http://www.eternalgospelherald.com/4.5 by Brian Marks

“contending for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.” jude 3 — vol. 4 no. 5

Democrats Courting Catholics By Rick Klein, The Boston Globe, Jan. 31, 2006 WASHINGTON—The Democratic Party's intensifying efforts to reach out to Catholic voters will hit a high-water mark tonight, when party leaders turn to Virginia's newly installed governor to deliver the response to President Bush's State of the Union address.

“United We Fall, Divided We Stand” When the Church wields too much power over the politics of America It is a force much more powerful than communism and much more enduring than capitalism. It doesn’t tolerate change, and its dissenters are ruthlessly treated. Millions of devotees and admirers gather daily at its masses all around the globe. It is Roman Catholicism, and she has become more popular and influential than ever before. Ruling supreme and unchallenged over it is the Papacy, the supreme authority, the Vatican.

Governor Timothy M. Kaine, a devout Catholic who spoke openly about his faith during his election campaign last year, will speak about his Democratic Governor of Vir- work as a Jesuit misginia and former Jesuit Mis- sionary in Honduras, sionary, Timothy Kaine said Delacey Skinner, speaks to millions of Ameria Kaine spokescans on national TV. woman. Kaine said Both the religious and that experience during his time as a Harvard Law the secular world is captivated by the profound School student inspired him to enter public service. influence and power she ''Faith is a good guidepost for how you evaluate the sways over society and world, but it also should be a good guidepost for how civilization. Entire Washington D.C., October 2, 2005—President George Bush, Cardinal you act," Skinner said. ''That's really what his faith countries were often Theodore McCarrick, and newly appointed Supreme Court Chief Justeaches—that the real focus should be doing the work placed under papal rule tice John Roberts walk out of St. Matthew’s Catholic Cathedral after of faith that helps others." in times past. Today, celebrating mass, three days after Supreme Court Justice John Roberts, a conservative Roman Catholic, was sworn in at the White House After Democratic Senator John F. Kerry of Massachu- world leaders from on September 29, 2005. setts -- the party's first Catholic nominee since John F. every corner of globe— Kennedy in 1960 -- lost the Catholic vote to Bush, a prime ministers, presidents, dictators, monarchs, and non-Catholic religious leaders—all make Methodist, in the last presidential election, national ad limina visits and consultation with the bishop of Rome [ad limina: Latin for “at the door” Democrats want to recast the party's image. They say which ceremonially means “at the threshold of St. Peter”]. their positions on key issues like the Iraq war, immigration, the environment, and poverty are in synch Because Jesus declared: “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth” (Matt. 28:18); with church teachings. and because the pope claims to be the Vicarius Christi [representative of Christ] or the Vicarius Filii Dei [representative of the Son of God], a title implying the pope’s supreme and ''There's a huge amount of educating to do," said Pat- universal primacy in both honor and jurisdiction; it should come as little surprise that the Vatirick Whelan, director of the Boston-based national can has become an enormous, international bureaucracy that seeks to exert ever-mounting Catholic Democrats and president of Catholic Democpressure on nations, governments, and people that it believes are at odds with Catholic teachrats of Massachusetts. ''The Democrats really do stand ing. Rome is, by nature, the central government of the Catholic church with thousands of salafor something, and there is a moral program in our ried workers, priests, bishops, and cardinals. party."

Even though the Vatican is the world’s smallest sovereign nation, it is also the most influential and revered in all the world. What other nation has over 1 billion souls doing its bidding around the world with such devotion, ready to obey the pope’s commands? The excessive political clout that the Catholic Church wields over our US Legislatures is quite dangerous. The strong-arm lobbying and influence of the church is growing every day. As a result, a terrible day of retribution, a time of social disorder, and of chaos is looming in the horizon for this But Republicans aggressively courted the largely great nation. Catholic Hispanic vote, and stood against abortion and gay marriage, which the Vatican also opposes. The move paid dividends: Bush's 2004 reelection “Let the restraints now imposed by secular governments be removed and Rome be reinstated campaign won 52 percent of all Catholic voters, ac- in her former power, and there would speedily be a revival of her tyranny and persecution.” The Great Controversy p. 564. cording to exit polls. Until recently, most Catholic voters were loyal Democrats, dating back to President Franklin Roosevelt. Many defected to vote for Ronald Reagan in the 1980s, but Bill Clinton won them back in 1992 and 1996.

The Democratic National Committee is working with newly formed Catholic political groups in 10 states. On Capitol Hill, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, a Catholic, has formed a group to identify ways Democrats can speak about social issues and faith. And a group of Catholic Democratic lawmakers want more money for antipoverty and family planning programs, with a 10-year goal of reducing abortions by 95 percent.

What are these “restraints” that the servant of the Lord speaks of that have held back and placed into check the “former power” of Rome? And most importantly, how precisely are these restraints being compromised today? A Restraint Dividing Church and State

The First Amendment to our Constitution makes the following two statements: (1) “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion (2) or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.” The first statement is called the “establishment clause” and the second is called the Representative Rosa DeLauro, a Connecticut Democ- “free-exercise clause.” rat and a Catholic, has invited theologians to meetings of Democratic House members to help the politicians The “establishment clause” prohibits the religious churches from imposing its will upon the government or vise versa. This provision has been the safeguard that has limited the power of speak more comfortably about religious values. the church; ensuring that the state and the church be institutionally —continued on page 2 Rick Klein can be reached at rklein@globe.com.

