In 1800, 15-year-old Mary Jones hiked 26 miles across the harsh terrain of Northern Wales to purchase a Welsh Bible. Her journey inspired William Wilberforce and his band of social reformers to create what would become the Bible Society, a nonprofit in the UK dedicated to providing Bibles and resources around the world. Now, according to a report by the Bible Society, young people not much older than Mary are leading a “quiet revival” in England and Wales. Within the last six years, church attendance has grown by 2 million people, and young adult Christians in these countries report being more excited and actively engaged in their faith.
6 in 10 US adults say they’re Christians
Six in 10 adults living in the United States today identify as Christian, according to Pew Research Center’s Religious Landscape Study.
Also See: Religious Landscape Study; How Many Americans Are Actually Spiritual But Not Religious?Faith and religious observance a significant factor in 'human flourishing', Harvard study finds
A new piece of research conducted by Harvard academics has suggested that “human flourishing” is connected to faith and spirituality, with religious believers generally scoring higher than the irreligious. The Global Flourishing Study, published this week, looked at more than 200,000 people across 22 countries over the last five years.
Resettling Afrikaners is a ‘Faustian bargain,’ says Episcopal Church’s Sean Rowe
'Afrikaners don’t fit any definition of refugee,' said the Most Rev. Sean Rowe, the presiding bishop of the Episcopal Church.
Also See: Presiding bishop visits Rome’s refugee center, a model for Episcopal churches across Europe, US‘We don’t get to discriminate’: How a Raleigh ministry decided to help resettle Afrikaners
Faith-based groups are weighing whether to help the US government resettle Afrikaners after it shut down refugee resettlement for all others.
Over 5,500 sign petition against NJ town's plan to seize Episcopal church via eminent domain
More than 5,500 people have signed a petition to stop a New Jersey town from seizing the property of an Episcopal Church via eminent domain. Last month, Toms River Township Council narrowly approved a proposal to take control of the 11-acre property of Christ Episcopal Church and turn it into a recreational facility. The petition, which was recently posted by the church's rector, the Rev. Lisa Hoffman, has garnered over 5,600 signatures as of Tuesday morning.
>Hymn Vs Song — Is There a Difference?
I once wrote an article called “Three False Reasons to Label Your Worship Song a Hymn.” But what about the other side of that? In a world that sometimes seems like hymn vs song, let’s look at characteristics of a true hymn.
As someone who at one stage in his life was preparing to become a English teacher and has been at various times involved in music ministry, I must point out that there is also a type of poetry called free verse which deliberately has neither a strict meter nor a rhyme scheme and that the meter of some hymns is irregular. Some hymns also have refrains or repetitions. Call-and-response singing is typical in the church music of some cultures.Don’t Overcomplicate Your Bible Reading
I think every Christian should read through the entire Bible routinely. We are commanded to live on every word that proceeds from the mouth of God (Matt 4:4), and it is commended that we read in it all the days of our lives (Deut 17:19). And while this seems like it shouldn’t be controversial to say, I have found that almost every person I talk to in the American South (and I’d imagine is true of a lot of places) has never read through the Bible in it’s entirety. And it’s not just in nominal, cultural Christians. It is often in well-meaning, genuine Christians. Some are even leading in church or para-church ministries. For these people, I don’t think the problem is sincerity, but rather an overcomplicating of the Bible-reading process. I want to shine a light on some common mistakes and hopefully help you avoid them.
“Say Cheese!” Take Pictures to Expand Ministry
What’s happening in your church that deserves to be seen? Laura Heikes highlights a simple yet powerful way to expand your church’s reach—through pictures and videos. Every ministry is already doing meaningful work, but too often, only the direct participants see it. By capturing and sharing these moments, churches can increase engagement, inspire generosity, and change how the community perceives their mission. Here’s how to start sharing your story.
Your Church’s Biggest Entry Point: Why Social Media Matters
Church leaders often view social media as a low priority, but in today’s digital age, it’s a vital first impression for potential visitors. People search online before stepping into a church, seeking authenticity and connection. Megan Cullum, ShareChurch Marketing & Communications Specialist, says a strong social media presence fosters community and discipleship beyond Sundays. Focus on one platform, engage consistently, and balance content to make social media an effective ministry tool.
Kindergarten Bible Lessons Build an Early Faith Foundation
Kindergarten Bible lessons help young children learn about Jesus. With age-appropriate lessons, children’s ministry workers and Sunday school teachers can help kindergartners fall in love with God and the Bible. Read on for developmental tips, plus sample ideas for teaching kindergarten Bible lessons.
NIRD Principle: Service and Mission
The NIRD principle of Service and Mission emphasizes that discipleship should not only focus on personal spiritual growth but also extend outward in acts of service that impact the wider community. This principle reflects the biblical call to love one’s neighbor as oneself and to be the hands and feet of Jesus in the world. By engaging in service and missions, believers not only embody the teachings of Christ but also strengthen their communal bonds, making their faith active and dynamic.
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