The Cross Chronicles

Senate Resolution to Free Pastor Youcef

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Cross) — Tue, 01 May 2012 17:38:00 +0000

The Senate is expected to vote soon on a resolution calling for the release of Pastor Youcef, held captive for over 1,000 days in Iran now for refusing to denounce his Christian faith. You can sign the petition here. The House has already unanimously passed the resolution.

Vanderbilt University Expels Religious Organizations

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Cross) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 02:30:00 +0000

Vanderbilt's Board of Trust has decided to enforce a policy that flies in the face of the constitution of many groups on campus. An "all comers" policy for student organizations forces faith-based groups to allow any student to pursue a leadership position - regardless of their beliefs. Thirteen religious organizations have refused to sign the policy, placing their groups at risk of being removed from campus. Currently the administration has placed them on provisional status until they come under compliance.

Students initiated a grassroots movement months ago to make their case to the administration. The campaign swelled with momentum this week as the Board of Trust prepared to meet again and review the status of the organizations. On Wednesday, students distributed 4000 MP4 players on campus loaded with a video of professors, students, and alumni expressing their disapproval of the policy. You can view the video below:

Wednesday evening, the students gathered for a worship event led by the legendary Ricky Skaggs. Members of the Nashville community have committed to supporting the students.

The leaders of the religious groups hosted a luncheon for members of the Board of Trust today at noon to engage in a direct dialogue with the policy-makers. The board will decide soon whether or not to expel the thirteen organizations. How can you help?

Email Chancellor Zeppos at nicholas.s.zeppos@vanderbilt.edu or use AFA's automated email
Use the image to the right on your Facebook profile to show your support to the students at Vandy
Use #wearevanderbilttoo to show your support

Kony 2012 Releases Next Video

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Cross) — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 19:10:00 +0000

Invisible Children recently released a Part II to their first Kony 2012 video that went viral with over 87 million views. As momentum for the campaign reached a staggering height last month, critics showed up in droves critiquing everything from the video's portrayal of the conflict in Africa to the organizations use of funds. This second video takes aim at clarifying the message as they prepare for their "Cover the Night" effort on April 20th.

ObamaCare Abortion Pill Mandate

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Cross) — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 19:26:00 +0000

There is a lot of press right now regarding the Supreme Court review of ObamaCare. Do you believe it's constitutional to require citizens to carry health insurance? I have mixed thoughts on the subject myself. But regardless of where you stand on the overall issue, you will want to make sure they don't force you to pay for the abortion pill too.

View the issue and take a stand.

Mental Breakdown of 'Kony 2012' Creator

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Cross) — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 20:22:00 +0000

You probably have already heard of the mental breakdown of Jason Russell, the author of the video for Invisible Children's campaign "Kony 2012". It's somewhat disheartening to see the untempered criticism of Jason and his organization for working so diligently to bring a despicable man to justice. Unfortunately, when you garner as much attention as he has, you always draw a slew of naysayers.

I have no doubt the deep conviction and the heightened sense of urgency around bringing Joseph Kony to justice made the criticism and personal attacks difficult to bear. We can pray for Jason and his family. And we can still join with him in the important work of ending child slavery and bringing horrific human rights violators to justice. Hopefully we can all agree on that.

Brazilian Government Uncovers Iranian Deception about Pastor Youcef

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Cross) — Sat, 10 Mar 2012 15:58:00 +0000

The Iranian government continues to experience international pressure for their refusal to free Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani, a husband and father given the death penalty for converting to Christianity. The latest news comes from Jordan Sekulow of the ACLJ. Sekulow reports:

Iran's ambassador to Brazil (pictured left) informed [Brazilian Senator Magno Malta] that Pastor Youcef would not be executed for his faith, but that he 'was convicted of other crimes, theft and prostitution.' The Iranian ambassador also gave Senator Malta an official letter from the Iranian embassy (English translation), claiming that Iran respects the freedom to practice religion and denying Pastor Youcef’s death sentence.

I met with Senator Malta yesterday morning, and provided him with a copy of the original Iranian supreme court verdict convicting Pastor Youcef to death by hanging for his Christian faith in Farsi and translated into Portuguese (the ACLJ also has English and Russian translations).

Senator Malta promptly returned to the Iranian embassy demanding an explanation for the apparent contradictions in the ambassador's story. The Brazilian media has given extensive coverage to the issue. Continued exposure and increased international pressure give Pastor Youcef hope of still finding freedom.