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the eternal gospel herald â&#x20AC;&#x201D; volume 4, no. 5

109th U.S. Congress 130 of 435 (30%) Members of the House of Representatives are Roman Catholic Arizona Arizona Arizona California California California California California California California California California California California California California California California California California California California California California California Colorado Connecticut Connecticut Delaware Florida Florida Florida Florida Florida Florida Florida Georgia Georgia Georgia Idaho Illinois Illinois Illinois Illinois Illinois Illinois Illinois Iowa Kentucky Louisiana Louisiana Maine Massachusetts Massachusetts Massachusetts Massachusetts Massachusetts Massachusetts Massachusetts Michigan Michigan Michigan Michigan Michigan Michigan Michigan Minnesota Minnesota Minnesota Minnesota Mississippi Mississippi Missouri Nebraska Nevada New Jersey New Jersey New Jersey New Jersey New Jersey New Jersey New York New York New York New York New York New York New York New York New York New York New York New York

Rick Renzi, Republican Ed Pastor, Democrat Raul Grijalva, Democrat Mike Thompson, Democrat Dan Lungren, Republican George Miller, Democrat Nancy Pelosi, Democrat Ellen Tauscher, Democrat Richard Pombo, Democrat Anna Eshoo, Democrat Dennis Cardoza, Democrat George Radanovich, Republican Jim Costa, Democrat Devin Nunes, Republican Xavier Becerra, Democrat Hilda Solis, Democrat Diane Watson, Democrat Lucille Roybal-Allard, Democrat Grace Napolitano, Democrat Linda Sanchez, Democrat Ed Royce, Republican Joe Baca, Democrat Loretta Sanchez, Democrat Christopher Cox, Republican John Salazar, Democrat Bob Beauprez, Republican John Larson, Democrat Rose DeLauro, Democrat Michael Castle, Republican Virginia Brown-Waite, Republican Connie Mack IV, Republican Mark Foley, Republican Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, Republican Lincoln Diaz-Balart, Republican Clay Shaw, Republican Mario Diaz-Balart, Republican Jim Marshall, Democrat Cynthia McKinney, Democrat Phil Gingrey, Republican Butch Otter, Republican Dan Lipinski, Democrat Luis Gutierrez, Democrat Henry Hyde, Republican Jerry Costello, Democrat Lane Evans, Democrat Ray LaHood, Republican Peter Visclosky, Democrat Steve King, Republican Anne Northrup, Republican Bobby Jindal, Republican Charlie Melancon, Democrat Mike Michaud, Democrat Richard Neal, Democrat James McGovern, Democrat Martin Meehan, Democrat Edward Markey, Democrat Michael Capuano, Democrat Stephen Lynch, Democrat Bill Delahunt, Democrat Bart Stupak, Democrat Dave Camp, Republican Dale Kildee, Democrat Joe Schwarz, Republican Joe Knollenberg, Republican Thaddeus McCotter, Republican John Dingell, Democrat Gil Gutknecht, Republican Betty McCollum, Democrat Mark Kennedy, Republican James Oberstar, Democrat Gene Taylor, Democrat William Clay, Jr., Democrat Kenny Hulshof, Republican Jeff Fortenberry, Republican Jon Porter, Republican Frank LoBiondo, Republican Christopher Smith, Republican Frank Pallone, Democrat Michael Ferguson, Republican Bill Pascrell, Democrat Robert Menendez, Democrat Timothy Bishop, Democrat Peter King, Republican Carolyn McCarthy, Democrat Joseph Crowley, Democrat Nydia Velazquez, Democrat Vito Fossella, Republican Charles Rangel, Democrat Jose Serrano, Democrat John Sweeney, Republican Michael McNulty, Democrat Maurice Hinchey, Democrat John McHugh, Republican

Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic

New York New York New York North Carolina North Carolina North Carolina Ohio Ohio Ohio Ohio Ohio Ohio Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Rhode Island Rhode Island Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas Virginia Washington Wisconsin Wisconsin Wisconsin

Sherwood Boehlert, Republican James Walsh, Republican Brian Higgins, Democrat Walter Jones, Republican Virginia Foxx, Republican Patrick McHenry, Republican Steve Chabot, Republican John Boehner, Republican Marcy Kaptur, Democrat Dennis Kucinich, Democrat Patrick Tiberi, Republican Timothy Ryan, Democrat Bob Ney, Republican John Sullivan, Republican Peter DeFazio, Democrat Robert Brady, Democrat Phil English, Republican Melissa Hart, Republican Michael Fitzpatrick, Republican Paul Kanjorski, Democrat John Murtha, Democrat Michael Doyle, Democrat Tim Holden, Democrat Tim Murphy, Republican Patrick Kennedy, Democrat Jim Langevin, Democrat Kevin Brady, Republican Michael McCaul, Republican Ruben Hinojosa, Democrat Silvestre Reyes, Democrat Charles Gonzalez, Democrat Henry Cuellar, Democrat James Moran, Democrat Doc Hastings, Republican Paul Ryan, Republican David Obey, Democrat Mark Green, Republican

