"This Is About Whether We Value One Another": New Hate Crimes Law Increases Protections for Disabled Persons, Permits Federal Intervention

"This Is About Whether We Value One Another":
New Hate Crimes Law Increases Protections
for Disabled Persons,
Permits Federal Intervention

... And It's Relationship to Southwest Baptist University
and the Missouri Baptist Convention,
who Claim Ownership of the University
~*~

From Disability Scoop:

President Barack Obama signed an expanded hate crimes bill into law Wednesday making it a federal offense to commit a crime against a person based on their disability.

Under the new law, hate crimes protections hearkening back to 1968 will be widened to include crimes committed based on a person’s gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability. Already federal law includes protections for crimes committed based on race, color, religion or national origin.

The new law also gives federal authorities more leeway to investigate and prosecute suspected hate crimes. Altogether the bill marks the largest expansion of civil rights protections in decades. (see Article here.)

From President Obama's speech at the signing:

You [all who toiled for years to reach this day] understood that we must stand against crimes that are meant not only to break bones, but to break spirits -- not only to inflict harm, but to instill fear.

You understand that the rights afforded every citizen under our Constitution mean nothing if we do not protect those rights -- both from unjust laws and violent acts. And you understand how necessary this law continues to be. ...

And that's why, through this law, we will strengthen the protections against crimes based on the color of your skin, the faith in your heart, or the place of your birth.

We will finally add federal protections against crimes based on gender, disability, gender identity, or sexual orientation.

And prosecutors will have new tools to work with states in order to prosecute to the fullest those who would perpetrate such crimes.

Because no one in America should ever be afraid to walk down the street holding the hands of the person they love. No one in America should be forced to look over their shoulder because of who they are or because they live with a disability.

At root, this isn't just about our laws; this is about who we are as a people. This is about whether we value one another -- whether we embrace our differences, rather than allowing them to become a source of animus. ...

But we sense where such cruelty begins: the moment we fail to see in another our common humanity -- the very moment when we fail to recognize in a person the same fears and hopes, the same passions and imperfections, the same dreams that we all share. ... (see Transcript here.)


The Hate Crimes legislation applies to "violent acts" (assaults or acts that cause physical injury) "motivated by actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability of a victim."

An individual may be held criminally liable who "aids, abets, counsels, commands or induces or procures in the commission of a federal crime" -- which sounds uncomfortably like Southwest Baptist University's TO-DO LIST in dealing with Marie's disability, which resulted from the pesticide poisonings on their campus.

SBU's SOUL SAVAGING: Will Legal Complexities Require the Resignation of Southwest Baptist University Officials & Trustees -- En Masse?

SBU's SOUL SAVAGING:
Will Legal Complexities Require the Resignation of
Southwest Baptist University Officials
and Trustees -- En Masse?

~*~
UPDATED BELOW
on Wednesday, October 14, 2009 about 3:00 pm
and Friday, October 16, 2009 about 8:00 am and 11:00 am
and Sunday, October 18, 2009 about 11:00 am and 4:40 pm
~*~

Over the long Columbus Day weekend, several colleagues raised legal issues regarding the accreditation complaint against Southwest Baptist University and the conduct of SBU officials.

Without the dismissal of a considerable number of Southwest Baptist University officials and Trustees en masse, the legal complexities of undertaking a joint resolution seem insurmountable.

So many SBU officials and others are culpable that to require such resignations would result in mayhem -- thoroughly rupturing the thin veneer of civility that cloaks the Missouri Baptist Convention and Southwest Baptist University communities.

The delay of the last few weeks is an endeavor to avert that needless abuse and savaging of souls -- with Marie likely one of the first casualties.

There has been progress and we will be posting the details on SHORTLY.

*UPDATES - NEXT POSTS*

~*~

SHORTLY

AMAZING LOVE or ASTONISHING HATRED: Marie's Letter to Southwest Baptist Trustee, WAYNE GOTT and Missouri Baptist Convention Executive Board member, JODY SHELENHAMER, who is a Bolivar businessman and deacon at First Baptist Church Bolivar (see here) -- and running for president of the Missouri Baptist Convention (see here)

AND
SHORTLY

Of Wheat and Tares and Sheep and Goats: The Coming Harvest at Southwest Baptist University and the Missouri Baptist Convention

~*~

AND

SHORTLY

Final Exam: Christian Ethics and Moral Vision 101 Final Examination for the Southwest Baptist University Trustees and the Missouri Baptist Convention Executive Board ... to be Graded by the Students of Southwest Baptist University

Baal-Loving Baptists, Canaanite Christianity: Why Restorative Justice is Incompatible with Southwest Baptist University & Mo. Baptist Social Ethics

Baal-Loving Baptists, Canaanite Christianity:
Why Restorative Justice is Incompatible with
Southwest Baptist University and
Missouri Baptist Convention
Social, Political, and Cultural Ethics

The question Marie has been asked is: Why does she now feel that First Baptist Church of Bolivar, Southwest Baptist University, and the Missouri Baptist Convention are incapable of participating in the Restorative Justice Process?

