Military Becomes More Religious as Nation Remains Secular

 A recent statistical analysis shows that the U.S. armed forces are seeing a rise in religious sentiment, even as mainstream culture becomes more secular, the Christian Post website reports today (Dec. 4, 2025).

Ryan Burge, a professor of practice at the John C. Danforth Center at Waahington University in St. Louis, Missouri, analyzed data from the Cooperative Election Study, noting that the number of active--duty military personnel who attend church at least once a week has increased in recent years.

The number of military personnel who attended church weekly has increased from 21%i in 2010--2012 to 28% in 2022--2024. Those who attended more than twice a week increased from 15% in 2010--2012 to 17% in 2022--2024. In total 45% of military respondents surveyed in 2022--2024 attended at least weekly.

During the same period, the number of surveyed civilians who attended church weekly stayed at 16%, while those who attended more than once a week declined fom 9% in 2010--2012 to 7% in 2022--2024. In total, 23% of civilian respondents surveyed in 2022--2024 attended at least weekly.

Popee Leo Calls for Release of Christians Kidnapped in Nigeria and Cameroon

Pope Leo xiv hasi issued an appeal for the liberation of students, clergy, and worshippers abducted in a series of violent attacks across Nigeria and Cameroon, the Christian Today website reports today (Nov. 25, 2025).

The Pope's remarks come as Nigeria and Cameroon grapple with a renewed surge of kidnappings targeting Christian communities.

On Nov.21, the isolated Papin district in Niger state, Nigeria gunmen stormed St. Mary High School, a Catholic school, abducting more than 300 srudents and staff.

The abducted children, ranging from  10 to 18 years old, are believed to have been taken into the dense forests that stradddle Nigeria and neighboring states, where armed gangs have long operated unhindered.

"I make a heartfelt appeal that the hostages be immediately released, and urge the competent authorities to take appropriate and timely decisions to ensure their liberation," the Pope said.

Our Freedom in Christ, Living with Responsible Love

The Apostle Paul taught the Corinthian believers in Christ to see the Christian freedom responsibly,the Crossmap website reports today (Nov. 23, 2025).

They needed to guard against causing others to stumble in their walk with God. 

In today's society, a tension exists between a person's rights and their responsibility. The phrase "I have my rights echoes loudly throughout the world. 

People claim freedom of speech , freedom of choice, and freedom of lifestyle. Yet often , those 

claims collide with the well-being of others .

There is one God, the Father , by whom all things were created, and for whom we live, and there is one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom all things were created, and through whom we live (1Corinthians 8:6).

Paul's words in Corinthians 8 remind us that as we serve Christ, freedom never floats detached from responsibility. True Christian liberty functions within the boundaries of love.

We received our freedom in Christ as a gift purchased by His blood on the cross. The Lord's sacrifice released us from sin's power and religious bondage.

Fellowship in Building One Body in Christ

 The Christian life, in all its fullness. is not a solo pursuit -- it is a sharesd journey -- a divine collaboration of grace, gift, and love, the Christian Today website reports today (Nov.20, 2025).

When Paul writes that we are "one body in Christ,and individually members of one another" (Romans 12:5),he is unveiling a profound mystery. The Holy Spirit does not simply gaher a crowd of like--minded individuals. He forms a living organism.

Each believer is joined to Christ, and therefore to every other believer , in a spiritual unity that reflects the very nature of God Himself -- diverse yet one. 

Diverity is a deliiberate feature of God's design, and when embraced it allows the Church to flourish through coorination. "The body does not consist of one member but of many... God aranged the members ... just as He chose (Corinthians 12: 14,18). 

When the Spirit harmonizes  our differences, the result isnot competition but cooperation, not fragmentation but flourishing.

Unity is not merely a moral ideal but a divine promise. Because Jesus lives in you and joins you to His people, you will  never lack what the body supplies. Where you are weak, another's strength meets your need; where you are strong, another's vulnerability calls forth your compassion. This is how Christ continues His ministry through His body today : 

through shared life, mutual care, and sacrifiicial love.

love.

I

 have no need of you." each member has a part to play, and each grace--gift contributes to the whole.

when the Spirit harmonizes our d,f

frences, 

How to Make Permanent Changes

Christianity is a good news--bad news kind of a deal, the Crossmap website reports today (Nov.16. 2025). The bad new is that people are fallen and super sinful (Genesis 3) and because God loves people He does not want anyone to stay that way (Romans12:2, Ehesians 4:173:16--24, John  3:16). Sin is the most harmful thing in the universe. If it is allowed to run wild, it always leads to our eternal destruction (Romans 6:23).

The good news of Christianity is that anyone who submits their life to the Lordship of Jesus Christ will be saved from the penalty of sin (hell) and given the supernatural ability through the power of the Holy Spirit to change (Acts 2:21, Titus 2:11--12, 2nd Timothy 1:91, Hebrews 9:28). The Holy Spirit empowers Christ followers to change their outward behaviors and their hearts, The result is that anyone who submits themselves to the Lordship of Jesus can become like Jesus from the inside out (2nd Corinthians 5:17, James 1:4, Hebrews 5:12--14). It's a beautiful thing.

Ameican Bible Society: Scripture Engagement Enhances Loving and Generous Behavior

 More Bible reading results in a greater level of loving and generous behavior, according to the just--released 15th annual State of the Bible report by the American Bible Society (ABS), the Christian Daily website reports today (Nov. 11, 2025).

Latest findings come from a nationally representative survey for ABS by NORC at the University of Chicago, using their AmeriSpeak panel. it involved 2,656 online interviews with American adults in all 50 states and the District of Columbia with data collected from Jan.2--21. 2025.

A press release for "Chapter 8: Love and Generosity" revealed that new data shows the impact of loving behavior ,  defined as pro--social behavior, toward others and "generosity of time, energy, and finances  based on Scripture engagement, denomination, generation, and various other demographics."

"The correlation between Scripture engagement and loving behavior and generosity is udeniaeble. The more people engage in Scripture, the more likely they are to give of their time, talents, and treasures, and to act lovingly toward their neighbors," said John Plake, Chief Innovation Officer at Ameeican Bible Society and editor--in--chief of the State of the Bible series.

"Our thoughts, behaviors, and words reflect what we consume and what fills our hearts and minds. It is only logical that when we fill our minds with Scripture -- the greatest love story ever told -- an outpouring of love will follow."

Younger Generations Lead Reival in Bible Reading

 After years of decline, Americans are redisovering the Bible-- and young adults are leading the way, the Christian Today website reports today(Nov. 10, 2025).

A new report finds that 42% of U.S. adults now say they read Scripture weekly -- up 12 points from a record low of 30% in 2024.

The figure rises to 50% among self--identified Christians, making the highest level in more than 10 years.

Millennials and Gen z adults are at the heart of this turnaround.

Barna's State pf the Church 2025 report shows that Millennials have seen a 16 point rise since 2024, with 50% reporting that they read the Bible weekly. 

Gen. Z follows closely. leaping from 30 to 49% wihin a single year. 

By contrast, Boomers -- once the most consistent Bible readers -- now report the lowest rates, with only 3% reading weekly.

The Underground Church Supports America

 America has become a global dartboard --criticized, written off, mocked for its "outdated Christianuty," rhe Christian Post website reports todaay (Nov. 9, 2025).

The headlines insist America is fractured beyond repair, but Cheistians in hostile teritories, are praying for the U.S., not against her, with tears of love for he Ameeican faithful. 

There is a vast, radiant, global

church moving beneath the boderr walls that politics and movie headkines construct, Millions of believers, living under regimes that publicly curse the U.S., do not see Ameicans as enemies. They see Americans as family. Same Spirit. Same Savior. Same future. They do not envy Ameican freedom. They prayAmeicans will not waste it. 

This is not a dying ministry fading out of history. This is the greatest unreported reality of our time. There is a living church in places we only ever hear about in crisis language  -- and they are more awake, more faithful, and more full of love for America than we are prepared to believe.

Samaritan's Purse Mobilizes Disaster Response Team after Jamaica Suffers Worst Hurricane Ever

 The Samaritan's Purse, the intrnational aid agency headed by vetern evangelist Rev. Franklin Graham. has mobilized its Disaster Assistance Response Team to help Jamaicans suffering after Hurricane Melissa devastated the Caribbean island -- the most powerful in the nation's history since records began in 1851, the Christian Daily website reports today (Nov. 6, 2025).

The Category 5 hurricane, with the highest rating , hit the island and nerby areas of the Caribbean early morning Oct. 28.

Officials confirmed 28 known deaths, but some communities remain cut off with impasssable roads affecting aid efforts , and people taking refuge in shelters . Roads and bridges have been washed away.

The hurricane prolonged destruction with powerful 185 mph winds and up to 30 inches of rainfall leading to severe flooding and landslides. Roads of the southwest are underwater.

Samaritan's Purse ha been airlifting tons of supplies to survivors.

Archbishop: Syrian Churh Is "Dying"

 A Catholic Arcbhishop in Syria who was recentpy honored by the Vatican for his "deidication  to peace and reonciliation," has warned that the churh is "dying" in the 

 troubled ountry, the Chrisian Today wbsite  reports today (Nov. 2, 2025).

Following the fall of  Bashar al--Assad late last year, there were conncerns that the new Islamist--dominated   regime would spell the end for Syria's historic Christian community.

The new government ha claimed it is inclusive and respects the right of religious and ethnic minorities.

However, in a country that has suffered well over a decade of civil war and sectarian violence, there is no shortage of armed groups , and the official government has struggled  to prevent continuing violence.

In Marh, hundreds of Alawites were massacred by an armed group, while in July fighting broke out between the Druze and Bedouins in Suwayda, and earlier this month fighting broke out between government forces and Kurds in Aleppo, following the first parliamentary eletions since the takeover of power. 

