Fascinating tool: Cell size and scale

See it and be amazed! University of Utah

Raise a good person. Stop nurturing your child's self-esteem

Dennis Prager: By now, most people (with the exception of many psychotherapists) recognize that the self-esteem movement officially launched by California in 1986 has been at best silly and at worst injurious to society, despite whatever small benefit it may have had to some individuals.

Mike Pence: Fiscal and Social Issues Go Together, 2012 Decision Soon | LifeNews.com

Mike Pence: Fiscal and Social Issues Go Together, 2012 Decision Soon | LifeNews.com: Congressman Mike Pence responded to a letter from a group of Tea Party and gay rights activists saying the Republican party should focus on fiscal issues instead of social ones by saying the two go hand-in-hand.

“People are always saying, ‘should it be spending or social issues?’ How about both?” Pence told ABC News. “How about, let’s deny all federal funding to Planned Parenthood of America? That would save $350 million right off the top,” he said of his bill that would deny Title X money to organizations that do abortions. . . . [M]illions of Americans, more every day — are offended that the largest abortion provider in America is also the largest recipient of federal funding under Title 10.”

Direct Conversion May Make Embryonic Stem Cell Research Obsolete

Direct Conversion May Make Embryonic Stem Cell Research Obsolete | LifeNews.com: Scientists made a major step towards making embryonic stem cell research obsolete when they used direct reprogramming to convert adult stem cells to an embryonic-like state. Now direct conversion is moving the ball forward.

The process of direct conversion involves changing one kind of specialized stem cell into another kind — and it eliminates the need for controversial embryonic stem cells, which some scientists promote because they can change into most any kind of cells. It is also an improvement on the direct reprogramming technique pro-life advocates applauded because it moved the debate in a more ethical direction.

Will science trump religion, answer how we should live?

Will science trump religion, answer how we should live? - Faith & Reason: When Elaine Howard Ecklund surveyed 1,700 scientists and interviewed 275 of them for her new book on Science vs. Religion: What Scientists Really Think, she found nearly 50% are religious, identifying with one of the world's major traditions. Among the remainder, 20% still consider themselves spiritual, and many atheists and agnostics still go to church -- for their spouse, their kids or the community of friends. More importantly, they still bring religious ideas of ethics to the table when they look at issues such as research ethics. But hush, it's a secret, Ecklund says.

Embryonic stem cells over-hyped

Embryonic stem cells are over-hyped, says scientist | News | The Christian Institute: Stem cell research that destroys human embryos is getting disproportionate funding because its controversial nature stirs up media hype, a scientist has warned.
Dr Colin McGuckin says funding for the ethical alternative – adult stem cell research – is being hampered by a lack of publicity.

Speaker decries U.S. 'polyamory' culture

Baptist Press - Speaker decries U.S. 'polyamory' culture - News with a Christian Perspective: The deteriorating moral state of America can be blamed on a rising culture of polyamory, a culture that endorses serial relationships rather than lifelong, monogamous relationships, said Patrick Fagan in a lecture at the Family Research Council. 'The culture of the traditional family -- it is now in intense competition, even at war.'

Is the Orphan My Neighbor?

Is the Orphan My Neighbor? : Russell Moore: "I will never forget seeing her pull the measuring tape out of her purse as she talked about the skull of her child.

"The woman, standing in an airport in Russia with my wife and me, was, like us, an American. She, like us, was in the former Soviet Union to pursue adoption. But she was worried. She had heard “horror stories” about fetal alcohol syndrome and various other nightmares. She said that the measuring tape was for gauging the size of the craniums of her potential children, to “make sure there’s nothing wrong with them.”

"The reason I think about this conversation so much these days is because I am finding—more and more often—that one of the primary obstacles for Christians in advocating for the fatherless can be summed up right there in that measuring tape: the issue of fear. As much as we might not want to admit it, many of us don’t think much about orphans because, frankly, we’re scared of them."

Abortion Law is Family Law

Abortion Law is Family Law « Public Discourse: Abortion is the destruction of a human life by the mother—the only person physically “given” to the child for nurture. Abortion is performed when the child is at perhaps the most defenseless moment of his or her existence. And while the killing of strangers—born or unborn—is prohibited in the United States, family members are permitted to be aborted. The wound to the good of the child, and even to the good of the whole family, is apparent. Abortion law makes the family not only not the safest place, but the only legally sanctioned danger zone.

I fought breast cancer . . .

MONAHAN: I fought breast cancer . . . - Washington Times: While the noble mission of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure foundation is to save lives and rid the world of breast cancer, there has been a great deal of concern recently over the foundation's growing relationship with the nation's largest abortion provider, Planned Parenthood Federation of America.

The multitude of Komen's pro-life sponsors are questioning how Komen - a group dedicated to preserving life - could align philosophically and financially support Planned Parenthood (PP), a group that boasts of taking the lives of 342,008 children annually, according to its latest records.

Komen admits to donating more than $730,000 to Planned Parenthood in 2009 and approximately $3.3 million from 2004 to 2009. In reaction to this news, Komen has lost support from pro-life advocates and has received numerous letters questioning this partnership.

AMERICA’S NEW HEALTH CARE SYSTEM REVEALED

Download High Resolution PDF of Chart »

Four months after U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi famously declared “We have to pass the bill so you can find out what’s in it,” a congressional panel has released the first chart illustrating the 2,801 page health care law President Obama signed into law in March.

Developed by the Joint Economic Committee minority, led by U.S Senator Sam Brownback of Kansas and Rep. Kevin Brady of Texas, the detailed organization chart displays a bewildering array of new government agencies, regulations and mandates.

95% of Americans under 30 plan to marry

New study: 95% of Americans under 30 plan to marry | LifeSiteNews.com: Despite the rising figures for cohabitation, divorce, and single parent child rearing, a new study by the Pew Research Center on how Americans view marriage and family shows only five percent of those under 30 don't plan on getting married.

With the marginally misleading title of 'The Decline of Marriage and Rise of New Families' the study, based on census data and a new telephone poll of 2,691 adults conducted between October 1 and 21, found that traditional marriage as the most viable basis of society is in no danger of disappearing.