The short answer: Because the ethical and social systems in general (and of repentance and forgiveness, specifically) of these organizations (and many, though certainly not all, of the individual members) more closely resemble the social, political, and cultural ethics of the Canaanites and those early Israelites, who -- in defiance of the warnings of the prophets -- continued to worship within the phallocentric fertility/sex and war cult of the Ba'als.

Marie cited the the story of the clan of Benjamin, which is recorded in a troubling, tragic and perhaps even sordid passage in JUDGES 19:1- 21:25.

Here are the links for this passage in: the New International Version, the King James Version, and the New Living Translation. (Over a dozen other English translations are also available at this excellent site by selecting the alternative translation from the menu.)

Marie makes extensive use of this passage when outlining THE CHOICE for the past and present pastors of First Baptist Church of Bolivar (see here).

As the scripture records: "In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as he saw fit." The individuals at First Baptist Church of Bolivar, Southwest Baptist University, and the Missouri Baptist Convention (who are associated with this conflict) act in much the same manner.

Their religion is entirely egocentric: It is about them -- always and in all ways. The Restorative Justice Process requires too much reflection, contemplation and empathy, too much time, patience, maturity, and tolerance.

When thwarted or frustrated, these individuals become abusive. Not one of their leaders disciplines them or regulates their conduct. In fact, the governance provides support and encouragement for their outrages.

If given the opportunity, they can and will brutalize, destroy family and friends, thieve, pillage, rape, and plunder, and eventually murder anyone who defies them.

People who get in their way get hurt.

After much prayer, Marie believes the best that she can do is offer a resolution that is brief and simple, endeavoring to stay as far away from them as possible during the process ... and hastening, when it is resolved, to run as far away as she can safely manage.

THE CHOICE LETTER is to be posted SHORTLY, to be followed by the introductory complaint to Southwest Baptist University's accreditation agency.

Canaanite Christianity, Baal-Loving Baptists: Why Restorative Justice is Incompatible with Southwest Baptist University & Missouri Baptist Convention

Canaanite Christianity and Baal-Loving Baptists:
Why Restorative Justice is Incompatible
with Southwest Baptist University
and
Missouri Baptist Convention Ethics


This was posted MONDAY, October 5, 2009 about 2:30 pm
(see here).

Additional posts to follow shortly.

A DECISION, PREACHER'S CHOICE: Missouri Baptist Convention Investigative Committee or THE JUBILEE COMMISSION

A DECISION, PREACHERS' CHOICE:
Missouri Baptist Convention Investigative Committee
or THE JUBILEE COMMISSION

____________________________

UPDATE: 11:20 am SUNDAY: Yes, we are aware that Dr. Ray Leinginger is on a mission trip in Russia today. Dr. Leininger's physical presence in Bolivar is not necessary in order to make the choice, nor for the commencement of either the MBC Investigative Committee or THE JUBILEE COMMISSION.

____________________________

Marie will leave the decision to the preachers of First Baptist Church of Bolivar, Missouri.

Rev. Billy Russell, Dr. Rodney Reeves, Dr. Ray Leininger, and Dr. Harlan Spurgeon will be asked to make a choice -- a choice which will require immediate action, personal investment and sacrifice on their parts.

THE CHOICE: a Missouri Baptist Convention Investigative Committee or THE JUBILEE COMMISSION, which will it be?

Marie will outline both choices in a letter to be posted between SUNDAY, October 25, 2009 and WEDNESDAY, October 28, 2009 (see here), to be followed shortly by the introductory complaint to Southwest Baptist University's accreditation agency.

Satanic Miracles: Twenty-One Years of "Christian" Hatred, Apathy and Deceit at Southwest Baptist University

Satanic Miracles:
Twenty-One Years of "Christian" Hatred, Apathy and Deceit
at Southwest Baptist University

We pause to mark this moment on September 26, 2009.

As of noon today, this is the 21st (yes, twenty-first) year since Marie O'Hara was poisoned with illegally-applied organophospate pesticides (and their solvents), while attending Dr. Roslyn Snellen's Anatomy and Physiology class at Southwest Baptist University in Bolivar, Missouri.

In all of those years no church or Christian organization has ever stepped forward to assist Marie -- in spite of numerous requests to over one hundred churches and organizations.

In fact, many local churches and church organizations -- to this day -- strenuously (and illegally) resist any effort aimed at obtaining asssistance for her.

For details on this, scroll (far) down to see:
Documents and Previous Website (1994 - 2008) Archives on this website.

Satan must be proud of those who minister his truth and serve his spirit.

We will be launching a new site shortly.

Update2 - Barbaric Christianity & the Theology of Destruction: Prelude to Accreditation Complaint against Southwest Baptist University

Barbaric Christianity and the Theology of Destruction:
Prelude to the Accreditation Complaint
against Southwest Baptist University

OK, preparations are complete, and we are ready to move on ...

The new website will be opening on Saturday, September 26, 2009.

