The Non-prophets

This pastor's wedding nightThe Friendly Atheist, By Hemant Mehta, on Apr 03, 2024https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/this-pastors-wedding-night-joke-epitomizesPastor Josh Howerton of LakePoint Church in Texas is facing backlash after delivering a misguided attempt at humor during a recent sermon. His suggestion to future brides to unquestionably obey their husbands on their wedding night has drawn widespread criticism for perpetuating harmful gender stereotypes and minimizing female agency. While intended as a joke, Howerton's comments highlight deeper issues within Evangelical culture, including the normalization of patriarchal attitudes and the disregard for women's autonomy.This story, reported by Hemant Mehta in "The Friendly Atheist" on April 3rd, 2024, sparked a conversation about patriarchy and purity culture. The rhetoric perpetuated by Howerton reflects a mindset deeply rooted in patriarchal traditions, where women are expected to submit unquestionably to men. This toxic attitude extends beyond evangel

Police shot Nakala Murry's young son. Now, she could lose custody of her kids.NPR, By Jonathan Franklin, on April 4, 2024https://www.npr.org/2024/04/05/1242953901/nakala-murry-custody-rights-aderrien-murry-shooting-mississippiThe transcript discusses a troubling case in Mississippi where a mother, Nakala Murray, faces the possibility of losing custody of her children after her 11-year-old son, Adarian Murray, was shot by a police officer in their home during a domestic incident. The Sunflower County officials accused Nakala of neglecting her children, alleging a history of domestic violence involving her ex-boyfriend, John Noden. Nichaela views the petition as harassment and retaliation for her lawsuit against the city of Indianola over her son's shooting. Attorney Carlos Mordeems deems the petition outlandish, emphasizing Nakala's status as a single mother. Despite no charges being filed against the officer involved, Nakala's custody battle unfolds amid ongoing legal proceedings.The discussion delves into th

The Solar Eclipse Is the Super Bowl for ConspiracistsWIRED, By David Gilbert, on Apr 5, 2024https://www.wired.com/story/solar-eclipse-conspiracies/The conversation delved into the multifaceted world of conspiracy theories surrounding the total solar eclipse on April 8th. Infidel and the panel explored various theories, ranging from Masonic plots to bizarre beliefs about sacrifices at the Temple in Israel. The discussion highlighted how these theories intersect with religious fundamentalism, mental health issues, and the psychology of belief.Jason shared insights from a study linking belief in fake news to delusionality, dogmatism, and religious fundamentalism. He emphasized the role of skepticism in combating the tendency to believe in falsehoods, especially among those entrenched in fundamentalist ideologies. Helen discussed the psychological aspects of belief, noting how patterns and confirmation bias contribute to entrenched worldviews.Infidel provided a real-life example of the tragic consequences of extr

New Law Allowing Religion into Science Classrooms Is Dangerous for EveryoneScientific American, By Amanda L. Townley, on April 3, 2024https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/new-law-allowing-religion-into-science-classrooms-is-dangerous-for-everyone/#:~:text=But%20the%20legislative%20history%20of,in%20West%20Virginia's%20public%20schoolsThe discussion begins by dissecting the recent enactment of legislation in West Virginia, which permits teachers to address scientific theories, including evolution, in classrooms. This development prompts a multifaceted exploration of its ramifications, especially in terms of upholding the crucial tenet of separating religious influence from state-sponsored education.The conversation delves into the intriguing stance of a science educator who, despite embracing religious faith, advocates staunchly for the exclusion of religious teachings from the scientific curriculum. This nuanced perspective sparks a deeper examination of the potential discord between faith-based beliefs

