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JOHN CLEESE BLASTS WORLD'S SILENCE ON EASTER MASSACRE OF NIGERIAN CHRISTIANS BY ISLAMIST TERRORISTS

Goldberg went on to note that the Pope, in his role as leader of the Catholic Church, is supposed to encourage world leaders to seek peace, as co-host Alyssa Farah Griffin added that this was something Jesus preached as well, recalling, "Blessed are the peacemakers."

ӣ��Ƶ Digital reached out to the White House but did not receive an immediate response.

BISHOP ROBERT BARRON: The war on Christians is real and the world can no longer stay silent

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 10:00:31 -0400

Christianity is, by an order of magnitude, the most persecuted religion in the world. Between 360,000,000 and 380,000,000 Christians face high degrees of hostility. Conservative estimates are that tens of thousands of Christians are killed annually for their faith, especially in places such as Nigeria, Burkina Faso, North Korea and China. But the murder, torture and imprisonment are taking place across the globe.

In many Western countries, a less lethal but still severe form of persecution is visited upon Christians by ideological secularists, who see Christianity as their principal intellectual and cultural opponent. In many ways, contemporary attacks on the faithful are a continuation of the anti-Christian violence of the 20th century, which produced more Christian martyrs than all previous centuries combined. However, the source of the animosity has shifted considerably. Whereas in the last century, hostility to Christianity came largely from depraved totalitarianism, largely secularist and materialist in orientation, today’s opposition comes, to a considerable degree, from militant forms of Islam in the Middle East, in Asia, but especially in Africa.

Why should Christianity in particular be the object of such opprobrium and violent opposition? We could certainly identify sociological, economic and political factors, but it mostly has to do with the Founder and his manner of death.

It is instructive to remark upon the difference between the way Jesus died and the way many of the other great religious founders did. The Buddha passed away in old age, surrounded by his disciples, convinced that his spiritual movement had found success. Mohammed died in his bed after a brief illness, sure that his religion had spread throughout the Arabian Peninsula. Confucius died of old age peacefully in his bed. His many followers resolved to carry on his ethical teachings. The Bible says that Moses expired at the age of 120, having successfully led his people from slavery to the borders of the Promised Land.

And then there is Jesus. The founder of Christianity died at the age of 30 on a brutal instrument of torture with an animal cry of abandonment on his lips. All of his disciples, save one, denied, betrayed or abandoned him. And by all appearances, his religious revolution had proved a shipwreck. Why did this young rabbi die the way he did?

The simple answer is that he declared himself divine: some of the startling things he said include, "I and the Father are one;" "He who sees me sees the Father;" "Unless you love me more than your mother and your father, you are not worthy of me;" and "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away."

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One might be tempted to say, "Well, he was obviously deluded and got what he deserved." But what makes his story surpassingly strange is that the first proclaimers of the Christian faith didn't cover up the shame of the cross; on the contrary, they shouted it from the rooftops. St. Paul says, "I know one thing, Christ and him crucified!" They could have found such confidence only because God raised from death the one who had claimed to speak in his name and act in his person.

If he is who he said he is, then you should give your whole life to him; if he's not, you should oppose him. In a word, Jesus compels a choice in a way no other religious founder does. Didn't he himself say, "You are either with me or against me?" It is precisely the unnerving and radical claim about Jesus that has excited opposition up and down the centuries and that continues to animate resistance today.

So, what can we do about the scandal of anti-Christian persecution?

First, we should pray.

I know that it is fashionable today to mock "thoughts and prayers," but believers understand that authentic prayer is incomparably powerful. St. John of Damascus defined prayer as "the raising of the mind and heart to God," which means that prayer is the way we link ourselves to the creative source of the world's existence. In the Bible, nothing of real moment is ever accomplished apart from this explicit connecting of the soul to God.

Second, we should stay informed.

I remember vividly the night when Bishop Alfred Abramowicz, an auxiliary bishop of Chicago and a friend of John Paul II, told a room full of seminarians about the death of a heroic young Polish priest at the hands of the Communists. His gripping narrative was my first awakening to the fact of anti-Catholic persecution in my own time. So, subscribe to a trusted source such as Aid to the Church in Need, consult the web for updates and information, or perhaps invite a victim of persecution to address your church.

Third, provide aid, both direct and indirect, to those suffering under the weight of persecution.

Support charities that rebuild churches and schools, provide food and medicine to the persecuted, and give funds to educate seminarians in countries experiencing anti-Christian hostility.

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Fourth and finally, defend religious liberty at home.

Believe me when I tell you that people undergoing persecution for their religion look to our political system as a model and a source of hope. If religious freedom can flourish in the most powerful nation in the world, then it can flourish anywhere. But if we allow it to be compromised here, we deeply discourage those who long for it abroad.

The persecution of Christians represents one of the greatest violations of human rights today. Those who hold freedom and human dignity dear cannot remain silent.

Editor's note: Bishop Robert Barron's latest book is "What Do Their Deaths Demand? Christian Persecution Today" (Word on Fire, April 13, 2026).

John Cleese blasts world's silence on Easter massacre of Nigerian Christians by Islamist terrorists

Sat, 11 Apr 2026 12:00:18 -0400

"Monty Python" actor John Cleese warned this week that the world has failed to live up to the ideal of saying "Black lives matter" when it ignores anti-Christian terrorism in Nigeria.

Numerous news sources around the world, including The Associated Press, reported that according to local military and officials, at least 26 people were killed in three separate Easter attacks in northern Nigeria. This has caused multiple prominent commentators to not only criticize the terrorism rife in the region, but the silence of the international community that they argue is politically-motivated.

"It looks rather as though Black Lives Don't Matter," Cleese lamented on Tuesday, adding what appears to be a sarcastic critique of liberal media by writing, "Also, writing about it would damage the image of the murderers who killed these poor people."

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Cleese had been responding to a post from the Chair of the DOJ Task Force to Combat Antisemitism and Senior Counsel at The Justice Department, Leo Terrell, who had asked, "Why isn’t the world talking about the massacre of Christians by Islamist terrorists??!!!!"

While Cleese is very much a liberal himself — condemning President Donald Trump and his allies frequently — he has been on an ongoing multi-week campaign blasting how liberalism has turned a blind eye toward radical Islam. He had recently made headlines for condemning a mass Muslim prayer that occurred in Trafalgar Square, a British military memorial.

These gatherings follow a growing trend of mass Islamic prayers of up to thousands of people in iconic Western landmarks. While these are often organized with government permission, critics like Cleese argue these displays represent a cultural gesture of domination, occupying highly symbolic public spaces to signal a shift in national identity.

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Cleese also made waves by tweeting, "The UK has always been based at the deepest level on Christian values, regardless of dogma. Despite the many mistakes made by churches, for centuries British people have been influenced by Christ's teaching. If these values are replaced by Islamic ones, this will not be Britain any more."

John Cleese is one of many British public icons who were once liberal darlings, but have since spoken out against far-left dogma, similar to how "Harry Potter" author J.K. Rowling has since waged a long-term campaign against transgender ideology.

Another prominent example includes atheist commentator Richard Dawkins, the author of "The God Delusion," who has argued that Christianity is something of a bulwark for European civilization and has identified himself as a "cultural Christian."

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ARCHAEOLOGISTS UNCOVER MYSTERIOUS CHRISTIAN ARTIFACT NEAR WATERS TIED TO JESUS' MINISTRY: ‘NO KNOWN PARALLEL’

Ancient monastery from earliest centuries of Christianity unearthed at desert site

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 06:50:36 -0400

An ancient monastery dating to the dawn of Christianity was recently uncovered in an Egyptian desert, according to local officials.

The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities announced in late March the monastery had been found in Wadi El-Natrun in Beheira Governorate.

Wadi El-Natrun is considered "one of the most important centers for the emergence of monasticism in Egypt and the world," according to officials — and the monastery dates from the fourth to sixth centuries A.D.

The mudbrick building measures around 21,528 square feet, with walls more than three feet thick and rooms reaching about seven feet in height.

The site features an open courtyard surrounded by buildings. The buildings housed monks' cells, ovens, kitchens and storage areas.

Archaeologists also found human skeletal remains — believed to belong to monks — along with wall paintings and architectural features.

"Architectural studies show the use of various roofing systems, including vaults and domes constructed from mudbrick," the officials noted.

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"The walls were coated with a layer of white plaster and decorated with wall paintings featuring crosses, palm trees and various plant and geometric motifs."

Excavators also unearthed several inscriptions bearing the names of monks who lived there, along with "religious texts invoking mercy and forgiveness."

