Faith
Record Numbers Enroll in Bible-Based Released-Time Program
Faith Facts
- LifeWise Academy expects nearly 100,000 students to receive Bible-based character education during the 2025-26 school year.
- This program operates in over 1,100 schools across 34 states, showing significant growth from last year.
- Released time religious instruction is protected by the Supreme Court and offers students guidance grounded in faith and moral values.
LifeWise Academy, a leader in off-campus religious instruction for public school students, celebrates its highest enrollment numbers for the upcoming year.
The ministry’s unique approach provides children the chance to leave campus during the day and participate in Bible-based learning, made possible through growing community support and state legislation.
Joel Penton, CEO of LifeWise Academy, explained, “When a community collects 50 signatures saying they’d like to start a local LifeWise program, we work with them to bring it to fruition.”
Existing laws now empower more parents to access faith-based educational options while still honoring family schedules, as classes typically occur during lunch or elective periods.
Penton emphasized, “Every new program launched means more students hearing timeless truths, developing strong moral character, and building a foundation that will guide them for the rest of their lives.”
Court precedent, such as Zorach v. Clauson (1952), supports released time religious instruction, affirming that government cooperation with religious needs upholds America’s best traditions.
Penton stated, “Students who receive religious instruction are more equipped to navigate today’s challenges. Parents and teachers tell us that students’ behavior improves and that they’re more engaged both inside and outside the classroom.”
A recent survey found that a strong majority of Americans support integrating moral and Bible-based character education into the public school system.
Families seeking to anchor their children in faith can find hope in these growing opportunities to nurture both heart and mind for God’s glory. Stand with those defending religious freedom and Biblical values in America’s schools.
Faith Facts
- Two children were killed and 17 injured during a shooting at Annunciation Catholic School, Minneapolis.
- Prominent faith leaders Pastor Greg Laurie and Rev. Franklin Graham spoke out in defense of prayer after critics questioned its effectiveness.
- Biblical principles and the promise of God’s comfort were emphasized in response to the tragedy.
As a city grieves a heartbreaking loss at Annunciation Catholic School, voices of faith are rising to affirm prayer’s essential place in times of crisis. Christian leaders urged Americans not to dismiss prayer, but to seek God’s presence and healing, especially when despair and tragedy strike.
“No truer thing could be said about our nation right now than this: we need prayer,” stated Pastor Greg Laurie in response to public criticism. He reminded believers that Christ sought God in prayer even during His greatest trial, and cited 2 Chronicles 7:14 as a call for national repentance and spiritual renewal.
Rev. Franklin Graham echoed these convictions, affirming that prayer connects believers directly with God, who sees and hears every plea. Quoting Hebrews 4:16, he encouraged Christians to approach the throne of grace with confidence, trusting in God’s power to give mercy and peace even amid loss.
Graham also pointed to the promise of Christ’s return, declaring that ultimate justice and peace are found in Him, the Prince of Peace. He uplifted the call to continue prayer as a vital tool for believers, and invited all—including critics—to discover the life-changing power of seeking God in faith.
Prayer remains the lifeline for Christian families and communities committed to faith, hope, and the promise of God’s comfort even in dark seasons. Now more than ever, believers are called to pray for healing and revival in our nation.
Faith Facts
- A court will soon decide on a possible retrial for the remaining five charges against former NOS leader Chris Brain.
- Chris Brain was previously found guilty on 17 counts of indecent assault but acquitted of 15 other charges.
- Church leaders have expressed sorrow and committed to supporting victims and improving safeguarding.
On Thursday, a hearing will determine if there will be a retrial for five unresolved charges against former priest Chris Brain, who led the Nine O’Clock Service (NOS) until his 1995 resignation amid serious allegations.
This follows Brain’s conviction for 17 indecent assaults and acquittal of other charges, while the jury could not agree on one rape charge and four additional assault counts.
Prosecutors described NOS as a “cult,” exposing the harm caused by violating the trust and wellbeing of young worshipers.
“We are truly sorry,” stated Bishop Joanne Grenfell, emphasizing the lasting damage inflicted and the importance of strong, faithful leadership.
Bishop Pete Wilcox offered an unreserved apology for past failings, reaffirming the Church’s duty to protect its community with biblical integrity and care.
Christian families must remain vigilant, ensuring their churches uphold accountability, integrity, and Christ-centered values in all leadership.
Faith Facts
- Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s engagement has sparked widespread celebration and underscores enduring ideals about marriage.
- Research reveals that nearly nine in ten young people in relationships express a longing for matrimony, regardless of background.
- There remains a concerning financial divide, with marriage rates much lower among the poorest compared to wealthier groups.
The engagement of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce is a reminder of the deep-rooted desire for lasting commitment among younger people. Christian perspectives emphasize marriage as a covenant that honors God, family, and community.
Harry Benson from the Marriage Foundation highlights the importance of making marriage accessible to all, invoking biblical principles of fidelity and unity. Even as today’s culture often overlooks traditional values, faith teaches us to uphold the sanctity of marriage as a blessing for individuals and society.
“Regardless of wealth, the psychology behind marriage – the desire to find reliable love, love we can trust, is what most couples want.”
Let’s pray for leaders and policymakers to remove barriers and uphold marriage as a cornerstone of a healthy and God-honoring nation.
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