Since the civil war began in 2011,it is estimated that the Christian population of Syria has dropped from 2.1 million to around 540,000 in 2024.

MelissaCould Become Major Hurricane, May Impact U.S.

 Tropical storm Melissa is projected to become a major hurricane that could inflict devastating damage on several Caribbean islands , as the possibilityof the U.S experiencing some of the storm's effects remains, the Christian Post website reprts today (Oct. 30, 2025).

The projected path of the storm, compiled by the National Hurricane Center, shows Melissa strengthening into a hurricane on the evening of Nov.1 before reading the status of a major hurricane shortly thereafter.

The storm is expected to be centered on Jamaica through Nov. 4 before advancing to Cuba as a major hurricane on Nov. 5. The National Huricane Cnter defines a major hurricane as a storm with wind speeds in excess of 110 miles per hour. 

In an advisory published by the National Hurricane Center, "Significant , life--threatening flash--flooding and numerous landslides are expected in the northern Dominican Republic and eastern Jamaica, with catatstrophic flash--flooding and landslides anticipated in southern Haiti."

Global Survey Finds Hope Rising for the Church

 The Lausanne Movement recently released a new global report revealing a renewed sense of optiimism among Christian leaders about the future of the church, even as they acknowledge deep challenges from secularism, political polarization, and ethical failures within churh leaderhip, the Christian Daily website reports today (Oct. 20, 2025).

Titled "Global Voices," the report draws on responses from 1,030 mission leaders across 119 countries. It is the first publication by the newly launched Lausanne Insights on Global Horizons and Trends (LIGHT)-- the Lausanne Movement's research department equipping the church with data--driven, biblically grouned, and forward--looking insight for global mission.

Dr. Matthew Niermann, Direector of Global Research at Lausanne, said the goal was to understand how Christian leaders perceive the church's opportunities and barriers amid globalization,digital transformation, and cultural shifts.

"We must know the world so that Christ can be known by the world," Niermann wrote. 

Although most respondents said the global church's strength has declined over the past five years, a majority anticipate renewed growth and influence in the next five.

Leaders from Africa and south Asia expressed he highest optimism, while those in North America and Europe were more cautious yet hopeful. Younger leaders were more positive than older generations, with many using words such as revival, renewal, and opportunity to describe their outlook.

"This is not the final word but a starting point," the report concludes. "May these voices not only inform us, but inspire us, to walk more boldly into God's mission for our emerging wold."

New Study: Half of Americans No Longer View Sins as Wrong

 A new Barna research study shows that Americans are changing their understanding and definition of 'sin," the Christian Daily website reports today (Oct. 25, 2025).

The new data from the American W

orldview Inventory national survey of 2,000 adults arranged by the Cultural Research Center at Arizona Christian University signals a domestic shift in the nation's moral compass and builds on earlier reports documenting widespread confusion about the existence and nature of sin, according to the press release.

Some behaviors -- such as drinking, gambling,and working on the Sabbath -- are "rarely viewed as sinful," according to the research. Others -- such as abortion, sexual fantasies,and cheating on taxes -- split public opinion.

Only six of 12 behaviors were still widely  regarded as sinful, mainly those related to speech, sexuality, faith. and drug use.

Dr. George Barna, Director of Research at Arizona Christian University's Cultural Research Center, commented that there was a difference in attitudes to sin depending on the age group.

"There appears to be a clear and moderately strong link between generational diffrences of opinion related to sin and the ongoing redefinition of morality in American society," Barna said.

Americans with Positive View of Religion Increase

 A new survey shows the share of Ameeicans who see religion as a positive influene on American society continues to grow, as does  the percentage who believe religion is gaining influence in public life, the Christian Post website reports today (Oct. 24. 2025).

On Oct. 20, the Pew Research  Center released a new research based on two data sets. The first responses  were collected from 9,544 adults in the U.S.between Feb. 3 and Feb. 9. The second was a survey of 8,937 adults conducted fom May 5 to May 11.

"Ameicans' views about religion in public life hare are shifting. From February 2924 to February 2025, there was a sharp rise in the share of U.S. adults who say religion is gaining influence in Ameerican life,"Pew Associate Chip Rotolo wrote in a report. 

"This is an increasingly view held by adults across several demographic groups -- with gains of at least 10 percentage points among Democrats and Republicans, adults in every age category, and in most large religious groups."

Meanwhile, 17% maintained  that religion's influence is growing and that this is a good thing. The share of Ameeicans with a net positive opinion of religion increased from 49% in Sept. 2022 and 57% in Feb. 2024.

On the other hand, 20% of those surveyed held a net negative view of religion in 2025. This includes 10% of respondnts who thought that religion's influence is declining and this decline is a good thing. Another 10% believe that eligion's influence is growing and that this is a bad thing. 

The remainder of Ameicans surveyed in 2025 had  a net neutral or 'unclear view" about religion.

Anti--Christian Hate Crimes Rise in Europe

 A new report shows that anti--Christian crimes across Europe are being downplayed and overlooked, the Christian Today website reports today (Oct. 21, 2025).

The 125--page document was published by the Organization for Security and Co--operation in Europe (OSCE) Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR). 

The report on anti--Christian hate crimes was launched earlier this month at the Warsaw Human Dimension Conference. It states that Christians in Europe have been subject to a variety of incidents, ranging from graffiti and vandalism to violent attacks and murder.

One contributing factor to anti--Christian hate crimes is tensions with other religions. 

"Religion--related violence may also stem from the perception of Christianity as a rival, inferior, or adversarial faith-- often framed within violent extremist narratives, historical grievances, and geopolitical tensions," the report said,

Armenia Arrests Bishop, 12 Clegymen in Feud between Church Leaders, PM

A bishop in Armenia's Apostolic Church and 12 clergymen have been  arrested as part of a widening rift between church leaders and Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's government, the Christian Post website reports today (Oct. 19, 2025).

The arrests are the latest in a string of detentions targeting clergy critical of the administration.

Bishop Mkrtich Proshyan of the Diocese of Aragatsotn was charged with coercing citizens to participate in public gatherings , obstructing electoral rights, and misusing his office to commit large--scale theft, Armenia's Investigative Committee claimed this week, according to the Associated Press.

Authorities began investigating Proshyan in September, after a fellow clergyman accused church officials of pressuring members to attend anti--government demonstrations in 2021 and alleged corruption in Proshyan's diocese. Twelve other clergymen were detained from the same diocese.

The ArmenianApostolic Church denounced the arrests, calling them part of a "systematic campaign" to interfere with its operations. "There is obvious malicious intent to hinder the normal activities of the church," it said in a post on social media.

Deadly Floods Devastate Mexico

Torrential rains and massive flooding have killed at least 64 people and left dozens missing across central and eastern Mexico, prompting churches as faith--based  groups to mobilize nationwide to help survivors, as authorities race to reach isolated communities, the Christian Daily website reports today (Oct. 18, 2025).

Triggered by the remains of Tropical Storms Raymond and Priscilla, the floods have caused widespread destruction in Hidalgo, Veracruz, Queretaro, Puebla, and San Luis Potosi, where overflowing rivers, landslides, and collapsed bridges have cut off towns and villages. Thousands of families have lost their homes and belongings, and power outages have left more than 40,000 people in the dark. 

president Claudia Sheinbaum said on Oct 13 that her administration estimates about 100,000 homes were affected by flooding and landslides. Dozens of communities remain isolated, she said, and food and water must be flown in to reach those trapped by collapsed bridges and damaged roads, according to The New York Times.

Churches across the affected regions have requested donations of canned food, bottled water, dlothing, cleaning supplies, and hygiene products to deliver to victims. Pastors have organized their congregations to assist in gathering and distributing aid to those in need.

Turkey Bans Foreign Christians on "National Security" Grounds

 Legal advocacy group  ADF International has warned that the Turkish government is expelling hundreds of Christians from the country on "national security" grounds, the Christian Today website reports today (Oct.17, 2025).

Since 2020 over 200 foreign Christian workers have been expelled from the country, in total impacting around 350 people.

From Decemmber 2024 to January 2025--  a period of justt wo months -- 35 new codes are believed to have been issued against foreign Christians. As well as blocking individual Christians from entry, the practice often leaves Protestant congregations without spiritual leadership, as many of those targeted are ordained ministers.

ADF is urrently involved in more than 30 legal cases of Christians challenging their expulsion in both Turkish courts and in the European Court of Human Rights.

Linda Rieder, Legal Officer for ADF International, said "Turkey's labelling of peaceful Christian residents as "security threats" is a clear misuse of law and an attack on freedom of religion or belief.

Finding Jesus in a Time of Violence

 In the United States, we find ourselves as a nation gripped by violence, strugging to see a way forward, the Christian Daily website reports today (Oct. 16, 2025).

For example, Charlie Kirk and the endless list of school children whose lives were cut short in their classrooms and chapels.

God cried out through the prophet: "They offer superficial treatments for my people's moral wound. They give assurances of peace when there is no peace." Across America , our hearts are heavy. We feel grief, anger, even despair. It is not only the act of violence that affects us, but the spirit of violence that hangs heavy in the air.

God said, "Let us make human beings in our image." So God created human beings in His own image (Genesis 1:26--27). Our scriptures proclaim the imago Dei, the sacredness of all humankind: irrespective of social class, or gender, or political affiliation.

Christ-followers, our calling is "Blessed as the peaccemaker, for they will be called children of God (Matthew 5--9). American Christians must find their way back to the Son of Man to learn from Him. Our symbol is not a sword, but a cross.

This is a time for a path that models Jesus with an open hand -- one that treats all our neighbors of differing cultures, class, and faith with respect and love. 

