In a disappointing (but perhaps unsurprising) move at the very end of regular session, majorities from both parties voted to advance the concept of casino gambling in Virginia. Positioned as an economic driver, the bill narrowly defines which cities can potentially open casinos based on a convoluted set of criteria. Specifics include date-specific population loss, real estate taxation ratios, proximity to a state (Tennessee) that passed a “Border Region Retail Tourism Development District,”...

This General Assembly session, we saw the war on children stripped bare. The hidden effort to brainwash, violate, or outright kill our youth has revealed itself at times, but this year marks a new low. In addition to Governor Northam’s and Delegate Kathy Tran’s statements publicly endorsing infanticide, another dangerous front opened to sacrifice Virginia’s children. Legislators’ repeated attempts to ban counseling that helps minors deal with unwanted same-sex attraction...

In a stunning display of cold-heartedness, Virginia Delegate Kathy Tran (D-Fairfax County) testified in favor of infanticide and later tried to backtrack, claiming the legislation she sponsored wouldn’t actually legalize infanticide; but here’s where she’s wrong. In addition to making late-term abortions “easier” to access (requiring only one physician’s directive to kill an unborn baby in the third trimester vs. the three-physician-agreement currently on the books),...

Please join us in congratulating the House of Delegates’ newest incoming member. Current member of the Rockbridge Board of Supervisors and former state trooper Ronnie Campbell won the 24th District special election to replace Congressman-Elect Ben Cline. All of us with the Virginia Assembly of Independent Baptists look forward to working with Delegate-Elect Campbell. May the Lord bless our shared efforts to promote religious freedom and other important issues during the General Assembly’s...

We’ve all read about officials having to resign in disgrace for telling a lie. The negative consequences of lying have been documented since the Garden of Eden, when the Serpent deceived Eve. But the West Point School Board unanimously agreed to fire Peter Vlaming, high school French teacher, for NOT lying to (and about) one of his gender-confused students. (The town of West Point, Virginia is thirty miles east of Richmond and forty miles north of Jamestown). Much has been written and reported...

Words Matter As we fight for religious liberty and other policies that honor God’s Word, we face a culture swamped with untruths. Some are simple misconceptions rooted in a lack of understanding. Others reflect bad actors intentionally, repeatedly distorting the truth to get people to accept a lie. As Christians, we’ve been warned about this kind of distortion. The first sin recorded in the Bible was the serpent questioning God’s command to Adam not to eat “of the tree of the...

This summer, the Virginia Board of Health announced it would revisit regulations for licensure of abortion facilities “that perform five or more first trimester abortions per month.” The Board of Health will “amend the regulation after assessment and receipt of public comment.” In a brazen move, the Board of Health offered no specific changes for Virginians to respond to. The goal of Governor Northam’s pro-abortion administration is clear: to claw back common-sense health...

Push for Casinos Intensifies in Virginia By Eddy Aliff, Executive Director, Virginia Assembly of Independent Baptists October 24, 2018 Since September, I have been contacted by several pastors in Bristol, Virginia, who are concerned about a casino being built there. An article in the Bristol Herald Courier dated September 6 details how two local businessmen want to turn a vacant retail center into a casino, touting the increase in jobs and revenue to the area. This part of the state truly has...

Who will represent YOUR values in Washington? Use this link to see where the candidates stand on the issues YOU care about. Please share this voter guide with others who cherish our First Amendment right to exercise religion freely. The VAIB does not endorse candidates. We DO advocate for religious liberty. This voter guide will help you understand how others have (and likely will) treat your constitutional rights. Take action today to make sure like-minded friends, family, and others in your circle...

Drafted in 1777, the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom is the second of three accomplishments Jefferson chose for his epitaph. He wrote his precedent-setting document in Fredericksburg, Virginia, where today an 80-year-old semi-retired pastor and his wife face eviction for studying the Word of God with their friends. Residents at The Evergreens asked Pastor Hauge to start the Bible study. Originally scheduled in the commons (which also can be reserved for gambling, parties, weddings, showers,...

A judge in Texas has put a stop to a law that would require aborted babies to be buried or cremated instead of being discarded as medical waste.  The judge's ruling was based upon the fact that it places an extra burden on a women's right to abortion.  Read more here: https://christiannews.net/2018/09/11/judge-strikes-down-texas-law-requiring-burial-cremation-of-aborted-babies-as-burden-on-right-to-abortion/

Pastor Ken Hague is facing possible eviction after a resident complained to the senior living management company about holding Bible studies in his home.  Pastor Hague is fighting the eviction under the protection of the Fair Housing Act as well as his First Amendment rights.  Read more here: https://www.toddstarnes.com/faith/pastor-faces-eviction-for-hosting-home-bible-study/

