Web Hosting by Netfirms | Free Domain Names by Netfirms

A group of 15 people gathered on Palm Sunday afternoon for a time to reflect, remember, and recommit regarding the US Invasion of Iraq. Persons shared what drew them to come. It was a diverse group including a visitor from Des Moines, Iowa, who found out about the event online; a high school student who shared about how recruiters are pressuring so many students at NHS so often; 3 cultural backgrounds were represented; a wide age spectrum. The afternoon consisted of a litany read and lit candles in memory of those who have died, a hymn sung, reflection on the dollars spent on the war and the dollars lost a home for social programs, a Fransiscan benediction, and light snacks. Dates were a part of the snack, as one item that was destroyed due to the time the invasion took place was the date cop of the Iraqi farmers. "Grieving together" felt good and eased tensions. It is good to remember. Might we all recommit to not forget about this war going on and the toll it is taking on us all here and in Iraq.

*See graphs inserted in newsletter for information on war costs.

The Center for Arms Control & Non-Proliferation website lists the amounts various countries spend on their military budgets. The United States tops the list - by a long shot!

The US spends 419.3+ billion dollars on our military budget and this figure is till growing. The 2nd country in line is Russia, spending only $65.2 billion. Next is China spending $56 billion, United Kingdom - $49 billion, Japan - $45.1 billion, France - $40 billion, Germany - $29.7 billion, and on down. Canada, our neighbor to the North, only allots $10.1 billion in military spending. How is it that our country sees a need to spend more than all these countries (plus several others) combined?