"These contribute to dating the building and documenting the daily lives of its inhabitants," the release said.

Sherif Fathy, minister of tourism and antiquities, said the find "represents a significant addition to our understanding of the origins of monasticism in Egypt, which began on Egyptian soil before spreading worldwide."

Fathy also emphasized the "ministry’s commitment to integrating Coptic heritage sites into comprehensive tourism offerings … to enrich the tourist experience and highlight Egypt’s rich heritage."

Mohamed Taman, head of the central administration for Lower Egypt and Sinai Antiquities, said the discovery "adds a new dimension to understanding the layout of early monasteries, particularly with the presence of internal burial spaces reflecting monastic life."

The discovery comes soon after archaeologists uncovered a similar monastic complex in the Beheira Governorate.

The Christian monastic site, which officials announced on March 23, featured a guesthouse with 13 rooms, as well as wall paintings.

Earlier in January, Egyptian officials announced that another monastery had been found in the village of Al-Duwair in the Sohag Governorate.

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At the site, archaeologists found the remains of "a fully integrated residential complex for monks dating back to the Byzantine period," the statement said.

Archaeologists uncover mysterious Christian artifact near waters tied to Jesus' ministry: 'No known parallel'

Sun, 05 Apr 2026 10:00:42 -0400

Archaeologists have uncovered a one-of-a-kind artifact near the Sea of Galilee that may reveal new details about how early Christians practiced baptism.

The 1,400-year-old artifact was recently found in the ancient city of Hippos, a prominent bishop's seat during the Byzantine era, according to a March 30 press release shared with ӣ��Ƶ Digital.

The city was once the only Christian city around the Sea of Galilee, controlling territory associated with Jesus' ministry.

The marble block was found in a hall of baptism called a photisterion. It may shed light on "a stage of the early Christian baptismal rite that has until now gone unrecorded," officials said.

Hippos' cathedral had two baptismal halls: one for adults, and another for infants and children, which is where the new object was found.

The smaller hall was constructed after 591 A.D. and was destroyed by an earthquake in 749 A.D. — meaning the object is roughly 1,400 years old.

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Officials described the artifact as "a rectangular block bearing three hemispheric cavities, found beside a baptismal font in a newly revealed ceremonial hall."

Researchers believe the block may have held three different oils used during a threefold baptismal immersion ceremony.

Pictures of the object show the weathered marble block with three bowl-shaped basins, suggesting it was designed to hold liquids side by side.

Early Christian baptisms more commonly involved two anointings before and after the rite — which makes the three-part design particularly unusual.

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"The collapse buried the marble and bronze artifacts beneath the rubble, preserving them until their recent discovery," the release noted.

Officials added, "After extensive examination and comparison, the scholars concluded that no known parallels to the artifact exist."

Michael Eisenberg, a University of Haifa archaeologist who recently published the results in the journal PEQ, along with colleague Arleta Kowalewska, said the object was found among a variety of "remarkable liturgical objects," including a bronze candelabrum used to hold candles.

"Only after careful research did we realize how unique they are for understanding Christian ritual practices in the cradle of Christianity by the Sea of Galilee," he said.

The object was "nothing special at first glance," to the excavations, Eisenberg told ӣ��Ƶ Digital.

"But here is exactly where the archaeological and liturgical studies came into play."

"Realizing that it is a one-of-a-kind artifact that may fill unknown regional and perhaps wider lacunae in one of the most ancient and sacred Christian ceremonies was a complete surprise."

Eisenberg said the findings may "open a portal" to the development of baptism rituals in the early Christian world.

"In different regions, distinct liturgical traditions developed, many of which are not documented in written sources," the archaeologist said.

"This find offers a rare glimpse into how the baptismal rite was shaped and practiced in the Byzantine Christian community of Hippos."

The find joins a long list of significant archaeological discoveries found at Hippos in recent years.

Last year, excavators in Hippos found a 1,600-year-old Christian care facility for the elderly, which is possibly the world's oldest nursing home.

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Last July, metal detectorists found a trove of ancient jewelry and gold coins near ruins in Hippos.

Surging UK Green Party pushes church-state split, critics warn of break from Britain’s Christian roots

Sun, 05 Apr 2026 08:30:10 -0400

LONDON: The left-wing British Green Party has said it wants to separate the Church of England from the state if it wins the next general election, which must be held before August 2029.

The Church of England has been the "established" church since the 16th-century Reformation, with the British monarch serving as its supreme governor. For traditionalists, this link is not merely ceremonial but is the foundational bedrock of British identity.

The Greens have come under fire for seeking to remove centuries of British history and tradition by separating the church from British politics, with critics characterizing it as the latest move against Christianity in the U.K.

GB News reported last month that the Green Party policy document stated: "No person shall hold office in the state, or be excluded from any such office, by virtue of their or their spouse's membership or non-membership of any religion or denomination of religion."

Michael McManus, the director of research at the Henry Jackson Society, a U.K. think tank, told ӣ��Ƶ Digital, "Britain is a tolerant society but with clear Christian origins and culture. Aiming to disestablish the Church of England could be seen as an attempt to reject that ethical foundation without being clear what would replace it instead."

High-profile figures have also weighed in on the debate, with actor and comedian John Cleese responding to a comment about the Greens' proposal by stating on X: "The UK has always been based at the deepest level on Christian values, regardless of dogma. Despite the many mistakes made by churches, for centuries British people have been influenced by Christ's teaching. If these values are replaced by Islamic ones, this will not be Britain anymore."

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The Greens are a growing political force, placing second behind Reform UK in a recent YouGov poll. Another YouGov poll linked the Greens' rise in popularity with younger voters in the country, finding a majority of those between 18 and 24 supported them, while also doing well with women and other groups.

A spokesperson for the Green Party told ӣ��Ƶ Digital, "We will be setting out our detailed plans for government at the time of the next General Election, just as we did at the last General Election. As always, our members will be shaping our priorities. These will again address the real and immediate needs of people and the planet, such as tackling the climate crisis, bringing down the cost of living and rebuilding our public services, including the NHS. Our focus is on the issues that impact ordinary people most."

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Green Party leader Zack Polanski has defended a secular state. He has also drawn criticism for his support of legalizing drugs such as heroin and cocaine, his climate policies and anti-Israel positioning.

The timing of the Green Party's push is particularly sensitive as it comes on the heels of the House of Lords (Hereditary Peers) Act 2026, which passed last month, removing the last hereditary aristocrats from Parliament. With the hereditary principle gone, the presence of the "Lords Spiritual" has become the next logical target for constitutional reformers. There are currently 26 seats reserved for Church of England archbishops and bishops in the House of Lords.

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As the U.K. heads toward a local 2026 election cycle, the "Church and State" debate looks set to become a wedge issue. For the Greens, it represents their commitment to a "diverse and inclusive" Britain. For their detractors, it is a dangerous move that risks "de-Christianizing" the country at a moment of profound social uncertainty.

Whether the proposal will mobilize a new "religious vote" or simply fade behind the urgency of other issues remains to be seen. What is clear, commentators say, is that the image of the established Church is increasingly being viewed through the lens of a much sharper and more polarized political fight.

Two secret Christians found each other in an arranged marriage miracle

Sun, 05 Apr 2026 08:00:19 -0400

Editor’s note: This essay is adapted from "The DNA of a Doctor: How Upbringing, Culture, and Unbridled Ambition Curates Achievement" (Post Hill Press, 2026)

Both of my grandmothers, living in two separate small villages in India miles apart from each other, had each secretly become believers in Jesus. At that time, in that environment, it was dangerous to be a Christian. Becoming a believer would have disgraced your family.

Neither grandmother hid her faith from her children, though they did from everyone else. While most of their offspring went back to practicing Hinduism when they married, my dad and mom, independently and alone of all their many brothers and sisters, had each developed a strong Christian faith.

They just didn't know this about each other.

My parents came from different worlds. My father arrived in America in 1975 with $7 in his pocket. He had run away from home as a teenager, slept on train station benches, and put himself through school against his own father's wishes. My mother broke barriers of her own, graduating from medical school in India in the 1970s when few women were educated at all. Both had sacrificed everything for a bigger life.

When my father returned to India in 1978 to find a bride, he met my mother through her younger brother at a bus station. She had a medical degree, her own ideas and spoke her mind. But on this occasion, her brothers and uncles made things clear: she was not to speak. She should not make eye contact. And there would be no mention of her faith. Anything she said could disgrace the family name.

Four days later, my parents were married at 4:50 a.m. in a Hindu ceremony conducted by a Hindu priest. Neither had breathed a word about their secret faith.

