Faith Facts

• Jimmy Lai, a Catholic and prominent religious freedom advocate, was sentenced in Hong Kong to 20 years under Beijing’s national security law.
• Lai faced charges related to conspiracy and alleged collusion with foreign forces after his newspaper promoted democracy and criticized government oppression.
• This sentence sparked global concern over religious liberty, press freedom, and the erosion of core civil values in Hong Kong.

Jimmy Lai, who built his life on Christian faith and values, stands as a beacon of courage against growing tyranny. His unjust sentencing underlines the mounting risks for those who defend freedom and truth in the public square.

The harsh penalty imposed reflects not only a crackdown on dissent, but also an attack on biblical principles of justice and liberty in society.

“The Committee to Protect Journalists described it as part of Hong Kong’s ‘biggest media trial.'”

Lai’s perseverance in the face of adversity reminds Christians to pray for persecuted believers worldwide and to stand boldly for faith, family, and freedom.

Let us remain steadfast in defending religious liberty and standing with those who sacrifice for Christ-centered values.

Read the full story at Christian Today

Faith Facts

• Francis Collins, a Christian scientist and former NIH director, has received the 2026 National Academy of Sciences Public Welfare Medal.
• Collins led the Human Genome Project, advanced Alzheimer’s and cancer research, and advocated for the integration of faith and scientific discovery.
• His leadership on controversial research and public health policy has prompted debate among faith communities and conservative Christians.

The National Academy of Sciences has honored Dr. Francis Collins with its 2026 Public Welfare Medal, recognizing his lifetime commitment to scientific advancement and service to humanity. Collins, a vocal Evangelical Christian, has worked diligently to uphold ethical standards in medicine while guiding major biomedical initiatives through decades of federal service.

He is well-known for leading the Human Genome Project to completion, mapping the blueprint of human life and shaping new frontiers in genetic research. Under his leadership, the NIH strengthened its response to public health crises, pursuing efforts to fight diseases such as Ebola and COVID-19.

“Francis Collins has helped shape the way we conduct large-scale biomedical science,” stated Nancy Andrews, National Academy of Sciences Home Secretary. “His visionary leadership of the Human Genome Project, combined with decades of public service, exemplifies the profound ways science can improve human health and welfare.”

Despite being celebrated by the scientific community, Collins’ approval of government funding for research such as fetal tissue projects and gender clinics has drawn criticism from pro-life and conservative groups. Many believers continue to voice concern over these ethical issues through the lens of biblical morality and the sanctity of life.

Collins’ tenure also included stewardship of efforts like the BRAIN Initiative, Cancer Moonshot, and launching the precision health All of Us study. By bridging faith and scientific inquiry, his influence has been profound in both Christian and academic circles.

“Through his scientific insight, ethical leadership, and public advocacy, Dr. Collins has strengthened public trust in science and demonstrated how discovery can serve humanity,” commented Marcia McNutt, NAS President.

Collins will be presented with the medal during the Academy’s 163rd annual meeting on April 26. His achievements remind us that Christians can be salt and light even within the highest echelons of science, championing truth with both courage and humility. Let us pray for more leaders who honor God with integrity and wisdom in all areas of influence.

Read more at The Christian Post

Faith Facts

• Over 200 foreign Christian workers have been expelled from Turkey since 2020, leaving Protestant congregations without spiritual leadership.
• The European Court of Human Rights is considering 20 cases where foreign Christians have been barred from Turkey, often without clear reasons or due process.
• Turkey has enacted policies preventing Christian associations from owning property, leading to the confiscation of over 1,000 church properties since 2002.

Foreign Christians in Turkey, many of whom are pastors and missionaries, have been labeled as security risks and expelled under undisclosed allegations, deeply affecting the faith community.

Without the ability to address accusations in court, these Christians have had no real chance to defend their right to worship and serve.

“Peaceful worship and participation in church life are not threats to national security. Yet foreign Christians in Turkey — pastors, teachers, ministry workers, and missionaries — have been labelled security risks and expelled based on undisclosed files.”

As a Muslim-majority country, Turkey has a complex record regarding its Christian minority, ranging from blocking planned attacks to imposing ongoing administrative and legal challenges.

There have been multiple attacks on churches, and negative portrayals of Christianity remain widespread in both educational material and public discourse.

“By examining these cases together, the Court is acknowledging that they may reveal a pattern of discrimination against Christians in Turkey. We look to the Court to uphold the fundamental principle that governments cannot strip people of their rights simply for living out their faith.”

Believers everywhere must pray for religious liberty and stand with those facing persecution, upholding the biblical call to defend our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Read the full report