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.
Humanitarian groups are concerned that the offensive by al-Qaeda offshoot HTS against the Syrian government puts Syrian Christians at greater risk. Conditions in Aleppo are dire, with limited services, high prices, and constant fear. International Christian Concern highlights dangers faced by Christians in Syria under the Assad regime. Various groups are calling for unity, action, and protection of persecuted Christians.
The Satanic Temple is offering a religious program at an Ohio elementary school as an alternative to Christian 'release time' religious instruction, in response to parent requests. The program, known as the Hellion Academy of Independent Learning (Hail), focuses on promoting pluralism, empathy, and rejection of tyrannical authority.
An artist used artificial intelligence to create a realistic image of the teenage Virgin Mary before giving birth to Jesus. The same technology revealed a possible face of Jesus based on the Shroud of Turin. The Shroud remains a mysterious piece of linen cloth that has sparked religious debates for centuries.
An artist in Mexico used artificial intelligence to create a realistic image of the teenage Virgin Mary before she gave birth to Jesus, similar to a previous AI-created image of Jesus based on the Shroud of Turin. The Virgin of Guadalupe is a Catholic title given to Mary, mother of Jesus, linked to a supernatural appearance in Mexico. The Shroud of Turin is a burial cloth claiming to show an imprint of Christ when he died, with scientists debating its origins for centuries.
Bishop T.D. Jakes suffered a health incident mid-sermon during church services at the Potter's House of Dallas. He is currently stable and under medical care.
Bishop T.D. Jakes suffered a seizure during his Sunday sermon at The Potter’s House in Dallas but is now in stable condition. The incident occurred as he concluded his sermon, leading to church elders rushing to assist him.
God chooses Noah to build an ark to save humanity from a flood due to widespread corruption and immorality. The story highlights the importance of diverse skillsets in society.
Faith leader Robert Jeffress of First Baptist Church in Dallas shares message of hope and healing post-election, discusses recent conversation with President-elect Donald Trump. Jeffress emphasizes the importance of gratitude and unity during the holiday season.
Senator James Lankford believes that the Bible should be taught in schools as a historical and cultural document, not as a religious text.
Catholic women are calling for greater leadership roles in the church through a strike from church duties, as they feel the hierarchy is not addressing their concerns adequately.
Pope Francis will visit Corsica on December 15 for a conference on the Catholic faith, skipping the Notre Dame reopening ceremony in Paris to avoid being a distraction. The visit to Corsica will be the first ever by a pope.
Religious leaders in Louisiana are divided over a state law mandating the display of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms, but they collaborate on community initiatives.
The Texas State Board of Education approved a Bible-infused curriculum for public schools from kindergarten to fifth grade, sparking debate over the separation of religion and public education in the U.S.
The Wall Street Journal criticizes Pope Francis for appearing to take sides against Israel in the Gaza conflict, particularly for suggesting that Israel's actions may constitute genocide. The Pope's remarks have sparked controversy and swift reactions from various parties, including the Israeli Embassy and a Holocaust survivor.
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California, has opened an exhibit featuring the Dead Sea Scrolls and other ancient artifacts, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of ancient Judaism and early Christianity.
Prominent buildings around the world were illuminated in red on Red Wednesday to support persecuted Christians. The event is organized by the Catholic charity Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) to raise awareness about anti-Christian persecution. The campaign focuses on displaced Christian children and young people in Africa, the Middle East, and elsewhere. The report highlights worsening Christian persecution worldwide, with a shift of militant Islamist violence from the Middle East to Africa. Various countries participated in Red Wednesday, emphasizing the importance of religious freedom as a fundamental human right.
Pope Francis announced plans to canonize a teenage web designer, Carlo Acutis, who documented miracles online and maintained websites for Catholic organizations. He will be canonized in April, becoming the church's youngest contemporary saint. The pope also plans to canonize Pier Giorgio Frassati, a young Italian man who helped those in need and died of polio in the 1920s.
Pope Francis visits Indonesia and issues joint statement on climate change with the grand imam at the biggest mosque in the country.
Pope Francis and Indonesia's Grand Imam Nasaruddin Umar sign a joint declaration denouncing the crises of dehumanization and climate change, calling for decisive action to protect the environment and promote religious harmony.
Eco-chaplains are a new type of spiritual adviser helping people cope with climate grief and anxiety. They offer support through workshops, therapy sessions, and support groups, addressing the emotional toll of environmental issues. The demand for their services is growing as more people experience climate anxiety.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints released an updated policy regarding gay and transgender members, maintaining that gender is defined by biological sex at birth and discouraging sex change procedures. The policy bars transgenders and transvestites from certain church positions and activities but emphasizes treating transgender individuals with compassion and love. LGBTQ activists have criticized the church's policy changes.
