SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 1st, 2024

Statue of Hindu god erected in Texas
A statue in Texas is causing a stir around the U.S. A Hindu temple in Sugarland, Texas recently unveiled a new statue during a celebration ceremony. The statue is of the Hindu deity Hanuman; the 90-foot statue is now considered the 3rd largest in the U.S. behind the Statue of Liberty in New York, and a statue called the Pegasus and Dragon in Florida. The statue is of a half man, half monkey and is the god of power, courage and selfless service in the Hindu religion. Some religion experts say the statue being built in the U.S. is reflective of decrease in the number of Americans who identify as Christian. According to a study by the Pew Research Center, only 64 percent of Americans identified as Christian in 2020. The average was 90 percent in 1972. Christians and conservatives called the statue demonic; representatives from the Hindu temple say they hope the statue sets new milestones between Americans and Indian communities.

Michigan court finds pro-life demonstrators guilty
Critics are speaking out following the conviction of several pro-life protestors in Michigan. The seven defendants were convicted for peacefully protesting in front of an abortion clinic. Those convicted included an 89 year old protestor. The convictions for one charge could carry up to a 10 year sentence. The prosecutors charged the demonstrators under the F.A.C.E. ACT, which stands for Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances. This federal law was originally passed to prosecute and convict hate groups in the U.S., like the KKK. The 89 year old, named Eva Edl, survived a concentration camp in Yugoslavia as a child. Ms. Edl says she is being persecuted for Christ’s sake and says she is ready to spend her final years in prison if she is sentenced to jail time. Critics have expressed outrage saying the law is being used against pro-life protestors is an abuse of power.

Israeli forces launch successful pre-emptive strike
Israeli forces are reporting success after a pre-emptive strike. The country’s defense forces say they launched a strike against the terrorist group, Hezbollah. IDF officials say the strike may have saved the lives of hundreds, if not thousands of civilians in the Northern region of that country. Israel’s military announced the strike after they confirmed surveillance of the terrorist group’s weapons arsenal. Hezbollah did attempt to counterattack; one Israeli soldier was killed in that attack. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says they will continue their defensive against Hezbollah to protect Israel’s citizens. 

SNBC Health report: the Health Benefits of artichokes
The artichoke is a vegetable that is not as popular as others here in the U.S. It is one that should be considered due to its flavor and benefits to the human body. Artichokes contain a nutrient that assists in antioxidant absorption and is ranked number seven by the Department of Agriculture here in the U.S. for its antioxidant properties. It is beneficial to blood pressure and the brain. Artichokes are believed to assist in improved gut health, reduce cholesterol, heart health, and helps improve skin health. Artichokes can also provide 10 grams of fiber to the daily diet; 25 to 50 grams is recommended daily. This vegetable can be prepared in a variety of ways and is harvested during the spring and fall seasons.  

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY AUGUST 25th, 2024

US Supreme Court reject emergency addition to Title IX
The Supreme Court has struck down an attempted emergency request by the Biden Administration. The court struck down an addition to Title IX that would have added a clause for claims of sex and gender identity discrimination in restrooms. The clause would have allowed biological men who identified as women to be allowed in women’s restrooms, locker rooms and dorms in several Republican run states. The attorney generals from several of those states sued, saying the clause would violate state laws. The Supreme Court agreed to strike down the emergency clause in 5-4 decision. The court in its ruling said the Biden Administration did not prove its case claiming the need for the additional clause. The justices added the Title IX addition would violate a previous ruling from the lower courts. Conservatives have praised the court’s decision.