Trump Brokered Ceasefire Ends 2--Year Gaza Conflict

 This week, the first phase in the U.S.--brokered ceasefire plan saw the return of 20 israei hostages from Gaza and almost 2,000 Palestinian prisoners released by Israel, the USA Today website reports today (Oct. 14, 2025).

Some former U.S. leaders did respond to the Trump administration's plan for the region. Four days before the hostage release, Obama said "We should be enouraged and relieved that an end to the conflict is within sight, without naming Trump himself.

Democratic Sn. John Osoff of Georgia released a statement on Oct. 13, saying the ceasefire and release of the hostages have sparked hope for "an enduring peace in Gaza," adding he commends the "efforts of the Trump Administration and international partners to achieve this moment."

TBN Shows Best Sermons on God's Love

 For over 50 years, the mission of the Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) has remained unchanged: to use every available means to reach as many individuals and families as possible with the changing Gospel of Jesus Christ, the Crossmap webssite reports today (Oct. 13, 2025).

Launched in 1973 by Christian pioneers Paul and Jan Crouch, TBN began as one low--power television station broadcasting a few hours of Christian programming each day to viewers throughout the Los Angeles area. In the years since, TBN has grown into a family of over thirty twenty--four global networks reaching every inhabited continent with entertaining inspirational and life--changing programming for every family member and demographic.

TBN began as a dream to "build a     

Christian television network that spans the whole world." Today, that dream is a reality...and still expanding!

Christianity Is Being Censored Everywhere

 A senior legal comminications officer at Christian advocacy group, Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF), has warned that public expressions of Christianity are increasingly under threat, the Christian Today website reports today (Oct. 10, 2025).

Writing for The Spectaor, Lois McLatchie Miller took aim, not at the usual suspects of North Korea, China, and certain Muslim nations, but at Britain, America, and parts of Europe.

The assassination of Charlie Kirk, she argues, was the most dramartic form of censorship. "He spent his short life teaching students that men and women are not interchangeable, that children deserve protection, and that faith can transform despair into hope. He called people to marry to build families, and to serve causes bigger than themselves. For this, the darkness claimed his life."

Similarly, murderous techniques are deployed in Nigeria. Despite being at least 50 per cent Christian, Nigeria claims having more Christians killed per year than any other country. According to Open Doors, this year alone 7,000 Christians have been killed in sectarian violence, committed mostly by Muslims.

As Miller puts it,"If the past 2,000 years teach us anything, it is this: the darkness does not win. Opponents  of faith beware. Suppression provides the most fertile ground to spread the faith."

Thousnds Attend Brussels Evangelism Event with Franklin Graham

 More than 14,000 people gathered in Brussels, Belgium to hear a message about the hope of the gospel from veteran evangelist Franklin Graham, in an event supported by 620 evangelical churches, the Christian Daily website reports today (Oct. 7, 2025).

Graham --son of the late evangelist Billy Graham and president and CEO of both the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA) and Samaritan's Purse -- delivered the keynote message at the "Festival of Hope" evangelistic outreach at Brussels ING Arena on Sept. 27.

"We praise him for the hundreds of lives changed for eternity as people of all ages responded to the Gospel," the BGEA wrote on social media following the event. 

"It's a sign that God is on the move and something real is happening," said David Vandeput, president of the Belgian Federal Synod of Evangelical and Protestant churches. "This is a milestone that will be remembered by the evangelical church in Belgium, but it's not about religion. It's about Jesus Christ! This is just the start -- it's the launching point -- I believe there is much more to come."

Black History Month Reminds Us Christianity Is Not a "White Man's Religion"

 Each year,Black History Month invites us to reflect not only on the struggles and achievements of Black communities, but also wrestle with the deeper spiritual questions that shape our identity and faith, the Christian Today website reports today (Oct. 6, 2025).

One challenge is the misconception that Christianity is a "white man's religion."

Christianity was at times distorted to uphold slavery and colonialism.Passages of Scripture were from their context to excuse cruelty, while systems of exploitation were cloaked in the language of religion.

Moreover, many colonial missionaries dismissed African traditions, branding them "pagan"or "uncivilized."

Yet, this distortion does not reflect the heart of the Gospel, which is a God whose love knows no borders. "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life (John 3:16). Jesus' life, death, and resurrection were never for one race alone.

The Bible already affirms this vision. Galatians 3:28 declares that in Christ "there is neither Jew or Gentile, slave or free, nor is there male or female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus."

Christians Should Follow Jesus

 Following the call of Jesus Chist means being at war with errant cultural and political ideas, the Christian Post website reports today (Oct. 4, 2025).

Right now, Christians face persecution, torture, and death in the name of Jesus all around the world. Martyrdom has been a by--product of the church since Stephen gazed into the Heaven he was about to enter and saw the glory of God with Jesus standing to His right, waiting to welcome Stephen home. 

Churches saw record attendance the weekend after Charlie Kirk's murder, joining an ongoing return of Christian houses of worship,especially among young men.Many people across America and Western Europe are reportedly coming to faith in Jesus Christ, having returned to the gospel of the past or heard it for the first time.

Taking up the cross requires action, denying ourselves, and living for the Lord. Our nation is in a state of cultural war that is destroying America. Following Jesus always brings Christians into conflict with a secular world that will never fully accept the biblical message of grace and truth, a constant across all of church history. The killing of Charlie Kirk and the subsequent rejoicing from many of the political left remind Ameica that the situation is dire and unsustainable.

It is now clear that trans indoctrination, which contradicts the simple truth that God created humans in His image as male or female, fuels much of this violence. Denying the fundamental  truth of one's sex or endorsing this confusion in others invites spiritual instability.

Sarah Mullally to Lead Anglican Communion as First Woman Archbishop of Canterbury

 The Bishop of London, Rt.Rev. and Rt. Hon. Dame Sarah Mullally,DBE, has been appointed as the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury, the first woman to lead the worldwide Anglican Communion of 85 million members in 165 countries, the Christian Daily website reports today (Oct. 3, 2025).

The announcement by Lambeth Place, following confirmation by Downing Street on Oct. 3 that King Charles III appointed the nomination, follows months of debate over the appointment process. Critics in the Church of England Evangelical Councel (CEEC) had argued that procedural flaws and new regulations barred male clergy from consideration, raising questions about transparency in the selection.

The Cown Nominations Commission (CNC) for Canterbury nominated Mullolly after a "process of public consultation and prayerful discernment that began in February this year,"Lambeth Palace said.

Mullally, a former chief nursing officer for England and later Bishop of London, will formally take office at her Confirmation of Election of St. Paul's  Cathedral in January 2026, followed by heri nstallation at Canterbury Cathedral  in March. Ordained in 2001 after a career in nursing, she has emphasized service, listening, and unity as the hallmarks of her ministry.

"As I respond to the call of Christ to this new ministry, I do so in the same spirit of service I first came to faith as a teenager," Mullally said. 

"At every stage of that journey, through my  nursing career and Christian ministry, I have learned to listen deeply -- to people and to God's gentle prompting -- to seek to bring people together to find hope and healing." 

Gunman Kills 4 after Crashing Vehicle into Mich. Mormon Church

A gunman drove his vehicle into a Church of Jesus Christ of Later --day Saints building in suburban Grand Blanc, Michigan on Sept 28, 2025 before opening fire on worshippers during a large service, killing four and wounding eight others, the Christian Today website reports today (Oct. 2, 2025).

In a press conference that afternoon, Police Chief Williaam Renye said officers fatally shot the suspect, a 40--year--old man from Burton, Mich., after he rammed through the front doors of the Mormon Church during the worship service and began firing at congregants. 

The gunfire sent parishioners scrambling for safety as police emergency crews rushed to the scene, about 60 miles north of Detroit. Several people remain in critical condition at local hospitals. 

The gunman also started a fire inside the LDS church. The blaze quickly spread , filling the area with smoke and making it too dangerous for first respondents to conduct a full search.

Renye said the FBI has assigned more than 100 agents to assist with witness interviews , digital evidence, and the investigation into the shooter's background. Search warrants are being prepared for the suspect's home and electronic records. 

Authorities have not released the gunmen's name, and no motive has been determined.

"March for Jesus" in Guatemala Draws Crowds

For the third onsecutive year, Guatemala's capital hosted the "March for Jesus," a large gatheringg that brought together hundreds of people from muliple churches and denominations in a public demonstration of faith and unity, the Christian Daily website reports today (Sept. 30, 2025).

The Plaza de la Construcion served as the starting point for the march, as paricipants walked along Sixth Avenue while proclaiming their beliefs.

Organizers said the event has become an important meeting place for church leaders in  the country,  bringing together representatives from congregations, missions, and ministries for a special program of prayer for society and government authorities. 

Held under the theme "There Is Power In His Blood," the event featured

 praise, worship, dancing, and the sounding of the shofar. One of the central moments was the deliberation of the Lord's Supper, with participants sharing in the sacrament as a sign of unity and spiritual renewal.

The gathering aimed to deliver a message of hope to citizens and has been described by organizers as a catalyst for strengthening ties with Guatemala's Christian community.

theologyandsociety.blogspot.com

 Parents can often foresee danger and protest their kids getting injured, the Crossmap website reports today (Sept. 29, 2025).

Kids grumble and complain that they don't have enough freedom and that our boundaries are too restrictive. Yet, skating down the driveway toward a main road could prove deadly. A fall from a flimsy branch can lead to a shattered arm. A slip on the icy sidewalk might land them in the emergency room. In it all, we know the consequences.

Sometimes, we put children in challenging situations to protect them. We know if they don't apply themselves in grade school, they could grow up to be sluggards. If we give them every comfort they desire, they'll become pleasure--seeking adults who might end up addicted to entertainment. Like us, our children almost always want comfort, but we know the easy path often rolls out the red carpet and then pulls the rug from underneath us.

God plans our path.

