British Columbia Parents and Teachers for Life
E-Mail Bulletins

What immediately follows is the January, 2010, issue;  and following it on the page is the November,  2009, issue of a bulletin sent out  by e-mail (usually monthly) to members and other pro-family, pro-life supporters anywhere  the world.   If you fit into one of those categories and wish to receive our bulletin, please e-mail us (executive ["at" sign] BCPTL.org) your request to subscribe, with your name, postal address, and the e-mail address you wish the Bulletin to be sent to, and your statement that you are pro-life and pro-family. Previous issues of the Bulletin are also available and can be sent to you by e-mail. 

Links to other websites are given as found in the original bulletin, but you should be aware that with the passage of time a number of these links may expire (and will no longer work)

British Columbia Parents and Teachers for Life
E-Mail Bulletin

January, 2010 

(Note:  Due to technical problems, no BCPTL E-Mail Bulletin was sent out for December, 2009.)

A Message to Our Members and Other Pro-Family Individuals and Organizations:

Please visit us at our website:   www.bcptl.org  
E-mail address:   executive@BCPTL.org   
Phone (voice and fax): 604-512-9594.

To ensure that you receive future issues of this Bulletin, please add ListMaster@bcptl.org to your "safe senders" list.

We appreciate your taking the time to read the BCPTL monthly E-Mail Bulletin.  If you find the bulletin informative and helpful, we would be grateful if you would e-mail it to others.  If you know of anyone who would like to be put on our e-mail distribution list, please let us know.  If you are responsible for a website where the link would be relevant, you might like to link to our website at www.bcptl.org  .  We would be happy to hear that you have done that. 

If you are receiving this "second-hand" and would like to ensure that you get this bulletin on a regular basis, and you are pro-life and pro-family, you may subscribe (free).  To do so, go to: http://www.bcptl.org/bulletin.htm   and follow the instructions at the top of the page. 

The BCPTL E-Mail Bulletin comes in two forms:  in the body of the e-mail    message, and also as an attachment.  Some subscribers have been have  difficulty reading the Bulletin easily because it is too wide for their screens,    and have found that it is easier to read the Bulletin in attachment form.

Contents of This E-Mail Bulletin

1.     English Novelist Proposes Euthanasia Booths for the Old

2.     The Struggle to Save Life in Haiti

3.     Become a Fan of B. C. Parents and Teachers for Life on Facebook

4.     The BCTF and the FSA

5.     Peter Corren Has Passed Away

6.     News and Views from Internet and E-Mail Sources

7.     Pro-Life and Pro-family Events

English Novelist Proposes Euthanasia Booths for the Old

 “The novelist Martin Amis has called for euthanasia booths on street corners, where elderly people can end their lives with “a martini and a medal.”   “How is society going to support this silver tsunami?” he asked in an interview in The Sunday Times Magazine.  “There’ll be a population of demented very old people, like an invasion of terrible immigrants, stinking out the restaurants and cafes and shops.”

The sixty-two-year-old Amis may have been deliberately causing a sensation in an effort to call attention to his latest book, but the attitude his remarks express is not unique to the novelist.  More blatantly than in the recent past, we are confronted with  numerous suggestions that the lives of the disabled and elderly are not worthy to be lived.  Along with this, we hear numerous expressions of the attitude that the ideas of the elderly are not worthy of being expressed.

Disagree with someone considerably older than oneself?  Don’t bother seeking to counter his arguments.   All you have to do is suggest that his ideas are the product of senility.  Or, more subtly, you can resort to chronological snobbery and suggest that his ideas belong in the trash-can of discarded ideology.

Such concepts are not new, but their recent resurgence suggests more than one peril.  Besides the obvious one that pressure may be put on the old to end their lives, there are dangers to society in general:  Not only do such attitudes lead to a lack of compassion in society, but writing off the ideas of the past as not worthy of examination may prevent us from benefiting from the collective experience of those who have come on the scene before us.  

towards the collective experience of the past.  The result of those negative attitudes can be the repetition of the mistakes of past history, justifying the unfortunate saying that the only thing we learn from history is that we learn nothing from history.

E.S.H., January 30, 2010

Postscript:  A teacher is in the position of being able to communicate respect
for life by getting students to honestly examine the ideas presented in literature. 
In this connection, readers may like to read an essay in the “Essays” section of 
this website.  It is entitled “What Can a Teacher Do to Foster Respect for Life?”

The Struggle to Save Life in Haiti

The disastrous earthquake in Haiti has brought terrible suffering, but also prompted a tremendous effort to save human life.  It is surely worth noting that the urge to preserve human life remains a high priority in our society when it comes to situations like this.  It is good to see the response to the situation, from those who may have given generously from limited resources to those who have been able to give help on the ground. Perhaps many do not need to be reminded, but it is worth emphasizing that we in the pro-life and pro-family movement should certainly regard it as our responsibility to help as we can when disasters threaten lives and devastate families, leaving many in desperate medical need and many without family.

implies no judgement on our part as to the merits of any particular relief organizations, nor does it imply endorsement of the CTV or CBC choices for inclusion of organizations in the lists.  Our readers should choose carefully which organizations they choose to donate through.)

Become a Fan of B.C. Parents and Teachers for Life on Facebook

Are you on Facebook?  If so, support B.C. Parents and Teachers for Life and become a fan.  You will then be able to discuss issues online at the Facebook site.  Remember, the exact name to use is “B.C. Parents and Teachers for Life.”  (We previously made a false start, and in error used the same method of setting up a Facebook page as for an individual.  The new page is on the pattern specifically meant for organizations.)

The BCTF and the FSA

Once again, the British Columbia Teachers' Federation (BCTF) and the provincial Ministry of Education are in conflict over the government's Foundation Skills Assessment tests.  (The BCTF--for the information of our readers outside the province--is the union to which  teachers in provincial government schools, by virtue of contracts between local teachers' unions and school boards, have to belong.)

If you want your child to succeed, this test isn’t going to help them. Every year, your child’s valuable time in the classroom is wasted on preparing for a test that won’t help them learn—and won’t improve their mark. . . . .