Richard Dawkins says Christianity is "fundamentally decent," but Islam "is not"The Friendly Atheist, By Hemant Mehta , on April 2, 2024https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/richard-dawkins-says-christianity?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android&r=oa4eg&triedRedirect=true In this segment, the discussion revolves around a recent statement made by Richard Dawkins, a renowned evolutionary biologist and atheist, regarding his views on Christianity and Islam. Dawkins, known for his criticism of religion, recently expressed a softened stance towards Christianity while disparaging Islam during a radio interview. His comments have sparked debate about the cultural aspects of Christianity and the perceived superiority of one religion over the other.The conversation delves into whether individuals, particularly in Western societies, unconsciously favor Christianity over Islam due to cultural familiarity. The panelists explore their personal experiences and the influence of Christian upbringing on language, customs

Peru archbishop who sued 2 journalists over reports on abuses, financial corruption resigns earlyAP News, By BY NICOLE WINFIELD AND FRANKLIN BRICEÑO, on April 2, 2024https://apnews.com/article/vatican-sodalitium-peru-abuse-eguren-d6c3c253aa8218248910961bf8a3de4e In this segment, the discussion delves into yet another scandal involving child sexual abuse within the Catholic Church, this time in Peru. The panelists express frustration at the apparent impunity enjoyed by the Church, which seems to shield abusers from legal consequences. They question why the Church isn't held to the same standards as other organizations when it comes to handling such serious allegations. The conversation highlights the long history of abuse within this particular congregation, going back to its founder, and criticizes the Church's lack of effective action in addressing these issues.The resignation of the archbishop of this congregation raises suspicions, as it comes amid ongoing allegations of abuse and a supposed Vatican-led ef

MAGA Pastor Says ‘200 Bibles’ Set Ablaze Outside His Church on Easter MorningThe Daily Beast, By AJ McDougall, on March 31, 2024https://www.thedailybeast.com/maga-pastor-greg-locke-says-200-bibles-set-ablaze-outside-his-tennessee-church-on-easter-morning The discourse gravitated around an unsettling incident that unfolded, implicating Pastor Locke in a contentious episode where approximately 200 Bibles were purportedly set ablaze outside his church premises, intriguingly transpiring on Easter morning, a day of profound significance in Christian tradition.Pastor Greg Locke is a figure of considerable notoriety, recognized for his propensity to court controversy through a series of provocative actions, including but not limited to highly publicized book burnings and his vocal political endorsements often interwoven within the fabric of his sermons. His approach has sparked a maelstrom of both adulation and condemnation, polarizing public opinion along ideological fault lines.The panelists engaged in a multiface

Serial bigamist who posed as pastor had at least 10 wives he met in black churchesTexas Man Poses as Pastor, Sentenced for BigamyThe Christian Post, By By Leonardo Blair, on March 22, 2024https://www.christianpost.com/news/serial-bigamist-had-at-least-10-wives.html?utm_source=Daily&utm_campaign=Daily&utm_medium=newsletterThe Non-Prophets, Episode 23.14.4 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Jonathan Roudabush, Eli and Helen Greene

Prayer, Bible lessons and a big red bus: How an Ohio group is bringing God to public schoolLifeWise Academy's Bible Classes in SchoolsNBC News, By By Mike Hixenbaugh, on March 25, 2024https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/lifewise-academy-public-school-christian-church-rcna142172The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.14.3 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Jonathan Roudabush, Eli Slack and Helen Greene

A Michigan commissioner wants to prevent Satanists from giving an invocationFriendly Atheist , By Hemant Mehta, on March 25, 2024Battle for the Pulpit: Satanists vs. Christianshttps://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/a-michigan-commissioner-wants-to?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android&r=oa4eg&triedRedirect=trueThe Non-Prophets, Episode 23.14.2 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Jonathan Roudabush, Eli and Helen Greene

Erin Hawley: The Woman Arguing Against the Abortion PillHawley: Ranches to Roe BattleNew York Times/Yahoo News, By Elizabeth Dias and Abbie VanSickle, on March 26, 2024https://ca.news.yahoo.com/erin-hawley-woman-arguing-against-121736503.htmlThe Non-Prophets, Episode 23.14.1 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Jonathan Roudabush, Eli and Helen Greene

