text:
Effective November 30, 2009 |
Changes from November 13 FAQs
Borrower Eligibility
Collateral Eligibility Haircuts and Rates
Operational Mechanics
Risk Management and Compliance Why is the Federal Reserve establishing the TALF? How will the TALF work? Over what time period will the TALF operate? Where should questions regarding the TALF be directed? How may I receive updates regarding changes to TALF documents? What is the legal basis for the TALF? Is there a unique regulatory capital treatment for TALF-financed ABS held by a depository institution or bank holding company? What executive compensation restrictions will apply to sponsors, underwriters and borrowers under the TALF program? How does the Employ American Workers Act (EAWA) provision related to hiring new employees who are in H-1B nonimmigrant status apply to borrowers for purposes of the TALF? Who may borrow under the TALF? What are the expectations for a TALF borrower to be in a position to monitor its status as an eligible borrower? How can the ownership or management of a borrower that is a publicly traded entity or is controlled or managed by a publicly traded entity be adequately monitored by the borrower and the TALF Agent to ensure such borrower is an eligible borrower under TALF? To the extent an entity that controls or manages a borrower, or any Material Investors of such entity, has issued publicly traded securities but is not subject to the ownership disclosure requirements under the Exchange Act (e.g., a publicly traded foreign company), such publicly traded entity would have to be escalated to the New York Fed with adequate information to determine whether ownership could be reasonably monitored under such disclosure regime. Borrowers and TALF Agents should remain aware that if it is determined, whether through disclosure under Rule 13d-1 or otherwise, that a borrower, or an investment manager that manages such borrower, is at any time controlled by a foreign government then such borrower will no longer be an eligible borrower. This will result in a Collateral Enforcement Event and, pursuant to the MLSA, the non-recourse provisions of the MLSA shall not apply. What types of business entities and institutions may borrow from the TALF? Is the TALF designed to provide loans directly to businesses or consumers? How is "controlled" defined for purposes of determining eligible borrowers and the applicability of the EAWA? What types of investment funds are eligible borrowers? Example What is an "investment fund" for purposes of the TALF eligible borrower definition? To be considered an eligible borrower, does an investment fund need to primarily or exclusively invest in TALF eligible ABS or can it be a multi-strategy fund? Can a newly formed investment fund borrow from the TALF? Can a fund established pursuant to the Legacy Securities Public-Private Investment Program be an eligible borrower under TALF? What types of ABS are eligible collateral under the TALF? The underlying credit exposures must not include exposures that are themselves cash ABS or synthetic ABS. Eligible ABS must be cleared through the Depository Trust Company. Eligible ABS must be issued on or after January 1, 2009, except for SBA Pool Certificates or Development Company Participation Certificates, which must be issued on or after January 1, 2008 and commercial mortgage pass-through securities which must have been issued before January 1, 2009 (legacy CMBS). Any ABS that are not legacy CMBS are referred to as "newly issued ABS". Further eligibility requirements for each category of ABS are provided in the TALF Terms and Conditions and the FAQs. Can a company that originates loans securitize them, acquire the AAA-rated tranche of the securitization, and finance it using the TALF? A borrower, however, is not restricted from using an SBA Pool Certificate or Development Company Participation Certificate as collateral for its TALF loan even if the underlying loans backing the SBA ABS were originated by such borrower or its affiliates, provided that the borrower has no knowledge that the loans were originated by it or its affiliates. A borrower, in all cases, is not permitted to collateralize a TALF loan with ABS that was securitized by the borrower or by an affiliate of the borrower. How is "affiliate of the borrower" defined for purposes of determining eligible collateral? Can a borrower under a commercial mortgage loan that backs a CMBS, or an affiliate of such a borrower, borrow from the TALF and pledge the same CMBS as collateral? Can a borrower under a floorplan loan or a lessee under a fleet lease that backs an ABS, or an affiliate of such a borrower or lessee, borrow from the TALF and pledge the same ABS as collateral? Can a manufacturer, producer or seller of a product, or the provider of a service, the sale, provision or lease of which is financed by the loans or leases in a pool supporting an ABS, borrow from the TALF and pledge the same ABS as collateral? May investors borrow against ABS they already own? Is there a minimum or maximum maturity limit for ABS that can collateralize TALF loans? Are zero coupon ABSs eligible as collateral for the TALF? Are privately placed ABS eligible collateral for a TALF loan, provided they meet all of the eligibility requirements? Would ABS be eligible collateral if the ABS issuance provides for prefunding or the retention of issuance proceeds in anticipation of application thereof to the purchase of additional receivables? If the issuer of an ABS has an option to redeem such ABS prior to the maturity date (other than pursuant to a customary clean-up call), is the ABS eligible to secure a TALF loan? A sponsor or an issuer interested in issuing a TALF-eligible servicing advance ABS with a redemption option (other than pursuant to a customary clean-up call) should contact the New York Fed via the TALF mailbox (email@example.com, placing "redemption option" in the subject line) as soon as possible to get information on the New York Fed's requirements. A sponsor or an issuer must provide the New York Fed with the relevant documents, including the relevant contractual provisions that will apply to the redemption option, at least three weeks prior to the relevant subscription date. However, depending on the volume of proposals, the New York Fed may not be able to complete its review in time for the relevant subscription date. If on or prior to August 6, 2009, the New York Fed accepted a redemption option for ABS that are not backed by eligible servicing advance receivables or a redemption option that is exercisable below par, is the ABS eligible to secure a TALF loan? What types of non-mortgage-backed ABS are eligible collateral under the TALF? On what basis will the New York Fed decide whether or not to accept a non-mortgage-backed ABS?
The New York Fed may accept an ABS upon changes to areas of concern identified by the New York Fed. The New York Fed may utilize the services of one or more collateral monitors in connection with the review of non-mortgage-backed ABS. For further information, see the FAQs under "Collateral Monitors and Other Agents" below. What information will issuers be required to deliver to the New York Fed in connection with its risk assessment? In addition, a proposed TALF-eligible ABS will only be reviewed by the New York Fed if the sponsor or issuer has provided a written waiver or consent in a form acceptable to the New York Fed to every NRSRO to which such sponsor or issuer provided data on the ABS or its underlying exposures permitting such NRSRO to share its view of the credit quality of the ABS and its underlying exposures with the New York Fed, and a copy of such written waiver or consent is also delivered to the New York Fed via email@example.com no later than 5 p.m. (New York time) three weeks in advance of the applicable subscription date (except that, for the applicable January subscription date, such written waiver or consent must be provided no later than 5 p.m. (New York time) at least four weeks in advance). The requirement that an issuer provide such written waiver or consent applies regardless of whether any such NRSRO is a TALF-eligible rating agency or whether such NRSRO actually issues a rating on the ABS. What is "data" provided to the NRSROs for purposes of the delivery requirement specified in the FAQ above? What is "additional data" provided to the NRSROs for purposes of the delivery requirement specified in the FAQ above? Does "data" provided to the NRSROs include oral communications? Does "data" provided to the NRSROs include emails? What communications should issuers expect to receive during the risk assessment process? Will ABS that have previously been pledged as TALF-eligible collateral be required to satisfy the same risk assessment? As of October 5, 2009, all non-mortgage-backed ABS that have previously been pledged as TALF-eligible collateral and that otherwise continue to satisfy all collateral eligibility requirements (e.g., no ratings downgrade and not on negative watch) would satisfy the New York Fed's risk assessment requirements. This statement is not an assurance that such ABS will be acceptable collateral as of any future date. If the acceptability of such ABS changes from time to time, based on the New York Fed's continuing risk assessment, the New York Fed expects to publish such changes, but a failure to so publish is not a guarantee of acceptability. In all cases, the determination that an ABS meets the eligibility requirements of the TALF program continues to be the responsibility of the borrower and the TALF agent. ELIGIBLE RECEIVABLES FOR NON-MORTGAGE-BACKED ABS What types of non-mortgage receivables are TALF eligible? Can the 5 percent limitation for ABL and AR receivables and for car and light truck receivables included in non-auto floorplan ABS and the 5 percent limitation on receivables other than cars, light trucks, and motorcycles for auto floorplan ABS be achieved through a requirement that such receivables in excess of 5 percent be effectively treated as having a balance and value of zero or not treated as eligible receivables in the floorplan ABS transaction documents? In connection with floorplan ABS, may ineligible receivables from a dealer be transferred to the issuer along with the dealer's eligible receivables for ease of administration by the servicer? Are both operating and financing leases acceptable underlying receivables? Are servicing advance receivables relating to commercial real estate eligible collateral? What does "all or substantially all" mean in the context of determining whether the credit exposures underlying an ABS are originated by U.S.-organized entities or institutions or U.S. branches or agencies of foreign banks and are made to U.S.-domiciled obligors or with respect to real property located in the United States or one of its territories? Do U.S.-domiciled obligors in the TALF terms and conditions include those who are domiciled in a U.S. political subdivision or territory? What does "all or substantially all" mean in the context of determining whether the credit exposures underlying an ABS meet the date of origination criteria? How are subprime versus prime defined for auto loan, auto lease, and credit card ABS? How will a borrower know if an ABS is considered prime or subprime? Do CMBS (e.g., ClassA-2) that receive principal later than the other most senior CMBS classes (e.g., ClassA-1) but are otherwise pari passu with such other senior CMBS, qualify for TALF financing? What types of newly issued CMBS are eligible collateral under TALF?