These FSA tests are required every year for Grades 4 and 7, but they won’t help your child succeed—and are only used to unfairly rank schools. They’re wasting tax dollars and valuable learning time. Join the growing number of parents who are withdrawing their child from these meaningless tests. . . .
[From the BCTF website]

The statement that children's time is wasted preparing for a test is dubious on two counts: (1) A skills test is one that is basically prepared for by the regular teaching of skills in the classroom, and (2) Time is not wasted if a little time is spent learning how to face test questions.

The statement that the tests won't help a child succeed certainly needs to be challenged. If a test uncovers weaknesses that need to be addressed in teaching a child, and those matters are addressed, the child can certainly be helped.

The BCTF, then, could do with a course on truth in advertising.

Peter Corren Has Passed Away

Our readers need to know that Peter Corren died this December (2009).  He and his partner, Murray Corren (formerly Murray Warren), were the two complainants with whom the Province of British Columbia signed the Settlement Agreement (the "Corren Agreement").  This agreement gave them, as CBC said in its online article on Peter Corren's death, "unprecedented input" into the content of the "social justice program."  As our regular readers will know, it also gave organizations recommended by the Correns guaranteed input into the ongoing revision of British Columbia Ministry of Education courses.

The Correns were our opponents, but this does not hinder us from recognizing the sadness of Peter Corren's death.  Our condolences go to any of those close to Peter Corren who may happen to read this editiorial [on our website].  

News and Views from Internet and E-Mail Sources

Note:  We pass on the items and opinion in this section for your information.  Not all opinions expressed will necessarily coincide with those of BC Parents and Teachers for Life, the publishers of this e-bulletin.

U.S. Judge Grants Political Asylum to German Homeschoolers

PURCELLVILLE , VA. , January 27, 2010 (LifeSiteNews.com) - On Tuesday, in a first of its kind case, a federal immigration judge in Memphis , Tennessee granted political asylum to the Romeike family, who fled Germany in 2008 to escape persecution from the German government for the "crime" of homeschooling.

Judge Burman said in his decision that, "The rights being violated here are basic human rights that no country has a right to violate."

Judge Burman also expressed concern that while Germany is a democratic country and an ally, its policy of persecuting homeschoolers is "repellent to everything we believe as Americans."

The persecution of homeschoolers in Germany has been intensifying over the past several years. Such families are regularly fined thousands of dollars, threatened with imprisonment, or have the custody of their children taken away simply because they choose to home educate.

"This ruling is a major embarrassment for Germany ," said Mike Donnelly, staff attorney and Director of International Relations for HSLDA. "We hope this decision will cause Germany to stop persecuting homeschoolers."

Uwe Romeike, a music teacher, his wife Hannelore, and their five children, fled the German authorities in August 2008 and are now living in Eastern Tennessee . This ruling opens the door for many other homeschool families to escape Germany .

"We are so grateful to the judge for his ruling," said Uwe Romeike. "We know many people, especially other German homeschoolers, have been praying for us. Their prayers and ours have been answered.

"We greatly appreciate the freedom to homeschool we now have in America and will be building our new life here," he added.

See related LifeSiteNews.com coverage:

German Homeschooling Family Applies for Asylum in US

http://www.lifesitenews.com/ldn/2008/nov/08111805.html

Germany Jails Eight Christian Fathers for Removing Children from Sex-Ed Class

http://www.lifesitenews.com/ldn/2009/dec/09121108.html

The Saga Continues: Previously Tolerant German State Declares War on Home-schooling

http://www.lifesitenews.com/ldn/2006/dec/06122201.html

Hundreds of Thousands Join 37th March for Life [in Washington , D.C. ]

By John-Henry Westen

WASHINGTON , January 23, 2010 (LifeSiteNews.com) - Weather reports in the days leading up to Friday’s March for Life warned of rain and snow; however, spirits were high and the weather good on the day of the event, with no snow or rain falling and temperatures remaining bearable.  A sea of youth dominated the massive crowd, one of the largest – if not the largest - in the history of the 37 years of the annual March for Life. 
[More  at http://www.bcptl.org/abortion.htm#37  ]

[See also the CitizenLink article "Thousands March for Life in Washington, D.C." at
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLNews/A000011919.cfm  ]

Petition Launched: Support CBS's Decision to Air Tim Tebow Super Bowl Ad

Note: Click here to sign the petition to support CBS and its decision to air the Tim Tebow Super Bowl ad. To join the Facebook page to Support the Tim Tebow Ad, click here.

January 28, 2010 (LifeSiteNews.com) – Pro-life forces are responding swiftly to the fierce pro-abortion campaign that is being waged against Focus on the Family’s pro-life ad featuring football superstar Tim Tebow, which is set to air on CBS during the Super Bowl on Feb. 7.

In the past few days, pro-abortion groups have generated over 120,000 letters to CBS, NFL, and Super Bowl advertising executives, asking that they scrap the ad, which has yet to be unveiled. Other pro-abortion organizations have generated thousands more.

In response, a petition was launched today by LSN, whereby pro-lifers can express support to CBS for its decision to air the ad, and exhort the network not to cave to pressure to drop the ad. The names of those who sign the petition will be forwarded on to CBS executives.  (To sign the petition, click here)

At the same time, another pro-life group, the Susan B. Anthony List, has launched an effort aimed at supporting the Tebow family during the controversy.  Via the 'Block Hard for Tim Tebow' website, pro-lifers can send messages of encouragement to Tim and his family to let them know that the pro-life movement is standing behind them.

The Focus on the Family ad is expected to feature the story of how Tebow’s mother refused to abort him despite being advised to do so by physicians for health reasons. Pam Tebow eventually gave birth to a perfectly healthy baby, who has gone on to become one of the most-recognized sports stars in America .

Despite its hopeful message, the ad has infuriated pro-abortion forces, who argue that it is tantamount to revoking women’s “right to choose.” On Wednesday, a number of pro-abortion groups launched an all-out campaign to pressure CBS into cancelling the ad. 

“CBS needs to hear the voices of those who support life and family as well,” said LSN editor, John-Henry Westen. “Therefore LSN is launching this petition addressed to CBS, asking them not to cave in to pressure to pull the Focus on the Family ad.”

In a recent press release Fr. Frank Pavone of Priests for Life commented on the war over the ad.  "Why should it bother people who call themselves pro-choice if women watch Pam Tebow and her son Tim on Super Bowl Sunday and freely decide to choose life?  Would fewer abortions be a bad thing?" he asked. 