The Texas Supreme court has upheld the rights of cheerleaders to paint Bible verses on run-through banners for a Texas-based high school team, upholding the ruling that the banners cannot be categorized as public speech.  Read more here: https://www.onenewsnow.com/legal-courts/2018/09/11/faithful-cheerleaders-win-major-court-battle

Read this eye-opening article about the danger of sending our children to public schools, where they are increasingly being taught anti-Biblical principles. https://stream.org/get-your-kids-out-of-government-schools-right-now-today/

Read the article below summarizing the increase in religious persecution on Christians in China.  VAIB continues to pray for our persecuted brothers and sisters in Christ in America as well as other countries. https://www.frc.org/get.cfm?i=WA18I12&f=WU18I04

High school students in Louisiana were ordered to spray paint over an advertisement for a Christian-based gym after a complaint that the ad was an "improper endorsement of religion".  The ad was fully paid for under a contract but was still removed, despite a temporary ruling by a judge to halt the removal.  Read more here: https://www.toddstarnes.com/campus/students-ordered-to-spray-paint-over-the-name-of-christ-on-football-field/

The article below provides an update on the campaign activity of Senator Tim Kaine (D), who is running for re-election.  The article also provides insight into the campaign activity of Democratic candidates across the state of Virginia who are working to regain seats in the House.  Read more below and stay tuned to VAIB for the latest in election news: https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/virginia-politics/kaine-far-ahead-in-his-senate-race-tries-to-expand-the-map-in-virginia-for-other-democrats/2018/09/08/a861a608-ac83-11e8-8a0c-70b618c98d3c_story.html?utm_term=.a135b46f272c...

The following is an op-ed on the need for Christians to vote in the November (and all other) elections. While the writer mentions a candidate for the Fourth District Congressional District, VAIB does not endorse this candidate or any candidate. It is your responsibility to be informed on the candidates and vote, a point on which VAIB is in agreement. Read more here. https://www.westernjournal.com/opinion-americas-churches-must-act-preserve-liberty/

VAIB is rejoicing after learning that the controversial AB 2943 in California has been pulled at the last minute due to such a strong response from Christians.  The bill would have made it illegal for counselors, pastors or any other religious leader to conduct Biblical counseling for someone struggling with sexuality.  We are grateful for the Christians across the nation who have responded to oppose this bill, and also for the response of the sponsor of the bill who took into account the...

The 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has ruled that the use of "IN GOD WE TRUST" on U.S. currency is constitutional.  The ruling comes as a result of a lawsuit filed by atheist groups claiming that the statement was a violation of their First Amendment rights.  Read more here: http://cpcfoundation.com/in-god-we-trust-motto-on-currency-deemed-constitutional-by-court-after-atheists-complain/

A U.S. Appeals Court in Alabama recently ruled in favor of allowing dismemberment abortions after the state tried to enforce a 2016 law criminalizing the procedure.  Read the article here: https://christiannews.net/2018/08/26/u-s-appeals-court-finds-alabama-dismemberment-abortion-ban-unconstitutional/

Read this encouraging article about a church in Monroe, NC that fought a discriminatory zoning law prohibiting it from renting a building for its worship services. https://adflegal.org/detailspages/blog-details/allianceedge/2018/08/23/here-s-what-happened-when-this-north-carolina-church-stood-up-to-discrimination

Home schooled families in New Mexico are fighting back after the state attempted to comply with statements that are not supported by state law.  The Homeschool Legal Defense Association has become involved in an effort to invoke help from state legislators regarding this matter.  Read more here: https://www.onenewsnow.com/education/2018/08/24/homeschooling-families-push-back-over-11-statements

The first debate between Congressman Scott Taylor (R-Virginia Beach) and Elaine Luria (D) has been scheduled for October 30th.  Read below for further details on the upcoming debate: https://www.wavy.com/news/politics/first-debate-between-rep-taylor-and-democratic-opponent-scheduled/1372663332

Three U.S. Senate candidates running for a Virginia seat all participated in Labor Day festivities in Buena Vista VA.  Read the following article for a summary of their standing on political issues here: https://www.richmond.com/news/virginia/government-politics/tim-kaine-corey-stewart-other-candidates-put-politics-on-parade/article_691fde2d-bc9e-5824-9b1e-a18189c85dd6.html

Freedom From Religion has petitioned the Sidney Ohio sheriff's office asking them to remove patches from their uniforms that read "For God And Country", stating that the patches promote religion.  The Sheriff's office has yet to respond to the petition.  Read more here: https://christiannews.net/2018/08/11/freedom-from-religion-foundation-wants-sheriffs-office-to-remove-for-god-and-country-patches/

Churches across the nation are expressing great concern over California's Assembly Bill 2943, which would outlaw clergy members from speaking against homosexuality or transgender issues.  This is a critical issue and is being watched closely by VAIB.  Read more here:  http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2018/08/22/todd-starnes-california-dems-prepare-for-crackdown-on-churches.html