The New York Fed may accept the pool upon changes in the collateral composition or level of credit support. The New York Fed will utilize the services of one or more agents in connection with the review of newly issued CMBS and the loan pools that back them. For further information, see the FAQs under "Collateral Monitors and Other Agents" below. Will the New York Fed provide issuers of newly issued CMBS a good faith indication of whether a proposed transaction is likely to satisfy its risk assessment process? Who will determine the timing of appraisals for purposes of calculating "appraisal reduction amounts" for newly issued CMBS collateral? Does the requirement that all mortgage loans be fixed-rate loans preclude a one-time adjustment of the interest rate on a mortgage loan before the CMBS is issued? What types of legacy CMBS are eligible collateral under TALF?
The New York Fed will utilize the services of one or more agents in connection with the review of legacy CMBS and the loan pools that back them.For further information, see the FAQs under "Collateral Monitors and Other Agents" below. In addition to the price validation process will the New York Fed perform a valuation of legacy CMBS in deciding whether to fund a TALF loan? For purposes of determining the loan amount to fund a TALF loan secured by a legacy CMBS loan, what is the method to determine the applicable price? The New York Fed, with the assistance of one or more of its agents, will determine the market price of the legacy CMBS as of subscription date on the basis of information provided by pricing services, unless that information is determined by the New York Fed and its agents not to be representative of market conditions prevailing at that time. If the pricing information with respect to legacy CMBS is not available or if the pricing information is determined not to be representative of market conditions, then the New York Fed, through its agents, will use its reasonable efforts to secure price quotations from at least three broker-dealers and the market price will be the arithmetic average of the broker quotations received. If the New York Fed and its agents are unable to obtain these quotations or it is determined that one or more of the quotations may not accurately reflect the market price of such legacy CMBS, then the market price will be determined by the New York Fed and its agents. Which nationally recognized statistical rating organizations (NRSROs) are eligible rating agencies under the TALF? For CMBS, the TALF CMBS-Eligible rating agencies are DBRS, Inc., Fitch Ratings, Moody's Investors Service, Realpoint LLC and Standard & Poor's. The Federal Reserve will periodically review its use of NRSROs for the purpose of determining TALF-eligible ABS. What happens if an ABS that was eligible for TALF financing is downgraded by an NRSRO? Are ABS that are rated in the highest investment grade rating category but are on review or watch for downgrade TALF eligible? Are AAA credit ratings achieved using a third-party guarantee applicable for TALF eligibility? When must the final credit rating letters for newly issued ABS be received by the New York Fed? For ABS backed by SBA loans, are explicit credit ratings required? ISSUER CERTIFICATIONS, AUDITOR ASSURANCES AND SBA DOCUMENTATION FOR NEWLY ISSUED ABS What information must the issuer and sponsor include in the prospectus or other offering document of a newly issued non-SBA ABS in order to represent that the ABS is eligible collateral for a TALF loan? Such indemnity undertaking shall be delivered to the New York Fed in the case of non-mortgage-backed ABS, no later than four business days prior to the TALF loan settlement date, and in the case of newly issued CMBS, no later than five business days prior to the TALF loan settlement date. The form of certification and indemnity for non-mortgage-backed ABS is available here. The form of certification and indemnity for newly issued CMBS is available here. What entity is the "issuer" that must sign the Issuer Certification? What documentation is required for SBA 7(a) Pool Certificates and 504 Development Company Participation Certificates? With respect to SBA 504 Development Company Participation Certificates, no issuer certification, indemnity or undertaking is required. However, offering documents that contain either the security's weighted average life or includes a supplement disclosing the security's weighted average life must be delivered to the New York Fed's custodian for the TALF program on subscription day.If the CUSIP number corresponds to a new issuance, the offering document(s) submitted on subscription date may be preliminary, but the final offering document(s) must be provided to the custodian no later than 12 p.m. (New York time) three business days prior to the applicable TALF loan settlement date. What entity is the "sponsor" that must sign the Issuer Certification and the Indemnity Undertaking? What information relating to TALF eligible SBA ABS will be available from the SBA? What level of assurance will be required from the sponsor's accountants that a non-mortgage-backed ABS is TALF eligible? What level of assurance will be required from the sponsor's accountants in connection with a newly issued CMBS? Why are there no loan origination date restrictions for credit card ABS, floorplan ABS, premium finance ABS, and auto ABS issued to refinance a maturing ABS issued out of a master trust? How is the date of origination of a credit exposure underlying an ABS determined in the case of revolving extension of credit arrangements? Does the requirement that eligible floorplan, credit card, premium finance, and auto ABS (issued by a master trust) be issued to refinance existing ABS maturing in 2009 or the first quarter of 2010 apply at the individual master trust level or at the sponsor level? How are variable funding notes (VFNs) with commitment termination dates in 2009 or the first quarter of 2010 treated in the calculation of the amount of a sponsor's credit card, floorplan, premium finance, or auto ABS (issued by a master trust) maturing in 2009 or the first quarter of 2010? How are VFNs that (1) had commitment termination dates prior to 2009 and (2) have controlled amortization periods in 2009 or the first quarter of 2010 treated in the calculation of the amount of a sponsor's credit card, floorplan, premium finance, or auto ABS (issued by a master trust) maturing in 2009 or the first quarter of 2010? For a VFN with a commitment termination date after the first quarter of 2010, (1) if a collateral or other event causes the revolving period of the VFN to end in 2009 or the first quarter of 2010, or (2) if the VFN is amended to move its commitment termination date to 2009 or the first quarter of 2010, will the maximum contractual principal balance of the VFN be included in the calculation of the amount of credit card, floorplan, premium finance, or auto ABS (issued by a master trust) maturing in 2009 or the first quarter of 2010? For non-VFN ABS with controlled amortization periods, what amount counts toward a sponsor's limit? Do ABS in controlled accumulation periods with bullet maturities after the first quarter of 2010 count toward a sponsor's limit? Must eligible ABS that refinance maturing ABS issued by a master trust be issued concurrently with the maturing ABS? To what values will the haircuts be applied to determine the maximum loan amount? What is the haircut schedule for each ABS asset type?
For ABS benefitting from a substantial government guarantee with average lives of five years and beyond, haircuts will increase by one percentage point for every two additional years (or portion thereof) of average life at or beyond five years. For all other ABS with average lives of five years and beyond, haircuts will increase by one percentage point for each additional year (or portion thereof) of average life at or beyond five years. How will the par-based haircuts be applied to the current prices of the legacy CMBS?