"As for the argument that the ad should not be shown because it is divisive, since when do we broadcast only things on which the American people all agree? In that case, the Super Bowl itself could not be broadcast."

Westen added, "The pro-life leadership is already stepping forward to support the ad. Now it's up to the pro-life rank and file to defend the Tebows and the right for their story to be told, whether or not pro-aborts would rather that they were silenced."

Click here to sign the “Petition to CBS in Support of their Decision to Air the Tim Tebow Super Bowl Ad”

U.S. Rep Pushes to Extend Student Non-Discrimination to Homosexuality

By Kathleen Gilbert

WASHINGTON, DC, January 28, 2010 (LifeSiteNews.com) - U.S. Representative Jared Polis (D-CO) has introduced a law that would allow high school students who feel discriminated against based on their perceived sexual orientation to pursue charges in federal court.

Polis on Wednesday introduced the “Student Non-Discrimination Act,” which has 60 co-sponsors.

"Every day innocent students fall victim to relentless harassment and discrimination from teachers, staff, and fellow students based on their sexual orientation," said Polis, who is openly homosexual, in a statement. 

"These actions not only hurt our students and our schools but, left unchecked, can also lead to life-threatening violence. Like Title VI for minorities in the '60s and Title IX for women in the '70s, my legislation puts LGBT students on an equal footing with their peers, so they can attend school and get a quality education, free from fear."

However, critics argue that the bill essentially sets up a class of thought-crime, and that instead policies should be developed that prevent students from being mistreated for any reason, instead of singling out “sexual orientation.”

"We think the best thing would be policies that prohibit bullying across the board for any reason against any child," Candi Cushman, education analyst for Focus on the Family Action, told the Denver Post. "The emphasis should be on the wrong action of the bullies, not why they did it or what their perceived thoughts were."

"This can and should be done without politicizing the classroom and introducing controversial sexual topics to kids against parents' wishes," she added.

New IPPF Document Pushes Adolescent "Sexual Rights"

By Samantha Singson

( NEW YORK – C-FAM) In its new report "Stand and Deliver," the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) is demanding that governments, religious institutions and society at large provide "comprehensive sexuality education" for children as young as ten years old. In a foreword, Bert Koenders of the Development Cooperation of the Netherlands , which helped fund the publication, asserts that, "Young people have the right to be fully informed about sexuality and to have access to contraceptives and other services. These rights are enshrined in various internationally agreed human rights convention and treaties, but – unfortunately – they are still not universally respected."   [Read more at http://www.c-fam.org/publications/id.1563/pub_detail.asp  ]

National Cancer Institute Researcher Finally Admits Abortion Raises Breast Cancer Risk in Study

______________

Press Release . . . [Abortion Breast Cancer Press Release]

Brinton Reverses Position, Finally Admits Abortion Raises Breast Cancer

Risk in Study that Fingers Oral Contraceptives as a Probable Cause of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer 
[More at  http://www.bcptl.org/abortion.htm#ABC  ]

Calgary church loses charitable status for its "non-partisan political activities"

January 22, 2010, by Gillian Grace

Charles Lewis, National Post

A Calgary church has lost its charitable status in part because it spends too much of its time advocating on social issues such as abortion and marriage. 
[More at http://www.bcptl.org/newsandviews.htm#Calgary ]

Pro-Life and Pro-Family Events 

An Invitation to Help Us Inform Others of Pro-Family, Pro-Life Events

   In this E-Mail Bulletin we regularly carry brief announcements of pro-life, pro-family, non-denominational , non-partisan  events.   If you are responsible for advertising events such as we have mentioned, feel free to send us brief  advertisements of them for free publication, at our discretion, in this E-Mail Bulletin . 

Events arranged by date (information taken mainly from the rather more extensive pro-life  calendar circulated by Bill Van Eldik):

Feb. 4 Thursday - - CANADA   IS  NOT PRO-CHOICE - WHY  I  WISH  IT  WERE

- Admittedly a rather provocative title, but deliberately chosen for this free educational public lecture by Dr. John Sutherland, former Dean of Business at Trinity Western University . It will be held in the Clearbrook Library meeting room. at 7:15 p.m. For further info call Abbotsford Right-to-Life Society,  604-852-4623 or <mailto:artl@telus.net>

Feb 6 Sat - ANNUAL VALENTINE’S DINNER AND DANCE at Cloverdale Catholic Parish Center , 17475 59th Ave. , Surrey . Doors open at 6:30, Dinner at 7:00. Raffles and door prizes - Great food and fellowship - Dance to the S-Bahn. - Tickets  $30 p.p. For tickets call Surrey Delta Pro-Life at

604-574-0225 or Hilda at 604-576-8791

Feb 6 -Mar 27 - CEMETERY OF THE INNOCENT - “Abortion stops a beating heart 1995 times a week in Canada” reads the sign on display at the CEMETERY OF THE INNOCENT along with the same number of small white crosses, each representing a tiny human life;  a visual reminder to the community of the magnitude of abortion. The field of crosses is displayed from about the end of January to the end of March in a field on the corner of Sumas Way and South Parallel Road in Abbotsford, B.C.

For more info call 604-852-4623 or visit [http://www.abbotsfordrtl.ca].

abortion, which she miraculously survived. Gianna will be speaking at the Immaculate Conception Parish Hall at 839 Sutherland Ave  Tickets are $40 each and include a full course dinner.  For ticket information call Kelowna Right to Life at 250-862-8202 or <mailto:kelownarighttolife@hotmail.com>

(Gianna is also available for media interviews. She can be reached at

www.interviews@giannajessen.com)

Mar 28 Sun -  International DAY OF THE UNBORN CHILD. An international witness to life, initiated and spearheaded by the Knights of Columbus since 2002. For information regarding observances in your area please contact your local Knight of Columbus Council.