God often brings us through hard places to protect us from a destination that would ruin us and prepares us for places that require more of this preparation.

Through the Holy Spirit, we have the full presence of our three--in--one God with us at every moment. He leads us by the Word of God. He encourages us through the people of God. He convicts us through the truth of God.He comforts us with the love of God. He is real and He is with us right here and right now. 

God knows the way, and He sent the Way, the Truh, and the Life to guide us in our pilgrimage to the promised land.

King and Queen to Meet Pope Leo XIV

 King Charles III and Queen Camilla will meet Pope Leo XIV when they visit the Vatican in October, the Christian Today website reports today (Sept. 28, 2025).

The original state visit was supposed to take place in April with Pope Leo's predecessor. the late Pope Francis.

It was postponed due to Francis' ill health, although thy paid a brief visit to him at the Casa Santa Marta, a guesthouse in the Vatican where he had been convalescing at the time. He died just a few weeks later.

The rescheduled visit will take place under the theme of "pilgrims of hope,"and falls within the Jubilee year being marked by the Catholic Church worldwide this year.

King Charles, whose titles include Supreme Governor of the Church of England, has been an advocate of positive inter--faith relations and was among the guests at the canonization of Cardinal Newman in Rome in 2019.

God Is the Source of Human Rights, Not Government

As Americans, we are living in extraordinary times, the Christian Post website reports today (Sept. 27, 2025).

God was using Charlie Kirk as part of a Christian spiritual awakening on our national college campuses. Moreover, his assassination has strengthened and magnified his cause.

Perhaps the disconnect between "what is" and "what is becoming" is that Americans have discovered, or rediscovered, the pivotal role of Christianity in the nation's heritage of who we have been as a country. 

The U.S.was  founded on the principle that "all men are created equal because our rights come from God, our Creator, not from our laws, not from our government.

President John F. Kennedy, in his inaugural address on Jan. 20, 1961,declared: "And yet the same revolutionary beliefs for which our forbears fought  are still at issue around the globe -- the belief the rights of man come not from the generosity of the state, but from the hand of God."

Officials,Muslims Halt Church Construction in Indonesia

 Officials in Central Java Province, Indonesia halted construction of a church and religious tourism compound following pressures from local council members and Muslim groups, the Christian Daily website reports today(Sept. 26. 2025).

The Karaanganyar Regent on Sept. 2 suspended construction of the Immanuel Christian Church building and the Holyland Bukit Dona religious tourism compound of the Indonesian Bethel Church.

The letter of  suspension stated that several community groups opposed the project, believing it could create social conflict. Construction may continue once  the issues with the local community are resolved.

"The suspension of construction aims to maintain conducive conditions and prevent social conflict," the regent wrote. "The local government is obliged to prioritize the interests of the wider community."

Finding God's Calling on Your Life

 It is challenging to find God's calling on your life but it can be confuising during midlife, the Crossmap website reports today (Sept. 25, 2025).

We take inventory of our successes or lack thereof. We note the superficial signs of aging by counting our new forehead wrinkles and slathering ourselves with cream.

we praise God for an overall good year, or we praise Him for carrying us through a horrible one. And we pray for good years to come.

God calls us to worship together in the body of Christ.

He also calls us to care for the widows,the oppressed ,and the poor.

God calls us to secular occupations or jobs we never planned to do.

These mini ministries are building blocks that we must steward well before making the climb, because God ordains the ordinary moments before revealing His extraordinary purpose.

New Study: Americans Are Confused about Sin

 A new national survey has found that most Americans remain deeply confused about the nature of sin, with many rejecting biblical definitions and even refusing to call themselves "sinners," the Christian Today website reports today (Sept. 24, 2025).

The findings come from the AmericanWorldview Inventory 2025, a wide--ranging study led by Arizona Christian Univerity's Cultural Research Center.

Dr. George Barna, who   directed the research, described the results as "spiritually dangerous." 

"After more than four decades of studying the beliefs of Americans, I'm convinced that few issues are more misunderstood -- or more spiritual dangerous -- than sin," Dr. Barna said.

Americans often admit that sin exists but refuse to take it seriously -- focusing more on how guilty sin makes them feel than on what sin does to their relationship with God -- on their lives.

Six of ten adults (61%) acknowledge that sin results in guilt. Yet for many, those guilty feelings are considered more troubling than the sin itself. 

Also, no more than 56% of respondents believe that sin has a lasting effect on a person' life, suggesting that many do not see sin as transformative or life--changing. 

While many people admit to moral failures, they stop short of acknowledging sin as a direct rejection of God's authority and design.

The research also revealed that a very small minority -- just 14% -- maintain a biblical perspective on sin.

Jesus Is the Discerner of Hearts

 During the time He was in Jerusalem, those days of the Passover Feast, many people noticed the signs He was displaying and, seeing that they pointed straight to God, entrusted their lives to Him, the Crossmap website reports today (Sept. 23, 2025).

But Jesus did not entrust His life to them. He knew them inside and out, knew how untrustwothy they were. He did not need any help seeing right through them. 

Scripture leads us into understanding what is going on with the next three people Jesus meets. We observe His intimate discussions with Nicodemus, the Samaritan woman, and the Gentile nobleman.

Jesus shows His ability to understand the hearts of their hidden inner thoughts, desires and needs. Nicodemus needed faith, the Samaritan woman required moral transformation, and the nobleman needed his son healed.

Jesus has a thorough understanding of human nature, He can read people accurately more than even a doctor can read a blood test to diagnose cancer.

Our love relationship with the Lover of our soul is more than signs of wonders. The Lord's love is so endearing that He wants to entrust Himself to us.

Can Jesus entrust Himself to you?

FranklinGraham: Murder of Charlie Kirk Due to Left Wanting to Silence Opponents

 Samaritan's Purse CEO Franklin Graham, son of the late evangelist Billy Graham, said the recent assassination of Charlie Kirk indicates the Left wants to silence their opponents, but urged Christians to follow Kirk's example by remaining unafraid, the Christian Post website reports today (Sept. 20, 2025).

"I think what the assassin was wanting to do, no question, has backfired," Graham told the Christian Post in a phone interview. "And what the Left is wanting to do is to shut  the mouth of anyone who is willing to speak out."

Graham expressed hope that Kirk, who was assassinated last week in Utah by a 22--year--old with leftist political views will have an impact for Christ even in the wake of his death.

"I hope this is going to raise up an array of young people who will take a  stand for Jesus Christ, who are not afraid to speak out and not afraid that they are going to be attacked or not be afraid to speak the truth."

"I think Charlie's death put a huge spotlight on the truth: that Jesus is God's son," Graham told the Christian Post. "And so what the assassin, I'm sure,wanted to do was to shut Charlie up, to shut his mouth. The opposite effect is taking place."

Pastors Who Put Their Families First Tend to Remain Pastors

New research has shed light on the factors that make pastors more likely a step away from the pulpit,the Christian Today website reports today (Sept. 18, 2025). 

A  Lifeway Research study found that just 1,1% of Protestant pastors leave pastoral ministry each year prior to retirement age. However, a  comparison of current and former pastors reveals important predictors of pastoral longevity -- and what drives some to quit. 

The executive director  of  Lifeway Research , ScottMcConnell, said: "Experts can theorize what keeps pastors  in the pulpit, but only a comparison of pastors who have stayed to those who have left can point  to what matters."

Among the findings are that family life plays a decisive role . Pastors who put their  families first and integrate them inti minnistry are significantly  more likely to remain in leadership. 

Those who put their families first during scheduling conflicts were 1% times more likely to still be serving.

By contrast, resentment within the family proved damandingg : 41% of former pastors said  their families resented ministry  demands , compared to 16% of current pastors. 

Erika Kirk Vows to Continue Husband's Mission

 In an emotional speech two days after her husband was murdereed in a college campus in Utah, Erika Kirk vowed to continue her husband's mission at Turning Point USA and to spread 

the Gospel with the hope to "make Heaven crowded," the Christian Daily website reports today (Sept. 16, 2025).

Although the f plot was an act of evil,  Erika Kirk affirmed that she knows God will use this tragedy for good.

"I honestly have no idea what ay of this means. I know that God does. I don't. But Charlie, baby, I now you do, too... Our world is  filled with evil, but our God, you guys, our God is so good.  God is so incredibly good. And we know that for those who love God, all things work together for good for those  who are called according to His purpose," she said.

She warned those responsible for her husband's death, asserting they have unleashed  a movement that will propel Charlie Kirk's mission forward.

"They killed Charlie because he preached a message of patriotism, faith,and God;s merciful love. They should all know this: "If you have no idea that my husband's mission was powerful before, you have no idea," she declared. "The cries of this widow will echo around the world like a battle cry to everyone listening tonight across America. The movement my husband built will not die. It won't. I refuse to let it happen. It will not die."

As the founder of TPUSA, Charlie Kirk played a pivotal role in securing support for Preident Donald Trump among young voters, and most recently hosted the TPUSA Faith Forward Pastors Summit in Los Angeles to mobilize Christian leaders to stand firm against the rising tide of evil in society.

Charlie Kirk Killer Is Identified

Th man who allegedly assassinated Charlie Kirk did so because he hated the views of the Christian conservative youth activist, according to Utah Gov.Spencer Cox, the Christian Post website reports today (Sept. 12, 2025). 

Tyler Robinson, a 22--year--old resident of Washington County, Utah has been identified as the shooter who killed Kirk around 12:20 p.m. on Sept.10 durng a TPUSA event at Utah Valley University. Robinson was taken into custody after a family member, believed to be his father, turned him in.

It is generally believed by investigators that Robinson acted alone and authorities do not expect any further arrests.

An influential conservative activist, Kirk was speaking at the Utah University in Orem when the gunman fatally shot him in the neck.

