Liberals Outraged Over Draft of Religious Liberty Bill - BOB ESCHLIMAN CHARISMA NEWS

A draft executive order that President Donald Trump is reportedly considering would uphold the promises he made during the campaign to protect religious liberty for all Americans. (Reuters photo)

Liberals Outraged Over Draft of Religious Liberty Bill

2/3/2017 BOB ESCHLIMAN  CHARISMA NEWS

Prior to President Donald Trump's appearance at Thursday's National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C., the liberal media and groups hostile to Christianity revealed a "leaked" draft of an executive order that would protect religious liberty in the U.S.

The White House has not confirmed the accuracy of the reports, but according to the leaked documents, the executive order contains the following action points:

• Requires the entire federal government to respect all federal statutes and Supreme Court decisions regarding the free exercise of religion in that it does not merely protect the "freedom to worship"
• Recognizes that "religious organizations" consists of more than just places of worship and religious charities, but rather all organizations operated by religious principles
• Defines "religious exercise" as including "all aspects of religious observance and practice," not just those required by a citizen's particular faith
• Instructs all agencies of the federal government to "reasonably accommodate" the religion of federal employees
• Instructs the secretaries of health and human services, labor and treasury to grant relief to all organizations not exempted from the Obamacare abortifacient and contraception mandate
• Requires that all citizens have the ability to purchase health care plans that do not cover abortion or subsidize plans that do
• Prohibits discrimination against child welfare providers on the basis of organizations' religious beliefs
• Instructs all agencies to provide protections and exemptions to all religious organizations that contract with the federal government or receive grants
• Prohibits the revocation of nonprofit tax status to religious organizations that speak or act on the belief that marriage is the union of husband and wife, that a person's sex is based on "immutable biology," or that life begins at conception
• Prohibits recognition of the revocation or denial of accreditation to an organization because of such beliefs
• Instructs all agencies that they may not take adverse action against federal employees, contractors or grantees because of their speech about marriage outside of their employment, contract or grant, and that agencies shall reasonably accommodate such beliefs inside of employment, contract or grant

In the wake of the president's decision to let his predecessor's transgender protection order stand, this would appear to be a compromise "live and let live" order that would protect the religious liberties of those who disagree with the LGBT movement's agenda. But if you listened to what liberal groups like John Podesta's Center for American Progress had to say about it, you would get an entirely different impression.

CAP wrote the following about the draft order:

If the rumors are accurate, this executive order would legalize broad discrimination against LGBT people, women and their families by giving federal employees and any recipients of federal funds—including for-profit companies—free rein to discriminate against LGBT people and anyone who does not comply with their beliefs. And on top of that, the draft order directs every federal agency to gut protections for LGBT people—from executive orders to agency rulings and guidance.

Make no mistake: Trump's order could return America to a time when people could be denied federal rights and services any day in any place because of who they are or who they love. This would be the most extreme anti-LGBT action taken by a president in American history. While the White House remains vague about whether such an order will be announced soon, civil rights groups are staying vigilant. You should too.

On the other hand, Dr. Ryan Anderson of the Heritage Foundation wrote that the draft is "good policy and entirely lawful" and should be enacted in an article he wrote for The Daily Signal. He wrote that liberals shouldn't be concerned by the potential executive order:

Opponents to the executive order misrepresent the order by claiming it would repeal an Obama-era executive order elevating LGBT status to a protected class in federal contracts.

As bad and unnecessary as President Barack Obama's order was, this new order does not repeal it.

Rather, it protects the religious liberty rights of all Americans in very tailored ways that address problems of today.

It ensures that the government will not discriminate against beliefs that are under assault, and protects religious organizations' right to maintain their mission and identity in their staffing decisions and programming, while not losing the ability to partner with the government.

Kelly Shackelford, president and CEO of the First Liberty Institute, echoed many of those sentiments:

As a candidate, President Trump promised to support religious freedom for all Americans. Two specific pieces of legislation he said he would support are the First Amendment Defense Act and the repeal of the Johnson Amendment.

This executive order is very similar to the policy suggested in those two pieces of legislation, as well as fulfilling other promises the president made on religious freedom. By proposing this order, President Trump is simply following up on his campaign promises.

Through this order, President Trump is expressing a principle most Americans agree upon: the government should never use what people believe as a weapon to attack them or punish them.

If Americans agree on anything, it is that people have a right to disagree in freedom and without punishment. I am grateful President Trump is standing by his campaign promises to defend people of all faiths.

