Posts
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Monday, November 15, 2010
The Peter Maurin Work Co-operative
A project of the Franciscan Workers of Junipero Serra in Salinas Ca.
The goal of the Work Co-operative is to create sustainable work and revenue opportunities for guests of Dorothy's Place who are ready for a "next step" after volunteering. Our emphasis is building self-esteem and confidence among our members and creating a work environment without overwhelming stress.
Everyone needs work with a purpose just like the air that we breathe. There is no substitute source for the validation that the experience of work can give. When one has been unemployed for months or years, each and every day becomes more and more of a burden. Adding to the hopelessness that unemployment breeds, are the inter-related issues of personal, familial, and social breakdowns that oftentimes contribute to alcohol and drug addictions. The emotions of depression, anger, fear, loneliness, and desperation also prey upon the homeless, all of which make "job seeking' akin to climbing Mt. Everest with no oxygen. This is where the Peter Maurin Work Co-op begins.
The enterprise is named the Peter Maurin Work Co-Op after the co-founder of the Catholic Worker movement, Peter Maurin (the “Catholic Worker” is the model on which the Franciscan Workers base their life of service). Volunteers and guests planned and are running the operation making screen printed t-shirts and canvas bags that we then sell at different community venues.
The designs are simple and created by local artists, reflecting the philosophies of the Franciscan Workers. Clothing used for printing is either stock from a “sweat-shop free” supplier, or good quality clothing recycled from donations received at Dorothy’s Place.What started as an art project during the Women Alive! shelter hours has grown to a small silk screening micro-enterprise. We do most of the work during the day and this provides a small income for participants (based on sales) and income to feed the expansion of the operation.
The Work Co-op is now selling on eBay -- go to eBay store "ST Pebble" and order our original designs shipped right to your door!• Purchase wearable art from the Peter Maurin Work Co-op for yourself and your business! Call 831-757-3838 or email tshirtsforall@gmail.com for more details! We create custom orders!• Consider contributing to this project: we need start-up money to purchase supplies! We have a funding goal of $8,000 for this year.• Consider also becoming a business mentor/partner – this is an opportunity to really change some lives!• Order shirts as gifts for family and friends!
Go to our Peter Maurin Work Co-op eBay Store and check it out! What could be better than original designs in cheap art delivered to your door?
Our Vision – the Soupline Café
It is the goal of Dorothy’s Place to go out of business. In other words, we can “imagine paradise”. We can imagine communities, cities, nations, and a world of “justice for all’.
The solutions to poverty, marginalization, and homelessness are adequate housing resources, job training with actual jobs afterwards, educational and volunteer opportunities, support communities, constructive recreational outlets, and recovery programs that include on-going mental health guidance. Each of these components has been built into the plan for a New Soledad Street (New Chinatown) envisioned by the Franciscan Workers more than three years ago at our first Soupline Forum community conference. Creating a thriving community of housing, job training and small businesses, transitional programs, neighborhood youth activities, a living history museum and culture center with artists and writers in residence, a Chinese Garden, and building design to reflect the history of the area is a great unifying vision for a revitalization plan that builds upon our community assets and resources. In March of 2007, that vision was incorporated into the new Chinatown Renewal Project draft plan, adopted by the whole Chinatown stakeholder group.The element of our vision for providing job training and jobs compels us to transition our Dorothy’s Kitchen program into the “Soup Line Café”, open to the paying public, still offering hospitality and no-cost meals for the poor and marginalized, and employing graduates of our food service training program. At the new Soupline Café, visitors and residents alike can purchase lunch, relax in a nurturing environment, and become (at least temporarily) immersed in the rebirth of possibilities for the homeless persons that are students in the program.Employing formerly homeless individuals, the “Soup Line Café” would be advertised as a “retired” soup kitchen. Once Soledad Street has experienced the renewal that the neighborhood plan calls for, it will be the perfect destination for lunch for the many new community residents and for business professional in Oldtown Salinas. We see a beautiful, lively environment with patio seating where a server greets you and offers a delightful menu. We see guest instructors being chefs from a local restaurants and an on-site collaboration with a local culinary arts school, and all servers and restaurant workers being students or graduates of the program.It’s a powerful vision. And just as the vision developed in the Soupline Forum is becoming a reality for Salinas’ Chinatown, the vision of our Soup Line Café will become a reality for our homeless guests. Please help us share this vision with others – and contact us with questions, ideas, and support!
Submitted for consideration by Bro. Robert National Co-Director LID
A model project for Upton Sinclair Mutual Aid Fund Proposal.
Robert Mills
October 30 at 7:28am
The goal of the Work Co-operative is to create sustainable work and revenue opportunities for guests of Dorothy's Place who are ready for a "next step" after volunteering. Our emphasis is building self-esteem and confidence among our members and creating a work environment without overwhelming stress.
Everyone needs work with a purpose just like the air that we breathe. There is no substitute source for the validation that the experience of work can give. When one has been unemployed for months or years, each and every day becomes more and more of a burden. Adding to the hopelessness that unemployment breeds, are the inter-related issues of personal, familial, and social breakdowns that oftentimes contribute to alcohol and drug addictions. The emotions of depression, anger, fear, loneliness, and desperation also prey upon the homeless, all of which make "job seeking' akin to climbing Mt. Everest with no oxygen. This is where the Peter Maurin Work Co-op begins.
The enterprise is named the Peter Maurin Work Co-Op after the co-founder of the Catholic Worker movement, Peter Maurin (the “Catholic Worker” is the model on which the Franciscan Workers base their life of service). Volunteers and guests planned and are running the operation making screen printed t-shirts and canvas bags that we then sell at different community venues.
The designs are simple and created by local artists, reflecting the philosophies of the Franciscan Workers. Clothing used for printing is either stock from a “sweat-shop free” supplier, or good quality clothing recycled from donations received at Dorothy’s Place.What started as an art project during the Women Alive! shelter hours has grown to a small silk screening micro-enterprise. We do most of the work during the day and this provides a small income for participants (based on sales) and income to feed the expansion of the operation.
The Work Co-op is now selling on eBay -- go to eBay store "ST Pebble" and order our original designs shipped right to your door!• Purchase wearable art from the Peter Maurin Work Co-op for yourself and your business! Call 831-757-3838 or email tshirtsforall@gmail.com for more details! We create custom orders!• Consider contributing to this project: we need start-up money to purchase supplies! We have a funding goal of $8,000 for this year.• Consider also becoming a business mentor/partner – this is an opportunity to really change some lives!• Order shirts as gifts for family and friends!
Go to our Peter Maurin Work Co-op eBay Store and check it out! What could be better than original designs in cheap art delivered to your door?
Our Vision – the Soupline Café
It is the goal of Dorothy’s Place to go out of business. In other words, we can “imagine paradise”. We can imagine communities, cities, nations, and a world of “justice for all’.
The solutions to poverty, marginalization, and homelessness are adequate housing resources, job training with actual jobs afterwards, educational and volunteer opportunities, support communities, constructive recreational outlets, and recovery programs that include on-going mental health guidance. Each of these components has been built into the plan for a New Soledad Street (New Chinatown) envisioned by the Franciscan Workers more than three years ago at our first Soupline Forum community conference. Creating a thriving community of housing, job training and small businesses, transitional programs, neighborhood youth activities, a living history museum and culture center with artists and writers in residence, a Chinese Garden, and building design to reflect the history of the area is a great unifying vision for a revitalization plan that builds upon our community assets and resources. In March of 2007, that vision was incorporated into the new Chinatown Renewal Project draft plan, adopted by the whole Chinatown stakeholder group.The element of our vision for providing job training and jobs compels us to transition our Dorothy’s Kitchen program into the “Soup Line Café”, open to the paying public, still offering hospitality and no-cost meals for the poor and marginalized, and employing graduates of our food service training program. At the new Soupline Café, visitors and residents alike can purchase lunch, relax in a nurturing environment, and become (at least temporarily) immersed in the rebirth of possibilities for the homeless persons that are students in the program.Employing formerly homeless individuals, the “Soup Line Café” would be advertised as a “retired” soup kitchen. Once Soledad Street has experienced the renewal that the neighborhood plan calls for, it will be the perfect destination for lunch for the many new community residents and for business professional in Oldtown Salinas. We see a beautiful, lively environment with patio seating where a server greets you and offers a delightful menu. We see guest instructors being chefs from a local restaurants and an on-site collaboration with a local culinary arts school, and all servers and restaurant workers being students or graduates of the program.It’s a powerful vision. And just as the vision developed in the Soupline Forum is becoming a reality for Salinas’ Chinatown, the vision of our Soup Line Café will become a reality for our homeless guests. Please help us share this vision with others – and contact us with questions, ideas, and support!
