Christian religious philosopher passes

Dallas Willard has died at age 77 of cancer. The University of Southern California philosophy professor established the Dallas Willard Center at Westmont College in California and authored many books, including The Spirit of the Disciplines, The Divine Conspiracy, Renovation of the Heart, and Hearing God. He also served on the boards of the C.S. Lewis Foundation and Biola University. Born in Buffalo, New York, Willard is survived by his wife and two children.

Judge: Bible Verses on Banners OK

A Texas judge says Bible verses on banners at public school football games are fine. Judge Steven Thomas ruled it is constitutional for cheerleaders at Kountze High School to display run-through banners with messages like "If God is for us, who can be against us." The judge decided the messages on the banners are the protected private speech of the cheerleaders. The Freedom From Religion Foundation complained about the banners last fall, claiming it amounted to school endorsement of Christianity. The ruling may be appealed. Here's a video report from WRCB-TV.

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Transgender Suit moves forward

A California judge says a lawsuit against California Baptist University filed by a transgendered student can move forward. The school expelled Domaine Javier after revealing that she is biologically male. She claims that is a violation of a state law against discrimination based on gender identity. Lawyers for Cal Baptist argue the law doesn't apply to private institutions that are a religiously-oriented.

Megachurch Pastor Resigns: Admits Affair

A Florida megachurch pastor has resigned. David Loveless told his Orlando church about an affair over the weekend. Leaders of Discovery Church released an announcement saying in part:

“It is with great sadness that we announce the immediate resignation of our lead pastor, David Loveless, following his acknowledgement of his participation in a wrongful relationship over multiple years with a woman not his wife. While David indicates that the relationship was ended approximately three years ago, we were only made aware of it when he informed us in recent days. David offered his resignation, and the elders prayerfully and unanimously accepted it. While we believe David Loveless can be restored to Christian fellowship and productive Christian service, we do not believe he can serve as a pastor at Discovery Church.”

Don Cousins, director of ministry, will take over Loveless role for the time being.