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Watch Live: Iowa's Senate Is About to Debate Defunding Planned Parenthood 1:15PM EST 2/2/2017 BOB ESCHLIMAN CHARISMA NEWS

(Reuters photo)

Watch Live: Iowa's Senate Is About to Debate Defunding Planned Parenthood

1:15PM EST 2/2/2017 BOB ESCHLIMAN  CHARISMA NEWS

One state's legislature is openly defying current federal laws that require them to provide Medicaid funding to abortion providers, particularly Planned Parenthood, by taking up a measure that, if signed into law, would fully defund the abortion giant.

Planned Parenthood operates 12 clinics in Iowa. But Senate File 2, which was slated to be debated Thursday afternoon, would remove it from the list of Medicaid-approved providers. The funds would instead by distributed to the dozens of community health clinics that do not perform abortions throughout the state.

Republicans have been keen to defund Planned Parenthood for several years, but Democrats controlled the Senate and prevented the measure from ever coming up for debate. Now that the GOP controls both chambers—and Gov. Terry Branstad (who is about to become ambassador to China) called on lawmakers to defund the abortion giant—the measure is likely to become law.

The measure "finds" $3 million in federal grants from other sources, which will be used to "backfill" the federal grant funds that will be lost by defunding Planned Parenthood.

Click here to watch the debate. There will be some additional pieces of intrigue to follow:

2018: With Branstad set to retire soon to take his new job in Beijing, a number of Democrats will be jockeying on this key issue to run against Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds, who succeed him.

Budget Woes: Iowa, which has a constitutional amendment that requires a balanced budget, faced a $100 budget shortfall that needed to be addressed by the General Assembly.

Schools: Iowa, which was once the U.S. leader in education, has been forced by budget cuts to reduce its support of local public schools, a measure that is on the Senate debate calendar alongside SF 2. 

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70 Evangelical Leaders Meet With Ambassador-Designate to Israel David Friedman - BOB ESCHLIMAN CHARISMA NEWS

A group of more than 70 evangelical leaders met this week with U.S. Ambassador to Israel-Designate David Friedman and offered a letter of support to President Donald Trump. (Reuters photo)

70 Evangelical Leaders Meet With Ambassador-Designate to Israel David Friedman

2/2/2017 BOB ESCHLIMAN  CHARISMA NEWS

Earlier this week, a group of more than 70 evangelical leaders met with U.S. Ambassador to Israel-Designate David Friedman in Washington, D.C., for more than an hour to discuss his nomination as well as the Trump administration's agenda regarding the bilateral relationship with the Jewish state.

The meeting was convened by Joseph Sabag, U.S. National Director for Israel Allies Foundation; Mario Bramnick, President of Hispanic Israel Leadership Coalition and Vice President of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Coalition; Bill Dallas, CEO of United in Purpose; and Jim Garlow, Senior Pastor of Skyline Wesleyan Church. The combined delegation of faith leaders represented millions of Christians from around the world through major denominations and networks.

Following the meeting, the pastors consolidated their support for Friedman's nomination and issued a joint letter to President Donald Trump.

"After meeting with Mr. Friedman in person, it is clear to us that he is a man of character, principle and faith," Bramnick said. "We believe he will apply his formidable expertise and will faithfully champion our country's interests.

"Now more than perhaps at any other time in modern history, it is vitally important, to both Christians and to our nation as a whole, that America stand firmly behind Israel, the only pluralistic and democratic nation in the region—a nation that shares our values. We are grateful to Mr. Friedman for graciously spending his time meeting with our coalition, and we are pleased to say that we enthusiastically support his nomination."

The joint letter expresses the group's willingness to support moving the U.S. Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, should the administration choose to do so.

"While Mr. Friedman is someone we have known and trusted, our meeting today only strengthened our support," Sabag said. "What we can say definitively is Mr. Friedman and President Trump represent a vast upgrade in our nation's support for Israel, and that's something all Americans should applaud and especially evangelical Christians."

The following is the letter sent to the president, applauding Friedman's nomination an offering support for moving the U.S. Embassy in Israel:

Dear President Trump:

We write today as evangelical leaders and lovers of Israel, offering the blessings and support of the many millions of Americans whom we collectively represent. We wish to applaud your nomination of David Friedman to be the United States ambassador to the state of Israel and call upon all members of the United States Senate to vote in favor of his confirmation. Furthermore, we wish to express our support should your administration decide to move our U.S. Embassy to the eternal and indivisible capital of the Jewish nation, the holy city of Jerusalem.

Our support for Israel is first and foremost rooted in the Bible, in which it is clearly established that God gave the land of Israel, with Jerusalem as its capital, to the Jewish people as an eternal covenant. Indeed, the claim and presence of Jewish people in Israel and Jerusalem has remained constant for more than 3000 years.

Additionally, it is in America's best interest to have a democratic and pluralistic ally like Israel in the Middle East, a nation that shares our values.