Democratic Senator Tim Kaine is wasting no time running TV ads to defend his economic record after attacks from Republican Corey Stewart.  Read more here and stay tuned to VAIB for the latest election news. https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/dc-politics/va-sen-kaines-first-tv-ads-focus-on-economic-record-amid-attacks-from-republican-stewart/2018/08/03/401ba066-9749-11e8-8ffb-5de6d5e49ada_story.html?utm_term=.04ea0680456e

Read this disturbing article outlining several cases of violation of parental rights across the U.S.   https://parentalrights.org/every-three-days/  

"Drag Queen Story Hour", a program targeted from pre-school to eight year olds, is now being endorsed by the American Library Association.  The program consists of a man dressed in women's clothing who reads LGBTQ books to children at public libraries.  The program is now being welcomed in some public school system settings.  Read more here: https://www.onenewsnow.com/education/2018/08/17/ala-endorses-reading-sessions-hosted-by-drag-queens

A college in Manhattan, New York is offering a course entitled "Queer Ecologies" with a goal of teaching that heterosexuality is not necessarily the "norm".  Read more here: https://www.onenewsnow.com/education/2018/08/16/queer-ecologies-course-offered-at-ny-college

In June of this year, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of Colorado baker Jack Phillips, verifying that the state of Colorado had been hostile towards his freedom of religion.  However, even after the ruling, the state has once again filed a complaint against Phillips for not creating a cake in celebration of a transgender surgery.  Read more here: https://adflegal.org/enough-is-enough

The Military Religious Freedom Foundation is a radical organization that scours military bases looking for public displays of the Christian faith.  Upon learning about a website called "prayatlunch.us", the organization viciously attacked Admiral Col John Teichert, the owner of the website which encourages Christians to pray at lunchtime for our leaders.  The organization went as far as to state that Teichert should spend time in prison for his beliefs.  Read more here: http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2018/08/14/todd-starnes-air-force-general-is-attacked-by-extremist-group-because-prays-for-others.html...

Republican Congressman Dave Brat has represented the 7th District for the past four years, however, he is being challenged by Abigail Spanberger, a Democrat, who is looking to unseat him in what appears to be a very tight race.  Stay tuned to VAIB for further election updates.  Read more about this race here: http://www.nbc12.com/story/38894035/could-virginias-7th-district-turn-blue-hotly-contested-race-a-toss-up

Following a directive from President Trump, the Department of Labor’s Office of Federal Contractor Compliance Programs (OFCCP) has mandated that contractors who refuse to provide service to LGBT customers due to their religious beliefs cannot be punished.  Read more here: https://www.onenewsnow.com/church/2018/08/14/trump-shields-religious-contractors-from-lgbt-suits

A billboard containing the image of a preacher holding the Bible to advertise a Christian event has been removed after receiving complaints and a threat.  The majority of the issue revolved around the fact that the sign was "too religious", even though the event it is advertising is a religious event.  Read more here: https://christiannews.net/2018/08/09/real-estate-company-removes-billboard-containing-bible-preaching-imagery-following-complaints-threat/

At a recent religious liberty summit, Attorney General Jeff Sessions spoke out against the Southern Poverty Law Center, an organization that is supposed to target radical hate groups.  The liberal center is now targeting any group it opposes, namely conservative groups who stand for religious liberty and free speech.  Read more here: https://www.dailysignal.com/2018/08/08/sessions-calls-out-southern-poverty-law-center-for-using-hate-group-label-to-bully-conservatives/

Governor McMaster of South Carolina has directed the Department of Health and Human Services to cancel Medicaid enrollment for any facility that provides abortions, stating that such facilities are “unqualified to provide family planning services”.  As a result, Planned Parenthood is suing the state.  Read more here:  https://christiannews.net/2018/08/01/planned-parenthood-sues-south-carolina-for-ending-medicaid-funding-to-abortion-facilities/

Read this helpful article summarizing the importance of Christian voters potential impact on mid-term elections by researching candidates' positions and praying before placing their vote.  Read more here: https://www.onenewsnow.com/church/2018/08/03/voting-with-knowledge-and-godly-wisdom

This insightful article addresses many examples of how our religious freedoms are being eroded worldwide.  Read the article here: https://www.dailysignal.com/2018/08/06/how-religious-freedom-erodes-one-step-at-a-time/

The Human Rights Campaign has released a new guide entitled "Coming Home to Evangelism and to Self", encouraging LGBTQ church members to embrace the homosexual lifestyle by allowing open practice of it as a church member.  As the article states,  "The Bible only affirms heterosexuality, which means the LGBT lobby is trying to convert Christians to desert Scripture".  Read more here: https://www.onenewsnow.com/church/2018/07/17/gay-identity-christianity-incompatible

