EU Review & Call to Prayer (EURCP)30 September 2003

From Lakitelek and on to the IGC

(By Praise & Prayer Ministries International   http://www.EUPrayer.com)


THE WORD [1 Timothy 2: 1 "Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, 2 for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence." [Your prayers implement God’s Word]. John 15: 5 “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who ABIDES in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.  If you ABIDE in Me, and My Words ABIDE in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you” [Each article below is followed by a suggested prayer subject if needed.]

 

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[CLARIFICATION NOTE: We do not necessarily endorse any article or organization represented, but to let you know (Matt 5:14-16) what is being said and know how to pray specifically. Specific prayer is often the most effective. We will try to make clear which organization is responsible for each article.]

 

 

Articles Listing (with Links to full stories)

1. Declaration of Lakitelek II (2003) "Values for Europe"

2. MEP from the Netherlands Comments on new EU Constitution

3. Small states to meet again on EU constitution 19-Sep

4. Dealing with corruption in Central and Eastern Europe

5.  European super-region plan touted

6. Debate on EU funding of stem cell research goes into final round

7. Poles (Germans) apart on Constitution - 23.09.2003

8. Italian EU presidency works out IGC roadmap - 22.09.2003

9. EU ministers to focus on family concept 22.09.2003

 

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1. Declaration of Lakitelek II (2003) "Values for Europe"

The Christian Political Movement for Europe, which was launched in November 2002 and consists of parties and organisations from more than ten countries, has now given form to their vision on the future of European politics. This vision was formulated at Lakitelek in 2002 in the Declaration of Lakitelek "For a Christian Europe".

 

At the brink of the historical Enlargement of the European Union and just weeks before the Intergovernmental Conference on the European 'Constitutional Treaty', we want to stress the importance of Christian values. Not only have they influenced the shaping of the European peoples and cultures, but they are also of great worth to the future of Europe. This historic, present and future influence must be recognised in the 'Constitution' of the European Union.

 

We will, therefore, strongly promote and defend Christian values in Europe. Not just because they are Christian, but primarily because they contribute to a healthy European society within which it is good to live. We believe that Jesus Christ calls us to do this by following Him in both our personal lives and in the realm of politics.

We want to work on Christian social politics for the whole geographical continent of Europe. This Europe is not, in the first place, an economic unity, but an entity with a common history and shared values. With dedication, we will work for a Europe which is characterized as a just society where people can live their lives to the full.

 

- First and foremost, we acknowledge that God is the source of all authority; He is the ruler of the world. Political authorities, including European level political authorities, are His servants.

- We stand for the protection of life, because every life is precious. This means: protection of unborn children and promotion of care for pregnant women; respect for the lives of elderly people, promotion of hospices and a prohibition of euthanasia; prohibition of cloning of man or animal.

- Protection of life also means we must give a voice to the needs of the weak. We are convinced that the government has a special responsibility for those who cannot look after themselves: those with disabilities, refugees and the poor in our own countries and abroad.

- The family is the cornerstone of society. It is the place where children learn responsibility, values and to live as good citizens. Families should be given all the room they need to realise these responsibilities. We reject every policy, for example tax or education policy or the undermining of marriage (e.g. by making same-sex-partnerships possible), which will negatively effect family life.

- We want to stress the responsibility of every citizen for his/her own neighbourhood. However, we also stress the shared responsibilities of all kinds of (civil) organisations for the public good. Governments must create a sphere within which individuals and organisations are encouraged to take up their responsibilities.

- Churches and other religious organisations have a valuable contribution to make in society. Full freedom of religion, for individuals, communities and organisations, must be a priority within Europe and in European foreign policy.

- We recognise the different peoples in Europe. Therefore, national identity must be protected and sovereignty of States respected. We stand for a balance in power between the different nations and the European Union: the responsibilities for public affairs should be at the level as close to the citizens as possible. Besides individual rights, we want to point out the importance of collective rights of minorities.

- Concern for God's Creation is a major part of Christian social politics. We may not exploit natural resources. Instead, we are stewards of Creation and therefore sustainability of both economy and environment must be a priority.

 

The Christian Political Movement for Europe will focus on the out-workings of these eight political core values. Therefore, we will make and deepen contacts with all parties and organisations who share the same vision and we will encourage the training of young people in Christian political principles, at places like the "Cardinal Mindszenty" Catholic and "Gábor Bethlen" Protestant Academy.

