These two stories are talking about God's grace and forgiveness.  May they be a reminder to us that when times are hard and everything is falling apart, that God's grace lifts us up. Although at times we think we have done so much for God, His sacrifice pays for it all and then a whole lot more.  Let us never forget how much His love has done for us.  How much more should we do for Him?

The only survivor of a shipwreck was washed up on a small, uninhabited island. He prayed feverishly for God to rescue him, and every day he scanned the horizon for help, but none seemed forthcoming.

Exhausted, he eventually managed to build a little hut out of driftwood to protect him from the elements and to store his few possessions. But then one day, after scavenging for food, he arrived home to find his little hut in flames, the smoke rolling up to the sky. The worst had happened; everything was lost. He was stunned with grief and anger.

"God, how could you do this to me!" he cried. Early the next day, however, he was awakened by the sound of a ship that was approaching the island. It had come to rescue him. "How did you know I was here?" asked the weary man of his rescuers.

"We saw your smoke signal," they replied.

It is easy to get discouraged when things are going badly.

But we shouldn't lose heart, because God is at work in our lives, even in the midst of pain and suffering.

Remember, next time your little hut is burning to the ground--it just may be a smoke signal that summons The Grace of God.

A little boy came up to his mother in the kitchen one evening while she was fixing supper, and handed her a piece of paper that he had been writing on.

After his Mom Dried her hands on an apron, she read it, and this is what it said:

For cutting the grass: $5.00 For cleaning up my room this week: $1.00

For going to the store for you: $.50 Baby-sitting my kid brother while you went shopping: $.25

Taking out the garbage: $1.00 For getting a good report card: $5.00

For cleaning up and raking the yard: $2.00 Total owed: $14.75

Well, his mother looked at him standing there, and the boy could see the memories flashing through her mind. She picked up the pen, turned over the paper he'd written on, and this is what she wrote:

For the nine months I carried you while you were growing inside me: No Charge

For all the nights that I've sat up with you, doctored and prayed for you: No Charge

For all the trying times, and all the tears that you've caused through the years: No Charge

For all the nights that were filled with dread, and for the worries I knew were ahead: No Charge

For the toys, food, clothes, and even wiping your nose: No Charge

Son, when you add it up, the cost of my love is: No Charge.

When the boy finished reading what his mother had written, there were big tears in his eyes, and he looked straight at his mother and said,

"Mom, I sure do love you." And then he took the pen and in great big letters he wrote:

"PAID IN FULL".

Here are several letters we have received from many people from around the world,

expressing their appreciation for Street Church and the work that we do. I hope that

they bless you as much as they have blessed me. Many thanks to all those who have been

an encouragement and for all your prayers, you are greatly appreciated! I'm sure that everyone

of you will receive God's blessing for your faithfulness.

We are extremely proud of you, Street Church brothers!!! Keep it up! I just LOVE to be "UN-politically correct!!"

You're certainly aware that we're in the end times, and God has told us the truth about what'll happen ... It's HAPPENING!

So please receive our admiration for your wonderful and bold stance for the TRUTH!! Our Bible says they'll hate us as they hated Jesus ... so we're in good company!! Bless all of you!!

Love,

Laurie Whitcomb, one of your fans!

I have read this and I am so excited to see how God is working in Street Church, in knocking out all of the obstructions that are put in the way of God’s work by civil servants and governments. I will continue to pray for this church as I believe that they are God’s instrument in downtown Calgary to reach those who may not ever go to a regular church. We are getting closer and closer I feel to the end times and of course Satan is going to use whoever he can to fight his battles, even the City of Calgary and CRA, but Greater is He that is In Us than he that is in the world (to paraphrase a bit!)

In Christ

Dear brother and sisters in Christ: I will be praying for you here in Corinth. In Christ Victory is Yours!!!!!!!!!!!!

Maria
Corinthian Ministries
Corinth Greece

Well, brothers, persecution of God's faithful people has existed from the very beginning .. and has never really stopped! It's a high standard and a continuing trial He has for us ... like a fine sifting. We thank Him for Art and his Christlike perseverance, and Lawrence plus all the strong-willed and victorious (in God's eyes) believers with them!