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On their honeymoon, while my father was in the shower, my mother sat in the hotel room overcome with doubt. "I don't even know this person," she thought. "What have I done?" She pulled out her Bible and leafed through it, seeking comfort.

My dad came back into the room. She stood up and quickly tried to hide the Bible behind her back.

"What are you hiding?" he asked.

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"Nothing," she said.

"We cannot hide things from each other," my dad told her.

Reluctantly, she showed him what was in her hands.

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"Praise God!" he proclaimed.

The odds of this happening in an arranged marriage in India at that time were less than miniscule. Two secret Christians, from two separate villages, raised by two grandmothers who had independently come to faith, finding each other through a chance encounter at a bus station. It was unheard of. A miracle.

God had brought them together.

While this isn't my own story, it's still one of my favorites to tell. My parents had led two completely separate lives. They were strangers in every sense of the word. And yet, they were created for each other.

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Those of Christian faith like me believe that God has a plan for each of us, which may or may not line up with the plans we make for ourselves. We can try, but we cannot always predict or plan every aspect of our lives. Sometimes the detour is not a failure. It is protection. It is redirection.

I believe we are all being led somewhere, even when we cannot see the path.

Pope Leo XIV invokes Pope Francis' final words in Easter plea against growing 'indifference' to war

Sun, 05 Apr 2026 07:03:29 -0400

Pope Leo XIV gave his first Easter blessing as pontiff on Sunday, calling for peace and urging the world not to grow indifferent to the deaths of tens of thousands in violent conflicts around the world.

Leo gave the traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to a crowd in St. Peter’s Square that Vatican media described as numbering over 50,000.

Leo said that in a world hurt by wars and abuses, people need hope and peace, urging against growing accustomed to violence and indifferent to the death of tens of thousands.

"On this day of celebration let us abandon every desire for conflict domination and power and implore the Lord to grant his peace to a world ravaged by wars and marked by a hatred and indifference that makes us feel powerless to the face of evil," the pope said.

Leo reminded the faithful that "the power with which Christ rose is entirely nonviolent."

"In the light of Easter, let us allow ourselves to be amazed by Christ," he said. "Let us allow our hearts transformed by his immense love for us. Let those with weapons lay them down. Let those who have the power to unleash wars choose peace. Not a peace imposed by force, but through dialogue. Not through a desire to dominate others, but to encounter them."

Leo also invoked what he said were the final words that Pope Francis issued to the world from the same balcony one year ago, during which the late pontiff warned of a "globalization of indifference."

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"What a great thirst for death, for killing we witness each day in the many conflicts raging in different parts of the world," Leo said, quoting Francis.

Leo concluded the blessing by wishing everyone a happy Easter in 10 different languages and singing the Regina Ceoli.

Leo earlier held his first Easter Mass as pope, in which he called for the faithful to exercise hope against "the violence of war that kills and destroys,’’ adding that in the face of conflicts spreading around the world, "we need this song of hope today."

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Leo has repeatedly called for a halt in hostilities as the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran enters its second month and Russia continues its violent campaign in Ukraine.

ӣ��Ƶ' Courtney Walsh contributed to this report.

'Jesus Crown of Thorns' final season arrives on Fox Nation during Christianity's holiest week of the year

Sun, 05 Apr 2026 07:00:15 -0400

During the holiest week of the Christian calendar, "Jesus Crown of Thorns" is bringing the story of Christ’s victory after death to the screen, with its final season and series finale now available on Fox Nation.

As the story of Christ's ultimate sacrifice approaches its conclusion, betrayal, sorrow and the ultimate triumph over death recapture the essence of what makes Holy Week so special.

"The resurrection of Jesus is the message of Christianity," Father James Martin, S.J., said in the series.

"It means that hope has triumphed over despair, love has triumphed over hate, and that nothing is impossible with God."

In the series finale, Andrew and Matthew encounter a stranger on the road to the village of Emmaus, recognizing his true identity only when they break bread together – a pivotal moment reflecting the Gospel account of the risen Christ appearing to his followers.

Meanwhile, St. John the Apostle recalls Christ’s promise that he would rise three days after his death — a promise soon fulfilled before his disciples.

"Because you have seen me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe," Jesus tells them.

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"This is what I told you. Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me… the Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance for the forgiveness of sins, will be preached in his name to all nations."

As Christians across the globe reflect on Christ's sacrifice, hope remains at the center of the story, pointing toward the promise of the resurrection this Easter Sunday.

Among those who remained closest to Christ in those final moments was the Apostle John, a figure whose loyalty and faith are central to the series’ portrayal of both the crucifixion and the resurrection.

Actor Alister Hawke, who portrayed John in the series, sat down with FOX Business' "Varney & Co." last week to discuss that unyielding loyalty, previewing the series finale while discussing what it means to portray the apostle widely considered the most beloved by Christ.

"He seems to find his feet when all the other disciples kind of slip away and fall away," Hawke said.

"Ultimately, he's a man that chose to stand up for what was right over and above what was easy in that moment."

Hawke said having a "deep understanding" of the world and biblical texts is crucial to capturing a role so crucial to the Gospel.

"I think one thing that's really interesting for me playing John is experiencing that journey in real time, so, for example, not everyone's got a Bible. We don't know how the story is going to end and the pressure is so, so high in those situations and circumstances, and experiencing that and living that was a really special thing."

The series finale brings that journey to its ultimate conclusion, depicting not just Christ’s suffering but the fulfillment of a promise foretold long before the crucifixion.

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As the story closes, it echoes the words of the prophet Isaiah, a reminder of the meaning behind the sacrifice at the heart of the Christian faith: "He was pierced for our transgressions… and by his wounds, we are healed."

To watch the series finale of "Jesus Crown of Thorns" this Easter, subscribe to Fox Nation.

Saints were sinners: Why Peter's story of failure and restoration is our story, too

Sat, 04 Apr 2026 09:00:01 -0400

Palm Sunday just passed and Easter is upon us. We know the scriptural accounts. We've heard them many times. But this year, we might look for something more — the rest of the story.

When Jesus first called Peter, Peter didn't want the job.

He was a working fisherman. He ran his own boat, managed a crew, negotiated prices at the docks. He was comfortable in his own sun-hardened skin. When Jesus approached him, Peter's first response wasn't confidence. It was humility: "Lord, depart from me, for I am a sinful man."

He likely understood what Jesus was asking—not just to follow, but to help carry a mission whose full cost wasn't yet visible. Peter said yes. And then he stumbled.

He misunderstood Jesus. He argued with Him. At one point, Jesus rebuked him sharply: "Get behind me, Satan." On the night of Jesus' trial, Peter denied even knowing Him — three times. At the crucifixion, he was nowhere to be found. Afterward, he returned to what he knew: fishing in Galilee.

The resurrected Jesus found him there.

That's the part we shouldn't miss.

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Jesus did not choose Peter because he was flawless. He chose him, knowing exactly who he was — impulsive, brave, fearful, devoted, weak. In other words, human. Peter was the sinner making right and wrong decisions. Lest this point be missed, that means you and me. Saints were first sinners.

Peter's occupation as a fisherman was a nearly perfect model for the ministry Jesus was designing. Fishermen had to be extraordinarily patient, knowing momentary successes were interspersed among distressing failures. It was an occupation of inescapable frustrations. Jesus knew his ministry would follow the same pattern.

Then came the turning point.

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When Jesus asked, "Who do you say I am?" Peter answered: "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." Jesus responded with full voice: "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven."

One cannot miss its significance. Jesus was declaring that it was not him, the Son, but God the Father who disclosed this to Peter. To lock in the magnitude of that, Jesus added: "And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell will not overcome it."

It was a staggering promise — made to a man who would fail publicly within months.

Yet two thousand years later, Christianity remains the world's largest faith. Peter — joined later by Paul — helped carry it beyond Jerusalem and into history. Both would be executed for that mission.

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This is the rest of the story: not just resurrection, but restoration. Not just divine power, but human frailty redeemed and commissioned.

And that matters, because Peter's story is ours. The church was not built on perfection. It was built on forgiven men and women who said yes — and kept going.

SHANNON BREAM: Easter is living proof that God still overcomes the impossible for us

Sat, 04 Apr 2026 08:00:44 -0400

For faithful Christ followers, Holy Week is a roller coaster of emotions. Jesus arrived in Jerusalem to overwhelming acclaim, crowds shouting praises and exalting Him as he fulfilled prophecy by riding into town on a humble donkey. In just a matter of days, Jesus would be rejected and scorned, dragged to a sham trial, beaten, tortured and brutally killed in public. He was mocked, despised and abandoned by many in His inner circle. But that’s just the beginning of the real story. . . .

