Ireland’s new blasphemy law went into effect on January 1, 2010. According to Atheist Ireland, “Blasphemy is now a crime punishable by a €25,000 fine. The new law defines blasphemy as publishing or uttering matter that is grossly abusive or insulting in relation to matters held sacred by any religion, thereby intentionally causing outrage among a substantial number of adherents of that religion, with some defences permitted.”

As part of the organization’s campaign to have the law repealed, it has published a list of 25 quotes that would be considered blasphemous under the new law — including some by Jesus Christ, Muhammed and Frank Zappa. Read the quotes and learn more — including why it is always bad to “silence people to protect ideas” – visit blashpemy.ie.

P.S. I can hardly believe we’re back! Thanks Val.

When South Korea’s president-elect was mayor of Seoul, he said the city was a holy place governed by God. He’s been associated with Korean evangelicals who pray at their monster rallies for the destruction of all Buddhist temples in Korea. The mega-church he attends is chock full of other government officials. Read more at the Asia Times.