Jordan Sekulow

Jordan Sekulow <a href="http://www.oneplace.com/ministries/jordan-sekulow-show/">Jordan Sekulow</a> is the Executive Director for the ACLJ. He is the host of the Jordan Sekulow Show, a syndicated radio program that provides cutting analysis of today's political and legal landscape. http://aclj.org/jordan-sekulow Public Outcry Over Saeed’s Case Making a Difference American  Pastor Saeed Abedini’s family was able to see him today during a prison authorized visitation, once again confirming that Pastor Saeed – a U.S. citizen – was  indeed released from solitary confinement and returned to the general political prison population. Despite his suffering, Pastor Saeed’s faith continues to keep him alive.  Other prisoners reportedly told Saeed’s family that when Pastor Saeed was released from solitary confinement, “he was glowing,” and that miraculously he “was filled with more joy and peace after solitary” than he was before solitary. Pastor Saeed’s wife, Naghmeh, attributes Pastor Saeed’s spirits to the thousands of people around the world praying for her husband. We have heard reports that numerous prisoners and their families are appreciative of the international outcry regarding Pastor Saeed because it is having a significant impact for many prisoners of conscience in Iran.     The hundreds of thousands of people around the world who are standing up, demanding Pastor Saeed’s freedom, are having a tremendous impact in Iran.  It is critical that the pressure continue to be brought to bear on Iran. Pastor Saeed, who turned 33 last week, continues to suffer from untreated internal bleeding – the result of beatings he received in prison.  It is critical that everyone’s voice be heard today. Join the hundreds of thousands of people worldwide who have signed the petition and written Pastor Saeed letters at <a href="http://savesaeed.com" target="_blank">SaveSaeed.org</a>.  Have your voice heard.  It is working. Mon, 13 May 2013 22:00:00 GMT http://aclj.org/iran/public-outcry-over-saeed-case-making-difference Kermit Gosnell and the Abortion Movement: In Defense of the Defenseless As abortionist Kermit Gosnell’s murder trial is in the hands of the jury, abortion’s defenders are out in full force to spin and deflect the attention this trial has garnered from abortion in a broader sense. Recently we wrote an On Faith column explaining how the horror of the Gosnell trial exposed the truth about abortion and the illogic of those who believe that what Gosnell is accused of doing to those infants after they were born would be perfectly acceptable if they were still in the womb. The backlash from the pro-abortion side was swift. Numerous abortion supporters commented that Gosnell’s trial was about mere “medical malpractice,” not abortion or murder. . . . <a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/on-faith/wp/2013/05/09/kermit-gosnell-and-the-abortion-movement-in-defense-of-the-defenseless/" target="_blank">Continue reading this article, co-authored by ACLJ attorney Matthew Clark, on Jordan's Washington Post blog, </a><a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/on-faith/wp/2013/05/09/kermit-gosnell-and-the-abortion-movement-in-defense-of-the-defenseless/" target="_blank">Religious Right Now</a>. Thu, 09 May 2013 19:29:00 GMT http://aclj.org/planned-parenthood/kermit-gosnell-abortion-movement-defense-defenseless American Pastor Saeed Released from Solitary Confinement, Returned to General Prison Population After more than a week, including his 33rd birthday, spent in the “small dark hole” of <a href="http://aclj.org/iran/american-pastor-saeed-abedini-thrown-into-solitary-confinement-in-iran-health-deteriorating" target="_self">solitary confinement</a>, American Pastor Saeed Abedini has once again been returned to the main prison population in Ward 350 of Evin Prison. Our sources in Iran have confirmed that Iranian authorities returned Pastor Saeed to his cell in Ward 350 yesterday. This is a critical development and does raise hope after a very discouraging week. It was believed that Pastor Saeed may have faced 20 days or more in solitary confinement. Pastor Saeed described the first time he spent in solitary confinement, some 200 days ago when he was first imprisoned for his Christian faith, as some of the worst days he has ever faced. Days felt like years he said. The severity of his medical condition remains a concern as he began complaining of symptoms of kidney issues before he was placed in solitary confinement. Pastor Saeed, a U.S. citizen, had been confined to solitary since April 29th along with nine other prisoners in a retaliatory response to fellow prisoners’ protest of Iran’s lack of medical care for Pastor Saeed and others. It is unknown how many of the 10 prisoners that were placed in solitary confinement have been returned to the political prisoner ward of Evin. We are hopeful that Pastor Saeed’s early return to the general population of Ward 350 is a sign that international pressure on Iran is beginning to have an effect. Pastor Saeed’s wife, Naghmeh, responded: <blockquote> His release from solitary is a direct result of the multitudes praying. I am relieved my husband is out of solitary, but still am deeply concerned about Saeed's health. While this is a small victory, I am still demanding justice be done and that Saeed be released. </blockquote> More than 575,000 people from all across the world have signed a petition for his release. International media, world leaders, and governments including the European Union and United Nations have raised his case. Now, over 50,000 people have written him letters at <a href="http://SaveSaeed.org" target="_blank">SaveSaeed.org</a>. All of this has led to unparalleled pressure on the Iranian regime. The more pressure is placed on Iran – the more Iran is put on notice that the world is watching its unconscionable human rights abuses – the regime is forced to take action. We will keep you updated with new information as we are able. Thu, 09 May 2013 15:34:21 GMT http://aclj.org/iran/american-pastor-saeed-released-solitary-confinement-returned-general-prison-population Pastor Saeed’s Birthday in Chains for Christ It’s the worst birthday imaginable.  Not only is American Pastor Saeed Abedini imprisoned in one of Iran’s harshest prisons for his religious beliefs, he is spending his 33rd birthday in solitary confinement. Today, May 7th is Pastor Saeed’s birthday, and he is “celebrating” what should be a festive occasion, not with his wife and kids, but in the dark confines of what his wife Naghmeh describes as “<a href="http://aclj.org/iran/pastor-saeed-wife-disappointed-lack-support-us-government-saeed-solitary-confinement">a small dark whole</a>.” For 223 days, Pastor Saeed – a U.S. citizen – has had to face the harsh reality of one of the most oppressive and deadly places on earth, Evin Prison.  He has undergone beatings, physical and mental torture, and unending persecution all because of his Christian faith. Yesterday, the day before his birthday, Pastor Saeed’s father was again turned away by prison officials, denied the ability to see his son.  There are new fears that Pastor Saeed’s health – he has for months suffered untreated internal bleeding from beatings he sustained in prison – is worsening. Yet, through all of the abuse and torment he has endured at the hands of his Iranian captors, he remains resilient in his faith.  He concluded, his last <a href="http://aclj.org/iran/iranian-authorities-demand-american-pastor-saeed-recant-faith-christ">letter</a> – his last communication with the outside world: “Pastor Saeed Abedini, the servant and slave of Jesus Christ in chains, with a lot of joy to see you soon.”  His faith is keeping him alive. Naghmeh, Pastor Saeed’s wife – though she cannot see or speak to her husband – wrote him an emotional and compelling birthday message this week: <blockquote> My dearest friend and soul mate Saeed, As you turn 33 today, I am reminded of the previous years that we have celebrated this very special day together. Our house was always so full of joy and laughter as we rejoiced the day that you were born. Yet today, there is a deep piercing pain in my heart knowing that you will spend your birthday in solitary confinement, constrained to a small room, not knowing when it is day or night. Under constant torture and abuse by radicals who are trying to break you and have you deny your faith in Jesus. With tightness in my throat, pain in my heart, and tears streaming down my face...so very weak, I promise to stand strong in the strength of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ fighting with every strength of my being until you are united to our family again. I will be a voice, where you are being silenced. I will be hands and feet where you are being bound and in chains. That the whole world would know, that the whole world would hear that Jesus is Lord. We are so proud of you. Hang in there. Hold on tight to Jesus. You have many brothers and sisters praying for you and standing with you. Love Naghmeh </blockquote> Thousands of others have also engaged in a letter writing campaign for Pastor Saeed’s birthday.  To date, 52,501 letters have been written to Pastor Saeed at <a href="http://savesaeed.org">SaveSaeed.org</a>.  These letters show the impact that Pastor Saeed’s case is having in people’s lives.  One letter reads, “Your Message of forgiveness is an amazing Testimony and actually helped us realize there was some one in our life we needed to forgive, thank you.” We are in the process of literally printing out and delivering each one of these more than 50,000 letters to Evin Prison.  If you have not already done so, <a href="http://savesaeed.org">write Pastor Saeed a letter of hope and encouragement today</a>.  Let him know he is not forgotten.  Let the Iranian officials know that no one should be imprisoned because of their religious beliefs. Though his spends his birthday in the confines of a lonely, dark prison cell, he should know that hundreds of thousands of people all over the world are standing by his side, praying for him, and demanding Iran cease its human rights abuse and release him so he can be reunited with his  his family. Tue, 07 May 2013 13:15:43 GMT http://aclj.org/iran/pastor-saeed-birthday-chains-christ Pastor Saeed’s Wife “Disappointed” with Lack of Support from U.S. Government as Saeed Thrown in Solitary Confinement American Pastor Saeed Abedini’s wife, Naghmeh, is speaking out about being severely disappointed in the U.S. government’s lack of reaction to Iran’s escalation of its human rights abuses against her husband, a U.S. citizen. Iranian authorities have recently <a href="http://aclj.org/iran/american-pastor-saeed-abedini-thrown-into-solitary-confinement-in-iran-health-deteriorating" target="_self">thrown Pastor Saeed into solitary confinement</a>.  It is the second time he has been held in solitary confinement in Evin Prison, the first occurring immediately following his arrest.  Based on his first time in solitary confinement, Pastor Saeed told family members that days felt like years.  His health continues to worsen,  with new reports he is now experiencing kidney problems in addition to internal bleeding that has gone untreated for months Naghmeh recently appeared on Fox News to discuss the latest developments in her husband’s fate. “I can’t image one more day in that.  From what I heard from him, solitary is horrific,” she explained.  She continued, “It’s a small dark hole.” While Iran has escalated their abuse, Naghmeh is concerned that our own government is still not fully engaging.  She lamented: <blockquote> I am really disappointed in the way our government has handled this.  