Candle has been lit in Remembrance of Youth in Desperation

A CANDLE HAS BEEN LIT IN REMEMBRANCE OF YOUTH IN DESPERATION. 
There are many young people working years and saving to study towards a brighter future.
Yet due to various circumstances, they struggle to manage to pay - despite years of working, saving and holding down jobs outside study hours - to pay tuition costs.

Lumiere Charity is beginning a series of blog posts where students in difficulties can speak about their personal plight.
One such student is Haince Pen.  
Haince comes from India, and after years of working and saving is studying at Rochester Institute of Technology. 
A loan was received from the bank, his parents mortgaged their house as assurance. 
At the end of this semester, despite working at a job during his time off from study, his savings and his parents' dedicated loan, he will be short five thousand dollars for his next semester. 
Why not pledge one to five dollars to help Haince continue his dream; to study towards a brighter future?

Perhaps Divine Providence led you 

to read these words.

In the spirit of Lumiere, is there 

anything you can do to help?

To donate directly to Haince's tuition, 

please click on this link;

http://www.youcaring.com/tuition-fundraiser/help-haince-pay-the-college-tuition-fees/283385 

Lumiere Remembers Journalists Killed In the Line of Duty

A CANDLE HAS BEEN LIT IN REMEMBRANCE OF JOURNALISTS KILLED

 IN THE LINE OF DUTY IN 2014.

Dedicated men and women living lives of bravery and truth, 

bringing news to our attention, daily place their lives on the line. 

Lumiere remembers all those who have lost their lives 

this past year, and their families and friends.

http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2014/12/23/us/ap-us-journalists-killed-in-2014.html?_r=0

http://lumierecharity.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/lumiere-charity-remembers-journalists.html

With thanks to nytimes.com

New Vaccine Candidate to Prevent Chikungunya has been Developed, Alleged News

ACCORDING TO THE TIMES OF INDIA 15 AUGUST 2014, NEW VACCINE CANDIDATE TO PREVENT CHIKUNGUNYA HAS REPORTEDLY BEEN DEVELOPED. 
In a breakthrough, Scientists have have developed a new vaccine candidate to provide protection from the mosquito-borne viral illness Chikungunya. The experimental vaccine allegedly elicited neutralising antibodies in all 25 adult volunteers who participated in an early-stage clinical trial conducted by Researchers at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID). (1)

The Lancet reports on a chikungunya trial
The Lancet gave background to safety and tolerability of chikungunya virus-like particle vaccine in healthy adults; a phase 1 dose-escalation trial.
Chikungunya virus - a mosquito-borne alphavirus - is endemic in Africa, South and Southeast Asia, and has emerged in the Caribbean. No drugs or vaccines are available for treatment or prevention. The aim of the trial was to assess the safety, tolerability and immunogenicity of a new candidate vaccine.,
Methods; VRC 311 was a phase 1, dose-escalation open-label clinical trial of a virus-like particle (VLP) chikungunya virus vaccine VRC-CHKVLP059-00-VP. Participants were assigned to sequential dose level groups [see document.] (2)
The findings were fully documented. The trial is registerd with ClinicalTrials.gov (3) NCT01489358. 
[4]
The interpretation is that the chikungunya VLP vaccine was immunogenic, safe and well-tolerated. The Lancet considered the study they discussed as representing an important step in vaccine development to combat this rapidly emerging pathogen.
The Lancet recommended that further studies should be done in a larger number of participants and in more diverse populations. (2)


(1) New vaccine to prevent chikungunga developed
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/science/New-vaccine-to-prevent-chikungunya-developed/articleshow/40309932.cms  

(2) Safety and tolerability of chikungunya virus-like particle vaccine in healthy adults; a phase 1 dose-escalation trial
http://www.thelancet.com/pdfs/journals/lancet/PIIS0140-6736%2814%2961185-5.pdf

(3) https://clinicaltrials.gov/

[4] NCT01489358. 
https://clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT01489358 

Chikungunya virus Infects more than 1 Million in Americas
http://www.voanews.com/content/chikungunya-virus-has-infected-more-than-1-million-in-americas/2570840.html

*Disclaimer; Please note that the information on this Blog Post is not meant to replace the original information imparted from the resources from which the Post is drawn. The information given above is intended to disseminate information of relevance and interest only. Please check sources to verify that information given above was correctly quoted; No responsibility rests on the writer of the blog posts re same

Lumiere Remembers Girls and Women Suffering as Slaves Alleged News

A CANDLE HAS BEEN LIT BY LUMIERE IN REMEMBRANCE 

OF SUFFERING AND DECEASED ENSLAVED GIRLS AND WOMEN. 