POSTING SATURDAY: Letter to Rev. Billy Russell, Dr. Rodney Reeves and Dr. Ray Leininger (all pastors of First Baptist Church of Bolivar).

and ALSO

Letter to MBC Executive Director Dr. David Tolliver, Dr. John Marshall (MBC Vice President and Pastor of Second Baptist Church of Springfield) and Roger Moran

NEXT POSTING: Barbaric Christianity and the Theology of Destruction: Prelude to the Accreditation Complaint against Southwest Baptist University

(Changing conditions required amendment and additions to Saturday's scheduled post.)

Inciting Christian Terrorism: How Southwest Baptist University and the Missouri Baptist Convention Turned Law-Abiding Church-Goers into Criminals

Inciting Christian Terrorism:
How Southwest Baptist University and
the Missouri Baptist Convention Turned
Law-Abiding Church-Goers into Criminals

But ... some are asking ... "How could all this happen?"

How could kind and caring, church-going Christians at Southwest Baptist University, in Bolivar and within the Missouri Baptist Convention be converted into little more than merciless terrorists, willing to inflict suffering and harm -- and even commit crimes -- against a student and dozens of other innocents, who were swept (against their wills) into this nasty intrigue?

It wasn't an accident: These individuals were skillfully and deceptively "created," manipulated by the Southwest Baptist University governance and legal team.

They were psychologically, emotionally and spiritually engineered for the specific purpose of becoming a "civilian shield," which was used to conceal the illegal conduct of Southwest Baptist University officials.

How was this accomplished?: By implementing the same psychological methods employed by others intent on inciting terrorism ... and terrorists.

In discussion the formation of terroristic ideologies in individuals (such as the 911 terrorists), author Thomas G. Plante in his textbook CONTEMPORARY CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY defines "five dangerous ideas" that create, in otherwise harmless people, the mind-set necessary for the formation of terroristic ideation.

As Thomas Plante explains (this quotation is enumerated and reformatted for Internet presentation):

For example, Eidelson and Eidelson (2003) have examined research that propels groups toward conflict and violence that have many useful implications for understanding and hopefully preventing terrorism.

They have highlighted five “dangerous ideas [that include] superiority, injustice, vulnerability, distrust, and helplessness” (p. 182) that act as risk factors for conflict and violence.

1. Superiority

Superiority refers to the belief and conviction that a person or group is better than everyone else in a variety of important ways. For example, someone might believe that they (or their group) are the only ones who have a clear understanding of God’s will and plan. This belief has certainly caused wars, terrorism, mass killings, and so forth for thousands of year. This perspective is rather narcissistic in that someone or a group believes that they have some special information, entitlement, or gifts that others do not have or can’t have access to obtain.

2. Injustice

Injustice and victimization refer to the belief that the person or group has been badly mistreated by specific others or the world in general. Although injustice and victimization have been common human experiences since the dawn of time, this perspective can lead (and has) to retaliatory acts and rage against others.

3. Vulnerability

Vulnerability refers to the notion that a person or group is highly likely to experience danger or further victimization and that hypervigilance and preemptive acts are needed to reduce the risk of further harm.

4. Distrust

Distrust refers to the belief that very few people can be trusted and that only the inner circle of true believers can be considered appropriate and trustworthy group members. This point of view leads to paranoia and potential misunderstandings attributing benign others as hostile and malevolent.

5. Helplessness

Finally, helplessness refers to feelings of powerlessness and dependency that often becomes overly pessimistic and negative. This perspective can lead to extreme measures to help feel more in control and more powerful.

These five dangerous beliefs can be applied to the actions of many conflicts between nations and peoples as well as to the terrorism experienced in America on September 11, 2001, and elsewhere.

CONTEMPORARY CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY (2nd edition) by Thomas G. Plante and published by John Wiley and Sons (2004), pages 13 -14.

Early on, Marie recognized that more than a few individuals were literally bullied, deceived or tricked (in varying degrees) into participation in these schemes. Therefore, she sought to resolve the matter privately and internally, showing wisdom and mercy.

Still, the culprits hide and will not come out to bear responsibility for what they have done. As a result of this immaturity and cowardice, many others -- believers and non-believers -- will suffer.

What more can be done? Justice demands accountability.

MURDER AS SACRAMENT: How to Molest and Kill a Southwest Baptist University Student with the Aid of the Missouri Baptist & Southern Baptist Conventions

MURDER AS SACRAMENT:
How to Molest and Kill a
Southwest Baptist University Student
with the Aid of the Missouri Baptist
and Southern Baptist Conventions

WE NEED TO CALL IT WHAT IT IS.

This was and remains molestation, fraud, forgery, obstruction of justice, vile slander, conspiracy ... and attempted murder -- accomplished with the participation of some score of the Southwest Baptist University administration, faculty, staff and supporters, the pastoral staff, deacons and some members of the First Baptist Church of Bolivar, as well as the full authorization of the leadership of the Missouri Baptist Convention, which was strongly influenced by the Southern Baptist Convention.

