Megachurch pastor TD Jakes denied explosive allegations of sexual assault against a pair of pastor brothers from decades ago, claiming they are part of a 'campaign of lies'.
Pope Francis, aged 88, is hospitalized with pneumonia and a complex respiratory infection. His funeral is being rehearsed as his condition remains serious.
Rick Warren faces backlash for post about Jesus and political polarization. Critics argue Jesus is not 'in the middle' on important issues. Warren's interpretation of Jesus' stance draws criticism.
The article discusses the trend of attacks against Catholics globally, including incidents in St. Peter's Basilica and other Catholic churches. Various individuals, including a Virginia Catholic bishop and a director from CatholicVote, comment on the spiritual and political motivations behind these attacks.
Pope Francis criticizes Trump administration's mass deportations plan, emphasizing the dignity of migrants. Gov. Ron DeSantis discusses Florida's immigration bill. U.S. border czar Tom Homan responds to the Pope's remarks on immigration. Various religious groups and Archbishop show support for migrants. Vatican's immigration policies contrast with U.S. actions.
More than 10 million Hindus gathered to seek absolution and take a dip in holy waters during the Kumbh Mela festival in India. Despite the large turnout, safety remains a concern as infrastructure strains to accommodate the massive crowds.
Paula White defends Trump's family separation policy using Jesus's sinlessness as justification, sparking criticism from other Christian leaders. White's stance reflects a broader trend of white Christian evangelicals supporting authoritarianism and strict immigration policies.
President Trump announces executive order to eradicate anti-Christian bias. Christian man freed from Egyptian prison after facing death threats for converting to Christianity. Case remains open despite release due to terrorism accusations.
Travelers are increasingly seeking spiritual trips, prioritizing mindfulness, faith, and connecting with nature. The top cities for spiritual attractions include Tokyo, London, New York City, Paris, and Berlin.
NFL players from the Chiefs and Eagles openly express their Christian faith through team prayers, Bible studies, and post-game rituals. While the teams have chaplains to support players spiritually, controversies arise when players touch on social issues. Despite criticism, players like Harrison Butker stand by their beliefs and see a rise in faith expression among athletes.
Paula White uses Jesus's sinlessness to defend Trump on family separation policy, sparking controversy among evangelical leaders and Christian communities.
American Catholic bishops support President Trump's executive order banning biological males from participating in women's sports, citing the importance of upholding human dignity and equality between men and women.
The Maha Kumbh Mela, the largest gathering of humanity in the world, is currently taking place in India, drawing hundreds of millions of Hindu devotees. The festival is a spiritual event held every 12 years at sacred sites where drops of nectar of immortality fell according to Hindu scriptures. The event involves bathing in the holy rivers to cleanse sins and grant salvation.
President Trump signed an executive order to create the White House Faith Office led by Pastor Paula White-Cain. The office aims to empower faith-based entities, community organizations, and houses of worship to serve families and communities, consult with experts and faith leaders, and provide recommendations on policies affecting them.
President Trump creates a task force to halt anti-Christian targeting and discrimination within the federal government. He signs an executive order to eradicate anti-Christian bias, blaming the Biden administration for targeting peaceful Christians. Vice President Vance expresses outrage over taxpayer money being wasted on promoting atheism in developing nations.
A 40-year-old man attacked a priest during a church service in Spokane, Washington. The man, identified as Joshua James Sommers, has a criminal record of attacking others. Security camera footage captured the incident, with the priest being unharmed. Sommers was arrested on misdemeanor assault charges and has a history of violence.
A man assaulted a reverend during a church service in Spokane Cathedral, Washington. The reverend remained calm and peaceful during the attack, suspect suffers from schizophrenia and is now facing criminal charges.
President Donald Trump attended the National Prayer Breakfast at the Capitol, emphasizing the importance of religion and God in people's lives. The event is a bipartisan tradition dating back over 70 years, with every president since Dwight D. Eisenhower participating. A Ukrainian delegation is expected to attend, highlighting the connection between religious freedom and U.S. aid to Kyiv in its conflict with Russia.