The article discusses the impact of religious voters on the 2024 election, focusing on the Harris-Walz campaign's hiring of liberal activist Rev. Jennifer Butler as the head of faith outreach. Butler aims to root out white nationalism within the Christian faith and promote justice and inclusivity.
Allegations of child sexual abuse surfaced involving the founder of one of America's largest megachurches, leading to resignations and departures of key leaders. The church has seen a decrease in attendance and faces uncertainty about its future.
Several Ohio State University football stars led a Christian revival event at the school, with at least 60 attendees getting baptized. The event included prayers, worship songs, Bible handouts, and personal faith experiences shared by the players.
A Catholic pregnancy center in Chicago was vandalized with red paint and graffiti after the Democratic National Convention. The incident forced the center to cancel appointments. The center provides pregnancy services based on Catholic teachings.
Pope Francis condemns the intentional allowing of migrants to die in extreme conditions, calling it a 'grave sin'. He urges countries not to turn their backs on migrants seeking refuge abroad.
Pope Francis advocates for looser immigration laws to allow more immigrants to cross international borders, emphasizing the need for justice, fraternity, and solidarity in global migration governance. He criticizes those who turn away migrants and praises NGOs helping migrants. Some African prelates disagree, stating that mass migration is detrimental to their people and should not be encouraged.
Apollo Quiboloy, a self-proclaimed 'owner of the universe' and influential cult leader, is being hunted by cops for human trafficking and abuse accusations. He is believed to be hiding in an underground bunker protected by his followers in the Philippines.
Evangelical Christian group Evangelicals for Harris aims to persuade voters to support Vice President Harris in the 2024 election, highlighting her policies and character as aligned with Christian values. The group is targeting evangelical voters who may have been turned off by Trump's rhetoric.
A new generation of Catholic women are embracing the practice of wearing veils to church, finding deep religious meaning in this traditional practice.
Tim Allen shares his love of reading the Bible on social media, expressing amazement at the content and discussing the importance of faith in his work.
Progressive Catholic Archbishop of Chicago, Cardinal Blase Cupich, offered an invocation at the Democratic National Convention without mentioning Jesus Christ, focusing on peace and unity. Planned Parenthood provided free abortions and vasectomies during the DNC, sparking criticism. Cardinal Cupich downplayed the centrality of abortion as a moral issue, advocating for a broader 'consistent ethic of life.' He was named in a whistleblower report regarding his appointment as archbishop of Chicago.
AI has recreated the face of Jesus Christ from the Shroud of Turin using new technology. Italian scientists claim the fabric dates back to the time of Christ. Dr. Liberato de Caro disputes the carbon dating results and suggests the fabric is older. Pollen from the Middle East found on the linen supports the theory.
Scientists analyzed the Shroud of Turin using wide-angle X-rays and concluded it dates back to the time of Jesus' life, contradicting previous findings. The shroud contains bloodstains consistent with Jesus' crucifixion wounds and is believed to be his burial cloth.
New evidence suggests the Shroud of Turin, imprinted with the image of a bearded man, could be real and made around 2,000 years ago. Researchers used x-ray technology to determine its age, contradicting previous claims that it was from the Middle Ages.
Recent evidence suggests the Shroud of Turin, believed to show Jesus' image, could be authentic as it dates back around 2,000 years. Italian researchers used x-ray technology to examine the linen sheet and determine its age, disputing previous carbon dating results. The shroud features markings resembling crucifixion wounds and has been a subject of debate for centuries.
A recent survey shows a surge in conservative young priests, with over 80% describing themselves as 'conservative/orthodox' or 'very conservative/orthodox'. No priests ordained since 2020 identified as 'very progressive', indicating a shift in theological and political attitudes within the American Catholic Church.
Pastor Max Lucado of San Antonio, Texas, discusses the study of 'end times' and why people should have hope for the future in an interview with Fox News Digital. He emphasizes the importance of faith, prayer, and exploring what is about to happen as sources of encouragement and courage.
Remains found in northwestern Spain likely belong to ninth-century bishop Theodomir, who helped create the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. Study using bone analysis, carbon dating, stable isotope analysis, and DNA testing supports this theory.
More than a thousand Jews ascended the Temple Mount on Tisha B'Av, despite opposition from Israeli-Jordanian authorities. Key figures led the ascent, emphasizing progress in Jewish sovereignty and the importance of prayer. While some criticized the move, others praised the demonstration of Jewish unity and commitment to the Temple Mount.