There is no way to "Christian candy coat" what has happened (and is happening) here.

A university that would allow such prolonged injustice and violence against a student doesn't deserve to be a university, never mind claim to be a Christian institution of higher learning.

Whatever mechanisms of governance and "leadership" allowed such outrages need to change ... and NOW.

The RECONSTRUCTIVE JUSTICE PROJECT, while seeking to obtain some small justice for Marie O'Hara, will seek ultimately to change the obscene arrogance and breath-taking apathy and lack of compassion, which pervades Southwest Baptist University and -- to an extent -- the entire Missouri Baptist and Southern Baptist Conventions.

A PRESS RELEASE will accompany the opening of The RECONSTRUCTIVE JUSTICE PROJECT and the campaign, both will appear shortly, linked to this site.

Preliminary media contacts have already begun.

Crimes of the Heart and Returning to the Scene: Dr. Mark Brister, Former Pastor of FBC-Bolivar, Will Speak at FBC-Bolivar 150 Anniversary Today

Crimes of the Heart and
Returning to the Scene of the Crime:
Dr. Mark Brister,
Former Pastor of First Baptist Church of Bolivar,
Will Speak at FBC-Bolivar 150 Anniversary Today

Want to see something amusing today?

Go to the First Baptist Church of Bolivar's 150th Anniversary this afternoon and ask the former pastor, Dr. Mark Brister (wiki), about the known molesters, adulterers and child abusers, which he had the pleasure of shepherding while pastor at FBC-Bolivar and while working with Southwest Baptist University.

He will, no doubt, answer you (in his most self-important clerical tones) that these are private matters of "pastoral privilege and confidentiality" -- even if you remind him that several of these names now grace the buildings of certain "Christian institutions" in the area.

However, ask the same question about a women, virtually any unmarried woman, and you will be astounded by the transformation, as a torrent of sneering innuendos, informed by nothing more than his own gynophobia and sexual fantasies, come spewing from him.

Better yet: Question him about the sacredness of friendships (especially, as in the Celtic tradition, anamcharas or "friends of the soul").

He will explain to you (probably with Bible references) that friendship with members of the same sex constitute "unhealthy and unnatural obsession."

He will clarify that business relationships are "necessary" for men (we assume this includes such "businesses" as church fellowhips, watching football and fishing).

However, he will distinguish the "especially dangerous" nature of a women's friendships, which "diminish" a woman by detracting from the only relationship of concern to a "normal" women -- her ability to please her husband and serve her children.

He will expound that it is "unnatural" for a woman to sorrow over lost friendships -- even if the woman had just lost the companionship and fellowship of over a dozen good friends and classmates (as well as that of her parents, sisters and former church mates), due to the brutal slanders of administrators at Southwest Baptist University, as was the case for Marie, then 21, when she asked him this question.

At least, this is what he told Marie then ... which he promptly followed by the advice that Marie's unhappiness was due -- not to the grief over the lose of her relationship with friends, family and classmates resulting from these slanderous abuses -- but because Marie's unwillingness to "submit" herself to "male authority," as she was the "weaker vessel" and needed "the lordship, control and guidance of a husband."

He added that, in order to regain God's approval and blessing, she must marry as soon as possible, since additional eduction in graduate school was "not necessary" for a woman to complete her obligations to God and her family.

Inquiry of Dr. Mark Brister about the procedure for dealing with misconduct by "male authorities" in Christian churches and institutions (such as SBU) and he will explain that unethical, immoral or criminal acts committed by "Christian organizations" must be concealed "for the sake of the public good."

He will add, in a hushed threat, that anyone who seeks to disclose such misconduct by SBU officials is "sowing discord among the brethren," acting against God and the Holy Spirit and is, most likely, under"demonic control."

Therefore, that person must be stopped "in any way possible, even if the methods used are unethical, immoral or illegal.

For the "good of Christ," he will explain. Yes, "for the Cross" that person must be stopped.

At least, that is what Marie was told when she questioned him on the misconduct of Southwest Baptist University officials -- virtually all of whom where members (in positions of leadership at First Baptist Church of Bolivar (see previous article and additional information).

Even today, the strategy has not changed: Alienate. Humiliate. Isolate ... Steal. Kill and Destroy. For Christ. For the Cross. For the Kingdom.

That's the way it is done.

Ask Mark Brister, today.

He is speaking at First Baptist Church of Bolivar this afternoon at 1:00 pm on the "white house" grounds.

And ask Missouri Baptist Convention Executive Director (and former Southwest Baptist University Trustee), Dr. David Tolliver, who will also be there today.

Give a holler as well to former First Baptist Church of Bolivar member, former Southwest Baptist University President ... and SBU Trustee when Marie was poisoned, Congressman Roy Blunt.

Spiritual Rape as Worship: Dirty Little Men, Dirty Little Lies, and Phallocentric Religion at Southwest Baptist University

Spiritual Rape as Worship:
Dirty Little Men, Dirty Little Lies and
Phallocentric (definition) Religion
at Southwest Baptist University

The negotiations have failed.