President Trump announced that the late Rev. Billy Graham will be honored in the proposed National Garden of American Heroes, alongside other influential figures in American history. The garden will feature 250 statues of historical figures to celebrate the country's 250th anniversary.
Rahim Al-Hussaini named as the new Aga Khan V following his father's death. The Aga Khan is considered a direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad and a head of state by his followers. The Aga Khan Development Network works on health care, housing, education, and rural economic development in over 30 countries with an annual budget of $1 billion. Prince Rahim, the new Aga Khan, shows a special interest in fighting climate change and protecting the environment.
The face of Thomas Aquinas, a saint whose teachings shaped Catholic doctrine and secular philosophy, has been reconstructed for the first time in 750 years. A study reveals that he likely died from a chronic subdural hematoma caused by a head injury on his way to a council in 1274.
The face of Thomas Aquinas, patron saint of education, has been reconstructed using his skull after 750 years, revealing his traumatic cause of death as a chronic subdural hematoma. Aquinas shaped Catholic doctrine and secular philosophy, influencing modern ideas about human liberty and government authority.
The Aga Khan, spiritual leader of Ismaili Muslims, passed away at the age of 88. He was known for his philanthropy work, business ventures, and efforts to bridge Muslim societies with the West.
The Aga Khan, spiritual leader of Ismaili Muslims, died at age 88 in Portugal. Known for philanthropy, business, and bridging Muslim societies with the West, he will be succeeded by a designated male relative. His legacy includes a network of hospitals and a focus on health care, housing, education, and economic development in developing countries.
The New Orleans Saints helped the Catholic Archdiocese launch a PR blitz to address a clergy sex abuse scandal. Emails show deep involvement of Saints front office members in crafting responses and coaching Archbishop Aymond. The Saints deny condoning abuse and criticize media coverage of their assistance.
Pastor Ben Boswell was asked to step down from his position at Myers Park Baptist Church in Charlotte, N.C., after delivering a provocative sermon following Donald Trump's re-election. The church faced declining attendance and financial struggles, leading to the board's decision.
New Orleans Saints executives played a significant role in a public relations campaign to manage fallout from clergy sexual abuse crisis in the Catholic Church, as revealed by internal emails obtained by The Associated Press.
Updates on the restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral in France five years after a fire shut the site down, top 10 'most Instagrammable' religious landmarks outside the US, and popular faith-based landmarks in the US.
Gay rights activist accuses Vice President J.D. Vance of misinterpreting the ancient Christian concept of ordo amoris, or the order of love. The debate centers around prioritizing love for family, neighbors, community, fellow citizens, and the world.
Bishop Burbidge of Arlington, VA, emphasizes the need for well-regulated borders and just limits on immigration while respecting human dignity. He calls for a dialogue between the Trump administration and the Catholic Church to prioritize security, safety, and the common good. The Church advocates for a common sense approach to immigration that balances caring for the stranger with caring for the nation.
A Polish billionaire plans to build a 180ft tall statue of the Virgin Mary in Poland, which would be larger than the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue in Brazil. The construction is expected to be completed by 2026.
Father Carlos Martins, host of The Exorcist Files podcast, is facing criminal charges for allegedly using a teenage girl's hair to floss his teeth during a tour showcasing The Relic of St. Jude.
Lifeline Fellowship Christian Center in Altadena, California, was destroyed by the Eaton fire, but congregants continue to worship at a host church. Pastor Charles Dorsey leads the community in finding beauty from ashes and moving forward together.
At least 30 people were killed and many were injured at the world’s largest religious pilgrimage in northern India during the Maha Kumbh festival where millions attended to dip into sacred waters.