Lakitelek, 12th September, 2003

PRAY that The Christian Political Movement for Europe be an effective and praying organisation.

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2. MEP from the Netherlands Comments on new EU Constitution

Rijk van Dam, Member, European Parlament, from the Netherlands made the following remarks at the Lakitelek Conference. He said that this conference warns us to not let this "Historic enlargement" of the EU; which is designed to end division on our continent become a Historic mistake. It will, if we are neglecting our Christian roots – It could become a tragic lie. This conference considers that the Christian heritage of Europe – must be considered if this is to bring many blessings on our continent, despite effort of the secularists

who ignore the fact that the EU needs Christian Social Politics to do this.

 

He stated that Christian values will bring legislation and policies to the benefit of all people. But the fulfillment of) "Thou shalt be My witnesses" tells us to follow Jesus Christ in our personal life and as a politician as well. Also that] God is the source of power, and we His servants.

 

He said the issues are;

1.) Human life: His (God’s) greatest gift is in danger. We must Protect children yet to be born, comfort those who suffer; and stop cloning man and animals, as the creature we are not to be creator.

2.) Society is built of cells: or families – this is the Biblical marriage it is another gift of God.

Putting homosexual relationship on equal footing is blasphemy.

3.) This New Treaty, "Constitution" neglects Christian roots, even the name of God. Brussels rumour: that the church representatives accepted that, trading off to a special status for churches was included in a dialogue with EU leaders in which the EU gave a special status for churches in the EU

4.) Europe: is a continent developed on a Christian foundation and with a shared history. At the same time, there is a great diversity between nations and between peoples. About 50% of all legislation however is from Brussels, is no longer from national parliaments.

5.) We need to consider how to put powers on the smallest possible level. If a region can handle a sector; why bother the national level. If the national government is able to rule on a policy held, why shift to Brussels?

6.) NGOs (non-governmental organizations) can form an important level between citizens and rulers. Every level of power should encourage citizens and their organizations to advise and take that seriously.

7.) Important value for Christian politicians is creation: the environment where God puts us as stewards. Building and preserving this natural heritage is at least as important as economic interests. "Thou art the light of the world". Let's spread His eternal light both in the national as in the EU Parlament

PRAY that principles which best represent God’s Word and His Values be included in the EU Constitution

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3. Small states to meet again on EU constitution 19-Sep

http://www.eubusiness.com/afp/030919172946.pv8kseba

Fifteen small current and future members of the European Union who are seeking changes to the bloc's draft constitution will meet next week in New York, ahead of crucial EU-wide negotiations to finalise the text, Czech Deputy Foreign Minister Jan Kohout said on Friday.

PRAY that all citizens and nations of Europe have proper representation and a voice that can be heard.

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4. Dealing with corruption in Central and Eastern Europe

EurActiv Date: 18/09/2003

http://www.euractiv.com/cgi-bin/cgint.exe/1049182-88?204&OIDN=2000739&-home=search

In short:The Commission has been monitoring corruption in the future EU Member States since the beginning of the enlargement process in order to allay fears of European citizens about ethics of governance in Central and Eastern Europe. 

The Communication on a comprehensive EU policy against corruption proposes 10 principles for improving the fight against corruption in acceding, candidate and other third countries  

PRAY that corruption is exposed and proper processes installed to prevent future re-occurrences.

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5.  European super-region plan touted - 23.09.2003 - 09:50

Link to article >> http://www.euobserver.com/index.phtml?aid=12780

Proposals are being put forward for the creation of a European super-region which could radically reshape the face of the Union.

PRAY that the debate on the issue clearly demonstrates the right position that should be taken.

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6. Debate on EU funding of stem cell research goes into final round

EurActiv Date: 23/09/2003 15:30    

http://www.euractiv.com/cgi-bin/cgint.exe/1049182-88?204&OIDN=1506271&-home=search

In short:The Commission presented its ethical guidelines for EU funding of stem cell research to the Competitiveness Council on 22 September. They should enter into force before the end of 2003. 

PRAY that the sanctity of human life be protected from research which endangers Godly life systems.

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7. Poles apart on Constitution - 23.09.2003 - 09:50

Link to article >> http://www.euobserver.com/index.phtml?aid=12779

Poland and Germany were unable to bridge differences over the proposed EU Constitution when leaders met yesterday, just ten days before the start of an intergovernmental debate.