Remember the martyrs' burnings and blood shed for the truth! The truth hasn't changed, and our battle hasn't lessened. It will get worse! So let's keep up the fight for the freedom of belief we're owed and the final victory of truth over the errors of a worldly, humanistic culture whom we desire to SAVE!! May God help us!!!

Bless you, Art and Lawrence! We're on the winning side!

Never give up!!

I'll be there Monday at 8:30!

Laurie Whitcomb

Hello Art -- I was just reading through the scriptures this afternoon, and the Lord impressed upon my heart a word for you, for your family and for Street Church from Proverbs 24:25 AMP:

"But to those [upright judges] who rebuke the wicked, it WILL go well with them and they WILL find delight, and a good blessing WILL be upon them." Amen.

He recognizes and will reward you for your faithfulness (full of faith) and for standing strong and TRUE in the face of great adversity and persecution. He is well pleased with you and WILL bring you through the storm to the 'other side' (Luke 8:22-25)!

Blessings, Gail Snyder

Thank you for the email to inform us of the current events. We wanted to encourage you.

As our governments makes their present decisions, rest assured that we have already made ours!

When true believers give their lives to Christ they commission themselves to follow the word daily and in doing so obey God rather than man in all areas of their lives, this includes the tithe. And what the CRA doesn't understand is that we give by obedience, not to get back 20-40%. Let them separate the sheep and the goats. We will become warriors!

Matthew

Mom And I Are So Much Joiful For The Victory That The Lord Gave Street Church On Court. And More Than That Over Satan!!!

Gloryfy Be The Name Of The Lord, Because He Is Faithful And He Defends His Children... I Do Not Have Words To Say, It Is Joi, And A Inecualable Feeling, That Comes From The Holy Spirit.

My Mother Is Full With Joi And When She Knew About What The Judge Said, She Shouted Of Happiness And It Was Really, Really A Miracle Of Good News!!!

God Bless You Artur Dear

Art and street church fammily

Greetings in his name Thank you so much for keeping me up to date with what the street church is doing glory to our Father in heaven for the victory in Him it has been ablessing to share the journey with you. Please pass my greetings on to all in street church that remember me and send my wishes for a very blessed Christmas and a very prosperous new year in the Lord

In Jesus's precious name
Kath from ManchesterArt,

So great to hear about your recent victory in the courts. God continues to show Himself strong in Street Church and in your life. I am encouraged more than ever by your efforts in Calgary.

Robert Moran

Colorado Springs, CO (USA)

Dear Art,

I could not contain my self with the joy of the Lord for his favour upon you and all the good fight he has called you. Congratulations and praise the Lord God for his love endures for ever.

Keep fighting the good fight and focus on him and only him. Give my love to your family, till I see you,

Mikal

God Bless You

Hey
Congratulation Art and Street Church members Praise God
I'm also happy for you guys and the ministry Please say hallo for me to all

Thanks

Gus

Halleluyah and Praise His Name. We are glad to see a Judge whom stands up for the truth as it should be.
City Officials think they can remove what they hate. But the Devil did not get the victory. Our Father in Heaven won the fight.
Now, I pray that they will not try to bother any more.

In His Service,

Apostle Dr. C.N. Turrell,Th.D.,D.D.,Ph.D
Presiding General Overseer/Founder/Pastor
Lighthouse Assembly
Apostolic Truth Ministries Worldwide

Praise the Lord. Its great, great great to be vindicated!!!! What a blessing the Lord gave you a reasonable judge. One who sounds like he must have a fear of the Lord!!! Blessed be the name of the Lord God Almighty.

Be Blessed Pastor

Walt Wawra

Greeting Art,

Praise God for His Faithfulness!

As the Christmas song, "I Heard The Bells" reminds us...

"And in despair I bowed my head for there is no peace on earth I said, for hate is strong and mocks the song of Peace on Earth, Goodwill to men. Then hear the bells more loud and deep,GOD is not Dead, nor does He sleep. The wrong shall fail, the right prevail with Peace on Earth, Goodwill to men. I can hear Your voice..."

It is good to see that God stills acts on behalf of His people!

Praise His name forever more!

Grace and Peace,

Steve

PRAISE GOD! This news has crowned this year as year of Victory for those that are resolute on the Kingdom.

May the Lord bless you for standing up and fighting this all the way!

Congratulations Brother Art!