Planned Parenthood in New York City has removed an offensive, profanity-laden video from its YouTube channel, designed to promote the idea that a person should be able to have sex with whomever they want, hoping to increase donations to the organization.  Read more here: https://christiannews.net/2018/07/24/planned-parenthood-nyc-takes-down-profanity-laden-video-seeking-to-protect-right-freedom-to-fornicate/

A new sex ed law in Indiana requires that parents sign two written consent request forms before any sex ed course can be taught to a student.  VAIB hopes to see similar laws passed in Virginia. Click the link below to read more. https://www.onenewsnow.com/education/2018/07/30/indiana-involving-parents-in-their-kids-education

Read this article for an update on parental rights, as addressed during the recent  U.S. State Department’s “Ministerial to Advance Religious Freedom” event.  The event was attended by such Christian-based organizations as Alliance Defending Freedom and the James Dobson Family Institute.  Click below to read the article: http://adflegal.org/detailspages/press-release-details/adf-international-addresses-parental-rights-during-state-department-religious-freedom-event...

Del. Greg Habeeb, R-Salem, will be resigning effective August 31, 2018.  A special election will be held to elect a new delegate, ushering in an opportunity for Democrats to potentially upset the 51-49 Republican majority in the Virginia House. Read more here: https://www.richmond.com/news/virginia/government-politics/general-assembly/republican-to-resign-from-virginia-house-of-delegates-raising-chance/article_3f5226ed-4bc3-552a-8270-0231ec74a079.html

U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions recently spoke to the Turning Point USA High School Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C., warning the attendees of the increasingly hostile environment on college campuses against conservative students.  Read more here: https://www.dailysignal.com/2018/07/24/a-threat-to-our-freedom-jeff-sessions-warns-of-hostile-environment-on-college-campuses/

Read the following article about CitiBus, a government run transportation system in Indiana which has denied a pro-life organization who wished to pay for advertising on its city buses.   https://adflegal.org/detailspages/blog-details/allianceedge/2018/07/23/see-the-ad-with-baby-pictures-that-government-officials-rejected-as-too-political

"By The Hand Club For Kids" is a ministry of Moody Church in Chicago which provides Bible studies, chapel services, free food, clothing, and medical care to underprivileged children. The state of Illinois recently attempted to collect unemployment compensation taxes from the club, which is clearly a religious organization. However, a judge ruled in favor of the ministry's tax exempt status.  Read more here: https://www.onenewsnow.com/legal-courts/2018/07/24/judge-rules-in-favor-of-moody-after-school-program...

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed a measure that blocks the IRS from taking away a church's tax-exempt status if they are involved politically.  The measure is an attempt to block the Johnson Amendment, which prohibits religious groups from getting involved politically. Read more here: http://thehill.com/policy/finance/domestic-taxes/397996-house-passes-measure-blocking-irs-from-revoking-churches-taxhttp://thehill.com/policy/finance/domestic-taxes/397996-house-passes-measure-blocking-irs-from-revoking-churches-tax...

Virginia Attorney General Mark Herring as filed a motion to dismiss a federal lawsuit challenging Virginia's common sense pro-life laws.  The current Virginia law states that abortions should be conducted by a physician in a medical environment.  VAIB is grateful for the Attorney General's common sense decision to dismiss the federal lawsuit challenging the existing law. Click below to read more: https://mailchi.mp/a24932b3b7b6/statement-of-house-majority-leader-todd-gilbert-on-attorney-general-mark-herrings-defense-of-virginias-pro-life-laws?e=1eccb56c7b...

This engaging article chronicles the spiritual journey of a former national LGBT activist who came to Christ.  What an encouraging testimony to read about someone whose life has been transformed by the saving power of Jesus Christ!  Read more here: https://answersingenesis.org/family/homosexuality/journey-from-homosexual-lifestyle-to-christ/?utm_source=articlesmedia&utm_medium=email&utm_content=2-banner-cta&utm_campaign=20180714&mc_cid=2f552f83f6&mc_eid=788bcda7ae

The Franklin County School Board in Virginia has initiated a new policy requiring that homeschool families provide a birth certificate and proof of residence before being approved for homeschool.  However, this policy is in violation of state law, as Virginia does not require these documents.  As the Home School Legal Defense Association lawyer points out, such policies open the door for the state to require even more information about homeschool families in the future.  Read more here:...

In several states, religious-based adoption agencies have been forced to close or have lost contracts  due to their belief that children should be placed in a home with a mother and father.  A new amendment has been introduced that would provide protection for such religious-based adoption providers.  Read more here: https://www.dailysignal.com/2018/07/11/amendment-to-protect-religious-freedom-of-adoption-providers-attached-to-appropriations-bill-in-house/

During a recent speech announcing free contraception under all insurance plans of New York, the governor attacked conservative Christian leaders, describing them as those who “have their views about what religion is right and wrong, what lifestyle is right and wrong, what sexuality is right and wrong,” and impose on the people by law “their view of what God says should be done.”  How sad that many of our government leaders no longer uphold the Biblical principles...

