Friday, January 10, 2014

Five Utterly Insane Cults Still Active Today

November 7, 2012

Five Utterly Insane Cults: Eckankar

Founded in Minnesota in 1965, the Eckankar movement promotes the idea that one can separate their soul from their body and experience the “Light and Sound” of God by journeying beyond the mortal form.

The group has been heavily criticized for the fact that nearly all of founder Paul Twichell’s works have been plagiarized from other spiritual material or blatantly fabricated. The group has also come under fire for the fact that the primary spiritual leader is also the CEO of the company that sells the founder’s materials for profit.

Utterly Insane Cults: Raëlism

Raëlism itself began prior to its official 1976 formation during a series of conventions hosted in France. Raëlism devotees believe that extraterrestrials genetically engineered humanity thousands of years ago and have been guiding us throughout history through their representatives on Earth who typically have taken the form of major religious figures such as Buddha and Jesus Christ.

Members of Raëlism currently believe that the cults leaders are the modern-day versions of past Raël visitors and that they must teach the world to become peaceful enough to allow the Raëlist extraterrestrials to return to Earth and visit humans at embassies the Raëlist members have built around the world.

Utterly Insane Cults: New Mathura Vrindaban

The New Mathura Vrindaban group is an offshoot of Hare Krishna founded in 1968 by Kirtanananda Swami and Hayagriva Swami. Under the leadership of Kirtanananda Swami, the group became infamous for a wide range of multi-million dollar racketing schemes, mail fraud, and the illegal sales of copyrighted material. Using the money earned from illegal business, Kirtanananda Swami was able to greatly expand New Vrindaban and form communities throughout the Northeast and Midwestern United States.

The Kashi Ashram

Based in Florida, the movement of Kashi Ashram was founded in 1976 by an individual called Ma Jaya Sati Bhagavati who believed that she had received visions first from Jesus Christ and then from several Hindu deities. The group promotes actions of compassion and understanding while also encouraging a community-driven lifestyle.

Many former members of the Kashi movement have criticized the group for brainwashing the cults members into believing that Ma Jaya was a God and that they should give themselves and their children, in some cases through informal adoption, to her for training. Though Ma Jaya herself died in 2003, the movement continues to this day.

The Brethren

Founded in 1971 by American Jimmie T. Roberts, The Brethren exists as a radical group that believes that the only way to prepare for the inevitable end of the world is to purify oneself by giving up all modern comforts and conveniences.

Brethren are expected to make or forage for anything they need and live in groups that ignore most modern social conventions. Members of the Brethren are also forbidden from celebrating or playing, since it is believed that all forms of celebration should be saved for the return of their savior at the end of the world. Members of the group typically sever all ties to the world upon joining, which has led to movements formed by families trying to find missing family members post-Brethren joining.

North Korea remains the world's most restrictive nation in which to practice Christianity

Report: North Korea worst for Christian persecution

By Christopher Snyder

Heard on Fox

Published January 08, 2014

FoxNews.com

North Korea remains the world's most restrictive nation in which to practice Christianity, according to the 2014 World Watch List released by Open Doors, a nonprofit organization helping persecuted Christians worldwide. The hermit kingdom is at the top of the rankings for the 12th consecutive year.

The list is compiled of countries where Christians face the most pressure and violence. Other nations included are Somalia, Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan and Iran.

In an interview with Fox News’ Lauren Green, Dr. David Curry, president and CEO of Open Doors USA, said in North Korea, “it’s very dangerous to identify yourself as a Christian.”

North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un’s absolute rule over the country and the lack of accurate information coming out of Pyongyang makes it difficult to know exactly how the Christian community is treated.

“In some countries there are some freedoms and violence against Christians is noted in news media … in North Korea the control is total,” said Curry. “Reports that have been getting out that have been identified and confirmed by the U.N. about what is happening to Christians, the kinds of torture that are happening to them … is absolutely inhumane.”

Curry said Kim’s regime might feel threatened by people in North Korea practicing Christianity.

“There’s a weird theocracy that’s been developed over three generations … that’s is especially fearful of any sort of spirituality or personal faith that would run contrary to the fact Kim Jong-Un [and his predecessors] … consider themselves Gods,” said Curry.

Satan Statue Design In Oklahoma Joins Christian, Atheist, Satanist Monument Battle

A Satan statue design is a Satanist monument proposed by Oklahoma Satanists to compete with the Ten Commandments and the Atheist monument already on government grounds around the United States.

