Support for Saudi rape victim
Toronto-based One Free World International has joined Human Rights Watch (HRW) in condemning a Saudi Arabian court ruling. The organizations are coming to the defense of a young Muslim woman who has been sentenced to 200 lashes and 6 months in prison after being gang-raped last year by seven men. The men were found guilty of kidnapping, but not rape; however, according to HRW, “the judges reportedly ignored evidence from a mobile phone video in which the attackers recorded the assault.” The woman was sentenced for improper contact with a man prior to the attack, and for allegedly exploiting media coverage of the case. — Reuters AlertNet
EFC questions voting bill
The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada (EFC) has expressed concern that Bill C-16 — a federal bill that would add two advance polling days in a bid to increase voter turnout — has designated that both of the proposed days would be Sundays. “The government should not infringe on the worship practices of a substantial religious community when it is not essential to do so,” said Douglas Cryer, director of public policy for EFC.
CHP under siege at 20
In the shadow of a pending human rights tribunal, the Christian Heritage Party (CHP) celebrated its 20th anniversary November 15 in Abbotsford, BC. Trinity Western University professor Michael Goheen gave a keynote speech, and a video presentation highlighted CHP’s history. Meanwhile, a CHP press release said the party’s national board is dealing with “a human rights complaint lodged by [a] homosexual activist.” It further stated that the CHP “plans to defend itself vigorously against this attack even if it leads all the way to the Supreme Court.” A legal defence fund has been set up.
Home sweet Habitat
‘Home for Christmas’ has taken on new meaning, with Habitat for Humanity Victoria launching its second annual Gingerbread House Build. Held in partnership with the Victoria branch of the Canadian Culinary Federation of Chefs and Cooks, the event is free to the public. Twenty-three unique gingerbread houses are being designed and crafted by local professional chefs and other Habitat sponsors. These creations can be viewed by the public at the Bay Centre in downtown Victoria until December 1; on that date, after bidding closes at 2 pm, they will be auctioned off, with all proceeds going to support affordable housing initiatives of Habitat for Humanity Victoria.
Bible Society in mourning
One of the Canadian Bible Society‘s key personnel passed away November 18. Based in Laval, Quebec, Serge Rheaume passed away at age 62 — six months after being diagnosed with cancer. He was director of the Francophone Division for more than two decades. He also served as director of Scripture Resources, creating marketing strategies and overseeing development of scripture products in French and other languages.
Just a closer Chat with Thee
The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association of Canada (BGEAC) has launched Soul Chat, a new radio and web campaign. Soul Chat comprises more than 30 one-minute radio spots airing on mainstream stations across Canada. Some of the spots explore church stereotypes and challenge listeners to move past those stereotypes in their own spiritual explorations. Others directly address issues such as loneliness and despair. The BGEAC then provides a place online where these ideas can be explored further.
God for kids
Calgary-based Kid EQ recently released a DVD entitled How God Made You and Me, which it describes as “a baby devotional which combines baby development and Biblical values for the whole family. It introduces your children to a relationship with God and spiritual values while helping develop creative, learning and communication skills.” The video combines animation and photos. The company is planning to release Noah’s Floating Zoo early next year.
Through a Blue Lens
Tears for April: Beyond the Blue Lens is getting its first theatrical release November 30 – December 6 at the Cinemark Tinseltown theatre in Vancouver. The documentary explores the lives of drug addicts who hope their stories will keep young people from drugs. A presentation of the Odd Squad Productions Society, the independently financed film was co-directed by retired Vancouver constable Al Arsenault and filmmaker Ken Jubenvill, scripted by Province writer Steve Berry, and edited by Christian filmmaker Steve Plitt.
‘Tis the season for magic
UNICEF is offering practical humanitarian gift ideas for the Christmas season. In addition to their traditional Christmas cards and hand crafted gifts from around the globe, they are promoting ‘Gifts of Magic.’ The organization calls them “tribute gifts that honour the recipient while helping to transform the lives of vulnerable children around the world. Each Gift of Magic addresses a specific need of children, including ‘Gifts of Relief’ (porridge, blankets, high energy biscuits), ‘Gifts of Education’ (school fees, exercise books, school-in-a-box), and ‘Gifts of Water’ (water pump, three shovels, water sanitation).” Contact: 1-888-777-0380.
Red Sea change
Red Sea Team International has appointed Perry Zelman their new Canadian director. In his first statement to the media, Zelman said: “Our position statement is simply ‘Helping Muslims Follow Jesus.’ We do this through our medical programs, ESL schools and other ‘tent- making’ initiatives. I would be interested in talking with anyone who has an interest in seeing Muslims come to Jesus.”
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