24 of 100 (24%) of US Senators are Roman Catholic Alaska Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Kansas Iowa Illinois Kentucky Louisiana Louisiana Massachusetts Massachusetts Maryland Maine New Hampshire New Mexico Ohio Ohio Pennsylvania Rhode Island Vermont Washington Washington

Lisa Murkowski, Republican Ken Salazar, Democrat Christopher Dodd, Democrat Joseph Biden, Democrat Mel Martinez, Republican Sam Brownback, Republican Tom Harkin, Democrat Richard Durbin, Democrat Jim Bunning, Republican Mary Landrieu, Democrat David Vitter, Republican Edward Kennedy, Democrat John Kerry, Democrat Barbara Mikulski, Democrat Susan Collins, Republican John Sununu, Republican Pete Domenici, Republican Mike DeWine, Republican George Voinovich, Republican Rick Santorum, Republican Jack Reed, Democrat Patrick Leahy, Democrat Maria Cantwell, Democrat Patty Murray, Democrat

5 of 9 (56%) Members of the U.S. Supreme Court are Roman Catholic John Roberts (Chief Justice) Anthony M. Kennedy Antonin Scalia Clarence Thomas Samuel Alito

Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic Catholic

23 of 50 (46%) of US State Governors Are Roman Catholics Alaska California Colorado Florida Iowa Kansas Louisiana Maine Michigan Montana New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Oregon Rhode Island South Dakota Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin

Frank Murkowski Arnold Schwarzenegger Bill Owens Jeb Bush Thomas Vilsack Kathleen Sebelius Kathleen Blanco John Baldacci Jennifer Granholm Brian Schweitzer John Lynch Richard Codey Bill Richardson George Pataki Michael Easley John Hoeven Ted Kulongoski Don Carcieri Mike Rounds Tim Kaine Christine Gregoire Joe Manchin III Jim Doyle

the eternal gospel herald — volume 4, no. 5 page 3 separate. The Framers of the Bill of Rights had this great purpose in mind: to prevent the church or the state from being legally tied, obligated, or entangled together.

tion of church and state is absolute, where no Catholic prelate would tell the President how to act…where no religious body seeks to impose its will directly or indirectly upon the general populace or the public acts of its officials.” John F. Kennedy's address at the Greater Houston Ministerial Association, Houston, Texas, September 12, 1960, quoted in part.

Does this mean that religious groups should be excluded from participating in public debates? No. So many issues confront us; racial equality, religious freedom, economic justice, human rights, abortion, war, and peace, to which everyone has an important contribution to make. The opinions of all clearly belong in the public square. Everyone, including the American Roman Catholic clergy, has been given that right. And the Catholic leadership’s views can be compelling and convincing at times on moral issues, such as in abortion, euthanasia, or other issues on life. Most people, regardless of their religious affiliations welcome the Roman Catholic’s contribution to the public debate – if and when it is for the common good. No one gains when any one group is excluded from free speech or from voicing their position on any matter. This is not the issue to which we want to address. The Abusive Bully Pulpit The problem is the role that the Catholic hierarchy is playing today. If they were simply disseminating their beliefs or voicing their concerns we would have no problem. But they are alarmingly doing much more than this. Not only are they presenting their positions for consideration, but they are aggressively directing the choices of Roman Catholic politicians and backing up those directions with liturgical and theological threats. Many Roman Catholic Bishops are either denying Catholic politicians from participating in communion or promising excommunication simply because they prefer to follow their own conscience, instead of the church’s directives. [Please read “Worthiness to Receive Holy Communion” by Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, July 2004]. Many Catholic politicians have incurred the wrath of the church for failing to “toe the line” of the church. Denial of communion or promise of excommunication means little to the non-Catholic; but for the Catholic it is a very serious, forceful, and manipulating threat. Why should our lawmakers have to carry the unnecessary, unwarranted burden of having to choose between faithfulness to their church or to their civic duties, if and when those two purposes are in conflict? Friends, this is a major battle brewing right now in Washington D.C., primarily in the US Senate. And this battle that could have a huge impact on religious and civil liberties, especially now that the Catholic vote in the US Supreme court is the majority. It’s a battle over whether the church has the right to coerce those who shape our public policies, pressuring them to reflect the position of the church. This new scheme is a complete detraction from the historical, American tradition. We must challenge all public officials, regardless of their religious affiliation, to stand by President John F. Kennedy’s famous pledge:

True Patriotic American Citizenship Making a Difference There is a legal process laid down by the U.S. Constitution which gives concerned citizens numerous opportunities to have a positive influence on our government. American citizens, if they should choose to, can:

The top American Catholic Hierarchy: U.S. Catholic Cardinals Cardinal Roger Mahony of Los Angeles, Cardinal William Keeler of Baltimore, Cardinal Adam Maida of Detroit, Cardinal Francis George of Chicago, Cardinal Edward Egan of New York, Cardinal Theodore McCarrick of Washington, Cardinal Justin Rigali 1. contact elected and appointed officials of Philadelphia. to discuss concerns—“freedom...to petition the government for a redress of grievances” 1st Amendment 2. Discuss or debate important issues through voice or pen—“freedom of speech, or of the press” 1st Amendment 3. Vote—15th, 19th, 26th Amendments 4. Peacefully demonstrate—“the right of the people peaceably to assemble” 1st Amendment And if we are truly Christian, if these measures fail, and if we still want to work to make things better, then God directs us to pray. Newly confirmed Roman Catholic Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito, (L) is congratulated by U.S. Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, (R) also a Roman Catholic.

