Title: Volunteer Voice 51st Edition
Original CoS Document (slug): volunteer-voice-51st-edition
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Created: 2024-09-26 21:36:23
Updated: 2024-10-02 19:09:34
Published: 2024-10-02 01:00:00
Converted: 2025-04-14T21:33:26.350625411
Dietrich Bonhoeffer: A Model of Faith, Courage, and Resistance
By Robin Sampson McCarthy
Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s life and legacy continue to inspire those who stand up for truth, righteousness, and justice in the face of tyranny. A German theologian and pastor during the rise of Adolf Hitler, Bonhoeffer is remembered for his unwavering commitment to biblical principles, even when it cost him his life. His writings, actions, and steadfast faith offer powerful lessons for Christians today, particularly for those involved in the Convention of States movement, as they work to preserve liberty and resist governmental overreach.
Faith in Action
Bonhoeffer didn’t believe in a faith that remained passive or private. For him, faith had to be lived out boldly in the public square, especially in moments of crisis. One of the core biblical principles he followed is found in James 2:17, which states,
“Faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.”
Bonhoeffer understood that his faith compelled him to action, even when it meant opposing the Nazi regime. This aligns closely with the efforts of the Convention of States, where standing up for truth and preserving liberty requires taking action, not merely holding private convictions.
Original Intent and Why We Must Guard Against Modern Interpretations
By Jim MacDonald
The U.S. Constitution is a remarkable document, born out of the wisdom, experience, and foresight of our nation's Founding Fathers. It was crafted with deliberate care, its words chosen for their precision and intent. Yet, as time has passed, the meanings of many words and phrases within the Constitution have shifted, often leading to interpretations and rulings that diverge from the original intent. To preserve the integrity of our nation and its laws, it is crucial that we return to the original meanings and intent of the Constitution when making decisions or crafting legislation.
One of the clearest examples of shifting meanings can be seen in everyday language. Consider the word “awful.” In the early 1800s, “awful” was used to describe something that inspired awe—something grand, majestic, or profoundly significant. Today, however, “awful” is used to describe something bad or unpleasant. The shift in meaning is subtle yet profound, transforming the essence of what the word once conveyed.
Reintroducing Federalism with A Historic Simulated Convention of States
By Jim MacDonald
As we move closer to calling a Convention of States, it becomes increasingly important to understand how the process works. Our Founding Fathers, with a deep understanding of human nature, foresaw that power would eventually centralize in Washington, D.C. To counter this, they provided the people, through their state legislatures, a method to restore federalism and rebalance power within our great nation.
While we’ve convened forty-one different conventions of states in our history, none have been held to amend the Constitution. To better understand this process, the Convention of States Foundation (COSF) has organized three simulated conventions to date, with the first taking place in 2016, and most recently in September 2023.
This past September, COSF hosted its third simulated convention at the Patriot Academy Campus in Comfort, Texas, a location enriched by history with its replica of the Austin, Texas General Assembly. This event was particularly significant as it involved COSA volunteer activists from each state. Two commissioners from each state were selected to participate, offering a rare and exciting opportunity to engage directly with the convention process.
Swapping Screen Time for the Constitution
By Jim MacDonald
We can all agree on one thing—life is busy. Whether you’re chasing after kids, running them to soccer practice, trying to squeeze in a date night, or sneaking in a round of golf, it feels like the world just keeps speeding up. One minute, you're figuring out what’s for dinner, and the next, you're wondering where all those missing socks went. In fact, “Some families run like a well-oiled machine; ours runs on coffee and last-minute plans!”
But let’s be real—if we’re honest with ourselves, we all manage to make time for the things we prioritize. We clear the calendar for the kids’ activities, slot in that much-needed Netflix binge, or take a well-earned break for a golf game. Meanwhile, there’s something important we’ve been neglecting—something that can’t be put off any longer: our civic duty. Yep, I said it.
Now, before you start listing everything on your to-do list, hear me out. This isn’t about politics—it’s about something even more crucial. It’s about taking time to understand and protect the foundation of our country: the U.S. Constitution. We all want our kids, grandkids, and future generations to have the same freedoms we enjoy today, but that won’t happen if we don’t take action now.
Christians Must Guide America’s Destiny with Faith and Governance
By Jim MacDonald
The Bible repeatedly emphasizes the importance of remembering God’s works, promises, and covenant with His people. In Exodus 13:3, Moses instructs the Israelites to “Remember this day” when God brought them out of Egypt. Deuteronomy 8:2 reminds the Israelites how the Lord led them through the wilderness, and Psalm 77:11 declares, “I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago.” Similarly, Isaiah 46:9 calls God’s people to “Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God, and there is no other.”
This theme continues in the New Testament. At the Last Supper, Jesus commands His disciples, “Do this in remembrance of me” (Luke 22:19), and in 2 Timothy 2:8, believers are urged to “Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David.” The Bible contains dozens of instances where the act of remembrance is not passive but an active commitment to recall God’s mighty works and faithfulness, inspiring His people to remain steadfast in their lives.
But does God only want us to remember His actions from biblical times, or does He call us to remember His works throughout history—His Story? God’s works are not confined to the distant past; they continue to unfold in our lives today, giving us hope and reassurance.
Answers to Common Questions
Evil men and their overlord, Satan, want Christians and all good men and women to stay out of politics. Why? So evil men can control the culture.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8JjpPw5NUkI
Did You Know…
A multi-state convention is a gathering of states or state legislatures and their participants may choose their own representatives. Accordingly, selection of state committees is always left to the states sending them. The strength of the rule is illustrated by the outcomes of the rare attempts to breach it: Only twice has the calling entity attempted to guide the selection procedure (in 1765 and again in 1780), and on both occasions those efforts were successfully disregarded. In any event, for Congress to dictate how commissioners are selected would radically undercut the fundamental purpose of the convention procedure as a way for the states to bypass Congress.