Will the haircuts be the same for all borrowers for the same assets? How is average life defined?
Where will a newly issued ABS security's average life be published? What interest rates are offered under the TALF?
How are the interest rates on TALF loans determined? How does an entity participate in the TALF program? Are there collateral monitors or other agents that the New York Fed has selected to assist in the review of proposed or actual TALF loan collateral or provide other services with respect to such collateral? The collateral monitors and other agents will not establish policies or make decisions for the New York Fed, including decisions whether to reject a CMBS as collateral for a TALF loan or exclude loans from mortgage pools. Do issuers need to publish a final ("black") prospectus by the subscription date, or can borrowers subscribe for a loan based on the preliminary ("red") prospectus, and deliver the final prospectus at a later date? What is the date upon which the New York Fed will set the initial benchmark rates for a TALF subscription? What is the TALF process from subscription to settlement? Do the representations by the TALF borrower required under Sections 10.1(e)(vi)(3) and (5) of the MLSA prohibit the TALF borrower from financing a legacy CMBS from the time of settlement of such CMBS until the time of the closing of the TALF loan relating to such legacy CMBS? How does a borrower know that its loan request will be funded? The New York Fed will not be providing any indications that any legacy CMBS has satisfied its risk assessment prior to a loan request being made. To enhance certainty of TALF financing with respect to the question of borrower eligibility, the New York Fed has developed procedures for pre-certification of certain classes of borrowers. The pre-certification policy is available in the Term Asset-Backed Securities Loan Facility Pre-Certification Process document. Note: the pre-certification process will not in any way exempt a TALF Agent from its responsibility to determine borrower eligibility or from conducting its KYC obligations with respect to any potential TALF borrower as required by applicable laws and regulations and the TALF Borrower Eligibility and New York Fed Due Diligence Policy. Will the New York Fed publish the list of accepted and rejected CUSIPs after legacy CMBS subscriptions? The list of CUSIPS can be found here. The list of rejected CUSIPs does not include any legacy CMBS identified in a loan request that may have been rejected due to the failure to properly complete a TALF loan request form, the failure to provide a sales confirmation that meets the requirements of the MLSA, borrower ineligibility, or the New York Fed's assessment of the reasonableness of the secondary market transaction price. If a borrower is deemed ineligible between the subscription date and the settlement date and the TALF Agent is also a primary dealer, Primary Dealer list, such primary dealer/TALF Agent may alternatively borrow from the Primary Dealer Credit Facility (PDCF) using the underwritten securities as collateral subject to the existing terms and conditions for PDCF borrowing. What is the maturity of a TALF loan? Assume the following: In this example, the amount of net carry diverted to early TALF loan prepayment is $11,5072.
What happens if a borrower does not repay its loan? What measures have been put in place to protect the TALF against credit losses and fraud? In addition, except for SBA Pool Certificates or Development Company Participation Certificates and legacy CMBS, an ABS issuer and sponsor must provide a certification in connection with the prospectus or offering document that the ABS is TALF eligible, and that the issuer has not made any untrue statements of material fact to an NRSRO to obtain the credit rating of the ABS. If the collateral is found to be ineligible, the New York Fed has the right of indemnity against the sponsor in the event damages are suffered in relation to the collateral and further remedy is available if there is evidence of fraudulent activity. Additionally, if a borrower who has participated in the program is found to be ineligible or is found to have knowingly breached a representation related to the eligibility of the collateral, the non-recourse feature of the loan becomes inapplicable and the borrower must thereupon repay the loan in full upon demand. Moreover, as indicated above, to assist the New York Fed in screening borrowers, TALF Agents are required to apply their internal customer identification program and due diligence procedures to each borrower and escalate information relating to those borrowers assessed as high risk to the New York Fed. What is a TALF Agent? What is the TALF Agent's role?
In addition, a TALF Agent will be required to apply its internal customer identification program and due diligence procedures ("Know Your Customer" program) to each borrower and represent that each borrower is eligible. A TALF Agent will be required to provide the New York Fed with information sufficient to describe the Agent's customer risk assessment methodology prior to participation in the program. In addition, the New York Fed is developing an on-site inspection program to carry out its inspection rights under the MLSA. All TALF Agents planning to participate in the TALF should review the Additional Due Diligence Guidance for TALF Agents and should contact the New York Fed Compliance Function at firstname.lastname@example.com for further guidance. What additional responsibilities does a TALF Agent that is an underwriter of an issue of asset-backed securities have under section 10.1(d) of the MLSA? ___________________________ 1The amount of prepayment in dollars is determined by the following formula: Par*(1-h)*(min(Price*Par,1.10*Par)/Par-1)/(b*WAL) Par is the current outstanding principal amount of the bond. h is the haircut from the above table corresponding to the average life and asset class of the bond. Price is the Market Price of the bond (as defined in the MLSA), which was used to calculate the TALF loan amount. WAL is the weighted average life of the bond measured in years and calculated at the prepayment assumption used to compute average life above. b is equal to 12, 4, or 2 for securities with a remittance frequency of monthly, quarterly, or semi-annually, respectively. 2The amount of net carry diverted to early TALF loan repayment in dollars is determined by the following formula: NC – (H*Y*D/A) NC is the net carry for the current period. H is the original haircut amount in dollars. Y is the threshold percentage beyond which net carry is diverted based on the length of time the TALF loan has been outstanding. D is the number of days that have passed since the last determination of net carry. A is the actual days in the year. $20,000 – ($1,000,000 * 10% * 31/365) = $11,507 |


text:
Valentine's Day brings with it the hopes of many that Cupid will help them find their perfect match. Just as most people have carefully and endlessly considered the ideal characteristics of their soul mate, business owners should be equally meticulous in their evaluation of potential buyers and investor groups. Careful consideration should be given to the various types of buyers and which ones would make the best fit for both the business owner and the company. When contemplating a liquidity event, business owners should ask themselves a few basic questions to determine which type of buyer best fits their situation. Do I want to remain active with the business in the future, or do I want to retire on a sailboat traveling the world? How much liquidity do I need right now? What is the next step for my business, what will it take to get there and am I prepared to shoulder this risk? What will happen to my employees and company brand? What kind of legacy do I want to leave behind in regards to my business? For business owners seeking to retire and achieve maximum liquidity, a strategic buyer may be the love match. Strategic buyers typically do not require the business owner's leadership post-transaction. They typically have ample resources available and often can afford to pay a higher price, especially in synergistic situations. Though the seller may no longer have control or influence over the business they once owned, they now will have the time and money to spend their days sailing the world. For those business owners who wish to remain active in the company, selling a portion of the business to a private equity group could be ideal. Private equity groups typically prefer to invest in companies with solid management teams and often encourage the selling shareholders to roll over a portion of their equity into a minority stake of the new company. This enables business owners to realize partial liquidity, on the one hand, while on the other allowing them to retain ownership and active leadership to capture their future value creation. Selling to a financial partner also brings the benefit of additional professional and capital resources to accelerate and execute the company's growth strategy, such as expanding internationally or entering new end markets, without absorbing all of the associated risks. The best part of this partnership is the "second bite of the apple" the business owner enjoys when the financial partner initiates a subsequent liquidity event. (This often turns out much better than what befell Adam and Eve.) In situations where business owners prefer to retain a majority control of the business, a minority sale to a financial partner often provides the best fit. This structure provides business owners sufficient liquidity to take out a dividend, make an acquisition or to buy out another shareholder. It provides additional resources to the business in terms of financial and strategic guidance, yet enables the business owner to maintain full operational control of the company. While the minority partner may have some negative controls, such as the ability to prevent a sale of the business or limit capital expenditure spending, they are not typically actively involved in the ongoing operations of the business. Just as people look to Cupid to guide them into the arms of a great match, business owners should consider having an experienced investment banker assist them to find the partner that best fulfills their personal and professional objectives. A happy honeymoon will be the result.