Submitted for consideration by Bro. Robert National Co-Director LID
A model project for Upton Sinclair Mutual Aid Fund Proposal.
Robert Mills
October 30 at 7:28am
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Assembled Catholics For Socialism ACTS
http://christarchy.com/acts/
All that believed were together, and had all things in common; And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.
(Acts 2:44-45)
There was not a needy person among them, for as many as owned lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold. They laid it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need. There was a Levite, a native of Cyprus, Joseph, to whom the apostles gave the name Barnabas (which means “son of encouragement”). He sold a field that belonged to him, then brought the money, and laid it at the apostles’ feet. (Acts 4:34-37)
Members will almost certainly disagree as to how to build a Catholic socialist movement. There is room here for anarchists, distributists, base community believers, social democrats, and left socialists. What we likely can all agree upon is that previous efforts to bring about socialism feel into butchery because they were not guided by God and sought to make a heaven on earth after their self created Armageddon.
All that believed were together, and had all things in common; And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.
(Acts 2:44-45)
There was not a needy person among them, for as many as owned lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold. They laid it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need. There was a Levite, a native of Cyprus, Joseph, to whom the apostles gave the name Barnabas (which means “son of encouragement”). He sold a field that belonged to him, then brought the money, and laid it at the apostles’ feet. (Acts 4:34-37)
Members will almost certainly disagree as to how to build a Catholic socialist movement. There is room here for anarchists, distributists, base community believers, social democrats, and left socialists. What we likely can all agree upon is that previous efforts to bring about socialism feel into butchery because they were not guided by God and sought to make a heaven on earth after their self created Armageddon.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Vow of Non-Violence
Recognizing the violence in my own heart, yet trusting in the goodness and mercy of God,
I vow to practice the nonviolence of Jesus who taught us in the Sermon on the Mount:
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons and daughters of God...You have learned how it was said, "You must love your neighbor and hate your enemy"; but I say to you, "Love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you. In this way, you will be sons and daughters of your God in heaven."
Before God the Creator and the Sanctifying Spirit, I vow to carry out in my life the love and example of Jesus after the manner of St Francis of Assisi, St Maximillin Kolbe who gave his life in exchange of another and resisted with his life the tyranny of hatred and the example of St. Pio as well who demonstrated a love for the infirmed, sick, and the dying.
* by striving for peace within myself and seeking to be a peacemaker in my daily life;
* by accepting suffering in the struggle for justice rather than inflicting it;
* by refusing to retaliate in the face of provocation and violence;
* by persevering in nonviolence of tongue and heart;
* by living conscientiously and simply so that I do not deprive others of the means to live;
* by actively resisting evil and working nonviolently to abolish war and the causes of war from my own heart and from the face of the earth.
God, I trust in your sustaining love and believe that just as you gave me the grace and desire to offer this, so you will also bestow abundant grace to fulfill it.
I vow to practice the nonviolence of Jesus who taught us in the Sermon on the Mount:
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons and daughters of God...You have learned how it was said, "You must love your neighbor and hate your enemy"; but I say to you, "Love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you. In this way, you will be sons and daughters of your God in heaven."
Before God the Creator and the Sanctifying Spirit, I vow to carry out in my life the love and example of Jesus after the manner of St Francis of Assisi, St Maximillin Kolbe who gave his life in exchange of another and resisted with his life the tyranny of hatred and the example of St. Pio as well who demonstrated a love for the infirmed, sick, and the dying.
* by striving for peace within myself and seeking to be a peacemaker in my daily life;
* by accepting suffering in the struggle for justice rather than inflicting it;
* by refusing to retaliate in the face of provocation and violence;
* by persevering in nonviolence of tongue and heart;
* by living conscientiously and simply so that I do not deprive others of the means to live;
* by actively resisting evil and working nonviolently to abolish war and the causes of war from my own heart and from the face of the earth.
God, I trust in your sustaining love and believe that just as you gave me the grace and desire to offer this, so you will also bestow abundant grace to fulfill it.
Spiritual Works of Mercy
IN this current time of global crisis, many who have lost hope and despair forget there is a 'home' to which we can abide in, a place of comfort, and a refuge to flee the troubles of the world, while at the same time embrace the world and assist in it's transformation. When one commits themselves to prayer and to a contemplative life, it is motivated by a deeply compassionate desire to be in the wold, but not of it.
The one who who has entered into the hear of humanity through prayer is actually practicing being in the presence of God and then through being a part of humanity sharing this presence in a very profound way. One would think that by becoming solitary and living such a life that 'aloneness was an abandonment of the rest of the world. Instead it is embracing the world.
A second observation regarding being a contemplative in this 21st century: As Christian, we speak a lot about the corporal works of mercy, while at the same time unintentionally play down the equally important spiritual works of mercy. The one committed to contemplative prayer has a special role in supporting and promoting the spiritual works of mercy:
To comfort the sorrowful
To counsel the doubtful
To instruct the ignorant
To admonish sinners
To bear wrongs patiently
To forgive offenses willingly
To comfort the afflicted and to afflict the comfortable
To pray for the living and the dead
The one who who has entered into the hear of humanity through prayer is actually practicing being in the presence of God and then through being a part of humanity sharing this presence in a very profound way. One would think that by becoming solitary and living such a life that 'aloneness was an abandonment of the rest of the world. Instead it is embracing the world.
A second observation regarding being a contemplative in this 21st century: As Christian, we speak a lot about the corporal works of mercy, while at the same time unintentionally play down the equally important spiritual works of mercy. The one committed to contemplative prayer has a special role in supporting and promoting the spiritual works of mercy:
To comfort the sorrowful
To counsel the doubtful
To instruct the ignorant
To admonish sinners
To bear wrongs patiently
To forgive offenses willingly
To comfort the afflicted and to afflict the comfortable
To pray for the living and the dead
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Christarchy Invite
You have been invited by cyberb764 to join the Christarchy! community. Christarchy! is a site that seeks to connect people to others who seek to follow in the radical footsteps of Jesus.
Visit cyberb764's profile at http://christarchy.com/members/cyberb764/.
Visit cyberb764's profile at http://christarchy.com/members/cyberb764/.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Kolbe Mission USA: HOPE makes HEROES
Kolbe Mission USA: HOPE makes HEROES: "'The Christians who did most for the present world were just those who thought most of the next... It is since Christians have largely cease..."
Kolbe Mission USA: HOPE makes HEROES
Kolbe Mission USA: HOPE makes HEROES: "'The Christians who did most for the present world were just those who thought most of the next... It is since Christians have largely cease..."
