prime Minister Netanyahu and Yahya Sinwar. The UN’s Commission of Inquiry now claims the Israeli government is guilty of crimes against humanity.

The Commission also claims Hamas is guilty of a host of abuses. Israeli officials rejected the report, calling the accusations a political agenda. Leaders of Hamas have not responded to the accusations. The UN has repeatedly accused Israel of crimes, comparing their offensive to the attack by Hamas on October 7th of last year. The organization has not acknowledged proven evidence that Hamas uses citizens, schools and hospitals as shields adding to the number of victims. Israel has continued their stance that they will not stop until Hamas is destroyed.

California Senate has approves controversial bill
The new California state law known as AB1955 will ban teachers from reporting to parents if a child asks for their pronouns to be different from their biological gender. The bill was passed and will head to Governor Gavin Newsom, who is expected to sign the bill into law. This new law would require permission from the student before information is shared by school district employees to their parents. Greg Burt, vice president of the California Family Council, calls the new law unsafe to children. Supporters of the new law claim it is a form of support to protect LGBT children. The law will possibly generate more litigation from opponents and concerned parents.

SNBC Health Report: Bunions
Here is a story not talked about too much. Bunions, medically known as hallux [vaalgus], are bony bumps that form on the joint at the base of your big toe. They occur when some of the bones in the front part of your foot move out of place, causing the tip of your big toe to get pulled toward the smaller toes and forcing the joint at the base of your big toe to stick out, which then becomes swollen and painful. While it’s not always known what causes bunions, your choice of footwear can significantly contribute to the development — and worsening of — bunions. What’s more, good shoes can help to prevent and treat them. “Our feet boast a remarkable design, consisting of 28 bones that enable movement in various directions. In addition to facilitating movement, our feet play a crucial role in communicating with the ground, transmitting vital sensory information to the brain. As you’ve probably experienced, hurting feet hurt the whole body! Shoes that are too tight, too narrow, or pointed toe can squeeze your toes together, forcing your big toe into an unnatural position. This pressure causes the bones in your foot to misalign, potentially leading to the formation of a bunion at the base of your big toe. Wearing shoes that do not fit properly, whether they are too small, too large or lack adequate support, can also contribute to bunions. Aleena Kanner, one of the leading postural experts in the U.S. and a certified Postural Restoration Institute (PRI) practitioner, created “The Shoe eBook” to help you make informed footwear choices for pain-free — and bunion-free feet.  To avoid developing bunions and being faced with the option of surgery, which may or may not correct the problem, focus on proper arch support, which is important for proper foot mechanics. Arch support provides help with proper pronation — the natural movement of your foot as it rolls inward to distribute the force of impact during walking or running. The PRI, in partnership with the Hruska Clinic, provides a recommended shoe list, which is updated at least twice a year. The links to both the e-book and the shoe list can be found on our website under this week’s broadcast. More than any natural remedy, however, we look to Jesus as our wisdom, our Healer and our problem solver. And finally, it might be a good decision to consider foot health over style and fashion.  

Shoe List - Hruska Clinic (hruska-clinic.com)

How to Prevent and Treat Bunions (mercola.com) (bottom of the article click on the “The Shoe Ebook” here or click on the link in the article to access this information)

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY June 23rd, 2024

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE was CANCELLED Sunday June 23rd due to our SNBC Bible Class Graduation. Please enjoy these web exclusive stories….SNBC NEWS will return with a live broadcast in our next news segment.

Supporters cry foul after more trans athletes place in women’s sport events
The fallout continues over trans athletes participating in female sporting events. According to an organization that supports women’s sports and banning trans athletes recently issued a report. The group, called ICONS, or the Independent Council on Women’s sports reports that five trans athletes topped the podium at various state competitions in track and field. Protestors are demanding organizations including the NCAA protect women’s sports by banning trans athletes. Scientists have confirmed the advantage a men has over women: from bone structure to lung capacity, to event the size of their heart can all be used to dominate in sporting events. These are factors according to experts that cannot be changed regardless of medical procedures. Supporters claim these athletes just want to compete and be recognized and have no interest in taking the place of biological women. Several former female athletes recently filed a lawsuit in March demanding the NCAA change their policies and ban all trans athletes.

SNBC HEALTH NEWS: the importance of the Bible and a person’s well-being
According to a recent study, the Bible has a strong impact on a person’s well-being both spiritually and physically. The study was published from data collected by the American Bible Society. The study is part of the group’s annual “State of the Bible USA” report. The study focuses on Americans and their time in the Word of God and relationship with God. This portion of the study focused on Gen Zer’s (ages 18 to 27). When asked on the topics of forgiveness and Bible study, 21 percent reported they were actively studying the Bible. This report noted those who forgave also rose in correlation with Bible study. According to Johns Hopkins medicine, forgiveness has a positive response on the human body. It reduces stress, boosts the immune system, and reduces PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) symptoms in the body. As believers let us not forget we can forgive because of the Love of God and the forgiveness He has already given to us.

Ephesians 4:31-32 NIV

Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY JUNE 16th, 2024

University settles with Jewish students over Antisemitism on campus
Columbia University has agreed to a settlement with Jewish students. The settlement comes after months of turmoil on the college campus because of protests over the war between Israel and Gaza. Students on several college campuses, including Columbia, have protested the war for the past few months. Jewish students on these campuses reported prejudice and hostility from fellow students following a rise in Anti-Semitism. The students claim the university ignored the prejudice and did nothing to protect Jewish students. The students later filed a lawsuit against the school for not taking action to protect them. Among the settlement details: students will be given escorts if they feel unsafe on campus through December of this year, alternate routes for Jewish students to exit and enter school buildings, and a defined process for students to take exams and finish required class assignments if protests disrupt school schedules. Representatives for Columbia University say they are pleased with the settlement and are committed to the safety of their campus to help students pursue their academic goals.