There will be no Restorative Justice Process.

This morning, Marie writes:

I woke this morning from a dream, a memory of my freshman year: a Southwest Baptist University administrator coming up behind me and thrusting himself (apparently fully erect) against me, wrapping his arms around me, and whispering in a husky, mocking voice, "Just loving you with the love of Jesus."

Along with several other students, I had just given a report to an SBU administrator of this man's earlier (and repeated) advances. In my naivety, I was certain -- even confident -- that whatever "misunderstanding" there had been, this would now stop.

Though I didn't know it then, there would be no action taken against him. Instead the action would be taken against me.

Several days later, this "loving" administrator demanded that I be reassigned as his work-study "secretary,"

When I refused, I was forced to resign my work-study position, due to "insubordination."

However, as I was now out of his reach, the first administrator recruited a second administrator (and others) to assist in the molestation, all the while assuring my parents that they were "helping" me with my "shyness and inability to show normal affection."

I was, in his words to me, "so obviously sexually troubled and unable to show proper submission to a man."

This first administrator eventually left SBU, following allegations of incest.

The second administrator, however, took an entirely different tactic: he insisted on sitting on his desk with his legs spread in full erection, while savaging through an explicit listing of sexual sins that I, according to his "sources," had supposedly committed that week.

As I sat weeping and trembling (which he claimed was an admission of my "shame and guilt"), he shoved his crotch within inches from my face.

My declarations of innocence delighted him, as he explained with scriptural citations and exaggerated patience that, due to their inferior, fallen natures, all woman are whores and that woman -- especially intelligent woman -- must be constantly watched by "righteous" men.

He then began demanding (on several occasions) that I provide sexual information on my classmates, particularly those who had been molested as children, threatening expulsion if I refused. When I did refuse, he was red-faced with fury, although he could find no legitimate excuse to expel me.

During my sophomore year, however, he sought such an excuse, as my heartbroken parents were told that -- due to my "promiscuity" -- I would require testing for venereal disease (and to prove my virginity) before I could return to the university following the Christmas break.

Humiliated and stunned, I submitted to the testing, though, because of my virginity, the full procedure could not be completed.

When my parents reported the test results to him, the administrator began to circulate (as a representative of the university) a series of the vicious slanders to my friends, faculty, family and employers that I was "unworthy to teach or work in the ministry," because he had information that I had been a prostitute -- who specialized in oral sex.

Later, his story evolved. He claimed that I had an abortion and/or had borne a child through this prostitution and that I had participated in a drunken, barroom brawl and knifed a man in Springfield. As time progressed, his wicked contrivances became even more bizarre.

When several individuals started questioning his motives, accordingly to another student, the administrator told several athletes that if they could caught me alone, I could be raped with no fear of civil consequences ( it would be deemed "consensual sex"). This was in order to instruct me in "how to cooperate" and "to properly submit to men."

Since then, I have been little more than a hunted animal.

Even years later, I am constantly hounded by variations of these malicious slanders and their consequences.

Though this administrator was eventually dismissed for adultery, he was guilty of far more.

The details descend from there ... and, unfortunately, the situation has not improved to this day.

In order to cover the unsavory behavior of the "Southwest Baptist University family," the administrators of Southwest Baptist University has found new methods and means of spiritual rape -- each more immoral and unethical than the last, many of them potentially criminal.

The conspiracy to commit a felony is a felony -- except among Missouri Baptist Convention church members, in which case this is referred to as "fellowship."

This Restorative Justice Process has failed.

In large part, it failed because many of those harmed by these circumstances cannot bring themselves to "fellowship" with these individuals.

Because there has been no repentance, the evil is irredeemable.

There can be no restoration or reconciliation.

It is time now for RECONSTRUCTIVE JUSTICE.

The old corruption must be torn down and swept away to make way for rebuilding the new, to build a foundation for those who are willing to worship "in Spirit and in Truth."

Today, we begin RECONSTRUCTIVE JUSTICE.

The complaint to the Southwest Baptist University's accreditation agency will be posted later today, Friday, September 11.

Read related details at: RECONSTRUCTIVE JUSTICE: Missouri Baptist Convention and Southwest Baptist University Questions of the Heart.

Additional information to follow in new blog: RECONSTRUCTIVE JUSTICE to be opened on Sunday, September 13.

STANDBY UPDATE: Information on PRESS RELEASE -- Negotiations Continue; Decision by Friday NOON

Thursday, September 10, about 8:00 pm evening

Negotiations continue. Final decision by Friday, September 11, about NOON.



Thursday, September 10, about 8:00 am morning

STANDBY: Information on PRESS RELEASE (see here) to be posted shortly -- probably tonight, perhaps as late as Thursday night, September 10.