Distressing reports continue to come in about the treatment 

of girls and women sold and treated as slaves, according 

to alleged reports.

Perhaps Divine Providence has led you to read these words.

In the spirit of Lumiere, is there anything you can do to help?

http://blogs.wsj.com/washwire/2014/09/02/isiss-cruelty-toward-women-gets-scant-attention/

http://www.voanews.com/content/is-uses-sex-lure-to-recruit-militants/2566277.html

http://www.amnesty.org/en/library/asset/MDE14/021/2014/en/f4bfab3c-957c-47bf-87d5-a00beab41f0d/mde140212014en.html 

With thanks to blogs.wsj.com/ voanews.com/ amnesty.org

A Lit Candle has been burning in Remembrance of Peshawar

A Lit Candle has been burning in Remembrance

of all who suffered and died in Peshawar. 

Our thoughts are with all those who have been injured 

and lost their lives, and with their families. 

Our thoughts are also with those who have 

given assistance at this sad time.

Lumiere Remembers Sierra Leone

A CANDLE HAS BEEN LIT BY LUMIERE IN REMEMBRANCE

 OF ALL WHO SUFFER FROM EBOLA IN SIERRA LEONE. 

May strength and courage be with those who have suffered and died, 

those bereaved, and those caring for the ill. 

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-30601523 

Candle has been lit for Lumiere Readers this Christmas Day

For unto us the Prince of Peace is born

A CANDLE HAS BEEN LIT IN REMEMBRANCE OF ALL LUMIERE READERS THIS CHRISTMAS DAY. 

May Blessings be with you and your loved ones 

at this time of peace, joy and goodwill.

Thank you to all volunteers for the hours of 

selfless service you have given throughout 

the year to assist those in need. 

Your dedicated help has all been unpaid; 

Lumiere trusts that Divine Providence 

has seen each quiet act of generosity, 

and that they will be repaid with 

peace of heart and 

happiness of soul.

Have a wonderful day! 

Image by Catherine Nicolette

A Candle has been Lit by Lumiere in Remembrance of Innocent Creatures

A CANDLE HAS BEEN LIT BY LUMIERE IN REMEMBRANCE OF INNOCENT CREATURES.

Shipped to Laboratories, Alleged News. 

Why not sign the Petition? 

https://secure.peta.org/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=5423 

With thanks to Peta.org

Lumiere Charity remembers Trafficked Sex Slaves - a Candle has been lit

A CANDLE HAS BEEN LIT IN REMEMBRANCE OF TRAFFICKED SEX SLAVES - selling price $7,000; 

a child slave for $20 Alleged News. 

In the spirit of Lumiere, is there 

anything you can do to help? 

http://www.theguardian.com/global-development/video/2014/jun/13/trafficked-sex-slave-sold-as-virgin-for-7000-dollars-video  

With thanks to theguardian.com

Breaking News Belfast; Multiple Awards Winner Bernadette Smyth witnesses to the Sanctity of Life

TODAY IN BELFAST MULTIPLE AWARDS WINNER BERNADETTE SMYTH STOOD HUMBLY IN COURT. 
  2013 Honours Award by the Knights of St Columbanus and 2014 Michael Bell Memorial Award Winner Bernadette Smyth has been working on behalf of unborn children for 17 years. 
  Bernadette campaigns for the lives of these infants in utero to be spared. 
  Bernadette first became involved in assisting the unborn in 1997, when she viewed a picture of a baby killed by abortion. 
  She was inspired to begin on a road to witnessing to the sanctity of life by founding Precious Life, offering sidewalk counselling and assistance to those in pregnancy crisis to access life-saving options. 
  That road today led into a courtroom where Bernadette was sentenced. 
  The behaviour of stopping people, questioning them about why they were going into the premises, was deemed direct harassment. [1]

Supporters
  Supporters from all over Ireland came today in support of this gracious lady who loves the unborn citizens of our land.
  A Judge commended her on Bernadette's impeccable character, and clear record. [2]

Press Release made available today;

'PRESS RELEASE - BERNADETTE SMYTH – UNSAFE CONVICTION
  We act for Bernadette Smyth whose Appeal against conviction and sentence is listed before the Recorder of Belfast on 16th January 2015.