Guest Blogger
Finding your match: Which buyer is right for your business?

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Personalised Leather Chrome Dog Collar In Primrose
Personalised Leather Chrome Dog Collar In Primrose
Make your dog look extra special with this made to order personalised Primrose (lime) leather dog collar, customised just for your own pet.
This leather collar is plain and ready to add your choice of super large 2cm slider letter charms in polished chrome.
How To Order
- Select the collar size
- Then select the number of Slider Letters from the dropdown box
- Enter the name required (up to 8 letters) more are available to purchase separately.
Why not add a Diamante Slider Charm or a 4ft Plain Leather Lead?
Collar Comes in 3 sizes:
Small - 7" - 10" (17cm - 25cm) Example Breeds: Small Puppies, Chihuahua, Yorkie, Mini Dachshund, Chinese Crested, Mini Pinscher
Medium - 11" - 14" (28cm - 36cm) Example Breeds: Shih-Tzu, Mini Poodle, Jack Russell, Pug, Westie, Cocker Spaniel, Lasha Apso, Mini Schnauzer.
Large - 14" -18" (35cm - 45cm) Example Breeds: Labrador, Springer Spaniel, Dalmatian, Bichon Frise, Border Collie, Greyhound, Std. Schnauzer, Corgi.
Shipping Info
Shipping Info
How Much is Delivery?
Postage charge is for total order. (not per item) and is displayed at checkout before you commit to purchase and before payment.
UK Delivery is by Royal Mail or express couriers. A signature may be required.
For Goods Sent Within The United Kingdom
FREE UK P&P On Orders Over £59
£1.95 - £3.95 Most products such as collar charms, ID Tags, collars, leads, bandanas, harnesses, t-shirts, dresses, jumpers, coats, toys, dog bowls, treats, small accessories etc.
Large Items/Orders over 1kg £4.95+
Postage and packing is based on weight/size and is calculated at checkout, before you commit to buy.
International Shipping
Prices are calculated at checkout, per order, before you commit to buy.
Europe From £9.95
Rest Of World From £12.95
Customs, Taxes and Duties
All applicable customs, import duties, fees and taxes plus any other charges, are the responsibility of the customer. If your order does require these additional charges, they must be paid by you in order for your package to clear customs. If a package is refused/fee unpaid, (undelivered), the customer will be refunded (less shipping & merchant fees) after the package has been successfully delivered back to us. Exclusions apply to some goods, ie: seasonal/personalised/printed etc.
Please check your countries applicable fees before ordering.
How long does delivery take?
We ship out orders from Monday to Friday. Orders will be processed and dispatched within 2-5 business days. Delivery is then usually within 1-3 business days. (UK) (International 5-7 business days)
Please allow extra time for your order to be processed during peak season and holidays.
If your order/part order is not in stock we will aim to dispatch these items within 10 days.
If your order is time-sensitive we urge you to email us to check stock/delivery times at: firstname.lastname@example.com
Delivery times are calculated in working days - Monday to Friday inclusive (but excluding bank holidays).
If you order at Weekend or Bank holiday, your order will be placed the following working day.
What If my order does not arrive?
Please contact us if the expected delivery time has passed.
We cannot proceed with a claim for lost goods until at least 10 working days after the expected delivery date with Royal Mail. (UK). (30 days for international).
What happens if a product is out of stock?
Your patience in these circumstances is greatly appreciated and we will of course keep you informed. Please allow up to 14 days in the event your product is out of stock.
If, in the unlikely event, that we are not able to send your items within 14 days we will contact you and if you are in agreement arrange another time for delivery of your order. If we cannot arrange another time for delivery we will gladly refund any money you may have paid and/or cancel the order.
IMPORTANT: We do everything we can to meet the delivery times specified in this section. However, occasionally delivery times may be affected by factors beyond our control and therefore they cannot be guaranteed. We will inform you if we become aware of an unexpected delay.
What if I'm not in?
If you're not in when your items are delivered they will usually be taken to your local sorting office (or depot if a courier is used) and a card will be put through your door. A signature will usually be required to receive or collect an order.
Please do not ask for your parcel to be left in a 'safe place' Ie: at the back door. We use a Signed For delivery service and goods will not be left without a signature.
If you need to check on the status of an order you can email firstname.lastname@example.com
We will endeavour to respond to your email within 24 hours.
Returns Info
Returns Info
Returns, Exchanges, Refunds
If you wish to return a product that you have brought from Poochie Fashion, you must please submit a Return Request or email us within 7 days from receipt of goods, and we will be happy to offer an exchange or refund/credit. (please note shipping costs are not refunded, except if goods are faulty.)
Click here for: How to submit a return request
All returned products must be sent back within 21 days from delivery date, unworn, in the condition you received them, free from hair, neatly folded, with labels attached, if applicable, and in their original product packaging etc.
We will only accept returns if the product is unworn and in a re-sellable condition, and the above conditions have been met.
On returning the product please include a note with your name, address, reason for return and exchange size required etc. This helps us speed up the refund/exchange process.
When returning goods, we suggest you obtain a proof of postage or return via recorded post. We cannot accept responsibility for any items that get lost in transit back to us.
The biggest reason our customers ask for an exchange is on sizes, particularly coats and harnesses, so please take a few moments to measure your dog accurately before ordering - it really helps to get the right size first time.
Please note that we are unable to exchange or refund the following goods (unless faulty upon receipt): custom made, seasonal (Xmas, Halloween, Valentines, Mother's/Father's Day, Sporting/Celebration Events), personalised or printed goods and items marked 'special order'. Sale Items and Pet Carriers are non refundable and for exchange/credit only.
Once we've received back and checked your order, the cost of the goods will be refunded to your account within 21 days*.
*You will not be entitled to a refund of the P&P or any return postage costs you may incur. If you return an exchange item for a refund, we will deduct our postage costs for the exchange item. If you return an order (in full or part) that qualified for free delivery, we will deduct our postage costs from the refund.
If you do not inform us in writing (email) within 7 days or return the item within 14 days, you will be issued with a credit note rather than a refund.
Goods which are returned in a used, washed or unsaleable condition: we reserve the right to refuse an exchange or refund and may return the goods to you. (unless faulty upon receipt)
For orders cancelled before goods have been despatched, your payment will be refunded via the original payment method, within 48 hours.
*CLEARPAY REFUNDS: As we are unable to recover merchant fees: Clearpay refunds will be less the transaction fees, approx 6%.
Please note that we are unable to exchange or refund the following goods (unless faulty upon receipt): custom made, seasonal (Xmas, Halloween, Valentines, Mother's/Father's Day, Sporting/Celebration/Sporting Events), Personalised or Printed Goods and items marked 'special order'.
Sale Items and Pet Carriers are non refundable and for exchange/credit only.
Measuring Guide
Measuring Guide
Doggie Clothes & Accessories Sizing Guide
We highly recommend our customers to review our Sizing Guide prior to making any purchases of dog clothing and accessories. Reviewing this guide and our illustration below will help you determine how to measure your pet, especially if you are new pet parent or have never dressed your pampered doggy up before.
As we offer a large variety of brand names and products, our products have an individual size chart or other reference guide in the product description when more than one size option is available.
The diagram below will show you how to accurately measure for a length, neck and chest measurement.
We recommend use of a fabric or cloth measuring tape when determining your pet's measurements.
If various types of measurements are provided in the product description, please take into account the length measurement first. This is especially important to certain breeds that have longer bodies like Dachshunds.
The length for products like jackets and coats is designed to be close to the base of your pet's tail. While other products like t-shirts, tanks, and dresses should be within 2 to 4 inches from the base of the tail.
If your pet's measurements fall in between two sizes, we suggest ordering the next larger size just to be safe.
If the clothing is too tight, your dog may get hot and uncomfortable.
Each and every designer uses different cuts and sizing patterns.
Therefore please refer to the individual size chart that is shown in each product's description before making your size selection.