Apr 30  Fri- (Rescheduled from Nov.21/09)   -  Mr. Bill VanderZalm will

be the guest auctioneer at this   F-A-A-A-A-A-A-A-N-T-A-S-T-I-C 

AUCTION FUNDRAISER!  7:00 p.m. at Bernadette’s Parish, 6543 - 132nd St. , Surrey . Admission $5 p.p.  includes refreshments.  The perfect gift for someone you love!  To donate items or purchase tickets please call

604-574-0225 or 604-576-8791

May 12-14 Wed-Fri -  OTTAWA - A three-day program of prayer vigils, church services and conferences that will be highlighted on Thursday by

the thirteenth annual NATIONAL MARCH FOR LIFE.   Mark your calendars now

for this important event!  Despite the heavy rain, last year’s March drew more than 12,000 participants, smashing the previous year’s record by 50%. If you are unable to attend the Ottawa march, you may want to join one closer to home (see below).

May 13 Thu (Tentative)-  Third  Annual WESTERN CANADA   MARCH FOR LIFE.

Victoria, BC.- Watch this space for further details.

========================================================

I WOULD LIKE TO DO PRO LIFE WORK, BUT I AM ONLY ONE PERSON, WHAT CAN I POSSIBLY DO?

      A question that is often asked, and the answer may surprise you. Yes!

you CAN DO important work defending innocent life, even if -for one reason or another- you have to work as a “loner”, and even if you can spend only a few hours or even minutes a week!  You don't have to “join” anything or belong to any group or organization!

      Some time ago we completed the activity kit “Pro-Life things YOU can do.” It took several months to compile and lists several activities that are specially suited to those who cannot commit themselves to scheduled group activities or who, for whatever reason, prefer to work alone or in small teams.  There are projects for those who have lots of time, for those who have little or no time,  for the rich, the poor, the teenagers, the elderly, the baby boomers, and yes, even the sick and the shut-ins. Parents, and teachers too,  may find this an excellent resource for planning  pro-life projects that the entire family (grandparents, parents, children)  can participate in. Yes!  There IS something you can do to save children’s lives, and EVERYONE can do SOMETHING!

      There is no charge  for this material. It is free upon request, but it cannot be e-mailed - we need a regular mailing address (including postal

code) to ship to.  Order  the activity kit  “Pro-life things YOU can do!”  from: Bill Van Eldik, 3745 Cedar Drive , Port Coquitlam BC   V3B 3E1 . or <mailto:berend_vaneldik@telus.net> Please allow about three weeks for delivery.

Ongoing Events:

Members of Richmond Right To Life meet for prayer the first Saturday every month at 8:00 a.m. at  Debeck House, 8660 Ash Street , Richmond . We would be delighted to have anyone with pro-life concerns join us. Info:

604 274-5433.

Join with other pro-lifers for a weekly INTERDENOMINATIONAL PRAYER MEETING every Thursday morning from 9-10 at Abbotsford Right to Life office, #100A - 32660 George Ferguson Way, Abbotsford. Info:

604-852-4623.

WEEKLY PRAYER SERVICE FOR THE UNBORN (Interdenominational) Friday morning 10:00 at Gianna House, 2027 East 44th Ave. Followed by picketing 12:00-1:00 at Everywoman’s abortuary, 2525 Commercial Drive .  Info:

Sissy at 604-322-1527 or Bill at 604-944-1374.

*******************

The B.C. Parents and Teachers for Life E-mailBulletin is sent out from time to time to members and other individuals   and organizations we think will be interested in the issues addressed. If you do not wish to receive such bulletins from us,   simply e-mail  executive@bcptl.org   with this message: "We do not wish to receive the BCPTL e-mail bulletin."

NOTE: Please let us know of any change in an e-mail address by contacting executive@bcptl.org with this message:  
"Please change the destination address for the e-bulletin from [give old e-mail address] to [give new address]."

British Columbia Parents and Teachers for Life
E-Mail Bulletin

November, 2009 

A Message to Our Members and Other Pro-Family Individuals and Organizations:

Please visit us at our website:   www.bcptl.org  
E-mail address:   executive@BCPTL.org   
Phone (voice and fax): 604-512-9594.

To ensure that you receive future issues of this Bulletin, please add ListMaster@bcptl.org to your "safe senders" list.

We appreciate your taking the time to read the BCPTL monthly E-Mail Bulletin.  If you find the bulletin informative and helpful, we would be grateful if you would e-mail it to others.  If you know of anyone who would like to be put on our e-mail distribution list, please let us know.  If you are responsible for a website where the link would be relevant, you might like to link to our website at www.bcptl.org  .  We would be happy to hear that you have done that. 

If you are receiving this "second-hand" and would like to ensure that you get this bulletin on a regular basis, and you are pro-life and pro-family, you may subscribe (free).  To do so, go to: http://www.bcptl.org/bulletin.htm   and follow the instructions at the top of the page.

Contents of This E-Mail Bulletin

1. The Manhattan Declaration:  Will We See Its Equivalent Issued in Canada? 
 

2.  Encouragement 
 

3.  News and Views from Internet and E-Mail Sources 

4.  Pro-Life, Pro-Family Events

The Manhattan Declaration:  Will We See Its Equivalent Issued in Canada?

On November 20th a group of leaders from

forthright declaration of an intention to stand firm on certain basic moral principles.  The ringing conclusion of the declaration gives its message in concise form:

                            "Because we honor justice and the common good, we will not comply with any edict that purports to compel our institutions to participate in abortions, embryo-destructive research, assisted suicide and euthanasia, or any
other anti-life act; nor will we bend to any rule purporting to force us to bless immoral sexual partnerships, treat them as marriages or the equivalent, or refrain from proclaiming the truth, as we know it, about morality and immorality and marriage and the family. We will fully and ungrudgingly render to Caesar what is Caesar’s. But under no circumstances will we render to Caesar what is God’s."

                    We cannot help but rejoice at the boldness of these religious leaders at a time when so many are either speaking with a muted voice, failing to speak out at all, or compromising basic moral principles.

                    British Columbia Parents and Teachers for Life does not purport to speak for any church or religious body.  Nevetheless, a commitment to traditional morality and a consciousness of the current threat to moral and religious
liberties impel us to express our admiration for the leaders' who issued of this document.  We would encourage our readers to read it through.  (It is to be found at the following URL:                 http://www.manhattandeclaration.org/images/content/ManhattanDeclaration.pdf  .]   Some parts of the document refer to particular conditions in the United States, but its main thrust goes far beyond national boundaries.  
                    (The document is open to signatures of Christians in Canada and other countries, by the way.   You can simply leave blank the box that asks for "state" and your signature will be accepted.) 