Adoption works well

Marriage and Religion Research Institute: Adoption is life-alteringly beneficial for children. Such is the general conclusion from a review of the literature. Adoption in the first 12 months of the child's life produces the best outcomes, but all children will benefit, regardless of their age at placement. Adopted children outperform their non-adopted peers and non-adopted siblings.

Online Debate Examines Colorado Personhood Amendment Tactic

Online Debate Examines Colorado Personhood Amendment Tactic :Operation Rescue: Recently, a lively discussion on Facebook concerning Colorado’s twice defeated Amendment 62 prompted Troy Newman to invite both sides to a friendly debate. We asked both sides to submit 400 word statements in support of their views. We asked only that both sides refrain from ad hominem attacks. Other than removing any name-calling, we promised not to alter their statements in any way. (In fact, we have printed the statements submitted without edits of any kind.) Unfortunately, that one condition caused several from Personhood U.S.A. to pull out of the debate.

However, Keith Ashley, of Personhood Kansas graciously agreed to step in and submit a statement on behalf of the Personhood organization. Steven Ertelt, Editor of LifeNews.com, has agreed to submit a statement in opposition. Read the two statements and engage in the debate through the comment feature at the end of the articles. Which side do you favor?

Editor: Kudos to OR for providing this forum.

Don let market forces govern human procreation

Two British Columbians who had hired a 'surrogate' mother, changed their minds and wanted the woman to abort. The fetus apparently had Down's syndrome. The pregnant woman resisted abortion but then acquiesced.

Technology means the systematic application of scientific and other organised knowledge to practical tasks by their division into component parts. By reducing human procreation to component parts, technology causes sperm, egg and gestational capacity to become 'factors of reproduction.' The BC commissioning couple could purchase the missing factor of gestational ability, but contributing a factor to widget production is different from being pregnant, which involves the whole woman including her body and emotions.

When preconception intent is used to determine parenthood, a pregnant woman can become only a 'babysitter.' Commissioners also become entitled to interrupt the gestational process based on the presumed quality of the product - even though intentions about child rearing can alter before, during and after a pregnancy. BioNews

Adult stem cell could provide brain tumour treatment

Adult stem cell could provide brain tumour treatment - CathNews: Recent research by a South Korean Catholic hospital has shown that adult stem cells can provide a highly effective treatment for malignant brain tumours and other types of cancer, vindicating the Church's stance on using these or artificially derived ones rather than embryonic stem cell.

Tea Party Nation Rebuts Letter: We Want Action on Abortion

Tea Party Nation Rebuts Letter: We Want Action on Abortion | LifeNews.com: After a letter signed by a handful of Tea Party activists made national headlines for its request to downplay social issues like abortion, a new letter signed by Tea Party Nation leaders goes the other direction. The new letter contains a list of action items that reflects the views of pro-life advocates.

Justice Scalia: Founders Never Imagined Abortion "Rights"

Justice Scalia: Founders Never Imagined Abortion "Rights" | LifeNews.com: In a speech at the University of Richmond in Virginia on Friday, Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia told the audience that the founders of the nation never envisioned a right to an abortion when drafting the Constitution that is supposed to guide the federal courts. He criticized those who misinterpret the 14th Amendment’s due process clause to include abortion.

Next Pro-Life Battle Centers on Abortions at Military Bases

Next Pro-Life Battle Centers on Abortions at Military Bases | LifeNews.com: When members of the Senate return from their Thanksgiving break, the pro-life movement will immediately face a key legislative showdown over the issue of abortions at military bases. The Senate will consider the legislation which currently contains the Burris amendment, a measure that overturns the longstanding pro-life policy against abortions at taxpayer-funded military bases.

Join The Church Awareness Project

Abortion is a divisive issue in many churches. Discussions about abortion are often strident and polarizing. Pastors often find preaching on abortion difficult because they fear angering or dividing their congregations, or avoid the issue because they believe it is mostly a political concern. Pro-lifers are often frustrated at the perceived lack of leadership on this issue, and concerned that silence can leave those facing crisis pregnancies more vulnerable to abortion, especially coerced and unwanted abortions.

Women and men who have been involved in a past abortion often feel unable to speak about it, expecting either dismissal or condemnation from others. They may have been hurt by thoughtless remarks that only added to their pain. As a result, many sit in the pews feeling silenced and alone — or end up leaving the church altogether.

It doesn’t have to be this way!

Join The Church Awareness Project. Email BFL for free documents.

The truth about condoms

Concerned Parents Report, Abstract, Contraception Information: While consistent condom use (i.e. using condoms correctly 100% of the time during sexual intercourse) has shown to decrease the the risk of HIV/AIDS transmission, 15% of those people who use condoms 100% of the time will still become infected with HIV/AIDS.

CA's embryonic boom goes bust

Family Research Council: In 2004 Robert Klein, chairman of the California Institute of Regenerative Medicine, helped pass Proposition 71, establishing the CIRM with a state taxpayer-funded $3 billion budget for ten years. The measure was passed with promises of affordable cures for virtually all diseases, cures specifically from embryonic stem cells and cloning, as well as tremendous financial payback for the citizens of California. The Los Angeles Times recently noted that Klein plans to seek up to $3 billion more from state taxpayers for his stem cell fiefdom.

Parsing the pope's condom remark

Health groups, Vatican parse pope's condom remark: The comments - a few sentences uttered by Pope Benedict XVI and publicized over the weekend about condom use in the fight against AIDS - have sent shock waves through the Catholic and health advocacy worlds. Theologians and global health experts Monday were still analyzing the meaning and potential implications of the pope condoning the use of condoms in certain circumstances.

Only two Senators show for hearing on U.S. ratification of pro-abort women’s treaty

Only two Senators show for hearing on U.S. ratification of pro-abort women’s treaty | LifeSiteNews.com: Last Thursday, a Senate subcommittee humored feminist activists by holding a hearing on possible U.S. ratification of a controversial women’s treaty. Senator Dick Durbin was the only senator present, save for a brief cameo by one other, which led one observer to remark that the hearing was nothing more than a “dog and pony show.”

Almost 2 in 3 underage pregnancies end in abortion

Almost 2 in 3 underage pregnancies end in abortion | News | The Christian Institute: New UK statistics show that over 60 per cent of all pregnancies among girls under 16 ended in abortion in 2008. Concern has been expressed over the figures from the Office for National Statistics, with a warning that a termination can have an impact which “lasts a lifetime.”
The ONS stats also show that four in ten pregnant women under the age of 20 had an abortion, an increase of 12 per cent in just one decade.