PRESS RELEASE - WED. SEPT. 9: Full Investigation of Southwest Baptist University, Resignation of Administration, Trustees, Legal Team

PRESS RELEASE on Wednesday, September 9:
Requests Full Investigation of
Southwest Baptist University,
Resignation of Pres. Dr. C. Pat Taylor,
Staff Members, Trustees, Legal Team

While attempting to participate in the NCA hearings (see this post) last week, Marie re-bruised her previous injuries -- with the third attempt being the the most severe. She was obliged to rest and heal several more days.

However, after receiving yet another threat to her life this week, Marie has opted to pursue a more public effort, which will begin with a PRESS RELEASE to the Missouri Baptist Convention requesting: full investigation of the unethical, illegal and immoral conduct of SBU staff, resignation of the SBU President Dr. C. Pat Taylor, disbarment of the SBU legal staff and dismissal of SBU staff and Trustees.

Posting more Wednesday, September 9, 2009.

PRESS RELEASE: Requests Full Investigation of Southwest Baptist University, Resignation of Pres. Dr. Taylor, Staff Members, Trustees, Legal Team

*Latest post* Sunday, September 6, 2009 about 8:30am

PRESS RELEASE: Requests Full Investigation of
Southwest Baptist University,
Resignation of Pres. Dr. C. Pat Taylor,
Staff Members, Trustees, Legal Team

While attempting to participate in the NCA hearings (see this post) last week, Marie re-bruised her previous injuries -- with the third attempt being the the most severe. She was obliged to rest and heal several more days.

However, after receiving yet another threat to her life this week, Marie has opted to pursue a more public effort, which will begin with a PRESS RELEASE to the Missouri Baptist Convention requesting: full investigation of the unethical, illegal and immoral conduct of SBU staff, resignation of the SBU President Dr. C. Pat Taylor, disbarment of the SBU legal staff and dismissal of SBU staff and Trustees.

Posting more Wednesday, September 9, 2009.

NORTH CENTRAL ASSOCIATION ACCREDITATION COMPLAINT AGAINST SOUTHWEST BAPTIST UNIVERSITY HEARINGS TO BEGIN THIS WEEK

North Central Association Accreditation complaint against Southwest Baptist University hearings to begin this week.

SBU Student Government Association and SBU Faulty Senate asked to participate.


Details to follow on this blog and a new blog designated for this purpose.

And the Children Shall Lead Them: Southwest Baptist University Students to Assist in Inquiry into Misconduct by MO Baptist Exec. Board, Others

Welcome Back, Southwest Baptist University Students!

Abandoning a long-held (but unrealistic) belief that a Christian student's primary purpose should be to give attention to classwork, Marie has enlisted the help of Southwest Baptist University students into seeking an inquiry of the continuing unethical conduct by Southwest Baptist University staff, administration, and trustees and Missouri Baptist Executive Board officials.

Marie writes: "The 'grown-ups' just can't handle this alone, apparently. They need the vision and insight of those still closer to the innocence of childhood to explain that there is no way to 'theologize' around the fact that a difference between right and wrong and good and evil ... and that Christians should be on the side of right and good, not wrong and evil."

Considerable information will be posted over the next three days.

(For brief previous details, see here and here ... and throughout the posts of the last three months of summer.)

Transformation: Judy Leininger, Dr. Ray Leininger's Wife, Journeys Home

On Wednesday, August 12, 2009, Judy Leininger, 69, the wife of Rev. Dr. Ray Leininger, was transformed, having passed from this life at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, Missouri from a severe heart infection.

Her family and friends gather today to celebrate her life.

Even in his grief, Dr. Ray Leinginger's life now doubles as he lives life for two: sharing the richness of his own life ... but also recounting with his eleven grandchildren the joys and sorrows of his life together with their grandmother, who was too soon taken from them.

We wish Judy a sweet and joyous homecoming and offer our condolences to all those who suffer in this loss.

Her obituary is here.

Department Of Education Intervention and Investigation of Southwest Baptist University and Missouri Baptist Convention Officials

Department Of Education Intervention and Investigation of
Southwest Baptist University
and Missouri Baptist Convention Officials

At the request of the Department of Education, Marie and her representatives have summarized and described the unethical, financially fraudulent, often violent and/or potentially illegal conduct that she has endured from the Southwest Baptist University staff, faculty and administration (as well as individuals associated with SBU's "parent company" and affiliates -- the Missouri Baptist Convention and its affiliated churches and supporters).

Marie has agreed to cooperate in an investigation of the blatant participation of Southwest Baptist University and Missouri Baptist Convention officials in this misconduct.

In addition, Marie seeks the removal of her academic records (by the end of August 2009) from Southwest Baptist University, so that she may enroll in her new university -- where she will receive specialized medical care and insurance, academic accommodation and assistance.

Tuesday, August 11 about 7:00 am --
Last week, Rev. Billy Russell was not available. (He was on vacation visiting his parents in Michigan.)

However, Rev. Russell will be "in the office" this week and will receive the information (here) shortly.

Also, we extend our prayers to Dr. Ray Leininger, former pastor of First Baptist Church of Bolivar, for the illness and pending open-heart surgery of his wife tomorrow (Wednesday). [UPDATED here.]

