Faith Facts

• Christian leaders across Northern Ireland have released an open letter calling on lawmakers to reject a proposed ban on conversion therapy.
• The letter warns that such legislation risks criminalizing prayer, pastoral counsel, and biblical teaching on sexuality.
• Supporters argue the bill undermines religious freedom and parental rights while advancing a one-sided cultural agenda.

Christian leaders in Northern Ireland are speaking out against a proposed conversion therapy ban they say threatens core freedoms of faith and family.

The open letter argues that the legislation is not neutral but targets only one direction of change.

“Conversion only seems to be a problem if it goes in one direction.”

Signers include pastors, parents, and counselors who fear the bill could criminalize prayer and biblical guidance offered to those struggling with unwanted same-sex attraction or gender confusion.

They note that secular counseling aimed at affirming LGBT identities faces no similar restrictions under the proposed law.

Advocates for the measure claim it will protect vulnerable individuals from harmful practices. Critics counter that the language is vague enough to sweep in ordinary church ministry and parental conversations.

The letter urges members of the Northern Ireland Assembly to consider the wider implications for religious liberty before advancing the bill.

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Faith Facts

• Bob Agee served as president of Oklahoma Baptist University and shepherded record enrollment growth during his tenure.
• Agee was a longtime pastor whose ministry and educational leadership reflected a deep commitment to Christian higher education.
• Oklahoma Baptist University remains a Christ-centered institution dedicated to equipping students for faithful service.

Bob Agee, a former pastor and president of Oklahoma Baptist University, has passed away at the age of 87. He is remembered for guiding the institution through years of growth and spiritual emphasis.

Under Agee’s leadership, the university experienced record enrollment, reflecting his commitment to expanding access to a Christ-centered education. His pastoral background informed a leadership style that placed faith and academic excellence side by side.

Colleagues and students alike recall Agee as a steady and principled leader. His tenure at OBU strengthened the university’s identity as a place where students could grow in both knowledge and faith.

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Faith Facts

• Former professional athlete Tim Tebow has distanced himself from Life Surge, a touring faith-based wealth-building seminar.
• Boston Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla has also withdrawn his association with the organization.
• Megachurch Pastor Craig Groeschel has followed suit in distancing himself from the event.

High-profile Christian figures are stepping away from a touring wealth-building seminar that has drawn criticism for its financial practices. Boston Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla and Pastor Craig Groeschel have joined former professional athlete Tim Tebow in distancing themselves from Life Surge.

The seminar, which markets itself as a faith-based program for building wealth, has faced accusations of pressuring attendees to invest large sums in real estate and stock courses. Reports indicate that some participants were urged to commit tens of thousands of dollars.

“We want to make sure our name is not associated with anything that could be harmful to people,” said a spokesperson close to one of the figures involved.

Life Surge promotes its events as opportunities for Christians to learn about financial stewardship. Critics, however, have raised concerns about the high-pressure sales tactics used at the events.

“This is not what biblical stewardship looks like,” remarked one attendee who chose to remain anonymous.

Faith leaders have long emphasized the importance of transparency and integrity in financial matters. The recent departures highlight ongoing discussions within Christian communities about responsible stewardship and avoiding exploitative practices.

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