Of concern to Christians in particular, Israel is the only country in the Middle East where the freedom of religion is assured and protected. Given the attempted genocide of Christians and the escalating persecution of the church taking place throughout the surrounding region, our community has never seen a more critical time for standing in unwavering support of Israel. Additionally, the abundance of Christian heritage sites in Israel and its territories makes it an especially sacred place for our community, where the freedom of access and free exercise of our religion can only be guaranteed under Israeli sovereignty.

Our meeting with Mr. Friedman has made it clear that you have wisely selected a fellow man of faith, character and principle to represent our country's interests in Israel. We are certain that in his position he will act effectively to champion the vital concerns and hopes of the Christian community. More broadly, we are confident that Mr. Friedman's great talents and expertise will play a key part in carrying out the vast upgrade in support for Israel that your administration has committed to.

Despite the challenges and obstacles that may confront our support for Israel, we know that America remains blessed as "the land of the free and the home of the brave" in large part due to this support. Therefore, at this important time, we wish to affirm our community's commitment to stand with our elected government, Ambassador Friedman, and you, our new president, as you lead our own great nation in pursuit of the many blessings to be drawn from our stance with Israel, the light unto the nations. 

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A New Conservative Lion? President Trump Announces His Supreme Court Pick - BOB ESCHLIMAN CHARISMA NEWS

President Donald Trump nominated 10th Circuit Court of Appeals Judge Neil Gorsuch on Tuesday night to succeed the late Associate Justice Antonin Scalia on the Supreme Court. (Reuters photo)

A New Conservative Lion? President Trump Announces His Supreme Court Pick

1/31/2017 BOB ESCHLIMAN  CHARISMA NEWS

With Maureen Scalia, widow of the late Associate Justice Antonin Scalia seated next to Vice President Mike Pence in the East Room of the White House, President Donald Trump announced his choice to replace the high court's "conservative lion."

And, true to his word, the president nominated a man who is very much in the mold of the jurist he will replace: 10th Circuit Court of Appeals Judge Neil Gorsuch. The graduate of Columbia, Harvard, and Oxford has clerked for D.C. Court of Appeals Judge David B. Sentelle and Supreme Court Associate Justices Byron R. White and Anthony Kennedy.

"Judge Gorsuch has a superb intellect, an unparalleled legal education, and a commitment to interpreting the Constitution according to its text," Trump said. "He will make an incredible Justice as soon as the Senate confirms him."

He also served in the Department of Justice as the principal deputy to the associate attorney general and acting associate attorney general in the George W. Bush administration. The White House issued the following statement about the nomination:

Neil M. Gorsuch has served for over a decade as a federal judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit, building a nationally respected and distinguished judicial record and reputation. 

Judge Gorsuch is a brilliant jurist with an outstanding intellect and a clear, incisive writing style. He is universally respected for his integrity, fairness, and decency. And he understands the role of judges is to interpret the law, not impose their own policy preferences, priorities, or ideologies. 

Judge Gorsuch is a native Westerner and avid outdoorsman.  He spent his childhood in Colorado and chose to return West to raise his family.  He enjoys fishing, hiking, and skiing.  And he and his wife care for animals, including a horse, in the small barn at their home.  As a young man, he delivered papers and worked as a front desk clerk at a Howard Johnson to make extra money. 

Judge Gorsuch has an impressive range of professional experience. 

Judge Gorsuch was confirmed by the U.S. Senate without opposition on July 20, 2006, to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit.  Indeed, 11 current Democrat Senators—including Minority Leader Schumer, Sen. Leahy, and Sen. Feinstein—and 20 current Republican Senators were in office when Judge Gorsuch was confirmed by voice vote, without opposition.  He received a "unanimously well qualified rating" by the American Bar Association.  

Prior to serving on the court, Judge Gorsuch had extensive trial and appellate litigation experience as a practicing attorney, and then served his country the Department of Justice as the Principal Deputy Associate Attorney General in 2005.  In that position he assisted in managing major aspects of the Department's work in areas such as constitutional law, counterterrorism, environmental regulation, and civil rights. 

Judge Gorsuch worked as an associate and partner at the law firm of Kellogg, Huber, Hansen, Todd, Evans & Figel, PLLC from 1995 to 2005. 

Judge Gorsuch's academic credentials are impeccable. 

Judge Gorsuch attended Harvard Law School as a Harry Truman Scholar and graduated with honors in 1991.  He graduated with honors from Columbia University in 1988, where he was elected to Phi Beta Kappa.  After law school, he attended Oxford University as a Marshall Scholar, and he received his Doctorate in Philosophy in 2004. 

He clerked for Justice Byron White and Justice Kennedy of Supreme Court of the United States and Judge David Sentelle of the United States Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit.