Monday, November 1, 2010
Monday, October 25, 2010
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Updates available
Some news and updates are available about the Some news and updates are available about Australian Old Catholic Church.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Monday, October 18, 2010
League for Industrial Democracy
LID as it has historically known, is devoted to the struggle for full racial equality, the abolition of poverty, the strengthening of trade unions and cooperatives, the expansion of civil liberties, the extension of public ownership and democratic economic planning, and the realignment of our political organizations with a view toward making them more responsive to the will of the people
League for Industrial Democracy
For Membership Information:
Box 5307 Johnstown, PA 15904-5307 (814) 682-3054
info@industrialdemocracy.org
League for Industrial Democracy
For Membership Information:
Box 5307 Johnstown, PA 15904-5307 (814) 682-3054
info@industrialdemocracy.org
Liberating Goodness for the greater good
"Anarchism, having faith in the innate goodness within everyone, seeks
to establish the Golden Rule, by working from within the consciousness
of the individual while all other systems of society, working from
without, depend upon man-made laws and violence of the State to compel
men to act justly." - Ammon Hennacy
This innate goodness, however is enslaved to the selfish demands of materialism and capital. One must rely upon the liberating act of Christ at his redemption freely offered for the asking. Then this innate goodness can be set free and one is empowered by the union achieved through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
to establish the Golden Rule, by working from within the consciousness
of the individual while all other systems of society, working from
without, depend upon man-made laws and violence of the State to compel
men to act justly." - Ammon Hennacy
This innate goodness, however is enslaved to the selfish demands of materialism and capital. One must rely upon the liberating act of Christ at his redemption freely offered for the asking. Then this innate goodness can be set free and one is empowered by the union achieved through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
Friday, October 15, 2010
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Vocation and Call
The Franciscan Missionaries of the Cross was born from the heart of Br Paul Zimmerman FMC in 2010. With the blessing of Archbishop Ian Charles Adrian on the 12th of August 2010 it was promulgated under his juristdiction of The Australian Old Catholic Church. And giving said Community his protection.
We are all called to be holy in this life. Some have been called to the Religious life. Some have entered and for various reasons left. To then feel that isolated and rejected feelings that often occur. But deep down, that calling of God is still inside. For various reasons they are not able to continue their vocation as a religious. FMC is there to fill that void. If you have that calling inside of you to be religious whether you are married or single, male or female, we are all in the same community, no distinction. FMC could be for you. Some live in Community and others in their own home.
To support ourselves we continue with our regular work which helps us and the needs of others less fortunate about us.
http://fmcsite.org/
We are all called to be holy in this life. Some have been called to the Religious life. Some have entered and for various reasons left. To then feel that isolated and rejected feelings that often occur. But deep down, that calling of God is still inside. For various reasons they are not able to continue their vocation as a religious. FMC is there to fill that void. If you have that calling inside of you to be religious whether you are married or single, male or female, we are all in the same community, no distinction. FMC could be for you. Some live in Community and others in their own home.
To support ourselves we continue with our regular work which helps us and the needs of others less fortunate about us.
http://fmcsite.org/
Sunday, October 10, 2010
The Upton Sinclair Mutual Aid Fund
With current cutbacks in government support systems, a huge hole in the social safety net has been created. This affects many unemployed workers who are losing their benefits, many unemployed have already lost their homes from illegal foreclosures and the disabled workers are seriously hurting. It is for this reason I have with the help of the Social Democrats-USA and the league for Industrial Democracy have initiated the Upton Sinclair Mutual Aid Fund. I know the times are hard and giving is very difficult, but those who have fallen through the cracks it is going to be even harder. it does not look like things are going to get better either. So I ask you to ask the Spiritual Progressives to endorse this project and help us get it off the ground.
The funds purpose is two fold. The first is to provide emergency assistance grants to unemployed and disabled workers and the second is to provide funding to worker initiated local projects such as hospitality house, food distribution programs, collective coffee houses etc. it will be privately supported by individualist, unions, Foundations and Churches.
The Upton Sinclair Mutual Aid Fund, a project of the League for for Industrial Democracy. A fund to address the needs of the unemployed worker and disabled. Providing funds for worker initiated projects and provide emergency assistance grants to individuals in crisis.
PO Box 5307
Johnstown, PA,
15904-5307
Checks or Money Orders to:League for Industrial Democracy. In the memo portion, Robert/Upton Sinclair Mutual Aid Fund
In the depression, many worker organizations, set up a fund of this nature to help unemployed and disabled worker and families.
With all of the budgets cuts, the refusal to allow cost of living adjustments, and the on going senseless wars costing billions of dollars and untold mysery and lives taht our government is forcing upon the American taxpayer, the resonsibility really does lay on a Congress and a President who have hearts and a conscience which is lacking today. I am on the very brink of losing my housing, personl appeals have turned up nothing, and should I lose my current housing,it will literaly be a death sentence waiting on the isolated streets. For on the street, there is no way of refrigerating my insulin and to carry my needles on my person puts me at risk with hard core drug addicts and the Police who do not know in the immediate moment that i am diabetic.
Untold hundreds or even thousands who fall through the safety net of social services have faced similar dilemmas, and many die as voiceless victims of a system which cares more for the wars of dominations than for those who harbor our streets. In the years that I myself had experienced the loneliness and desolation of being homeless, I had known 6 people who were diabetic and could not care for themselves in the manner they should died within a four year period. I also knew of one person with a terminal illness who was found dead near a dumpster one morning and was reported in the newspaper as one John Doe. He had no family to claim him.
An injury to one is an injury to all.
The funds purpose is two fold. The first is to provide emergency assistance grants to unemployed and disabled workers and the second is to provide funding to worker initiated local projects such as hospitality house, food distribution programs, collective coffee houses etc. it will be privately supported by individualist, unions, Foundations and Churches.
The Upton Sinclair Mutual Aid Fund, a project of the League for for Industrial Democracy. A fund to address the needs of the unemployed worker and disabled. Providing funds for worker initiated projects and provide emergency assistance grants to individuals in crisis.
PO Box 5307
Johnstown, PA,
15904-5307
Checks or Money Orders to:League for Industrial Democracy. In the memo portion, Robert/Upton Sinclair Mutual Aid Fund
In the depression, many worker organizations, set up a fund of this nature to help unemployed and disabled worker and families.
With all of the budgets cuts, the refusal to allow cost of living adjustments, and the on going senseless wars costing billions of dollars and untold mysery and lives taht our government is forcing upon the American taxpayer, the resonsibility really does lay on a Congress and a President who have hearts and a conscience which is lacking today. I am on the very brink of losing my housing, personl appeals have turned up nothing, and should I lose my current housing,it will literaly be a death sentence waiting on the isolated streets. For on the street, there is no way of refrigerating my insulin and to carry my needles on my person puts me at risk with hard core drug addicts and the Police who do not know in the immediate moment that i am diabetic.
Untold hundreds or even thousands who fall through the safety net of social services have faced similar dilemmas, and many die as voiceless victims of a system which cares more for the wars of dominations than for those who harbor our streets. In the years that I myself had experienced the loneliness and desolation of being homeless, I had known 6 people who were diabetic and could not care for themselves in the manner they should died within a four year period. I also knew of one person with a terminal illness who was found dead near a dumpster one morning and was reported in the newspaper as one John Doe. He had no family to claim him.
An injury to one is an injury to all.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Friday, October 8, 2010
Active Love
(Submitted to The Christian Left by Robert Mills) Robert says: "It is the laid back, 'let God do it all' tendency in the whole of the Body of Christ, the Church, that is just as dangerous, if not more dangerous, than the right wing conservatives taking over he Body of Christ. We must reflect and act as Jesus did to the moneychangers in the temple. After all, individually we are the temple of God."
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Monday, October 4, 2010
Sunday, September 26, 2010
The Australian Old Catholic Church
Most Rev Ian Charles Adrian OSCR
frianadrian@yahoo.com.au
Christus Rex House
8/55 Hassall St Corinda 4075
Brisbane, Australia
Archbishop Ian Charles Adrian OCSR was born in 1966 and raised Anglican, in 2001 he was ordained Priest for the Anglican Church International Communion there he served as Dean of St. Andrew's Cathedral and Archdeacon for Brisbane and surrounding region. In 2008 he joined the Reformed Catholic Church and was consecrated Bishop on October 3rd 2008. In November 2009 he was elected to be the First Archbishop of the Australian Old Catholic Church.
In 2010 the AOCC became a part of the Worldwide Communion of Celtic Convergence Churches and is Provincial Archbishops and sits on the College of Archbishops along with Presiding Archbishop George Booty.
Australian Communion of Christian Celtic Convergence Churches
Most Rev Ian Charles Adrian OSCR
frianadrian@yahoo.com.au
Christus Rex House
8/55 Hassall St Corinda 4075
Brisbane, Australia
Archbishop Ian Charles Adrian OCSR was born in 1966 and raised Anglican, in 2001 he was ordained Priest for the Anglican Church International Communion there he served as Dean of St. Andrew's Cathedral and Archdeacon for Brisbane and surrounding region. In 2008 he joined the Reformed Catholic Church and was consecrated Bishop on October 3rd 2008. In November 2009 he was elected to be the First Archbishop of the Australian Old Catholic Church.
