The only Baptist church in the Gaza Strip — and one of just four Christian congregations in the besieged territory — received significant damage from an Israeli attack on Tuesday.
As the Israel-Hamas war continues, multiple Christian church buildings and facilities have been damaged. Rev. Hanna Massad shared an update about the war’s impact on the small Christian community on the day after the “devastating explosion” at the only Christian hospital in the besieged territory.
When the war started, most priests remained silent, fearing pressure from the church and state authorities; only a small fraction have spoken out. Of more than 40,000 clergymen in the Russian Orthodox Church, only 300 priests signed a public letter calling for peace in Ukraine.
In episode 93 of Dangerous Dogma, Michael Budde, a professor of Catholic Studies and Political Science at DePaul University in Chicago, talks about his book Foolishness to Gentiles: Essays on Empire, Nationalism, and Discipleship. He
Brian Kaylor reflects on the 1914 “Christmas truce” during World War I and why it he does not find it to be an inspiring take on what “peace on Earth” could look like today.
Editor-in-Chief Brian Kaylor reflects on Russian pro-war propaganda dressed up like a Christmas decoration, which he calls a sacrilegious assault on celebrations of the birth of the Prince of Peace.
Churches have joined in Germany’s efforts to save on heating costs this winter, forcing their congregations into ever more layers of clothing. But at the same time, they are providing warm spaces for the homeless and for people who are struggling to pay their bills.
Pope Francis called Wednesday for a “humble” Christmas this year, with savings from reduced spending on gifts donated to help the “suffering people of Ukraine.” Francis called for “concrete gestures” of charity for Ukrainians this holiday season during his weekly general audience.
Wendell Griffen reflects on the hypocrisy of President Joe Biden condemning Russia for a “premeditated war” against Ukraine when the U.S. is engaged in “premeditated” acts of violence on a regular basis.
In response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, John Sianghio tackles some of the tough questions that come with international conflict: Are there situations that merit appeals to the divine to guide the use of force? Can (and should) we pray for war?