Andrew Brunson, an American pastor from North Carolina, was arrested in 2016 in Turkey, unfairly charged with terrorism and espionage.  However, the charges have not been proven, and Turkey continues to detain Andrew Brunson.  As a result, President Trump has threatened sanctions against Turkey until the pastor is released.  VAIB continues to pray for Pastor Brunson's safety and soon release. Read more here: https://world.wng.org/content/brunson_ordeal_prompts_us_sanctions_on_turkey...

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is at it again, this time with attempts to remove prayer from school graduations, a clear violation of the First Amendment rights of students who were responsible for planning the graduation.  The school is not caving in however,  stating that " that graduation ceremonies were and would continue to be planned by students, and therefore the involvement of prayer was legal."  Read more here: https://www.dailysignal.com/2018/07/09/freedom-from-religion-foundation-tries-to-bully-school-into-removing-prayer-from-graduation/...

The Governor of New Jersey has signed a bill allowing birth and death certificates to reflect gender identity instead of a person's biological sex.  This could likely pave the way for other states to do the same.  Read more here: https://christiannews.net/2018/07/06/new-jersey-governor-signs-bill-allowing-birth-death-certificates-to-reflect-gender-identity-instead-of-birth-sex/

Read the article below by Alliance For Defending Freedom, an institution committed to defending the First Amendment Rights of Christians across the U.S.  The article below discusses the steps that are being taken to protect free speech across college campuses.  Click the link below to read more: https://adflegal.org/detailspages/blog-details/allianceedge/2018/07/06/how-adf-is-protecting-free-speech-at-these-4-universities

Geneva College in Pennsylvania scored a big victory when a U.S. Federal District Court overturned the Obama administrations mandate requiring all all employers to offer abortion pills, regardless of religious convictions. "Religious organizations have the freedom to operate peacefully according to their beliefs without the threat of punishment by the government," says Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) senior counsel Gregory S. Baylor." Read more here:   https://www.onenewsnow.com/legal-courts/2018/07/09/christian-college-gets-long-delayed-legal-justice...

The Freedom From Religion Foundation has attempted to take aggressive action against a Pastor in Arkansas who was invited by the school district to share a Bible devotional at a football camp, stating that the devotional us an "unconstitutional endorsement of religion".  Read more here: https://www.toddstarnes.com/faith/out-of-town-agitators-furious-over-preachers-message-to-students/

A recent homosexual parade in New York City featured a float with the words "Thank God For Abortion", in an attempt to " push back against the Christian beliefs that stand against both homosexuality and abortion".  VAIB is saddened at such a hostile display directed towards people who hold to biblical values.  Read more below:  https://christiannews.net/2018/07/04/thank-god-for-abortion-float-appears-in-new-york-city-homosexual-pride-parade/

Coach Joe Kennedy, a high school football coach is now appealing to the U.S. Supreme court, hoping to protect his First Amendment rights to pray at publicly held events.  Coach Kennedy was fired in 2016 for praying at the 50 yard line on the football field.  Read more here: https://christiannews.net/2018/06/27/high-school-football-coach-who-lost-job-for-praying-on-field-petitions-u-s-supreme-court-to-hear-appeal/

Justice Kennedy has announced his retirement from the U.S. Supreme Court.  Trump has several potential candidates in mind, as discussed in the article below.  As the article points out, Trump's choice "has the potential to remake the court for a generation as part of precedent-shattering decisions on abortion, health care, gay marriage and other issues."  Read more here:  https://www.onenewsnow.com/ap/politics/trump-closes-in-on-supreme-court-pick-3-judges-top-list

The U.S. Supreme court has ruled against the California FACT Act, concluding that Pro-life centers cannot be forced to advertise abortion services, as it violates the free speech of the workers. Read more here:  https://world.wng.org/2018/06/free_speech_wins

The U.S. Supreme court released two decisions regarding prayer - one decision supporting private prayer and one condemning public prayer by county officials. The right to pray anywhere should not be censored.  As the article states, “As has been true throughout history, Americans don’t give up that First Amendment freedom when they become public servants.”  Read more here: https://world.wng.org/content/supreme_court_issues_orders_in_two_prayer_cases

The article below outlines the recent "Gay Pride" parade that took place in Washington D.C.  VAIB is saddened by the hostility to people who hold to biblical values by those who support LGBT lifestyles.  Read more here: (Note: The article below contains offensive content) https://www.dailysignal.com/2018/06/11/i-went-to-dcs-gay-pride-parade-here-are-9-things-i-saw/?utm_source=TDS_Email&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Top5&mkt_tok=eyJpIjoiWkdVM05qRmhaVFl4TURBdyIsInQiOiJUMGd4dU1vSnFNNFFTbElcLzYzV01xN1pNZFNjOUdpZWdmSmRnV0FxdkRpVW1rVExMY3E5UUdCN0NtNmU5TDZ1NUNRSkl6UVwvNWdNcmVCNVUyUStQNUh2SEwzM0J0dWdURkVJRE9Ucm82VWVrRHFDMGFEcFRaM1ZLZ2tGS3R2dk8yIn0%3D...