Most under-35s have not heard of the King James Bible

Most under-35s have not heard of the King James Bible | News | The Christian Institute: The influential translation, which will celebrate its 400th anniversary next year, is believed to be the biggest selling book ever produced. But a new poll has revealed that 51 per cent of under-35s have never heard of the King James Bible, compared to 28 per cent for those over the age of 55.

Abortion Backers' Science Resides in the Dark Ages

Abortion Backers' Science Resides in the Dark Ages | LifeNews.com: Pro-abortionists are stuck in the past. Way in the past.

53 Million Abortions Since Roe

United States Sees 53 Million Abortions Since Roe in 1973 | LifeNews.com: In January, the National Right to Life Committee provided a new analysis of the total number of abortions done in the 37 years since the Roe v. Wade decision. The NRLC analysis found that 52 million unborn children had been killed in abortions as of January.

The analysis also found that the best estimate for the current number of annual abortions in the United States — involving both the surgical abortion procedure as well as the dangerous abortion drug RU 486 — is 1.2 million. As a result, the United States likely passed the 53 million abortion mark on November 1.

Stem cell treatment for stroke patients

BioNews - Stem cell treatment for stroke patients: A British man has become the first patient in the world to receive a pioneering stem cell therapy to repair brain damage caused by stroke. The man, who had suffered an ischaemic stroke 16 months earlier, had fetal neural stem cells injected into his brain near the area of stroke damage, although the researchers do not expect to see any immediate or significant improvements at this stage. LifeSiteNews

'The 'donated' generation': action now not formal apology later

BioNews - 'The 'donated' generation': action now not formal apology later: A Federal Inquiry into Donor Conception is examining the plight of what Damian Adams has called 'the 'donated' generation.' These are the thousands of people conceived using donated gameteswho have been denied knowledge of their biological kinship, heritage, familial health history and conception.

Feds OK 2nd human study of embryonic stem cells

National and World -- GazetteXtra: For only the second time, the U.S. government has approved a test in people of a treatment using embryonic stem cells - this time for a rare disease that causes serious vision loss. Advanced Cell Technology, a biotechnology company based in Santa Monica., Calif., said the research should begin early next year, following the green light from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Just last month Geron Corp. said it had begun preliminary testing in people for treating spinal cord injuries by injecting cells derived from embryonic stem cells.

The Human Experience

Creating a movement for life: The Human Experience | LifeSiteNews.com: Amplified by cutting-edge filmmaking and a haunting score, the documentary delves deep into the real-time experience of its stars, who followed no script as they sought a new perspective on life through the eyes of those who suffer on the streets of New York, in a home for disabled children in Lima, Peru, and finally among a Ghanaian leper colony. There, say its makers, the unique film strove to capture the raw beauty of each human life, and the spirit that unlocks its meaning.

Amazing first: leukemia patient completely cured with cord blood stem cells

Amazing first: leukemia patient completely cured with cord blood stem cells | LifeSiteNews.com: Doctors say they have cured a child’s leukemia completely using an infusion of stem cells from umbilical cord blood. The procedure was reportedly performed in 2005 on a four-year-old girl whose chemotherapy treatment had failed and who had a prognosis of only three months to live. The procedure was possible because the parents had decided to preserve their child’s umbilical cord blood at the time of birth.

DNA primer: The language of life

DNA - Answers in Genesis: In recent times, scientists have discovered an unmistakable language within all living things. Like a miniature library, DNA stores piles of information in extraordinary molecules that specify the details of everything from the shape of flower petals to the color of your eyes.

Religious diversity in the pro-life movement

In part 1 of this video presentation, the founder of SecularProLife.org discusses changing religious demographics in the United States and how the pro-life movement must adapt. This lecture was delivered at Liberty University on November 11, 2010. In part two, a pro-life atheist and sidewalk counselor shares her personal testimony of facing an unplanned pregnancy and becoming an advocate for the right to life.

New, from 2007: The Modesty Survey

The Modesty Survey is an exciting, anonymous discussion between Christian guys and girls who care about modesty. Hundreds of Christian girls contributed to the 148-question survey and over 1,600 Christian guys submitted 150,000+ answers, including 25,000 text responses, over a 20-day period in January 2007.

The survey also gave Christian guys the opportunity to communicate to their sisters in Christ through the Modesty Survey Petition -- an opportunity to affirm and commend the following biblical truths surrounding feminine modesty by adding your name to the hundreds of signatures.

Researchers Engineer Adult Stem Cells That Do Not Age, Overcoming a Major Barrier to Progress in Regenerative Medicine

Researchers Engineer Adult Stem Cells That Do Not Age, Overcoming a Major Barrier to Progress in Regenerative Medicine - UB NewsCenter: Biomedical researchers at the University at Buffalo have engineered adult stem cells that scientists can grow continuously in culture, a discovery that could speed development of cost-effective treatments for diseases including heart disease, diabetes, immune disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. They created the new cell lines – named 'MSC Universal' – by genetically altering mesenchymal stem cells, which are found in bone marrow and can differentiate into cell types including bone, cartilage, muscle, fat, and beta-pancreatic islet cells.

UN conventions undermine family, religion, and national sovereignty

Family Research Council: U.N. committees charged with offering guidance on the obligations incumbent upon nations that have ratified the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women ('CEDAW') and the Convention on the Rights of the Child are, instead, advancing a radical agenda harmful to the best interests of societies and states, under the cover of providing review and recommendations.

What does a 'family' look like nowadays?

What does a 'family' look like nowadays? - USATODAY.com: The definition of 'family' has grown to include more than just the stereotypical married Mom, Dad and kids. The survey, by Pew Research Center was based on responses from 2,691 adults surveyed last month. Among findings:

•86% say a single parent and child are a family;

•80% say an unmarried couple living together with a child is a family;

•63% say a gay or lesbian couple raising a child is a family.

Meanwhile, 88% say a childless married couple is a family — but 54% say a cohabiting couple with no children is not a family.