In 2010 the AOCC became a part of the Worldwide Communion of Celtic Convergence Churches and is Provincial Archbishops and sits on the College of Archbishops along with Presiding Archbishop George Booty.
Australian Communion of Christian Celtic Convergence Churches
Friday, September 17, 2010
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Monday, September 6, 2010
Emergent Conversion
Emergent conversion is that state of awareness whereby in the salvific mystery, one realizes that he or she is being renewed by the Spirit on amoment by moment, day to day journey with Christ In this state, the kingdom of God is always present and the soul experiences the peace promised by Christ, 'Peace I give, Peace I leave with you. Go in Peace'. This is a gift freely given, all you have to do is to accept it.
At the heart of prayer, this gift is manifest. So then, when Our Heavenly Father grants us this peace, we are assured of his gratuitous love for us, and that he will provide us with everything we need.
So we should always be grateful of his gifts, for everyday, we are so gifted. Our prayer of release should also be a prayer of thanksgiving.
At the heart of prayer, this gift is manifest. So then, when Our Heavenly Father grants us this peace, we are assured of his gratuitous love for us, and that he will provide us with everything we need.
So we should always be grateful of his gifts, for everyday, we are so gifted. Our prayer of release should also be a prayer of thanksgiving.
Retrurning to my spiritual roots, re grounded in Catholic Faith
Having returned to my spiritual roots and home I am a Franciscan , political activist, socialist anarchist, and human rights advocate. My personal spirituality is Franciscan and Marian, believing the human spirit is universal and constantly growing. I have committed myself to the active promotion of nonviolence in my daily life through a special vow of non-violence and through a renewal of my Profession to the Rule of St Francis of Assisi. Through education and active advocacy for social justice and the defense of human rights, this ministry is committed to educating and empowering communities.
Franciscan Missionaries of the Cross
FRANCISCAN MISSIONARIES OF THE CROSS
Religious Community for those people who have a calling by God to be
Holy. For many reasons in life this did not happen or fulfilled. FMC now
gives the opportunity for people with such a calling in their hearts.
FMC is under The Australian Old Catholic Church, a member of the
International Old Catholic Alliance.
The Australian Old Catholic Church-
We are the newest branch of the world-wide Old Catholic Movement
which separated from Rome in 1870. There are 14 million of us worldwide
and we are progressive, welcoming, accepting of all others, in
fact whatever and whoever Jesus would have accepted, then we do
too.
FRANCISCAN MISSIONARIES OF THE CROSS
SAMARRA DRIVE SELLICKS BEACH
ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA, 5174
PHONE 0418165360
ZIMMERMAN_PAUL@HOTMAIL.COM
Religious Community for those people who have a calling by God to be
Holy. For many reasons in life this did not happen or fulfilled. FMC now
gives the opportunity for people with such a calling in their hearts.
FMC is under The Australian Old Catholic Church, a member of the
International Old Catholic Alliance.
The Australian Old Catholic Church-
We are the newest branch of the world-wide Old Catholic Movement
which separated from Rome in 1870. There are 14 million of us worldwide
and we are progressive, welcoming, accepting of all others, in
fact whatever and whoever Jesus would have accepted, then we do
too.
FRANCISCAN MISSIONARIES OF THE CROSS
SAMARRA DRIVE SELLICKS BEACH
ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA, 5174
PHONE 0418165360
ZIMMERMAN_PAUL@HOTMAIL.COM
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
A Fast for Peace and Life
I am thoroughly convinced that we are soon entering a new age for humanity, an age where the need or desire to have wars and to use violence to resolve our problems is coming to an end. It is an age, that where once lives and resources would be used to wage a war for whatever rationalization cannot be justified nor rationally supported. We have spent our resources from this Earth and from each other. it is really time for governments to stop and redirect energies to peace and disarmament - and should these governments refuse to do so, the people themselves using all of the weapons of non-violence AVAILABLE should say, with one voice no more... La Basta WE WILL NOT CO_OPERATE. ACTIONS OF NON CO-OPERATION AND NON-COMPLIANCE SUCH AS WORK STOPPAGES, BLOCKADES AND EVERY OTHER MANNER OF NON-VIOLENT ACT SHOULD COMMENCE.
The recent tragic events of Pakistan and India, the tragic oil spills and consequent ecological ruining, the strife and violence in such places as Kashmir and so many other events occuring at this time should convince humanity, it is time to unite, to see each other as brothers and sisters. The earth itself is crying out NO MORE.
Fasting, true fasting not merely a hunger strike has been effectively used in the past to bring about social change and awaken peoples heart to peace. Mahatma Gandhi used the Fast unto Death to assist in bringing about independence and to call for the cessation to violence effectively, and others since then have as well. It is not just a protest like the typical hunger strike, for it has a deeper spiritual objective - and as Jesus in the Christian faith stated that there is no greater love than one who gives up his life for another - the Fast is a dying to self and a dying to the world so as to be open to a higher spiritual awakening.
In about a week from now, I am going to commence such a fast. A Fast for Peace and an end to all violence. This fast shall be complete and total - it is not to be considered merely a hunger strike or just some political act of protest. It is a protest, but it is more... a seeking after reconciliation, peace and social justice, within and without. I am calling for world leaders to come together and really find ways to lay down arms, raise up the needs of the world's population, end oppression. To the tyrants and power mongers, convert your hearts and to the rest more just government begin disarmament.
This decision may seem to be foolish act, and especially for someone who is diabetic and have other health problems. But I am convinced that we are at the cross roads - either we choose the path of non-violence or we will face extinction. The earth will make the the decision for us, and select some other species to support in the ecological scheme of things. It may seem foolish to most, because I do not have the celebrity status of a Gandhi, King, or Chavez, I am not well known as the Dai lai Lama or anyone with any status. That is not important, it is the act that is important, and it is spiritual, having a tremendous spiritual power that has yet to be released upon the world. And it will become even powerful as others join me in solidarity, in accordance to their own ability and willingness to fast... for a day, a week or however long they want ot join with me.. this could include a relay fast on global scale never before witnessed - everywhere. Peace to everyone.
The recent tragic events of Pakistan and India, the tragic oil spills and consequent ecological ruining, the strife and violence in such places as Kashmir and so many other events occuring at this time should convince humanity, it is time to unite, to see each other as brothers and sisters. The earth itself is crying out NO MORE.
Fasting, true fasting not merely a hunger strike has been effectively used in the past to bring about social change and awaken peoples heart to peace. Mahatma Gandhi used the Fast unto Death to assist in bringing about independence and to call for the cessation to violence effectively, and others since then have as well. It is not just a protest like the typical hunger strike, for it has a deeper spiritual objective - and as Jesus in the Christian faith stated that there is no greater love than one who gives up his life for another - the Fast is a dying to self and a dying to the world so as to be open to a higher spiritual awakening.
In about a week from now, I am going to commence such a fast. A Fast for Peace and an end to all violence. This fast shall be complete and total - it is not to be considered merely a hunger strike or just some political act of protest. It is a protest, but it is more... a seeking after reconciliation, peace and social justice, within and without. I am calling for world leaders to come together and really find ways to lay down arms, raise up the needs of the world's population, end oppression. To the tyrants and power mongers, convert your hearts and to the rest more just government begin disarmament.
This decision may seem to be foolish act, and especially for someone who is diabetic and have other health problems. But I am convinced that we are at the cross roads - either we choose the path of non-violence or we will face extinction. The earth will make the the decision for us, and select some other species to support in the ecological scheme of things. It may seem foolish to most, because I do not have the celebrity status of a Gandhi, King, or Chavez, I am not well known as the Dai lai Lama or anyone with any status. That is not important, it is the act that is important, and it is spiritual, having a tremendous spiritual power that has yet to be released upon the world. And it will become even powerful as others join me in solidarity, in accordance to their own ability and willingness to fast... for a day, a week or however long they want ot join with me.. this could include a relay fast on global scale never before witnessed - everywhere. Peace to everyone.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Friday, August 20, 2010
Friday, August 13, 2010
Thursday, August 12, 2010
The day of the 99er Rally in NYC Harry Reid calls the Senate back - but not for the 99ers
The day of the 99er Rally in NYC Harry Reid calls the Senate back - but not for the 99ers
"The Senate convened, briefly to approve a popular $600 million border security bill"... unemployed apparently can go to hell, we have to get the illegals out.