I praise God with you and lift my voice in agreement to praise for His awesome power as shown in this decision! Hallelujah!

Marty

Dear Servant of God pastor Artur

I read into your exciting ministry website and was greatly touched and ministered to as i read through your mission. God bless you greatly for obeying his voice to minister this kind of healing to the body of Christ. You are really a vessel the lord uses to touch lives in the world. The new foundation you have really laid in lives is great,strong and powerful, God bless you for such big sacrifice.

We are writing to thank you for such good Job for Christ. We have never been ministered to the way your website did to us. Our lives have been transformed and new fires of evangelism lit in our hearts. Could you please pray with us a bout the possibility of coming in Kenya next year 2010 and minister the gospel to the lost in villages and markets and train pastors and church leaders for ministry . we can bring together more than 300 pastors and church leaders for your conference. Kindly Read in our website

http://newhopefellowshipchurch.weebly.com/ and you will discover what we do for Christ in Africa.

Please if you have some bibles and literature that can bless one grow spiritually, bless us with them

God bless you

Pastor Lucas and Jane obanda

New Hope Fellowship Church

You guys are awesome! Blessings Always in the Glory!!

Pastor Theresa Phillips

Hi Art;

Thanks very much for this letter. You've been on my mind lately. I interviewed you for CTS Television (Top Story) about 1 1/2 years ago. You're doing good work, Art; in fact, you're one of my heroes.

God bless you.

Sheila Rowe

Artur -

Not sure if you remember me, but Street Church helped me get home to my family. I needed to get back to Massachusetts USA, and the prayers and actions of many of the members of Street Church were instrumental in getting me home. I have fond memories of so many of you - you, David, Monty, Maurice, Steve, Irwin, Richard and so many others.

Now that I have returned home, I am in the process of assembling a faith based Web presence, and would love to help spread the message of Street Church to the world. Lighthouse Radio Network is a project of my company swainmedia, and seeks to bring a positive message to all who would listen. I feel that the world needs to see what can happen when the world rises up against the servants of the Lord. I have seen firsthand what yourself and others face to bring a hot meal and a vision of hope to those in need, and personally feel that this needs to be brought out on a massive scale.

Yours in service,

James Swain

You (and those helping) are doing an awesome job..I wish I could be with you helping...Maybe one day Ill be in the area and drop in...Keep it up!

Shalom Pastor Pawlowski, Praise His Name! For the work that you did there. It was a blessing to see what happened. And to hear what our Messiah can do.
When we have faith to believe, no matter what seems to be going on, our how hard the devil tries to stop it, we see the miracles happen. Have a blessed week.
And we still are praying for the ministry there. Your work is awesome!!!!keep it up!!!!!God Bless you n keep u!

Thank you so much for the update. Its wonderful the work u do. Keeping u in prayer.

Your sister in Christ

Susanne Ostrander

It is wonderful to hear what you are up to Artur. Keep up the great work for Jesus and his kingdom. You are storing up treasures in heaven Brother.

Be encouraged.

Gloria

Hi - glad to read about your faith and victories.

Alex Matheson

Shalom Pastor Pawloski, Thank you for a moving report. PRAISE HIS NAME! It was a joy in hearing how the Savior is moving in your behalf. And how you got the preach in the courtroom of all places. The devil, he may have thought he was getting you, but "greater is He that is in me, than he that is the world."
As I read what you have gone through and the blessing of what others had to tell, I was crying. (Not ashamed to say so.) and yes, rejoice in the Spirit (in tongues).

What a blessing.

I understand what is going on in Canada, with things going the way of the Homosexuals, and the way of the world. It is turning that way here in America, and with the person in office now. Mr. Obama, it will end up that way. We here and the Assembly and Organization do remember your ministry there in prayer. I am reminded that "if we have faith as a grain of mustard seed we shall see the mountains move."

Now, that you have BIG FAITH you will see things happen, and miracles happen, and I expect to see soon a report that you won all your cases. We service and awesome Messiah. Praise Him! ll I can say at this point, is LIFT YOUR HANDS AND GIVE HIM THE PRAISE.
In His Service,

Apostle Dr. C.N. Turrell,Th.D.,D.D.,Ph.D
General Overseer/Founder/Pastor
Apostolic Truth Ministries Worldwide

Exciting times, Art. May God be the Glory! Bless You,

Marg Bridges of Love Ministry

Thanks.