We must never forget that Jesus knew every single detail about what would happen to Him, and yet He willingly chose to come to us. He took on our frailties — experiencing grief, temptation and death. He did not have to do any of those things, but because He did we have the greatest gift imaginable: the promise of eternal life with God.

Whatever you may be walking through this week, God is keenly aware and He promises never to leave His children. The Bible is full of men and women who experienced broken families, devastating diagnoses, financial ruin, war, famine – you name it! By revisiting their lives, we can see how God was weaving together long-term good in some of the darkest valleys. That’s the truth at the heart of Jesus’ earthly story, too.

I have written about many of these encouraging biblical heroes over the last several years, and my new book, "Nothing Is Impossible with God," specifically highlights those who faced enormous obstacles. Beginning with Gideon, we meet a frightened man whom God addresses as a "mighty warrior." The English translation of Gideon’s response is literally "pardon me."

I think many of us would react the same way if God showed up and told us we were going to charge into a battle against a powerful oppressor with none of the weapons or advantages our human minds would logically deem necessary! But isn’t that what He does with us over and over again on our spiritual journey — asks us to trust that He has a plan where we can see no way?

In my new book, "Nothing Is Impossible with God," I take a deep dive into people from the pages of the Bible who encountered stumbling blocks that would have stopped most of us in our tracks.

Sometimes it was outsiders openly scheming against them. If you’ve experienced that, you’ll love Nehemiah’s story. Rather than fold, he trusted God to handle the crafty, sarcastic frenemies trying to undermine him. He prayed, he prepared and he persevered. You can, too!

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Sometimes it’s our own self-doubt that throws us off track. Moses was overwhelmed by the assignment he was given, even arguing with the God of the Universe about how he wasn’t the guy for the job. I may be quick to judge with thousands of years of hindsight, but I’ve certainly done the same!

What about Jonah, who ran in the opposite direction of what God asked him to do? As we walk their journeys alongside them, we see Gideon, Moses and Jonah all grow in their faith and obedience. What was impossible by human standards was accomplished through God’s power and guidance.

In the pages of Scripture, we also meet men and women who were faithful from the start. Noah was asked to build a structure that made zero sense, a gigantic boat with no system to control it, in order to survive a coming flood — and yet rain had never fallen on the earth’s surface. He simply got to work.

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Joshua stood against the groupthink that told the Israelites there was no way they could face an enemy the Lord had guaranteed they would overcome. We watch Daniel’s courage and godly commitment for decades, never wavering in a culture that made his faith a criminal offense — punishable by death!

I think it’s fair to say that Peter represents a combination of these various challenges. He was fiery, passionate and willing to defend Christ with all he had. He was part of Jesus’ inner circle, impulsive and opinionated, and sometimes reprimanded by the Man he admired most. So, when Jesus told Peter he would betray him, his beloved friend and disciple fired back with typical gusto:

"But Peter declared, ‘Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.’" (Matthew 26:35)

Just hours later, Jesus’ prophecy was fulfilled. Peter denied ever knowing his friend and esteemed rabbi, even shouting and cursing with anger. When the realization of his devastating failure landed on his heart, we’re told he "went outside and wept bitterly." Again, this is far from the end of the story.

Days later, Jesus rose from the grave — overcoming sin and death for good. Rather than approaching his broken friend with judgment and contempt, He approached Peter with grace and care. Peter had returned to where Christ found him, fishing for a living. I’m sure he felt unworthy of the calling to be something more. But Jesus wouldn’t leave him there. He knew Peter’s tender, broken heart. He lovingly restored Peter, telling him to finally leave the fishing gig behind for good and focus on what he was created and gifted to do: fish for men.

This — and every Easter — there is so much evidence of how God overcomes the impossible in our lives. He can work through our fears and failures, our rebellion and our rabbit trails.

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He’s overcome what we cannot — sin and death — and every Easter is a celebration of that glorious gift. We can’t earn it; we must humble ourselves to first recognize that we need it — and then accept it.

That can be hard for us to understand and embrace as human beings who can only begin to fathom that level of mercy and generosity.

I pray this Easter you’ll accept the Gift.

Nigeria's Christians on edge for Easter after Palm Sunday massacre

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 15:24:13 -0400

JOHANNESBURG — A Holy Week attack in a predominantly Christian town in Nigeria that left a reported 28 dead has led to widespread fears that more of Christ’s followers could be targeted over the coming Easter weekend.

On Palm Sunday last weekend, multiple gunmen reportedly shouted a Muslim declaration as they randomly opened fire in the predominantly Christian town of Angwan Rukuba in the Jos District of Nigeria’s Plateau State.

"The terrorists stormed the area in a commando style and started shooting, sporadically chanting, 'Allahu Akbar' (God is great in Arabic)," a field worker told the aid agency Voice of the Martyrs from the scene. "The area is (a majority) Christian community."

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Henrietta Blyth, CEO of Open Doors UK & Ireland, told ӣ��Ƶ Digital this Easter there are fears of more attacks against Christians in Nigeria.

"Tragic events like this are all too common in Plateau State and large areas of northern Nigeria," Blyth said.

"And too often they can occur on Christian holy days like this. Indeed, people in the region will remember the devastating 2023 Christmas Eve attacks in Benue state that killed over 140 people."

U.S. Principal Adviser for Global Religious Freedom Mark Walker called on Nigerian authorities to increase security to protect Christians. He posted on X, "We call on the Nigerian government to significantly ramp up security for Christians ahead of and during Easter. We recognize and appreciate the steps the government of Nigeria has taken to improve security, however, the targeted killing of Christians, especially on Christian holidays, is unacceptable. We urge the Nigerian leadership to engage and to do so now."

Nigeria is ranked the seventh-worst country in the world for Christian persecution by Open Doors. The organization claims it accounts for 72% of the total number of Christian killings worldwide in 2025.

A local human rights lawyer who asked to conceal his name due to security fears, was nearby when the Palm Sunday attack happened. He told ӣ��Ƶ Digital, "A group of people came, around 20, some on motorcycles, and started shooting."

He added the area is essentially a Christian one "and for anybody to go and openly shoot at people, then it must be that that person had Christians in mind."

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Another local Christian resident, who also asked to withhold his name, told ӣ��Ƶ Digital, "I can assure you that the majority position among Christians in Nigeria is that what we are experiencing in Nigeria is Islamic expansionism, and it must be stopped, using whatever means is necessary."

The human rights lawyer said there are reports of videos circulating that are threatening more attacks against Christians, adding, "Here in Jos in Nigeria, we say that there is no Christian holiday or event left on the Christian calendar that has escaped an attack by radical Islamists or terrorists in Nigeria, whether it is Christmas, Easter or Good Friday, Palm Sunday or Sunday services or whatever. We are trapped."

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In a statement to ӣ��Ƶ Digital, Todd Nettleton of the Voice of the Martyrs’ group said that, in countries like Nigeria, "Easter is often a season of peril. Holy days on the Christian calendar, including Christmas and Easter, are often times when those who hate the Gospel target our brothers and sisters in violent attacks."

Open Doors’ Blythe said, "The fear of being brutally attacked will hang over millions of Christians across Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa, as they prepare for Easter, a festival that should be the most joyful moment in the Christian calendar. We will be praying that Christians around the world will be safe and free to celebrate and worship jubilantly this Eastertide."

ӣ��Ƶ Digital reached out to the Nigerian government for comment but received no response.

White House marks Holy Week, Easter with days of prayer centered on religious liberty

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 07:00:36 -0400

FIRST ON FOX: The White House is marking Holy Week with days of prayer and worship, including President Donald Trump participating in a number of events to honor Easter and celebrate the "right to religious liberty."

"President Trump will never waver in safeguarding the right to religious liberty, upholding the dignity of life and protecting faith in our public square," White House spokeswoman Taylor Rogers told ӣ��Ƶ Digital of the White House's Holy Week events.

"Millions of Christians across the country will celebrate Jesus Christ conquering death, freeing us from sin, and unlocking the gates of Heaven for all of humanity, and the President is proud to join Americans during this blessed holiday."

A White House official told ӣ��Ƶ Digital that the president on Wednesday will attend the White House Easter Lunch in the East Room.

The event will feature worship and prayer, and choral performances from the Free Chapel Choir, led by Pastor Jentezen Franklin on the saxophone.