Charlie Kirk Shot Dead at Utah Valley University

Authorities are still searching for the shooter who killed Charlie Kirk at an event at Utah Valley University,but have recovered a rifle believed to have been used to fire the single fatal shot, the USA Today website reports today (Sept.11, 2025).

Authorities have not identified a suspect, but said that they  recovered a high--powered rifle in the woods they believe was used in the shooting and learned new details about a suspect from video being analyzed. Photos of a new person of interest were also   released by the FBI today. 

Kirk, a 31--year--old conservative activist and close political ally of President Donald Trump, was speaking outside in a courtyard at the univerwsity yesterday afternoon. The shooting, captured in  graphic detail  in video clips that rapidly spread around the internet, sparked fear and panic among some of the 3,000 attendees, prompting the school

to evcacuate the campus and close down as authorities investigate. Some students fled while others barricaded themselves into classrooms,Utah Department of Public Safety

Commissioner Beau Mason said.

"We do have good video footage of this individual,"Mason said. He added that investigators are using technology to help identify the suspect from the video.

Trump, who ordered all U.S. flags flown at half--staff until sunset on Sunday, has vowed that his administration will "find each and evrey one of those who contributed to this atrocity."

Kirk, 31, was a husband of Erika Frantzve and father of two young children: a daughter, 3, and a son,1.

Thousands Gather n Mexico for Great Day of Humility

 With prayer for repentance and renewed family values, thousands of Christians gathered on Sept.6 in Plaza Juarez,Hidalgo, Mexico to mark the Great Day of Humility, the international movement of public prayer and evangelism that has  spread across Latin America, the Christian Daily website reports today (Sept. 10, 2025).

Participants from various denominations and Christian organizations marched, prayed, and sang under the banner of unity and peace for Mexico, a nation still grappling with high levels of crime and insecurity. The gathering included a March for Unity and Peace through downtown streets and concluded with a large rally in central square.

The Great Day of Humility began with a morning seminar for leaders and an outreach initiative called "Operation Traffic Light," where volunteers held signs encouraging passersby to draw closer to God. In the afternoon, Christians paraded through the streets of Pachuca waving   Mexican and Israeli flags, kneeling in prayers, and chanting"Christ Lives" as motorists poured to watch.

Over 10.000 Turn Out for March for Life in London

Thousands of people from across the UK came together to be a powerful voice of the unborn at the March for Life in London on Sept. 6, the Christian Today website reports today (Sept. 8, 2025).

Organizers estimate that at least 10,000 people turned out for March for Life 2025.

The day began with church and prayer services in the morning, before the march got underway at Parliament Square.

This year's March for Life was supported by a number of Christian leaders, including Anglican and Catholic bishops, and  pro--life campaigner Regan King.

Co--director of March for Life Isabel  Vaughan--Spruce, said that more than the numbers, she was delighted to hear so many amazing  stories of pro--life across the country.

She added, "So many different denominations of Christians -- and a growing number of atheists -- put aside specific theological differnces to come together in recognition of the value of every life from conception."

Boko Haram Terrorists Kill 8 Christians in Nigeria

 Members of Islamic extremist group Boko Haram on August 30 killed  five Christians in Borno State, Nigeria, and three others in another area of the state on August 31, the Christian Daily webite reports today (Sept. 7, 2025).

The terrorists killed five Christians working on their farms in Nogoshe Village, Gwoza County, and on Aug. 31 attacked Mussa Village in Askira County, killing three Christians as they slept in their homes, said area resident Hauwa Samuel.

"Chrisians here have continued to face challenges from constant threats and attacks from Boko Haram terrorists,"Samuel said.

A member of Nigeria's National Assembly, Sen.Mohammed Ali Ndume, who represents Borno South, said Boko Haram miiitants also burned dozens of houses in the Aug. 31 attack.

"I am profoundly saddened by these senseless killings," Ndume said in a statement. "Our people, whose only pursuit is peace and livelihood, continue to fall victim to the cruelty of insurgents. These men and women deserved to live, to farm, and to dream, but their lives have been cut short by those who thrive on violence."

Future of Theological Ed. Must Rest on Character

 Dr. Marvin Oxenham believes the future of theological education must not only rest on academic excellence or professional competence, but also on something more personal: the character of those preparing to serve in ministry, the Christian Daily website reports today (Sept. 5, 2025).

Oxenham explained why recovering the Christian tradition of character and virtus education is vital not just for theological schools but for churches, families, and Christian discipleship as a whole.

Oxenham serves s secretary--general of the European Council for Theological Education (ECTE) and directs the ICETE Academy, an online training platform for theological educators worldwide.Based in Rome, he has devoted decades to church planting, evangelism, and educational leadership in recent years.

For Oxenham, the emphais on character is  not a wide issue, but central to the credibility and health of Christian   witness. He observed that most of the problems faced by churches are not rooted in doctrinal error or lack of technical skills. Instead, they arise when leaders and members alike fail in matters of integrity, humility, and moral courage. 

Digital Bible Distribution Outstrips Print Worldwide for First Time

 The United Bible Societies Fellowship (UBS) said that for the first time ever more digital copies of Scripture were shared than printed versions, the Christian Today website reports today (Sept. 4, 2025).

In its Scripture Distribution Statistics report for 2024, UBS said that the number of printed Bibles distributed across the word fell from 24.2 million in 2023 to 22.5 million last year. However, the number of online Bibles distributed was 25.9 million, surpassing physical copies  for the first time.

The countries with the largest populations received the most physical copies of the Bible. Brazil topped the charts with 4.2 million, followed by India at 1.8 million, and China with 1.6 million, Evangelical Focus reports.

With the growng digital market for the Bible, the UBS report now also includes additional details about online interactions with Scripture.

Christians Should Reclaim Biblical Meaning of Labor Day

 It's time for Christians everywhere to reclaim the biblical meaning of Labor Day, the Christian Post website reports today (Sept. 2, 2025).

Labor Day was first observed in 1882 in New York City under the auspices of the Central Labor Union. It became a federal holiday in 1894, following national labor protests and the Pullman Strike.

However, there was the biblical notion that workers deserve honor, dignity, and respect. Labor Day is more than a secular civic holiday. Click open your Bible app, search for labor, and you will see a parade of deeply biblical truths. 

Christians affirm that each individual is called by God to work, that their labor honors God and is deserving of dignity and fair treatment, and that it is good to take a Sabbath Day break from all their labors.

In Matthew (11-28-30),Jesus offers a blanket invitation -- a Labor Day rest that lasts forever! "Come to me, all you who labor and are heavy laden," Christ declares, "and I will give you rest."

Who Is Jesus?

Jesus and His disiples went on the village around 

Caesare Philippi. On the way, He asked them, "Who do people say I am? (Mark 8:27),the Crossmap website reports today (August31,2025).

After Peter had spent so much time with Jesus, he had become familiar with who Jesus was, so his answer was fitting to Jesus' question. "You are the Messsiah." It wasn't the right time for everyone to know who Jesus fully was, even though the whole time He was on earth, he was 

revealing the Father God. The fullness of the glory of God was revealed in Jesus . 

Ater He died on the cross, Jesus became our Messiah, He won the victory over  sin and became the exalted Son, who sits at the right hand of God.

The one thing about our identity that we should never forget    is that God tells us who we are and calls us His sons and daughters. we are a new creation because of Jesus and belong to God's Kingdom.

Theerefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come. The old has gone, the new is here!

Prague March for Jesus Draws Crowds of Hundreds

Hundreds of Christians filled  the streets of central Prague on August 2 for the third annual "March for Jesus,"the Christian Daily website reports today (August 29, 2025). 

The evangelistic march, organized by the Czech associations Salvation Crew and Reach the World, drew believers from across the country for a time of worship, public preacching, and prayer in some of the capital's most iconic squares.

In Prague, Czech worship leader Jan Kristof led the joint worship in Hradcansky Square.

Rev. Peter Kuba, pastor of the Open Church in Prague, then spoke about the gospel's message and the importance of churches being unified in faith.

The event concluded at the Old Town Square at 6:30 p.m. with a worship performance by the band,"The Altar Echo."

Minneapollis Cath. School Shooting Leaves 2 Dead, over a Dozen Wounded

 At least two children have died and over a dozen are injured after a shooting this morning (August 27, 2025) at a private school in Minnesota,the Christian Post website reports.

Authorities responded to reports of a shooter at Annunciation Church and Catholic School in Minneapolis, which occurred around the time that students were at weekly mass.

Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara said at a press conference that it was "an unthinkable tragedy" that occurred during the first  week of school. A gunman believed to be in his 20s fired through the church windows, hitting children and other worshipers, O'Hara said. 

Two children, aged 10 and 8, were among the dead.There were 17 other injuries, including 14 children, two of whom were in critical condition.

"The sheer cruelty and cowardice of firing into a church full of children is absolutely incomprehensible," O'Hara said. "The coward who fired these shots ultimately took his own life in the rear of the church."

O'Hara did not identify the gunman, and  a motive is not yet clear.

Venezuelan Christians Hold Nationwide March for Jesus

 A multitude of evangelical Christians mobilized across Venezuela on Aug. 2 during the March for Jesus, an event declared months earlier as

the "National Day of the March for Jesus" by the Venezuelan government through a presidential decree, the Christian Daily website reports today (August 26, 2025).

According to the Latin Evangelical Alliance (AEL), delegations from evangelical churches across all 23 states and the Capital District participated in the event. Believers of various nationalities and denominations also joined, marcching with banners,flags, and T--shirts bearing the event's theme, along with messages exalting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Along the way, songs, praises, prayers, and calls for unity could be heard. This year's theme was "Jesus, the nations belong to you."

Pastor Jose Pinero, executive director of the Evangelical Council of Venezuela, addressed the crowd in Cumana with a    message of the gathering.