I really expect our President to step it up. . . . We try to protect U.S. citizens here who have committed horrific crimes against our government.  We protect their rights.  What about the rights of a U.S. citizen inside of Iran who is going through this because of his religious belief? . . . Even with Secretary Kerry speaking out, we had to fight for that for eight months. . . . If Fox News and ACLJ were not continually bringing this to light, it would be forgotten. </blockquote> Watch the entire interview above and take action for Pastor Saeed.  <a href="http://savesaeed.org" target="_blank">Write him a letter of encouragement and hope at SaveSaeed.org.</a> Wed, 01 May 2013 19:46:43 GMT http://aclj.org/iran/pastor-saeed-wife-disappointed-lack-support-us-government-saeed-solitary-confinement American Pastor Saeed Abedini Thrown into Solitary Confinement in Iran; Health Deteriorating Already badly weakened by months of beatings and torture that have resulted in internal bleeding, American Pastor Saeed Abedini, a U.S. citizen, is facing perhaps his most grave situation since his imprisonment last fall. Family members in Iran confirm that Pastor Saeed, along with nine other prisoners, have been placed in solitary confinement with new reports indicating that in addition to the severe internal bleeding he is experiencing, which has gone untreated, he is a now facing issues with his kidneys. We have been able to confirm that the horrible conditions in Evin Prison led Pastor Saeed and a number of prisoners in Ward 350 to sign a letter expressing to prison officials their concern about the lack of medical care received and the threats and harsh treatment facing family members who come to visit. The prisoners expressed their dissatisfaction in a peaceful, silent protest in an outside courtyard at the prison. That apparently prompted prison officials to retaliate, selecting ten of the prisoners and placing them in solitary confinement. Our sources indicate that Pastor Saeed is likely to be beaten again, in private, away from other witnesses and prisoners. At the same time, there's concern that his kidneys are no longer operating properly, the result of the internal injuries he has received over many months. Pastor Saeed has been told not to expect medical treatment or care for many months. And when family members showed up at prison today to visit Pastor Saeed, they were turned away and told he is no longer permitted to have visitors. This latest very troubling development has Pastor Saeed's wife, Naghmeh, extremely concerned: "Saeed has internal bleeding and now issues with his kidneys because of the beatings," said Naghmeh. "We believe that he is being beaten in solitary confinement. We have no way of finding out about his health. There will be no more visitations allowed and we will have no way of knowing how Saeed is doing. Saeed had previously told his family that when he was in solitary confinement in the past, that was the hardest time in his life. That every hour was like one year and that he was losing his memory and his health was deteriorating quickly. Please pray for his health and healing. Pray for his release. Pray that the Lord would use this for His Glory and salvation of many." We spoke with a former Iranian political prisoner, who spent 15 years in an Iranian prison, including some time at Evin, about Pastor Saeed’s solitary confinement.  He told us, “Saeed was most likely on a list of prisoners the prison wants to break.”  He explained that the prison officials keep a list of prisoners who have stood their ground refusing to repent of their faith or confess to their crimes. “Prison officers use any prison resistance, regardless of whether the prisoner was involved in the resistance, to target and break those prisoners on their list,” he said.   “They took Saeed to solitary confinement to put pressure on his belief and faith.  This shows that Saeed has stood strong for his faith.” The latest developments underscore the brutality of Iran's continued violation of human rights – imprisoning, torturing, and refusing medical care for Pastor Saeed merely because of his faith. This treatment not only violates international law, but is abhorrent. We know that a tactic used by the Iranians is to place prisoners in solitary confinement in an effort to get them to give into the demands of prison officials - in Pastor Saeed’s case, to recant his Christian faith. He continues to refuse to do so, and the only thing sustaining Pastor Saeed at this time is his Christian faith. We know that continues to provide him with strength and comfort during this most challenging time.    All of this is unfolding just days before Pastor Saeed turns 33 on May 7th. More than 42,000 people already have sent Pastor Saeed a birthday greeting - letters that we are personally delivering to Evin Prison. Letters of prayer, support, and encouragement. They are needed now more than ever. Please take a moment, if you haven't done so already, and <a href="http://savesaeed.org/" target="_blank">send a letter to Pastor Saeed today</a>, his 215th day of imprisonment.   Mon, 29 Apr 2013 14:10:00 GMT http://aclj.org/iran/american-pastor-saeed-abedini-thrown-into-solitary-confinement-in-iran-health-deteriorating Beaten American Pastor Saeed Prays for America in Wake of Boston Bombings as Medical Care for Him Delayed American Pastor Saeed Abedini, a U.S. citizen who is suffering from serious injuries at the hands of his Iranian captors, told family members today he is praying for America in the wake of the Boston Marathon bombings. During a brief visit with family members today, Pastor Saeed reported that he is suffering intense pain as a result  of untreated internal bleeding – injuries he sustained from repeated beatings and torture in Iran. Iranian prison authorities have told Pastor Saeed that he will not receive any medical treatment for his injuries for another two months. Even as his medical condition worsens, Pastor Saeed told family members he had heard about the terrorist bombings in Boston on the prison radio, expressed his concern, and told them he is praying for the victims and their families during this very challenging time for our nation. Pastor Saeed became an American citizen on March 11, 2010, and <a href="http://aclj.org/iran/taking-pastor-saeeds-case-congress" target="_blank">his wife told a Congressional panel</a> last month that becoming an American citizen was one of the proudest moments in his life. In another example of the emotional and physiological torture Iran has imposed upon Pastor Saeed, he was <a href="http://aclj.org/iran/beatings-intensify-american-pastor-saeed-condition-worsens-in-iranian-prison" target="_blank">recently</a> taken to a hospital only to be turned away and returned to his prison cell untreated. He was then beaten again. He also explained that during the course of his trial and intense interrogations Iranian authorities continually accused him of engaging in a “soft war” against the regime through his Christian activities. Pastor Saeed has never been involved in political activities.  His heart has been for the people of Iran, and he has always cooperated with Iranian authorities.  He kept his promise to stop working with house churches and worked with Iranian authorities on a non-religious orphanage. Iran continues its violation of human rights – imprisoning, torturing, and refusing medical care for Pastor Saeed merely because of his faith. His faith is clearly keeping him alive, giving him the strength to endure this persecution.  As Pastor Saeed prays for us, pray for him, and let him know he is not forgotten.  Join tens of thousands of others in writing Pastor Saeed a letter at SaveSaeed.org for his May 7th birthday. You write the letter; we will deliver it.  Let this persecuted pastor know you care and are praying for his freedom.  It can make a tremendous difference.  <a href="http://savesaeed.org/" target="_blank">Help strengthen Pastor Saeed’s spirits</a> and let his captors know the world is watching Iran. Mon, 22 Apr 2013 22:17:00 GMT http://aclj.org/iran/beaten-american-pastor-saeed-prays-for-america-in-wake-of-boston-bombings-as-medical-care-for-him-delayed Beatings Intensify: American Pastor Saeed's Condition Worsens in Iranian Prison It began last week. American Pastor Saeed Abedini, who is serving an eight-year prison term in Iran because of his Christian faith, has been suffering from internal bleeding for months - injuries received from the beatings in prison. In what could only be viewed as a cruel act of psychological abuse, <a href="http://aclj.org/iran/american-pastor-saeed-denied-medical-care-not-forgotten" target="_blank">prison officials</a> took Pastor Saeed to a hospital last week - only to be turned away - and brought back to Evin prison without receiving medical treatment for his internal bleeding. Now, comes word out of Iran, that the beatings and physical abuse are intensifying. Pastor Saeed reported today that last week he was severely beaten the same day the prison officials took him to the hospital. During the weekly prison visit today, Pastor Saeed's family reported that his physical condition is worsening - seeing first-hand the marks and symptoms left by the recent beating. These beatings and the internal injuries are causing Pastor Saeed frequent fainting spells.  Iranian officials are telling Pastor Saeed it could be an additional two months before he will receive medical treatment. Such a delay is inhumane and a gross violation of Iran’s international obligations.  In addition to refusing to give Pastor Saeed the medical care he needs, it now appears authorities are stepping up their physical abuse and psychological torture. Pastor Saeed reported that cellmates, who appear to have connections to the Iranian intelligence police, recently threatened they would suffocate Pastor Saeed in his sleep, making his death look like an accident.  The daily threat that his life could be taken by his internal injuries or by the hands of cellmates, weighs heavily on Pastor Saeed.    These troubling developments are of grave concern to Pastor Saeed's wife, Naghmeh, who lives with their two children in the U.S. "I can not express in words how concerned I am about Saeed's physical and mental health," Naghmeh said. "He is now continually attacked and threatened. The Iranian government should know that we are watching and aware of what they are doing to Saeed inside Evin prison. We need to speak louder until Saeed is home safely on US soil." That is exactly what we are doing at the ACLJ. In addition to working here at home and around the world to secure his freedom, we are publicizing his story – putting a global media spotlight on his plight – applying international pressure to Iran. The truth is the world is watching and rejects the continued abuse and torture of Pastor Saeed, a U.S. citizen. Pastor Saeed has spoken often about the beatings and abuse he suffers at the hands of his captors. In a <a href="http://aclj.org/iran/pastor-saeed-after-beatings-torture-did-not-recognize-myself" target="_blank">recent letter from his prison cell</a>, Pastor Saeed wrote that he cannot even recognize himself after all the beatings and torture he has endured: “My hair was shaven, under my eyes were swollen three times what they should have been, my face was swollen, and my beard had grown.” Prison officials want one thing: Pastor Saeed to <a href="http://aclj.org/iran/iranian-authorities-demand-american-pastor-saeed-recant-faith-christ" target="_blank">recant</a> his faith in Christ. And, while they continue to try and get him to do that, Pastor Saeed’s faith remains strong - a faith that is clearly keeping him alive. We ask that you continue to pray for Pastor Saeed. At the same time, thanks to the more than 33,000 people who have already sent <a href="http://aclj.org/iran/thousands-send-message-pastor-saeed-not-forgotten" target="_blank">letters of support</a> to Pastor Saeed. If you haven't done so yet, please take a moment and craft a letter of prayer and support for this hostage in Iran. You can send a letter by going to <a href="http://savesaeed.org/" target="_blank">SaveSaeed.org</a>.   