Link dump explosion

There are a ton of stories that piled up while I was away from blogging that deserve some type of mention, so here they are - have at 'em.

Heavenly benefits for this earthly life - An MIT economists says that politicians should encourage religion, not specific religions, but faith in general. He contends that "high market density -- many people of your religion living near you -- led not only to higher church attendance, but to higher incomes and education and lower welfare and divorce rates." He also warns of the dangers of repealing blue laws saying that more research is needed, but it could lead to increase drinking and drug use, along with a drop in church attendance. Just in case you were wondering, the economists is Jewish, only attends temple on High Holy Days and simply believes in "a higher power."

The new anti, quasi, Republican Bill Clinton - World Magazine has a nice story on Mike Huckabee, his presidential bid and the similarities and differences between him and the last governor of Arkansas to run for President.

Friendly enemies of the state - The American Spectator details the difficulties facing many individuals around the world who support America, while opposing their own nation. Because of their being persecuted by nations such as China, Cuba and Colombia, they are classified by the US government as terrorists (opposing their home nation) and refused political asylum.

Baptists painting the state green - Environmentalism is growing in evangelical circles, as a group of Texas Baptists are trying to block the construction of 18 coal power plants. The largest Christian music tour in the nation is sponsored by an electric car maker and is giving away a scooter at each stop and a car at the end of the tour.

So, a lawyer walks into a church... - And then he trips and decides to sue. The lawyer accepted an invitation to come during a campaign forum, when he was running for circuit judge. He gave a speech, then fell down the steps leading off the stage. So of course, he does what any "good" lawyer would do, he sues the church - shocking I know.

The Book of Bono, chapter U, verse 2 - In an attempt to reach a younger audience, many churches are having services featuring the music of U2.

A mass exodus of less than 20 families? - The Christian political freaks are meeting up in my state of South Carolina and meeting some resistence - from conservative Christians.

The Penthouse and Playboy Pastors - Well not quite, but JR Mahon and Craig Gross are certainly in an unusual ministry, working around the pornography industry to reach those trapped inside with their message of freedom.