Judge Gorsuch is a "judge's judge" who decides cases based on the law, not personal policy preferences.  He is not afraid to reach results contrary to his own policy views.

Echoing a common theme of Justice Scalia's jurisprudence, Judge Gorsuch once wrote that "a judge who likes every result he reaches is very likely a bad judge, reaching for results he prefers rather than those the law compels."

Evangelicals are likely to celebrate Gorsuch's nomination other reasons. As the SCOTUSBlog puts it:

Some of the most high-profile cases in which Gorsuch has cast a vote have involved the religion clauses of the Constitution (those prohibiting the establishment of religion and creating a right to free exercise), as well as congressional statutes expanding protection for religious adherents (known as RFRA and RLUIPA).  Followers of the Supreme Court will recognize two recent cases in which Gorsuch participated on the 10th Circuit, Hobby Lobby Stores v. Sebelius and Little Sisters of the Poor Home for the Aged v. Burwell. In Hobby Lobby, Gorsuch wrote a concurrence in the en banc 10th Circuit that sided with the company and its owners. He stressed the need to accept these parties' own conceptions regarding the requirements of their faith, and held (among other things) that they were likely to prevail on claims that the contraception mandate in the Affordable Care Act substantially burdened their religious exercise in violation of RFRA. This position was largely vindicated in the subsequent decision by the Supreme Court. Thereafter, in Little Sisters of the Poor, Gorsuch joined a group of 10th Circuit judges who dissented from denial of rehearing en banc when a panel of the court of appeals ruled against the Little Sisters on their RFRA claims about the same ACA mandate. There, again, the point was that the 10th Circuit had shown insufficient deference to the Little Sisters' own articulation of the tenets of their religious beliefs. That position, too, was at least partially vindicated by the Supreme Court when it decided that the Little Sisters' religious beliefs probably could be accommodated while still affording full and equal contraceptive coverage to their employees, and directed the parties and courts to consider such a solution on remand. Simply put, in cases that closely divided his court and the Supreme Court, Gorsuch has shown himself to be an ardent defender of religious liberties and pluralistic accommodations for religious adherents.

Gorsuch has also written or joined opinions – again, largely vindicated by the Supreme Court – that have criticized doctrines that limit religious expression in public spaces. In Summum v. Pleasant Grove City, in 2007, Gorsuch joined a dissent from denial of rehearing en banc in a case in which the 10th Circuit had limited the ability of the government to display a donated Ten Commandments monument in a public park without accepting all other offers of donated monuments. The subsequent Supreme Court decision reversing the 10th Circuit largely adopted the reasoning of that dissent. Gorsuch also has a pair of dissenting opinions in which he criticizes the "reasonable observer" test for establishment clause cases as far too likely to find impermissible endorsements of religion by the government when none was intended, and thus to prevent religious adherents from reasonably participating in public life. These cases are  American Atheists Inc. v. Davenport, in 2010, and Green v. Haskell County Boad. of Commissioners, in 2009. The common thread in these cases is one that matters very deeply to conservatives: a sense that the government can permit public displays of religion – and can accommodate deeply held religious views – without either violating the religion clauses of the Constitution or destroying the effectiveness of government programs that occasionally run into religious objections. In his 2009 concurrence in Pleasant Grove City, Utah v. Summum, Scalia articulated very similar views. Gorsuch's opinions on these issues are quite thoughtful, and demonstrate that he would be a natural successor to Scalia in adopting a pro-religion conception of the establishment clause.

Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel released the following statement supporting Neil Gorsuch's nomination to the Supreme Court:

Neil Gorsuch is a mainstream conservative choice who fulfills President Trump's promise to the American people to appoint a justice who represents their views. In this past presidential election, the American people gave their support to President Trump in large part because he vowed to appoint a justice in the mold of the great Justice Scalia. Neil Gorsuch's sterling track record of faithfully interpreting the Constitution, protecting individual rights, and ensuring limited government is complemented by his discerning approach to every case and a high personal integrity. Democrats who plan on obstructing President Trump's choice are only scheming to deprive the American people of their rightful voice on the nation's highest court. Americans are clearly in support of this thoughtful and qualified choice, and it's time for Democrats to honor the will of the people so the Supreme Court can once again have nine justices.

Democrats had promised to block any nominee Trump announced. Based on the DNC's official statement, it seems they intend to follow through:

Judicial scholars are worried that Gorsuch could be even more extreme than Scalia. Americans deserve a better Supreme Court justice.

Gorsuch said he was looking forward to meeting with congressional leaders from both parties. Following the nomination announcement, he said:

Mr. President, Mr. Vice President, you and your team have shown me great courtesy and you have entrusted me with the most solemn assignment. Standing here in the House of History, aware of my own imperfections.