Formal Appeal to Southwest Baptist University Student Government Association: Grade Tampering, Record Forgery, Admin/Faculty Harrassment, Abuse

Updated and expanded to include information concerning the Department of Education Investigation of Southwest Baptist University and the Missouri Baptist Convention (for details, see here) .

To be posted here shortly.

Southwest Baptist University Accreditation Complaint & Document Transfer: Letter to Missouri Baptist Convention Executive Director Dr. David Tolliver

Monday, August 3, 2009

From the Desk of Marie Ann O’Hara
Mailing Address
Bolivar, MO 65613

The Executive Board of the Missouri Baptist Convention
and MBC Executive Director David Tolliver Baptist Building
400 High Street
Jefferson City, MO 65101
Fax: (573)-635-0904

Dear Dr. David Tolliver and the MBC Executive Board:

This week, I am making arrangements with Rev. Billy Russell, the pastor of First Baptist Church of Bolivar, Missouri and a current member of the Southwest Baptist University Board of Trustees, to receive information concerning my formal complaint against Southwest Baptist University filed with their accreditation agency, the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

I have asked that Rev. Russell convey this information to you and
to each member of the Missouri Baptist Convention Executive Board as soon as possible.

If by the end of the business day on Monday, August 10,
Rev. Russell he has not communicated with you concerning the transfer of this documentation to your office, please call him.

Rev. Billy Russell will also be distributing copies of these documents to each member of the Southwest Baptist University Board of Trustees.

Thank for time and consideration.

Praying for Your Integrity,


Marie O’Hara


Tuesday, August 11 about 7:00 am --
Last week, Rev. Billy Russell was not available. (He was on vacation visiting his parents in Michigan.)

However, Rev. Russell will be "in the office" this week and will receive the information (detailed here) shortly.

Also, we extend our prayers to Dr. Ray Leininger, former pastor of First Baptist Church of Bolivar, for the illness and pending open-heart surgery of his wife tomorrow (Wednesday). [UPDATED here.]

LETTER to Dr. David Tolliver, Missouri Baptist Convention Executive Director - Posting This Morning (Monday, August 3) Between 10:00 am and 12:00 noon

*Latest post * Monday, August 3, 2009 about 11:00 am

Southwest Baptist University Accreditation Complaint & Document Transfer: Letter to Missouri Baptist Convention Executive Director Dr. David Tolliver

HATE CRIMES CHRONICLES: Believing Missouri Baptist Lives -- Not Their Lies

HATE CRIMES CHRONICLES:
Living and Dying for Missouri Baptist and Southwest Baptist University
Believing Missouri Baptist Lives -- Not Their Lies

So, where are we with this? What's going on now?

This week, Marie summarized her thoughts in a letter to friends:

... Perhaps it's time to face reality. Maybe it's time to believe what Southwest Baptist University and the Missouri Baptist Convention are doing -- not what they say they are going to do.

It's time to believe their lives -- and not their lies.

In order to resolve this, there needs to be some basis for trust between the parties. As it stands, however, the brutal truth is that I -- for one -- have no foundation on which to base trust in them, their motives, or their methods.

Beyond this, many of the participating individuals are rightfully concerned that once their part is publicly disclosed, they will be subject to discipline, dismissal ... and worse. (There is much in this that has not been made public.)

I can understand their fears.

From what I have seen, I have no confidence that the officials at Southwest Baptist University and the Missouri Baptist Convention (or, First Baptist Church of Bolivar, to a degree) understand and implement even the most rudimentary of civilized conventions and concepts -- such as, fair play, which, according to recent primate research, even chimpanzees understand at some deep level.

Even an outsider can see that Missouri Baptists treat each worse than animals. Again and again and again, I have witnessed them lie, steal, connive, cheat, and brutalize each other ... and then justify those actions in the name of Jesus Christ.

And, please remember, this is how they have treated their so-called friends and allies! Those deemed enemies fare even worse.

As I have attempted to communicate with these individuals and institutions, I return to the same nagging question: Do I even want a continuing relationship with these people?

Even if we were able to effect some kind of reconciliation, wouldn't it be a matter of time before I did something that displeased one of them? Then, wouldn't they be after me like a murderous pack of hounds ... again?

If I weren't forced into this situation by their crimes, wouldn't I avoid these kinds of troubled and troubling people like the plague?

But, when I have said (numerous times over several decades):

All right, enough! Even though I recognize that your actions have been unethical, immoral, fraudulent and (even) illegal, I still care for your well-being as people and wish the best for you.

Although I don't agree with your philosophies or methods, let's part on friendly terms: cease your unethical actions, acknowledge your wrong-doing (privately, if necessary), pay what is owed and settle the debt, and I will go on my way.

Each time, though, the response from one group or the other has been continued slanderous subterfuge, or even more cruel and physically savaging ploys.

All the while, they chant the Name of the All-Forgiving Christ, as though Jesus were merely a tribal totem ... or a mascot.

I don't understand.