The question arises:  Will we see a similar document released by Christian leaders in Canada?  Certainly the need is great.  Canada has, to its shame, become known for a number of instances where individuals and
organizations have been subjected to legal and quasi-legal sanctions for their moral stands.  We badly need the united voices of spiritual leaders to state their determination to stand firm for the moral truths foundational to our nation (an admittedly imperfect society, but one which has been much blessed by those truths).   In spite of the fact that Canadians can sign the Manhattan Declaration, a similar document that refers to specific Canadian
conditions would be most helpful.

                    (Please read the selections "Over 150,000 Sign the Manhattan Declaration in Less Than Two Weeks" and "A Call to Christian Conscience" in the "News and Views Section" below.)

Encouragement

    Say Not the Struggle Naught Availeth

    SAY not the struggle naught availeth,

    The labor and the wounds are vain,

    The enemy faints not, nor faileth,

    And as things have been they remain.

    If hopes were dupes, fears may be liars;

    It may be, in yon smoke concealed,

    Your comrades chase e'en now the fliers,

               For while the tired waves, vainly breaking,

    Seem here, no painful inch to gain,

    Far back, through creeks and inlets making,

    Comes silent, flooding in, the main.

    And not by eastern windows only,

    When daylight comes, comes in the light,

    In front, the sun climbs slow, how slowly,

    But westward, look, the land is bright.

        Arthur Hugh Clough

                    A valued friend of the work of this organization once very sincerely (if humorously)  thanked the editor for all the bad news she was receiving.   It is true that often in compiling this bulletin we have been compelled, in order to be  
                   truthful, to transmit news which has been less than encouraging.  Some of what you will read in this issue of the Bulletin falls in that category.  (Our
purpose, though, is not to discourage, but to inform in order to encourage 
positive action.)

though they are by the political situation in our country, are taking steps to work for pro-life, pro-family causes.  Saskatchewan MP Brad Trost has launched a petition against federal funding
of Planned Parenthood in Canada.    MP Harold Albrecht is working to ensure that it is considered illegal to use the Internet to encourage someone to commit suicide.  Maurice Vellacott has spoken out on the dangers posed to women who
have abortions.
                    
.                   Are we perhaps seeing the first sign of a new pro-life, pro-family dawn?  We cannot say for sure, but the glimmers of light are definitely encouraging.  At any rate, we must certainly agree with the the poet Clough's injunction to
                   "Say not the struggle naught availeth."  We know that the witness for truth is important, and we are thankful for whatever victories for truth we are allowed to see.

                    Speaking of encouragement, please read below, in the "News and Views" section, "A Request for Christmas Greetings for Linda Gibbons."    A warm Christmas greeting would surely be appreciated by this lady who is in
prison for following her convictions and attempting to counsel women contemplating abortion. 

News and Views from Internet and E-Mail Sources

November 12, 2009: Encouraging News 
from the Euthanasia Prevention Coalition

                       We appear to have won in New Hampshire. A committee of the New Hampshire legislature rejected the bill to legalize assisted suicide by a 14 to 3 vote. . . . .

                       The next victory will be in Canada.

                       Bill C-384, the bill that would legalize euthanasia and assisted suicide in Canada is scheduled to receive its second hour of debate on Tuesday, December 1 at 5:30 pm with the vote on December 2.

Planned Parenthood Director Quits After Watching Abortion on Ultrasound

                    Monday, November 02, 2009
                    Joseph Abrams

                    The former director of a Planned Parenthood clinic in southeast Texas says she had a "change of heart" after watching an abortion last month — and she quit her job and joined a pro-life group in praying outside the facility.

Abby Johnson, 29, used to escort women from their cars to the clinic in the eight years she volunteered and worked for Planned Parenthood in Bryan, Texas. But she says she knew it was time to leave after she watched a fetus "crumple" as                     it was vacuumed out of a patient's uterus in September.

                    'When I was working at Planned Parenthood I was extremely pro-choice," Johnson told FoxNews.com. But after seeing the internal workings of the procedure for the first time on an ultrasound monitor, "I would say there was a definite conversion in my heart ... a spiritual conversion."

                    Johnson said she became disillusioned with her job after her bosses pressured her for months to increase profits by performing more and more abortions, which cost patients between $505 and $695.

                    "Every meeting that we had was, 'We don't have enough money, we don't have enough money — we've got to keep these abortions coming,'" Johnson told FoxNews.com. "It's a very lucrative business and that's why they want to increase numbers."

                        . . . .

                    Johnson said she never got any orders to increase profits in e-mails or letters, and had no way to prove her allegations about practices at the Bryan branch. She told FoxNews.com that pressure came in personal interactions with her
regional manager from the larger Houston office.

    `               But she said she got involved with the clinic "to help women and ... [do] the right thing," and the idea of raking in cash seemed to go against what she felt was the mission of the 93-year-old organization.

                    "Ideally my goal as the facility's director is that your abortion numbers don't increase," because "you're providing so much family planning and so much education that there is not a demand for abortion services.

"But that was not their goal," she said.

                     A spokeswoman for Planned Parenthood refused to answer questions about Johnson's accusations, but released a statement noting that a district court had issued a temporary restraining order against the former branch director and

                     against the Coalition for Life, an anti-abortion group with which Johnson is now affiliated.

                    "We regret being forced to turn to the courts to protect the safety and confidentiality of our clients and staff, however, in this instance it is absolutely necessary," said spokeswoman Rochelle Tafolla.

                    It is unclear what made Planned Parenthood seek the restraining order. Johnson said she did not intend to release any sensitive information about her former patients at the clinic.

                    A hearing is set for Nov. 10 to determine whether a judge will order an injunction against Johnson and the Coalition for Life, which has led protests outside the clinic and joined her in a prayer vigil there last month.

                    Johnson hasn't found a job since she quit on Oct. 6, but she said she's enjoying the time off to be with her 3-year-old daughter.

                    "It's been great just to spend some time at home and get a break," she said.

                    [You can read the whole article on Fox News online at http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,571215,00.html  .]

Maine voters latest to turn down gay marriage

                    Wed Nov 4, 2009

By Ros Krasny

                    PORTLAND, Maine (Reuters) - Voters in Maine on Tuesday overturned a law allowing same-sex couples to wed, dealing a fresh setback to the U.S. gay marriage movement in a race that attracted national attention.

