"All that is necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing". Edmund Burke

1) http://www.virtuosityonline.org/portal/modules/news/article.php?storyid=985
http://www.canada.com/vancouver/theprovince/news/story.html?id=66d69679-aa45-4313-80ea-8ac408291acd
Priests to fight 'eviction notices'
By Ethan Baron, Staff Reporter, Vancouver Province Newspaper Two Anglican priests have 
vowed to fight "eviction" from their West Coast churches, as the battle over same-sex 
unions heats up.

Rev. Barclay Mayo and Rev. Ed Hird notified Bishop Michael Ingham in March that they 
were severing their ties to the New Westminster Diocese and the Anglican Church of Canada.

Now, Ingham has sent the priests letters they call 'eviction notices'.

"I would invite you to seek out alternative worship space for those whom you lead," Ingham 
said in his letters dated June 23.

"He's invoking Canon 15 on us," said Mayo of Christ the Redeemer Anglican Church in 
Pender Harbour, on the Sunshine Coast.  "It's a diocesan regulation that allows a bishop 
to take over a parish if, in his own opinion, it's not running properly."

"This is all vindictiveness.  He will probably have to go to court. 
We're expecting a fairly significant fight."

The two priests, who say they have unanimous support from their congregations, broke from 
the diocese because it approved the blessing of same-sex unions.  They put themselves under 
an Anglican Province in Africa.

"We are now a missionary arm of the Church of Rwanda,: said Hird of St. Simon's Anglican 
Church in Deep Cove.

Ingham rejected the priests' authority to make the move.

"Parishioners may choose to leave the Anglican Church of Canada and worship elsewhere, 
but a parish may not 'leave' a diocese nor declare that it is no longer part of the 
Anglican Church of Canada," Ingham wrote.

Mayo contends that although the diocese holds title to his church and land, his congregation 
paid for the building and property.

"We own it, not them," Mayo said.

Hird said St. Simon's holds title to the church and land.  "The people of St. Simon's have 
no intention of going anywhere," Hird said.

Ingham was unavailable for comment.  
Ebaron@png.canwest.com

2a) www.cyberus.ca/~arm/magazine.htm
-an excerpt from the Anglicans for Renewal Canada article 'Words Matter' Vol. 19, No. 2, 
Summer 2004 Issue By The Rev. Paul Orritt, National ARM Chair (Anglican Renewal
Ministries)

The Anglican Church of Canada has now made a significant contribution to the crisis of global Anglicanism over the issue of same sex blessings. At our General Synod held in St. Catharine's, Ontario, we passed a resolution affirming "the integrity and sanctity of committed adult same sex relationships." Confusion now abounds within the Anglican Church of Canada with many faithful Anglicans asking how it is possible, as a Church, to affirm something is holy when the word of God unambiguously calls it sinful. Indeed, this ill-considered amendment accords the status of 'holy' in a way which we have not accorded as a Church to any man and woman in a sexual relationship outside of marriage. It therefore presses in on, and confuses, the doctrine of marriage.

In defense of the resolution, some are attempting to argue that the words do not mean what they seem on the surface to mean; that is, that they are to be interpreted pastorally rather than theologically. Contra this argument however, it needs to be stated clearly that the resolution was not offered as a disingenuous statement to our 'gay and lesbian' brothers and sisters who may well have been wounded by deferring the resolution concerning same-sex blessings the evening before. It would betray the sense of the motion to suggest it was merely a fatuous overture. Deliberate in its composition and word-crafted by two clergy with theological acumen, the particular wording of the resolution was also defended in debate. An attempt to remove the word "sanctity" failed as an amendment. We are led to the conclusion that the resolution means exactly what it says.

The determination of the integrity of something demands a context, such as the adherence to a strict moral or ethical code. Integrity does not simply float in ambiguity; rather it derives meaning over against some standard. One ought to be able to assume that at a General Synod, integrity would be defined in terms of Christian morality or ethics. The resolution therefore must imply that same sex relationships [sex] have moral integrity when evaluated in the light of Holy Scripture.