More importantly, I'm not sure I want to understand, anymore. Do I really want to know what misery lurks in the heart of these people and their dark motives?

As a creature of the Light, I do not dwell (or even dally) comfortably or easily in the Darkness.

I have to ask, honestly: Is this really Christianity? Do these people actually represent Christ in any comprehensible way? Or, is this yet another deception -- like so much else in their individual and collective relationships?

Is it time to face the fact that attempting reconciliation may be a logistical impossibility? Since no one in authority will properly and righteously demonstrate judgment, discipline, and authority, this exercise in "reconciliation" is worse than herding cats ... and half of Noah's menagerie!

Even with the aid of the Holy Spirit, maybe this just can't be done -- given the circumstances and parties involved.

Having reached this conclusion, I have turned to a different strategy, which will implement assistance from several secular agencies and authorities.

Though I am not happy about this turn of events, I understand it as a necessity. Although my kindness is unlikely to be reciprocated, I will use compassion, caution and care in dealing with others (even with those others who have sought to injury me).

No, I am not angry, disgusted, or perturbed, nor am I seeking revenge.

My motivation is simply this: I am looking to escape, to escape to a healthy community where people genuinely care for each other and invest in each others lives, where God can dwell in people's hearts and lives, where I can be who God made me to be. ...

The details of this new strategy will be outlined in a series of posts and letters, beginning today, Friday (July 31) and this weekend (Aug. 1 -2):

1. Letter to the pastors (past and present) of First Baptist Church of Bolivar, Missouri -- Rev. Billy Russel (the current pastor, who should be returning from a missions trip this week), Dr. Rodney Reeves (former interim pastor) and Dr. Ray Leininger (former pastor).

2. Letter to Dr. David Tolliver, current executive director of the Missouri Baptist Convention and recent member of the Southwest Baptist University Board of Trustees, which, in part, requests an EMERGENCY MEETING of the Missouri Baptist Executive Board to be held no later than the last two weeks of September 2009 (see here).

... and
3. Formal Letter of Complaint to Southwest Baptist University's Accreditation agency, Higher Learning Commission of North Central Association (www.ncahigherlearningcommission. org).

HATE CRIMES CHRONICLES: Living and Dying for Missouri Baptists and Southwest Baptist University

This series of posts, letters ... and revelations will begin later today (Thursday, July 30) or Friday.

Violations of Southwest Baptist University's Accreditation Will Be Raised During the Emergency Meeting of Missouri Baptist Convention Executive Board

After consulting a number of agencies and authorities yesterday, Marie has reluctantly accepted that -- in spite of her reservations -- the long-unanswered accreditation complaint against Southwest Baptist University must also be raised at the EMERGENCY MEETING of the Missouri Baptist Convention Executive Board, which Marie has requested for the last two weeks of September 2009 (see here).

Therefore, Marie's complaint to Southwest Baptist University's accreditation agency will also be posted shortly (in the next day or so).

Your prayers are appreciated.

PRIVILEGED LAWLESSNESS and THE IRREDEEMABLE EVIL: Pride, Privilege and the Right to Do Wrong at Southwest Baptist University

Later today, we will be posting Marie's letter to Dr. David Tolliver requesting an EMERGENCY MEETING of the MISSOURI BAPTIST CONVENTION EXECUTIVE BOARD regarding the immoral, unethical and potentially criminal conduct of Southwest Baptist University officials and staff and other Missouri Baptist Convention-related personnel.

In the letter, Marie requests this meeting be held during the last two weeks of September 2009 and that the issue be taken up during the October 2009 annual meeting of the larger convention messengers, if necessary.

Until the September meeting, however, Marie will continue to extend assistance in reconciling the situation and providing a Process of Restorative Justice.

Reporting on "IRREDEEMABLE EVIL": Posting Substantial Update Report MONDAY (July 27)

- Last Update (SUNDAY morning, about 6:00 am) -

(Friday, July 24)
POSTING SUBSTANTIAL UPDATE MONDAY (JULY 27), probably before noon.

Tuesday Update - Irredeemable Evil: Letter to Missouri Baptist Convention Board Meeting at Southwest Baptist University

- Last Update (Wednesday morning, about 10:00 am) -

(Wednesday, July 22)
Discussions continue. Posting late tonight (Wednesday).

(Tuesday, July 21)
Discussions continue. Posting of letter details on Tuesday, July 21.


...

(Wednesday, July 15)
Several additional entities and individuals must be notified on Wednesday, July 15; therefore, the posting may be delayed until late Wednesday or Thursday (July 16).

(Tuesday, July 14)
After several intensive meetings this morning (July 14), Marie has determined to proceed with a Restorative Justice Process -- with significant modifications.

A letter detailing this decision will be forwarded to Missouri Baptist Convention Executive Director Dr. David Tolliver for immediate action by the Missouri Baptist Convention Executive Board by Friday, July 31.

The revised letter -- entitled "Irredeemable Evil," which is addressed to the Missouri Baptist Convention Executive Board -- will be posted late Wednesday evening (July 15) or Thursday morning.