Researchers say Christian leaders will embezzle an estimated $86 billion in 2024The Friendly Atheist, By Hemant Mehta, on Mar 20, 2024https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/researchers-say-christian-leadersThe discussion delved into the issue of financial transparency and accountability within Christian organizations, particularly regarding the embezzlement of funds.Kelley Laughlin shed light on the alarming statistic that Christian leaders may embezzle over $80 billion annually by 2024, as reported by the Center for the Study of Global Christianity and the Trinity Foundation. This embezzlement includes practices like skimming from offering plates and diverting mission donations to personal expenses.The panelists highlighted the lack of financial oversight and transparency within religious institutions, emphasizing the need for routine audits, transparency measures, and consequences for illegal activities. They also discussed the pervasive influence of Christianity in American society, particularly in politics, an

Former Hays County GOP leader sentenced to 410 years in prison for sexual abuse of children, child pornographyKVUE News, By Lauren Petterson, Jeff Bell , on March 11, 2024https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/bo-michael-dresner-sentencing/269-17fad9be-ddb4-4304-b956-fb3ba7bb7344In this segment, the hosts discuss a recent case involving a former GOP leader in Hayes County, Austin, who was sentenced to 410 years in prison for sexual assault of children and child pornography.They criticize the justice system for allowing the perpetrator to go unpunished for similar crimes in the early 2000s and failing to adequately investigate allegations made against him in 2012. The hosts express outrage at the leniency shown to the perpetrator, highlighting the systemic failures in protecting vulnerable individuals, particularly children, from offenders like him.They discuss the betrayal felt by the victims and the impact of the perpetrator's status as an elected official. They emphasize the need for holding politicians an

White Pastor Defends Slavery And Calls Martin Luther King Jr. A 'Non-Believer Who Misrepresented Christ'News One, By Zack Linly, on March 1, 2024https://newsone.com/5047878/john-macarthur-white-pastor-martin-luther-king-jr/In this segment, the discussion revolves around John MacArthur, a Christian pastor at Grace Community Church in California, who has garnered attention for his controversial views on race, slavery, and religious freedom. MacArthur criticized a group of Evangelical pastors for honoring Martin Luther King Jr. during Black History Month, labeling MLK as an unbeliever and accusing the pastors of succumbing to the "woke movement" and racial baiting. MacArthur's comments reflect a supremacist interpretation of Christianity, justifying racial disparities and advocating for slavery as part of Christianity's history. This narrative contrasts with attempts to whitewash MLK's legacy, portraying him as a colorblind figure, while MacArthur depicts him as a threat to white supremacy.MacArthur's interpreta

Jack Hibbs Says Critics Of Christian Nationalism Are 'Literal Cancers'Right Wing Watch, By Kyle Mantyla, on March 11, 2024https://www.rightwingwatch.org/post/jack-hibbs-says-critics-of-christian-nationalism-are-literal-cancers/The panel addresses Jack Hibbs, a pastor who has made controversial remarks comparing critics of Christian nationalism to Nazis and socialists. Hibbs, known for his anti-LGBTQ+ stance and conspiracy theories, lacks understanding of politics and history, yet he was invited to deliver a prayer on the House floor by Secretary of State Mike Johnson. The panel questions the constitutionality and appropriateness of this invitation.Kelley highlights Hibbs' troubled relationship with history, citing his inaccurate claims about God's removal from American history in 1925 and other historical distortions. Despite Hibbs' lack of credibility, some followers believe his rhetoric, revealing a concerning trend of indoctrination and a disregard for truth.Cynthia underscores Hibbs' misuse of scripture t