Pinero stressed, "This march is  a space where we celebrate Jesus Christ with joy."

Living a Purposeful Life

 The purpose of life doesn't begin with us, but begins with God,  the Christian Today website reports today (August 22, 2025).

God, who is love Himself, made us out of love, and to love.

But humanity fell (Genesis 3). In  arrogance, we rejected His love, allowing sin to enslave us (Romans 1:21). The bondage of sin ruled over us  -- until God, in His mercy and love, sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to break its  power.Through His sacrificial death and victorious resurrection, Christ restored our identity as sons and daughters of God and opened the way to eternal life with Him (John 1:12).

The first command God gave humanity was to "be fruitful and multiply" (Genesis 1:28).Being fruitful means maturing in faith and bearing the fruit of love, both in our relationship with God and how we love toward others. This can only happen when we abide in Christ and He abides in us (John 15:5).

Study: Prisons in Pakistan Mistreat Christians

 A new study shows that prisoners from minority backgrounds, particularly Christians, face bias in Pakistani jails and are subjected to abuse by prison staff and Muslim inmates, the Christian Daily website reports today (August 20, 2025).

They are labeled as "untouchables" and given menial tasks, like cleaning toilets, according to the study released on Aug. 15, "Hope Behind Bars," by the National Commission for Justice and Peace, a Catholic church organization.

Among the worst--treated and discriminated prisoners are those charged under the country's harsh blasphemy laws and other religiously--motivated cases, the report stated.

Once the religious identity of prisoners becomes public, officials treat Christian and Hindu inmates poorly, assigning them menial tasks and refraining from offering them the remission in sentences that are offered to Muslims, according to the study.

What Worship Leaders Say Are Top Obstacles

 There are these roles every worship leader fills: musician, minister, and multiplier, the Christian Post website reports today (August 19, 2025).

There is musical ability to consider when choosing a worship leader. Can they sing? Can they play?Can they understand music theory? Can they lead rehearsal ? If the answer is yes, most churches overlook the lack of experience and spiritual maturity in the leader.

The second role worship leaders fill is that of minister, as well as by spending a lifetime  listening   and living in God's Word. Worship leaders must be taught how to provide theologically sound, sensitive and prudent ministry. It's the responsibility of the local church to raise them in sound, biblical education and training.     

The third role worship leaders inhabit is that of "multiplier." This means not only disciplining the volunteers on your worship team, but developing them as musicians and leaders Plurality and leadership with intentional discipleship and development are essential in modern worship ministries,

It's time to witness the joy and power of spiritual, creative worship driven by leaders who have everything they need to thrive.

Report: Hundreds of Hostile Acts Perpetrated against U.S.Churches

 A new report released by the Family Research Council shows that more than 400 acts of hostility were recorded against churches in the United States in 2024, with a sharp rise in gun--related incidents, the Christian Today website reports today (August 18, 2025).

The incidents highlighted in the group's "Hostility against Churches in the United States" report ranged from vandalism and arson to gun--related threats, bomb hoaxes, and physical assaults.

The Washington--based conservative Christian advocacy organization documented 415 hostile acts across 43 states, affecting 383 churches, based on open--source documents, media reports, and official records.

"The rise in crimes against churches is taking place in a context in which fewer Americans are attending religious services or identify with specific faith," the report notes.

UK Universities See Drop in Religious Studies

 There are concerns about the future of theology and religious studies in the U.K., as a number of universities offering these subjects continues to decline, the Christian Post website reports today (August 16, 2025).

A broad spectrum of faith leaders, academics,and public figures have expressed concern that the subjects could disappear altogether for universities unless action is taken now to safeguard them.

There are only 21 higher education institutions in England and Wales offering undergraduate degrees in theology and religious studies compared to 90 in history, 90 in music,and 101 in sociology.

"This impacts student choice, but it also has adverse effects for society,"the letter reads.

"Theology plays a crucial role in the intellectual, ethical, and cultural development of communities. It equips people with the tools to engage more thoughtfully with global cultures and traditions and to engage deeply with complex sacred texts.

,

German Evangelical Leader:We Need to Keep Our Hearts Pure

 Evangelicals have moved into positions of political influence in recent years, particularly in the United States, the Christian Daily website reports today (August 15, 2025).

Reinhardt Schink,  head of the Evangelical Alliance in Germany, is concerned about the consequences.

Schink reflected on the rapid shift from evanglicals often being a minority voice ignored by secular society in having influence on laws and public debates about morality,gender, and abortion -- matters he describes as questions of "what is right and what is wrong."

"Suddenly our voice is being heard and there is an opportunity to shape society to have influence within the lawmaking process," he said. "On the other hand, it is so easy to be compromised by the possibilities and by the power which you have. And I think this might be not only an opportunity but also a danger to Christians in these positions, also to ministries, to try not to play power games just like the world does."

To understand the right approach to power, Schink pointed to the example of Jesus, who demonstrated both great authority -- casting out demons, healing, speaking a word,and stilling the storm -- and great humility, as when He washed His disciples' feet.

The Nuclear Age Turns 80

Earlier this month, on August 6,Americans as a nation,  commemorated the 80th anniversary of dropping the atomic bomb on Hiroshima, Japan. We dropped a second atomic bomb on Nagasaki on August 9, the Christian Post website reports today (August 14, 2025).

For many decades now, Americans, as well as people around the world, have debated whether America should have dropped "the bomb."

In helping defeat Hitler and Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan, more than 16 million Americans had served in the American Armed Forces. America had suffered over a million casualties. 

America and its political and military leaders were war weary and yet were still facing a fanatical and implacable enemy that showed every sign of continuing to fight "to the last man" in combat situations.

Prague March for Jesus Draws Crowds of Hundreds

 Hundreds of Christians filled the streets of central Prague on August 2 for the third annual "March for Jesus,"publicly proclaiming the gospel despite rainy weather that drenched participants several times along the route, the Christian Daily website reports today (August 13, 2025).

The evangelistic march, organized by the Czech Association Crew and Reach the World, drew believers from across the country for a time of worship, public preaching, and prayer in some of the capital's most iconic squares. 

"Although the weather was not very good this year and the participants got wet several times on the way to the squares,  the atmosphere was joyful and I think that no one regretted the participation,"wrote Rev. Lubomir Ondacek, senior pstor of Christian Fellowship Prague and executive secretary of the Christian  Missionary Society, in the Czech Christian monthly Zivotvivx (Life of Faith).

Why Purity Matters in the Christian Faith

 When Christians talk about purity, it can feel restrictive, outdated, or even irrelevant, the Christian Today website reports today (August 12, 2025).

Even in church spaces, many of us grew up hearing about purity in ways that felt heavy, shame--based or impossible to live up to.

But God's view of purity is not about being perfect or prudish. It's about love,relationship, and transformation--living with a heart that's fully devoted to God. And that matters -- more than ever.

God is holy, good, pure, and sinless. He created us in His image and we were meant to reflect His nature. We strayed far from that image, and no amount of rule--keeping could restore what was lost.

That's why God gave us Jesus. Through His death and resurrection, we are given a new identity -- one we could never earn on our own. When God looks at those who are in Christ, He sees the purity of Jesus.

Poll: Americans' Trust ln Church Rebounding

 Public trust in the church as an institution has risen after three years of stagnation with 36% of Americans now saying they have a great amount of confidence on it. The shift, recorded in Gallup's latest survey on the topic marks the first significant increase since 2020, the Christian Daily website reports today (August 10,  2025).

Confidence in the church had fallen to 31%in 2022 and remained around 32% over the following two years, near the lowest recorded levels. Gallup hs tracked this trend annually since 1973, when trust stood at 66%, reaching a high of 68% in 1975.

The only other major rebound in recent decades came in 2001, when post 9/11 sentiment briefly raised confidence to 60%, the last time the institution earned such support, as reported by Lifeway Research.

The latest numbers show the American church regaining some ground, matching levels last seen in 2021 when confidence was 37%, while still far from majority support. The increase is notable across several demographics, particularly among poliitical conservatives.

Is College Worth the Time and Money?

 Liberal arts education in college is a waste of time and money, the Christian Post website reports today (August 8, 2025).

The original colleges and universities in North America were Christian. But today, most of these schools stand for the exact opposite. Liberals didn't start these shools; they just took them over, turning them away from God.

Today, we have cut ourselves off from the ancient wisdom found in the Scriptures, and instead find ourselves adrift in a sea of relativism. No wonder so many young graduates regret going to college.

Colleges should have technical schools that teach a particular trade or discipline, such as medicine, law, or computer science. Technical schools are about what you do, and universities should be about why you do it.

We may Be Nearing a Spiritual Awakening

 All around are promising signs we could be at the beginning of a spiritual awakening that only God can cause, the Crossmap website reports today (August 7, 2025).

A spiritual awakening occurs when God soveeignty pours out His Spirit in such a way it impacts the entire culture. Thisi is what happened during the Jesus Movement and at multiple times in Ameican history.

We are now seeing a spiritual hunger and resurgence about Jesus, especially among young people. This is what happened during the Jesus Movement. It was youth coming to Christ out of desperation.

Our young generation is hungry for spiritual truth.They want the unfiltered gospel of Christ crucified and the power of resurrection.

 

Chrisians Protest after Indian Lawmaker Offers Cash for Killing Pastors

 India's Catholic bishops this week strongly condemned law enforcement for failing to prosecute a state  legislator who publicly offered up to $12,663 (1.1 million rupees) for violent attacks on Christian leaders, the Christian Post website reports today (July31, 2025).