   Commenting on the case, Solicitor Aiden Carlin said: “Today marks another step towards justice for Bernadette Smyth who was wrongfully convicted of harassment on 19th November 2014. She was sentenced today to pay £2,000 compensation and received a five-year restraining order to stay away from Dawn Purvis or anyone seeking to enter Marie Stopes. Bernadette Smyth has also been excluded from going within 20 yards of the Belfast clinic. This sentence is also subject of Appeal and has no affect in the meantime.”

   Aiden Carlin continued: “Article 9 of the Convention provides that a person has the right to manifest their religion through teaching. Bernadette Smyth has attended at Great Victoria Street to reach out as a Christian to couples in crisis. In doing so she is exercising her right to impart her faith and has been a visible witness for the Pro-life movement for approximately 17 years. Article 10 of the Convention provides that the person has the right to impart information and ideas without interference by public authority and regardless of frontiers. Again, the subject of these proceedings is a prayer vigil and an outreach on Great Victoria Street in Belfast. Article 11 of the Convention provides for the right of peaceful assembly. Bernadette Smyth was exercising that right on both occasions.”

   Aiden Carlin concluded: “Those who stand and pray outside Marie Stopes and other abortion facilities throughout the UK and Ireland are as much a part of society as the rest. Bernadette Smyth is a very highly respected Christian who has earned public recognition for her tireless work. She has campaigned worldwide on behalf of the unborn for over 17 years. Bernadette Smyth has totally refuted this allegation and invites Christians everywhere to follow the next stage of her landmark case which has the potential to shape how the law is interpreted and applied in future.”  '
 

END
________________________________________
Carlin Solicitors
2 Church Lane
Belfast, BT1 4QN  [3]

Cribs Not Left Empty
  There are many cribs which have not been left empty over the years due to Bernadette's untiring and selfless work for the unborn and for mothers in pregnancy crisis. 
  Bernadette has untiringly witnessed to the Sanctity of Unborn Life in all weathers. 
  She has seen many make life-affirming choices and embrace their pregnancy to term as a gift instead of a burden. 
  Now, at this time of recollection and thought pending Appeal, it is of value to go back to the beginning of the road that led to today; why did Bernadette feel inspired to assist women to embrace their motherhood and embrace sanctity of unborn life? 
  And we remember...

Courtesy Precious Life sharing of Bryan Kemper's photo [4]

Bernadette Smyth; 2013 Honours Award by the Knights of St Columbanus
http://www.preciouslife.com/news/72/director-of-precious-life-bernadette-smyth-honoured-in-list-of-top-catholics-for-2013/

Bernadette Smyth receives Prestigious Michael Bell Memorial Award 
http://www.preciouslife.com/news/134/bernadette-smyth-receives-prestigious-michael-bell-award/ 

Bernadette Smyth - Miscarriage of Justice Alleged News
http://www.catholicvoice.ie/index.php/56-bernadette-smyth-miscarriage-of-justice

[1] http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-northern-ireland-30513682 

[2] http://www.rte.ie/news/2014/1217/667468-bernadette-smyth-dawn-purvis/

[3] http://www.preciouslife.com/news/154/press-release/ 

[4] https://www.facebook.com/PreciousLife.Ireland 

With thanks to preciouslife.com/ catholicvoice.ie/ bbc.com/ rte.ie/ preciouslife facebook Bryan Kemper's photo 15 December post Share

SUPPORTERS IN BELFAST

Lumiere Remembers Detained Children at US Southwest Border, Alleged News

A Candle has been lit by Lumiere in Remembrance of 

Detained Children at US Southwest Border, Alleged News

US Southwest Border - Dreadful Plight of Little Innocents, Alleged News.

Is there anything you can do to help?

http://lumierecharity.blogspot.ie/2014/12/children-facing-deportation-us.html 

US Southwest Border - Dreadful Plight of Little Innocents, Alleged News. Is there anything you can do to help?