As previously reported by The Inquisitr, the designers of the Atheist monument readily admitted it was an attack on the Ten Commandments monument. They even said they’d take the Atheist monument down if the Ten Commandments was removed.

Atheist leader Dave Silverman almost predicted the Satan statue design when he opined on what the Atheist monument meant for the future:

“So if the Christians are allowed to put up the 10 Commandments and we’re allowed to put up a monument to secularism and the separation of church and state, yes the Muslims should be allowed to put up a monument to pedophile prophets and yes, the yes, a Scientologist. Yes, they should all be allowed to put up whatever they want because this is a free speech zone.”

Oklohoma’s Satanic Temple spokesman Lucien Greaves says Satan will be depicted as Baphomet, which has a goat body, horns, and wings. They plan on building the Satanist monument next to the Ten Commandments. The Satan statue design calls for smiling children next to a pentagram throne, which is said to make the Satanist monument functional:

“The monument has been designed to reflect the views of Satanists in Oklahoma City and beyond. The statue will also have a functional purpose as a chair where people of all ages may sit on the lap of Satan for inspiration and contemplation.”

If you happen to recognize the name Lucien Greaves from somewhere, it’s because he officiated the Satanist Westboro Church “pink mass” that was alleged to have turned Fred Phelps’ dead mother into a lesbian. And while Greaves obviously wasn’t too serious about the pink mass, he says the group is serious about Satan statue design and has already raised almost half of the $20,000 necessary to build the Satanist monument.

This request for a Satanist monument in OK came alongside pleas from Hindus, an animal rights groups, and an atheist group wanting to mock Intelligent Design with a Flying Spaghetti Monster monument. As such, the Oklahoma Capitol Preservation Commission is putting a hold on any requests until a lawsuit by the ACLU concerning the Ten Commandments monument is settled.

Do you think the Satan statue design should be allowed on government grounds because of free speech and religious freedom laws in the United States?

Pope Francis used to be a bar bouncer

Pope Francis reveals he used to work as a bar bouncer

Published December 03, 2013

FoxNews.com

Nov. 27, 2013: Pope Francis waves as he conducts his weekly general audience at St. Peter's Square at the Vatican.Reuters

It’s common knowledge that St. Peter guards the pearly gates. But what many people might not know is Pope Francis used to guard the door at a bar in Argentina.

That’s right: Pope Francis used to be a bar bouncer.

The 76-year-old pontiff disclosed his previous vocation in a parish visit to the church of San Cirillo Alessandrino in a working-class neighborhood on the outskirts of Rome on Sunday, the Catholic News Service reported.

The nugget from Francis’ past, when he used to be known as Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was disclosed during a four-hour conversation, in which the pope also mentioned he used to sweep floors and run tests in a chemical laboratory as a teenager.

The anecdote is yet another example of Francis’ growing reputation as a “pope of the people.” Since ascending to the papacy in March, Francis has eschewed such trappings as the Popemobile, washed the feet of prisoners and has shown a penchant for showing up unannounced wherever the faithful gather.

Last month, photos of Francis cradling and kissing the head of a man covered with tumors went viral, providing a powerful image of a pope dedicated to helping the poor.

In turn, Francis’ popularity has sparked renewed interest in the church. A recent survey by sociologist Massimo Introvigne of Catholic clergy in Italy noted an increase in the numbers attending Mass and confession since Francis’ election. In Italy alone, more than 100,000 are “returning,” often after decades of non-attendance.

Time to Swoon! The 10 Hottest Guys of 2013

These hot guys (Ryan! Liam!) made 2013 a super sexy year to remember

By Teresa Roca - December 30, 2013

Photo Credit: Getty Images

From Miley Cyrus' racy performances to the arrival of Prince George and North West to Beyonce's super-secret album, celebrities certainly didn't make this year a boring one.

But what was our favorite part of 2013? Seeing all of the attractive Hollywood hunks, of course!

From Ryan Gosling to Liam Hemsworth, these stars not only had successful years, but they also looked better than ever!

Check out the 10 hottest guys who made 2013 extra special.

Channing Tatum

Clemens Bilan/Getty Images for Sony Pictures

Channing heated up the big screen with the hits Side Effects, G.I. Joe Retaliation and White House Down. But fans weren't the only ones to be starstuck over the hunky new dad. Stars like Olivia Munn, Jamie Foxx, Miley Cyrus and Jimmy Kimmel paid homage to the actor's sex appeal and overall awesomeness in the laugh out loud music video, "(I Wanna) Channing All Over Your Tatum.”