Invisible Children's New Campaign Goes Viral

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Cross) — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 18:54:00 +0000

Invisible Children, the movement that took root nearly a decade ago to end the conflict in Uganda and stop the abduction of children for use as child soldiers, has launched a new campaign. And it's gone viral. With some 56 million views of their YouTube video in three days, they have successfully increased awareness of the continued abuse and torture of children in Africa. The campaign, entitled Kony2012, aims to apply enough pressure to the U.S. government and the international community to ensure the capture of Joseph Kony, the rebel leader charged with countless crimes against humanity.

Despite the overwhelming response to the video (their Action Kits already sold out), the organization has received criticism. They have responded to the criticism of their finances via their website.

Congress Passes Resolution and Celebrities Tweet for Youcef

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Cross) — Sat, 03 Mar 2012 18:31:00 +0000

The support of Pastor Youcef, illegally imprisoned in Iran for converting to Christianity, has reached an all-time high. International governing bodies, including the US House of Representatives, have formally called for the release of Youcef Nadarkhani. Hundreds of thousands have joined the rallying cry through social media. Celebrities like Matt Hasselbeck, Donald Trump, Ann Coulter, Megyn Kelly, and Julie Benz have all encouraged their Twitter followers to Tweet for Youcef, a campaign orchestrated by the American Center for Law and Justice.

Congressional Resolution for Pastor Youcef

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Cross) — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 15:27:00 +0000

The American Center for Law and Justice just released this report:

It's amazing.

A vote is scheduled on a bipartisan resolution calling for the release of Christian Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani. Tonight, time is scheduled for the U.S. House of Representatives to discuss his plight and a vote is expected to occur Thursday morning.

In just one week, your voice moved Congress to action. We are just hours away from a Congressional vote in support of Pastor Youcef.

Take action now to urge Congress to support Pastor Youcef and religious liberty around the world.

In just a few days, this bipartisan resolution has gained 61 co-sponsors. We believe every Member of Congress should vote in support of religious freedom and Pastor Youcef's courageous

If you are one of the more than 170,000 people who have already signed this petition urging Congress to call for Pastor Youcef's release, thank you.

Resolution to Free Pastor Youcef

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Cross) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 18:47:00 +0000

A resolution has been introduced in Congress condemning Iran for violating human and religious rights and requesting the immediate release of Pastor Youcef who has now been imprisoned for 862 days. You can sign the petition here.

Petition to President Obama

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Cross) — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 19:09:00 +0000

Dennis Rainey, the head of the large evangelical organization FamilyLife, issued an urgent plea to friends and supporters on Friday. His request focused on the federal government mandate forcing religious organizations to provide contraceptive care regardless of their beliefs. After much controversy surrounding the bill, lawmakers extended the deadline for compliance but have refused to recognize the convictions of religious organizations. Here is what Dennis Rainey had to say:

About two years ago, Barbara and I were privileged to be two of the original signers of the Manhattan Declaration, along with other Christian leaders, such as Chuck Colson, Dr. James Dobson and Kay Arthur. This important document outlines God’s plan for three matters of eternal significance: the sanctity of life, the dignity of marriage as the union of one man and one woman, and religious liberty. Barbara and I both believe signing the document is one of the most important things we’ve ever done. I would strongly encourage you to sign this declaration and make a stand for spiritual liberties and rights of conscience.

The writers of the Manhattan Declaration will present a petition to President Obama this week to express their strong disagreement over the federal mandate disregarding the conviction of the sanctity of life.

To sign the petition click here. You can learn more about the Manhattan Declaration here.

Media Bias Exposed

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Cross) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 03:10:00 +0000

Diane Sawyer and George Stephanopoulus hosted the Republican debate on ABC this past Saturday. They decided to dedicate a significant amount of time to the issues of contraception and homosexual marraige. As you might expect the liberal media enjoys taking air time to champion their agenda, but this time the candidates took the opportunity to expose a bigger issue.

Tim Tebow Fuels the Media

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Cross) — Sat, 17 Dec 2011 21:05:00 +0000

For the past eight weeks, Tim Tebow has given NFL commentators, players, and analysts a lot to talk about. And as you might expect, much of it has come in the form of criticism regarding his expression of faith in Jesus Christ. However, despite comments from people like former Broncos quarterback Jake Plummer wishing Tebow would "just shut up" and mockery from the Detroit Lions players who imitated Tebow's prayer pose, Tim Tebow continues to deliver a winning record and a winning character.

