Faith Facts

• Sudan’s civil wars have spanned over 40 years since becoming independent in 1956.
• Both the Rapid Support Forces and the Sudanese Armed Forces face serious accusations of crimes against civilians.
• Christian leadership urges international intervention and continued prayer for Sudan’s suffering people.

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference for England and Wales voices grave concern over the ongoing strife consuming Sudan. Decades of unrest have exacted a devastating toll on countless families and communities.

Since 2023, Sudan has faced a brutal conflict between entrenched military factions, with both sides drawing outside support and accusations of grave crimes against innocents. The fall of el-Fasher highlighted the immense suffering, as thousands of civilians were reportedly massacred in its aftermath.

Bishop Paul Swarbrick, Lead Bishop for Africa, remarked,

“The reports from the city of el-Fasher are deeply troubling and call for immediate international attention.”

He noted how the humanitarian tragedy in Sudan has begun to impact neighboring regions, spreading distress further into Africa. Bishops have commended the tireless work of faith-based aid organizations braving difficult circumstances to offer relief.

Swarbrick continued,

“While I am deeply grateful that faith communities continue to work on the ground despite risks, words must now be matched by action – the international community can no longer turn away from the immense human cost of this conflict.”

He reminded believers,

“The Lord does not abandon his people or turn a deaf ear to their cry. We believe in a peace the world cannot give them, even as we pray for an end to the fighting. We must continue to pray for a time of healing.”

Let us uphold Sudan’s people in prayer, seek justice aligned with biblical teachings, and support efforts that promote peace, mercy, and hope in times of despair.

Read the full story at Christian Today

Faith Facts

• Leaders urge the EU to investigate religious minority persecution in Pakistan ahead of trade review.
• Pakistan’s GSP+ status is under scrutiny for compliance with 27 international human rights conventions.
• Recent attacks and continued discrimination have raised global Christian concerns.

Rights advocates are calling on the European Union to address widespread mistreatment of religious minorities in Pakistan. At stake is Pakistan’s preferential trade access, which hinges on their adherence to 27 U.N. conventions related to human rights, good governance, and justice.

Since 2014, Pakistan has benefited from reduced trade duties with the EU, helping its economy but raising questions as human rights violations persist. The current EU review features meetings with government officials, civil society, and other key stakeholders to hold Pakistan accountable.

“The Pakistan government has completely failed to fulfill its constitutional responsibilities to protect the fundamental rights of Pakistani people guaranteed in the Constitution of Pakistan and protected by international conventions and protocols,” said Minorities Alliance Pakistan Chairman Akmal Bhatti.

Bhatti explained that Christians continue to suffer discrimination and hatred, while blasphemy laws are abused against them. He noted serious concerns about delayed investigations and government inaction after targeted violence against Christian communities last year.

He called on both national authorities and international observers to ensure fair investigations and demanded legal reforms to protect young people from forced marriage and conversion. In his view, ending barriers to non-Muslims holding top office is essential to true equality.

Pakistan Masiha Millat Party Chairman Aslam Pervaiz Sahotra voiced agreement. “There has been no improvement in Pakistan’s human rights situation, in fact it has only worsened over the years,” he said. Sahotra warned that overlooking these violations for trade gain undermines justice.

EU Ambassador Raimundas Karoblis emphasized that the mission will evaluate Pakistan’s progress on many fronts, including minority protections and the use of blasphemy laws. He highlighted the need for stronger compliance in line with both faith-based values and EU commitments.

Christian families across Pakistan hope that increased scrutiny will motivate real change and greater respect for religious freedom, justice, and equal treatment.

Let us continue to pray for our Christian brothers and sisters in Pakistan, and encourage leaders to defend the God-given rights of all, reminding them that true freedom is rooted in faith and moral courage.

Read the full article at Christian Daily

Faith Facts

• Only 46% of American adults are married today, compared to two-thirds in 1950.
• Younger generations delay marriage but still desire it; 81% of Gen Z view marriage positively.
• Church leaders face rising challenges as social attitudes about cohabitation and remarriage shift.

America’s family structure is undergoing profound changes, with marriage rates dropping from past generations. Yet, most adults—especially those rooted in faith—continue to view marriage as meaningful and aspire toward it despite changing norms.

Churches are increasingly called to minister as divorce, cohabitation, and delayed marriage reshape our communities. The gap between biblical teaching on marriage and modern social practices urges godly guidance from pastors and families alike.

“Marriage may look different today, but it remains a sacred aspiration woven into the lives of most adults, Christian or not. As cultural definitions shift, the Church’s opportunity is not simply to defend marriage, but to disciple people toward healthy, enduring relationships that reflect God’s covenant love.”

Let us stand together for biblical family values, supporting godly marriages and discipleship that strengthen our nation’s moral foundation.

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