 

Candle has been lit by Lumiere in Remembrance of Children needing Help

Children facing Deportation  

 In the years I have been working in Lumiere, I have seen children lying under railway bridges. I have seen children sobbing. Children with broken legs. Children saved from trafficking. Children with heads painful with scabs, pus oozed sores over the scalp. Children malnourished. Children starving. Children with lice in their hair and wild looks in their eyes. Children cowering in fear. Children running up for comfort. Children rocking and wailing in a corner, lost in a personal world of horror.

Tragic
  How tragic is the lot of a child who does not receive that basic human right; love, protection, a legal name, legal rights, kinship. And how lonely the child who has none to stand up for her or him.

Upwards of 52,000 Children
  Lumiere Charity has received report from Alex Badduke that Upwards of 52,000 Children have allegedly been detained and await deportation hearings at the U.S. Southwest border.  
  The situation has allegedly been declared a humanitarian crisis by President Obama and it has been resolved to expedite hearings. In the wake of this crisis, the issue of legal representation becomes especially important. 
  No child should face a deportation judge by themselves. 
  But thousands will be alone, reportedly facing deportation without an attorney. 
  Some are as young at 5-years-old.
  Alex requests that petition be signed to provide legal representation so that no child is alone on their trial date. As per the petition, these children need proper legal representation. 

  The children face dreadful dangers as many of them reportedly flee from gang violence in Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador. Many of the children die. An 11 year old Guatemalan boy was allegedly found dead in the brush a mile from the Mexican border. This little innocent was found with no shirt, just a white rosary. 
  What were his last hours like? What were the conditions he was fleeing from? With what faith in Divine Providence, his only possession a white rosary, did he leave this earth.

Hidalgo County Sheriff Eddie Guerra reportedly apprised that his officers encounter decomposed bodies 'quite often'. 

Why not sign the petition to support fair legal representation for all children facing deportation?
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/967/841/269/

Perhaps Divine Providence has led you to read these words.

Is there anything that can be done to help these poor innocents
gain shelter, schooling, food and a brighter future?
  In the Spirit of Lumiere, is there anything you can do to help?

Emergency Aid Won't Solve Immigration Courts Problems - 

Border Humanitarian Crisis adds Stress to an Already Overburdened System

http://www.nationallawjournal.com/id=1202662806305/Emergency-Aid-Wont-Solve-Immigration-Courts-Problems?slreturn=20141116164201  

Illegal Immigration; Amid flood of kids, 11-year-old's death adds human face
http://www.csmonitor.com/USA/USA-Update/2014/0701/Illegal-immigration-Amid-flood-of-kids-11-year-old-s-death-adds-human-face-video

Q & A on child immigration crisis with Law School's Maria Woltjen
http://news.uchicago.edu/article/2014/07/14/qa-child-immigration-crisis-law-schools-maria-woltjen

The Young Center for Immigrant Children's Rights 
http://theyoungcenter.org/

 Convention on the Rights of the Child
http://www.ohchr.org/en/professionalinterest/pages/crc.aspx 

With thanks to Thepetitionsite/ Nationallawjournal.com/ csmonitor.com/  news.uchicago.edu/ Theyoungcenter.org/
ohchr.org

Homeless flooding the streets in Ireland now starting to die

IN MAY LUMIERE CHARITY EXPRESSED CONCERN FOR THE HOMELESS WHEN WINTER CAME. [1] Now the winter is here, and worst fears have been realised. The deaths have begun. [2] 
Two Desperate figures huddled in a doorway, counting the coins begged during the day. The rain had soaked through their clothing, and they looked hungry, cold and scared. They had a part of the funds needed for the night; a tenner gave both of them the balance they needed for a warm hostel for the night, a hot bath, clean dry sheets and duvet, and a breakfast in the morning with hot tea or coffee. Two more people live another night in Dublin and won't be found dead in the morning.

Number Of Homeless Rise
The numbers of homeless in Ireland continue to increase. Professional people living in hostels and in cars, unable to afford the rents which have outstripped their increasingly depleted incomes. Senior citizens, some with medical conditions, unable to afford a home of their own and with no family to care for them. Families with children leaving their homes, the mortgage of which they no longer can afford. The childrens' schooling becoming affected. The pregnant mothers with no home for their little ones or the coming infant.