Mon, 15 Apr 2013 18:10:00 GMT http://aclj.org/iran/beatings-intensify-american-pastor-saeed-condition-worsens-in-iranian-prison Iranian Authorities Demand American Pastor Saeed Recant Faith in Christ Iranian officials are now threatening American Pastor Saeed Abedini that he will be held longer than his eight-year sentence unless he recants his faith. We have just obtained a new letter from Pastor Saeed, dated March 9th, where he talks about the humiliation and psychological torture he undergoes on a daily basis. In this new letter, he writes: <blockquote> “Deny your faith in Jesus Christ and return to Islam or else you will not be released from prison. We will make sure you are kept here even after your 8 year sentence is finished.” These are the threats that prison officials throw at me. My response to them is <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+8%3A35-39&version=NKJV" target="_blank">Romans 8:35-39</a>. The reality of Christian living is that difficulties or problems do arise in our lives. Persecution and difficulties are not new occurrences, but are seen often in the Christian life.  It is through the suffering and tribulations that we are to enter the Kingdom of God. </blockquote> He closes the letter: "Pastor Saeed Abedini, the servant and slave of Jesus Christ in chains, with a lot of joy to see you soon. Evin Prison 9th March 2013." It is clear that Pastor Saeed’s faith is what is keeping him alive – sustaining him – as the mental and physical abuse he suffers at the hands of the brutal Islamic regime weakens his body. He is being ordered to deny Christ, yet his faith holds strong.  This is why tens of thousands of people from all over the world are writing letters to Pastor Saeed for his upcoming birthday on May 7th. Letters of prayer and support. Pastor Saeed is refusing to deny Christ.  We must let him know that we will never forget him and will never stop working for his release. Join the over 20,000 others who have already done so, and <a href="http://savesaeed.org" target="_blank">write a letter to Pastor Saeed at SaveSaeed.org</a>.  This has already quickly become one of the largest letter writing campaigns ever. Pastor Saeed’s wife Naghmeh and I discussed the importance of this letter writing campaign and the torment he faces on a daily basis today on Fox News (above) and CBN’s the 700 Club (below). <iframe title="YouTube video player" width="460" height="279" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/59B-kivNNoQ?wmode=opaque&autoplay=0&rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" id="yt-player" wmode="Opaque"></iframe> Wed, 10 Apr 2013 23:43:00 GMT http://aclj.org/iran/iranian-authorities-demand-american-pastor-saeed-recant-faith-christ American Pastor Saeed Again Denied Medical Care But He is Not Forgotten It has been almost a month since Iranian authorities promised Pastor Saeed Abedini, a U.S. citizen imprisoned in Iran for his Christian faith,  that he would receive medical treatment.  He has undergone months of beatings and abuse at the hands of his brutal Iranian captors, which has led to dangerous internal bleeding. Today, we have learned that he has again been refused medical treatment.  Our sources in Iran have confirmed that while Pastor Saeed was indeed taken to a hospital, he was not admitted for treatment. Allegedly, the specialist he was to see was not available, and rather than having one of the many doctors at the hospital treat his life-threatening internal bleeding, prison officials returned Pastor Saeed to Evin Prison without receiving any medical treatment. The situation surrounding Pastor Saeed’s deteriorating health and refused medical treatment is grave.  It is further evidence of the horrific human rights abuses he has undergone.  We are extremely disappointed that Pastor Saeed was literally on the doorstep of the lifesaving medical treatment he so desperately needs only to be again denied care. While news that the prison authorities took Pastor Saeed to a hospital is a positive step, Pastor Saeed was ultimately denied necessary medical care.  We call on the Iranian authorities to uphold their promise and immediately ensure Pastor Saeed is given private medical care to treat his internal bleeding. We were also informed that Pastor Saeed’s case has been transferred to Branch 36 of the Revolutionary Appeals Court. As we have told you, an appeal in the Iranian court system reflects an uphill battle with no guarantee or certainty that the court will even truly consider, much less overturn, Pastor Saeed’s sentence.  With this development comes negative news that court officials again denied him bail. As we told you last week, we have developed a new global strategy that will give you a unique opportunity to have your voice heard in a powerful way – taking our public advocacy for Pastor Saeed a step further. More than 550,000 individuals from 180 countries around the world have signed the petition to #SaveSaeed.  You have spoken out for Saeed.  Now you can speak to Pastor Saeed. The ACLJ has obtained the mailing address for Pastor Saeed in Evin Prison.  We have developed a way for you to write him a letter. Pastor Saeed’s 33rd birthday is May 7th, and we would like to send him encouraging messages from thousands of concerned individual’s around the world.  We want Pastor Saeed to know that he is not forgotten and thousands upon thousands of people are fighting for his freedom. It is also an important opportunity to let Iran know that we will not forget about this persecuted pastor.  Iranian officials will be reviewing and paying attention to these letters.  They will feel the incredible pressure of the world community calling for Pastor Saeed’s release. <a href="http://savesaeed.org" target="_blank">Go to SaveSaeed.org, and send Pastor Saeed a message today.</a> We have prepared suggested language for you to use, but you can also personalize your letter.  It’s simple. You write the letter, and we’ll deliver it. Now, as we know Iran will be paying attention, it is important that we not say anything that could be harmful to Pastor Saeed’s case.  Statements against Iran or specific references to outside organizations or churches could be harmful.  But please let him know you are thinking about him, that you are praying for him, and that you want to see him released to his family. Let Pastor Saeed know he is not forgotten, and let Iran know the world is watching. <a href="http://savesaeed.org" target="_blank">Send your letter at SaveSaeed.org.</a>  Click the tab at the top to write Saeed a letter. Mon, 08 Apr 2013 17:15:33 GMT http://aclj.org/iran/american-pastor-saeed-denied-medical-care-not-forgotten Fight to Free American Pastor Saeed “Gaining Momentum” Pastor Saeed’s story continues to spread as new outlets cover his story.  Recently, CNN interviewed Pastor Saeed’s wife and I (which you can watch above), and now <a href="http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2013/04/04/iran-pastors-behind-bars/2053187/" target="_blank">USA Today</a> is running an in-depth piece on his persecution in Iran. <blockquote> Efforts to win the release of an American pastor held in a notorious Iranian prison got a boost from comments by Secretary of State John Kerry that gave a nod to U.S. allies to quietly intervene, the pastor's wife and supporters say. Saeed Abedini, 32, a native of Iran who became a naturalized American citizen in 2010, is serving an eight-year sentence. Iranian authorities said he threatened the country's national security by helping to found "house churches" for evangelical Christians in Iran, said Jordan Sekulow, executive director of the American Center for Law and Justice, which represents Abedini's wife, Naghmeh. Kerry's statement gave "a kind of green light" to U.S. allies that have diplomatic relations with Iran to push Iran to release Abedini or get him medical treatment, Sekulow said. "Since the Kerry statement, that work is finally beginning to be done. It's a good sign." </blockquote> As USA Today noted, the “movement to free him is gaining momentum.” Despite the fact that we know Pastor Saeed’s trial was a sham, preventing him and his attorney from attending the second day as his trial continued in secret, Iran blatantly distorts this fact.  The <a href="http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2013/04/04/iran-pastors-behind-bars/2053187/" target="_blank">article notes</a>: <blockquote> Alireza Miryousefi, spokesman for the Iranian mission to the United Nations, said Abedini was tried as any Iranian citizen with a competent legal defense. He did not respond to a question about how Abedini's behavior threatened the Iranian state. </blockquote> Yet, the fact that Iran’s mission to the U.N. is acknowledging his trial and conviction is a positive development as we have also learned that Iran’s mission requested Iran’s top appeals court officials to review Pastor Saeed’s case. Representative Chris Smith (NJ) told <a href="http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2013/04/04/iran-pastors-behind-bars/2053187/" target="_blank">USA Today</a>: <blockquote> “No administration, even dictatorships, wants to be subjected to any kind of embarrassment," Smith said. "When issues are prioritized by the United States, it makes a difference. ... It works with radical Islamic regimes. It worked with the Soviets and with Nazi Germany under Adolf Hitler." </blockquote> Congressman Smith is exactly right, and it is why we are not letting up the pressure.  The radical Islamic Republic of Iran cannot be trusted until it shows a willingness to cease violating this U.S. citizen’s human rights and release him to his family in America. As I stated, Pastor Saeed has written that he is not getting the same medical attention as other inmates simply because he is a Christian, because to them, he is unclean. As his wife, Naghmeh, <a href="http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2013/04/04/iran-pastors-behind-bars/2053187/" target="_blank">stated</a>, “Some days I'm afraid if we don't move fast enough, he will lose his life there.” We must continue fighting for Pastor Saeed’s freedom.  Time is of the essence. Next week we will be beginning a new international campaign where you will have an opportunity to share your support not only about but to Pastor Saeed.  Learn more about this new effort <a href="http://aclj.org/iran/pressure-working-next-steps-fight-pastor-saeed-freedom" target="_self">here</a>, and continue reading the rest of the USA Today article <a href="http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2013/04/04/iran-pastors-behind-bars/2053187/" target="_blank">here</a>. Sun, 07 Apr 2013 00:12:54 GMT http://aclj.org/iran/fight-free-american-pastor-saeed-gaining-momentum Angry Atheists Lose Fight to Tear Down Ground Zero Cross “<a data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.cnn.com/2013/03/29/us/new-york-911-museum-cross/index.html">We are angry </a>. . . .” This was the reaction of the <a data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.cnn.com/2013/03/29/us/new-york-911-museum-cross/index.html">president of American Atheists</a> last week upon learning that his organization’s lawsuit to tear down the Ground Zero Cross and remove it from the National 9/11 Memorial and Museum had been thrown out by a federal judge. The news came just as these atheists were holding their <a data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/on-faith/american-atheists-wrestles-with-its-cherished-grumpy-image/2013/03/29/a11d4934-98a1-11e2-b5b4-b63027b499de_story.html">annual convention over Easter weekend.