Reverend mimics Nazi-like gesture at National Pro-Life Summit in reference to Elon Musk incident. Critics accuse Musk of knowingly doing a Nazi salute despite his denial. Father Calvin Robinson defends gesture as a send-off for fighting for life. Robinson is a prominent figure in conservative politics in the UK.
A stampede at the Maha Kumbh festival in India resulted in several feared dead and many injured as Hindu devotees rushed to take ritual baths in sacred rivers. The festival attracts millions of people seeking to cleanse themselves of sins and end the process of reincarnation.
Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde discussed her prayer directed at President Trump on 'The View', sparking controversy among faith leaders. Detroit pastor Lorenzo Sewell criticized her sermon for being politically charged. President Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance appeared to be irritated by the bishop's remarks.
President Trump reacts to a 'radical' bishop's lecture during a National Prayer Service, criticizing her for speaking about illegal immigrants and the LGBTQ+ community. The bishop is defended by some for her sermon that set off a controversy.
Episcopal Bishop Mariann Budde used her platform to plead for mercy for LGBTQ individuals and immigrants facing deportation during the National Prayer Service, refusing to apologize despite backlash. President Trump criticized her sermon as 'not too exciting' and 'nasty.' Budde denies being part of the radical left and aims to inspire compassion and push back against Trump's policies.
The United States Catholic bishops emphasize that fighting abortion is the top priority for Catholic voters, as it directly attacks life and is a violation of justice. They urge for the protection of human life and highlight the need for prayer and penance to combat abortion.
The article discusses President Jimmy Carter's faith and how it influenced his life. It includes personal anecdotes from the author's interactions with Carter and reflections on Carter's application of his faith in politics.
Pope Francis criticizes Israel's military campaign in Gaza, calls for end to conflicts worldwide, condemns anti-Semitism, and expresses concern over climate change and misinformation on social media.
Pope Francis appoints Sister Simona Brambilla as the first woman to head the department responsible for consecrated life in the Church. He has been vocal about increasing women's visibility in leadership roles within the Vatican.
The newly appointed Catholic archbishop of Washington, DC, criticizes President Trump's plans for deporting illegal immigrants as incompatible with Catholic doctrine. He is seen as a progressive voice on various issues and has been praised by LGBTQ+ advocacy groups.
Cardinal Blase Cupich warns U.S. bishops to be vigilant against abuse of human dignity towards immigrants under the Trump presidency. He has been criticized by other bishops for suggesting moral equivalency among different societal issues, such as abortion, immigration, and capital punishment.
Scientists now believe that humans may have descended from a single pair of ancestors, similar to the biblical story of Adam and Eve. Two major studies suggest that the male Y chromosomes and female mitochondrial DNA passed down to modern humans may have come from ancestors who lived around the same time. While one theory places the ancestral homeland in Mesopotamia, another theory suggests Africa's Kalahari Desert as the origin of all humans alive today.
Father Mark-Mary Ames' faith-filled podcast 'The Rosary in a Year' topped Apple charts, discussing the success and motivations behind it. Despite its popularity, he humbly acknowledges there are more beautiful and moving things happening in the world.
Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas in January, not December. In Lebanon, Christians find the holiday extra poignant this year.
Pope Francis appoints Sister Simona Brambilla as the first woman prefect of a major Vatican office, marking a historic step towards giving women more leadership roles in the Catholic Church.
Mecca, the holiest city in Islam, has been hit by extreme weather, causing flooding and damage. Residents form human chains to rescue trapped children and aid delivery drivers. Multiple regions in Saudi Arabia affected by heavy rainfall and storms.
Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby's tenure ends after failing to report serial abuse by a volunteer, leading to his resignation. A culture of supporting perpetrators over victims in the Church of England has been highlighted.
Pope Francis appoints Sister Simona Brambilla as the first woman to head a major Vatican office, marking a significant move towards giving women more leadership roles in the Catholic Church.