The Catholic Bishops Conference of India expressed "deep anguish and alarm over the growing climate of hostility and violence directed against minority communities in the country" following Maharashtra  state member of Legislative Assembly (MLA)  Gopichand Padalkar's  inflammatory offer and failure of police to respond. Padalkar is amember of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

In a press statement issued July 28, the bishops referenced Padalkar's June 17 speech in Sangli District, Maharashtra state, in which he said , "We should keep prizes for those who bash up missionaries coming to convert people."

Padalkar also offered 11 lakhs (1.1 million rupees or $12,663) for violence against Christian leaders, the bishops noted. 

27 Christians Killed in Nigeria

Residents in Plateau state, Nigeria on july 25 held a funeral procession for 27 Christians  massacred in one village 10  days earlier, the Christian Daily website reports today (July 29, 2025).

The Fulani herdsmen attacked the Christian village at about 11 p.m. as residents  slept.

Pam Dachungyang, a senator in the National Assembly from the area, said the herdsmen went house to house killing the elderly, women, and children as they were sleeping.

Dachungyang added,"These are people whose primary occupation is farming, and the continued violence is not only destroying lives, but also threatening food security and livelihoods."

Armenian Govt. Told to End Persecution of Apostolic Church

 Christians have called on the Armenian government to end the "persecution" of the Armenian Apostolic Church, the Christian Today website reports today (July 28, 2025).

Signatories of the joint statement include the NGOs Christian Solidarity International (CSI), Coptic Solidarity, and SOS Chretiens d'Orient.

Relations between the Armenian Apostolic Church and the government are currently strained. Archbishop Mikael Alapahyan has been arrested on charges  of encouraging the overthrow of the government by undemocratic means.

Armenian prosecutors point to a number of statements made by the archbishop appearing 

to call for a coup. He said "I called for a coup to save the country from this madman. This is not just a call; it must be done."

In a statement, CSI said it had "grave concerns over the intensifying campaign by the Armenian government against the Armenian Apostolic Church and its supporters."

CSI added the government was effectively trying to take control of the church by suggesting the replacement of the churh's Catholicos with a state--run committee.

92 Baptized on Bournemouth Beach in England, Glorify Jesus

 Ninety--rwo people stood on a beach in the south of England and publicly declared their love for Jesus Christ by getting baptized en masse at an  event witnessed  by hundreds, the Christian Daily website reports today (July 27, 2025).

Five churches from Bournemouth in the county of Dorset were involved in the baptism event . which started at 9:30 a.m.near the Grade II--listed Bascombe Pier on the town's seafront on July 13.

The five churches organizing the baptisms on Bournemouth seafront were Bournemouth Community Church, Catch the Fire Church, Lansdowne Church, Coastline Vineyard Church, and Lovechurch.

Rev. Mike Smailes, Associate Minister for Lansdowne Church, told Christian Daily that the baptism event was witnessed by countless people. "God is adding to our churches those He's saving from every community. Eveyone sensed it, this was something very special. May the Lord now strengthen us all with greater boldness to live and speak for Him."

TBN: God's Real Peace for a Chaotic World

 For over 50 years, the mission of the Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) has remained unchanged: To use every available means to reach as many individuals and families as possible with the life--changing Gospel of Jesus Christ, the Crossmap website reports today (July 25, 2025).

Launched in 1973 by Christian television pioneers Paul and Jan Crouch, TBN began as one low--power television station broadcasting a few hours of Christian programming each day to viewers throughout the Los Angeles area.

In the years since, TBN has grown into a family of over thirty twenty--four hour global networks reaching every inhabited continent with entertaining, inspirational, and life--changing programming for every family member and demographic. TBN began as a dream to "build a Christian television network that spans the whole world."  Today that dream is a reality -- and still expanding!

Religious Rights Group in Spain Urges EU to Create Post to Control Christian Hate Crimes

 A religious rights group in Spain is calling on the president of the European Commission to create a Special Coordenator to combat hate crimes against Christians, the Christian Daily website reports today (July 24, 2025).

The Observatory for Religious Freedom(OLRC) in Spain on July 9 urged Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, to create the position equivalent to existing specialists to combat anti--Semitism and Islamophobia in the European Union. 

"It is imperartive  that the European Commission act with the same commitment it shows in the fight against other forms of religious hatred," OLRC Presient Maria Garcia said in a press statement. 

Anti--Christian attacks are prevalent, she said, as the Observatory of Intolerance and Discrimination Against Christians in Europe (OIDAC Europe) documented 2,444 hate crimes against Christians in 35 European countries in its "Intolerance and Discrimination Against Christians in Europe Report 2024."

Fresh Attacks on Christians in Syria after Deadly Church Bombing

 Despite promises by the interim Syrian government to respect and protect minorities, sectarian violence has increased in recent days, particularly against Christians, the Christian Today website reports today (July 23, 2025). 

In the village ofAl--Soura Alkabiva, 38 Christian homes have been destroyed. St. Michael's Melkite Greek Catholic Church has been badly damaged in an attack. It is unknown who carried out the attacks. 

The interim Syrian government is headed by HTS, a militant group that began as an offfshoot of al--Qaeda. The new government has given assurances that it is committed to respecting the rights of minorities.  

Howver, their assurances have done little to ease the fears of Christians and other minorities in light of concerning developments. 

Less than a month ago, Mar Elias Orthodox Church in Damascus became the victim of a suicide bombing that killed more than 30 people and injured 54. The extremist jihadist group Saraya Ansar al--Sunnah claimed responsibility for the attack.

Pastor Jack Graham: The Reality of Heaven

 We can only transform the world when we choose to live totally for Jesus, set ablaze through the power of the Holy Spirit, the Crossmap website reports today (July 21, 2025).

Pastor Jack Graham walks us through Scripture, revealing the truth about angels and what they offer us: encouragement, counsel, confirmation of God's will, strength, protection, wisdom, companionship, and more. Dr. Graham demonstrates that the main role of angels is to point us  toward Christ.

Our mission at Power Point Ministries is to glorify God by introducing Jesus Christ as Lord to as many people as possible and to develop them in Christian living using the most effective means to impact the world, making an eternal difference in this generation. 

Power Point Ministries started as a vision of Jack Graham and his wife, Deb, 20 years ago. 

They believed that the power of God was evident in their growing church and that His Gospel message should be spread beyond the walls of the church to the world at large. They purchased airtime on the Trinity Broadcast Network and Power Point Ministries was then officially launched in April 1994. 

Power Point can now be seen or heard by an audience of millions of television viewers and radio listeners across the U.S. and several other countries.

Christian Farmers Fellowship to Mark 40 Years of Gospel Impact

The Fellowship of Christian Farmers International  (FCFI) is set to mark a significant milestone, as it celebrates its 40th anniversary at its annual conference in Kalamazoo, Michigan this July, the Christian Daily website reports today (July 20, 2025). 

The event will commemorate four decades of impactful gospel --centered farming ministry have set the stage for the next  40 years of service. 

"This isn't just a celebration -- it's a defining moment," said Executive Director Dan Janzen. "It's a time to reaffirm our mission of equipping Christian farmers to make a lasting impact in their communities, both spiritually and practically." 

FCI launched at the American Soybean Association Expo in 1985. Since then, the organization has supported evangelism, disaster relief, and mission outreach for farming communities throughout the U.S.

Seek Jesus When You Feel Fragile

 Our bodies tell a story of brokenness, but Jesus'scarred hands and feet have the final word, the Crossmap website reports today (July 19, 2025).

Consider Him when you feel most fragile, and consider Him when your heart longs for comfort. You can be confident that the weakness you feel today won't last forever, keep looking to Jesus for hope, holding fast to Him extends His arms and welcomes you home. 

That need can actually help us as we consider Jesus and see how the incarnation of Christ -- that the Son of God was a real man in a real body -- is our hope for the moment we feel fragile.

Pope Calls for Ceasefire after Attack on Cath. Church in Gaza

Pope Leo XIV has called for a ceasefire in Gaza after the only                                                                                             Catholic parish in the territory fell victim to a deadly Israeli strike this morning (July 17, 2025) , the Christian Today website reports today.

Three people are reported to have been killed and several others seriously injured in the strike on the Holy Family Catholic Parish. Among the injured was parish priest Gabriel Romanelli. 

The church has been a safe haven for hundreds of Christians and other seeking refuge from the conflict with Israel. 

Following news of the strike this morning, Pope Leo sent a telegram to the parish saying he was "deeply saddened" by the loss of life and injury, and assuring them of  his "spiritual closeness."

"His Holiness renews his call for an immediate ceasefire, and he expresses his profound hope for dialogue, reconciliation, and enduring peace for the region, " the telegram said.

Study: A Quarter of Americans Fear They or a Loved One Could Be Deported

 A new study shows that a quarter of all adults in the U.S. (23%) are worrying that they , or a loved one, could be depored from the country in the near future, the Christian Daily website reports today ( July 16, 2025).Pew Research Center released the findings after conducting a survey earlier last month (June 2--8,2025). The percentage figure of thosec oncerned qbout deportation has increased from 19 percent in March. 

Pew Research stated,"More recently, President Donald Trump ordered stronger efforts in some major American cities to detain and deport immigrants living in the country illegally."

The press release from Pew Research Center directly linked the mental stress to the Trump administration increasing immigration arrests and deportations. 

The National Association of Evangelicals (NAE)  welcomed a U.S. government decision to halt arrests and deportations of non--criminal immigrants working in agriculture and hospitality-- calling the policy shift a step toward greater stability for immigrant families.

New Survey: Most Churches Sill Pass the Plate to Collect Offerings

Most Protestant churches in the U.S. continue to  pass a plate or basket during worship services to collect offerings, according to a new survey of pastors by Lifeway Research, the Christian Post website reports today (July 13, 2025).

Nearly three in four U.S. Protestant pastors say their churches collect physical offerings by passing something around during the service, and close to half say they also share giving options as people arrive or leave the building, the study found.