Some of us might question this conclusion.

To affirm the "sanctity" of something is to maintain as truth that sacredness or holiness defines or characterizes whatever is so affirmed. To "bless" something, on the other hand, is to "make holy" or to "sanctify". It is "to honor as holy". The resolution, in affirming the sanctity of adult same sex relationships (sex] circumvents any further discussion therefore, as to whether same sex relationships should or could be blessed. Consequently it forecasts the determination of the Primate's Theological Commission to which the whole matter of same sex blessings had been deferred and effectively pre-empts its fundamental task.

You see, words do matter. We are all too much aware from personal experience that words have power to create and to tear down. Ask any child having come ripe from the playground. Even as adults we carry the wounds of playground missiles launched years ago. And we are so easily built up by an encouraging word or brought to devastation by harsh criticism. All this we know, but even more than this ...

From the Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology, we read that, "Words also reflect a person's true character. They show the person for what he or she truly is: "out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks" (MT 12.34); "it is what comes out of a man that makes him unclean" (MK 7.15). The righteous speak truth and wisdom to the praise and glory of God (2SAM 22.1; JOB 33.3; PS 15.2; 19.14; PROV 16.23), but the wicked speak folly and lies (PROV 12.23) and blaspheme God (2KGS 19.6) and his Spirit (MT12.31-32)."

"For this reason, words become sufficient for passing judgment upon those who utter them. On the day of judgment God will hold people accountable for what they have said: "For by your words you will be acquitted and condemned" (MT 12.37). In this sense the tongue has the power of life and death (PROV 18.21): the mouth of a fool will bring him to ruin (PROV 10.1 4; 13.3), but the one who controls what he says is wise and virtuous (JAS 3.1-12)."

Words used carelessly can be misleading and dangerous. Such is the case with the resolution passed by General Synod. And words spoken bring consequences.

Within three hours of this Resolution being passed, the global Anglican community of which we are a part responded. Archbishop Drexel Gomez [West Indies] meeting in theological consultation about the current crisis in the Anglican Communion viewed (the resolution) as " much more serious than even the original form of the motion which did not describe the nature of same-sex unions." He ended his comments to faithful Anglicans across Canada by writing, "The attempt to give 'committed adult same sex relationships' the same theological stature as marriage exacerbates the crisis in the communion and will reap devastating consequences."

Archbishop Gregory Venables [Southern Cone], issued a statement on behalf of (some) Primates of global Anglicanism saying, "The use of the word ' sanctify' means that the whole issue has already been decided and that is devastating. It's saying that God has agreed to bless same-sex unions as the word carries the implication that this isn't just right, but that this is God's will and he has set it apart for the human race. It's rewriting the Christian faith. There's nothing in the Bible about the sanctity of same-sex relationships. Canada's action merely confirms the sad reality of the fragmentation of the Anglican family. We would like to see them expelled. This is going against Christian teaching and they should either repent or shut the door behind themselves…"

If this was a game, it might be called "Heresy and Schism", and by the count of the international community's reaction, we would now be leading the Episcopal Church of the United States... But sadly, this is not a game. And no one wins. Not the least the Anglican Church of Canada.

In the present climate of our Church, to stand one's ground for the faith once delivered to the saints seems no longer popular - it may even be dangerous. Vincent of Lirens [5th century] said of this faith, that it is that which has been held always, everywhere and by all. Should you contend for this faith today, you will quickly be called "divisive" and schismatic" because you are not going along with the flow or because you speak against the flow. "Divisive" and "schismatic" - words again. Powerful words. Defining words. But let us all be clear and honest about the way we employ these words and whose actions they are meant to characterize(…)

3) www.invitethenation.org/what.html
Expect another invitation, Canada!
CONGRATULATIONS FROM NICKY GUMBEL:
"Congratulations to all of you in Canada on the impact of your National Alpha Initiative 2003!

