Faith
Protesters Rally to Defend Easter Traditions at School
In a powerful display of faith and conviction, Christians gathered outside Norwood Primary School in Eastleigh, Hampshire, to protest the school’s controversial decision to cancel its traditional Easter parade and church service. The cancellation, announced by Headteacher Stephanie Mander, was met with disappointment and frustration from the Christian community, who viewed it as an affront to their cherished traditions and values.
Approximately 50 demonstrators, many from the Living Word Church in Fareham, stood firm in their beliefs, waving England flags adorned with messages such as “Jesus: the way, the truth, the life” and “Jesus is king.” Their presence was a testament to the enduring importance of Christianity in British culture and the need to uphold these values in educational settings.
Rev. Chris Wickland, a participant in the protest, emphasized that their demonstration was not about causing trouble but about standing against the exclusion of Christianity from schools. His words resonated with many who feel that Christian traditions are increasingly marginalized in the name of inclusivity.
Ukip leader Nick Tenconi also lent his voice to the protest, reading Mander’s letter aloud and criticizing the school’s decision as an attempt to sideline Christianity to meet diversity criteria. He accused the school of prioritizing funding over faith, a sentiment echoed by many in attendance.
Marie Pigney, a grandmother from Titchfield, passionately argued that Christianity provides a beneficial foundation for children and society. Her words highlighted a growing frustration among Christians who feel marginalized and unfairly labeled.
Rob Owen, another protester, stressed the importance of preserving Easter traditions as part of the larger cultural identity. The demonstrators’ actions, including handing out Easter eggs and displaying a “Happy Easter” banner, underscored their commitment to maintaining these traditions for future generations.
While a small group of parents staged a counter-protest, claiming that the demonstration promoted unnecessary hatred, the Christian protesters remained focused on their message of faith and unity. One anonymous parent defended Mander, citing financial constraints and the desire to accommodate diverse views as reasons for the changes. However, this explanation did little to quell the concerns of those who see the decision as a step away from traditional values.
The protest concluded with a collective prayer, a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of the Christian community. As the school day ended, the demonstrators dispersed peacefully, their message clear: faith, family, and freedom are worth standing up for, even in the face of adversity.
In a world where traditional values are often challenged, the actions of these protesters serve as a beacon of hope and a call to action for all who cherish their faith and heritage.
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Faith Facts
- Over 1,000 American pastors and Christian leaders gathered in Jerusalem for a Friends of Zion program supporting Israel and combating antisemitism.
- The group visited sites linked to the October 7 attacks and were commissioned as “Friends of Zion Ambassadors.”
- Rev. Jack Sara urged the delegation to also recognize and encourage Palestinian Christians facing hardship in the Holy Land.
Christian leaders from the United States gathered in Israel to express solidarity with the Jewish people and stand against antisemitism, emphasizing a message rooted in biblical support for Israel.
The event marked a significant tenth anniversary for the Friends of Zion Museum and called believers to deeper unity and faithfulness in defending truth and compassion.
Rev. Jack Sara, a voice for Middle East Christians, challenged the gathering to not forget the faithful living stones—believers enduring challenges in the land of Christ’s birth.
Sara reminded the Church, “If one member suffers, all suffer together.”
He called for repentance and for Christians to stand with all followers of Christ, regardless of their circumstances, inspired by the love and grace at the heart of the Gospel.
The call to witness and support all Christians in the land serves as a timely reminder for believers to show compassion and unity in the spirit of Christ.
Faith Facts
- Bethlehem’s public Christmas tree lighting returned in 2025 after a two-year pause caused by conflict.
- Church leaders and families united on Manger Square, highlighting faith, resilience, and the enduring message of Christ’s birth.
- Christian and civic leaders linked the event to hope for peace and economic renewal in the region.
This year, Bethlehem’s Christmas tree lighting ceremony broke a two-year silence, celebrating the return of hope and unity in the birthplace of Jesus.
Attendees, including church dignitaries and local families, gathered to mark this moment of spiritual renewal and resilience in the midst of ongoing challenges.