We will continue praying for you. Truly an eternal reward awaits you.

Zedekiah

Thank you so much Art!! I was so proud that I was part of lifting up the Name of Jesus!!

Netty

“Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.” Matthew 7:16-20

A brother in Christ was prayed for a man in a bus shelter who had a severely deformed knee. This man while being prayed for began to experience something of the anointing and began to get very excited and proclaim that God was real. He also explained how he had seen us under the bridge, but never believed in what we said, but now he believes. Although the mans leg didn’t completely recover he was still very excited about the improvement in his knee, and a few minutes later,as I watched him from a distance, I saw him trying to convince a young well-dressed man on crutches to go over to the ministry for prayer.

An African man called a volunteer over for prayer saying he had a sickness and pointed to his chest. The man looked very sick. As the man was prayed for he had a vision of a hand reaching down and pulling something black out of him. Immediately his face changed and looked healthy. He started to celebrate and tried to explain to his friend what happened and also seemed surprised that we also didn’t see the hand reach into him.

Another man was prayed for who had been hit by a truck and had other health issues as well. Immediately during prayer his weak body received strength and it was later confirmed by his doctor that something unnatural had happened that increased his healing. This man was so touched by the love of God that he began to share the gospel at the hospice where he was staying at, he wanted everyone to know how wonderful God is.

A wonderful testimony of how God has used Street Church to tick off the devil. Sometimes God moves in such a way that shocks us all. Early this year a young Japanese woman named Mihalu heard us worshipping and came over to listen. While there Louis a young on fire believer witnessed to her and asked if she would like to become a Christian by surrendering her life to Jesus, she joyfully made this decision and soon after was baptized in a bathtub at a prayer meeting, along with another young believer named Steve who was from Vietnam. These two new believers have been regularly serving at the street ministry and are being discipled and cared for in the faith. Both bearing fruit of genuine repentance and love for Christ and others as well as freedom from personal sins.

However Mihalu's story doesn't end here, recently there had been some interesting developments as it appeared that the Lord was drawing Mihalu and Louis together for marriage and by many many confirmations, dreams, visions and Word's from the Lord there was no doubt of God's plan for their lives.

It's amazing how God drew them together, Louis just a few years ago tried to commit suicide by drinking himself to death and now preaches to everyone he meets and Mihalu that came from Japan who now joins in the worship by singing and playing her violin, they are now joined together for the purposes of the Living God. They decided to pursue getting the paperwork together so that Mihalu could stay in Canada and marry Louis. However in this process the Lord took them by surprise and they actually were married in July. They are a beautiful couple who are joyfully serving the Lord together and they are totally sold out to Jesus, all glory be to God!

We just spoke to a young girl last Monday who told us that when she was sitting down at a park bench by Street Church, someone came to pray for her, she was pregnant and the doctors told her that her baby had down-syndrome and they tried to convince her to abort. After the prayers she decided to keep the child and when the baby was born the child came out perfectly healthy. This was another attempt by the Devil to destroy another precious gift which every life is. Praise God that He intervened in this woman's life. No matter what never give up, God is able to turn around any bad circumstance!

Last Sunday we had the privilege of baptizing two young believers, a brother and a sister, at Prirnces Island Park, Anna Maria age 9 and Juan David age 14. What a beautiful sight, as we went down to the river there were two beautiful flowers floating on the surface of the water right where they were going to be baptized, symbolizing the two young lives as a beautiful offering to Jesus. And if this wasn't enough for our joy to be complete, the Lord blessed us with a mother duck and her seven little ducklings to witness this great event. It seems that when we were singing the song I have decided to follow Jesus they came over to join us, I asked if they would like to get baptized too but they swam off, perhaps next time.

I recently met a man who shared his testimony with me, God is the God of healing and deliverance! This man shared with me that he had tried to live a normal life with a wife and children, his marriage ended terribly as he felt that he was a woman and he got a full sex change. Although he thought that this would finally make him feel fulfilled and happy that was not the case, he still felt like something was missing in his life. Through the years he remembered the scriptures from the Bible that he learned when he was a teenager, that no matter what you are doing and how low you can get that Jesus can lift you up and set you free. So he cried out to this Jesus and was miraculously born again by the Spirit of God. He is a walking testimony of the forgiveness and love of God to a broken world. This man was rescued from the very flames of hell, delivered from the lies of the Devil.