“I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.” 1 Tim. 2:1, 2. “For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds.” 2 Cor. 10:4. Unpatriotic, Un-American, Tyrannical

Pope Benedict XVI greets U.S. first lady Laura Bush during a private audience in the pontiff's private library at the Vatican February 9, 2006. The first lady is visiting Rome before heading to Aviano Air Base to meet with U.S. troops (Reuters/Pool).

The former Supreme Court Justice William Rehnquist, a Lutheran, with Cardinal Theodore McCarrick after celebrating mass at St. Matthews Catholic Cathedral.

But where does the Roman Catholic Church [RCC] assume the right to retaliate against our lawmakers, threatening them with condemnation and hellfire? And for what reason? Because (1) they aren’t reflecting the teaching of their Church and (2) for choosing to represent those who elected them into office. Who do our elected officials represent, if not those who voted them into office. Does the Catholic leadership want Catholic politicians to only represent their Church? This is exactly what President Kennedy was warning against. This is also exactly what the “establishment clause” forbids in our Constitution. And in order to destroy the “free exercise” clause, the right which guarantees liberty of conscience, the right of the individual to worship God, and to practice one’s religion freely; you first have to destroy the “establishment clause,” the part of our Constitution that prohibits the church from imposing its will on the state. And this is the issue at hand which few people want to realize. Notice the warning that Republican Senator Barry Goldwater, a founding figure of modern conservativism, left for us:

Rehnquist’s funeral services were held at St. Matthew's Cathedral —not the National Cathedral, the usual for a Protestant. Why weren’t Lutherans given “The religious factions that are growing “I believe in an America where the separa- that honor? There are several Lutheran Churches in throughout our the Washington D.C. area. —continued on page 4

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the USCCB remains above the political arena and work at the highest —continued from page 3 land are not using their religious clout with levels of U.S. Government. The USCCB has unprecedented, unfettered wisdom. They are trying to force government leaders into following access to the elite in Washington—The President, his highest legal adtheir positions 100 percent. If you disagree with these religious groups visors, and other policy makers. on any particular moral issue, they cajole, they complain, they threaten you with loss of money or votes or both. And I’m frankly sick and tired In addition to having secured places at the tables for the politically of the political preachers across this country telling me as a citizen that privileged, recently the USCCB has chalif I want to be a moral person, I must belenged the Catholic faithful who hold lieve in ‘A,’ ‘B,’ ‘C,’ and ‘D.’ Just who elected or appointed positions in governdo they think they are? And from where ment. The USCCB has unequivocally do they presume to claim the right to dicstated that Catholic politicians who act in tate their moral beliefs to me? And I am defiance of the fundamental principles of even more angry as a legislator who must the church will be placed in censure and endure the threats of every religious denied any kind of awards, recognitions, group who thinks it has some Godhonors, and platforms. granted right to control my vote on every roll call in the Senate. I am warning “The Catholic community and Catholic them today: I will fight them every step institutions should not honor those who of the way if they try to dictate their act in defiance of our fundamental moral moral convictions to all Americans in the name of ‘conservatism’…And the reli- President George W. Bush meets with Bishop William principles. They should not be given gious factions will go on imposing their Skylstad, president of the United States Conference of awards, honors or platforms which would suggest support for their actions.” Cathowill on others unless the decent people Catholic Bishops on March 14, 2005. lics in Political Life, June 2004, paragraph connected to them recognize that religion 10, Monsignor William P. Fay, General has no place in public policy. The great Secretary, USCCB. decisions of government cannot be dictated by the concerns of religious facLet us never forget, to Rome, the “moral tions. We have succeeded for 205 years principles” refer to its tradition, its cusin keeping the affairs of state separate tom, doctrines, and religion. from the uncompromising idealism of religious groups and we mustn’t stop And if that weren’t enough, the USCCB now. To retreat from that separation also has their own lobbying arm—the Ofwould violate the principles of conservafice of Government Liaison, directed by tism and the values upon which the framFrank Monahan, whose job is to ers built this democratic republic.” Sena“influence the congress” on “public policy tor Barry Goldwater’s speech entered in issues of concern to the bishops” [Please the Congressional Record, given in the see www.usccb.org]. Frank Monahan’s U.S. Senate September 16, 1981, “To Be job, as a political lobbyist representing the a Conservative,” quoted in part. highest Catholic legal authority in the United States [USCCB], is to point out the Where are the champions of religious wishes of the Catholic church on issues regarding tax policies, church/ liberty who would dare speak out like this today? Where are the modstate issues, pro-life, domestic and social development, immigration, ern-day Jones and Waggoners [religious liberty leaders] within Adveneducation, international justice, environmental, gun control, and a host tism who would dare call into question these gross violations? of other issues. Every year Frank Monahan prepares a report for Congress, approximately 115 pages, petitioning all its members to support “The sins of Babylon will be laid open. The fearful results of enforcing the USCCB’s positions. The USCCB does its very best every year to the observances of the church by civil authority, the inroads of spiritulobby our politicians, reminding them of the Church’s clear teaching. alism, the stealthy but rapid progress of the papal power—all will be unmasked.” The Great Controversy, p. 606. This is far from new business for this powerful Vatican-directed agency. Rome, through these bishops, has been hard at work trying to At present, Roman Catholic politicians have unquestionably and indisshape U.S. public policy for decades. And, to a large degree, they are putably become the majority in every level of government. This year succeeding. alone, for the first time in history, they finally have the majority in the US Supreme Court, and our concern is whether or not the highest court “She [Rome] is employing every device to extend her influence and in the land will uphold the historical, American tradition between the increase her power in preparation for a fierce and determined conflict proper role of church and state or will they make our way of life subject to regain control of the world, to re-establish persecution, and to undo to the theology of the American bishops. We see no reason why they all that Protestantism has done.” The Great Controversy, pp. 566, 567. should not be asked what position they will uphold, especially in light that their Church leaders are demanding that members of “their” conThe Creation of an Illegal Political Action Machine gregation act in line with the “faith.” [See Catholic Politicians Need to be Aware of Christian Identity on page 6 of the Eternal Gospel Herald] The Constitution doesn’t call for the permanent formation of powerful, well-funded, full-time interest groups who seek to influence officials The USCCB - A Takeover in Development already in office. Many of these groups—such as businesses, professional organizations, labor parties, and religious institutions—are repreA very powerful, Vatican-directed agency called the United States sented by lobbyists. The lobbyists’ main task is to actively promote Conference of Catholic Bishops [USCCB] is a corporation strategically legislation beneficial to the groups they represent. These highly paid set up in Washington D.C. to convey the Church’s message to America political persuaders often wait in legislative halls for a chance to speak on public policy and political life. This “non-profit” corporation is with our legislators. The role that lobbyists play in America is highly composed of approximately 300 active bishops in the United States and controversial because of the money that is given to elected officials by has immense resources to sustain it. This institution does not represent these special interest groups. Lobbying is often used for good, but it the 55 million to 60 million Catholics living in America; rather, it can also be used for harm. represents the voice of the Vatican. The USCCB exists solely, apart from its charity work, to deliver to the U.S. Congress, our legislative One thing is sure, the religious powers will soon go too far and lobby body, the legislative agenda of Rome, the Antichrist! the government for a Sunday law. The USCCB is in close proximity to the White House, the Supreme “The dignitaries of church and state will unite to bribe, persuade, or Court, and the US Congress in order to promote their agenda at the compel all classes to honor the Sunday...Political corruption is dehigh levels of our government. Just mention the name of the USCCB stroying love of justice and regard for truth; and even in free America, to people in Washington D.C., the name stirs up two words—power rulers and legislators, in order to secure public favor, will yield to the and influence. popular demand for a law enforcing Sunday observance.” The Great Controversy, p. 592. While the common citizens rally their causes at the grass-root levels, —continued on page 5