Please note that it is not recommended to determine size based on your pet's breed, weight, brand, or previous purchases you may have made from us or anywhere else.
If you should need additional assistance with sizing, or
If the size you require is not listed, please Contact Us
The size may be available and we will try to get it for you.


text:
INWESCO Incorporated is committed to protecting your privacy. When you request information through this site, we need to know your e-mail address or, if you request information by mail, your name and address. We use your information to send the information you request in the form that you require. We will not pass your information to anyone else outside the INWESCO Incorporated group without your permission. If you wish to change or delete any of the personal information you have entered while visiting our site or if you have any questions about our privacy statement, please e-mail our webmaster.
All the contents of this website and downloads from it are owned by INWESCO Incorporated and its affiliates unless otherwise stated. All rights reserved. You are responsible for obeying all applicable copyright laws. We permit you to make copies of this website as necessary during your viewing of it; and you may take a print for your personal use of so much of the site as is reasonable for your private purposes. All other use is strictly prohibited. The INWESCO Incorporated logo/mark and the logos and marks used by our affiliates are trademarks of INWESCO Incorporated You may not frame this site or link to a page other than the home page without our express permission. We reserve the right to remove our permission for you to link to this website, including to link to this website's home page.
Our website may provide links to third-party websites for your convenience and information. If you access those links, you will leave the INWESCO Incorporated website. INWESCO Incorporated does not control those sites or their privacy practices, which may differ from ours. We do not endorse or make any representations about third-party websites. The INWESCO Incorporated Privacy Statement does not cover the personal data you choose to give to unrelated third parties. We encourage you to review the privacy policy of any company before submitting your personal information. Some third-party companies may choose to share their personal data with INWESCO Incorporated; that sharing is governed by that third-party company's privacy policy.


text:
Friday, June 12, 2009
Anybody Attending This Church in Louisville Next Week While at the Southern Baptist Convention?
"We're just going to celebrate the upcoming theme of the birth of our nation," said pastor Ken Pagano. "And we're not ashamed to say that there was a strong belief in God and firearms - without that this country wouldn't be here."
Pagano, 50, said some members of his church were concerned that President Obama's administration could restrict gun ownership, and they supported the plan for the event when Pagano asked their opinion. He said the point was not to mix worship with guns, though he may reference some passages from the Bible. "Firearms can be evil and they can be useful," he said. "We're just trying to promote responsible gun ownership and gun safety."
The Southern Baptist Convention convenes in Louisville, Kentucky next week at the Kentucky Exposition Center. My wife and I will probably be attending the 9th and 0 Baptist Church or Highview Baptist Church, and not Pastor Pagano's AG church.
No need to go to a church impressed with guns when we will already plan to be at a Convention known for her fireworks.
In His Grace,
Wade Burleson
60 comments:
- Writer said...
Next week? Uhhhhh...won't that be a week early?
Les - Fri Jun 12, 10:26:00 PM 2009
- Jeff said...
- This comment has been removed by the author.
- Fri Jun 12, 10:48:00 PM 2009
- G. Casey said...
Didn't Elisha advocate the right to bear arms?
- Fri Jun 12, 11:30:00 PM 2009
Mid Day
I believe this magazine to be of a high quality!
Such wonderful articles as "Sex among nuns common!
A daily section called "Bedroom Romp"
finally I knew it was far superior to the Enqiurer because of the 5th or so comment in that particular article.....I doubt that would be published in the U.S
Rob - Sat Jun 13, 04:20:00 AM 2009
I assume you will be rushing to attend this church July 4th.....but you know I am pretty sure they believe in PPL!
Rob - Sat Jun 13, 04:48:00 AM 2009
- RKSOKC66 said...
Like Les, I think you are so anxious to get to Louisville that you are jumping the "gun" by a week.
However, don't bring your gun when you go since you will not be able to get through the metal detector at the Will Rogers Airport.
Given that you are going to the SBC convention it might be more effective to wear defensive gear, however. Instead of packing heat I recommend bring full body armor.
When you get back how about some de-briefing for us guys who aren't going.
I'll make you a deal. You tell us what happened up-close-and-personal in Louisville and I'll give a front-line report on what your former colleagues are doing in Jax.
Wade, seriously I think this convention may pivotal. There has been more "buzz" leading up to it than is usually the case. It will be interesting to see what happens as all of the posturing relative to the GCR document plays out in practice. Not a single word from the "top secret" meeting between Dr. Hunt and the state execs has leaked out. Probably it will be possible to infer what happened or didn't happen by listening to what is said at Louisville.
I'm not going. But I'll be glued to the tube here wathing the podcast.
Roger Simpson OKC - Sat Jun 13, 06:32:00 AM 2009
- DL said...
"And we're not ashamed to say that there was a strong belief in God and firearms - without that this country wouldn't be here."
So true... how else could they kill all those Indians so efficiently and provide themselves and the world justification for it. - Sat Jun 13, 07:34:00 AM 2009
- Christiane said...
My father owned a gun. It had belonged to my pepere (grandfather) and to his father before him in Canada.
When the police in our city conducted a program to have people turn in guns that they no longer wanted in their homes for 'whatever reason', my father took the old gun down and turned it in. All the guns turned in were to be destroyed. The officer looked at my father's gun and told him it was a 'collector's item' and probably extremely valuable.
But Pop wanted it to be destroyed.
That was the same week my brother received his M.D. and became a physician. My brother would have been the one to inherit that gun.
My brother owns hunting rifles now and goes to his farm on weekends. But he does not shoot the deer that walk into view as you sit in the large parlor of that farm house and look out the bay window.
The deer come near the house without fear.
Any point to this narrative. No.
No more than someone bringing a gun into the House of the Lord.
Whether to shoot a minister in the heart or shoot an abortionist or to teach children to have 'a strong belief in firearms'.
No point. Just a narrative.
Love, L's - Sat Jun 13, 08:20:00 AM 2009
- Jeff said...
My sources in Louisville tells me the church heard that the B.I. guys are coming to Louisville, and felt the need to protect themselves.
- Sat Jun 13, 08:44:00 AM 2009
- Michael Ruffin said...
Well, "blessed are the peacemakers," and all of that.
I reckon you might think of your trusty firearm as a "peacemaker," if you try hard enough.
I'm all for the right to keep and bear arms, although it escapes me why anyone would want or need to keep an assault rifle--the venison wouldn't be worth eating once riddled by one of those.
For an amusing (if I do say so myself) take on a similar subject, I invite Wade's good readers (and the other ones, too) to go to http://onthejerichoroad.blogspot.com/2008/08/preacher-get-your-gun.html. - Sat Jun 13, 09:07:00 AM 2009
- Michael Ruffin said...
G. Casey,
Actually, I think that Elisha advocated the right to arm bears. - Sat Jun 13, 09:09:00 AM 2009
- Christiane said...
THE PROPER WAY TO BAG YOUR BEAR: (no guns needed)
1. Stand very, very still.
2. Be sure it's loaded
3. point and click
4. if the flash goes off and scares
the bear, better run like hell
Our Family was gathered on the large screen porch of my Aunt Rhoda's house in the mountains of Massachusetts, in Charlamont.
Charlamont is way up there on the Mohawk Trail and my Aunt Rhoda lives on the side of a mountain.
There was tons of food on that porch and lots of rocking chairs and fun and laughter, and we all stayed until it got dark.
Someone had the idea to take a group picture before we left that evening: we all stood lined up back by the screen on porch and the picture was taken.
That is when we got the bear.
When the picture came out of the Polaroid, we all were amazed.
There, lined up with us, but on the OUTSIDE of the porch screen, was the image of the face of small bear looking in. He was obviously interested in all that food!
My Aunt Rhoda said he comes around sometimes and gets into her trash.
We still asked her if she would beat on a trash can lid loudly with a spoon to scare away the bear so we could get into our cars.
The tension was unbearable.
So that was the night my Family bagged a bear. Our Family has that photo to prove it.