</a> The two intersecting steel beams in the shape of a cross was <a data-xslt="_http" href="http://articles.washingtonpost.com/2011-09-08/politics/35418445_1_frank-silecchia-crane-operators-ground-zero">discovered among the wreckage from the devastating terrorists attacks of 9/11</a>. The Ground Zero Cross, as it came to be known, brought hope and solace to many of the first responders in the days following the collapse of the World Trade Center towers, and it became a symbol of healing for a nation deeply wounded by the attacks. . . . <a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/on-faith/why-the-ground-zero-cross-should-remain/2013/04/04/18f84346-9d48-11e2-9a79-eb5280c81c63_story.html" target="_blank">Continue reading this article, co-authored by ACLJ attorney Matthew Clark, on Jordan Sekulow's Washington Post blog, Religious Right Now; please register and leave a comment</a>. Thu, 04 Apr 2013 18:46:00 GMT http://aclj.org/american-heritage/angry-atheists-lose-fight-tear-down-ground-zero-ross Pressure is working – Next Steps in the Fight for Pastor Saeed’s Freedom American Pastor Saeed Abedini quickly approaches 200 days of imprisonment – false imprisonment – in Iran simply because of his religious beliefs. He underwent a sham trial.  He has sustained beatings, torture, and ridicule for his faith.  Doctors and nurses have refused to treat his internal bleeding – injuries sustained at the hands of his brutal captors. Yet, through it all, this persecuted American Pastor – a U.S. citizen - remains resilient in his faith and his knowledge that hundreds of thousands of people around the world will not stand idly by and allow this atrocity to occur. So much has been done for Pastor Saeed, yet there is more we can all be doing for this persecuted pastor. Over 550,000 individuals from over 180 countries around the world have signed the petition at <a href="http://savesaeed.org" target="_blank">SaveSaeed.org</a> demanding his freedom and urging international pressure on Iran for his release.  Congress has held a hearing urging the U.S. government’s full involvement in this case.  At the close of that hearing, Congressman Frank Wolf (VA), Chairman of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, <a href="http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/29990861/highlight/331576" target="_blank">said</a>, “The Commission will stay with [Pastor Saeed’s case] until the release takes place.” Media all around the world are highlighting Pastor Saeed’s plight.  Political and spiritual leaders in nations like <a href="http://aclj.org/iran/save-pastor-saeed-abedini-brazil-speaks" target="_self">Brazil</a> are speaking out.  The United Nations Special Rapporteur for Human Rights in Iran <a href="http://aclj.org/iran/eu-demands-pastor-saeed-release-un-where-us" target="_self">raised</a> Pastor Saeed’s case at the U.N. Human Rights Council.  The 27-member European Union demanded Iran release him at the U.N.  Australia has <a href="http://aclj.org/iran/state-department-makes-first-proactive-statement-calling-saeed-release-un" target="_self">spoken</a> out about his case.  The U.S. State Department spoke out at the U.N., and now Secretary of State John Kerry has <a href="http://aclj.org/iran/secretary-state-kerry-calls-pastor-saeeds-release" target="_self">demanded</a> his release. We know that all this pressure is having an effect on Pastor Saeed’s case.  Iran is listening.  We have been informed that Iran’s Mission to the U.N. ordered Iran’s top appeals court officials to review Pastor Saeed’s case.  Pastor Saeed was seen by an Iranian physician.  Iranian officials also recently <a href="http://aclj.org/iran/two-key-questions-regarding-pastor-saeed-iran-keep-promise-secretary-kerry-release" target="_self">promised</a> that Saeed would receive treatment for his internal bleeding.  This promise has yet to be honored, but we do know Iran is paying attention. Now is the time to increase the pressure on Iran. Next week is a big week in the fight to free Pastor Saeed, and we will be announcing a new effort in our public advocacy campaign for his freedom.  We will be employing a new global strategy that will give you a unique opportunity to have your voice heard in a powerful way. We're putting together and testing new web interfaces to help you engage, and we'll announce them as soon as they're ready. We will let you know how you can get involved in a new campaign that is certain to get the attention of those who are holding Pastor Saeed captive.  More details coming next week on how you can get involved in this new international effort to increase the pressure on Iran. At the same time, we  also expect to have new information about his medical condition, which continues to worsen because of the internal bleeding that has not yet been treated by medical professionals. More details to come next week. As always, we will continue to keep you informed.  Please continue to pray and share his story. Wed, 03 Apr 2013 19:33:22 GMT http://aclj.org/iran/pressure-working-next-steps-fight-pastor-saeed-freedom Pastor Saeed Abedini’s Holy Week Struggle For six months, Pastor Saeed Abedini, a U.S. citizen whose family we represent, has been imprisoned in one of Iran’s most brutal and deadly prisons because of his religious beliefs. And for the first time since his captivity, the U.S. government has made proactive statements calling on Iran to immediately release Pastor Saeed. This welcomed development occurred at the end of last week. First, on Thursday, <a href="http://geneva.usmission.gov/2013/03/22/respect-for-religious-diversity-is-an-essential-element-of-any-peaceful-society/" target="_blank">Ambassador Eileen Chamberlain Donahoe</a> presented remarks specifically citing Pastor Saeed’s case to the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva – the same venue where the <a href="http://aclj.org/iran/eu-demands-pastor-saeed-release-un-where-us" target="_self">U.S. government failed to specifically</a> address Pastor Saeed’s plight at a meeting earlier this month. . . . <a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/on-faith/pastor-saeed-abedinis-holy-week-struggle/2013/03/26/2ff2fe6c-963e-11e2-9e23-09dce87f75a1_story.html" target="_blank">Continue reading this article, co-authored by ACLJ attorney Matthew Clark, at Jordan's Washington Post blog, Religious Right Now, please register and leave a comment</a>. Wed, 27 Mar 2013 16:06:08 GMT http://aclj.org/iran/pastor-saeed-abedini-holy-week-struggle Six Months of Beatings, Torture, and Human Rights Violations of an American Pastor Six months ago today, members of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard took American Pastor Saeed Abedini into custody and incarcerated him in Evin Prison. The Revolutionary Guard burst into the home of Pastor Saeed’s parents, where Pastor Saeed had been on house arrest, and ripped him away to begin six months of what has now become an eight-year prison sentence in one of Iran’s most brutal prisons. For six months, Pastor Saeed has endured beatings, torture, psychological torment, and the misery of utter seclusion from his wife and two young children here in America. As his wife, Naghmeh, said on Fox News this morning, his internal bleeding has reached a “critical” stage. The immense torture and abuse Pastor Saeed has endured has taken a tremendous toll on his body, but has not quieted his spirits.  He wrote in a recent letter that after the constant beatings, “<a href="http://aclj.org/iran/pastor-saeed-after-beatings-torture-did-not-recognize-myself" target="_self">I did not recognize myself</a>.”  With amazing resilience of faith, he continued, “I forgave the prison doctor who did not listen to me and did not give me the medication that I needed. I forgave the interrogator who beat me.” Yet, this inhuman treatment at the hands of his Iranian captors has not gone unnoticed on the world stage.  Last week Secretary of State John Kerry <a href="http://aclj.org/iran/secretary-state-kerry-calls-pastor-saeeds-release" target="_self">released a statement</a>, demanding that Pastor Saeed – a U.S. citizen – receive  medical treatment and be “immediately released.” Over the past several weeks we have seen the international outcry on Pastor Saeed’s behalf raised to new levels.  Pastor Saeed’s case was raised by the United Nations Special Rapporteur for Human Rights in Iran.  The <a href="http://aclj.org/iran/eu-demands-pastor-saeed-release-un-where-us" target="_self">27-member state European Union</a> demanded his release and Australia called attention to his situation at the U.N. <a href="http://aclj.org/iran/save-pastor-saeed-abedini-brazil-speaks" target="_self">Leaders in Brazil</a> have also spoken out, demanding Iran, a nation with which they have diplomatic relations, release this Christian pastor. Now that America’s top diplomat has spoken out, demanding Iran release Pastor Saeed, it is imperative that the focus turn to Iran. The human rights abuses of this pastor, father, husband, and U.S. citizen must cease.  The call of over half a million people worldwide will continue to ring out until Iran releases Pastor Saeed and he is free to return to his wife and children in America. Please continue to pray and <a href="http://savesaeed.org/" target="_blank">sign the petition at SaveSaeed.org</a>. Tue, 26 Mar 2013 19:48:16 GMT http://aclj.org/iran/six-months-beatings-torture-human-rights-violations-american-pastor Secretary of State Kerry Calls for Pastor Saeed’s Release One day after the State Department’s <a href="http://aclj.org/iran/state-department-makes-first-proactive-statement-calling-saeed-release-un" target="_self">first proactive call</a> for American Pastor Saeed Abedini’s release at the United Nations, Secretary of State John Kerry has released his first public statement urging that Pastor Saeed – a U.S. citizen –  be “immediately released.” We welcome this first sign of engagement from Secretary Kerry and are eager to work alongside the State Department in fighting for the freedom of this U.S. citizen whose only “crime” is his Christian faith. On Monday, after the State Department’s refusal to appear before the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission of the U.S. House of Representatives last week, I appeared on <a href="http://aclj.org/jordan-sekulow-fox-news-state-department-demand-saeed-release" target="_self">Fox News and called upon</a> the State Department, and specifically Secretary Kerry, to make a statement by today.  Secretary Kerry’s statement does just that and is a tremendous step forward in our government’s involvement in securing Pastor Saeed’s freedom. Secretary of State Kerry’s statement <a href="http://www.state.gov/secretary/remarks/2013/03/206578.htm" target="_blank">provides</a>: <blockquote> I am deeply concerned about the fate of U.S. citizen Saeed Abedini, who has been detained for nearly six months and was sentenced to eight years in prison in Iran on charges related to his religious beliefs. I am disturbed by reports that Mr. Abedini has suffered physical and psychological abuse in prison, and that his condition has become increasingly dire. Such mistreatment violates international norms as well as Iran’s own laws. I am also troubled by the lack of due process in Mr. Abedini’s case and Iran’s continued refusal to allow consular access by Swiss authorities, the U.S. protecting power in Iran. I welcome reports that Mr. Abedini was examined by a physician and expect Iranian authorities to honor their commitment to allow Mr. Abedini to receive treatment for these injuries from a specialist outside the prison. The best outcome for Mr. Abedini is that he be immediately released. </blockquote> We're very pleased that Secretary of State Kerry made this bold and public statement calling on Iran to release Pastor Saeed.  