Planned Parenthood offers abortions & vasectomies in celebration of DNC national rally in Chicago
The final days of the Biden Harris administration have seen additional chaos at the party’s national rally. The Democratic National Convention wrapped up this week in Chicago. DNC convention participants were given several party favors offered throughout the city, including the opportunity to get a free abortion. Planned Parenthood according to several credited news sources arrived in the Windy City, just prior to the DNC and offered its services to visitors and residents of the city. The organization offered free abortion pills, vasectomies and contraceptives to those in the area claiming it was helping those in states where abortion services are restricted. A spokesperson for Planned Parenthood expressed excitement to offer their services to the Chicago community. The group claims that 20 to 30 patients at the time of this broadcast had already received services from the mobile clinic. The DNC did not sponsor Planned Parenthood’s efforts, but party leaders have not publicly condemned the mobile clinic being in Chicago at the same time as their national convention. Two pro-life organizations have now countered setting up their own mobile clinics to educate and speak to those seeking services from the Planned Parenthood mobile clinic. The DNC also experienced major protests from Pro-Palestine groups near the Democratic National Convention’s location and at the Israel consulate in Chicago. Over 200 protestors threw rocks, burned the American flag and a flag bearing the Jewish Star of David. Several were arrested in the protests.
The protests were conducted by a group called Behind Enemy Lines, which Chicago city representatives say did not have a permit to protest.

SNBC NEWS UPDATE: ongoing persecution of the church in Nicaragua
According to reports the government is now shutting down evangelical Christian organizations. Authorities have reportedly shut down over 15-hundred Christian organizations in the country.
The Nicaraguan government claims these groups failed to disclose financial statements. Critics say it is all about the persecution of the Church. The ongoing persecution has occurred since 2018 but increased following a large evangelism event last year, that attracted close to one million people. The organizers of that event have since been imprisoned and accused of embezzlement and money laundering. Christian watchdog groups call the charges and arrests a clear punishment for witnessing the gospel in Nicaragua.

SNBC Health report: the Health Benefits of Matcha Tea
This tea has continued to grow in popularity here in the U.S. Mainly consumed as a drink, it can be used in variety of ways. No matter how you use matcha tea most nutritionists comment on its high nutritional value. Matcha is derived from a plant related to the plant that produces green tea. It is loaded with natural antioxidants; these are contributed to the fact that the process to make matcha tea uses the entire plant leaf. This tea is beneficial to brain function and helps protect the liver. It may also improve heart health and assist in dental health. When purchasing matcha tea, organic is considered best, but the plant is reportedly grown without pesticides or chemicals.

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY AUGUST 18th, 2024

US deploys military to Middle East in defense of Israel
The US has deployed a military convoy to the Middle East. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin has ordered a guided missile submarine and a US aircraft carrier to the region. News of the deployment comes after the US publicly vowed to defend its ally Israel after the threat of attack from Iranian officials. Iran, believed to be funding the terrorist groups Hezbollah and Hamas, issued a threat to attack the Jewish nation following the deaths of two major leaders within each terrorist group. Hamas further added to the tension by refusing to continue negotiations with Israel. Israeli citizens recently gathered at the Western Wall in Jerusalem to pray for unity of the Jewish people and for the release of the remaining hostages held in Gaza. Some say they are also praying for the end of these conflicts. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he will defend Israel at all costs. Allies around the world are also calling for Iran to back off on their threats and negotiate terms of peace with Israel.

Christian group calls for prayer for other Christians around the world
Christian watchdog groups are calling for prayer from Christians as attacks on the church around the world are on the rise. According to a recent story, a Pakistani woman was nearly killed after being accused of blasphemy. The woman, who was accused of desecrating the Quran, was fortunately rescued by the police. David Curry, CEO of Global Christian Relief, says the rise in persecution in Pakistan is due to new, stricter laws in that nation, which mainly result in severe punishment for Christians. The new blasphemy laws have been used as fuel to encourage Muslims to persecute, intimidate and kill Christians in that nation. Open Doors World Watch List names Pakistan as the seventh most dangerous nation for Christians. Curry says Christians around the world must come together and put pressure on Pakistani officials to stop the persecution of Christians.