                    The law was approved by Maine's Legislature in May but was not implemented after opponents gathered enough signatures to put the issue to a "people's veto."  . . . .

                    Frank Schubert, chief organizer of the "Yes on 1" campaign to reject same-sex marriage in the state, claimed victory early on Wednesday, although his opponents refused to concede.

                    Connecticut, Iowa, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Vermont are the only U.S. states where a same-sex marriage law is on the books. In each instance, the laws were approved by legislatures and judges, not by popular vote.

                    . . . .

                    [Read the whole article in Reuters online at http://www.reuters.com/article/politicsNews/idUSTRE5A312O20091104  .]

Sask. MP Trost launches petition against funding of Planned Parenthood group

The Star-Phoenikx (Saskatoon)                                         
                Wed Nov 4 2009
                Page: B7                                                    

                Byline: Jenn Sharp

                A petition calling for a stop to federal funding of the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) has been launched by Saskatoon-Humboldt MP Brad Trost.

                Trost presented the petition to the House of Commons Monday. IPPF is funded through the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) and, according to Trost's petition, "promotes the establishment of abortion as an international

                human  right and lobbies aggressively to impose permissive abortion laws on developing nations."

                The petition says that the government pledged $18 million to the IPPF over four years and that "the IPPF does not support physician's freedom to practice according to their conscience and/or religious beliefs regarding abortion referral."

                According to IPPF's website, the federation promotes sexual and reproductive health rights and provides health services for people in six world regions. Its work is focused in five priority areas: Access to services for marginalized groups, education services for adolescents, advocacy campaigns, HIV-AIDS and abortion services. . . . .

                [You can read the rest of the above article on The Star-Phoenix online at http://www.thestarphoenix.com/news/Sask+Trost+launches+petition+against+funding+planned+parenthood+group/2181735/story.html  .]

Crown Stays Charges Against Campus Pro-Life Advocates . . .

            National Post
                04 Nov 2009

            Calgary Six members of an anti-abortion group that defied University of Calgary officials by refusing to alter a campus billboard campaign depicting dead fetuses will not go to trial on charges of trespassing. The Crown stayed the charges against Campus Pro-            Life members, five of whom were U of C students, after determining there wasn’t enough evidence to proceed with the prosecution, said Alberta Justice spokesman David Dear. “It confirms our position that we do have the right to be on our own campus,” said 
            club president Leah Hallman. “We will continue to be the voice of the unborn. We’ll continue to present the issue peacefully.” . . . .

            [The above article in complete form is found in the National Post online at http://www.nationalpost.com/related/links/story.html?id=2182700  .]

Over 150,000 Sign Manhattan Declaration in Less than a Week

By John Jalsevac

press conference last Friday, has already been signed by over 150,000 individuals in less than a week, and the numbers are continuing to rise by the second.

The 4,700-word "Manhattan Declaration: A Call of Christian Conscience" was drafted by Dr. Robert George, Dr. Timothy George and Chuck Colson. At the time of its release last week it was signed by more than 125 prominent religious figures, including figures from Orthodox, Catholic and evangelical Christian denominations. That number has now risen to over 170, including 18 Roman Catholic bishops, in addition to the 150,000 ordinary Christians.

Colson says he hopes that the document will eventually be signed by more than 1,000,000 individuals, which, given its current momentum, hardly seems out of the question.

The Declaration is a non-denominational statement that throws down the gauntlet to a secular culture that is increasingly encroaching upon the rights of Christians who hold to traditional moral values, especially on the issues of marriage and the right to life.  "We pledge to each other, and to our fellow believers," says the document, "that no power on earth, be it cultural or political, will intimidate us into silence or acquiescence."

The document goes on to challenge the growing movement to silence Christians by force of the law in the strongest terms, going so far as to intimate civil disobedience. "Unjust laws degrade human beings," says the document. "They lack any power to bind in conscience. [Martin Luther] King's willingness to go to jail, rather than comply with legal injustice, was exemplary and inspiring."

The enormous popularity of the document appears to arise largely from its ability to bind together Christians from diverse theological and denominational backgrounds to fight for a common cause - the right to life, the preservation of true marriage, and the right to religious liberty.

However, he said, the Manhattan Declaration is "not a wide-ranging theological document that subverts confessional integrity." Rather, "It is a statement of urgent concern and common conscience on these three issues - the sanctity of human life, the integrity of marriage, and the defense of religious liberty." . . . .

Tony Perkins, head of the Family Research Council, said about the Declaration that, "Standing in the shadow of the cross, Christian leaders have drawn a cultural and political line in the sand from which they have pledged they will not be moved."

"We are bringing our faith to bear on public policy because we see the efforts of the Left as a frontal assault on human dignity, the American family, and the future of our children," he continued. "For this reason, we will not retreat an inch and will make the case for life, marriage, and religious liberty in the public square."

In the U.K., where the rights of Christians are under attack more fiercely than almost anywhere else in the West, Telegraph writer Gerald Warner wrote that, "For harassed, demoralised faithful in the pews [the Manhattan Declaration] will come as the long-awaited call to resistance and an earnest (sic) that their leaders are no longer willing to lie down supinely to be run over by the anti-Christian juggernaut."

The timeliness of the document is highlighted by the fact that earlier this month the House of Commons in the U.K. voted for the fourth time to remove conscience protections from proposed "equality" legislation that explicitly would have allowed Christians to continue to express moral disagreement with homosexual behavior. While the conscience language was later reinserted by the House of Lords, the momentum in the U.K. is clearly on the secuarlists' side, for the moment. Numerous Catholic adoptions agencies were either forced to close or secularize after the government passed the so-called Sexual Orientation Regulations (SORs) in 2007, and there are increasing reports of Christians being forced out of their jobs or visited by the police simply because they expressed their moral convictions, usually on the issue of homosexuality.

It is precisely the increasing occurence of these types of anti-Christian actions on the part of government that have led the organizers of the Manhatten Declaration to issue and sign the document. . . . .

Later news (from CitizenLink, November 30, 2009 at http://www.citizenlink.org/CLtopstories/A000011568.cfm :

Manhattan Declaration Hits 200,000 Signatures
by Kim Trobee, editor

. . ..