It states in Romans 1:18-21,26-28 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness, because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, Without understanding, covenant breakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.

No one can deny that there is a God because creation declares that He exists so that mankind is without excuse, and because they foolishly deny Him, He gave them over to those things that their own foolish hearts desired, it is clearly shown in Romans chapter one that homosexuality along with all other unrighteousness is a direct result of rejecting God and knowing in their hearts that it is wrong and that they will face judgement because of it.

Today this precious brother is preaching the truth, he is a teacher and has his own Bible study and is teaching twice a week about the truth of God. He has gone back to attend the church that once welcomed him as a homosexual, and is now preaching the truth that homosexuality is wrong and sinful and that God hates it. He is telling everyone that God can set people free from any bondage, what a powerful living testimony, that with God it's never too late, and even though this man went through a full sex change surgery he is proclaiming that what the enemy meant for evil God turns around for good, to set the captives free. He needs our prayers of support as he will undoubtedly face adversity because of his stand. May the Lord use him to rescue many more souls from the flames of hell.

There is no place too dark, no place too low for God to reach down and lift anyone who will cry out for God's mercy and His forgiveness. According to the scripture "Whoever will call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

We are all aware of the growing problem of homelessness and also poverty issues facing our province. For the past eight years, we have been working with Calgary's disadvantaged population facing temporary or permanent difficulties, with necessities of life and shelter. During those years, we have worked, face to face, on a day to day basis assisting, working along side those facing the most difficult times in their lives. Poverty issues are extremely complex. As you are aware, some contributions are alcohol and drug abuse, domestic violence, but also personal tragedies. We understand, after working all this time with them, that there are no easy solutions, but we have come to recognize that the number one key element is the restoration of these people's hope. Mix that together with necessities of life, such as food, clothes and shelter, we have seen enormous success in assisting many and restoring them to contributing citizens.

For years, seven times a week, four times, right on the streets of Calgary, we are providing those citizens with the message of hope and love through Jesus Christ. Presently, we provide necessities of life to thousands on a regular basis (hundred and fifty thousand meals per year), not only homeless people, but also struggling families, widows, single moms with kids, etc. In a difficult economical situation it can get very difficult just to supply their basic needs. In the recent economical recession, we experienced countless situations where people came for short term support. Those experiences brought forth an idea for a self sufficient farm. Here is the outline of what we are proposing:

160-320 acres of land dedicated to food production with a goal of also training volunteers how to farm, take care of animals, a place that would teach the homless life skills such as working hard, contributing, being reliable, being part of a team, and also to provide a safe environment away from drugs, pushers, alcohol and overall, bad company.

Here is how we see this vision working.

• We would build dorms for about a hundred to a hundred and fifty homeless

• We would acquire animals such as cows, chickens, ducks, pigs, goats, etc

• On a portion of the farm we would grow grain, and various greens

• This project would be completely off the grid and be powered and sustained using green renewable energy (solar power, wind power, solar heating, geothermal heating, water well, etc)

• Would also have pet animals such as dogs, cats, horses, etc, and would like to have a healing retreat for families that are experiencing poverty, we know that spending time in nature and with animals in itself has beneficial effects on people's hearts and minds

You have to remember that the key to success is to change their mindset and their point of view, and to let them know that their tomorrow can truly look different from today. To achieve that, you have to provide a safe and secure environment, and a farm with animals would do just that.

The goal would be to teach people various skills such as taking care of animals, growing food, working with wood – carving and building. We would first start with a few who would help build the farm. That way, at the same time, we can train some of the homeless people carpentry, plumbing, etc. One of our founding members was a home builder for many years and personally was responsible for renovations and building houses, apartments, malls, etc.

The most important benefit for the province would be that in the hard times, when food supplies are reduced, our working farm would not need to rely on government food sources in order to continue to address the needs of the homeless. This way, in the long run, the province of Alberta would save millions of dollars in expenses.

Think about it, a self-sufficient farm that is literally able to feed thousands of people with out needing to dip into a hurting provinces pockets in during a time of economic crisis. This is a plan to proactively prepare for the worst before it happens. In a few years, we would be able to have this farm fully operational and next time recession hits we will be well prepared and in place to serve needs.