VAIB previously posted a story about Baronelle Stutzman, a Christian florist in the state of Washington who refused service to  to a long-time customer who wanted flowers for his same-sex wedding.  The U.S. Supreme Court has decided to decline hear the case, ordering the state of Washington to re-consider the case to determine if Baronelle's rights were violated by he state of Washington (as was the case of the recent U.S. Supreme court ruling on behalf of the Christian baker, Jack Phillips). ...

In several states, faith-based adoption agencies are being forced to close due to their beliefs that children should be placed in a home with a mother and father.  The political correctness in discriminating against those who hold "traditional beliefs" is compromising the overall safety and well-being of children.  Read more here: https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2018/jun/20/faith-based-adoptions-hampered-liberal-officials/

While this has not occurred in Virginia (yet), some public libraries in the US are promoting gender fluidity by allowing  drag performers to read books. Theses books typically promote their agenda. Some states have named June as LGBT Month, so be aware of this if you send your children to the library, even in states where it is not officially recognized. Read more here. https://world.wng.org/content/once_upon_a_man_in_a_dress

Abortion rights groups have banned together to bring a federal lawsuit against the state of Virginia in an attempt to challenge existing regulations that "create unjust restrictions on access to abortion."  The plaintiff's definition of "unjust restrictions" includes requirements that second trimester abortions be performed in hospitals, a mandatory ultrasound before abortion, and ensuring that abortions are performed by licensed doctors.  http://www.richmond.com/news/virginia/government-politics/abortion-rights-advocates-file-federal-lawsuit-challenging-virginia-restrictions/article_3cacaf12-16a6-5436-a065-1bdf201cdc48.html?utm_source=RTD%20Email&utm_medium=_Breaking%20News&utm_campaign=_Breaking%20News...

A federal judge in Georgia has dismissed charges against Georgia Gwinnett College who is being sued by a former student who at the time was forced to stop sharing the gospel in a "free speech zone".  The judge dismissed the charges against the school because the student had graduated by the time the court hearing took place.  VAIB does not support the judge's rationale in dismissing the case, as it appears that the student's First Amendment Rights were violated.  Read more here:...

The First Baptist Church of Dallas has been denied its request to purchase billboard space because its "America Is A Christian Nation" message is "offensive and bigoted" according to the Mayor and other news organizations in Dallas. As the Pastor of the church states "“It should greatly concern people of any faith when those in the press or government proactively seek to defeat, censor or silence any religious message with which they disagree."  Read more here: https://www.dailysignal.com/2018/06/21/dallas-mayor-fights-church-over-billboard-stating-america-is-a-christian-nation/...

The InterVarsity Christian Fellowship chapter of Wayne University in Detroit, Michigan has been accused of discriminating against non-Christians for requiring that the leader of their group be a professing Christian.  Other non-Christian organizations at the University are allowed to choose their own leaders without restriction, indicating that the InterVarsity group is being ostracized for it's Christian beliefs.  Read more here: https://www.onenewsnow.com/education/2018/06/12/university-cant-pick-christian-to-lead-christian-group...

The Republican leadership of the House of Delegates issued a statement opposing the lawsuit brought by Planned Parenthood challenging some abortion clinic regulations which have been in place for decades. You can read the full statement here: https://mailchi.mp/9f2d6ed6fc0a/statement-of-house-leadership-on-pro-abortion-lawsuit-challenging-virginias-commonsense-pro-life-laws?e=1eccb56c7b

Two words which often pop up in today’s news are inclusion and diversity. These are key words used by certain groups to gain acceptance and approval. These seem to be good words to use. Should we exclude people? Isn’t it better that there be acceptance of different types of people in every circle of life? This is neither true nor practical. Is “just anyone” able to play professional sports or can “everyone” attend Harvard? These are rhetorical questions because...

The Chief Knowledge Officer of CrossFit, a fitness training company, has been fired after labeling pride as a "sin", regarding a LGBTQ "Pride Month" workout session that was canceled in Indianapolis, Indiana.  VAIB stands by the First Amendment rights of employees to freely express their convictions in such cases.  Read more here: https://www.dailysignal.com/2018/06/07/crossfit-spokesman-says-lgbt-pride-is-a-sin-subsequently-fired/?utm_source=TDS_Email&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=CapitolBell&mkt_tok=eyJpIjoiTmpReVkyVmxNV1JoTW1NMyIsInQiOiJRZkxyOWE5cHV1XC9ROXFcL2VwNDJPaE5YQ3Y4U3BBc0N2TTlJNlZlK1BORXdYVURDc1wvVE1WTjVXOExQRnNGU1FteVwvK2RcL2NLSWhMdFo1SUY4emdiRDhacGc3UUlLbHV3aytZS2ZjNVpYa1hOYVdjUXd6UWU5eGVud0g3VXYyRFptIn0%3D...