"The Senate convened, briefly to approve a popular $600 million border security bill"... unemployed apparently can go to hell, we have to get the illegals out.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Sunday, July 4, 2010
DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE FROM THE CORPORATE WING OF THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY
DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE FROM THE CORPORATE WING OF THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY,
herein set forth by the Populist Wedge on behalf of Working Family Democrats across the United States.
Proposed in the spirit of "The Declaration of Independence of The United States of America", ratified July 2, 1776; "The Working Men's Declaration of Independence", July 4, 1829; "Declarations of Sentiments and Resolutions Woman's Rights Convention", July, 1848; "What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?" by Fredrick Douglas, July 5, 1852; the "Negro Declaration of Independence National Independent Political Union", February, 1876; The Omaha Platform of the Populist (or People's) Party, July 4, 1892; the "Declaration of Interdependence" of the Socialist Labor Party, July 4, 1895; "New Declaration of Independence" by Emma Goldman, July 4, 1909;"Declaration of Workers' and Farmers' Rights and Purposes" of the National Unemployed Leagues, July 4, 1933; The Homestead Steel Workers Declaration of Independence, Summer, 1936; and "Declaring Independence from Big Oil, Big Coal, & other Domineering Corporations", the Shalom Center, July 4, 2010
When, in the course of human events, it becomes necessary for one class to assert its natural rights in opposition to another class and to assume among peoples a political station of equality to which the laws of "nature and of nature's God" as well as the principles of their political compact, i.e. The Declaration of Independence and United States Constitution, entitle them; a decent respect to the opinions of humankind, and the duty owed to their fellow citizens, requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to such a separation. We are working class families who make up the majority of the Democratic Party. Below we set out the causes that force our separation from the corporate controlled wing of the Democratic Party.
We hold these truths to be self evident: that all women and men are created equal, endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights. That among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The pursuit of happiness is dependent on both political and economic democracy. Each individual is entitled to a sharing in community; honorable employment and living incomes; laboring hours conducive to a rhythm of work and rest, that frees time for family, neighborhood, civic involvement, participation in self government, and the expression and nourishment of the spirit; a life sustaining share of the earth's abundance; democratic elections not controlled by wealth and legislatures that can respond to the democratic will of their constituents; peace with and among all peoples of the earth; and responsible relationships amidst the whole web of life upon this planet.
We therefore set forth the following precepts and demands:
First: That the working people of all nations share more in economic interest with each other,than the workers of any nation share with the political and economic elites of their own nation. Working people gathered in their trade unions, community organizations,cooperatives,and farm associations are the bulwark of democracy. We demand the end to all unjust wars where America's most important resources, i.e. the lives and health of its young people, are squandered in controlling the destinies of our peoples. We demand an end to all trade agreements such as NAFTA and GATT that allow American based multinational corporations to send formerly American jobs to foreign countries were the laws allow increased worker exploitation and coercion, along with lower pollution control standards, and the manufacture of shoddy, often hazardous, goods.
Second: That governments derive all just powers from the consent of the governed. That governments exist for the benefit of the governed and not the reverse. Therefore, it is the duty of the governed to alter and abolish all forms of domination, political, economic, cultural, and religious, that would seek to deny the governed full and complete access to the power which belongs to them alone. We therefore demand a Constitutional amendment providing for all election campaigns funding solely by the United States, or the individual States, paid for by the contributions of natural persons, actual human beings, under limitation set by Congress and the legislatures of individual States. We further demand that all elections in the United States be conducted by Single Transferable Ballot (STV) thus assuring the broadest selection of candidates, parties and positions represented in each election. Further we insist that every electoral constituency be allowed to trigger a recall election for any public official, state or federal when a petition signed by 15% of that constituency be presented to the appropriate office. In the case Federal officials, a petition supported by 15% of the electorate in 2/3's states ought be considered sufficient to trigger a recall election. In addition, a petition signed by 15% of the voters of any constituency should be sufficient to trigger a statewide or federal referendum on an initiative proposed by citizens. We demand the end of the filibuster in all legislative bodies.
Third: That war, by its very nature,is a crime against humanity. Occasionally, it may be necessary for a people to defend itself from attack. This is never an excuse for the imperial acquisition of resources, territory, or an attempt to establish military or ideological hegemony. We therefore demand an immediate end to Western involvement in Iraq and Afghanistan and thoroughgoing investigation of all public figures involved with these unwarranted wars. We demand the resumption by Congress of its Constitutional duties to declare war or initiate military conflict, further, we insist on strict adherence to all international laws, conventions and treaties regarding the conduct of war by the United States and any ally benefiting from its military aid. We insist upon an immediate 50% across the board cut in United States military spending, with the exception of programs that support the health and well being of those in the military services and veterans who have served their nation. These tax payer dollars rightly to be redirected to fund the urgent civilian needs of the American people and people of poverty stricken regions around the world. A nation which fails to defend its citizenry from homelessness, poverty, infrastructure degradation, preventable disease, bankruptcy due to medical costs, and to aid less fortunate peoples around the world with equitable humanitarian assistance is not a "super power" by any definition.
Fourth: That the rights of humanity as set forth in the United Nations International Declaration of Human Rights may never be transgressed by any party no matter how imperiled or aggrieved that party believes itself to be. Torture and the deliberate targeting of non combatants is never morally justified. Likewise the use of an anti personnel device, regardless of whether the explosive comes from a fast moving aircraft or is carried in a backpack aboard public transportation or is buried in the ground to indiscriminately kill and maim, is unacceptable. The deliberate, killing, imprisonment, starvation, or displacement of massive numbers of people for political gain is now and forever WRONG! We insist that the United States submit to the jurisdiction the international Criminal Court and join in all international conventions against the manufacture of cluster bombs, depleted uranium and phosphorous projectiles, and land mines. The United States must declare a moratorium on the manufacture and deployment of nuclear weapons and move expeditiously and transparently toward a decommissioning its own and the world's stockpile of radiological and chemical weapons.
Fifth: That humankind has a right to be free from the persecution of ethnicity, gender, religious preference, political ideology, sexual orientation, age, or infirmity. Nations are entitled to borders that reflect national sovereignty and realistic concerns for self defense. While governments have a right to maintain the security of their borders, they lack the right to harass those forced to cross a particular national frontier in order to find gainful employment or shelter from the ravages of war, famine, or natural disaster. We reject all laws that would racially profile any group or punish undocumented workers merely for the crime of attempting to earn a livelihood.
Sixth: We are not cheerleaders for the slaughter of any group of people no matter the ideology of those pursuing the massacre. We will never apologize for tyranny or injustice, regardless what grave exigencies that the tyrant or the insurgency shall claim. We insist that the U.S. premise civilian and military assistance and trade relations with our allies and trading partners on those nations' willingness to respect the human rights of their own citizens and and the peoples of other nations.
Seventh: While people are hungry, homeless, poorly clothed, and without the basic necessities of life, there can be no democratic process. As Thomas Paine said, "Necessitous men are not free men." We therefore insist upon the creation of meaningful jobs by our government and a minimum livable family income for all American residents regardless of a person's age, infirmity, or resident status.
Eighth: People have an inherent right to worship or not worship their Creator(s) and participate in spirituality as their conscience dictates. The state must never be the arbiter of religious thought. Instead, it is the people who must instruct the government as to spiritual and moral precepts. Therefore, it is the right of each person to disagree vehemently with others in their society upon the nature of what is moral. A democratic government cannot take sides. This does not mean that the individual members of an elected government cannot and should not be guided by moral precepts. No one seeking election in a democratic society should be asked to divest him or herself of whatever spiritual and moral precepts he or she holds. We insist on an open political system that ends all discrimination on the basis of one's social views on religion or sexuality. We hold the Defense of Marriage Act and all state laws against same sex unions and the military policy "don't ask; don't tell" to be an infringement on personal liberty that violate the separation of church and state and equal protection doctrines held to be essential to our republic.