'“In God We Trust” making comeback in U.S.
A national movement to promote the phrase, “In God We Trust”, is continuing to gain momentum. The phrase was recently approved by the West Virginia legislature to be on display in public schools. State representative Tom Fast commented that the phrase is the national motto of the U.S. Representative Fast continued, saying the nation’s motto should be in all schools and institutions of higher education. Texas, South Dakota, and Louisiana have passed similar legislation concerning “In God We Trust.” The motto was inspired by the U.S. national anthem and is printed on U.S. paper money and coins. Liberals over the years have called for the phrase to be removed from money and other forms of government issued materials. These movements have always been met with fierce resistance from patriotic groups, but there was a resurgence in recent years after the Trump administration. The Louisiana state government recently passed legislation of its own ordering the Ten Commandments to be on display in every classroom in that state.

SNBC Health report: The Overlooked Power of Sunlight
Prior to dermatology’s disastrous war on the sun, the value of sunlight was widely recognized in medicine. For example, in the early 1900s, heliotherapy (sunbathing) was used with great success for treating many (otherwise incurable) conditions, such as 1918 influenza, tuberculosis, and many other diseases. Sunlight offers immense benefits, yet it's often undervalued. Consider these points:

• Cancer prevention — Sunlight exposure dramatically reduces cancer risk. A large study found that high UVB exposure cut the risk of breast and prostate cancer in half.

• Longevity — A meticulous 20-year study of 29,518 women showed that avoiding the sun increased the likelihood of mortality by 60%. Regular sun exposure significantly reduced heart disease deaths and other common illnesses.

• Mental health — Sunlight is crucial for mental well-being, especially in preventing depression like seasonal affective disorder. Many workers, particularly night shift employees, suffer from a lack of sunlight.

• Circadian rhythm — Sunlight helps regulate circadian rhythms, which are crucial for rest and repair. An effective treatment is starting the day with a walk in the sunlight.

• Enhances nitric oxide production, which dilates blood vessels, improving circulation, which aids in cardiovascular health. Sunlight plays a crucial role in the body’s circulation by eliminating the obstacles to fluid circulation.

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY AUGUST 11th, 2024

Iranian leader calls for attack on Israel
Iran’s supreme leader has called for an attack on Israel. The announcement comes following the deaths of two top leaders of the terrorist groups Hamas and Hezbollah credited to Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to retaliate against any group that attacks against the Jewish nation. Hamas is now backing away from any negations with Israel due to these deaths claiming failure to reach a deal is Israel’s fault. The U.S. has expressed they will align with Israel and will defend that nation if it is attacked.  Israel if the nation is attacked. Israel has been fighting against the terrorist group Hamas since October 7th and the terrorist group Hezbollah at the nation’s Northern region. Both terrorist groups are believed to be funded by the nation of Iran. (UPDATE: according to mainstream media, Iran is now backing off on ordering its military to attack Israel. Hamas has also officially refused to return to negotiations due to the deaths of these terrorist leaders). SNBC NEWS will continue to monitor the situation in Israel and keep you updated as it develops.

Doctor encourages Christians to read scripture more
A doctor is encouraging Christians to make the scriptures priority again. According to Dr. Peter Bylsma, recent surveys from Christian organizations, The Pew Research Center and American Bible Society, show a decline in the study of scripture. Studies find more than half of Christians do aspire to study the Bible more often. Some Christians have even reportedly taken some aspects of belief from secular sources, attempting to mix them with Biblical scripture. Dr. Bylsma is encouraging people to study the Word of God more, especially in the current culture climate here in the U.S. and around the World. He encourages Christians to be more intentional about scripture study with their children, families, and in everyday life and to continue to build an ongoing hunger for the Word of God.

 Revival spreading in Europe
Good news tonight; revival is growing across Europe. Pastors and various leaders across are reporting an increase in the number of attendees to church services. They are also reporting an outpouring of God’s spirit on those hungry to learn more about the things of God. Pastors in Europe say that churches were in decline since 2020 and are now starting to grow again. A revival crusade led by Rev. Franklin Graham drew thousands in Scotland; over three thousand accepted people accepted Christ during the God Loves You Tour crusade. Pastors in that region are encouraging Christians around the world to continue praying for revival.