A new law in Louisiana now mandates that women seeking abortion be presented with another option: adoption.  VAIB stands for policies such as this which encourage the protection of the unborn.  Read more here: https://www.onenewsnow.com/pro-life/2018/06/14/adoption-law-helps-babies-find-families

Read this inspiring article about  Jaelene Hinkle, a Christian professional soccer player who refused to wear a jersey supporting LGBTQ.  VAIB is grateful for athletes who stand by the Word of God no matter the cost.  Read the article here: https://www.frc.org/get.cfm?i=WA18F09&f=WU18F04

The Gloucester County school board is seeking an appeal in an effort to preserve its bathroom policy currently in place which states that a student must use the restroom of their biological sex.  The appeal is necessary because a federal judge ruled that a transgender student can challenge the existing policy.  VAIB supports the rights of students' privacy in being able to use the restroom according to their biological sex as assigned by God.  Read more here: http://click.heritage.org/GaH0Th30NzAIM0se0310Wrx...

The school board of Fairfax County, Virginia has voted to change their sex ed curriculum to include "the replacement of “biological sex” with “sex assigned at birth” and the teaching of an HIV drug".  The vote passed 10-0, despite disapproval from 90% of respondents to a survey asking for input.  VAIB is disturbed by the decision of the school board, as it goes against God's clear creation of male and female.  Read more here: https://www.dailysignal.com/2018/06/18/virginia-school-board-ignores-parents-concerns-changes-sex-ed-program/...

The Governor of Hawaii has signed a bill which bans any organization from offering counseling to those under 18 who are seeking help due to confusion about their sexual orientation.  VAIB supports the rights of all individuals to seek Christian counselling for such issues.  Read more here: https://christiannews.net/2018/05/27/hawaii-governor-signs-bill-banning-help-for-homosexual-youth-claims-sexual-orientation-is-not-an-illness/

Nathan Larsen,  running for congress in Virginia's 10th Congressional District, wants to make it legal for adults to have sex with children.  VAIB disagrees with any candidate who would support what the Bible calls a sexual perversion.  Read the details in the article below: https://christiannews.net/2018/06/05/convicted-felon-and-admitted-pedophile-running-for-congress-wants-to-legalize-incest/

The Larsens are Christian film makers in the state of Minnesota, who have a vision of making movies that support the traditional role of marriage.  However, the state of Minnesota has passed a law mandating that such films also embrace same-sex marriage.  The couple is presently filing a lawsuit against the state law.  VAIB continues to stand with Christian business owners in cases such as this where their First Amendment rights are being violated.  Read the article here: https://www.adflegal.org/larsens-story?sourcecode=061L0002&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=ad&utm_campaign=830-29545&utm_content=larsens_link...

The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals in Cincinnati, OH has ruled against an atheist who has repeatedly attempted to remove "In God We Trust" from American currency.  The court  ruled that the "complainants in the case have ample alternatives to cash if the motto bothers them that much."  VAIB supports the oath placed upon our currency by our Founding Fathers.  Read more here: https://christiannews.net/2018/06/04/appeals-court-rejects-atheists-attempt-to-remove-in-god-we-trust-from-american-currency/...

The U.S. Supreme court ruled in favor of Jack Phillips, the Christian baker who was being sued because he refused to make a cake for a homosexual couple's wedding.  VAIB is pleased to know that in this case, the First Amendment rights of Jack Phillips has been upheld.  Read the articles below for the details:   https://www.dailysignal.com/2018/06/04/in-cake-case-7-supreme-court-judges-uphold-free-exercise-of-religion/   https://www.adflegal.org/detailspages/blog-details/allianceedge/2018/06/04/victory-win-for-cake-artist-jack-phillips-at-the-supreme-court...

The upcoming Boy Scouts World Jamboree to be held in West Virginia will be offering free condoms to all attendees, according to the article below.  VAIB stands against any policy that encourages sexual promiscuity.  Read more here: https://www.onenewsnow.com/culture/2018/05/23/a-new-world-for-scouts-indeed

Read this important article featuring Alexis Lightcap, a high-school student in PA who is speaking up for the privacy rights of all students.  VAIB continues to support policies that protect the rights to privacy for individuals, especially in areas such as school bathrooms and locker rooms.  Read more here: https://adflegal.org/detailspages/blog-details/allianceedge/2018/05/24/watch-why-this-high-school-girl-is-publicly-speaking-up-for-student-privacy

Congressman Thomas Garrett has announced that he will not be running for a second term.  VAIB is praying for Garrett’s healing from this addiction. Read more here: http://www.richmond.com/news/local/government-politics/rep-tom-garrett-says-he-is-an-alcoholic-and-will/article_c2b2b2f6-a743-57c6-8c93-38ba0693c18a.html?utm_source=RTD%20Email&utm_medium=_Breaking%20News&utm_campaign=_Breaking%20News

California's AB2943 bill,designed to punish any effort to change someone's sexual orientation, has the attention of former homosexuals who are speaking out against the bill. Such individuals view the bill as a  "blatant violation of my first amendment rights". VAIB is keeping a close eye on bills such as this one in California, designed to completely strip away the First Amendment rights of individuals and churches who wish to help others with a Biblical solution to their homosexuality....

