Supplementing “Bitter Winter” series on Freemasonry, a look at an organization about which little is known outside the United States,
From the World
Norway, Jehovah’s Witnesses “Fully Vindicated” By Appeal Court
A wrong decision denying state subsidies and registration to the organization because of its policy towards excluded ex-members has been overturned in appeal.
Russia Bans Local Church Publication as “Extremist”
Banning the founder Witness Lee’s edition of the Bible may open the way to liquidating the movement itself.
Japan and Religion, the Scandal of “Public Welfare.” 2. The Assault on the Unification Church
The “public welfare” principle implies that if a religion displeases the majority, it can be eradicated. It is what is happening to the Unification Church.
Emil Bisttram: Between Rosicrucianism, Theosophy, and Prophecy
The Hungarian-born American painter was an important figure in several esoteric societies, and produced works that he believed were “portals” to enter the New Age.
Japan and Religion, the Scandal of “Public Welfare.” 1. Betraying Japan’s International Obligations
By keeping in its Constitution and laws the principle that religions may have their activities restricted and even be suppressed in the name of “public welfare,” Japan violates its international obligations.
Bail Denied to Ahmadis Arrested in Pakistan for Praying on Friday
Under the pressure of the radical Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan, members of the Ahmadiyya community are now prohibited even from praying in their own houses of worship.
Pakistan: Report Claims Religious Minorities’ Situation Is Becoming Worse
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan notes that discrimination, forced conversion, blasphemy accusations, and violent attacks increased in 2023 and 2024.
The Supreme Court and the Unification Church in Japan: Warrant for a “Religiocide”? Part 2
There is no logical reason to change decades of case law and hold that civil torts, not crimes only, may be reasons to dissolve a religious organization.
The Supreme Court and the Unification Church in Japan: Warrant for a “Religiocide”? Part 1
A Supreme Court decision may open the way to the dissolution of the religious organization by overturning decades of case law.