If I'm confirmed, I will do all that my powers permit to enforce the Constitution and laws of this country.

For the last decade, I worked as a federal judge at a court that spanned six western states, serving 18 million people. The men and women I have worked with are an inspiration to me. I have watched them fearlessly tending to the rule of law, enforcing the promises of our Constitution, and living out daily the judicial oaths to administer justice equally without respect to their personal political beliefs ...

The judges that have served in this particular seat of the Supreme Court, including Antonin Scalia and Robert Jackson, are much in my mind at this point. Justice Scalia was a lion of the law. Disagree or agree with him, all of the colleagues on the bench shared his wisdom and humor. Like them, I miss him.

I began my legal career working for Byron White, the last Coloradan to serve on the Supreme Court and the only justice to lead the NFL in rushing. He was was one of the smartest and most courageous men I have known.

He gave me the chance to work for Justice Kennedy as well. He was incredibly welcoming and gracious. He taught me so much. I'm forever grateful. If you have ever met him, you would know how lucky I was to land a clerkship with him right out of school.

These judges brought me up in the law. Truly, I would not be here without them. Today is as much their day as it is mine.

In the balance of my personal life, I have had the privilege of working as a practicing lawyer and teacher. I enjoyed wonderful colleagues who support me at this moment ... I saw that when judges don our robes, it does not make us any smarter, but it is a reminder of what is expected of us: impartiality, independence, collegiality, and courage.

As this process moves to the Senate, I look forward to speaking with members from both sides of the aisle, answering the questions, and hearing their concerns. I consider the U.S. Senate the greatest deliberative body in the world and I respect the important role the Constitution affords it in the confirmation of our judges.

I respect that in our legal order, it is Congress—not the courts—that write new laws. Judges are to apply—not alter—the work of the people's representatives. A judge who likes every outcome is very likely a bad judge., stretching for results he prefers, rather than those the law demands.

I am so thankful tonight for my family, my friends, and my faith. These are the things that keep me grounded and has sustained me. To Louise, my incredible wife and companion of 20 years, my cherished daughters watching on TV, and all of my family and friends, I cannot thank you enough—your love and your prayers—I could not attempt this without you.

Mr. President, I'm honored and I'm humbled. Thank you very much.

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Prophecy: Let God's Enemies Be Shattered - BOB ESCHLIMAN CHARISMA NEWS

President Donald Trump's inauguration will cause God's enemies to be shattered, Faith Marie Baczko wrote for The Elijah List. (Reuters photo)

Prophecy: Let God's Enemies Be Shattered

1/30/2017 BOB ESCHLIMAN  CHARISMA NEWS

Faith Marie Baczko, pastor of Yahweh's House Fellowship and president of Headstone Ministries International and Schools of The Last Wine, shared a new word from the Lord about the year ahead, which she says will be a tremendous year for the U.S. that will "affect all nations and all peoples for the better."

In the prophetic writing, which she shared with readers of The Elijah List, she wrote, in part:

When I sought the Lord for His word for 2017, He gave me Psalm 68 with an emphasis on verse one: "Let God arise, let His enemies be scattered..." An unprecedented, momentous and extraordinary year has now shifted into full throttle with the inauguration of Donald Trump as the 45th President of the United States. As the anointing of the Presidency has now fallen upon him, a REPRIEVE has begun, and God is moving to restrain and push back the powers of darkness.

In this time, God will thrust a prepared people in the Body of Christ and in the secular world, into an hour of history prepared by God for a fresh Outpouring of His Life; this will come with a fresh release of divine strategies and breakthroughs in innovation, medicine, technology, industry and for clean air and energy—deception will be exposed and hidden truth revealed!

Doors will open for many Christians who have known the call on their lives and have been perplexed by the wait to see its fulfillment. Many have not understood that the coming forth of their ministries was timed for the great REPRIEVE now coming on the earth—a time set to offer the world an opportunity to recognize and receive the Living God—our King, Jesus Christ, and to gather in a great Harvest of souls as His reward. For countless souls, this will be a great opportunity, hence an urgency for an army of harvesters—laid down lovers of God—to run the race of strength set before them.

As I contemplated the words, "Let God Arise," the Lord began to highlight some points related to this Arising! I sensed both His question and His answer of, "How does God arise!"

God showed me that He can ARISE spontaneously in the earth, but more often than not He arises IN HIS PEOPLE! God highlighted the need right now for His people to be preparing themselves for His Arising! I recently had an encounter in the middle of the night through which God began to address many issues to take note of in this new season.