During those years working on the streets, we learned that when people are desperate and hungry, they are more violent, more unlikely to co-operate with authorities, they are sick more often, which adds to an already struggling health care system, and they often turn to more drugs and alcohol in order to cope with their condition. Psychologically and physically, people that are well fed are recovering quicker and are more likely to become contributors to a healthy society rather than a draw on it. People that are underfed, experience a harder time in finding and keeping a job. Our ultimate goal is to keep feeding all those that slip through the cracks in the system which is currently in place, and when the time comes, to be able to save as many people as possible without any additional burden to the taxpayer.

The project will be supervised by a professional builder and all building codes would be adhered to. There will be a few core families that will be permanent residents who will oversee the entire project and act as leaders to the underprivileged. Of course, one primary goal is not only to provide necessities of life and to give them new skills but to rehabilitate them and reintegrate them back into society. With relation to this aspect, the ministry has already demonstrated that it is very successful, with countless testimonies of changed lives.

We would be very interested in working with interested parties to ensure that this project goes forward and succeeds.

God Bless you in the Name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth,

Artur Pawlowski

On Behalf of Street Church Ministries

www.streetchurch.ca

Comments from different news:

It is pretty clear that Pastor Pawlowski and others who aid the city's poor are being targeted and marginalized by our governments. Just look at the crazy waste of money spent on re-routing roads around the Drop-in Shelter as a way to make the operation there difficult if not impossible.

Rather than launch these indirect attacks against the poor, the city would be far better off to direct the money spent on road demolition and construction and the administrative effort in designing punitive by-laws towards improved services for the city's poorest citizens.

We are not all oil and gas executives driving our Porsches to and from Mount Royal. Calgary needs to accommodate all of its citizens; the rich and the poor. How we treat our weakest neighbours says far more about us than how we treat the rich, famous and successful. What dignity do we give to those who struggle today? What help do we off to those struggling to survive? Do we extend a hand of help to our brother to help him up, or do we kick him when he's down?

I've seen Pastor Pawlowski's street ministry in action. By feeding and speaking to hundreds of needy people every week this man is on the front-line of the struggle to make Calgary a better place. As in any war the front line is the grittiest, dirtiest and most nasty place you'd ever want to be. The soldiers who fight there to make the world a better place count on those behind them to support them with adequate supplies, moral support and certainly no 'friendly fire'.

Unfortunately Pastor Pawlowski has been fighting a long battle with little or no home front support and the occasional shot from behind by a sniper who overlooks the front-line.

Most unfortunate the harassment that the Street Church has faced for trying to help the very people the City should be helping.

Sure, they are outspoken. That's their freedom, right? If you don't want to listen, don't.

That is how the anti-Christian left respond to those who don't like seeing the brutal violence and adulterous sex on the TV, so why can't it work here? Oh, right: Christians are supposed to be silent and compliant in their own little houses of worship. Well, their Bible tells them to serve and speak out.

Sad to see how the City's (province's and country's officials) want to govern everything and turn us into a pansy nanny-state.

Good for Pawlowski, he has my 100% support. The previous mayor, I believe, brought in a similar law that you had to have a permit to protest in front of City Hall. If I remember correctly he allegedly wanted to stop protests against the Premier of China who was visiting Calgary, or perhaps it goes back even further to the days of the Winter Olympics in Calgary (1988).

Anyway it is clearly a violation of Canada' Charter of Rights and Freedoms. As for the noise there is already a noise bylaw. If only Pawlowski would take on the University of Calgary where student protestors were arrested last year. The University lost in court.

It seems as though the baby boomers fought for their rights but now they deny others' rights and their talk of transparency in government means more secrecy. Governments violating human rights is probably the worst problem in the world today. In the last century they sterilized millions of mentally challenged people because science did not understand genetics correctly.

Now they do not understand climate correctly. There is always a need to protect the right to protest

The City and the police department should be sued for defamation of this man and a waste of tax dollars... Hopefully if there is a god he has already made plans for them at a later date...

Congratulations Art Pawlowski with the help of Provincial court Judge Allan Fradsham you cleared the way for other free speech challenges coming soon to a court near you. Buskers everywhere will thank you

Anyone who chooses to give of themselves in an unselfish manner to feed the hungry will forever have my undying admiration.