By speaking out directly on behalf of Pastor Saeed, Secretary Kerry is taking our government’s most aggressive action yet in working to secure the freedom of this U.S. citizen. We also appreciate Secretary Kerry calling attention to Pastor Saeed’s worsening health. By becoming directly involved in this case, the U.S. sends a powerful message to Iran and our allies – our government will not stand by and abandon one of our own. By engaging Pastor Saeed’s case at the highest level, we’re hopeful that the State Department will now do everything in its power to secure the release of this U.S. citizen. Pastor Saeed’s wife, Naghmeh, who has been urging Secretary Kerry’s direct involvement, responded: <blockquote> I am very encouraged by Secretary Kerry's statement demanding Saeed's immediate release.  I am very happy to read that although Secretary Kerry has asked for medical treatment for Saeed, he does not stop there, and states that the best outcome is Saeed's immediate release. I hope to see more proactive actions from our government. Saeed and I are both proud to be Americans. I am hopeful that this will put more pressure on the Iranian government to act and free Saeed so he can return to our family in the United States. </blockquote> We are also hopeful that this statement is a public sign of increased engagement from the State Department.  Pastor Saeed’s freedom must be a top priority of the U.S. government. The voice of nearly <a href="http://aclj.org" target="_self">550,000 people worldwide</a> is being heard and is now being echoed by the top diplomat of the United States.  Pressure works. Now the focus turns to Iran.  The world is watching.  Iran must honor its promises, its international obligations, and the human rights of this U.S. citizen.  Iran must free Pastor Saeed. Fri, 22 Mar 2013 23:54:31 GMT http://aclj.org/iran/secretary-state-kerry-calls-pastor-saeeds-release State Department Makes First Proactive Statement Calling for Saeed’s Release at UN The U.S. State Department has made its first proactive statement on behalf of imprisoned U.S. citizen Saeed Abedini – a long overdue step in the right direction for the State Department. Yesterday, Ambassador Eileen Chamberlain Donahoe <a href="http://geneva.usmission.gov/2013/03/22/respect-for-religious-diversity-is-an-essential-element-of-any-peaceful-society/">presented remarks</a> before the U.N. Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland calling for Pastor Saeed’s release. She <a href="http://geneva.usmission.gov/2013/03/22/respect-for-religious-diversity-is-an-essential-element-of-any-peaceful-society/">stated</a>: <blockquote> We note with particular concern the worsening plight of religious minority communities in Iran, including Christians, Sunnis, Sufis, Jews, and Baha'i. Iranian officials continue to restrict these communities' freedom to practice their religious beliefs free from harassment, threat, or intimidation. Christian pastor Saeed Abedini's continuing harsh treatment at the hands of Iranian authorities exemplifies this trend. We repeat our call for the Government of Iran to release Mr. Abedini, and others who are unjustly imprisoned, and to cease immediately its persecution of all religious minority communities. The United States also repeats its call for the Government of Iran to provide without delay the urgent medical attention Mr. Abedini needs. </blockquote> The State Department's comments were presented in regard to the European Union's "Resolution on Freedom of Religion or Belief." The 27-member EU called for Pastor Saeed's release previously before the U.N. Human Rights Council. After first failing to present his case at the U.N. Human Right Council on a day focusing on human rights in Iran and refusing to appear before a congressional hearing focusing on Pastor Saeed's plight, this is the first proactive statement on Saeed's behalf by the State Department. This statement comes after a congressional hearing, a petition with nearly 550,000 signatures, constant media coverage, and multiple meetings with the State Department. It is a positive step in the right direction and very good news for Pastor Saeed's case. In conjunction with this statement to the U.N., Secretary of State John Kerry must issue a statement calling for Pastor Saeed's release and make Pastor Saeed's freedom a top priority for the State Department. Yes, the comments before the U.N. by the U.S. Ambassador are helpful. But the world is watching – Iran is watching. Like members of Congress, we continue to call on Secretary of State Kerry to make a public, proactive statement calling on Iran to release Pastor Saeed without delay. A statement from Secretary Kerry is needed and would send a powerful signal to Iran and to our allies. Time is of the essence for this U.S. citizen imprisoned and beaten in Iran. Fri, 22 Mar 2013 17:13:00 GMT http://aclj.org/iran/state-department-makes-first-proactive-statement-calling-saeed-release-un Pastor Saeed After Beatings and Torture: “I did not recognize myself” We have just obtained a new <a href="http://c0391070.cdn2.cloudfiles.rackspacecloud.com/pdf/a-letter-from-saeed-to-naghmeh-written-on-a-ripped-newspaper.pdf" target="_blank">letter</a> from imprisoned American Pastor Saeed Abedini written to his wife, Naghmeh, and his family in Iran.  In it, as in his previous two letters written inside the brutal Evin Prison, he documents the results of the continued abuse and torture he endures. This letter, likely written weeks ago, was received by his family just yesterday.  Written on the margins of scraps of newspaper, it is only the third letter Pastor Saeed has been able to get to his family in the past nearly 180 days of imprisonment and underscores the difficulty of getting any information from Iran about his condition. Pastor Saeed writes that he cannot even recognize himself after all the beatings and torture he has endured: “My hair was shaven, under my eyes were swollen three times what they should have been, my face was swollen, and my beard had grown.” After multiple beatings in interrogations at the hands of the radical Islamic regime, Pastor Saeed wrote that the nurse who was supposed to treat injured inmates told him “‘in our religion we are not suppose to touch you, you are unclean. . . . Christians are unclean!’”  He explained, “they would not give me the pain medication that they would give other prisoners because I was unclean.” This further confirms the fact that <a href="http://aclj.org/iran/two-key-questions-regarding-pastor-saeed-iran-keep-promise-secretary-kerry-release" target="_self">until this week</a>, Pastor Saeed had not received any medical treatment.  Because of the immense pressure from the international outcry of hundreds of thousands who have demanded his release, Iranian officials have promised him medical treatment, but this new letter sheds light on how difficult it will be to ensure that Iran keeps its word. In his letter, Pastor Saeed also shares how he has personally witnessed the toll his imprisonment has taken on his parents and how he longs to once again be with his wife and children.  He wrote, “You, my wife, on the other side of the world, alone with the kids. Alone and worried. My family here in Iran, being interrogated, tired and under so much pressure.” Even through all the persecution, Pastor Saeed remains resilient in his faith.  He writes of the importance of forgiveness, even to the point of forgiving the interrogators who beat him and the doctors who refused to treat him.  He says that we must all forgive, “So that we don’t become like the person we despised and who persecuted and tortured us.” He told of the power he has witnessed through forgiveness when after telling one of his persecutors to his face that he forgave him, the interrogator came to “respect” him.  “Love is as strong as death,” Pastor Saeed explained.  He concluded, “The Joy of the Lord is my strength.” This is another powerful testament of his Christian faith and his eternal hope that one day he will again be free to return to his wife and kids in America. It is critical that we redouble our efforts and do all we can as a nation for this imprisoned pastor, one of our own, a U.S. citizen. <a href="http://savesaeed.org/" target="_blank">Please continue to sign and share the petition to #SaveSaeed today.</a> You can read Pastor Saeed’s letter below: <blockquote> Hello to my dear love and wife, When I saw my family for the first time behind the glass walls, I could see my mom four meters away. As she approached me and saw my face, she broke down and could not get closer.  She was crying. I understood what she felt because after weeks of being in solitary confinement in Evin Prison, I also got to see my face in the mirror of an elevator that was taking me to the prison hospital.  I said hi to the person staring back at me because I did not recognize myself. My hair was shaven, under my eyes were swollen three times what they should have been, my face was swollen, and my beard had grown. It was a few days ago when one of my family members, with weary eyes and after running around for 15 weeks in trying to get me out of prison, said that my dad says every single day that “this week I will get my son out of prison.” But this does not happen and he is not able to get me out of prison.  In that instant I looked into the wrinkled and tired eyes of my dad. I could clearly see that he had ran around for months and he had no more strength left in him. It was very hard seeing my family in such a situation. You, my wife, on the other side of the world, alone with the kids. Alone and worried. My family here in Iran, being interrogated, tired and under so much pressure. With the loud voice of the prison guard, our visitation had ended and they put covers over our eyes and we returned to the dark room void of any natural sunlight. I started praying for my family. My dear Naghmeh. You are the love of my life. I am always in love with you. Dear Naghmeh, I have been stung so many times that I have become full of poison. This is an Iranian saying. A lot of people say that they have been stung by so many people that their whole being is full of poison like a poisonous snake. It means that we have been bitten by the snakes of this world so many times that, that all of the poison has collected in us and that we are like the poisonous snake. But if we sting anyone, we will die. This Iranian saying is full of spirit of revenge and unforgiveness and every time I would hear this in Iran, I would get very sick hearing it. A few days ago they brought a young war veteran who was disabled in 80% of his body in my cell.  He had been put in solitary confinement with his horrific condition. And this had made him very mad and he kept saying “why did they do this to me? I gave my whole life for their sake. See what they have done to me!!!” And when he would get very mad he would say “I will take my revenge!” I spoke to this young man until 4 in the morning. I spent time with him and spoke to him to forgive.  