Faith
Nigerian Pastor Murdered After Ransom Paid
Faith Facts
- The Rev. James Audu Issa was kidnapped from his home in Ekati, Kwara state, and later found murdered despite a ransom being paid.
- Bandits first demanded 100 million naira but settled for 5 million, then cruelly asked for an additional sum before killing the pastor.
- Nigeria remains one of the world’s most dangerous places for Christians, with thousands killed for their faith each year.
The tragic killing of Rev. James Audu Issa is a heartbreaking reminder of the growing persecution facing Christians in Nigeria. Such violence reveals the tremendous challenges believers endure for standing firm in their faith.
“This harmless pastor has been cut down, one among many, leaving his wife, children, extended family, church and friends in agony,” said the Rev. Romanus Ebeneokodi.
Experts warn that radical groups are intentionally targeting Christians, seeking to eliminate the witness of the Church and seize Christian lands. As believers, we mourn with the suffering families and stand united in prayer for those who risk everything for the Gospel.
We must remain steadfast, encourage those under fire, and advocate for the freedom to worship without fear. Pray for Nigeria, and for courage among all who name Christ as Lord.
Faith Facts
- The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas is a welcomed pause in conflict, yet peace rooted in faith means more than just the end of violence.
- Scripture teaches shalom as wholeness and harmony, not merely absence of war, with justice as its foundation.
- Christian understanding reminds us that genuine and lasting peace must flow from both love and justice, reflecting God’s nature.
While the ceasefire brings much-needed relief, we remember that true peace comes only when justice is also served. The Biblical vision of shalom calls believers to seek harmony, wellbeing, and prosperity as blessings from God, going beyond mere outward calm.
“This is not only the end of a war, this is the end of an age of terror and death and the beginning of the age of faith and hope, and of God.”
Justice is essential for real peace, and the teachings of Christ call us to look for a peace that surpasses our human understanding. As Christians, we recognize that peace without justice is incomplete and that only God’s peace endures.
Let us pray for true shalom in the region, seeking both justice and reconciliation, and ask God to guide all leaders toward lasting harmony in accordance with His will.
Faith Facts
- An exhibition at Canterbury Cathedral features questions to God written in graffiti style, stirring strong reactions.
- Christian writer David Roseberry called it a sign of the Church of England’s spiritual decline, urging the Church to provide answers rooted in faith.
- Critics argue the display dishonors Christian tradition and responsibility, with voices from both the UK and international community expressing alarm.
Canterbury Cathedral has faced strong backlash for allowing a temporary graffiti art installation asking challenging questions about God and faith. Many believe such an approach strays from tradition and fails the mission of the Church to proclaim Christian truth confidently.
“What we’re seeing in Canterbury—questions everywhere, but no intention of finding answers—a cathedral full of inquiry, but little hunger for the proclamation of the truth. The artist asks, ‘Are you there?’ and the Dean calls it profound.”
The installation has drawn criticism for what some see as a failure to honor centuries of faithful stewardship, undermining the spiritual authority of the Church.
“This is not vandalism or persecution. It’s suicide,” David Roseberry warned, highlighting the need for courage in standing firm on Christian teachings.
Faith Facts
- The Church of England has released a new guide called the ‘Twelve Joys of Christmas’ exploring overlooked aspects of the holiday.
- Author Nick Papadopulos, Dean of Salisbury, emphasizes that joy can be found in tradition, family, and faith-centered celebration.
- The guide highlights how even earthly pleasures, like Christmas puddings and gift-giving, reflect God’s blessings and the joy of Christ’s birth.
This new Church of England guide brings attention to the simple joys and ordinary traditions of Christmas, encouraging people to recognize God’s presence in every moment. It reminds us that the ultimate joy of the season is found in remembering the birth of Jesus and the hope He brings to the world.
Dean Papadopulos calls believers to celebrate both the sacred and the everyday, cherishing moments with loved ones and appreciating God’s gifts. By exploring the deeper meaning behind familiar customs, families can connect their holiday celebrations with faith and Christian values.
“At Christmas, we celebrate the divine becoming visible in the earthly. Isn’t it just possible that in this other stuff—this decidedly earthly stuff—we catch a glimpse of the divine? I believe that it is.”
Let this season rekindle your gratitude for God’s faithfulness, as you gather with friends and family. May we each find joy in Christ’s coming, and share that hope with our communities.
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