To eat or not to eat?
Desperate decisions are being daily taken all over Ireland; literally, either to pay for a night's shelter or for a meal. Sometimes it's one, sometimes it's the other. Many of the homeless are now operating free food boxes. This means that if a homeless person has bought rice with whatever funding he or she has managed to procure, the unused rice is left in a clean dry box for anyone else with no home or food to use. The same with bread, olive oil, pasta, spaghetti, herbs, sunflower oil, teabags, coffee, fruit, vegetables, tinned foods. 
It is noticeable that the homeless who have managed to earn a bit more by begging, their work income or assistance from others, buy more than they need for their meal; and leave the balance in the box. Which quietly disappears - as needed, no one takes more than necessary - allowing those in need to keep their dignity and stay alive for another day.

Chest Infections
The rain and winter cold is causing many chest infections. Those who are ill are unable to afford cough mixture, cough lozenges, hot water bottles to keep out the cold, cold and flu medications, or a visit to a GP for antibiotics as needed. Or indeed a meal, or water to drink. These necessities for life, including food and shelter, are desperately needed on the streets. 

Wolfe Tone Quay
20 Bed Shelter is available on Wolfe Tone Quay courtesy of the luminous Dublin Civil Defence, and will stay open throughout Christmas, according to report [3]. 
  
Emergency Homeless Accomodation Dublin City Centre
His Excellency Archbishop Diurmuid Martin has apprised that a Diocesan Property is being made available for Emergency Homeless Accomodation in Dublin City Centre, according to report [4]. 

 Perhaps Divine Providence has led you to read these words.

In the spirit of Lumiere, is there anything you can do to help?

[1] Ireland; The Human Face of Homelessness
http://lumierecharity.blogspot.ie/2014/05/breaking-news-ireland-human-face-of.html 

[2] Homeless man found dead Alleged News
http://www.thejournal.ie/man-found-dead-leinster-house-1808865-Dec2014/

[3] 20 Bed Shelter Alleged News
http://www.thejournal.ie/emergency-beds-dublin-civil-defence-1831368-Dec2014/

[4] Archbishop opens Diocesan Doors to help the Homeless People of Dublin
http://www.thecatholicuniverse.com/archbishop-opens-diocesan-doors-help-homeless-5191 

Facts and Figures; Peter McVerry Trust
http://www.pmvtrust.ie/news-media/facts-and-figures/

Latest News Peter McVerry Trust
http://www.pmvtrust.ie/category/latest-news/

A Candle has been lit for Refugees Lost at Sea

A CANDLE HAS BEEN LIT BY LUMIERE FOR REFUGEES LOST AT SEA. The United Nations Refugee Agency has apprised that a surge of people, many of them fleeing war, are risking their lives to find sanctuary by sea. 
  Since the beginning of this year, at least 348,000 people have crossed seas, or died trying. 

In the spirit of Lumiere, is there anything 

you can do to help?

U.N. Agency Reports More Refugees on the Sea, and Fewer Welcome Shores  
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/12/11/world/un-agency-reports-more-refugees-on-the-sea-and-fewer-welcome-shores.html?_r=0

With thanks to NYTimes.com

A Candle has been lit for Child Soldiers

A CANDLE HAS BEEN LIT BY LUMIERE FOR CHILD SOLDIERS. 
  Many children are pressed into service as soldiers.   
  Lumiere has heard many tragic stories; children as young as ten years old becoming double amputee after a shootout. Children with mental health problems after being forced to kill a family member or be killed themselves. 
  Girls being pressed into sexual relations as young girls in the army, and bearing their infants with no medical help with all the attendant risks. 
  Children being given drugs prior to going into combat.   Children being strapped with explosives while sobbing helplessly, and being sent out into exchange of fire situations. 
  Children in the process of being pressed into soldiery witnessing their mothers and grandmothers being gang raped in their presence, before being killed. 
  Children witnessing fellow children being gang raped and either left dead or tied to trees to starve to death. 

  What can be done?
  Perhaps Divine Providence has led you to read these words.

In the spirit of Lumiere, is there anything 

you can do to help? 