Nearly 40% say marriage is becoming obsolete

Nearly 40% say marriage is becoming obsolete - USATODAY.com: Marriage is increasingly optional and could be on its way to obsolescence,according to a survey of more than 2,600 Americans that examines changing attitudes about relationships today. Among the 2,691 adults surveyed by the Pew Research Center last month, 39% say marriage is becoming obsolete, up from 28% who responded to the same question posed by Time magazine in 1978.

'If four in 10 are saying it's becoming obsolete, they're registering an awareness of a very important social change,' says Paul Taylor of Pew.

Family Research Council President Tony Perkins responded :

"According to the study, only five percent of Americans under age 30 do not plan on marrying. This doesn't sound like 'the end of marriage,' as some are claiming the survey indicates.

"There's certainly reason for concern about some trends - such as the increase in the percentage of births that occur out of wedlock from five percent in 1960 to 41 percent in 2008. At the same time, some interpretations of the data expressed in the media are distorted. A decline in the percentage of adults who are married is largely because people delay marriage, not because young men and women are foregoing marriage completely.

"Two-thirds of Americans are 'optimistic' about the institutions of marriage and the family. Far fewer say that about schools, the economy, or 'morals and ethics.' It's not surprising that most people consider single parents or cohabiting couples who are raising their own children to be 'families.' The question is whether they are the kind of families we should seek or, as a society, should foster and encourage. If a couple is not raising children, Americans are still five times more likely to declare them not to be a family if they are a same-sex or cohabiting couple than if they are married.

"The research is still clear - married husbands and wives, and their children, are happier, healthier, and more prosperous than people in any other household setting. Time Magazine's Belinda Luscombe gets it right in the end when she says that 'marriage is still the best avenue most people have for making their dreams come true."

Gary Bauer: The election was about values, too

Bauer: The election was about values, too - USATODAY.com: American Values commissioned an Election Day poll. Our sample of 834 voters was representative of the broader American electorate. Most of our respondents said economic issues guided their votes for Congress. But that was not their only concern. An overwhelming majority, 77%, felt 'things in America are headed in the wrong direction,' including 59% who believed 'at least part of it is due to the decline of moral and family values in society.'

Tea Party Patriots Co-Founder: Abortion Truce Letter Doesn't Represent Us

Tea Party Patriots Co-Founder: Abortion Truce Letter Doesn't Represent Us | LifeNews.com: Mark Meckler, co-founder of Tea Party Patriots, solidly reaffirmed that the group does not take a position for or against legislation on abortion. Meckler also acknowledged that 80% of their members are social conservatives and said it would be suicide for their organization to take a stand opposing pro-life legislation.

Back Door Abortion Mandate in Health Care Reform

Back Door Abortion Mandate in Health Care Reform | Americans United for Life | AUL.org: Could your insurance plan be required to cover abortion-inducing drugs? A known loophole in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act could allow pro-abortion advocates to sneak this abortion mandate through the back door. If a federal agency determines “contraception” is “preventive care” every American will be obligated to subsidize abortion through their health insurance premiums.

Train Up A Child

Train Up A Child | Dr. Georgia Purdom's Blog: Why is it is so important that we teach children from a very young age not Bible “stories,” but Bible history? This will build in them a firm foundation on biblical truth and authority, and as they grow into adults they will be much less likely to be abandon or water down their faith.

The Next Generation Of Bioethics

The Next Generation Of Bioethics: To celebrate 40 years of pioneering bioethics publication, the Hastings Center Report, the world's first bioethics journal, looked to the future, asking young scholars to write about what the next generation of bioethicists should take up. Out of 195 compelling submissions, four of the best essays were selected for publication in the November-December issue.

Three of the essays envision bioethics forging into new areas, such as the ethical obligations of pharmaceutical industry, questions around the emerging field of regenerative medicine, and public health. Another proposes broadening the approach to dying, a foundational issue of bioethics.

Voluntary Extinction

Voluntary Extinction | Christianpost.com: According to Britain’s Guardian newspaper, the Chinese government “has been considering options for relaxing” its infamous “one-child” policy. While economic realities are forcing the Chinese to rethink that disastrous and cruel policy, many Americans seem to be voluntarily adopting a one-child policy of their own. At least that’s the conclusion of a recent article in the Weekly Standard.

Trial Court Dismisses All Criminal Charges Against Pastor Walter Hoye

Trial Court Dismisses All Criminal Charges Against Pastor Walter Hoye - Christian Newswire: The Life Legal Defense Foundation announces that all criminal charges against Pastor Hoye have been dropped. Just three months ago, an appellate court overturned Pastor Walter Hoye's criminal conviction for violating Oakland's 'Mother May I' law restricting sidewalk counseling. In a jury trial in 2009, Hoye was found guilty of two counts of unlawfully approaching women seeking abortions at an Oakland abortion clinic; the court sentenced him to 30 days in jail and an $1100 fine.

GOP is urged to avoid social issues

GOP is urged to avoid social issues - Ben Smith and Byron Tau - POLITICO.com: A gay conservative group and some Tea Party leaders are campaigning to keep social issues off the Republican agenda. In a letter to be released Monday, the group GOProud and leaders from groups like the Tea Party Patriots and the New American Patriots, will urge Republicans in the House and Senate to keep their focus on shrinking the government.

Dutch journalist threatened with torture, death following letter condemning abortion

Dutch journalist threatened with torture, death following letter condemning abortion Catholic bishop Everard de Jong sent fetal models to members of the Dutch House of Representatives with a letter asking them to defund abortion clinics. Rep. Jeannine Hennis-Plasschaert objected, saying the letter was "disgusting." Journalist Mariska Orban de Haas wrote an open letter in defense of the bishop, saying the model resembled a baby at the age of the one she'd miscarried. Why is that "disgusting"?

Her letter sparked outrage in the Netherlands. She issued an apology, but still received angry responses, including death threats.

Pro-life billboard campaign in Ireland states truth

Youth Defence, the Republic of Ireland’s leading pro-life group, this week launched a billboard and public education campaign calling on the current government to halt all plans to legalize embryonic stem cell research.

UK starts world's first stroke stem cell trial

UK starts world's first stroke stem cell trial | Reuters: Unlike U.S. company Geron's clinical trial in patients with spinal cord injuries, which started last month, the Scottish study uses stem cells derived from human fetuses rather than embryos. Fetal stem cells do not have the same flexibility to turn into different tissue types as embryonic ones.