The selection method most often chosen by state legislatures has been election by the legislature itself, either in joint session or (more often) seriatim by chamber. However, legislatures may delegate the choice to the executive alone or to some combination of executive nomination and legislative approval. The latter methods were employed for many of the commissioners sent to Washington (1861) and to all of them sent to Santa Fe (1922). – Robert G. Natelson, The Law of Article V
Your Call to Action…
Let’s rally the American spirit! Our nation stands at a pivotal moment, echoing the values our Founders held dear. It’s time for every Patriot to make their voice heard.
The Convention of States is a beacon of hope, a platform granted by those visionaries who built this great nation. It’s a chance for every American-loving Patriot to step up and shape the future, safeguarding the liberties we cherish.
We are the guardians of freedom, entrusted with the duty to ensure that our nation remains a bastion of liberty, opportunity, and justice. Click the link below, join the movement, and be part of a historic effort to preserve, protect, and defend the very essence of what makes America exceptional.
Click: Join our Movement. We’ve got a country to save!
Tennessee on the Move…
COSA conducted a great meeting at the American Legion Post 100 in Dayton, TN. The group watched most of the COS at Home with Ryan Walters video.
COSA held its monthly meeting in Hixson, TN. They discussed the recent Grassroots Article V Experience (GAVE) & future actual conventions. They watched the 2023 simulation with Utah Rep Ken Ivory's challenge to the attendees & call to order. They discussed potential solutions from amendments & the need for increased devotion.
Jamestown, TN. Great meeting in Jamestown, TN. They reviewed the basics of Convention of States and watched part of Biblical Citizenship #3.
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At the monthly COSA meeting in Loudon, TN. They viewed Mark Mecklers Battle Cry on Early Voting. They also discussed the “reading the Constitution challenge.” Everyone received an email with the Heritage Constitution Study.
On Labor Day, Jay Walling, Sharon Milton, and Doug Hill set up in front of Walmart, in McMinnville. TN to collect petitions! It was a great day, and many people were very interested in Convention of States and thanked them for what they were doing.
COSA held an exciting meeting in Murfreesboro, TN., with Linda Lamphear, Richard Black, Nancy Bryant, Wesley Bryant, & John Taylor.
Reagan Dinner in Ashland City, TN.
COSA held the annual reading of the Constitution in Sevierville, TN.
COSA in Shelbyville, TN., held an exciting meeting COS meeting with Herb Whittemore, Claire Root, Joyce Reed, Donald Rogers, & John Taylor.
COSA meeting in Tullahoma, TN. Discussed GAVE, 2025 Surge Day, Just Say Know, North Carolina Telepatriot, and unconstitutional acts by federal and state elected representatives.
COSA set up a table at the annual Tennessee Firearms Association's (TFA) fundraising event.
Upcoming Meetings and Events
Ashland City, TN. Tuesday, October 8th, 2024, 6:30 p.m. at the Bethlehem Community Center,1506 SR-12 N. Ashland City, 37015, Contact: Debbie MacDonald at debbie.macdonald@cosaction.com
Dayton, TN. Sunday, October 13th, 2024, from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. at the American Legion Post #100, 1459 Railroad Ave., Dayton, TN. 37322 Contact Bob Patterson, RSVP (423) 779-2332
Gallatin, TN. Saturday, October 12th, 2024, from 11:30 to 1:30 p.m. at the Gallatin Public Library, 123 E. Main St, Gallatin, TN. Contact: Debbie MacDonald at debbie.macdonald@cosaction.com Discussion of “Declaration of Rights” in TN Constitution.
Hixson, TN. Thursday, October 24th, 2024, from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. at The Clear Creek Church of Christ, 5612 Hixson Pk, Hixson, TN. 37343 - Meet and Greet - Contract Jay Walling 423-605-6705
Jamestown, TN. Saturday, October 12th, 2024, from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. at Fentress County Courthouse, 101 N. Main St, Jamestown, TN. Larry Wilke
Loudon, TN. Tuesday, October 8th, 2024, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Dinner at Little Italy Restaurant 316 Lakeside Plaza, Loudon, TN. 37774. See Teri Hult
Murfreesboro, TN. Saturday, October 19th, 2024, from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Technology Engagement Center, 306 Minerva Dr, Murfreesboro, TN 37130. Contact: Richard and Linda Black
Powell, TN. Saturday, October 12th, 2024, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. at Shoney’s on Emory Rd. Powell, or the second Saturday of each month, Anne Martin and Dan Mobley
Sevierville, TN. Saturday, October 19th, 2024, from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. King Family Library 408 High St. Sevierville, call Christine Solomon at 832-868-3674 for more information.
Shelbyville, TN. Saturday, October 19th, 2024, 10:00 to 12:00 a.m. at Shelbyville-Bedford County Library, 220 South Jefferson St., Shelbyville, TN 37160 Claire Root and Joyce Reed
Springfield, TN. Monday, October 28th, 2024, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Location to follow…contact: Nancy Parkinson at 815-988-7209
Springville, TN. Saturday, October 5th, 2024, 9:30-10:30 a.m. at American Legion Post 89, 4326 E. Antioch Rd, Springville, TN. 28256 Bob Kutsy
BattleCry, Join Mark Meckler for the BattleCry every Sunday night at 8:00 p.m. EST on Facebook and Rumble.
COS at Home Join Jonathan Viaud on October 2nd, 2024, at 7:00 pm CST. He will interview Kimberly Fletcher, President of Moms for America, this month!
For the most up-to-date schedule, go to the calendar on our Tennessee website: www.conventionofstates.com/tennessee
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