As a result of your hard work - the united effort of the churches and the Christian business 
community - Canada now leads the world as far as Alpha awareness is concerned.

If people have heard of the course, it makes it so much easier to invite them along.

We are so excited by your plans for 2004 and pray God's blessing on you as you push on in your 
vision to give everyone in Canada an opportunity to attend an Alpha Course and to find Jesus 
Christ for themselves."

Building on the resounding success of last year's campaign, Canada is sending another Invitation 
to the Nation in 2004!

JOIN WITH TWENTY FIVE HUNDRED OTHER CHURCHES ACROSS THE COUNTRY TO INVITE THE NATION TO DINNER 
AND TO AN ALPHA COURSE!

(If your church is not yet running the Alpha course, please click here to find out 
more www.alphacanada.org/basics/index.html )

A CAMPAIGN WORTH MILLIONS WHEN WE WORK TOGETHER
There are six different elements of the campaign:

1. OUTDOOR ADVERTISING CAMPAIGN - A million dollar campaign of billboard and transit shelter 
advertising during the summer.

2. CHURCH ADVERTISING - Display and use of matching promotional resources by churches during 
the summer - banners, election style lawn signs, invitations and (new this year) car window klingers.

3. COMMUNITY PROMOTIONAL EVENTS - Between May and September, churches will be involved in many 
different types of innovative ways to raise awareness and get the Alpha invitations out. For 
example: tables in malls, floats in parades, barbecues in parks and booths at fairs. 
Click here to find out more http://www.invitethenation.org/ideas.html

4. LOCAL MEDIA COVERAGE - Joint adverts in the local press, adverts on local radio and TV. For 
more information click here http://www.invitethenation.org/ideas.html

5. ALPHA INTRODUCTORY DINNERS - September 19 - 25th. These can take the form of large community 
dinners hosted by a group of churches or may be hosted by a single church.

6. PRAYER, PRAYER, PRAYER - Beginning now, meet regularly to pray for the effectiveness of the 
campaign and for the Gospel to go out across our land. National Prayer Meetings will be held on 
September 16.

http://www.invitethenation.org/how.html
How to be involved...

Initiative Resource Kit

1. Order your promotional materials

We'll send you everything you need to participate. Please click here to order. (a new browser 
window will open that you can close when finished
ordering) http://cook.ca/shopproduct.asp?publisher=ALPHA+CHRISTIAN+RESOURCES&headtitle=ALPHA+INITIATIVE

Promotional materials match the national outdoor advertising and
include:

Full-colour, 8'x 4' vinyl church banner
Election-style lawn signs (new / improved)
NEW - Car window Klingers (not yet available in French) Matching tri-fold invitations Balloons


2. Prepare Your Team

Well-trained teams make for fruitful courses. The best way to prepare your team is to take them 
to an Alpha Conference. For details of conferences and other training events near you please 
click here. (a new browser window will open) http://www.alphacanada.org/conferences/index.html

If you and your team can't attend a conference, we suggest you cover the material by scheduling 
your own training sessions. The video "How to Run the Alpha Course" is especially helpful and the 
"Director's Handbook" - a guide for Alpha Directors, Leaders and Helpers - has much of the material 
in written format. Having your team view the "Alpha Course Leader's Training Video" is a prerequisite 
before every course and will provide for the best small group dynamics!

3. Begin To Pray

All our work and effort is futile if it is not under-girded with prayer. Encourage your church to 
begin praying regularly from now until the fall. Pray about your Initiative Dinner and about who 
should be invited. Pray that God will do a miracle in your neighbourhood and that you'll have loads of guests!

Plan for your church to be part of Alpha Canada's National Day of Prayer on Thursday September 16th. 
On this day, hundreds of Canadians will gather across the country to pray for the fall Alpha courses 
and the National Alpha Initiative in one-hour prayer meetings generally held from 7- 8 pm.