Shares in ReNeuron, which won regulatory approval for the trial in January and had initially hoped to launch it in the second quarter of 2010, rose more than 18 percent on the news.

Editor: How nice for the investors. Here's more, showing that the cells are from aborted babies --

A neurosurgeon at Southern General Hospital in Glasgow, Scotland, plans to drill a hole in a patient’s skull, insert a needle and inject 2 million stem cells from ReNeuron Group into his brain early next year. The patient is the first of 12 men disabled by strokes who expect to receive from 2 million to 20 million stem cells grown from the brain of an aborted 12-week-old fetus. The men would be studied for two years to see if the cells help the brain repair damage, without causing further harm. Bloomberg

See related story: http://bflpastorscorner.blogspot.com/2010/11/embryonic-stem-cells-used-to-fight.html

Fertility’s Mega-Mall

CGS : Fertility’s Mega-Mall: The face of the modern fertility industry is not hard to characterize. Soothing phrases like 'infertility cure,' 'new hope,' and 'altruistic donation of life' are illustrated by blissful parents coddling picture-perfect newborns. All of this is crafted to reassure us that assisted reproductive technologies are, simply and purely, a good thing.

However, the fertility industry is just that: an industry. Fueled by billions of dollars of commercial interests worldwide, the booming ART marketplace is fraught with allurements that distract any notice of its practical, social and ethical downsides.

Case and point: The Fertility Show.

This past weekend, thousands flocked to London's Olympia where over 100 exhibitors, primarily local and overseas fertility clinics, proffered their latest wares. Among the numerous booths, one could buy anything from 'IVF Holiday' packages in Barbados to Skype consultations with 'the fertility astrologer.'

When does life begin?

When did I begin to be me? Is this a scientific question or a theological one? Death is more easily defined than the point at which the continuum of human life begins. Where is the starting point? And when do we become human? Is the adult more human than the child? If so, at what point along the journey did this child become human? Was it at conception, somewhere during his development, or at birth? AiG

Semantics Don’t Change Truth: The social motivations behind new definitions

Semantics Don’t Change Truth: The social motivations behind new definitions - Answers in Genesis: The move to redefine conception started in 1959 when Dr. Bent Boving at a Planned Parenthood symposium pointed out “the social advantage of [implantation preventatives] being considered to prevent conception rather than to destroy an established pregnancy.”

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists followed Boving’s advice in 1965 by adopting this definition: “conception is the implantation of an ovum.” Since fertilization cannot be detected until the time of implantation — when the physical connection to the mother’s body allows a hormone from the developing placenta to enter the mother’s bloodstream — the reasoning was that the beginning of pregnancy could be redefined to the time when we can medically detect it. This reasoning is tantamount to asking whether a man alone on a desert island really exists if no one knows he’s there. Such reasoning amounts to philosophical meandering, not science.

Sister set to become surrogate for gay brother

BioNews - Sister set to become surrogate for gay brother: The London Women's Clinic has reportedly received an application for fertility treatment by two gay men wanting to raise a child who wish to use one of the couple's sister as a surrogate. Up to 30 percent of LWC's clients are lesbian couples, representing an increase of about ten percent from ten years ago, but the applications to the clinic made this week are the first to be received from a male same-sex couple.

Second Pro-Life Car Rally has taken place in Moscow and other Russian towns

The second Pro-Life Car Rally has taken place in Moscow and other Russian towns | За жизнь!: A car rally against abortions, organized by Orthodox Center for Pro-Life Education “Zhizn” (Life) and Charity Fund for Protection of Family, Motherhood and Childhood, took place on November 6th, 2010 in Moscow and two Russian towns — Orel and Ramenskoye.

Gay father and lesbian couple in custody battle

Gay father and lesbian couple in custody battle | News | The Christian Institute: Two children are at the centre of a tug-of-war between a homosexual father and a lesbian mother in a legal case that highlights the pitfalls of artificial insemination.

The children’s mother and her lesbian civil partner appeared in the Court of Appeal yesterday to challenge a decision that ordered the children to spend almost half the year with their father – a homosexual. The children were conceived through artificial insemination, but the court heard that the father was more than just a sperm donor.

Editor: What hath IVF wrought?

The Times of London: All media should promote gay agenda

The Times insists all media should promote gay agenda | News | The Christian Institute: All newspapers should promote the homosexual agenda, according to a leading article in The Times newspaper. It said it longed for the day when the homosexual agenda will be fully integrated into society.

Last year The Times was criticised for publishing an out-of-date poll favouring assisted suicide. And earlier this year a Times columnist admitted abortion kills a human being, but a woman’s right to choose is more important.

Video: Outrage after Amazon sells paedophile guide online

Video: Outrage after Amazon sells paedophile guide online | News | The Christian Institute: An e-book which billed itself as a guide for paedophiles has been withdrawn from sale by prominent online retailer Amazon.com after horrified customers called for a boycott of the site. The e-book claims that paedophiles are misunderstood, and offers advice about how to avoid falling foul of the law.

Transsexualism is ‘delusion’ says former sex-swap man

Transsexualism is ‘delusion’ says former sex-swap man | News | The Christian Institute: A man who underwent sex change surgery to look like a woman – then changed back – says the NHS should halt all sex change operations. Charles Kane says he needed counselling, not surgery. “In many ways I see myself as a victim of the medical profession.”

Making Perfect Life: Bio-engineering in the 21st century

Making Perfect Life: Bio-engineering in the 21st century: Living bacteria with artificial DNA, supercomputers designed to function like a real human brain or robots showing human-like emotions. Biology is increasingly engineered in much the same way as technology, while technology is becoming more and more life-like. These two engineering trends not only intensify current debates about the desirability and acceptability of genetic engineering and human enhancement, but also raises novel issues, like who’s in control of machines with a life of their own?

Embryonic Stem Cells Used to Fight Woman's Brain Tumor

Stem Cells Used to Fight Woman's Brain Tumor - CBS Evening News - CBS News: Doctors injected stem cells into a woman's brain, hoping they'll fight her cancer. In California Wednesday that woman made medical history, the first human being to have embryonic stem cells injected into her brain to try to cure cancer.