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—continued from page 4 Ellen White is accurately illustrating political lobbyists at its worst. Over 100 years ago she revealed exactly what the Churches are doing today. Church leaders through (1) strong-arm lobbing, through (2) large political contributions, and by (3) threats will push for laws that will reflect their doctrine. Unbe- Dear Friends, Greeting to you. Occasionally I get a chance lievable! Is this not being fulfilled before our eyes? to read copies of The Eternal Gospel Herald. I have found them to be very informative. I attended one of the meetings The Catholic leaders, along with their Protestant brothers, are lobbying right now that Pastor Perez had when he came to Jamaica. I would like for certain amendments to our United States Constitution. They are openly lobbying to receive your newsletter. Thank you, Anlette McDonald, for a Federal Marriage Amendment to be added to our US Constitution. They will New York. very soon, now that they have a majority in the US Supreme Court, lobby for a Federal Amendment outlawing abortion. And soon after these “good reforms” are im- Thank you for your Gospel Herald; because I learn a lot from it and am blessed. Praise the Lord you are putting up your plemented, notice what else the prophet reveals regarding a Sunday law: signs, your news, and your warning message. The Lord is “Here the temperance work, one of the most prominent and important of moral re- soon coming and we shall see His face. Always and forever forms, is often combined with the Sunday movement, and the advocates of the latter in Jesus Christ, Tommie Matz, Arizona. represent themselves as laboring to promote the highest interest of society; and those Thank you for giving me the opportunity to hear you on your who refuse to unite with them are denounced as the enemies of temperance and re- Sunday morning radio program. I am the pastor of my form. But the fact that a movement to establish error is connected with a work which church and I have been edified by the messages that you is in itself good, is not an argument in favor of the error. We may disguise poison by give. I am requesting the free literature that you offer on mingling it with wholesome food, but we do not change its nature. On the contrary, Revelation. May the peace of Christ be with you all. Amen, it is rendered more dangerous, as it is more likely to be taken unawares. It is one of Pastor Jose Medina, Florida. Satan's devices to combine with falsehood just enough truth to give it plausibility. The leaders of the Sunday movement may advocate reforms which the people need, Dear brethren, May the Lord continue to bless each of you principles which are in harmony with the Bible; yet while there is with these a re- for the precious work that you are doing in behalf of His peoquirement which is contrary to God's law, His servants cannot unite with them. ple. The remnant church truly are those who keeps the comNothing can justify them in setting aside the commandments of God for the precepts mandments of God and the testimony of Jesus. What a proof men.” The Great Controversy, pp. 587, 588. found message you have in The Eternal Gospel Herald. How many thirsty souls are going to be impacted by the messages In spite of the “good reforms” that the religious powers are bringing to this nation, a of present truth? Brethren, I plead with you, forgive me for terrible day of retribution, of social disorder, and of chaos is coming to America. not writing you more often. Your publication is so well preToo late will people realize the dangerous character and motives of these religious pared, and the pictures with all those colors are so impresmovements. sive. I ask you to keep me in your prayers. May the Lord continue to bless you. David Tarres, Puerto Rico. “The Protestant world will learn what the purposes of Rome really are, only when it is too late to escape the snare. She is silently growing into power. Her doctrines are Greeting in the name of our Lord, I must say it is so wonderexerting their influence in legislative halls, in the churches, and in the hearts of men. ful and marvelous the way God is using your ministry to She is piling up her lofty and massive structures, in the secret recesses of which her bless hearts and lives. Thank you for the books that you sent former persecutions will be repeated. Stealthily and unsuspectedly she is strengthen- me. I’m just letting you know that I’m sharing the materials ing her forces to further her own ends when the time shall come for her to strike. All will all my friends. May God continue to bless each of you, that she desires is vantage-ground, and this is already being given her. We shall soon Shemroy Robertson, New York. see and shall feel what the purpose of the Roman element is. Whoever shall believe To whom it may concern: Please send me your free Bible and obey the Word of God will thereby incur reproach and persecution.” The Great studies that you give out, and enroll me in your Bible correControversy, p. 581. spondence school. Thank you and may God bless. David Solutions McGee, Virginia.