Iowa Republicans send 'religious freedom restoration' bill to governor's deskIowa Public Radio, By Katarina Sostaric, on March 1, 2024https://www.iowapublicradio.org/state-government-news/2024-03-01/iowa-republicans-send-religious-freedom-restoration-bill-to-governors-deskThe discussion revolves around the contentious issue of whether religions should be banned in light of recent events highlighting discriminatory practices under the guise of religious freedom. The proposed Religious Freedom Restoration Act in Iowa has sparked concerns that it could legalize discrimination against LGBTQ individuals under the pretext of protecting religious beliefs. Critics argue that such legislation distorts the concept of religious freedom, potentially infringing on civil rights and equality.Participants in the conversation express strong opinions regarding the perceived erosion of human rights in favor of religious beliefs. They decry the trend of prioritizing religious freedoms over individual rights, citing examples of d

The owners of a Christian boarding school in Missouri are jailed and charged with kidnapping crimesAP News, By JIM SALTER, on March 4, 2024https://apnews.com/article/christian-boarding-school-missouri-owners-arrested-3ec27c8fc26d37108f4afe1199351084A heartfelt conversation centering on the disturbing events surrounding the arrest and charges brought against Larry and Carmen Musgraves, proprietors of ABM Ministries, a Christian boarding school in Missouri. The arrests were prompted by allegations of abuse and reports of children fleeing from the school. The participants express a range of emotions, from outrage and disgust to sadness and frustration, as they discuss the broader implications of trust placed in religious institutions and the lack of oversight that allowed such abuse to occur.Throughout the discussion, there is a palpable sense of indignation at the exploitation of vulnerable children under the guise of religious education. The participants lament the systemic failure that enabled these atrocitie

Matt Schaefer Provides A Case Study In Christian NationalismRight Wing Watch, By Kyle Mantyla, on March 8, 2024https://www.rightwingwatch.org/post/texas-state-rep-matt-schaefer-provides-a-case-study-in-christian-nationalism/In this discussion, the panel acknowledges that individuals have the right to their beliefs and the freedom to express them, but when those beliefs infringe upon the rights and freedoms of others, it becomes a problem. The concern is not just about the sincerity of the beliefs but the actions they inspire.There's a consensus among the panelists that the merging of religion and government, particularly in the form of Christian nationalism, poses a threat to individual liberties, democratic principles, and scientific progress. This merging creates a system where authoritarianism is reinforced by religious doctrine, leading to a society where dissent is suppressed and conformity to a specific belief system is enforced.The panel expresses concern about the normalization of Christian nationalis

Jewish Passenger Sues JetBlue After He Refused to Sit With Woman, Was Thrown Off PlaneBusiness Insider, By Grace Dean, on Mar 12, 2024https://www.businessinsider.com/jetblue-orthodox-jewish-passenger-sues-lawsuit-refused-sit-woman-seat-2024-3The discussion delves into a highly charged incident aboard an airplane, where a passenger adamantly refuses to comply with a request to switch seats to accommodate a fellow traveler's religious beliefs. Tensions rise as the situation unfolds, with the crew and other passengers becoming involved in the escalating dispute.The conversation explores the complexities surrounding the accommodation of religious practices within the context of communal spaces such as airplanes. It raises questions about the extent to which individual rights should be balanced against the needs and beliefs of others, particularly in situations where there is limited space and resources.Throughout the discussion, various viewpoints emerge, each reflecting different perspectives on the matter. Some

NY Attorney General sends cease-and-desist order to county executive over transgender sports ban | CNNCNN, By By Michelle Watson and Eric Levenson, on March 3, 2024https://www.cnn.com/2024/03/03/us/newyork-nassau-trans-athletes/index.html The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.11.4 featuring Cynthia , Eli, Helen Greene and Jonathan RoudabushNew York Attorney General Leticia James demanded that Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman rescind a ban on transgender athletes from competing in women's and girls' sports. Blakeman's executive order, signed on February 22nd, prohibited transgender athletes from participating in such sports at county facilities, citing fairness concerns. The ban affected over 100 venues under the Department of Parks, Recreation, and Museums.James asserted that the order violated state civil and human rights laws, subjecting female athletes to intrusive questioning. Blakeman defended the order, arguing that biological males shouldn't compete in girls' or women's leagues. However, he noted that tra