The event will also include prayers from Reverend Franklin Graham, Bishop Robert Barron, Pastor Paula White and others.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin, Attorney General Pam Bondi, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, Housing and Urban Development Secretary Scott Turner, Small Business Administrator Kelly Loeffler, Office of Management and Budget Director Russ Vought, and White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt will attend the White House Easter lunch.

Erika Kirk is also expected to attend the White House Easter lunch, a White House official told ӣ��Ƶ Digital.

Next, on Wednesday evening, at 5:00 p.m., White House staff are invited to attend a Catholic Mass in the Indian Treaty Room. The mass will be celebrated by Father Frank Mann.

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On Thursday, Holy Thursday, a White House official told ӣ��Ƶ Digital that all White House staff are invited to attend a worship service in the same room. That service will feature Rev. Franklin Graham, Pastor Jentzen Franklin, Pastor Paula White and White House Faith Office Director Jenny Korn.

A White House official also told ӣ��Ƶ Digital that President Trump is expected to issue a presidential proclamation honoring Holy Week.

"President Trump wishes Christians across America and around the world a very happy Easter. He is risen, indeed!" Rogers added in a comment to ӣ��Ƶ Digital.

The president is also expected to post video messages on his Truth Social account to celebrate Easter and Passover.

A White House official told ӣ��Ƶ Digital that Passover events will take place next week. Passover begins at sundown on Wednesday, April 1 and ends at sundown on Thursday, April 9.

The White House Passover event will take place April 6 in the Indian Treaty Room. Edan Alexander, who was held hostage by Hamas in Gaza for more than 500 days following the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks, and his family will be in attendance. Alexander was the last living American hostage released last year.

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Faith has been a focal point of Trump's second term, including signing an executive order in February 2025 establishing a White House Faith Office.

The office empowers faith-based entities, community organizations and houses of worship "to better serve families and communities," according to the White House. The office is housed under the Domestic Policy Council and consults with experts in the faith community on policy changes to "better align with American values."

BISHOP ROBERT BARRON: Even Judas? Rethinking sin, despair and divine mercy this Palm Sunday

Sun, 29 Mar 2026 07:00:54 -0400

Every year on Palm Sunday, we read, in the Catholic liturgy, one of the great Passion narratives from the Synoptic Gospels. This year, it is St. Matthew's. There are a number of distinctive features in Matthew's account, but the most distinctive and interesting, for me, is the evangelist's treatment of Judas.

No other Gospel stresses the repentance and regret of the traitor more effectively. "Then Judas, his betrayer, seeing that Jesus had been condemned, deeply regretted what he had done. He returned the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, saying, 'I have sinned in betraying innocent blood.'" This is not callous indifference or self-justification. This is a clear and honest admission of guilt.

Then we are told that Judas flung the money into the temple and "went off and hanged himself." An awful ending to a sad life, the betrayer of Jesus falling into despair and committing self-slaughter. And this is why most figures in the great theological and spiritual tradition have assumed that Judas is in hell. Augustine thought so; Aquinas thought so; Dante depicted him perpetually chewed in the very mouth of Satan. And if his betrayal of the Lord wasn't enough to earn him a place in hell, then his suicide, most theologians agreed, certainly sealed the deal.

But I want to draw your attention to a counterview—admittedly in the minority—on display in one of the capitals on a column in the magnificent Vézelay Basilica in France.

On one side is a grossly vivid depiction of the hanging of Judas, eyes popping, tongue lolling out of his mouth. But on the other side is a depiction of the Good Shepherd carrying the body of Judas on his shoulders like the lost sheep. And the dead man appears to be smiling.

Pope Francis was so fond of this image that he had a reproduction of it over his desk in his papal office. It showed, for him, the hope that even Judas might have been saved by the overwhelming mercy of the Lord.

Now I know (please don't send me letters of complaint) that we cannot embrace a simple-minded universalism, which says that we are perfectly confident that all people will be saved. We do indeed have to admit to the very real possibility of an eternal rejection of God. And yet St. Pope John Paul II insisted that the Church has never made a definitive statement regarding whether any particular person is in hell. And Pope Benedict said that we should suspend judgment in regard to Judas, committing him to the mercy and justice of God. But again, wouldn't his suicide guarantee that he has gone to eternal perdition?

Listen to the Catechism of the Catholic Church on this point: "We should not despair of the eternal salvation of persons who have taken their own lives. By ways known to him alone, God can provide the opportunity for salutary repentance. The Church prays for persons who have taken their own lives" (2283).

The point is that God, in Christ, has gone to the very limits of God-forsakenness precisely to communicate the divine mercy even to that darkest place. When Jesus says from the cross, "God, my God, why have you abandoned me?" he signals that he has entered the condition of the most desperate sinner. He has not become a sinner, to be sure, but he has willingly embraced the psychological and spiritual state of the sinner.

I am not recommending that we go easy on sin or that we dismiss its awful seriousness. But I am indeed recommending what Paul said: "Where sin abounds, grace abounds the more."

I am indeed insisting that God's mercy is greater than any sin we could possibly commit, even the betrayal of Christ. So, do we despair of those who have taken their own lives? No. We pray for them and commend them to God's mercy.

There is a story told about a French couple in the 19th century, she deeply religious, he vaguely agnostic. At one point in their marriage, the wife asked her husband if she could hang a picture of the Sacred Heart of Jesus over their bed. With little enthusiasm, but out of concern for her feelings, he agreed. In time, due to setbacks in his business and frustrations of his ambitions, the husband fell into a profound depression.

Finally, in desperation, he threw himself off a building and plunged to his death. His wife, utterly bereft and convinced of her own guilt in the matter, became disconsolate. At the end of her strength, she decided to speak to John Vianney, the famous priest of Ars, a man reputed to be a spiritual master and reader of souls. When she got to the small town near Lyon, she was shocked to see that the line of those seeking an audience with the great man stretched for a mile.

In anguish, she knelt at the communion rail and wept. To her utter surprise, she then heard a voice calling her name. It was John Vianney. "How did you know my name?" she asked. He answered, "It doesn't matter." He continued, "You are in despair over the death of your husband. I want you to understand that as he was hurtling to his death, God showed him that image of the Sacred Heart that he had hung over your bed." "How could you possibly know such a thing?" she gasped. "It doesn't matter," he replied. "What matters is that upon seeing it, he repented."

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The same Dante who put Judas in the depths of hell also said that all God needs is a single tear of repentance to save a sinner.

What should we take from a prayerful reading of Matthew's Passion narrative? God is mercy within mercy within mercy.

Archaeologists unearth 1,600-year-old Christian monastic site with paintings, mysterious inscription

Sat, 28 Mar 2026 10:31:04 -0400

Egyptian archaeologists recently unearthed the remnants of a Christian monastic site from the 5th century, some 400 years after the time of Jesus Christ.

The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities wrote in a translated statement March 23 that a building was recently found in the Qallaya area in Egypt's Beheira Governorate.

The structure, likely a guesthouse used to host visitors, is a remnant of the "early beginnings of Coptic monasticism," the release said.

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Previous buildings have also been found at the site, and the newly discovered structure had 13 multipurpose rooms used for "hospitality and teaching … in addition to service facilities such as a kitchen and storage areas," officials said.

The area is considered one of Egypt's significant early monastic centers.

Coptic monasticism was one of the oldest forms of organized Christian monasticism, laying the groundwork for traditions that endure to this day.

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Pictures from the site show ancient structures in remarkable condition, with walls and other architectural features still intact.

The tourism ministry also shared photographs of art recently found at the site, including paintings and an inscription in early Greek.

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Officials believe the Greek inscription may say, "Abba Kir, son of Shenouda," suggesting it was a tombstone.

"Excavations also revealed several architectural elements added to the building during later historical phases, reflecting the evolution of its use over successive periods," the statement said.

In addition to the paintings, officials noted a "complete marble column" was found, along with "a large number of pottery shards."

"Some of these bear plant and geometric decorations, while others include Coptic letters. … Some are undecorated," the statement said.

Hisham El-Leithy, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, said the decorations and wall paintings are "among the most significant sources for studying early Coptic art in Egypt," according to the translated release.

The discovery also highlights "the development of ascetic, simple monastic architecture, showing a functional progression from individual cells to semi-communal housing," the statement added.

Archaeologists also found bird and animal bones and "several oyster shells" inside one of the rooms, all pointing to everyday dietary practices.

Excavations in Egypt continue to yield many fascinating remnants of ancient Christianity, and the Qallaya discovery is one of many recent finds.

In January, archaeologists unearthed another ancient Christian monastic complex in the village of Al-Duwair, located in the Sohag Governorate.