If you are interested in organizing a prayer meeting for your church or area, please click here for 
a downloadable resource that will help you to plan and lead your meeting. It includes a suggested 
agenda, overheads, and helpful hints. Organizing a one-hour prayer meeting doesn't have to be 
complicated and it can be lots of fun! http://www.invitethenation.org/alpha_prayer_pack_2004.doc

If you decide to hold a prayer meeting, please let us know by sending us your info here so that we 
can register your meeting and list it on the website. http://www.invitethenation.org/reg-prayermtg.html

If you're looking for a prayer meeting in your area, please click here. 

4. Involve Your Church

Show the Initiative 2004 DVD to your congregation as soon as possible and start to plan for your 
Alpha Introductory Dinner for week the week of September 19 - 25th 2004. (If your church has not yet 
received your copy of the DVD, please click here and let us know your mailing address. info@alphacanada.org )

Encourage church members to put a lawn sign in front of their home and a window klinger in their 
car. Spread the cost of resources and invite members of the congregation to contribute financially 
to cover the cost of the items being used. Some churches deliver Alpha leaflets through doors, 
and put up posters at local community centers and in other public locations. All this helps raise 
local awareness of Alpha, which in turn makes it easier for people to accept an invitation to 
'come and take a look'. You'll need a team of helpers to cook, lay the tables, decorate the venue, 
welcome guests, serve the food and clean up during and after the dinner. If you run Alpha 
regularly, you probably already have a core team for this. If you are aiming for higher-than-normal 
numbers, (which we hope will be the case) you'll want to enroll extra people or consider using caterers.

5. Connect With Churches In Your Area

Many churches join forces to plan joint suppers, prayer meetings, local publicity campaigns and 
training sessions for their Alpha teams. This can be a good way of attracting more non-churchgoing 
guests and joint campaigns are also great for local networking and unity. Co-operative advertising 
in local papers has proven fruitful and a downloadable advert with the campaign "look" is available 
here. Simply click and then save to your local hard drive. advertisement1.pdf http://www.invitethenation.org/advertisement1.pdf
& advertisement2.pdf http://www.invitethenation.org/advertisement2.pdf


You can find a list of Alpha courses running near you at www.alphacanada.org . We encourage you to 
contact them and harmonize!

While you are checking out other courses near you, do please make sure that your course's contact 
information is up to date and accurate. We want people to be able to find a course near them easily.

Volunteer Alpha Advisors are available to help you. To connect with the Advisor nearest you please 
click here. (a new browser window will open) http://www.alphacanada.org/advisors/index.html


6. Promote Your Course

Beginning July through August, hang your banners, display the car window klingers and lawn signs, 
and distribute your invitations. Your efforts will be supplemented by a national billboard and 
media campaign. This is going to make quite a splash across Canada!

For other ideas, please click here. ('Ideas' page on this site) http://www.invitethenation.org/ideas.html

7. Hold Alpha Dinners

If possible, plan to hold your dinner the week of 19 - 25th of September. To make your supper really 
special, you may want to plan a two or three course meal with nice crockery and cutlery, tablecloths, 
napkins, and decorations. Candles, flowers, soft lighting, balloons and live music all contribute to a 
fun and welcoming party atmosphere!

An evening might look like this:
7:00pm ~ Guests arrive and are seated with their friends. Be sure to have some live or recorded 
(non-church) music being played as people arrive. 7:30pm ~ Welcome and introduction to the evening. 
Ask someone who is confident in the role to be the master of ceremonies for the evening. His or her 
job is to make people feel comfortable. This is the opportunity for the MC to tell a couple of good 
Alpha jokes to encourage everyone to relax and enjoy their evening. 7:35pm ~ Main course is served 
8:00pm ~ Dessert served ~ all plates cleared by 8:30 8:30pm ~ Testimonies: MC interviews 3 or 4 
people about their Alpha experience NB The Initiative 2004 DVD includes a seven minute video of 
testimonies "Transformed by the Power of God". It features six people from various backgrounds who 
have come to faith on Alpha and may be used in place of or to supplement live testimonies. 
8:50pm ~ Live talk or show the video: 'Christianity: Boring, Untrue & Irrelevant?' or 'The God Who 
Changes Lives'. MC invites everyone to attend the next Alpha course. 9:15pm ~ Coffee served, 
guests welcomed to linger and chat. Invitations to Alpha course and copies of 'Why Jesus?' 
distributed to tables 9:45pm ~ Guests start to leave, hosts offer Alpha Supper invitations and 
'Why Jesus?' at exits