Adam Levine

Stefanie Keenan/Getty Images for Grey Goose Vodka

Whether it was his soothing voice that led to countless radio hits, his flawless skills as a coach on The Voice or his perfect physique, the Maroon 5 singer snagged People's Sexiest Man Alive for 2013. After looking at a compilation of Adam's shirtless photos, we couldn't agree more with their decision!

Justin Timberlake

D Dipasupil/FilmMagic

Fans could not get enough of Justin in 2013. His hit album, The 20/20 Experience, reached No. 1 on the charts, selling 968,000 albums in its first week. His guest spot with Jimmy Fallon on Saturday Night Live last week scored the show's highest ratings in two years. Justin even starred in Inside Llewyn Davis (in theaters now), which is already receiving Oscar buzz. Aside from a hands-down successful year, you have to admit that he looks pretty darn sexy in a suit and tie.

Ryan Gosling

James Devaney/WireImage

Although his flicks Gangster Squad and Only God Forgives were box-office bombs, that didn't stop the Internet from continuing to gush over the sexy star. Google Chrome released an extension called Hey Girl, which allows viewers to transform images into photos of Ryan. In addition to Hey Girl memes and Feminist Ryan Gosling, a new meme was created this year: Ryan Gosling Won't Eat His Cereal. With Ryan taking a break from acting, these memes will certainly ease the pain.

Ian Somerhalder

Ben Gabbe/Getty Images

Not only does the blue-eyed star play the irresistible bad boy Damon Salvatore on The Vampire Diaries (where we get to enjoy his incredible abs), but he is also quite charitable. Nothing could be hotter than a do-gooder! The actor began the Ian Somerhalder Foundation in 2010 to inform people on the importance of protecting the environment and animals. Ian also made headlines this year with his split from actress and costar Nina Dobrev. It may have broken the hearts of fans everywhere, but at least Ian is now back on the market!

Taye Diggs

David Livingston/Getty Images

Whether big or small, Taye can spice up any screen! The sizzling star sadly split from wife Idina Menzel, but continued to make us laugh (and leave little to the imagination) on the hit series New Girl. Taye also returned to the big screen in The Best Man Holiday, which left us wanting more of the sexy star!

Leonardo DiCaprio

George Pimentel/WireImage

Leonardo broke the hearts of many when he announced his "long, long break" from acting in January (what happened to "never let go," Jack?!), but luckily fans were able to enjoy Leonardo for another year with two flicks that topped the box office charts, The Great Gatsby and The Wolf of Wall Street (in theaters now). Between his baby blues and sweet smile, we can't wait for Leo to sizzle on the big screen (and the red carpet) again!

Liam Hemsworth

D Dipasupil/FilmMagic

Chris Hemsworth made our list last year, and now the honor is going to the other hot Hemsworth! Liam certainly made a name for himself in Hollywood this year -- and it isn't only because of his amazing looks and rocky relationship with ex Miley Cyrus. The actor nailed roles in Love and Honor, Empire State, Paranoia and The Hunger Games: Catching Fire. Between his acting skills and good looks, we can't wait to see more of the handsome hunk. Eat your heart out, Miley!

Bradley Cooper

Venturelli/Getty Images for Bulgari

Two years after being announced People's Sexiest Man Alive, Bradley continues to make ladies swoon in his presence! Between his pearly whites, and the fact that he's a total momma's boy (aww!), fans can't get enough of the talented actor. Bradley and his wolf pack returned to the big screen this year for more crazy and hysterical antics in The Hangover Part III, while he teamed up with Jennifer Lawrence again in the buzzed about David O. Russell film Americam Hustle (also starring Christian Bale, Amy Adams and Jeremy Renner).

Idris Elba

Danny Martindale/WireImage

At 41, Idris is the oldest celebrity on our list, but that doesn't make him any less sexy! With memorable performances in Pacific Rim, Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom (which is receiving Oscar buzz), Thor: The Dark World and a recurring role in the series Luther, Idris is not only attractive, but also talented! And who doesn't love an English accent?

Saturday, December 7, 2013

U.S war veteran released by North Korea

North Korea has deported a United States veteran of the Korean War who had been detained in the country since October.