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Christian father says Sweden 'kidnapped' his children, branded family ‘religious extremists’

Sat, 28 Mar 2026 10:00:01 -0400

A Christian father in Europe says his family's life has been "destroyed" after Swedish authorities took custody of his two daughters over three years ago after a false abuse allegation.

Daniel and Bianca Samson have been fighting to regain custody of their daughters, Sara and Tiana, who were 11 and 10 years old when they were taken by Sweden’s social services and placed in foster care in December 2022.

Daniel Samson told ӣ��Ƶ Digital the girls were taken after Sara made an abuse allegation at school after an argument over her parents' refusal to let her wear makeup or have a cellphone.

"They literally kidnapped the girls from school," he said.

Even after Sara reportedly retracted the statement and police dropped the investigation after finding no evidence of abuse, the government agency refused to return the girls.

Samson alleged authorities then shifted their focus to the family's Christian faith.

"As soon as you mention God, as soon as you try to leave following Christian values, you have a target on your back. And once they take your children back, they will never let go," he said.

In court, Samson said, officials labeled the parents "religious extremists" to justify their separation. He said lawyers used their parenting choices against them, such as the girls not being allowed to paint their nails, the lack of a television in the home and the reading of Bible stories, which he said authorities called "violent."

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The family, originally from Romania, had unsuccessfully petitioned to have the girls moved to Romanian foster care to keep the family unit closer together. Since being placed in state care, Samson said, his daughters' physical and mental health have deteriorated.

Samson shared videos with ӣ��Ƶ Digital of his daughters pleading to be reunited with their family and of his eldest daughter describing her suicide attempts while in state care. He also alleged the girls had been given antidepressants against their will and that Sara witnessed a sexual assault while in a state-run facility.

In Samson's view, the legal system favors social services as "the experts," and parents have little recourse in custody cases. He claimed the agency wins the vast majority of cases in Sweden, making it nearly impossible for families to find legal representation willing to challenge the state.

One 2017 study of Swedish administrative court verdicts found that when social services petitioned for compulsory care based on allegations of violence, the court granted the request 90% of the time and 78% approval in all other cases.

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Despite receiving positive feedback from state-mandated parenting courses, Samson said the agency told the court they had "not the smallest single good thing" to say about the family to justify returning the children.

Over the past three years, Samson says his family has lost 14 times in court.

In March, the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) ruled their case "inadmissible," a final decision that cannot be appealed. The decision came after he said authorities cut off all in-person visits in December and all video contact last month.

Samson said authorities have also expressed intentions to change the girls’ names, a move he fears is a precursor to adoption.

"They told me, 'You give false hope to your children because you tell them they’re coming home, and we have no intention of giving them back,'" Samson said. "I told them, ‘I’m their parent, and I’ll never stop fighting for them.’"

He has been outspoken about his family's case on social media and alleges their story is not unique but part of a systemic problem in Sweden.

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"In Sweden, we have written to all the members of the parliament, to all the institutions that could do something, to all the media outlets, televisions, newspapers, radios," Samson said. "This has been done multiple times with ample evidence, and nobody talks about it because everybody is afraid that [their] child could be next."

Sweden's social services told ӣ��Ƶ Digital it could not comment on individual cases.

Sweden’s government has previously pushed back against claims that it "kidnaps" children or targets religious families, labeling such accusations part of a "disinformation campaign."

The Ministry of Health and Social Affairs stated in November 2022 that a decision to remove a child is "always based on a significant risk of harm to the child’s health or development."

Officials maintain that the goal is to reunite children with parents once care is completed, provided it is in the child's best interest.

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Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and Minister for Social Services Camilla Waltersson Grönvall also disputed "kidnapping" claims in a February 6, 2023, press release calling for stronger penalties against those who threaten or insult public officials.

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The Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare also denies that religion is a basis for removal, stating that cases are based solely on the child's safety and development.

"No, religion is no basis for a child being placed in care. A decision to take a child away from their parents or guardians must always be based on there being a significant risk of harm to the child’s health or development. It can either be the situation in the family home or the child’s or young person’s own behavior that may be deemed harmful or dangerous," the government agency says.

Legendary captain who inspired 'The Three Musketeers' may have been found under church altar

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 14:15:16 -0400

Archaeologists may have uncovered the remains of Charles de Batz de Castelmore d'Artagnan, the legendary French musketeer who inspired Alexandre Dumas' "The Three Musketeers."

The skeleton was found in front of an altar at St. Peter and Paul Church in Maastricht, the Netherlands, local officials said Wednesday.

Workers found the human remains in February after the floor caved in, Reuters reported.

Researchers are now testing DNA from the jawbone to see if it lines up with d'Artagnan's descendants.

The church has long been considered a possible burial site for d'Artagnan, according to officials.

Speaking to Reuters, archaeologist Wim Dijkman said the excavation has become a "top-level investigation."

He added, "We want to be absolutely certain — or as certain as possible — whether it is the famous musketeer, who was killed here near Maastricht."

ӣ��Ƶ Digital reached out to Dijkman for further comment.

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Born in 1611, d'Artagnan served under King Louis XIV — known as the "Sun King" — and rose to captain of the Musketeers of the Guard, an elite military unit.

He was killed on June 25, 1673, near Maastricht, after being shot in the throat during a French siege.

It's believed that d'Artagnan was buried nearby, as it would have been impractical to transport his body back to France in the summer heat.

Jos Valke, a deacon of the church, told Reuters that additional clues also pointed to d'Artagnan.

These included a coin from 1660 and a fragment of a lead bullet near the burial.

Valke noted that d'Artagnan was supposedly buried in consecrated ground, according to a contemporary letter.

"Well, ⁠under an altar — it couldn't be much holier than that," he said.

Valke added, "When you add it all up, then, it seems plausible to us. But of course, nothing is certain yet."

Dumas published "The Three Musketeers" in serial form beginning in May 1844, immortalizing d'Artagnan in fiction.

Published in book form later that year, it has since been widely read and adapted into films, plays and TV shows.

The discovery is one of many significant archaeological finds in the Netherlands in recent years.

Last summer, officials showcased a medieval sword with rare symbols that was found in a river by Dutch construction workers.

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In 2024, archaeologists in North Holland found a creepy, centuries-old floor made of animal bones in a red-light district.

Reuters contributed reporting.

Scorsese reframes Jesus’ story through the Virgin Mary in ‘The Saints’ special

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 09:00:53 -0400

Academy Award-winning filmmaker Martin Scorsese is turning his lens to the Virgin Mary in a new special episode of "The Saints," exploring themes of faith, love and sacrifice at the heart of the Easter story.

"The story of Jesus – his life, his teachings, his example, his resurrection – is intertwined with the life of his mother," Scorsese told viewers in the special.

"She was chosen by God. She was a vessel, and she was a mother who loved her son."

Premiering Friday on Fox Nation, the episode offers a cinematic look at one of Christianity’s most central figures, tracing Mary’s role not only in the birth of Jesus but in the events that would come to define the faith.

As the mother of Christ and one of the most revered women in Christianity, her story has helped shape ideas of devotion, motherhood, strength and spiritual identity for centuries, continuing to serve as an example of a devoted woman of faith through her willingness to answer God's call.

Her story begins in ancient Judea, where, as a young woman, she is chosen to bear a child whose life would change the course of history.

In Bethlehem, she gives birth to Jesus with her husband Joseph at her side, a moment still celebrated around the world, as the birth of a savior helped set the stage for humanity's redemption.

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The special also looks deeper into her life, her enduring faith, sacrifice and the sorrow she faced as Jesus suffered and died on the cross.

But, for Christians, that "end" was only the beginning.

"[The special] is being shown on Easter, the most blessed day in the Christian calendar," Scorsese said, hearkening back to his upbringing in New York's Little Italy, where his Catholic faith informed his love of Christ and reverence for Mary.

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"There was a different time and a different world and, for everyone in that world, Easter was the most sacred holiday of the year," he continued, noting the attitudes toward Christian holidays in his youth.

Christmas, he shared, had assumed a more secular meaning to many, with a focus on Santa Claus and presents stealing from the focus on the birth of Christ.

"But Easter weekend, that was something else," Scorsese added.

"It started on Good Friday, in the depths of suffering, defeat, and darkness, when all the ornamentation would be removed from the altar and everything was covered in purple cloth. And then on Sunday, it ended in a grand triumph with the resurrection and the redemption of humanity."