When we don’t forgive, we drink the poison ourselves and then wait for the other person to die. And we take the knife that has hurt us and we stab ourselves with it again! And this is the will of the evil one who wants to destroy us. But when we forgive, we pour out the poison of the enemy and of the devil and we don’t let the poison stay in us and we don’t let the poison make us into poisonous snakes!  So that we don’t become like the person we despised and who persecuted and tortured us. Maybe you ask, what is the secret of being so happy in such a hard situation? Forgiveness and a change of attitude. When we forgive, we become free and we become messengers of peace and reconciliation and goodness. And whoever stings us, we can take into our embrace and love them. And in this dark and evil time, we can live full of love and full of peace and full of joy and shine like the stars! Glory be to His Name. I forgave the prison doctor who did not listen to me and did not give me the medication that I needed. I forgave the interrogator who beat me. Every day when I would see the interrogator and for the last time when I saw him, I forgave him. I smiled at him and with respect shook his hand and I said my goodbye. The minute I forgave them and loved them, that second I was filled with unspeakable joy. I saw in the eyes of the interrogator that he had come to respect me and as he was leaving, he could not look behind him. Love is as strong as death.  We have to get rid of the poison in our body because if we don’t, we will die. We have to get rid of both poisons; first the poison of the snake that bit us and also the poison in us that was created by that bite. We can get rid of the first poison by forgiveness and we can get rid of the second poison by humility, by dying to ourselves, and allowing the band-aid of love and goodness to replace the empty place of the wound. So that we are not a tool of darkness and revenge, but that we can be light and love and a vessel of forgiveness and we can be transformed in the process. Surely you have someone in your family, city, work or environment that have become like poisonous snake who have bitten you and tried to make you poisonous. So, forgive them and use the antidote of love and be Victorious! One of the chances of forgiveness came when I was blindfolded and a guard was holding my hand guiding me. He asked “what are you here for? What is your crime?” I said “I am Christian Pastor.” All of the sudden he let go of my hand and said “so you are unclean! I will tell others not to defile themselves by touching you!” He would tell others not to get close to me. It really broke my heart. The nurse would also come to take care of us and provide us with treatment, but she said in front of others “in our religion we are not suppose to touch you, you are unclean. Baha’i (religion) and Christians are unclean!” She did not treat me and that night I could not sleep from the intense pain I had. According to the doctor’s instructions, they would not give me the pain medication that they would give other prisoners because I was unclean. I could not fall sleep one night due to the pain when all of a sudden I could hear the sound of dirty sewer rats with their loud noises and screeches. It was around 4 in the morning. It sounded like laughter in a way. Even though many would call me unclean and filthy and would not even want to pass by me and they had abandoned me and they were disgusted to touch me because they were afraid that they would also become unclean, but I knew that in the eyes of Jesus Christ, and in the eyes of my brothers and sisters, I am like the  sewer rat, beautiful and loveable – not disgusting and unclean – and like the rats I can scream with joy within those prison walls and worship my Lord in joy and strength. The Joy of the Lord is my strength. Amen. </blockquote> Fri, 22 Mar 2013 15:04:00 GMT http://aclj.org/iran/pastor-saeed-after-beatings-torture-did-not-recognize-myself The Complete Idiot's Guide to Our Religious Heritage As one of America’s most radical atheists <a href="http://aclj.org/in-god-we-trust/attacking-in-god-we-trust-over-hurt-feelings" target="_self">sues to remove the National Motto</a> -- “In God We Trust” – from our currency, I thought I’d bring back two of my favorite blog posts from the Washington Post. I wrote these when American Atheists sued to remove the Ground Zero Cross from the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, and the posts help illustrate the extent of our nation’s religious heritage – and the radicalism of those who seek to erase that heritage. Please enjoy: It is with the utmost urgency that I write this blog. A group of atheists have filed a lawsuit to prevent the inclusion of the historic <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/spirited-atheist/post/atheist-groups-frivolous-lawsuit-aims-to-bar-cross-from-911-museum/2011/08/01/gIQAgvATnI_blog.html#comments">Ground Zero Cross at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum</a>. We have <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.atheists.org/upload/WTC_Complaint.pdf">learned from their lawsuit</a> that they, “have suffered, are suffering, and will continue to suffer damages, both physical and emotional, from the existence of the challenged cross.” Atheists have reportedly endured <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.atheists.org/upload/WTC_Complaint.pdf">cross-induced, “dyspepsia [upset stomach], symptoms of depression, headaches, anxiety, and mental pain and anguish.”</a> In order to ensure that atheists in America never again experience any of the aforementioned ailments, I need your assistance in writing “The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Protecting American Atheists.” To help you get started, I’ve identified things that must be removed or altered immediately to rectify the government’s continued disregard for the hurt feelings of godless Americans. -The new Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial includes much of “Dr. King’s Spiritual Presence” by permanently inscribing portions of <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.mlkmemorial.org/site/c.hkIUL9MVJxE/b.7548981/k.A18B/Dr_Kings_Spiritual_Presence.htm">his sermons on the memorial inscription wall</a>. -The<a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/spirited-atheist/post/the-911-cross-redux-free-expression-the-real-first-amendment-issue/2011/08/10/gIQAmSma6I_blog.html"> Ground Zero Cross at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum.</a> -The National Motto: “<a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://religion.blogs.cnn.com/2011/03/17/house-panel-votes-on-in-god-we-trust/">In God We Trust</a>” -“<a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pledge_of_Allegiance">Under God</a>” in the Pledge of Allegiance -<a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://nationaldayofprayer.org/">The National Day of Prayer</a> -“<a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/religious-right-now/post/heaven-ignites-atheist-uproar/2011/06/23/AGV21NhH_blog.html">Seven in Heaven Way</a>” street sign honoring seven firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice on 9/11 -Original copies of the<a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.archives.gov/exhibits/charters/declaration_transcript.html"> Declaration of Independence</a> in the National Archives, which reference “<a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.archives.gov/exhibits/charters/declaration_transcript.html">our Creator</a>” and “Nature’s God” -The Chaplains Corps of each branch of the U.S. Military -All “Religious” Artwork in the<a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.nga.gov/collection/gallery/spanish.shtm"> National Gallery of Art</a> -The Latin phrase <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.wnd.com/?pageId=44289">“Laus Deo [Praise be to God]” on the cap of the Washington Monument</a> -Surviving copies of  <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.thenationalanthemproject.org/lyrics.html">The National Anthem</a>, which includes the phrase “In God is our trust” -On the Lincoln Memorial are etched the word of the Gettysburg Address (“<a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.ourdocuments.gov/doc.php?flash=true&doc=36">this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom</a>”) and his Second Inaugural Address (“<a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.ourdocuments.gov/doc.php?flash=true&doc=38">with firmness in the right, as God gives us to see the right</a>,”) which are replete with <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://dc.about.com/od/monuments/p/LincolnMemorial.htm">references to God</a> -The <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.monticello.org/site/jefferson/quotations-jefferson-memorial">Jefferson Memorial’s dome includes this inscription about God</a>, “I have sworn upon the altar of god eternal hostility against every form of tyranny over the mind of man.” There are <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.monticello.org/site/jefferson/quotations-jefferson-memorial">other references to God</a> in the memorial -On the <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/descriptions/tous_back.html">Tomb of the Unknowns</a> at Arlington National Cemetery is inscribed, “Here rests in honored glory an American soldier known but to God” -The federal courthouse containing the <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/04pdf/03-1500.pdf">Court of Appeals and the Federal District Court for the District of Columbia contains a sculpture, which includes a cross and the Ten Commandments</a> -The south frieze of the <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/04pdf/03-1500.pdf">U.S. Supreme Court Courtroom depicts Moses holding the Ten Commandments</a> -The metal gates on the north and south sides of the U.S. Supreme Court Courtroom contain the <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/04pdf/03-1500.pdf">Ten Commandments</a>, as well as the doors leading to the courtroom -The east facade of the outside of the <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/04pdf/03-1500.pdf">Supreme Court shows Moses</a> holding the Ten Commandments -The <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/04pdf/03-1500.pdf">Library of Congress Jefferson Building contains a large statue of Moses</a> holding the Ten Commandments and the Apostle Paul over looking the rotunda -<a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.aoc.gov/cc/cc_quotations.cfm">Inscribed on the wall of the Cox Corridors of the U.S. Capitol</a> is the phrase “America! God shed his grace on Thee” -The <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/04pdf/03-1500.pdf">chamber of the U.S. House of Representatives features Moses</a>. -The <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.aoc.gov/cc/cc_quotations.cfm">Prayer Room of the U.S. Capitol contains the phrase “Annuit coeptis”</a> (translated “God has favored our undertakings”) and the words of Psalm 16:1 -The House Chamber of the U.S. Capitol contains the National Motto “<a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.aoc.gov/cc/cc_quotations.cfm">In God we trust</a>” -Inscribed in the <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.aoc.gov/cc/cc_quotations.cfm">Senate Chamber of the U.S. Capitol</a> are the phrase “Annuit coeptis” (translated “God has favored our undertakings”) and the National Motto “In God we trust” -The<a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.archives.gov/exhibits/featured_documents/emancipation_proclamation/"> Emancipation Proclamation featured in the National Archives</a> invoking “gracious favor of Almighty God” -The United States Department of Veterans Affairs <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.visn2.va.gov/dt/chaplainfaqs.asp">chaplains program</a> -“Christmas” and “Thanksgiving” are <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.usa.gov/citizens/holidays.shtml">official federal government holidays</a> -The U.S. Constitution itself references “<a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.archives.gov/exhibits/charters/constitution.html">Year of our Lord</a>” -Church of the <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://supreme.justia.com/us/143/457/case.html">Holy Trinity v. United States</a>, 143 U.S. 457 (1892), where the Supreme Court declared that “this is a Christian nation” -<a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/cgi-bin/getcase.pl?navby=case&court=us&vol=343&invol=306#313">Zorach v. Clauson, 343 U.S. 306</a> (1952), where the Supreme Court declared, “We are a religious people whose institutions presuppose a Supreme Being” -The <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.abmc.gov/cemeteries/cemeteries/no.php">Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial</a> with thousands of white crosses over each of the graves represented at that cemetery -<a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/text/authorized_emblems_text.html">Arlington National Cemetery is replete with religious symbolism</a> complete with a list of authorized religious emblems Please leave your additions to "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Protecting American Atheists" in the comments section below. In response to my request for comments, new suggestions poured in: Less than two weeks ago, <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/religious-right-now/post/the-complete-idiots-guide-to-protecting-american-atheists/2011/08/12/gIQA8Fd5AJ_blog.html">I asked you to assist me</a> in finalizing “<a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/religious-right-now/post/the-complete-idiots-guide-to-protecting-american-atheists/2011/08/12/gIQA8Fd5AJ_blog.html">The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Protecting American Atheists</a>.” As you know,<a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/religious-right-now/post/the-complete-idiots-guide-to-protecting-american-atheists/2011/08/12/gIQA8Fd5AJ_blog.html">American Atheists continue to suffer from Ground Zero cross-induced</a>, “dyspepsia [upset stomach], symptoms of depression, headaches, anxiety, and mental pain and anguish.” You immediately grasped the urgency of my request and submitted your well thought out additions to the Guide in a most timely manner. Below, you will find “The Updated Complete Idiot’s Guide to Protecting American Atheists 2.0,” updated with suggestions from commenters. We no doubt have failed to identify every possible thing that must be removed or altered to correct the government’s malicious disregard for the hurt feelings of godless Americans. But, if we successfully remedy all the government-sponsored wrongs listed in this updated guide, we will be well on our way to protecting atheists from references to America’s religious history and Judeo-Christian heritage. In fact, American Atheists have acknowledged the accuracy of the guide. <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://atheists.org/blog/2011/08/15/aclj-resorts-to-name-calling-and-distraction-again">One commenter on the American Atheists’ blog writes</a>, “I have to agree with almost every item in the list in the article.” For your ease of use, everything in the updated Guide is categorized and acknowledges the hardworking patriots who contributed. Everything that appeared in Guide 1.0 is italicized: Historical Documents, Songs, and Speeches: Songs with religious references such as The Star-Spangled Banner, America the Beautiful, God Bless America and <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://bands.army.mil/music/armysong.asp">official songs for each branch of the U.S. Armed Forces</a> (r8arnhart, HUACNOW) Public references to <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.ourdocuments.gov/doc.php?flash=true&doc=96">Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “I Have Dream”</a> speech that include the quote, “Thank God Almighty, we are free at last.” (sofsu) Copies of the <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.pilgrimhall.org/compact.htm">Mayflower Compact</a>, which mentions God numerous times, are found in public museums and libraries across America (ag1986) Any official documents containing “A.D.” dates, which refer to the Latin term “<a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gregorian_calendar">Anno Domini</a>” (In the year of our Lord) (nesquire) <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://books.google.com/books?id=PZYKAQAAIAAJ&pg=PA228#v=snippet&q=religious%20people&f=false">President John Adams wrote</a>, “Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people.” Jefferson’s<a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://dc.about.com/od/photosofmuseums/ig/NMAHPictures/jefferson_bible.htm"> Bible displayed at the Smithsonian</a> <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://religion.blogs.cnn.com/2011/03/17/house-panel-votes-on-in-god-we-trust/">National Motto</a> - “In God We Trust” <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pledge_of_Allegiance">Pledge of Allegiance</a> - “under God” <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.archives.gov/exhibits/charters/declaration_transcript.html">Declaration of Independence</a> - “our Creator” and “Nature’s God” <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.archives.gov/exhibits/featured_documents/emancipation_proclamation/">Emancipation Proclamation</a> - “gracious favor of Almighty God” <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.thenationalanthemproject.org/lyrics.html">National Anthem</a> - “In God is our trust” (HUACNOW) Public Buildings, Displays, and Money: All <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.treasury.gov/about/education/Pages/in-god-we-trust.aspx">coins and currency</a> containing the phrase “In God We Trust.” (goldblattp, WKJR, darthofer, ag1986, grep_boy, chance175) Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial - <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.mlkmemorial.org/site/c.hkIUL9MVJxE/b.7548981/k.A18B/Dr_Kings_Spiritual_Presence.htm">sermons and religious references</a> <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,105272,00.html">Nativity scenes</a> that appear on public property across America every Christmas season. (Sherry Forrester Leslie) The <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://myloc.gov/exhibitions/bibles/Pages/default.aspx">Library of Congress Bible Collection</a> with “1,500 editions of the Bible in more than 150 languages” <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.nationalcathedral.org/about/timeline.shtml">The National Cathedral </a>- Chartered by Congress in 1893 and home to many significant <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702303828304575179802989672806.html">presidential affairs of state</a> from Thanksgiving services to funerals The National Park Service has designated <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.historicstjohnschurch.org/hist_significance.php">St. John’s Church</a>, where <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.historicstjohnschurch.org/hist_significance.php">Patrick Henry</a> delivered his “Give me Liberty, or Give me Death” speech, as a National Historic Landmark. <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.abmc.gov/cemeteries/cemeteries/no.php">Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial</a> - thousands of white crosses <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/descriptions/tous_back.html">Tomb of the Unknowns</a> - “American soldier known but to God” <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.aoc.gov/cc/cc_quotations.cfm">Prayer room</a> of the U.S. Capitol <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1908437,00.html">Evergreen Chapel at Camp David </a>- President Obama’s church <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/spirited-atheist/post/the-911-cross-redux-free-expression-the-real-first-amendment-issue/2011/08/10/gIQAmSma6I_blog.html">Ground Zero Cross at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum</a> <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://dc.about.com/od/monuments/p/LincolnMemorial.htm">Lincoln Memorial </a>- Gettysburg Address and Second Inaugural Address are replete with references to God The <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/04pdf/03-1500.pdf">floor of the National Archives</a> contains a medallion with the Ten Commandments <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/04pdf/03-1500.pdf">Doors leading to U.S. Supreme Court Courtroom</a> - Ten Commandments <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.nps.gov/zion/index.htm">Zion National Park</a> A steel covered World War II Bible displayed at the National Museum of American History which was originally advertised to “<a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://americanhistory.si.edu/collections/object.cfm?key=35&objkey=93">protect from bullets</a>” when carried in one’s pocket on the battle field. <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/text/authorized_emblems_text.html">Arlington National Cemetery</a> is replete with religious symbolism (michsmith7) <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.nga.gov/collection/gallery/spanish.shtm">Religious artwork</a> in the National Gallery of Art <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/04pdf/03-1500.pdf">Court of Appeals</a> for the District of Columbia - cross and Ten Commandments <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.aoc.gov/cc/cc_quotations.cfm">Cox Corridors of the U.S. Capitol</a> - “America! God shed his grace on Thee” <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/04pdf/03-1500.pdf">East facade of the outside of the Supreme Court</a> - Moses holding Ten Commandments House of Representatives chamber - <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/04pdf/03-1500.pdf">Moses</a> <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.monticello.org/site/jefferson/quotations-jefferson-memorial">Jefferson Memorial’s dome</a> - “sworn upon the altar of God” <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.wnd.com/?pageId=44289">Cap of the Washington Monument</a> - “Laus Deo [Praise be to God]” <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/04pdf/03-1500.pdf">Library of Congress Jefferson Building</a> - Statute of Apostle Paul and Moses holding Ten Commandments <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.aoc.gov/cc/cc_quotations.cfm">Senate Chamber</a> - “In God we trust” “<a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/religious-right-now/post/heaven-ignites-atheist-uproar/2011/06/23/AGV21NhH_blog.html">Seven in Heaven Way</a>” street sign <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/04pdf/03-1500.pdf">South frieze of the U.S. Supreme Court Courtroom</a> - Moses holding Ten Commandments (johnstern100) Constitutions, Laws, and Cases: <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.malegislature.gov/laws/constitution">Many state constitutions that reference God, such as the Massachusetts</a> Constitution that declares that, “the encouragement of arts and sciences, and all good literature, tends to the honor of God, the advantage of the Christian religion, and the great benefit of this and