Sister Inah Canabarro from Brazil becomes the world's oldest living person at nearly 117 years old, attributing her longevity to her Catholic faith. She was a lifelong teacher and has been honored by Pope Francis. She is the second oldest nun ever documented, after Lucile Randon.
Pope Francis appoints the first woman, Sister Simona Brambilla, to head a major Vatican office responsible for all Catholic Church’s religious orders, marking a significant step in giving women more leadership roles in the church.
The article discusses the struggle of a Los Angeles church in balancing politics, causing some congregation members to leave due to differences. The church's pastor is trying to navigate political tensions within the congregation.
Pastor Lorenzo Sewell discusses the intersection of politics and religion, emphasizing the impossibility of being politically neutral for Christians. He advocates for bipartisan cooperation and addresses the challenges faced by a Los Angeles pastor in uniting a politically diverse congregation.
Young, single men are converting to the Orthodox church after feeling disillusioned with the 'feminisation' of the Protestant church. The surge in male converts has led priests to plan new parishes to accommodate the increase. The appeal lies in the 'masculine' nature of the Orthodox church, emphasizing denial and physical challenges.
Religious leaders are experimenting with A.I. in their work, using chatbots to write sermons and assist in various tasks. The ethical implications of using A.I. for religious purposes are debated, with some seeing it as a step too far. While some believe A.I. can enhance their work, others worry it may hinder the creative process and human connection in religious practices.
Pope Francis delivers Christmas message urging people to find courage and peace, highlighting conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine. Hanukkah coincides with Christmas, sparking interfaith gatherings. Soldiers in eastern Ukraine spend Christmas at war, hoping for peace. New York City experiences first white Christmas since 2009. German celebrations marred by car attack at Christmas market. Elderly Christian couple in Gaza Strip marked Christmas in a squalid tent camp, separated from family.
Pope Francis calls for global reconciliation and silencing of arms in his 2025 Christmas message, highlighting conflicts in the Middle East, Ukraine, and Africa. Interfaith gatherings and security concerns mark the holiday season.
Pope Francis presides over midnight mass on Christmas Eve from the Vatican in front of thousands of Catholics.
Amidst global chaos, the article highlights the resilience of persecuted Christians in North Korea who gather in secret to celebrate Christmas, demonstrating unwavering faith and courage. The piece delves into the enduring impact of Jesus' teachings and the joy found in following Him, even in the face of extreme adversity.
Bear Grylls falsely claims that Jesus' mother Mary was a 'Palestinian' and Joseph and Mary were 'refugees' when they traveled to Bethlehem. The truth is they were not immigrants, refugees, or Palestinians but were in Bethlehem for a government census for taxation. Grylls' mischaracterization aligns with left-wing narratives.
Church of England clergy have been told to modify popular Christmas carols to avoid causing offense by using language that may exclude other religions or affirm a specific religious belief. The Church has faced criticism for promoting woke ideology instead of focusing on the Gospel.
King Charles III delivers a Christmas message honoring military veterans, healthcare workers, and the example set by Jesus Christ. He emphasizes the importance of helping others and bringing hope in times of despair. The message also touches on the sacrifices of D-Day veterans, the importance of diversity, and the need for listening and understanding in times of conflict and unrest.
Christmas Day and the first night of Hanukkah will coincide, a rare joint occurrence due to differences in the solar and lunar calendars. The last 'Chrismukkah' was in 2005, and the next one will be in 19 years. In Israel, joint celebrations of Christmas and Hanukkah have taken place, fostering unity among different religious groups.
Guidance suggests that not everyone in holy scripture is 'cisgender' and that some stories contain 'clear queer characters', supported by examples like eunuchs and women participating in apparently masculine activities. The Bible is viewed as pro-transgender by an Anglican campaign group.
Syrian Christians attended Christmas Eve services for the first time since the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad, amid concerns of violence against Christian sites by the new Islamist rulers.