These types of tumors are so invasive that until now there's been no way to get large enough amounts of chemotherapy through the blood-brain barrier. With stem cells researchers now think they've found a way. Ten million neural stem cells with a special enzyme are injected into the brain. The stem cells seek out and attach themselves to the tumors. The patient then takes a pill containing a non-toxic drug that enters the brain. When the drug interacts with the enzyme in the stem cells, it instantaneously creates an active chemotherapy drug. The hope is that chemo will kill the tumors and leave healthy brain tissue alone.

Editor: David Malone over at Right to Life of Michigan uncovered this information on the source of the stem cells:

I found the web site of the clinical trial based on the information in the press release - http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01172964?term=gliomas&lead=city+of+hope&rank=1. It says the stem cells used are "HB1.F3.CD neural stem cells."

I then found this page (http://www.gtcbio.com/userAgenda.aspx?id=159) which has a summary of a talk Aboody was scheduled to give at a recent conference which says that "The HB1.F3.CD clonal NSC line was generated from 15 wk fetal telencephalon by retroviral transducion with v-myc." Telecephalon is a part the brain.

Another study (http://clincancerres.aacrjournals.org/content/12/18/5550.full) where Aboody is a co-author describes HB1.F3 as "HB1.F3 is an immortalized human NSC (hNSC) line derived from the human fetal brain (ventricular zone) at 15 weeks of gestation by an amphotropic, replication-incompetent retroviral vector containing v-myc (15 http://clincancerres.aacrjournals.org/content/12/18/5550.full#ref-15--18 http://clincancerres.aacrjournals.org/content/12/18/5550.full#ref-18)."

I haven't been able to discover if the fetus was aborted or miscarried.

Good work, David! Thank you for checking all of that. Here's an article about another study that admits it uses cells from aborted babies: http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=newsarchive&sid=ai7QxzgHwETQ

FDA Cigarette Pictures Opening Abortion Warning Issue?

The American Spectator : AmSpecBlog : FDA Cigarette Pictures Opening Abortion Warning Issue?: The announcement that the Food and Drug Administration wants to insist cigarette packs contain what the Washington Post calls 'gruesome pictures' of what happens if one smokes cigarettes may raise an interesting -- and for the pro-choice crowd -- unwelcome question.

Post-Election Survey: Politics in the Pulpit

Post-Election Survey: Politics in the Pulpit - Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life: Compared with 2006, fewer voters encountered information on parties or candidates in their house of worship.Only 13% say their place of worship provided information about state and local ballot initiatives or constitutional amendments.

"Mary's ultrasound" ad draws ire

An ecumenical nonprofit in England has come under fire for their upcoming Advent campaign designed to put Christ back into Christmas. Their crime? Creating billboards and posters that show a Baby Jesus as an ultrasound, with a halo. The ads, created byChurchAds.net say: “He’s on His way. Christmas starts with Christ.”

The U.K.‘s Guardian had the story this summer.

“It gives the impression that it was politically motivated, that they are trying to put across some sort of subliminal message,” said Terry Sanderson, director of the National Secular Society. “The image is too specifically associated with pro-lifers to be seen in a benign context. They should go back to angels and cribs.”

Pro-life Women Governors Now Outnumber Pro-Abort Women Governors

Pro-life Women Governors Now Outnumber Pro-Abort Women Governors | AUL Action: The Legislative Arm of Americans United for Life | AULAction.org: Thanks to the dramatic wins of all four pro-life women governor candidates, pro-life women now outnumber pro-abort women in governors’ mansions. By contrast, there are only two pro-abort women in governors' mansions – North Carolina’s and Washington state’s, both of whom are up for election in 2012.

Pastor Found Guilty Of Stalking North Carolina Abortion Doctors | TPMMuckraker

Pastor Found Guilty Of Stalking North Carolina Abortion Doctors | TPMMuckraker: Rev. Philip L. 'Flip' Benham, director of the Dallas-based Operation Rescue/Operation Save America, posted 'Wanted'-style posters of the doctors, which included their names and home addresses. Benham was charged with 'misdemeanor stalking and violating a state law against residential picketing.' He plans to appeal.

Woman Gives Birth to Homosexual Son's Baby

Woman Gives Birth to Homosexual Son's Baby: A fifty-year-old Mexican woman has given birth to a child whose biological father is her homosexual son. The woman decided to offer her womb to her 31-year-old son 'Jorge,' a single homosexual businessman who wanted a child. A childhood friend, who is married, contributed the ovum. Jorge's son was conceived through in-vitro fertilization and implanted in his mother's/grandmother's womb.

Get to Know: Reel Truths, finding God at the movies

Reel Truths is a movie-lovers resource site that seeks to provide pastors, teachers, small group leaders and individuals a unique approach to engaging post-modern culture through film.

"We mine the deep truths and profound theology found beneath the surface of both popular and independent films in an effort to prompt a serious dialogue between those that profess faith and those that do not. Our goal is to offer churches, small groups and individuals a series of culturally relevant studies that explore timely Biblical truths in a creative, engaging context."

Each 4-week series includes theological theme reflection, relevant Biblical texts, film/DVD clip references, trailers, small group activities, Q&A discussion guides, and more.

COOL IT - Sneak Peek

"COOL IT" takes a broad and challenging look at global climate change while it offers important environmental and social justice messages for everyone. A call to stewardship that not only focuses on the planet and its resources, but also on its people. There must be a healthy balance in caring for the least of our brothers and sisters as we become responsible caretakers of our planetary resources. This documentary suggests an approach to tackling the sustainability of creation in light of awareness towards other global concerns such as world hunger, education and access to safe shelter and clean water. In "COOL IT," environmentalist Bjorn Lomborg goes beyond global climate change to remind us of man's obligation to his fellow man. ReelTruths.com

Lesbian mums in dispute: what makes a parent

BioNews - Lesbian mums in dispute: fertility law, child maintenance and what makes a parent: A lesbian couple who had conceived a child together through donor insemination at a UK clinic recently ended up in the High Court after their relationship broke down. Their dispute involved a ten-year-old child, and the issue was whether the non-birth mother (who the court had already given legal decision-making status as a parent) should be ordered to make financial provision for her child.