The first was that as He moved to take His people to higher heights, with a greater measure of the Holy Spirit, the enemy would also increase his offensive! However, He reminded me that this is the Year of Victory ordained by God and showed me that the roar of satan might be loud, as he intends to make a lot of noise and stir a lot of trouble, but that ultimately he is restrained and bound in his attempts to steal, kill and destroy!

Yes, there will be great battles, but we have been given the VICTORY to accomplish the purposes and the will of God! God says that we are to stir up our faith to believe, and stir the gifts given to us to accomplish our mandate! We are to fan into flames the passion He has deposited inside of us and begin to move out at His Command without fear!

And also:

This will be a tremendous year for the United States of America that will affect all nations and all peoples for the better, if we so choose! God is about to ARISE over the Land of America in extraordinary ways! This year on August 21st, the Great American Solar Eclipse will occur! This will be the first total eclipse in four decades and will be visible only over continental United States—it will be the first time in ninety-nine years an American Eclipse is visible from coast to coast. The Eclipse will cross 10 States beginning in Oregon and ending in North Carolina, crossing a stretch of 70 miles; the next one will be in 7 years.

In a year characterized by a multitude of sevens, God is marking this incredible year of the Trump Presidency with the Great American Eclipse, a time where HE WILL ARISE within and through this nation to do great and marvelous things for all!

That they may know from the rising of the sun to its setting that there is none besides Me. I am the LORD, and there is no other. Isaiah 45:6

So shall they fear the Name of the LORD from the west, And His glory from the rising of the sun; When the enemy comes in like a flood, The Spirit of the LORD will lift up a standard against him. Isaiah 59:19

Click here to read the entire article.

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ICYMI: President Trump's Inaugural Address Was Something Special - BOB ESCHLIMAN CHARISMA NEWS

ICYMI: President Trump's Inaugural Address Was Something Special

1/23/2017 BOB ESCHLIMAN  CHARISMA NEWS

President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence's inauguration set a record for the most prayers to God given.

But in his inaugural address, Trump didn't shy away from talking about God, the Bible, and Christian principles of self-governance. If you missed it, you can watch it in the video clip above, or read the full transcript below.

As prepared for delivery:

Chief Justice Roberts, President Carter, President Clinton, President Bush, President Obama, fellow Americans, and people of the world: thank you.

We, the citizens of America, are now joined in a great national effort to rebuild our country and to restore its promise for all of our people.

Together, we will determine the course of America and the world for years to come.

We will face challenges. We will confront hardships. But we will get the job done.

Every four years, we gather on these steps to carry out the orderly and peaceful transfer of power, and we are grateful to President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama for their gracious aid throughout this transition. They have been magnificent.

Today's ceremony, however, has very special meaning. Because today we are not merely transferring power from one Administration to another, or from one party to another – but we are transferring power from Washington, D.C. and giving it back to you, the American People.

For too long, a small group in our nation's Capital has reaped the rewards of government while the people have borne the cost.

Washington flourished – but the people did not share in its wealth.

Politicians prospered – but the jobs left, and the factories closed.

The establishment protected itself, but not the citizens of our country.

Their victories have not been your victories; their triumphs have not been your triumphs; and while they celebrated in our nation's Capital, there was little to celebrate for struggling families all across our land.

That all changes – starting right here, and right now, because this moment is your moment: it belongs to you.

It belongs to everyone gathered here today and everyone watching all across America. 

This is your day. This is your celebration.

And this, the United States of America, is your country.

What truly matters is not which party controls our government, but whether our government is controlled by the people.

January 20th 2017, will be remembered as the day the people became the rulers of this nation again. 

The forgotten men and women of our country will be forgotten no longer.

Everyone is listening to you now.

You came by the tens of millions to become part of a historic movement the likes of which the world has never seen before.

At the center of this movement is a crucial conviction: that a nation exists to serve its citizens.

Americans want great schools for their children, safe neighborhoods for their families, and good jobs for themselves.

These are the just and reasonable demands of a righteous public.

But for too many of our citizens, a different reality exists: Mothers and children trapped in poverty in our inner cities; rusted-out factories scattered like tombstones across the landscape of our nation; an education system, flush with cash, but which leaves our young and beautiful students deprived of knowledge; and the crime and gangs and drugs that have stolen too many lives and robbed our country of so much unrealized potential.

This American carnage stops right here and stops right now.

We are one nation – and their pain is our pain.  Their dreams are our dreams; and their success will be our success.  We share one heart, one home, and one glorious destiny.

The oath of office I take today is an oath of allegiance to all Americans.

For many decades, we've enriched foreign industry at the expense of American industry;

Subsidized the armies of other countries while allowing for the very sad depletion of our military;

We've defended other nation's borders while refusing to defend our own;

And spent trillions of dollars overseas while America's infrastructure has fallen into disrepair and decay.