If you were taught history regarding the founding of America’s colonies, you may recall that Rhode Island was founded by Roger Williams. As a Baptist, he instituted in the laws of the colony that …”all men may walk as their consciences persuade them, every one in the name of his God. And let the lambs of the Most High walk in this colony without molestation in the name of Jehovah their God forever.” This quote and other material is from This Day in Baptist History (1993),...

The Governor of Louisiana, John Bel Edwards (D), is expected to sign into legislation a pro-life bill banning abortion after 15 weeks.  VAIB is encouraged by legislation such as this which takes steps in protecting the unborn child.  Read more here: https://www.onenewsnow.com/pro-life/2018/05/21/pro-lifers-applaud-lawmakers-dem-governor

With the Virginia Primary elections ahead next week, it appears as if conservative GOP candidates have done well in other states.  Read the article below for further information: https://www.onenewsnow.com/politics-govt/2018/05/23/conservatives-win-big-in-tx-ga-ky-ar-primaries

University of Michigan has instituted a policy designed to "suppress and punish speech other students deem ‘demeaning,’ ‘bothersome,’ or ‘hurtful’."  In opposition to the suppression of free speech, a lawsuit has been filed against the university in an attempt to reverse the policy.  VAIB continues to support those who fight for the right to free speech as guaranteed by the First Amendment.  Read more here: https://www.heritage.org/education/commentary/its-now-1984-the-university-michigan...

Legislation has been reintroduced in an attempt to prevent discrimination against faith-based adoption providers who refuse to place children in same-sex couples' homes.  Under the Child Welfare Provider Inclusion Act "the federal government and states receiving certain federal child welfare funds would be prohibited from discriminating against a child welfare provider simply because the provider declines to provide a service that conflicts with their religious or moral convictions." ...

As Christians, we should be aware that the world-system does not agree with biblical values. Therefore, it should not shock us when those who promote nondiscrimination protections for LGBT call us “wicked.” I have personally had the same accusations thrown at me when I speak on behalf of VAIB to oppose such bills in Virginia. And because of elections, Virginia is seeing more money backing organizations like Equality Virginia which are pushing for LGBT nondiscrimination legislation. That...

This article by Alliance Defending Freedom addresses the stripping away of our freedoms as the next step in the process should the bill pass.  AB 2943 attempts to "outlaw anyone in the state from selling any goods or services to adults to help them address unwanted same-sex attractions or questions over gender identity."  VAIB is opposed to any bill that strips away the rights of any individual or organization as guaranteed by our Constitution. Read more here: https://adflegal.org/detailspages/blog-details/allianceedge/2018/05/07/california-s-next-step-in-the-sexual-revolution-silencing-certain-beliefs...

Read this article highlighting the latest news regarding parental rights, including Alfie Evans, who was recently pulled from life support despite his parents' wishes to remain on life support. VAIB supports the rights of parents to direct the lives of their children in all areas, including health, education, and religion.  Read the article here: https://parentalrights.org/april18-news/

Read this insightful article which addresses the general lack of wisdom among leaders and those in our society today.  VAIB recognizes God's Word as the only source of true wisdom, and supports leaders that align themselves with Biblical principles. Read the article here:  https://www.dailysignal.com/2018/05/08/the-war-on-wisdom/

Nearly 200 U.S. Congressmen have petitioned the Department of Health and Human Services in an attempt to disqualify Planned Parenthood from funding.  The specific request is that "Title X programs may not promote, counsel, or refer clients for abortion or co-locate or combine family planning services with abortion activities".  VAIB supports the de-funding of any organization which promotes abortion.  Read more here: https://christiannews.net/2018/05/08/nearly-200-congressmen-ask-hhs-to-amend-title-x-regulations-to-disqualify-planned-parenthood-for-funding/...

As Christians, we should be aware that the world-system does not agree with biblical values. Therefore, it should not shock us when those who promote nondiscrimination protections for LGBT call us “wicked.” I have personally had the same accusations thrown at me when I speak on behalf of VAIB to oppose such bills in Virginia. And because of elections, Virginia is seeing more money backing organizations like Equality Virginia which are pushing for LGBT nondiscrimination legislation. That...