After surveying 1,003 Protestant pastors, Lifeway found that 64% use passing the plate as  the primary collection method, more than any other option, with that number rising to 68% among pastors leading churches with 50 to 99 attendees.

Scott McConnell, executive director of Lifeway Research, said that the range   of giving methods reflects the diversity of working practices. "While many churches offer digital giving oprions, only 1% of churches say they don't provide an opportunity to give an offering n person at their worship services."

The Value of Scripture in Our Lives

To be filled with the Spirit is to let the Word of God guide you and inspire you, the Crossmap website reprts today (July 5, 2025).  

It's peace for your anxious heart when the world is screaming. It's love that makes you patient when the world is testing you. It's wisdom to know your next step forward when the path ahead seems dark. It's courage to face the waves and step right in , knowing God will never let you drown.

When you've spent each day filling yourself with the Word of God, it is always present, written onto your very heart. You won't be searching for a hand to grab , a majical moment of affirmation; you'll know He is already there.

 Let the Word of God grow richly inside you. Pull up a chair, crack open the Bible, and let the Word of Christ move in, unpack its bags, and write itself upon your heart. 

Gallup Poll: Patriotism among Americans Reaches Record Low

According to a recent survey, patriotism in the U.S. has reached a record low, as fewer Americans than ever before consider themselves extremely or very proud of their country, the Christian Post website reports today (July 4, 2025).

In a survey released four days before Independence Day,Gallup asked Americans if they consider themselves   proud of their country.The data is based on responses from 1,000 U.S. adults between June 2--19 and had a margin of error of 4 percentage points. 

The 58% of Americans describing themselves as "extremely" or "very" proud o be an American constituted  new low for the 25 years that Gallup has asked the question. The share of Americans who described themselves as "very" proud to be American plummeted from 26% last year to a record low of 17% this year. 

Nineteen pecent said they are "moderately"proud , and 11% reported being"only a little" proud.About 9% said they are "not at all" proud.

Study: Marijuana Causes Heart Attacks, Stroke

A major new study has added to a growing body of research highlighting the health risks associated with marijuana use -- particularly its impact on heart function --reinforcing concerns long voiced by Christian medical professionals, the Christian Daily website reports today(July 3, 2025). 

The June 2025 study, published in the Journal of the British Medical Asssociation, found that daily marijuana users are 34% more likely to develop heart failure than non--users. 

Drawing on data from over 150,000 U.S. adults tracked over several years, the study also linked marijuana use with an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. 

Despite mounting clinical evidence of health risks, marijuana continues to gain legal and public acceptance in the U.S. and worldwide. Although it is illegal at the federal level, marijuana has been llegalized for recreational use in nearly half of U.S.states, contributing  to its growing normalization and widespread use.

Just Who Was behind Church Bombing in Syria?

More than a week has passed since the suicide bombing of an Eastern  Orthodox Church  in Damascus, Syria shocked the city, the Christian Today website reports today (July 2, 2025).At least 25 people died as a result of the attack and there is still some dispute about who bears ultmate responsibility for the atrocity. 

When Basher al--Assad's secular government fell late last year to al--Qaeda offshoot HTS, there were serious concerns about what this would mean for Syria's Christians and other minorities.

The day after the suicide attack, the government blamed a cell of so--called Islamic State, adding that it had arrested its members. However, IS has not taken responsibility for the attack -- althouh neither have they denied involvement.

A new Islamist group known as Brigade of Supporters of the Sunni says it was behind the attack. The group claimed the attack was in retaliation for residents in the area preventing a group of Muslims from broadcasting loud Islamic chants outside the church. 

"Christians are shocked and scared after what happened in Damascus. Open Doors calls for prayer for the church in Syria. Pray for peace of heart and for protection in the weeks to come."

God Opposes Gossip

Google defines gossip as "casual or unconstrained conversation or reports about other people, typically involving details that are not confirmed as being true," the Crossmap website reports today (july 1, 2025). Scripture has a long list of names for it:: slander, backbiting, betraying a confidence, whispering, and tale bearing. However you define gossip, the Bible clearly warns us of its destructive power. 

When we gossip, we break God's greatest commandment, the call to love one another. 

Gossip hurts our witness to the unsaved world. 

God holds us accountable for every idle word we say. Gossip will cause us to lose friends. One of the best ways o break the gossip habit, according to Chip Ingram in his Bible study, "Five Lies that Ruin Relationships," is to listen more and speak less. This is sound advice, srtraight from the Bible.

 

Survey: Most Americans Support Teacher--Led School Prayer to Jesus

 According to new data from the Pew Research Center, most Americans suppot allowing teachers to lead students in prayer    to Jesus in schools, the Christian Post website reports today (June 29, 2025).

The survey is based on responses collected from Pew's 2023--24 Religious Landscape Study, which sampled the opinions of 36,908 U.S. adults from July 17, 2023 to March 4, 2024.

Overall, 52% of Americans support allowing teachers to lead their classes in prayers that refer to Jesus, while 27% are strongly in favor of this idea. On the other hand, 46% of those surveyed oppose letting teachers lead their classes in such prayers, with 22% strongly opposing the idea,

Pride, Dignity and the Need for Jesus

Christians are called to speak truth, but always in love, with the aim  to build up, not tear down, the Christian Today website reports today (June 21, 2025).

Scripture is clear on sexuality: any expression outside God's design for one male and one female in covenant marriage is sin (Romans 1:26--27).These are not arbitrary rules, they are part of God's loving design for human flourishing.

Scripture never condemns human dignity. In fact, it proclaims it: we are all made in the image of God (Genesis1:27),fearfully and wonderfully formed (Psalm 139:14).

But dignity becomes distorted when it turns into deity. This is the pride that Scripture warns against (Genesis 3:5--6), the root of all sin: when we crown ourselves as the final authority on who we are, what truth is, and what love should look like. 

God's purpose is never to shame, but to heal and restore (John3:17). His conviction is not cruelty; it's kindness that leads to repentance(Romans 2:4).Jesus humbled Himself so that we might be lifted up (Philippians 2:6--8).

Jesus still sees,still loves, and still invites every person into His grace and truth (Revelation 3:20).

Students Sue Va. over Being Denied Grants to Pursue Religious Studies

 Three students have filed a complaint against Virginia officials over allegedly being denied access to scholarship grant programs due to their decision to pursue religious studies, the Christian Post website reports today (June 20, 2025). 

Cameron Johnson and Luke Thomas, two recent high school graduates planning to attend Liberty University , and Trace Stevens, a current Liberty student,filed the complaint late last month in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, Richmond Division. 

Named defendants in the lawsuit were A. Scott Fleming, director of the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia; John Jumper, Chair of he State Council of Higher Education for Virginia; and Donald Unmussig, chief financial officer of the Virginia Department of Military Affairs. 

According to the complaint, Johnson and Thomas were denied a Tuition Assistance Grant because the SCHEV excludes certain religious programs of study, while Stevens, a member of the Virginia Army National Guard, was denied a grant from the National Guard Tuition Assistance Grant Program because his academic study was centered on  "religious training or theological education."

Report: Bible Engagement Srongly Linked to Human Flourishing

 The American Bible Socety (ABS) released the third chapter of its 15th annual State of the Bible report on June 12, highlighting a strong link between active Christian faith and human flourshing, the Christian Daily website reports today (June 19, 2025). 

According to the report, individuals who reported a connection with God "exhibit greater human flour ishing levels" pointing to the positive impact of spiritual life on overall health  and satisfaction.

Human flourishing is defined in the report as "a state  of thriving and well--being where all aspects of a person's life are good."

The Meaning of the Juneteenth Holiday

June 19, 2025 marks 160 years since the origin of Juneteenth, which commemorates the day the last group of enslaved people found out they had been freed, the USA Today website reports today (June 18, 2025).

Long a holiday in the Black community and now federally recognized, the celebrations kick off each June 19, allowing people to gather, dance, reenact pivotal moments in history, and more. 

Juneteenth is a celebration of freedom and opportunity, said Sam Collins, who is on the trustee board for the Rosenberg Library in Galveston,Texas, often called "Professor Juneteenth." 

"It's not so much about slavery as it is about the freedom from slavery and what it allowed the former enslaved people to live their lives free, to marry, to learn to read, to educate themselves, to have self--agency over their bodies, to keep their families  together," he told USA Today. 

In June 2021, then president Joe Biden declared June 19 a national holiday. 

Up to 200 Christians Killed by Islamic Extremists in Nigeria

 Up to 200 Christians were killed by Islamic extremists in Nigeria's troubled Benue state on June 13, according to a Catholic charity reporting that it's the "single worst atrocity" in a region that has become known for communal attacks, the Christian Post website reports today (June 16, 2025). 

The militants attacked families displaced by radicalized Fulani herdsmen who were housed in buildings repurposed as temporary accommodations in the market square of Yelewata in the Guma Local Government Area, shouting "Allahu Akhbar,"acording to a report today from Aid to the Church in Need.

Buildings were torched as people were sleeping, and anyone who tried to flee was attacked with machetes. Local pastors told the charity that police had earlier repelled attackers who tried to swarm St. Joseph's Church, a facilityhousing over 700 internally displaced persons. 

"When we heard the shots and saw the militants, we committed our lives to God. This morning, I thanked God I am alive," parish priest,Father Ukuma Jonathan Angbiabee, told ACN. Angbiabee said he and others dropped to the floor on the church's presbytery when they heard the shots fired. 

"What I saw was truly gruesome. People were slaughtered. Corpses were scattered everywhere."

Pope Leo XIV acknowledged the attack in his Sunday Angelus message, saying he is praying for those killed in "a terrible massacre," most of whom were "sheltered by the local Catholic mission." Leo prayed for "rural Christian communities of the Benue State who have been relentless victims of violence."