The ALS Ice Bucket Challenge has become the rage and a huge money generator for ALS. Even in Bismarck-Mandan, many people and groups have participated in the challenge. There has been talk about it becoming self-promotion for the person(s) participating in the challenge. In other words, the challenge is more about the star or celebrity, rather than helping ALS.

David Rogers /Getty Images
David Rogers /Getty Images
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Well, here is a new spin on the rage. According to Chattanooga Times Free Press, there is a Catholic Diocese that is encouraging it's flock not to donate money for possible stem cell research. According to the story-

"A Catholic diocese in Ohio is discouraging its schools from participating in the ice bucket challenge to benefit the ALS Association, citing its funding of research involving embryonic stem cells.

In a letter sent Tuesday to its 113 schools, the Archdiocese of Cincinnati's superintendent of Catholic schools says the research being funded is "in direct conflict with Catholic teaching."

The superintendent told the schools that students and staff can still do the ice bucket challenge, but any funds raised should be given to organizations that combat ALS without embryonic stem cell research."

According to ALS, donors can stipulate their funds go elsewhere. The spokesperson went on to say that the group funds one study involving embryonic stem cells.

ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that causes paralysis and almost certain death.

Do you agree with the Catholic Diocese?

(Source AP News and Chattanooga Times Free Press)

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