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Scorsese's reflections on his youth and the origins of his faith are closely intertwined with the cinematic retelling of the Virgin Mary's life and legacy in the special, tying together the themes that make Easter a special day for all Christians.

To watch the miraculous story of Saint Mary, subscribe to Fox Nation and begin streaming "The Saints."

Texas Democratic Senate nominee James Talarico doubles down on God being "beyond gender" comments

Sun, 22 Mar 2026 19:00:45 -0400

Texas Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico recalled "provocative" remarks he previously made about God during a Thursday appearance on "The Bulwark" podcast, where he later defended the comment as both political and theological.

"I know that I was being provocative with that comment," Talarico said.

The Democrat Senate nominee acknowledged that he made the statement during a 2021 speech in the Texas legislature, where he said that "God is nonbinary" in a rebuke of Republican legislation focused on youth sports and transgender children.

"While it's maybe provocative politically, I don’t think it’s controversial theologically. Most Christians believe that God is beyond gender," Talarico said during the podcast.

"In Christ, there is neither male nor female," he added, citing the Apostle Paul. "So, if you have a problem with what I said, don’t take it up with me, take it up with the Apostle Paul."

The exchange came during a segment of the interview where host, Tim Miller, referenced "God's sausage."

"I made it on the floor of the house when the extremists in the Texas legislature were trying to pick on kids who were different," Talarico said to Miller.

The comment came as Talarico ramps up his U.S. Senate campaign in Texas following his primary victory over Rep. Jasmine Crockett. Talarico, 36, will now try to become the first Democrat in nearly four decades to win a Senate election in Texas, as he faces off against the winner of a bruising Republican primary runoff between longtime incumbent Sen. John Cornyn and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton.

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During the podcast, Talarico also took aim at Paxton and Cornyn.

"And so Ken Paxton was impeached for using his public office to enrich his donors," Talarico said. "And that's exactly what John Cornyn does at the biggest scale."

"I just believe that neither John Cornyn nor Ken Paxton deserve the honor of representing this great state in the United States Senate," he later added.

The race for the Republican Senate nomination in Texas is heading to a high-stakes runoff between Cornyn and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton scheduled for May 26, after neither candidate cleared the 50% threshold in the primary election.

Talarico advocated to abolish the Senate filibuster during the interview as well, saying he agreed with Cornyn's stance.

"I think we should abolish the filibuster so that we can actually govern in this country," Talarico noted. "People… want to see the results of that vote."

The offices of Paxton and Cornyn didn't immediately respond to requests for comment.

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Talarico was also pressed on how he had planned to reach Black voters in the general election, as Miller raised concerns about whether enthusiasm and turnout within the voting bloc could ultimately reshape the race's outcome.

"I’m going to be doing the work to earn the trust and the respect and the support of every Black Texan," Talarico said.

He pointed to Sen. Raphael Warnock, D-Ga., as a model for his campaign.

"I’m deeply inspired by Reverend Raphael Warnock… he knows how to flip a red state," and added that Texas Democrats plan to "follow the same playbook" to win statewide.

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Martin Scorsese brings Mary's story of faith and sacrifice to life in 'The Saints' Easter special

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 13:59:59 -0400

Academy Award-winning filmmaker Martin Scorsese returns to Fox Nation this Easter season with a special extended episode of "The Saints," bringing viewers a deeply personal and cinematic exploration of the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus and one of the most revered figures in Christianity.

"[Jesus'] resurrection is intertwined with the life of his mother," Scorsese said in the special.

"She was chosen by God. She was a vessel, and she was a mother who loved her son."

Mary, a figure whose willingness to answer God's call has resonated for centuries, is at the center of the episode debuting March 27. Beyond her willingness to answer the call, the special looks deeper into her life, her enduring faith, sacrifice and the sorrow she faced at the end of Jesus’ life.

Scorsese acknowledged that Mary's significance was a profound challenge to portray.

"We tried our best to do justice to the life of Mary, the mother of Jesus, in this very special Easter episode of 'The Saints,'" he said.

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Embedded in the episode are nuggets from Scorsese's youth that helped shape his understanding of faith, sacrifice and devotion, all of which are themes woven throughout the feature.

Growing up in New York’s Little Italy, Scorsese was immersed in the rituals, imagery and storytelling of the Catholic faith, experiences that would shape his admiration for Mary and the significance of Easter.

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"I was born in the 1940s, and I grew up in Little Italy in New York. There was a different time and a different world and, for everyone in that world, Easter was the most sacred holiday of the year," he said.

"Christmas was different, more of a secular holiday, less a celebration of the birth of Jesus. [It was] a kind of magical children's day with Santa Claus and presents everywhere, but Easter weekend, that was something else."

It started with Good Friday, in the depths of suffering, defeat and hopelessness that, much like Christ's death, would end in triumph and the redemption of humanity with his resurrection three days later.

"The Saints" is a cinematic docudrama series featuring the remarkable stories of Christianity’s most devoted figures and the faith that defined their lives.

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To watch the miraculous story of Saint Mary, subscribe to Fox Nation and begin streaming "The Saints."

Christian parents lose final appeal after Swedish state took daughters following false abuse claim

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 11:42:25 -0400

A Christian couple’s years-long fight to regain custody of their daughters from the Swedish government was dealt a major setback last week after a top European court rejected their plea for help.

The European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) ruled the case brought by Daniel and Bianca Samson "inadmissible" on March 10, a final decision that cannot be appealed.

According to Alliance Defending Freedom International, which supported the family’s application before the ECtHR, the children have been separated from their parents since December 2022.

ADF International said the case began after the couple’s eldest daughter, Sara, then 11, made a false abuse report at school following a fight with her parents over not being allowed to have a smartphone or wear makeup. ADF International said the girl quickly retracted the allegation and that prosecutors found no evidence of abuse, but the Swedish state refused to return the children.

According to the legal group, the state cited the family’s habit of attending church three times a week and their parenting choices as evidence of "religious extremism" and justification for keeping the children.

The girls have pleaded to be reunited with their parents and have suffered worsening mental and physical health, according to ADF International. Their parents reported that both girls attempted suicide while in state care.

The parents have completed state-mandated parenting courses and were later deemed fit to parent, according to the legal group, but they still have not been reunited with their daughters. They have also allegedly sought to move the girls into foster care in their home country of Romania, but have been denied.

The European Court of Human Rights "deemed the case inadmissible on the grounds of failure to exhaust legal remedies in Sweden," ADF International said, despite the Swedish Supreme Court refusing to hear the family's case in 2025.

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"We love our children. We trusted Sweden to protect them — and when the truth emerged, we expected our daughters to come home," Daniel Samson said in a statement. "Yet they remain away from us, and their mental health continues to deteriorate."

ADF International told Premier Christian News that social services in Hässleholm are now moving to permanently sever the family's ties and place the girls for adoption.

"We deeply regret the Court’s decision to reject this case, considering that this family has been torn apart for over three years despite a full investigation that cleared Mr. and Mrs. Samson of any abuse and the fact that the Social Services certified their capacity and fitness for parenting after they successfully completed an official training," said Guillermo A. Morales Sancho, legal counsel for ADF International. "Families should be free to live according to their convictions without fear of losing their children to the state."

CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE

Sweden's Social Services did not immediately respond to ӣ��Ƶ Digital's requests for comment.

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The European Court of Human Rights told ӣ��Ƶ Digital it considers cases on a "case by case basis" and does not provide comment "on general events or matters." The court also said a single judge declared the case inadmissible, according to its guidelines.

Former Southern Baptist president enters hospice care at 68

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 07:58:24 -0400

Steve Gaines, a former Southern Baptist Convention president who disclosed a kidney cancer diagnosis back in 2023 while serving as pastor of Bellevue Baptist Church in Tennessee, has entered hospice care, a letter to members reported by Baptist Press announced.

"Bro. Steve has faithfully served the Lord and shepherded so many people through the years," Bellevue Baptist Church Pastor Ben Mandrell wrote, according to the outlet. "He’s been a great pastor, mentor, and friend. Let’s honor him and his family by lifting them up before the Lord."

Back in 2024, Gaines announced plans to start "a transition out of the pastorate," noting in a letter to the church that the decision was not tied to his cancer diagnosis.

Before serving at Bellevue Baptist, Gaines had pastored at Gardendale First Baptist Church in Alabama.

A post last week on that church's Facebook page noted, "It is with heavy hearts we share with you that our dear former Pastor and friend Bro. Steve Gaines has been placed on hospice care as he continues his battle with cancer. The family has requested no visitors at this time.