Bethlehem’s mayor spoke of the city’s steadfast faith and its message of justice and freedom made possible in Christ, shining anew for the world.
Dr. Ramzi Khoury, on behalf of the Palestinian president, emphasized that the birth of Christ is not just a story from the past but a living reminder that God’s hope and peace endure, even when darkness surrounds.
Blessings and prayers for peace were offered as the Christmas lights shone from Manger Square, honoring Christ’s birth and inspiring those burdened by hardship.
“From the Shadows of War… Peace Is Born,”
The municipality’s presentation echoed the core biblical promise that Christ brings light in any season of trial.
Regional Christian leaders saw the strong turnout as a powerful witness to the world, celebrating unity and the enduring love of God.
“It was distinguished by the number of participants and dignitaries who accepted the invitation, the generosity of international and local sponsors, and the quality of the program,” said Latin Bishop William Shomali.
The program featured greetings from global Christian leaders and music from diverse church traditions, underscoring Bethlehem’s place as the capital of Christmas.
Evangelical leaders, like Rev. Jack Sara, were deeply moved by the community’s faith in action.
“It felt like everyone was hoping and praying for the success of the event and for the return of hope to our Palestinian people after the dark last two years,” said Rev. Jack Sara.
He praised the biblical foundation of the carols and messages, expressing the prayer that Christ’s light of peace and justice shines brightly even amid adversity.
Shireen Awwad Hilal noted this year’s quieter joy was rooted in the sure promise that God’s light is never extinguished.
“Hope entered the world not in comfort, but in a humble manger, reminding us that God’s light seeks out even the darkest valleys,” said Hilal.
This spiritual revival also brings hope for Bethlehem’s local economy, as renewed celebrations encourage the gradual return of pilgrims and travelers.
Though the wounds of conflict are deep, rising tourism and restored community gatherings reflect the uplifting power of faith at work.
Let us remember and proclaim the truth that in Christ, the light of hope shines on, calling us to prayer, service, and steadfast faith even in uncertain times.
Faith Facts
- Jonathan Evans was formally installed as lead pastor of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship Church.
- Pastor Tony Evans passed his own father’s Bible to his son as a symbol of legacy and faithfulness.
- Tony Evans completed a restoration process, affirming repentance and biblical restoration values.
On Sunday, Jonathan Evans was celebrated as the new leader of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship Church in Dallas, marking a significant generational transition rooted in faith and service.
Pastor Tony Evans, the church’s founder, joyfully presented Jonathan with the treasured family Bible, symbolizing a heritage passed through faith and dedication to God’s Word.
“This is my father’s Bible. Well worn, used, because he loved God’s word. Teaching it, preaching it, and executing it. What better thing for a father to give a son that can go to his grandson than the Word of God? So, I gift you my daddy’s Bible. And I love you, and I’m proud of you.”
As Jonathan took up his new role, he called the congregation to unity and purpose, referencing Joshua 1:3 while encouraging all to walk in God’s promised path together.
“And now [I] just say this. Joshua 1:3. Everywhere your foot treads, I have given it to you already. Just like I have done before with Moses. And so what we’re going to do together, we have to do it together.”
Tony Evans, recently restored after a year-long process guided by biblical principles and church accountability, remains confident in the Lord’s continued purpose for his life beyond leadership at Oak Cliff.
“He still has a purpose for my life and gifts as long as He has me here. So don’t feel bad for Moses, and don’t feel bad for me because Joshua is going to lead you. But at the right time, God’s going to take me to the mountain he has for me to keep His kingdom moving forth. So hang in there with the new leader. Support him. Love him just as you did your founder.”
Associate Pastor Chris Wheel affirmed Tony Evans’ journey of repentance, humility, and godly sorrow, noting that these reflect true adherence to Christian restoration and accountability before the congregation.
Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship stands united in faith as it embraces new leadership, built on a foundation of biblical heritage and commitment to advancing God’s Kingdom.
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