It's absolutely hysterical!
Love, L's - Sat Jun 13, 09:38:00 AM 2009
- Michael Ruffin said...
I fear that, if I saw a bear, I would move the second half of step #4 up to #1! - Sat Jun 13, 09:40:00 AM 2009
- Ramesh said...
No guns for me.
In Philadelphia, there are laws against possession and carrying weapons. Of course all the bad people and police carry weapons. And both of them threaten non-gun carrying people. Yes, police do this often. And they do this even without weapons, just by their supposed authority.
Even ordinary people, in this city of brotherly love, there is so much hate present, you can cut it sometimes.
So for me, I am determined to be abused, ridiculed, spoken down by others and threatened. I will simply call on the name of Our Lord Jesus Christ. He is my protector and savior. My only weapon will be love. Yes, I know, I am naive. I live in this city of "brotherly love", that shows no love to strangers and always seems to bristle with hate. Though it seems to be getting better over the years. - Sat Jun 13, 09:48:00 AM 2009
- Christiane said...
Hi MICHAEL,
You need to spend some time with my Aunt Rhoda, who is fearless.
She says that she is not afraid of the little bear, and that he has to eat, too. We worry about her sometimes. But, truthfully, I think the angels guard her AND that little bear. But, she does say that he makes a mess sometimes.
Oh, dear.
We can't get her to come down off of that mountain. She says she is 'rooted there' and that she will die if she ever has to leave that place. It must be wonderful to love a place so much. :) L's - Sat Jun 13, 09:48:00 AM 2009
- Michael Ruffin said...
Thy Peace,
Me thinks thou art a Christian. - Sat Jun 13, 09:50:00 AM 2009
- Tim Marsh said...
Does anyone not have a problem with this?
I would yank my children out of that church immediately, and any church that asked members to bring guns to church.
How irresponsible! - Sat Jun 13, 09:59:00 AM 2009
- Christiane said...
Hi TIM MARSH,
I am confused.
We bring unusual things to Church to be blessed sometimes: like the day reserved for 'blessing of the animals' in honor of St. Francis.
But never guns.
Is this pastor going to
'bless the guns'?
Seems very strange. Love, L's - Sat Jun 13, 10:04:00 AM 2009
- child of grace said...
"Little boys need three things--a dog, a gun and a dad. Get him a gun. Not a play gun, but a real gun. Play guns are the most dangerous guns in the world."
-Paige Patterson (2003) - Sat Jun 13, 10:08:00 AM 2009
- Michael Ruffin said...
Play dogs and play dads are no fun, either.
(It's the first Saturday in a long time that I've had some time on my hands--this is fun.) - Sat Jun 13, 10:10:00 AM 2009
- Bob Cleveland said...
Colt made a single action .45 back in the 1800's called the Peacemaker.
I'm just sayin'.... - Sat Jun 13, 11:17:00 AM 2009
- Michael Ruffin said...
I wonder if, after firing the Peacemaker, one could say, "Peace be unto you."
- Sat Jun 13, 11:25:00 AM 2009
- Steve said...
The Founding Fathers trusted the Constitution they gifted us with - but they trusted armed farmers and merchants more, as a safeguard against any tyrant trying to deny us our freedoms. Thus, the Second Amendment.
- Sat Jun 13, 11:32:00 AM 2009
- Stephen said...
The most disturbing aspect of this story is that there is a church that is obviously caught up in the idolatrous civil religion of America to the detriment of Christian discipleship.
Full disclosure: I believe government has no right to prohibit gun ownership. More guns, less crime!!! The stats prove it.
I guess it is that time of year again. Christians pushing the myth that a nation built on God's word was born on the 4th of July. There was no nation created that day. The colonies, mainly influenced by Enlightenment thinking and deism, declared themselves independent of British rule. True, the process that eventually caused nationhood was starting to occur, but it would take a military victory and a dozen years or so to create and define the United States. The need for military cooperation and the emergence of a common identity as Americans eventually created this nation. Without the need for military cooperation, there might have been 13 sovereign and independent states for a very long time.
If one wishes to celebrate, perhaps focus should be given to arguably the most influential creation of the Founding Fathers - religious freedom. - Sat Jun 13, 11:47:00 AM 2009
- Doug Hibbard said...
Nope. I'll be home by that Saturday. Or, I won't have left yet. I'm not sure if it's the Saturday before or after, but I can't leave for Louisville until Sunday after church, and will be back by the following weekend.
I am curious, along with this, how many folks in Kentucky will add the 'educational' aspect of touring the bourbon-making facilities. Not throwing stones or encouraging, just curious.
And even if you think carrying a firearm to church is a good idea, I would be strongly against taking one into the SBC. Almost as much as I'm against them being carried to budget/finance meetings!
May we find the peace of God that makes stuff like this unnecessary.
Doug - Sat Jun 13, 12:04:00 PM 2009
- cheerfuldougg said...
I wonder if the wise pastor will read this Scripture that Sunday:
"Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God" (Ps.20:7).?? - Sat Jun 13, 12:19:00 PM 2009
- Ramesh said...
How St. Francis Taught Brother Leo That Perfect Joy Is Only in the Cross.
And going on a bit farther, St. Francis called again strongly: "Brother Leo, even if a Friar Minor could preach so well that be should convert all infidels to the faith of Christ, write that perfect joy is not there."
Now when he had been talking this way for a distance of two miles, Brother Leo in great amazement asked him: "Father, I beg you in God's name to tell me where perfect joy is."
And St. Francis replied; "When we come to St. Mary of the Angels, soaked by the rain and frozen by the cold, all soiled with mud and suffering from hunger, and we ring at the gate of the Place and the brother porter comes and says angrily: 'Who are you?' And we say: 'We are two of your brothers.' And he contradicts us, saying: 'You are not telling the truth. Rather you are two rascals who go around deceiving people and stealing what they give to the poor. Go away]' And he does not open for us, but makes us stand outside in the snow and rain, cold and hungry, until night falls-then if we endure all those insults and cruel rebuffs patiently, without being troubled and without complaining, and if we reflect humbly and charitably that that porter really knows us and that God makes him speak against us, oh, Brother Leo, write that perfect joy is there!
'And if we continue to knock, and the porter comes out in anger, and drives us away with curses and hard blows like bothersome scoundrels, saying; 'Get away from here, you dirty thieves-go to the hospital! Who do you think you are? You certainly won't eat or sleep here'--and if we bear it patiently and take the insults with joy and love in our hearts, Oh, Brother Leo, write that that is perfect joy!
And if later, suffering intensely from hunger and the painful cold, with night falling, we still knock and call, and crying loudly beg them to open for us and let us come in for the love of God, and he grows still more angry and says: 'Those fellows are bold and shameless ruffians. I'll give them what they deserve.' And he comes out with a knotty club, and grasping us by the cowl throws us onto the ground, rolling us in the mud and snow, and beats us with that club so much that he covers our bodies with wounds--if we endure all those evils and insults and blows with joy and patience, reflecting that we must accept and bear the sufferings of the Blessed Christ patiently for love of Him, oh, Brother Leo, write: that is perfect joy!
'And now hear the conclusion, Brother Leo. Above all the graces and gifts of the Holy Spirit which Christ gives to His friends is that of conquering oneself and willingly enduring sufferings, insults, humiliations, and hardships for the love of Christ. For we cannot glory in all those other marvelous gifts of God, as they are not ours but God's, as the Apostle says: 'What have you that you have not received?' But we can glory in the cross of tribulations and afflictions, because that is ours, and so the Apostle says: 'I will not glory save in the Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ.'"
To whom be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen. - Sat Jun 13, 12:48:00 PM 2009
- Denn said...
So glad you had some time today. I'm still laughing at the "arm bears" remark. One of those "I wish I had thought of that." clever things. I tell that story often. Thanks. - Sat Jun 13, 12:51:00 PM 2009
When you went to the Orange Bowl I believe you said you stayed in Miami Lakes.