Letters

If America is to avert this coming storm—more specifically, avert the complete demise of our government—the leaders of this nation have only two options. They can do like the ecumenical movement is doing, including the SDA leadership—just continue walking around with zippers on their mouths while the RCC systematically dismantles our great nation and everything that gave rise to its freedoms. They can turn over our U.S. Constitution and watch all our liberties vanish away. Or they can return to the policy of absolute separation—disconnecting themselves completely from every single one of these special interest pressure groups who are running around with too much power and money trying to influence or buy votes and/or special favors. Remove them all out of Washington so that they can’t continue corrupting our legal systems, for it is these groups with their highly-paid lobbyists that are polluting the political systems of America. The US Constitution only calls for the establishment of three branches of Government. The authority of our nation has been rightfully divided by the Constitution into the executive, legislative, and judicial systems. The RCC is in theory trying to establish itself as a superior authority, a fourth branch of US Government, refashioning the face of America into a nation consistent with their dogmatic decrees. This is an encroachment by a religious power upon the civil government. This attempt is a violation of church and state. And who’s speaking out? Who’s challenging them? As Seventh-day Adventists, we must continue giving the warning of the third angel’s message—which warns against civil power sustaining the teachings of the church. This is the heart of the entire matter, which proves once again that the message ordained by God to be given in these last days is relevant, applicable, and a necessary warning to all the world. “We are not doing the will of God if we sit in quietude, doing nothing to preserve liberty of conscience...Let there be most earnest prayer and then let us work in harmony with our prayers.” Testimonies, Vol. 5, p. 714. “When the churches of our land, uniting upon such points of faith as are held by them in common, shall influence the State to enforce their decrees and sustain their institutions, then will Protestant America have formed an image of the Roman hierarchy.” Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4, p. 278. —The Editors

Dear Eternal Gospel Church, I am currently an inmate in the county jail. I have accepted Christ and I’m wanting to learn His Word. I came across “Earth’s Final Warning,” a sort of newspaper that I enjoy reading. Any literature that you can send will be put to good use. Jerrod Turpen, Indiana. Dear Pastor Raphael Perez, Thank you for your publication— The Eternal Gospel Herald. I am a Seventh-day Adventist and I listen to your radio program on Sundays. I know that the Lord will continue to support your work because it is for His glory and honor. God bless you, Victor Mora, Florida. Dear Eternal Gospel, I received your DVD #3. What a powerful tool. I have seen #1 but I don’t have a copy. Can you send me #1 and 2? God bless you and your ministry, B.D. Hendricks, Florida. Dear Church Brethren, Greeting to you from Kachinland, Asia. Recently I received, “Historic Landmarks” magazine, in the issue of July 2005 from Steps to Life. I noticed that your address is written inside their back cover, offering your free subscription to “The Eternal Gospel Herald.” If it is possible, please kindly send me both old and new issues. I will thank you so much for this support. We are a small group here, but we are very, very busy because we believe that Jesus is coming soon. I enclose a sketch map of Kachinland. There are in total 6 major tribes and 4 minor ones. Today, or main goal is to harvest the lost souls in all of these communities. May God bless you and your ministry, Pastor Lazum Brang, Kachinland. Pastor Perez, Thank you so much for your dedication and courage! God will protect you. The signs of the times all reveal how near we are to Christ’s return, I weep for our people who are dead spiritually, because most spend so little time in the Word and in prayer. Please pray for all the Furman Family. In His love, Avis Furman, California.

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the eternal gospel herald — volume 4, no. 5

Christian Conservatives Rally for Catholic Judge Alito Sunday, January 8, 2006, Reuters News WASHINGTON—Christian conservative leader Rev. Jerry Falwell said on Sunday that confirming Federal Appeals Court judge Samuel Alito to the U.S. Supreme Court would be the biggest victory for his constituency in three decades.