State news agency KCNA said Merrill Newman was expelled on “humanitarian grounds” after confessing to “crimes” in the 1950-53 war and “apologizing.”

BBC reports that Mr. Newman, 85, had been held on charges of “hostile acts” against the North, while visiting as a tourist.

The U.S State Department has welcomed the decision to free Mr. Newman, who has now arrived in Beijing.

“We are pleased that Mr. Merrill Newman has been allowed to depart the DPRK (North Korea) and re-join his family. We welcome the DPRK’s decision to release him,” said Marie Harf, a State Department spokeswoman.

“I’m very glad to be on my way home,” Mr. Newman told Japanese reporters after he arrived in the Chinese capital, Reuters news agency said.

“And I appreciate the tolerance the DPRK government has given to me to be on my way. I feel good, I feel good. I want to go home to see my wife.”

Last week, KCNA said Mr. Newman had ordered the deaths of North Korean soldiers and civilians in the Korean War.

Although Mr. Newman did serve during the Korean War, his family said he is the victim of mistaken identity.

This is brought to you by R4

Ibori’s UK lawyer questioned over alleged police bribery

Alleged to have hired private eyes to buy information from London Police

One of the counsels to Chief James Ibori, the jailed former governor of Delta State, has been arrested in London for allegedly attempting to pervert the course of justice in the money-laundering case that got the politician sent to prison.

Ian Timlin, a former litigation partner at City Law Firm Speechly Bircham, was held by Met anti-corruption detectives investigating the alleged bribery of police officers. The senior lawyer was arrested at his home in Kent on suspicion of conspiracy to corrupt a police officer, perverting the course of justice and money-laundering offences concerning Ibori.

The former governor was jailed last year for embezzlement after admitting stealing almost £50m, although the true amount may have been many times greater.

The Independent of London reported that during a long-running Scotland Yard investigation into his business affairs, Mr Ibori hired the law firm, Speechly Bircham, which specialises in tax advice for non-domiciled people living in the UK. Mr Timlin, who until 2010 was a partner at Speechly Bircham, then hired RISC Management, a controversial private detective agency embroiled in the scandal that erupted after the murder of the former Russian spy Alexander Litvinenko.

Leaked documents, according to the newspaper, suggest RISC, run by former Met Police officers, gained inside information into the ongoing investigation of Ibori and that the agency paid serving detectives £20,000 for intelligence that helped the convict’s defence lawyers. One £5,000 payment was allegedly made to a source for information relating to “forthcoming interviewing strategy to be deployed by police”.

Mr Timlin was arrested in April and it is understood police have retrieved internal documents from the law firm. Keith Hunter, the boss of RISC Management, has also been arrested as part of the investigation, which was triggered in May 2012 when newspapers revealed the Met had done nothing since a whistleblower passed police leaked documents revealing the alleged payments to officers many months before.

Like all current investigations into damaging allegations of police corruption, the long-running inquiry has inched its way tortuously forward, which prevents the media from reporting the full details. Both Mr Hunter and Mr Timlin deny the allegations and are on bail.

Mr Timlin qualified as a solicitor in 1991 and was a partner for 15 years in a number of London law firms before he left Speechly Bircham in 2010. He is now legal director of the Long Port Group, a property development company in the tax haven of Guernsey, and has been involved in the construction of a sports resort in Brazil.

RISC, which is also used by law firm Mischon de Reya, has links to Russian oligarchs in London. It was first established as ISC Global in October 2000 by a lawyer called Stephen Curtis. He died in a helicopter accident in 2004, a crash that his family claimed was highly suspicious.

In 2006, it emerged the former Russian spy Alexander Litvinenko visited RISC’s central London offices shortly before he died of polonium poisoning, and traces of the radioactive substance were found at the premises.

A spokesperson for Speechly Bircham said: “Given an arrest was made some months ago and there has since been no charge, it would be inappropriate for us to comment. Suffice to say that we have assisted the police with their enquiries.”

Mr Hunter said: “RISC management does not need to pay serving police officers for confidential information as we pride ourselves on our ability to provide positive solutions and accurate information legitimately.” Mr Timlin and the Long Port Group did not respond to requests for comment.

At Ibori’s sentencing, prosecutor Sasha Wass said: “From the moment he was elected he set about enriching himself at the expense of some of the poorest people in the world.” She told the court he was “effectively a thief in government house.”

This is brought to you by R4