In your circle you are doing Gods work, in my circle you are doing a humanitarians work, either way you are fighting the good fight.

HATS OFF!!!

-This is what it means to live in a free country.

This wouldn't even be an issue if this guy were promoting such topics as "global warming", "save the whales", etc. What irks people is that he's preaching the gospel, that's the real issue! Freedom of speech for everyone unless, of course, you're quoting the Bible, then you're considered intolerant.

Not reported in the CBC article is this....."In his ruling, Fradsham noted he is concerned by the actions of some city officials, saying their behaviours "fall precariously close to being excessive and . . . An abuse of power."

Yes, indeed. The City Bylaw people on many occasions do abuse their power. They are bordering on brownshirts. The entire legal and bylaw department at the City needs a good swift kick in the ass.

-More Christian leaders need to show 1/10th the courage this man has.

It's time for Christians to stop apologizing or defending our right to publicly be Christians. We're here, we preach, get over it.

-What I find interesting is the ME, ME, ME attitude from the majority of posters.

Try looking at it from this perspective, you actually have three choices;

1) Continue to complain about a man who stands as a single advocate for the homeless and hungry simply because in your minds he is annoying and you have a right to your peace.

2) Complain about the homeless and hungry living on your streets and the insecurity it instills in you.

3) Help the man help the homeless and hungry and watch both leave your neighborhood contented.

I don't know about you but the last choice seems awfully close to a win,win, win, but than again it may be just too logical for the masses.

I'm glad he won. I don't think it should be necessary to get a permit to speak in public, to FEED another human being in public, etc. This is a free country - far freer than most - and he is doing no harm. I'm not a religious person, but if he wants to spread the Word and all that he is free to do so. And he is doing a few good deeds as well. He is causing no demonstrable harm, and is in fact helping people. Why the heck not?

And remember, this story isn't really about Pawlowski and his activities; it is about ALL of us, our freedom to do as we please in a free society. I hope he keeps beating those tickets because it means we are ALL freer.

And some people are offended by that and would like some peace and quiet”

You do not have the right not to be offended – nowhere in our constitution does it say this. We are talking about public property – if something offends you then you have the right to go somewhere else. If people are trespassing on your private property then that is an entirely different matter but that was never the case with Pawlowski.

I empathize with most of the people on this message board – the street preachers can get annoying, but that annoyance is the price of liberty.

I applaud this decision not because I necessarily agree with anything Pawlowski preaches, but because this is a victory for my own rights. I urge caution to those of you who would sell your rights in exchange for “peace and quite”…

I agree with the judge on this on. The city is like the big bully in the school field that want everything it's own way. I find it hypocritical that the city would do crap like this to this preacher dude trying to bring a bit of cheer to the down and out and bronco and his minions try to shut down his rights by going through the courts but when it comes to the city following it's own bylaws,well they fill the don't have to.

Go ahead and waste more taxpayers dollars on the one person and hopefully the judge will say the same thing and kick the city and his lawyer out of the court. But it seems the city likes to bully the small folks. Would it not be funny if the small guys started suing bronco and the city for every trivial matter. E.g.; unshovelled city walks,accidents due to poor street cleaning,broken contracts,anything the city does wrong there should be a lawsuit,the maybe with a bit of humble pie these idiots in city hall will smarten up and do their real jobs and not pick on the down and out.

Just a thought as I am writing this. Is it me or does it seem like the politicians in this city and province like to pick on the down and out. Spineless politicians they are

In today's Calgary Herald newspaper Provincial court Judge Allan Fradsham rules in favour of free speech.
Judge Fradsham sends a warning to municipal officials that they are precariously close to being excessive and . . . An abuse of power." Why does this not surprise me? Because it is happening right here in Nanaimo BC Canada with buskers, the only difference is the word preacher instead of busker.
Church preacher Art Pawlowski won his case in court on 7 charges of noise violations.
It all comes back to Federal law vs. Municipal law, todays court ruling will only help the buskers in Nanaimo BC Canada in their upcoming court case where the city of Nanaimo may have exeeded their legislative athority by placing a court injunction against a family of buskers for protesting a bylaw which appears to be unconstitutional.