Christmas celebrations in Bethlehem are subdued this year due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, with no Christmas tree or decorations at the Church of the Nativity. Despite the somber atmosphere, residents and visitors find solace in the spirit of Christmas and hope for peace.
Christians around the world celebrated Christmas amidst wars and tragic events, including a Christmas morning attack on Ukraine by Russia and a plane crash in Kazakhstan. Pope Francis called for peace in the Middle East. Tragedies also occurred in Russia and Bethlehem. Despite the challenges, there were messages of hope and resilience from various regions.
Bethlehem faces a bleak Christmas with no tree, few visitors, and economic misery compounded by war and the Covid pandemic. The city's Christian community is dwindling as young people leave in search of a better future, raising concerns about its future existence.
Christians celebrate Christmas as the miracle of the Incarnation, where God came into the world as a baby. They believe Jesus fulfilled prophecies in his birth, life, death, and resurrection, offering eternal life to those who believe in him.
Pope Francis leads Roman Catholics into Christmas, emphasizing hope and the impact all people can make. He opens the 2025 Catholic Holy Year, calling for spiritual renewal and debt reduction for low-income countries.
Controversy in Lake Forest, Illinois as city limits Hanukkah menorah display to a few hours instead of the full eight days. A Change.org petition has been signed by over 6,500 people demanding the display for the full holiday duration.
President-elect Donald Trump's transition team is planning an interfaith prayer service the day before his inauguration, with tickets costing at least $100,000. Details about the event are still pending. Other groups are also preparing worship services for the inauguration.
Despite declining religious affiliation, print Bible sales have spiked. A miniature King James Bible from 1911 is on display at Leeds Central Library, along with other Christmas classics. The library aims to give visitors a glimpse into past Christmas celebrations.
Florida Imam Abu Usama At-Thahabi criticizes Christianity, labeling Christians as pagans and urges Muslims to reject Western cultural influences like celebrating Christmas. He warns against wishing others 'Merry Christmas' or 'happy holidays' and calls for Muslims to remain steadfast in their identity.
Hundreds of Christians in Syria protested the burning of a Christmas tree by foreign vandals, expressing skepticism towards promises of protection by Islamist rebel leaders. The event sparked anxiety among the Christian community due to past attacks and threats. Despite reassurances from the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group, concerns remain about the treatment of Christians under the new regime.
Pope Francis calls for structural changes to address economic disparities and ecological devastation in his annual Message of Peace for January 1, 2025. He advocates for cultural and structural changes to combat systemic challenges like disparities, mistreatment of migrants, environmental decay, disinformation, lack of dialogue, and excessive spending on the war industry. The Pope emphasizes the need for a 'Great Reset' to create a new global economy post-coronavirus pandemic.
Pope Francis called for a global ceasefire, condemning Israel's actions in Gaza as cruel. He urged prayers for peace in Ukraine, the Holy Land, and the Middle East. The Pope has faced criticism for suggesting Israel's actions may constitute genocide.
Pastor Corey Brooks discusses receiving Christmas donations for the less fortunate, starting with a single boot donation from a stranger in Arkansas. The spirit of Christmas unites people from all walks of life, reminding them of neighborly love and the birth of Jesus.
The article discusses the lives of Gaius Octavius (Octavian) and Jesus, highlighting their contrasting paths and impacts on history.
Pope Francis calls for migrants to be welcomed, encouraged, and integrated as Europe and the United States struggle with global mass migration. He praises groups like ResQ for protecting migrants at sea.
The Vatican removed an LGBTQ+ event from its official Jubilee 2025 calendar following backlash. Despite this, the event is still planned to proceed with a vigil service and Mass at the Jesuit Church of the Gesù. Conservative Bishop Strickland criticized Pope Francis for approving the event. Pro-LGBTQ+ Dominican friar Timothy Radcliffe was among the new cardinals appointed by Pope Francis and has been a vocal supporter of progressive causes.