SNBC Health report: foods that help promote bone health
According to nutritionists making smart food choices is important. Keeping bones healthy as we age is important to overall health. Here are some foods recommended by doctors to assist in keeping bones healthy. Dairy- dairy contains high amounts of calcium, and vitamin K2 which are essential for bone health. Strawberries are rich in vitamin C which helps strengthen bones and helps prevent them from breaking easily.  Almonds, cashews, and Brazil nuts are great sources of magnesium. Broccoli is an excellent source of calcium, vitamin C and Vitamin K. These foods are recommended along with a regular health regimen which also includes exercise.

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY AUGUST 4th, 2024

Paris Olympics draws ire for racy depictions and LGBT content
The Opening Ceremony of the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris is drawing the ire of Christians and their supporters around the world. The Opening Ceremony according to its director was an artistic expression to honor the game’s Greek heritage. The ceremony featured LGBT segments, and racy content, including a depiction of Leonardo Di Vinci’s painting “The Last Supper”, featuring drag queens. ‘The Last Supper’ depicts Christ and the disciples prior to Christ’s crucifixion. Critics swiftly called for boycotts and criticized the segment calling it distasteful and disrespectful to Christians around the world. Officials with the International Olympic Committee issued an apology in part saying they did not mean to offend anyone.  Those involved in the segment claimed the live recreation was of ‘The Feast of Dionysus’, also known as ‘The Feast of the Gods painted by Dutch artist Jan Van Bijlert in the mid-1600s. Dionysus was a god worshiped in Ancient Greece. This Greek god was the god of frenzy, festivities, spiritual ecstasy, wine, and alcohol. The segment also featured a nude singer covered in flowers and fake prosthetics. Critics called the Opening Games, “woke, sexually charged” and that organizers failed to acknowledge that the Olympics tends to be a family friendly television event. Meaning young children may have been exposed to this adult content during prime-time television.

 A pro-life protestor has been sentenced to jail time
A pro-life protestor has been sentenced to jail time for violating a New York state law. According to reports, Bevelyn Beatty Williams was sentenced for protesting in front a New York City abortion clinic. Beatty-Williams was arrested for violating the New York state Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act. Beatty-Williams asked for leniency; the prosecutors and judge presiding over the case noted her previous charges for similar protests in three other cities. After being found guilty Ms. Beatty-Williams was sentenced to three years and five months in prison. There has been a rise in arrests of pro-life demonstrators at abortion clinics here in the U.S. Several have been recently sentenced to prison time for violations of federal laws for blocking entrances and access to abortion clinics.

Israel’s Prime Minister receives praise & criticism during US visit
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to the US was deemed a success. The Prime Minister’s visit comes during that nation’s fight with two terrorists’ groups. The Prime Minister’s visit is seen as an effort to push for continued support from the United States, one of Israel’s biggest allies. Netanyahu received 57 standing ovations before Congress during his speech. The speech was marred with controversy as several congressmen who opposed Netanyahu speaking at a joint session of Congress voiced their opposition to his speech. The visit also sparked anti-Israel protests. The Prime Minister’s visit included meetings with former president Donald Trump and the Biden administration.

SNBC Health report: the nation’s top doctor and an expert psychiatrist are raising the alarm concerning a rising health issue.
According to the US Surgeon General loneliness is becoming a public health threat. Dr. Vivek Murthy says that people struggling with loneliness and isolation, especially since 2020 during COVID-19, has been on the rise. Dr. Murthy compared the effects of loneliness on the body to the same as smoking and obesity. Dr. Daniel Amen adds that social media is a part of the problem for young people. Amen says that this level of disconnect could lead to mental health and brain health issues over time. The doctor offered one major piece of advice: go back to church. Dr. Amen says that getting involved in the local church adds fulfillment by volunteering and building community, along with person-to person interactions. These are keys he calls important and says there’s no better place to build a sense of  community than in a church. According to studies those who attend church have a better sense of community, lower risk of depression and suicide, less stress and longer life expectancy. The Bible reads in Hebrews 10:25 in the Amplified: “Not forsaking our meeting together [as believers for worship and instruction], as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more [faithfully] as you see the day [of Christ’s return] approaching.”