Usually I do not like to fuel gossip of actors and actresses, but I'll make an exception for this case as it deals with the always volatile topic, religion. According to the taxes filed by Mel Gibson (why do people bother to look at these in the first place?), Mel has put $5 million into a foundation that supports the Holy Family Catholic Church. This church is a splinter christian group which does not recognize Vatican II. While I have seen indications of those who do not enjoy the teachings of the second Vatican council, this is one of the highest profile members who claim to be Catholic and who has rejected their teachings.

I always wondered what has gotten into people like Gibson and others such as Tom Cruise (who was once going to be Jesuit Priest and look at what the hell he believes now). These weird splinter religious groups are rather exclusive and secretive and do seem to have elements of cults.

However, if you read the related article, do be certain to be wary of the author's implications that Gibson does not believe in the holocaust, it is a bit of a stretch and he also focuses way too long on the fact that the church is situated next to a barbecue restaraunt. It weakens the overall credibility of the article in my opinion, but still interesting.

-Trevor

Note: Vern, thanks for the link

According to the BBC, the number of Suicide Club suicides are on the rise in Japan. Apparently these kids over in Japan meet up in chatrooms and websites to try to meet up and commit suicide together. After reading this article I am really torn between thinking the government should try to censor these websites as they promote a rather heinous act and thinking that these people can do whatever they damn please for they are destroying the ultimate gift, their life.

I am of the opinion that those who are suicidal need to be supported by family and friends as that condition is not permanent and after help can lead very happy and productive lives. I feel though that these group suicides may be of another nature entirely as they seem to embrace death in itself while I believe those who are suicidal just have no more love for life. This could suggest that tactics used to help those who are suicidal may not be effective in this case, as it may reflect a culture which has become increasingly apathetic towards the intrinsic value of life.

This is definitely crazy stuff as it almost falls along cult status.

-Trevor