the other United States of America.” (jinxmchue, HUACNOW) <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.justia.us/us/545/677/case.html">Van Orden v. Perry</a>, 545 U.S. 677 (2005) - permitting Ten Commandments on government property <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://supreme.justia.com/us/555/07-665/">Pleasant Grove City v. Summum</a>, 555 U.S. ___ (2009) - permitting government to display Ten Commandments and reject other monuments <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.archives.gov/exhibits/charters/constitution.html">U.S. Constitution references “Year of our Lord</a>” <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://supreme.justia.com/us/143/457/case.html">Church of the Holy Trinity v. United States</a>, 143 U.S. 457 (1892) - “this is a Christian nation” <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/cgi-bin/getcase.pl?navby=case&court=us&vol=343&invol=306#313">Zorach v. Clauson</a>, 343 U.S. 306 (1952) - “We are a religious people whose institutions presuppose a Supreme Being” Cities and Geographical Names: City names honoring Christian individuals, such as <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.americancatholic.org/Messenger/Jun2004/Feature2.asp#top">San Antonio</a>, TX, <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.sandiegohistory.org/timeline/timeline1.htm">San Diego</a>, CA, <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.sfmuseum.org/hist6/founding.html">San Francisco</a>, CA, <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Jose,_California">San Jose</a>, CA, <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.cuca.k12.ca.us/lessons/missions/barbara/SantaBarbara.html#founding">Santa Barbara</a>, CA, <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.santamonica.com/visitors/about-santa-monica/history/">Santa Monica</a>, CA, <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.augustine.com/history/menendez-founding.php#Discovery">St. Augustine</a>, FL, <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.eslarp.uiuc.edu/ibex/archive/nunes/timeline/origins1817.htm">St. Louis</a>, MO, <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/517957/Saint-Paul">St. Paul</a>, MN, and <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.stpete.org/historic_preservation/history_of_st_petersburg/index.asp">St. Petersburg</a>, FL. (Chris Prevas, Denise Brown) City names with Biblical or Christian significance, such as <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.bethlehem-pa.gov/about/history/index.htm">Bethlehem</a>, PA (birthplace of Christ), <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.cctexas.com/?fuseaction=main.view&page=109">Corpus Christi</a>, TX (Latin for “the body of Christ”), <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://cogweb.ucla.edu/Chumash/LosAngeles.html">Los Angeles</a>, CA (meaning “the angels”), <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/455799/Philadelphia">Philadelphia</a>, PA (mentioned in Revelations as a city with a godly church), <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/480628/Providence">Providence</a>, RI (providence assumes a God that cares about mankind), <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/515399/Sacramento">Sacramento</a>, CA (meaning “the holy sacrament”), <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/519055/Salem">Salem</a>, OR (from the Hebrew term for “peace with God”), <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/522867/Santa-Fe">Santa Fe, NM </a>(meaning “holy faith”), and <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.bethesdamagazine.com/Bethesda-Magazine/November-December-2009/The-Beginning-of-Bethesda">Bethesda</a>, MD (named after the Presbyterian church in the area). (peterschamberlain, Chris Prevas) Public Oaths and Ceremonies: <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.loc.gov/today/pr/2008/08-236.html">The use of the Bible for the presidential inauguration</a> and prayers offered during the inauguration. (renia216) Supreme Court opens with “<a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://usgovinfo.about.com/blctprocedures.htm">God save the United States and this Honorable Court</a>” <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://law.onecle.com/pennsylvania/judiciary-and-judicial-procedure/00.059.001.000.html">Judicial oaths sworn by court witnesses often invoke God or the Bible.</a> For example, witnesses in Pennsylvania courts are required to place their hand on a “Holy Bible” and swear “by Almighty God, the searcher of all hearts, that I will, and that as I shall answer to God at the last great day.” (renia216) <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.ushistory.org/valleyforge/washington/earnestprayer.html">Washington’s Inaugural Prayer</a>, which references God as the “Divine Author of our faith.” (Way4JC) Holidays: <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.usa.gov/citizens/holidays.shtml">Christmas and Thanksgiving are official federal government holidays (don61)</a> <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.whitehouse.gov/eastereggroll">White House Easter Egg Roll</a> (Forgod2) Public Programs and Observances: <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://nationaldayofprayer.org/">National Day of Prayer</a> (Forgod2) <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.chapnet.army.mil/">The Chaplains Corps </a>of each branch of the U.S. Military <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://chaplain.house.gov/">House</a> and <a target="_blank" data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.senate.gov/reference/office/chaplain.htm">Senate Chaplains </a>who open each day in prayer There you have it.  This (incomplete) list from almost 18 months ago helps demonstrate the breadth of our religious heritage.  America was founded by – and is still inhabited by – a deeply religious people with a distinct Judeo-Christian heritage.  That’s simply a fact, and one does not “establish” a religion by acknowledging our actual history and culture. Thu, 21 Mar 2013 21:17:18 GMT http://aclj.org/in-god-we-trust/complete-idiots-guide-religious-heritage Members of Congress: State Department “Misled” Congress on Pastor Saeed Hearing – Calls on Secretary Kerry to Issue Public Statement Demanding His Release Members of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission and other members of the U.S. House of Representatives sent a <a href="http://wolf.house.gov/uploads/pastor_abedini_kerry.pdf" target="_blank">letter</a> to Secretary of State John Kerry today demanding that he make the case of American Pastor Saeed Abedini – a U.S. citizen - a priority for the State Department. The Commission also called on Secretary Kerry to swiftly issue a public statement calling for the immediate and unconditional release of Pastor Abedini Chairman Frank Wolf (R-VA) was joined by Representatives Trent Franks (R-AZ), Mike Simpson (R-ID), Robert Aderholt (R-AL), Raul Labrador (R-ID) and Chris Smith (R-NJ) in this letter to Secretary Kerry. Poignantly, it <a href="http://wolf.house.gov/press-releases/wolf-urges-secretary-kerry-to-call-for-release-of-pastor-abedini/" target="_blank">provides</a>: <blockquote> There was a palpable sense of disappointment in the room that our government didn’t deem the hearing important enough to provide a witness.  After repeated requests from the Lantos Commission, which went unanswered for nearly a week, the State Department ultimately said that no one was available to provide testimony.  Later that same day, Rep. Wolf’s staff attended a meeting with Mrs. Abedini, her legal counsel and several senior State Department officials including the Ambassador for International Religious Freedom, all of whom would have been suitable witnesses for our hearing.   In short, the department misled the commission and in so doing sent a dangerous message to rogue regimes the world over—even human rights abuses that compromise the safety and security of American citizens will be met with virtual silence from the U.S. government. To date, the State Department’s posture on this case has been woefully inadequate, especially given that the life of an American citizen hangs in the balance.  Both the European Union and the United Nations (UN) special rapporteur on human rights in Iran have advocated publicly for Pastor Saeed—the same cannot be said of this administration.  The State Department recently responded to a February 12 congressional letter, signed by over 80 senators and representatives, urging the department to exhaust every option in securing Pastor Abedini’s release. The department stated, “We are disappointed that Mr. Abedini has been sentenced to eight years in prison in Iran on charges related to his religious beliefs…” Even the words chosen for this letter fail to convey an appropriate sense of urgency. Let’s be clear:  We are “disappointed” that the department failed to provide a witness for Friday’s hearing and have in fact left the hearing record open for a week to allow the State Department to provide written testimony, which to date we have not yet received.  But like most Americans, we are outraged and appalled that the Iranian government has unjustly imprisoned an American citizen for his Christian faith. </blockquote> We too join Chairman Wolf and his colleagues in their disappointment at the State Department’s utter lack of urgency and due care in pressing for the release of this U.S. citizen. The <a href="http://wolf.house.gov/press-releases/wolf-urges-secretary-kerry-to-call-for-release-of-pastor-abedini/" target="_blank">letter to Kerry</a> also notes: <blockquote> Members sat with rapt attention listening to [Pastor Saeed’s wife’s] story — the challenge of explaining to her children where their father has gone while grappling with the reality that for Saeed, “every day is a death sentence.”  As a father yourself, we are sure you can imagine this young family’s pain. </blockquote> The Members of Congress concluded: <blockquote> We urge you, in the strongest possible terms, to make this case and the broader issue of religious freedom a priority as Secretary of State.  The State Department should swiftly issue a public statement calling for the immediate and unconditional release of Pastor Abedini.  Further, the department, preferably through a personal phone call from you to Naghmeh Abedini, should make it clear that the U.S. government will dedicate the full resources at its disposal to securing the freedom of Pastor Abedini—one of our own citizens. </blockquote> Time is of the essence for the U.S. government to speak out in defense of one of our own citizens – one of us – imprisoned merely because of his religious beliefs.  We applaud the hard work and determination of the members of this Commission and other Members of Congress dedicated to religious freedom and urge the Secretary of State to hold true to his word and “<a href="http://aclj.org/iran/senator-kerry-nominee-secretary-of-state-issues-clear-unequivocal-call-pastor-saeed-release" target="_self">actively engage[] on this case.</a>” If Secretary Kerry is unwilling to meet the Commission’s Friday deadline for a bold statement and increased engagement in this case, we are prepared to pursue further congressional action to see that Pastor Saeed’s case is made a priority for the U.S. government, his government. Today marks the 176th day of Pastor Saeed’s imprisonment in one of Iran’s most deadly prisons. He faces an eight year sentence simply because of his Christian faith. Thu, 21 Mar 2013 01:37:32 GMT http://aclj.org/iran/members-congress-state-department-misled-congress-saeed-hearing