Just next to Miami Lakes is a Church and School called New Testament Baptist. I attended that Church and on more then one occasion people tried to steal the offering but the church had a came plan where the deacons would always lock the access to one location and at least 10 people with guns would stand up and point them at the perp.
The pastor told him to surrender or he would likely not survive the rain of metal into him.
On every occasion I saw it always worked flawlessly and no one died.Guns in lawful peoples hands are always a deterrent to crime.
Rob - Sat Jun 13, 01:06:00 PM 2009
- Chris Ryan said...
Why do some feel the need to promote the constitution as equal to the Bible? Why do some feel the need to trust in firearms rather than God? Why do some feel that a peace achieved by force is actually peace? Why, in a Kingdom where swords are beaten into plowshares, are we so keen on promoting the use of guns? - Sat Jun 13, 01:07:00 PM 2009
- Ramesh said...
" I attended that Church and on more then one occasion people tried to steal the offering but the church had a came[game] plan where the deacons would always lock the access to one location and at least 10 people with guns would stand up and point them at the perp."
At Emmanuel Baptist Church, they encourage you to take from the offering plate up to $20-, but to leave the checks, if one is in need. If they need more, to contact the staff, and they would be helped. - Sat Jun 13, 01:19:00 PM 2009
Thy Peace:
These people were not in need but rather crooks who saw a way to make some easy money.
Miami is no Enid.
Rob - Sat Jun 13, 01:26:00 PM 2009
- Darrell said...
No, I don't believe in taking guns into a church bulding.
I agree with Brother Marsh, I would take my children out of that church.
Where I pastor, many times I have said AMEN and went out the door with the deacons, had lunch then went hunting. Most of the time it was quail and pheasant, but sometime it was deer and turkey.
Guns have their place in the world. Without guns, there is no freedom. Every dictator wants to take away the guns from the people.
In our part of NW Missouri, we supply thousands of pounds of meat for the needy.
One of my church members home schools and all their daughters shoot deer each year. That is how they survive.
Our ancestors fought every war with guns or we would not be free today to argue about guns.
God used war and weapons as a means to His ends many times. Whatever the weapons of the day were, as David and the slingshot killing the monster.
Guns are not bad, guns do not sin, people do.
wtreat - Sat Jun 13, 04:17:00 PM 2009
- John Fariss said...
I don't have a problem with guns. I was raised up with them, and was taught how to safely handle them, and I passed that on to my children. I am a big believer in the 2nd amendment, and all that, but. . . bring-your-gun-to-church-Sunday? That stupifies me. We have several police officers who are members, and they do not bring their firearms to church. It is no rule that the church has, it is just respect. My family would be out of that church so fast we'd leave an after-image behind. And that stuff about civil religion that someone mentionedf--yep, that's it.
John - Sat Jun 13, 06:10:00 PM 2009
Have we so quickly forgotten recent incidences in the news where people have been murdered in churches? Haven't we learned anything from all those school shootings either?
Suppose someone broke into your (I'm using "you" generically here) home and pointed a gun at a loved one. Would a good Christian just stand there and pray? Ask the criminal nicely to put the gun down?
If we think it's right to shoot the intruder before a loved one is murdered, then how do the ethics change when even more people are involved?
This is the age-old debate about pacifism. I've known some pacifists, and they have this disconnect between individuals and nations or other groups, as if it's somehow better to let large numbers of people die through lack of defense, yet when we put names and faces on a few of them, "that's different".
Personally, to stand idly by while a loved one is threatened amounts to treason or disloyalty, and violates the fact that "love always protects". Those who don't care for their own are "worse than an unbeliever".
So it follows from there that if we announce to the world that there will be no guns in our church buildings, then we sacrifice our people on the altar of theoretical pacifism, for we have set ourselves up as easy targets.
While I still would not use a church service to glory in the implements of death, I would nonetheless feel much safer knowing that if any murderer came that they would have little chance of doing harm.
There is a huge difference between putting up no defense for one's self, and putting up no defense for someone else. - Sat Jun 13, 06:10:00 PM 2009
- Tom Kelley said...
Paula said...
While I still would not use a church service to glory in the implements of death, I would nonetheless feel much safer knowing that if any murderer came that they would have little chance of doing harm.
My thoughts exactly. I question the propriety of promoting a special church service in which people were encouraged to bring guns, as it has nothing to do with the purpose for which the church gathers, and it could be seen as sending a message that encourages resolving conflict with violence. But I would be very unhappy if there was some law or rule barring people who are licensed to carry a concealed firearm from doing so in a church. A perpetrator would be less likely to open fire in a room where he thought it a strong possibility that others in the room might be able to fire back.
Tom - Sat Jun 13, 07:11:00 PM 2009
- Viator - Vicar of Knights of Jesus said...
Guns, American Flags, and patriotic/nationalistic songs have no place in a Christian church. Period.
- Sat Jun 13, 07:36:00 PM 2009
- Jeff said...
Wade, After reading Thy Peace's post about your offerings and the church's offer. I'll see you in church Sunday. :) Is that one twenty per person or family? :)
- Sat Jun 13, 07:42:00 PM 2009
- TheWayofCain said...
Wade you might want to invest in a bullet proof vest for your trip.
- Sat Jun 13, 08:20:00 PM 2009
St Steven:
Those of us who live in the South disagree!
Feel free to attend to attend Gregory Boyds Church.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dpQOCvthw-o - Sat Jun 13, 09:06:00 PM 2009
- Darrell said...
Robert said:
"St Steven:
Those of us who live in the South disagree!"
AMEN Brother - Sat Jun 13, 10:59:00 PM 2009
- G. Casey said...
Michael Ruffin, that would be better put :)
In discussing gun rights with a fellow minister of mine awhile back on God, guns, and guts statement that I have seen to be popular. He agreed we need to be careful putting our trust in the gun. Its a right that indeed should be protected but it is not our trust. - Sat Jun 13, 11:37:00 PM 2009
- This comment has been removed by the author.
- Sun Jun 14, 12:21:00 AM 2009
Now they will be known for speaking in guns.
New NAMB controversy
Do you have a PPC
Private Pistol Carry!!!!!
Robert I Masters
From the Southern Baptist Geneva - Sun Jun 14, 01:35:00 AM 2009
- Tim Marsh said...
I wonder what a "blessing of the guns" service would look like?
Thanks for the smile, I needed that after reading such a ridiculous, yet sad post. - Sun Jun 14, 05:16:00 AM 2009
- Tim Marsh said...
To all,
I am thankful to worship in a country in which we are free to worship.
However, I am sad when Christians are more moved by patriotic anthems than Christian hymns and anthems.
I am sad when Christians are more fired up to display the Ten Commandments in public facilities than to live the Sermon on the Mount.
Good calls, Chris Ryan and St. Steven. - Sun Jun 14, 05:23:00 AM 2009
- Michael Ruffin said...
Tim Marsh,
Me, too. - Sun Jun 14, 07:36:00 AM 2009
- cheerfuldougg said...
For Robert:
"Those of us who live in the South AGREE" - This pastor and church have lost their way. Please don't speak as though we in the south are 'one voice" on every social issue! We can think for ourselves, thank you! - Sun Jun 14, 08:17:00 AM 2009
- Christiane said...
Hi TIM MARSH,
It's me L's,
You said you wondered what a blessing for guns would look like.
If there is such a blessing, I think it must be related to a time when there was, and will be again, no more need to use guns to kill our 'brothers'.
We live 'in the moment'.
But, in the religion of Judaixm and of Catholicism, there are sacred moments that are 'relived' outside of time.
And we are able to be one with those who were there then.
A reporter tells this story:
"I drove south on this sniper road where the Israelis and Palestinians shoot at one another, before arriving at the
Tomb of the Patriarchs.
The last time I had been there, there were 10,000 Jews dancing in the festival. Today, it was empty, so dangerous that four soldiers with helmets and machine guns had to escort me inside — four.