We've made other countries rich while the wealth, strength, and confidence of our country has disappeared over the horizon.

One by one, the factories shuttered and left our shores, with not even a thought about the millions upon millions of American workers left behind.

The wealth of our middle class has been ripped from their homes and then redistributed across the entire world.

But that is the past. And now we are looking only to the future.

We assembled here today are issuing a new decree to be heard in every city, in every foreign capital, and in every hall of power.

From this day forward, a new vision will govern our land.

From this moment on, it's going to be America First.

Every decision on trade, on taxes, on immigration, on foreign affairs, will be made to benefit American workers and American families.

We must protect our borders from the ravages of other countries making our products, stealing our companies, and destroying our jobs.  Protection will lead to great prosperity and strength.

I will fight for you with every breath in my body – and I will never, ever let you down.

America will start winning again, winning like never before.

We will bring back our jobs. We will bring back our borders.  We will bring back our wealth.  And we will bring back our dreams.

We will build new roads, and highways, and bridges, and airports, and tunnels, and railways all across our wonderful nation.

We will get our people off of welfare and back to work – rebuilding our country with American hands and American labor.

We will follow two simple rules: Buy American and Hire American.

We will seek friendship and goodwill with the nations of the world – but we do so with the understanding that it is the right of all nations to put their own interests first.

We do not seek to impose our way of life on anyone, but rather to let it shine as an example for everyone to follow.

We will reinforce old alliances and form new ones – and unite the civilized world against Radical Islamic Terrorism, which we will eradicate completely from the face of the Earth.

At the bedrock of our politics will be a total allegiance to the United States of America, and through our loyalty to our country, we will rediscover our loyalty to each other.

When you open your heart to patriotism, there is no room for prejudice.

The Bible tells us, "how good and pleasant it is when God's people live together in unity."

We must speak our minds openly, debate our disagreements honestly, but always pursue solidarity.

When America is united, America is totally unstoppable.

There should be no fear – we are protected, and we will always be protected.

We will be protected by the great men and women of our military and law enforcement and, most importantly, we are protected by God.

Finally, we must think big and dream even bigger.

In America, we understand that a nation is only living as long as it is striving.

We will no longer accept politicians who are all talk and no action – constantly complaining but never doing anything about it.

The time for empty talk is over.

Now arrives the hour of action.

Do not let anyone tell you it cannot be done.  No challenge can match the heart and fight and spirit of America.

We will not fail. Our country will thrive and prosper again.

We stand at the birth of a new millennium, ready to unlock the mysteries of space, to free the Earth from the miseries of disease, and to harness the energies, industries and technologies of tomorrow.

A new national pride will stir our souls, lift our sights, and heal our divisions.

It is time to remember that old wisdom our soldiers will never forget: that whether we are black or brown or white, we all bleed the same red blood of patriots, we all enjoy the same glorious freedoms, and we all salute the same great American Flag.

And whether a child is born in the urban sprawl of Detroit or the windswept plains of Nebraska, they look up at the same night sky, they fill their heart with the same dreams, and they are infused with the breath of life by the same almighty Creator.

So to all Americans, in every city near and far, small and large, from mountain to mountain, and from ocean to ocean, hear these words:

You will never be ignored again.

Your voice, your hopes, and your dreams, will define our American destiny. And your courage and goodness and love will forever guide us along the way.

Together, We Will Make America Strong Again.

We Will Make America Wealthy Again.

We Will Make America Proud Again.

We Will Make America Safe Again.

And, Yes, Together, We Will Make America Great Again. Thank you, God Bless You, And God Bless America.

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It's Inauguration Day! Here's the Schedule of Events - BOB ESCHLIMAN CHARISMA NEWS

President George Washington took his first oath of office on April 30, 1789, at Federal Hall in New York City. (Public Domain Image)

It's Inauguration Day! Here's the Schedule of Events

1/20/2017 BOB ESCHLIMAN  CHARISMA NEWS

Today is Inauguration Day, when President-elect Donald Trump and Vice President-elect Mike Pence will each take their respective oaths of office.

Over the past 228 years—and 57 previous inaugurations—a number of traditions have developed as part of our nation's process of peacefully transferring power from one administration to the next. Here's the schedule of events for Friday, as well as some of the history surrounding them.

All times are Eastern Standard Time.

10 a.m.: Morning Worship Service — This tradition actually began with President George Washington, who attended a church service after he was sworn in. President Franklin Roosevelt made it a permanent part of the inauguration by attending a service at St. John's Episcopal Church, located across the street from the White House, the morning of the inauguration.