Ninth: Human beings are the stewards of the earth, not its masters. No generation has a right to pass on a polluted or degraded planet to the generations that follow. We demand strong international laws to prevent global climate disaster by capping green house gas emissions; ending all off shore oil drilling by July 4, 2015; an immediate moratorium on new drilling; and swiftly moving the US and world economy from fossil fuel dependence and nuclear power to renewable energy.
Tenth: That in any prosecution brought for any crime a defendant shall have a right to be heard by himself, and/or through counsel, and shall have an absolute right to examine all evidence, to face all accusers, to call all material witnesses and to make whatever representations to the tribunal which he or she faces, which may seem to the defendant to be exculpatory. The judiciary of a democratic nation must be independent and separate from that nation's legislative and executive branches of government and there must be put into place a Constitutional Amendment that the American judiciary be elected to office in the same manner as other public servants, holding office for set terms and facing recall at the discretion of the voters. All privilege and immunities must be ended for lawsuits brought against public officials for wrong doing.
Eleventh: There is only one cure for the ills of democracy; more democracy! Free people will build a wondrous and diverse culture that will express what it is to be truly human. We therefore demand a Constitutional amendment to pay for all election campaigns solely by public contributions of the United States, or the individual states, paid for by the contributions of natural persons and the banning of all corporate money in elections. Limits for election spending must be set by Congress and various State Legislatures. These limits must also include in- kind contributions of anything excerpt a citizen's uncompensated time.
Twelfth: The corporate wing of Democratic Party has become destructive of the ends of democratic governance. It has betrayed the heritage of the Democratic Party that brought women's suffrage, social security, Medicare, the right to organize trade unions, civil rights and voting rights into legislative existence. The corporatist Democrats are a minority of bought and paid for big business lackeys that have abandoned the tradition of the New Deal and Civil Rights Movement. As outspoken members of the Democratic Party's populist majority, woprking
families—we insist that our Party fight for the following: universal single payer health care on"Medicare for all" model; the full implementation of Franklin Delano Roosevelt's Economic Bill of Rights (reprinted below); full government funding of the Humphrey Hawkins Full Employment and Balance Growth Act; and a government assurance of a decent job at a livable wage, maximum 32 hour regular work week and 46 week work year, with paid medical and family leave; the repeal of the Taft- Hartley Act along with of all statewide anti- Labor legislation; and the passage of the Employee Free Choice Act. We cannot support any Democratic candidate who does not insist on the immediate implementation of the measures we have set forth above and will actively oppose those who try turn the clock back on our nation and our Party. To this end we pledge to each other our lives, our energies, our treasures, our solidarity, and our sacred honor.
Franklin D. Roosevelt's “The Economic Bill of Rights”
Excerpt from 11 January 1944 message to Congress on the State of the Union
It is our duty now to begin to lay the plans and determine the strategy for the winning of a lasting peace and the establishment of an American standard of living higher than ever before known. We cannot be content, no matter how high that general standard of living may be, if some fraction of our people—whether it be one third or one fifth or one tenth are ill fed, ill clothed, ill housed, and insecure. This Republic had its beginning, and grew to its present strength, under the protection of certain inalienable political rights—among them the right of free speech, free press, free worship, trial by jury, freedom from unreasonable searches and seizures. They were our rights to life and liberty. As our nation has grown in size and stature, however—as our industrial economy expanded—these political rights proved inadequate to assure us equality in the pursuit of happiness.
We have come to a clear realization of the fact that true individual freedom cannot exist without economic security and independence."Necessitous men are not free men." People who are hungry and out of a job are the stuff of which dictatorships are made. In our day these economic truths have become accepted as self evident. We have accepted, so to speak, a second Bill of Rights under which a new basis of security and prosperity can be established for all—regardless of station, race, or creed.
Among these are:
The right to a useful and remunerative job in the industries or shops or farms or mines of the nation;
The right to earn enough to provide adequate food and clothing and recreation;
The right of every farmer to raise and sell his products at a return which will give him and his family a decent living;
The right of every businessman, large and small, to trade in an atmosphere of freedom from unfair competition and domination by monopolies at home or abroad;
The right of every family to a decent home;
The right to adequate medical care and the opportunity to achieve and enjoy good
health;
The right to adequate protection from the economic fears of old age, sickness, accident,and unemployment;
The right to a good education.
All of these rights spell security. And after this war is won we must be prepared to move forward, in the implementation of these rights, to new goals of human happiness and well being. America’s own rightful place in the world depends in large part upon how fully these and similar rights have been carried into practice for our citizens.
This rough draft was composed by Gabriel McCloskey- Ross based on the suggestions of the the other members of the Populist Wedge. It was edited by Seamus Johnston. It is dedicated to the memory of "Red" George Peterson and Mary Jane McCloskey- Peterson founding members of Americans for Democratic Action, "Red Eddy" McCloskey, populist mayor of Johnstown, PA for nonconsecutive terms from the late 1920's through 1950's, George Ross, signer of Declaration of Independence, and to George's daughter- in- law, Betsy Ross. Thanks for the inspiration folks.
If you agree with the sentiments set forth above please add your name by contacting me by email at or by Face Book message, or by calling the Eddy McCloskey Center at 814 410 2545 and asking for a member of the SDUSA-SPUSA staff. The next phone conference of the Populist Wedge will be Sunday, July 11 at 7:30 PM Eastern Time.
Posted by Laurel Highlands Social Democrats at 3:43 AM 0 comments
herein set forth by the Populist Wedge on behalf of Working Family Democrats across the United States.
Proposed in the spirit of "The Declaration of Independence of The United States of America", ratified July 2, 1776; "The Working Men's Declaration of Independence", July 4, 1829; "Declarations of Sentiments and Resolutions Woman's Rights Convention", July, 1848; "What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?" by Fredrick Douglas, July 5, 1852; the "Negro Declaration of Independence National Independent Political Union", February, 1876; The Omaha Platform of the Populist (or People's) Party, July 4, 1892; the "Declaration of Interdependence" of the Socialist Labor Party, July 4, 1895; "New Declaration of Independence" by Emma Goldman, July 4, 1909;"Declaration of Workers' and Farmers' Rights and Purposes" of the National Unemployed Leagues, July 4, 1933; The Homestead Steel Workers Declaration of Independence, Summer, 1936; and "Declaring Independence from Big Oil, Big Coal, & other Domineering Corporations", the Shalom Center, July 4, 2010
When, in the course of human events, it becomes necessary for one class to assert its natural rights in opposition to another class and to assume among peoples a political station of equality to which the laws of "nature and of nature's God" as well as the principles of their political compact, i.e. The Declaration of Independence and United States Constitution, entitle them; a decent respect to the opinions of humankind, and the duty owed to their fellow citizens, requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to such a separation. We are working class families who make up the majority of the Democratic Party. Below we set out the causes that force our separation from the corporate controlled wing of the Democratic Party.
We hold these truths to be self evident: that all women and men are created equal, endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights. That among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The pursuit of happiness is dependent on both political and economic democracy. Each individual is entitled to a sharing in community; honorable employment and living incomes; laboring hours conducive to a rhythm of work and rest, that frees time for family, neighborhood, civic involvement, participation in self government, and the expression and nourishment of the spirit; a life sustaining share of the earth's abundance; democratic elections not controlled by wealth and legislatures that can respond to the democratic will of their constituents; peace with and among all peoples of the earth; and responsible relationships amidst the whole web of life upon this planet.
We therefore set forth the following precepts and demands:
First: That the working people of all nations share more in economic interest with each other,than the workers of any nation share with the political and economic elites of their own nation. Working people gathered in their trade unions, community organizations,cooperatives,and farm associations are the bulwark of democracy. We demand the end to all unjust wars where America's most important resources, i.e. the lives and health of its young people, are squandered in controlling the destinies of our peoples. We demand an end to all trade agreements such as NAFTA and GATT that allow American based multinational corporations to send formerly American jobs to foreign countries were the laws allow increased worker exploitation and coercion, along with lower pollution control standards, and the manufacture of shoddy, often hazardous, goods.