Highlighting that character and what Tim Tebow brings to the game and so much more, Bob Costas does right by offering this commentary last Sunday.

Planned Parenthood to Open in Schools Under ObamaCare

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Cross) — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 18:50:00 +0000

ObamaCare is headed to the Supreme Court. Opponents argue the law mandates that individuals purchase a product from the government, which then places the government in control of Americans' health care decisions. Of greater concern is the expansion of abortion under the new law and the use of tax dollars to fund it.

Jay Sekulow, Chief Counsel for the American Center for Law and Justice, gives the following synopsis:

The threat of giving the abortion giant Planned Parenthood more access to our children and our tax dollars is very real. ObamaCare provides grants for establishing “School-based Health Centers” – health clinics in our schools run by private organizations, including Planned Parenthood.
While the law prevents these school-based clinics from being used to “provide” abortions, there is nothing in the law that prevents them from encouraging kids to seek an abortion at a Planned Parenthood facility. In fact, the law states that it is the purpose of these clinics to provide “counseling” and “referrals,” which could be for abortions and abortion-related services.

To make your voice heard (along with over 100 members of Congress) urging the Supreme Court to protect Americans' from this level of government control, sign the petition online.

Church Planting Movement Stirring in Europe?

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Cross) — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 01:21:00 +0000

Tim Keller's first speaking engagement in Europe occurred at a gathering of nearly 500 leaders and church planters from 27 countries. The City to City Europe network hosted the event in Berlin.

Can You Experience Real Joy in Life's Deepest Sorrow?

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Cross) — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:36:00 +0000

What if you lost something very dear to you? What if you lost someone very dear to you? How about your two-month-old child?

Brandon and Mandy Pelton share their story of living through the birth, life, and death of their son Jude. Jude passed after just 67 days on this little planet, leaving behind a broken body and broken parents who share a tremendous story of joy in one of life's darkest valleys.

Iranian Execution Now Reaches Highest Level

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Cross) — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 18:58:00 +0000

The American Center for Law and Justice just released this latest report regarding the impending execution of Christian Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani in Iran:

According to Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani's Iranian lawyer, the court delayed issuing a verdict and "has decided to ask the opinion of Mr. (Ali) Khamenei." Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei is an Islamic jurist and the final arbiter of questions of Shariah law.

Now that Iran's Supreme Leader will be considering the case, it is imperative that our top diplomat, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, personally intervenes in working for Pastor Youcef's unconditional release.We are hand-delivering this petition to Secretary Clinton the moment the State Department opens its doors tomorrow morning.

It is not too late to add your name to the list of over 127,000 people who have already signed this petition online. Pastor Youcef's life hangs in the balance. Sign the petition at www.aclj.org.
Forgive the brevity. Sent via BlackBerry handheld.

Iran Readjusts to Execute Christian Pastor

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Cross) — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 14:42:00 +0000

Faced with growing international pressure, Iran has made a political move to continue with the execution of a Christian Pastor first condemned for converting to Christianity from Islam. The American Center of Law and Justice has been working alongside attorneys for Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani and released this statement yesterday:

The push by the Iranian government to execute a Christian pastor is accelerating. Iranian state news is spreading false reports that Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani was not convicted of converting from Islam to Christianity, but is instead charged with Zionism and security-related crimes – the worst possible charge that can be leveled against someone in Iran.

Our efforts are having a tremendous impact, as Iran is now feeling this international pressure to release Pastor Youcef. However, it is critical that Secretary of State Clinton – America’s top international diplomat – do more than just say she is “concerned” about this impending execution. She must immediately call on Iran for Pastor Youcef’s unconditional release.

You can sign a petition addressed to Secretary of State Clinton here.

Latest on Christian Pastor's Execution

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Cross) — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 19:57:00 +0000

The American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ) just released their latest update regarding the impending execution of Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani in Iran. As you can see in the video, the ACLJ notes that Secretary of State Hillary Clinton did release a one sentence statement but failed to call for the release of Nadarkhani. The United Nations continues to remain silent.

Christian Pastor Reaches Hour of Execution

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Cross) — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 20:01:00 +0000

The White House finally released a statement condemning the conviction and possible execution of an Iranian pastor. In the statement, the White House called upon Iranian authorities to release Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani, saying, "A decision to impose the death penalty would further demonstrate the Iranian authorities' utter disregard for religious freedom."