11 a.m.: The Procession — With the exception of Thomas Jefferson and Andrew Jackson, who both walked to the Capitol for their inaugurations, ever president has ridden in a carrier or automobile to the location of their swearing-in ceremony. Since 1837, when Martin Van Buren rode with Jackson to his inauguration, the outgoing and incoming presidents have taken this journey, now known simply as "the procession," together.

11:30 a.m. The Inauguration — There will be some speeches made prior to Pence and Trump taking their respective oaths of office (the vice president goes first, followed by the president, and they have different oaths to take), which begin as close to 12 p.m. as the organizers can get it. Originally, the vice president took his oath in the Senate Chamber, then led the Senate to the inaugural ceremony for the president. Today, they are done together. Prior to 1981, the ceremony was held on the East Front of the Capitol; now it's done on the West Front, facing the National Mall.

12 p.m.: Trump's Inaugural Speech — There isn't any tradition as to the length or subject matter of the presidents' inaugural speeches, and as a result they have varied widely over the years. Washington's second address, clocking in at just 135 words, is the shortest. President William Harrison's speech, the longest by far at 8,445 words, has been considered a contributing factor to his death from pneumonia one month after taking office.

12:30 p.m.: Obamas Depart the White House — The 1889 Handbook of Official and Social Etiquette and Public Ceremonies at Washington describes the outgoing president's retirement as follows: "His departure from the Capital is attended with no ceremony, other than the presence of the members of his late Cabinet and a few officials and personal friends.  The President leaves the Capital as soon as practicable after the inauguration of his successor." Sometimes, this is easier said than done.

1 p.m.: Inaugural Luncheon — The National Statuary Hall in the Capitol will once again host the reception at which the president, vice president, and members of Congress will have a three course meal. This tradition dates as far back as 1897, when the Senate Committee on Arrangements gave a luncheon for President William McKinley and several other guests at the Capitol, but it did not begin in its current form until Dwight Eisenhower's inauguration in 1953.

3 p.m.: Inaugural Parade — Trump and Pence will make their way down Pennsylvania Avenue to the White House, leading a procession of ceremonial military regiments, citizens' groups, marching bands and floats in a tradition that dates all the way back to 1789. The President, Vice President, their spouses and special guests will then review the parade as it passes in front of the Presidential Reviewing Stand.

The weather forecast for Friday, as of this writing, calls for rain, but little wind, and temperatures in the upper-40s. Gates for the spectator areas open at 6 a.m., and music will begin being played at 9 a.m.

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Evangelical Faith Leaders Plan to Hold a 'Special Inaugural Prayer Event' - BOB ESCHLIMAN CHARISMA NEWS

A number of evangelical faith leaders are going to gather in Washington, D.C., Thursday to pray for the new administration. (Reuters photo)

Evangelical Faith Leaders Plan to Hold a 'Special Inaugural Prayer Event'

1/19/2017 BOB ESCHLIMAN  CHARISMA NEWS

Also on Thursday afternoon, evangelical faith leaders from around the country are going to gather in Washington, D.C., for a special prayer event.

Dr. Jim Garlow and Pastor Dan Cummins of Skyline Church in San Diego, Calif., and The Jefferson Gathering—a weekly worship service held for members of Congress and Capitol Hill staffers, are leading the event with support from Tony Perkins of Family Research Council and David Barton of Wallbuilders. Additionally, Mike Evans of Friends of Zion Heritage Center in Jerusalem will also take part.

The event will begin at noon EST at Greater New Hope Baptist Church, located about a mile and a half from the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. It will be a time of worship and prayer to thank God for what He has done.

A description of the event states:

This "Special Inaugural Prayer Event" will focus on prayers for the nation, Administration, the Cabinet, Congress and Appointees, racial unity and for millennials. Masters of ceremonies for the event will be Jim Garlow and Audrea Taylor. Those participating include Congressman Trent Franks, Congressman Jody Hice and leaders including Bishop Melvin Brown, Dan Cummins, James and Shirley Dobson, Bishop Harry Jackson, James Robison, Samuel Rodriquez, Alveda King, David Barton, Robert Morris, Judy Wade, Michele Bachmann, Jentezen Franklin, Charles Huang, Ralph Reed, Ronnie Floyd, Robert Jeffress, Tony Perkins, Jonathan Cahn and others. Worship for the event will be lead by Josh Garlow.

Stephen Amerson, who frequently sings at Jefferson Gathering services, will perform during the pre-inauguration prayer service.

Following the prayer service, beginning at approximately 1 p.m. EST, participants will have an opportunity to hear from Israeli members of the Knesset and U.S. members of Congress. They will be discussing the U.S.-Israeli relationship, and there will be a Genesis 12:3 call to "bless Israel." 

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