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"Bro. Steve and Donna served the Lord faithfully at GFBC for 14 years (1991-2005). Our lives will never be the same because of their anointed ministry! Please join with us as we pray for the entire family that God would surround them with His comforting presence, sustaining grace and divine peace," the message, attributed to Pastor Kevin Hamm, his wife Kim and GFBC staff notes.

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Gaines was tapped to serve as SBC president in June 2016 and then re-elected in 2017, according to Baptist Press.

Chicago Public Schools will now allow Bible college students into its teaching program, after lawsuit

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 15:36:54 -0400

Chicago Public Schools (CPS) will no longer bar students from a Bible college from participating in its student-teaching program after reaching a settlement Thursday in the college's religious discrimination case.

Moody Bible Institute, a private Christian college in Chicago, sued the Chicago Board of Education in November, alleging CPS had unlawfully blocked its students from participating in the district’s student-teaching program because of the school’s religious hiring practices.

The lawsuit claims CPS excluded Moody students from its student teacher internship program after the college refused to abandon its policy of hiring employees who affirm the school’s statement of faith and agree to live according to its Christian beliefs, including on gender and sexuality.

"As a condition of participation, Chicago Public Schools insists that Moody sign agreements with employment nondiscrimination provisions that forbid Moody from employing only those who share and live out its faith," the complaint stated. "Such a requirement is unlawful."

Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) said Thursday that the settlement resolves the dispute.

According to the Christian legal group, CPS agreed to modify its Student Teacher Internship Agreement to recognize Moody’s right to maintain its faith-based hiring practices, allowing the college to sign the agreement and participate in the student-teaching program. ADF also said CPS now lists Moody as an approved university partner on its website.

"Chicago desperately needs more teachers to fill hundreds of vacancies, and Moody’s students will be well-equipped and qualified to help meet that need," ADF Senior Counsel Jeremiah Galus said in a press release.

"Moody holds its faculty and students to high standards of excellence, and we’re pleased to reach this favorable outcome that will allow it to participate in Chicago Public Schools’ student-teaching program," he continued. "We’re hopeful other public officials will take note that they can’t inject themselves illegally and unconstitutionally into a religious non-profit’s hiring practices."

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According to the complaint, CPS had told the religious college it would need to sign two nondiscrimination agreements to participate in the teaching program. The agreements required Moody to stop hiring only employees who share its Christian beliefs and agree to its code of conduct. They specifically prohibited discrimination based on religion, gender identity or expression, and sexual orientation.

The complaint said that CPS denied Moody's request to modify the language in the agreement to recognize its rights to hire people of the same faith, and selectively enforced its policy, alleging other religious colleges with similar hiring practices were approved for the program.

"We are deeply grateful that a resolution has been reached affirming our constitutional right to hire individuals who are aligned with our core mission and biblical values," Moody Provost Dr. Tim Sisk said in the press release. "Moody’s Elementary Education students are eager and well-prepared to participate in the CPS student teaching program, which is an essential and formative part of their journey toward becoming effective educators."

CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE

ADF attorneys filed a stipulated dismissal in the case Thursday.

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"Chicago Public Schools (CPS) values its partnerships, including those who provide additional school staff support through student teachers training to eventually lead their own classrooms," Chicago Public Schools said in a statement to ӣ��Ƶ Digital. "The District remains committed to ensuring students have a safe and welcoming environment to focus on their education. To resolve this matter in a mutually-acceptable way, the District and the Moody Bible Institute collaborated to modify the student teaching agreement, ensuring it aligns with the constitutional rights of faith-based organizations."

Fox Nation’s ‘Jesus Crown of Thorns’ builds to explosive, betrayal-fueled finale

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 11:46:17 -0400

The final chapter of Jesus’ earthly ministry unfolds in the third and final season of Fox Nation's "Jesus Crown of Thorns," as the road to the cross begins with political intrigue, prophecy and betrayal in Jerusalem.

Four brand-new episodes coming to the Fox Nation platform on March 13 will focus on the pivotal final days before the crucifixion — from secret plots and mounting pressure from Rome to the Last Supper, Judas’ betrayal and the trials that sealed Jesus’ fate.

Before Christ declared, "It is finished," the world would witness betrayal by a disciple, political maneuvering by Roman and Jewish authorities and a series of events that would forever alter the course of history.

Season three opens as Passover approaches and tensions rise in Jerusalem. High Priest Caiaphas and Annas quietly conspire to arrest Jesus with the help of Judas Iscariot, while Roman Governor Pontius Pilate arrives in the city for a festival — only to be met with mounting unrest.

The tension deepens in episode two as Pilate's wife awakes from a disturbing dream, casting an ominous shadow over the unfolding events.

That sense of foreboding intensifies as Jesus gathers his disciples for the Last Supper, washes their feet, and predicts the betrayal that will soon set his fate in motion.

Despite protests among them, one slips away to meet the religious leaders who will soon seal Jesus' fate.

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The third episode, "Before the Rooster Crows," marks the moment betrayal becomes reality, as Judas leads Temple guards to Jesus in Gethsemane, where he is arrested under the cover of darkness.

After the other disciples flee, Jesus is arrested and taken to the High Priest Caiaphas’ house, where a trial unfolds before the Sanhedrin Council.

The fourth and final episode, "Behold the Man," brings the political drama to its peak.

Condemned by religious leaders who lack the authority to carry out a death sentence, Jesus is brought before Pontius Pilate, who hesitates, deflects and ultimately presents the crowd with a choice that will echo through history.

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As Barabbas is released and the weight of betrayal overwhelms Judas, the path to crucifixion becomes unavoidable.

To watch the final episodes of "Jesus Crown of Thorns," subscribe to Fox Nation.

What would Jesus say about AI? Are we building another golden calf?

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 08:00:38 -0400

If you don’t choose a religion, a religion will choose you. It’s somehow in our makeup. We need to worship something. The latest thing seems to be AI.

Talk about false idols. I log on to my computer, and all these voices are screaming out at me, sometimes using the exact same words Jesus did, asking me to "follow" them. "Follow them?" I ask myself. "Aren’t I supposed to follow you, Lord?"

I wonder: How much of all that talking is simply generated by AI? How much of what I read comes via AI? (I hope you don’t have to wonder if this was written by AI.) "Jesus," I ask, "what would you think of all this?"

Sure, it’s convenient. If I’m looking for a Bible verse, I can click on ChatGPT and speak into my phone. The answer comes back in seconds — chapter and verse. It couldn’t be easier.

If God is all-knowing, AI looks super-knowing. Sometimes it can be wrong. Occasionally, it is shockingly prejudiced. But then, where did it get what it knows? From us. From what it was fed. Similarly, where did we get what we know of Jesus? From his followers. From the stories they told and retold and finally wrote down.

It’s worth thinking about how our practice of faith has evolved as the means of communicating it have evolved. Back in Jesus’s day, few people could read, but they could listen to something read in a synagogue and remember it, reflecting on it, lodging it forever in their brains.

Over time, Jesus’s words were copied by hand onto parchment and passed along that way until the advent of printing in the 15th century. Believers could then get printed Bibles. With new translations into the vernacular, they spread like wildfire. When someone read from the Scriptures, you could follow along in your own copy. You could share it with them.

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So isn’t AI just one more evolution in communicating the Word? Like I said, it’s much easier to find a particular Bible verse or passage using AI than thumbing through a concordance or flipping through dozens of pages. I don’t even have to ask for someone’s help. My phone or computer can do it for me.

And yet, I fear something is lost. Some of it is the experience of community. I can ask all sorts of questions through AI, sitting by myself on my sofa at home, typing away on my computer or speaking into my phone. But what about the wonder that comes when I’m with other believers in church, or when we come together for Bible study — even one on Zoom? There are always those enlightening moments when someone says something that clicks. Didn’t Jesus say, "Where two or three are gathered in my name, there I am among them?"

What I also fear about AI is the way it’s changing our brains — changing mine. I used to remember people’s phone numbers easily enough. They were lodged in my head. But now that they’re stored in my phone, I don’t have to memorize them.

And I can’t live without my phone.

It makes me think about what Jesus did before he launched his ministry. He went into the wilderness for 40 days, something we celebrate every year at Lent. He went without food and drink and didn’t have any friends hanging out with him. He was tempted by the devil. But he had to depend wholly on God. That’s all he had, and that was more than enough.

What do I think Jesus would say about AI? He understands us, and he understands the world far better than we do. He’s seen how innovations can improve our lives. But he’s also able to share something AI can never communicate — that deep, mystical side. A friend of mine asked ChatGPT if it had a soul. The reply: "I’m not programmed to have a soul."