It's appalling how far municipalities will go to stop free speech or freedom of expression for their own gains (Elliminate street entertainers) with court injunctions. I want to congratulate preacher Art Pawlowski on his victory for free speech, He just made things so much easier for the upcoming court case in Nanaimo BC Canada.

I strongly believe that the courts must send a clear message to our municipal governments that taking away someone's rights under the Canadian charter of rights and freedoms is not acceptable in todays society.
May I also suggest that the courts hit our municipal law makers hard in the pocket-book so they will think twice about an error in judgement when making decisions in the future relating to busking or any other issue that violates the Canadian charter of rights and freedoms. Here is the story in the Calgary Herald newspaper,

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Equal rights not extra rights Exactly. Now let's get rid of parking restricitions after all YOU bought near a popular location. Let's enforce the peace and tranquility on Christmas Day, New Years, every day related to the Stampeders and Flames. We should also shutdown that nuisance Stampede. While we're at it let's be rid of subsidies for public transit. Buses and the LRT are noisey and expensive. I never use them and I am tired of paying for them. So, let's all cheer EQUAL RIGHTS NOT EXTRA RIGHTS..........

 

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Everyone should have the right to free speech. This is protected by the constitution, hence that's why we live in a representative democracy.

Free speech is allowed though if it doesn't mean breaking other laws while expressing your views or ideas.

City may be a little heavy handed with all the infractions, but they have a point. Don't litter and shout in people's faces. That's not cool.

Preacher should have the right to preach in a public place. If the preaching is loud, too bad. If you live by a public place, expect to hear some noise during reasoable hours.

 

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When Jesus preached he used loud speakers to get his message out. Are you people against Pawlowski's use of a loud speaker saying you would have stopped Jesus as well? Freedom of speech and freedom of religion should never be subject to comprise. If Pawlowski's followers are actually harassing people that is a different story. But noise isn't harassment. If it was 95% of the things going in this city would be illegal.

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Freedom of Expression and Religion.....

The street preacher Mr. Pawlowski is helpful to the homeless people of Calgary, but to the rest of the churches I would have to say.....

O' ye of little faith, and big business....


Other than That
Keep on preaching, Mr. Pawlowski

Would those who are intolerant of Christians, (in this case, Art Pawlowski) and the message they bear think any differently if the individual in question was Muslim, preaching from the Koran? I bet those mentioned above would be extolling the Muslim's right of freedom of speech, and religious expression.

So this guy is loud and obnoxious...he actually does good things for people in need so perhaps we should just cut him some slack.

There's a lot of people in Calgary who make a lot of noise, and behave in an obnoxious manner and they're not ticketed, not charged with an offence, and yet they don't have the redemption of doing something good for people in need to justify the rest of us having to endure their behavior.

Okay, you want to charge this guy for being loud and obnoxious...great...now lemme point you at my neighbor with the fat-piped diesel 4x4 and the super loud sound system blarin' curse-filled music as an appropriate target for the next round of enforcement harassment...and, as far as anyone can tell, he ain't helpin' anyone in need unless you count the sales clerk at the local "big toys for big boys"-store.

Once again, a bid to silence the Christians. The bible has commanded us to teach the unchurched about Christ as well as to take care of the poor and Artur Pawlowski has done a wonderful job of doing that. I recall from past parades seeing many floats representing other religions, so why is the Street Church's float being denied? Probably because people aren't afraid of other religions, just the one that speaks the truth! Keep up the good fight Artur!

Had this been the Calgary Islamic Society, we would have had Muslims coming out of the woodwork protesting.

For a minute I thought that China had taken over.

It also reveals this city's municipal government to be much to bold. People need to be concerned when any government attempts to pass bills of this nature.

I wonder if our Mayor has ever heard of Voltaire,

"I do not believe in a word you say, but I will defend unto death your right to say it."

Though I have no true religious affiliations or fervour I do believe in the wisdom of Voltaire's words. Every citizen has the right to speak there mind wherever they want

I'd love Bill Bruce to do something about the police helicopters that continually keep me awake most nights by hovering over my area for hours at a time. I thought those things were supposed to be efficient in capturing criminals? The preacher is at least trying to help people and I doubt he annoys too many people. Honestly, how many people even go to that area?

“They who can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety, deserve neither liberty nor safety,” said Benjamin Franklin in 1775.

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