Pope Francis's recent actions and statements regarding Jews and Israel have caused controversy, including his participation in an event where a Jewish baby was placed on a Palestinian symbol. He also made comments suggesting Israel could be committing genocide in Gaza, leading to backlash from Israel and Jewish groups. Despite efforts to improve Jewish-Catholic relations, there are ongoing tensions and misunderstandings.
Pope Francis is preparing to unbrick and open five 'sacred portals' symbolizing the doorway to salvation after 25 years. This tradition dates back to 1300 and marks 'Jubilee' years. One door will be opened in a prison for the first time. The doors will remain open for pilgrims until January 6, 2026.
Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris is set to reopen after a devastating fire in 2019, with President-elect Donald J. Trump attending the event as his first foreign trip since winning the 2024 election.
Gwen Stefani shared a Christmas message about the love of Jesus Christ and encouraged her followers to join her in a 25-day prayer challenge leading up to Christmas via the Catholic prayer app Hallow.
17-year-old Josh Alexander speaks out after being suspended from Canadian Catholic school and later detained for handing out free Bibles at a protest. An eighth-grade student in New York public school district initially denied right to form Bible club but will now be allowed to do so after legal involvement.
A Melbourne synagogue was set ablaze in an arson attack, forcing worshippers to flee. The incident was condemned by Australia's Prime Minister as an act of hate. The synagogue suffered extensive damage, with holy books and furniture destroyed. Anti-Semitic incidents in Australia have been on the rise.
Netflix's new biopic Mary, featuring an Israeli actress as Mary, mother of Jesus, has sparked controversy from both Palestinian supporters and conservative Christians. The film aims to portray a more human side of Mary, but critics argue about historical accuracy and political implications.
Arsonists caused extensive damage to a synagogue in Melbourne in an antisemitic attack. The PM and Israeli ambassador condemned the attack. Authorities are investigating the incident.
A devastating fire deliberately lit at Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne caused significant damage and injured 2 people. Australian PM condemned the attack and reassured the public. Jewish leaders expressed deep concern. The incident comes amidst heightened tension due to Australia's recent vote at the UN. Israel's foreign minister and World Zionist Organization chairman called for swift action against antisemitism.
Deacon Clarence McCallister earns 'Award for Bravery' after saving a pastor from a gunman at a church during the Fox Nation Patriot Awards. Both express gratitude to God for sparing their lives.
A computer-generated avatar of Jesus, called Deus in machina, is installed at Switzerland's oldest church, offering advice based on biblical scripture to visitors in multiple languages. The project has sparked mixed reactions, with some praising it and others calling it blasphemous.
Pope Francis will use an electric popemobile for the 2025 Jubilee processional, gifted by Mercedes-Benz, which aims for zero emissions. The vehicle is designed with the Pope's needs in mind and features a retractable roof and rotating seat.
Donum Dei Classical Academy, a conservative Christian school in San Francisco, founded by a right-wing venture capitalist, is growing in influence. It is part of a larger trend of classical Christian schools gaining ground in the city, appealing to parents seeking tradition, faith, and conservative values in education.
A computer-generated avatar of Jesus has been developed for worshippers to have conversations with at Switzerland's oldest church in Lucerne, based on biblical scripture in over 100 languages. Visitors are warned not to share personal details and acknowledge the interaction is at their own risk.
Syrian Christians in Aleppo are facing trauma following jihadist takeover, with widespread crime and vandalism targeting the community. Basic necessities like food and medical care are scarce, and thousands have fled while those remaining live in fear. The jihadist group HTS is imposing restrictions on churches, and the situation is described as a significant threat to stability in Syria.
Kentucky Bishop John Stowe expresses dismay over Catholic voter support for Donald Trump, criticizes U.S. Bishops for not warning about the 'danger' of the election. Stowe defends Biden's support for abortion and criticizes Trump's character and policies. Trump won the Catholic vote in the recent election by a 15-point margin.