The Manhattan Declaration was unveiled at a press conference Nov. 20. Now, more than 200,000 people have signed the document that outlines Christian teaching on abortion, marriage and rights of conscience.

Call of Christian Conscience

[From Finding Home, the blog of Jim Daly, President and C.E.O. of Focus on the Family]

Posted by Jim_Daly on 20-Nov-2009 

I'm in Washington, D.C. today where I had the honor and privilege to join Chuck Colson, Professor Robby George and Bishop Harry Jackson, among scores of others, in issuing the Manhattan Declaration: A Call of Christian Conscience.

not only continue to speak out in the public square, we will continue to stand firm for biblical principles in that public square.

. . .here’s the crux of the piece: 

While the whole scope of Christian moral concern, including a special concern for the poor and vulnerable, claims our attention, we are especially troubled that in our nation today the lives of the unborn, the disabled, and the elderly are severely threatened; that the institution of marriage, already buffeted by promiscuity, infidelity, and divorce, is in jeopardy of being redefined to accommodate fashionable ideologies; that freedom of religion and the rights of conscience are gravely jeopardized by those who would use the instruments of coercion to compel persons of faith to compromise their deepest convictions. 

We are Christians who have joined together across historic lines of ecclesial differences to affirm our right and, more importantly, to embrace our obligation to speak and act in defense of these truths, the declaration continues. We pledge to each other, and to our fellow believers, that no power on earth, be it cultural or political, will intimidate us into silence or acquiescence.

There are many equally powerful passages in the document and some incredible honesty and openness, too. In fact, in several places, the Manhattan Declaration is written a little like a conversation.

It acknowledges, for instance, that Christian institutions have "scandalously failed" to uphold the institution of marriage and to model for the world its true meaning; it notes that some people are disposed toward homosexuality and that we must have compassion and respect for them as having "profound, inherent and equal dignity"; it points out that sincere people disagree on whether same-sex marriage is sin; and it admits that many people, including some Christians, see opposing same-sex marriage as a denial of civil rights and then explains with great heart and conviction why we think that is an inaccurate view.

This is the kind of communication that captures the spirit of our faith. Inviting and answering questions, engaging in civil discourse, acknowledging where we’ve fallen short and investing more energy in doing the right things for others to see. It’s the language of cultural change, what the early church engaged in and that’s why I’m proud to add my name to the list of signers that includes Joni Erickson Tada, Josh McDowell, Dennis Rainey, Ravi Zacharias and, of course, Focus on the Family founder Dr. James Dobson.

I join with them in unequivocally embracing my personal obligation and Focus on the Family's organizational obligation to stand up for these crucial biblical principles. I also embrace my obligation, and Focus', to champion these Christian truths in a Christian manner. Being unyielding in what we believe is critical, but it is no excuse for being unkind in how we express it.

As the Scripture says In Luke 6, "If you love those who love you, what benefit is that to you? But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great." The Manhattan Declaration is an excellent example of achieving that balance of Truth and Grace. It is a document that stands for something.

That’s how we should endeavor to act, and strive to be known, as followers of Christ.

[Note:  You can read the Manhattan Declaration at http://www.manhattandeclaration.org/images/content/ManhattanDeclaration.pdf  .]

MPs back motion to fight use of Internet to encourage suicide

By Linda Nguyen , Canwest News Service
November 18, 2009

[at http://www.canada.com/news/back+motion+fight+Internet+encourage+suicide/2238580/story.html ]

OTTAWA — A motion that overwhelmingly passed in the House of Commons Wednesday is the first step toward a bill seeking to clarify in the Criminal Code that helping or encouraging anyone over the Internet to commit suicide is illegal.

The motion passed by a 230-0 margin.

Harold Albrecht, a Conservative MP from Ontario who put it forward, said he was “pleasantly surprised” it received so much support.

“We’re trying to give a clear message to anyone who might presume to be able to hide behind the anonymity of the Internet and carry out their devious schemes,” he said following the vote. “We’re trying to put mechanisms into the Criminal Code that do two things — be a clear deterrent message to anyone considering those actions and second, if they chose to ignore the warnings of the Criminal Code when its amended, they will face the consequences.”

Currently, section 241 of the Criminal Code states anyone who “counsels a person to commit suicide, or aids and abets a person to commit suicide, whether suicide ensues or not, is guilty of an indictable offence and liable to” as much as 14 years in jail. It does not provide specifics about what “aiding or abetting” encompasses. Albrecht wants the section revised to reflect technological advances.

The motion is not legally binding, but Albrecht said he’ll be able to use it as he works with the federal justice department in the next few months on a future bill.

The motion was drafted in response to the high-profile death of Ottawa student Nadia Kajouji nearly two years ago, which still has not resulted in any criminal charges.

Following the Carleton University student’s death, investigators discovered Kajouji had entered into a suicide pact with a middle-aged American man she befriended online. The Minnesota man, identified as William Melchert-Dinkel, 47 and a father of two, never completed his end of the pact.

Kajouji jumped off an Ottawa bridge into the Rideau River in March 2008.

Criminal charges in the U.S. and Canada were never filed against Melchert-Dinkel, even though he had posed as a 28-year-old woman named “Cami” and coaxed the first-year student to take her own life.

Melchert-Dinkel had repeatedly tried to persuade Kajouji to kill herself on a webcam so he could watch.

Investigators said they couldn’t lay charges because they did not believe the online relationship was a significant factor in Kajouji’s death.

Kajouji’s brother Marc and father Mohamed were both in Ottawa Wednesday to see the motion pass.

“This motion is a lot of things,” said Marc. “This will represent that she (Kajouji) can still help in a positive way.”

He said his family still deals with his sister’s death everyday, especially his father, who had come to Ottawa on numerous occasions to look for her when she was first reported missing.

“It was important for us just to be here. It’s going to be a special day in her name. Every time my dad was here, it was hard for him,” he said. “This will be a positive thing for Nadia. One of the good memories he’ll have of her in Ottawa.”

With files from the Ottawa Citizen

Tories to introduce child-porn bill

Proposed legislation is said to require Internet service providers to report suspicious sites and activity

Globe and Mail Update and CTV News Published on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009 10:58PM EST Last updated on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009 11:45PM EST

The federal Conservatives plan to introduce a bill this week that would oblige internet service providers to report suspected child pornography to police.

