Faith
Mosul’s Historic Churches Shine as Symbols of Hope
Faith Facts
- Two historic Mosul churches reopened after nearly a decade, following restoration from war devastation.
- The reconsecration ceremonies highlighted the enduring faith of Iraq’s Christian community.
- International collaboration made the restoration possible, inspiring hope for the city’s future.
The reopening of Mosul’s Church of Saint Thomas and Al-Tahira marks a meaningful renewal for Christian heritage in Iraq. These cherished sites endured occupation and destruction but now stand restored through collective effort and resilient faith.
During the occupation from 2014 to 2017, Saint Thomas was used as a prison and Al-Tahira was left in ruins, deeply wounding Mosul’s Christian community as their numbers dwindled to just a few families.
“It shows the Christians living abroad that things are better here now, that they can move back home,” Fadi, a young Christian restorer, told Vatican News.
The restoration was organized by the Aliph Foundation, with stewardship from international and local partners, demonstrating unity in preserving religious and cultural landmarks.
Newly restored church bells now ring over Mosul, calling worshippers and reminding all of the words “The truth will make you free” and “Peace I leave you, my peace I give you.”
“These churches are not just stones. They are the memory of faith, history, and community,” said Archbishop Najeeb Michael Moussa after the ceremony.
Patriarch Louis Raphaël Sako led the reopening of Al-Tahira, emphasizing restoration goes beyond physical rebuilding, restoring trust and signaling peace for all Iraqis.
“We Christians have no militias, and if such groups exist, they have nothing to do with Christian ethics, and we do not recognize them,” Patriarch Sako declared, calling for unity and respect among all Iraqis.
Both churches have long been points of unity, echoing the Christian call to be salt and light even in adversity. Their restoration is a testimony to God’s faithfulness, encouraging all believers to persevere as they rebuild family and faith in the land of their ancestors.
May the courage of Mosul’s faithful inspire us to pray for persecuted believers and to stand firm in the hope of Christ’s promises!
Faith
Biblical Scholar Faces Intense Scrutiny on Hell and Faith – God’s Truth Prevails in Viral Exchange
Faith Facts
- Steven Bartlett’s Diary of a CEO podcast interviews Christian apologist Wes Huff, gaining 1.9 million YouTube views in three days.
- Huff robustly defends Scripture’s reliability, science, morality, and Christianity’s antidote to the meaning crisis.
- Bartlett listens attentively, ending by reading Romans 12 from Huff’s gifted Bible.
Entrepreneur Steven Bartlett humbly questions Christian truths, revealing the emptiness of worldly success before eternal realities.
Wesley Huff delivers calm, scholarly apologetics, honoring 1 Peter 3:15 with gentleness amid mainstream scrutiny.
This dialogue elevates biblical scholarship to millions, proving God’s Word pierces modern skepticism.
“Am I going to hell?”
“Yes.”
Bartlett’s openness amid cultural decay underscores Christianity’s vital role in restoring purpose to families and nations.
Stand firm in faith; share this bold defense of Gospel truth with fellow believers today.
Faith
Pressure on Religious Liberty Rises as Assisted Suicide Push Alarms Faith Communities – Believers Pray for Revival
Faith Facts
- Opposition surges as six times more MSPs speak against assisted suicide bill.
- Conservative leader Russell Findlay switches vote, citing excessive risks to vulnerable.
- Church leaders decry lack of conscience clauses threatening faith-based care homes.
Scotland nears tight vote on assisted suicide March 17, with support reportedly fading fast. Critics highlight coercion dangers for vulnerable and inevitable eligibility expansion seen elsewhere.
Right To Life UK analysis reveals overwhelming stage 3 debate opposition from MSPs.
“On Monday, Russell Findlay joined two other MSPs who had previously supported the Bill in announcing that he would be opposing it,” said commentator Lois McLatchie Miller.
“They made it resoundingly clear that this Bill is not safe and Scotland should not risk it.”
Medical experts and church heads voice safety and moral objections to legalization.
The Catholic Church urges MSPs to reject the measure after failed conscience amendments.
“Every organisation has guiding values that shape its mission and practice,” stated Bishop John Keenan.
“The Bishops’ Conference urges the Scottish Government and MSPs to recognise and respect institutional conscience rights.”
Pray Scotland’s leaders uphold God’s gift of life, safeguarding family and freedom from deadly deception.
Faith
African Churches Outpace Leader Training – Faithful Educators Seek God’s Guidance in Revival Potential
Faith Facts
- The Association for Christian Theological Education in Africa (ACTEA) celebrates its 50th anniversary in Bishoftu, Ethiopia, under the theme “Future Ready, Mission Faithful.”
- Rapid church growth across Africa outpaces theological training, leaving many pastors without formal education.
- ACTEA promotes accreditation, modular programs, online learning, and church partnerships to equip biblically grounded leaders.
The General Assembly unites educators from 31 countries, including Association of Evangelicals in Africa leaders, to address cultural shifts, technology, and ministry demands.
This milestone honors ACTEA’s 1976 founding to ensure evangelical institutions uphold high standards amid continent-wide revival.
“Church growth in Africa has been phenomenal, but theological education has not grown at the same pace,” Tarus said.
“The challenge is how to train enough leaders while maintaining strong theological standards.”
“The church in Africa needs leaders who are both spiritually grounded and theologically equipped,” he said.
Join in prayer for ACTEA’s vision to fortify Africa’s church with Scripture-faithful pastors advancing God’s kingdom.
Biblical Scholar Faces Intense Scrutiny on Hell and Faith – God’s Truth Prevails in Viral Exchange
Pressure on Religious Liberty Rises as Assisted Suicide Push Alarms Faith Communities – Believers Pray for Revival
African Churches Outpace Leader Training – Faithful Educators Seek God’s Guidance in Revival Potential
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