The Ambassadors of 173 nations applaud Pope Benedict XVI during an annual speech at the Vatican, Monday, January 9, 2006. During the meeting, the pope outlined the Vatican’s foreign policy priorities. “And the woman which thou sawest is that great city, which reigneth over the kings of the earth.” Rev. 17:18.

"What we've worked on for 30 years, to mobilize people of faith and value in this country, what we've done through these years is coming to culmination right now," Falwell said at a rally on the eve of Alito's confirmation hearing. "Now we're looking at what we really started on 30 years ago, reconstruction of a court system gone awry," Falwell said at a rally at a Baptist church in Philadelphia and broadcast on Christian radio and television. "There could be a reconstruction of the U.S. Supreme Court in our immediate lifetime," said Falwell. "Go to the telephone, write your letter, get to your U.S. senators. Let's confirm this man, Judge Alito, to the U.S. Supreme Court," Falwell said. "And let's make one more step toward bringing America back to one nation under God." President George W. Bush has nominated Alito, a member of the 3rd Circuit since 1990, to replace retiring Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, who often has been the swing vote on the nine-member Supreme Court on social issues. James Dobson of Focus on the Family told the audience that Alito's confirmation would mean the end of a Supreme Court that has imposed its will on the American people in deciding cases involving religion. Rev. Barry Lynn, executive director of Americans United for Separation of Church and State said in a telephone interview that the rally on Sunday was more about power than justice. "They want a judiciary system that lock, stock and barrel follows the religious doctrines of the Falwells and Dobsons of the world," Lynn said.

One by one the Nations’ Ambassadors to the Vatican greeted Pope Benedict XVI during his annual speech. Ambassador Giovanni Galassi, of the Republic of San Marino, shakes hands with the pope.

Ten Commandments are a Blueprint for a Just Society, Pope Says January 25, 2006, Catholic World News Brief At his regular weekly audience on Wednesday, January 25, Pope Benedict XVI said that God's law offers a blueprint for "peace and harmony in the world." The Pope's prepared address to the Wednesday audience was a meditation on Psalm 143 (144): "the king's prayer." This psalm, he observed, offers a vision of a time "when the voice of evil will finally be silent," with the complete victory of God's people. The text depicts an ideal society, marked by contented families, abundant crops, and "the entire civil community finally enjoying the precious gift of peace and of public order." This vision can be realized, the Pope said, only through "the work of the Messiah and his people." And it can be reached only by making a clear choice to "take the side of God, of love and of justice." The psalmist says that he will play on a 10-stringed harp, and Pope Benedict—following St. Augustine, whose commentary he cited—interpreted that image as a reference to the Ten Commandments.

Israeli Ambassador to the Vatican, Oded Ben-Hur (left), shakes hands with Pope Benedict XVI. Turkish Ambassador to the Vatican, Osman Durak (right) waits his turn to meet the pope.

Psalm 143, the Pontiff concluded, calls believers to "sing a new song with the 10stringed harp, to sing with the sentiments of Christ, to live the Ten Commandments in the dimension of love, and thus to contribute to a world of peace and harmony."

Pope: “Catholic Politicians Need to be Aware of Christian Identity” VATICAN CITY, DEC. 18, 2005 (Zenit.org).- One of the challenges facing the Church is to help Catholic politicians recognize their Christian identity and act accordingly, says Benedict XVI. Recalling the teachings of the Second Vatican Council's constitution "Gaudium et Spes," the Holy Father said: "Those who are suited or can become suited should prepare themselves for the difficult, but at the same time, the very noble art of politics, and should seek to practice this art without regard for their own interests or for material advantages." Referring to Catholic politicians, he continued: "With integrity and wisdom, they must take action against any form of injustice and tyranny, against arbitrary domination by an individual or a political party and any intolerance.

January, 9, 2006, Pope Benedict XVI sits at the front and center of the nations’ ambassadors. “And all the world wondered after the beast.” Rev. 13:4.

"They should dedicate themselves to the service of all with sincerity and fairness, indeed, with the charity and fortitude demanded by political life." To do this, the Pope added, "Christian politicians cannot remain without the help of the Church."

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“So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors.” Matthew 24:33

Anti-Lebanese protesters clash with police in Cronulla, Australia December 11, 2005. Racial tensions erupted into violence on a Sydney beach on Sunday when some 5,000 people, some yelling racist chants, converged to defend their beach from what they believe are youth gangs of Middle East background. Local surfers and beachgoers rallied at Cronulla Beach after two young surf lifesavers were attacked last Sunday by a group of young men from Sydney's western suburbs.

Six percent of the population in Britain, or about 3.6 million, are either gay or lesbian, the government's first attempt to quantify the homosexual population has concluded.

February 3, 2006—Over 1,000 people were feared dead after an aging Egyptian ferry caught fire and then sunk into the Red Sea. Egyptian men wait to identify the bodFebruary 17, 2206—A deadly landslide ies of their relatives who were on board the sunken ferry. swallowed up an entire village with a sea of Only 388 were known to have survived of the more than mud after a mountain slope collapsed on the 1400. farming village of Guinsaugon, Philippines, burying it under 30 feet. Nearly its entire population of 1,857 was feared dead. The rescue teams in search of survivors recovered only dead bodies.