The bill, to be discussed Tuesday and expected to be passed unanimously, would require ISPs to report tips on websites providing child pornography, as well as informing police if they believe a child-porn offence has been committed using their internet service.

Similar legislation already exists in the United States. In June 2008, Verizon, Sprint and Time Warner Cable agreed to purge websites hosted on their servers displaying child pornography.

Canadian child-protection advocates have been calling for similar action in Canada.

Between 2002 and 2009, public tip line Cybertip.ca found more than 15,000 sites hosting child pornography from 60 different countries, with Canada hosting more than almost any other country – second only to the United States. Over a 48-hour period, one website cycled through 212 individual IP addresses located in 16 different countries.

Among the 12 recommendations in a report published by Winnipeg-based Child Centre for Child Protection Nov. 18 was a call to “work with law enforcement and Internet service and content providers to remove illegal content from Canadian servers,” as well as collaborating with domain-name registrants to discard domains hosting child pornography and prevent them from being reused by others for the same purpose.

Abortion an obstacle to health-care bill

Some Democrats vow to block final passage if amendment stays

By Alec MacGillis

            Washington Post Staff Writer
            Monday, November 9, 2009

         President Obama and Senate Democrats sought on Sunday to generate momentum from the House's passage of health-care legislation, even as a new hurdle emerged: profound dismay among abortion-rights supporters over antiabortion provisions inserted into the House bill.

            The House passed its version of health-care legislation Saturday night by a vote of 220 to 215 after the approval of an amendment that would sharply restrict the availability of coverage for abortions, which many insurance plans now offer.

            [You can read the whole of this article at The Washington Post online.]

            A Request for Christmas Greetings for Linda Gibbons

[a message passed on by Bill Van Eldik]

            Dear fellow PL workers:

            As many of you know, Linda Gibbons is a well known name in the pro-life movement. Over the past several years, she has been arrested and imprisoned several times. Her crime? Speaking up in defense of the unborn and trying to
counsel pregnant women against taking the lives of their own children.

            Today I received the following appeal. A Christmas card, perhaps with a few words of comfort and encouragement, will reassure Linda that she is not alone in her struggle. Above all, she needs our prayers.

            Thank you for considering this urgent request.

            Regard and God bless.

            For Life,

            Bill V.E.

Forwarded message:

            Re: Arrested Canadian Pro-Life Activist Linda Gibbons Please consider sending a Christmas card to Linda Gibbons. She was arrested on Jan. 20, 09 for attempting to speak with women entering the Scott abortion facility 
in  Toronto.　 Linda wants the freedom to be Able to speak freely to any woman considering having an abortion.　 A panel of three judges will hear Linda's appeal on Jan. 20, 2010 and she will be in prison at least until then.　 
            Linda will not be home for Christmas. She likes to get Christmas cards when in prison.
        　 Thank you.

            Please send your Christmas greetings to:

            Linda Gibbons

            Vanier Center for Women

            655 Martin St., Box 1040

            Milton, ON　 L9T 5E6

Pro-Life and Pro-Family Events 

            Events arranged by date (information taken mainly from the rather more extensive pro-life calendar circulated by Bill Van Eldik):

            Nov 21 Sat - Surrey-Delta Pro-Life Auction/Fundraiser, scheduled for this date, has been postponed to the spring of 2010. Further details to follow.  For futher information call Surrey-Delta Pro-Life Society, 604-574-0225 or           <mailto:sdpro-life@telus.net>

or <mailto:jobfern@telus.net>   (Greater Vancouver, Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley).

2010:

            Spring 2010 - (Postponed from Nov. 21, exact date to follow. All other details listed here are tentative) - Mr. Bill VanderZalm will be the auctioneer at this F-A-A-A-A-A-A-A-N-T-A-S-T-I-C AUCTION FUNDRAISER! 7:00 p.m. at Bernadette’s Parish, 6543 - 132nd St., Surrey.
            Admission $5 p.p. There will be yummy snacks as well as　a no-host bar.   Please　encourage　your friends and　family members to attend this event.

            Bring at least 10 friends to the auction and share a table.　 What a great opportunity for BUYING CHRISTMAS GIFTS AHEAD OF TIME WHILE GIVING TO THE PRO-LIFE CAUSE. for further information call Surrey-Delta Pro-            Life Society, 604-574-0225 or <mailto:sdpro-life@telus.net>

           May 12-14 Wed-Fri - OTTAWA - A three-day program of prayer vigils, church services and conferences that will be highlighted on Thursday by the thirteenth annual NATIONAL MARCH FOR LIFE. Mark your calendars now for this important event! Despite the heavy rain, last year’s March drew more than 12,000 participants, smashing the previous year’s record by 50%. If you are unable to attend the Ottawa march, you may want to join one closer to 
home (see below).

         
            May 14 Thu (Tentative)- Third Annual WESTERN CANADA MARCH FOR LIFE. Victoria, BC.- Watch this space for further details.

Current and Ongoing Events:

Ash Street, Richmond. We would be delighted to have anyone with pro-life concerns join us. Info:  604 274-5433.

            Join with other pro-lifers for a weekly INTERDENOMINATIONAL PRAYER MEETING every Thursday morning from 9-10 at Abbotsford Right to Life office, #100A - 32660 George Ferguson Way, Abbotsford. 
            Info: 604-852-4623.

            WEEKLY PRAYER SERVICE FOR THE UNBORN (Interdenominational) Friday morning 10:00 at Gianna House, 2027 East 44th Ave. Followed by picketing 12:00-1:00 at Everywoman’s abortuary, 2525 Commercial Drive. Info:  Sissy at 604-322-1527 or Bill at 604-944-1374.

            The B.C. Parents and Teachers for Life E-mail Bulletin is sent out from time to time to members and other individuals and organizations we think will be interested in the issues addressed. If you do not wish to receive such bulletins from us, simply e-mail  executive@bcptl.org with this message: "We do not wish to receive the BCPTL e-mail bulletin.”                          

           NOTE: Please let us know of any change in an e-mail address by contacting executive@bcptl.org with this message:     
         "Please change the destination address for the e-bulletin from [give old e-mail address] to [give new address].”