UMC announces exit of large African conference group
The United Methodist Church Council of Bishops says they are “disappointed” following a massive exit from the worldwide Methodist Church conference. The Cote’ d’Ivoire Conference in West Africa voted to exit the jurisdiction of the UMC presiding board. The loss is the biggest of the conference. The exit resulted in the loss of one million members leaving the conference in a single day. The West African churches released a statement condemning the UMC for abandoning their Biblical principles in support of the “Rainbow movement” a reference to the LGBT community. The UMC council of bishops released a statement saying in part they are grieving the loss of the West African conference but will continue to support them in their pursuit of autonomy. The United Methodist Church has seen a mass exodus since announcing a more left leaning doctrine that includes the ordination of LGBT clergy. The organization, due to the controversy, has allowed churches within the group to decide what will be accepted at their churches. Most conservative churches have voted to leave the UMC, citing their reason as the Biblical views of the organization are being abandoned.

 Justice rules in favor of Catholic schools in Colorado
A judge in Colorado has ruled in favor of two Catholic preschools. The schools attempted to be a part of the state’s universal preschool program. Colorado’s state funding program provides for students from lower income families to attend preschool up to 15 hours per week for free. The preschools were denied by the state due to their religious beliefs. The Catholic diocese that presides over the preschools also requires staff to sign a morality clause. The preschools were represented by Beckett Law. The justice presiding over the case said the state cannot discriminate based on religious affiliation. Attorneys for the preschools praised the decision in their statement. The attorneys continued in their statement saying all families should have access to religious education without having to compromise public benefits if it applies.

SNBC HEALTH report: nutritionists are recommending consumers eat more yogurt as part of daily health regimen
The recommendation is part of a study that researches the benefits of yogurt based on its effect on diabetes. The study was in response to a claim by a yogurt company that yogurt helps reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. The response by the USDA says they will not ban the company from adding this information to their product labels. Nutritionists confirmed this health benefit and commented that this comes from consuming plain yogurt with no additives, especially sugar, to receive the full benefits. Fruit and honey can be added, but the goal is not to dilute plain yogurt’s benefits. Yogurt aids the body in several ways. It is a good source of calcium, magnesium, zinc, and vitamins A, B, and D. Yogurt has probiotics that build the immune system. It also helps protect the body from osteoporosis, heart issues and supports gut health.

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY JUNE 9th, 2024

  Pro-Israel supporters gather at annual parade in NYC
An estimated 45-thousands participants gathered for a Pro-Israel parade recently in New York City. The parade featured New York City officials, dignitaries and family members of the hostages currently being held in Gaza. The parade took a more somber tone this year. Participants present called for the immediate release of the remaining hostages taken on October 7th. The Israeli Defense Forces recently confirmed the deaths of more hostages. The terrorist group Hamas attacked and killed 12 hundred people during the October 7th attacks. Participants say a rise in antisemitism across the US compelled them to participate in this year’s parade. The recent rise in Antisemitism in the US and around the world has emboldened the terrorist group Hamas.  The group claims they are on the right side of history and has vowed to destroy Israel. Israeli forces in response have vowed to destroy Hamas and are currently continuing their offensive in Rafah, the last Hamas stronghold.

Student says diploma withheld for witnessing the gospel to fellow graduates
A high school graduate say his diploma was withheld because he witnessed the gospel during his graduation speech. Micah Price says his diploma was withheld by his high school, Campbell County High School in Kentucky following his graduation speech. Price says during his speech he felt compelled to witness the Gospel to his graduating class. This part of his speech was in a previous draft, but it was taken out by school officials. Representatives for the school say the student was warned not to go off script. They further claimed a previous draft did contain the message of the Gospel but was changed so no one present at the graduation would be offended. The student says he was aware of the consequences but could not hold back sharing Christ to his graduating class. Price says he was eventually given his diploma after meeting with the school board and receiving his diploma was an answer to prayer.

NBC Streaming service debuts controversial documentary for “Pride month” 
Critics are protesting a new documentary debuting on Peacock this month. Peacock, the streaming service for NBC is debuting a special called, ‘Queer Planet’. The documentary claims to follow animals showing proof of same-sex relationships in the animal kingdom. The documentary debuted in June as part of the company’s Pride Month programming. Creators of the program claim it confirms the LGBT lifestyle is completely natural. A critic of the documentary called it , “scary”. The critic further added humans should not take their cues from the animal kingdom concerning behavior and interactions with others. The month of June has been declared as pride month by the LGBT community and advocates. Several retailers and companies advertise to this community during the month as part of brand diversity programs. Companies such as Target received severe backlash last year for their pride month displays. The backlash caused many companies to back off LGBT pride month advertisements. Wal-Mart recently debuted a pride month line on its website, but not in stores and with no major advertisements.

SNBC HEALTH report: the importance of iodine in the human body
According to reports iodine is an important micronutrient to the human body, but many are deficient in it. Known as an essential micronutrient, iodine aids the function of various areas in the human body. Iodine is necessary for thyroid function. It is essential to the skin, eyes, immune system and muscles. Researchers also believe that it may protect the body against some forms of illness. Although most doctors claim the average American consumes enough iodine, some nutritionists believe Americans do not consume enough of the micronutrient. Those on a low sodium diet, or if you drink non-dairy milk products may want to monitor iodine levels. You can intake iodine though supplements or through food. Seaweed, Greek yogurt, eggs, and liver are all food sources high in iodine.