Congo Warlord Update

Please pray this trial goes more smoothly, that witnesses do not panic for fear of facing prosecution in Congo (quote from article: The start was also delayed while it was explained to the young witness that he might face prosecution in Congo if he incriminated himself.), that justice is served for those who are victims of Thomas Lubanga.

Chaos reigns at International Criminal Court Trial of Thomas Lubanga

I will continue to follow this story as much as possible.

Proverbs 31:8-9

Backyard Abolitionist Tour

FROM NOT FOR SALE:

BACKYARD ABOLITIONIST TOUR

with

David Batstone

and

Brant Christopher

will be at the NorthCreek Presbyterian Church in Mill Creek, WA

Sunday, March 8

1:30 - 3PM

For more information: Backyard Abolitionist Tour

Proverbs 31:8-9

A Case to Watch

This was in the headlines this morning. I will try to keep track of the trial and what happens through the year. As I read the article, I see they expect it to be a while before the trial ends.

World court told Congo warlord used children to kill

Proverbs 31:8-9

Coalition Meeting

A reminder: Monday, January 26, 2009 will be the next Western Washington Coalition to Combat Human Trafficking Meeting. We will begin praying at 6:30 PM and the meeting will open at 7PM. We'll be at Mill Creek Foursquare.

Also, don't forget - Jane Talfel, the U.S. Executive Director for Hagar International will be joining us.

I hope you can come!

Proverbs 31:8-9

Focus on the Family Interview with Linda Smith

An amazing interview with Shared Hope International's Founder Linda Smith. She was on Focus on the Family recently and you can click the link below to listen to the interview.

Focus on the Family Interview with Linda Smith

*PLEASE DO NOT LISTEN WITH CHILDREN WITHIN HEARING DISTANCE*

You will probably be shocked to hear some of the things Linda has to say. As Linda answers several of their questions, one of the interviewers, Dr. Julianna Slattery, states "The natural inclination is to turn away from this. Even talking about it now, it's too evil to take a look at."

Human trafficking is evil in about its ugliest form, I believe. It preys on the weakest and poorest of us and it has grown to the point where it it isn't limited to the poor and weak. Our middle-America, middle-class children are being picked up at the mall, off the street as they walk to school - from places you wouldn't think about - and are being trafficked all across our country. People NEED to make themselves aware. Arm themselves with information. Linda Smith offers suggestions on what people can do about trafficking.

I hope you can take the time to listen. It's about a half hour and for this one you may want to have tissues handy, too.

Proverbs 31:8-9

Human Trafficking - Movie

This upcoming Sunday, January 18th, beginning at 7PM, ion television will be broadcasting "Human Trafficking" with Donald Sutherland and Mira Sorvino.

I saw this movie when it originally aired in 2005. When I saw the trailer for it on ion last night, I went looking for a brief description on the movie and this was the best I found (from the Frontline For Justice/Northshore Baptist Church recommended human trafficking books/dvd list):

"Human Trafficking" (NR) - A Lifetime miniseries (fiction), with Donald Suthlerland and Mira Sorvino. It is the story of a criminal sex-trade ring led by a Russian gangster, and the lives of the women and girls who are being exploited. It is difficult to watch, but will give you a feel for the people who are involved in this form of slavery. Not recommended for children.

It's a movie worth watching if you have the time. Again, ion television (for us that's channel 3, I don't know if that's the case for everyone) beginning at 7PM, this Sunday.

Proverbs 31:8-9

Guest Speaker

In at least one earlier post, I listed our next Coalition meeting on January 19th.

That is the wrong date. Please forgive my mistake - I'm a bit excited to get back to the business of the Coalition! It has been difficult between the snow and the holidays and I feel like a part of me has been missing.



We will be meeting on January 26th, beginning at 7PM (6:30 for prayer, if you would like to join us) until 9PM at Mill Creek Foursquare Church.



In addition to getting back into the routine of meeting, I am excited about this upcoming Coalition meeting because we are having a guest speaker:



Jane Talfel is the U.S. Executive Director for Hagar International. Hagar International is an amazing NGO committed to the recovery and empowerment of women and children who are victims of abuse, particularly domestic violence, human trafficking and sexual exploitation. This mission is achieved through Hagar commercial enterprises and social programs and in strategic partnerships with the private sector, governments and NGO’s. Hagar support entities operate in Australia, Singapore, Switzerland, and the United States. Hagar is currently expanding its programs into Afghanistan, India, Laos, and Vietnam.

Proverbs 31:8-9