Major Scientific Advance: Blood from Skin Without Stem Cells

Major Scientific Advance: Blood from Skin Without Stem Cells | LifeNews.com: "Scientists in Canada have shown that they can transform human skin cells directly into blood cells, without going through an intermediate stem cell stage. This is the first evidence for human cells of what is termed “direct reprogramming”—turning one type of cell directly into another type of cell.

The scientists repeated the experiments, published online in Nature on Sunday, several times using human skin cells from young and old volunteers, to show that the process works no matter the age of the person.

Pawlenty: Repealing ObamaCare a Priority

Pawlenty: Repealing Pro-Abortion ObamaCare Potential Presidential Bid Priority | LifeNews.com: If pro-life Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty decides to run for president in 2012, he said over the weekend that repealing the pro-abortion ObamaCare health care scheme would be one of his top priorities. He told CNN’s Candy Crowley on Sunday that he will campaign on repealing the law.

Young Pro-Life Father Nearly Lost Son to Abortion

Young Pro-Life Father Nearly Lost Son to Abortion: Says Fathers Have No Legal Rights: Joseph Le is the father of a four-year-old boy. But he almost lost his son just over four years ago, thanks to the fact that Britain’s abortion laws do not allow men to be taken into account in abortion decisions.

At 22, Lee’s girlfriend became pregnant and intended to abort. Despite the fact that he wanted to have the child and believed that abortion was morally wrong, he found himself with no legal recourse whatever to save the life of his unborn child. Without anywhere to go for help, the only option left for Lee was prayer.

Rep. Smith: New U.S. House Arguably Most Pro-Life Ever

Rep. Smith: New U.S. House Arguably Most Pro-Life Ever: "The American people have spoken, and replaced 38 pro-abortion Members with pro-life Members and replaced 14 unreliable Members with reliable pro-life Representatives,” said Congressman Chris Smith, Co-Chairman of the Congressional Pro-life Caucus. “Of the 93 Members of the Freshman Class at least 77 are committed to defending the unborn. January will mark the beginning of the arguably most pro-life House ever. This is another message to President Obama that the American people will not be fooled by the Obama’s accounting gimmicks and phony Executive Orders. They expect their elected officials to stand up for life without backing down.”

Better-educated youth = pro-life youth

Better-educated youth = pro-life youth (OneNewsNow.com): Mat Staver, founder and president of Liberty Council, thinks Planned Parenthood and the abortion industry are losing ground with the new millennial generation as young people are more adamant about justice and humanitarianism than previous generations have been. Defending the unborn resonates with them. Staver points out that younger people today are better educated about the abortion process and are able to access technology that was not available 30 years ago.

Scientists unveil new method to create bioartificial organs

Scientists unveil new method to create bioartificial organs - Health & Families, Life & Style - The Independent: Spanish scientists on Tuesday presented a new technique to create bioartifical organs for transplant using stem cells which they said will vastly reduce the risk of rejection of the donated organ.

The technique involves 'stripping' a donated heart, liver or other organ which is deemed unsuitable for donation of their cells, leaving just a 'scaffold', Francisco Fernandez-Aviles, chief cardiologist at Madrid's Gregorio Maranon hospital told a news conference.

Stem cells from the patient are then applied to this framework to re-grow the organ which will share their DNA, thus making it more acceptable to their body.

An anti-human ideology

Vaclav Klaus: An anti-human ideology | FP Comment | Financial Post: The global warming dispute starts with a doctrine which claims that the rough coexistence of climate changes, of growing temperatures and of man-made increments of CO2 in the atmosphere — and what is more, only in a relatively short period of time — is a proof of a causal relationship between these phenomena. To the best of my knowledge there is no such relationship between them. It is, nevertheless, this claim that forms the basis for the doctrine of environmentalism.

Join The Church Awareness Project

Learn how you can raise awareness of unwanted abortions and other abortion-related risks. Turn your church into a place of support, compassion and respect for the dignity of both women and unborn children. Learn how your church can foster healing for women, men and families who have been hurt by abortion.

Sign up to be a part of the Church Awareness Project and receive free educational materials, resources for your church and more. Take part in special upcoming awareness event to mobilize our churches on this issue. Share these materials with your pastor, church and ministry leaders, and others at your place of worship.

Those who sign up by Nov. 10 will receive an advance electronic copy of our new Church Leader's Kit, which is not yet available to the general public. These materials include a free copy of our guide for pastors -- The Jericho Plan: Breaking Down the Walls Which Prevent Post-Abortion Healing -- and additional educational material, along with an explanatory letter.

Editor: Be aware that this material is written from a Catholic perspective; nevertheless, much of the information is good.

What a difference a year makes!

� Post-Election Statement by Karen Cross, National Right to Life Political Director: Pro-life candidates enjoyed a definite advantage in yesterday’s elections. Thirty percent of voters said that abortion “affected” their vote. 22% of all voters voted for pro-life candidates, while only 8 percent of all voters voted for pro-abortion candidates giving pro-life candidates a net pro-life advantage of 14 percent.

Colorado Personhood Amendment Soundly Defeated at Ballot Box

Colorado Personhood Amendment Soundly Defeated at Ballot Box: Amendment 62, a ballot initiative that would have given personhood status in the state constitution to all human beings “from the beginning of biological development,” was rejected by a 3 – 1 margin by voters.

The personhood amendment polled worse than the last time pro-life advocates in Colorado tried to get the measure passed, in 2008. That time the amendment lost with 73 percent against, and 27 percent in favor.

Editor: What does it say about the wisdom of these efforts? Is abortion now more firmly entrenched in Colorado?

How to defeat a Pro Abortion argument

IVF 'could double risk of cerebral palsy' - Telegraph

IVF 'could double risk of cerebral palsy' - Telegraph: Several studies have shown that rates of the neurological condition, which can result in speech problems, muscular stiffness and curvature of the spine, are higher in couples who have undergone in vitro fertilization. But this is the first to suggest that the process of IVF itself could increase the risk, rather than it being a consequence of the parents' impaired fertility.

“Pastor to the Unborn” Rev. Hunter Tells Pro-Lifers to “Persevere No Matter What Happens”

“Pastor to the Unborn” Rev. Hunter Tells Pro-Lifers to “Persevere No Matter What Happens”: In an impassioned address to hundreds gathered on Friday night at the International Pro-Life Conference in Ottawa, Ontario, black pro-life leader Rev. Johnny Hunter exhorted pro-lifers to trust totally in God and proclaimed that He has a “great reward” for those dedicated to saving the lives of the unborn.