Shelter for Children in Difficult Circumstances

http://lumierecharity.blogspot.ie/2013/06/shelter-for-children-in-difficult.html 

Undocumented Children - Difficulties of Paperless Status 

http://lumierecharity.blogspot.ie/2014/07/undocumented-children-difficulties-of_19.html 

Rescue.org; Child Soldiers

http://www.rescue.org/child-soldiers

Child Soldiers International
http://www.child-soldiers.org/

WHO - Healing Child Soldiers
http://www.who.int/bulletin/volumes/87/5/09-020509/en/

Invisible Children.com
http://invisiblechildren.com/

Family Care Uganda
http://www.activatedministries.org/projects/family-care-uganda

War Child
http://www.warchild.org.uk/?gclid=CKXO5_r9u8ICFSSQcgodgXQA_A


With thanks to Rescue.org, Child-Soldiers.org, Who.int/ Invisiblechildren.com/
Activatedministries.org/ Warchild.org.uk

Lumiere Remembers US Department of Agriculture and rule regarding Puppy Mills

LUMIERE REMEMBERS US DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE as the Department finalises rule.
  The luminous Humane Society of the United States apprises the finalisation of a rule by USDA prohibiting the import of dogs younger than six months old from foreign puppy mills for resale. 
  The rule also stipulates that dogs who enter the US must be in good health.

   The Humane Society apprised that every year thousands of weeks-old dogs are crammed into dirty, crowded plastic tubs and shipped on transcontinental flights to the US. 
  Exposed to extreme temperatures and with little access to food or water, most of the dogs become ill en route. Many die. 
  All could present a public health risk because barely weaned puppies aren't old enough to have received their full set of vaccinations. (1)

   There are many innocent creatures suffering dreadful tortures in our world. 
  It is a beacon of hope to see this enlightened rule make headway in lessening the difficulties facing young infant creatures of a species that shares our wonderful world with us.  
  There are still many animals in distress and need.

In the spirit of Lumiere, is there 

anything you can do to help?

(1) HSLF News: Victory Against Puppy Mill Imports
http://www.hslf.org/news/press-releases/victory-puppy-mill-imports-2014.html

Lumiere remembers puppy mills
http://lumierecharity.blogspot.ie/2013/06/lumiere-remembers-animals-in-puppy-mills.html

Dog Meat and Fur Trade in China
Caution; Not suitable for Child Viewing
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J_qCbZVdUhY&oref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DJ_qCbZVdUhY&has_verified=1

Reporting Cruelty 
http://www.rspca.org.uk/utilities/contactus/reportcruelty

China; Forced Organ Harvesting Alleged News

LUMIERE HAS RECEIVED REPORTS re concerns about the harvesting of organs from executed prisoners. Further concerns have been highlighted, see links below. 
  An open letter to UN High Commissioner for Human Rights,   DAFOH - Doctors Against Forced Organ Harvesting - conveys an urgent concern; almost two million people have signed a DAFOH petition to the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights during the past three years. 
  The people aim to bring the unethical practice of forced organ harvesting from prisoners and prisoners of conscience in China to the UN High Commissioner's attention. 

Why not sign the petition? 
http://www.dafoh.org/petition-to-the-united-nations/ 

DAFOH - Doctors Against Forced Organ Harvesting 
http://www.dafoh.org/unethical-organ-harvesting/  

Open Letter to UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Alleged News 
http://www.dafoh.org/open-letter-to-un-high-commissioner-human-rights-121014/

Medical Examinations Alleged News 
http://www.dafoh.org/implausible-medical-examinations-falun-gong-forced-labor-camp-workers/

Falun Gong 
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Falun_Gong

China Alleged News
http://www.lifenews.com/2014/12/09/china-once-again-promises-to-stop-harvesting-organs-from-executed-prisoners/

Falun Gong Alleged News
http://www.stoporganharvesting.org/news/latest-news/83-chinese-prisoners-relive-torture-advocate-to-end-organ-harvesting

Falun Gong Alleged News 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oluKNejAtyY

Friends of Falun Gong Alleged News 
http://fofg.org/

Candle has been lit by Lumiere in Remembrance of 15 Million Children affected by Conflict

A CANDLE HAS BEEN LIT BY LUMIERE IN REMEMBRANCE OF CHILDREN AFFECTED BY CONFLICT. The United Children's Agency UNICEF has declared 2014 a devastating year for children with as many as 15 million caught in conflicts in Central African Republic, Iraq, South Sudan, Syria, Ukraine and the Palestinian territories.  
UNICEF Director Anthony Lake said the high number of crises meant many of them were quickly forgotten or failed to capture global headlines, such as Afghanistan, Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. "Children have been killed while studying in the classroom, and while sleeping in their beds; they have been orphaned, kidnapped, tortured, recruited, raped and even sold as slaves."