Although this sentence runs contrary to both Iranian and international laws, the 27th Branch of the Supreme Court in Qom has upheld the death penalty ruling. According to Amnesty International USA, an execution for apostasy has not occurred in Iran since 1990.

The American Center for Law and Justice has been actively involved in the case, urging members of the government to intervene. House Speaker John Boehner released a statement on Wednesday calling the case "distressing for people of every country and creed." The American Family Association has also called on its members to contact Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

Please pray for Youcef and his family and an immediate acquittal in this case.

Loving Neighbors and Our New Neighborhood

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Cross) — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 03:17:00 +0000

If only "loving your neighbor as yourself" were always this easy. Yesterday, some wonderful neighbors organized our first block "Meet and Eat", a progressive dinner of sorts where we visited 13 houses and had a wonderful time with new friends. A genius idea, the traveling party allowed for great interactions, the opportunity to visit almost every house on the street, and lots of good eatin'. When we leave this lovely neighborhood we'll be taking this idea with us.

One sweet neighbor even gave Jessi a quilt for our little girl, who's due any day now.

Ten Years Later: Unforgettable Footage From Inside the World Trade Center

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Cross) — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 18:46:00 +0000

A lot of this footage I had never seen before. From inside the World Trade Center buildings, these filmmakers captured the unthinkable on September 11, 2001. The documentary first aired on CBS last night entitled, 9/11: Ten Years Later, revealed the chaos and the heroism displayed on that fateful day in mid-September.

Originally a documentary intended to chronicle a young man's journey through his probationary period of firefighting, these two filmmakers give us our best look into the gut-wrenching tragedy surrounding America's most deadly act of terrorism.

May God bless those who still mourn, and may He bring the wicked to justice.

Tim Keller and Redeemer Target Mexico City

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Cross) — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 17:05:00 +0000

After two years of preparation, the largest metropolitan area in the Americas is home to a new church plant by Redeemer Presbyterian out of New York. You can read about Redeemer's new Mexico City church plant on their City to City Blog. The new church targets one of the city's trendiest neighborhoods, La Condesa.

Teenage Mayor Reelected

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Cross) — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 02:54:00 +0000

Remember this national news story during the elections in 2008? John Hammons, 19 years old at the time, was elected as mayor of a town of 38,000: Muskogee, OK. Most people probably dismissed it as a fluke, even though he won in a landslide victory. I thought I'd check in on the young mayor. Looks like he has at least proven his mettle to his townspeople, clinching a second term with another big win.

Christianity Doom and Gloom Reports Face Criticism

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Cross) — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 02:06:00 +0000

Barna Research Group often delivers some shocking statistics regarding the state of Christianity in the U.S. Directors of Baylor University's Institute for Studies of Religion, Rodney Stark and Byron Johnson, have less than glowing comments regarding their methodology in their newly released article:

The national news media yawned over the Baylor Survey's findings that the number of American atheists has remained steady at 4% since 1944, and that church membership has reached an all-time high. But when a study by the Barna Research Group claimed that young people under 30 are deserting the church in droves, it made headlines and newscasts across the nation—even though it was a false alarm.

Surveys always find that younger people are less likely to attend church, yet this has never resulted in the decline of the churches. It merely reflects the fact that, having left home, many single young adults choose to sleep in on Sunday mornings.

Once they marry, though, and especially once they have children, their attendance rates recover. Unfortunately, because the press tends not to publicize this correction, many church leaders continue unnecessarily fretting about regaining the lost young people.

In similar fashion, major media hailed another Barna report that young evangelicals are increasingly embracing liberal politics. But only religious periodicals carried the news that national surveys offer no support for this claim, and that younger evangelicals actually remain as conservative as their parents.

Given this track record, it was no surprise this month to see the prominent headlines announcing another finding from Barna that American women are rapidly falling away from religion. The basis for this was a comparison between a poll they conducted in 1991 and one they conducted in January of this year.

The reporters who ran with this story ought to have wondered why this change wasn't picked up sooner if it was going on for 20 years. Many national surveys have been conducted during this period—in fact the Barna Group has been doing them all along. Did the organization check to see if its new results were consistent with its own previous data or with the many other national surveys widely available? There is no sign that it did. If it had, it would have found that its findings about women are as unfounded as previous claims about young people deserting the church and young evangelicals becoming liberals.