I don’t know why . . .

But watching a baby elephant play with a ball made me smile.

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Arkansas House Approves Guns in Church Bill

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) — Arkansas pastors may soon have to worry about more than their flocks’ spiritual battles. After a number of shootings in churches nationwide, should congregants be allowed to bring concealed weapons into their sanctuaries?

Under current Arkansas law, holders of concealed weapons permits can take their guns anywhere they want except bars and houses of worship. A bill in the state Senate would let churches decide for themselves whether weapons should be allowed.

“I believe it would disturb the sanctity and tranquility of church” said Pastor John Phillips, a bill opponent who was shot twice in the back as he finished a service 23 years ago. If a church opts out, “Do you want ushers to stop you at the door and frisk you?”

The bill’s supporters say the issue isn’t gun rights but a constitutionally protected right for churches to set their own rules. Opponents say worshippers should be allowed to pray without worrying whether the person next to them is armed.

Full AP Article

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Church Shuts Down For a Month to Save Money

Many Americans are giving up something in this dire economy. But Sharon Dawson of Southeast Portland will go without something unusual: her church.

To save money, First Unitarian Church in downtown Portland has decided to close for the month of July. The Rev. Marilyn Sewell, senior pastor, said the 142-year-old church faces a projected $185,000 deficit for the fiscal year that ends June 30.

The closure, during a traditionally quiet month in the church calendar, will save a predicted $100,000 in staff pay and help the church avoid laying off employees. Employees also will take an additional two weeks of unpaid leave. Even so, the church will have to make additional cuts, said the Rev. Thomas Disrud, Sewell’s associate.

Full Article

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