Needs continue to be desperate
  Since Lumiere began in 2004, we have seen footage, photos and received reports from over the globe of babies being born prematurely while the mothers were fleeing from rape and execution in areas of conflict; young children gangraped and murdered after torture; families killed; and many other horrors. We have been able to help many in need. 
  We also continue offering free education and guidance in 103 countries re the principles of competent and responsible charity assistance to all. 
  We cannot reach everyone, and the needs continue to be as desperate and the plights of children are worse than ever. 
  Perhaps Divine Providence has led you to read these words. Is there one child you can help? Or pay for education? Or pay for surgery? Or counselling? Perhaps you have skills that would be invaluable in a clinic setting - or refugee camp - or for post-war counselling. Why not consider volunteering some of your time to help those most in need?

In the spirit of Lumiere, is there anything you can do to help?

UN declares 2014 a devastating year for millions of children
http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/12/08/us-children-un-idUSKBN0JM19220141208

With thanks to www.reuters.com

Breaking News Dublin Ireland; Reproductive Choices Marie Stopes Closed, Alleged News

Reproductive Choices Marie Stopes Closed, Alleged News. 

Word on the Street in Dublin Ireland is that 

this facility is closed;

 shutters remain unopened.

Christmas; Why not save a Baby's Life?

Photo courtesy of Women's Rights Without Frontiers

LUMIERE CHARITY CONTINUES TO RECEIVE NEWS OF FORCED ABORTIONS. 
According to Women's Right Without Frontiers, in China if a woman becomes pregnant without a birth permit, she can be forced to have an abortion unless she can afford to pay a fine as high as ten times her annual salary. Few can afford this.

Harrowing Images
Harrowing images were received by Lumiere some time back of a grieving mother and her forcibly aborted baby in the bed next to her. Feng Jianmei suffered deeply from the loss of her child.
 An image of a community bulletin board in Nongaung Village, Sichaun Province allegedly keeps track of the town's female population, listing recent births by name and noting that several thousand yuan of fines for unauthorized births remain unpaid from the previous year. (1)

'Save a Girl' Campaign
Women's Rights Without Frontiers dedicatedly save children from an untimely death through abortion. WRWF assists women with the 'Save a Girl' campaign, through monthly stipends which enable the families to give birth and raise their children. This Christmas why not save a little Child and donate the price to save a baby's life.

Prince of Peace
At Christmas we celebrate the birth of a Little One Who shortly after birth was rescued from certain death ordered by the ruling authority of the day. 
Perhaps Divine Providence has led you to read these words.

In the spirit of Lumiere, is there anything you can do to help?

Donation to Women's Rights Without Frontiers
http://www.womensrightswithoutfrontiers.org/index.php?nav=give 

(1) Forced Abortion of Feng Jianmei Alleged News
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forced_abortion_of_Feng_Jianmei

Chinese Officials forced Woman to abort at 7 months Alleged News
http://www.christiantoday.com/article/chinese.officials.forced.woman.to.abort.baby.at.7.months/30060.htm

Women's Rights Without Frontiers 
http://www.womensrightswithoutfrontiers.org/blog/

One Child Policy Alleged News
http://www.womensrightswithoutfrontiers.org/index.php?nav=one_child_policy 

Mandated by Beijing Alleged News
http://www.womensrightswithoutfrontiers.org/index.php?nav=mandated_by_beijing 

Forced Abortion  Alleged News
http://www.womensrightswithoutfrontiers.org/index.php?nav=forced_abortion 

Forced Sterilization Alleged News
http://www.womensrightswithoutfrontiers.org/index.php?nav=forced_sterilization 

Female Suicide Alleged News
http://www.womensrightswithoutfrontiers.org/index.php?nav=female_suicide

With thanks to Women's Rights Without Frontiers, Wikipedia and ChristianToday.com

Candle has been lit by Lumiere in remembrance of Children in Lechaina, Greece

A CANDLE HAS BEEN LIT BY LUMIERE in remembrance 

of children with disabilities living in the Children Care Center of Lechaina, Southern Greece. According to report, children are kept in cages. Why not sign the petition? 

In the Spirit of Lumiere, is there anything you can do to help?

