Faith Facts

• Recent protests erupted outside the Cladhan Hotel in Falkirk, Scotland, over the housing of migrants, with opposing groups expressing anger and fear.
• History and biblical teaching show Christians are called to embody hospitality, not hostility, even when resources are scarce.
• Nations with few resources consistently display sacrificial hospitality, challenging wealthier societies to do likewise from faith, not fear.

Across the UK and world, migration stirs passionate and often divisive responses, fueling anxiety and debate. As Christians, we are reminded that everyone seeking refuge—regardless of origin—deserves dignity, compassion, and safety.

In moments of turmoil, our response reflects either the heart of Christ or the fears of society. Acts of sacrificial welcome, seen in places like Malawi and poorer host nations, provide living examples of faith-inspired hospitality.

“Our words and actions are never neutral; they are a witness to the gospel.”

Biblical history affirms that followers of Christ are to welcome the stranger, echoing the examples of Abraham and Jesus Himself. Our calling is to strengthen the bonds of humanity, choosing love and hospitality over suspicion and division.

The gospel challenges us to see Christ in every neighbor, reflecting our core values of faith, family, and freedom. May we courageously extend hospitality in a broken world, bearing witness to Biblical truth through generous and gracious acts.

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Faith Facts

• Pastor Nikolay Romanyuk sentenced to four years for a sermon against war.
• The court forbade him from managing websites for three years.
• His health is deteriorating, but he stands firm in his faith.

A Russian court sentenced Rev. Nikolay Romanyuk, 63, to four years in prison for declaring Russia’s invasion of Ukraine “not our war” in a sermon. The judge also barred him from managing any websites for three years, highlighting the high cost endured by Christians standing for biblical truth.

Authorities accused Pastor Romanyuk of urging congregants to resist military actions, though he insisted his words were grounded in his Christian conviction against violence. He spoke at Holy Trinity Pentecostal Church following the government’s partial mobilization announcement in 2022, emphasizing pacifism based on Scripture and upholding the right to profess these beliefs openly.

During his arrest, armed officers injured Pastor Romanyuk, yet officials have not faced reprimand for this. In court, he affirmed his position, declaring he did not call for acts against government offices and only expressed a Christian worldview rooted in the Bible.

“It is our right to profess this on the basis of Holy Scripture,” the pastor maintained.

Romanyuk’s congregation supports the nation’s defense and the opportunity for alternative civilian service, helping others as an expression of faith. He clarified that his church engages in humanitarian ministry for both soldiers and civilians, refusing to condone violence but choosing to lift up the afflicted through prayer and care.

The pastor’s health has sharply declined, yet he remains steadfast in his convictions, refusing to recant his Christ-centered message of peace. His family denounced the verdict as unjust, calling it a response to his faith-driven beliefs and his witness as a shepherd to his flock.

Pray for fellow believers who courageously uphold biblical principles in the face of opposition. Stand united for truth, faith, and the right to live out Christian values without fear.

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Faith Facts

• Israeli archaeologists uncovered a significant Samaritan agricultural estate linked to biblical history.
• The site features a rare olive press, mosaic floors, and a ritual bath reflecting religious life.
• The estate endured centuries of upheaval, preserving Samaritan heritage despite adversity.

Archaeologists in Israel have found a large Samaritan agricultural estate in a town connected to Simon the Sorcerer, a figure from the book of Acts.

Simon, once amazed by the apostles’ miracles, is remembered for his misguided request to buy spiritual power—an act the Church calls “simony.”

This estate, unearthed at Kh. Kafr Hatta, central Israel, offers a window into the faith and resilience of the Samaritan community under Roman and Byzantine rule.

The Israel Antiquities Authority noted the impressive buildings, intricate mosaics, and agricultural installations distinguishing this site.

The discovery of features like an olive press and ritual bath reveals the community’s focus on pure and faithful living, even as their fortunes changed over centuries.

Despite periods of rebellion and opposition, the estate not only survived but upheld Samaritan traditions in the face of challenge.

“This is a fascinating site, which displays the historical gamut between the days of prosperity and the decline of the Samaritan community. Its long-term existence and impressive findings will allow us to reconstruct its history over centuries and will enrich our knowledge about this population in ancient times.”

Discoveries like these affirm the importance of preserving biblical heritage and honoring communities that remained steadfast in faith. Stand with us to protect and proclaim these foundations for future generations.

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