Second: That governments derive all just powers from the consent of the governed. That governments exist for the benefit of the governed and not the reverse. Therefore, it is the duty of the governed to alter and abolish all forms of domination, political, economic, cultural, and religious, that would seek to deny the governed full and complete access to the power which belongs to them alone. We therefore demand a Constitutional amendment providing for all election campaigns funding solely by the United States, or the individual States, paid for by the contributions of natural persons, actual human beings, under limitation set by Congress and the legislatures of individual States. We further demand that all elections in the United States be conducted by Single Transferable Ballot (STV) thus assuring the broadest selection of candidates, parties and positions represented in each election. Further we insist that every electoral constituency be allowed to trigger a recall election for any public official, state or federal when a petition signed by 15% of that constituency be presented to the appropriate office. In the case Federal officials, a petition supported by 15% of the electorate in 2/3's states ought be considered sufficient to trigger a recall election. In addition, a petition signed by 15% of the voters of any constituency should be sufficient to trigger a statewide or federal referendum on an initiative proposed by citizens. We demand the end of the filibuster in all legislative bodies.
Third: That war, by its very nature,is a crime against humanity. Occasionally, it may be necessary for a people to defend itself from attack. This is never an excuse for the imperial acquisition of resources, territory, or an attempt to establish military or ideological hegemony. We therefore demand an immediate end to Western involvement in Iraq and Afghanistan and thoroughgoing investigation of all public figures involved with these unwarranted wars. We demand the resumption by Congress of its Constitutional duties to declare war or initiate military conflict, further, we insist on strict adherence to all international laws, conventions and treaties regarding the conduct of war by the United States and any ally benefiting from its military aid. We insist upon an immediate 50% across the board cut in United States military spending, with the exception of programs that support the health and well being of those in the military services and veterans who have served their nation. These tax payer dollars rightly to be redirected to fund the urgent civilian needs of the American people and people of poverty stricken regions around the world. A nation which fails to defend its citizenry from homelessness, poverty, infrastructure degradation, preventable disease, bankruptcy due to medical costs, and to aid less fortunate peoples around the world with equitable humanitarian assistance is not a "super power" by any definition.
Fourth: That the rights of humanity as set forth in the United Nations International Declaration of Human Rights may never be transgressed by any party no matter how imperiled or aggrieved that party believes itself to be. Torture and the deliberate targeting of non combatants is never morally justified. Likewise the use of an anti personnel device, regardless of whether the explosive comes from a fast moving aircraft or is carried in a backpack aboard public transportation or is buried in the ground to indiscriminately kill and maim, is unacceptable. The deliberate, killing, imprisonment, starvation, or displacement of massive numbers of people for political gain is now and forever WRONG! We insist that the United States submit to the jurisdiction the international Criminal Court and join in all international conventions against the manufacture of cluster bombs, depleted uranium and phosphorous projectiles, and land mines. The United States must declare a moratorium on the manufacture and deployment of nuclear weapons and move expeditiously and transparently toward a decommissioning its own and the world's stockpile of radiological and chemical weapons.
Fifth: That humankind has a right to be free from the persecution of ethnicity, gender, religious preference, political ideology, sexual orientation, age, or infirmity. Nations are entitled to borders that reflect national sovereignty and realistic concerns for self defense. While governments have a right to maintain the security of their borders, they lack the right to harass those forced to cross a particular national frontier in order to find gainful employment or shelter from the ravages of war, famine, or natural disaster. We reject all laws that would racially profile any group or punish undocumented workers merely for the crime of attempting to earn a livelihood.
Sixth: We are not cheerleaders for the slaughter of any group of people no matter the ideology of those pursuing the massacre. We will never apologize for tyranny or injustice, regardless what grave exigencies that the tyrant or the insurgency shall claim. We insist that the U.S. premise civilian and military assistance and trade relations with our allies and trading partners on those nations' willingness to respect the human rights of their own citizens and and the peoples of other nations.
Seventh: While people are hungry, homeless, poorly clothed, and without the basic necessities of life, there can be no democratic process. As Thomas Paine said, "Necessitous men are not free men." We therefore insist upon the creation of meaningful jobs by our government and a minimum livable family income for all American residents regardless of a person's age, infirmity, or resident status.
Eighth: People have an inherent right to worship or not worship their Creator(s) and participate in spirituality as their conscience dictates. The state must never be the arbiter of religious thought. Instead, it is the people who must instruct the government as to spiritual and moral precepts. Therefore, it is the right of each person to disagree vehemently with others in their society upon the nature of what is moral. A democratic government cannot take sides. This does not mean that the individual members of an elected government cannot and should not be guided by moral precepts. No one seeking election in a democratic society should be asked to divest him or herself of whatever spiritual and moral precepts he or she holds. We insist on an open political system that ends all discrimination on the basis of one's social views on religion or sexuality. We hold the Defense of Marriage Act and all state laws against same sex unions and the military policy "don't ask; don't tell" to be an infringement on personal liberty that violate the separation of church and state and equal protection doctrines held to be essential to our republic.
Ninth: Human beings are the stewards of the earth, not its masters. No generation has a right to pass on a polluted or degraded planet to the generations that follow. We demand strong international laws to prevent global climate disaster by capping green house gas emissions; ending all off shore oil drilling by July 4, 2015; an immediate moratorium on new drilling; and swiftly moving the US and world economy from fossil fuel dependence and nuclear power to renewable energy.
Tenth: That in any prosecution brought for any crime a defendant shall have a right to be heard by himself, and/or through counsel, and shall have an absolute right to examine all evidence, to face all accusers, to call all material witnesses and to make whatever representations to the tribunal which he or she faces, which may seem to the defendant to be exculpatory. The judiciary of a democratic nation must be independent and separate from that nation's legislative and executive branches of government and there must be put into place a Constitutional Amendment that the American judiciary be elected to office in the same manner as other public servants, holding office for set terms and facing recall at the discretion of the voters. All privilege and immunities must be ended for lawsuits brought against public officials for wrong doing.
Eleventh: There is only one cure for the ills of democracy; more democracy! Free people will build a wondrous and diverse culture that will express what it is to be truly human. We therefore demand a Constitutional amendment to pay for all election campaigns solely by public contributions of the United States, or the individual states, paid for by the contributions of natural persons and the banning of all corporate money in elections. Limits for election spending must be set by Congress and various State Legislatures. These limits must also include in- kind contributions of anything excerpt a citizen's uncompensated time.
Twelfth: The corporate wing of Democratic Party has become destructive of the ends of democratic governance. It has betrayed the heritage of the Democratic Party that brought women's suffrage, social security, Medicare, the right to organize trade unions, civil rights and voting rights into legislative existence. The corporatist Democrats are a minority of bought and paid for big business lackeys that have abandoned the tradition of the New Deal and Civil Rights Movement. As outspoken members of the Democratic Party's populist majority, woprking
families—we insist that our Party fight for the following: universal single payer health care on"Medicare for all" model; the full implementation of Franklin Delano Roosevelt's Economic Bill of Rights (reprinted below); full government funding of the Humphrey Hawkins Full Employment and Balance Growth Act; and a government assurance of a decent job at a livable wage, maximum 32 hour regular work week and 46 week work year, with paid medical and family leave; the repeal of the Taft- Hartley Act along with of all statewide anti- Labor legislation; and the passage of the Employee Free Choice Act. We cannot support any Democratic candidate who does not insist on the immediate implementation of the measures we have set forth above and will actively oppose those who try turn the clock back on our nation and our Party. To this end we pledge to each other our lives, our energies, our treasures, our solidarity, and our sacred honor.
