Faith
Unearthed Ancient Garden Provides Stunning Evidence Supporting Biblical Scripture
In a remarkable affirmation of biblical scripture, archaeologists have uncovered evidence of an ancient garden at the revered site of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, where Jesus Christ was crucified and buried. This discovery, which includes remnants of olive trees and grapevines dating back approximately 2,000 years, aligns with the New Testament verse John 19:41: “Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb in which no one had yet been laid.”
Francesca Stasolla, an archaeology professor at the Sapienza University of Rome, confirmed these findings, noting that seeds and pollen were instrumental in identifying the garden. This revelation not only enriches our understanding of the historical landscape but also underscores the enduring truth of biblical narratives.
The site, known as Calvary, has a storied past, serving various purposes over the centuries. Originally a quarry, it transitioned into an area of agricultural and funerary use by the 1st century A.D. Stasolla explained, “The quarry had to be gradually abandoned and as the stone extraction ended it was used for agricultural areas and tombs.”
This excavation is part of the first major restoration project at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in nearly two centuries. The church, founded in 326 A.D., has been a focal point of Christian devotion and pilgrimage since the fourth century, despite being destroyed and rebuilt over the ages. The current structure largely reflects the work of the Christian Crusaders, who reclaimed the site in the 12th century.
Stasolla emphasized the significance of the excavation, stating, “It is certainly a strategic excavation for the knowledge of the development of the city and its process of sacralization in a Christian key.” This work promises to yield “many surprises,” as it continues to unveil the layers of history that have shaped this sacred location.
The findings at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre not only validate biblical accounts but also serve as a testament to the enduring faith and devotion of countless believers who have journeyed to this holy site over the centuries. As we reflect on these discoveries, we are reminded of the profound impact that faith, family, and freedom have in shaping our world, guided by the timeless principles found in Scripture.
As this excavation progresses, it offers a unique opportunity to deepen our understanding of the historical and spiritual significance of this sacred site, reinforcing the importance of preserving our Christian heritage and upholding the values that define our nation.
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.
Faith Facts
- The Christian Chronicle paused its October 2025 print edition due to the sudden closure of its long-serving printing press in Missouri.
- After decades as a university subsidiary, the publication became a fully independent nonprofit in June, moving vital systems and resources on their own.
- Rising costs and industry shifts have forced the Chronicle to consider reducing annual print issues and adopting alternative formats.
The Christian Chronicle faced unexpected challenges when their Missouri printing press shut down, leading to the cancellation of the October 2025 print issue. Staff quickly partnered with a new press in Dallas to continue sharing news rooted in Christian values.
Recent steps toward nonprofit independence called for moving critical data and systems away from Oklahoma Christian University, marking a significant transition. This journey reflects a spirit of perseverance and gratitude for the faithful support of their Christian community.
Printing and postage costs have surged, prompting the Chronicle to prayerfully consider fewer print editions and explore formats that best steward their mission. The publication continues to ask its readers for feedback, aiming to strengthen outreach while maintaining core faith principles.
The road ahead involves trust in God’s guidance and a commitment to serving readers with truth, integrity, and love for the body of Christ.
Faith Facts
- Venezuela’s Maduro and first lady were detained by U.S. military, facing charges for cooperating with terror-linked gangs.
- The regime leveraged religion for power, rewarding compliant churches and persecuting those who opposed government abuse.
- Faith communities now face uncertainty amid ongoing threats from entrenched criminal networks and unresolved legitimacy concerns.
On January 3, 2026, Venezuelan President Maduro and his wife were detained by U.S. forces and brought to New York, signaling a seismic shift in the nation’s leadership. President Trump declared temporary U.S. control over Venezuela, leaving many faithful citizens to grapple with the consequences for religious liberty and biblical values in the region.
Venezuela’s faithful have endured years of increasing government oppression. The Maduro regime manipulated religion, dividing believers by supporting preferred denominations and punishing those who questioned state abuses.
Catholic bishops and Protestant leaders were intimidated, had property attacked, and risked exile for defending human rights against state-backed collectives. Organized crime, including guerrilla and cartel groups, partnered with the regime to further suppress faith communities and force Christian institutions to distribute propaganda.
These criminal elements, from Colombian guerrillas to Hezbollah-linked networks, used violence and threats to erode religious freedom. Their deep entrenchment means that challenges remain even after Maduro’s removal.
The path forward raises serious moral questions: Will dismantling the “cartel-state” restore genuine freedom for Venezuela’s faithful, or will criminal power structures persist? How can believers advocate for true democracy and not simply exchange one form of oppression for another?
History cautions us—U.S. interventions rarely guarantee stability or justice, as believers learned in nations like Iraq, Libya, and Afghanistan. Faith-based organizations in Venezuela have courageously sustained ministries of mercy despite persecution. Their future now depends on whether new leadership honors God-given rights and fosters real liberty.
Now is the time for the Christian community to pray, seek wisdom, and stand firm for religious freedom in Venezuela and across the world. Let us raise our voices so that biblical truth and justice prevail.
Faith Facts
- The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association will hold several worldwide festivals and celebrations in 2026 to spread the Gospel.
- Franklin Graham and Will Graham are leading events from Cambodia and Argentina to Spain and the U.S., including critical local church partnerships.
- A focus on discipleship ensures that every new believer is connected with Bible-teaching churches for ongoing spiritual growth.
The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association will bring the message of Jesus Christ to nations and cities across the globe in 2026, uniting believers and reaching the lost. Led by Franklin and Will Graham, these outreaches emphasize hope, forgiveness, and the transforming power of the Gospel.
“In 2026, the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association is proclaiming the Gospel at home and abroad, sharing the hope and joy that come only from a relationship with Jesus Christ,” wrote Madysen Scarborough, an editor for the ministry.
Through close partnerships with hundreds of local churches in places like Cambodia, Peru, and England, these evangelistic efforts aim for lasting impact by fostering discipleship and strengthening faith communities. Major cities and remote towns alike will receive opportunities to hear the Good News.
Will Graham will also minister in Mississippi, Japan, and South Korea, building on the Graham family’s faithful legacy of evangelism. Hispanic Ministries will equip Spanish-speaking believers in the U.S. through Unidos Conferences, emphasizing outreach and service grounded in Christ’s love.
As the global community gathers in prayer, the ministry seeks to honor God by proclaiming the redemption and peace found in a relationship with Jesus, advancing faith, family, and freedom for all generations.
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