Petition
https://www.change.org/p/efi-bekou-provide-human-rights-for-children-and-young-adults-with-disabilities-in-lechaina-greece 

BBC 2014-11-14: Disabled children locked up in cages in Lechaina, Greece
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d5KPcv0O7mg 

The disabled children locked up in cages 
http://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-30038753

Dispatches; Greece -
http://www.hrw.org/news/2014/11/18/dispatches-greece-no-excuse-caging-children 

Greek ombudsman report 
http://www.synigoros.gr/resources/docs/kepeplechaina2011.pdf

With thanks to change.org/ Youtube,/ BBC.com/ HRW.org/ synigoros.gr.

Charity Worker's Companion - clip on reading light

In Charity, there are always companions which serve to make the field trips easier and safer. One such small companion is the Electronic Book Reading Lamp, which can be used for kindles and electronic readers. For those of us who prefer books, and to write up Charity reports or paperwork where there is no electricity, it is a must. It really works! With inbuilt batteries and clip that can attach to a book, or to an overhead bunk, it is great when you are travelling. Signalex in Birmingham makes these. 

http://www.amazon.co.uk/forum/kindle?_encoding=UTF8&cdForum=Fx3IRFCNF3E5K2W&cdThread=TxG66389B1Y6ZU

Christmas is Coming, and Charity is all aglow!

Children in Uganda sitting at their new school desks

Heartbreak and joy
Well, readers, it's that wonderful time of year again; Christmas. This last year has been a hectic one for Lumiere Charity. Much heartbreak as we heard of torture, rape and death of trafficked girls. It is the sad truth; we do what we can, but we can't reach everyone. Wonderful joy at children doing well through our outreach programmes. And so many need flooding into our mailbox, we just can't deal with them all. 
Perhaps Divine Providence has led you to read these words.
There are a number of desperate needs; the links to these needs will be placed below. 

Perhaps you would like to help?

As we always advocate in Lumiere, it is best to make personal contact with the group/ person you wish to help. If you cannot manage assistance (being cash strapped as we all are) perhaps you can help someone near to you in need. Or a family member. Or an acquaintance. Or someone sick, or poor, or in need, in your town. Or you can enlist in a group and fight human trafficking. Or work with child slave issues. Or women in need. Or boys and girls needing education. Or health care. Or shelter. Or rescue.

Gift of Christmas joy
Whatever it is, be kind to yourself this Christmas and give yourselves the gift of Christmas joy by helping someone else. Today I saw a great sale on and bought beautiful gifts (and sensible ones) for the children Lumiere assists with sponsorship through their education. It's time to start getting our boxes together, and posting off to the outlying areas.
Why not start making shoebox-size gifts - or larger - for an area where people are desperately in need of assistance. If possible, why not make a donation to a principal/ refugee camp co-ordinator/ social worker/ pastor who runs an organization for those most in need. Lumiere sent off our usual Christmas boxes last year, and a number of donations. 

Happiness with the new school desks

Uganda
The donation to Uganda was used in a most enterprising way. During the course of the year we received a report and photos of the results; forty children had been sitting on the ground while learning. The donation went towards the making of forty temporary seats for the children. So; during this year, forty children have been able to have the dignity and relative comfort of not having to sit in the dust among the hazards of spiders and scorpions, but could learn and open their minds to the knowledge needed for a better future.

In the spirit of Lumiere, what can you do to help?

Great needs;
Children, Orphans, Parents in Financial need, School equipment needed, many further needs
Uganda 
Molly and Paul Care Foundation 
http://www.mollyandpaul.org/
Mr Gerald Ntuwa http://lumierecharity.blogspot.ie/2012/04/sponsor-child-in-uganda.html

Children, all amenities including water, gas, suitable shelter, clothing, school fees, food, many further needs
South Africa 
Mr Mark van der Walt at Coronation Park Marike de Klerk Children's Fund
http://lumierecharity.blogspot.ie/2012/09/heartrending-poverty-at-coronation-park.html  
http://lumierecharity.blogspot.ie/2012/09/the-smile-says-it-all-little-boy-is.html

Orphans, children in desperate need, Orphanage needing to be rebuilt
Bangladesh
M Paimong Marma and Ma Ning Ning
http://lumierecharity.blogspot.ie/2014/02/orphans-in-desperate-need-of-help.html

News
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/Girls-undergo-systematic-rape-and-torture-in-brothels/articleshow/10008036.cms 

ACLU
https://www.aclu.org/sites/default/files/assets/14_7_16_unaccompanied_girls_-_real_case_stories.pdf