Schedule your Alpha dinner during the week of September 19 - 25th.

8. Start Your Alpha Course

Plan for your course to begin during the week of September 26th.

That's it!

4) http://www.vaxxine.com/eves/britishcolumbia.htm
Please join us in less than three weeks for the 30th Annual July 16th -19th BC Christian 
Ashram Retreat with Bishop Malcolm Harding of Brandon, Manitoba, the Ambassador for 
Anglican Renewal Ministries of Canada http://www.cyberus.ca/~arm/ambassador.htm
. Six presentations will be given by him on the book of Philippians, the Epistle of Joy. 
Bishop Malcolm, who has led two of our St. Simon's Renewal Missions, bubbles with life and 
vitality in Christ.  By his very presence, Malcolm reminds you that bishops can be healthy 
and life-giving.  

The Christian Ashram was founded 70 years ago by the world-renowned missionary & author. 
Dr. E. Stanley Jones http://christianashram.org/jones.htm
  All ages are welcome, as there are children and teen programs each day at the Camp Alexandra 
location near White Rock, BC (just across the Canada/USA border).

Do you need spiritual refreshment and renewal? Do you want a vacation with God? Then join us 
by registering today.  Just e-mail us at ed_hird@telus.net or phone Norma Carruthers at 
604-533-5509  To find out more, please click on http://www.vaxxine.com/eves/britishcolumbia.htm

p.s. To find a Christian Ashram closer to you in North America or around the world, just click 
on http://www.christianashram.org/naregions.htm or http://christianashram.org/international.htm

5) http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/3846525.stm
Last Updated: Monday, 28 June, 2004, 12:28 GMT 13:28 UK
Scans uncover secrets of the womb
Baby 'walking' in the womb
A new type of ultrasound scan has produced the vivid pictures of a 12 week-old foetus 
"walking" in the womb.

The new images also show foetuses apparently yawning and rubbing its eyes.

The scans, pioneered by Professor Stuart Campbell at London's Create Health Clinic, are much 
more detailed than conventional ultrasound.

Professor Campbell has previously released images of unborn babies appearing to smile.

He has compiled a book of the images called Watch Me Grow.

Conventional ultrasound, usually offered to mothers at 12 and 20 weeks, produces 2D images of 
the developing foetus.

These are very useful for helping doctors to measure and assess the growth of the foetus, but 
convey very little information about behaviour.

Complex behaviour

Professor Campbell has perfected a technique which not only produces detailed 3D images, but 
records foetal movement in real time.

He says his work has been able to show for the first time that the unborn baby engages in complex 
behaviour from an early stage of its development.

Professor Campbell told the BBC: "This is a new science for understanding and mapping out the 
behaviour of the baby.

"Maybe in the future it will help us understand and diagnose genetic disease, maybe even 
conditions like cerebral palsy which puzzles the medical profession as to why it occurs."

The images have shown:

     o     From 12 weeks, unborn babies can stretch, kick and leap
around the womb - well before the mother can feel movement

     o     From 18 weeks, they can open their eyes although most doctors
thought eyelids were fused until 26 weeks

     o     From 26 weeks, they appear to exhibit a whole range of
typical baby behaviour and moods, including scratching, smiling, crying, hiccoughing, and sucking.

Until recently it was thought that smiling did not start until six weeks after birth.

An hour long session using the new technology, which is not yet available on the NHS, costs £275.