And I go to this little tiny room between Abraham and Sarah's tomb.
All three faiths agree this is where they're buried.
There's a ramshackle synagogue there with a chandelier hanging down with half the bulbs out, and it's there that Abraham, at 175, dies.
And in one of the most haunting and overlooked passages in the Hebrew Bible, Genesis 25:9,
his sons Ishmael and Isaac,
rivals since before they were born, estranged since childhood, leaders of opposing nations,
come, stand side by side,
and bury their father.
Abraham achieves in death what he could never achieve in life, this moment of reconciliation.
A hopeful side-by-side flicker of possibility when they're not rivals or warriors; Jews, Christians, or Muslims.
They are brothers."
A blessing 'transforms', changes, elevates something from the ordinary into the sacred realm, calling down God's loving care and protection and bringing hope.
Maybe Genesis 25:9 itself, is a kind of blessing over guns: that there CAN be a 'reconciliation' between Abrahamic brothers?
Dear TIM, it is hard for me to imagine a blessing for guns, when, for years, I had to practice school 'lock-down' drills in preparation for the possibility of something unspeakable;
and, long ago, in a drug-rehab school for teenage boys, I saw scars from bullet wounds on these children;
so Tim, I don't think I'm the best person to ask.
For some of us, guns 'symbolize' something unholy. For some of us, guns represent the opportunity to defend our liberty and to protect the oppressed. For some, guns are a source of food on the table, and can make the difference between starvation and survival.
But, of course, guns are only neutral objects. Maybe the blessing should be for those who must sometimes use them. Love, L's - Sun Jun 14, 10:10:00 AM 2009
- Ramesh said...
Off Topic:
Women In Ministry [Cheryl Schatz] > Woman called by God as missionary now has regrets.
Recently I received an email from a woman who purchased my 4 DVD set "Women in Ministry Silenced or Set Free?" and then wrote me about the impact that the DVDs had on her. I was so touched by her testimony that I asked permission to share her story with the world. I have removed her name as she requested anonymity because of her situation. I hope that you will be encouraged and touched as I was when I read her story. - Sun Jun 14, 11:04:00 AM 2009
- Byroniac said...
I do believe in patriotism and believe we should support our country. Sometimes I think this nation is not grateful enough for its veterans, and that certainly includes me (in guilt, but I'm not a veteran). We live in the best country on earth, and I only wish we were even better.
But I think that American flags and patriotic songs for the most part do not belong in the church building. After all, we do not require embassies of other nations here in America to fly our flags or the like. And I know that's not exactly apples to apples, but I think it's the same principle. A friend told me that we take national sovereignty far more seriously than we do the sovereignty of God, and I agree.
And, what will happen if pro-homosexual legislation passes that effectively silences any religious dissent? Will there still be the clamor for patriotism then, even here in the South, as there is now? Or will they finally give up on America and start focusing primarily on Christ (like they should be from the start in my opinion, not that I think they should give up on America).
Patriotism is great, but it beats the only tune it knows on the only drum it has. - Sun Jun 14, 11:59:00 AM 2009
- Rev. Spike said...
- Sun Jun 14, 03:42:00 PM 2009
- Darrell said...
Today I was sitting in a service and thinking of you.
Actually I was thinking of the blessing of the guns and the story of Abrahams sons coming together for that one moment.
I am so conservative I squeek but am no longer a closed mind.
Today I attended an ordination of an old friend who has quite a story to tell. Raised a catholic, started seminary with an Episcopalian, studied with the pentacostles, joined a Baptist seminary, and today, was ordained into the Christian Denomination of Diciples of Christ.
All the above mentioned groups were represented by pastors and a priest who truly loved the one being ordained. 5 different groups, all in a 2.5 hour worship service and all preaching about Jesus. It was moving.
Oh, my dear friend, a 50 something grandmother who has been ministering to the poor and homeless, the sick and the shut-ins while a volunteer member of each of these groups church staff.
Over 200 people thre to honor one little old grandma who might be the Kansas City Mother Teresa
L's, Yes God Can.....get the fighting sides together, even the muslims and jews and protestants and... yes God can even bless the guns.
He has touched thousands through a little ol woman I know who is very quiet and quite shy.
touched by God today
Wtreat - Sun Jun 14, 09:14:00 PM 2009
- Bryan Riley said...
A hearty amen from this corner to the words of wisdom God has given Thy Peace.
- Mon Jun 15, 12:15:00 AM 2009
- Jim Shaver said...
One of my favorite all time movies is "Heaven with a Gun" starring Glenn Ford.
In the movie he is a former gunfighter who becomes a preacher. In one scene in the movie he tells his congregation "If there's going to be any killing around here, I'm gonna do it."
My congregation didn't think it was funny either!
In the age we live in Church Security is a big issue. Many churches are employing armed security guards and smaller ones are doing it on the quiet with members who are qualified and trained.
Anytime a gun is fired in a church - it is a tragedy, regardless of who is targeted. - Mon Jun 15, 05:58:00 AM 2009
- Christiane said...
Good Morning W TREAT,
It's me, L's
It is strange that we so often overlook the ancient beautiful Scriptures that fore-ordain reconciliation in the Hand of the Lord, in all of its implications.
Here is found another Scripture: in Ezekiel 37, there is the story of the Lord asking 'mortals' to take two sticks: on one to write the name of Judah and on the other to write the name of Joseph. These two tribes of the Israelites had been estranged. The Lord took the two sticks into His Hand and combined them into one, so that never again would the Houses of Israel be separated, as they had been sealed into one by the Hand of the Lord Himself.
There is the other great example of two pieces of wood joined together to form an instrument of reconciliation. There is this to think about:
"Ezekiel's vision of two sticks, inscribed with the names of the divided kingdoms of ancient Israel, becoming one in God's hand, is a powerful image of the power of God to bring about reconciliation, to do for a people entrenched in division what they cannot do for themselves.
It is a highly evocative metaphor for divided Christians, prefiguring the source of reconciliation found at the heart of the Christian proclamation itself.
On the two pieces of wood which form the cross of Christ, the Lord of history takes upon Himself the wounds and divisions of humanity. In the totality of Jesus' gift of Himself on the Cross, He holds together human sin and God's redemptive steadfast love.
To be a Christian is to be baptised into this death, through which the Lord, in His boundless Mercy, etches the names of wounded humanity onto the wood of the Cross, holding us to Himself and restoring our relationship with God and with each other. "
So much to think about.
I love the story that you tell about the 'Mother Teresa of Kansas City'. In the light of Holy Scripture, I am not at all surprised by the healing of the 'breach' that those who came together to celebrate this ordination represent.
'That all may be One . . .
so that the world may believe.'
Love, L's - Mon Jun 15, 08:10:00 AM 2009
- Darrell said...
I left out a couple of things. There was also AME folks there.
Also, there were Asians, whites, Hispanics, and there were African Americans. (I don't always know the proper terminology to say without offending someones race, so please ALL for forgive me in my ignorance)
It was a great worship service and I didn't know until it was pointed out at the end that there were 6 DIFFERENT DENOMINATIONS AND 4 VERY VISIBLE RACES!
I was astounded when the Pastor pointed it out.
What a God! All those differences and great worship.
Like the 2 sticks, yep!
What a great, merciful God1
wtreat - Mon Jun 15, 04:43:00 PM 2009
- volfan007 said...
Whenever someone breaks into my house at night, I will be thankful that I have a 12 gauge shotgun to greet them.
David - Mon Jun 15, 05:38:00 PM 2009
- Neil Cameron (One Salient Oversight) said...
What I find amusing is the fact that the Pastor involved has made it clear that the guns be unloaded before entering the building.
Unloaded into what? - Wed Jun 17, 12:57:00 AM 2009
- Tim Marsh said...
One Salient Oversight,
How many gun accidents occur and then some one says, "I thought the gun was not loaded?"
Again this is a dangerous, stupid idea on the part of this pastor. - Wed Jun 17, 05:34:00 AM 2009