PRAY that each country’s significant values by protected and not unduly compromised in the EU.

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8. Italian EU presidency works out IGC roadmap - 22.09.2003 - 09:24

Link to article >> http://www.euobserver.com/index.phtml?aid=12761

The Italian EU presidency has prepared for eight meetings to be held at the Intergovernmental Conference (IGC) that will give the European Constitution its final shape. Starting in Rome on 4 October, the EU Heads

of State and Government will open the IGC with a general political debate, according to the roadmap seen by the EUobserver.

SEE Intergovernmental Conference http://www.ueitalia2003.it/EN/

PRAY that the IGC for finalization of EU Constitution build in protections for Christian Values before it is approved.

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9. EU ministers to focus on family concept 22.09.2003 - 09:49 CET

Link to article >> http://www.euobserver.com/index.phtml?aid=12767

Many member states do not support the extension of free movement rights to same-sex and unmarried partners.

The EU Competition Council is set to debate today the issue of residence rights for EU citizens and their families. One of the controversial issues to be dealt with in the directive is whether unmarried and gay couples should be defined as "family" members

PRAY that the traditional family will be fully supported by legislation and EU policies

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OF INTEREST and FOR PRAYER

The Christian Peoples Alliance conference entitled “Christian Democracy & The European Union” will meet next month in London, UK.

 

Meeting in Krakow Poland will be the Christians for Europe Convention that will take place October 25th and 26th, 2003.

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HOW TO PRAY FOR THE EU

1.         Know God is expecting you to ask so He can answer. Pray daily. (See scripture after heading)

2.         Know as much as you can about people and situations; tell God you know He understands, but you are asking as He told you to do. Ask Him to enlighten you as necessary. Pray specifically when you know.

3.         Thank God that he will give the right answer to the issue at the right time.

4.         Ask God to reveal Himself to as many in the EU as possible through witness or revelation.

5.         For those in rebellion against His Word, ask God to change or confuse these minds. Don’t name names because you may not know what you think you know. God does know.

 

 

 

 

ASK EURCP: Do you have a question about the EU and Christian concerns? Ask it. Email us - we’ll find a good response from a responsible person. Use our web page for many Links.

 

 

 

 

 

 

EURCP special bulletin

 

Europarliament Rejects Reference to "Judeo-Christian" Roots

British Conservatives Join Opposition to Proposal

 

STRASBOURG, France, SEPT. 25, 2003 (Zenit.org).- The European Parliament's plenary assembly rejected any reference to the continent's "Judeo-Christian" roots in the draft text of the European Constitution.

 

The proposal was rejected Wednesday by a vote of 283 to 211. The vote sought to clarify Parliament's position in view of next week's intergovernmental conference in Rome that will approve the draft of the Constitution.

 

The proposal in Parliament was presented by the European Popular Party (EPP), which called for a "particular reference" in the text to the "Judeo-Christian" roots of Europe, without proposing a specific formulation of the request.

 

Another amendment presented by the European Union of Nations (EUN), which called for the "express recognition of the legacy of Christianity inscribed in the history and cultural identity of Europe," met with the same result.

 

Although the EPP has a majority in the European Parliament, it did not obtain the consensus of the majority. It had the support of the EUN, but even within the EPP, members such as the British Conservatives and others, did not support it.

 

Those voting against the proposal included the European Socialist Party and other minority groups, as well as 30 independent deputies.

 

"We knew that these were the numbers, but we could not exempt ourselves from the responsibility to present forcefully the position in which we firmly believe," EPP spokeswoman Katrin Ruhrmann said.

 

EPP President Hans-Gert Pöttering lamented the rejection of the amendment, but explained that the preamble of the draft Constitution presented by the European Convention makes reference to the continent's religious patrimony. And Article 51 of the draft recognizes the status of churches and communities which share a common faith, he said.

 

Ruhrmann said that the last word now rests with the governments of the European Union. "If they wish, they have the possibility to modify the draft Constitution in the sense we desire," she said.

ZE03092511

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hugh and Norma Davis


 

Pnpmi (Praise & Prayer Ministries International - Hugh & Norma Jenson Davis) is conducting this multi-denominational ministry under the mission program of the Assemblies of God Western Europe office outside of Brussels, Belgium. The mailing address there is: EMC/EURCP (Gerald Branum.) 45 Chaussee de Waterloo, 1640 Rhode Saint Genese, BELGIUM


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