The Morning After — What Does it All Mean?

The Morning After — What Does it All Mean?: The meaning of the 2010 election is destined now to be the Great Debate of the next political season. While this is true after most election days, it is especially true this year, given the scale and scope of the political change this election will bring about. The scale is seismic, and the scope is vast. In terms of national politics, this election amounts to a megashift. By Albert Mohler

For a round-up of election news from a pro-life point of view, go to LifeSiteNews.

Brazil: candidate who called for legalized abortion wins presidential election

Catholic Culture : Latest Headlines : Brazil: candidate who called for legalized abortion wins presidential election: Following a campaign marked by an extraordinary public rift within the Brazilian hierarchy, Dilma Rousseff has won the nation’s October 31 presidential runoff election with 56% of the vote. In 2007, Rousseff called for the legalization of abortion.

Two Pivotal ‘Under-the-Radar’ Races With National Abortion Implications

Two Pivotal ‘Under-the-Radar’ Races With National Abortion Implications :Operation Rescue: Two races that have thus far garnered little attention, but have enormous implications for the future of abortion nationwide are the races for Attorney General in Iowa and Kansas.

Rabbis say Americans should vote pro-life

The Rabbinical Alliance of America, which represents more than 1,000 Jewish rabbis, has issued a pre-election statement saying it joins a top Catholic Church official in saying Americans must vote pro-life. “There can be no middle ground when it comes to the Sacred Laws,” the Jewish teachers explained. “Respect for all human life is obligatory. Now go out and spread the word and vote accordingly.” LifeNews

40 Days for Life Campaign Wraps Up: 541 Babies Saved

40 Days for Life Campaign Wraps Up: 541 Babies Saved: Shawn Carney, of 40 Days for Life, reports, "As of right now, we know of 541 babies — and their mothers — that God has spared from abortion. That’s at least 3,352 since the first coordinated 40 Days for Life campaign a mere three years ago. And who knows how many more that we’ll never hear about?"

Why is the Church Afraid of Modesty?

Why is the Church Afraid of Modesty? QUESTION: My husband and I are glad that the church is finally talking about the problem of pornography and purity in the Body of Christ, and helping men address this issue. But why do we never hear about purity for women in the way they dress? I’m talking about women who profess to be Christ-followers. They become a stumbling block to their brothers when they dress seductively or dress to be sexy as the world has deemed fashionable. Please address the issue of modesty.

Is the church afraid of modesty? Read Randy Alcorn's answer (Eternal Perspectives Ministry)

We all have hundreds of defective genes

BioNews - We all have hundreds of defective genes, study finds: Among the 1000 Genomes Project's initial findings are each person carries around 250 - 300 genetic mutations. Scientists have previously linked 50 - 100 of these mutations to inherited diseases.

Genetic test could improve IVF success

BioNews - Embryo genetic test could improve IVF success: During the test, a biopsy is taken from a five-day old embryo to examine whether it has two copies of all 23 chromosomes. Almost half the embryos resulting from IVF are aneuploid, meaning they have too many or too few chromosomes. Implantation of such embryos could lead to the development of various genetic conditions or spontaneous abortion. Only those with the exact set of 46 chromosomes are selected for use in IVF after the test.

Editor: "Success" doesn't mean more embryos live.

How would you answer this comment?

A visitor to our website submitted the following comment:

The main problem is our society. it cost a fortune to have a baby, raise him, and send him to college. poor people have no legitimate choice. JESUS will solve the problem at HIS 2nd coming. i believe HE will set up a cashless society. then there will be no reason to murder the baby.

I addressed his comments in reverse order:

I appreciate your comments, but they raise a few issues for discussion. First of all, when Jesus returns, there will no longer be any sin. Therefore, no abortion. But even more basic than that, there will be no more sexual reproduction. Jesus said, in Matthew 22:30, that in the resurrection there will be no more marriage. So, no pregnancies.

Second, does the return of Christ mean we do nothing about evil today? No. Proverbs 24 is instructive. See especially verses 7-12, 19-20, 23-25. Believers are not allowed to just stand by and let evil happen. 

Third, poverty is never an excuse for wickedness. I’m sure you didn’t mean to imply that it was, but that is the effect of your words. 

Poverty is relative. You may look at someone in the U.S. and say, “That person is poor,” but by worldwide standards he or she is rich. Baptists for Life is working with believers in some of the most impoverished countries in the world who know abortion is wrong. They put many of us wealthier believers to shame by their willingness to sacrifice for life.

Believers are not allowed to stand by and let someone suffer alone. See James 2:14-16, and many other passages. God’s character is merciful, and we’re to be like Him (Luke 6:30-36). Did you know that there are far more pregnancy care centers than abortion clinics in this country? They operate on the biblical principle that Christians ought to provide alternatives to abortion and not throw up their hands in despair.

Yes, our society can be blamed for a lot of things, but there’s an even more basic problem at play – sin in the human heart. What is the solution for sin? Faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. If Jesus paid such a high price to save you and me from sin, do you think He’d be pleased by our giving in to sin on the basis of poverty? I don’t think so. When He returns, will He find faith on the earth? (Luke 18:8)

November is Adoption Awareness Month. Celebrate!

Pro-Life people believe in adoption. Adoption is a loving, caring and compassionate choice for mothers who are facing a difficult pregnancy situation.  Major props to moms who place their babies into a family whose members are eager to care and love on that child. What a great sacrifice. Thank you!

Let’s share our love and support for these moms by spreading awareness and raising funds for adoption this month!

Planned Parenthood Declares War on Science

Video: Planned Parenthood Declares War on Science | Personhood USA: Amendment 62 organizers have released video in which the No on 62 side declared, 'We are not going to try to use science, or evidence,' then 'Science is not ultimate truth...science cannot be applied to my body...'

'Advocates for Choice' exists to 'Educate young people.' The Planned Parenthood group's statements against science came after pro-life groups LifeGuard, Durango Pregnancy Center, Bayfield Christian, and Master Plan Ministry gave a science-based presentation detailing evidence that every human being's life begins at the onset of fertilization.