Port Harcourt, Nigeria, Monday, Dec. 12, 2005—Grieving friends and family members of victims in Nigeria's latest plane crash claimed their loved ones' bodies Monday, identifying corpses and packing them in coffins for burial. Investigators were looking into the causes behind Saturday's crash of a Nigerian airliner ferrying schoolchildren home for the holidays. All but three of the 110 people on board died (AP Photo/George Osodi).

December 20, 2005—The worst flooding that Southern Asia has seen in 40 years has left over 100 dead and tens of thousands homeless in Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines. Heavy rains sparked landslides and caused Rescue workers arrive to search for survivors transportation and communication services to stop. on Monday, February 20, 2006 where an elementary school is believed buried in Friday's massive landslide at Guinsaugon village, in central Philippines. At least 72 bodies were recovered so far but officials estimating those who perished in the landslide to be 1,500 including about 200 school children (AP Photo/Bullit Marquez).

February 3, 2006— A Kenyan woman gestures with anger after 38 people were killed in a remote northwestern border town when cattle-raiding tribes from neighboring Sudan and Ethiopia attacked two Turkana villages, in what local officials said was a direct result of droughtrelated land encroachment (AFP/File/Tony Karumba).

Carlos Alpizar, father of Rigoberto Alpizar, looks at the coffin containing his son during Alpizar's funeral service, December 13, 2005. Rigoberto Alpizar, a nationalized American, was shot and killed by federal air marshals after he bolted frantically from an American Airlines jetliner that was boarding for takeoff at Miami International Airport on December 7 (Reuters News).

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the eternal gospel herald — volume 4, no. 5

I praise the Lord for the recent missionary trips to the Philippines and to South America. There is a tremendous need in these countries. Many faithful people have been disfellowshipped for giving out the Earth’s Final Warning message and for standing for truth. These precious souls don’t have the means to support themselves with truthfilled literature, yet they are willing to work to spread the Word. I was in the western Philippines on December 25, 2005 to January 3, 2006 for a historic Seventh-day Adventist campmeeting. I felt as though I were attending a family reunion. It was such a good blessing to meet for the first time different members of the family of God, from different parts of the country, who all have a love for the three angels’ messages and are excited about honoring the Creator in worship and in Here we see Pastor Perez with some of the brethren at our campmeeting in Mendoza, Argentina. Historic Adventists from Brazil, Chile, and Argentina were in attendance. reaching out to the world with God’s present-truth message. These missionary trips have a two-fold focus, to meet with the different elders, leaders, and Bible workers—encouraging each other in the message, and to minister to the precious holy flock of the Lord. “As the holy flock, as the flock of Jerusalem in her solemn feasts; so shall the waste cities be filled with flocks of men: and they shall know that I am the LORD.” Ezekiel 36:38. On the second trip, I visited Argentina and Chile, February 7-14, 2006, and attended another historic campmeeting. The Lord is really taking hold of the reigns of His work. I had the opportunity to meet missionaries who are serving God by working earnestly in the same task of warning the world. Unknown to us, the Lord has His faithful 7,000 who have not bowed their knees unto Baal, who have not compromised the true work, and are focused on bringing people into the Kingdom.

Pastors, Elders, Bible workers, and other leaders from different local churches The brethren there received the Word wonderfully as I was able to share with them some of the work that God is doing all over the world. throughout the Philippines are pictured here with Pastor Perez. As you can tell, I’m excited to see what God is doing as we serve Him in building up His church. It is encouraging that different people from every nation, kindred, tongue, and people are all moving together as one, praying for that same result, to see our great work finished so we can go home to be with Jesus. Please continue to pray for all of the brethren, so that we all can do our part. I believe it is absolutely essential for God's children to learn to work and pray together as we serve Him in reaching the world. We solicit your prayers so that our good Lord will continue to provide the means for us to carry on with the ministry into which we have been called. —Pastor Raphael Perez

Above: Part of the congregation that came everyday for the meetings. Below: Sabbath service at the 11:00 a.m. at the Philippine Historic Campmeeting.

One of two new billboards that we have installed on the major highways in Granada, Nicaragua. The message reads “Saturday the true Lord’s day Mark 2:28, Changed to Sunday by man Daniel 7:25, Rev. 13, Free book.

The Eternal Gospel Herald PO Box 15138 W.P.B., FL 33416 1-800-769-2150 eternalgospel@att.net Subscription: FREE The Eternal Gospel Herald is published from West Palm Beach, Florida, USA, by the Eternal Gospel Church, a ministry that was founded in 1992 by Seventh-day Adventist believers to bring true, genuine, world-wide revival and reformation by proclaiming the Third Angel’s

Message. The Eternal Gospel Herald is sent to you free of charge, with much love, work, and sacrifice. This publication should not be considered a doctrinal journal or a devotional manuscript, being that we have the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy to supplement those needs. Neither should you consider The Eternal Gospel Herald as an attack on any personality or entity, nor as a gossip tabloid, or an undocumented, speculative Adventist journal. Every effort is made to insure the accuracy of the information contained herein. This publication is

printed to communicate the issues and subjects pertaining solely to the development and fulfillment of the third angel’s message. We hope and pray that you will not only enjoy it but that it will be informative and spiritually enlightening to all of you. It is only by the grace of God and the support of each of you that we are able to participate in publishing, radio, newspapers, billboards, and foreign missions.

Pastor Raphael Perez