Franklin D. Roosevelt's “The Economic Bill of Rights”
Excerpt from 11 January 1944 message to Congress on the State of the Union
It is our duty now to begin to lay the plans and determine the strategy for the winning of a lasting peace and the establishment of an American standard of living higher than ever before known. We cannot be content, no matter how high that general standard of living may be, if some fraction of our people—whether it be one third or one fifth or one tenth are ill fed, ill clothed, ill housed, and insecure. This Republic had its beginning, and grew to its present strength, under the protection of certain inalienable political rights—among them the right of free speech, free press, free worship, trial by jury, freedom from unreasonable searches and seizures. They were our rights to life and liberty. As our nation has grown in size and stature, however—as our industrial economy expanded—these political rights proved inadequate to assure us equality in the pursuit of happiness.
We have come to a clear realization of the fact that true individual freedom cannot exist without economic security and independence."Necessitous men are not free men." People who are hungry and out of a job are the stuff of which dictatorships are made. In our day these economic truths have become accepted as self evident. We have accepted, so to speak, a second Bill of Rights under which a new basis of security and prosperity can be established for all—regardless of station, race, or creed.
Among these are:
The right to a useful and remunerative job in the industries or shops or farms or mines of the nation;
The right to earn enough to provide adequate food and clothing and recreation;
The right of every farmer to raise and sell his products at a return which will give him and his family a decent living;
The right of every businessman, large and small, to trade in an atmosphere of freedom from unfair competition and domination by monopolies at home or abroad;
The right of every family to a decent home;
The right to adequate medical care and the opportunity to achieve and enjoy good
health;
The right to adequate protection from the economic fears of old age, sickness, accident,and unemployment;
The right to a good education.
All of these rights spell security. And after this war is won we must be prepared to move forward, in the implementation of these rights, to new goals of human happiness and well being. America’s own rightful place in the world depends in large part upon how fully these and similar rights have been carried into practice for our citizens.
This rough draft was composed by Gabriel McCloskey- Ross based on the suggestions of the the other members of the Populist Wedge. It was edited by Seamus Johnston. It is dedicated to the memory of "Red" George Peterson and Mary Jane McCloskey- Peterson founding members of Americans for Democratic Action, "Red Eddy" McCloskey, populist mayor of Johnstown, PA for nonconsecutive terms from the late 1920's through 1950's, George Ross, signer of Declaration of Independence, and to George's daughter- in- law, Betsy Ross. Thanks for the inspiration folks.
If you agree with the sentiments set forth above please add your name by contacting me by email at or by Face Book message, or by calling the Eddy McCloskey Center at 814 410 2545 and asking for a member of the SDUSA-SPUSA staff. The next phone conference of the Populist Wedge will be Sunday, July 11 at 7:30 PM Eastern Time.
Posted by Laurel Highlands Social Democrats at 3:43 AM 0 comments
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Friday, June 25, 2010
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Superficiality and Religiosity
Religiosity is too often self bloated and takes one away from the real
relationship between each other and God... too often we find ourselves
kneeling before an image of Christ , Buddha or whomever, with intense
longing for love and only find plastic, paper and wood around us.
Spirituality observes the very inner core of one's being in a moment of
eternity, and asks only that we be present at this moment -we do not have
to struggle. plea or do any of the other things religiosity demands,
instead the relationship between God and myself is personal and intense,
just as when I reach out to my neighbor or my enemy, I am sharing that
relationship in a deeply personal and intense manner. Jesus calls us to
love one another even as God does, and you do not have to have any
prerequisite for this kind of love, it is unconditional to begin with, and
while has no beginning, it has no end either. It is eternal, and a part of
heaven right in our midst. For such love, it is God himself within and
without.
relationship between each other and God... too often we find ourselves
kneeling before an image of Christ , Buddha or whomever, with intense
longing for love and only find plastic, paper and wood around us.
Spirituality observes the very inner core of one's being in a moment of
eternity, and asks only that we be present at this moment -we do not have
to struggle. plea or do any of the other things religiosity demands,
instead the relationship between God and myself is personal and intense,
just as when I reach out to my neighbor or my enemy, I am sharing that
relationship in a deeply personal and intense manner. Jesus calls us to
love one another even as God does, and you do not have to have any
prerequisite for this kind of love, it is unconditional to begin with, and
while has no beginning, it has no end either. It is eternal, and a part of
heaven right in our midst. For such love, it is God himself within and
without.
Monday, May 24, 2010
The KPFA Evening News (Weekend) - May 22, 2010 at 6:00pm | KPFA 94.1 FM Berkeley: Listener Sponsored Free Speech Radio
This broadcast covers two very important issues: the environment and the disabled. As social issues, they are related, while one covers the disaster of the oil spill and how it affects the world, the how the human ecosystem must be re-evaluated. How do we treat the earth of which we are apart of, and how do we treat our selves.
The KPFA Evening News (Weekend) - May 22, 2010 at 6:00pm | KPFA 94.1 FM Berkeley: Listener Sponsored Free Speech Radio
The KPFA Evening News (Weekend) - May 22, 2010 at 6:00pm | KPFA 94.1 FM Berkeley: Listener Sponsored Free Speech Radio
Monday, May 17, 2010
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Antivirus Beta Testing Program - Antivirus solutions currently under development - PANDA SECURITY
Antivirus Beta Testing Program - Antivirus solutions currently under development - PANDA SECURITY
I tried thi and found it pretty convenient. I think it is especially good for people who feel their current antivirus uses too many resources on their computer. It works from the cloud and also very good for small to large corparate to have a single install working from the cloud.
I tried thi and found it pretty convenient. I think it is especially good for people who feel their current antivirus uses too many resources on their computer. It works from the cloud and also very good for small to large corparate to have a single install working from the cloud.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Friday, March 26, 2010
Apology
If there have been visitors, of late... I sincerely apologize and have no excuse except that I have not been up to much writing. It isn't that there is nothing to write about, much has happened since last I was here. And while I continue to make the effort to be regular with jotting down at least something on a weekly basis, the effort seems at times wasted.
Well since my last entry, we have had a new President elected, and while in some ways, it seems to be business as usual. a health reform bill has gone through the motions, but we are still sending troops and keeping a military presence in both Afghanistan and Iraq. There has been a long standing promise to reduce troop presence and occupation of Okinawa, and that is still unresolved. Poverty and homelessness remains America's number one unresolved issue. But there is still hope for finally realizing that we cannot continue spending such mega budgets on Military follies. Democracy can still be the shining beacon for peace and social justice.
Here at the home front, violence has accentuated the inner commitment to live and practice non-violence. As I have shared before, the household in Oakland is made up of formerly homeless people, and most have been chronically homeless because of either disability, substance abuse or just plain rotten luck. But as each day goes by, we are gratified by the fact that we are still here. There have been problems and it is difficult to break old habits. The most challenging is to learn how to resolve differences without resorting to violence. What people have to realize is that when you have to survive on the street, year after year, there is so much tension and stress, it is difficult to maintain 'normal' life styles. You are in permanent mode to survive and constantly have to watch your back, especially in these last few years when violent attacks have occurred more frequently than in the past. So we have to relearn how to live 'civilly' amongst ourselves.
Well it is 5:30 am, haven't been to sleep yet, so going to close this for now.
Well since my last entry, we have had a new President elected, and while in some ways, it seems to be business as usual. a health reform bill has gone through the motions, but we are still sending troops and keeping a military presence in both Afghanistan and Iraq. There has been a long standing promise to reduce troop presence and occupation of Okinawa, and that is still unresolved. Poverty and homelessness remains America's number one unresolved issue. But there is still hope for finally realizing that we cannot continue spending such mega budgets on Military follies. Democracy can still be the shining beacon for peace and social justice.
Here at the home front, violence has accentuated the inner commitment to live and practice non-violence. As I have shared before, the household in Oakland is made up of formerly homeless people, and most have been chronically homeless because of either disability, substance abuse or just plain rotten luck. But as each day goes by, we are gratified by the fact that we are still here. There have been problems and it is difficult to break old habits. The most challenging is to learn how to resolve differences without resorting to violence. What people have to realize is that when you have to survive on the street, year after year, there is so much tension and stress, it is difficult to maintain 'normal' life styles. You are in permanent mode to survive and constantly have to watch your back, especially in these last few years when violent attacks have occurred more frequently than in the past. So we have to relearn how to live 'civilly' amongst ourselves.
Well it is 5:30 am, haven't been to sleep yet, so going to close this for now.
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